Polity Matters

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BibleCoffee subscriptionRoberts Rules of Order computer program from amlegal.comBCO (don't forget the binder) and an outdated commentary The Minutes and Papers of the Westminster Assembly, 1643-1653 (way more than $1000) 18th Century barristers wig for Polity LarpingCherry Hill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.

The hosts kick things off with entertaining wedding officiating tales and a light-hearted debate over one of their pets. They dive into the role of children in the church covenant, highlighting the importance of prayer during family ceremonies. The conversation shifts to the rights of commuting vs. non-commuting church members, examining protections for children. The nuances of baptism for believers' kids and the obligations of church elders are thoroughly discussed. They wrap up by emphasizing the vital role of church membership in fostering community and spiritual development.

Matt Bradley, Pastor of All Saints Presbyterian Church, and Ben Kappers, Pastor of All Saints Reformed Church, share their insights on the challenges and joys of mission churches. They discuss the delicate balance of welcoming new leaders while ensuring the church's health. Personal journeys highlight the importance of community engagement and leadership development. With anecdotes from church planting, they emphasize the significance of building strong foundations and collaborative leadership in establishing a thriving church community.

Stephen Spinnenweber, a senior pastor known for his leadership at Westminster Presbyterian Church, and Jeremy Byrd, a dedicated pastor studying church planting, join the discussion. They delve into the intricacies of church organization, focusing on mission churches and their transition to self-sustaining congregations. The duo shares insights on leadership challenges, governance structures, and the vital collaboration needed between local churches and presbyteries. Plus, a fun quiz brings humor and camaraderie to the conversation!