The Presbyterian Church traces its roots primarily to the Protestant Reformation in the 16th century, particularly to the teachings of John Calvin in Geneva. While Calvin significantly shaped its theological foundations, the organizational structure often associated with Presbyterianism emerged under the leadership of John Knox in Scotland. He adapted Calvin’s ideas and established the Presbyterian Church of Scotland. Influential figures like Andrew Melville further solidified the church’s distinctive polity and structure during this period.
Understanding the origins of this branch of Protestantism is crucial for comprehending its theological underpinnings, organizational structure, and historical trajectory. The emphasis on a representative form of church governance, with elected elders governing alongside ministers, sets it apart from other denominations. This structure, alongside its distinctive theological emphasis on the sovereignty of God, shaped its development and influence in various parts of the world, particularly in Scotland, Ireland, and North America.
