The Benefits of Voluntary Cooperation Baptists have developed various entities to provide means for churches to voluntarily cooperate. Such voluntary cooperation provides many benefits. The denominational organizations originally were formed to serve the churches by providing a means for them to work together to advance the cause of Christ. Voluntary cooperation enables churches to do far more together than they could do alone in such causes as missions, ministry, and education. Associations and conventions assist churches in carrying out their own local ministries. They can also help churches that are experiencing difficulties, such as internal conflict and financial crises. A church in this situation can request help from an association or convention without losing any of its autonomy. Individuals, such as pastors and church staff members, can benefit from voluntary cooperation. Associations and conventions maintain lists of pastors and church staff members for ease in communication. Counseling is often available for ministers and their families. Denominational organizations provide opportunities for the deposit of funds for retirement and the purchase of insurance. Baptist institutions benefit from voluntary cooperation. A voluntary relationship with an association, convention, or society provides a base of support that enables them to have more stability and strength than they would have as totally independent organizations. Responses to Challenges to Denominational Voluntary Cooperation Obstacles and challenges to denominational voluntary cooperation exist. For example, some persons regard denominations as a relic of the past and see little reason to cooperate. A number of churches do not want to be drawn into denominational conflict and choose to avoid any participation in denominational cooperation. Others contend that the organizations involved in carrying out cooperative missions are cumbersome and often unnecessarily expensive. The challenges to voluntary cooperation can be met by responding to objections and explaining its benefits. Hereare some suggestions for constructive responses to the criticism of and objections to denominational cooperation: By participating in the voluntary cooperative efforts of Baptists, churches can be part of an extensive vibrant movement to make and mature disciples for Christ and to minister to persons in his name. By remaining cooperative, larger churches help provide means for smaller churches to enjoy the benefits of cooperation. ating principle is he denomination is ragile organization mon experiences, poses that unite ger than steel.” h Strength of Steel Sullivan
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