Polity Matters
A podcast on the foundations of Presbyterian Church government. Hosted by Scott Edburg, Jared Nelson, and Ben Ratliff.
Episodes
140 episodes
138. It’s Probably Our Fault (BCO 60)
Ben, Jared, and Scott discuss BCO 60 on the visitation of the sick.
137. Box of Chocolates Effect (GA Debrief)
Ben welcomes Fred Greco, Steve Tipton, and first-time commissioner RE Jonah Cleveland to debrief after the 53rd PCA General Assembly.
136. Christian Nationalism with David Strain
In this episode, we sit down with David Strain to discuss the PCA's ad interim committee on Christian Nationalism. We explore the diverse definitions of the movement, the ethical challenges it presents in local congregations, and the committee'...
135. AI AIC?
The guys are joined by Joshua Torrey, Frank Cohee, and Adam Parker to discuss the possibility of an Ad Interim Committee on Artificial Intelligence.
134. Nacho Libre Style (BCO 59)
Ben and Jared pair up to work through BCO 59 on the Solemnization of Marriage.
133. One Big Beautiful Directory
Ben, Scott, and Jared sit down with members of the committee tasked with revising the PCA’s Directory for Worship: Nate Shurden, Joel St. Clair, and Chad Van Dixhoorn.
132. Overtures 2026
Ben , Scott , and Jared are joined by friend of the show Alex Ford to tackle the massive slate of overtures for the 53rd General Assembly. This year, a record 90 overtures (89 new and one referred from last year) are on the docket, covering eve...
131. Dinner Call (BCO 58 Part Two)
Ben, Scott, and Jared dive into BCO 58, exploring the constitutional requirements and practical nuances of administering the Lord's Supper within the PCA.
130. OPE (BCO 58 Part One)
Ben, Scott, and Jared dive into BCO 58, exploring the constitutional requirements and practical nuances of administering the Lord's Supper within the PCA.
129. This is a Very Good Vow (BCO 57 Part Two)
In this episode of Polity Matters, we walk through the last two sections of BCO 57: The Admission of Persons to Sealing Ordinances.
128. The Water Must Be Wetted (BCO 57 Part One)
In this episode of Polity Matters, we walk through BCO 57: The Admission of Persons to Sealing Ordinances, focusing on how individuals—especially covenant children—are received into communing membership. We discuss pastoral prac...
127. Biblical and Adorable (BCO 56 Part Two)
In this episode, Ben, Scott, and Jared dive into BCO 56, walking through the theological and practical requirements for the administration of baptism in the PCA.
126. Celsius Shaped Hole (BCO 56 Part One)
In this episode, Ben, Scott, and Jared dive into BCO 56, walking through the theological and practical requirements for the administration of baptism in the PCA.Cherry Hill Bibles
125. Baptists Maybe (BCO 55)
In this episode, Ben, Jared, and Scott dive into BCO 55 in the Directory for the Worship of God. The men discuss the importance, biblical basis, and practical application of confessing the faith publicly within the local congregation.
124. Pearls of Wisdom From Rick Warren (BCO 54)
In this episode, Ben Ratliff, Scott Edberg, and Jared Nelson dive into the theological and practical implications of BCO 54, exploring how the PCA views stewardship, the tithe, and the role of offerings in the worship service. From the "floor" ...
123. Loose Extemporary Harangues (BCO 53)
In this episode of Polity Matters Ben, Scott, and Jared dive into the Book of Church Order (BCO) Chapter 53, which outlines the church's doctrine and practice regarding the preaching of the Word. From the theological weight of preaching as a me...
122. Polity Nerds Stick Together
Jeffrey Choi, a PCA pastor in Los Angeles, discusses the nuances of Overture 37, the role of women in the diaconate, and the implications for PCA polity.https://orchardla.org/
121. Put the Cookies on the Bottom Shelf (BCO 52)
Ben’s blog: https://www.pulpitmatters.com/ Leading in Prayer: A Workbook for Worship – Hughes Oliphant Old A comprehensive guide for pastors and worship leaders...
117. They May Have a Crock Pot On (BCO 49)
Time to talk about order in worship.https://www.pulpitmatters.com/