SBC or Independent?

[XVII]

they are both baptists, why do some baptists feel being independent is better, while others feel that a convention is better?

 

[Sinai]

they are both baptists, why do some baptists feel being independent is better, while others feel that a convention is better?

Even within conventions, Baptists tend to be rather independent. Each church is generally autonomous, owns its own facilities, hires its own pastor and staff, sets its own policies, and may join with other similarly autonomous churches to form associations, conventions, etc.

Why do most Baptist churches join with other similar churches? Generally, for fellowship, cooperation, and to better facilitate the attaining the goals and objectives of both the churches and their members regarding their missionary, educational and benevolent ministries. It would be difficult for a single church to send missionaries around the world, to print educational materials, to establish and fund seminaries and other schools for training pastors, music ministers, educational directors, and other church staff, and to do numerous other things individually--but an association or convention of such churches can easily accomplish all this and more through cooperation.

Why don't all churches join in such associations and cooperative efforts? Some object to doing so because they feel that the New Testament does not establish such a model. Other Baptists think that the lack of a prohibition--when coupled with the cooperation shown by New Testament churches in supporting one another (starting and supporting new churches, taking up offerings for the Jerusalem church, etc.)--indicate that the churches should cooperate whenever it would be advantageous in carrying out the Great Commission and similar objectives....