Kevin DeYoung, a well-regarded pastor and author, was selected Tuesday night as the moderator of the General Assembly for the Presbyterian Church in America, held this week in Chattanooga, Tennessee.

DeYoung, senior pastor of Christ Covenant Church in North Carolina and a member of The Gospel Coalition, was elected for this key leadership post during the denomination's annual gathering, the Christian Post reported.

During Tuesday evening’s proceedings in Chattanooga, Pastor Jason Helopolous delivered the nomination speech for DeYoung. Helopolous, a longtime friend, praised DeYoung’s commitment to Scripture and his steady presence within the denomination. He noted the rarity of finding leaders today who exemplify both clarity and conviction.

Helopolous told the Assembly that DeYoung brings “no partisanship, no pride, and no compromise.” He described him as someone who holds firmly to biblical teaching while also speaking “the truth in love.” To Helopolous, DeYoung exemplifies a servant of Christ who remains deeply rooted in the Reformed tradition.

In his nomination remarks, Helopolous emphasized that a successful Assembly isn’t just one that is controversy-free or finishes early. “More importantly,” he said, true success is demonstrated when God's people worship together and approach the church's business fairly, charitably, honestly, and with a heart to honor God.”

DeYoung’s Ministry and Educational Journey

Kevin DeYoung currently serves as the senior pastor at Christ Covenant Church in Matthews, North Carolina, where he has been a spiritual leader and teacher. Before his current ministry role, he began his pastoral career within the Reformed Church in America. In 2015, he and his church formally transitioned to the Presbyterian Church in America.

Originally from Jenison, Michigan, DeYoung pursued a degree in religion at Hope College in Holland, Michigan. From there, he advanced his theological training with a Master of Divinity earned at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary in Massachusetts. Continuing his academic journey, he received a doctorate in Early Modern History from the University of Leicester in the United Kingdom.

His academic background complements his involvement in national church discussions, where his writing and speaking have shaped conversations on difficult theological and cultural issues. In addition to his pastoral work, DeYoung serves as a council member for The Gospel Coalition, a network of Reformed evangelical churches and leaders.

A Prolific Voice in Christian Thought

DeYoung is an accomplished author, having written more than a dozen books. His works range from practical guides for Christian living to explorations of doctrinal questions. Notable titles include "Just Do Something," "The Biggest Story," and "Crazy Busy: A Mercifully Short Book About a Big Problem."

He garnered particular attention with his book "What Does the Bible Teach About Homosexuality?", in which he addresses one of the most contentious issues facing modern churches. His writings often emphasize a return to biblical authority and a commitment to the principles of Reformed theology.

In the early 2010s, DeYoung contributed regularly to The Christian Post. His July 2012 article, “Why No Denomination Will Survive the Homosexuality Crisis,” urged clarity and theological conviction from church leadership. He argued that denominations should make their positions clear and allow those who disagree to part ways peaceably.

Family Life and Church Involvement

Outside of his ministry and writing, DeYoung is married and has nine children. This large family life often features in his writings and sermons, where he draws upon everyday experiences to illustrate biblical truths. His commitment to family and faith underscores his image as a pastor deeply committed to the local church.

Helopolous acknowledged this dedication in his nomination speech, describing DeYoung as “a true churchman” who has an abiding love for the local church. That commitment to both family and congregation, Helopolous said, makes him particularly suited to moderate the General Assembly’s work during a critical time for the denomination.

Now in a prominent yet challenging role, DeYoung will help guide the conversations and decisions of the PCA General Assembly. His reputation for theological clarity and pastoral sensitivity could prove crucial as church leaders engage with pressing cultural and ecclesiastical issues.

A Time of Firm Leadership

DeYoung’s past writings suggest he is well aware of the type of tensions that can arise within denominations. In his 2012 column, he wrote, “Groups will split. Bodies will rearrange. Parts will realign.” He warned that although this may not happen immediately, the pressure could force realignment sooner or later.

In that same article, he challenged denominations to “make a definitive stand” on difficult questions such as human sexuality. He urged them to communicate their theological positions and to make room for departure by those who cannot agree, all to preserve the dignity of differing viewpoints and maintain unity where possible.

As moderator, DeYoung now holds a unique platform to influence how such discussions are approached within the PCA. Though the role is primarily procedural, the moderator can set the tone for how debates unfold and how unity is maintained amid disagreement.