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Many people wonder:
Who leads the Church?
Who makes decisions?
Is it top-down, or do local churches have freedom?
The Church of the Nazarene is guided by a representative form of government.
That means we believe in leadership by the people, for the people, under God.
Let’s break this down.
A Church Led by All, Not Just a Few
“The Church of the Nazarene has a representative form of government.”
— Manual, Paragraph 22
This isn’t a dictatorship.
And it’s not a loose collection of independent churches either.
We believe that God speaks through the Body —
so we organize ourselves in a way that allows voices from every level to participate.
We have three main levels of leadership:
“Local, district, general.”
— Manual, Paragraph 22.1
- Local churches serve their communities directly.
- Districts bring those churches together for regional support.
- The General Church helps shape global mission and unity.
Each level has a role.
Each level has a voice.
Each level is connected — not separate — so that we can fulfill one shared mission.
Why Do We Have Superintendents?
“We are agreed on the necessity of a superintendency…”
— Manual, Paragraph 22.2
Some might ask, Why do we have leaders like district superintendents?
Aren’t pastors enough?
The Manual explains that superintendents aren’t meant to control —
They are called to complement and assist.
- They build morale when churches are discouraged.
- They motivate and coach when pastors need help.
- They offer practical support, tools, and strategies.
- They help start new churches and missions.
In short, they help the local church do what God has called it to do — better.
What About Local Church Independence?
“Authority given to superintendents shall not interfere with the independent action of a fully organized church.”
— Manual, Paragraph 22.3
The Church of the Nazarene believes in local responsibility.
Your church:
- Selects its own pastor
(with accountability to General Assembly guidelines)
- Elects its own delegates
(to district and general assemblies)
- Manages its own finances
(being good stewards before God and people)
- Leads its own ministries and mission
(as God directs)
The superintendency does not override the local church —
it walks alongside, like a shepherd with fellow shepherds.
So what does this mean for you?
- Your voice matters. From local to global, we are all represented.
- Your church has freedom, not to go its own way, but to follow Jesus faithfully.
- Your leaders serve you, not rule over you.
- You are part of a connected body, not just one isolated group.
We are not a perfect structure.
But we are a Spirit-led people
doing all we can to follow Christ
in unity, with accountability, and with grace.
God has called us to lead together.
Let’s do so in love, humility, and purpose.
