INTRODUCTION TO THE CONSTITUTION AND BYLAWS
Washington Heights Baptist Church affirms that every believer has been uniquely gifted for ministry (1 Peter 4:10), and that spiritual leadership exists to equip the saints for the work of the ministry (Ephesians 4:11–12). While doctrinal oversight and spiritual governance rest with the Lead Pastor and the affirmation of the body, the church invites the broader membership to participate joyfully and meaningfully in the life of the church through specific opportunities for service, whether as individuals or teams, always under the Word of God and the spiritual guidance of Pastoral leadership. The following guidelines are provided to that end.
Washington Heights Baptist Church affirms that no change to its flow, function, doctrine, practice, or governance shall be initiated or adopted unless it is founded upon the clear and rightly interpreted Word of God. Personal opinions, preferences, or even majority votes shall never override Scripture. It is the responsibility of every active member to examine and present Scriptural support for any proposed change, and to do so in a spirit of humility, unity, and reverence. Any decision found to contradict the Word of God shall be rendered null and void, regardless of congregational consensus.
Scripture Support:
• 2 Timothy 3:16–17 – All Scripture... is profitable for doctrine, for reproof...
• Galatians 1:8–9 – Even if an angel preaches another gospel... let him be accursed.
• Acts 5:29 – We ought to obey God rather than men.
• 1 Thessalonians 5:21 – Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.
“The letter killeth, but the Spirit giveth life.” – 2 Corinthians 3:6
These bylaws are not intended to function as a rigid legal document but as a spirit-led framework for how the body of Christ at Washington Heights Baptist Church may live out its calling in a biblical, unified, and orderly manner. Their sole purpose is to help the church remain rooted in the Word of God, walking in grace, truth, peace, and accountability.
We recognize that any human-crafted document is fallible, and thus it is the spirit of these bylaws, not merely the letter, that must guide their application. Our goal is not to govern by policy but to serve the Lord Jesus Christ in a manner that honors His Word, edifies His people, and glorifies His name.
Washington Heights Baptist Church affirms without reservation that the Word of God, being the Bible, is the final authority in all matters of doctrine, practice, faith, and life. Nothing shall supersede the Word of God, including but not limited to this very document. Where these bylaws may be found to contradict or fall short of Scripture, Scripture shall always prevail.
The adjoining Appendices and the Policies and Procedures documents of Washington Heights Baptist Church are hereby recognized as integral components of the church’s governing framework. Though distinct in form from the Constitution and Bylaws, they are equally binding in substance where referenced, and must be upheld with the same level of accountability and submission. These documents provide doctrinal clarity, procedural guidance, and practical implementation of the church’s mission and ministry. No section therein may be amended except in accordance with the scriptural principles and congregational processes outlined in these Bylaws, always subject to the final authority of the Word of God.