Theologian John Owen (1616-1683), well known for his devotional and doctrinal works, also developed strong biblical convictions about the doctrine of the church, expressed in The True Nature of a Gospel Church and Its Government . Owen addresses the role of the congregation in the government of a local church the role of church officers a biblical understanding of church discipline, offering practical counsel the importance of local churches sharing in fellowship with other like-minded gospel churches. This simplified and abridged version of Owen's work allows today's readers to encounter his thoughts and conclusions and be encouraged and challenged to consider how churches can follow and apply scriptural patterns.