Resources

Study

Work through what the church teaches, with the Scripture behind it close at hand. Tap a reference to read it right where you are. The creeds, confessions and catechisms here are historic and faithful, and good to read, but they are not all part of what this church professes.

To learn what we profess, see Our Beliefs.

Study Aids Creeds Confessions Catechisms
Print this

ARTICLE 10: Process of Appeal

In the case that members believe they have been treated unjustly by the church or her elder(s), either in points of doctrine or administration, the process of appeal below shall be followed.
A.
In cases of public discipline enacted by the church or unresolved issues of discipline
1.
A written appeal is to be made to the church and presented to the elder(s) by the appealing party. If the elder(s) is/are convinced that the appeal has merit, he/they will take the appeal to the church for discussion. If the elder(s) is/are convinced that the appeal does not have merit, the appealing party has the liberty to drop the matter or proceed to step 2 below.
2.
An appeal is to be made to the association of churches or (if GRBC does not belong to an association of churches) to the Confirmation board (see ). If an appeal is made to the association of churches, the appealing party must follow the appeal process of the Constitution of the association. If this option is pursued, the elder(s) must inform the congregation of the appeal.
B.
In cases of a member’s perceived doctrinal deviation from the Bible or 2nd LCF and/or perceived practical deviation from the Constitution by the elder(s)
1.
A written appeal is to be made to the elders(s). Due diligence is to be given in order to clear up any perceived compromises in the elder(s) by the elder(s). If the appealing party is not satisfied with the elder’s(s’) response, he has the liberty to proceed to step 2 below.
2.
A written appeal is to be made to the church and presented to the elder(s) by the appealing party. The elder(s) will take the appeal to the church for discussion.
3.
The church will present the case to the association of churches or the Confirmation board for advice.
4.
After receiving and considering advice, if the church believes the appeal has merit, the elder(s) will be confronted by the church. If the elder(s) acknowledge(s) the doctrinal and/or practical deviation, he/they should be rebuked before all .

1 Tim. 5:20 KJV Read in context

20Them that sin rebuke before all, that others also may fear.

Depending on the gravity of the deviation(s), the elder(s) may have to step down from his/their office. This will be determined by a properly conducted vote of the church.
← ARTICLE 9 ARTICLE 11 →

King James Version (1769 text), public domain. Text from eBible.org and the CrossWire Bible Society.

A new version is available.