The

MessengerVOLUME 59 NO.2 FEBRUARY 2012 EDITION >> 2 Church News 3 The Secret Strength of the Church 5 Natural Disasters 8 Free Reformed Pastors’ Retreat 2011 12 Christ’s Glory As Our Lord 14 How To Live By Faith 16 Changes at the House of Mourning 18 News Notes & Comments 20 A Reformed Book Store 22 Teaching the Doctrine of Predestination Pastorally

24 Announcements THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE FREE REFORMED CHURCHES OF NORTH AMERICA>>

FEBRUARY 2012 I THE MESSENGER 1 CHURCH NEWS >> NEW ADDRESS: NIPISSING PREACHING STATION - 2012 SYNODICAL COMMITTEE MEETINGS New email address for Rev. Jerrold Lewis is: Powassan (south of North Bay, Ontario, off The 2012 Spring meetings are scheduled to [email protected] Hwy. 11) Services are held every Sunday take place March 21 - 23 with the Brantford at 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM (for the winter FRC as host church. The 2012 Ministerial LACOMBE, Alberta season) with a potluck fellowship lunch in Retreat is scheduled for Oct 17-19 at Crieff The Free Reformed Church of Lacombe meets between. When no ministers are scheduled to (Puslinch). The 2012 Fall meetings are in the Trinity Lutheran Church, 5227 C & E Trail, preach, the worship services of the Brantford scheduled to take place October 22 - 25 with Lacombe, AB. Worship services are held at 9.00 Free Reformed Church are broadcast. For St. George FRC as host church. a.m. and 3.00 p.m. information and location, email info@ Hans VanDoodewaard, Coordinator nipissingfrc.com, call Albert Wassink (705- Email: [email protected] Volume 5 CALGARY, Alberta 724-3519) or John Janssen (705 493-0259). January/February 2012 Worship Services are held every Lord’s Day at Check online: www.nipissingfrc.com for the

Open Windows The law of the Lord i converting th s perfect, e soul: the testimony of the Lord is sure preaching schedule, detailed directions and , making wise the simple. 9.30 a.m. and 4.00 p.m. and are conducted by Psa BI-MONTHLY CHILDREN’S lm 19:7 Rev. Hans Overduin, the pastor. Sunday school, other information. PUBLICATION Catechism and Adult Sunday school classes are Radio Broadcast (North Bay Area): The Banner This Christian full-colour held after the morning service. Location: 6167 of Truth Radio Broadcast can be heard every magazine for children ages 6th Street SE, Calgary AB T2H 1L9 (northwest Sunday on 103.5 FM at 8.30 AM and covers a 4 to 12 is filled with fresh corner of Blackfoot and Glenmore Trails). For radius of about 40 to 50 kilometres around ideas to open children’s information contact: Rev. Hans Overduin, Tel. North Bay. minds for a closer look at the Bible, history, 403 474-5385; email: [email protected] vocations, and the world. Open Windows also ADMISSION TO contains colouring contests, puzzles, stories, OXFORD COUNTY, ONTARIO MINISTERIAL STUDIES and book reviews to encourage our children to PREACHING STATION Is the Lord calling you to the ministry in the be readers. A magazine for the whole family, The Free Reformed Preaching Station of Free Reformed Churches of North America? it is also an excellent tool for neighbourhood Oxford County meets at the Woodstock If you believe He is, the committee wishes outreach programs, school libraries, and home- Seventh-Day Adventist Church, Highway 59, to hear from you by March 1, 2012. Please schooling. Annual Subscription for 2012 is ½ km south of Hwy. 401. Worship services contact the secretary of the committee for $17.75. Make cheques payable to: are held at 12.30 p.m. and 6.30 p.m. every more information. Prospective students Lord’s Day. For Bible study times or other are asked to consult the Handbook for FREE REFORMED PUBLICATIONS. information, please contact Mr. Peter Theological Education prior to contacting Send cheque with your order to: Kuivenhoven at 519-879-6263 or email: the secretary of the committee. Open Windows, 18 Chapala Crescent S.E., [email protected] (Oxford County includes the Calgary, AB T2X 3M4 Canada city of Woodstock, the towns of Ingersoll and Rev. D. H. Kranendonk, Secretary Tillsonburg). Theological Education Committee of the Free Reformed Churches 69 Albert Street, SS1, Mitchell, ON N0K 1N0 CANADA YOU ARE INVITED TO A Tel. 519.348.0436; SPEAKER EVENING Email: [email protected] Rev. A. T. Vergunst plans to speak on “You and the Griever”

DATE: Saturday February 18, 2012 TIME: 7:30 p.m. PLACE: Dundas FRC Meeting Room

Rev. A. T. Vergunst has been pastor of the Carterton Reformed Congregation of New Zealand since 2004, before which he served the Kalamazoo Netherlands Reformed Congregation We welcome young people in the workforce, college, and university to attend our meetings. Hosted by the Free Reformed Student Society

A collection to defray the costs of the meeting will be taken

2 THE MESSENGER I February 2 012 The Messenger February 2012 • VOLUME 59 - NO.2 EDITOR The secret Rev. C. Pronk 655 Park Road North, Unit 29

Brantford, ON N3R 0A2 CANADA strength

Tel/Fax: 519 751-4470; Email: [email protected] of the The Editor reports to the Synodical Publications Committee Assistant Editor CHURCH>> Dr. G. M. Bilkes BY Rev. G. Hamstra Email: [email protected] M E D I T A T I O N Committee Members Rev. D. H. Kranendonk, Secretary Decreasing Zeal 69 Albert Street, SS1, Mitchell, ON N0K 1N0 Several years after the Babylonian captivity, the prophet Zechariah Tel/Fax: 519 348-0436; Email: [email protected] was called to admonish consolation and encouragement to the people • Dr. G.M. Bilkes • Dr. L.W. Bilkes • Mr. S. Byl of God. Born in Babylon, he was among the first exiles who returned • Rev. J. Koopman • Rev. J. Overduin • Mr. H. VanDoodewaard • Rev. J. Lewis to the Promised Land. He witnessed the early endeavours of the restoration of the temple. The Not by might, nor by SUBSCRIPTION RATE Canada & U.S.A. - $30.00 annually inception of this undertaking was characterized power, but by for individually mailed subscriptions. by great zeal. The foundation of the temple was My Spirit, saith the The Messenger is published 11 times per year. completed within thirteen months. LORD of hosts.

SUBSCRIPTIONS/REMITTANCES ZECHARIAH 4:6b Requests for subscriptions, all payments and Shortly after, the Samaritans opposed the inquiries regarding rates, invoices, and all rebuilding of the house of God. These enemies remittances should be addressed to: successfully sought the aid of the Persian court and caused substantial THE MESSENGER difficulties. Gradually, a change took place in the convictions and inner c/o Janey Slingerland, Administrator feelings of the people. Their interest in the temple and the worship of 18 Chapala Crescent S.E., Calgary, AB T2X 3M4 Tel. 403-254-6591; Email: [email protected] God was waning. They erroneously viewed the encountered opposition as a divine indication that the work on the temple should be discontinued. All notices for family announcements, obituaries, Consequently, they devoted their time and energy solely to their own anniversaries, and non-commercial advertisements for the MARCH 2012 issue should reach the copy homes and interests. Formalism and materialism became the real dangers. editor, Frederika Pronk, no later than Thursday, The attitude of the people certainly required a strong and firm correction. February 9, 2012, and should be sent to: For this purpose the Lord raised up the prophets Haggai and Zechariah. THE MESSENGER 655 Park Road North, Unit 29,Brantford, ON Zechariah’s Visions N3R 0A2 CANADA The name Zechariah means, “the Lord remembers.” This was also the Tel/Fax: 519 751-4470 theme of the prophet’s message. During one memorable night, Zechariah E: [email protected] received a series of eight visions. When the prophet related these visions and the lessons, he brought renewed hope and courage to a disheartened people. The Jews “prospered through the prophesying” (Ezra 6:14).

The fifth vision described in chapter four, is a remarkable one. The prophet saw certain things that were familiar to him, such as the golden candlestick. However, the vision contained also certain unknown elements, such as the rounded bowl with oil, the seven pipes running from the bowl to each of the seven lamps, and the two olive trees on either side of the bowl. The vision was puzzling to Zechariah. He needed an explanation from the Read The Messenger on the interpreting angel. Free Reformed website: www.frcna.org February 2012 I THE MESSENGER 3 MEDITATION CONTINUED... >>

The Purpose of the Church Holy Spirit they will become a plain before Zerubbabel. The candlestick with its burning and shining lamps was The opposing forces may be mighty, yet the Church a symbol of the theocracy, of the church of God. The will prosper by the Holy Spirit’s intervention. In the candlestick is also an emblem of the New Testament troublesome times of Zechariah this comfort was Church. This is evident from the last words of exceedingly precious. In due time Zerubbabel would Revelation, chapter one: “the seven candlesticks which bring forth the headstone, that is the crowning stone. thou sawest are the seven churches.” The symbol points He had begun the work and would also finish it. The to the purpose of the Church, namely that it must Lord, in His powerful grace, would provide even in this present the light of God’s truth and grace to a lightless day of small things. world that is estranged from God. At no time may we neglect our responsibility We must constantly The Power of the Holy Spirit regarding the glorious mission. acknowledge anew, So it has always been, and so it will ever on the one hand our be in the Church of Christ. We must TheC hurch, in our case, the Free Reformed absolute helplessness constantly acknowledge anew, on the Church, must provide light in this dark and and dependency, and one hand our absolute helplessness and needy world of today. That light should on the other hand, dependency, and on the other hand, the clearly shine. We are called to proclaim the the all-sufficiency of all-sufficiency of divine grace. We must greet truths of the Word of God boldly and divine grace. always remember this basic and vial truth faithfully without compromise. Moreover, in our churches. it should be evident from our lives and testimonies that we have a true understanding of, and The tendency all around us is to neglect the doctrine a sincere unwavering love for the truth. of the Holy Spirit, especially in the application of the Gospel. So many are satisfied in this regard with mere The Message of the Candlestick theory. How fatal! This symbol of the candlestick was familiar to the prophet. The interpreting angel came to the prophet’s The Lord is a God of wonders. The greatest of these aid and gave the necessary additional explanation. are the wonders of His grace. They are essential and The angel did not interpret the minor details. He much to be desired. We must learn to understand the immediately went to the heart of the matter, as meaning of this valuable and indispensable lesson, he explained: “This is the Word of the LORD unto “Not by power, nor by might, but by My Spirit, saith Zerubbabel, saying, it is not by might, nor by power, the LORD of hosts.” It is a holy secret. Only the Lord but by My Spirit, saith the LORD of hosts.” Himself can reveal it to us. For Christ’s sake, He still hears and answers the prayers of those who seek Him The endeavours of the Hebrew governor were not in earnest for the Holy Spirit’s guidance. How blessed dependent on human strength but on a far more exalted are all who learn to know the power of this truth in the power, on the omnipotence of the Holy Spirit who was reality of their own experience. By the Holy Spirit’s symbolized by the abundant supply of oil. All that was grace, they taste as humble sinners of the riches of necessary for the continuation of the Church, and the God’s love revealed in Jesus. The greatness of this restoration of the temple would come from the same blessedness cannot be measured. wondrous and powerful source, the Spirit of God. Do you already know the secret of this precious External means are often admired and trusted. grace? However, human strength in itself is vain and inadequate. The special grace and power of the Holy Spirit is the blessed secret. TheS pirit is able to remove This meditation is by emeritus pastor, Rev. Gerald all stumbling blocks. The obstacles may be impressive Hamstra, and was first published in the February 1993 and high like the mountains, yet by the power of the issue of The Messenger.

4 THE MESSENGER I FEBRUARY 2012 NATURAL DISASTERS:

How Should We Interpret Them? EDITORIAL >>

In the January issue I wrote a meditation on Revelation 8 in like a huge mountain that is ablaze being hurled into connection with the opening of the seventh seal, which was the sea. Some think here of a volcanic eruption, but this preceded by a half hour silence in heaven. This mysterious does not do justice to what it says. Volcanoes spew forth silence was in response to the seven judgments of God’s wrath rocks and lava but volcanoes themselves are not flung that were about to be poured out upon the earth in such severity into the sea. How we are to conceive of the actual event that the inhabitants of heaven stand silent and spellbound in we cannot say. All we can say with certainty is that what amazement for about thirty minutes. We also saw how the John saw symbolized the terror of God’s judgment upon prayers of the saints on earth are purified the sea. by Christ, who mixes them with the incense All we can say with of His merits and sends them to the throne certainty is that what We should interpret all disasters that of God, where they find divine acceptance. John saw symbolized the take place on the sea in that light. This The acceptance of the prayers of His saints terror of God’s judgment judgment is more severe than the first. is indicated by several natural phenomena: upon the sea. One-third of the sea becomes blood; one- “there were voices, and thunderings and third of all the living creatures in the sea lightnings and an earthquake” (8:5). God has heard the cries of perish; one-third of the ships are destroyed and with those suffering for the sake of the Gospel and will now proceed them, of course, the passengers and crews. That one- to bring fearful judgments on His and His people’s enemies. third of the sea becomes blood reminds us of Exodus 7: This is the meaning of the vision of the seven trumpets recorded 20, where we read that the Nile was turned into blood. in Revelation 8:6: “And the seven angels which had the seven The death of one-third of the fish also makes us think of trumpets prepared themselves to sound.” that passage. In fact, these four judgments have many details in common with the plagues in Egypt. The judgments of the trumpets may be divided into two groups: the first four deal with natural disasters destroying The third angel blows his trumpet and John sees a blazing the environment and killing much animal and human meteor fall from heaven, poisoning one-third of the life, while the last three affect man more mentally and rivers and fountains of waters. The name of this meteor psychologically as well as physically. In this editorial we will or star is Wormwood, a symbolic term for bitterness. consider the first group. Somehow, the rivers have become poisoned so that the people cannot drink it and those who try it will die of the The Destruction of One Third of Land, Sea and Sky bitter water. The first trumpet sounds and the result is a storm of hail and fire mixed with blood. The blood symbolizes The fourth trumpet sounds and this time the plague the destructive character of these phenomena. One- falls upon the heavenly bodies. One-third of the sun, third part of the earth, and of the trees and of the grass, moon and stars are darkened. The result is that for including herbs, is burnt up. one-third of the day and night all is dark. This is not scientifically possible, of course. If one-third of the The second angel trumpets and John sees what looks heavenly bodies were darkened, their light would be

FEBRUARYFebruary 20122012 I THE MESSENGER 5 EDITORIAL >> diminished proportionally throughout the entire period of the first four trumpets with that of the first four seals of their shining. But we are dealing here with visions it will be seen at once that there is an increase in the that, although they refer to actual physical events, are degree of destruction. The fourth horse and its rider described in apocalyptic language. traverse the earth and kill one-fourth part of mankind. Here it is more: one-third. Primary and Secondary Causes What is the purpose of these first four trumpets and One-fourth represents the normal death rate in the their accompanying plagues? I believe that God sends world. Throughout this dispensation there have been these natural disasters as a warning to hailstorms and other natural disasters the wicked That is always the purpose Yet, it is remarkable that and these have always taken their toll of earthquakes, tidal waves, tornadoes people still talk about among men; but usually not more than and other disasters that occur in the “acts of God,” especially one-fourth has been affected. Every world. They are warnings from God. in connection with year about one quarter of the earth’s Science, of course, has a perfectly natural insurance policies, which vegetation of seas, fish and animal life are explanation for these phenomena and often do not cover destroyed. Crops are ruined by droughts; we need not reject this out of hand. As events such as earth- diseases kill off great numbers of humans long as we realize that such explanations quakes and tornadoes. and animals. But now, with the trumpet concern only secondary causes. Most judgments, the rate increases to one-third people never go beyond such secondary, natural causes. and soon, when the vials will be poured out, there will be They don’t see, or refuse to see, the primary cause: God. an increase again. Then the judgment will be universal and total. It is God who casts the hail and fire upon the earth. Similarly, God casts that burning mountain and that Do we not see this progression in our time? True, we great star into the sea and river respectively. Our modern have had many earthquakes in the past and other news media don’t report catastrophes in such terms. natural disasters as well. But according to scientists we Yet, it is remarkable that people still talk about “acts of are getting more and more of them. Statistics from the God,” especially in connection with insurance policies, World Almanac show that between 1800 and 1896 there which often do not cover events such as earthquakes were only six major earthquakes in the world. But in and tornadoes. each decade from 1897 to 1946 there were either two or three and in the decade from 1947 to 1956 there were God’s Judgments are Tempered by Mercy seven. From 1957 to 1966 there were seventeen and we Scripture teaches that God’s purpose in sending all know there have been many more earthquakes since judgments upon the earth is to bring sinful men to then so that we hardly blink when we hear of a “minor” their senses. He gives them time and opportunity to one that only kills a few such as recently in Turkey. repent. The Lord is so very patient! We see that here Think of the tsunami inS outh East Asia, the earthquake in the book of Revelation. God’s patience comes to in Haiti, and most recently in Japan. Great numbers of expression in the fraction: one-third. So far, the plagues, people have perished as a result of these calamities and awful as they are, are not yet universal in scope. They the same can be said about famines and other natural do not destroy everything on earth. Only one-third of disasters during the last decades. earth, sea, rivers and celestial bodies are affected. It is still the smallest part. One-third is destroyed; two-thirds The Twofold Effect of Divine Judgments are still left intact. God’s judgments are not yet absolute “One-third” therefore, symbolizes the increasingly and irreversible. The mercy and grace of God are still severe judgments of God upon the earth. We can fully extended to a wicked race. expect this rate to go up in years to come. Perhaps very gradually or very suddenly, we cannot tell. But either They are Increasing in Number and Size way things do not look good; at least, not for the world. Yet we should not overlook the fact that there is And the world knows it. Never have people been more progression in God’s judgments. If we compare the effect pessimistic than in our time.

6 THE MESSENGER I FEBRUARY 2012 >> Scientists are seriously concerned about the state of Many of us who profess to be Christians are not too affairs on planet earth. Much is being written about the different from unbelievers when it comes to our hopes environment, about climate change, pollution, the rapid and aspirations for the future. If this is true, we are depletion of natural resources, the ozone layer in the in great danger. If our hearts are in the world and atmosphere, unusual flooding, receding of the polar ice- wrapped up in earthly concerns we will be swept along cap, famines, etc. with the world when God’s judgments will come in all their fury. For the Church, however, things look good, very good. When you see all these things taking Therefore, if anyone reading this is still place, Jesus said, “look up and lift up your The only biblical reason living apart from Christ, you need to heads, for your redemption draws near” why a Christian should pray that the Lord will open your eyes (Luke 21:28). pray for prosperous for this very real possibility. Flee to the and peaceful times is only Refuge, Jesus Christ. Ask for the How seldom do we look at the signs of that the Church might covering of His precious blood and seek the times this way! How often we react be able to do her work. the help of His Spirit so you may glorify to what is happening the same way as the God in your life! Remember that in the world does. And we forget that when God Lord’s Prayer, our Saviour teaches us to sends these judgments upon the earth He is doing this in pray first that God’s Name be hallowed or sanctified, direct answer to the prayers of His saints. Yes, the hard that His Kingdom may come and His will be done, times we are beginning to experience are sent in answer and only then we are to pray for our own needs and to your prayers, Christian friends! concerns.

Wait a minute, you say; I never ask for earthquakes or Trust God’s Promises famines or tornadoes or hurricanes! No, I guess not. But Voices, thunder, lightning and earthquakes still come you do pray for the Lord Jesus to come soon, do you not? down from the throne in answer to the prayers of You pray for the coming of God’s Kingdom, right? Well, those who love God and put Him first. These natural the Lord Jesus can only come back and His Kingdom can phenomena show that God rules and that He cares. only be established fully after all these calamities have Therefore, don’t be afraid when you see the old taken place. Paul says the fashion of this world (or the certainties of our world crumbling, when everything world in its present form) passes away (1 Cor. 7:31). around you seems to be disintegrating so that nothing The world as it is now, he is saying, will not last, but is stable any more: will make way for another, better world. There will be a spiritual values, new heaven and a new earth in which righteousness will morals, customs, dwell (2 Peter 3:13). Shall we then hope for better times law and order, the for this world? Shall we then put our faith in our political economy, and even leaders, whether it is the President of the United States the weather. (the present one or the one who is trying to replace him in November) or the Prime Minister of Canada? “Jesus Christ the same yesterday and What We Should Pray For today, and forever.” The only biblical reason why a Christian should pray for “Surely I come prosperous and peaceful times is that the Church might be quickly. Amen. able to do her work. “Pray for kings,” Paul writes to Timothy, Even so, come, Lord “and for all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet Jesus. The grace and peaceable life in all godliness” (1 Tim. 2:2). Nowhere of our Lord Jesus are we given biblical sanction to pray for good times so we Christ be with you may have an easy life for its own sake. How we need to have all. Amen” (Heb. our outlook moulded by the Word of God! 13:8; Rev. 22:20).

FEBRUARYFebruary 20122012 I THE MESSENGER 7 FREE REFORMED PASTORS’ RETREAT 2011 For Pastors’ Spiritual Growth

On a cool, damp Wednesday noon on October 19, we gave opportunity to Dr. VanDoodewaard to address came together for a luncheon meal in the dining hall of us. a quaint building on the grounds of the Presbyterian Crieff Hills Conference Centre. It has the appearance Spiritual Growth in Knowledge of an old one-room schoolhouse1 with a kitchen and In his first lecture on Wednesday afternoon, Dr, Beeke some office space added to it. It is one of a number led us into Colossians 1:1-14, with an introduction of picturesque buildings scattered to the church at Colosse. Paul, the around the hilly, wooded countryside author of this letter, knew that living southwest of Guelph, Ontario. For conditions in Colosse were difficult the next several days, ending with a and not conducive to spiritual luncheon on Friday noon, we enjoyed growth. He therefore prays that the time together as colleagues in the people may grow in the knowledge of ministry for fellowship, relaxation, the Son’s will, which applied by the and some stimulating speeches Holy Spirit, will become sanctifying taking us deeper into the Word of and useful knowledge. The blessings God and Christian experience. of such knowledge are that it will create an insatiable hunger to learn The opening session was conducted more of God’s truth and at the same by Pastor John Koopman who was time places Christ at the centre of also the convener of this year’s the cultivation of a Christian’s mind. retreat. He declared to us, on the Dr. J. Beeke gives a lecture. Paul also prays that the people basis of Isaiah 6:8-9, how the Lord may grow in the knowledge of the calls His servants to proclaim the Word, and how Holy Spirit, or as it is written in Colossians 1:9, “in His servants respond to such a call. He reminded us all wisdom and spiritual understanding.” Such spiritual that the call to proclaim the Word will not always be understanding is vital, transforming, active, humbling, received favourably, even some not understanding or and loving, and when well digested, will become very perceiving it. Nevertheless, the Lord’s servants should useful knowledge and will stimulate pastors to preach be ready to answer the Lord’s call to preach, even as and teach with much love. Paul also prays that the Isaiah responded: “Here am I; send me.” people may grow in the knowledge of God the Father, even “increasing in the According to this year’s knowledge of God” (Col. program, three lectures were 1:10). Such knowledge will delivered by Dr. Joel Beeke affirm the riches of God’s and three lectures by Dr. love for us and the blessings William VanDoodewaard, of our adoption into God’s both well known to us family. We were exhorted to as professors at Puritan labour to know the Father Reformed Theological in a Christ-centred, Spirit- Seminary. Although during illumined manner. the past retreats three of the lectures were always Spiritual Growth in delivered by Dr. Gerald Practice Bilkes, he is enjoying a well In his second lecture, Dr. deserved sabbatical, which Beeke based his address on

8 THE MESSENGER I February 2012 what is written in Colossians 1:10, “That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful COMBINED FRC-HRC OFFICE-BEARERS’ CONFERENCE: March 30, 2012, D.V in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God.” He exhorted us to grow in Christ’s pattern All Free Reformed and Heritage Reformed pastors, elders of humility, which means that we have the call and deacons (current and previous) are invited to a FRC-HRC to Christ-like self-denial and humble service. Combined Office-bearers’ Conference to be held in Burgessville, He exhorted us to grow in pleasing God, “unto all Ontario on Friday, March 30, 2012, the Lord willing. Our guest speaker will be Rev. Maurice Roberts. He will pleasing.” As pastors, we might be tempted to court address us at 9:00am on “Justification: the Only Gateway the favour of man, but we must court the favour of to True Piety” and at 11:00am on “Sanctification: the Daily God and aim to please God in all things. Thirdly, we Practice of Piety.” The presentations will be approximately were exhorted to grow in spiritual fruitfulness. In one hour in length with a 30-minute Q/A discussion session other words, we must become doers of the Word, in after each presentation. The morning coffee break and noon meal will also provide opportunities for fellowship and our private life, in our family life, in our corporate dialogue. church life, and in our neighbour-evangelism life. The topics and lunch will be held in the Burgessville Heritage Reformed Church building located at 685 Main Spiritual Growth in Experience Street, Burgessville, Ontario. Colossians 1:11-14 became the focus of our We warmly encourage all office-bearers who are able to come, to reserve March 30, 2012 and to attend this combined attention with Dr. Beeke’s third lecture, particularly FRC-HRC Office-bearers’ Conference with Rev. Maurice the words in verse 11, “Strengthened with all might, Roberts. according to his glorious power, unto all patience and If you have any questions or plan to attend the sessions longsuffering with joyfulness.” This means, first of all, and the noon meal, please reserve by emailing jimbeeke@ that we must grow in the experience of God’s power, shaw.ca prior to March 15. We need to know the number for lunch in advance. so that we may learn that when we are weak in We trust that our gracious Lord will grant us a blessed time ourselves we give room for God’s strength to show together. itself. Secondly, this means that we must grow in the experience of gratitude. Gratitude is our response www.ChristianCounsellingCentre.ca to God’s grace, it is our response of love to God’s loveliness, and our response of worshipping God as living sacrifices. In the course of bringing his final lecture to a close, Dr. Beeke left us with a pressing need to be reformed and experiential preachers, because such preachers expound the Bible, proclaim Individual, Marriage, and Family Counselling Christ, make application to the heart, discriminate spiritually, speak with realism, faithfulness and optimism, maintain a balanced Christianity, and Toll Free Telephone: walk in holiness. 1-866-833-2741 Princeton Theological Seminary Dr. VanDoodewaard led us in a fascinating study Locations Burlington London in the history of Princeton Theological Seminary by way of three lectures accompanied with some (905) 632-2317 (519) 652-2770 3425 Harvester Road 7038 Longwoods Rd. slides. Princeton began as a College of New Jersey in Units 20 & 21 (corner of Hwy 2 & 4) 1746 in order to train ministers for preaching and Burlington, ON Lambeth, ON teaching in the Presbyterian Church. Sadly, through the ambitions of John Witherspoon, first president, Mailing Address the College shifted its focus from training ministers 7038 Longwoods Road to preparing a new generation for leadership of a P.O. Box 503, Lambeth Station more general nature. The college moved and became London, ON N6P 1R1 known as Princeton University. However, in order to get back to the real purpose of establishing an “Bringing Glory to God by Caring for Each Other”

February 2012 I THE MESSENGER 9 institution for the training of ministers, the General Prayer Time and Closing Assembly of the Presbyterian Church established The Between the lectures a time of prayer was set aside, so Theological Seminary at Princeton, New Jersey in that we as colleagues in the ministry could express our 1812, with Dr. Archibald Alexander becoming its first specific needs and then engage in prayer about those professor and Principal. needs.

VanDoodewaard gave us some insight into the life and Pastor Gerald Procee spoke to us in his closing address times of Archibald Alexander, about some lessons from who, while Professor of the life of Moses. Moses Theology of Princeton, had a love for his people; became increasingly he remained faithful to the concerned about the division Lord; He exercised great in the Presbyterian Church patience with the people, (the Old School and the and though he lost it once, New School) and stressed he did go to glory. Therefore, with much vigour three as pastors we are called to strands of healthy church redeem the time, love our life: Faithful Church Polity; people, be patient with Confessional Theology, and them, and remain faithful Experimental Piety. Dr. to the Lord, realizing that Alexander served Princeton glory is to come. until his death in 1851. In his second lecture, Dr. Once again, the Pastors’ VanDoodewaard introduced Retreat was a pleasant and us to Samuel Miller who instructive change of pace. became the second professor On behalf of all the pastors at Princeton Seminary as Pastor J. Koopman addresses the men. who attended, I wish to Professor of Church History, thank the congregations and continued on after the death of Dr. Alexander. The and consistories for allowing us a few days away, and strength of Dr. Miller was the first of the three strands I thank the Lord for the men He provided for our already mentioned: Faithful Church Polity. In the instruction. third lecture we heard (and saw) something of Charles Hodge who enrolled in studies at Princeton Seminary Rev. H.A. Bergsma, Reporter. in 1816 and was ordained to teach there in 1820, and who eventually became its Principal after the death of Endnotes Dr. Alexander in 1851. Hodge, a deeply conservative 1 Some present Free Reformed members actually received theologian stressed the second strand of Confessional their elementary education in this one-room school house in the 1950s. Theology or as he called it, Confessional Orthodoxy.

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10 THE MESSENGER I FEBRUARY 2012 ReformedBookServices PROMOTING GODLINESS, REVIVAL & REFORMATION

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FEBRUARY 2012 I THE MESSENGER 11 Christ’s Glory As Our Lord

“Wherefore callest thou Him our Lord? PRACTICAL RELIGION By Dr. Arthur Miskin >>

Dr. Arthur Miskin is a medical doctor, ordained minister was free, I rose, went forth, and followed Thee.” This and professor at Mukhanyo Theological School in South should be the song of every redeemed heart. Africa. He and his wife, Dr. Sonja Miskin, oversee the medical department of the Nakekela Care Centre, an Second, the lordship of Christ must impact our lives AIDS hospice, in rural KwaMhlanga, South Africa, a work in the present because, as Lord, He is our Sovereign. supported by Word & Deed. This article first appeared in We now recognize that we are the property of the One the December2011 issue of the Banner of Sovereign Grace who at such great price has delivered us. “Ye are not Truth. your own” says the apostle, “for ye are The lordship of Christ must bought with a price” (1 Cor. 6:19,20). Our Heidelberg Catechism asks us a impact our lives in the For this reason he goes on to say, simple question about the identity and present because, as Lord, “therefore glorify God in your body.” If person of the Lord Jesus (Q. 34). Why He is our Sovereign. We we truly confess Jesus as Lord, because should we call Him the Lord Jesus and now recognize that we are of His comprehensive—body and not simply Jesus, as is the habit of the property of the One soul—ownership of us, our confession some? In the days when slavery was who at such great price has should be present in deeds as well still a practice, the term “lord” implied delivered us. as words. We are redeemed from the some form of ownership, such as the slavery of sin into the freedom of bond master owning the slave. To Christians, however, the service to Christ, our Proprietor (Rom. 6:22). This the term “Lord” applies exclusively to Jesus Christ. The apostle makes very clear in his letter to Titus: Jesus Bible refers to Christ as Lord in many respects, and “gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from it behooves us to briefly examine the lordship of our all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, Lord Jesus Christ from three perspectives: the past the zealous of good works” (2:14). The life we then live, we present, and the future. live to the Lord; and if we die, we die to the Lord. So whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord. Calvin The lordship of Christ begins in the past through His expressed his bond service to the Lord Jesus in this work as Redeemer. His work of redemption is one reason way: “My heart I offer to thee, O Lord, promptly and the Catechism gives us for calling Him Lord. Peter sincerely.” Every aspect of our lives, whether we eat, tells us that we “were not redeemed with corruptible sleep, or work, must reflect our unconditional service things as silver and gold, but with the precious blood to our Sovereign. of Christ” (1 Pet. 1:18-19). We were once slaves, fast bound in sin and nature’s night, hopeless and helpless, Third, the lordship of Christ also applies to the future, without God in a fallen world. But Someone came and when we shall face Him as Judge. In 2 Corinthians 5:10, paid the price no other could pay. He interposed His Paul says, “We must all appear before the judgment seat precious blood, buying us out of the slavery of sin; He of Christ…” This is a reality that not only the wicked must broke our insatiable attachment to this corrupt world face but God’s people too. As Christians, however, we and destroyed the power of the devil over our lives. need not fear this judgment because Paul goes on to say, As Charles Wesley wrote in his classic “And Can It “that every one may receive the things done in his body, Be?”: “Thine eye diffused a quickening ray, I woke, the according to that he hath done, whether it be good or dungeon flamed with light; my chains fell off, my heart bad” (2 Cor. 5:10). Those who have in this life metH im as

12 THE MESSENGER I February 2 012 >> TEACHERs NEEDED Rehoboth Christian School COPETOWN, ONTARIO their redeeming Sovereign will one day meet is soliciting applicants for elementary and secondary teaching positions Him as their kind and faithful Lord. beginning in September, 2012. For more information about Rehoboth, check out our Christian, why do you call Him your Lord? website at www.rehoboth.on.ca. Please send a cover letter and resume to the attention of: Do you see your Redeemer as exceedingly Mr. Paul Vandenberg, Ed. Committee Chairman precious? An old theologian said that c/o RCS Board Secretary 198 Inksetter Road P.O. Box 70, Copetown, Ontario L0R 1J0 Redeemer is the one name of Jesus that t. 905-627-5977; f. 905-628-4422 • e. [email protected] is intimate and precious because it gives us a sense, not only that we have received HERITAGE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL salvation, but also an appreciation of what invites applications for the 2012/2013 academic year it cost Him to purchase this salvation for • Senior Mathematics, Secondary • Grades 7&8 us. When you survey the wondrous cross on • other potential positions may be available in both which your Redeemer died, do you see, above the elementary and secondary panels all else, that it was for you that He hung HCS • in the heart of Ontario’s beautiful Niagara Peninsula there and died? “O Lord, forbid that because • a student body of 580 students from K to 12 of the weariness of life under the sun, my • a dedicated and supportive Reformed Christian community heart would wax hard and cold to the price • a cohesive, professional faculty and staff of 50+ persons my precious Redeemer has paid for me.” • beautiful, modern facilities, recently expanded and renovated We seek • Qualified applicants who seek to serve Jesus Christ in the area of As the Sovereign Lord’s servant, are you Christian education and who submit to Holy Scripture as confessed in preparing for His coming again? Forbid that the Reformed creeds the Lord would return and find you in the • Committed professionals who positively lead students to a life of dedicated service to our Lord slumber of inactivity. Rather, as Jesus says, • Enthusiastic, dedicated rookies or seasoned veterans looking for a “Let your loins be girded about, and your positive change lights burning: and ye yourselves like unto How to join us men, that wait for the lord” (Luke 12:35-36). • submit a résumé, with a statement of your philosophy of education, a statement of faith, and references, including one from your current pastor Be busy about your Sovereign’s business, Please forward inquiries and/or applications to: doing what He has called you to do, so that Mr. A. Ben Harsevoort, Principal when He comes and knocks you may open Heritage Christian School immediately. Blessed the servant whom the 2850 Fourth Avenue, Box 400, Jordan Station, Ontario, Canada L0R 1S0 Lord finds so doing when He comes. Phone (905) 562-7303; Fax (905) 562-0020 Email: [email protected]; Website:www.hcsjordan.ca “Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord.” Ps. 127:3 Is it with a heart of hope that you look forward to standing before your Judge, THE BOARD OF simply to hear the words, “Well done, good OXFORD REFORMED CHRISTIAN SCHOOL and faithful servant. You have been faithful invites applications for elementary and secondary teaching over a little; I will set you over much. Enter positions for the 2012/2013 school year. We are a parent-run school serving the needs of several local Reformed into the joy of your master”? Do not be communities and have been operating for seven years. We have been deceived, as many these days are, by calling blessed with a new facility located in Mt. Elgin, a rural village in South- Jesus their Saviour but not submitting to western Ontario. Our present enrolment is 215 students and we offer Him as Lord. Jesus warned, “Not every one Kindergarten to grade 12. We have a need for qualified, energetic ele- mentary and secondary teachers to join our staff team. All applicants that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter committed to the Reformed faith and to Christian education are encour- into the kingdom of heaven, but he that aged to apply. Applications should include a resume, statement of faith, doeth the will of my Father” (Matt. 7:21). philosophy of Christian education, and references. Promptly send to: O Christians, “Keep yourselves in the love Oxford Reformed Christian School c/o Mr. W. Van Brugge (principal) of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord 308 Church St., P.O. Box 68, Springford, ON, N0J 1X0 Jesus Christ unto eternal life” (Jude 21). E-mail: [email protected]

February 2012 I THE MESSENGER 13 HOW TO LIVE BY FAITH

In Our Glorious Christ PRACTICAL RELIGION By Rev. Foppe VanderZwaag >>

The Messenger has an agreement with the Banner of Sovereign of perfect love toward God and my neighbor, keeping all Grace Truth (official publication of the Heritage Reformed the commandments which I was unwilling and unable to Congregations), to occasionally exchange articles. This keep. Then, at the end of a perfect life on earth, He loved article by Rev. Foppe VanderZwaag, a pastor of the Heritage me so much that He died so I may live: “I am crucified Netherlands Reformed Congregation in Grand Rapids, with Christ: nevertheless I live.” Michigan appeared in the BSGT December 2011 issue. The moment God’s Spirit uses His Word to quicken me, “I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but all that Christ has done on my behalf is reckoned to me so Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh perfectly that it is “as if I never had had, nor committed any I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave sin; yes, as if I had fully accomplished all that obedience himself for me” (Galatians 2:20). which Christ has accomplished for me, inasmuch as I embrace such benefit with a believing heart” (Heidelberg It is very clear from Scripture that it is God who saves Catechism, Lord’s Day 23). Any believer can say that His sinners. God the Father elects, God the Son redeems, lifelong obedience and His perfect sacrifice on the cross and God the Holy Spirit applies. We are saved “by grace” has become my own obedience and satisfaction to My but also “through faith, and that not of yourselves: it is Father in heaven. Is it yours? the gift of God” (Eph. 2:8). Faith is God’s sovereign and supernatural gift which works in sinners the will and To live by faith in our glorious Christ is also to trust ability to repent from their sins and believe in the Lord exclusively in His ongoing work in us and by us. Believers Jesus Christ for salvation (Canons of Dort; Head 3/4, know and believe that Christ dwells in us. We know that, Art. 12). So, strictly speaking, we are not saved by faith since His body ascended into heaven to make intercession but by Christ, the object of our faith. Faith is the means for us at His Father’s right hand, this indwelling is by His whereby we receive Him and His full salvation. Holy Spirit who convicts us and draws us to see, follow and imitate Him. Though I have begun to live by faith inH im, This is how we begin our life of faith, but it is also how whatever I do right is only by means of His indwelling. Is we continue to live by faith in Him. Galatians 2:20 offers this your hope, desire, and practice? two main aspects of what it means to live by faith in our glorious Christ: His completed work for us and His As always, the emphasis is not on our faith but on ongoing work in us and by us. our glorious Christ. He does everything for you and in you, if your hope is indeed in Him. To live by faith To live by faith in our glorious Christ is to trust and in our glorious Christ is to joyously discover again and rely exclusively on His completed work for us, which again that He will not leave us alone in our ongoing He promised from all eternity to do—and which He has corruptions and failures. “Being confident of this very done in time. “I live by the faith of the Son of God, who thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you loved me, and gave himself for me.” I live because He will perform [perfect and complete] it until the day of lived for me. He loved me so much that He lived my life Jesus Christ” (Phil. 1:6).

14 THE MESSENGER I FEBRUARYFebruary 20122012 >> 2012 “Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet ORGAN & PANFLUTE appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is” (1 John 3:2). Tour RECYCLE YOUR GOOD USED BOOKS

• Your good used books will be received with Organ Panflute thankfulness, specifically books by Reformed authors. Contact Susan Keuning at 905.627.3910; Fax ANDRE KNEVEL and LISELOTTE ROKYTA 905.628.2896; Email: [email protected] Wednesday, March 21 Bethel Christian Reformed Church Road 381 North, Saskatoon, SK • I am interested in any new or used books you wish to (Fundraiser Eurovangelism) sell or donate. Contact Chris at [email protected]; Time - 7:30 pm. Info. 306-652-4655 or 416-727-6473 Tel. 616.371.7170 Thursday, March 22 Bergthaler Mennonite Church 206 2nd St. West, Warman, SK (Fundraiser Eurovangelism) Time - 7:30 pm. Info. 306933-2588 Friday, March 23 Messiah Lutheran Church 4810 - 50 St., Camrose, AB Time - 8:00 pm. Info. 780-672-3444

Saturday, March 24 Gaetz Memorial Church 4758 Ross St., Red Deer, AB Time - 8:00 pm. Info. 403-887-2885 Monday, March 26 Durham Christian Homes 200 Glen Hill Drive South Whitby, ON, Time- 8:00 p.m. Info. 905-430-1666 Tuesday, March 27 Rehoboth United Reformed Church 77 Glancaster Rd., Ancaster, ON Time - 8:00 p.m. Info. 905-574-5527 Wednesday,March 28 East Congregational Church 1005 Giddings Ave., Grand Rapids MI U.S.A. Time - 8:00 p.m. Info. 616-896-7444 or 616-304-9315 Thursday, March 29 First Christian Reformed Church 1106 Exmouth St., Sarnia, ON (with the “The Joyfull/Praise Choir under the direction of John Kaldeway) Time - 7:30 p.m. Info. 519-344-9407 Friday, March 30 Preakness Valley United Reformed Church 480 Valley Rd., Wayne, NJ U.S.A. Time - 8:00 p.m. Info. 973-471-7506 Tuesday, April 3 Trinity Christian Reformed Church 1230 Old Martindale Rd. (South of Lakeshore Rd.) st. Catharines, ON (Fundraiser Beacon Christian School) Time - 7:30 p.m. Info. 905-937-6932 Wednesday, April 4 Canadian Reformed Church 173354 County Rd. 25, R.R.#2, Grand Valley, ON (with Trumpet participation) Time - 8:00 p.m. Info. 519-928-2287 Thursday, April 5 Bethel Canadian Reformed Church 11251 Bayview Ave., Richmond Hill, ON Time: 7.30 p.m. Info: 905-939-9492 Friday, April 6 Listowel United Reformed Church 750 Davidson Ave. N., Listowel, ON (with Children’s choir “Jubilate Deo Young singers”) (Meditation Rev. D. Kranendonk) Time - 7:30 p.m. Info. 519-348-0296

FEBRUARY 2012 I THE MESSENGER 15 PASTORAL ISSUES BY DR. L.W. BILKES

AT THE HOUSE OF

As our society has been moving away from a biblical view that the churches of the Reformation insisted on a very Changesof life and death, the way people view funerals and conduct Mourningsimple burial. One of the first synods (Dort 1574) ruled themselves at them has been changing along with it. In that funeral sermons should be discontinued as soon the interest of keeping or increasing their share of the as possible in order to avoid the danger of superstition. market, funeral homes have adjusted to these changes Localities that had not yet introduced them should not do and in turn have been a force to change people’s habits so. The Synod of Dort (1578) judged likewise and added on the occasions of funerals. that in places where these funeral sermons could not yet be discontinued, these should not be regular sermons but The most marked change has been the introduction of merely extemporaneous words of admonition. the notion and attitude of “celebration of life” into what was known as “the house of mourning” (Eccl. 7:2). The This synod did not even favour prayer at funeral idea is that at the funeral we need to focus on the person’s ‘services,’ doubtless because many people would attach life and contributions and we should have a celebratory superstitious value to such prayers on behalf of the dead atmosphere. These changes should send us back to the person. The Synod of Middelburg (1581) decided that Bible to see how God would have us think of funerals. funeral sermons should not be introduced in places where such had not been done and they should be discontinued Rituals in the most suitable way in places where they had already The Bible says little about funeral ceremonies. The word been introduced. funeral does not even occur in the Bible. However, there are biblical allusions to ceremonies of various sorts that Simplicity indicate that these were not lacking. Since burial took The Dutch Refugee churches in London, England, had place frequently in haste, as in Christ’s case on the very a slightly different practice, as is evident from “The day of His death (John 19:31-33; 41-42), there were no Christian Ordinances of the Dutch Refugee Churches in elaborate ceremonies prior to interment. Emphasis seems London,” written by Marten Micron. There we read: to be on the period of grief and mourning following burial, during which there was extended, and often “showy” Funerals among us take place in all simplicity lamentation, by way of the presence of professional without any pomp of pagan or popish character. mourners (e.g., Luke 8:52). Everything that is done with the dead body is for the instruction and comfort of the living and not During the days when the Roman Catholic Church was of the dead. After all, Jesus Christ in His church departing from Scripture, ceremonies were introduced has not appointed us as ministers of the dead but including the celebration of the mass and expressing the of the living. After the dead body has been brought belief in communion that still exists between the living into church, in the midst of the brethren who have and the dead. The kiss of peace was also given to the body. assembled, the minister speaks a brief exhortation After the mass, the badges of honour of the deceased to the congregation, in which he usually expounds were laid on the altar and a eulogy was given by a family how by Adam death has entered and how by member in honour of the deceased person – listing his Christ death has been overcome and taken away, or her qualities and merits. This was followed by various and then he speaks about the resurrection of the prayers and chants directed at the body. The body was body and the life everlasting. He also points to the then taken out for burial, again accompanied by prayers uncertainty of life and shows how the day of the and chants. Lord will come as a thief. Thereunto he admonishes every one to watch and pray. If there have been any Reformation and excellent virtues in the deceased, then these It is against this background of Roman superstition should be ascribed to the honour of God, and the congregation is exhorted to follow after these grave to bury their dead, the Word of God is going virtues. Particularly, the congregation is stirred along, and it speaks of life. Indeed, the birth of a child up unto conversion of life. After this exhortation and the death of a loved one is “a family affair.” Yet has been made, the deceased is buried. the Christian family is a member of the congregation of the Lord. A funeral gathering, in which a minister The simplicity and God-ward focus of this directive is of the Gospel preaches the Word, is not contrary to obvious and most worthy of imitating. Article 65 of the Church Order, if in that service the Gospel is made known and the deceased person is not Lessons eulogized. In light of the changes that we see happening around us, what should our response be, based on God’s Word. The seriousness of life becomes nowhere clearer than where one confronts the living with death. But nowhere 1. We ought to maintain a solemn and God-centred does the ministry of the Gospel stand out more clearly approach. than where it is proclaimed with all seriousness that “the Death remains a solemn event. Even when the person wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life was a true Christian, the Bible still speaks of death through Jesus Christ our Lord” (Rom. 6:23).1 as an enemy (1 Cor. 15:26). Jesus wept at the grave of Lazarus (John 11:35). Indeed, when a child of God Dr. Lawrence Bilkes is emeritus pastor of the Free Reformed dies, we do not mourn without hope. But we do mourn Church of Grand Rapids. Michigan. (1 Thess. 4:13). God is speaking in every death. We need to be people who listen to what God is saying. Endnotes 1 W. van ‘t Spijker, “Rouwdiensten,” Ambtelijk Contact, 2. We ought to reject eulogizing that glorifies the 1983, 245-248. departed. As a student for the ministry we were taught: “When conducting a funeral service, do not talk about the dead but speak to the living.” This is sound advice! The 15th Annual Many half-truths and outright lies are spoken at separations and funerals. Those who keep silent about Cambridge Reformed Bible Conference the dead but address the living with the gospel will with avoid many temptations. Dr. James White as guest speaker March 23th and 24th, 2012 That is not to say that a“funeral should not be an occasion to speak about death and the Christian hope Theme The World In The Church in general terms.” Some appropriate words may be said Where with reference to the person who has died and whose Calvary Pentecostal Assembly body is about to be buried. But to do so appropriately 127 Hespeler Road (HWY 24), Cambridge, Ontario is very difficult. It must be done fittingly with much Friday 8:00 pm restraint. We need to watch the line between thankful What Is The Effect Of the World On The Church Intellectually? Saturday 10:00 am affection and sentimental superficiality. It may be What Is The Effect Of The World Morally? Saturday 1:00 pm difficult to define, but we should know the difference What Is The Effect Of The World On The Worship Of The Church? and not cross the line. Someone put it like this: Why Dr. James White is the director of Alpha and Omega Ministries, a focus on a flower that has bloomed only for a season, Christian Apologetics organization based in Phoenix, Arizona. He received a B.A. from Grand Canyon College, an M.A. from when you can fix attention on the rainbow of God’s Fuller Theological Seminary, and a Th.M., a Th.D., and a D.Min. from Columbia Evangelical Seminary. He has served as a mercy that reaches from everlasting to everlasting? professor of Greek, Hebrew, Systematic Theology, and various apologetic topics at Golden Gate Baptist Theological Seminary and Columbia Evangelical Seminary, where he received his doctorate and is a consultant for the Lockman Foundation's New 3. We ought to focus on the gospel in life and in American Standard Bible. Dr. White has participated in various moderated debates, death. covering topics such as Calvinism, Roman Catholicism, Islam, Mormonism, and Jehovah's Witnesses. We are surrounded by death. But for those who fear He is an elder of the Phoenix Reformed Baptist Church, has been married to his wife Kelli for the Lord it is also true that, as they are going to the more than twenty-six years, and has two children, Joshua and Summer. news notes & comments By Rev. H. A. Bergsma (Pastor of the Free Reformed Church of Fenwick, ON)

Somali Convert from Islam Whipped in Public: A BOKO HARAM THREATENS CHRISTIANS Somali convert from Islam was paraded before a cheering IN NIGERIA: Since formally linking with crowd last month and publicly flogged as a punishment for al-Qaeda in June 2010, the Nigerian embracing a “foreign religion,” sources said. Sofia Osman, terrorist group Boko Haram has intensified a 28-year-old Christian from Janale city in Somalia’s Lower and expanded its jihad against the state, Shabelle region, had been taken into custody by Islamic vowing to render Nigeria ‘ungovernable.’ extremist al Shabaab militants in November; the public Christians have been hit hard. On Christmas whipping was meant to mark her release. She received 40 Day 2011 a massive car bomb exploded lashes on December 22 while jeered by spectators. “Osman outside St. Theresa Catholic Church at was whipped 40 lashes at 3 p.m., but she didn’t tell what Madalla, Niger State, just 29 km from the other humiliations she had suffered while in the hands of federal capital Abuja. At least 42 were the militants,” an eyewitness, told Compass, adding that killed, most of them incinerated by the whipping left her bleeding. “I saw her faint. I thought she massive fireball that consumed 17 vehicles. had died, but soon she regained consciousness and her A state of emergency has been declared family took her away.” The whipping was administered with tanks and troops now patrolling 15 in front of hundreds of spectators after Osman was of the most hard-hit local government released from her month-long custody in al Shabaab areas. Boko Haram responded by giving camps. Nursing her injuries at her family’s home, in the southerners and Christians three days to days after the punishment she would not talk to anyone leave the north or face more violence. The and looked dazed, a source close in touch with the family battle for Nigeria has begun. (From ASSIST said. She has since been relocated. “Please pray for her News Service) quick recovery,” the source said. Janale, one of Somalia’s This news item added the following major cities, is about 200 kilometers (124 miles) from request: “Please pray specifically that Mogadishu. Osman became a Christian four years ago and churches and individual Christians across was a member of the underground church in the war-torn Nigeria will respond with radical faith: Horn of Africa country largely controlled by the al Qaeda- not as the world does, by putting faith in linked militants from al Shabaab. The al Shabaab militia is weapons, money or might, but by crying being hunted down by Kenya Defense Forces in southern with one voice to the LORD who gives Somalia following the extremists’ incursions into Kenya. strength and wisdom and deliverance. ‘Our They killed and kidnapped tourists and aid workers inside God is a God of salvation, and to GOD, the Kenya, prompting military forces to formally enter into war Lord, belong deliverances from death.’ ‘It to secure its borders. In response, the al Shabaab militants is better to take refuge in the LORD than have targeted churches in northern Kenyan towns such to trust in princes.’ God will intervene as Garissa in the hope of dividing Kenyans along religious in Nigeria to end the terror, expose the lines. The Kenyan public, however, largely backed the falsehood of Islam and deliver his people government decision to pursue the militants deep into from evil. May the wicked who plot evil Somalia. (From Religion News Blog) against the Church be snared in the work of Lest we forget! This again is a reminder that anti- their own hands and repent and turn to the Christian forces are cruel and will do whatever it takes to LORD; may God be glorified. hold back the faith from spreading. Please pray for Sofia and others like her.

18 THE MESSENGER I February 2 012 BEYOND THE PREDICTABLE, by Ray Pennings, January 4, 2012: After reading too many columns summarizing what was in 2011, predicting what might be in 2012, and explaining why the predictions made a year ago were not quite on the mark, I am more than ready to dismiss the entire exercise as a waste of energy. Yesterday’s poll suggesting most Canadians are entering 2012 in an optimistic frame of mind will soon be undone by a bad-news story, and that optimism will be dashed. Of course, if the poll were the other way around, the opposite would also be true. This is not to say such polls are meaningless. Canadians in an optimistic frame of mind are more likely to spend money and take risks than those in a pessimistic mood. Polls and predictions are significant not for the accuracy of what they say but for their effect on those who read them. When it comes to predicting what might shape the world in 2012, a wider lens is needed. Reading January newspapers reminds me of lessons learned from my holiday reading, which tempers the confidence of New Year’s predictions. One of the books I enjoyed was Condoleezza Rice’s recently published memoir. The inside story of the White House response to the inadequately-prepared-for events of September 11, 2001 was a sobering reminder of how our framework of expectations shapes what we see. With hindsight, there was lots of evidence which officials “should have” noticed in order to better prepare for or perhaps even prevent the attacks of September 11th. But the “should” presumes an imperative which was not present. Evidence wasn’t noticed because officials weren’t looking for it, until it was too late and the framework of expectations changed entirely. Another book that occupied a few hours was Pierre Trudeau’s Memoirs. I noticed the book on a shelf and picked it up, wondering how the National Energy Policy of the 1980s was rationalized. This policy is significant both historically and as a contemporary political metaphor. I found surprising to see how starkly Prime Minister Trudeau admitted that ideology was a driving force motivating this policy. “The role of the federal government is to distribute wealth from the affluent to the disadvantaged” writes Trudeau on page 295. “That was our policy for individuals, for regional equalization, and for energy. We were consistent in our devotion to sharing, and I take pride in that.” The third book I read over the holidays was from a very different genre. Just before Christmas, Michael McClymond and Gerald McDermott released The Theology of Jonathan Edwards, which provides an updated overview of the Edwards scholarship. I was reminded of how important “metanarrative”—a term which I associate more with twentieth century than eighteenth century theology—is to understanding Edwards. His History of the Work of Redemption was intended to provide “an entire new method” of doing theology, focusing on a historical rather than a descriptive unfolding of sin and grace. Reflecting on some of Edwards’ text, I was struck how different his approach to public theology was from much of what is practiced today. We are inclined to seek out biblical principles and describe what they mean for us today; Edwards’ method was to observe what was happening today and ask himself, “What does this mean for the unfolding of God’s plan of redemption?” It is a bit of a segue from holiday reading to the nuts and bolts of everyday life, but there are some holiday reading lessons worth applying as we consider the predictions for 2012. Our framework of expectations shape what we look for and see. What we believe often shapes what we do. There is much more going on in the world than just what meets the eye. (From Cardus Blog) Thanks Ray. While we are on the subject of reading, John Piper, with the help of J.I. Packer recommends some reading from the Puritans such as Richard Baxter’s, The Reformed Pastor; Robert Trail’s, Justification Vindicated; John Owen’s, Sin and Temptation; Richard Sibbes’, The Bruised Reed; John Flavel’s, On Keeping the Heart; Thomas Brooks’, Precious Remedies Against Satan’s Devices; Thomas Manton’s, By Faith: Sermons on Hebrews 11; Thomas Watson’s, All Things for Good; William Bridges’, A Lifting Up for the Downcast; Thomas Goodwin’s, The Work of the Holy Spirit; Stephen Charnock’s, Christ Crucified; Jeremiah Burroughs’, The Rare Jewel of Christian Contentment; John Bunyan’s, Pilgrim’s Progress; William Gurnall’s, The Christian in Complete Armour. My prediction is that after reading these books, you’ll have a greater appreciation for biblical and experiential godliness.

February 2012 I THE MESSENGER 19 BOOK STORE

A IN BRANTFORD, ONTARIO

Ever since Banner of Truth Trust, based in mission stories, and historical fiction, by Carine Edinburgh,Reformed Scotland with a U.S . Bookbranch in StoreMackenzie, Piet Prins, Anne DeVries, Susan Hunt, Pennsylvania, began to reprint and publish classic and others. In addition, the store carries selected Reformed literature in the 1950s, followed by books translations of the Bible in various formats, Psalters, of contemporary authors such as A.W. Pink and Dr. CDs, as well as gift certificates and a selection of Martyn Lloyd-Jones, the publication of such books greeting cards. Booklets for outreach that deal with has proliferated. In Canada, until recently, few of such issues from a Christian perspective are available in books were to be found quantities. in a Christian bookstore. But now, hundreds of What is not well known such books for adults is that many of the and children alike may be authors quoted build found in a bookstore in on the foundations of central southern Ontario. Puritans and Reformed theologians such as A wide selection of books Calvin, Luther, Bucer, for children and adults and later scholars such are offered from trusted as Matthew Henry, Reformed authors in- Edwards, Warfield, store, by phone, email Dabney, Bavinck, or from the website, Machen, Van Til, and which lists over 2,000 contemporary Reformed titles. These books are authors such as Packer, from publishers such as Banner of Truth Trust, Sproul, Venema, Beeke, etc. Reformed Book Services, Reformation Heritage Books, Presbyterian and like its “mother,” Reformation Heritage Books at Reformed Publishing, Reformation Trust, Christian Puritan Reformed Theological Seminary in Grand Focus Publications, Evangelical Press, DayOne Rapids, Michigan, has taken its cue and still does so Publications, Inheritance Publications, TBS, and a by mostly selling the same titles. That is why you will number of newer publishers, not widely known. find the names of both book distributors on the ad elsewhere in The Messenger and on the Book Talk The store is located in a business square (a bit pages in the Banner of Sovereign Grace Truth. hidden), but easily accessible because it is on a main artery connected to the 403 in southern Ontario. On Reformed Book Services was established by a group the shelves you will find biographies, devotionals, of likeminded men and women, who have a passion church history books, Bible commentaries and to make classic Reformed literature and books by references, Bible studies, books for office bearers and contemporary authors more widely available to for teaching children. There are books on parenting, Canadians. As a not-for-profit book service, books marriage, the family, counselling and women’s books can be offered at low prices. With the help of some by well-known authors Elisabeth Elliott, Sharon Christian businessmen investing in inventory James, Faith Cook, Christine Farenhorst, etc. There and equipment, the store has been open since the are counselling books by Paul Tripp, Ed Welch, Wayne summer of 2009. Wilma Droogendyk manages the Mack, Brian Chappell, and many others. store, assisted primarily by trained volunteers who also staff book tables at various Bible, church, home Also in stock are many Bible-based activity books for school, women’s and other conferences. It is a lot children, Bible storybooks, children’s devotionals, of work, but everyone involved loves these books

20 THE MESSENGER I FebruaryFebruary 2012201 2 Word & Deed seeks to help people in need by bringing aid in the name of Jesus Christ. and has the same aim as the Board that oversees This is done through spiritual and physical help. Reformed Book Services. WORD & DEED PROJECTS EMPHASIZE: • A focus on the gospel and discipleship • A reliance on indigenous partnerships The aim of Reformed Book Services is to make (they know the language and culture best) available in Canada the increasing number of books • A goal of self-suffi ciency (teach them to fi sh) that are written from a standpoint of the classic Word & Deed supports 5,500 orphans in Malawi, Reformed interpretation of Scripture, including child sponsorship in several countries (provid- ing a Christian education, basic medical care, a those from the Puritan tradition, both reprints and warm meal and a uniform), agricultural projects, contemporary authors. It has been encouraging an HIV/AIDS hospice, vocational training, a home and interesting to note that some in the broader for recovering substance abusers, disaster relief, and much more. evangelical community are also discovering Reformed There are opportunities to sponsor a child, or a Book Services. Who would have thought that there project. As well, business groups are being set up are Pentecostals who enjoy reading Matthew Henry, to sponsor projects with representatives of those A.W. Pink and Lloyd-Jones? And yes, we love to sell groups visiting the projects. Please call toll free to fi nd out more (see below). With your help, we to pastors, elders, deacons, church librarians, Sunday can make a world of difference in thousands of School, neighbourhood outreach and day school lives. teachers, and of course, all walk-ins. Discover and CANADA OFFICE: Toll Free 877.375.9673 PO Box 20100, St. Thomas, ON N5P 4H4 browse in the store or online. email: offi [email protected] U.S.A. OFFICE: Toll Free 866.391.5728 Mrs. Ricky (Frederika) Pronk (Reformed Book Services PO Box 157 Hudsonville, MI 49426 board member) email: usoffi [email protected] For more information contact: REFORMED BOOK Website: www.wordanddeed.org SERVICES, 230 Lynden Rd., Unit 5A (behind Galaxy Car Wash), Brantford, ON N3R 8A3, Tel. 519.304.4709; email: sales@reformedbookservices. BOOKS TO FEED ca; www.reformedbookservices.ca. Store hours are Monday 10am-5pm, Thursday 10am-9pm, Friday YOUR MIND AND SOUL 10am- 5pm, Saturday 10am-3pm. For Catechism Material, Bible Study Guides, Daily Devotions for Adults and Children, Children’s Bible Lessons, and much more, request an Order Form or visit: frcna.org (click on RESOURCES)

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February 2012 I THE MESSENGER 21 BOOK REVIEW By Rev. C. A. Schouls

TEACHING THE DOCTRINE OF PREDESTINATION PASTORALLY

TEACHING PREDESTINATION, Elnathan Parr with the lesser known theologians and preachers of and Pastoral Ministry in Early Stuart England by Jacobean England, Puritan or otherwise. Although David H. Kranendonk. Published in the series Reformed “lesser known” today, he was rather well recognized Historical-Theological Studies by Reformation Heritage and respected in earlier days. For twenty-two years Books, Grand Rapids, Michigan, 2011; 201 he served as personal rector to Lady Jane pages, softcover; $17.00 U.S. Cornwallis Bacon, as well as filling several In Canada: Reformed Book Services, other parish pulpits in Suffolk County. His Brantford, ON. Tel. 519-304.4709; main publication was a commentary on Email: [email protected] Romans. He was not a “Puritan” in the strict sense of the word; he remained loyal to the Introduction Church of England and he demonstrated “Teaching Predestination” – a title that may love and honour to King James (whom later not attract a wide reading audience but which, scholarship has shown not to be so lovable if it did, would be an eye opener to many who and honourable). He strongly opposed the may think of “Predestination” as that cold, heartless non-conformist Brownists and he had little use for the Reformed doctrine that makes many Reformed people more extreme views of those who objected to liturgical cold and heartless. If the latter are such, they have not uses and manners still evident in the Anglican Church understood this glorious doctrine; if the former are – he considered vestments and hand motions, etc., as such, they could do no better than to be introduced to matters indifferent. But in issues that really counted, this little jewel of a study. he was a Puritan. His writings have been said to “breathe the saintly scholarship of the puritan era” Pastor Kranendonk is to be congratulated on this (http://www.the-highway.com) effort and the church at large, not just the Free Reformed Churches in which he pastors the Bornholm Educated at Cambridge during the 1590s (B.A., congregation. They may be thankful that the Lord M.A., and B.D. 14 years later) he served at a time has gifted him with scholarly abilities and linguistic when a major controversy occupied many divines skills which allow him to set this very readable, well in the Church of England, which was centred in the researched and thoroughly documented book before Cambridge University. The Lambeth Articles of 1595 us. It is, as he informs us, the product of a master’s (issued without the permission of Queen Elizabeth thesis. Therefore the church may look forward to which caused her to balk at their publication!) really more from him and, perhaps, this could be a basis for failed to settle the issue. This was the atmosphere in more work in this area. Surely, the comparison and which Parr studied and began his ministry. connection between developments in English and Continental (Dutch) reformed theology have not yet “Survey of Scholarship” been exhausted. In his introduction, Kranendonk gives a brief but rather penetrating “Survey of Scholarship” regarding the issue Who Was Parr? of predestination and its teaching in the setting of the Elnathan Parr (1577- 1622) surely must be counted English Reformation in the early seventeenth century.

22 THE MESSENGER I FEBRUARY 2012 He marks out four areas of interest and discussion. 8 to 12 as a window into his age’s church life.

1st the continuing debate between those who stress In three chapters Kranendonk lays out the evidence, the perceived contrast between Calvin and the drawn from Parr’s writings, proving that Predestination Calvinists and the rising school which argues for can be taught without it leading to lack of assurance or greater continuity between Reformation and post- descending into the arid regions of brittle speculation. Reformation thought. At the same time, Parr, who had shown evidence of the influence of William Perkins and William Whitaker, The 2nd concern is with those who argue that two eminent Puritan teachers at Cambridge, was not predestination has been given a controlling position afraid to differ with their supralapsarian position (a which has serious implications for exegesis, claiming view of the order of God’s decrees which must result that a certain scholastic view of inspired Scripture has in the position that only the elect are in the Covenant imposed a template of proof texts which results in of Grace). This is an indication of his pastoral, mild the building of a rigid theological system. This view is mannered and warm hearted Calvinism. In Chapter meeting with growing opposition, which is providing 3 we are introduced to Parr’s “Principles of Teaching;” evidence that careful scholarship, building on those Chapter 4 reviews some aspects of his “Exposition who have gone before, serves the Church well. of Romans;” while in Chapter 5 we are led into his catechism, “Grounds of Divinitie.” The 3rd area deals with the assumption that the fruit of teaching the doctrine of predestination is to create To be continued, D.V. a divide between it and practical piety. An appeal has been made by some scholars to the anti-Calvinism of Rev. Carl A. Schouls is emeritus pastor, serving the the day to demonstrate the un-pastoral character of Brantford, Ontario Free Reformed congregation. predestinarian teaching – supposedly it made people anything but “assured.” The Puritan proclivity for dealing with such “cases of conscience” was a result of their own un-pastoral wielding of this sword of the Word. Some of these scholars therefore speak of “experimental predestinarians” as opposed to “creedal Those who look predestinarians.” However, there is growing evidence and agreement that this was not the way of most to be happy must preachers; in fact, quite on the contrary, predestination was taught for the spiritual growth and well-being of first look to be holy. the hearers. Richard Sibbes The 4th and final area of debate concerns the extent to which the Reformed view of predestination was received and transmitted in England. Was there a general Reformed consensus in the Church of England in the late 16th to early 17th century? Were the leading theologians rather hard supralapsarians and was this the view of many in the Church? Or was it different altogether and was the church treading a middle way between Rome and Geneva?

These matters form the context for Kranendonk’s study, which will consider the popular teaching of predestination in two genres: sermons and catechisms, focussing specifically on the pastoral use of the doctrine in preaching, using Parr’s own comments on Romans

FEBRUARY 2012 I THE MESSENGER 23 FAMILY ANNOUNCEMENTS

ANNIVERSARY ‘TIS A POINT I LONG TO KNOW January 19, 1957-2012 “Ye that fear the Lord, trust in the Lord: ‘Tis a point I long to know, (Oft it causes anxious thought) He is their help and their shield.” Do I love the Lord, or no? Am I His, or am I not? Psalm 115:11 If I love, why am I thus? Why this dull and lifeless frame? With joy and thankfulness to the Lord for Hardly, sure, can they be worse Who have never heard His name. all His mercies, we announce the 55th Wedding Anniversary of our Could my heart so hard remain, Prayer a task and burden prove, parents, grandparents, and Every trifle give me pain, If I knew a Saviour’s love? great grandparents When I turn my eyes within, All is dark, and vain, and wild, Filled with unbelief and sin, Can I deem myself a child? HERMAN & MINI WOLTJER Andy and Edna Woltjer If I pray, or hear, or read, Sin is mixed with all I do; William Roy Woltjer (January 26, You that love the Lord indeed, Tell me, is it thus with you? 1960~January 4, 1977) Annette and Murray Wiersma Yet I mourn my stubborn will Find myself a grieve and thrall; Herb and Debi Woltjer Should I grieve for what I feel, If I did not love at all? Jeanne and Marvin Ebens

23 Grandchildren Could I joy His saints to meet, Choose the ways I once abhorred, 7 Great-Grandchildren Find at times the promise sweet, If I did not love the Lord?

Together, you have experienced life’s Lord, decide the doubtful case; Thou who art Thy people’s Sun, joys and sorrows. May the Lord Shine upon Thy work of grace, If it be indeed begun. continue to bless you richly. Home Address: Let me love Thee more and more, If I love at all, I pray; 4743 49a Ave. Lacombe, If I have not loved before, Help me to begin today. Alberta T4L 1N4 John Newton, 1779, from Olney Hymns

24 THE MESSENGER I February 201 2