Elohim Bible Baptist Church (EBBC) Constitution and Bylaws (New Draft)

Prepared by:  WCCTM, Inc. June 16, 2026

Adopted under the Pastoral Leadership of Pastor Chedon Empestan

Recommended by:

Pastor Ebenezer Nacita, Pastor Edwin Tan,  Pastor Teody Marquezes, and WCCTM, Inc

Ratified by the Congregation: [Insert Date – June 2026]

Founding Commissioning Entities (Sister Churches/Organizations):

• WCCTM, Inc. (World Center for Christian Trinitarianism, Inc.) – Dr. Charlie M. Saquian, Founder and Ad Hoc Corporate Secretary

• RMS Medical Center Board of Trustees

• Blessed Bible Baptist Church

• Caloocan Church   -----?!

Location: RMS Compound, Sta. Rosa, Marilao, Bulacan

Preamble

Elohim Bible Baptist Church (EBBC) is a local, autonomous, independent New Testament Baptist church established in July 2022 as a commissioned mission outreach under the Matthew 6:33 covenant with the RMS Medical Center Board of Trustees, WCCTM. Inc. Bible Baptist Church- Tiaong Quezon, and Caloocan Church. This Constitution and Bylaws are grounded exclusively in the KJV Scriptures and uphold historic Baptist distinctives.

This document honors the sacrificial service of the first family of the RMS Medical Center Board as Founding Honorary Members and Officers, as recommended by the commissioning pastors. It provides a stable, servant-hearted governance framework during transition and beyond.

Article I: Name and Purpose

Section 1. Name

This church shall be known as Elohim Bible Baptist Church (EBBC).

Section 2. Purpose

The purpose of EBBC is to glorify God through:

• Exalting the Lord Jesus Christ as Head of the Church.

• Preaching and teaching the KJV Scriptures.

• Winning souls to Christ and making disciples (Matthew 28:18-20 KJV).

• Providing biblical worship, fellowship, and edification.

• Serving the community with the Gospel and practical help.

• Supporting missions and church planting under WCCTM, Inc. oversight.

Article II: Core Principles

1. Jesus Christ is the Sole Head of the Church

   • Ephesians 5:23 KJV: “For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and he is the saviour of the body.”

   • Colossians 1:18 KJV: “And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence.”

   • Ephesians 1:22-23 KJV: “And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church…”

2. Final Authority Resides in the Local Congregation

   • Matthew 18:17 KJV: “…tell it unto the church…”

   • Acts 6:3 KJV: “Wherefore, brethren, look ye out among you…”

   • 1 Corinthians 5:4 KJV: “In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, when ye are gathered together…”

3. Priesthood of All Believers

   • 1 Peter 2:9 KJV: “But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood…”

   • Revelation 1:6 KJV: “And hath made us kings and priests unto God…”

4. Servant Leadership Model

   • Mark 10:42-45 KJV: “…whosoever will be great among you, shall be your minister… For even the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister…”

   • Philippians 2:5-8 KJV: “Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: Who… took upon him the form of a servant…”

   • 1 Peter 5:2-3 KJV: “Feed the flock of God… not as being lords over God’s heritage…”

5. Plurality of Godly Leadership

   • Ephesians 4:11-12 KJV: “And he gave some… pastors and teachers…”

   • Acts 20:28 KJV: “Take heed… to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers…”

   • 1 Timothy 5:17 KJV: “Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour…”

6. Biblical Qualifications

   • Pastor/Elders: 1 Timothy 3:1-7 KJV and Titus 1:5-9 KJV.

   • Deacons: 1 Timothy 3:8-13 KJV.

7. Accountability and Order

   • Hebrews 13:17 KJV: “Obey them that have the rule over you…”

   • 1 Corinthians 14:40 KJV: “Let all things be done decently and in order.”

Article III: Membership

Section 1. Regular Members

 Baptized believers by immersion who affirm the church’s statement of faith (KJV-based) and maintain active attendance and fellowship.

Section 2. Founding Honorary Members

The first family of the RMS Medical Center Board are recognized as Founding Honorary Members with full voting rights in business meetings, provided they maintain regular attendance and involvement.

• • Ronelo Saquian – Deacon

  • Ma. Elizabeth Saquian – Treasurer

  • Maria RubieAnne Saquian – Secretary

  • Mark Daniel Saquian – Assistant to Deacon Ronelo Saquian 

  •  Leiza Adriatico Saquian -becomes honorary member after marriage to Mark Daniel Saquian

These Honorary Members are recommended by Pastors Ebenezer Nacita, Edwin Tan,  Teody Marquezes and Dr. Charlie M. Saquian and are gratefully acknowledged for their benevolence and sacrificial service in the church’s founding and onwards. Upon believer’s baptism, they transition to Regular Members while continuing service.

Section 3. Membership Covenant

All members (Regular and Honorary) are expected to enter into and uphold the following Membership Covenant, which reflects our shared commitment to Christ and one another:

EBBC Membership Covenant

Having been led by the Holy Spirit to receive the Lord Jesus Christ as my personal Saviour, and upon the profession of my faith in Him, and having been baptized by immersion in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost, I now, in the presence of God and this church, enter into this solemn covenant with my brothers and sisters in Christ.

I solemnly covenant and agree, by God’s enabling grace:

1. To uphold the Scriptures — I will read, study, and live according to the KJV Bible as the final authority in all matters of faith and practice (2 Timothy 3:16-17; Psalm 119:105 KJV).

2. To maintain personal holiness — I will strive to live a separated, godly life, abstaining from practices that bring reproach upon the name of Christ (Romans 12:1-2; 2 Corinthians 6:14-18; 1 Peter 1:15-16 KJV).

3. To support the church faithfully — I will regularly attend the services and prayer meetings of the church unless providentially hindered (Hebrews 10:25 KJV), and I will use my spiritual gifts to edify the body of Christ (Ephesians 4:11-16 KJV).

4. To support the church financially — I will cheerfully and regularly contribute tithes and offerings for the support of the ministry, missions, and the relief of the needy (Malachi 3:10; 1 Corinthians 16:2; 2 Corinthians 9:7 KJV).

5. To promote unity and love — I will seek to live in peace with all members, avoid gossip or division, and pursue biblical reconciliation (Psalm 133:1; Ephesians 4:1-3; Matthew 18:15-17 KJV).

6. To submit to biblical leadership and discipline — I will respect and pray for the Pastor, Presbyters, and Deacons, and willingly submit myself to the loving discipline of the church when necessary (Hebrews 13:17; 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13 KJV).

7. To participate in the Great Commission — I will endeavor to win souls to Christ, support missions, and make disciples through my words, life, and service (Matthew 28:18-20; Mark 16:15 KJV).

8. To honor the distinctives of this church — I will uphold local church autonomy, congregational governance, believer’s baptism, and all doctrines in the Statement of Faith.

Should I move from this place, I will, as soon as possible, unite with another church of like faith and order where I can continue to carry out the spirit of this covenant.

This covenant is not a means of salvation but a solemn promise of mutual accountability and love within the body of Christ. May the Lord Jesus Christ, the Head of the Church, enable me to fulfill these commitments for His glory.

Signed: ______________________________   Date: ____________

Section 4. Termination of Membership

By transfer, discipline (Matthew 18:15-17 KJV), or voluntary withdrawal.

Article IV: Organizational Structure (Mixed Servant Leadership)

Jesus Christ (Head) → Local Congregation (Final Authority)

1. Pastor (Lead Shepherd / Teaching Elder)

• Pastor Chedon Empestan (Ordained Successor).

• Primary responsibility for preaching, teaching, pastoral care, and spiritual oversight.

• Works collaboratively with advisory presbyters and deacons.

2. Presbyters (2 Advisory Elders)

• Pastor Teody Marquezes (Presbyter1 )

• WCCTM, Inc - Dr. Charlie Saquian  (Honorary Presbyter2 )

• Serve in advisory capacity to the Pastor and congregation (non-ruling board).

• Provide biblical counsel, doctrinal guidance, and spiritual support.

• Qualifications per 1 Timothy 3 and Titus 1 (KJV).

3. Deacons (Servant Leaders)

• Ronelo Saquian (Deacon) and other elected deacons.

• Handle practical service, finances, property, and benevolence (Acts 6:1-6 KJV).

4. Officers

• Secretary: Maria RubieAnne Saquian (Honorary)

• Treasurer: Ma. Elizabeth Saquian (Honorary)

• All officers practice full financial transparency and accountability.

5. Administrative and Ministry Committees

• Finance, Worship, Missions, Education, Outreach, etc.

• Open to all members and honorary members.

Article V: Decision Making and Meetings

• Business Meetings: Bi-annually (or as needed) where the congregation (including Honorary Members with voting rights) exercises final authority on budget, property, pastor election/retention, discipline, and major decisions.

• Quorum: Majority of active members and honorary members.

• Servant Flow: Pastor + Presbyters advise → Deacons prepare → Congregation decides.

Article VI: Statement of Faith and Distinctives

• Sole authority: KJV Scriptures.

• Baptist Distinctives: Local church autonomy, congregational governance, believer’s baptism by immersion, priesthood of all believers, two offices, no lording (1 Peter 5:3 KJV).

• Pre-tribulational, dispensational eschatology aligned with KJV prophecy.

Article VII: Finances

• All funds used for God’s glory with full transparency.

• Treasurer presents reports at business meetings.

• No debt without congregational approval.

• Tithes, offerings, and special gifts encouraged (Malachi 3:10; 1 Corinthians 16:2 KJV).

Article VIII: Church Discipline

Purpose of Church Discipline

The goal of all church discipline is restoration and reconciliation, not punishment or destruction. It is exercised in humility, love, and obedience to Scripture to maintain the purity of the church, protect the flock, and glorify God.

• Galatians 6:1 KJV: “Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.”

• Matthew 18:15-17 KJV (Primary Pattern)

• 2 Thessalonians 3:14-15 KJV: “And if any man obey not our word by this epistle, note that man, and have no company with him, that he may be ashamed. Yet count him not as an enemy, but admonish him as a brother.”

• James 5:19-20 KJV: “Brethren, if any of you do err from the truth, and one convert him; Let him know, that he which converteth the sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of sins.”

Section 1. Biblical Basis

Church discipline is commanded in Scripture for the following reasons:

• To restore the sinning believer (Galatians 6:1; James 5:19-20 KJV).

• To maintain the purity and testimony of the church (1 Corinthians 5:6-8 KJV).

• To deter others from sin (1 Timothy 5:20 KJV).

• To obey the Lord Jesus Christ, Head of the Church.

Section 2. Scope

Discipline applies to members (Regular and Honorary) for:

• Unrepentant sin that brings reproach upon Christ and the church.

• Doctrinal deviation from the Statement of Faith.

• Divisiveness, gossip, rebellion against biblical leadership, or persistent neglect of covenant responsibilities.

Section 3. Progressive Steps of Discipline (Matthew 18:15-17 KJV)

1. Private Admonition (Step One) The concerned member goes privately to the offending brother or sister in a spirit of meekness and humility to seek restoration.

   • “Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother.” (Matthew 18:15 KJV)

   • If resolved, the matter ends and remains confidential.

2. With Witnesses (Step Two) If there is no repentance, take one or two more spiritual witnesses (preferably mature members, possibly involving a Deacon or Presbyter) to confirm the facts and appeal again.

   • “But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established.” (Matthew 18:16 KJV)

3. To the Church (Step Three) If still unrepentant, the matter is brought before the church (Pastor + Presbyters advise, Deacons help facilitate). The congregation is informed in a business meeting and seeks repentance.

   • “And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church…” (Matthew 18:17 KJV)

4. Removal from Fellowship (Step Four) If the member remains unrepentant after the church’s appeal, the congregation may vote (by majority or two-thirds as determined) to remove the member from fellowship.

   • “...but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican.” (Matthew 18:17 KJV)

   • This includes removal of voting rights and restriction from participating in the Lord’s Supper and church ministries.

Section 4. Role of Leadership

• The Pastor and Presbyters provide spiritual oversight and counsel throughout the process.

• Deacons assist with practical matters and ensure fairness and confidentiality where appropriate.

• All proceedings are conducted with prayer, humility, and without lording (1 Peter 5:2-3 KJV).

Section 5. Public vs. Private Offenses

• Private sins are handled discreetly per Matthew 18.

• Public or scandalous sins (e.g., immorality that is widely known, 1 Corinthians 5) may require faster public action to protect the church’s testimony, always aiming for repentance.

Section 6. Restoration Process

• The church rejoices in genuine repentance and welcomes the restored member (2 Corinthians 2:6-8 KJV).

• A period of observation and counseling may be required before full restoration to leadership roles.

• “Sufficient to such a man is this punishment, which was inflicted of many. So that contrariwise ye ought rather to forgive him…” (2 Corinthians 2:6-7 KJV)

Section 7. Appeal and Fairness

Any member under discipline has the right to be heard by the congregation before final action. All decisions are made in business meetings with quorum present.

Section 8. Records and Confidentiality

Discipline matters are handled with Christian love and discretion. Detailed records are kept confidential by the Pastor and Secretary, accessible only to leadership as needed.

Section 9: Restoration Process

Restoration begins the moment there is clear evidence of genuine repentance (godly sorrow leading to changed behavior, not mere worldly regret – 2 Corinthians 7:10 KJV). The process is led by the Pastor with input from Presbyters and Deacons, and ultimately affirmed by the congregation.

Steps for Restoration:

1. Expression of Repentance The disciplined person approaches the Pastor (or designated leaders) with a humble, specific confession of sin, evidence of godly sorrow, and a desire to be restored. Public sins may require public confession before the congregation (as appropriate and agreed upon by leadership).

2. Evaluation by Leadership The Pastor and Presbyters (with Deacons as needed) meet with the individual to assess the sincerity of repentance. This may include:

   • Review of the original offense and fruits of repentance.

   • A written or verbal restoration plan/covenant outlining accountability steps, counseling, and restitution (if applicable).

   • Involvement of affected parties where appropriate (e.g., spouse, family).

3. Accountability and Support Plan A small restoration team (spiritually mature members, preferably of the same gender where possible) is appointed to walk alongside the individual. This includes:

   • Regular meetings for prayer, Bible study, and accountability.

   • Recommended resources (KJV-focused counseling, discipleship materials).

   • Restrictions on service/leadership roles during a probationary period (duration based on the nature of the offense – e.g., 3–12 months or longer).

   • Continued attendance at services and prayer meetings is encouraged.

4. Congregational Affirmation Once leadership is satisfied with the progress, the matter is presented to the church in a business meeting (without unnecessary details to protect privacy). The congregation votes to reaffirm love and restore the member to full fellowship (including voting rights, Lord’s Supper participation, and ministry involvement as appropriate).

5. Public Reaffirmation (if needed) A special time of prayer, forgiveness, and welcome may be observed during a worship service to “confirm your love” and celebrate the restoration (2 Corinthians 2:8 KJV).

6. Ongoing Care and Monitoring Restoration is not instantaneous. The individual remains under loving oversight for a defined period. Full restoration to leadership roles (Pastor, Deacon, etc.) follows biblical qualifications (1 Timothy 3; Titus 1 KJV) and may require additional time to rebuild trust and reputation.

Section 10: Special Considerations

• Honorary Members: The same biblical principles apply, with sensitivity to their founding role.

• Leadership Falls: Higher standards and longer restoration periods apply (James 3:1 KJV).

• Legal / Civil Matters: The church cooperates with civil authorities where required but maintains spiritual focus.

• No Restoration Without Repentance: Persistent unrepentance results in continued exclusion (1 Corinthians 5:11-13 KJV).

• Confidentiality: All matters are handled with discretion to avoid gossip and further harm.

Key Biblical Safeguards

• Meekness and Humility: All involved must guard against pride (Galatians 6:1 KJV).

• Forgiveness and Comfort: The church must actively forgive and comfort to prevent excessive sorrow (2 Corinthians 2:7 KJV).

• Protection of the Church: Restoration never compromises doctrinal purity or church testimony.

• Glory to God: The ultimate aim is the edification of the body and the honor of Christ (Ephesians 4:15-16 KJV).

This Restoration Process completes the balanced approach in EBBC’s governance: firm discipline when needed, abundant grace and love upon repentance.

Article IX: Dissolution

• In event of dissolution, assets distributed to WCCTM, Inc. or like-minded KJV Baptist works after debts are paid.

Article X: Amendments and Ratification

This Constitution was presented as a Final Draft under Pastor Chedon Empestan, recommended by the commissioning pastors, and ratified by congregational vote in June 2026.

Amendments require a two-thirds (2/3) vote of the congregation in a duly called business meeting.

Approved and Ratified:

• Pastor Chedon Empestan

• Founding Honorary Officers (RMS First Family)

• WCCTM, Inc. – Dr. Charlie M. Saquian

• Congregation of Elohim Bible Baptist Church

Witnesses: 

• Pastor Ebenezer Nacita

• Pastor Edwin Tan 

This Final Constitution establishes a stable, biblically sound, and servant-hearted governance for EBBC. It honors the past, secures the present, and prepares the church for future growth under Christ’s headship.