The Autonomy of the Church: Membership and Governance

This chapter explores the complexities of church governance, focusing on the rights of Christian churches to set their own membership criteria and ministerial qualifications. It emphasizes the balance between church autonomy and individual rights, discussing the implications of voluntary membership and church discipline. The conversation also highlights the distinct roles of church officers in upholding doctrinal purity while reflecting on the interconnectedness of church principles and congregational decision-making.