The Definition of an Independent

[Thumper]

Originally Posted by OP_Carl

Yes, without recourse because Independent pastors often own or control the ownership of the church building. So, in the instance of an errant pastor, the congregation loses the blood, sweat, tears, time, materials and cash money they have invested in the church property.

Sure you can leave, but you're leaving close brothers and sisters, and a part of yourself, behind.

An organizationally affiliated church congregation can (theoretically) swap the errant pastor for a (hopefully) truth-loving new pastor in the same church and congregational setting.

Of course in reality pastoral changes are usually associated with mass departures, church splits, blatant nepotism, and other unpleasantness.

The situation offers no easy choices, and, like I said, both systems have their strengths and weaknesses when it comes to this.

You apparently don't know very many independents. Independent churches are are governed like any other local assembly. With a constitution and bylaws and some sort of oversight. I've never met one that wasn't. You appear to be railing against an inaccurate construct. Best get your facts in order before you spout off like this.