The June 28th, post-G.A. letter from PC(USA) leaders to members and churches is offensive on so many levels.

 First, the letter is dangerously misleading in that it does not tell the “whole truth”.

 In referencing “deleted” sections of the B.O.O, the letter does not include much of the key language that was deleted. The “New” sections, especially those about “ai”, do not include much of what is new. Key words are left out of both. Meaning is never offered. This leaves those who don’t read denominational blogs and websites (majority of the church) misinformed. Also, the groundbreaking changes to the Heidelberg Confession are nowhere to be found.  It also fails to mention significant membership losses. Nor does it mention the decision to siphon 2 million dollars from the church mission to fight churches in court that ask for dismissal. These are key things – left unsaid.

 Second is the scandalous inference (sermon on Luke 8) that anyone questioning these changes is simply afraid. Complainers are likened to the storm that rocks the boat and to misguided, confused disciples in need of rebuke. We are reminded that Christ, surely in the midst of PC(USA), quiets the storm, and lectures the questioners about their faith. Do the letter writers believe that no matter what the PC(USA) says and does – that Christ is always in favor? And that PC(USA) policy will always become the agenda of Christ? What horrid arrogance! No wonder the  PC(USA) positions itself as the only true church – and that any local church that votes to leave the PC(USA) is worthy to be prosecuted.

 Third and most chilling: When in Luke 8, does Jesus say to the disciples “You will not die”? The only time I find that phrase in the NIV is when the serpent is tempting Eve! What greater sign is needed of the carelessness or misuse of God’s Word? How dangerous this letter, its counsel and authors are. Elders and Pastors: those of you who do not sound warning are failing the words of Ezekiel 33 and 34.

 Finally, in a pastoral letter to a fractured, hurting, Christian church, a church conflicted over the meaning of words - why use the word “Mantra”? Check out its meaning and background in a dictionary or wikipedia. Using “Mantra” as a recommendation is like warning the church about “bad Karma”. Is this the careful understanding and Biblical sensitivity the new officers and clerk bring to the church? For a people so concerned with language and sensitivity – this shows either monumental detachment or hubris or both. 

 During our request for dismissal, the Session of First Presbyterian of Paola and I reported about the facts and actual policies of the PC(USA) - we were called liars and troublers. Our leaders were maligned and I was defrocked. Yet what we said and warned of was true. Each elder would do it again without hesitation. I now ask those left in the PC(USA): “Who’s Rockin’ the Boat?” Who really represents the storm? What will you do? How will you sound warning? How will you witness? The world and the church waits.

Kirk Johnston

Lighthouse Presbyterian

Paola, Kansas