I. Subscription to Doctrinal Standards

Question 1

Explain and defend the use of Catechisms (Westminster Shorter and Larger) and Creeds in the church:

With regard to church members

Answer 1

Everyone has a creed–an extra biblical articulation of what they believe, even if it’s “I Bible what the Bible says.” Therefore, you can either reinvent the wheel or receive those passed down by the church. They are much more likely to articulate something less precise, less tested, and less universal. Formulation of many is better than that of the few. Focus on what is most important.

Question 2

Explain and defend the use of Catechisms (Westminster Shorter and Larger) and Creeds in the church:

With regard to church officers

Answer 2

a true test of Scriptural knowledge and understanding that can truly be assessed and tested. Otherwise, very hard to test soundness of doctrine.

Question 3

Explain and defend the use of Catechisms (Westminster Shorter and Larger) and Creeds in the church:

With regard to the supreme authority of Scripture

Answer 3

Of course, the catechism is always subject to Scripture as the one and only ultimate authority. Therefore, the catechism is able to be changed and amended over time.

Question 4

Explain and defend the use of Catechisms (Westminster Shorter and Larger) and Creeds in the church:

With regard to liberty of conscience

Answer 4

true and good confessions and creeds follow the Scriptures without adding anything not articulated in Scripture or deducted from it by good and necessary consequence. Therefore, subscription to the creeds are not truly an affront to the conscience.

Question 5

What are the differences between the doctrinal standards of the PCA and the original Westminster Standards?

Answer 5

Pope as the antichrist. Civil magistrates reflecting the independence of the church under church and state. Sins of refusing an oath