OVERTURE 2 from Rocky Mountain Presbytery (to B&O, AC)
“Erect Study Committee on New Perspective, Etc.”
Whereas, there has been a growing debate and discussion within the Presbyterian Church in America and its courts over a number of years on issues arising from viewpoints concerning the doctrines of justification, sanctification, covenant and related others, variously known as Federal Vision, New Perspective on Paul, Shepherdism and Auburn Avenue Theology; and
Whereas, there has been disagreement and confusion regarding what these various viewpoints actually teach; and
Whereas, questions have been raised regarding these viewpoints and their conformity to the system of doctrine taught in the Westminster Standards of the Presbyterian Church in America; and
Whereas, some of these viewpoints have brought confusion on theological definitions and concepts that appear to strike at the heart of the gospel and the vitals of religion; and
Whereas, Church courts have the responsibility to determine questions of doctrine and discipline seriously and reasonably proposed, and in general to maintain truth and righteousness, condemning erroneous opinions and practices which tend to bring injury to the peace, purity, or progress of the Church (BCO 11:4); and
Whereas, a significant number of churches, Sessions and Presbyteries within the Presbyterian Church in America have experienced disruption of their peace, purity and progress as a result of the controversy surrounding these viewpoints.
Therefore, be it resolved that the Rocky Mountain Presbytery overtures the 34th PCA General Assembly to erect an ad interim committee (RAO 8-1) to study the above named viewpoints and their formulations, and other similar viewpoints which are deemed by the committee to pertain to the above named viewpoints. Further, to determine whether these viewpoints and formulations are in conformity with the system of doctrine taught in the Westminster Standards, whether they are hostile to or strike at the vitals of religion, and to present a declaration or statement regarding the issues raised by these viewpoints in light of our Confessional Standards.
And further, that the expenses for this ad interim study committee be funded through the Administrative Committee (RAO 8-4).
Adopted by Rocky Mountain Presbytery at the stated meeting on September 22, 2005.
Attested by /s/ Kevin Allen, Stated Clerk
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