OrdinationExaminationPart1 (1) (1) Theology

Study Material for licensure and ordination
candidates in the North Texas Presbytery
North Texas Presbytery

Theological Exam Committee
Section 1: Theology
1. What is the significance of the fact that the Westminster Divines placed the
subject of the Holy Scriptures at the head of the Confession?
It was a continuation of the concept of Sola Scriptura as put forth by the
Reformers. Naturally, the underlying issue was the issue of authority. For the
Westminster Divines, the issue of authority led them to focus on the authoritative
nature of Scripture. They viewed themselves as subject to the commands of
Scripture more than to the magisterium of the church.
2. Explain natural revelation. Cite specific Scriptures.

Natural revelation is that the revelation of God that occurs in the light of nature.
Specifically it is seen in the works of creation, conscience and providence. It is
fully adequate to proclaim the goodness, wisdom and power of God.
ESVPsalm 19:1…The heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky above
proclaims his handiwork. 2 Day to day pours out speech, and night to night
reveals knowledge.
ESVRomans 1:19…For what can be known about God is plain to them, because
God has shown it to them. 20 For his invisible attributes, namely, his eternal
power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of
the world, in the things that have been made. So they are without excuse.
3. Is natural revelation sufficient to bring men to God? Why or why not?

No. But it is not because of any flaw in the revelation itself. It is because of the
fallen nature of man. Not only is man unable to come to faith apart from special
revelation but man in his sinfulness has also misused natural revelation creating
for himself vain idols. God in His kindness provided special revelation to teach
man the way of salvation and to correct fallen man’s misunderstanding of
natural revelation
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4. Explain special revelation. Cite specific Scriptures.

Special revelation is God’s super-natural revelation of Himself, a revelation
which is recorded for us in the Scriptures of the Old and New Testament and
which climaxes in the redemptive work of Christ.
ESVHebrews 1:1…Long ago, at many times and in many ways, God spoke to our
fathers by the prophets, 2 but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son,
whom he appointed the heir of all things, through whom also he created the
world.
5. Explain inspiration. Cite specific Scriptures.

Inspiration refers to the supernatural influence of the Holy Spirit upon the
writers of Scripture so that the words that they wrote were exactly what God
intended. The Words of Scripture are therefore to be received as the very words
of God, trustworthy and fully authoritative.
ESV 2 Timothy 3:16…All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for
teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness,
ESV2 Peter 1:21…For no prophecy was ever produced by the will of man, but men
spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.
6. How do we know that the Bible is the Word of God?

There is internal and external evidence that shows us that the Bible is the Word
of God. The internal evidence consists of the claims of both the OT and NT to be
the Word of God, the “consent of all the parts”, the majesty and purity of the
doctrine, and the glory, which it gives to God. The external evidence consists of
the church’s testimony throughout the ages of the power of the Scriptures to
“convince and convert sinners” and to “comfort and build up believers.”
However, our certainty that the Scripture is the Word of God does not ultimately
rest in these things. It is only by the testimony of the Holy Spirit, “bearing
witness by and with the scriptures” in our hearts, that we are able to be fully
persuaded that the Scriptures are the Word of God.
The Scriptures manifest themselves to be the Word of God, by their majesty and
purity; by the consent of all the parts, and the scope of the whole, which is to
give all glory to God; by their light and power to convince and convert sinners,
to comfort and build up believers unto salvation: but the Spirit of God bearing
witness by and with the Scriptures in the heart of man, is alone able fully to
persuade it that they are the very Word of God. (WLC #4)
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7. Explain inerrancy and infallibility.

The words “inerrancy” and “infallibility”, applied to the Scriptures, express the
view that the Bible, in its original autographs, is true and not false in all that it
affirms. The Bible is therefore a completely trustworthy guide in all matters of
faith and practice.
8. Explain illumination.
Illumination is that ministry of the Holy Spirit by which He enables the believer
to understand the truth of Scripture.
9. How do the Spirit’s work of illumination and inspiration differ?

In the work of inspiration the Spirit grants new, redemptive revelation. This
work of the Spirit is only done in the prophets of God and the writers of
Scripture. Illumination is the Spirit’s work of enabling a person to understand
the truths of Scripture so that he or she repents and comes a saving knowledge of
Jesus Christ. The work of illumination is done in all true believers.
10. In what sense does God continue to give special revelation today?
He doesn’t. He does reveal Himself to sinners through the Spirit in the work of
redemption enabling a sinner to come to a saving knowledge of Christ but that is
something quite different.
11. What do we mean when we say that the Bible is the only rule for faith and
practice?
We mean that we accept no authority above or equal to the Scripture. We do not
believe the church or any individual is authoritative in the way that Scripture is.
12. What is God?

God is a Spirit, infinite, eternal, and unchangeable, in his being, wisdom, power,
holiness, justice, goodness, and truth. (WSC #4)
13. What do we mean when we say that God is “transcendent”?

God transcends all of space and is not limited by it. This refers to His immensity.
Not pantheistic.
14. What is meant when we say that God is “imminent”?

God is omnipresent and thus fills all of his creation. Not deistic.
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15. What are the two categories of attributes that characterize God, and how do
they differ? Name some of each.
The 2 categories we use to describe the attributes of God are “Communicable”
and “Incommunicable.”
“Communicable” attributes refer to those attributes of God, which are
reflected in man, such as Wisdom, Goodness, and Justice.
“Incommunicable” attributes refer to those qualities of God, which have
no analogy in man, such as Self-existence, Immutability, and Infinity.
16. Briefly state the doctrine of the trinity.

While God is One, He exists in Three Persons of one substance, power, and
eternity.
17. On what basis do we believe that the one true God exists as 3 Persons?
We believe that the One true God exists as 3 Persons because in His Word God
reveals Himself as 3 divine Persons. There are several passages in Scripture
where we see the 3 Persons of the Trinity appear together, thus revealing their
distinct Personal identities:
ESVLuke 3:21…Now when all the people were baptized, and when Jesus also had
been baptized and was praying, the heavens were opened, 22 and the Holy Spirit
descended on him in bodily form, like a dove; and a voice came from heaven,
"You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased."
ESVMatthew 28:19…Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing

them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,
ESV2 Corinthians 13:14…The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ and the love of God
and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.
18. Defend the deity of Jesus Christ from Scripture.

In the Scriptures we see the actions and prerogatives of God attributed to the
Person of Jesus Christ.
Jesus as King over Heaven & Earth:
ESVMatthew 28:18…And Jesus came and said to them, "All authority in heaven and
on earth has been given to me.
Jesus as Creator & Sustainer of the World:
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ESVColossians 1:16…For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth,
visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities- all
things were created through him and for him.
ESVJohn 1:3…All things were made through him, and without him was not any
thing made that was made.
Jesus as Judge:
ESVJohn 5:22…The Father judges no one, but has given all judgment to the Son, 23
that all may honor the Son, just as they honor the Father. Whoever does not honor
the Son does not honor the Father who sent him.
ESVMatthew 25:31…"When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels
with him, then he will sit on his glorious throne. 32 Before him will be gathered all
the nations, and he will separate people one from another as a shepherd separates
the sheep from the goats.
Jesus as Object of Worship:
ESV John 20:28…Thomas answered him, "My Lord and my God!"
ESVPhilippians 2:9…Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the
name that is above every name, 10 so that at the name of Jesus every knee should
bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, 11 and every tongue confess that
Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
ESVRevelation 5:12…saying with a loud voice, "Worthy is the Lamb who was slain,
to receive power and wealth and wisdom and might and honor and glory and
blessing!" 13 And I heard every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth
and in the sea, and all that is in them, saying, "To him who sits on the throne and to
the Lamb be blessing and honor and glory and might forever and ever!"
19. What are the decrees of God?

The decrees of God are, his eternal purpose, according to the counsel of his will,
whereby, for his own glory, he hath foreordained whatsoever comes to pass.
(WSC # 7)
ESVEphesians 1:4…even as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world,

that we should be holy and blameless before him. In love
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ESV Ephesians 1:11…In him we have obtained an inheritance, having been

predestined according to the purpose of him who works all things according to
the counsel of his will,
ESVRomans 9:22…What if God, desiring to show his wrath and to make known
his power, has endured with much patience vessels of wrath prepared for
destruction, 23 in order to make known the riches of his glory for vessels of
mercy, which he has prepared beforehand for glory-
20. What is the basis of God’s decrees?

God from all eternity, did, by the most wise and holy counsel of His own will,
freely, and unchangeable ordain whatsoever comes to pass; yet so, as thereby
neither is God the author of sin, nor is violence offered to the will of the
creatures; nor is the liberty or contingency of second causes taken away, but
rather established. (WCF 3.1)
21. Explain the relationship between man’s sins and God’s decrees.
With regard to men’s sins, it is a permissive decree. It renders the sinful act
certain, but that does not mean that God will by His own act bring it to pass. God
is never the blame-worthy cause of sin.
ESVPsalm 78:29…And they ate and were well filled, for he gave them what they
craved.
Psalm 106:15…he gave them what they asked, but sent a wasting disease
ESV
among them.
22. Discuss the meaning and relationship of the following doctrines, cite
verses:
a) Predestination
Predestination is the plan of or purpose of God respecting His moral creatures

that we should be holy and blameless before him. In love 5 he predestined us for
adoption through Jesus Christ, according to the purpose of his will,
b) Election
God’s eternal purpose to save some of the human race in and by Jesus Christ and
also to save some angels.
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ESV Acts 13:48…And when the Gentiles heard this, they began rejoicing and
glorifying the word of the Lord, and as many as were appointed to eternal life
believed.
c) Reprobation
God’s eternal purpose to pass some men and angels by with the operation of His
special grace, and to punish them for their sin
ESVRomans 9:22…What if God, desiring to show his wrath and to make known
his power, has endured with much patience vessels of wrath prepared for
destruction,
23. In what two ways does God execute His decrees? Define and explain what
the Bible teaches about each.
God executes his decrees in the works of creation and providence. (WSC # 8)
1) The work of creation is, God’s making all things of nothing, by the word
of His power, in the space of six days, and all very good. (WSC #9)
2) God’s works of providence are, his most holy, wise, and powerful
preserving and governing all his creatures, and all their actions. (WSC
#11)
24. What is the God’s work of creation?

The work of creation is God’s making all things of nothing, by the word of his
power, in the space of six days, and all very good.
ESV Genesis 1:1…In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.
Hebrews 11:3…By faith we understand that the universe was created by the
ESV
word of God, so that what is seen was not made out of things that are visible.
ESVRevelation 4:11…Worthy are you, our Lord and God, to receive glory and
honor and power, for you created all things, and by your will they existed and
were created."
25. What are God’s works of providence?

God’s works of providence are his most holy, wise and powerful preserving and
governing all his creatures, and all their actions.
Psalm 145:17…The LORD is righteous in all his ways and kind in all his
ESV
works.
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Psalm 104:24…O LORD, how manifold are your works! In wisdom have you
ESV
made them all; the earth is full of your creatures.
ESVHebrews 1:3…He is the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of
his nature, and he upholds the universe by the word of his power. After making
purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high,
26. What is the difference between providence and fate?

Fate in the modern sense is related more to chance, the idea that things occur by
happenstance, without underlying reason of governance. Providence views all
actions to be governed by God.
27. Describe the image of God in man.

The reformed view divides the idea into two parts: (1) natural, and (2) moral. The
idea behind the natural image consists of man’s spiritual, rational, moral, and
immortal being, which were obscured by sin. The moral image of God consisting
in true knowledge, righteousness, and holiness was obliterated by sin and is
restored in Christ.
28. Who are the parties in the covenant of works? What is the promise? The
condition? The penalty?
The first covenant made with man was a covenant of works, wherein life was
promised to Adam; and in him to his posterity, upon condition of perfect and
personal obedience.
The Parties: God and Adam.
The Promise: Life.
The Condition: Perfect and personal obedience.
The Penalty: Death.
29. Into what estate did the fall bring mankind?

The fall brought mankind into an estate of sin and misery.
ESVRomans 5:12…Therefore, just as sin came into the world through one man,
and death through sin, and so death spread to all men because all sinned-
ESVGalatians 3:10…For all who rely on works of the law are under a curse; for it
is written, "Cursed be everyone who does not abide by all things written in the
Book of the Law, and do them."
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30. What is sin?

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ESV1 John 3:4…Everyone who practices sin also practices lawlessness; and sin is
lawlessness.
ESV James 4:17…So whoever knows the right thing to do and fails to do it, for him
it is sin.
31. Explain the doctrine of imputation. What is imputed from Adam?

Distinguish between original and actual sin.
Imputation involves the legal reckoning of one person’s status to another. The
guilt of Adam is reckoned or imputed to all mankind proceeding from Adam by
natural generation. Original sin concerns the imputed guilt of Adam upon all
mankind rendering all mankind guilty before God because of their covenantal
connection to Adam. Actual sin involves the subsequent sin of each individual.
Actual sins flow out of the corrupt nature that we have inherited from our first
father, Adam.
32. What is the parallel between Adam and Christ? Which passages would you
use to explain this parallel?
The parallel between Adam and Christ is that both serve as covenantal heads.
This means that Adam and Christ both serve as representatives of their people
before God, and having their actions and the consequences of those actions
imputed to those whom they represent.
ESV Romans 5:12…Therefore, just as sin came into the world through one man,
and death through sin, and so death spread to all men because all sinned- 13 for
sin indeed was in the world before the law was given, but sin is not counted
where there is no law. 14 Yet death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over
those whose sinning was not like the transgression of Adam, who was a type of
the one who was to come. 15 But the free gift is not like the trespass. For if many
died through one man's trespass, much more have the grace of God and the free
gift by the grace of that one man Jesus Christ abounded for many. 16 And the free
gift is not like the result of that one man's sin. For the judgment following one
trespass brought condemnation, but the free gift following many trespasses
brought justification. 17 If, because of one man's trespass, death reigned through
that one man, much more will those who receive the abundance of grace and the
free gift of righteousness reign in life through the one man Jesus Christ. 18
Therefore, as one trespass led to condemnation for all men, so one act of
righteousness leads to justification and life for all men.
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ESV1 Corinthians 15:21…For as by a man came death, by a man has come also the
resurrection of the dead. 22 For as in Adam all die, so also in Christ shall all be
made alive.
33. Explain the doctrine of total depravity.

The doctrine of total depravity does not mean that man is as bad as he can be and
there is never any appreciation for the good or the true. Rather, it means that the
inherent corruption of sin extends to every part of man’s nature.
ESVRomans 8:7…For the mind that is set on the flesh is hostile to God, for it does
not submit to God's law; indeed, it cannot.
34. Who is the redeemer of God’s elect?

The only redeemer of God’s elect is the Lord Jesus Christ, who, being the eternal
Son of God, became man, and so was, and continueth to be, God and man in two
distinct natures, and one person, forever.
ESV1 Timothy 2:5…For there is one God, and there is one mediator between God
and men, the man Christ Jesus, 6 who gave himself as a ransom for all, which is
the testimony given at the proper time.
ESVGalatians 4:4…But when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth his
Son, born of woman, born under the law, 5 to redeem those who were under the
law, so that we might receive adoption as sons.
35. Explain the covenant of grace.

Man, by his fall, having made himself incapable of life by that covenant, the Lord
was pleased to make a second, commonly called the covenant of grace; wherein
He freely offers unto sinners life and salvation by Jesus Christ; requiring of them
faith in Him, that they may be saved, and promising to give unto all those that
are ordained unto eternal life His Holy Spirit, to make them willing, and able to
believe. (WCF 7.3)
36. Explain the relationship between the old covenant and new covenant.
This covenant was differently administered in the time of the law, and in the
time of the Gospel: under the law it was administered by promises, prophecies,
sacrifices, circumcision, the paschal lamb, and other types and ordinances
delivered to the people of the Jews, (WCF 7.5)
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37. Explain the difference in their respective administrations.

Under the Gospel, when Christ, the substance, was exhibited, the ordinances in
which this covenant is dispensed are the preaching of the Word, and the
administration of the sacraments of Baptism and the Lord's Supper…There are
not therefore two covenants of grace, differing in substance, but one and the
same, under various dispensations. (WCF 7.6)
38. Explain the essential differences between Covenantal theology and

Dispensationalism.
Dispensationalism would hold:
1) God has two peoples
2) His promises to Israel were unconditional
3) Israel was a type of the church but always remains separate
4) The church was initiated as a parenthesis
5) Christ came to establish an earthly millennium
6) When Israel rejected Christ God postponed the millennium
Covenant theology would hold:
1) God has one people
2) His promises to Israel were conditional
3) Israel was a type of the church and superseded the church
4) The church was God’s eternal plan
5) Christ came to establish a spiritual kingdom
6) God’s plan was not thwarted
39. What is the relationship between Israel and the Church?

The catholic or universal Church, which is invisible, consists of the whole
number of the elect, that have been, are, or shall be gathered into one, under
Christ the Head thereof; and is the spouse, the body, the fullness of Him that fills
all in all. (WCF 27.1)
40. Explain the nature of the Mediator of the covenant of grace. Why was it
necessary that He should be such a person?
As our Mediator, Jesus is both God and man. He had to be a man in order to be
our representative before God. He had to be God in order for His vicarious work
to have infinite worth. This issue was resolved by the Jesus Christ who possessed
both natures, human and divine, in one person.
41. Cite biblical proof for the deity of Jesus Christ.
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ESVIsaiah 9:6…For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government

shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor,
Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
ESV Malachi 3:1…"Behold, I send my messenger and he will prepare the way
before me. And the Lord whom you seek will suddenly come to his temple; and
the messenger of the covenant in whom you delight, behold, he is coming, says
the LORD of hosts.
ESVJohn 1:1…In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and
the Word was God.
John 8:58…Jesus said to them, "Truly, truly, I say to you, before Abraham
ESV
was, I am."
ESV John 10:30…I and the Father are one."
ESV John 20:28…Thomas answered him, "My Lord and my God!"
ESV1 Corinthians 2:8…None of the rulers of this age understood this, for if they
had, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory.
ESVPhilippians 2:6…who, though he was in the form of God, did not count
equality with God a thing to be grasped,
ESV Colossians 2:9…For in him the whole fullness of deity dwells bodily,
42. Cite biblical proof for the humanity of Jesus Christ. Why is an
understanding of the full humanity of Jesus Christ important?
ESVLuke 2:40…And the child grew and became strong, filled with wisdom. And
the favor of God was upon him.
ESVJohn 8:40…but now you seek to kill me, a man who has told you the truth
that I heard from God. This is not what Abraham did.
ESV Hebrews 5:7…In the days of his flesh, Jesus offered up prayers and
supplications, with loud cries and tears, to him who was able to save him from
death, and he was heard because of his reverence.
ESV 1 John 4:2…By this you know the Spirit of God: every spirit that confesses
that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God,
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43. Why is an understanding of the full humanity of Christ so important?

1) It assures us that Christ understands the trials and temptations that we
face, since He Himself endured them as a man, and that He is able to help
us.
2) It assures that Christ truly represents us before God and that we partake
of all the benefits of His perfect life, His death on the cross, and His life in
glory.
3) By His incarnation and life the Lord Jesus reminds us that the physical
world, as originally created by God, is good and is going to be redeemed
from its present fallen state.
44. What offices does Jesus Christ execute as our redeemer? Briefly explain
each.
He does it as prophet, priest, and king.
As a prophet, He reveals the will of God to His people, interprets the law,
calls the people back to repentance, and relates God’s promises.
ESVJohn 14:25…"These things I have spoken to you while I am still with you. 26
But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will
teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you.
As a priest, He brought a sacrifice before God and He ever lives to

intercede for His people.
ESVHebrews 5:10…being designated by God a high priest after the order of

Melchizedek.
ESVHebrews 7:25…Consequently, he is able to save to the uttermost those who draw

near to God through him, since he always lives to make intercession for them.
As a king, He shares in the dominion of God. But in particular, He

possesses a spiritual kingship over the church and over the universe.
ESV Ephesians 1:20…that he worked in Christ when he raised him from the dead and
seated him at his right hand in the heavenly places, 21 far above all rule and
authority and power and dominion, and above every name that is named, not only
in this age but also in the one to come. 22 And he put all things under his feet and
gave him as head over all things to the church,
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ESVJohn 18:36…Jesus answered, "My kingdom is not of this world. If my kingdom

were of this world, my servants would have been fighting, that I might not be
delivered over to the Jews. But my kingdom is not from the world."
ESVMatthew 28:18…And Jesus came and said to them, "All authority in heaven and
on earth has been given to me.
45. Explain the two “states” of Christ.

The two “states are the states of humiliation and exaltation.
The state of humiliation consists in His laying aside His divine majesty,
assuming the form of a servant, and His becoming subject to the demands
and curse of the law. Philippians 2:6-8 His humiliation includes the stages:
incarnation and birth, sufferings, death, burial, descent into Hades.
Christ’s humiliation consisted in his being born, and that in a low

condition, made under the law, undergoing the miseries of this life, the
wrath of God, and the cursed death of the cross; in being buried, and
continuing under the power of death for a time. (WSC #27)
ESV 1 Peter 3:18…For Christ also suffered once for sins, the righteous for
the unrighteous, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the
flesh but made alive in the spirit,
In the state of exaltation, Christ passed from under the law of the covenant
obligation into undivided favor of God. His exaltation was also His
glorification. His exaltation includes His: resurrection, ascension, His
session at the right hand of God, and His return.
Christ’s exaltation consisteth in his rising again from the dead on the third
day, in ascending up into heaven, in sitting at the right hand of God the
Father, and in coming to judge the world at the last day. (WSC #28)
46. Explain the doctrine of the atonement.

The atonement relates the idea that Christ set right the relationship between God
and man by his redemptive work on the cross. He expiated and propitiated the
sin of man through substitutionary and vicarious atonement based upon His
active and passive obedience satisfying the demands of God. This work of Christ
reflects both the love and justice of God.
His active obedience entails all He did to fulfill the law of God, meriting
eternal life for the sinner.
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His passive obedience entails all He suffered as man’s substitute paying

the penalty off sin and removing the curse of sin.
47. Define the terms substitutionary and vicarious in reference to the

atonement.
Substitutionary atonement means that Christ redemptive work was done in place
of sinners. Christ was our “vicar” or substitute. God provided the substitute,
Himself.
48. For whom did Christ make atonement?

The elect.
49. In what sense was Christ’s atonement “limited”?

Christ’s atonement was “limited” in that He died for particular people, the elect.
The saving benefits of Christ’s death & resurrection apply only to the elect.
ESVJohn 10:27…My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me.
I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them
28
out of my hand.
50. In what sense was Christ’s atonement “effective”?

Christ’s atonement was “effective” in that by His death and resurrection He
accomplished all that was needed for the salvation of the elect.
ESVActs 20:28…Pay careful attention to yourselves and to all the flock, in which
the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to care for the church of God, which he
obtained with his own blood.
51. What does the Bible teach about free will?

Man was created with free will, though mutable
Man fell and his free will was lost with regard to spiritual good
After conversion man’s free will is restored, but it is effected by remaining
corruption
In glory man will perfectly and immutable will only good
52. Give the order of salvation (ordo salutis).

1) Effectual Calling
2) Regeneration
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ESVJohn 6:28…Then they said to him, "What must we do, to be doing the works
of God?"
ESVJohn 3:3…Jesus answered him, "Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born
again he cannot see the kingdom of God."
3) Conversion
a. (Repentance)
Intellectual
ESVRomans 3:20…For by works of the law no human being will be justified in his
sight, since through the law comes knowledge of sin.
Emotional
ESV 2 Corinthians 7:9…As it is, I rejoice, not because you were grieved, but
because you were grieved into repenting. For you felt a godly grief, so that you
suffered no loss through us.
Volitional
ESV Romans 2:4…Or do you presume on the riches of his kindness and
forbearance and patience, not knowing that God's kindness is meant to lead you
to repentance?
b. Faith
Knowledge
Assent
Trust
4) Justification
5) Adoption
6) Sanctification
7) Glorification
53. What is effectual calling?

Effectual calling is the work of God’s Spirit, whereby, convincing us of our sin
and misery, enlightening our minds in the knowledge of Christ, and renewing
our wills, he doth persuade and enable us to embrace Jesus Christ, freely offered
to us in the gospel. (WSC Q&A. 31)
54. Explain both the inward and outward call of the gospel.
3/3/2004 Page 16
The outward call of the gospel is that command of God to all men to repent of
their sins and believe on the Lord Jesus Christ. This outward call goes out to all
who hear the gospel. The inward call of the gospel is God’s “effectual calling”,
that work of the Spirit of God which is only done in the hearts of the elect.
55. What is justification?

What Scriptures would you use to explain this doctrine? Justification is an act of
God’s free grace, wherein he pardoneth all our sins, and accepteth us as
righteous in sight, only for the righteousness of Christ imputed to us, and
received by faith alone. (WSC # 33)
ESVRomans 3:23… for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, 24 and are
justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, 25
whom God put forward as a propitiation by his blood, to be received by faith.
This was to show God's righteousness, because in his divine forbearance he had
passed over former sins.
ESVRomans 3:28…For we hold that one is justified by faith apart from works of
the law.
ESVRomans 4:3…For what does the Scripture say? "Abraham believed God, and it
was counted to him as righteousness." 4 Now to the one who works, his wages
are not counted as a gift but as his due. 5 And to the one who does not work but
trusts him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is counted as righteousness, 6 just
as David also speaks of the blessing of the one to whom God counts
righteousness apart from works: 7 "Blessed are those whose lawless deeds are
forgiven, and whose sins are covered; 8 blessed is the man against whom the
Lord will not count his sin."
ESVRomans 5:1…Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace

with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.
ESV Romans 5:17…If, because of one man's trespass, death reigned through that
one man, much more will those who receive the abundance of grace and the free
gift of righteousness reign in life through the one man Jesus Christ. 18 Therefore,
as one trespass led to condemnation for all men, so one act of righteousness leads
to justification and life for all men. 19 For as by the one man's disobedience the
many were made sinners, so by the one man's obedience the many will be made
righteous.
ESV2 Corinthians 5:19…that is, in Christ God was reconciling the world to
himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting to us the
3/3/2004 Page 17
message of reconciliation. 20 Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God

making his appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled
to God. 21 For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him
we might become the righteousness of God.
ESVGalatians 2:16…yet we know that a person is not justified by works of the law
but through faith in Jesus Christ, so we also have believed in Christ Jesus, in
order to be justified by faith in Christ and not by works of the law, because by
works of the law no one will be justified.
ESVPhilippians 3:9…and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own

that comes from the law, but that which comes through faith in Christ, the
righteousness from God that depends on faith-
56. What is adoption? What Scriptures would you use to explain this doctrine?
Adoption is that act of God’s free grace, whereby we are received into the
number, and have a right to all the privileges, of the sons of God. (WSC Q&A.
34)
ESVGalatians 4:4… But when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth his
Son, born of woman, born under the law, 5 to redeem those who were under the
law, so that we might receive adoption as sons. 6 And because you are sons, God
has sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, crying, "Abba! Father!" 7 So you are
no longer a slave, but a son, and if a son, then an heir through God.
ESVRomans 8:14…For all who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God. 15 For
you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have
received the Spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, "Abba! Father!" 16 The
Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, 17 and if
children, then heirs- heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, provided we
suffer with him in order that we may also be glorified with him.
ESVJohn 1:12…But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave
the right to become children of God.
57. What is sanctification?

What Scriptures would you use to explain this doctrine? Sanctification is the
work of God’s free grace, whereby we are renewed in the whole man after the
image of God, and are enabled more and more to die unto sin, and to live unto
righteousness. (WSC #35)
3/3/2004 Page 18
ESVRomans 6:4…We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in
order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we
too might walk in newness of life. 5 For if we have been united with him in a
death like his, we shall certainly be united with him in a resurrection like his. 6
We know that our old self was crucified with him in order that the body of sin
might be brought to nothing, so that we would no longer be enslaved to sin.
ESVEphesians 4:23… and to be renewed in the spirit of your minds, 24 and to put
on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and
holiness.
ESV2 Corinthians 3:18…And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of
the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to
another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit.
58. What is the difference between sanctification and justification?

Sanctification is the process whereby we are renewed in the whole man and
become more and more able to die to sin and live unto righteousness;
justification is a legal declaration whereby we are at a point in time pardoned
and accepted in Christ for His work.
59. Will sanctification as so defined be realized in this life? Explain and cite
Scriptures to support your answer.
Not in the sense that it will be perfect. Remaining, indwelling corruption means
the believer will struggle or battle against sin all their life.
ESV Romans 7:7…What then shall we say? That the law is sin? By no means! Yet if
it had not been for the law, I would not have known sin. I would not have known
what it is to covet if the law had not said, "You shall not covet." 8 But sin, seizing
an opportunity through the commandment, produced in me all kinds of
covetousness. Apart from the law, sin lies dead. 9 I was once alive apart from the
law, but when the commandment came, sin came alive and I died. 10 The very
commandment that promised life proved to be death to me. 11 For sin, seizing an
opportunity through the commandment, deceived me and through it killed me.
12 So the law is holy, and the commandment is holy and righteous and good. 13
Did that which is good, then, bring death to me? By no means! It was sin,
producing death in me through what is good, in order that sin might be shown
to be sin, and through the commandment might become sinful beyond measure.
14 For we know that the law is spiritual, but I am of the flesh, sold under sin. 15 I
do not understand my own actions. For I do not do what I want, but I do the
very thing I hate. 16 Now if I do what I do not want, I agree with the law, that it is
good. 17 So now it is no longer I who do it, but sin that dwells within me. 18 For I
3/3/2004 Page 19
know that nothing good dwells in me, that is, in my flesh. For I have the desire to
do what is right, but not the ability to carry it out. 19 For I do not do the good I
want, but the evil I do not want is what I keep on doing. 20 Now if I do what I do
not want, it is no longer I who do it, but sin that dwells within me. 21 So I find it
to be a law that when I want to do right, evil lies close at hand. 22 For I delight in
the law of God, in my inner being, 23 but I see in my members another law
waging war against the law of my mind and making me captive to the law of sin
that dwells in my members. 24 Wretched man that I am! Who will deliver me
from this body of death? 25 Thanks be to God through Jesus Christ our Lord! So
then, I myself serve the law of God with my mind, but with my flesh I serve the
law of sin.
60. Is sanctification necessary for salvation? Is it optional? Explain.

Yes. It is necessary. Since sanctification flows out of justification, it is inevitable.
No, it is not optional. A life, in which there is no sanctification, is a life in which
there is no life.
61. Does the law have a place in sanctification for New Covenant believers?
Yes, it reveals to us the will and nature of God and moves (motivates?) to pursue
holiness.
62. What is faith in Jesus Christ? Support with specific Scriptures.

Faith is a saving grace, whereby we receive and rest upon Him alone for
salvation, as He offered to us in the gospel. (WSC #86)
ESVGalatians 2:16…yet we know that a person is not justified by works of the law
but through faith in Jesus Christ, so we also have believed in Christ Jesus, in
order to be justified by faith in Christ and not by works of the law, because by
works of the law no one will be justified.
ESVEphesians 2:8…For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is
not your own doing; it is the gift of God, 9 not a result of works, so that no one
may boast.
ESVRomans 4:4…Now to the one who works, his wages are not counted as a gift
but as his due. 5 And to the one who does not work but trusts him who justifies
the ungodly, his faith is counted as righteousness,
ESVPhilippians 3:9…and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own

that comes from the law, but that which comes through faith in Christ, the
righteousness from God that depends on faith-
3/3/2004 Page 20
ESVJohn 1:12…But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave
the right to become children of God.
63. How does the Protestant doctrine of justification by faith differ from the
Roman Catholic view?
The Protestant view of justification is that the righteousness of Christ is imputed
to believers, while the Catholic view is that justification involves the infusion of
righteousness into the sinner.
64. What is repentance?

Defend your definition from Scripture. It involves three elements:
1) A recognition of sin
2) A sorrow for sin
3) A turning from sin
ESV 2 Corinthians 7:11…For see what earnestness this godly grief has produced in
you, but also what eagerness to clear yourselves, what indignation, what fear,
what longing, what zeal, what punishment! At every point you have proved
yourselves innocent in the matter.
ESV Joel 2:12…"Yet even now," declares the LORD, "return to me with all your
heart, with fasting, with weeping, and with mourning;
ESVIsaiah 1:16…Wash yourselves; make yourselves clean; remove the evil of your
deeds from before my eyes; cease to do evil, 17 learn to do good; seek justice,
correct oppression; bring justice to the fatherless, plead the widow's cause.
65. Is repentance necessary for salvation?

Yes, true faith mandates true repentance.
ESV Acts 17:30…The times of ignorance God overlooked, but now he commands
all people everywhere to repent,
ESV Ezekiel 33:11…Say to them, As I live, declares the Lord GOD, I have no
pleasure in the death of the wicked, but that the wicked turn from his way and
live; turn back, turn back from your evil ways, for why will you die, O house of
Israel?
ESV Matthew 18:3…and said, "Truly, I say to you, unless you turn and become
like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.
3/3/2004 Page 21
66. What is the visible Church?

The visible church is a society made up of all such as in all ages and places of the
world do profess the true religion, and of their children.
67. What is the invisible church?

The invisible or universal church “consists of the whole number of the elect, that
have been, are, or shall be gathered into one, under Christ the Head thereof….”
(WCF 25.1)
68. What are the marks of the true Church?

Pure doctrine of the gospel preached, right administration of the sacraments,
discipline maintained in punishing sin (Belgic Confession)
69. What happens to believers at death?

The souls of the righteous are immediately ushered into the presence of God.
ESV 2 Corinthians 5:8…Yes, we are of good courage, and we would rather be

away from the body and at home with the Lord.
ESV Philippians 1:23…I am hard pressed between the two. My desire is to depart
and be with Christ, for that is far better.
70. Is there a hell? How do you know?

Yes, the Scriptures clearly attest to the existence of hell.
ESV2 Peter 2:4…For if God did not spare angels when they sinned, but cast them
into hell and committed them to chains of gloomy darkness to be kept until the
judgment;
Luke 16:23…and in Hades, being in torment, he lifted up his eyes and saw
ESV
Abraham far off and Lazarus at his side.
ESVMatthew 25:46…And these will go away into eternal punishment, but the
righteous into eternal life."
71. What are the four primary millennial views? Briefly explain each.
1) Premillennialism
Near the end of the age persecution and suffering of believers will
increase climaxing in the Antichrist
Christ will appear, resurrecting the saints and establishing His
kingdom, a literal 1000 year reign
At the end of the millennium, the wicked will be raised in judgment
3/3/2004 Page 22
New creation will appear

2) Premillenial Dispensationalism
7 dispensations
Israel was a provisional form of the kingdom of God
The church is regarded as a mere parenthesis in the history of the
kingdom
Christ’s return is imminent
Christ’s second coming will consist of two events: rapture &
tribulation
The Millennial kingdom will then be set up; Christ will reign on a
visible throne; the temple will be rebuilt and sacrifices reinstituted
Satan will be released at the end of the millennium
Eternal state will be commenced
3) Postmillennialism
Holy Spirit will gradually bring about triumph of Christianity prior to
Christ’s return
Christ will return after the world is evangelized
The resurrection will be general
The eternal kingdom will begin
4) Amillennialism
Progressive maturing of forces, both good and evil
Christ will return and resurrect all men at the same time
General judgment will follow
New heaven and new earth
72. Which of the four is incompatible with the theology of the Westminster
Confession and why?
Premillennial dispensationalism, because 1) it divides the people of God into 2
distinct groups, the church and Israel, and because 2) it teaches multiple
resurrections.
73. Define preterism.
74. Relate the five points of Calvinism with their Scriptural references.
Total depravity
ESVRomans 8:7…For the mind that is set on the flesh is hostile to God, for it does
not submit to God's law; indeed, it cannot.
3/3/2004 Page 23
ESV Ephesians 2:1And you were dead in the trespasses and sins
Unconditional election

that we should be holy and blameless before him. In love 5 he predestined us for
adoption through Jesus Christ, according to the purpose of his will,
ESV Acts 13:48…And when the Gentiles heard this, they began rejoicing and
glorifying the word of the Lord, and as many as were appointed to eternal life
believed.
Limited atonement
ESVJohn 10:27…My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me.
I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them
28
out of my hand.
ESVActs 20:28…Pay careful attention to yourselves and to all the flock, in which
the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to care for the church of God, which he
obtained with his own blood.
Irresistible grace
ESVJohn 5:21…For as the Father raises the dead and gives them life, so also the
Son gives life to whom he will.
ESVActs 16:14…One who heard us was a woman named Lydia, from the city of
Thyatira, a seller of purple goods, who was a worshiper of God. The Lord
opened her heart to pay attention to what was said by Paul.
Perseverance of the saints
ESVPhilippians 1:6…And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in

you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.
ESV2 Timothy 1:12…which is why I suffer as I do. But I am not ashamed, for I
know whom I have believed, and I am convinced that he is able to guard until
that Day what has been entrusted to me.
3/3/2004 Page 24

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Study Material for licensure and ordination

candidates in the North Texas Presbytery

North Texas Presbytery

2. Explain natural revelation. Cite specific Scriptures.

3. Is natural revelation sufficient to bring men to God? Why or why not?

4. Explain special revelation. Cite specific Scriptures.

5. Explain inspiration. Cite specific Scriptures.

6. How do we know that the Bible is the Word of God?

7. Explain inerrancy and infallibility.

9. How do the Spirit’s work of illumination and inspiration differ?

12. What is God?

13. What do we mean when we say that God is “transcendent”?

14. What is meant when we say that God is “imminent”?

16. Briefly state the doctrine of the trinity.

ESVMatthew 28:19…Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing

18. Defend the deity of Jesus Christ from Scripture.

Jesus as Creator & Sustainer of the World:

Jesus as Object of Worship:

ESV John 20:28…Thomas answered him, "My Lord and my God!"

19. What are the decrees of God?

ESVEphesians 1:4…even as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world,

ESV Ephesians 1:11…In him we have obtained an inheritance, having been

20. What is the basis of God’s decrees?

ESVEphesians 1:4…even as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world,

24. What is the God’s work of creation?

25. What are God’s works of providence?

made them all; the earth is full of your creatures.

26. What is the difference between providence and fate?

27. Describe the image of God in man.

29. Into what estate did the fall bring mankind?

30. What is sin?

31. Explain the doctrine of imputation. What is imputed from Adam?

33. Explain the doctrine of total depravity.

34. Who is the redeemer of God’s elect?

35. Explain the covenant of grace.

37. Explain the difference in their respective administrations.

38. Explain the essential differences between Covenantal theology and

39. What is the relationship between Israel and the Church?

41. Cite biblical proof for the deity of Jesus Christ.

ESVIsaiah 9:6…For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government

ESV John 10:30…I and the Father are one."

ESV John 20:28…Thomas answered him, "My Lord and my God!"

that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God,

43. Why is an understanding of the full humanity of Christ so important?

As a priest, He brought a sacrifice before God and He ever lives to

ESVHebrews 5:10…being designated by God a high priest after the order of

ESVHebrews 7:25…Consequently, he is able to save to the uttermost those who draw

As a king, He shares in the dominion of God. But in particular, He

ESVJohn 18:36…Jesus answered, "My kingdom is not of this world. If my kingdom

45. Explain the two “states” of Christ.

Christ’s humiliation consisted in his being born, and that in a low

46. Explain the doctrine of the atonement.

His passive obedience entails all He suffered as man’s substitute paying

47. Define the terms substitutionary and vicarious in reference to the

48. For whom did Christ make atonement?

49. In what sense was Christ’s atonement “limited”?

50. In what sense was Christ’s atonement “effective”?

51. What does the Bible teach about free will?

52. Give the order of salvation (ordo salutis).