Three basic kinds of church government (plus a hybrid fourth form). All can’t be right!Universal conceptLocal churches (or parishes) joined together under universal oversight with a universal treasury doing universal work.Prime example is the Catholic church, headed by the Pope.Brotherhood conceptLocal churches joined together under brotherhood oversight with a brotherhood treasury doing brotherhood work.Example: Southern Methodist ConferenceLocal conceptAutonomous local churches. Individual Christians are part of the universal church with Christ as the head.Local oversightActs 14:23 – Elders commanded to oversee local churchesI Peter 5:1-4 – Elders are to oversee their own flock – not other churches.Local treasuryI Corinthians 16:1-2Local workThis is the only structure authorized by God.Brotherhood + local church conceptLocal churches under the guidance of the ruling convention. Much looser than the brotherhood concept.They claim only local oversight, treasury, and work, but they also have brotherhood oversight, treasury, and work in some cases.Baptist HourBuckner Children’s Home“Churches of Christ”Local churches joined together in a loose denominational structure.They claim only local oversight, treasury, and work, but also have elements of brotherhood oversight, treasury, and work.Herald of Truth – Radio program run by a church in Abilene. Many churches sent money to support the work.Boles Children’s Home
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