It was very strange not going to Synod this year. It was the first I’ve missed since my first as a new pastor in 1999. I chose not to be certified to vote as a pastor w/out call.
I’ve talked to a few of my fellow Presbyters about what happened in my absence. Tonight I came across Dr. William Evans’ articleabout this unordinary meeting of Synod. Apparently he has been busy, since he also has a piece there about Peter Enns’ book Inspiration and Incarnation. He simply lays out so problems with the book. But on to Synod where the issue of inspiration arose.
For the first time in years, more than one person was nominated to be Moderator of Synod. It is interesting on a number of levels. One, Barry Dagenhart, has deep roots in the ARP and would probably affirm the status quo and put a big priority on relationships. The other, Dr. J.R. DeWitt, is a relative newcomer to the ARP (more recently than yours truly), but Drs. Evans, R.J. Gore and Sinclair Ferguson believed that his theological acumen are vitally important as the ARP addresses some important issues. He would not maintain the status quo, and is quite fearful of a top-heavy denomination (which the ARP cannot be accused of having with any seriousness).
I agree that a man with theological acumen, and who will not seek to preserve the status quo but rather move us into the future, is greatly needed. I’d humbly disagree with Sinclair Ferguson that Dr. DeWitt is that man. One of the great things about the ARP, which I’ve needed to have modeled to me, is the emphasis on love as well as truth. Our pursuit of truth must be done in love and hopefully preserve the relationships that already exist. My experience with the Dr., limited as it is to debate on the floor of Synod, would make me hesitate in applauding his election as Moderator. While I may side with him theologically, I fear that the price of winning the debate may be too great. I really hope I’m wrong.
I would like us to take our theology more seriously, and build stronger relationships with other conservative Reformed denominations. We do need to repent of our in-grown ways. But that is a product of spritual renewal. I want us to be more than well-connected with the PCA, OPC et al. I want us to grapple with the call to be missionaries to this culture and our communities. I don’t sense that winsome, missionary spirit with Dr. DeWitt. I think we had the right motives but not the best choice, if that makes sense. Mark Ross probably would have been a better choice, but convincing him to serve would probably be difficult.
Regarding Scripture, 3 different motions were approved to strengthen our stance on the inerrancy and infallibility of Scripture. Since we are in the process of revising our Form of Government it is important that new ministers understand and affirm these things lest we drift off to the left over time. Without these fundamental commitments, our ability to properly address the theological issues before us becomes weak and suspect. To include these affirmations in the ordination vows, and as standards for Synod employees, is what was missing from our affirmation of these truths over 2 decades ago.
Wow, Cav, you let your readership know where you stand on this one, no question. Hats off to you.
Speaking of General Assemblies, the PCUSA was up to its usual playing fast and loose w/ the Word of God…