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What We BelieveWhat is the theology of the Presbyterian Church?
What doctrines do Presbyterians believe?
The word “doctrine” comes from the Latin word doctrina, which means “teaching.” (Doctrina comes from the Latin word doctor, meaning “teacher”). A doctrine is a teaching which is presented for acceptance or belief. From a Christian perspective, a doctrine is a teaching which defines who we are, what we believe, and what we ought to do.
Although belief in Christian teachings is intimately and inseparably related to salvation, doctrines are not what save us. We are not saved by knowledge, nor are we saved by what we have learned. Rather, we are saved by our faith in God through Christ.
Yet, when we say that we are justified, not by teachings, but by faith; we are articulating a doctrine. Whenever we use words to proclaim our Christian faith to others, we are teaching Christian doctrines. Doctrines are not our faith, but they are the articulation of that faith. We can have a belief in doctrines; we have faith in God through Jesus Christ.
Presbyterians believe that God created His faithful people to live in community. The Church is that community—the community of faith. As a community, we share with one another the faith which we have in Jesus Christ. We share with one another all of the joys and responsibilities which accompany this faith. As a community, the faith which we share is inevitably expressed as our beliefs. As we share our trust in Christ, we are teaching one another what we believe. Thus, the common faith which we share becomes the Church’s doctrines which we teach and believe.
So, what do Presbyterians believe about the following?
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First Presbyterian Church | 330 West Main St. | P.O. Box 165 | Richmond, KY | 40476 | (859) 623-5323
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