PCUSA Passed Amendment Requiring Pastoral Candidates To Be Asked About Homosexual Support

The PCUSA is one of America’s largest gay affirming denominations, and it just got gayer. The Presbyterian Church USA at the Presbytery level ratified an amendment to its constitution that squashed efforts to reconquer the historic denomination for Christ. Effective in July is Amendment 24-C, which requires that pastoral candidates be questioned about their support for homosexuality.

In March, the PCUSA passed an amendment banning discrimination against homosexuals with overwhelming support. But the vote on whether to inquisition pastoral candidates on whether they are sufficiently sodomical was a little more split. The running results are 86 presbyteries voted in favor of 24-C and 45 against, which is still a blowout.

PCUSA pastors came out in opposition to the amendment, stating:

We the undersigned acknowledge and value the efforts of the Presbytery of Olympia and concurring Presbyteries to promote inclusivity and uphold the dignity of all individuals within the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). However, we wish to express our deep concerns and dissent regarding the proposed overture (OVT-001) to amend the Book of Order.

The PC(USA) is a vibrant tapestry of diverse theological convictions, reflecting the richness of our shared faith. Mutual forbearance and unity are foundational pillars of the Reformed Tradition, allowing for a broad spectrum of Scripturally informed beliefs to co-exist and enrich our collective understanding of God’s mission in Jesus Christ. Regrettably, key portions of this overture threaten to undermine these essential principles.

Specifically, the overture’s proposed changes to G-2.0104b appear to introduce an ordination question that is deeply at odds with our core Reformed tenet of freedom of conscience. Except for affirming Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, each ordination question requires a commitment to a mindset, method, ethic, and practice, while allowing for plural interpretations of theology and scripture. This amendment would immediately disqualify and exclude many faithful and dedicated Ruling Elders, Teaching Elders, and Deacons from serving due to their convictions. Moreover, it risks imposing a non-negotiable and rigid standard on an issue where faithful Christians hold differing views.

Let us not forget that our predecessors resisted the urge to define essential doctrines in the early 20th century, opting instead to leave room for the Spirit, conscience, and interpretation. We must similarly resist this urge, even on matters we feel strongly about. The Church of Jesus Christ in the Presbyterian way is big enough for every person to find their place in ministry and service to the Kingdom of God.

“Let us therefore pursue what makes for peace and for mutual upbuilding” (Romans 14:19).

Essentially, their argument against 24-C is rooted in a commitment to pluralism and diversity. They do not contend that homosexuality is an abomination, nor do they take a position that it is undesirable. Their moral cowardice appeals to the Classical Liberal ideals instead of Scripture. Only 9 PCUSA presbyteries voted against both gay amendments.

Without subterfuge, Christians can no longer be elders in the PCUSA. In the end, Satan is having his way with the PCUSA.