The Presbyterian Plumb Line

A Word from the EPC’s
First Stated Clerk

L. Edward Davis, Stated Clerk 1981-2000

Dear Commissioners:

I begin by commending The Presbyterian Plumb Line for its stalwart appraisal and oversight of the “Johnson issue.” In particular, I commend the two men I know best: Drs. Fortson and Jeremiah. In today’s culture, these men exhibit courage.

I’ve known Memorial Church and its former godly pastor, the late Dr. George Scotchmer, for many years. I recall a letter he wrote in July 1980 to his beloved congregation concerning a similar issue — “the ordination of a homosexual elder as moderator represents a trend more and more offensive to evangelicals.” (Memorial Church was then a member of the PCUS.)

I’m dismayed that a historically evangelical church should now be caught in a somewhat similar issue. Should Memorial Church insist on a more “inclusive” denominational home, so be it. I might suggest the PC(USA). But regardless, leave the Evangelical Presbyterian Church alone!

The EPC’s posture on this particular issue knows no leniency.

Let me further add that this is not solely a theological issue, but also an ethical issue. One must ask the classic question, “what is the greatest good?” As one of the EPC founders and its first Stated Clerk for twenty years, I would answer this way: Brothers and sisters in Christ, do not marginalize our historic conviction on this issue.

Additionally, I take this opportunity to endorse Yvonne Chapman’s assessment of the Permanent Judicial Commission’s report on proposed overture G.3A. Having worked closely with the earliest PJC, I am disappointed with the present report. It falls short of what could be said on this matter. I strongly affirm the warning from the book of Jude regarding “unnatural desires.” Chapman’s observation concerning conflict of interest on the part of one individual is well spoken. That the current Stated Clerk failed to note such is disappointing.

Brothers and sisters, now is the moment to stand firm. As the esteemed church consultant Lyle Schaller said to me some years ago, “Ed, the EPC reflects a wonderful and healthy culture. But remember, sometimes it is better to simply say “no.”

In closing, one final word. Stand firm!

Dr. L. Edward Davis
EPC Stated Clerk Emeritus

4 responses

  1. Thomas Musselman Avatar
    Thomas Musselman

    Thanks, Ed. Long time, no see. I miss the “early days”.
    Tom Musselman

    Reply
  2. Ron DiNunzio Avatar
    Ron DiNunzio

    Thanks Dr Davis for your wise words. As a member of Ward church and later an as an ordained TE, much of what I know about the EPC I learned from you and Dr. Hess. Having later been elected as the 23rd. Moderator of G/A I would often recall something you or Dr. Hess taught me that enabled me to lead our denomination.

    I truly believe that the commissioners to this Assembly will need to be reminded of the words of Joshua: “Choose you this day whom you will serve.”

    Reply
  3. PAUL HARMON Avatar
    PAUL HARMON

    The passage in Jude was one I’d overlooked.
    [Jude 1:5-7 ESV] 5 Now I want to remind you, although you once fully knew it, that Jesus, who saved a people out of the land of Egypt, afterward destroyed those who did not believe. 6 And the angels who did not stay within their own position of authority, but left their proper dwelling, he has kept in eternal chains under gloomy darkness until the judgment of the great day– 7 just as Sodom and Gomorrah and the surrounding cities, which likewise indulged in sexual immorality and pursued unnatural desire, serve as an example by undergoing a punishment of eternal fire.

    Reply
  4. Yvonne Chapman Avatar
    Yvonne Chapman

    Dr. Davis, Thank you for your kind assessment of my article on the PJC rulings on the 5 presbytery overtures.
    RE Yvonne Chapman

    Reply

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