Page 103 - Bible Doctrine Survey I - Student Textbook (3)

3. The congregational view – This view holds that the congregation holds final authority on all
matters. The pastor and other leaders are elected by the congregation to teach and lead but the
congregation has authority over them. To a greater or lesser degree most Protestant churches have
some elements of the congregational view. Some churches
(Independents, Baptists and others) adhere to it very strictly.
Proponents point to the fact that only Christ is above the
congregation as “Head” of the church (Ephesians 5:23). They also
point to the priesthood of believers (Hebrews 10:19-22; 1 Peter 2:5-9)
and references to matters handled by the congregation (deacons
selected – Acts 6:5; discipline – 1 Corinthians 5:1-5, etc.).

Here is a graphic which illustrate of this type of church structure:

Here is a chart that compares the various
types of church governments with
advantages and disadvantages of each.

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