Resources on Federal Vision
This is a part of a series on Federal Vision.
To read Part 1: Is Federal Vision a Big Deal click here.
To Read Part 2: A Brief History of Federal Vision click here.
Categories of Resources on Federal Vision
Here are some of the resources I've collected over the years that detail the problems with Federal Vision (FV) and its proponents. The FV and New Perspective on Paul (NPP) are often linked together. They are, to use an American phrase - "kissing cousins". While we have not detailed or documented the history of the NPP, you will find that in many of the resources below NPP will come up in association with FV. For anyone who wants to contribute further to the church history side of this project, I heartily recommend they take on a book-length attempt at seemingly striking parallels between the NPP and FV, along with a historical comparison with medieval Roman Catholic doctrines.
With these resources in mind the next time someone asks “What is the big deal about Federal Vision?”, you’ll be equipped to demonstrate how and why FV strikes against the very core of biblical Christianity.
I’ve grouped these resources into a few categories.
Denominational study reports relating to Federal Vision. These documents will come from denominational bodies out of study reports, and national gatherings.
Denominational teaching pieces, related to Federal Vision, hosted and endorsed statements on official denominational websites.
Denominational reports on topics that are related to, and advocated by Federal Vision proponents.
A miscellaneous category of helpful resources about Federal Vision that are not denominationally hosted.
Denominational Study Reports:
The PCA's study report on Federal Vision (demonstrating the errors of Federal Vision).
The OPC’s study report on Justification (demonstrating the errors of Federal Vision).
The ARP’s study report on Federal Vision (demonstrating the errors of Federal Vision).
The RCUS’s study report on Justification (demonstrating the errors of Federal Vision).
RPCGA affirmations and denials responding to the errors of Federal Vision (demonstrating the errors of Federal Vision).
The URCNA’s study report on Federal Vision and Justification (demonstrating the errors of Federal Vision).
Denominational Teaching Pieces
Cornelis Venema (OPC 2007) dissecting the New Perspective on Paul. There is a brief introduction to the NPP, how it relates to core biblical Christian doctrines, and where the errors rise to a level of great error.
David VanDrunen (OPC 2007) wrote on NPP and FV as an error regarding Justification. VanDrunen briefly, and effectively summarizes the Reformed understanding of God’s law, and Christ’s righteousness in contrast to the errors of NPP and FV.
Alan Camarigg (CRC 2005) writes on the confusing and doubt-inducing theology of Federal Vision.
Anthony Dallison (CRC 2004) writes on the reality that FV theology creates more problems than it solves.
Herman Hanko (PRCA 2007) writes briefly on the historic roots of Federal Vision theology being connected to Pelagian beliefs (a heresy condemned in the 5th century)
Denominational reports and teaching pieces on topics relating to Federal Vision
The PCA's report on the question of Paedocommunion. Many who embrace and teach Federal Vision also practice Paedocommunion. By missing the heart of the gospel in the work of justification, FV advocates errors spread to the sacraments as a natural consequence.
Miscellaneous resources regarding Federal Vision
Edmund Clowney’s (OPC 1981) Report on Shepherd. Clowney was president of Westminster Seminary in Philadelphia during the time of Shepherd’s controversial teachings and subsequent investigation and eventual dismissal.
Mitch Cervinka (date and denomination unknown) writes outlining many of the historical and biblical problems within Federal Vision theology.
R. Scott Clark’s list of resources regarding Federal Vision.
It is my hope that this resource list is helpful to you as you eagerly pursue and grow in the gospel of Jesus Christ, abandoning all false gospels and false teachings!
False Teaching- A Brief History
Death and The Intermediate State- What Happens After We Die?
