What is the form of local church government in The Christian and Missionary Alliance?

The form of local church government in The Christian and Missionary Alliance is characterized by a combination of Presbyterian and Congregational elements. In this model, the church body has significant autonomy and decision-making power while also recognizing the importance of leadership and governance through a structure of elders and councils. This allows for local congregations to operate independently in many aspects while maintaining a connection and accountability to the broader Alliance structure.

In this governance model, the elders provide spiritual oversight, promoting a healthy balance between congregational involvement and leadership authority. This approach aligns with the mission and values of the Alliance, which emphasizes both community participation and spiritual leadership.

The other choices do not accurately reflect the governance structure in the Christian and Missionary Alliance. A purely democratic and secular approach would lack the spiritual oversight inherent in the church’s leadership. An authoritarian and hierarchical system would concentrate power in the hands of a few, which contradicts the Alliance's commitment to congregational involvement. Lastly, an independent and non-denominational structure does not capture the important connection to the larger Alliance network important for mutual support and resources.