The Church Members' Meeting

Baptist churches are self-governing and the church members are invited to seek the mind and will of God for the good of the church. This is one reason why a church needs a body of identifiable members. It is these people, who have declared their commitment to the local congregation and have demonstrated their Christian discipleship, who are qualified to share in the task of discerning God’s will. Church Members gather together in the name of Christ to make the most important decisions, such as receiving new members, caring for property and the calling and appointing of leaders, including ministers. It is the members who will work together to sustain the church in its life and mission.

Slow wisdom, written by Baptist minister Ruth Moriarty and based on her academic research, shows how Baptists can discern together well and identifies positive opportunities for change at the Church Meeting. Ruth has also filmed five videos with discussion questions suitable for use by ministers and local churches as a learning resource, alongside her book. Please click on the links below to find out more and access this invaluable resource.