The Evangelical Presbyterian Church (EPC) is a Christian denomination that was established in 1981. The EPC is a conservative, Reformed, and evangelical church that is committed to the authority of the Bible and the principles of the Protestant Reformation. The church has its roots in the Presbyterian tradition, but it has also been influenced by other Christian denominations and movements. In this article, we will explore the core beliefs and values of the Evangelical Presbyterian Church.
Statement of Faith
The EPC has a detailed Statement of Faith that outlines its core beliefs and values. This statement is based on the Westminster Confession of Faith, which is a classic Reformed confession that was written in the 17th century. The EPC’s Statement of Faith affirms the authority and infallibility of the Bible, the Trinity, the deity of Christ, and the importance of faith and repentance for salvation. The statement also emphasizes the importance of the local church and the role of elders and deacons in church government.
Authority of Scripture
The EPC believes that the Bible is the inspired, inerrant, and infallible Word of God. The church affirms that the Bible is the ultimate authority for all matters of faith and practice, and that it is the final arbiter of doctrine and ethics. The EPC also believes that the Bible should be interpreted in a literal and historical manner, taking into account the cultural and literary context in which it was written.
| Core Belief | Description |
|---|---|
| Authority of Scripture | The Bible is the inspired, inerrant, and infallible Word of God |
| Trinity | God is one God in three persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit |
| Deity of Christ | Jesus Christ is fully God and fully human |
| Salvation | Salvation is by faith alone, through grace alone, in Christ alone |
Worship and Sacraments
The EPC believes that worship is an essential aspect of the Christian life, and that it should be centered on the Word of God and the sacraments. The church affirms that there are two sacraments: baptism and the Lord’s Supper. Baptism is seen as a symbol of initiation into the Christian life, while the Lord’s Supper is seen as a symbol of ongoing communion with Christ and his church. The EPC also believes that worship should be characterized by simplicity, dignity, and reverence, and that it should be focused on the praise and adoration of God.
Church Government
The EPC is a presbyterian church, which means that it is governed by a system of elders and deacons. The church believes that this form of government is biblical and that it provides a balance of authority and accountability. The EPC also affirms that the local church is the basic unit of church government, and that it should be autonomous and self-governing. However, the church also recognizes the importance of connectionalism, and it has a system of regional and national assemblies that provide oversight and support to local churches.
Key Points
- The EPC believes in the authority and infallibility of the Bible
- The church affirms the Trinity and the deity of Christ
- Salvation is by faith alone, through grace alone, in Christ alone
- The EPC has a presbyterian form of government
- Worship should be centered on the Word of God and the sacraments
The EPC is a dynamic and growing church that is committed to spreading the gospel and building up the body of Christ. The church has a strong emphasis on evangelism and missions, and it has a variety of programs and ministries that are designed to reach out to the lost and to disciple believers. The EPC is also committed to theological education and has a number of seminaries and training programs that provide instruction in Reformed theology and ministry.
What is the Evangelical Presbyterian Church's view on baptism?
+The EPC believes that baptism is a symbol of initiation into the Christian life, and that it should be administered to believers and their children. The church practices infant baptism, as well as believer's baptism, and it recognizes both modes as valid.
What is the EPC's view on the Lord's Supper?
+The EPC believes that the Lord's Supper is a symbol of ongoing communion with Christ and his church. The church practices weekly communion, and it recognizes that the Lord's Supper is a means of grace that strengthens and nourishes believers.
How does the EPC govern its local churches?
+The EPC is a presbyterian church, which means that it is governed by a system of elders and deacons. The church believes that this form of government is biblical and that it provides a balance of authority and accountability.
In conclusion, the Evangelical Presbyterian Church is a vibrant and dynamic denomination that is committed to the authority of the Bible and the principles of the Protestant Reformation. The church has a strong emphasis on worship, sacraments, and church government, and it is dedicated to spreading the gospel and building up the body of Christ. Whether you are a longtime Christian or just exploring the faith, the EPC is a great place to learn, grow, and serve.
