UMC 101: Book of Discipline

What is The Book of Discipline?

The Book of Discipline is the law and doctrine of the United Methodist Church. It was originally published in 1784, in the Methodist Episcopal Church, and has been published every four years thereafter following the meeting of the General Conference, which passes legislation that is included in The Book of Discipline.

Pastors and officials frequently reference the book because it includes:

- The Constitution
- Doctrinal heritage and the historic Articles of Religion
- Guidance about organizing a local church or a general agency
- Responsibilities of various church officers
- Chargeable offenses and guidelines for conducting investigations and trials.

The Discipline also includes the Social Principles, a series of statements made by General Conference about social justice issues. 

*Segments originally published in Interpreter Online