Personal divine third person; regeneration and sanctification; cessationist on gifts
The PCA affirms the Holy Spirit as a distinct person of the Godhead, fully divine, coequal with the Father and Son. The Spirit proceeds from the Father and the Son (filioque) and is the active agent in regeneration, sanctification, and the application of Christ's redemption to believers.
The PCA holds to cessationism: the miraculous sign gifts such as apostolic prophecy, healing, and speaking in tongues were given to authenticate the apostolic office and passed away when the New Testament canon was closed. Ordinary gifts and fruits of the Spirit continue throughout the church age.
The Spirit indwells believers, seals them unto the day of redemption, leads them into holiness, produces fruit, and distributes ordinary gifts for building up the body of Christ. The Spirit's work is always consistent with Scripture and affirms the sufficiency of the written Word.
Key Distinctions
- Personhood:
- Progressive; Spirit enables obedience through grace
- Spiritual gifts view:
- Ceased; sign gifts were apostolic attestation only
Scripture References
Sources
- Westminster Confession of Faith II.3, XV
- Heidelberg Catechism Q&A 53