The Bishops' Council Document

STATEMENT OF BELIEFS FOR THE BISHOPS’ COUNCIL

(Preserving Biblical Orthodoxy)

The Bishops’ Council of ABC Ministries is committed to upholding and safeguarding the essential doctrines of the Christian faith as revealed in the Holy Scriptures. This statement serves as a foundational guide for doctrinal purity, ethical governance, and ecclesiastical accountability, ensuring that all affiliated leaders, churches, and ministries remain faithful to biblical truth.

1. THE HOLY SCRIPTURES

We believe that the Holy Bible, consisting of the 66 books of the Old and New Testaments, is the inspired, infallible, and authoritative Word of God. It is the final authority in all matters of faith, doctrine, conduct, and governance.  (2 Timothy 3:16-17; 2 Peter 1:20-21; Psalm 119:105)

2. THE TRIUNE GOD

We believe in one true God, eternally existent in three persons:

• God the Father, the Creator and Sustainer of all things.
• God the Son, Jesus Christ, fully God and fully man, who was born of a virgin, lived a sinless life, died as the atoning sacrifice for sin, was resurrected bodily, and will return in glory.
• God the Holy Spirit, who indwells, empowers, and sanctifies believers for holy living and ministry. We affirm the deity of the Holy Spirit.

 (Deuteronomy 6:4; Matthew 28:19; 2 Corinthians 13:14)

3. THE INCARNATION OF JESUS CHRIST

We believe that Jesus Christ, the eternal Son of God, took on human flesh through the virgin birth.

• He was fully God and fully man in one person.
• He lived a perfectly righteous life, fulfilling the Law on our behalf.
• His incarnation was necessary for our salvation, as only a perfect mediator could reconcile God and man.

(John 1:14; Matthew 1:23; Colossians 2:9; Hebrews 2:14-17)

4. THE RESURRECTION OF JESUS CHRIST

We affirm the bodily resurrection of Jesus Christ on the third day, which guarantees:

• Victory over sin and death.
• Justification for believers through His triumph.
• The future resurrection of all who are in Christ.

(1 Corinthians 15:3-8, 20-22; Romans 4:25; Luke 24:39-43)

5. SOTERIOLOGY (SALVATION)

5.1 We believe that salvation is by grace alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone, though the Word alone, to the glory of God alone.  It is a work of God’s sovereign grace, not human effort.

• Man is born dead in sin, unable to seek God apart from divine grace (Romans 3:10-12; Ephesians 2:1-3).
• God chose His elect before the foundation of the world, not based on foreseen faith but His sovereign will (Ephesians 1:4-5; Romans 9:11-16).
• Christ’s death was sufficient for all but effective only for the elect (John 10:11, 14-15; Matthew 1:21).
• The Holy Spirit draws the elect to salvation in an effectual manner (John 6:37, 44; Acts 13:48).
• True believers will endure in faith until the end, kept by God’s power (Philippians 1:6; John 10:27-29; 1 Peter 1:3-5).

We reject any teaching that:

• Denies substitutionary atonement.
• Teaches salvation by human effort or free will alone.
• Promotes universalism (all will be saved).

6. THE DOCTRINE OF THE CHURCH

We believe that the Church is the Body of Christ, comprised of all true believers. The Church is called to:

• Preach the Gospel to all nations.
• Teach sound doctrine and disciple believers.
• Maintain holiness and accountability within the Body.
• Exercise spiritual authority under the guidance of Scripture.

(Ephesians 4:11-16; Matthew 28:19-20; Acts 2:42-47)

7. THE OFFICES OF THE CHURCH

We believe in the biblical offices of apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers for the equipping of the saints.  Additionally, we affirm the roles of bishops, elders, and deacons as leaders of local churches.

(Ephesians 4:11-13; 1 Timothy 3:1-13; Titus 1:5-9)

8. ACCOUNTABILITY AND DISCIPLINE IN MINISTRY

The Council upholds biblical discipline for pastors and leaders:

• Ministers guilty of moral failure will undergo biblical restoration or removal.
• Churches should not tolerate false teaching or unrepentant sin in leadership.
• Pastors who exploit or manipulate their congregations will be confronted.

(Matthew 18:15-17; 1 Timothy 5:20; Galatians 6:1)

9. THE SECOND COMING OF CHRIST

We believe in the literal, physical return of Jesus Christ.  He will:

• Judge the living and the dead.
• Establish His Kingdom in righteousness.
• Reward the faithful and bring eternal justice.

(Matthew 24:30-31; 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17; Revelation 22:12-13)

10. CHRISTIAN UNITY AND INTERDENOMINATIONAL COOPERATION

We affirm that all true believers, regardless of denomination, are one in Christ.

• The Council will work with biblically sound churches for the Gospel’s
• We reject sectarianism and spiritual elitism.

(John 17:20-23; Ephesians 4:3-6; Romans 12:4-5)

11. CONCLUSION

The Bishops’ Council is committed to:

• Guarding doctrinal purity in South Africa’s churches.
• Holding leaders accountable to biblical standards.
• Strengthening the Body of Christ through sound teaching and discipleship.

All affiliated members of this Council must affirm this Statement of Beliefs. Those who depart from biblical orthodoxy may be subject to review, counsel, and, if necessary, separation from the Council to preserve the integrity of the faith.

Jude 1:3 (KJV) Earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints.

ROLE OF THE BISHOPS’ COUNCIL IN SOUTH AFRICA

The Bishops’ Council of ABC Ministries serves as a collective body of seasoned AUTONOMOUS church leaders who provide spiritual oversight, doctrinal guidance, and moral accountability to ensure the integrity of the Christian faith and the well-being of churches under its influence.  The council operates within the framework of Biblical principles, ethical governance, and constitutional rights, ensuring its actions are aligned with both Christian doctrine and legal protections in South Africa.

1. SAFEGUARDING BIBLICAL ORTHODOXY

• The council is committed to preserving and promoting sound doctrine in alignment with historic Christian faith as expressed in the Scriptures. This includes:
• Upholding the authority of the Bible as the final standard for faith and practice.
• Providing theological training, doctrinal statements, and resources to churches.
• Addressing doctrinal deviations that may mislead believers while respecting religious freedoms.
• Encouraging dialogue with pastors and leaders on theological soundness to ensure unity in truth.
• Legal Safeguard:

The council educates and advises rather than imposes doctrine coercively, ensuring compliance with South Africa’s constitutional protections on religious freedom. 

2. UPHOLDING MINISTERIAL INTEGRITY AND ACCOUNTABILITIY

• The council provides ethical oversight for ministers, ensuring that those in leadership uphold the highest moral standards. It does so by:
• Establishing biblical and ethical guidelines for church leaders.
• Providing pastoral accountability structures to address moral failures.
• Creating restoration processes for ministers who sincerely seek repentance and rehabilitation.
• Encouraging churches to implement internal accountability measures to prevent moral lapses.
• Legal Safeguard:

The council operates as a voluntary advisory body, meaning that churches retain autonomy in decision-making.  It does not enforce punitive measures but provides guidance and recommendations in line with biblical and ethical principles.

3. WARNING CHURCHES ABOUT THEOLOGICAL DECEPTION

• In an era of false teachings and exploitative religious practices, the council plays a watchman role by:

• Identifying and educating churches about dangerous theological trends.
• Issuing public theological statements on matters affecting Christian doctrine.
• Encouraging churches to exercise discernment in leadership affiliations.
• Promoting biblical literacy to empower believers to recognize heretical teachings.
• Legal Safeguard:

Rather than targeting individuals directly, the council focuses on doctrinal education and discerning biblical truth, ensuring that its actions do not constitute defamation or personal attacks.

4. STRENGTHENING CHURCHES AND EQUIPPING LEADERS

• The council serves as a pillar of support for churches and leaders, offering:
• Spiritual mentorship and leadership training to ensure sound governance.
• Conflict resolution services for disputes among leaders and congregations.
• Guidance on legal compliance for churches operating within South Africa’s legal framework.
• Encouragement of collaboration among churches for community impact.
• Legal Safeguard:

All actions are framed as voluntary support and guidance, ensuring that the council does not infringe upon the legal autonomy of churches.

5. DEFENDING RELIGIOUS FREEDOMS AND ETHICAL STANDARDS

• The council actively monitors government policies and legal developments that may impact religious liberty, ensuring that:

• Churches retain the right to practice their faith without government interference.
• The council provides guidance on ethical and legal challenges facing religious communities.
• Churches have access to legal counsel and advocacy support if faced with unfair restrictions.

• Legal Safeguard:

The council works within constitutional protections on religious freedom and engages in legal discussions through proper channels.

• Conclusion

The Bishops’ Council of ABC Ministries operates as a guardian of biblical truth, an advisory body for church accountability, and a promoter of ethical leadership.  By functioning within both biblical mandates and legal boundaries, it ensures that churches remain faithful to their calling while protecting their rights and integrity in society.

QUALIFICATIONS OF BISHOPS

Essential Qualifications for a Bishops’ Council Member:

1. MINISTERIAL EXPERIENCE AND OVERSIGHT

• Lead elder of local AUTONOMOUS church.
• Retired elders in good standing.
• Must have played a significant role in church planting, governance, and ministerial development.

2. CHARACTER AND BIBLICAL QUALIFICATIONS

(1 Timothy 3:1-7; Titus 1:6-9)

Must meet all character qualifications in 1 Timothy 3 and Titus 1:

• Blameless (no major scandals or unresolved accusations). MUST BE FAITHFUL WITH HIS TITHES AND FINANCIAL STEWARDSHIP.
• Faithful to their spouse (husband of one wife; sexually pure).
• Temperate, self-controlled, and sober-minded (not impulsive or given to extremes).
• Hospitable (welcomes others, not isolated).
• Able to teach (sound doctrine, able to refute false teaching).
• Not given to wine (not addicted to alcohol or drugs).
• Not violent but gentle (peaceful, not combative).
• Not greedy for money (not using ministry for financial gain).
• Manages their household well (children in submission and disciplined).
• Not a novice (spiritually mature and seasoned).
• Has a good reputation with outsiders (respected beyond the church).

3. DOCTRINAL SOUNDNESS AND THEOLOGICAL MATURITY

• Must be rooted in sound doctrine and able to defend the faith (Titus 1:9).
• Must reject heresies, false doctrines, and unscriptural movements.
• Must uphold apostolic traditions and biblical truth.
• Must be able to train and disciple other leaders effectively.

4. APOSTOLIC AND GOVERNMENTAL LEADERSHIP

• Must have a recognized apostolic calling or bishopric appointment.
• Must demonstrate governance and leadership abilities beyond their local church.
• Should be able to mediate conflicts and provide wisdom in doctrinal or administrative issues.

5. PROVEN TRACK RECORD IN MINISTRY INTEGRITY

• Must have a history of integrity and faithfulness in financial matters.
• Must not be involved in corruption, fraud, or mismanagement of church funds.
• Must be transparent and accountable in ministry dealings.

6. COMMITMENT TO MINISTERIAL BROTHERHOOD AND UNITY

• Must be willing to work with other bishops in a spirit of unity and mutual respect.
• Should not sow division or seek personal power over the council.
• Must commit to upholding council decisions and working in unity.

7. MINISTERIAL FRUIT AND DISCIPLESHIP LEGACY

• Must have raised up other leaders, pastors, or bishops.
• Should have a track record of successful ministry succession planning.
• Must be actively mentoring the next generation of church leaders.

8. COMMITMENT TO PRAYER AND SPIRITUAL DISCERNMENT

• Must be committed to prayer, fasting, and seeking God’s direction.
• Must have a strong prophetic and discerning spirit to navigate church governance.
• Should be able to discern false teachings, wolves in the church, and spiritual attacks.

9. PUBLIC MINISTRY INFLUENCE AND COMMUNITY IMPACT

• Should have a recognised influence in their region or nation.
• Must be involved in community transformation, social outreach, or missions work.
• Should have strong relationships with other ministries.
• Must be recommended by at least two existing council members.
• Should have a record of faithfulness in previous church networks or councils.
• Must be willing to submit to the council’s accountability structure.
• Must provide a written doctrinal statement affirming key biblical beliefs.

GOVERNING DOCUMENTS FOR STRUCTURE AND LEADERSHIP

1. CONSTITUTION AND BYLAWS OF THE BISHOPS’ COUNCIL

• Name and purpose

This organisation shall be known as The Bishops’ Council of ABC MINISTRIES.

The purpose of the Council is to:

• Preserve biblical orthodoxy in churches under its oversight;
• Provide spiritual leadership and accountability for bishops and pastor; and to
• Maintain ministerial standards and doctrinal purity.

1.2 Leadership structure

The Council shall consist of:

• APOSTOLIC BISHOP COORDINATOR (Chairperson)
• APOSTOLIC BISHOP CONSULTANTS (Executive Bishops Committee)
• APOSTOLIC BISHOP CHAPLAINS – LEADERS OF LOCAL CHURCHES
• Membership and affiliation
• A bishop must meet the qualifications outlined in C above.
• Churches must affirm the Statement of Doctrine and be in good standing.
• A member can be suspended or removed for violations of doctrine, immorality, or divisive behaviour (Titus 3:10-11).
• Meetings and decision-making
• The Council shall meet as directed by the Spirit to discuss governance, discipline, and doctrinal issues.
• Decisions shall be made by majority vote unless otherwise required.
• Special meetings can be called in cases of emergency.

3. CHURCH AFFILIATION AND MEMBERSHIP AGREEMENT

(Guidelines for Churches & Pastors Joining the Council)

• Doctrinal Agreement

A church seeking affiliation must affirm the Council’s Statement of Doctrine.

• Commitment to Accountability

The church agrees to:

• Submit to the Council’s oversight in doctrinal and ethical matters.
• Uphold financial integrity and moral purity.
• Grounds for Termination of Membership

A church may be removed for:

• Persistent doctrinal errors (heresy, false teachings).
• Moral corruption in leadership.

4. MEETING & DECISION-MAKING GUIDELINES

(Rules for Conducting Official Council Meetings)

• Meeting Schedule
• The Council shall hold THREE regular meetings per year.
• Special meetings may be called in cases of doctrinal emergencies.

• Voting Procedures

• Each bishop shall have one vote.
• A majority vote is required for doctrinal resolutions.
• Dispute Resolution

 In cases of disagreement, the matter shall be submitted to the Executive Bishops for mediation (Matthew 18:15-17).

 MEDIA AND PUBLIC RELATIONS POLICY

 (Guidelines for Bishops in Public Engagements)

 Official Representation

No bishop may publicly speak on behalf of the Council without authorization.

• Statements on government policies or social issues must be approved by the APOSTOLIC BISHOP CONSULTANTS.

 Social Media Conduct

Bishops must refrain from public disputes, slander, or divisive language (Ephesians 4:29).

• Any public criticism of another minister must be handled privately first.
• Crisis Response

• In cases of scandal or doctrinal controversy, an official Council statement will be released.

6. CHURCH PLANTING & MISSION STRATEGY

(Expanding the Gospel Through New Churches)

• Biblical Model for Church Planting

• Church plants must follow the apostolic pattern (Acts 13:1-3).
• The lead pastor must be trained and ordained by the Bishops’ Council.
• Accountability of New Churches

Each church plant must submit to:

• Doctrinal oversight from the Council.
• Financial transparency in funding.

7. CRISIS RESPONSE AND CONFLICT RESOLUTION POLICY

(Handling Church Scandals and Leadership Disputes) 

• Biblical Conflict Resolution Process

All disputes should follow the Matthew 18:15-17 process:

• Private confrontation first.
• Bring witnesses if needed.
• Council intervention if unresolved.
• Handling Scandals in Leadership

If a bishop is accused of misconduct, the case must be:

• Investigated by a council committee.
• Reviewed by multiple witnesses (1 Timothy 5:19).
• Judged according to biblical standards.

8. LEGAL FRAMEWORK & GOVERNMENT COMPLIANCE GUIDE

(Ensuring Churches Operate Legally in South Africa)

• Church Registration Requirements

Every affiliated church must be legally registered under South African law.

Compliance with Financial Laws

Churches must comply with tax regulations to prevent legal complications.

• Religious Freedom & Government Relations

The Council shall engage with the government to protect religious freedoms.

9. Dress code and titles

Bishops in ABC Ministries are not permitted to wear collars or special vestments. They must be recognised by their conduct and contribution to the Body of Christ not dress and titles.

DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURES FOR THE BISHOPS’ COUNCIL

(Based on Biblical Principles – KJV)

The Bishops’ Council upholds biblical discipline to preserve the integrity of the Church, ensure ministerial accountability, and protect the flock from false teachings and moral failures. Discipline is always redemptive, not punitive, aiming at repentance, restoration, and the fear of the Lord.

1 Timothy 5:20 KJV

Them that sin rebuke before all, that others also may fear.

1. GENERAL PRINCIPLES OF DISCIPLINE

• Discipline must be biblical, based on scriptural guidelines.
• Discipline must be impartial, applied without favouritism
• Discipline must be restorative, aiming at repentance, not condemnation.
• Discipline must be transparent, following due process.
• Discipline must be handled by spiritual leaders, not carnal individuals.

(Galatians 6:1; 2 Corinthians 2:6-8; 1 Timothy 5:19-20)

2. GROUNDS FOR DISCIPLINARY ACTION

A minister under the Bishops’ Council may face discipline for:

• Doctrinal Corruption (Heresy, False Teachings)

• Teaching unbiblical doctrines that lead believers astray.
• Denying core Christian doctrines (e.g., deity of Christ, salvation by grace).
• Promoting financial or manipulative schemes under the guise of spirituality.

(Titus 1:10-11; 1 Timothy 4:1-2; 2 Peter 2:1-3)

• Moral Failure (Immorality, Corruption)

• Sexual misconduct (adultery, fornication, homosexuality, abuse).
• Financial dishonesty (fraud, bribery, mismanagement of church funds).
• Substance abuse or drunkenness.

(1 Corinthians 5:11; 1 Timothy 3:2-3; Hebrews 13:4)

• Abuse of Ministerial Authority

• Spiritual manipulation for personal gain.
• Authoritarian control over believers, leading to oppression.
• Engaging in witchcraft, sorcery, or divination.

(Ezekiel 34:2-4; Acts 20:28-30; Galatians 5:19-21) 

• Division and Strife in the Body of Christ

• Sowing discord among brethren.
• Open rebellion against church leadership without just cause.
• Engaging in slander or false accusations against others.

(Proverbs 6:16-19; Titus 3:10-11; Romans 16:17-18)

3. BIBLICAL PROCESS FOR DISCIPLINE

STEP 1: PRIVATE CONFRONTATION

(First Warning)

Matthew 18:15 (KJV)

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.

• If a bishop, pastor, or minister is in error, the matter should first be addressed privately by a senior leader or council member.
• The goal is repentance and correction.

STEP 2: SECOND WITNESS & COUNCIL REVIEW

(Second Warning)

Matthew 18:16 (KJV)

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. 

• If the individual does not repent, the matter is brought before two or three witnesses (elders or senior bishops).
• The accused is given an opportunity to defend themselves.
• If found guilty, a second warning is issued.

STEP 3: PUBLIC REBUKE & TEMPORARY SUSPENSION

1 Timothy 5:20 (KJV)

Them that sin rebuke before all, that others also may fear.

• If the accused persists in sin, the matter is brought before the council, and a formal disciplinary hearing is conducted.
• If guilty, the minister is publicly rebuked to serve as a warning to others.
• Depending on the severity, the individual may be suspended from ministry.

STEP 4: REMOVAL FROM OFFICE

(Final Judgement)

Titus 3:10-11 (KJV)

A man that is an heretick after the first and second admonition reject; Knowing that he that is such is subverted, and sinneth, being condemned of himself.

• If the individual remains unrepentant after multiple warnings, they are to be removed from office and stripped of ministerial responsibilities.
• The decision is formally documented, and churches under their oversight are notified.
• A letter of disassociation is issued to protect the integrity of the council.

4. RESTORATION PROCESS

(For Repentant Ministers)

If a disciplined minister repents, the Council may consider restoration after:

• A period of spiritual rehabilitation and counselling.
• Submission to a spiritual mentor or overseer.
• Evidence of genuine repentance and lifestyle change.

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.

5. PROTECTION AGAINST FALSE ACCUSATIONS

To prevent misuse of discipline:

• Accusations against a bishop or elder must be verified by multiple credible witnesses.

1 Timothy 5:19 (KJV)

Against an elder receive not an accusation, but before two or three witnesses.

• The Council will ensure fair hearings before making judgments.
• No personal vendettas will influence disciplinary decisions.

6. FINAL DECLARATION

The Bishops’ Council of ABC Ministries will:

• Uphold biblical discipline with love and integrity.
• Ensure moral and doctrinal purity in the church.
• Seek repentance and restoration rather than condemnation.

1 Timothy 5:22 (KJV)

Lay hands suddenly on no man, neither be partaker of other men’s sins: keep thyself pure.