
Polity Matters
A podcast on the foundations of Presbyterian Church government. Hosted by Scott Edburg, Jared Nelson, and Ben Ratliff.
Latest episodes

Feb 11, 2025 • 57min
67. Procedural Checklist (w/T. David Gordon)
Procedural Checklist for PCA BCO Rules of DisciplineSend us a text message! (but bear in mind the we can't see who sends it unless you tell us...)Support the showScott's TwitterJared's TwitterBen's Twitter

Feb 4, 2025 • 44min
66. Motion to Reconsider: Assistant Pastors
In this discussion, Adam Parker, a PCA pastor from the Pacific Northwest, delves into the pivotal role of assistant pastors in church governance. He contrasts their responsibilities with associate pastors and reviews the historical context behind their emergence in the 1970s. Parker highlights the ongoing debates about their relevance today and suggests reforms for their roles to better meet contemporary needs. The conversation wraps up with a lighthearted 'lightning round,' where personal anecdotes add a fun twist to the serious topics discussed.

Jan 28, 2025 • 34min
65. The Sherlocking of Scott Edburg
In this special episode, Ben sits down with co-host Scott Edberg for an inside look at the history and future of the BCO Amendment Tracker—a project that started as a grassroots effort to bring transparency and accountability to the amendment process and has become a vital tool for the denomination.Send us a text message! (but bear in mind the we can't see who sends it unless you tell us...)Support the showScott's TwitterJared's TwitterBen's Twitter

Jan 14, 2025 • 1h 29min
64. Potentially Edifying (Ordination Questions with Groff)
In this episode of Polity Matters, Ben Ratliff, Jared Nelson, Scott Edburg, and special guest Zachary Groff take a deep dive into the ordination vows for teaching elders in the Presbyterian Church in America (PCA). The conversation explores the significance of each vow, offering practical insights and theological reflections for ministers and members alike.Presbyterian PolityGreenville Presbyterian Theological SeminaryThe Christian Ministry12 Ways Your Phone Is Changing YouSend us a text message! (but bear in mind the we can't see who sends it unless you tell us...)Support the showScott's TwitterJared's TwitterBen's Twitter

Dec 31, 2024 • 35min
63. A Heightened Sense of Americana (BCO 26)
In this milestone episode, Ben, Jared, and Scott conclude their journey through the Form of Government section of the PCA Book of Church Order. The discussion centers on BCO Chapter 26, which outlines the process for amending the PCA Constitution. The hosts explore the complexities of modifying both the BCO and the Westminster Standards, unpacking the historical, procedural, and theological implications of these changes.Send us a text message! (but bear in mind the we can't see who sends it unless you tell us...)Support the showScott's TwitterJared's TwitterBen's Twitter

Dec 24, 2024 • 45min
62. No Authority Over Your Assets (BCO 25)
In this episode of Polity Matters, we delve into Chapter 25 of the PCA Book of Church Order, focusing on congregational meetings. We discuss the structure, rights, and responsibilities of the congregation, including voting rights, quorum requirements, the role of trustees, and property ownership. Join us as we explore the practical and theological implications of how congregations govern themselves within the PCA framework.Glorifying and Enjoying God WSC devotional Van Dixhoorn on WCFMatthew Everhard’s Hold Fast the Faith Watson’s Body of Divinity Polity Matters Merch Store Send us a text message! (but bear in mind the we can't see who sends it unless you tell us...)Support the showScott's TwitterJared's TwitterBen's Twitter

Dec 17, 2024 • 51min
61. Ten Pages of Minor Scruples (BCO 24)
BCO 24 Election, Ordination, and Installation of Ruling Elders and DeaconsScott's Superior Navigator's Reading PlanDaily Readings by JC RyleDaily Doctrine by Kevin DeYoungSend us a text message! (but bear in mind the we can't see who sends it unless you tell us...)Support the showScott's TwitterJared's TwitterBen's Twitter

Dec 10, 2024 • 24min
60. Edburgs Don't Live A Long Time (BCO 23)
BCO 23 The Dissolution of the Pastoral Relation and the Procedure for Honorable RetirementSend us a text message! (but bear in mind the we can't see who sends it unless you tell us...)Support the showScott's TwitterJared's TwitterBen's Twitter

Dec 3, 2024 • 27min
59. Mercenary of the Session (BCO 22)
Polity Matters with Adam ParkerAdam Parker on Assistant Pastors @ Presbyterian PolitySend us a text message! (but bear in mind the we can't see who sends it unless you tell us...)Support the showScott's TwitterJared's TwitterBen's Twitter

Nov 26, 2024 • 1h 5min
58. Good Faith Subscription with David Strain
Jared, Scott, and Ben are joined by David Strain to discuss good faith subscription in the PCA.David StrainGood Faith Subscription? (Part 1) Confessional Integrity in the PCAGood Faith Subscription? (Part 2) Confessional Integrity in the PCASend us a text message! (but bear in mind the we can't see who sends it unless you tell us...)Support the showScott's TwitterJared's TwitterBen's Twitter
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