What are our beliefs?
The Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) identifies with the affirmations of the 16th century Protestant Reformation. The focus of these affirmations is the rediscovery of God’s grace in Jesus Christ as revealed in the Scriptures. The Protestant watchwords— grace alone, faith alone, Scripture alone—embody principles of understanding that continue to guide and motivate the people of God in the life of faith.
The Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) expresses the faith of the Reformed tradition. Central to this tradition is the affirmation of the majesty, holiness, and providence of God, who creates, sustains, rules, and redeems the world. Other important beliefs of Presbyterians include:
- The election of the people of God for service as well as for salvation;
- A disciplined concern for order in the church according to the Word of God;
- A faithful stewardship that shuns ostentation and seeks to use responsibly the gifts of God’s creation; and
- A recognition that the people of God are to work for the transformation of society by seeking justice and living in obedience to the Word of God.