The PC(USA) stands for Presbyterian Church in the U.S.A. It is the denomination that ordained me as a minister in 2004. It is the denomination that provides me with the privilege of doing pastoral ministry. It is the institution that oversees my pension and benefits. And in my ordination vows, I promised to promote its "peace, unity, and purity."
The PC(USA) is also a proudly progressive denomination. Whether the issue is pro-choice vs. pro-life, sexual ethics, Israel-Palestine, or really anything, you will find my denomination taking the more progressive stance.
It is almost automatic.
Much of the time, I find myself on the opposite end of the theological spectrum from the majority viewpoint in the denomination. There are many days I wonder, "How did I end up in this place?" There are some days I become so disenchanted and ashamed.
But the more I admit my cynicism and negativity, the more I am reminded that I need to stop complaining. My denomination -- even though it has in many ways lost its compass -- enables me to do ministry. I am able to serve a congregation of wonderful people. I am able to preach and to teach the Gospel of Jesus Christ as a paid profession. I am able to take home a good paycheck and provide for my family (including braces for my children and medical care ... at least for now). And maybe, just maybe, I will be able to collect a few dollars from my pension when I retire (if I am still alive and kicking).
Am I enthusiastic about the PC(USA)? Not really, but I am trying. If there are reasons why I am enthusiastic, they are utilitarian in nature: The denomination provides a broad umbrella of accountability and support for both local congregations and pastors.
Maybe this is reason enough to remain enthusiastic.
2 comments:
Mark,
As a youth I was very involved in PC(USA). I went to and was a leader in the youth group, I served on and lead for our presbytery’s youth connection council, and veraciously defended the way PC(USA) did things. I was zealous about what our church and denomination did, but I did not, nor did very many of my peers, have a grasp on what it means to be a follower of Jesus Christ. I graduated from high school, went off to college, and knew I needed to be involved in a ministry somewhere. I tried the local PC(USA) congregation, and was not surprised to be the only college student in the entire service. Needless to say, I did not go back. After some searching, I was eventually led to a campus ministry and a group of other college men to do life with. I am blessed that I made it through college with my faith fortified and a passion for discipleship.
When I turn to look at many of the people I went to youth group or youth connection council with, I see people that became so overwhelmed with legalism that they became fed up with the church. These are people who do not know Jesus.
Much like you, I am not enthusiastic about PC(USA). However, I am enthusiastic about the work of reformed thinkers such as Timothy Keller, John Piper, and Mark Driscoll. These are men that are leading people from many different generations to a greater understanding of Jesus and the cross. My hope for the PC(USA) is that the days of taking a progressive stance for the sake taking a progressive stance will soon be over. More importantly, I hope is that the Holy Spirit does an undeniable work through the PC(USA) and that more people come to know Jesus because of it.
Amen, Tony. I like those individuals that you mention. They preach biblical truth but also the grace of Christ. Avoiding legalism is, of course, the challenge when your preach things like holiness and obedience. It is a fine line, but an important line to walk.
I hope the PC(USA) did not lose you!! We need young adults (like you) with a passion for Jesus to lead the way!
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