Article 1
The Scriptures
We believe that the Bible in the original autographs, consisting of the 66 books of the Old and New Testaments (with no Apocrypha), was verbally and plenarily inspired of God; the product of the Holy Spirit through Spirit-controlled men, and that it is therefore inerrant (Psalm 119:89, 160; II Tim. 3:16; II Peter 1:19-20). However, we do not believe that only the originals were perfect. We trust in God’s promise to preserve His Word forever (Psalm 12:7), and that He did so through the Hebrew Masoretic text of the Old Testament and the Greek Textus Receptus of the New Testament (we reject all Alexandrian/Roman Catholic texts as corrupt). Moreover, we believe that any Bible which is translated accurately from these two texts, in any language, does not just contain the thoughts of God, but is the very words of God, and as such is both pure and perfect (Psalm 12:6-7; Psalm 19:7; Prov. 30:5; Matthew 4:4; Matthew 5:18). We further believe that the King James Bible is God’s only inerrant and infallible preserved Word of God for the English-speaking world, and as such is the only English version our church accepts. Consequently, we will separate from any churches who use other so-called English Bibles (II Thess. 3:6, 14-15; Titus 3:10).
Article 2
God
Article 3.
We believe there is one, and only one, living and true God, an infinite intelligent Spirit, the Maker and Supreme Ruler of heaven and earth; inexpressibly glorious in holiness and worthy of all possible honor, confidence and love; that in the unity of the Godhead there are three persons, the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit, with precisely the same nature, attributes, and perfections and executing distinct but harmonious offices in the great work of redemption. Ex. 20:2-3, I Cor. 8:6, Rev. 4:11; I Jn. 5:7, Mt. 3:16,17; Eph. 4:4-6; Is. 48:16; Mt.28:19; II Cor. 13:14; Acts 10:38
Article 3
Jesus Christ
Article 4.
We believe that Jesus Christ was begotten by the Holy Spirit, born of the virgin Mary, and is the very God Man. He lived a sinless life, was crucified, buried, arose the third day bodily and is now the only mediator between God and man. Mt. 1:18-25; Jn. 1:4; Heb. 2:14; I Tim. 2:5; Is. 7:14
Article 4
The Holy Spirit
Article 5.
We believe that the Holy Spirit is a divine person equal with God the Father and God the Son and of the same nature; and that He was active in creation; that in His relation to the unbelieving world He restrains the evil one until God’s purpose is fulfilled; that He convicts of sin, of righteousness, and of judgment; that He bears witness of the truth of the Gospel in preaching and testimony; that He is the agent in the New Birth; that He seals, endues, guides, teaches witnesses, sanctifies and helps the believer. Jn. 14:16,17; Mt. 28:19; Heb. 9:14; Jn. 14:26; Lk. 1:35; Gen. 1:1-3; Jn. 16:8-11; Acts 5:30-32; Jn. 3:5-6; Eph. 1:13-14; Mk. 1:8; Jn 1:33; Acts 11:16; Lk. 24:39; Rom. 8:26-28
Article 5
Satan
Article 6.
We believe in the personality of Satan or the Devil, who is a created being, he is the unholy god of this age, and the author and ruler of all the powers of darkness and is destined to the judgment of the lake of fire. Mt. 4:1-3; II. Cor. 4:4; Rev. 20:10; Eph. 2:2
Article 6
Salvation
Article 8.
We believe that the salvation of sinners is wholly of grace; through the mediatorial offices of the Son of God, who by the appointment of the Father, freely took upon Him our nature, yet without sin, honored the divine law by His personal obedience, and by His death made a full and vicarious atonement for our sins; that His atonement consisted not in setting us an example by His death as a martyr, but was voluntary; substitution of Himself in the sinner's place, the Just dying for the unjust; Christ, the Lord, bearing, our sins in His own body on the tree; that having risen from the dead, He is now enthroned in heaven and uniting in His wonderful person the tenderest sympathies with divine perfection, He is in every way qualified to be a suitable, a compassionate and all sufficient Saviour. Eph. 3:8; Acts 15:11; Rom. 3:24; Jn. 3:16; Mt. 18:11; Phil. 2:7; Heb. 2:14; Is. 53:4-7; Rom. 3:25; I Jn. 4:10; I Cor. 15:3; II Cor. 5:21
Article 9.
We believe that in order for sinners to be saved, they must be born again; that the new birth is a new creation in Christ Jesus; that it is instantaneous and not a process, that in the new birth the one dead in trespasses and in sins is made a partaker of the divine nature and receives eternal life, the free gift of God; that the new creation is brought about in a manner above our comprehension, solely by the power of the Holy Spirit in connection with divine truth, so as to secure our voluntary obedience to the gospel; that its proper evidence appears in the holy fruits of repentance and faith and newness of life. Jn. 3:3; II Cor. 5:17; I Jn. 5:1; Jn. 3:6,7; Acts 16:30-33; II Pet. 1:4; Rom. 6:23; Eph. 2:1; II Cor. 5:19; Col. 2:13; Jn 3:8
Article 7
Justification and Sanctification
Article 10.
We Believe that the great gospel blessing which Christ secures to such as believe in Him is justification;
(a) That justification includes the pardon of sin, and the gift of eternal life on principles of righteousness;
(b) That it is bestowed not in consideration of any works of righteousness which we have done; but solely through faith in the Redeemer's blood, His righteousness is imputed unto us. Acts 13:39; Is. 53:11; Zech. 13:1; Rom. 8:1; Rom. 5:9; Rom. 5:1
Article 11.
We believe that faith in the Lord Jesus Christ is the only condition of salvation. That all truly regenerated persons are eternally saved in Christ, all truly born-again believers can enjoy assurance of their salvation. Acts 16:31; Jn. 10:28-29; Rom. 8:35-39 ; I Jn. 5:13
Article 12.
We believe that sanctification means a "setting apart" unto God and is threefold in the believer: a. Positional - The moment a person believes, he is set apart in Christ. I Cor. 6:11, Heb. 10:10-14; b. Progressive - While the believer's standing is perfect in Christ, his state is as imperfect as his walk. He is to grow in grace and in the knowledge of the Lord. II Pt. 3:18; II Cor. 3:18; Jn. 17:17; c. Complete - The believer will, at the coming of Christ for His own, be completely set apart; his standing and his state will then be one and identical. I Thess. 5:23; I Thess. 3:12-13. We believe that we are called with a holy calling to walk, not after the flesh, but after the Spirit, and so to live in the Spirit that we should not fulfill the lusts of the flesh; but the flesh being still in us to the end of our earthly pilgrimage (not eradicated) needs to be kept constantly in subjection to Christ or it will surely manifest its presence to the dishonor of His Name. Rom. 8:12,13; 13:14; Gal. 5:16-25; Eph. 4:22-24; Col. 3:1-10; I Pt. 1:14-16; I Jn. 3:5-9. We believe that we are called to live in such a manner as to not bring reproach upon our Saviour the Lord, and that separation from all sinful pleasures, practices, and associations and from religious apostasy is commanded by God. Rom. 12:1-2; I Jn.2:15-17; Jn. 4:4; II Cor. 6:14-7:1; II Tim 3:1-5; Eph. 5:11; Tit. 3:10; II Jn.10-11; Tit. 1:13; II Thess. 3:6; II Tim. 2:20-21
Article 8
The Church
Article 13. We believe that the Church is the body of Christ, composed of all born-again believers, who are united by the Holy Spirit to the risen and ascended Son of God, that by the same Spirit we are all baptized into one body; and thus being members one of another, we are responsible to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace, rising above all sectarian prejudices and denominational bigotry, and loving one another with a pure heart fervently. All baptized believers are strongly urged to affiliate with the local Church. We believe that to be consistent with the above picture of the oneness of Body Spiritually, the believer should also be unified with the visible Body (the Local Church) through the waters of Baptism. Mt. 16:16-18; Acts 2:32-47; Rom. 12:5; 1 Cor. 12:12-27; Eph. 1:20-23; 4:3-10; Col. 3:14,15; Heb. 10:25; Rom. 6:1-5
Article 14.
We believe that a local church is a congregation of regenerated, immersed believers, associated by covenant of faith and friendship of the gospel; observing the ordinances of Christ; governed by His laws; and exercising the gifts, rights and privileges invested in them by His Word; that its officers are pastors and deacons, whose qualifications, claims and duties, are clearly defined in the Scriptures. We believe the true mission of the church is the faithful witnessing of Christ to all men. We hold that the local church has the absolute right of self-government, free from the interference of an hierarchy of individuals of organizations; and that the one and only superintendent is Christ; through the Holy Spirit; that it is Scriptural for true churches to cooperate with each other in contending for the faith and for the furtherance of the gospel; that each local church (based upon the Scriptures) is the sole judge of the measure and method of its cooperation; on all matters of membership, of polity, of government, of discipline, of benevolence, the will of the local church is final. Acts 2:41,42; 1 Cor. 11:2; Eph. 1:22,23; Eph. 4:11; Acts 20:17-28; 1 Tim.2:17; Col. 1:18; Eph. 5:23,24; Acts 15:13-18
Article 9
Baptism and the Lord's Supper
Article 15. We believe that the only two ordinances given and entrusted to the local church were baptism and the Lord's Supper. Christian baptism is the immersion of a believer in water to show forth in solemn and beautiful emblem our faith in the crucified, buried and risen Saviour, with its effect in our death to sin and resurrection to a new life; that it is prerequisite to a local church relation. There is no saving grace in baptism, it is merely a symbol. We believe that the Lord's Supper is a privilege accorded to all true believers; in commemoration of our Lord's death until He comes; and should be preceded always by solemn self-examination. Neither is there any grace in the Lord's Supper. Acts 8:36-39; Jn. 3:23; Rom.6:3-6; Mt. 3:16; Col. 2:12; 1 Cor. 11:23-28
Article 10
Last Things
Article 18.
Of the Resurrection, Personal, Visible, Pre-tribulation and Pre-millennial Return of Christ and related events.
a) We believe in the bodily resurrection. Mt. 28:6,7; Lk. 24:39; Jn. 20:27; 1 Cor. 15:4; Mk. 16:6; Lk. 24:2-6
b) We believe in the ascension. Acts 1:9-11; Lk. 24:51; Mk. 16:19; Rev. 3:21; Heb.12:2
c) The High Priesthood. Heb. 8:6; 1 Tim. 2:5; 1 Jn. 2:1; Heb. 2:17; 5:9,10
d) The Second Coming. Jn.14:3; Acts 1:11; 1Thess. 4:16; Jn. 5:8; Heb. 9:28
e) The resurrection of the righteous dead. 1 Thess. 4:13-18; 1 Cor. 15:42-44,52
f) The Change of the living in Christ. 1Cor. 15:51-53; 1 Thess. 4:13-18; Phil.3:20,21
g) The Throne of David. Lk. 1:32; Is. 9:6,7; Acts 2:29,30
h) The Millennial reign. 1 Cor. 15:25; Is. 32:1; 11:4,5; Ps. 72:8; Rev. 210:14; 20:6
Article 11
Marriage, Divorce, and Remarriage
Marriage, Divorce, and Remarriage
Marriage is a sacred institution (Hebrews 13:4), which was created by God (Genesis 2:21-25). Thus, it is neither an invention of mankind nor of government. Furthermore, it is a covenant between a biological man and a biological woman, not between a man and a man or a woman and a woman. It is also not to be between multiple men and/or women. Therefore, we believe that Biblical marriage can only be between one man and one woman at a time – not with same-sex partners in homosexuality (Matthew 19:4-6), nor with multiples of either in polygamy. We do recognize that polygamy occurred in the Old Testament, but this occurrence does not mean it was God’s plan or approved of by Him. God only made one wife for Adam. Marriage is intended by God to last until the death of either partner (Proverbs 5:18, Romans 7:2-3; I Corinthians 7:39).
Marriage was instituted for companionship (Genesis 2:18), the propagation of the human race (Genesis 1:28), and the ruling of God’s earth (Genesis 1:28). God purposed that through marriage He would fill the earth with people. There is more to marriage than cohabitation or sex (John 4:18, Ephesians 5:23; Romans 7:2-3).
Divorce was not part of God’s original plan (Matthew 19:3-12). Notice the phrase in verse 8 “from the beginning it was not so”. Divorce was not part of God’s original plan because sin was not part of His original plan (although He knew man would sin). God never intended for anyone to commit fornication or adultery. Adam and Eve were created perfect. Divorce came into being because of the hardness of men’s hearts (Deuteronomy 24:1-4; Malachi 2:13-16; Matthew 19:7-8). Adultery and fornication were not reasons for divorce in the Old Testament, because these sins were punishable by death under the Law (Exodus 20:10,14; Deut 22:22; Romans 7:2-3). The surviving spouse was free to remarry. Thus, Old Testament divorce was often done for frivolous reasons. Even the disciples were carried away by this line of thinking (Matthew 19:3,10). However, the New Testament only gives two Biblical reasons for divorce. Jesus Christ twice said that fornication was a reason (although not a mandate) for divorce (Matthew 5:31-32; 19:7-9). Scriptural fornication is defined as adultery (John 8:41), sex outside of marriage (I Corinthians 7:2), and homosexuality (Jude 1:7). We hold fornication to mean any sexual relationship outside of the marriage bed.
The second allowance for divorce in the New Testament is abandonment (I Corinthians 7:10-15). Verse 15 states that a brother or sister is not under bondage if the unbelieving departs. In other words, they are not bound by the law to remain unmarried. The reason it says unbelieving is because it was understood and commanded in verse 10 that a saved person is NOT to divorce their spouse (except for fornication). If an unbeliever divorces a believer, the believer could not remarry them and be true to God’s Word, as believers are not to marry unbelievers (I Corinthians 7:39; II Corinthians 6:14). Although not specifically addressed, if a saved person broke their wedding vows by leaving (abandoning) their spouse, we can apply the abandonment principle because their spouse has acted like an unbeliever. One cannot keep vows that have already been dissolved by the abandonment of the offending party. To clarify, this abandonment in I Corinthians 7 does not mean a separation where the two parties stay married, although they don’t live together. It is referring to someone who divorces their spouse and leaves them.
Although the Bible allows for divorce in such cases, it is not commanded. Forgiveness and reconciliation are to be pursued when at all possible (I Corinthians 7:10-11; Ephesians 4:32). However, we recognize that there are cases where this is NOT possible or even best (rape, molestation, serial adultery, etc.). In these instances we allow our brothers and sisters to exercise their Scriptural right to divorce without judgment from the church, as long as the pastor and deacons have been notified in advance and have had the opportunity to work with the offended party to their (the pastor and deacons’) satisfaction before such action is taken. The pastor and deacons are not the ones who give permission for the divorce – that comes from God – but are rather to make sure that the grounds are Scriptural and that reconciliation has been attempted whenever possible.
Biblical divorce automatically assumes the right of remarriage (Deuteronomy 24:1-4; I Corinthians 7:27-28). Of course, this remarriage must be done “in the Lord” (to another Christian). However, remarriage after divorce should be done very slowly and carefully. (I Corinthians 7:28).
A Christian who has been un-Scripturally divorced after salvation should confess their sin (I John 1:9), resolve to not commit the same sin again (Prov. 28:13), and either remain unmarried or be reconciled to their former spouse (I Corinthians 7:10-11). A church member who instigates an un-Scriptural divorce as a member will be removed from membership. A Christian who was divorced prior to salvation does not have these restrictions (Isaiah 1:18; I Corinthians 6:9-11; II Corinthians 5:17; I John 1:9). They cannot go back and remarry their unsaved former spouse. Furthermore, there is no reason to suppose that this is the only sin that God holds against someone after salvation. Society may punish a sin/crime committed before someone was saved, but God never does!
Lastly, we uphold the position that divorced men cannot hold the offices of pastor or deacon (I Timothy 3:1-13). Divorced, and divorced and remarried people, who have confessed their sin and who demonstrate a sincere desire to serve the Lord, may be elected to other positions in the church (treasurer, secretary, etc.), as there are no Scriptural prohibitions on them serving in such capacities.
Recognizing that many good people disagree on the doctrines of marriage, divorce, and remarriage, we hold the above to be the standard of practice for Humphrey Baptist Church. If a member has a stronger view (such as no divorce ever for any reason) that is between them and God. We are all accountable to God for our own beliefs and actions.
In summary, the pastor, deacons, and church members will do everything in their power to save every home in the church from divorce. While we recognize the Biblical right of divorce, it is never something to be encouraged or celebrated. It is one of the most destructive influences in our society and should not be part of the church. Unfortunately, we live in a fallen world with fallen people, and although divorce is not God’s original intent, it is a reality in far too many lives. We resolve to love those who have been divorced, pray for them and their families, and to treat them as we would want to be treated if we were in their position. We further resolve to encourage reconciliation wherever and whenever it is at all possible or practicable.
Article 12
Deacons and Trustees
Church Officers and Elections
Deacons/Trustees
Section 1.
B. The church shall elect from its active membership at least three men and not more than six to serve as deacons, providing that at least three Scripturally qualified men are willing and available to be deacons (I Tim. 3:8-13). One shall be elected at each annual meeting. Therefore, the length of term will depend upon the number of men.
D. The Deacons of the church shall serve as trustees and shall represent the church in all legal matters. The number of trustees will be a series of three starting from oldest in length of office. Because New York State law requires an incorporated church to have at least three trustees, if less than three deacons are in office, the pastor and deacons will suggest Godly church men who are faithful to be appointed by a church vote as trustees. No more than three non-deacons will be elected as trustees at any one time. When and if at least three deacons are elected to office, the trustees will immediately step down until such a time arises that they are again needed. If less than three deacons are elected, the shortest-serving trustee will step down first, followed by the next-shortest held term of office. The combination of deacons who are trustees and trustees who are not deacons will not exceed a total of three.
Article 13
Mankind
Article 7.
We believe that man was made by a creative act of God. We accept the Genesis account of creation and believe man came by a direct creation of God and not by evolution. Man fell by voluntary transgression from his sinless and happy state; in consequence of which all mankind are now sinners, not only by constraint, but by choice; and therefore, under the just condemnation without defense or excuse. Gen. 1,2; Col. 1:16,17; Jn. 1:3; Gen. 3:1-6; Gen. 3:24; Rom. 5:19; Rom. 5:12; Rom. 1:18,32