Glossary

C

Canon names the scope of authority a text is granted within a community. In this church, canon does not mean universal control, but differentiated reception. Texts are received according to the work they do: some bear Witness to Christ, some train Recognition, and some govern Practice within a freely held Covenant. No text is granted authority beyond its proper Jurisdiction.

Commandment names a binding obligation given within a Covenant that governs faithful conduct rather than enforces behavior.

Covenant names a relationship of binding obligation that may be received by inheritance or entered by choice, and that binds only those who hold it in trust and commitment rather than by coercion.

D

Discernment names the act of evaluating, distinguishing, or deciding according to a standard. In this church, discernment belongs to personal conscience and limited responsibility, but is never exercised as authority over others.

J

Jurisdiction names the legitimate scope and limits of authority to judge, command, or enforce.

L

Law names a system of binding requirements imposed by authority and maintained through enforcement.

R

Recognition names the act of perceiving and acknowledging truth, presence, or harm without claiming authority to judge or enforce. It precedes doctrine, evaluation, and decision, and binds no one beyond the responsibility it awakens in the one who recognizes.

S

Sin names the breaking of a Commandment within a Covenant one holds.