In this episode of Polity Matters, hosts Ben Ratliff, Jared Nelson, and Scott Edberg welcome Dr. Guy Waters of Reformed Theological Seminary to discuss Chapter 30 of the PCA Book of Church Order (BCO), which deals with church censures. They explore the biblical, theological, and practical aspects of church discipline, the different types of censures available to church courts, and how they should be wisely applied in the life of the church.

Books by Dr. Waters:

How Jesus Runs the Church

Facing the Last Enemy: Death and the Christian 

The Sabbath as Rest and Hope for the People of God 

Well-Ordered, Living Well: A Field Guide to Presbyterian Church Government 

For the Mouth of the Lord Has Spoken: The Doctrine of Scripture 

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In this episode of Polity Matters, hosts Ben Ratliff, Jared Nelson, and Scott Edberg welcome Ruling Elder John Bise to discuss Chapter 29 of the PCA Book of Church Order: Offenses. 

The conversation tackles the distinctions between personal and general offenses, as well as private and public offenses, and how church courts should approach discipline in a biblical and pastoral manner. 

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Ben, Jared, and Scott are joined by Steve Tipton --the fourth polity bro-- to discuss BCO 28: Disciplining of Non-communing Members.

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Steve Dowling joins Ben, Jared, and Scott to discuss BCO 27 on the nature, subjects, and ends of church discipline.

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Procedural Checklist for PCA BCO Rules of Discipline

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In this special installment of Motion to Reconsider, we return to our interview with TE Adam Parker regarding his article on Assistant Pastors.

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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.

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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 Polity

Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary

The Christian Ministry

12 Ways Your Phone Is Changing You

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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.

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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 WCF
Matthew Everhard’s Hold Fast the Faith
Watson’s Body of Divinity
Polity Matters Merch Store 

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