IFCA REGIONAL LEADERS' HANDBOOK - IFCA International

IFCA REGIONAL 

LEADERS’ HANDBOOK 

GUIDELINES, RESOURCES, HELP, ENCOURAGEMENT, 

SAMPLES AND IDEAS FOR THE LEADERS OF 

THE REGIONALS OF IFCA INTERNATIONAL

THIS HANDBOOK HAS BEEN PREPARED BY THE IFCA COUNCIL OF REGIONAL 

PRESIDENTS (CORPS) IN ORDER TO PROVIDE SUGGESTED GUIDELINES, RESOURCES, 

HELP, ENCOURAGEMENT, SAMPLES AND IDEAS FOR THE LEADERSHIP OF THE IFCA 

INTERNATIONAL REGIONALS. IT IS OUR PRAYER THAT THIS HANDBOOK WILL BE AN 

AID TO YOU AS YOU SERVE THE LORD IN YOUR REGIONAL, WORKING TOGETHER WITH 

US IN THE FULFILMENT OF IFCA INTERNATIONAL’S VISION AND GOALS. 

THIS HANDBOOK IS NOT A MANUAL THAT MUST BE FOLLOWED IMPLICITY IN EVERY 

RESPECT, BUT RATHER A GROWING COMPILATION OF DOCUMENTS AND USEFUL 

MATERIAL GLEANED FROM VARIOUS SOURCES AND MADE AVAILABLE ELECTRONICALLY 

ON THE IFCA WEBSITE AND IN LOOSELEAF PRINTED FORM WITH AMPLE SPACE ON THE 

LEFT FOR PERSONAL NOTATIONS. 

IT IS OUR INTENT TO EXPAND UPON THE CONTENTS OF THIS HANDBOOK WITH NEW 

CONTRIBUTIONS GATHERED FROM THE REGIONALS. 

THIS IFCA REGIONAL LEADERS HANDBOOK IS INTENDED TO BE COPIED. PLEASE FEEL 

AT LIBERTY TO MAKE COPIES OF ANY AND ALL PAGES IN WHATEVER WAY WILL BE MOST 

HELPFUL TO YOU AND YOUR REGIONAL! 

IFCA International 

P.O. Box 810 

3520 Fairlanes 

Grandville, MI 49468 

(616) 531-1840 

www.ifca.org 

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IFCA International Regional Leadership 

Handbook

TABLE OF CONTENTS 

IFCA Regional Presidents ........................................................................................................................................ 6 

Organizational History and Values ........................................................................................................................ 9 

Key Organizational Statements .......................................................................................................................... 10 

IFCA International MISSION STATEMENT .............................................................................................. 10 

IFCA International VISION STATEMENT ................................................................................................. 10 

IFCA International PURPOSE STATEMENT ............................................................................................. 10 

IFCA International AMBITION ..................................................................................................................... 10 

IFCA International CORE VALUES .............................................................................................................. 10 

Vital Signs of Healthy IFCA Churches .............................................................................................................. 11 

Doctrinal Purity................................................................................................................................................. 11 

Holy Living ........................................................................................................................................................ 11 

Fervent Prayer ................................................................................................................................................... 11 

Expository Preaching ....................................................................................................................................... 11 

Relevant Teaching............................................................................................................................................. 11 

Servant Leadership ........................................................................................................................................... 11 

Intentional Equipping ...................................................................................................................................... 12 

Leadership Development ................................................................................................................................ 12 

Pastoral Mentoring ........................................................................................................................................... 12 

Evangelistic Zeal ............................................................................................................................................... 12 

Missions Involvement ...................................................................................................................................... 12 

Church Extension .............................................................................................................................................. 12 

Compassionate Concern .................................................................................................................................. 12 

Unified Purpose ................................................................................................................................................ 12 

Effective Communication ................................................................................................................................ 13 

Biblical Conciliation .......................................................................................................................................... 13 

Sensitive Separation ......................................................................................................................................... 13 

Multi-Generational Ministry ........................................................................................................................... 13 

Multi-Cultural/Ethnically Diverse Ministry ................................................................................................ 13 

Financial Stewardship ...................................................................................................................................... 13 

Continual Improvement .................................................................................................................................. 13 

A Brief History of IFCA International................................................................................................................ 14 

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A Time To Stand Firm IN HISTORY .............................................................................................................. 14 

Standing Firm Does Not Mean Standing Alone! .............................................................................................. 18 

Doctrinal Integrity ............................................................................................................................................ 18 

Independence .................................................................................................................................................... 18 

Interdependence ............................................................................................................................................... 18 

International ...................................................................................................................................................... 18 

What is an Independent Local Church? ............................................................................................................ 20 

What Is An Independent Fundamental Church? ............................................................................................. 23 

A Church That Is Independent ....................................................................................................................... 23 

A Church That Is Fundamental ...................................................................................................................... 23 

A Church That Is Bible Centered .................................................................................................................... 24 

A Church With Distinctive Emphases ........................................................................................................... 24 

Finding IFCA International Ministries .............................................................................................................. 26 

IFCA International Membership ........................................................................................................................ 29 

Benefits Of IFCA International Membership .................................................................................................... 31 

Growing Together Based On A Common Doctrinal Position .................................................................... 31 

Cultivating Christian Fellowship ................................................................................................................... 32 

Planting New Opportunities Of Ministry At Home And Abroad ............................................................. 32 

Feeding The Church Through A Network Of Services ............................................................................... 33 

Developing An Ongoing Publication Service ............................................................................................... 33 

Increasing Opportunities For Interdependence ........................................................................................... 34 

Constitutional And Policy Issues Related to Regional Organization and Activities ................................. 36 

Article XII – Admission And Renewal Of Churches, Organizations, And Individuals ............................. 37 

Section 1 Admission Authority ....................................................................................................................... 37 

Section 2 Admission Requirements and Procedure for Churches and Organizations ............................ 37 

Section 3 Admission Requirements and Procedure for Individuals .......................................................... 37 

Section 4 Membership Renewals .................................................................................................................... 37 

Article XIII - Termination Of Membership........................................................................................................ 38 

Section 1 Withdrawal ....................................................................................................................................... 38 

Section 2 Termination ....................................................................................................................................... 38 

Article XV - Regional Affiliation With IFCA International ............................................................................. 38 

Section 1 Regional Affiliation .......................................................................................................................... 38 

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Section 2 Regional Membership ..................................................................................................................... 39 

Section 3 Tax Exemption .................................................................................................................................. 40 

Article X - Board Of Directors And Committees .............................................................................................. 40 

Section 1 Board of Directors ............................................................................................................................ 40 

Section 2 Committees ....................................................................................................................................... 40 

Article XI - Nominations And Elections ............................................................................................................ 40 

Section 1 Nominating Committee .................................................................................................................. 40 

Section 2 Elections and Term Rotation .......................................................................................................... 41 

Section 3 Election and Terms of the President .............................................................................................. 41 

Section 4 Election and Terms of the Directors .............................................................................................. 42 

Regional Organizational And Leadership Issues .............................................................................................. 43 

Accomplishing IFCA’s Purpose .......................................................................................................................... 44 

Regional HISTORY ............................................................................................................................................... 48 

Regional PURPOSE .............................................................................................................................................. 49 

Evaluation Of Regional's Purpose .................................................................................................................. 50 

Regional GOALS ................................................................................................................................................... 52 

Regional Goals Assessment ............................................................................................................................. 53 

Regional PRIORITIES ........................................................................................................................................... 55 

Establishing Regional Priorities ...................................................................................................................... 55 

Regional ORGANIZATION ................................................................................................................................ 56 

Regional Organization Assessment................................................................................................................ 56 

Regional LEADERSHIP ....................................................................................................................................... 58 

Regional Leader Self-Assessment ................................................................................................................... 58 

Regional MINISTRY ............................................................................................................................................. 59 

Assessing Regional Ministry ........................................................................................................................... 59 

Ministry Examples ............................................................................................................................................ 61 

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IFCA REGIONAL PRESIDENTS 

January 2008 

ARIZONA 

Russ Kaufman 

11515 West Cloverway 

Avondale AZ 85323 

623-877-5377 

CENTRAL ILLINOIS 

Charles Replogle (Linda) 

801 Hilldale Ave. 

Washington IL 61571 

Home: 309-444-2425 

Business: 309-444-7394 

DELMARVA 

James Lowther (Jean) 

12208 Northwood Dr 

Upper Marlborrow MD 20772- 

5025 

Home: 301-627-1736 

Business: 301-868-3030 

Fax: 301-868-0897 

DIXIE 

Jerry Smith (Amy) 

1595 Herrington Rd 

Lawrenceville GA 30043 

Home: 770-822-5630 

Business: 770-339-3500 

Fax: 770-513-1254 

EASTERN PENNSYLVANIA 

Stephen K. Wilt (Sue) 

2476 South 6th Street 

Allentown, PA 18103 

Home: 610-797-7578 

Business: 610-435-9099 

Fax: 610-435-2641 

FLORIDA 

Paul Frick (Karen) 

7720 S.W. 99 Ave. 

Miami FL 33173 

Home: 305-270-2162 

Business: 305-223-3816 

GREATER ST LOUIS 

Frank Baur (Edna) 

716 Mater Dei Lane Apt D 

Florissant MO 63031 

Home: 314-838-6687 

Business: 770-339-3500 

Fax: 770-339-3500 

GULF STATES 

Frank Gauldin (Laura) 

PO Box 261 

Hartselle AL 35640 

Home: 256-773-7763 

Business: 256-565-6204 

HEART OF AMERICA 

Damian Efta (Jennifer) 

1609 Holman St. 

Leavenworth KS 66048 

Home: 913-651-1058 

Business: 913-727-5006 

INDIANA 

Ray Laborde 

133 St. Clair Ave. 

Elkhart, IN 46516 

Home: 574-293-1724 

Office: 574-294-1131 

INTERMOUNTAIN 

Ken Hornok (Marcia) 

2451 Surrey Road 

Salt Lake, UT 84118 

Home: 801-969-4298 

Business: 801-969-4931 

IOWA 

Clegguart Mitchel (Jenny) 

2025 275th St 

Donnellson IA 52625-9092 

Cell: 319-795-1447 

Office: 319-835-5608 

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KANSAS 

Paul Wulff (Pat) 

12002 W. 109 N. 

Sedgwick KS 67135 

Home: 316-796-0841 

Business: 316-796-0184 

MICHIGAN 

Ken McGee (Sherrill) 

3693 Goodman St. 

Wyoming MI 49519-3117 

Home: 616-531-1372 

Business: 616-878-9658 

MINNESOTA 

Joseph Smith (Nancy) 

1965 Oak Ridge Rd. 

Bemidji MN 56601 

Home: 218-751-8670 

Business: 218 - 333- 3556 

MONTANA 

Steve DeFord (Celeste) 

PO Box 427 

Ekalaka MT 59324-0427 

Home: 406-775-6760 

Business: 406-775-6760 

NEW MEXICO/WEST TEXAS 

Richard Grubbs (Elaine) 

PO Box 64582 

Lubbock TX 79464 

Home: 806-794-7463 

Business: 806-783-9551 

Fax: 806-783-0305 

NEW YORK 

Norman Holtz (Edith) 

28 State Street 

PO Box 128 

Oxford NY 13830 

Home: 607-843-9848 

Business: 607-843-5068 

NORTHERN CALIFORNIA 

Bud Haskell (Bonnie) 

646 W Cortner St 

Hanford CA 93230-1719 

Home: 559-584-2004 

Business: 559-585-3355 

Fax: 559-585-3357 #25 N 

ILLINOIS 

James Scudder Jr. (Karen) 

11048 Nelson St. 

Westchester, IL 60154 

Home : 708-562-0469 

Church : 708-562-3040 

Fax: 708-562-3240 

NORTHWOODS 

Brad Cochrane (Rebecca) 

1105 12th Rd. 

Bark River MI 49807 

Home: 906-466-2662 

Business: 906-466-2486 

Fax: 906-466-9036 

OKLAHOMA 

Zane Richardson (Thelma) 

Box 91 

Ringwood OK 73768 

Home: 580-883-4448 

Business: 580-883-4448 

OZARK 

Curt Zachary 

2418 S. Blackman Rd. 

Springfield MO 65809 

Home: 417-889-2363 

Business: 417-869-0463 

PACIFIC NORTHWEST 

Roy Sprague (Elvia) 

1948 Hollyhock Land SE 

Lacey WA 98503-2387 

Home: 360-438-9288 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN 

Paul Millermon (Carol) 

1120 Third St 

Paonia CO 81428 

Home: 970-527-4955 

Business: 970-527-4169 

CUMBERLAND 

Paul Bufford (Trudy) 

P O Box 843 

Abingdon VA 24212 

Home: 276-628-7335 

Business: 276-628-2400 

Fax: 276-628-2481 

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SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA 

Bob King (Sue) 

26795 Wilkes Dr. 

Sun City CA 92585 

Home: 951-679-9421 

Business: 951-679-8753 

Fax: 951-679-4923 

SOUTHERN 

ILLINOIS/INDIANA 

Glenn Bohlen 

2550 Sensmeier Rd. 

Evansville IN 47725 

Home: 812-963-5693 

Business: 812-476-6226 

SIERRA NEVADA 

Anthony Loubet (Cindy) 

PO Box 267 

Standish CA 96128 

WISCONSIN 

Duane Hamilton (Wilma) 

2201 Zimmerman St 

Wausau WI 54403 

Home: 715-842-3210 

Business: 715-845-2315 

Fax: 715-843-7137 

INLAND NORTHWEST 

Roger Hayden (Karen) 

PO Box 340 

Cambridge, ID 83610 

Home: 208-257-3456 

Business: 208-257-3364 

SIOUXLAND 

James Brown (Carolyn) 

131, 1sst St 

Ashton IA 51232 

Home: 712-724-6103 

Business: 712-724-6103 

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ORGANIZATIONAL HISTORY 

AND VALUES 

This section of the handbook contains materials that will provide Regional 

leadership with information useful in communicating and reinforcing an 

understanding of the purposes and values of IFCA International. 

It is suggested that such purposes and values be periodically reviewed by the 

Regional leadership and that a deliberate strategy be employed to appropriately 

remind the Regional’s constituents of these things and to encourage them with 

regard to them. 

It is also suggested that such material provides a wealth of information useful in 

recruiting both individuals and churches for membership in IFCA International. 

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KEY ORGANIZATIONAL STATEMENTS 

IFCA INTERNATIONAL MISSION STATEMENT 

Our mission is to glorify God by providing an arena for independent churches 

and organizations to participate interdependently in the common cause of 

advancing biblically authentic, dynamic, compassionate Christianity to all people 

groups. 

IFCA INTERNATIONAL VISION STATEMENT 

We envision ourselves as the Fellowship of choice for independent churches and 

organizations, desiring to prayerfully work together in the spirit of 

interdependence. 

IFCA INTERNATIONAL PURPOSE STATEMENT 

Our purpose is to strengthen local churches toward biblical maturity, leading to 

reproduction. 

IFCA INTERNATIONAL AMBITION 

Healthy churches working together 

IFCA INTERNATIONAL CORE VALUES 

Biblical Doctrine 

Contemporary importance of the historic Fundamentals 

Biblical Leadership 

Christ-like integrity, humility, zeal, and sacrifice 

Biblical Outreach 

Evangelism at home and abroad 

Biblical Partnerships 

Accomplishing more together than separately 

Biblical Excellence 

Doing the best we can for His glory 

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VITAL SIGNS OF HEALTHY IFCA CHURCHES 

DOCTRINAL PU RITY 

A church that is committed to preserving, defending, and proclaiming the 

historic, fundamental teachings of the Christian faith as set forth in the Word 

of God, and a biblical world view as derived from its teachings. 

HOLY LIVING 

A church that is committed to pursuing and promoting godly character that 

begins with the renewing of the mind and motivates biblically moral and 

ethical conduct resulting in personal integrity. 

FERVENT PRAYER 

A church that is committed to the practice and promotion of both private and 

corporate prayer. 

EXPOSITORY PREACHING 

A church that is committed to effective communication in preaching that 

emphasizes sound exegesis; historical, grammatical, literal interpretation; 

with relevant application. 

RELEVANT TEACHING 

A church that is committed to accuracy and appropriate creativity in the 

teaching of God's Word enabling people to understand and apply God's 

truth, and to develop a consistent world view. 

SERVANT LEADE RSHIP 

A church that is committed to the development of leaders who reflect the 

selflessness of Christ in the leadership of those to whom they minister. 

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INTENTIONAL EQUIPPING 

A church that is committed to facilitating the development of spiritual gifts 

and ministry skills among all its members, encouraging each one to be a fully 

functioning minister in the local body. 

LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT 

A church that is committed to identifying and preparing successive 

generations of leaders to lead the church into the future. 

PASTORAL MENTORING 

A church that is committed to facilitating the apprenticeship network among 

our churches for the development of effective pastoral leaders. 

EVANGELISTIC ZEAL 

A church that is compelled by the love of Christ, and therefore is committed 

to the passionate proclamation of the Gospel to all people because all men 

apart from Christ are lost and face the horrors of eternal judgment. 

MISSIONS INVOLVEMENT 

A church that is committed to the global proclamation of the gospel to 

people of every nation, tribe, ethnic and language group and the 

establishment of biblical local churches. 

CHU RCH EXTENSION 

A church that is committed to aggressive involvement in planting, 

establishing, and nurturing biblical, local churches in the United States of 

America. 

COMPASSIONATE CONCERN 

A church that is committed to recognizing and responding to the physical, 

material, and emotional needs of both Christians and non-Christians in such 

a way as to bring them the touch of God's love and compassion as well as the 

light of His redemption. 

UNIFIED PU RPOSE 

A church that is committed to the pursuit of unity in the advancement of our 

common cause. 

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EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION 

A church that is committed to an effective information strategy to clearly, 

thoughtfully, and sensitively distribute useful data. 

BIBLICAL CONCILIATION 

A church that is committed to biblical unity, and resolving any episodes of 

disharmony among believers in a Christ-honoring fashion. 

SENSITIVE SEPARATION 

A church that is committed to biblical separation and church discipline 

exercised with a humble, gracious spirit and applied in such a way as to 

strengthen the body of Christ. 

MULTI-GENERATIONAL MINISTRY 

A church that is committed to ministries which will reach, teach equip and 

involve people of all ages and groups (men, women, boys, and girls) so that 

we may present every one complete in Christ. 

MULTI-CU LTU RAL/ETHNICALLY DIVERSE MINISTRY 

A church that is seeking to reflect the ethnically and culturally blended 

nature of the Body of Christ, and is actively fostering the continuing 

expansion of its ethnic and cultural diversity. 

FINANCIAL STEWARDSHIP 

A church that is committed to biblical principles of generosity and integrity 

in the stewardship of financial resources and the teaching of such principles 

to the congregation. 

CONTINUAL IMPROVEMENT 

A church that recognizes the Lordship of Christ in the totality of life and is 

committed to the regular reassessment of its methodology, activities, and 

vision regarding their effectiveness for the glory of God. 

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A BRIEF HISTORY OF IFCA INTERNATIONAL 

Dr. Wright Van Plew 

Having done everything to stand firm, stand firm therefore 

Ephesians 6:13-14 

A TIME TO STAND FIRM IN HISTORY 

The philosophy known as Rationalism swept across Europe leading to the 19 th 

Century theological expressions of Modernism and Higher Criticism. These antisupernatural 

concepts crossed the Atlantic by European trained Americans. Bible 

believing Christians saw the storm clouds gathering. 

As 1900 approached, national/interdenominational Bible Conferences were 

loosely organized. They provided an ongoing platform for preachers to respond 

to the unbiblical teaching that was spreading among denominational leaders, 

seminary professors, and pastors. Then from 1910-1915, a twelve-volume 

doctrinal response to Modernism sequentially came off the presses. Entitled The 

Fundamentals, these twelve paperbacks ultimately contained ninety articles 

written by sixty-four authors from every denomination. Financed by the wealthy 

president of Union Oil Company, The Fundamentals were distributed free of 

charge to over 300,000 Protestant ministers, teachers, missionaries, theological 

professors, and Christian workers. 

There were several results. First, orthodox theology was presented and 

defended. Second, apostasy was exposed. Third, Bible-believing Christians were 

galvanized into a more cohesive force. And fourth, those who opposed 

"Modernists Christians" were given a new name as Bible-believers : 

"Fundamentalists." 

The "Fundamentalist-Modernist controversy" by the 1920s caused many 

congregations to withdraw from their parent denominations. Departure from 

their historic doctrines by the leadership and involvement in movements 

contrary to faith gave the churches reason to "come out from among them and be 

separate," (2 Cor. 6:17). They did this at great cost, losing many benefits of 

association and often valuable properties such as church buildings, parsonages, 

and pensions. But they were "set for the defense of the Gospel," and committed 

to an uncompromising stand for the truth of God's word. New churches were 

formed with these principles. 

The Scriptural need for inter-church fellowship, counsel and cooperation was 

recognized at the start by these new churches. The American Conference of 

Undenominational Churches was formed for this purpose in 1923. During its 

1930 Annual Convention at the Cicero (IL) Bible Church, the name was changed 

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to The Independent Fundamental Churches of America in a motion offered by 

Dr. J. Oliver Buswell, president of Wheaton College. By this time a new 

Constitution and a more comprehensive doctrinal statement had been prepared 

and were adopted unanimously. The former magazine, The Pioneer of a New Era 

was renamed VOICE - An Independent Church Journal. 

A TIME TO STAND FIRM ON FOUNDATIONS 

"Has the time come for Fundamentalists to promptly and literally obey the 

emphatic commandment given to believers in II Cor. 6:14-18; Eph. 5:11 and II 

John 9-11?" This question was asked in the Moody Monthly for February, 1930. 

The inception of the IFCA four months later was an affirmative answer and by 

1940, there were 665 members of IFCA and by 1950, there were 1,067 members. 

(This question in Moody Monthly also led BIOLA University historian, Dr. J. O. 

Henry to title his 1983 History of the IFCA, For Such a Time as This. ) 

The new name, IFCA International, adopted in 1996, reflects the world-wide 

missionary vision and the increasing number of individual members serving in 

foreign lands. But it also contains the historical significance of the original name. 

"F" (Fundamental) indicates that the movement stands firmly upon "the 

foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus Himself being the chief 

corner stone" (Eph. 2:20). "I" (Independent) and "C" (Churches) speak of the 

nature of the fellowship not being a "church" as a denomination, but comprising 

individual bodies of believers controlled by the Head of the church through the 

Holy Spirit. The Articles of Faith and Doctrine are essentially the same as at the 

beginning. The only changes are to strengthen or clarify them. They include the 

cardinal beliefs of the historic biblical Christian faith and those Scriptural 

principles necessary to jointly participate in the Lord's work. It is outstanding 

among such statements of various Christian organizations, providing a sure 

foundation for this fellowship of biblical churches and ministries. 

A TIME TO STAND FIRM BY OCCUPATION 

Jesus said, "Occupy [do business (NKJV)] till I come." (Luke 19:13). The primary 

occupation of the independent local church is to proclaim the Gospel and to 

foster Scriptural Christian living. But this applies to world-wide outreach as well 

to the home field. 

The early churches set the example by being interdependent as well as 

independent. They circulated the Scriptures and extended assistance to one 

another in times of need. IFCA International provides for such activity. There are 

many national benefits of interdependence as seen throughout the pages of this 

issue of the Voice. 

But if IFCA International was to continue its growth, it had to do more than 

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ecruit new members from apostate denominations. It had to begin new churches 

by church extension. The development of a church extension program without 

centrally controlling local churches was discussed for many years in National 

and Regional circles. 

By 1956 the policy was adopted for Church Extension missions to be organized 

independently to serve Regional areas and become members of the movement as 

do churches. This brings the church planting effort near to its supporters with 

better oversight and assistance for developing congregations. In the past eleven 

years, 17 such missions have completed over 100 new churches plus an average 

of 40 per year in the process of organization. In the same period, over 5000 

professions of faith were recorded. Greater missionary support of these 

ministries is needed. It is the primary means of growth in the movement. 

A TIME TO STAND FIRM WITH VISION 

"Our Vision for the 21st Century" was adopted at the 1995 Annual Convention in 

Colorado Springs, Co. In it, this movement is committed to a mission and vision 

for this new century as well as excellence in the pursuit of 17 specific goals 

"dedicated to the ongoing cultivation of a balanced, growing fellowship." 

But we today must not forget the men of vision in the first seven decades of IFCA 

International. They founded the IFCA and set it on its course to face their 

challenges of the 20 th Century. Some of the great men who are part of IFCA 

International's history include: 

Dr. J. Oliver Buswell (president of Wheaton College) 

Dr. M.R. DeHaan (founder of Radio Bible Class and Our Daily Bread devotional) 

Dr. William McCarrell (pastor of Cicero Bible Church, teacher at Moody Bible 

Institute) 

Dr. William Pettingill (consulting editor of the Scofield Study Bible, 1909 edition) 

Dr. Judson Rudd (president of Bryan College) 

Rev. Peter Deyneka, Sr. (founder of Slavic Gospel Association) 

Dr. Charles Feinberg (Dean, Talbot Theological Seminary) 

Dr. Lance Latham (Founder of AWANA) 

Dr. Louis Talbot (president of Biola) 

Dr. Charles Pfeiffer (professor at Moody Bible Institute) 

Dr. John Walvoord (president of Dallas Theological Seminary) 

Dr. Samuel Southerland (President of Biola University and Talbot Seminary) 

Dr. J. Vernon McGee (pastor of The Church of the Open Door, Los Angeles) 

Dr. Merrill Unger (professor at Dallas Theological Seminary) 

Dr. Charles Ryrie (professor at Dallas Theological Seminary) 

Dr. Robert Gray (Pastor of Westchester Bible Church, Westchester, IL) 

Dr. Leslie Madison (President of Calvary Bible College) 

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Dr. Al Platt (president emeritus of CAM International) 

Dr. John MacArthur (pastor of Grace Community Church and president of The 

Masters College and Seminary) 

There are literally hundreds and hundreds of other godly men of vision who 

helped IFCA International reach the 21 st Century with a renewed God-given 

purpose. 

Brothers and Sisters of the churches, let us each do our part, facing the future and 

standing firm in this vital ministry, until our Lord returns! 

Dr. Wright Van Plew served in IFCA International as a local church pastor from 

1940-1959. He is a graduate of Moody Bible Institute, studied at Wheaton 

College and received a D.D. from San Diego Bible College. He was involved in 

establishing the Independent Bible Mission in Michigan and the Bible Church 

Mission in Southern California. He served as Director of both these agencies. He 

served 10 years as National Church Extension Representative and is presently 

Emeritus. He served two terms on the IFCA International Executive Committee 

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STANDING FIRM DOES NOT MEAN STANDING ALONE! 

God has called independent local churches to stand firm in doctrinal purity and 

to be holy for His purposes. However this does not mean that the local body 

need stand alone. IFCA International exists to provide an arena for independent 

churches and organizations to participate in the common cause of advancing 

biblical Christianity. This mission is guided by these foundational principles: 

DOCTRINAL INTEGRITY 

IFCA International has a long history of standing firm for the fundamentals of 

the Christian faith. We are committed to preserving, defending and proclaiming 

the truth of the inerrant and all sufficient Word of God. The Bible adequately 

equips the believer and the church with a world view that understands the true 

nature and need of man. We provide a means of responding to the theological 

imprecision and carelessness of our day. 

INDEPENDENCE 

IFCA International values and preserves the independence of local churches. To 

be autonomous, however, must not be an expression of selfishness. 

Independence provides the liberty to be compliant with Scripture apart from 

outside control. An independent church uniquely fulfills the New Testament 

local church model with spiritual leadership which should be neither autocratic 

nor arrogant. Independence preserves the freedom to serve as the Spirit of God 

directs according to His sovereign plan and purpose, with dependence upon 

Christ as the Lord of the Church. 

INTERDEPENDENCE 

A deep sense of interdependence within IFCA International provides many 

opportunities to share ministry without sacrificing the local church’s autonomy. 

This trusted network of 2,000 churches, organizations, and Christian workers 

provides resources for the independent church and pastor. We are poised to help 

and offer a hand in ministry partnerships to all who share our doctrinal 

convictions and ministry vision. 

INTERNATIONAL 

IFCA International provides a unique partnership with local churches in worldwide 

fellowship, an immediate expansion of your local church ministry in 

connection with other like-minded local church fellowships across the globe. 

International connection affords many opportunities for joint participation with 

those of like precious faith and practice. This dynamic broadens the vision of 

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your local church with an international network of trusted ministries that share 

biblical conviction and mutual concern. Missionaries plant churches and the 

national leaders organize into national fellowships. IFCA International is 

networked with those other national fellowships. 

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WHAT IS AN INDEPENDENT LOCAL CHURCH? 

Les Lofquist 

Local churches have been in existence since the Day of Pentecost in Jerusalem in 

the First Century (Acts 2). Because Christ said He would build His church 

(Matthew 16:18), groups of believers in the Lord Jesus Christ as Savior have 

gathered together all across the world to form local congregations. In those 

congregations they could worship Him, teach His Word, evangelize the 

community, and practice the ordinances of baptism and the Lord's Table. He 

indeed was building His church. 

Through the centuries, many local congregations have chosen to identify with 

various groups and associations (often called in America "denominations"). 

Today, many people can only conceive of a group of churches with one 

authoritative, central office and one leading officer who directs the affairs of all 

the associated churches. This kind of church organization is usually controlled by 

the central administrative authority of the church group and the designated 

officers. The church lands and buildings in this kind of organization are usually 

owned by the group itself, and not by the local church's members. Pastors for 

each of these churches are directed by the central office and are usually told in 

which of the group's churches they will serve and for how long they will serve 

there. Money is also an issue in these kinds of churches: each local church must 

send to the central office a certain, designated, mandatory amount of money each 

year for maintaining the central office, its officers, and its programs. In time, 

problems often arise in these kinds of church groups over issues like control 

("who is in charge of the group and each of our churches?"), authority ("who will 

make the decisions for our group and each of the churches?"), and doctrinal 

integrity ("what will all of us believe as the core teachings and distinctives of our 

group?"). 

But is this the only way to understand how local churches are to be governed? 

Throughout history there have been independent local churches free from 

outside control, dependent simply upon the Lord Jesus as the Head, the Holy 

Spirit as the Power, and the Bible as the Guide. The churches established by the 

First Century apostles of Christ began as independent local churches. Those 

churches were self-governing which means they: 

were accountable to the local elders of their church (Acts 14:23; Hebrews 

13:7, 17a) who in turn were accountable to Christ (Hebrews 13:7b) 

The churches begun by the First Century apostles of Christ were also selfsupporting 

which means they: 

supported their own local ministries through regular, systematic giving (1 

Corinthians 16:1-2; 2 Corinthians 9:6-8) 


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financially supported their own pastor (1 Timothy 5:17-18) 

took care of their own local people in financial need (like widows, 1 Timothy 

5:3-16) 

Following this pattern, each of today's independent local churches depends upon 

the Holy Spirit's direction (Acts 13:1-3) and chooses its own name, government 

and programs. It is free to call its own pastor and invite into its pulpit any 

speakers it considers true to the Word of God. It is also free to seek God's 

direction in supporting those evangelistic ministries they find Scripturally 

acceptable and choosing the Christian education materials they believe are best 

to teach Bible truths to their people. They are also free to support whatever 

schools and institutions they believe are valuable for training their own young 

people and preparing their men for the Gospel ministry; mandatory obligation to 

protect a tradition or an investment is not involved in an independent local 

church's decision to support an educational institution. 

But the concept of the independent local church can be greatly misrepresented in 

the sinful actions of the church people. If the church leaders and congregation are 

not obedient to the Bible and refuse to be humbly directed by the Holy Spirit, 

they can degenerate into warring factions in the church (1 Corinthians 1:10-13; 

3:1-9) and domineering leaders lustful for control and power (1 Peter 5:3; 3 John 

9). Even though the New Testament teaches the autonomy of the local 

independent church under the Lordship of Jesus Christ, autonomy is meant that 

each church grows in its dependence upon the Lord. He is the Head of each 

church and He demands their godly submission in all areas of church life. They 

are to look to Him for the provision of their every need as a church. This type of 

church government encourages prayer, faith, and spiritual growth among all of 

its members. 

Also, the concept of the independent local church can be greatly misunderstood 

to justify isolationism and a spirit of exclusivity. Remember that the body of 

Christ transcends all earthly denominations and organizations (Ephesians 1:22- 

23). It is composed of all who have trusted Christ as Savior, regardless of 

organizational affiliation. Biblically independent churches strive to be loyal to 

Christ and His Word rather than to any organization. They seek to establish, 

preserve, and expand local churches according to the New Testament pattern. 

Yet the First Century apostles of Christ also encouraged cooperative 

interdependence between local churches: 

greetings were extended throughout all the New Testament between 

independent churches, indicating a relationship with other churches in other 

regions (example in Romans 16:23) 

Paul instructed the church at Rome to assist Phoebe in her visit from Corinth 

(Romans 16:1-2) 

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Paul instructed the churches of Galatia, Macedonia, and Achaia to collect 

offerings for the poor believers in Jerusalem (1 Corinthians 16:1-3; 2 

Corinthians 8:1; 9:1-2; Romans 15:25) 

Barnabas was sent by the Jews of the church of Jerusalem to be an 

encouragement to the Gentiles of the church at Antioch (Acts 11:22-24) 

the Gentiles in Antioch sent an offering to help the Jewish believers in 

Jerusalem during a famine (Acts 11:28-30) 

an inter-church conference was held in Jerusalem in order to clarify doctrinal 

teaching regarding what is to be the true understanding of salvation (Acts 

15:1-21) 

after the inter-church conference in Jerusalem, Paul and others were sent to 

inform the new churches in Antioch, Syria, and Cilicia of the resultant 

teaching (Acts 15:22-23) 

the independent local church in Thessalonica had a loving concern for all the 

brethren in Macedonia (1 Thessalonians 4:10; 5:27) 

local churches in Macedonia financially assisted Paul in his efforts to start a 

local church in Corinth (2 Corinthians 11:8-9) 

the local church in Philippi financially assisted Paul in his efforts to start a 

local church in Thessalonica (Philippians 4:15-16) 

the same New Testament letter was to be distributed and read in groups of 

churches (Colossians 4:16 [Colosse and Laodicea were 32 miles apart]; 

Galatians 1:2) 

Paul says that there were similarities between local churches regarding 

customary practices found in all of them (1 Corinthians 4:17; 7:17; 11:16; 1 

Thessalonians 2:14) 

one church planting team who accompanied Paul was from many different 

places (Acts 20:4) 

Gaius was commended for assisting itinerant ministers (3 John 5-8) 

Titus was a regional overseer, problem solver, leadership recruiter for the 

island of Crete and was accountable to Paul in the process (Titus 1:5) 

IFCA International establishes an organizational structure to coordinate and 

encourage joint participation in mutual activities and ministries 

(interdependence). IFCA International provides this while guaranteeing the 

autonomy of the local church (independence). IFCA International churches are 

identified by a common doctrinal position, in contrast to today's ecclesiastical 

scene which is marked by doctrinal carelessness and attempts at unity through 

minimizing Scriptural convictions. We maintain doctrinal integrity and the 

independence of the local church, but we do so without an exclusive spirit of 

isolation. We enjoy the fellowship, encouragement, and associations among our 

member churches, organizations, and individuals. 

- Jul/Aug 2004 VOICE magazine 

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WHAT IS AN INDEPENDENT FUNDAMENTAL CHURCH? 

Local churches have been in existence since the time of Christ. Groups of 

believers gathered together to form local congregations. Through the years some 

churches have identified with various denominational groups. However, there 

have been independent churches during each period of church history. Such 

churches continue to flourish throughout many parts of the world today, 

effectively ministering God's Word. 

What are the distinctives of an independent, fundamental church? Here are the 

biblical criteria for such a church. 

A CHU RCH THAT IS INDEPENDENT 

The churches established by the first century apostles of Christ began as 

independent churches. They were free from outside control over the affairs of the 

local church. Each local church was a self-governing body, chose its own officers 

(Acts 6:1-6), and exercised its own discipline (1 Corinthians 5:13). Internal 

problems were handled by the individual congregation (1 Corinthians 6:1-5). 

Preservation of pure doctrine was the responsibility of the local assembly (1 

Timothy 3:15; Revelation 2:14-16). 

Following this pattern, today's independent church depends upon the Holy 

Spirit's direction (Acts 13:1-3), chooses its own name, government, and 

programs. It is free to call its own pastor and invite into the pulpit any speakers it 

deems sound in the faith. 

Another important characteristic is the liberty enjoyed in the matter of 

missionary support. Independent churches are free to seek God's direction in 

supporting those ministries they find acceptable. The primary aim of all 

missionary and evangelistic effort is personal salvation and discipleship through 

Christ. 

The independence of a church simply enhances its dependence upon the Lord. 

Each church looks to him for the provision of its every need. This encourages 

prayer, faith and spiritual growth among its members. 

An independent church is not only self-governing, it is also self-supporting 

through the free-will offerings of its constituents (1 Corinthians 16:1,2; 2 

Corinthians 9:6-8). 

A CHU RCH THAT IS FUNDAMENTAL 

A fundamental church is one that stands for the historic fundamentals of the 

faith, upholding biblical authority versus human theories. To be fundamental 

means to believe in and proclaim those beliefs such as: 


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The verbal plenary inerrant inspiration of the Bible 

The virgin birth, absolute deity and sinless life of Jesus Christ 

The death, burial, and resurrection of Christ to provide salvation for all 

The person and work of the Holy Spirit 

The reality of Satan and his destructive work today 

The personal and bodily return of Jesus Christ 

The bodily resurrection of all men; some to eternal life and some to 

everlasting punishment. 

A CHU RCH THAT IS BIBLE CENTERED 

An independent fundamental church emphasizes the use of the Bible in the 

regular church services. The Bible is revered as the guide for daily Christian faith 

and living. 

The pastor preaches directly from the Bible in his pulpit ministry. The 

educational program of the church is likewise centered in the Bible and is 

designed to develop biblical values and standards by which to live. Sunday 

school teachers instruct from it. Teaching materials are based on it. Youth 

programs utilize it. 

A CHU RCH WITH DISTINCTIVE EMPHASES 

In addition to the things already mentioned, there are five additional distinctives 

of independent fundamental churches. 

Unique Church Membership 

A personal experience of the new birth is a prerequisite to church membership. 

Independent fundamental churches require testimony of one's salvation before 

membership. 

Observance Of Two Ordinances 

All who are truly born-again are invited to remember the Lord at the 

communion table regardless of church membership. All believers are encouraged 

to follow the biblical teaching regarding water baptism as a testimony to their 

faith in Christ. 

Scriptural Giving 

Financial support for the local church is received from the free-will offerings of 

those attending in accord with 1 Corinthians 16:1-2; 2 Corinthians 9:6-8. 

Independent But Not Isolated 

Independence does not mean insulation. Independent churches try to obey the 

"one anothers" of the Bible to develop a spirit of interdependence. According to 

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the Scriptures, all who have trusted Christ as Savior belong to the "body of 

Christ" (Ephesians 1:22-23). In a spirit of oneness, independent churches are 

involved in a vast network of fellowship for the glory of God. 

Spiritual Unity Of All Believers 

The body of Christ transcends all earthly denominations and organizations 

(Ephesians 1:22,23). It is composed of all who have trusted Christ as Savior, 

regardless of organizational affiliation (1 Corinthians 12:13). 

Independent fundamental churches strive to be loyal to Christ and His Word 

rather than to any organization. They seek to establish, preserve, and expand 

local churches according to the New Testament pattern (Matthew 28:18-20; Acts 

13:3, 4). 

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FINDING IFCA INTERNATIONAL MINISTRIES 

Many facets of IFCA International and its ministries are readily available to those 

interested. Below are listed some sources with a few of the resources in each. 

International Headquarters 

IFCA International 

3520 Fairlanes 

PO Box 810 

Grandville, Michigan 49468 

(616) 531-1840 

(800) 347- 1840 

FAX (616) 531-1841 

Web Site 

Address: http://www.ifca.org/ 

Available: List of IFCA International churches, Regional connections, E-mail 

addresses, Chaplaincy connections, Voice, Magazine, Bulletin Service, 

Handbook, Chera Fellowship Magazine, Members Email, 

Missions/Organizations, Statement of faith, Constitution & By-laws, Executive 

Director's itinerary, Membership forms, Convention news, Large number of links 

to many other ministry enriching areas. 

Directory 

Availability: Automatically mailed to members; extra copies may be purchased 

from headquarters; non-members may purchase from headquarters. 

Content: Executive officers and trustees, International staff, Regionals and their 

boundaries, Chaplains, Pulpit supply, Church Extension, Affiliated Missions and 

missionaries, Individual listing of members, Members listed by Regional, Church 

listings and more. 

Membership packet 

Call or write the International Headquarters. 

Literature and books 

Call or write the International Headquarters. 

Personal contact 

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Call or write the International Headquarters: arrangements will be sought to 

have someone in your area meet with you. 

Operation Partnership 

Ministering to those brothers and sisters in foreign lands in their local churches . 

Call International Headquarters for information. 

Church Extension 

Check out the Directory, Web page or call the International Headquarters for 

locations and directors of this vital outreach ministry. 

Military Chaplaincy 

Check out the Directory, Web page or call the International Headquarters for 

information or personal contact. 

Chera Fellowship 

Chera Fellowship is a publication of IFCA International available for widows 

and widowers in your church. It is published quarterly and is designed to meet 

the spiritual needs of men and women who are alone through Bible study and 

networking prayer support. It provides practical tips for daily living with articles 

on car maintenance, finances and travel suggestions. Each issue has personal 

testimonies of God's abundant grace. 

Youth Ministries 

Ministry to the youth of today's Church is critical in preparing tomorrow's 

leaders. IFCA International provides an Annual Youth Convention during the 

last week of June at different college campuses across the nation. The goal is 

to rotate from the western states, to the central states, and eastern states to 

conduct the convention closer to each church every three or four years. The 

purpose for the Annual Youth Convention is to encourage and equip students for 

service in their local church. This is done in many ways throughout the weeklong 

convention. Each convention features a main speaker, who presents 

challenges from God's Word, as well as many breakout sessions with other 

speakers who address various areas of Christian living. Our Bible quizzing 

ministry helps hundreds of students across the country memorize entire books of 

the New Testament and then quiz on them with "key word" accuracy. We also 

have "Ministry Training Areas" that are effective tools for mentoring teens and 

helping them to sharpen their skills and gifts for use in their local church. Those 

areas include Bible preaching, Bible story teaching, drama, puppetry, worship 

leading, and music (vocal, instrumental and song writing.) Throughout the 

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week we also strive to conduct clinics and workshops for each of these areas of 

ministry training. For more information visit the web-page or contact the IFCA 

Youth representative Travis Huseby at (715) 845-2315. 

Annual Convention 

A time of great fellowship, important direction setting, preaching, growing and 

deciding, the Annual Convention moves from year to year to different locations. 

Check the Voice magazine for the dates and location of the next convention. 

Pastoral Placement 

Check with the International Headquarters for information and help. Also many 

regionals and our church extension agencies are able to aid in the process. 

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IFCA INTERNATIONAL MEMBERSHIP 

by Dr. Richard I. Gregory 

IFCA International is a fellowship of independent men, churches and 

organizations committed to maintaining purity in doctrine, the autonomy of the 

local church and a partnership in ministry. One of the important concepts in 

accomplishing this common cause is commitment. Commitment is manifested 

through a mutual agreement we call membership. It is our understanding that 

membership is characterized as a covenant between participants committing 

them to common beliefs, goals, and purpose. When one becomes a member of a 

fellowship such as ours, he is asked to heartily agree with the IFCA International 

doctrinal statement, constitution and by-laws. It is expected that one's 

commitment would include regular voluntary financial, prayer and attendant 

support of the regional and national organizations. In addition, programs such as 

church extension, Chaplaincy, benevolence projects and other special ministries 

of the fellowship would receive one's careful consideration and eventual 

support. 

In order to assure that these distinctives do not become diluted by lack of 

attention, individual members are required to renew their commitment of 

membership each year. Churches and organizations are asked to reaffirm that 

they have not changed their original doctrinal positions. 

Applications for membership must be sent to the Executive Director. He will 

refer all applications to the Credentials Committee. Members are received into 

the fellowship through the action of the Credential Committee. This committee is 

appointed each year by the Board of Directors. It is the responsibility of this 

committee to request information from references, including one from the 

regional in which the applicant resides. These references are examined along 

with the application of the individual in order to ascertain the applicant's 

agreement with the fellowship's doctrinal positions and membership 

requirements. When it is determined that the applicant reflects the doctrinal and 

deportmental characteristics of our fellowship, the committee votes to approve 

the application. The individual's name is then published in the Voice magazine 

and he is welcomed into the membership of IFCA International. Similar 

procedures are followed with respect to organizations and churches. However, 

these must file copies of the constitution, by laws, articles of incorporation (if 

incorporated) along with a recent financial statement. Each organization must 

demonstrate that a legal dissolution clause is included in its articles of 

incorporation (if incorporated) or constitution, whichever is required by the State 

in which it exists. 

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Each individual member is afforded one vote in all matters of regional or Annual 

Convention business. This vote is exercised while attending regularly called 

meeting of the regional or national organizations. Each church and organization 

is allowed two delegates. There is not provision for proxy votes. 

Individual members, organizations, and churches are subject to the discipline of 

IFCA International should they move out of sympathy with the Constitution, By- 

Laws, or Doctrinal Statement. Discipline may also be exercised because of 

fraudulent actions or practice of flagrant sin. Action in such cases is taken by the 

Board of Directors at any regularly called meeting. A two-thirds vote of the 

members present and voting is required to exercise discipline of dismissal. In 

such cases, the member, organization or church dismissed has the right to appeal 

the dismissal to the Annual Convention. The convention must vote to hear such 

an appeal. 

Membership in IFCA International should be regarded as a sacred trust. 

Committed participation on the part of individual members, organizations and 

churches assures the continuation of the Fellowship. 

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BENEFITS OF IFCA INTERNATIONAL MEMBERSHIP 

IFCA International is a co-worker in ministry which provides not only 

fellowship, but the means for cooperative ministry efforts for independent 

churches. IFCA International was founded in 1930 as The Independent 

Fundamental Churches of America to provide fellowship, encouragement, and 

identification for the independent church and men of like faith. Our history is 

rich with an emphasis on historic fundamental doctrinal distinctives, evangelistic 

zeal and missionary vision. Today our Fellowship offers the same valuable 

benefits and care to a new generation of independent churches and pastors 

worldwide. Common cause, doctrinal integrity, and a deep sense of 

interdependence provide many opportunities to share ministry without 

sacrificing the local church’s autonomy. Regional activities and Annual 

Conventions offer enrichment where our common cause of advancing biblically 

authentic, dynamic, compassionate Christianity to all people groups can be 

developed. Helpful seminars, relevant publications, competent counsel, up-todate 

information and governmental representation are provided through our 

International Office, Regional organizations and electronic networking. We are 

poised to help and offer a hand in partnership to all who share our vision. 

Since we are not a denomination, partnership in IFCA International preserves the 

absolute autonomy of the local church while providing the following benefits to 

churches and individual Christian workers: 

GROWING TOGETHER BASED ON A COMMON DOCTRINAL 

POSITION 

IFCA International stands on the essential elements of the Christian faith as set 

forth in the Word of God and presented in our Articles of Faith. All IFCA 

International affiliated churches and Christian workers acknowledge the 

absolute authority of God’s Word, the Bible, and believe and declare the same 

doctrines. This is a great encouragement in a day of confusion and compromise. 

We adhere to such historic, fundamental doctrines as: 

The verbal, plenary inerrant inspiration of the Bible 

The virgin birth, absolute deity and sinless life of Jesus Christ 

The death, burial and resurrection of Christ 

The free gift of salvation through faith alone in Christ alone 

The person and work of the Holy Spirit and His active ministry in each 

believer, but the cessation of miraculous sign gifts such as speaking in 

tongues 

The Church as the body of Christ portrayed in local congregations of 

believers 

The reality of Satan and his destructive work today 

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The personal return of Jesus Christ (before the Tribulation for His Church, 

after the Tribulation to establish His Millennial Kingdom) 

The bodily resurrection of all men; some to eternal life and some to 

everlasting punishment 

CULTIVATING CH RISTIAN FELLOWSHIP 

Annual Conventions provide opportunities for fellowship and growth with 

others of like precious faith from all parts of the world. Programs of vital interest 

are offered for each member of the family, including seminars dealing with 

youth, children’s, women’s and pastoral ministries as well as issues relevant to 

church leadership. Regional activities provide stimulating challenges from God’s 

Word and creative approaches to ministry methods. Encouraging fellowship is 

one of the strengths of these gatherings. An annual Youth Convention sets the 

direction for Regional rallies, camps and training seminars throughout the year, 

challenging young people to Christ-like living. 

PLANTING NEW OPPORTUNITIES OF MINISTRY AT HOME AND 

ABROAD 

Church Extension agencies are active in partnering with local churches and their 

missionaries in planting IFCA International churches in communities within 

their Regionals. A national Church Extension Council networks the ministries of 

the various Regional Church Extension agencies. 

Partnership with Faith Mission agencies is encouraged and assistance in 

planning and evaluating missions programs is provided through our Missions 

Committee as well as global networking possibilities through our 

Internationalization Committee. 

Our Bible Churches Chaplaincy Commission endorses over 140 military and 

institutional chaplains. Through these endorsements, member churches and 

individuals can extend a true Bible-based ministry to those in military service 

and the various institutions in our society such as hospitals, prisons, Fire and 

Police departments. 

Regional Representatives provide assistance and counsel to churches without 

pastors and a source of mediation when requested by churches in need. 

Special help in times of personal and community crisis is made though our 

Benevolence program. This has been of tremendous assistance to victims of the 

Asian Tsunami (December 2004) and Hurricane Katrina (August 2005). We were 

able to target considerable resources (nearly $900,000) given by our constituency 

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to assist in relief efforts through IFCA International affiliated churches and 

individuals in those areas. 

FEEDING THE CHU RCH TH ROU GH A NETWORK OF SERVICES 

Counseling: Our Director of Church and Pastoral Ministries and our experienced 

Regional Representatives help in finding solutions to problems of programming, 

financial matters, and issues of ministry organization and structure. 

Placement: Churches and pastors take advantage of our networking referral lists 

in seeking pastors and pulpits. Interim pastors are made available through 

related member ministries. 

Membership Directory: An attractive Membership Directory, containing 

information on member churches, organizations, and individuals, is published 

every other year. 

Web Page: A state of the art web page provides a wealth of resource materials 

and serves as a center for communication and information for our membership 

and interested individuals and churches. Visit us at www.ifca.org and peruse the 

more than 1400 pages. 

Information and Assistance: Resources for the independent church and pastor 

are provided through counsel, organizational materials, training conferences, 

and partnership in ministry in countries around the world. Exemption status 

with the Internal Revenue Service is automatic for every member church. 

Supplementary Financial Assistance in Retirement: A program to enable 

interested and concerned individuals or churches to contribute toward the 

assistance of approved retirement age IFCA International brothers by specific 

and designated giving to IFCA International Benevolence Committee. Our 

retired pastors are especially grateful for this service. 

DEVELOPING AN ONGOING PUBLICATION SERVICE 

IFCA International offers a strong Christian Education emphasis with the 

following publications: 

IFCA Press is the publishing arm of IFCA International. In 2005, we published 

the book On the Level by Drs. Richard I. and Richard W. Gregory. This book 

explores the levels of Biblical relationships among believers and presents the 

doctrine of separation in the context of mutual respect and love. 

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Sunday School Materials are available through Cook Communications/Accent 

Publications and are overseen by the IFCA International Christian Education 

Committee and the Home Office. 

Yearly Bible Reading Schedules can be obtained at a nominal cost for each church 

member. 

IFCA International Bulletin Service is available featuring attractive four-color 

front covers and articles by IFCA International members on the back cover. 

VOICE Magazine is published six times a year. Various timely themes are 

explored through Bible expositions, editorials and human interest articles. 

Additional regular features include Our Chaplains, The Voice of Our Women, 

Youth Today, Church Extension, Book Reviews and Fellowship News. Also 

helpful are the advertisements, which are restricted to like-minded ministry 

organizations. VOICE magazine serves as an independent church journal to both 

our membership and the independent church at large. 

CHERA Fellowship Newsletter is published four times a year and ministers to 

widows and widowers around the world. Timely articles by those who have 

walked though the valley of losing a life partner provide encouragement and 

comfort. This networking Newsletter is one of a kind and is used by churches 

and individuals in ministry to these special people. 

The Church and Minister’s Handbook features helpful ideas for ministry 

programs, suggested approaches to church meetings, guidelines for financial 

management, suggestions for church organization, sample policy statements, 

guidelines for a churches seeking a pastor, guidelines for selecting elders and 

deacons, suggestions for Special Church Services (such as Ordination, 

Missionary Commissioning, Ground Breaking, Building Dedication, Baptism, 

Weddings, Baby Dedication, Funerals) and much more. You will also find a 

treasury of helpful information for the pastor regarding his call to ministry, 

counseling, education, ethical concerns, study, expository preaching, pastor’s 

family life, hospital visitation and hospitality. 

Biblical Peacemaking Training Handbook was written by the IFCA International 

Conciliation Committee in order to help our churches prevent and resolve 

conflicts biblically. 

INCREASING OPPORTUNITIES FOR INTERDEPENDENCE 

Against the backdrop of an increasingly relativistic culture, where truth is subject 

to negotiation and redefinition, it is the mission of IFCA International to provide 

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an arena for independent churches and organizations to participate 

interdependently in the common cause of advancing biblically authentic, 

dynamic, compassionate Christianity to all people groups through the consistent 

proclamation and application of the unchangeable truth of God. 

IFCA International seeks independent churches, organizations, and pastors who 

see the value of extending their reach through interdependence. Each makes it 

possible to multiply ministry by more than mere independent efforts alone. 

Interdependence protects independence from turning into an isolation that limits 

ministry. The multiplied ministry of interdependence allows us to significantly 

impact the world for Christ! 

If this strikes a responsive chord in your heart, we heartily invite you to join us in 

this endeavor. 

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CONSTITUTIONAL AND POLICY 

ISSUES RELATED TO REGIONAL 

ORGANIZATION AND 

ACTIVITIES 


leadership with information relative to the relationship between the Regional 

organization and IFCA International. These excerpts from the IFCA 

International Constitution and Manual of Policies and Procedures will help in 

understanding the role and responsibilities of the Regional organization as well 

as the requirements and process for individual, organizational and Regional 

membership in IFCA International, and how its members can be involved on the 

level of the international organization. 

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ARTICLE XII – ADMISSION AND RENEWAL OF 

CHURCHES, ORGANIZATIONS, AND INDIVIDUALS 

SECTION 1 ADMISSION AU THORITY 

The Executive Director has the authority, upon recommendation of the 

credentials committee, to admit into the membership of IFCA International, 

churches, other Christian organizations and individuals who meet the admission 

requirements. 

SECTION 2 ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS AND PROCEDU RE FOR 

CHU RCHES AND ORGANIZATIONS 

a. Any church or organization meeting the membership requirements as outlined 

in ARTICLE VI, Section 1 and desiring membership in IFCA International, must 

have a regularly called business meeting at which a majority vote is taken 

expressing agreement with the Articles of Faith, Constitution and By-Laws of 

IFCA International. 

b. The majority vote of the governing board of an independent organization that 

does not have a membership will be regarded as sufficient authority for 

considering its admission. 

c. Completed membership applications, accompanied by any required fees, must 

be submitted to the Executive Director for his review. He shall subsequently refer 

such applications to the Credentials Committee who will confer with the 

appropriate Regional officers, if such exist, for their advice and recommendation 

before making its decision. The proper official or officials of the applying church 

or organization must sign the application. 

SECTION 3 ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS AND PROCEDU RE FOR 

INDIVIDU ALS 

a. Any individual who meets the membership requirements, as outlined in 

ARTICLE VI, Section 2, may apply for membership in IFCA International. 

b. Completed membership applications, accompanied by any required fees and 

personal reference information, must be submitted to the Executive Director for 

his review. He shall subsequently refer such applications to the Credentials 

Committee for processing. 

SECTION 4 MEMBERSHIP RENEWALS 

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a. Membership renewal forms for member churches, organizations and 

individuals must be submitted annually, accompanied by any required fees. 

b. Failure to submit the appropriate forms and/or fees for more than twelve 

months after the deadline may result in automatic forfeiture of membership in 

IFCA International. 

ARTICLE XIII - TERMINATION OF MEMBERSHIP 

SECTION 1 WITHDRAWAL 

a. Any individual member of IFCA International may voluntarily sever his 

connection with this organization by sending a formal resignation to the 

Executive Director. 

b. Any church or organizational member of IFCA International may voluntarily 

sever its connection with this organization by sending a formal resignation by 

action of the governing board of the organization, or of the membership of the 

church, to the Executive Director. 

c. Members cannot terminate their membership, without the approval of the 

Executive Director, if there are ongoing or unresolved disciplinary issues that are 

being addressed. 

SECTION 2 TERMINATION 

a. The membership of any individual is terminated upon his death, and the 

membership of any church or organization is terminated upon dissolution. 

b. The membership of any organization, church or individual may be removed 

after due consideration and pursuant to the applicable requirements of ARTICLE 

XIV by the Board of Directors for the following reasons: (1) teachings contrary to 

the Articles of Faith and/or violations of the Constitution and By-Laws of IFCA 

International, (2) actions or practices that bring reproach upon the name of the 

Lord. 

ARTICLE XV - REGIONAL AFFILIATION WITH IFCA 

INTERNATIONAL 

SECTION 1 REGIONAL AFFILIATION 

In order to become affiliated with IFCA International, Regional organizations 

must meet the following requirements: 

a. There must be a duly called meeting to which all of the members of IFCA 

International who are known to reside within the boundaries of the proposed 

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Regional have been invited. When possible, duly appointed delegates of IFCA 

International churches and organizations should also be invited. After due 

consideration and evidence of desire for a Regional Organization, a vote in favor 

of accepting the Constitution and By-Laws and Articles of Faith of IFCA 

International must be recorded. A maximum of two delegates from each member 

church together with members of IFCA International in good standing shall have 

the privilege of voting . Upon this basis the consulting parties may proceed to 

make application for formal recognition and affiliation of the Regional. 

b. Consulting parties must make written application to the Executive Director, 

which application must be signed by at least three IFCA International members 

in good standing who reside within the geographical boundaries of the area they 

seek to have recognized as a Regional; and they shall give definite assurance that 

all the requirements of the IFCA International Constitution and By-Laws have 

been met. 

c. Accompanying such application should be a copy of the proposed Regional 

Constitution and By-Laws. 

d. The application and accompanying documents shall be referred to the Board 

of Directors for approval. 

e. The boundaries of Regional organizations shall be subject to the approval of 

the Board of Directors. 

f. Any subsequent revisions and/or amendments to a Regional Constitution and 

By-Laws shall be submitted to the Board of Directors for approval prior to 

becoming officially enacted in the Regional. 

g. The fiscal year of the Regional shall be the same as that of IFCA International. 

SECTION 2 REGIONAL MEMBERSHIP 

a. Regional leadership shall maintain an up-to-date membership list that includes 

all IFCA International members (both organizational and individual) known to 

be located within its boundaries. Regional membership may also include those 

who, while located outside of the Regional boundaries, are active participants in 

the Regional activities. 

b. Active participation in Regional activities is generally expected from 

individual and organizational members of IFCA International and, therefore, 

should be sought and encouraged by the leadership of each Regional. 

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SECTION 3 TAX EXEMPTION 

Regional organizations shall incorporate and seek tax exemption as it is deemed 

appropriate. In case of dissolution, Regional organizational records shall be 

transferred to IFCA International. 

ARTICLE X - BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND COMMITTEES 

SECTION 1 BOARD OF DIRECTORS 

a. The Board of Directors shall consist of the President and twelve other 

Directors, all of whom shall be elected by the Annual Convention, as provided 

for in Article XI. 

b. Non-member delegates may be elected to the Board of Directors and may 

constitute up to fifty per-cent (50%) of its membership. They shall not, however, 

be eligible to serve as President, First Vice-President, or Second Vice-President of 

that body. 

c. The Board of Directors shall have the authority to direct the business and work 

of IFCA International, to the extent that its actions are in harmony with the 

Constitution and By-Laws and policies of the organization. 

d. A majority of the Board of Directors shall constitute a quorum. 

SECTION 2 COMMITTEES 

a. The Board of Directors shall establish and appoint all Standing and Special 

Committees as required for the effective operation of this organization. 

b. The Executive Director shall be empowered to establish and appoint Advisory 

and Select committees as he deems appropriate to assist him in the exercise of his 

responsibilities. 

ARTICLE XI - NOMINATIONS AND ELECTIONS 

SECTION 1 NOMINATING COMMITTEE 

a. The Nominating Committee shall consist of seven members; the Chairman and 

one other shall be chosen from the Board of Directors, and five shall be chosen by 

the Board of Directors, from the individual membership. 

b. It shall be the duty of the Nominating Committee to prayerfully select from 

the membership or authorized delegates, and to present in nomination at the 

Annual Convention, the names of six nominees for the position of Director. In 

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years when a President is to be elected, the committee shall present in 

nomination the names of two nominees for that office. 

c. Names of nominees may be proposed to the Nominating Committee by any 

Regional or individual member in good standing. 

d. When the report of the Nominating Committee is accepted by the Annual 

Convention, the nominations shall be declared closed and the elections shall be 

conducted as provided for in the following sections. 

SECTION 2 ELECTIONS AND TERM ROTATI ON 

a. Elections shall not be held the same day on which the report of the 

Nominating Committee is received. 

b. The retiring President shall continue to preside over the public sessions of the 

Annual Convention in session. 

c. The Presiding Officer shall appoint an appropriate number of tellers who shall 

distribute, collect and count the ballots and report the results to the Annual 

Convention. 

d. The Directors shall be elected by the Annual Convention on a rotating basis to 

serve for a period of four years. The terms of office shall be so arranged that 

approximately one-fourth of the Directors' terms of office shall expire each year. 

SECTION 3 ELECTION AND TERMS OF THE PRESIDENT 

a. The Nominating Committee shall place in nomination two candidates, each of 

whom must be current members in good standing of IFCA International, for the 

office of President. 

b. The vote shall be by ballot, and the nominee receiving the highest number of 

votes shall be declared elected for a term of four years, subject to the annual 

renewal of his membership in IFCA International and his confirmation at each 

Annual Convention. 

c. After filling one full term of office as President, an individual may be eligible 

to immediately succeed himself in that office for another full term. After the 

completion of two successive full terms as President, he shall not be eligible for 

re-election to the Board of Directors in any capacity until at least one year has 

passed. 

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SECTION 4 ELECTION AND TERMS OF THE DIRECTORS 

a. Following the election of the President, the Nominating Committee shall place 

in nomination a slate of six men, three or more of whom shall be elected, as may 

be required to maintain twelve Directors in addition to the President. 

b. The vote shall be by ballot, and the Presiding Officer shall announce the 

number of Directors to be elected. If an unexpired term is to be filled, the three 

nominees receiving the highest number of votes shall be elected for the regular 

term of four years, and the next highest shall be declared elected to fill the 

unexpired term. The filling of an unexpired term, regardless of its length, shall 

not be considered as a full term when determining eligibility for subsequent reelection. 

c. In every case, the continuation of a Director’s term from year to year shall 

depend upon the annual renewal of his membership or, in the case of a nonmember 

delegate, the continued status of that organization as a member in good 

standing with IFCA International and it’s authorization of that delegate to serve 

as such. 

d. After the completion of a full term of office, a Director may be eligible for reelection 

for an additional full term of office as a Director, or as President of the 

Board. After serving two successive full terms as a Director, an individual shall 

not be eligible for re-election until one year has passed. 

e. With one exception, no man may serve on the Board of Directors for more than 

two successive full terms, the only exception being that of a man who serves two 

successive full terms as President of the Board after having served one full term 

as a Director. 

f. Before the Annual Convention closes, the newly formed Board of Directors 

shall meet and elect two Vice-Presidents, a Recording Secretary, and a Treasurer 

to serve for terms of one year. 

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REGIONAL ORGANIZATIONAL 

AND LEADERSHIP ISSUES 

The effectiveness of a Regional’s ministry will be directly related to the 

effectiveness of the leadership in that Regional and to the state of certain key 

organizational issues. 


leadership with material designed to prompt constructive assessment of some 

key factors in building a strong, active and effective Regional. 

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ACCOMPLISHING IFCA’S PURPOSE 

Les Lofquist – VOICE Jan/Feb 2007 

Only conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ; so that whether I 

come and see you or remain absent, I may hear of you that you are standing firm in one 

spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel. (Philippians 1:27) 

At the Mid Year Meetings of the IFCA International Board of Directors, we spent 

a great deal of time asking ourselves some strategic questions about the nature 

and purpose of our Regional meetings and our Annual Convention. This was 

time well spent as we attempted to strengthen the bonds of IFCA International 

and overcome the inherent weaknesses of the independent local church. We were 

looking for ways to do a better job of accomplishing our purpose: to strengthen 

local churches toward becoming healthy churches who work together in joint 

ministry ventures. 

In the past I have written about the strategic issue of overcoming the weaknesses 

of the independent local church. Many independent churches and men remain 

isolated and alone in attitude and practice. This type of fierce independence 

keeps them from interacting with other like-minded churches and pastors in a 

way that would benefit all. This even at times fosters the sinful attitude of 

competition among other like-minded churches instead of cooperation, making a 

mockery of the biblical teaching regarding the autonomous local church. All of 

this exposes the inherent weakness of the independent church. 

How can this inherent weakness be overcome without sacrificing the biblical 

doctrine of the autonomy of the church? The key is seen in the concept of 

networking independent churches in the spirit of interdependence, which is a 

biblical concept. But one issue we need to face is this: how can networking be 

implemented since IFCA International is not a denomination, but a voluntary 

fellowship of autonomous churches and Christian workers? 

Another issue we need to face is regarding barriers which must be overcome in 

every network. Individualism, so rampant in the thinking of all Americans, 

keeps many from ever entering into mutually beneficial relationships. A lack of 

teachability and an unwillingness to ask for help are real problems each pastor 

faces within his church and within himself. Another barrier to networking is a 

lack of knowledge: “who do you ask for help even when you are willing to 

listen?” “Who is competent to help me in this situation?” 

What then are the answers for us in IFCA International to all the above 

questions? I suggest that a strong, personal commitment to your Regional and 

the Annual Convention is the place to start. 

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PURPOSE OF IFCA INTERNATIONAL’S REGIONALS 

IFCA International is divided into 42 Regionals to better serve the needs of the 

independent local church and its leaders. In cooperation with the staff at the 

IFCA International Home Office, Regional Presidents serve as part of the 

National Ministry Team in order to: 

Connect congregations with one another to share ministry ideas and 

strategies. 

Support pastors in their ministries and personal spiritual growth. 

Provide congregations with tools for church health. 

Provide a strategy for church planting within the Regional. 

Intervene in church conflict situations to bring godly resolution. 

Help congregations find pastors. 

Ensure high pastoral standards through licensing and ordination 

councils. 

Give leadership to support ministries such as Christian camps. 

Encourage discipleship opportunities for teens through Regional and 

National youth activities. 

Provide mentoring and encouragement for pastors and church leaders. 

We ask that everyone on the Regional leadership team commits to fulfilling the 

above purposes with excellence. But we also need every member of the Regional 

to help us fulfill the above purposes. Unless there is broad support for the 

Regionals, the above purposes will not be accomplished. 

WHY YOU SHOULD ATTEND REGIONAL MEETINGS AND 

CONVENTIONS 

There is an old saying, “the world is run by people who show up.” This contains 

some truth. It certainly is true in our churches. 

All of us pastors have had this experience: what seems to be a great man comes 

to church and he has what seems to be tremendous potential to become a deacon 

or an elder someday. He has outstanding leadership ability and a wonderful 

family … but he attends church sporadically, only for Sunday morning worship 

services maybe twice a month. Will he become a deacon or elder that way? No. 

IFCA International is the same. You can show all the potential for leadership in 

your Regional or at the national level. But if you only attend your Regional 

meetings sporadically and hardly ever attend the Annual Convention, your 

leadership potential in IFCA International will not be utilized and you will 

become frustrated. “Why don’t they see my potential? Why don’t they use me?” 

Perhaps the reason is this simple: we don’t really know you because you are 

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hardly ever in attendance. If you don’t show up, we don’t know you well enough 

to ask you to lead. And all of us lose. 

IFCA International is structured in such a way that we “run the organization” at 

our Regional meetings and at the Annual Convention. The Regional meetings 

and Annual Convention are not simply Bible Conferences (like the 

Moody Pastors Conference, The Shepherds Conference, or a host of other 

conferences). The IFCA International Annual Convention and the Regionals are 

where: 

we review our cause 

we communicate our shared vision 

we plan and organize 

we decide upon ministry direction 

we select leaders 

If we don’t have a strong and representative attendance at the Regionals and 

conventions, we will sputter and falter as an organization. Therefore, I urge you 

to attend your Regional meetings faithfully. And I urge you to do everything you 

can to attend the Annual Conventions regularly. 

If you already regularly attend, then I urge you to commit yourself to doing 

everything possible to make your 

Regional a better attended, better organized and more excellent group. 

YOUR QUESTIONS, MY PLEA 

In my travels I have frequently heard: “what does the IFCA do? Where are you 

going? I want to do something, go somewhere as an organization!” That certainly 

captures my attention and I am addressing those very questions on the national 

and international levels. That’s my role. 

However, when the person in the pew asked similar questions of me when I was 

a pastor, I would respond in this way. “Those are fair and good questions to ask 

of me and the church. Here are some of the things I am doing as a pastor and we 

are doing as a church to address your questions.” Then I would try and answer 

their questions as carefully as I could. When I was done, I would pause and end 

by saying this. “That’s what we’re doing. But now, having said all that, let me 

ask you: are you faithfully doing your part to help our church achieve our 

goals?” 

I knew I could not do everything necessary to make the church I pastored 

become what it needed to be. I needed the faithful efforts of my fellow church 

leaders and our church folks as well. It is the same for IFCA International. So let 

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me ask you: are you faithfully doing your part to help IFCA International 

achieve our goals? 

If we intend to accomplish joint ministry ventures as a Fellowship, if we intend 

to become healthy churches working together, then we must follow through on 

the commitments we make to one another. Even a commitment as simple as 

attending the Regional meetings and the Annual Conventions. Otherwise the 

interdependent network of IFCA International will suffer and we will fail to 

accomplish our purpose as an organization. 

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REGIONAL HISTORY 

It is important that you maintain your Regional' history 

for the sake of knowing your past; 

for the purpose of aiding the men who follow you; 

for the value of providing reasons for praise to God 

The following outline is offered as a guide to use in constructing your 

Regional’s history. You may want to include current and past officers in 

this project, asking each man to write a brief paragraph concerning each of 

the listed areas as they relate to the beginning and history of your 

Regional. When the history is completed, it may be helpful to send a copy 

to the IFCA home office for filing so that in the event that the local copie(s) 

are lost in the shuffle of changing leadership, it can be easily recovered from 

the home office. 

VISION 

(Who and what brought about the idea to have a Regional?) 

DIRECTION 

(What steps were taken and contacts made to begin the Regional?) 

PLANNING 

(What initial plans were made for starting the Regional?) 

OUR FIRST MEETING 

(The who, what, where, and memories of the first meetings) 

ORGANIZATION 

(The who, what, and memories of the organization) 

OUR FOUNDERS 

(Who were they; what characterized these men) 

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REGIONAL PURPOSE 

Underlying the activities and ministry of every IFCA Regional is the need to 

clearly understand the PURPOSE of the Regional. Without this understanding, 

and a corresponding commitment to that PURPOSE, a Regional may move in a 

variety of directions, and may become involved in various activities or 

ministries. 

This need of commitment to PURPOSE is illustrated by the statement of Robert S. 

McNamara, former President of Ford Motor Company and former US Secretary 

of Defense, when he said, "If the railroads had understood their purpose to be the 

transportation of people and products, rather than building better trains and tracks, 

today they would have owned the airlines, rather than being subsidized by the 

Government." 

An IFCA Regional can become involved in some very good pursuits, and yet 

miss the fulfillment of its primary purpose. So, what is the PURPOSE of an IFCA 

Regional? 

It's very helpful in this regard to "catch" the spirit of our founding fathers. 

Observe the following as stated in the Preamble of the IFCA International 

Constitution: "Whereas, it has always been both an encouragement, and a more 

effective means whereby to prosecute the work of the Lord, for ministers and 

congregations to join in a common bond of fellowship, counsel and cooperation, so 

strengthening one another in the Lord's work." 

This statement is filled with some very key words of PURPOSE: 

"encouragement," "effective means," "join in a common bond," "fellowship," 

"counsel," "cooperation," and "strengthening." 

An additional statement of PURPOSE worthy of note is the IFCA Constitution 

Article III. In this we read the following: "The mission of IFCA International is to 

glorify God by providing an arena for individuals, independent churches, and 

organizations to participate interdependently in the common cause of advancing 

biblically authentic, dynamic, compassionate Christianity to all people groups. 

The PURPOSE of each IFCA Regional might be summarized as: 

To provide a means of FELLOWSHIP for churches and Christian leaders 

To provide a source of COUNSEL concerning the Scriptures, the church, and 

the ministry 

To provide an avenue of Biblical COOPERATION which will facilitate the 

work of the Lord 

To provide a means of ENCOURAGEMENT for effective Gospel outreach 

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Everything that is done by an IFCA Regional should "fit into the grid" of these 

statements of PURPOSE. For example, in the meetings of a Regional, there will 

be: 

Several occasions where fellowship is primary; meal times, "free time," 

prayer time. 

Some messages or seminars where clear teaching of the Word is foremost, 

providing guidance and counsel for pastors and leaders. 

Discussion at the business meetings as to how best we can cooperate in 

ministries that will bring growth and strengthening of each church. 

Teaching, discussion, planing and fulfillment which will encourage the work 

of evangelism and outreach, in each church, and as a fellowship of churches. 

Not only must each Regional understand its PURPOSE, but it will be helped by 

frequently examining its activities to determine an answer to the question, "Are 

we fulfilling our purpose?" 

The following outline can be used in formulating and atriculating the 

purpose of your Regional. Set aside a good portion of time to meet with 

current and past Regional leaders and discuss these things together. 

EVALU ATION OF REGIONAL'S PU RPOSE 

1. List all of the ways in which the Regional currently provides opportunities 

for quality fellowship among those who are its members. 

a. Assess the effectiveness of such opportunities and how they might 

be improved. 

b. What additional steps might be taken to provide more such 

opportunities? 

2. List the various sources and means by which the Regional provides counsel 

and guidance to its member churches and individual members. 

a. What challenges does the Regional face in making the sources of 

counsel and guidance that exist accessible to those who need it? 

b. What plans can be made to improve the ease in making counsel and 

guidance available as well as the ease in accessing it by both 

individuals and churches in the Regional? 

3. List all the opportunities for cooperative ministry (networking) which are 

provided within the Regional. 

a. What can the Regional leaders do to further encourage and develop 

cooperative ministry within the Regional? 

4. Identify all of the ways in which Gospel/Evangelistic outreach is promoted 

and encouraged in the Regional. 

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a. What sort of outreach ministries can be planned which will require 

the involvement of a maximum number of Regional members and 

churches? 

b. How will you go about promoting and recruiting for such 

ministries? 

5. Identify any additional PURPOSES which may exist for the Regional that do 

not “fit” into the four categories already listed. 

a. What strategy is in place to achieve each of these additional 

PURPOSES? 

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REGIONAL GOALS 

Once the PURPOSE of the IFCA Regional is clearly understood, and a 

commitment has prayerfully been made to seek to fulfill that PURPOSE, then the 

leaders of the Regional can begin to set GOALS for the Regional. 

The Apostle Paul spoke succinctly concerning GOALS. In Philippians 3:13-14 he 

says, Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, 

forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are 

before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus." 

He indicates that he is pressing (aiming) toward the mark (goal) of God's calling. 

A GOAL is "what one plans or aims to achieve." Certainly the over-all GOAL 

of every believer is to bring glory to our God. There are several very valuable 

reasons to have GOALS: 

GOALS provide direction … thus avoiding aimlessness. 

GOALS facilitate planning … thus working out the details of specific 

plans 

GOALS provide a means of measurement … thus we can determine how 

well and how close we have come to "the mark." 

GOALS anticipate evaluation ... thus a time and means of review is in 

place. 

When GOALS are being set, the leaders of the Regional will want to consider 

setting both short and long term goals. The short term goals will include plans 

for the next Regional, for the coming year. The long term goals will include 

plans for next year's Regional, for other meetings, for retreats, conferences, and 

special activities. Every GOAL, both short and long term, will be viewed "under 

the grid" of fulfilling the Regional's PURPOSE. 

The GOALS adopted by IFCA International as expressed in our Vision and Goals 

Statement should be accepted whole-heartedly, reviewed constantly, adapted 

carefully, and worked diligently as best "fits" each Regional. 

Remember, someone has said that the GOALS of your organization must be 

SMART: 

Specific enough to be meaningful. To say “I’m going to walk each day” is 

meaningless unless you don’t usually walk at all in the course of a day. To 

say, “I’m going to include power walking as part of my exercise routine,” is 

specific enough to be meaningful 

Measurable – This means that your goals ought to be of a sort that can be 

measured objectively in order to determine your progress. To say, “I’m 

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going to include power walking as part of my exercise routine,” is not nearly 

as measurable as, “I’m going to include power walking as part of my daily 

exercise routine” is measurable. 

Agreed Upon – Goals must be agreed upon/owned by those who are 

involved in reaching them. Everyone must understand the goal and be 

committed to reaching it. 

Realistic – This means that your goals must be attainable. A goal to include 

power walking for 30 miles as part of my daily exercise routine is not 

realistic. It is good to set goals that will require some hard effort to attain but 

unrealistic goals that are unattainable are meaningless and perhaps even a 

source of frustration. 

Time Specific – Open ended goals do not generate progress. Each goal 

should be time oriented. “By the end of 60 days, I’m going to be power 

walking for 3 miles as part of my daily exercise routine.” There is a Specific, 

Measurable, Realistic and Time Specific goal. The only element missing is 

“Agreed Upon.” Most of us will have to “work that out with our body” on 

THAT element! 

Remember, obstacles are those frightful things that you see when you take 

your eyes off the goal. 

The following outline can be used in formulating and atriculating the goals 

of your Regional. Set aside a good portion of time to meet with current and 

past Regional leaders and discuss these things together. 

REGIONAL GOALS ASSESSMENT 

1. List all the GOALS of your Regional which are currently recorded in printed 

form. Use the Regional constitution and other documents and/or literature 

to identify them 

2. Separate the list created in step #1 into “Short Term” and “Long Term” Goals 

3. Using only the lists created in steps #1 and #2, identify which GOALS fall 

into the following PURPOSE categories: 

Fellowship (Short Term/Long Term) 

Counsel & Guidance for Churches and Individuals (Short Term/Long 

Term) 

Cooperative Ministry (Networking) (Short Term/Long Term) 

Outreach Ministry (Short Term/Long Term) 

Any additional purposes previously identified in the evaluation of the 

Regional’s purpose. 

4. Evaluate each of your identified goals to determine whether they are 

“SMART” goals. 

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5. Revise your current goals and/or develop new ones where needed in order to 

be sure that all of your Purposes are being addressed by SMART goals 

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REGIONAL PRIORITIES 

In every Regional there is so much that could be done, and there are so many 

activities, meetings, projects, ideas that could be pursued. Thus, it is imperative 

that the leaders of the Regional decide what their PRIORITIES will be. 

In determining PRIORITIES, it is wise to keep the PURPOSE of the Regional in 

view, and to carefully examine all of the GOALS which have been set. Having 

done this, the GOALS can be PRIORITIZED and implemented. 

From such portions of Scripture as 1 Timothy 2.1; I Corinthians 15.3; Matthew 

6.33; 2 Corinthians 8.5 and John 3.30 we can draw certain truths which form the 

basis for and highlight the value of setting PRIORITIES. 

Three of these values are: 

Setting priorities helps us to focus on the most important 

Setting priorities keeps us from trying to do everything at once 

Setting priorities directs us toward the strengths and spiritual gifts of our 

leaders 

Increasingly we realize that we cannot do everything. Therefore, "let's keep the 

main thing, the main thing." Indeed, may our prayer be, "Dear Lord, help me to 

do those things in our Regional that You would have done to bring the greatest glory to 

Your Name." 

The following outline can be used in establishing a slate of priorities for 

your Regional. Set aside a good portion of time to meet with current and 

past Regional leaders and discuss these things together. 

ESTABLISHING REGIONAL PRIORITIES 

As you assess the work that has been done in identifying and developing the 

Regional’s PURPOSE and GOALS are there some areas where work needs to be 

done in order to move toward the achievement of those goals and purposes? 

Spend some time creating a list which prioritizes those needs. Place them in one 

of three categories: 

For Immediate Attention 

For Short Term Attention (within next 12-18 months) 

For Long Term Attention (beyond 18 months) 

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REGIONAL ORGANIZATION 

One of the great blessings of IFCA International is that our ORGANIZATION is 

kept to a minimum -- intentionally. In addition to that, the strength of the 

ORGANIZATION of IFCA International comes from the "grass roots", not from 

"the top, down." 

As a fellowship of individuals, churches and organizations IFCA International 

does not control, manipulate, nor dictate to its membership. Thus, the 

ORGANIZATION of IFCA International for its Regionals is found in the 

Constitution in Article XV (see section beginning on page 38 of this handbook), 

Regional Affiliation with IFCA International. Though this section is brief, it does 

include some very basic and valuable directives. 

As with the Regional's GOALS and PRIORITIES, so also it is well to keep 

the Regional's PURPOSE in view as the ORGANIZATION is established, 

maintained and evaluated. Some important questions to be answered in this 

regard are found on the worksheet on the following page. 

The ORGANIZATION of the Regional should not restrict nor hinder the 

ministry of the Regional, but rather be a valuable tool that will help, encourage 

and strengthen the Regional! 

The following outline can be used in formulating and atriculating the 

purpose of your Regional. Set aside a good portion of time to meet with 


REGIONAL ORGANIZATION ASSESSMENT 

Use the following questions to guide you through a discussion of the Regional’s 

organization. 

Is the Regional's organization in keeping with the Constitution of 

IFCA International? 

Does the Regional's organization facilitate fulfillment of its purpose and 

goals? 

Is the Regional's organization simple enough? 

Does the Regional's organization have sufficient detail? 

Does the Regional's organization represent the members/churches of the 

Regional? 

Have the Regional's boundaries been approved? 

Have the Regional's Constitution and other organizational documents been 

approved? 

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Is the Regional abiding by its Constitution and By-laws on every point? 

Is there an adequate written description of responsibilities for each of the 

Regional’s positions of leadership? 

Is an up-to-date mailing list maintained of Regional membership? 

Is the Regional incorporated? 

Has the Regional received tax exemption? 

Are the Regional's financial records maintained properly and reported 

regularly? 

Are the Regional's activities (meetings, decisions, correspondence, etc.) being 

recorded accurately and stored in an adequate file system? 

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REGIONAL LEADERSHIP 

As a fellowship of individuals, churches and organizations IFCA International 

enjoys one of the great privileges of self-government -- the choosing of our own 

LEADERS. 

These leaders are given guidelines through our Constitution; yet, for the most 

part, they are free to direct the ministry and activities of the Regional as they best 

sense the leading of the Spirit of God. Thus, the Regional's LEADERS meet to 

pray, to plan, and to pursue those matters which they believe will best fulfill the 

PURPOSE, GOALS, and PRIORITIES of the Regional. 

Every Regional leader will benefit from a careful review of the Constitution of 

IFCA International -- at least once a year! 

The same kind of review of the Regional's Constitution will also be valuable -- 

every 6 months! Why? Because it is so easy to be moved by the urgent, and to be 

swept along by the trends. How often LEADERS begin to assume what their 

role is, and what their duties are. So that, as happened in one Regional, the 

President thought he was expected to make all the plans and decisions for the 

entire Regional. 

As a Regional LEADER of IFCA International may I never ask, "What does the 

Regional do for me and my church?" Rather may I ask myself, "What can I and my 

church do for the individuals and churches of our Regional?" 

REGIONAL LEADER SELF-ASSESSMENT 

As a Regional LEADER it will be beneficial to ask yourself the following 

questions, and to then take steps to work on areas of weakness: 

Do I have a genuine commitment to IFCA International, its position and 

purpose? 

Do I have a clear understanding of the Regional's purpose, goals and 

priorities? 

Do I pray and plan toward the fulfillment of the Regional's purpose, goals 

and priorities? 

Do I work with the other Regional leaders to accomplish the Regional's 

purpose, goals and priorities? 

Do I understand the Job Description of my office as a Regional leader? 

Do I review the Job Description of my office at least every 6 months? 

Do I as a Regional leader demonstrate vision? 

Do I as a Regional leader exemplify "a servant's heart?" 

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REGIONAL MINISTRY 

MINISTRY -- now this is where "it's really at!" Yes, one can often rush through 

consideration of such things as purpose, goals, priorities, organization and 

leaders so as to get to the "important stuff." 

May we as leaders of IFCA International never make that mistake. A clear, 

careful, and prayerful consideration of purpose, goals, priorities, organization, 

and leaders is the foundation upon which an effectively ministering Regional is 

built! Please -- do not rush through the previous sections of this Handbook. 

But ministry -- yes, ministry that builds, strengthens, edifies, and equips-- that's 

what we want to see accomplished. Ministry that provides for fellowship, 

counsel, cooperation and encouragement of the individuals and churches of the 

Regional -- this will, indeed, bring glory to God! 

One of the greatest liabilities that a Regional can have is careless planning and 

poor execution of Regional Meetings. We must strive for excellence in planning 

and presentation of Regional meetings regardless of whether there are many or 

few in attendance. A sloppy, thrown together the last minute, poorly promoted 

Regional meeting will do more to kill the enthusiasm of Regional membership 

and the credibility of Regional leadership, than almost anything else. More 

importantly, it brings reproach on the testimony of Christ whom we represent! 

The following questions can be used in assessing the current state of 

ministry in your Regional. Set aside a good portion of time to meet with 


ASSESSING REGIONAL MINISTRY 

Discuss together the answers to each of the following two questions as they 

relate to the listed items below: 

1. What are we currently doing in this area and how well are we doing it? 

2. What specific steps can we take to improve our ministry in this area? 

Ministry that encourages FELLOWSHIP 

Ministry that inspires FOLLOWERS 

Ministry that creates ENTHUSIASM 

Ministry that provides COUNSEL 

Ministry that results in EXAMPLES 

Ministry that fosters COOPERATION 

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Ministry that accepts DIVERSITY 

Ministry that trains SERVANTS 

Ministry that STRENGHENS the Churches 

Ministry that enables WITNESSES 

Ministry that spreads the GOSPEL 

Ministry that develops LEADERS 

Ministry that STRENGTHENS IFCA International 

MINISTRY is not in buildings or programs; ministry is in PEOPLE!! 

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MINISTRY EXAMPLES 

Meetings 

Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner meetings, 

Fellowship meetings 

Regional Meetings -- One Day, Two Day, Three Day, Joint Regional 

Special Theme -- Theological issues, Ministry emphasis 

Special meetings, Evangelistic meetings 

Camps/Retreats 

Children's Camps, Youth Camps 

Leadership Retreats, Couple's Retreats, Pastors/Wives Retreats 

"Faithful Men" Retreats, Ladies Retreats 

Outreach 

Evangelistic ministry, Visitation ministry 

Church Extension ministry 

Cross-cultural/Ethnic ministry 

Schools 

Training school, Bible Institute 

Other 

Ordination 

Commissioning 

Pastoral Placement assistance 

Pastoral Installation 

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IFCA REGIONAL LEADERS' HANDBOOK - IFCA International

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