Why is the doctrine of church independence important for Christians?

The doctrine of church independence is significant for Christians as it upholds the autonomy of local congregations in governance and practice. This concept affirms that each church is self-governing under the headship of Christ, allowing for collective accountability and the exercise of the priesthood of all believers, as noted in 1 Peter 2:5. Independence safeguards the integrity of church practices and communities, ensuring that the local assembly remains faithful to Scripture without external influences dictating its operations. In a world where broader institutional churches may compromise truths, the strict Baptist emphasis on independence ensures that each congregation faithfully reflects the biblical model of the Church.