by Benjamin Keach
in ePub, .mobi & .pdf formats
Edited and formatted by Aaron Sturgill
"The Glory of a True Church" by Benjamin Keach (1640-1704). is a comprehensive guide that considers the essential characteristics and disciplines of a gospel-centered church. This work, which promotes a congregationalist ecclesiology, is designed to instruct and uplift those who seek a deeper understanding of what constitutes a true church in the eyes of God. Keach's writing, rich in theological insight and practical wisdom, explores the anatomy of the church, the roles and responsibilities within it, and the critical importance of maintaining purity and order through biblically grounded discipline.
The book is structured into a series of detailed chapters, each addressing a specific aspect of church life. From the foundational description of a true gospel church to the roles of pastors and deacons, Keach provides clear guidelines and scriptural backing for each point. He discusses the reception of members, the exercise of church discipline, the handling of private offences and public scandals, and the dangers posed by heretics and schismatics. Particularly compelling is his exposition on the "Power of the Keys," which deals with the authority given to the church to administer membership and discipline, a pivotal aspect for maintaining the church's health and witness.
Keach also touches on the more challenging aspects of church life, including dealing with divisiveness and resolving conflicts, thereby underscoring the ongoing need for grace, wisdom, and vigilance in church governance. The final chapters celebrate the "Glory and Beauty of a True Gospel Church," encouraging believers to strive towards the biblical ideal in their community of faith.
This work is not merely a historical or theoretical treatise but a call to action. It is ideal for church leaders, pastors, and lay members who desire to cultivate a robust, scripturally sound community that glorifies God in all aspects of its life and ministry. Benjamin Keach’s insights are as relevant today as they were in his time, offering valuable guidance for contemporary church communities striving to live out the gospel truthfully and vibrantly.
About Benjamin Keach: Benjamin Keach (1640-1704) was a prominent Baptist preacher and author known for his influential role in the development of Baptist theology and practice in the 17th century. He was a key figure in the introduction of singing hymns in Baptist services and contributed significantly to the Baptist Confession of Faith 1689. His writings, which include a variety of theological works, catechisms, and hymns, continue to be respected for their depth, clarity, and devotion to the doctrines of grace and church order.
Note: Benjamin Keach's ecclesiology, as a notable Baptist theologian, significantly contrasts with a Presbyterian view of church government:
- Baptist (Keach's Perspective): Keach, representing the Baptist viewpoint, advocated for a congregational form of church government. In this model, each local church is autonomous and governs itself without external interference. Decisions are made within the congregation, often through voting by the membership, and authority is seen as resting with the whole congregation rather than with any external ecclesiastical body.
- Presbyterian: Presbyterian ecclesiology features a representative form of government where the local church is governed by a session of elders (presbytery) elected by the congregation but also part of a larger connected body. This connection extends to regional synods and a national general assembly, which means individual congregations are not autonomous but are accountable to the wider church hierarchy.
------
Table of Contents
To the Reader
1. True and Orderly Gospel Church
2. Work of a Pastor, Bishop, or Overseer.
3. Office and Work of Deacons.
4. Duty of Church Members to Pastors
5. Reception of Members
6. Power of the Keys with Church
7. Church Censures
8. Private Offences of One Brother Against Another
9. Scandalous Persons Guilty of Gross Acts of Immorality
10. Dealing with Heretics and Blasphemers
11. Such that Cause Divisions
12. Disorders or Causes of Discords
13. Glory and Beauty of a True Gospel Church
14. Conclusion
Solemn Covenant of the Church of Christ
was a prominent Baptist preacher and author known for his influential role in the development of Baptist theology and practice in the 17th century. He was a key figure in the introduction of singing hymns in Baptist services and contributed significantly to the Baptist Confession of Faith 1689. His writings, which include a variety of theological works, catechisms, and hymns, continue to be respected for their depth, clarity, and devotion to the doctrines of grace and church order.
Note: Benjamin Keach's ecclesiology, as a notable Baptist theologian, significantly contrasts with a Presbyterian understanding of church government:
- Baptist (Keach's Perspective): Keach, representing the Baptist viewpoint, advocated for a congregational form of church government. In this model, each local church is autonomous and governs itself without external interference. Decisions are made within the congregation, often through voting by the membership, and authority is seen as resting with the whole congregation rather than with any external ecclesiastical body.
- Presbyterian: Presbyterian ecclesiology features a representative form of government where the local church is governed by a session of elders (presbytery) elected by the congregation but also part of a larger connected body. This connection extends to regional synods and a national general assembly, which means individual congregations are not autonomous but are accountable to the wider church hierarchy.
-----
Table of Contents
To the Reader
1. True and Orderly Gospel Church
2. Work of a Pastor, Bishop, or Overseer.
3. Office and Work of Deacons.
4. Duty of Church Members to Pastors
5. Reception of Members
6. Power of the Keys with Church
7. Church Censures
8. Private Offences of One Brother Against Another
9. Scandalous Persons Guilty of Gross Acts of Immorality
10. Dealing with Heretics and Blasphemers
11. Such that Cause Divisions
12. Disorders or Causes of Discords
13. Glory and Beauty of a True Gospel Church
14. Conclusion
Solemn Covenant of the Church of Christ