Polity Matters

Edburg, Nelson, Ratliff
  • 4.9 (44)
  • Christianity
  • Updated Weekly

A podcast on the foundations of Presbyterian Church government. Hosted by Scott Edburg, Jared Nelson, and Ben Ratliff.

  1. 1d ago

    139. Scott, Take Care of It (BCO 61)

    Ben, Jared, and Scott walk through Chapter 61 of the PCA Book of Church Order ("The Burial of the Dead"), discussing the theology and practicalities of conducting funerals and graveside services. They cover how to balance worshipping God with comforting the living, navigate sensitive pastoral situations like cremation and services for unbelievers, and train ministry interns in funeral care. Referenced Links & External Resources Leading in Worship by Terry L. Johnson: Liturgical resource cited for graveside committal services.Article by Steven Spinnenweber: Article (and accompanying sermon) on preaching the gospel clearly while conducting his sister's funeral.The Book of Common Prayer (1662 & 1979 editions): Historical liturgical references for burial orders.Matthew Henry's Deathbed Reflection. Upon his death bed, Matthew Henry wrote this note to his loved ones, to be read when he had passed. “Would you like to know where I am? I am at home in my Father's house, in the mansions prepared for me here. I am where I want to be – no longer on the stormy sea, but in God's safe, quiet harbor. My sowing time is done and I am reaping: my joy is as the joy of harvest.  Would you like to know how it is with me? I am made perfect in holiness. Grace is swallowed up in glory.  Would you like to know what I am doing? I see God, not as through a glass darkly, but face to face. I am engaged in the sweet enjoyment of my precious Redeemer. I am singing hallelujahs to Him who sits upon the throne, and am constantly praising Him.  Would you know what blessed company I keep? It is better than the best on earth. Here are the holy angels and the spirits of just men made perfect...I am with many of my old acquaintances with whom I worked and prayed, and who have come here before me.  Lastly, would you know how long this will continue? It is dawn that never fades! After millions and millions of ages, it will be as fresh as it is now. Therefore, weep not for me!”Send us Fan Mail Support the show Official Website: politymatters.org  Support the Show: Buy Me a Coffee Twitter/X: @PolityMatters Facebook: Polity Matters Page Scott's Twitter Jared's Twitter Ben's Twitter

  2. Jul 7

    138. It’s Probably Our Fault (BCO 60)

    Ben, Jared, and Scott discuss BCO 60 on the visitation of the sick. Send us Fan Mail Support the show Official Website: politymatters.org  Support the Show: Buy Me a Coffee Twitter/X: @PolityMatters Facebook: Polity Matters Page Scott's Twitter Jared's Twitter Ben's Twitter

  3. Jun 30

    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. Send us Fan Mail Support the show Official Website: politymatters.org  Support the Show: Buy Me a Coffee Twitter/X: @PolityMatters Facebook: Polity Matters Page Scott's Twitter Jared's Twitter Ben's Twitter

  4. Jun 16

    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's approach to providing pastoral counsel. Send us Fan Mail Support the show Official Website: politymatters.org  Support the Show: Buy Me a Coffee Twitter/X: @PolityMatters Facebook: Polity Matters Page Scott's Twitter Jared's Twitter Ben's Twitter

  5. Jun 9

    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.  Send us Fan Mail Support the show Official Website: politymatters.org  Support the Show: Buy Me a Coffee Twitter/X: @PolityMatters Facebook: Polity Matters Page Scott's Twitter Jared's Twitter Ben's Twitter

  6. Jun 2

    134. Nacho Libre Style (BCO 59)

    Ben and Jared pair up to work through BCO 59 on the Solemnization of Marriage. Send us Fan Mail Support the show Official Website: politymatters.org  Support the Show: Buy Me a Coffee Twitter/X: @PolityMatters Facebook: Polity Matters Page Scott's Twitter Jared's Twitter Ben's Twitter

  7. May 26

    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. Send us Fan Mail Support the show Official Website: politymatters.org  Support the Show: Buy Me a Coffee Twitter/X: @PolityMatters Facebook: Polity Matters Page Scott's Twitter Jared's Twitter Ben's Twitter

  8. May 15

    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 everything from the diaconate to artificial intelligence. Send us Fan Mail Support the show Official Website: politymatters.org  Support the Show: Buy Me a Coffee Twitter/X: @PolityMatters Facebook: Polity Matters Page Scott's Twitter Jared's Twitter Ben's Twitter

See All (141)

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4.9
out of 5
44 Ratings

About

A podcast on the foundations of Presbyterian Church government. Hosted by Scott Edburg, Jared Nelson, and Ben Ratliff.

Information

  • Creator
    Edburg, Nelson, Ratliff
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    141
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Polity Matters
  • Show Website
    Polity Matters

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