The SDA Church Manual new edition describes the operation and functions of local churches and their relationship to denominational structures in which they hold membership.

The Church Manual also expresses the Church’s understanding of Christian life, church governance, and discipline based on biblical principles and the authority of duly assembled General Conference Sessions.

The SDA Church Manual is divided into two types of material. The content of each chapter is of worldwide value and applies to every church organization, congregation, and member. Recognizing the need for variations in some sections, additional explanatory material, presented as guidance and examples, appears as notes at the end of the Church Manual.