ALLEGHENY WESLEYAN METHODIST CONNECTION
(Original Allegheny Conference)
DISCIPLINE
PART I. THE CHURCH.
____
SECTION I.
HISTORICAL.
1. In the latter end of the year 1739 there came to Mr. Wesley, in London,
eight or ten persons who appeared to be deeply convinced of sin and earnestly
groaning for redemption. They desired (as did two or three more the next day)
that he would spend some time with them in prayer, and advise them how to flee
from the wrath to come, which they saw continually hanging over their heads.
That he might have more time for this great work he appointed a day when they
might all come together-which from thence forward they did every week; namely,
on Thursday, in the evening. To these, and as many more as desired to join them
(for their number increased daily), he gave those advices from time to time
which he judged most needful for them; and they always concluded their meeting
with prayer, suited to their several necessities.
2. This was the rise of the Wesleyan Societies in Europe, then of The
Wesleyan Methodist Church of America. Such churches are no other than companies
of persons having the form and seeking the power of godliness, united in order
to pray together, to receive the word of exhortation, and to watch over one
another in love, that they may help each other to work out their salvation.
3. The Wesleyan Methodist Church of America grew out of a separation from the
Methodist Episcopal Church, the result of the connection of that body with
slavery, and the arbitrary character of its government.
4. O. Scott, J. Horton, and L. R. Sunderland withdrew in November, 1842. At
the same time the first number of a weekly paper was issued called the True
Wesleyan, in which they announced their withdrawal, setting
forth their reasons. In December following, Luther Lee withdrew from the
Methodist Episcopal Church, as did L. C. Matlack. These withdrawals are to be
regarded as the commencement of the movement which led to the Wesleyan
organization. There were previous separations, but the organization of the
community, whose system of doctrine and polity is presented in the following
pages, must date its commencement as above.
5. The most extensive prior separation took place in Michigan, which resulted
in the organization of a conference, but they united in the general organization
at Utica, hereafter mentioned, and formed the basis of what became the Michigan
Annual Conference. The first Wesleyan Church, which was organized as a part of
the present Denomination, was in Providence, Rhode Island.
6. Soon after the withdrawal of Scott, Horton, Sunderland, Lee, and Matlack,
measures were taken to hold a convention, which transpired at Andover,
Massachusetts, February, 1843. This resulted in a call for a General Convention,
which was held at Utica, New York, commencing May 31, I843, at which a general
organization was effected and a Discipline adopted. The first General Conference
was held in October, 1844, at which the Discipline underwent some modifications.
7. In October, 1848, the second General Conference was held; and in the light
of the four years' additional experience, the Discipline underwent a thorough
revision, principally to improve it in simplicity and in the arrangement of its
parts; since then it has been further revised, and, with confidence that it will
be approved, it is presented to the Church, whose system of doctrine and rules
of practice it contains, and to the Christian public, whose inspection it
invites.
8. It will be seen by the candid reader that the system of government is
essentially republican, and is conformed to the Scriptures and primitive usages
in all fundamental matters-under such modifications in what is merely
prudential, as are demanded by circumstances of the times in which we live. For
amplitude of provision to meet all the exigencies of an ecclesiastical
organization-and for simplicity, rendering it easy to be comprehended, it is
believed this little book stands unrivaled.
9. It is not presented as a substitute for the Holy Scriptures, but as an
epitome of the doctrines, morals, and ecclesiastical polity contained in the
Sacred Volume. All who read this volume, and especially those who adopt it as
the rule of their faith and practice, should never forget for one moment, that,
to secure the end of religion, they must add to their creed, however truthful it
may be, sincerity of heart and purity of life. "Not every one that saith
unto me, Lord! Lord! shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth
the will of my Father which is in heaven." "Without holiness no man
shall see the Lord."
10. Connecting Sketch: In the General Conference of I943 a movement was
advanced for union with other holiness bodies, notably the Free Methodist
Church. Allegheny Conference, one of the original organizing conferences,
opposed this merger. With the agitation for merger, there also became evident
within the General Conference a steady trend toward a more centralized
government and a noticeable departure from the original polity and standards set
by the founding fathers of the Wesleyan Methodist Church. This trend the
Allegheny Conference deeply deplored. The proposed merger with the Free
Methodist Church was defeated at the General Conference of 1955, with the
Allegheny Conference unanimously opposing. A merger with the Pilgrim Holiness
Church was proposed at the 1963 General Conference. Again the Allegheny
Conference opposed, having gone on record to accept no further departure from
Disciplinary polity and standards beyond the I959 Discipline. The General
Conference of I966, called one year early to facilitate the proposed merger,
refused to seat the Allegheny delegation, and the merger was passed by a large
vote. Allegheny refused to join the merged group. Final settlement between the
Conference and the General Church came in I968 when the Conference accepted the
name of The Allegheny Wesleyan Methodist Connection (Original Allegheny
Conference).
11. The Discipline here presented is offered as true to the original
doctrines, standards, and polity of Wesleyan Methodism.
____
SECTION II.
THE CONSTITUTION.
Preamble.
12. In order that we may wisely preserve and pass on to posterity the
heritage of doctrine and principles of Christian living transmitted to us as
evangelicals in the Arminian Wesleyan tradition, and to insure church order
by sound principles of ecclesiastical polity, and to prepare the way for more
effective cooperation with other branches of the church of Christ in all that
makes for the advancement of God's kingdom among men, we, the ministers and lay
members of The Allegheny Wesleyan Methodist Connection (Original Allegheny
Conference) meeting in official assemblies, do hereby ordain, establish, and set
forth as the fundamental law, or constitution, of The Allegheny Wesleyan
Methodist Connection (Original Allegheny Conference) the articles of religion,
rules of Christian living, privileges and conditions of church membership, and
articles of organization and government, here following.
Article I. Name.
13. The name of this communion is the Allegheny Wesleyan Methodist Connection
(Original Allegheny Conference).
Article II. Articles of Religion.
I. Faith in the Holy Trinity.
14. There is but one living and true God, everlasting, of infinite power,
wisdom, and goodness; the Maker and Preserver of all things, visible and
invisible. And in unity of this Godhead there are three persons of one
substance, power, and eternity-the Father, the Son (the Word), and the Holy
Ghost.
Gen. 1:1; 17:1; Exod. 3:13-15; 33:20; Dent. 6:4; Ps. 90:2; 104:24; Isa. 9:6;
Jer. 10:10; John 1:1-2; 4:24-5:18; 10:30; 16:13; 17:3; Acts 5:3-4; Rom. 16:27; 1
Cor. 8:4, 6; 2 Cor. 13:14; Eph. 2:18; Phil. 2:6; Col. 1:16; 1 Tim. 1:17;1 John
5:7, 20; Rev. 19:13.
II. The Son of God.
15. The only begotten Son of God was conceived by the Holy Ghost, born of the
Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, dead and buried-to be
a sacrifice, not only for original guilt, but also for the actual sins of men,
and to reconcile us to God.
Mark 15; Luke 1:27, 31, 35; John 1:14, 18; 3:16-17; Acts 4:12; Rom. 5:10, 18;
1 Cor. 15:3; 2 Cor. 5:18-19; Gal. 1:4; 2:20; 4:4-5; Eph. 5:2; 1 Tim. 1:15; Heb.
2:17; 7:27; 9:28; 10:12;1 Pet. 2:24;1 John 2:2; 4:14.
III. The Resurrection of Christ.
16. Christ did truly rise again from the dead, taking His body with all
things appertaining to the perfection of man's nature, wherewith He ascended
into heaven, and there sitteth until He returns to judge all men at the last
day.
Ps. 16:8-10; Matt. 27:62-66; 28:5-9, 16-17; Mark 16:6-7,12; Luke 24:4-8,23;
John 20:26-29; 21:1-25; Acts 12; 2:24-31;10:40; Rom. 8:34; 14:9-10; 1 Cor. 15:6,
14; Heb. 13:20.
IV. The Holy Ghost.
17. The Holy Ghost proceeding from the Father and the Son is of one
substance, majesty, and glory with the Father and the Son, very and eternal God.
Job 33:4; Matt. 28:19; John 4:24-26; Acts 5:3-4, Rom. 8:9; 2 Cor. 3:17; Gal.
4:6.
V. The Sufficiency and Full Authority of the Holy Scriptures for Salvation.
18. The Holy Scriptures contain all things necessary to salvation; so that
whatsoever is not read therein, nor may be proved thereby, is not to be required
of any man, that it should be believed as an article of faith, or be thought
requisite or necessary to salvation. In the name of the Holy Scriptures, we so
understand the books of the Old and New Testaments. These Scriptures we do hold
to be the inspired and infallibly written Word of God, fully inerrant in their
original manuscript and superior to all human authority:
The canonical books of the Old Testament are:
Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy, Joshua, Judges, Ruth, l
Samuel, 2 Samuel, I Kings, 2 Kings, I Chronicles, 2 Chronicles, Ezra, Nehemiah,
Esther, Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, The Song of Solomon, Isaiah,
Jeremiah, Lamentations, Ezekiel, Daniel, Hosea, Joel, Amos, Obadiah, Jonah,
Micah, Nahum, Habakkuk, Zephaniah, Haggai, Zephaniah, and Malachi.
The canonical books of the New Testament are:
Matthew, Mark, Luke, John, The Acts, The Epistle to the Romans, I
Corinthians, 2 Corinthians, Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, 1
Thessalonians, 2 Thessalonians, l Timothy, 2 Timothy, Titus, Philemon, Hebrews,
James, I Peter, 2 Peter, 1 John, 2 John, 3 John, Jude, and Revelation.
Ps. 19:7; Luke 24:27; John 17:17; Acts 17:2, 11; Rom. 1:2; 15:4; 16:26; Gal.
1:8; 1 Thes. 2;13; 2 Tim. 3:15-17; Heb. 4:12; Jas. 1:21;1 Pet. 1:23; 2 Pet.
1:19-21; Rev. 22:14, 19.
VI. The Old Testament.
19. The Old Testament is not contrary to the New; for both in the Old and New
Testaments everlasting life is offered to mankind through Christ, who
is the only Mediator between God and man. Wherefore they are not to be heard who
feign that the old fathers did look only for transitory promises. Although the
law given from God by Moses, as touching ceremonies and rites, doth not bind
Christians, nor ought the civil precepts thereof of necessity be received in any
commonwealth, yet notwithstanding no Christian whatsoever is free from the
obedience of the commandments which are called moral.
Matt. 5:17-19; 22:37-40; Luke 24:27-44; John 1:45; 5:46; Rom. 15:8; 2 Con
1:20; Eph. 2:15-16; 1 Tim. 2:5; Heb. 10:1; 11:39; 1 John 2:3-7.
VII. Relative Duties.
20. Those two great commandments which require us to love the Lord our God
with all the heart, and our neighbors as ourselves, contain the sum of the
divine law as it is revealed in the Scriptures: they are the measure and perfect
rule of human duty, as well as the ordering and directing of families and
nations, and all other social bodies, as for individual acts, by which we are
required to acknowledge God as our only Supreme Ruler, and all men as created by
Him, equal in all natural rights. Wherefore all men are bound so to order all
their individual, social, and political acts as to render to God entire and
absolute obedience, and to secure to all men the enjoyment of every natural
right, as well as to promote the greatest happiness of each in the possession
and exercise of such rights.
Lev. 19:18, 34; Dent. 1:15,17; 2 Sam. 23:3; Job 29:16; 31:13-14; Jer. 21:12;
22:3; Matt. 5:44-47; 7:12; Luke 6:27-29,35; John 13:34-35; Acts 10:34-35; 17:26;
Rom. 12:9; 13:1, 7-8,10; Gal. 5:14; 6:10; Tit. 3:1; Jas. 2:8; 1 Pet. 2:17; 1
John 2:5; 4:12-13; 2 John 6.
VIII. Original or Birth Sin.
21. Original sin standeth not in the following of Adam (as the Pelagians do
vainly talk), but it is the corruption of the nature of every man, that
naturally is engendered of the offspring of Adam, whereby man is wholly gone
from original righteousness, and of his own nature inclined to evil, and that
continually.
Gen. 8:21, Ps. 51:5; Jer. 17:9; Mark 7:21-23; Rom. 3:10-12; 5:12,18-19; Eph.
2:1-3.
IX. Free Will.
22. The condition of man after the fall of Adam is such that he cannot turn
and prepare himself, by his own natural strength and work, in faith and calling
upon God; wherefore we have no power to do good works, pleasant and acceptable
to God, without the grace of God by Christ working in us, that we may have a
good will, working with us when we have that good will.
Prov. 16:1; 20:24; Jer. 10:23; Matt. 16:17; John 6:44, 65; 15:5; Rom. 5:6-8;
Eph. 2:5-9; Phil. 2:13; 4:13.
X. Justification of Man.
23. We are accounted righteous before God only for the merit of our Lord and
Savior Jesus Christ, by faith, and not our own works or deservings. Wherefore,
that we are justified by faith only is a most wholesome doctrine and very full
of comfort.
Acts 13:38-39;15:11;16:31; Rom. 3:28; 4:2-5; 5:1-2,9; Eph. 2:8-9; Phil. 3:9.
XI. Good Works.
24. Although good works, which are the fruit of faith and follow after
justification, cannot put away our sins and endure the severity of God's
judgment, yet they are pleasing and acceptable to God in Christ, and spring out
of a true and lively faith, insomuch that by them a lively faith may be as
evidently known as a tree is discerned by its fruit.
Matt. 5:16; 7:16-20; John 15:8; Rom. 3:20; 4:2,4,6; Gal. 2:160; Phil. 1:11;
Tit. 3:5; Jas. 2:18,22; 1 Pet. 2:9,10.
XII. Sin After Justification.
25. Not every sin willingly committed after justification is the sin against
the Holy Ghost, and unpardonable. Wherefore repentance is not denied to such as
fall into sin after justification. After we have received the Holy Ghost we may
depart from grace given and fall into sin, and by the grace of God rise again to
amend our lives. And therefore, they are to be condemned who say they can no
more sin as long as they live here, or deny the place of forgiveness to such as
truly repent.
Ps. 32:5; 95:7,11; Ecd. 7:20; Jer. 3:13-15; Matt. 24:12; John 5:14; Gal.
5:4,7; Eph. 5:14; Heb. 3:7-13,15; Jas. 3:2,8; 1 John 1:8-9; 2:12; Rev. 2:5.
XIII. Regeneration.
26. Regeneration is that work of the Holy Spirit by which the pardoned sinner
becomes a child of God; this work is received through faith in Jesus Christ,
whereby the regenerate are delivered from the power of sin which reigns over all
the unregenerate, so that they love God and through grace serve Him with the
will and affections of the heart receiving the Spirit of adoption whereby we cry;
Abba, Father.
John 1:12-13; 3:3,5; Rom. 8:15,17; Gal. 3:26; 4:5,7; Eph. 1:5; 2:5,19; 4:24;
Col. 3:10; Tit. 3:5; Jas. 1:18;1 Pet. 1:3-4; 2 Pet 1:4; 1 John 3:1.
XIV. Entire Sanctification.
27. Entire sanctification is that work of the Holy Spirit by which the child
of God is cleansed from all inbred sin through faith in Jesus Christ. It is
subsequent to regeneration, and is wrought when the believer presents himself a
living sacrifice, holy and acceptable unto God, and is thus enabled through
grace to love God with all the heart and to walk in His holy commandments
blameless.
Gen. 17:1; Dent. 30:6; Ps. 130:8; Ezek. 36:25-29; Matt. 5:48; Luke 1:74-75;
John 17:2-23; Rom. 8:3-4;11:26; 1 Cor. 6:11;14:20; Eph. 4:13, 24; 5:25-27; Phil.
2:5,7; Col. 4:12; Thes. 3:10; 5:23; 2 Thes. 2:13; 2 Tim. 3:17; Tit. 2:12; Heb.
9:13-14; 10:14,18-22; Jas. 1:27; 4:8;1 Pet. 1:10; 2 Pet. 1:4; 1 John 1:7, 9;
3:8-9; 4:17-18; Jude 24.
XV. The Sacraments.
28. Sacraments ordained of Christ are not only tokens of Christian
profession, but they are certain signs of grace and God's good will toward us,
by which He doth work invisibly in us, and doth not only quicken but also
strengthen and confirm our faith in Him. There are two sacraments ordained of
Christ our Lord in the Gospel: that is to say, Baptism, and the Supper of the Lord.
Matt. 26:26-28; 28:19; Mark 14:22-24; Rom.
2:28-29; 4:11; 1 Cor. 10:16; 11:23-26; Gal. 3:27.
XVI. Baptism.
29. Baptism is not only a sign of profession and mark of difference whereby
Christians are distinguished from others who are not baptized, but it is also a
sign of regeneration or new birth. The baptism of young children is to be
retained in the church.
Num. 8:7; Isa. 52:15; Ezek. 36:25; Matt. 3:13-17; Mark 1:10; 16:16; John
3:22, 26; 4:12; Acts 2:38,41; 8:12-17; 9:18;16:35;18:8;19:5; 22:16; 1 Cor. 12:13;
Gal. 3:27-29; Col. 2:11-12; Tit. 3:5.
XVII. The Lord's Supper.
30. The Supper of the Lord is not only a sign of love that Christians ought
to have among themselves one to another, but rather it is a Sacrament of our
redemption by Christ's death; insomuch that to such as rightly, worthily and
with faith receive the same, it is made a medium through which God Both
communicate grace to the heart.
Luke 22:19-20; John 6:53, 56; 1 Cor. 5:7-8; 10:3-16; 11:28.
XVIII. The One Oblation of Christ Finished Upon the Cross.
31. The offering of Christ, once made, is that perfect redemption and
propitiation for all the sins of the whole world, both original and actual;
and there is none other satisfaction for sin but that alone.
Wherefore, to expect salvation on the ground of our own works, or by suffering
the pains our sins deserve, either in the present or future state, is derogatory
to Christ's offering for us and a dangerous deceit. :
Acts 4:12; Rom. 5:8; 8:34; Gal. 2:16; 3:2-3,11; 1 Tim. 2:5-6; Heb. 7:23-27;
9:11-15,2428; 10:14.
XIX. The Rites and Ceremonies of Churches.
32. It is not necessary that rites and ceremonies should in all places be the
same or exactly alike, for they have always been different and may be changed
according to the diversities of countries, times, and men's manners, so that
nothing be ordained against God's Word. Every particular church may ordain,
change, or abolish rites and ceremonies, so that all things may be done to
edification.
Acts 15:10, 28-29; Rom. 14:2-6, 15, 17, 21; 1 Cor. 1:10; 12:25; 14:26; 2
Cor.
13:11; Gal. 5:1,13; Col. 2:16-17; 2 Thes. 3:6,14; 1 Tim. 1:4,6; 1 Pet. 2:16.
XX. The Second Coming of Christ.
33. The doctrine of the second coming of Christ is a very precious truth, and
this good hope is a powerful inspiration to holy living and godly effort for the
evangelization of the world. We believe the Scriptures teach the coming of
Christ to be a bodily return to the earth and that He will cause the fulfillment
of all prophecies made concerning His final and complete triumph over all evil.
Faith in the imminence of Christ's return is a rational and inspiring hope to
the people of God.
Job 19:25-27; Dan. 12:1-4; Ps. 17:15; Isa. 11:1-12; Zech. 14:1-11; Matt.
24:1-51; 26:64; Mark 13:27-37; Luke 17:26-37; 21:24-36; John 14:1-3; Acts
1:9-11;1 Cor. 1:7, 8; 1 Thes. 4:13-18; Tit. 2:11-14; Heb. 9:27-28; Jas. 5:7-8; 2
Pet. 3:1-14;1 John 3:2-3; Jude 14; Rev. 1:7; 19:11-16; 22:6-7, 12, 20.
XXI. The Resurrection of the Dead.
34. We hold the Scriptural statements concerning the resurrection of the dead
to be true and worthy of universal acceptance. We believe the bodily
resurrection of Jesus Christ was a fact of history and a miracle of supreme
importance. We understand the manner of the resurrection of mankind to be the
resurrection of the righteous dead, at Christ's second coming, and the
resurrection of the wicked at a later time, as stated in Revelation 20:4-6.
Resurrection will be the reuniting of soul and body preparatory to final reward or punishment.
Job 19:25-27; Ps. 17:15; Dan. 12:2; Matt. 22:30-32; 28:1-20; Luke 14:14; John
5:28-29; Acts 23:6-8; Rom. 8:11;1 Cor. 15:1-58; 2 Con 4:14; 5:1-11;1 Thes.
4:14-17; Rev. 20:4-6.
XXII. The Judgment of Mankind.
35. The Scriptures reveal God as the Judge of all mankind and the acts of His
judgment to be based on His omniscience and eternal justice. His administration
of judgment will culminate in the final meeting of mankind before His throne of
great majesty and power, where records will be examined and final rewards and
punishments will be administered.
Eccl. 12:14; Matt 10:15; 25:31-46; Luke 11:31-32; Acts 10:42;17:31; Rom.
2:16;14:1011; 2 Cor. 5:10; 2 Tim. 4:1; Heb. 9:27; 2 Pet. 3:7; Rev. 20:11-13.
XXIII. Hell.
36. The Scriptures reveal hell, the final doom of ungodly unbelievers, as a
place of weeping and gnashing of teeth, unquenchable fire, outer darkness,
everlasting fire, everlasting punishment, and torments in the lake of fire.
Matt. 3:12; 8:12; 25:41,46; Luke 16:23; Rev. 20:15.
XXIV. Heaven.
37. The Scriptures reveal heaven, the final home of every righteous believer.
Jesus said it was His Father's house where He went to prepare a place for us
with no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither any more pain, with no
more curse and no night there; the Lamb is the light thereof and His servants
shall serve Him.
John 14:2; Rev. 21:4,23; 22:3,5.
Note: It is not to be understood that a dissenting understanding on the
subject of the millennium shall be held to break or hinder either church
fellowship or membership.
Article III. General Rules.
38. It is expected of those who are admitted to our churches that they should
continue to evidence their desire of salvation:
First, by doing no harm-by avoiding evil of every kind, especially that which
is most generally practiced, such as
The taking of the name of God in vain.
The profaning the day of the Lord, either by doing ordinary work therein or
by buying or selling.
Drunkenness or the manufacturing, buying, selling, or using intoxicating
liquors, unless for mechanical, chemical, or medicinal purposes, or in any way
intentionally and knowingly aiding others so to do.
The buying or selling of men, women, or children, with an intention to
enslave them, or holding them as slaves, or claiming that it is right so to do.
The giving or taking things on usury, i.e., unlawful interest. Fighting,
quarreling, brawling, brother going to law with brother, returning evil for
evil, or railing for railing.
The buying or selling goods that have not paid the duty. Uncharitable or
unprofitable conversation.
Doing to others as we would not they should do unto us. Doing what we know is
not for the glory of God, as The putting on of gold and costly apparel.
The wearing of apparel which does not modestly and properly clothe the
person.
The taking such diversions as cannot be used in the name of the Lord Jesus.
The singing those songs or reading those books which do not tend to the
knowledge or love of God.
Softness and needless self-indulgence. Laying up treasure upon earth.
Borrowing without a probability of paying, or taking up goods without a
probability of paying for them.
39. It is expected of all who continue in these churches that they should
continue to evidence their desire of salvation:
Second, by doing good; by being, in every kind, merciful after their power;
as they have opportunity, doing good of every possible sort, and, as far as
possible, to all men.
To their bodies, of the ability which God giveth, by giving food to the
hungry, by clothing the naked, by visiting or helping them that are sick or in
prison.
To their souls, by instructing, reproving, or exhorting all we have any
intercourse with; trampling under foot that enthusiastic doctrine that "we
are not to do good unless our hearts be free to it."
By doing good, especially to them that are of the household of faith or
groaning so to be; employing them preferably to others, buying one of another,
helping each other in business; and so much the more because the world will love
its own and them only.
By all possible diligence and frugality, that the gospel be not blamed. By
running with patience the race which is set before them, denying themselves,
and taking up their cross daily; submitting to bear the reproach of Christ, to
be as the filth and offscouring of the world, and looking that men should say
all manner of evil of them falsely for the Lord's sake.
40. It is expected of all who desire to continue in these churches that they
should continue to evidence their desire of salvation:
Thirdly, by attending upon all the ordinances of God; such as: The public
worship of God.
The ministry of the Word either read or expounded. The Supper of the Lord.
Family and private prayer. Searching the Scriptures. Fasting or abstinence.
41. Further, by abstaining from membership in secret societies. We will on no
account tolerate our ministers and members joining or holding fellowship with
secret societies, as, in the judgment of the Allegheny Wesleyan Methodist
Connection (Original Allegheny Conference), it is inconsistent with our duties
to God to hold such relations.
"Jesus answered him, I spake openly to the world; I ever taught in the
synagogue, and in the temple, whither the Jews always resort; and in secret have
I said nothing" (John 18:20).
"Wherefore if they shall say unto you, Behold, he is in the desert; go
not forth: behold, he is in the secret chambers; believe it not" (Matt.
24:26).
"But above all things, my brethren, swear not, neither by heaven,
neither by the earth, neither by any other oath: but let your yea be yea; and
your nay, nay; lest ye fall into condemnation" (James 5:12).
Also see Lev. 5:4-5; Isa. 29:15; Matt. 5:34-36; John 3:19-20; 2 Cor. 4:1-2;
6:14-18; Eph. 5:11-12; 1 John 4:2-3.
Note: This rule on secret societies does not prevent our members from
affiliating with unions organized for the purpose of protecting their industrial
interests where Christian principles are not violated; and where such principles
are violated, members shall be dealt with because of such violation and not
because of membership in the union.
42. Further, by abstaining from the use of tobacco. In the judgment of The
Allegheny Wesleyan Methodist Connection (Original Allegheny Conference), the use
of tobacco is a great evil, unbecoming a Christian, a waste of the Lord's money,
and a defilement of the body, which should be the temple of the Holy Ghost. We
do, therefore, most earnestly require our members to refrain from its
cultivation, manufacture, and sale, and to abstain from its use in all forms,
for Jesus' sake.
We will not receive as members into our churches nor will we ordain or
license to preach or to exhort, persons who use, cultivate, manufacture, or sell
tobacco. Using tobacco by a member of a church or of the conference after being
received from this date (June 28, 1927) is a violation of the law of the Church,
and the offending party should be dealt with according to the Judiciary Rules.
43. Further, by observing the teachings of Scripture regarding marriage and
divorce. We regard adultery as the only justifiable cause for divorce. In the
case of a divorce for such cause the innocent party may marry again; but the
guilty party has by his or her act forfeited membership in the church. In the
case of divorce for other cause, neither party shall be permitted to marry again
during the lifetime of the other; and violation of this law shall be punished by
expulsion from the church (Matt. 5:32; Mark 10:11-12). In the carrying out of
these principles, guilt shall be established in accordance with judicial
procedures set forth in the Discipline.
44. These are the General Rules of our churches, all of which we are taught
of God to observe, even in His written Word, which is the only rule and the
sufficient rule both of our faith and practice, And all these we know His Spirit
writes on truly awakened hearts. If there be any among us who observe them not,
who habitually break any of them, let it be known unto them who watch over that
soul, as they who must give account. We will admonish him of the error of his
ways. We will bear with him for a season. But if then he repent not, he hath no
more place among us; we have delivered our own souls.
Article IV. Elementary Principles.
45. A Christian church is a society of believers in Jesus Christ assembling
in any one place for religious worship, and is of divine institution.
46. Christ is the only Head of the church, and the Word of God the only rule of faith and conduct.
47. No person who loves the Lord Jesus Christ, and obeys the gospel of God
our Saviour, ought to be deprived of church membership.
48. Every man has an inalienable right to private judgment in matters of
religion, and an equal right to express his opinion in any way which will not
violate the laws of God or the rights of his fellow men.
49. All church trials should be conducted on gospel principles only; and no
minister or member should be excommunicated except for immorality, for
propagation of unchristian doctrines, or for neglect of duties enjoined by the
Word of God.
50. The pastoral or ministerial office and duties are of divine appointment,
and all elders in the church of God are equal; but ministers are forbidden to be
lords over God's heritage, or to have dominion over the faith of the saints.
51. The church has a right to form and enforce such rules and regulations
only as are in accordance with the Holy Scriptures, and may be necessary or have
a tendency to carry into effect the great system of practical Christianity.
52. Whatever power may be necessary to the formation of rules and regulations
is inherent in the ministers and members of the church; but so much of that
power may be delegated from time to time, upon a plan of representation, as they
may judge necessary and proper.
53. It is the duty of all ministers and members of the church to maintain
godliness and oppose all moral evil.
54. It is obligatory upon ministers of the gospel to be faithful in the
discharge of their pastoral and ministerial duties, and it is also obligatory
upon the members to esteem ministers highly for their works' sake, and to render
them a righteous compensation for their labors.
Article V. Membership.
55. The privileges and conditions of full membership in the church are
constitutional, and changes therein may be made only by constitutional
enactment. Nothing shall be included in the membership ritual that is contrary
to the following definitions, conditions, and privileges of membership.
56. The conditions of full membership are:
1). Confession of a personal experience in regeneration, and a pledge to seek
diligently until sanctified wholly if that experience has not been attained.
2). Christian baptism.
3). Acceptance of the Articles of Religion, the General Rules, the Elementary
Principles, and the authority of the Discipline in matters of church government.
4). A covenant to support the church, to live in fellowship with the members
thereof, and to seek God's glory in all things.
5). The approving vote of a majority of the members of the receiving church
who are present and voting, provided that when objections are urged against the
reception of a member, it shall require a vote of three-fourths of those present
and voting to receive.
57. The rights of full membership are:
1). The fellowship of the saints and the encouragement, admonition, and
spiritual guidance of the ministry.
2). The access to the sacraments and ordinances of the church.
3). The right to vote and the eligibility to hold any office for which a person in full
membership is eligible, if not under discipline.
4). The right to trial and appeal if charged with failure to maintain the conditions of membership, with
the specific provision that joining another religious body shall of itself sever
membership in the church.
58. Church membership may be terminated only by one or more of the following:
1). Voluntary withdrawal.
2). Joining another religious body or a secret order.
3). Expulsion after proper trial and conviction.
4). Persistent neglect of church relationship as defined by the Discipline.
Article VI. The Ministry.
59. The Connection shall from time to time enact provisions for the training,
qualification, and ordination of the ministry. Every Allegheny Wesleyan
Methodist minister must be a member of some Allegheny Wesleyan Methodist Church.
An elder is a minister of the gospel fully invested with all the functions of
the Christian ministry.
60. The Constitutional rights of ministers in The Allegheny Wesleyan
Methodist Connection (Original Allegheny Conference), if not under discipline,
shall include the following:
1). To preach the gospel and, in the case of ordained elders, to administer
baptism and the Lord's Supper, to perform all parts of divine worship, and to
solemnize the rite of matrimony.
2). To be eligible, in the case of ordained elders, for election to any
office in the church for which elders are eligible.
3). To contract the pastoral relationship with local Allegheny Wesleyan
Methodist Churches subject to the other provisions of this constitution. (See
paragraph 64, subparagraphs 1 and 2 below.)
4). To enjoy the use for religious meetings of the church building or
buildings of the pastoral charge to which he has been appointed by the annual
conference.
5). To serve his assigned pastoral charge without interference by
unauthorized activities of another minister of The Allegheny Wesleyan Methodist
Connection.
6). To have recourse, even if under discipline, to a proper court of
jurisdiction in any matters involving complaint against his character or
ministerial conduct, and to appeal the decision of such court.
Article VII. Organization and Government.
61. Pastoral Charges. The members of the Connection shall be grouped into
local churches, one or more of which shall constitute a pastoral charge. The
following are the constitutional rights of each pastoral charge:
1). To receive
and expel or discontinue members subject to the provisions of the Discipline.
This right vests severally in each local church.
2). To call its own pastor, subject to confirmation by the Connection.
3). To grant licenses to preach and exhort, and to take away the same.
4). To recommend local preachers and special workers to the Connection.
5). To elect its own officers and to remove the same for cause. No pastor or
other official has any right to appoint an officer or declare an office vacant.
This right belongs to the church alone, and vests severally in each local
church.
6). To elect trustees and through such trustees to supervise, control, and
maintain its property for the use and benefit of the ministry and members of the
churches of The Allegheny Wesleyan Methodist Connection (Original Allegheny
Conference) and subject to its regulations and appointments as from time to
time legislated and declared. This right vests severally in each local church.
7). To be represented in the voting membership of the Connection, if not
under discipline.
8). To have a recourse to a proper court of jurisdiction in any matters of
controversy between itself and the Connection or any other agencies of the
Connection. This right vests severally in each local church.
62. The Connectional Annual Conference. The voting membership of the
conference shall include the following: all elders on the stationed, reserve,
and superannuated lists; all conference preachers elected to elders' orders; all
conference preachers serving as pastors of organized Allegheny Wesleyan
Methodist Churches; lay delegates elected by organized Allegheny Wesleyan
Methodist Churches as provided in the Discipline. In addition, the annual
conference shall include such nonvoting members as the Discipline shall provide.
The principle of equal representation of the ministry and laity in the annual
conference shall be maintained.
63. In transacting the business of the annual conference the ministers and
lay members shall deliberate as one body; but on the final vote on any question,
at the call of one-fourth of the members, the house shall divide, and the
ministers and lay members shall vote separately; and it shall require a majority
vote of each branch to pass any question upon which the division has been
called.
64. The constitutional rights of the Connection shall include the following:
1). The right to take charge of all the ministers and churches within its
bounds and subject to the right of the ministers and churches to enter into
pastoral engagements for one year from the next session of the annual
conference, or to contract the pastoral relationship at any time during the
interval of the sessions of the annual conference when this does not interrupt
any arrangement which was sanctioned by the annual conference at its previous
session.
2a). To alter the agreement entered into by any pastor and charge when it
deems this to be for the best interest of the charge or pastor involved or when
the general interest of the Connection would be better
served by such a change, provided that any alteration of a previous arrangement
between a pastor and church shall be separately reported and passed by vote of
the annual conference, to be effective.
2b). The Connection's authority, as outlined in 64 (2a), shall be restricted
in the following respect: In the event a contract between pastor and a church
must be interrupted in the interim of annual sessions, the Conference shall work
through the local Pulpit Supply Committee concerning a successor and that the
said church shall have the right of voting to extend a call to such a successor.
3). To elect and ordain elders, and to receive elders from other
denominations subject to the restrictions of the Discipline.
4). To receive or decline local preachers and special workers recommended to it by the pastoral
charges within its bounds.
5). To organize and receive local churches within the boundaries of its territory and to fix the boundaries of its circuits and
stations.
6). To take such actions and adopt such rules as it shall judge necessary to
promote the interests and prosperity of the church and to amend or rescind the
same, provided it shall not contravene any provision of the constitution or of
the Discipline, and provided further that if three members of a local church
shall take exception to its action on the ground that it violates this
restriction, they may make an appeal therefrom through the channels prescribed
by the Discipline.
7). To elect its own officers as outlined in the Discipline, and to dismiss
them for cause.
8). To elect in the manner prescribed by the Discipline its own Board of
Trustees and through them to receive, hold, encumber and dispose of all
Connection property within the bounds of the Connection, according to the
provisions of the Discipline and the laws of the state. All properties held by
the Connection shall be held in trust for the use and benefit of the ministry
and members of its own local churches and subject to its regulations and
appointments as from time to time legislated and declared.
9). To have recourse to a proper court of jurisdiction in any matters of
controversy between itself and local or other units or agencies.
Article VIII. Amendments to the Constitution.
65.1). Upon the recommendation of a two-thirds majority of all the members of
the General Connectional Session who shall be present and vote on a proposed
change of any matter involving the constitution, and upon concurrent
recommendation of a two-thirds majority of all the members of the local churches
who shall be present and vote on the same, it shall become constitutional law.
2). Memorials and Revisals pertaining to Statutory provisions of the
Discipline [exclusive of paragraphs 12-72, which are Constitutional and amended
in accordance with paragraphs 65 (1) and 65 (3)] shall be presented to the
General Connectional Session for vote. Majority vote is necessary for approval.
3). All amendments or revisals of the constitution or statutory laws shall be
submitted over the signature of three or more individual members of any
Allegheny Wesleyan Methodist Church(es), and directed to the Chairman of the
Connectional Advisory Board sixty days prior to the coming General Connectional
Session. The General Connection shall have power to establish a committee to be
named as Committee on Memorials and Revisals and shall consider all Memorials
and Revisals as pertaining to both Constitutional and Statutory law.
____
SECTION III.
CONSTITUTIONAL AND STATUTORIAL LAW.
A. Constitutional.
66. We define Constitutional Law to be that part of the polity of The
Allegheny Wesleyan Methodist Connection (Original Allegheny Conference) as can
only be changed by a vote of the General Connectional Conference session and
membership vote of the churches, as provided for in paragraph 65 (1) (2) (3) of
the Discipline.
67. We believe that the supervision of the Connection over the ministry and
churches within its bounds is a constitutional right, but is limited by
paragraphs 183, 184, 185, 194, and 198, and that the rights of the churches and
ministry, as set forth under said paragraphs, are constitutional.
68. The right of the churches to receive and expel or discontinue members of
the same, is constitutional. That is to say, no pastor or any officer of the
church has a right to receive or discontinue a member of the church. It must be
done by the action of the church, except where members join another church, or
other religious body exercising the functions of a church, or a secret society.
In all such cases their own act separates them from the church, provided that
they have been labored with as required by the Discipline. (See also paragraph
118.)
69. The Articles of Religion being constitutional as to change, it will
follow that it is unconstitutional to place any book in the Course of Study that
teaches anything that contravenes our Articles of Faith. The Committee on
Itineracy and Elders' Orders shall be the authority to decide on any book called
in question.
B. Statutory.
70. The Connection has the right to say who shall constitute its membership,
provided there is maintained equal representation as it pertains to the ministry
and laity, and provided further that no local church shall be deprived of
representation.
71. The Connection has the right to legislate as to the best methods of
conducting the business of the entire Church, beginning with the churches, and
including the quarterly and annual conference. It also has the right to
legislate as to the best methods of carrying on the work of the corporate
societies, and all the judiciary departments, whether of churches, quarterly or
annual conference.
72. All Statutory laws shall take effect at the adjournment of the General
Connectional Conference, unless otherwise specified.
____
SECTION IV.
SPECIAL DIRECTIONS.
A. Necessity of Union Among Ourselves.
73. Let us be deeply sensible (from what we have known) of the evil of a
division to principle, spirit, or practice, and the dreadful consequences to
ourselves and others. If we are united, what can stand before us? If we divide,
we shall destroy ourselves, the work of God, and the souls of our people.
In order to achieve a closer union with each other, let us be deeply
convinced of the absolute necessity of it.
Pray earnestly for, and speak freely to each other. When we meet, let us
never part without prayer. Take great care not to despise each other's gifts.
Never speak lightly of each other.
Let us defend each other's character in everything, so far as is consistent
with truth.
Labor in honor, each to prefer the other before himself. Rom. 12:9-10;
15:5-7; Phil. 2:1-2; 1 Pet. 1:22; 3:8; 4:8.
B. Modesty and Economy.
74. Should we insist on the rules concerning dress?
By all means. This is no time to give encouragement to superfluity or
immodesty in apparel. Therefore, let none be received into the church until they
have left off the wearing of gold and superfluous ornaments and have adopted
modest attire.
In order to do this:
1). In visiting the classes be very mild, but very strict.
2). Allow of no exempt case; better one suffer than many.
75. Should we insist on plain and modest dress?
Certainly. We should not on any account spend what the Lord has put into our
hands as stewards, to be used for His glory, in expensive wearing apparel, when
thousands are suffering for food and raiment, and millions are perishing for the
Word of life. Let the dress of every member of every Allegheny Wesleyan
Methodist Church be plain and modest. Let the strictest carefulness and economy
be used in these respects.
76. And we do not only enjoin on all who fear God plain and modest dress, but
we would recommend to our preachers and people, according to
Mr. Wesley's views, expressed in his sermons on the "Inefficacy of
Christianity" and "Dress," published but a few years before his
death, and containing his matured judgment, distinguished plainness and modesty;
plainness and modesty which will publicly commit them to the maintenance of
their Christian profession wherever they may be. Let economy govern our lives in
all purchases that we might have to give to all those who have a material or
spiritual need.
77. Our rules concerning dress are enforced by such Scriptures as: "I
will therefore that men pray everywhere, lifting up holy hands, without wrath
and doubting. In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest
apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or
pearls, or costly array" (I Tim. 2:8-9); "Whose adorning let it not be
that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of
putting on of apparel" (1 Pet. 3:3); "Love not the world, neither the
things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father
is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust
of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.
And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof, but he that doeth the will of
God abideth forever" (1 John 2:15-I7). (See also Dent. 22:5; Isa. 3:16-24;
Ezek. 13:18; 1 Cor. 10:31.)
Refraining from the wearing of jewelry sets a better example for single men
and women, and children. If the mature Christian men and women of the Church do
not have a conscience on this matter, it will be impossible for the Church to
maintain its testimony against worldliness in the younger years.
78. We disapprove of Christians changing their apparel in mourning for the
dead; and enter our protest against the extravagant waste of money, and needless
expense, merely for display, on funeral occasions.
C. Marriage and Divorce.
79. Do we observe any evils which have prevailed in regard to marriage and
divorce?
Many Christians have married unconverted persons. This has produced bad
effects; they have either been hindered for life, or have turned back to
perdition.
We do not prohibit our people from marrying persons who are not of our
Connection, provided such persons have the form and are seeking the
power of godliness; but we are determined to discourage their marrying persons
who do not come up to this description.
For the teaching of the Church on divorce, see General Rules, paragraph 43.
It is to be noted that the substance of paragraph 43 is not intended to imply
that any church or pastor is required to receive into full membership of a
church such persons as defined in the paragraph.
D. Christian Stewardship.
1. Church Finance.
80. Since all Scripture is given by inspiration of God and is profitable for
doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness (2 Tim.
3:16), and since holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost (2
Pet. 1:21), we base our faith upon the inspired Word of God. The Bible gives us
all truth that is vital to Christian experience and to the promotion of the
cause of Christ at home and abroad.
Since God is a God of system and order in all of His doing, we believe the
mind of the Spirit, as taught in the Word, to be that all Christians should
faithfully tithe and present offerings for the support and furtherance of the
Gospel. We recommend that such tithes and offerings be brought into the
storehouse (the church) for their proper and systematic distribution.
Gen. 14:20; 28:22; Lev. 27:30-32; Deut. 14:22; Prov. 3:9-10;11:24-25; Mat.
3:10-11; Matt. 23:23; Acts 4:34-35; 6:1-3; 1 Cor. 16:2; 2 Cor. 8:13-14; Heb. 7:1, 6, 9.
81. We therefore recommend:
1). That all our people pay to God at least one-tenth of all their increase
as a minimum financial obligation, and freewill offerings in addition as God has
prospered them. The tenth is figured upon the tither's gross income in salary or
net increase when operating a business.
2). That the Storehouse Plan be adopted as the general financial plan of the
Church. The local church is regarded as the storehouse into which our people
should bring their tithes.
3). That the Connection shall elect a Tithing Secretary who shall cooperate
with the local church tithing secretary. He shall circulate suitable literature,
promote tithing and the Storehouse Plan among the pastors and tithing
secretaries of the churches, present the Storehouse Plan
to each church of the Connection where it is not in operation, and make an
annual report of his activities, along with the number of churches operating the
Storehouse Plan, to the annual Conference.
4). That each church elect a Tithing Secretary who shall cooperate with the
Connectional Tithing Secretary. His duty shall be to keep a list of members who
tithe, to secure and distribute provided information and literature for
instruction on the subject of tithing and the Storehouse Plan, and to take the
responsibility to arrange with the pastor at least one public service each year
presenting the Storehouse Plan.
5). That the Connection President, pastors, and evangelists encourage our
people to practice Storehouse Tithing as a means of spiritual blessing, as well
as of church advancement.
6). That one service or a devotional time at the Annual Conference be devoted
to the study and promotion of tithing and the Storehouse Plan. These shall be
directed by the annual Connectional Tithing Secretary.
82. It shall be the duty of the Connection at its annual sessions to
apportion the budget of general benevolences assigned to the various charges of
the conference. In making the apportionment, the conference shall take into
account the number of members of each charge and their ability to pay this share
assigned to them. The Connection shall state the exact amount assigned to each
charge for each benevolence, and the Connectional office shall report the same
to each pastor within two weeks after the close of the conference session.
83. It shall be the duty of the pastor and stewards to see to the faithful
collection of the share assigned to their charges. Funds received for Foreign
Missions, Home Missions, Church Support, etc., as outlined in the assigned
budget, may count toward the budget. If any person or society pays money to any
person authorized to receive general funds for any of these purposes, duplicate
receipts shall be given, and the pastor and stewards shall accept these receipts
as payments on the budget. All money and duplicate receipts collected by the
pastor and stewards for the budget shall be sent to the Connectional Treasurer,
provided however that money collected definitely for missionary work, and not as
undivided budget, may be sent to any person authorized to receive general funds.
In this case a duplicate receipt shall be given which shall be sent to the
Connectional Treasurer. A charge has met its obligations when it has paid the
Connectional Treasurer its apportionment in full for each benevolence, or when
it pays an undivided amount sufficient to balance in full each benevolence. The
pastor's statistical report to the Connection shall contain a budget item
showing the amount assigned to his charge for each benevolence, the amount
raised definitely for education, the amount raised definitely for missions, and
the amount raised as undivided budget. This item must be audited by the
Connectional Treasurer before it is accepted by the Connection.
2. Wills, Gifts, Trusts, Life Insurance.
84. Since all our possessions belong to God, and since we are commanded to
"honor the Lord with our substance," and since we have many Scriptural
injunctions and examples that encourage us in giving directions as to what shall
be done with our estates after our death, and since state laws often do not
distribute our estates as might best glorify God, we recommend that our members
prepare immediately, in a careful and legal manner, their last will and
testament.
Isa. 38:1; Luke 6:38; 1 Cor. 16:1-2; 2 Cor. 9:6-8.
85. The Lord directs us to exercise prudence in the managing of the assets
that He has given. In the disposition of an estate it is recommended that estate
conservation and the reduction of taxes and expenses be given considerable
attention. This can effectively be done through gifts while still living. The
benefits of such giving may need to be reviewed with appropriate financial or
legal counsel. Outright gifts, whether cash or property, are always welcomed and
needed.
Revocable Trusts may be established in order to make a monetary gift with
"strings attached." A Revocable Trust may be established to achieve
virtually any goal or desire. The donor may name who is to receive the gift,
when it is to be received, how it is to be spent and retain the right to take it
back whenever the donor desires.
86. The use of life insurance makes it possible for someone to give a gift
that is larger than their normal means would allow. It is possible to receive a
tax deduction and leave the Allegheny Wesleyan Methodist Connection, or one of
its programs, a sizable sum of tax-free dollars at one's death. The following is
the procedure. One may apply for a life insurance contract with the Connection
as the owner and premium payor.
The donor makes a tax deductible donation to the Connection and the
Connection then makes the premium payment to the insurance company. Upon the
donor's death the Connection receives the death benefit tax free.
Careful evaluation of insurance companies and insurance agents should be made
prior to entering into an insurance contract. It is recommended that only
Christian insurance agents and quality insurance companies be used. The A.M.
Best Company rates insurance companies and assigns letter ratings. The rating of
A denotes an "excellent" rating. The rating A+ denotes a
"superior" rating. It is recommended that companies achieving these
ratings be used.
87. When making a gift either outright, by will, by Trust, or by Life
Insurance, please give special attention to the proper name of the society,
church, mission, or college. The donor may always simply name the Allegheny
Wesleyan Methodist Connection.
88. This area of practical benevolence shall be supervised and promoted by
the Planned Giving Officer, who shall be nominated by the Auditing and Finance
Committee, and elected to a four-year term.
E. Temperance and Prohibition.
89. We believe total abstinence from all intoxicating liquors as a beverage
to be the duty of all Christians. We heartily favor moral suasion and the Gospel
remedy to save men from the drink habit.
We believe that law must be an adjunct of moral means in order to suppress
the traffic side of this evil. We believe that the State and the citizen each
has solemn responsibilities and duties to perform in regard to this evil. We
believe that for the State to enact any law to license or tax the traffic, or
derive revenues therefrom, is contrary to the policy of good government, and
brings the State into guilty complicity with the traffic and all the evils
growing out of it, and is also unscriptural and sinful in principle and ought to
be opposed by every
Christian and patriot. We therefore believe that the only true and proper
remedy for the gigantic evil of the liquor traffic is its entire suppression;
and that all our people and true Christians everywhere should pray and vote
against this evil, and not suffer themselves to be controlled by or support
political parties which are managed in the interest of the drink traffic.
Prov. 23:29-35; Isa. 5:11, 22; 28:7-8; Hab. 2:15-16; Gal. 5:21; Eph. 5:.18.
F. Public Morals and Social Concern.
90. The Connection may require its Committee on Resolutions to make a review
of public affairs and other matters of social concern and present its findings
and resolutions to the annual conference.
G. National Reform.
91. It shall be the duty of the ministers and members of The Allegheny
Wesleyan Methodist Connection (Original Allegheny Conference) to use their
influence in every feasible manner in favor of a more complete recognition of
the authority of Almighty God, in the secular and civil relations, both of
society and of government, and the authority of our Lord Jesus Christ as King of
nations as well as King of saints. We therefore require:
92. That all our ministers and members shall favor the use of the Bible in
our public schools.
Deut. 6:7-8; John 5:39.
93. That chaplaincies in the army and navy, and in the State and National
Congress be not abolished.
1 Kgs. 8:22-53; 1 Chr. 4:10; 2 Chr. 14:11-12; 1 Tim. 2:1-2.
94. That Sunday be observed by cessation from all unnecessary labor, and that
the day be devoted to divine worship and rest.
Exod. 20:8; Isa. 56:1-7; 58:13-14; Neh. 13:15-18; Mark 2:27-28.
95. That the name of Almighty God, as the basis of authority in civil
government, shall be considered as one of the fundamental principles of The
Allegheny Wesleyan Methodist Connection (Original Allegheny Conference), and
that it is the bounden duty of all our ministers and members to use all feasible
means to secure such amendments in National and State Constitutions, so that the
name of Jesus Christ, the Son of God, shall be inserted in these instruments
which lie at the foundation of civil government; as it is Christ by whom kings
reign, and princes decree justice.
Ps. 22:28; 33:6-12; Isa. 9:6; Dan. 7:13-14; Rev. 17:14.
H. Peace.
96. Since war results in so much suffering in the bodies, minds, and souls of
men, is costly in the destruction of property, leaving heavy burdens upon
succeeding generations and producing much of the baser passions of life, we urge
that men and nations seek by every legitimate means to avoid armed conflict
among the peoples and nations of the world.
We urge that holy men everywhere make earnest prayer to God that the time be
hastened when swords shall be turned into plowshares and spears into pruning
hooks, when men hall learn war no more; that we may obey the Scriptural
injunction, "love your enemies" (Matt. 5:44; Luke 6:27-28), that
righteousness unde the banner of the Prince of Peace shall prevail.
We are committed to the continuance of constitutional religious liberty,
recognizing the citizen's first duty to God.
Mic. 4:1; Isa. 2:2-4; Zech. 9:10.