Presbyterianism
Now, I am part of the Evangelical Presbyterian Church, but the PCA shares our view on homosexuality and ordination. Their (the PCA) stated clerk (head of the denomination) printed a response on the PCA website at: http://byfaithonline.com/page/pca-news/taylor-issues-statement-regarding-pcas-position-on-sexuality-and-ordination
Interesting read (including the attachments, of course) if you’d like to know more about why non-PCUSA Presbyterians believe this.
Continue reading about Sexuality and Ordination–Difference between PCUSA and PCA
Application of Grace (Means of Grace)
Lutherans believe in unconditional atonement and predestination to salvation only
Reformed believe in conditional atonement and double-predestination (some to heaven, some to hell)
- Lutherans believe that regeneration, forgiveness, life, and salvation are brought by the means (Word, act of Baptism, act of Holy Communion). I.e. the elements have the power.
- Reformed believe that regeneration, forgiveness, life, and salvation are brought about by the Spirit to those who are the elect. I.e. it is the Spirit, not the elements that has the power.
Continue reading about Lutherans vs Reformed: Application of Grace
Over the next few days I’ll have a series of posts comparing the Lutheran faith to the Reformed faith.
While there are differences of specific issues like the ordination of women, abortion, and homosexuality that are present in most mainline denominations, there are some major theological differences between Lutherans and Reformed Christians. The Reformed faith includes both the Reformed Church and the Presbyterian Church.
Before we look at the similarities and differences between the church it is important to note that the Presbyterian Church USA (PCUSA) and the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA), the largest denominations in each respective faith background, may differ greatly from the defining beliefs of each faith background. These two denominations are considered liberal and non-confessional by their respective faith backgrounds.
What is interesting is that a lot of the rank-and-file pew sitters don’t realize the theology that is around them, on the walls, the alter (or lack thereof), or the big-screen as they worship. You can learn a lot about the church’s theology by looking around the church. As I read this article, referred to me by a friend and Pastor in the Lutheran Church, I thought of the theology that my church has.
"Americans are obsessed with big things. If something is big, it must be better. It has strength. It has legitimacy. Yet, that’s an American value, not a biblical one." – Ed Stetzer
How is your church doing church? Are you a transformational church? The Evangelical Presbyterian Church (EPC) 2011 General Assembly ended a little over a week ago and they have posted Ed Stetzer’s presentation online. Hurry, they will only be up through the end of the month:
HT: http://www.epc.org/2011ga/