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Disputed among the faithful · The Church

How should the church be governed?

Bishops, elders, or the congregation? Each polity claims biblical warrant, and each has served Christ's church for centuries. What is at stake is order and accountability — not whether a church is true.

Where Scripture takes this up

Episcopal

Oversight by bishops in historic succession of office.

Presbyterian

Governance by councils of elders across congregations.

Congregational

Authority resting with the local gathered congregation.