With Malice Toward None
For those still trying to catch up on the debate, here are some last minute links:
- The committee's report itself (pdf file)
- An argument presenting 30 reasons not to adopt or accept the report
- One blogger's response to those 30 reasons
- An open letter from some PCA pastors recommending the report not be adopted (pdf file)
- Another open letter recommending adoption of the report
Those with a keen eye will find my name (humbly) added to the latter document.
Not that I am anybody, but I have followed the Federal Vision issue since the first conference held at Auburn Avenue Presbyterian Church in Monroe, LA. At first the negative reaction and controversy surrounding it seemed like a tempest in a teapot. I sympathized then, and still do so now, with some of the concerns raised by those in the Federal Vision camp.
However, after reading the papers presented at the Knox Colloquiam (back before they were published in a book and available online), and continuing to try to read and follow the various arguments back and forth, I have come to be convinced that the Federal Vision theology is inconsistent with our doctrinal standards. More specifically, I believe the concerns expressed by Federal Vision advocates (such things as emphasis on covenant, the sacraments, the necessity of good works, and others) are well addressed by our historic doctrines as expressed in the Westminster Standards, and need no revision.
As my title indicates, I harbor no malice toward those in the Federal Vision camp, but respectfully believe that their doctrines do not fit in with the doctrines of the PCA. Their beliefs fit in better elsewhere.
I am not able to attend the General Assembly this year, but will follow the news with interest, and hope to catch the discussion and debate on the Study Committee Report on the GA webcast.
