1. THE AUTONOMY AND INDEPENDENCE OF LOCAL CHURCHES (1)
New Testament Church 2017 (17))

2. What is autonomy?
Autonomous – self-governing. Freedom from external control or influence. A “free standing” organization.
Independent – not dependent on another. Churches do not depend upon other congregations to exist, function or do its work

3. What is autonomy?
Christ gave His church a congregational form of government. He is head of the body (local or universal)
Each congregation is Independent – we are organized as if we are the only one on earth! Cf. Revelation 1:11-13
Each congregation is equal – size, location, resources not determining factors of greatness.
We are judged by our faithfulness!

4. Autonomy of the Local Church
Oversight of elders – the basic governing structure
Each congregation to have elders – Acts 14:23, Philippians 1:1
Elders limited to their local work – Acts 20:17, 28; 1 Peter 5:2-3
Elders have no legislative authority. They make judgments based upon God’s word

5. Autonomy of the Local Church
NO example of functional arrangements larger or smaller than the local church – each congregation did its own work
Each congregation received instructions directly from the word of the Lord (via apostles, prophets, etc. – Ephesians 4:11-12)
Instructions both orally and written

6. Autonomy of the Local Church
Denominational structures are different from the Bible pattern
The Local church in scripture 1 Corinthians 12:12, 27 Ephesians 1: Revelation 1:11-13
Christ
Members

7. Autonomy of the Local Church
Denominational structures different from the Bible pattern
Catholicism – a 3 tiered structure

8. Autonomy of the Local Church
Denominational structures different from the Bible pattern
Episcopal church – congregations, Diocese and a General convention.
Presbyterian Church – Congregation (overseen by a session), Presbytery, General Assembly
Also consider organization of AME church and Baptist churches (autonomous – but different internal organizations – Pastor & deacon’s board, also most join a “convention” or “association”

9. Autonomy of the Local Church
Every work God has given us can be accomplished with autonomy and independence
Worship (Acts 20:7), evangelism (Acts 11:22, 13:2-3, 1 Thess. 1:8, etc.), benevolence (Acts 6:3, 11:27- 30, etc.); edification (Ephesians 4:16)

10. Autonomy of the Local Church
Every work God has given us can be accomplished with autonomy and independence
Each congregation has responsibility according to its ability – 2 Corinthians 8:10-14
NT congregations respected these boundaries

11. Let us strive to be the church that truly belongs to Christ!
New Testament Church 2017 (17))