The term, government, by definition, is the system of operation that keeps the elements of life in order. Every church should have a basic plan of government that facilitates the accomplishment of its ministry and purpose.

Church government should be specific the individual church and should not necessarily be based on a prescribed format. Every church, whether it is a part of a denomination or not, is unique in its calling, setting, and ultimate purpose in the Kingdom. It should organize accordingly.

There are four basic considerations for establishing proper church government:

1. Write a mission statement. Churches should organize around the mission statement, not the denominational plan. Church planners should prayerfully determine the specific mission and purpose of the church and write a comprehensive mission statement. This has the beneficial effect of setting out what the church will do, and, by omission, what the church will not do. It is a mistake to think that every church should attempt to certain ministries conduct certain ministries and programs just because other churches are doing it.

2. Establish legal entity. Once the mission and purpose has been established, the church should become a legal entity. This is usually done by incorporating as a nonprofit organization in the state in which the church is located. Articles of incorporation are prepared which set out the church's legal purposes and describes its activities. The articles are usually filed with the Secretary of State or other designated government office. Upon filing articles, the corporate life begins and the church takes on a life on its own, having certain rights and responsibilities under the law.

3. Create the internal organizational structure. Organizational structure is essential when any group of people set out to accomplish a stated purpose. Churches are no different. Clearly written, well designed bylaws are a must. Bylaws describe how the organization will work, how it will make decisions, how disputes will be handled, and other important matters. Churches need to address things like membership requirements and discipline, how business decisions will be made (by congregational vote or by the church board?), and how ministers will be recognized, trained and credentialed. Bylaws sould also set out the church's statement of faith.

4. Maintain documentation. Documentation must be kept to demonstrate that the church carried out the express purposes established and provided for in the mission statement and government documents. Documentation includes accounting records, minutes to the board meetings, financial records, and similar items. It also includes a historical record of the church's ministry, such as bulletins, newsletters, photographs of church events, reconds of weddings, funerals, baptisms, and other such events. It also includes employment records and files, payroll information, and counseling records. In many cases, good documentation of church business is the best defense a church can have in the midst of an adversarial confrontation.

NOTE: The information on this web site is designed to provide accurate and authoritative information in regard to the subject material covered. It is published with the understanding that the author/publisher is not engaged in rendering legal, accounting, or other professional service. If legal advise or other expert assistance is required, the services of a competent professional person should be sought.

Copyright 1997 Dr. David R. Allison, Tuscaloosa Alabama. All rights reserved.

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