Core Beliefs of the ARP Denomination

The Associate Reformed Presbyterian (ARP) Church is a Reformed denomination that holds to the historic Reformed confessions, specifically the Westminster Confession of Faith, the Westminster Shorter Catechism, and the Larger Catechism, while also affirming the Chalcedonian Definition regarding the person of Christ. Theologically, the ARP Church is distinct for its adherence to the "covenantal" framework of salvation history, emphasizing the continuity between the Old and New Testaments as a single unfolding story of God’s covenant with His people. This perspective is deeply rooted in the teachings of the Puritans and the early Reformed theologians, who viewed the Church as the continuation of Israel, bound by the same divine promises and obligations.

Scripture serves as the final authority for the ARP Church, which affirms the doctrine of the sufficiency of Scripture (sola Scriptura) as articulated in the Westminster Confession, Chapter 1. This means that all matters of faith and practice must be grounded in the inspired Word of God, which is inerrant and authoritative. The denomination emphasizes the sovereignty of God in all things, including election and providence, aligning with the five points of Calvinism (TULIP). A key aspect of their belief is the emphasis on the work of Christ alone for salvation (sola Gratia, sola Fide), rejecting any notion of human merit in justification. This is clearly taught in Romans 3:23-24, which states, "for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus." This passage underscores that salvation is entirely a gift of God’s grace, received through faith, not by works.

The ARP Church places significant weight on the doctrine of the covenant, viewing the relationship between God and humanity as mediated through covenants of grace. This theological stance fosters a strong sense of community and identity among believers, who are seen as part of a larger, transgenerational family of faith. The denomination also emphasizes the importance of church discipline and the role of the elders in maintaining the purity and order of the Church. Pastoral care is viewed as a vital function of the ministry, aimed at nurturing the spiritual growth of the congregation and supporting them in their walk with Christ. This approach reflects the Reformed commitment to a holistic view of Christian life, where doctrine, worship, and daily living are all integrated under the lordship of Christ. The ARP Church thus stands as a faithful witness to the Reformed tradition, offering a robust theological framework that addresses both the intellectual and spiritual needs of its members.