Backwoods Presbyterian
Puritanboard Amanuensis
I had reason to be looking over some of the documents in the Westminster Directories and was reminded of the section on Particular Congregations in the Directory on the Form of Presbyterial Church Government.
I would personally be in favor of the re-establishment of such a system and it would be an improvement over the American commercial system of picking your own congregation. It is also a far more Biblical system that would definitely not find much support in the "me-centered" American church.
Of Particular Congregations.
IT is lawful and expedient that there be fixed congregations, that is, a certain company of Christians to meet in one assembly ordinarily for publick worship. When believers multiply to such a number, that they cannot conveniently meet in one place, it is lawful and expedient that they should be divided into distinct and fixed congregations, for the better administration of such ordinances as belong unto them, and the discharge of mutual duties.[32]
The ordinary way of dividing Christians into distinct congregations, and most expedient for edification, is by the respective bounds of their dwellings.
First, Because they who dwell together, being bound to all kind of moral duties one to another, have the better opportunity thereby to discharge them; which moral tie is perpetual; for Christ came not to destroy the law, but to fulfil it.
Secondly, The communion of saints must be so ordered, as may stand with the most convenient use of the ordinances, and discharge of moral duties, without respect of persons.
Thirdly, The pastor and people must so nearly cohabit together, as that they may mutually perform their duties each to other with most conveniency.
In this company some must be set apart to bear office
I would personally be in favor of the re-establishment of such a system and it would be an improvement over the American commercial system of picking your own congregation. It is also a far more Biblical system that would definitely not find much support in the "me-centered" American church.