CONSTITUTION

The name of this educational association shall be the “Reformation Bible Society.”

The purpose of the Society shall be to foster and promote scholarly study, defense, and interpretation of the traditional Reformation text of Christian Scripture (i.e., the Masoretic Text of the Hebrew Old Testament and Received Text of the Greek New Testament) by providing a medium for the oral exchange and written expression of thought and research.

The Old Testament in Hebrew (which was the native language of the people of God of old), and the New Testament in Greek (which, at the time of the writing of it, was most generally known to the nations), being immediately inspired by God, and, by his singular care and providence, kept pure in all ages, are therefore authentical; so as, in all controversies of religion, the church is finally to appeal unto them. But, because these original tongues are not known to all the people of God, who have right unto, and interest in the Scriptures, and are commanded, in the fear of God, to read and search them, therefore they are to be translated into the vulgar language of every nation unto which they come, that, the Word of God dwelling plentifully in all, they may worship him in an acceptable manner; and, through patience and comfort of the Scriptures, may have hope. (WCF/2LBCF, I.8)

Section 1.

Membership in the Society shall be on an individual rather than an institutional basis.

Section 2.

Every member must agree with the Society’s Purpose, subscribe to the Doctrinal Basis, and to at least one of the following confessions of faith: Westminster Standards, Three Forms of Unity, Second London Baptist Confession, Savoy Declaration, Formula of Concord, Thirty-Nine Articles. Annual re-affirmation is required.

Section 3.

The M.Div. degree or its theological equivalent shall ordinarily be required for membership in the Society. In exceptional instances, and at the discretion of the executive committee, anyone who lacks the M.Div. degree or its theological equivalent may be eligible for membership, provided that he has made significant contributions in the realm of bibliology.

Section 4.

New members shall be added by two-thirds majority vote of the executive committee and shall support the work of the Society with an annual contribution as determined by the executive committee.

Section 5.

A member whose teachings have been challenged as incompatible with the Doctrinal Basis of the Society shall have his case referred to the executive committee, before whom he and his accusers shall be given full opportunity to discuss his views and the accusations. A two-thirds majority vote of the executive committee shall be necessary for dismissal from membership.

Section 1.

The executive committee shall consist of at least three members of the Society; with a chairman, a secretary, and a treasurer.

Section 2.

The executive committee shall meet at least once per year and, upon request, provide a copy of its minutes to the members. Meetings may be held in-person or online with two weeks’ notice.

Section 3.

The executive committee shall be self-perpetuating.

Section 1.

The Society shall ordinarily hold national meetings each year at a time and place determined by the executive committee.

Section 2.

The executive committee will arrange for and oversee plenary speakers, special sessions, and all other presentations. The executive committee may invite those who are not members of the Society (guest speakers, students, etc.) to participate in its events and projects at its discretion.

Section 3.

The executive committee may appoint ad hoc committees to oversee logistical matters such as catering, lodging, etc.

Section 4.

Other meetings, including those of a regional nature, may also be held as desired, with the concurrence of the executive committee.

Section 1.

Proposed amendments to this constitution must be submitted in writing to the secretary and shall be considered by the executive committee at its next stated meeting. A two-thirds vote of the executive committee is required for approval.

Section 2.

Amendments to Articles II or III require the unanimous agreement of the executive committee.