This brings us to another problem. Moving onto the field and beginning the ministry initiates a bond between the individual and the flock. Normally, this bond is very positive. It is always important. However, suppose that the individual does not do well on the presbytery exam.
Sentiment can play a major role in resulting decisions.
If the man is not approved, problems can occur on the field. Members of the flock who have already come to love the man's ministry may not understand the importance of the doctrinal issues that he has with the PCA constitutional standards. Not only will the family be uprooted, his job ends also, if presbytery declines to approve the exam. Thus, it is easy for sentiment to take precedence over doctrinal concerns. This allows the individual to continue to minister on the field where he has been ministering inappropriately.