What is a Presbyterian? Is Presbyterianism merely a style of church government, or is it a coherent biblical and theological system? In this episode we welcome Matthew Adams and Ben Ratliff for a lively conversation on Presbyterian identity, church government, and why polity still matters.
The discussion begins with Matt Adams’s article, “Grassroots Presbyterianism ≠ Congregationalism,” and expands into a broader exploration of Presbyterian ecclesiology. Along the way, the panel considers plurality and parity of elders, the role of presbyteries and general assemblies, the importance of connectionalism, and the ways accountability serves the peace, purity, and unity of the church.
They also reflect on differences in ecclesial culture among the PCA, OPC, and URCNA, discuss overtures and church courts, and offer practical encouragement for ordinary church members who want to be active, faithful Presbyterians in their local congregations.
Matthew Adams serves as Senior Pastor of First Presbyterian Church in Dillon, South Carolina. In addition to his pastoral ministry, Adams serves as a council member for the Gospel Reformation Network and co-hosts the podcast Larger for Life.
Ben Ratliff serves as Associate Pastor of Covenant Presbyterian Church in Cleveland, Mississippi. Ratliff is also a co-host of the podcast Polity Matters, where helps lead conversations on Presbyterian polity and church government.
Chapters
- 00:00 Introduction
- 01:49 Why Presbyterian government matters
- 03:12 Grassroots Presbyterianism is not congregationalism
- 08:56 Why the confusion persists
- 11:02 Different Presbyterian cultures: PCA, OPC, and URCNA
- 14:25 Overtures, church courts, and how change happens
- 22:27 What Presbyterianism is
- 25:50 Plurality, parity, and connectionalism
- 32:48 Accountability, freedom, and the well-being of the church
- 39:27 How church members can participate
- 48:36 Polity Matters, Larger for Life, and final thoughts
Participants: Ben Ratliff, Camden Bucey, Matt Adams
Christ the Center focuses on Reformed Christian theology. In each episode a group of informed panelists discusses important issues in order to encourage critical thinking and a better understanding of Reformed doctrine with a view toward godly living. Browse more episodes from this program or subscribe to the podcast feed.
