+Transcriber's Notes+ - This book is set forth as a reference for Baptist churches to discuss their history, organization, polity, and operations. The book itself has a small form factor, suitable to be carried in a suit coat pocket. - The author's perspective is quite partisan; many arguments are introduced in favor of his preferred methods and against alternatives. - Detailed information on the Transcriber's changes are listed after the text. THE STANDARD MANUAL FOR BAPTIST CHURCHES _By_ EDWARD T. HISCOX, D.D. Author of "The Baptist's Short Method," "Star Book for Ministers," "The Star Book Series," "Pastors' Manual," etc. PHILADELPHIA THE AMERICAN BAPITST PUBLICATION SOCIETY CHICAGO KANSAS CITY LOS ANGELES SEATTLE ------------------------------------------------------------ Entered, according to Act of Congress, in the year 1890, by THE AMERICAN BAPITST PUBLICATION SOCIETY In the office of the Librarian of Congress, at Washington ------------------------------------------------------------ PRINTED IN U.S.A. PREFACE It is now thirty years since the "Baptist Church Directory," prepared by the writer, was first published. That work was designed to be somewhat of a _consensus_ of the opinions of those best able to judge in matters of Baptist church polity and usage, especially as to what concerns administration and discipline. It might thus prove a help to both pastors and members, particularly in perplexing cases liable to arise. Thus it was hoped it might help to rectify the order and customs of our churches through our widely extended ranks. This hope has been realized. More than fifty thousand copies of that book have been circulated in this country. It has also been translated, more or less fully, into six or seven different languages by our missionaries, for use in our missions and foreign fields. But many of the churches desired a smaller and less expensive manual, which they could put into the hands of all their members. To meet this want, sixteen years ago, the writer prepared the little "Star Book on Baptist Church Polity," which many churches have adopted, furnishing their members and candidates for membership with them freely. This has had a circulation of over thirty thousand copies; and both this and the "Directory" are in as great demand as at any previous time. It is something more than twenty years since the "Baptist Short Method," by the same author was published. The purpose of this manual was to give a concise view of those distinctive features which mark the difference between Baptists and other denominations, especially as to the ordinances and church order; and also to furnish the proofs by which our position in these respects is justified. About ten thousand copies of this book have found their way into circulation.