Those of us who are concerned about the trajectory of the PCA are not imagining things nor are we straining at gnats. Our concerns are doctrinal, ethical, and substantive. The PCA is not experiencing anything unprecedented in our current moment. We have the sad history of so many American denominations from which to learn. We see errant doctrine, peculiar practices, and worldly philosophies like Critical Race Theory encroaching upon the PCA. But we are being told by some that expressing concern about and asking for clear biblical and confessional warrant for these innovations is divisive and unloving. Such a response is a rather tired but still successful strategy. I trust however that those less than honest dodges will run their course soon.
The National Partnership is gearing up for the PCA’s General Assembly (June 29-July 2). If you are unfamiliar with the National Partnership, it is a confidential, dare I say secretive organization of PCA elders who, to use Bryan Chapell’s word, represents the more “progressive” wing of the PCA. You can read about the National Partnership HERE and HERE.
I was recently forwarded an email being circulated among the members and “representatives” of the National Partnership. Incidentally, it was odd to see the terminology of membership used in this National Partnership email given that some of their members deny that there is any such thing as membership. Indeed, some of those who defend their efforts have routinely stated that all the National Partnership is, is a monthly email. Something tells me that is not an entirely accurate reflection of the facts.
Anyway, the confidential email to the members of the National Partnership includes a voting guide for the overtures. While the writer of the email is careful to state that the members of the National Partnership are not required to vote according to the guide, it is quite clear that the guide represents the thinking of those who make up our progressive wing. For instance, the voter guide makes clear that the National Partnership stands in opposition to those efforts which would place the theology of Revoice outside the bounds of our denomination.
The email to the National Partnership states in part concerning their voter guide:
“This is only initial advice, the first of around three versions. The next version will be distributed to NP representatives to the Overtures committee and will reflect any suggested changes coming from this list. A third copy will reflect the actions of the OC and will aid you as a resource when the overtures come to the assembly floor. So don’t fret if something seems half-baked. We’re just beginning.” (emphasis mine)
I must give it up for the National Partnership. They know how to organize.
In addition to the confidential email sent to the membership of the National Partnership there are two anonymously written open letters which have been circulating around the PCA. The two open letters call for unity and love within the PCA. Sadly, however, the writer(s) of the letters do a poor job of accurately representing the views of those with whom they disagree. It is a rather peculiar approach to unity to say the least. There have been two excellent responses to those anonymously written open letters HERE and HERE.
