Assembly Quote by Charles Hodge
“The Independent or Congregational theory includes two principles; first, that the governing and executive power in the Church is in the brotherhood; and secondly, that the Church organization is complete in each worshipping assembly, which is independent of every other.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Systematic Theology, Volume 2, Charles Hodge, 1851
The quote describes a church governance model where authority resides in the local congregation and each assembly operates autonomously without external control.
In simple terms: Church power belongs to local members; each assembly is self‑governing.
Key Takeaway
Value local autonomy and shared responsibility.
Themes
church governance
congregationalism
autonomy
community
leadership
Mood
reflective
thoughtful
serious
Type
theoretical
instructional
When to use this quote
- local church meetings
- decision making in congregations
- mission planning
- conflict resolution within assemblies
Key Concepts
Ecclesiology
democratic structure
localism
Questions to Reflect On
- How does local autonomy affect unity?
- What challenges arise when assemblies differ?
A Different Perspective
May limit coordinated action across churches and reduce unified doctrine.
![“Mac [Barnett] and I prank each other during our presentation. We show baby pictures of each other looking completely ridiculous. I can't believe the frilly shirt that I'm in, and Mac's wearing a sailor suit and playing a toy piano. That's a perfect example of a good prank, where we have three…” quote by Jory John](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/afb/jory-john-60334_assembly_mac-barnett-and-i-prank-each-other-durin_50495.jpg)
