What is the Book of Discipline?

The Book of Discipline of the United Methodist Church is the comprehensive governing document that outlines the law, doctrine, administration, and organizational life of the denomination. Updated every four years following each General Conference, it serves as both a legal code and a theological statement about the nature and mission of the church.

What It Contains

The Discipline is organized into several major sections:

• Constitution — The foundational legal framework of the church, including the Restrictive Rules that protect certain core elements from change.
• Doctrinal Standards and Our Theological Task — The Articles of Religion, the Confession of Faith, Wesley's General Rules, and a statement on how United Methodists approach theology.
• Social Principles — The church's official positions on social, economic, political, and environmental issues.
• Organization and Administration — Detailed instructions for how every level of the church operates, from local churches to the General Conference.
• Ministry — Requirements and processes for ordained and lay ministry, including education, ordination, and appointment.
• Judicial Administration — Procedures for resolving disputes, handling complaints, and conducting church trials.

How It's Updated

The Book of Discipline is revised by the General Conference, which meets every four years. Any delegate—clergy or lay—can submit petitions proposing changes. These petitions are reviewed by legislative committees, debated on the conference floor, and adopted or rejected by majority vote. Changes take effect upon adjournment of the General Conference unless otherwise specified.

Authority and Interpretation

The Discipline carries the force of law within the United Methodist Church. All clergy, local churches, and church bodies are expected to abide by its provisions. When questions of interpretation arise, they may be referred to the Judicial Council, which serves as the church's supreme court. The Discipline is not merely a rule book—it reflects the church's ongoing effort to discern God's will for the life and mission of the United Methodist people.