“We’ve said it already so we don’t need to say it again,” simply does not work. Statements of faith and doctrinal affirmations must be restated at various times for various reasons. Our memories are short. Our resolve is often weak. For instance, the PCA has clearly and consistently ruled that theistic evolution is inconsistent with our system of doctrine. And yet there are TE’s in the PCA who hold to this troubling theory of human origins which ultimately undermines the entire biblical metanarrative and the gospel itself (If you don’t believe me, just ask Peter Enns).

Last week (June 17-20) the 42nd annual General Assembly of the PCA was held in Houston, TX. Being a rather newly minted Teaching Elder in the PCA, this was my first General Assembly. For the most part I was encouraged.

Here are a few of my observations:

1. It was great to meet and spend time with brothers who love Christ and His Church.

2. I am grateful for the Book of Church Order (BCO). 
If you have never attended a meeting of Presbyterians you are missing out on a unique experience. I now understand some of the Presbyterian jokes I have heard for years. I used to wonder why it was Presbyterians rather than Baptists who were teased about forming endless committees. Now I know.

Don’t misunderstand. I am grateful for this. The Book of Church Order and all the complexities of proper parliamentary procedure are blessings to the church. We are sinners after all and need the protection of clear boundaries. The BCO and all its attending procedures guards the churches, although imperfectly. 

The procedures and polity proscribed in the BCO are an acknowledgement that God cares about how his church is governed. It also acknowledges the frailty of human nature. So, I am sure we will continue to chuckle at our persnickety ways but it is better than the alternatives. 

Thanks to Bryan Chapell for doing an excellent job as Moderator. I would never want that job.

3. The Gospel Reformation Network (GRN) is a good thing.

4. We must never forget our history.
If you have not read The Presbyterian Conflict by Edwin Rian I would encourage you to do so. I would not say that history repeats itself. However, people do tend to make the same mistakes. 

I am grateful that the General Assembly overwhelmingly affirmed the Study Committee on Insider Movements. I very much appreciated Dr. David Garner’s clear apologetic for the Committee’s report over against the Minority Report. What this means is that, for now anyway, the PCA is affirming what I certainly believe is the biblical approach to doing missions. 

5. Stated positions must periodically be restated.

6. A beautiful orthodoxy requires, you know, orthodoxy.

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