The End of the Presbyterian Church USA?

Some pretty historic events have transpired this week at the Presbyterian Church USA's annual meeting in Birmingham, Alabama.

The Presbyterian Church USA (also known as the PCUSA) has been embroiled in some serious discussions specifically concerning theology and church polity. One theological issue revolved around names used in reference to God. Those names adopted included "compassionate mother, beloved child, and life-given womb." I emailed a former seminary professor of mine yesterday who happens to be serving within the PCUSA for the rationale of those who offered such blasphemous euphemisms for God. Knowing he would be opposed to such changes, I then suggested that he might propose "Judge, Jury and Executioner" as alternative names for possible consideration. (I heard these names suggested by a caller who called in to The Al Mohler Show earlier this week.)

The Reverend Dr. Mark D. Roberts commented on his blog about another major controversial issue dealing with the ordination process of clergy within his denomination. He writes, "when a church establishes rules but then allows groups to disregard the rules, that church is on the ropes (or worse)." He asks the question, "Should Biblically-Committed Christians Leave the PCUSA?" He then goes on to share his answer to this question. In summary, Roberts urges prudence and careful thinking on the part of those who are considering leaving the denomination. He explains that if one decides to leave, it is important that one depart based on principle, not out of wrong-headed, impulsive emotionalism. Read the entirety of his 3-part article here.