Biblical Foundations For Baptist Churches: A Contemporary Ecclesiology

Book Summary

Developments like seeker churches, mega-churches, and emerging churches have brought ecclesiology to the forefront of evangelical debate. But too often important questions are answered solely on the basis of pragmatism or cultural relevance. What does it really mean to be the church? In this practical book, former pastor and missionary John Hammett helps church leaders think through the foundational questions about the nature of the church. Blending biblical teaching and practical ministry experience, Hammett presents a comprehensive ecclesiology from a historic Baptist perspective, examining crucial contemporary issues such as meaningful church membership, church discipline, elders in Baptist churches, different worship styles, and various models like seeker churches, mega-churches, and emerging churches. "A well-researched and clearly written vision for a fresh look at Baptist ecclesiology that is faithful to scripture and informed by the best thinking of yesteryear." --David S. Dockery President, Union University "One of the most comprehensive and thoughtful considerations of where we are today in understanding the local church. Avoiding both passing fads and frumpy conservatism, here we have a fresh and faithful ecclesiology." --Mark Dever Pastor, Capitol Hill Baptist Church "Here is a thoughtful, thorough, and lively discussion of the theology of the doctrine of the church from one of our finest theologians. Even churchmen in denominations distinct from his own will find it rivettingly interesting and helpful." --Paige Patterson President, Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary John S. Hammett (Ph.D., The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary) isprofessor of systematic theology at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. Prior to becoming a professor, Hammett served as a pastor and missionary. Most North American churches take a pragmatic approach to church life. We are concerned with being relevant to the culture and ultimately growing at a steady rate. While these issues are certainly legitimate, they also create a danger that our churches will be shaped more by these extrabiblical goals than by the biblical mandate of God. Utilizing the Scriptures, theology, and Baptist history, this comprehensive work addresses all aspects of the church--both theological and practical.

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