FCBC Legal and Organizational Structure:
As acknowledged in the First Amendment of the United States Constitution, to wit “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion or prohibiting the free exercise thereof,” and as extended by the Fourteenth Amendment, which makes the individual state governments equally subject to the restrictions of the Bill of Rights, the Christian church is a sovereign sphere of human life outside the jurisdiction of government.
First Century Bible Church fully claims and exercises its sovereignty by declining to register under IRS code 501(c)(3), a natural right fully acknowledged by the IRS in 26 US Code Section 508(a,c)(1)(A), which reads in pertinent part: “Special rules with respect to section 501(c)(3) organizations: (a) New organizations must notify Secretary that they are applying for recognition of section 501(c)(3) status. — Except as provided in subsection (c)… (c) Exceptions. — (1) Mandatory exceptions. — Subsections (a) and (b) shall not apply to — (A) churches, their integrated auxiliaries, and conventions or associations of churches.” For more on this topic go here: https://www.scottlively.net/2021/06/11/how-to-escape-the-501c3-irs-trap-for-keeping-churches-under-government-control/
Early in 2020, First Century Bible Church was simply declared into existence by Pastor Scott Lively, J.D., Th.D. (a retired Christian attorney with special expertise in Biblical Law), who serves as Trustee in all matters, similar to the role of the Apostles in their relationship to the various church networks they founded in the First Century.
First Century Bible Church doctrines and polity are ultimately governed by the Holy Bible, and by specific subservient and refinable policy positions derived from it by the inspiration and guidance of the Holy Spirit, and the continually unfolding process of history and prophecy by which God’s plan for mankind becomes ever clearer to those who diligently seek Him (Hebrews:11:6).
FCBC maintains a Board of Deacons, Elders and Advisors appointed by Pastor Lively to serve, at his sole discretion, the church and its congregation as needed. This includes in particular a Committee of Succession to direct the continuation of the church and its mission upon the event of Pastor Lively’s demise if such occurs before the return of the Lord.