This article provides an overview of the United Covenanted Presbyterian Church, defining it as the historic, refined expression of Scottish Presbyterianism. 

Who are the Covenanters?

The United Covenanted Presbyterian Church is a representation of the the historic Presbyterian Church of Scotland, preserved as it stood at the height of the Protestant Reformation. It represents a "pure" Presbyterianism, one that existed before the rise of modern theological liberalism, the compromises of the 1900s, and the interference of the State in religious affairs. While still being relevant for the 21st century and beyond.

Why Their Identity Matters

At the heart of the Covenanter movement is the Kingship of Jesus Christ. Covenanters argue that modern liberalism has replaced the biblical Jesus with a version that is neither fully God nor the sole King of the Church. For Covenanters, if a church allows the State to dictate its doctrine or government, it is effectively "dethroning" Christ.

The Concept of the "Covenant"

While the word "Covenant" may sound archaic, Covenanters believe it is essential to the relationship between God and man.

• Biblical Basis: The "New Covenant" (Hebrews 10:16-17) and the "everlasting covenant" sealed by Christ’s blood (Hebrews 13:20) are the foundations of theology and spirituality.

• Practical Vows: Just as God binds Himself to His people, Covenanters believe the Church should explicitly define its vows to God and its responsibilities to one another through formal covenants.

Nine Pillars of the Covenanter Identity

The United Covenanted Presbyterian Church describes itself through nine distinct descriptors, each vital to their community:

Christian - Entirely Christ-focused, viewing believers as "bought with a price" and subject only to His will.

Trinitarian - Firmly affirming the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit as one God, rejecting modern "rationalist" denials of the Trinity.

Catholic - Using the term in its original sense (meaning "universal"). They oppose denominational "sectarianism" and seek true unity for the whole body of Christ.

Protestant - Identifying with the 1500s Reformation; they hold to the supreme authority of Scripture and Justification by Faith Alone.

Evangelical - Focused on the "Good News" that Christ suffered God's wrath in our place so that his righteousness could be imputed to us.

Reformed - Believing in predestination and "sovereign grace." They reject "entertainment-style" worship, preferring simple, biblical practices.

Presbyterian - Governed by Elders (Presbyters) rather than a hierarchy of Bishops (Episcopacy) or total congregational independence.

Establishmentarian - Believing that both Church and State are accountable to God. They argue that nations are only "blessed" when they recognize God’s law.

Dissenting - Refusing to recognize modern secular governments as "ordained by God" when they ignore His rights, leading to a practice of "political dissent."

A Call to Political Dissent

Covenanters are perhaps best known for being Dissenters. While they respect the general need for social order (Romans 13), they distinguish between a "proper power" from God and a government that ignores God’s authority.

They argue that the problems of the 21st century cannot be fixed by voting or secular constitutions. Instead, they believe society must recognize the Rights of God and establish a government that functions truly as a "minister of God for good."

When a dissenting minority, refused to re-enter the Kirk following the "Revolution Settlement 1691." Objecting that the settlement was forced upon the Church and did not adhere to the previously-agreed Solemn League and Covenant, insofar as the state continued not to acknowledge the kingship of Christ. These dissenters formed into "United Societies" which has eventually lead to the constitution of  the United Covenanted Presbyterian Church, and is the reason we still use the word "United" in our title . 

Conclusion

The United Covenanted Presbyterian Church seeks to confront the modern world with the full scope of biblical truth. They invite those interested in their path to study the Westminster Confession of Faith and the history of the Presbyterian Church of Scotland.