Adapted from the
Eastminster Presbyterian
Church Newsletter
Confession adopted
by the Session.
May 02, 2001
For a number of years the mainline denominations have been debating and discussing the issue of sexuality in the church. Since there has not been a clear resolution to this knotty issue to date, this has prompted many churches to clearly state where they stand regarding these basic areas of Christian belief. 2 Thessalonians 2:15 admonishes believers, "So then, brothers, stand firm and hold to the teachings we passed on to you, whether by word of mouth or by letter. " The Bible is very clear in the following areas that we must go on record to affirm that we stand with Scripture and against the culture of our day in regard to what is acceptable regarding sexual morality in light of Biblical ethics.
We should believe that it is essential to acknowledge that Jesus Christ alone is Lord of all and the only way of salvation. The Bible states, " Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved. Acts 4: 12.
We also should believe that it is essential to acknowledge that holy Scripture is the triune God's revealed Word, the Church's only infallible rule of faith and life. The Bible states, "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. " 2 Timothy 3:16, 17. "Above all, we must understand that no prophecy of Scripture came about by the prophet's own interpretation. For prophecy never had its origin in the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit. II 2 Peter 1 :20,21.
Finally, we should believe that it is essential to acknowledge that 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. " Marriage should be honored by all, and the marriage bed kept pure, for God will judge the adulterer and all the sexually immoral. " Hebrews 13:4.
Because we know that God has not changed His mind about His Son, His Word and His moral standard, we must not attempt to change it or agree with those who do. "For there is a way that seems right to a man, but in the end it leads to death. " Proverbs 14: 12. In a day and age when nothing remains sacred, we must decide where we will stand based on where Scripture declares God is standing. We are not alone in this, nor is this the only time in the history of the Christian Church where a stand was taken by those who believed and trusted the Word of God in the face of prevailing culture.
During the time of the Reformation, Martin Luther declared, ..Unless I am convinced by the testimony of the Scriptures or by clear reason (for I do not trust either in the Pope or in the councils alone, since it is well known that they have often erred and contradicted themselves), I am bound by the Scriptures I have quoted and my conscience is captive to the Word of God. I cannot and will not retract anything, since it is neither safe nor right to go against conscience May God help me. Amen. " Fundamental to the reformers in the 1500's was that the norm of the Church's life could be taken only from Scripture.
Confession
Adopted by the Session April 2, 2001
Believers throughout the Church confessing:
That Jesus Christ alone is Lord of all and the only way of salvation.
That Holy Scripture is the triune God's revealed Word, the Church's only infallible rule of faith and life.
That 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.