1. The test I'm proposing doesn't only apply to Baptists. There are a nominally Reformed folk who also fail the test.

2. As to the RPW, this is an area in which the Reformed Churches need massive Reformation. In my forthcoming book (Nov, '08, Dv) I argue for a "canonical principle." Anything which the church sings ought to be canonical. I would be perfectly happy to sing only psalms but I don't think the RPW requires it but I don't see how any session/consistory has a right to ask God's people to sing or say anything in the service of God that is extra-canonical. We are only authorized to repeat God's own Word to him. In worship God speaks to us and we, his people, reply with his own Word. It really isn't very complicated.

I agree with the historic understanding regarding instruments. We should be rid of all the Mosaic and Romish remnants that we have re-introduced into Reformed worship in the modern period.

As to Daniel's objections, I should (and will) add the qualification "the Reformed confessions as received by the churches." The American churches have rightly modified the WCF and BC to remove objectionable theocratic elements.

I don't know what he means by "Scottish Sabbatarianism" since the WCF was hardly a purely "Scottish" document! The WCF reflects the mainstream of Reformed theology, piety, and practice including the Sabbath. I write about this at length in Recovering.

I don't see why the office of Pope is not Antichrist. He condemns the gospel and offers himself as the vicar of Christ. If you're looking for an antichrist what else do you want?

As to creation the Three Forms don't require 6/24 creation and the American Presbyterians have not received the WCF to require 6/24 creation so that's not really an issue.

Cheers,

rsc

__________________
R. Scott Clark, D.Phil
Professor of Church History and Historical Theology

"For Christ, His Gospel, and His Church"
Associate Pastor
Oceanside URC
The Heidelblog