What do Presbyterians Believe?

The Presbyterians originated around 1534 to 1560 with the theology of John Calvin.  John Calvin was one of the great leaders of the Protestant Reformation.  The Presbyterians gain their name from their ecclesiology (form of church government).   Early Presbyterians hold to Sovereign Grace as do the Reformed, Particular Baptists, and Many Congregationalists.  John Calvin took the doctrines of grace and developed them into a "Systematic Theology". 

The ecclesiology of the Presbyterians is simply put 'rule by the presbytery or elders.'  The Greek word presbuteros  is translated elder.  The board of elders decide the matters of the church.  A minister seeking ordination must go before the Presbytery in order to gain ordination.  An example is the Presbytery of New Jersey is made up of several Presbyterian ministers who were selected by their peers because of their upstanding reputations and outstanding knowledge of the Word of God. 

Presbyterians hold to Covenant Theology.  Most Baptists on the other hand hold to Dispensationalism.  Covenant Theology teaches that God had several Covenants with man.  God made a covenant with Adam that if he did not eat of the tree, he would live forever in the garden of Eden.    God made a covenant with Moses.  The Covenant of Grace is the Covenant we live under today.  When Jesus died on the cross of Calvary He established a new covenant for us.  We have to repent of our sins and accept His free gift of salvation. 

Presbyterians hold to Amillenialism, which means that after the rapture there will not be a Millennium.  They believe in the imminent return of Christ.  At any time we who are saved will be raptured to meet the Lord in the air. 

Presbyterians use the allegorical method of Bible interpretation.  Baptists use the literal interpretation of the Bible.  This difference in method explains the differences in the denominations.  Presbyterians sprinkle at Baptisms.  Baptists use full immersion.  Presbyterians will Baptize babies.  Baptists will only Baptize someone after they have become born again.  Baptists instead "dedicate" babies, where the parents dedicate themselves to raising their child in "the fear and admonition of the Lord." 

Presbyterians hold to the Westminster Confession of Faith.  I plan to add this confession to this website.  So please check back in the future.  Thanks.

Presbyterians and historical Baptists agree on the Five Points of Calvinism.  Total Depravity, Unconditional Election, Limited Redemption (or Atonement), Irresistible Grace, and Perseverance of the Saints.  These five points make up the Soteriology of both denominations.  Click on the link above to read a short summary of the Five Points of Calvinism or Click Here for a more in depth study.

The Orthodox and Conservative wings of the Presbyterians are right on salvation as are the Baptists who hold to the historical Baptist position.  Both groups will be in heaven together.  Since, we will fellowship with each other in heaven, we should fellowship with each other here on earth.  I'd rather fellowship with someone of another denomination that is correct on salvation, than one of my own denomination who isn't.


In the early 1900's, liberalism was invading all walks of Christianity and the Presbyterians were not immune.  J. Gresham Machen led a new movement to hold on to Orthodox teachings of the Presbyterians.  J. Gresham Machen was instrumental in defending the Fundamentals of the Christian Faith.  He helped found the Westminster Theological Seminary and the Orthodox Presbyterian Church. 

I had the privilege of meeting Dr. John Skilton, who studied under J. Gresham Machen.  J. Gresham Machen was known for his generosity and kindness.  He taught his students by his life as well as through their course work.  Dr. Skilton followed in the tradition of Professor Machen.  Both men are now with the Lord and it is our duty to continue where they left off.  Let's defend the faith without compromise!


Links to Recommended Presbyterian Sites

Westminster Theological Seminary Orthodox Presbyterian Church
Bible Presbyterian Church The PCA

 

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