We find the biblical metaphor of partnership extremely helpful in defining roles and relationships during the adoption process. Like most partnerships, a church adoption is done for mutual benefit and carries responsibilities for both parties.

How does such a partnership with Sovereign Grace Ministries develop? Quite simply, it starts with developing a relationship over time. Through meetings, conference attendance, exposure to Sovereign Grace materials, and dialogue with us, an interested church, whether domestic or international, gradually becomes more familiar with our doctrine and practice. In this way the church forms an increasingly accurate view of Sovereign Grace—including both strengths and weaknesses—and we have the opportunity to assess the compatibility of the inquiring church.

In all these efforts, the goal is not merely doctrinal agreement or relational connection, but an essential blending of the two. We look for a truth-based relationship, manifested in substantial theological and methodological agreement, as well as faith toward God for formalizing the relationship. Where we believe that we have sufficient capacity to serve such a church adequately, the presence of these elements often results in an adoption.