What is the Reformed Doctrine of Parachurch Ministry?

American Christianity is largely dominated by parachurch ministries. This is overwhelmingly true if we take into account the countless megachurches which are more parachurch than local church.

THE REFORMED DOCTRINE OF PARACHURCH

Parachurches are good when they serve needs that local churches can’t. They’re especially useful in the field of missions, broad evangelism, specialized mercy ministry, the academic training of ministers, the publishing of books, and the roasting of coffees (not to mention the brewing of ales and the smoking of pipe-weed). Parachurches can be extremely helpful in providing supplemental teaching resources to Christians who are plugged into local church bodies.

when keeping It para goes wrong

Parachurch ministry has become unbiblical when it seeks to supplant the local church. This happens when funds that would otherwise go to local churches are drawn away and given to parachurches instead. This also happens when parachurch teachers are accorded more authority in a Christian’s life than their own pastors. Historically, this wasn’t as much of a problem, because local church ministers served in parachurch ministries while remaining local church ministers, thus bringing balance to the Force.

in conclusion

Parachurches can serve vital roles in connecting Christians from a broad range of local church backgrounds to serve together in common cause. They are blessed when they posture themselves with deference to the highest spiritual authority on earth, Christ’s local assembly, and seek to serve her.