73%
Confidence
Belief overview
Community government and choice of officers
The congregation participates in the choice of officers and relevant deliberations of ecclesial life.
3
Supportive
0
Contrary
0
Neutral
What it is: Congregationalism attributes to the local community relevant participation in decisions and in the recognition of officers.
How the tradition understands it: Pastors, deacons, and other officers are called and recognized in real relation with the congregation, not only by external hierarchical appointment.
Basis and context: The practice rests on New Testament readings about election, community recognition, and shared responsibility.
Debates and variations: The degree of direct membership participation can vary between more formal and more informal churches.
Documentary evidence
Supportive
Acts 14:23
Appointment of presbyters in local churches.
Reference: Acts 14:23.
Content: The text reports appointment of presbyters in local churches.
Use in debate: Relevant for officers, local organization, and plurality of leadership.
Acts 15:22
The church participates in the consensus of the apostolic council.
Reference: Acts 15:22.
Content: The text shows participation of the church, apostles, and presbyters in important decision.
Use in debate: Used in support of community participation and cooperation between churches.
Acts 6:1-6
Community participation in the recognition of church servers.
Reference: Acts 6:1-6.
Content: The community participates in choosing men for specific service under apostolic guidance.
Use in debate: Relevant for community government and choice of officers.