Network Guidelines

What it means to be part of the Local Faith network. Simple commitments, not rigid rules.

Eight Principles

Groups in the Local Faith network voluntarily agree to these shared commitments. They aren't a creed. They aren't a contract. They're a common direction.

  1. 1. Scripture is the authority.

    The Bible is the foundation for faith and practice. Not tradition alone. Not cultural preference. The Word of God.

  2. 2. Gather simply.

    Meals, prayer, the Word, mutual encouragement. You don't need a building, a budget, or a program to be the church.

  3. 3. Participate, don't spectate.

    Everyone brings something. A word, a song, a prayer, a meal. The church is not a show to watch. It's a life to share.

  4. 4. Make disciples who make disciples.

    The mission is multiplication. Not attendance. Not programs. Faithful people entrusting the gospel to other faithful people.

  5. 5. No paid clergy requirement.

    Leadership is a gift and a calling, not a profession. Groups can support leaders financially, but it's not required to function as a church.

  6. 6. No program bloat.

    Keep it simple. When you add complexity, you add barriers. The early church didn't need a marketing team. Neither do you.

  7. 7. Love first.

    Before doctrine debates. Before culture wars. Before being right. Love comes first. Always.

  8. 8. Stay accountable to a local body.

    Isolation is dangerous. Every group stays connected to other believers. The network exists to provide that connection, not control it.

How Groups Join the Network

  1. 1

    A host contacts Local Faith.

    Express interest by emailing [email protected].

  2. 2

    We share the guidelines and have a conversation.

    No application. No interview. Just a real conversation about what your group looks like and whether the network is a good fit.

  3. 3

    If aligned, your group is listed in the directory.

    General location only. No home addresses. No personal contact info published.

  4. 4

    No fees. No dues. No franchise model.

    Groups can leave the network at any time. The relationship is voluntary in both directions.

What We Are Not

  • Not a denomination. There is no doctrinal statement you must sign. No creed beyond the Scriptures.
  • Not a franchise. There is no brand to license, no materials to buy, no dues to pay.
  • Not a hierarchy. Local Faith does not govern local groups. Each group is self-governing and accountable to the Lord.
  • Not a replacement for the local church. We support the church. We don't replace it. Some groups in the network may also participate in a larger congregation. That's fine.