Presbyterianism

The Presbyterian Name

The name for the Presbyterian family of churches, including the Reformed churches of the world, comes from the Greek word Presbuteros , meaning elder, and is used 72 times in the Bible. Both Presbyterian and Reformed churches are synonymous with churches of the Calvinist tradition.

Two Major Presbyterian Distinctives:

• We adhere to a pattern of religious thought known as Reformed theology.
• We adhere to a form of church government that stresses the active, representational leadership of both ministers and church members.

At The Core of Presbyterian Beliefs Are These Four Principles:

• The Sovereignty of God : God alone is the supreme authority throughout the universe.
• The Authority of the Scripture : Our knowledge of God and His purpose for humanity comes only from the Bible (Scripture).
• Justification by Grace Through Faith : Our salvation (justification) through Jesus is God's generous gift to us and not the result of our own accomplishments.
• The Priesthood of All Believers : It is everyone's job, ministers and lay people alike, to share this good news with the whole world which is why the Presbyterian church is governed at all levels by a combination of clergy and laity, men and women alike.