Faith Presbyterian Church

WE ARE A CONFESSING CHURCH

SESSION RESOLUTION
Faith Presbyterian Church
McHenry, Illinois

In light of the developments within the Presbyterian Church (USA) where there have been questions about the Lordship of Jesus Christ, and challenges to the historic faith to which we adhere; the Session of Faith Presbyterian Church does affirm the following resolution.  In so doing, we understand that we are joining what is being called the Confessing Church Movement. 

We understand that these basic tenets are found within the Book of Confessions. However, because of the circumstances we face as we move into the 21st century, we believe it necessary to make such a resolution and join with our sisters and brothers in reaffirming our basic beliefs.

1.  JESUS CHRIST IS LORD OF ALL AND THE ONLY WAY OF SALVATION.

The Westminster Confession of Faith (6.079) says in part, “the principle acts of saving faith are accepting, receiving and resting upon Christ alone for justification, sanctification and eternal life, by virtue of the covenant of grace.” 

Question 36 (7.146) of the Westminster Larger Catechism asks, “Who is the Mediator of the covenant of grace?”  The answer given is, “The only Mediator of the covenant of grace is the Lord Jesus Christ,”


2.  HOLY SCRIPTURE IS THE TRIUNE GOD’S REVEALED WORD, THE CHURCH’S ONLY INFALLIBLE RULE OF FAITH.

The Westminster Confession of Faith (6.004) says, “The authority of the Holy Scripture, for which it ought to be believed and obeyed, depends not upon the testimony of any man or church, but wholly upon God (who is truth itself), the author thereof; and therefore it is to be received, because it is the Word of God.”

Question 3 (7.113) of the Westminster Larger Catechism asks, “What is the Word of God?”  The answer given is, “The holy scriptures of the Old and New Testament are the Word of God, the only rule of faith and obedience.”


3.  GOD’S PEOPLE ARE CALLED TO HOLINESS IN ALL ASPECTS OF LIFE.  THIS INCLUDES HONORING THE SANCTITY OF MARRIAGE BETWEEN A MAN AND A WOMAN, THE ONLY RELATIONSHIP WITHIN WHICH SEXUAL ACTIVITY IS APPROPRIATE.

The Westminster Confession of Faith (6.133) states, “Marriage is a union between one man and one woman…” (See also 6.075 and Questions 138 and 139 in the Westminster Larger Catechism.)


Date:  September 27, 2001