What is the purpose of church by-laws (bylaws)?

Answer

Most churches have a doctrinal statement, a document that condenses and systematizes the church’s tenets of faith. A doctrinal statement is valuable in ensuring conformity to the Word of God and preventing the church from being “tossed to and fro, and carried about by every wind of doctrine” «that we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; », (Ephesians 4:14). In addition to the articles of faith, most churches also have a set of by-laws (or bylaws), sometimes called rules of order or a constitution. There are several practical reasons to have bylaws.

First, to promote efficiency, a church must have some type of organization. Bylaws specify a church’s governing structure; define the roles of pastor, elder, deacon, and other leaders; and stipulate the requirements for membership. In other words, bylaws allow “all things [to] be done decently and in order” «Let all things be done decently and in order.», (1 Corinthians 14:40).

Second, to provide direction, a church needs to articulate its mission and methodology. The bylaws of a church are useful in setting parameters for fundraising, outreach, ordination, expenditures, and missionary support.

Third, to preserve unity and maintain its testimony, a church should agree on certain issues of Christian living and separation. A “gray area” that the Bible does not specifically address may be covered in a by-law. For example, a church may require its members to refrain from the consumption of alcohol; since this is not a doctrinal issue, per se, it is better dealt with in the bylaws.

Fourth, to protect its

To protect itself from liability, a church should establish written policies on church discipline, screening youth workers, and other related matters. By-laws can serve as a means of preventing disaster in times of crisis.