Christian Traditions

What Is Presbyterianism?

Presbyterianism is a Protestant tradition in the Reformed family, shaped by the Reformation in Scotland and Geneva and by teachers such as John Knox and John Calvin. Its name comes from its distinctive way of governing the church: not by bishops or by each congregation alone, but through councils of elders (in Greek, presbyteroi). Presbyterians treasure the sovereignty and grace of God, the careful preaching of Scripture, and an ordered, thoughtful common life expressed in confessions such as the Westminster Confession of Faith.

What they believe and treasure

Presbyterians treasure the greatness and grace of God. In the Reformed tradition they emphasise that salvation is God’s work from first to last, a gift of sovereign grace received by faith, so that all glory belongs to him. They love the Scriptures and prize clear, faithful preaching, and they order their understanding in historic confessions and catechisms, above all the Westminster standards.

Their government is representative: congregations elect elders who, with the pastor, form the 'session' that leads the local church; elders gather in a 'presbytery' over a region, and in a 'general assembly' for the whole church. They baptise the infants of believing families as a sign of God’s covenant, and celebrate the Lord’s Supper as a true spiritual feeding on Christ by faith.

What they share with all Christians

Presbyterians confess the faith of the whole Church. They worship the one God and hold to Jesus Christ, crucified and risen, as the only Saviour, received by grace through faith.

These are the words of the one faith the Nicene Creed puts on the lips of every Christian: one God, one Lord Jesus Christ, crucified and risen. On this the whole family stands together.

What is distinctive

What is distinctive is Presbyterian church government by elders and the Reformed theology of God’s sovereign grace, including the doctrine of election, that God graciously chooses to save. This ordered, confessional, God-centred approach shapes everything from worship to decision-making.

On election and the freedom of the will, Presbyterians differ from Arminian Christians such as many Methodists and Pentecostals, who stress that grace is offered to all and can be resisted. Both treasure grace and Scripture; they read this mystery differently, and Christians hold their convictions here in good conscience.

What to expect if you visit

A Presbyterian service is usually orderly, reverent, and centred on the preaching of the Word. Expect Scripture readings, prayers, the singing of hymns or psalms, and a substantial, thoughtful sermon. Communion is shared regularly with a sense of solemn joy. Styles range from traditional to contemporary, but a certain thoughtfulness runs through them. Visitors are welcome and can simply follow the printed order of worship.