There is an unwritten rule that almost has the binding authority of a commandment among most Presbyterians. Every natural born Presbyterian knows this rule from birth. Every convert to Presbyterianism soon learns it. It is not directly taught in any new members class, but the culture of most Presbyterian congregations display it. I once observedContinue reading “The Eleventh Commandment of Presbyterians”
Tag Archives: Presbyterian
Membership Vows
One of the things we are seeking to do in Vanguard Presbytery is to always go back to the Scripture. For that reason, our proposed Book of Church Order (as of August 5, 2020) adds a membership vow which has been left out of every other Presbyterian book of polity with which I am familiar (and mostContinue reading “Membership Vows”
Are Evangelists Functionaries or Offices?
Vanguard Presbytery: Are Evangelists Functionaries or Offices? At the 1975 RTS Winter Theological Institute, I was able to listen to a discussion between Dr. G. Aiken Taylor, editor of The Presbyterian Journal, and one of my professors, Paul Fowler. I had worked with Dr. Taylor the previous summer in starting a new PCA church in Asheville,Continue reading “Are Evangelists Functionaries or Offices?”
Principles Versus Coalitions
There was an article in ByFaith Magazine recently by Dr. Roy Taylor, “The PCA, Facing the Future,” in which he asked the question: “Will we maintain our coalition?” I did not read the article and do not know the answer Taylor gave, but here is my answer to his question. No, no denomination based on a coalition can long maintainContinue reading “Principles Versus Coalitions”
Distinctives: New Light Presbyterianism
In 1741 and again in 1838, the Presbyterian Church was divided into separate denominations over theological issues which were, in each instance, identified as Old and New camps. That superficial similarity has caused a great deal of confusion on the part of many church members, pastors, and even theologians. The confusion continues down to thisContinue reading “Distinctives: New Light Presbyterianism”
The Problem with Presbyterianism is…Presbytery
The title of this message will come as a surprise and a dismay to many Presbyterians. Presbytery is the genius of our system, so we think. How can Presbytery (which is Scriptural by the way) be our problem? The right of appeal from a lower court to a higher court (after which the American systemContinue reading “The Problem with Presbyterianism is…Presbytery”