In recent years, we’ve watched a surge in church planting networks, groups of like-minded churches collaborating for mission, training and resourcing. I’ve observed a renewed energy and passion for innovation among these groups. God has used these networks for good in His kingdom advancement. However, we’ve also observed heartbreaking fallout as once-prominent ministries and leaders get caught up in scandals. In the wake of such disappointment, a lesson ought to be gleaned — no structure, no matter how innovative, can replace the beauty of a biblical cooperation grounded in humility, accountability and local church autonomy.
Generations of Baptists have partnered together through associationalism, a model often overlooked or misunderstood today. When the modern branding of networks gets stripped away, we find that much of what people seek to accomplish (e.g., shared mission, pooled resources, mutual encouragement) already exists within Baptist associations’ biblical and historical framework.
What’s the Difference?
While networks and associations appear similar at first glance, their foundations differ. Here are a few factors that distinguish associations:
• Associations are church-led. Every action taken is under the authority of the cooperating local churches. There’s no hierarchy to replace the voluntary cooperation of represented churches under the Lordship of Christ. In church planting networks, it is more common to find a central administrator who leads without the input of participating churches.
• Associations maintain doctrinal unity. In the BMA, churches are united around core biblical convictions, which define our fellowship and cooperative work. Networks, on the other hand, hold to looser doctrinal positions.
• Associations maintain representative cooperation. By doing so, we avoid the cumbersome influence of a corporate model. We are not bound together by brand loyalty or platform personalities, but by love for Christ and shared mission in the gospel.
A Better Way Forward
Church planting networks are not inherently wrong, and many do good work. But as we seek longevity and integrity in ministry, we must ask, “Is there a more faithful, biblical and sustainable model?” The answer may be in the model we’ve known all along.
The challenge is encouraging associational life to remain vibrant in a generation drawn to networks. Here are five things we can do to speak to the next generation:
• Reclaim the biblical vision. The churches of Acts were not isolated. They supported one another, made decisions together and partnered for mission. Associationalism isn’t an outdated formality. It’s an ancient hallmark of the true church.
• Keep the gospel central. When associations focus on the gospel, not politics or personalities, they remain valuable tools in God’s hands. In the face of celebrity let-downs, we are reminded to stay focused on the mission rather than our position.
• Prioritize relationships over bureaucracy. True partnership begins with friendship. Associations should foster pastoral care, mutual encouragement and shared wisdom. This may be at the heart of why networks are excelling in popularity against biblical associations. To speak to the next generation, our associations need to become a place of friendship rather than business.
• Empower without controlling. We can support church planting and revitalization efforts while respecting the autonomy of each church. Associations work best when they encourage and partner, rather than micromanage.
• Celebrate faithfulness, not just flashiness. Associations remind us of the power of slow, steady, gospel-faithful ministry in a world drawn to what is new and shiny.
Final Thoughts
The next generation does not need a new model. It requires a renewed commitment to God’s design. In the associational life of Baptist churches, we find a structure that protects the local church’s autonomy while promoting the mission of the family of God. It’s not about building empires. It’s about exalting Christ.
Let’s not overlook the strength that God has given us through our associational partnership. It’s time to rediscover that strength and live it with faithfulness and joy.
