Policy Statement on Independence and Legal Registration
Document Number: FAP-ORG-2025-01
Date Issued:August 7, 2025
Approved By: Board of Trustees, Former Adventists Philippines
I. Purpose
This policy formally affirms the organizational independence of Former Adventists Philippines (FAP) while maintaining biblical accountability, legal compliance, and ministry transparency.
II. Independence from a Local Church
Former Adventists Philippines (FAP) is not required to operate under the governance of a single local church, provided that its mission, statement of faith, and accountability structure remain firmly established in accordance with evangelical Christian principles.
Independence in ministry is consistent with the New Testament model, as long as FAP:
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Upholds sound biblical doctrine;
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Operates under pastoral oversight or a plurality of leadership;
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Practices integrity and accountability in all matters.
III. Legality of Registration and Bank Account
FAP may lawfully register as a religious, non-stock, non-profit organization with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and maintain its own bank account.
Benefits of SEC Registration include:
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Legal Personality – Authority to enter into contracts, open bank accounts, and receive donations.
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Transparency and Accountability – Proper stewardship and public trust.
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Protection of Ministry Name – Secures exclusive legal rights to the name “Former Adventists Philippines.”
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Tax Benefits – Possible accreditation from the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) as a non-stock, non-profit religious entity.
IV. Biblical and Practical Basis
Separation from a “mother church” is not contrary to Scripture. The primary biblical requirements are:
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Commitment to biblical doctrine;
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Presence of spiritual leadership and oversight;
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Integrity in ministry governance.
V. Reference Examples of Independent Christian Ministries
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Answers in Genesis – Apologetics ministry founded by Ken Ham; operates independently.
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Ligonier Ministries – Founded by R.C. Sproul; not under any denomination.
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Grace to You – Media ministry of John MacArthur; distinct from his church.
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Living Waters – Evangelistic ministry of Ray Comfort; independent but partnered with churches.
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The Bible Project – Non-profit producing biblical teaching content; donor-supported.
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Former Catholics for Christ – Ministry to ex-Roman Catholics; independent governance.
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Ex-Adventist Outreach Ministries (USA) – Independent ministry for former SDAs.
VI. Organizational Guidelines for FAP Independence
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Establish and maintain a clear Statement of Faith centered on the gospel of grace.
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Form a Board of Trustees composed of spiritually mature leaders.
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Register with the SEC as a religious, non-stock, non-profit entity.
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Open and maintain a corporate bank account for transparent finances.
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Collaborate with churches in discipleship and outreach without being under their authority.
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Maintain doctrinal accountability through a recognized pastoral council or equivalent body.
VII. Ministry Encouragement
FAP’s independence is not rebellion, but a strategic position for clarity of mission and boldness in proclaiming the truth—particularly to former Seventh-day Adventists seeking a biblical, Christ-centered fellowship.
“It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.”— Galatians 5:1
For and on behalf of the Board of Trustees,
Ronald V. Obidos
Chairman
Former Adventists Philippines
Romeo Ramoran
Secretary
Former Adventists Philippines
Former Adventists Philippines
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