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Perspectives
Perspectives on Church Government: Five Views of Church Polity
Perspectives on Church Government presents in counterpoint form the basic models of church government which have developed over the course of church history with a view toward determining which is most faithful to Scripture. Each chapter will be written by a prominent person from within each tradition—with specific guidelines dealing with the biblical, historical, and theological issues within each governance tradition. In addition, each writer will have the opportunity to give a brief response to the other traditions.
368 pages, Paperback
First published July 1, 2004
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February 18, 2013
What is church polity? And is it really a central issue? And can one model really be called the ‘most Biblical’? These questions are all addressed in Perspectives on Church Government: 5 Views.
[This is a reduced review from my blog: http://mydigitalseminary.com/perspect...]
Editors Chad Owen Brand and R. Stanton Norman have brought together five contributors to present their case for a particular form of church government. Each author presents their case, and then the other four respond with areas of agreement and/or criticism. Here are the contributors and their positions:
Daniel Akin: Single Elder/Pastor
Robert Reymond: Presbyterian structure
James Garrett: Congregation-Led
Paul Zahn: Episcopalian structure
James White: Plural Elder-Led
I have mixed feelings about this book. It was informative, but uneven. My enjoyment and understanding rose and fell depending upon the author! It felt as if the authors were playing by different rules, since some believe that the NT doesn’t give enough information to prove one view over the others. Some may see this diversity as a strength, but I think the book would have been more effective if all authors defended their view as being the most Scriptural. This would have leveled the playing field and probably would have led to more interaction with the texts that others used in their presentations.
Akin, Garrett and White all presented a form of Congregationalism. One could argue that having three presentations devoted to one view is unbalanced or unnecessary. However, Garrett and White’s positions are really quite different. In contrast, Akin’s wasn’t unique enough from either of theirs, especially considering he argued for a permissible model, rather than one he saw as best or even beneficial.
A few of the authors took pot shots at non-denominational churches and/or mega-churches and their (supposed lack of) polity. Since I attend Calvary Chapel, I was a bit defensive to the charge of such churches not taking polity seriously, especially considering some of the authors didn’t see their own view as being objectively Biblical! A chapter attempting to defend a non-denominational model could have been worthwhile addition.
Conclusion
Does this book succeed? It depends what you want from it. If you want to read authors all arguing for their position from Scripture, this may not be the best book to buy. However, this is never promised in the book internally so I can’t criticize it too strongly on this basis.
If you want introductions to some of the key issues and positions, and to see how others would respond to these presentations, this would be worth looking into. Since I feel that the contributions could have been stronger, I’m a little hesitant to endorse it.
Special thanks to Jim Baird and B&H Academic for providing a review copy of this book!
[This is a reduced review from my blog: http://mydigitalseminary.com/perspect...]
Editors Chad Owen Brand and R. Stanton Norman have brought together five contributors to present their case for a particular form of church government. Each author presents their case, and then the other four respond with areas of agreement and/or criticism. Here are the contributors and their positions:
Daniel Akin: Single Elder/Pastor
Robert Reymond: Presbyterian structure
James Garrett: Congregation-Led
Paul Zahn: Episcopalian structure
James White: Plural Elder-Led
I have mixed feelings about this book. It was informative, but uneven. My enjoyment and understanding rose and fell depending upon the author! It felt as if the authors were playing by different rules, since some believe that the NT doesn’t give enough information to prove one view over the others. Some may see this diversity as a strength, but I think the book would have been more effective if all authors defended their view as being the most Scriptural. This would have leveled the playing field and probably would have led to more interaction with the texts that others used in their presentations.
Akin, Garrett and White all presented a form of Congregationalism. One could argue that having three presentations devoted to one view is unbalanced or unnecessary. However, Garrett and White’s positions are really quite different. In contrast, Akin’s wasn’t unique enough from either of theirs, especially considering he argued for a permissible model, rather than one he saw as best or even beneficial.
A few of the authors took pot shots at non-denominational churches and/or mega-churches and their (supposed lack of) polity. Since I attend Calvary Chapel, I was a bit defensive to the charge of such churches not taking polity seriously, especially considering some of the authors didn’t see their own view as being objectively Biblical! A chapter attempting to defend a non-denominational model could have been worthwhile addition.
Conclusion
Does this book succeed? It depends what you want from it. If you want to read authors all arguing for their position from Scripture, this may not be the best book to buy. However, this is never promised in the book internally so I can’t criticize it too strongly on this basis.
If you want introductions to some of the key issues and positions, and to see how others would respond to these presentations, this would be worth looking into. Since I feel that the contributions could have been stronger, I’m a little hesitant to endorse it.
Special thanks to Jim Baird and B&H Academic for providing a review copy of this book!
October 26, 2007
The various church polity structures are presented (The Singular Elder led Church, Presbyterianism, Congregationalism, The Bishop Led Church, Plural Elder led Church) by men in their respected camps. After each presentation there are rebuttals from each contributer. I found that it was refreshing to hear each argument clearly presented from biblical, historical, practical, and experiential angles. The rebuttals were not costic, but honest and charitable. At the end of the book I came away with a greater understanding that there probably is one clear way of polity that God knows, but He decided NOT to be too clear about it Scripturally to us. Therefore, church polity is more of a dynamic that each church must decide based on biblical convictions. Some things are clear (i.e., Elders, Deacons, Priesthood of all believers, etc.), but the exact details of how this fleshes out in polity is NOT clear. Therefore, instead of being bound by non-essentials that divide, churches should stand on what is clear biblically then be free in their interpretation of implementation. Also, church history arguments were presented in each camp to support their views but caused the most division between their viewpoints; however, there was the most agreement when each used Scripture to describe their viewpoint (commonality) until they went further to apply how to implement what they found in the Scriptures.
August 2, 2017
Being a firm credobaptist, with Presbyterian leanings, I was intrigued with this "Perspectives on Church Government." These types of books are often an interesting way to get varying views on a topic without having to read multiple books.
The book begins by a brief introduction by Chad Brand and Stan Norman. Daniel Akin is the first contributor, defending the single elder-led model. Interestingly, Akin spends most of his time defending the elder-led model, and only at the end gives an almost contrived, half-hearted attempt to defend the single-elder model. It is a solid contribution, despite the tacked-on finish at the end.
Next is Robert Reymond's defense of Presbyterianism. I've read Doug Wilson's defense of Presbyterianism and found it quite convincing, so I was surprised when I found Reymond's defense so weak. James White's criticism of Reymond's article is spot on. He writes, "Presbyterianism 'connectionalism' is based almost entirely upon the implication-driven arguments drawn from the Jerusalem council of Acts 15." Oddly enough, this is the same basic criticism baptists have with the Presbyterian paedobaptist position.
James Leo Garret, Jr. is next arguing for the Congregational-led church. This is a very interesting article that covers a lot of ground, including baptist history, but ultimately it fails in its attempt to argue for Congregationalism because he cannot adequately deal with texts which speak of elders.
Paul Zahl's article on Episcopal government is far-reaching and the most interesting read of the bunch. Zahl hardly deals with Scripture at all, instead focusing primarily on the history of the church and arguing for tradition--namely apostolic succession as the primary argument in favor of Episcopal government. The rest of the essay is largely a defense of Anglicanism. While it is interesting, it is quite weak.
The book concludes with James White's able defense of the plurality of elder view. This essay is by far the most persuasive. It is persuasive for a variety of reasons, including the fact that by the time you get to it, Akin has already plowed much of the ground and the middle three perspectives are very difficult to defend biblically. White doesn't have this problem, as it is quite apparent in reading the New Testament that the church ought to be led by elders--the main question is how that plays out and whether there is an additional layer of government between the elders and Christ.
This is a solid introduction, though I was most disappointed by Reymond's weak defense of Presbyterianism. All in all a worthwhile book for those looking to gain a diverse introduction into the topic without picking up books on each position.
The book begins by a brief introduction by Chad Brand and Stan Norman. Daniel Akin is the first contributor, defending the single elder-led model. Interestingly, Akin spends most of his time defending the elder-led model, and only at the end gives an almost contrived, half-hearted attempt to defend the single-elder model. It is a solid contribution, despite the tacked-on finish at the end.
Next is Robert Reymond's defense of Presbyterianism. I've read Doug Wilson's defense of Presbyterianism and found it quite convincing, so I was surprised when I found Reymond's defense so weak. James White's criticism of Reymond's article is spot on. He writes, "Presbyterianism 'connectionalism' is based almost entirely upon the implication-driven arguments drawn from the Jerusalem council of Acts 15." Oddly enough, this is the same basic criticism baptists have with the Presbyterian paedobaptist position.
James Leo Garret, Jr. is next arguing for the Congregational-led church. This is a very interesting article that covers a lot of ground, including baptist history, but ultimately it fails in its attempt to argue for Congregationalism because he cannot adequately deal with texts which speak of elders.
Paul Zahl's article on Episcopal government is far-reaching and the most interesting read of the bunch. Zahl hardly deals with Scripture at all, instead focusing primarily on the history of the church and arguing for tradition--namely apostolic succession as the primary argument in favor of Episcopal government. The rest of the essay is largely a defense of Anglicanism. While it is interesting, it is quite weak.
The book concludes with James White's able defense of the plurality of elder view. This essay is by far the most persuasive. It is persuasive for a variety of reasons, including the fact that by the time you get to it, Akin has already plowed much of the ground and the middle three perspectives are very difficult to defend biblically. White doesn't have this problem, as it is quite apparent in reading the New Testament that the church ought to be led by elders--the main question is how that plays out and whether there is an additional layer of government between the elders and Christ.
This is a solid introduction, though I was most disappointed by Reymond's weak defense of Presbyterianism. All in all a worthwhile book for those looking to gain a diverse introduction into the topic without picking up books on each position.
September 5, 2019
Not bad, not bad. A bit heady and long.
Also this is hilarious - you've got all the contributor's names and they go like:
Daniel Akin, James Leo Garrett, Jr., Jams R. White, and then you have
The Very Reverend Dr. Theol. Paul F. M. Zahl.
Sounds like he's puffed up a bit. Did I mention some of the others have doctorates but don't mention it? XD
Also this is hilarious - you've got all the contributor's names and they go like:
Daniel Akin, James Leo Garrett, Jr., Jams R. White, and then you have
The Very Reverend Dr. Theol. Paul F. M. Zahl.
Sounds like he's puffed up a bit. Did I mention some of the others have doctorates but don't mention it? XD
December 5, 2014
B&H has a nice little series titled "Perspectives" where they get scholars to write out their reasons for why they believe/practice what they do. Varying from Worship, to your child's education, to this particular book on Church government.
A very important topic which wont be settled via a 368 debate book of sorts, but definitely a good place to start for one curious on the differing views.
Covered in this volume are 5 views of church polity:
Daniel Akin - Single elder led congregational model
James Leo Garret Jr. - Democratic congregational model
Robert L. Reymond - Presbyterian model
James R. White - Plural elder led congregational model
Paul F.M. Zahl - Episcopal model
I find this volume to be good on an introductory level. Obviously, each author could not go as in depth as I'm sure they would have liked to but they do for the most part articulate their views quite well. Some (White) better than others (Zahl).
Of course, I would encourage anyone who studies this subject or reads this book to base their views on Scripture and to study what God's Word has to say first and foremost.
A very important topic which wont be settled via a 368 debate book of sorts, but definitely a good place to start for one curious on the differing views.
Covered in this volume are 5 views of church polity:
Daniel Akin - Single elder led congregational model
James Leo Garret Jr. - Democratic congregational model
Robert L. Reymond - Presbyterian model
James R. White - Plural elder led congregational model
Paul F.M. Zahl - Episcopal model
I find this volume to be good on an introductory level. Obviously, each author could not go as in depth as I'm sure they would have liked to but they do for the most part articulate their views quite well. Some (White) better than others (Zahl).
Of course, I would encourage anyone who studies this subject or reads this book to base their views on Scripture and to study what God's Word has to say first and foremost.
July 14, 2016
Overall, this book provided an overview of 5 different types of church polity, and to each author's article the other authors give a response. Understanding that it's not an entirely comprehensive look, it provides the different perspectives - as implied by the title.
February 25, 2016
Review
A great read, in a spirit of fraternity and charity by all. A pleasure to interact with and on which to meditate.
A great read, in a spirit of fraternity and charity by all. A pleasure to interact with and on which to meditate.
December 7, 2023
"Perspectives on Church Government" provides a comprehensive examination of various church governance models, offering readers an insightful journey through the intricacies of ecclesiastical structures. Edited by Chad Owen Brand and R. Stanton Norman, this edition in the "Perspectives" series succeeds in presenting diverse viewpoints, though it may be perceived as academically dense.
One of the book's notable strengths lies in its ability to dissect the single-elder-led church, Presbyterian church government, congregational church government, Bishop-led government, and the plural-elder-led church. The inclusion of multiple perspectives allows readers to appreciate the nuances and complexities inherent in each model. The editors have curated a thought-provoking exploration that not only delves into the historical and theological foundations but also reflects the practical implications of these governance structures.
However, it's important to note that the academic tone of the book may pose a challenge for some readers. The content can be dry at times, making it less accessible for those who prefer a more engaging writing style. Despite this, the book's value is evident in its ability to stimulate critical thinking and reflection.
As a member of a plural elder-led church, the reader found the discussions to be particularly relevant and thought-provoking. The exploration of various perspectives prompted a reconsideration of their own beliefs and practices, sparking introspection on the validity of their church's governance model. This reflective aspect adds a personal dimension to the reading experience, elevating the book beyond a mere academic exercise.
The reactions of each perspective to the chapters provide a well-rounded view, allowing readers to understand the strengths and weaknesses inherent in each approach. This approach fosters a more holistic understanding of church governance, encouraging readers to evaluate their convictions in light of diverse viewpoints.
In conclusion, "Perspectives on Church Governance" offers a valuable contribution to the discourse on ecclesiastical structures. While the academic nature of the content may be a drawback for some, the book excels in presenting a balanced and comprehensive exploration of various church government models. Chad Owen Brand and R. Stanton Norman's editorial efforts shine through, making this edition a commendable addition to the "Perspectives" series.
One of the book's notable strengths lies in its ability to dissect the single-elder-led church, Presbyterian church government, congregational church government, Bishop-led government, and the plural-elder-led church. The inclusion of multiple perspectives allows readers to appreciate the nuances and complexities inherent in each model. The editors have curated a thought-provoking exploration that not only delves into the historical and theological foundations but also reflects the practical implications of these governance structures.
However, it's important to note that the academic tone of the book may pose a challenge for some readers. The content can be dry at times, making it less accessible for those who prefer a more engaging writing style. Despite this, the book's value is evident in its ability to stimulate critical thinking and reflection.
As a member of a plural elder-led church, the reader found the discussions to be particularly relevant and thought-provoking. The exploration of various perspectives prompted a reconsideration of their own beliefs and practices, sparking introspection on the validity of their church's governance model. This reflective aspect adds a personal dimension to the reading experience, elevating the book beyond a mere academic exercise.
The reactions of each perspective to the chapters provide a well-rounded view, allowing readers to understand the strengths and weaknesses inherent in each approach. This approach fosters a more holistic understanding of church governance, encouraging readers to evaluate their convictions in light of diverse viewpoints.
In conclusion, "Perspectives on Church Governance" offers a valuable contribution to the discourse on ecclesiastical structures. While the academic nature of the content may be a drawback for some, the book excels in presenting a balanced and comprehensive exploration of various church government models. Chad Owen Brand and R. Stanton Norman's editorial efforts shine through, making this edition a commendable addition to the "Perspectives" series.
March 19, 2025
I think this book does a good job presenting multiple options for church governance. Each option is currently being used and has plenty of people arguing for it as the best and most biblical. This is the beauty of what Jesus did and the Apostles wrote in the NT. They made very few explicit requirements and almost no guidance on how to "church." This has enabled the "church" the thrive on every continent and in every culture because so many things were left unsaid and undone allowing the structure of the "church" to fit the environment and people.
God did a great job not giving us the rules on how to do it, otherwise we would have flubbed it anyways and done it how we wanted, so to spare us the indignity and to make it global, God withheld the rules and best practices, even though each of these fellows argues theirs is the best and I am sure in some contexts each of them is right.
God did a great job not giving us the rules on how to do it, otherwise we would have flubbed it anyways and done it how we wanted, so to spare us the indignity and to make it global, God withheld the rules and best practices, even though each of these fellows argues theirs is the best and I am sure in some contexts each of them is right.
October 9, 2019
Boring drudgery. Just a five abnormally long essays on why carrots forms of church government are better than everyone else's. None are particularly compelling. Some have no biblical basis. Some are written very argumentatively. Each author then responds to reach essay...which may have been the best parts of the book.
None of it was particularly useful or helpful. Nor was any of it written with true clarity.
None of it was particularly useful or helpful. Nor was any of it written with true clarity.
September 5, 2021
A moderately concise book on leadership in the church. Aiken’s article was the best researched and thorough. He argues for a single elder position but is obviously partial to a plurality of elders. James White defending plurality of elders decided to not consult any literature. Leeman or Dever would have been better choices for this view.
February 7, 2018
Reymond and White are the guys worth reading.
June 25, 2018
Great book for understanding the why and how of different styles of church government. It’s very readable for the normal lay church member.
December 31, 2020
Content was good, the format was rough.
July 4, 2021
Good overview of five options of church government. In reality, all points reveal that we have biblical principles but must flesh them out with contextual applications.
July 22, 2025
Balanced, Good.
November 4, 2016
An interesting read. The essays certainly encouraged me to think further about this issue.
The critical responses to each essay were also very helpful, and were perhaps the best part of the book. In the main, the arguments marshalled in favour of the one or other model were not as strong as the relative critique. The essay in defence of episcopal polity, while a rollicking good read, was very disappointing as a contribution to this work - it was neither affirmed or defended, despite the chapter heading.
With respect to congregationalism, I end the book as I started it; I am not a congregationalist. With respect to Presbyterianism, although his critique of congregationalism was stinging and on target, Reymond was not able to convince me; indeed his reading of Presbyterianism into key texts was so obviously anachronistic. As said above, the essay on episcopal polity was singularly lacking. The plural-elder led view seems to fit best with the superficial biblical data but must needs ignore the history of the church from earliest times. Zahl's essay notwithstanding, I remain a convinced episcopalian.
The critical responses to each essay were also very helpful, and were perhaps the best part of the book. In the main, the arguments marshalled in favour of the one or other model were not as strong as the relative critique. The essay in defence of episcopal polity, while a rollicking good read, was very disappointing as a contribution to this work - it was neither affirmed or defended, despite the chapter heading.
With respect to congregationalism, I end the book as I started it; I am not a congregationalist. With respect to Presbyterianism, although his critique of congregationalism was stinging and on target, Reymond was not able to convince me; indeed his reading of Presbyterianism into key texts was so obviously anachronistic. As said above, the essay on episcopal polity was singularly lacking. The plural-elder led view seems to fit best with the superficial biblical data but must needs ignore the history of the church from earliest times. Zahl's essay notwithstanding, I remain a convinced episcopalian.
April 22, 2016
Good Read
Provides a thought provoking examination in the topic of church leadership styles. Worthy of reading in order for a person to sincerely develop a convictional position on this issue.
Provides a thought provoking examination in the topic of church leadership styles. Worthy of reading in order for a person to sincerely develop a convictional position on this issue.
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