Documents of Synod:
Study Papers of the Reformed Presbyterian Church, Evangelical Synod (1965 to 1982)

157th GS MINUTES, MAY 25, 1979, pp. 68 - 89

REPORT OF SPECIAL COMMITTEE ON DEFINITIONS FOR RECEPTION TO CHURCH MEMBERSHIP

The report was presented by Rev. John DeBardeleben, chairman of the committee.

Introduction: HISTORY OF THE COMMITTEE
A. Synod 1976 -- The mandate
B. Synod 1977 -- Highlights of the report --

I. DEFINITION OF TERMS.

A. Credible Profession of Faith.

B. Reaffirmation of Faith.

C. Letter of Transfer from a Church Not Deemed Heretical

II. AN ALLEGED CONTRADICTION OR AMBIGUITY WITHIN THE FORM OF GOVERNMENT
C. Synod of 1978

I. DEFINITION OF TERMS.
A. Credible Profession of Faith.

1. Biblical Data.

2. Presbyterian Practice.

a. PCUSA

b. OPC

c. PCUS

d. PCA

e. RPCNA

f. RPCES

3. Analysis of the RPCES Statement in the Light of Scripture

B. Reaffirmation of Faith.

1. Biblical Data.

2. Presbyterian Practice.

a. PCUS

b. PCA and Bible Presbyterian Church

C. Letter of Transfer

1. Biblical Data.

2. Presbyterian Practice.

a. PCUSA

b. PCUS

c. PCA

d. RPCES

(1.) Biblical Usage of the Word Hairesis.

(2.) Early Church Usage.

(3.) Contemporary English Usage.

II. AN ALLEGED CONTRADICTION OR AMBIGUITY WITHIN THE FORM OF GOVERNMENT.
A. The Problem Stated.
B. The Problem Resolved.
III. A PROCEDURE FOR ADMISSION TO MEMBERSHIP
A. Procedure.
B. Examination.

1. Role of the Session.

2. Areas for Inquiry.
IV. FORMS FOR PUBLIC PROFESSION OF FAITH
A. PCUSA
B. OPC
C. PCA
D. PCUS
E. Free Church of Scotland
V. RECOMMENDATIONS.

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[Documents of Synod, pp. 128-149]

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