| Beloved, As we continue to explore our fourth core principle, God-exalting government/leadership, I intend to flesh out the basics of presbyterianism and our conviction regarding the interconnection of local congregations and the role of broader assemblies of elders in the life of the church. Is there actually biblical warrant for such? Yes. But I don’t have time to flesh that out now for this week is one of two annual presbytery meetings (i.e., the assembling of the elders of the congregations in our region to represent the regional church). Myself, Bart DeVries, and David Snyder will be driving to Raleigh, NC tomorrow to gather with elders from the various OPC congregations scattered throughout TN, GA, KY, NC, and SC. Please keep us in your prayers, and pray that our meetings Thursday through Saturday would promote the peace and purity of Christ’s body. There are two men scheduled to come under care, four men scheduled to be examined for licensure, and one man scheduled to be examined for ordination. What an answer to prayer! Please pray that the presbytery would have discernment as we would listen to these men articulate their theological convictions, preach God’s word, and testify of God’s grace in their personal and family lives. I’m very, very, VERY eager to worship God together with you on Sunday! Yours in Christ, Pastor Nick |
