Polity Matters

Mar 11 2025 76 ep. 45 mins 35
Polity Matters Podcast artwork

A podcast on the foundations of Presbyterian Church government. Hosted by Scott Edburg, Jared Nelson, and Ben Ratliff.

  Religion & Spirituality  History  Government
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71. Pure Hypothetical (BCO 30)

Mar 11 2025 55 mins  
In this episode of Polity Matters, hosts Ben Ratliff, Jared Nelson, and Scott Edberg welcome Dr. Guy Waters of Reformed Theological Seminary to discuss Chapter 30 of the PCA Book of Church Order (BCO), which deals with church censures. They explore the biblical, theological, and practical aspects of church discipline, the different types of censures available to church courts, and

70. Just Give Me Another Hour (BCO 29)

Mar 04 2025 35 mins  
In this episode of Polity Matters, hosts Ben Ratliff, Jared Nelson, and Scott Edberg welcome Ruling Elder John Bise to discuss Chapter 29 of the PCA Book of Church Order: Offenses. The conversation tackles the distinctions between personal and general offenses, as well as private and public offenses, and how church courts should approach discipline in a biblical and pastoral manner

69. The Jared Nelson Memorial Episode (BCO 28)

Feb 25 2025 52 mins  
Ben, Jared, and Scott are joined by Steve Tipton --the fourth polity bro-- to discuss BCO 28: Disciplining of Non-communing Members. Send us a text message! (but bear in mind the we can't see who sends it unless you tell us...) Support the show Scott's Twitter Jared's Twitter Ben's Twitter

68. Chapter 27 is Chiastic (BCO 27)

Feb 18 2025 66 mins  
Steve Dowling joins Ben, Jared, and Scott to discuss BCO 27 on the nature, subjects, and ends of church discipline. Send us a text message! (but bear in mind the we can't see who sends it unless you tell us...) Support the show Scott's Twitter Jared's Twitter Ben's Twitter

67. Procedural Checklist (w/T. David Gordon)

Feb 11 2025 57 mins  
Procedural Checklist for PCA BCO Rules of Discipline Send us a text message! (but bear in mind the we can't see who sends it unless you tell us...) Support the show Scott's Twitter Jared's Twitter Ben's Twitter

66. Motion to Reconsider: Assistant Pastors

Feb 04 2025 43 mins  
In this special installment of Motion to Reconsider, we return to our interview with TE Adam Parker regarding his article on Assistant Pastors. Send us a text message! (but bear in mind the we can't see who sends it unless you tell us...) Support the show Scott's Twitter Jared's Twitter Ben's Twitter

65. The Sherlocking of Scott Edburg

Jan 28 2025 33 mins  
In this special episode, Ben sits down with co-host Scott Edberg for an inside look at the history and future of the BCO Amendment Tracker—a project that started as a grassroots effort to bring transparency and accountability to the amendment process and has become a vital tool for the denomination. Send us a text message! (but bear in mind the we can't see who sends it unless yo

64. Potentially Edifying (Ordination Questions with Groff)

Jan 13 2025 89 mins  
In this episode of Polity Matters, Ben Ratliff, Jared Nelson, Scott Edburg, and special guest Zachary Groff take a deep dive into the ordination vows for teaching elders in the Presbyterian Church in America (PCA). The conversation explores the significance of each vow, offering practical insights and theological reflections for ministers and members alike. Presbyterian Polity Gree

63. A Heightened Sense of Americana (BCO 26)

Dec 31 2024 34 mins  
In this milestone episode, Ben, Jared, and Scott conclude their journey through the Form of Government section of the PCA Book of Church Order. The discussion centers on BCO Chapter 26, which outlines the process for amending the PCA Constitution. The hosts explore the complexities of modifying both the BCO and the Westminster Standards, unpacking the historical, procedural, and th

62. No Authority Over Your Assets (BCO 25)

Dec 24 2024 45 mins  
In this episode of Polity Matters, we delve into Chapter 25 of the PCA Book of Church Order, focusing on congregational meetings. We discuss the structure, rights, and responsibilities of the congregation, including voting rights, quorum requirements, the role of trustees, and property ownership. Join us as we explore the practical and theological implications of how congregations