Florida Keys Marathon Presbyterian Church

Beliefs

Scripture First. Confession as a Guide.

We receive the Bible as the inerrant Word of God and the Westminster Confession of Faith (1647) as our only secondary doctrinal standard — thirty-three chapters under the primary authority of Holy Scripture.

Standards

How We Confess the Faith

  • The Bible The sixty-six books of Holy Scripture are our primary source of doctrine — sufficient, authoritative, and true. The authority of Scripture rests not on the church or any human testimony, but wholly upon God, who is truth itself.
  • Westminster Confession (1647) The Westminster Assembly completed the Confession in December 1646, presented it with Scripture proofs on April 29, 1647, and the Church of Scotland approved it on August 27, 1647. We therefore cite the Confession as 1647 — the year of the text with proofs and of Scottish adoption. It is our only secondary doctrinal document. Below, each of the thirty-three chapters includes a brief explanation, Confession quotes, and biblical citations.
  • Autonomy MPC is not affiliated with a denomination. We are independent and elder-led, accountable first to Christ and His Word.
  • Three Forms of Unity (supplemental) Alongside Westminster we gladly receive the Belgic Confession (1561), Heidelberg Catechism (1563), and Canons of Dort (1618–1619) as supplemental Reformed documents — the Continental triad that complements the Westminster Standards.

Read the Westminster Confession at OPC or Ligonier .

Supplemental

The Three Forms of Unity

These are the primary confessional standards for many Continental Reformed churches (especially those with Dutch roots). At MPC they are supplemental — helpful for teaching and fellowship — while Westminster remains our only secondary standard.

  • Belgic Confession (1561) Written by Guido de Brès under persecution. A systematic confession covering God, Scripture, creation, sin, salvation, church, sacraments, and civil government — defending Reformed faith against Rome and the Anabaptists.
  • Heidelberg Catechism (1563) Commissioned in Heidelberg; chiefly associated with Zacharias Ursinus. One hundred twenty-nine pastoral questions and answers in three parts: our misery, our redemption in Christ, and our gratitude.
  • Canons of Dort (1618–1619) From the Synod of Dordrecht — a focused five-head answer to the Arminian Remonstrance on election, atonement, grace, and perseverance. Later summarized (imperfectly) by the TULIP acronym.

Westminster Confession

Thirty-Three Chapters

  1. Chapter 1. Of the Holy Scripture
  2. Chapter 2. Of God, and of the Holy Trinity
  3. Chapter 3. Of God’s Eternal Decree
  4. Chapter 4. Of Creation
  5. Chapter 5. Of Providence
  6. Chapter 6. Of the Fall of Man, of Sin, and of the Punishment Thereof
  7. Chapter 7. Of God’s Covenant with Man
  8. Chapter 8. Of Christ the Mediator
  9. Chapter 9. Of Free Will
  10. Chapter 10. Of Effectual Calling
  11. Chapter 11. Of Justification
  12. Chapter 12. Of Adoption
  13. Chapter 13. Of Sanctification
  14. Chapter 14. Of Saving Faith
  15. Chapter 15. Of Repentance unto Life
  16. Chapter 16. Of Good Works
  17. Chapter 17. Of the Perseverance of the Saints
  18. Chapter 18. Of the Assurance of Grace and Salvation
  19. Chapter 19. Of the Law of God
  20. Chapter 20. Of Christian Liberty, and Liberty of Conscience
  21. Chapter 21. Of Religious Worship, and the Sabbath Day
  22. Chapter 22. Of Lawful Oaths and Vows
  23. Chapter 23. Of the Civil Magistrate
  24. Chapter 24. Of Marriage and Divorce
  25. Chapter 25. Of the Church
  26. Chapter 26. Of the Communion of Saints
  27. Chapter 27. Of the Sacraments
  28. Chapter 28. Of Baptism
  29. Chapter 29. Of the Lord’s Supper
  30. Chapter 30. Of Church Censures
  31. Chapter 31. Of Synods and Councils
  32. Chapter 32. Of the State of Men after Death, and of the Resurrection of the Dead
  33. Chapter 33. Of the Last Judgment

Chapter 1 · I

Of the Holy Scripture

God’s works in creation leave humanity without excuse, yet they cannot give the saving knowledge of God. Therefore God has revealed Himself and committed that revelation to writing. Scripture alone is the inspired, sufficient, and final rule of faith and life; its authority rests on God, not on the church.

“Although the light of nature, and the works of creation and providence do so far manifest the goodness, wisdom, and power of God, as to leave men unexcusable; yet are they not sufficient to give that knowledge of God, and of his will, which is necessary unto salvation. Therefore it pleased the Lord… to commit the same wholly unto writing: which maketh the Holy Scripture to be most necessary.”

Westminster Confession I.1

“The authority of the Holy Scripture, for which it ought to be believed, and obeyed, dependeth not upon the testimony of any man, or church; but wholly upon God (who is truth itself) the author thereof: and therefore it is to be received, because it is the Word of God.”

Westminster Confession I.4

Scripture: Romans 1:19–20; Hebrews 1:1–2; 2 Timothy 3:15–17; 2 Peter 1:19–21; Isaiah 8:20; John 10:35; Luke 16:29–31; Acts 17:11; 1 John 5:9.

Chapter 2 · II

Of God, and of the Holy Trinity

There is one living and true God — infinite, holy, and self-sufficient — eternally existing in three persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. All worship, trust, and obedience are due to Him alone.

“There is but one only, living, and true God, who is infinite in being and perfection, a most pure spirit, invisible, without body, parts, or passions; immutable, immense, eternal, incomprehensible, almighty, most wise, most holy, most free, most absolute…”

Westminster Confession II.1

“In the unity of the Godhead there be three persons, of one substance, power, and eternity: God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Ghost: the Father is of none, neither begotten, nor proceeding; the Son is eternally begotten of the Father; the Holy Ghost eternally proceeding from the Father and the Son.”

Westminster Confession II.3

Scripture: Deuteronomy 6:4; 1 Corinthians 8:4–6; 1 Thessalonians 1:9; John 4:24; Matthew 28:19; 2 Corinthians 13:14; John 1:1–14; John 15:26; Acts 5:3–4.

Chapter 3 · III

Of God’s Eternal Decree

From eternity God freely ordained whatsoever comes to pass, yet without being the author of sin and without destroying creaturely will. He has chosen a people in Christ unto everlasting life, unto the praise of His glorious grace. This high mystery is to be handled with prudence and care.

“God, from all eternity, did, by the most wise and holy counsel of his own will, freely, and unchangeably ordain whatsoever comes to pass: yet so, as thereby neither is God the author of sin, nor is violence offered to the will of the creatures; nor is the liberty or contingency of second causes taken away, but rather established.”

Westminster Confession III.1

“Those of mankind that are predestinated unto life, God, before the foundation of the world was laid… hath chosen, in Christ, unto everlasting glory, out of his mere free grace and love, without any foresight of faith, or good works… as conditions, or causes moving him thereunto; and all to the praise of his glorious grace.”

Westminster Confession III.5

Scripture: Ephesians 1:4–11; Romans 9:11–23; Romans 8:28–30; Acts 15:18; Isaiah 46:9–10; James 1:13–17; Matthew 11:25–27; 2 Timothy 1:9.

Chapter 4 · IV

Of Creation

The Father, Son, and Holy Spirit created the world from nothing in six days, and all very good. Humanity was made male and female in God’s image, with the law written on the heart, yet mutable and able to fall.

“It pleased God the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, for the manifestation of the glory of his eternal power, wisdom, and goodness, in the beginning, to create, or make of nothing, the world, and all things therein whether visible or invisible, in the space of six days; and all very good.”

Westminster Confession IV.1

“After God had made all other creatures, he created man, male and female, with reasonable and immortal souls, endued with knowledge, righteousness, and true holiness, after his own image…”

Westminster Confession IV.2

Scripture: Genesis 1:1–31; Hebrews 11:3; Colossians 1:16; John 1:2–3; Genesis 1:26–28; Genesis 2:7, 15–17; Ecclesiastes 7:29; Romans 2:14–15.

Chapter 5 · V

Of Providence

God upholds and governs all creatures and all events by wise and holy providence. He ordinarily uses means, yet remains free to work without, above, or against them. Sin proceeds only from the creature; God is never its author. His care for the church is especially tender.

“God the great Creator of all things doth uphold, direct, dispose, and govern all creatures, actions, and things, from the greatest even to the least, by his most wise and holy providence…”

Westminster Confession V.1

“As the providence of God doth, in general, reach to all creatures; so, after a most special manner, it taketh care of his church, and disposeth all things to the good thereof.”

Westminster Confession V.7

Scripture: Hebrews 1:3; Daniel 4:34–35; Psalm 135:6; Matthew 10:29–31; Acts 2:23; Genesis 50:20; Romans 8:28; Isaiah 43:3–5, 14.

Chapter 6 · VI

Of the Fall of Man, of Sin, and of the Punishment Thereof

Adam and Eve fell by eating the forbidden fruit. Guilt and corruption passed to all their ordinary posterity. From original sin flow actual sins. Every sin brings guilt and exposes the sinner to God’s wrath, curse, and death — spiritual, temporal, and eternal — apart from grace.

“By this sin they fell from their original righteousness and communion with God, and so became dead in sin, and wholly defiled in all the parts and faculties of soul and body.”

Westminster Confession VI.2

“They being the root of all mankind, the guilt of this sin was imputed; and the same death in sin, and corrupted nature, conveyed to all their posterity descending from them by ordinary generation.”

Westminster Confession VI.3

Scripture: Genesis 3:1–19; Romans 5:12–19; Ephesians 2:1–3; Romans 3:10–23; James 1:14–15; Romans 6:23; Galatians 3:10; Matthew 25:41, 46.

Chapter 7 · VII

Of God’s Covenant with Man

The distance between God and the creature is so great that we can enjoy Him only by voluntary condescension — a covenant. The first was a covenant of works with Adam. The covenant of grace, in Christ, freely offers life and salvation to sinners and requires faith.

“The distance between God and the creature is so great, that although reasonable creatures do owe obedience unto him as their Creator, yet they could never have any fruition of him as their blessedness and reward, but by some voluntary condescension on God’s part, which he hath been pleased to express by way of covenant.”

Westminster Confession VII.1

“Man, by his fall, having made himself incapable of life by that covenant, the Lord was pleased to make a second, commonly called the covenant of grace; wherein he freely offereth unto sinners life and salvation by Jesus Christ, requiring of them faith in him, that they may be saved…”

Westminster Confession VII.3

Scripture: Genesis 2:16–17; Galatians 3:12; Genesis 3:15; Galatians 3:16–21; Hebrews 8:6–13; Romans 3:20–22; Hebrews 9:15–17; Jeremiah 31:31–34.

Chapter 8 · VIII

Of Christ the Mediator

The eternal Son was ordained Mediator — prophet, priest, and king. He took true humanity without sin, fulfilled the law, suffered, died, rose, ascended, and will return to judge. By His obedience and sacrifice He fully satisfied the Father’s justice for His people.

“It pleased God, in his eternal purpose, to choose and ordain the Lord Jesus, his only begotten Son, to be the Mediator between God and man, the Prophet, Priest, and King, the Head and Savior of his church…”

Westminster Confession VIII.1

“The Son of God, the second person in the Trinity, being very and eternal God, of one substance and equal with the Father, did, when the fullness of time was come, take upon him man’s nature, with all the essential properties, and common infirmities thereof, yet without sin… which person is very God, and very man, yet one Christ, the only Mediator between God and man.”

Westminster Confession VIII.2

Scripture: 1 Timothy 2:5; Isaiah 42:1; 1 Peter 1:19–20; John 1:1, 14; Philippians 2:5–11; Hebrews 2:14–17; Hebrews 9:11–28; Acts 2:22–36; 1 Corinthians 15:3–4.

Chapter 9 · IX

Of Free Will

God gave humanity natural liberty of will. In innocence Adam could will what was good, yet mutably. By the Fall, natural man lost all ability to will any spiritual good unto salvation. In grace God frees the will to good; in glory the will is made perfectly free to good alone.

“Man, by his fall into a state of sin, hath wholly lost all ability of will to any spiritual good accompanying salvation: so as, a natural man, being altogether averse from that good, and dead in sin, is not able, by his own strength, to convert himself, or to prepare himself thereunto.”

Westminster Confession IX.3

“When God converts a sinner, and translates him into the state of grace, he freeth him from his natural bondage under sin; and, by his grace alone, enables him freely to will and to do that which is spiritually good…”

Westminster Confession IX.4

Scripture: Ecclesiastes 7:29; Genesis 1:26; Romans 5:6; John 6:44, 65; Ephesians 2:1–5; Romans 8:7–8; Philippians 2:13; Romans 6:18, 22.

Chapter 10 · X

Of Effectual Calling

Those predestined unto life God effectually calls by Word and Spirit — enlightening the mind, renewing the will, and drawing them to Christ so that they come most freely, being made willing by grace. This call is of God’s free grace alone.

“All those whom God hath predestinated unto life, and those only, he is pleased, in his appointed and accepted time, effectually to call, by his Word and Spirit, out of that state of sin and death, in which they are by nature to grace and salvation, by Jesus Christ…”

Westminster Confession X.1

“This effectual call is of God’s free and special grace alone, not from anything at all foreseen in man, who is altogether passive therein, until, being quickened and renewed by the Holy Spirit, he is thereby enabled to answer this call, and to embrace the grace offered and conveyed in it.”

Westminster Confession X.2

Scripture: Romans 8:30; 2 Thessalonians 2:13–14; Ephesians 1:17–20; Ezekiel 36:26–27; John 6:37, 44–45; 2 Timothy 1:9; Acts 26:18; 1 Corinthians 2:14.

Chapter 11 · XI

Of Justification

God freely justifies the effectually called — not by infusing righteousness, but by pardoning sin and accepting persons as righteous for Christ’s sake alone, through faith. Faith is the alone instrument of justification, yet never alone in the justified person.

“Those whom God effectually calleth, he also freely justifieth: not by infusing righteousness into them, but by pardoning their sins, and by accounting and accepting their persons as righteous; not for anything wrought in them, or done by them, but for Christ’s sake alone… by imputing the obedience and satisfaction of Christ unto them, they receiving and resting on him and his righteousness by faith; which faith they have not of themselves, it is the gift of God.”

Westminster Confession XI.1

“Faith, thus receiving and resting on Christ and his righteousness, is the alone instrument of justification: yet is it not alone in the person justified, but is ever accompanied with all other saving graces, and is no dead faith, but worketh by love.”

Westminster Confession XI.2

Scripture: Romans 3:21–28; Romans 4:5–8; Romans 5:1, 17–19; Galatians 2:16; Philippians 3:8–9; Ephesians 2:8–10; James 2:17, 22, 26; Acts 13:38–39.

Chapter 12 · XII

Of Adoption

All who are justified are adopted as children of God — receiving the liberties and privileges of sons, access to the throne of grace, and the Spirit of adoption, sealed unto the day of redemption.

“All those that are justified, God vouchsafeth, in and for his only Son Jesus Christ, to make partakers of the grace of adoption, by which they are taken into the number, and enjoy the liberties and privileges of the children of God, have his name put upon them, receive the spirit of adoption, have access to the throne of grace with boldness, are enabled to cry, Abba, Father, are pitied, protected, provided for, and chastened by him, as by a father: yet never cast off, but sealed to the day of redemption; and inherit the promises, as heirs of everlasting salvation.”

Westminster Confession XII.1

Scripture: Ephesians 1:5; Galatians 4:4–7; Romans 8:15–17; John 1:12; Revelation 3:12; Psalm 103:13; Hebrews 12:5–11; 1 Peter 1:3–4.

Chapter 13 · XIII

Of Sanctification

Those effectually called and regenerated are further sanctified — the dominion of the whole body of sin destroyed, and the graces of repentance unto life strengthened. Sanctification is imperfect in this life; war remains between flesh and Spirit, yet the regenerate part overcomes through Christ.

“They, who are once effectually called, and regenerated, having a new heart, and a new spirit created in them, are further sanctified, really and personally, through the virtue of Christ’s death and resurrection, by his Word and Spirit dwelling in them: the dominion of the whole body of sin is destroyed, and the several lusts thereof are more and more weakened and mortified; and they more and more quickened and strengthened in all saving graces, to the practice of true holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord.”

Westminster Confession XIII.1

“In which war, although the remaining corruption, for a time, may much prevail; yet, through the continual supply of strength from the sanctifying Spirit of Christ, the regenerate part doth overcome; and so, the saints grow in grace, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.”

Westminster Confession XIII.3

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 6:11; Acts 20:32; Romans 6:5–14; John 17:17; Ephesians 5:26; 2 Corinthians 7:1; Galatians 5:17; Romans 7:14–25; 1 John 1:8–10.

Chapter 14 · XIV

Of Saving Faith

Saving faith is the work of the Spirit by the Word — whereby we believe whatever is revealed in Scripture for our good, and especially receive and rest upon Christ alone for justification, sanctification, and eternal life. It may be weak or strong, yet grows.

“The grace of faith, whereby the elect are enabled to believe to the saving of their souls, is the work of the Spirit of Christ in their hearts, and is ordinarily wrought by the ministry of the Word, by which also, and by the administration of the sacraments, and prayer, it is increased and strengthened.”

Westminster Confession XIV.1

“By this faith, a Christian believeth to be true whatsoever is revealed in the Word, for the authority of God himself speaking therein… But the principal acts of saving faith are accepting, receiving, and resting upon Christ alone for justification, sanctification, and eternal life, by virtue of the covenant of grace.”

Westminster Confession XIV.2

Scripture: Hebrews 10:39; 2 Corinthians 4:13; Ephesians 2:8; Romans 10:14–17; Acts 15:9; John 1:12; Acts 16:31; Hebrews 11:1–6; Luke 17:5; Hebrews 12:2.

Chapter 15 · XV

Of Repentance unto Life

Repentance unto life is an evangelical grace. By it a sinner, out of true sense of sin and apprehension of God’s mercy in Christ, turns from sin unto God with full purpose of new obedience. No sin is so small that it deserves not damnation; none so great that it can bring damnation upon those who truly repent.

“Repentance unto life is an evangelical grace, the doctrine whereof is to be preached by every minister of the gospel, as well as that of faith in Christ.”

Westminster Confession XV.1

“By it, a sinner, out of the sight and sense not only of the danger, but also of the filthiness and odiousness of his sins, as contrary to the holy nature, and righteous law of God; and upon the apprehension of his mercy in Christ to such as are penitent, so grieves for, and hates his sins, as to turn from them all unto God, purposing and endeavoring to walk with him in all the ways of his commandments.”

Westminster Confession XV.2

Scripture: Zechariah 12:10; Acts 11:18; Luke 24:47; Ezekiel 18:30–31; Ezekiel 36:31; 2 Corinthians 7:10–11; Psalm 51; Isaiah 55:7; Acts 2:37–38.

Chapter 16 · XVI

Of Good Works

Good works are only those God commands in His Word. They are fruits and evidences of true faith, done in obedience to God, yet cannot merit pardon or eternal life. Believers’ works are accepted in Christ; works of the unregenerate, though outwardly useful, cannot make a person meet to receive grace.

“Good works are only such as God hath commanded in his holy Word, and not such as, without the warrant thereof, are devised by men, out of blind zeal, or upon any pretense of good intention.”

Westminster Confession XVI.1

“These good works, done in obedience to God’s commandments, are the fruits and evidences of a true and lively faith: and by them believers manifest their thankfulness, strengthen their assurance, edify their brethren, adorn the profession of the gospel, stop the mouths of the adversaries, and glorify God…”

Westminster Confession XVI.2

Scripture: Micah 6:8; Hebrews 13:21; Matthew 15:9; James 2:18–22; Ephesians 2:10; Titus 2:11–14; Luke 17:10; Isaiah 64:6; Romans 3:20.

Chapter 17 · XVII

Of the Perseverance of the Saints

Those accepted in the Beloved, effectually called and sanctified, can neither totally nor finally fall away, but shall certainly persevere to the end. This rests not on free will but on God’s decree, Christ’s intercession, the Spirit’s abiding, and the covenant of grace — though believers may for a time fall into grievous sins.

“They, whom God hath accepted in his Beloved, effectually called, and sanctified by his Spirit, can neither totally nor finally fall away from the state of grace, but shall certainly persevere therein to the end, and be eternally saved.”

Westminster Confession XVII.1

“This perseverance of the saints depends not upon their own free will, but upon the immutability of the decree of election, flowing from the free and unchangeable love of God the Father; upon the efficacy of the merit and intercession of Jesus Christ, the abiding of the Spirit, and of the seed of God within them, and the nature of the covenant of grace: from all which ariseth also the certainty and infallibility thereof.”

Westminster Confession XVII.2

Scripture: Philippians 1:6; 2 Peter 1:10; John 10:28–29; 1 John 3:9; Jeremiah 32:40; Hebrews 7:25; Romans 8:33–39; Luke 22:32; 1 John 2:19.

Chapter 18 · XVIII

Of the Assurance of Grace and Salvation

True believers may in this life be certainly assured they are in a state of grace. Assurance is founded on God’s promises, the evidence of graces, and the Spirit’s witness — not on extraordinary revelation. It may be shaken, yet the seed of God remains.

“Such as truly believe in the Lord Jesus, and love him in sincerity, endeavoring to walk in all good conscience before him, may, in this life, be certainly assured that they are in the state of grace, and may rejoice in the hope of the glory of God, which hope shall never make them ashamed.”

Westminster Confession XVIII.1

“This certainty is not a bare conjectural and probable persuasion grounded upon a fallible hope; but an infallible assurance of faith founded upon the divine truth of the promises of salvation, the inward evidence of those graces unto which these promises are made, the testimony of the Spirit of adoption witnessing with our spirits that we are the children of God…”

Westminster Confession XVIII.2

Scripture: 1 John 5:13; Romans 5:2, 5; Hebrews 6:11, 17–19; 2 Peter 1:4–11; Romans 8:15–16; Ephesians 1:13–14; Isaiah 50:10; Psalm 77:1–10.

Chapter 19 · XIX

Of the Law of God

God gave Adam a law as a covenant of works. After the Fall the moral law continued as a perfect rule of righteousness, summarily in the Ten Commandments. Ceremonial laws are abrogated under the New Testament; judicial laws expired with Israel’s polity except as general equity requires. Believers are not under the law as a covenant of works, yet it remains a rule of life.

“The moral law doth forever bind all, as well justified persons as others, to the obedience thereof; and that, not only in regard of the matter contained in it, but also in respect of the authority of God the Creator, who gave it. Neither doth Christ, in the gospel, any way dissolve, but much strengthen this obligation.”

Westminster Confession XIX.5

“Although true believers be not under the law, as a covenant of works, to be thereby justified, or condemned; yet is it of great use to them, as well as to others; in that, as a rule of life informing them of the will of God, and their duty, it directs and binds them to walk accordingly…”

Westminster Confession XIX.6

Scripture: Genesis 2:16–17; Romans 2:14–15; Exodus 20:1–17; Matthew 5:17–19; Romans 13:8–10; Galatians 3:19–24; Colossians 2:14–17; Romans 6:14; Romans 7:12, 22.

Chapter 20 · XX

Of Christian Liberty, and Liberty of Conscience

Christ has purchased liberty from the guilt of sin, the curse of the law, and bondage to Satan — and free access to God. God alone is Lord of the conscience. Liberty is not a cloak for sin, nor a warrant to resist lawful civil or church authority.

“The liberty which Christ hath purchased for believers under the gospel consists in their freedom from the guilt of sin, the condemning wrath of God, the curse of the moral law; and, in their being delivered from this present evil world, bondage to Satan, and dominion of sin… as also, in their free access to God, and their yielding obedience unto him, not out of slavish fear, but a child-like love and willing mind.”

Westminster Confession XX.1

“God alone is Lord of the conscience, and hath left it free from the doctrines and commandments of men, which are, in anything, contrary to his Word; or beside it, if matters of faith, or worship. So that, to believe such doctrines, or to obey such commands, out of conscience, is to betray true liberty of conscience…”

Westminster Confession XX.2

Scripture: Galatians 3:13; Galatians 1:4; Acts 26:18; Romans 8:1, 15; Romans 6:14; Hebrews 10:19–22; James 4:12; Matthew 15:9; Romans 14:4; 1 Peter 2:16.

Chapter 21 · XXI

Of Religious Worship, and the Sabbath Day

The light of nature shows that God is to be worshiped, but the acceptable way of worship is instituted by Himself and limited by His revealed will. Prayer, the Word, sacraments, and other ordinances are to be used; religious worship is given to God alone through Christ. One day in seven is kept holy unto the Lord as the Christian Sabbath.

“The light of nature showeth that there is a God, who hath lordship and sovereignty over all, is good, and doth good unto all, and is therefore to be feared, loved, praised, called upon, trusted in, and served, with all the heart, and with all the soul, and with all the might. But the acceptable way of worshiping the true God is instituted by himself, and so limited by his own revealed will, that he may not be worshiped according to the imaginations and devices of men, or the suggestions of Satan, under any visible representation, or any other way not prescribed in the holy Scripture.”

Westminster Confession XXI.1

“As it is the law of nature, that, in general, a due proportion of time be set apart for the worship of God; so, in his Word, by a positive, moral, and perpetual commandment binding all men in all ages, he hath particularly appointed one day in seven, for a Sabbath, to be kept holy unto him…”

Westminster Confession XXI.7

Scripture: Romans 1:20; Deuteronomy 12:32; Matthew 4:9–10; Colossians 2:18–23; John 14:6; 1 Timothy 2:5; Exodus 20:8–11; Isaiah 56:2, 4, 6–7; Acts 20:7; Revelation 1:10; Hebrews 4:9–10.

Chapter 22 · XXII

Of Lawful Oaths and Vows

A lawful oath is part of religious worship when required in weighty cases. It must be taken in the name of God alone, in truth, righteousness, and judgment. Vows are to be made to God alone and carefully kept; monastic vows of perpetual celibacy, poverty, and obedience are superstitions.

“A lawful oath is a part of religious worship, wherein, upon just occasion, the person swearing solemnly calleth God to witness what he asserteth, or promiseth, and to judge him according to the truth or falsehood of what he sweareth.”

Westminster Confession XXII.1

“An oath is to be taken in the plain and common sense of the words, without equivocation, or mental reservation. It cannot oblige to sin; but in anything not sinful, being taken, it binds to performance, although to a man’s own hurt. Nor is it to be violated, although made to heretics, or infidels.”

Westminster Confession XXII.4

Scripture: Deuteronomy 10:20; Exodus 20:7; Jeremiah 4:2; 2 Corinthians 1:23; Hebrews 6:16; Psalm 15:4; Psalm 24:4; Numbers 30:2; Matthew 5:33–37.

Chapter 23 · XXIII

Of the Civil Magistrate

God has ordained civil magistrates for His own glory and the public good. They may not assume the ministry of Word and sacraments or the keys of the kingdom. Christians may lawfully hold office, and are to pray for and honor those in authority, submitting for conscience’ sake in lawful things.

“God, the supreme Lord and King of all the world, hath ordained civil magistrates, to be, under him, over the people, for his own glory, and the public good: and, to this end, hath armed them with the power of the sword, for the defense and encouragement of them that are good, and for the punishment of evil doers.”

Westminster Confession XXIII.1

“It is the duty of people to pray for magistrates, to honor their persons, to pay them tribute or other dues, to obey their lawful commands, and to be subject to their authority, for conscience’ sake. Infidelity, or difference in religion, doth not make void the magistrates’ just and legal authority, nor free the people from their due obedience to them…”

Westminster Confession XXIII.4

Scripture: Romans 13:1–7; 1 Peter 2:13–14; Psalm 82:3–4; 2 Samuel 23:3; 1 Timothy 2:1–2; Titus 3:1; Matthew 22:21; Acts 5:29; Proverbs 8:15–16.

Chapter 24 · XXIV

Of Marriage and Divorce

Marriage is between one man and one woman, designed for mutual help, the increase of mankind, and the preventing of uncleanness. Christians ought to marry in the Lord. Adultery or such willful desertion as cannot be remedied by the church or civil authority is cause enough for dissolving the bond.

“Marriage is to be between one man and one woman: neither is it lawful for any man to have more than one wife, nor for any woman to have more than one husband, at the same time.”

Westminster Confession XXIV.1

“Although the corruption of man be such as is apt to study arguments unduly to put asunder those whom God hath joined together in marriage: yet, nothing but adultery, or such willful desertion as can no way be remedied by the church, or civil magistrate, is cause sufficient of dissolving the bond of marriage…”

Westminster Confession XXIV.6

Scripture: Genesis 2:24; Matthew 19:4–6; 1 Corinthians 7:2, 39; Hebrews 13:4; 1 Timothy 4:3; Mark 10:6–9; Matthew 5:31–32; Matthew 19:8–9; 1 Corinthians 7:15.

Chapter 25 · XXV

Of the Church

The invisible catholic church is the whole number of the elect under Christ the Head. The visible church consists of those who profess the true religion, together with their children. Christ alone is Head of the Church. Particular churches are more or less pure according as the gospel is taught and ordinances administered.

“The catholic or universal church, which is invisible, consists of the whole number of the elect, that have been, are, or shall be gathered into one, under Christ the Head thereof; and is the spouse, the body, the fullness of him that filleth all in all.”

Westminster Confession XXV.1

“The visible church, which is also catholic or universal under the gospel (not confined to one nation, as before under the law), consists of all those throughout the world that profess the true religion; and of their children: and is the kingdom of the Lord Jesus Christ, the house and family of God, out of which there is no ordinary possibility of salvation.”

Westminster Confession XXV.2

“There is no other head of the church but the Lord Jesus Christ. Nor can the pope of Rome, in any sense, be head thereof.”

Westminster Confession XXV.6

Scripture: Ephesians 1:10, 22–23; Ephesians 5:23, 27, 32; Colossians 1:18; 1 Corinthians 1:2; 1 Corinthians 12:12–13; Genesis 17:7; Acts 2:39; Matthew 28:19–20; Ephesians 2:19–22.

Chapter 26 · XXVI

Of the Communion of Saints

Saints united to Christ have fellowship with Him and with one another in gifts and graces. They are bound to holy fellowship in worship and mutual care — without becoming partakers of the Godhead or losing personal property rights.

“All saints, that are united to Jesus Christ their Head, by his Spirit, and by faith, have fellowship with him in his graces, sufferings, death, resurrection, and glory: and, being united to one another in love, they have communion in each other’s gifts and graces, and are obliged to the performance of such duties, public and private, as do conduce to their mutual good, both in the inward and outward man.”

Westminster Confession XXVI.1

“Saints by profession are bound to maintain an holy fellowship and communion in the worship of God, and in performing such other spiritual services as tend to their mutual edification; as also in relieving each other in outward things, according to their several abilities and necessities…”

Westminster Confession XXVI.2

Scripture: 1 John 1:3; Ephesians 3:16–19; John 1:16; Philippians 3:10; Romans 6:5–6; Ephesians 4:15–16; Hebrews 10:24–25; Acts 2:42–47; 1 John 3:16–18; Galatians 6:10.

Chapter 27 · XXVII

Of the Sacraments

Sacraments are holy signs and seals of the covenant of grace, instituted by God to represent Christ and His benefits, confirm our interest in Him, and put a visible difference between the church and the world. There are only two in the New Testament: baptism and the Lord’s Supper. Efficacy depends on the Spirit and the Word of institution.

“Sacraments are holy signs and seals of the covenant of grace, immediately instituted by God, to represent Christ, and his benefits; and to confirm our interest in him: as also, to put a visible difference between those that belong unto the church, and the rest of the world; and solemnly to engage them to the service of God in Christ, according to his Word.”

Westminster Confession XXVII.1

“There be only two sacraments ordained by Christ our Lord in the Gospel; that is to say, baptism, and the Supper of the Lord: neither of which may be dispensed by any, but by a minister of the Word lawfully ordained.”

Westminster Confession XXVII.4

Scripture: Romans 4:11; Genesis 17:7, 10; Matthew 28:19; 1 Corinthians 11:23; 1 Corinthians 10:16; 1 Corinthians 12:13; Ephesians 2:11–12; Matthew 26:26–28.

Chapter 28 · XXVIII

Of Baptism

Baptism is a sacrament of the New Testament, a sign and seal of ingrafting into Christ, of regeneration, remission of sins, and of giving up unto God through Jesus Christ. Immersion is not necessary; pouring or sprinkling is sufficient. Not only those who profess faith, but also the infants of one or both believing parents, are to be baptized.

“Baptism is a sacrament of the new testament, ordained by Jesus Christ, not only for the solemn admission of the party baptized into the visible church; but also, to be unto him a sign and seal of the covenant of grace, of his ingrafting into Christ, of regeneration, of remission of sins, and of his giving up unto God, through Jesus Christ, to walk in newness of life. Which sacrament is, by Christ’s own appointment, to be continued in his church until the end of the world.”

Westminster Confession XXVIII.1

“Not only those that do actually profess faith in and obedience unto Christ, but also the infants of one, or both, believing parents, are to be baptized.”

Westminster Confession XXVIII.4

Scripture: Matthew 28:19; Romans 6:3–5; Colossians 2:11–12; Galatians 3:27; Titus 3:5; Acts 2:38–39; Genesis 17:7–9; Acts 16:15, 33; 1 Corinthians 7:14.

Chapter 29 · XXIX

Of the Lord’s Supper

The Lord’s Supper was instituted by Christ for perpetual remembrance of His sacrifice, sealing of benefits to true believers, spiritual nourishment, and a bond of communion. It is not a repeated sacrifice of Christ. Worthy receivers inwardly by faith feed upon Christ crucified; the ignorant and scandalous are not to be admitted.

“Our Lord Jesus, in the night wherein he was betrayed, instituted the sacrament of his body and blood, called the Lord’s Supper, to be observed in his church, unto the end of the world, for the perpetual remembrance of the sacrifice of himself in his death; the sealing all benefits thereof unto true believers, their spiritual nourishment and growth in him, their further engagement in and to all duties which they owe unto him; and, to be a bond and pledge of their communion with him, and with each other, as members of his mystical body.”

Westminster Confession XXIX.1

“Worthy receivers, outwardly partaking of the visible elements, in this sacrament, do then also, inwardly by faith, really and indeed, yet not carnally and corporally but spiritually, receive, and feed upon, Christ crucified, and all benefits of his death: the body and blood of Christ being then, not corporally or carnally, in, with, or under the bread and wine; yet, as really, but spiritually, present to the faith of believers in that ordinance, as the elements themselves are to their outward senses.”

Westminster Confession XXIX.7

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 11:23–29; Matthew 26:26–28; 1 Corinthians 10:16–17, 21; Hebrews 9:22, 25–28; Hebrews 10:10–14; John 6:50–58; Acts 3:21; 1 Corinthians 5:6–8.

Chapter 30 · XXX

Of Church Censures

The Lord Jesus, as King and Head of His church, has appointed a government in the hand of church officers. To them the keys of the kingdom are committed for retaining and remitting sins, shutting the kingdom against the impenitent, and opening it to the penitent. Censures serve for reclaiming offenders, deterring others, and vindicating Christ’s honor.

“The Lord Jesus, as King and Head of his church, hath therein appointed a government, in the hand of church officers, distinct from the civil magistrate.”

Westminster Confession XXX.1

“To these officers the keys of the kingdom of heaven are committed; by virtue whereof, they have power, respectively, to retain, and remit sins; to shut that kingdom against the impenitent, both by the Word, and censures; and to open it unto penitent sinners, by the ministry of the gospel; and by absolution from censures, as occasion shall require.”

Westminster Confession XXX.2

Scripture: Isaiah 9:6–7; 1 Timothy 5:17; 1 Thessalonians 5:12; Acts 20:17, 28; Matthew 16:19; Matthew 18:15–18; John 20:21–23; 1 Corinthians 5:1–13; 2 Corinthians 2:6–8.

Chapter 31 · XXXI

Of Synods and Councils

For better government and further edification there ought to be synods or councils. They may determine controversies of faith and cases of conscience, and set rules for worship and government — provided nothing is contrary to Scripture. Synods and councils since the apostles’ times may err and are not to be made the rule of faith or practice, but helps.

“For the better government, and further edification of the church, there ought to be such assemblies as are commonly called synods or councils…”

Westminster Confession XXXI.1

“All synods or councils, since the apostles’ times, whether general or particular, may err; and many have erred. Therefore they are not to be made the rule of faith, or practice; but to be used as a help in both.”

Westminster Confession XXXI.3

Scripture: Acts 15:2–6, 22–25; Acts 15:15–29; Matthew 18:17–20; Ephesians 2:20; Acts 17:11; 1 Corinthians 2:5; 2 Corinthians 1:24; Isaiah 8:20.

Chapter 32 · XXXII

Of the State of Men after Death, and of the Resurrection of the Dead

After death the bodies of men return to dust, but their souls immediately return to God — the righteous to paradise, the wicked to torment. At the last day the dead shall be raised with the selfsame bodies, and those then alive shall be changed.

“The bodies of men, after death, return to dust, and see corruption: but their souls, which neither die nor sleep, having an immortal subsistence, immediately return to God who gave them: the souls of the righteous, being then made perfect in holiness, are received into the highest heavens, where they behold the face of God, in light and glory, waiting for the full redemption of their bodies. And the souls of the wicked are cast into hell, where they remain in torments and utter darkness, reserved to the judgment of the great day.”

Westminster Confession XXXII.1

“At the last day, such as are found alive shall not die, but be changed: and all the dead shall be raised up, with the selfsame bodies, and none other (although with different qualities), which shall be united again to their souls forever.”

Westminster Confession XXXII.2

Scripture: Genesis 3:19; Ecclesiastes 12:7; Luke 23:43; 2 Corinthians 5:1, 6–8; Philippians 1:23; Acts 1:25; Jude 6–7; 1 Thessalonians 4:14–17; 1 Corinthians 15:42–44, 51–52; Job 19:26–27.

Chapter 33 · XXXIII

Of the Last Judgment

God has appointed a day to judge the world in righteousness by Jesus Christ. All persons shall give account of thoughts, words, and deeds. The righteous enter everlasting life; the wicked everlasting destruction. The day is unknown so that we may watch and say, Come, Lord Jesus.

“God hath appointed a day, wherein he will judge the world, in righteousness, by Jesus Christ, to whom all power and judgment is given of the Father. In which day, not only the apostate angels shall be judged, but likewise all persons that have lived upon earth shall appear before the tribunal of Christ, to give an account of their thoughts, words, and deeds; and to receive according to what they have done in the body, whether good or evil.”

Westminster Confession XXXIII.1

“As Christ would have us to be certainly persuaded that there shall be a day of judgment, both to deter all men from sin, and for the greater consolation of the godly in their adversity; so will he have that day unknown to men, that they may shake off all carnal security, and be always watchful, because they know not at what hour the Lord will come; and may be ever prepared to say, Come Lord Jesus, come quickly, Amen.”

Westminster Confession XXXIII.3

Scripture: Acts 17:31; John 5:22, 27; 2 Corinthians 5:10; Ecclesiastes 12:14; Matthew 25:31–46; Jude 6; 2 Thessalonians 1:5–10; Matthew 24:36, 42–44; Revelation 22:20.

Calling

What the Church Is For

  • Discipleship Making disciples who make disciples — Matthew 28:19–20.
  • Evangelism Bearing witness to Christ with clarity and courage — 2 Timothy 4:5.
  • Biblical teaching Letting Scripture equip the saints for every good work — 2 Timothy 3:16–17.
  • Leadership training Entrusting the faith to faithful people who will teach others also — 2 Timothy 2:2.
  • Unity Being of the same mind in Christ, without division — 1 Corinthians 1:10.
  • Godly administration Ordering the household of God with care and integrity — 1 Timothy 3:5.
  • Mission Bearing witness from our neighborhood outward — Acts 1:8.
  • Love Known as Christ’s disciples by our love for one another — John 13:34–35.

Next step

See How Belief Takes Shape Among Us

Doctrine is not only written on a page. It is sung, prayed, discussed, and lived in the gatherings of the church — and in the training of elders who pastor house churches.

Leadership How We Gather Start a Conversation