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REDEEMING LOVE CHRISTIAN CENTER 4611 Nannie Helen Burroughs Avenue, NE

Washington, DC 20019 Website: www.rlccdc.org

Email Address: info@rlccdc.org

MEMBER’S MANUAL

Dr. David Fields, Jr., Pastor

Dr. Joyce A. Fields, Co-Pastor

Church Office (202) 399-0201

Special Announcements (202) 398-7874

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David Fields, Jr. Pastor

Pastor David Fields, Jr., was born in Maxton, North Carolina and is the oldest of seven children. He founded the St. James Church of Deliverance (St. James C.O.D.) in 1985. St. James C.O.D. was renamed the Redeeming Love Christian Center (RLCC) in February 2010. Pastor Fields received his elementary and high school education in the North Carolina Public School System. He began his Christian experience at St. Matthews African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Zion Church, in 1961, where he held several positions, including Sunday School Superintendant and the National African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Zion Sunday School Convention Delegate. He attended the Livingstone Methodist College in North Carolina, where he studied theology for two years. Pastor Fields was licensed for Gospel Ministry in 1977 by Bishop Clarence B. Richardson, current

Apostle of the Little Rock Church of Deliverance, Inc. He was ordained Elder in 1979 and

ordained a Pastor in October 1984. He continued his religious studies at Howard University

School of Theology, Washington Bible College, and Jericho Christian Bible School. In 2003,

Pastor Fields received a degree of Doctorate of Divinity from the New Hope and Life School of

Religion, Maryland Institute of Higher Education. In May 2010, he received a Degree of Doctor

of Humane Letters from the Faith Christian University and Schools – Faith Bible College and

Seminary.

Pastor Fields received Architect and Engineering certifications from the Hampton Institute in 1969 and 1970. He has been the sole proprietor of Fields Home Improvement Services since 1981. With God-given building skills and abilities, Pastor Fields has renovated two structures into church facilities for the St. James C.O.D. The first renovation was a neighborhood corner store located at 4928 Blaine Street, NE.; completed in October 1985. Pastor Fields was later informed by community residents that the store was a major drug distribution outlet, contributing to the escalated crime rate in the North East/Lincoln Heights District of Columbia area. He gives God the praise for being instrumental in converting the site into a church and thereby birthing the St. James C.O.D. ministries. As the church’s membership begin to grow, it became necessary to find a larger place of worship. After prayerfully seeking God, Pastor Fields was lead to the 4611 Nannie Helen Burroughs Avenue, NE site. Again, using his God-given building skills and abilities, Pastor Fields renovated the Imani East Banquet Hall/Night Club. February 1998, the church commenced services at the new location. Under the leadership of Pastor Fields, the church continues to touch and change the lives of many in the surrounding communities. Pastor Fields and his wife Co-Pastor Joyce Fields have three children, Nathaniel, Emmanuel and Tiffany; two daughters-in-law, Alexis and Kimberly; and two grand-children, Madison and Matthew.

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Joyce Ann Fields

Co-Pastor Joyce Ann Fields is a native Washingtonian and the third of four children. She attended the

District of Columbia (DC) public schools. In May 1977, she received a Bachelor of Science

degree in Business Administration from Georgetown University.

On October 18, 1973, she preached her initial sermon at the Little Rock Bible Church of God in

Washington, D.C., under the Pastor-ship of Bishop Clarence B. Richardson. In August 1979, she

was ordained Evangelist by the Presbyterian Board of the Bible Churches of God, Inc.

Thereafter, she attended the Jericho Christian Training Center College where she completed

several courses in religious studies. In June 2003, she received a Doctorate of Divinity degree

from the New Hope and Life Bible College, Maryland Institute of Higher Education. In May

2010, she received a Degree of Doctor of Humane Letters from the Faith Christian University

and Schools – Faith Bible College and Seminary.

On October 3, 2008, she retired from the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission as Contracting

Officer, after 36 years of Federal Government service.

Joyce Ann Fields faithfully serves at the Redeeming Love Christian Center as Co-Pastor, Adult

Bible Class Teacher, and Associate Dean of the Bible Study Enrichment Institute. She is also a

certified instructor of the Evangelical Training Association, Wheaton, Illinois.

Married to Pastor David Fields, Jr., God has blessed them with three gifted and talented

children: Nathaniel and Emmanuel (twins), and Tiffany; two wonderful daughters-in-law,

Kimberly and Alexis; and two grand-children, Madison and Matthew.

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TABLE OF CONTENT

Topic Page About the Pastor 1 About the Co-Pastor 2 Church Officers 4 Order of Services 5

Church History 5 Church Vision 6 Church Mission Statement 6 Church Beliefs 7 Church Worship Style 15 Church Importance 15

Church Expectations 16 Church Ministries 21

General Guidelines for Leadership 21

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CHURCH OFFICERS Pastor: Dr. David Fields, Jr. Co-Pastor: Dr. Joyce A. Fields Board of Directors: Dr. David Fields, Jr.

Dr. Joyce A. Fields James Johnson Irene McKeithan Carolyn Newsome Maxine Walker

Elder: James Mack Ministers: Darlene Davis

Bridget Elliott Alexis Fields Emmanuel Fields Kimberly Fields Cynthia Monk Alicia Walker Michael Walker

Deacon: James Johnson Trustees: Glenn Corley

Napoleon Davis Tallion Elliott Herbert Hill Bryant Thomas

Secretary: Irene McKeithan Financial Assistant Secretary: Lorraine Day Church Clerk: Carolyn Newsome Appointment Secretary: Tiffany Fields Mother Board: Doris Campbell

Albertha Clark Mildred Hubbard Helen Simon

Minister of Music: Nathaniel Fields

NOTE: Please refer to the Church Website at www.rlccdc.org for the most current listing of Church Officers.

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ORDER OF SERVICES

Sunday 9:00 a.m. Intercessory Prayer

9:30 a.m. Sunday School 11:00 a.m. Morning Worship

Wednesday

7:30 p.m. Prayer Service 8:00 p.m. Bible Study

CHURCH HISTORY While serving on the ministerial staff at the Little Rock First Pentecostal Church of Deliverance, Elder David Fields, Jr. obeyed the calling of God to become a Pastor. Inspired by a vision from God, he purchased a condemned building located at 4928 Blaine Street, N.E., Washington, D.C. Using his God-given talents and skills of masonry, he commenced renovation of the building in August 1983. Under the Assemblies of the First Pentecostal Church of Deliverance, Inc., Fayetteville, North Carolina, Elder David Fields was ordained a Pastor in October 1984. Pastor Fields spent many long hours and nights reconstructing a building that had been used for major drug trafficking operations in the Lincoln Heights, Washington, D.C. community. In October 1985 the building renovation was completed. The doors of the “St. James Church of Deliverance” were opened and the church dedication service was held, November 1985. At that time, the St. James membership consisted of Pastor Fields, Co-Pastor Joyce Fields, their three children, Nathaniel, Emmanuel, and Tiffany, and Sister Carolyn Newsome. Shortly thereafter, Brother Roland Williams and Sister Joni Richards became members. A growing membership at St. James provided for early organization of a Sunday School (Evangelist Peggy Gibson, President); Usher Board (Sister Carolyn (Washington) Newsome, President); Missionary Board (Evangelist Anna Payne, President); and Gospel and Youth Choirs (Sister Sue Dickerson, Musician). Church officials were also installed – Minister Sheila Gray; Mother Donzell Swittenberg; Deacons Ross McKeithan, Marshall Day, Sr., and James Bell; and Trustee Dennis Gray. Under the profound influence of the preached Word of God by Pastor Fields, the anointed teaching of Sister Fields, and the effectual, fervent prayers of the church Mothers and members, the congregation began to take a giant leap forward in Spirit and numbers. It became absolutely necessary to seek God for another location. In the early months of 1997, God led Pastor Fields to the present church site, 4611 Nannie Helen Burroughs Avenue, N.E., Washington, D.C. Again, Pastor Fields was faced with a spiritual and physical challenge. Renovation was required to the once Zelcy’s Imani East Banquet Hall. Reconstruction of the building was completed January 1998. The first service was held Sunday, February 1, 1998. The

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church Dedicatory Service was held Saturday, June 27, 1998. Approximately 200 members joined the St. James Church of Deliverance at the new location. In February 2010, with God’s guidance, Pastor Fields shared with the membership an expanded vision and mission for the church. With the initial vision and mission to “… preach the Gospel, reach the lost, wounded, destitute, abused, and hopeless in the streets of the District and surrounding boundaries…” came further direction from God. A greater focus was required on building relationships with God, families, and communities; and on evangelistic outreach. Pastor Fields also announced the church’s new name, Redeeming Love Christian Center (RLCC). Official transition efforts were completed and on August 1, 2010, the first service was held under the new church name. Shortly thereafter, an Evangelistic Outreach Ministry was launched with team leaders commencing structured evangelistic outreach activities. In 2002, two acres of property was donated to the church as a charitable gift from two very special friends of Co-Pastor Joyce Fields. A future highlight of the church’s history includes building RLCC’s expanded facilities on property located in suburban Maryland.

CHURCH VISION The Redeeming Love Christian Center’s vision is “Building Relationships with God, Families and Communities at Any Time.”

CHURCH MISSION We advance the Kingdom of God by building relationships… WITH GOD through the preached and taught Word of God; the redeeming love of Jesus Christ; and the power of praise and worship. WITH FAMILIES through Christian Fellowship; family counseling and personal development based on biblical principles. WITH COMMUNITIES through outreach ministries that connect community needs to our Christ-centered church and lead people to salvation, healing, deliverance and restoration.

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CHURCH BELIEFS

A. The Bible

We believe that "All scripture is given by inspiration of God." We believe the whole Bible is inspired in that holy men of God "were moved by the Holy Spirit" to write the very words of God. We believe that this divine inspiration extends equally to all parts of the writings as they appeared in the original manuscripts. II Timothy 3:16-17; II Peter 1:21

We believe that Christianity is based upon the authoritative Word of God.

We believe that our faith is of little value without an authority beyond ourselves.

1. Why we believe the Bible to be the Word of God?

a. The testimony of Jesus Christ, substantiated by His divine words and divine works, verifies the entire Bible. Jesus Christ by His resurrection demonstrated His power, authority, and honesty. St. Mark 7:13, St. Luke 24:27, St. Luke 24:44, John 16:12-13

b. Prophecies, especially those relating to Christ, have been fulfilled in remarkable

detail even though written centuries before the event. Psalm 22, Isaiah 53, Micah 5:2

c. Unity of the Bible

The 39 books in the Old Testament and the 27 books in the New Testament all fit perfectly together.

The 66 books written by 40 different authors over a period of 1600 years are without contradiction or disagreement.

d. History of the Bible

What man has made, man can destroy. The most severe attacks upon the Bible have failed to destroy it. St. Matt. 24:35

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B. God

We believe that the Godhead eternally exists in three persons: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit - and that these three are one God, co-equal and co-existent.

We believe in the attributes, qualities, characteristics and nature of God.

1. God is Eternal (Psalm 90:2)

2. God is Incomprehensive (Beyond Human Understanding) – Romans 11:33

3. God is Immutable (Unchanging) - Malachi 3:6, James 1:17

4. God is Omnipotent (All powerful) - Job 42:2, St. Matthew 19:26

[God can do all things, except, of course, that which is contrary to His nature.]

5. God is Omniscient (Knowing all things) - I John 3:20

6. God is Omnipresent (Everywhere present) - Psalm 139:7-10

7. God is Sovereign - Romans 11:36

[God has supreme power, is not limited in what He performs, and is not accountable to anyone but Himself.]

C. Jesus Christ

We believe that the eternal Son of God came into this world that He might be manifested to men, fulfill prophecy, and become the redeemer of a lost world. To this end He was conceived of the Holy Spirit, born of a virgin and received a human body and sinless human nature.

We believe that He remained a perfect sinless man; yet retained His absolute deity, being at the same time divine (God) and human (man). We believe that He voluntarily accepted His Father's will and became the divinely provided sacrificial Lamb and took away the sin of the world; bearing the holy judgment against sin which the righteousness of God must impose. His death was, therefore, substitutionary and by His death He became the Savior of the lost.

We believe that, according to the Word of God, He arose from the dead in the same body, though glorified, and that His resurrected body is a pattern of that body which all believers shall inherit.

We believe that in His ascension He became the Head over all things to the Church which is His body. We believe that He ceases not to intercede and advocate for the saved.

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1. Jesus Christ is God – St. John 1:1, Hebrews 1:8

2. Jesus Christ became Man – St. John 1:14, I John 4:2-3

3. Jesus Christ became our Savior – St. Matthew 1:21, St. John 1:29, Acts 4:12

4. Jesus Christ died and rose again – St. Luke 23:46, 24:1-6, I Corinthians 15:3-4,

II Corinthians 5:15

5. Jesus Christ ascended into Heaven - Acts 1:9

6. Jesus Christ intercedes for us - Hebrews 7:25

D. The Holy Spirit

We believe that the Holy Spirit, the third person of the blessed Trinity, indwells every believer since the day of Pentecost, and by His baptism unites all believers of Christ into one body. He is the source of all power and all acceptable worship and service.

The baptism of the Holy Spirit occurs immediately upon our belief in and acceptance of the saving grace of Christ. We are therefore, placed into the body of Christ, the true Church. The filling of the Holy Spirit is as the occasion demands for service, and/or as we yield ourselves and ask Christ to fill us. We believe He hears us.

We believe there are well-defined gifts of the Holy Spirit which are given out by sovereign will. It is the believer's privilege to yield to the Spirit in order that He might use us in any capacity for His glory.

1. The Holy Spirit is a Person - St. John 15:26, Romans 8:16

2. The Holy Spirit is God - Acts 5:3-4, Compare Isaiah 6:8-10 with Acts 28:25-27; He possesses divine attributes - Psalm 139:7-10, St. John 16:12-13, Hebrews 9:14

3. The Holy Spirit dwells in the Believer - Romans 8:9, I Corinthians 3:16

4. The Holy Spirit gives us membership in the Body of Christ, His invisible Church –

I Corinthians 12:13

5. We must have a proper relationship with the Holy Spirit:

a. We must not grieve Him – Ephesians 4:30

b. We must not quench Him - I Thessalonians 5:19

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c. We must be filled or controlled by Him - Ephesians 5:18 (recommends a spiritual renewal)

E. Man

We believe that man was originally created in innocence and that he fell through sin. As a consequence of his sin, man lost his spiritual life, therefore, becoming dead in trespasses and sins, and subject to the power of the devil. We believe that this spiritual death has been transmitted to the entire human race; and hence, every child of Adam is born into the world with a nature which not only possesses no spark of divine life, but is essentially and unchangeably lost apart from divine grace.

1. Man was created in the image of God - Genesis 1:26-27

Not bodily, for God is a Spirit. - Ephesians 4:23-24, Colossians 3:10

2. Man disobeyed God, fell into sin and plunged the human race into sin. Genesis 3:6,

Psalm 51:5, Romans 3:10-23, 5:12-19

3. Man needs a Savior because he is incapable of saving himself - Isaiah 64:6, St. John 3:3, Ephesians 2:8

F. Salvation

We believe that as a result of death through sin, no one can enter the Kingdom of God unless born again; and that no degree of works can otherwise provide the sinner with the newness (new birth) that makes him a Son of God. This redemption has been accomplished solely by the blood of our Lord Jesus Christ, who was made to be sin, dying in our stead; and no repentance, no feeling, no faith, no ordinance of the church, can add in the least degree to the value of the blood in the finished work wrought for us by Jesus Christ who united us to Himself.

We believe that the new birth of the believer is an act of God and comes only through individual faith in Christ. We believe that no other act such as confession, baptism, prayer, or faithful service can substitute believing in God and His Son, Jesus Christ, to obtain salvation.

We believe that when a believer exercises this faith he/she is immediately moved from a state of spiritual death into spiritual life, changed from the old creation into the new, is linked to Christ and becomes one with Him forever. Though the saved one may have occasion to grow in the realization of blessing, as soon as he/she is saved they come into the possession of every spiritual blessing and is complete in Christ.

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1. Salvation is by grace, not works – Romans 3:24, 6:23, II Corinthians 9:15, Ephesians 2:8-9, Titus 3:5, St. John 5:24

2. Salvation is through faith – St. John 3:16, 3:36, Acts 16:31, Romans 5:1

3. Man’s salvation is secure – St. John 6:37, Romans 8:1

G. The Church

We believe that all who are united to the risen and ascended Son of God are members of the true Church. The Church is the Body and Bride of Christ. We are placed into the Church by the baptism of the Holy Spirit and made one Body, that is Christ’s whether Jew or Gentiles. We believe that God has ordained that through the local Church the gospel of Jesus Christ is to be spread. It is the duty of every born-again believer to seek out a local fellowship for the furtherance of the gospel and his own edification. 1. The Church is spoken of as the Body of Christ – Ephesians 1:22-23 2. Christ loves the Church – Ephesians 5:25-27

3. The Church is one body but has many members – I Corinthians 12:12-14

[Christ’s Church is comprised of those people from all races, nationalities and colors who have personally received Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior.]

4. Local Churches are mentioned in the New Testament – Acts 14:27, 20:17-18

We believe that the local Church has two ordinances; Water Baptism and Lord’s Supper.

Water Baptism:

1. Commanded by Christ – St. Matthew 28.18

2. Practiced by Paul and other Apostles and Disciples – Acts 2:38, Acts 8, I Corinthians 1:13-17

3. Not essential to Salvation – Acts 3:19, I Corinthians 1:17, Ephesians 2:8

4. Follow belief – Acts 2:41, 8:37, 10:47

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[Baptism portrays symbolically what the Holy Spirit does in joining us to the body of Christ.]

Lord’s Supper (Communion):

It was instituted by the Lord just before His betrayal. It is to be observed as a sacred and symbolic means of remembering His death for our sins, until He returns.

I Corinthians 11:24 - Instructs us to observe it.

I Corinthians 11:28 - Instructs us to examine ourselves before we observe it.

Communion is open to all who truly know Christ whether members of our local church or not.

H. The Return of Christ

We believe that the next great event in the fulfillment of prophecy will be the coming of the Lord in the air to receive to Himself, into Heaven, both His own (body of baptized believers) who are living and those who died in Him. We believe that the translation of the Church will be followed by the fulfillment of Israel's seventieth week - during which time the Church, the Body of Christ, will be in Heaven. This period is known as the Great Tribulation.

We believe that the period of great tribulation in the earth will be climaxed by the return of the Lord Jesus Christ to the earth as He went. We believe that the Lord Jesus Christ will return with power and great glory to introduce the millennial age, to bind Satan and place him in the abyss, restore Israel to her own land, and to give Israel the realization of God's covenant promises.

Some Observations:

1. The Rapture (translation of the Church) - When Christ comes initially in the clouds, He calls the Church to Himself. I Corinthians 15:52, I Thessalonians 4:16-17

2. Judgment Seat of Christ - The Church will appear before Christ to give account of its stewardship. Therefore, Christians should live as to be unashamed at His coming. I John 2:28, I Corinthians 3:13-15, II Corinthians 5:10-11

3. The Tribulation - Following the translation of the Church, a period of suffering sets upon the earth. It is described as Great Tribulation. St. Matthew 24 and 25, Revelation 9:16

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4. The Revelation - Many details are not included in this very brief picture of prophetic events. St. Matthew 25:31-46, Colossians 3:4, Revelation 11:15, 20:1-5

I. Satan

We believe that God created an innumerable company of sinless, spiritual beings, known as angels; that one, the highest ranking, sinned through pride, thereby becoming Satan.

We believe that Satan is the originator of sin and that, under the permission of God; he through subtlety led our first parents into transgression, thereby accomplishing their moral fall, and subjecting them and their posterity to his own power. We believe that Satan is the enemy of God and the people of God.

We believe that Satan was judged at the cross, though not then executed, and that he now rules as the "god of the world". We believe that at the second coming of Christ, Satan will be bound and cast into the abyss for a thousand years, and after the thousand years he will be loosed for a little season and then cast into the Lake of Fire.

1. Satan’s origin and fall – Isaiah 14:12-14, Ezekiel 28:15 (Other angels fell with him.) St. Matthew 25:41, II Peter 2:4, Jude 6

2. Satan’s great power and subtlety – St. John 8:44 (Liar), Ephesians 2:2, 6:12, II Corinthians 11:14 (Angel of Light), I Peter 5:8, Revelation 12:10 (Accuser)

3. Satan’s future - Revelation 20:10 (Lake of Fire)

4. Satan can be defeated – Ephesians 6:11 (whole armor of God), James 4:7-8 (submit to God, resist the devil), I Peter 5:9 (resist steadfast in faith)

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J. The Eternal State

We believe that at death the spirits and souls of those who have trusted in the Lord Jesus for salvation pass immediately into His presence and there remain conscious until the resurrection of the glorified body when Christ comes for His own. We believe that the soul and body will be reunited with Him in Glory. We believe the spirits and souls of the unbelieving remain after death, conscious of condemnation and in misery until the resurrection of the glorified body when Christ comes for His own. We believe that soul and body will remain in condemnation and misery until the final judgment of the Great White Throne at the close of the Millennium. The soul and body will be reunited and cast into the Lake of Fire, not annihilated, but punished with everlasting destruction and removed from the presence of the Lord and the glory of His power.

1. What Happens at death?

a. Believers - Present with the Lord. II Corinthians 5:8, Philippians1:23 Resurrection is certain. St. John 5:28-29

b. Unbelievers - Conscious suffering. St. Luke 16:23-23 2. Who will be raised?

a. Believers at the Rapture - I Thessalonians 4:16

b. Unbeliever after 1000 year reign – Revelation 20:5, Revelation 11:13

3. What happens after the resurrection?

a. Believers forever with the Lord - I Thessalonians 4:16-17

b. Unbelievers judged - Revelation 20:11, 15

K. Doctrine

Guard the spiritual and doctrinal purity of the church by guarding your own walk and spiritual development. Insist that they always be in accord with the scriptures. I Timothy 4:16

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IMPORTANT NOTE CONCERNING DOCTRINE

No matter how carefully we outline our doctrinal beliefs and no matter how thoroughly we show the scriptural basis for them the future of this local church theologically depends, among other things, upon two major issues:

1. The genuineness of the individual member's commitment to Christ, the Word of God, and the Church fellowship.

2. The careful and prayerful selection of spiritual individuals to fill positions in the Church Ministry.

CHURCH WORSHIP STYLE

As inspired and orchestrated by the Holy Spirit, our services include praise, worship and preaching and teaching of the Gospel of Jesus Christ and the Word of God.

CHURCH IMPORTANCE Love the Church “Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it.” (Ephesians 5:25). The fact that Christ loved the church is sufficient reason for us to love it, support it and give ourselves for it. Christ gave himself for the church daily during his earthly life. Church Purpose It was clearly the purpose of Christ to teach, preach, and heal; for we read, “And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in the synagogue, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all manner of sickness and all manner of diseases among the people. (Matthew 4:23). When Christ went back to be at the right hand of the Father he committed his church to “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you and Lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world.” (Matthew 28:19). The Redeeming Love Christian Center teaches and preaches the Gospel of Jesus Christ and the Word of God. It maintains a teaching program; a training program; an evangelistic outreach program; and worship services. Every aspect of church life should point toward: a) ministry involvement; and b) getting people connected to the life and mission of the church body.

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Church Tasks Evangelism is our major and foremost task. This major task involves winning souls, training for service and discipleship, participating in mission endeavors and proclaiming the Gospel to believers and unbelievers. It will be your duty, as well as privilege, to attend the various services and training and give yourself for the work of the church constantly.

CHURCH EXPECTATIONS While it is understood that a Christian's primary responsibility is to the Lord, we do see that our relationship to Him vitally affects our relationship with our fellow Christians and especially those in our own Church fellowship.

If Church membership is to be meaningful, it must involve responsibility. In view of this principle, we should not proceed lightly in making a decision on Church membership, but rather regard it as a serious matter.

The choice of a Church home is important and will affect your future.

A. WHAT DOES THE REDEEMING LOVE CHRISTIAN CENTER EXPECT OF ITS MEMBERS?

1. Attendance - God expects consistency in our fellowship with other Christians. Hebrews 10:25

a. Attendance is important because: - God expects it.

- It is a testimony to non-Christians as well as your own family.

- It helps us to grow and develop spiritually.

We trust that you will recognize how important this is and that you will plan to share in each of the regularly scheduled services.

2. Missionary Interest – St. Matthews 28:18-20

a. We want members involved in missions by:

- Prayer

- Seriously considering the call of God upon your own lives.

- Financial assistance

- Communicating with our missionary family (Home and Foreign)

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3. Evangelism – Romans 1:14-17

"Evangelism is the heartbeat of the church." Without an evangelistic outreach the church will die. We encourage involvement in:

a. Personal witnessing, Crusade evangelism, Visitation, etc.

For those who have not had any experience, the church provides training, and promotes seminars.

4. Bible Study and Prayer- Philippians 4:6-7, I Timothy 2:15

As these are essential to Christian development, we encourage:

a. Personal bible study and prayer b. Attendance at the weekly church prayer and bible study services

5. Family and Personal life - Ephesians 5:18, 6:4

The family is a vital key to an effective church. Unless Christian principles learned at church are applied in the home, little is accomplished.

Do Establish:

a. Christian standards in the home b. Family devotions c. Good family relationships and enjoyment together d. Proper biblical relationships between husband and wife, parents and children.

NOTE: None of these are possible on the highest level unless we walk and live under the control of the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 5:18). This should be our normal Christian life.

6. Loyalty - Hebrews 13:1-7, 17-18

For our church to function effectively, we must be loyal to:

a. The church programs - each member has opportunity to discuss the programs through the various ministries and congregational meetings. Once it is established, support it. Our loyalty indicates how important our church really is.

b. The people - walk in love toward one another; encourage, protect, assist one another, and maintain fellowship.

c. The PASTOR - Church staff cannot function well unless you support the Pastor in every way possible. We are all part of a team and each member needs the other.

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B. PRESENTATION OF YOUR TITHES AND OFFERINGS TO GOD

We recommend the tithe (10 percent of income) as a basis for giving. We do keep records, as this is a matter of business, though each one is responsible to the Lord. (II Corinthians 9:12-14)

1. The Ministry of Giving

To begin with, I want to ask you a question. Why do you find joy in giving to your family and loved ones? Because you love them. It is the same way in giving to God. We love Him and want to express that love. Some people are afraid to give to God. They have not learned the nature of God; you cannot out give Him. It would be foolish for me to think I could out give Rockefeller. I would not even think of such a thing, and so it is with God. How could I ever out give Him? It just so happens He won't allow us to give more than He gives us. Try it; it's exciting to see how God gives back to us.

All through the Bible, the Old and New Testament speaks of our giving to God. It becomes obvious that a vital part of fellowship with God is the worshipful act of offering our substance to Him. Mark 12:41-44 tells of Jesus watching the widow giving all she had, which was two mites or one-half penny. He also watched the rich cast much of their money into the offering. However, He said the widow cast in all her living. It is not the amount we give, but how we give of what we have to give. I think this was put in the Bible so no one could boast of how much they give to God.

2. What does it mean to Tithe?

Malachi 3:8-10 “Will a man rob God? Ye have robbed me. But ye say wherein have we robbed thee? In tithes and in offerings. Ye are cursed with a curse: for ye have robbed me, even this whole nation. Bring you all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the Lord of Host. If I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it.”

This is the only place in the Bible that the Lord says for us to "prove" him. It is the second time that God speaks of the "Window of Heaven" being opened. The first time was during the flood in Noah's day. I would rather rob anyone other than God. And while so many Christians would not think of robbing or stealing from one another, yet they somehow excuse themselves from giving tithes.

God says we can keep the 90 percent of our income, but give him the 10 percent. Why?

Does he need it? Does he not own the whole universe, the cattle upon the hills, and all the gold beneath them? It is a principle. It is for our benefit, not God's. It shows whether or not we can trust His promise. He has promised to “….open you the windows Heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it”, and to do far more!

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Do we really believe all of the scriptures concerning giving in both the Old and New Testament? Read Matthew 23:23, Luke 6:38 and I Corinthians 16:2.

What happens if I give sparingly, bountifully, or grudgingly?

Proverbs 11:24-25:

It is possible to give away and become richer! It is also possible to hold on too tightly and lose everything. Yea, the liberal man shall be rich! By watering others, he waters himself.

Proverb 19:17:

When you help the poor you are lending to the Lord and he pays wonderful interest on your loan!

Proverb 22:9:

Happy is the generous man, the one who feeds the poor.

Galatians 6:6-9:

Those who are taught the Word of God should help their teachers by paying them. Don't be misled, remember that you can't ignore God and get away with it. A man will always reap just the kind of crop he sows. If he sows to please his own wrong desires, he will be planting seed of evil and he will surely reap a harvest of spiritual decay and death; but if he plants the good things of the Spirit, he will reap the everlasting life which the Holy Spirit gives him. And let us not get tired of doing what is right, for after a while we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don't become discouraged and give up.

3. Where should the Tithes be given?

In the STOREHOUSE or where we get our spiritual food. Where we attend church is where we should give our tithes. Let us not be deceived in giving our tithes to false prophets, those that pervert the gospel. We bring our tithes to the local church that the ministry and functions of the church might be supported to the advancement of the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. As God says, "That there may be meat in my house".

4. If we take our Tithes and Offerings to God's house, how do we know that thev will be used for the advancement of the Kingdom of God?

Our responsibility is the giving, not the disbursement of what is given. After we have brought our tithes and offerings to His house, as he commanded, our duty has been fulfilled. Then those in charge of the disbursement of God's money are responsible. We must be faithful stewards.

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5. Where did Tithing first appear in the Bible?

GENESIS 14 - It was 430 years before the giving of the Law that Abraham gave God tithes. He tithed as a result of a revelation of one of God's names (v.20) not by a compulsion of the Law. Abraham rejected the spoil of grateful kings, for he had met the God who possessed all things. GENESIS 28 tells of Jacob becoming aware of God's presence and desiring to enter covenant with God; he told him he would give him a tenth of all.

6. Does the Bible say "Money is the root of all evil"?

NO. I Timothy 6:10 says "For the love of money is the root of all evil; which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with money sorrows".

There are many of God's people who have money, but do not love it or put it before God. While there are others that are poor materially and yet have a deep love for money. "SEEK YE FIRST THE KINGDOM OF GOD AND HIS RIGHTEOUSNESS, AND ALL OF THESE THINGS SHALL BE ADDED UNTO YOU." I think this verse explains itself.

7. ls giving to God a duty or a privilege?

It is both. A Christian should tithes for the same reason he keeps all the other commandments of God. It is our duty, but what a privilege to think that God would so humble himself to receive of our hands. There are blessings to those who see tithing as a privilege and not so much as a duty. Just to name a few:

a. It delivers us from the spirit of greed.

b. Makes us recognize that God is the giver.

c. It is a test of our faith in God.

d. It banishes poverty among God's children (II Corinthians 8:1-3)

When we think we must be poor to serve God, our concept or thinking is not current. David said in Psalms, he had never seen the righteous forsaken or his children begging for bread. God is our Father and it’s his obligation to take care of his children. The God of the Old Testament is the same God of the New Testament. If He gave bountiful crops to the people of Israel, will He do the same for us who belong to him?

"But my God shall supply all your needs according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:19

"Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thou soul prospereth." III John 1:2

Don't be dishonest with God. Don't give to be seen. Don't be a stingy Christian, for God loves a cheerful giver.

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CHURCH MINSTRIES Ambassadors-In-Mission (A.I.M.) – Vinicia McNeil-Joyner (President) Bible Study Enrichment Institute (BSEI) – Joyce Fields (President) Daughters of Christ – Tiffany Fields (President) Education Committee – Joyce Fields (President)

HARVEST - Joyce Fields (President)

Kings Men - Bryant Thomas (President) Media/Tape Ministry – Herbert Hill (Coordinator) Missionary Department – Cynthia Monk (President) Music Ministry – Nathaniel Fields (Minister of Music) Newsletter – Bridget Elliott (Chairperson) Praise Team – Nathanial Fields (Minister of Music) Security – Glenn Corley (President) Sunday School – James Mack (Superintendent) Transportation – Herbert Hill (Coordinator) Usher Board – Carolyn Newsome (President) Women of Wisdom – Joyce Fields (President) Youth Praise Dance Team – Alicia Walker (Instructor) Youth Testament – Bridget Elliott (President) NOTE: Please refer to the Church Website at www.rlccdc.org for the most current listing of Church Ministries and Leaders.

JOIN A CHURCH MINISTRY

All Christians are called of God to live, to witness, and to minister for His glory. Church members are called to serve according to their spiritual gifts and talents. We strongly encourage each church member to join at least one of the church ministries. You can speak directly to any of the Ministry Presidents/Leaders, ask questions and obtain information about the ministry that interests you. The Presidents/Leaders will receive you joyfully with open arms!

GENERAL GUIDELINES FOR LEADERSHIP Colossians 3:23-24 says "And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; knowing that of the lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ.”

Ephesians 6:5 says "Servants be obedient to them that are your masters according to the flesh, with fear and trembling, in singleness of your heart, as unto Christ; not with eye service, as men pleasers, but as the servants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart; with good will doing service, as to the Lord, and not to men: knowing that whatsoever good thing any man doeth, the same shall he receive of the Lord, whether he be bond or free.”

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Although we recognize there is no substitute for prayer and close walk with the Lord, we also recognize the need for efficient organization in the work of God. Whatever you do in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, giving thanks to God the Father through him.

A. Spiritual Requirements: 1. FULL OF THE HOLY GHOST (Acts 6:3). Natural ability is important, but secondary to

the motivation and empowering of the Holy Spirit. It is far better to use someone who is sensitive to God and lacking natural ability, than to use someone who relies on natural ability alone.

2. FULL OF WISDOM (Acts 6:3). Individuals working in the name of the leadership will need wisdom because they will find themselves in emotional situations where they know facts that they could use in the wrong way. They must know how to behave wisely.

3. GRAVE (I Tim. 3:8). This term denotes a seriousness of mind and character which will inspire the reverence, awe, and respect of others.

4. HOLDING THE MYSTERY OF THE FAITH IN A PURE CONSCIENCE (I Tim. 3:9). This person must be right with God, so that along with material relief, he/she may also bring spiritual encouragement.

B. Moral Requirements: 1. NOT DOUBLE-TONGUED (I Tim. 3:8). One who is double-tongued says one thing to one

person and gives a different view of it to another. This would imply that a leader must not be a gossiper.

2. NOT GIVEN TO WINE (I Tim. 3:8). This individual must be above reproach in his personal habits. Whatever he/she does will have great influence upon others.

3. NOT GREEDY OF MONEY (I Tim. 3:8). When leaders are in a place of assisting and helping others, they may be tempted to accept monetary gifts from those to whom they minister.

4. BLAMELESS (I Tim. 3:8). In every area of life a leader must be above reproach. This would include all business dealings. You! Must be an example of a godly lifestyle.

5. Must have demonstrated active commitment to faithful Sunday School attendance and Bible Study participation.

6. Must have a burden to win the lost to Christ, and willing to participate in the outreach ministry of the church.

7. Must be an honest and faithful TITHER, a wise steward in the area of finances. 8. Must be able to either teach or pray at all times.

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9. Must be willing to be hospitable, participate in visitation, and an active participant in called meetings.

Questions or comments regarding the content of this Member’s Manual may be directed to the

following individuals:

Dr. David Fields, Jr., Pastor

Dr. Joyce A. Fields, Co-Pastor

Church Office: (202) 399-0201

Email Address: info@rlccdc.org

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CHURCH MISSION

We advance the Kingdom of God by building relationships…

WITH GOD through the preached and taught Word of God; the redeeming love of Jesus Christ; and the power of praise and worship. WITH FAMILIES through Christian Fellowship; family counseling and personal development based on biblical principles. WITH COMMUNITIES through outreach ministries that connect community needs to our Christ-centered church and lead people to salvation, healing, deliverance and restoration.