Presbyterian
Definition
Although the term “Presbyterian” refers to the system of church government adopted by these churches, the essence of Presbyterianism, which is one of the two church traditions stemming from Calvin’s Geneva reformation, is the belief in the sovereign, independent, triune God who has entered into a covenant to save a people for his own glory.
Summary
Presbyterian theology is a comprehensive system of doctrine, which is rooted in the Westminster Standards. Presbyterian churches share much doctrine in common with other true churches: God as the independent, triune God who made the heavens and earth; the Bible as the infallible word of God; all people as sinners; justification not by works, but by faith in the Lord Jesus Christ; the second coming of Christ in glory; the final judgment to glory or damnation. Presbyterians also hold to doctrines that are shared with other traditions stemming from the Reformation: the absolute sovereignty of God in election; the duty of the Christian to live a life of piety in accordance with God’s moral law, including the Ten Commandments; participation in the two sacraments, Baptism and the Lord’s Supper; the theological existence of both the invisible and visible church. The distinguishing mark of Presbyterian churches, however, is the system of church government that these chuches have adopted, with the elders of individual churches belonging to a Presbytery, and multiple Presbyteries belonging to a General Assembly.
Articles
The Untold Origins of the Presbyterian Church in America
Christians of all denominational stripes—not just those in the PCA—should warmly embrace this book.
How One Deep South Church Left Segregation Behind
Members of a Presbyterian church in Jackson, Mississippi, are giving up 'legitimate comforts and preferences in order to be together.'
How the Korean Pentecost Can Guide Revival Today
This sole surviving foreign eyewitness account tells an important piece of Korean church history and serves as a handbook for revival.
9 Things You Should Know About the Communion Service on the Moon
What you should know about the the first celebration of the Lord’s Supper on the Moon.
How the Second Generation of Korean-American Presbyterians Are Bridging the Gap
A record number of Korean Americans showed up at the Presbyterian Church in America's General Assembly in June, where representatives elected their first Korean-American moderator. What does that mean for the future of the Korean-language presbyteries?
A Personal Theology of Race and Reconciliation
The tree planted by streams of living water will always bear the fruit of reconciliation.
We, And Our Fathers, Have Sinned
As white members and leaders of evangelical churches, we must repent of our passivity and/or proactivity during the dark days of our nation’s Jim Crow era.
Baptism and Church Membership: Sometimes Obedience Results in Painful Separations
Our consciences will not permit us to welcome into membership and communion those who have not obeyed Jesus at the point of baptism.
