Reformed Forum

In this episode, we explore the biblical and historical foundations of Presbyterian church government through the lens of the three-office view—minister, ruling elder, and deacon. Joining us are two distinguished guests: Mark R. Brown, editor of Order in the Offices, and Gregory Edward Reynolds, contributor to the volume and editor of Ordained Servant: A Journal for Church Officers. Together, we discuss the scriptural and theological arguments for distinguishing the minister of the Word from the ruling elder, why this distinction matters for the health of the church, and the modern challenges facing Presbyterian polity. Brown shares insights from his decades-long defense of the three-office view, while Reynolds unpacks his essay, "Democracy and the Denigration of Office," explaining how cultural influences have shaped and distorted church governance. Whether you're a church officer, seminarian, or simply interested in Reformed ecclesiology, this conversation offers a compelling case for recovering the histori