The Idea of Church Polity The careful definition of terms is helpful in any consideration of a topic. “Polity” is defined as “a particular form or system of government,” and, when added to the noun “church,” gives a phrase meaning “the science of church government” or “church government.” Identifying principal truths of the Holy Scriptures, […]

Some time back, a reader wrote to ask me to address a column to the subject of the practice of “term eldership.” (For those unfamiliar with the practice, allow me to explain: in many Reformed churches, elders are selected by “election” by the congregation for a specified term of office. “Ordained” to office only once, […]