Polity Matters

Jim McCarthy, Senior Pastor of Trinity PCA in Statesboro, GA, brings his insights on church governance with a focus on Witherow's second principle that bishops and elders are essentially the same. He shares his experiences as a new pastor, shedding light on the complexities of church leadership and identity. The conversation navigates the humor in home renovations, while also diving into serious discussions about scripture's implications for church authority, identity, and the interconnected roles within ecclesiastical structures.

Jacob Gerber, pastor of Harvest PCA Church, joins to unravel the complexities of church governance. They dive into Thomas Witherow's principle that church leaders should be chosen by the community. The hosts debate the biblical practice of casting lots for appointments versus modern selection methods. Engaging anecdotes highlight the importance of congregational input and explore the roles of apostles, bishops, and deacons. With humor and theological insight, they tackle the ongoing challenges in navigating church authority and the governance landscape.

Delve into the nuances of church governance as hosts explore the essential and non-essential doctrines in Christianity. A ship metaphor illustrates how all teachings, big and small, uphold the faith. Discover the importance of scriptural foundations in various governance models, from prelacy to presbytery. The conversation emphasizes how proper governance can shape spiritual maturity and ensure the church's vitality for future generations, setting the stage for deeper engagement with The Apostolic Church's principles.

Before we dive into Witherow's The Apostolic Church next week, the bros sit down with Dr. Jonathan Gibson and discuss his study and work on Thomas Witherow.Dr. Jonathan GibsonThe Moon is Always RoundI Will Build My ChurchReformation WorshipFrom Heaven He Came and Sought UsSend 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

TE Adam Parker joined Jared and Ben to discuss his recent article dealing with one of our apparent favorite topics: assistant pastors.Adam's articleAdam's podcastSend 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

The significance of deacons in the church is explored, emphasizing their dual role in meeting physical and spiritual needs. There's a deep dive into the biblical foundation for deacons and their responsibilities in governance. The discussion highlights the historical evolution of women's roles, distinguishing between deaconesses and women deacons. Empowering women's contributions within church communities is celebrated, showcasing their vital ministries and retreats. The episode wraps up by examining resources that clarify the role of deacons and support Presbyterian polity.

Fred Greco, Pastor of Christ Church Katy, TX and PCA General Assembly moderator, dives deep into the characteristics of teaching elders in church governance. He discusses their crucial roles in preaching, administering sacraments, and the specifics of church plant authority. The conversation highlights the limitations of evangelists, especially in foreign missions, and the dynamics of member admission and removal. Greco emphasizes the vital functions of ruling and teaching elders for fostering a thriving church community.

The first annual Polity Matters Holiday Gift Guide is here! And also the guys are joined by TE Fred Greco to discuss BCO 8 on The Elder.BCO onlineFred is the pastor of Christ Church Katy, TX. Witherow’s Apostolic Church (series in January) Presbyterianism by Samuel MillerZebra double-ended highlightersJacob Gerber’s Parliamentary Procedure for PresbytersJames Bannerman's The Church of ChristWitherow's I Will Build My ChurchESV Creeds and Confessions BibleCoffee subscriptionRoberts Rules of Order computer program from amlegal.comBCO (don't forget the binder) and an outdated commentary The Minutes and Papers of the Westminster Assembly, 1643-1653 (way more than $1000) 18th Century barristers wig for Polity LarpingCherry Hill BiblesSend 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

Jared sits down with RE Howie Donahoe to discuss churchmanship, including GA moderating all the way to how to write an overture.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

Steve Tipton, pastor of Covenant PCA in Panama City and an editor at Presbyterian Polity, dives deep into the roles of church officers in BCO 7. He discusses the structure of modern church offices, comparing them to the extraordinary roles in the Apostolic Age. The conversation highlights crucial distinctions between teaching and ruling elders, alongside the roles of deacons. Tipton emphasizes collaboration in governance, clarifying the importance of defined roles and the historical context that shapes today's church leadership.