Our Protestant forefathers in the British North American colonies—later, the United States, as we will soon celebrate—established the Christian Sabbath as one of the pillars of their new societies. They brought the Sabbath with them from England and Scotland. While the day’s observance varied widely—particularly in the South where Sabbath-keeping was never as rigorous as... Continue Reading

For reasons of polity and perception, limiting representation before the higher courts to officers is unnecessary, potentially unwise, and may create a hinderance to a just process. But no matter the breadth of the pool of potential representatives, it still remains to be seen whether accused persons routinely have access to that representation.   Chapter... Continue Reading

I am not asking the committee to settle every debate. Church history shows debates will always continue. But I do ask they present the live debates honestly, acknowledging the strength of the contextual adjustment reading, and draw clearer distinctions in the ordo amoris section. Our presbyteries can exercise discernment in good faith subscription, but only... Continue Reading

The work of reforming and strengthening worship is never finished by adopting a document. But it can be helped by one. A good Directory will not do the work of pastors and elders for them. But it can help pastors and elders do their work better.   A constitutional Directory for Worship will not, by... Continue Reading