Why is the concept of church autonomy important for Baptists?

The concept of church autonomy is integral to Baptist identity, emphasizing the independence of local congregations in governance and decision-making. The Black Rock Address stresses that each church serves as an independent kingdom of Christ, called to operate according to the directives given in the New Testament. This autonomy is grounded in scriptural references such as Matthew 18:17, where Jesus outlines the processes for dealing with sin within the church. The autonomy of the church protects it from external influences that may deviate from the biblical framework, ensuring that the church remains true to the teachings of Christ and the apostles.