• ~From The Presbyterian Guardian theEditor======l (ISSN 0032-7522)

Managing Editor: J. Cameron Fraser Synods and General Assemblies committee assigned last year to study the Layout Artist: Robert E. Smith issue received permission from the Synod Last month we gave rather extensive cov­ to confer with a similar committee from Board of Trustees: erage to the meeting of the Orthodox the Presbyterian Church in America Class of 1979 Presbyterian Church's 46th General As­ (PCA) which has given considerable time .. F. Kingsley Elder, Jr. sembly in Beaver Falls, Pa. The OPC was to this issue. George E. Haney the first of the five NAPARC (National An eight-page report from the Study Leonard Lowrey Association of Presbyterian and Reformed Committee on the Sharing of Economic James R. Peaster Churches) churches to hold its annual Resources presented 16 practical sugges­ O. Palmer Robertson "business meeting." We cannot give such tions by means of which individuals, John H. White extensive coverage to the meetings of the churches and presbyteries might learn to Class of 1980 other four denominations, but this report share their abundance with those who Hugh Brown will attempt to pinpoint some of the high­ have less. The report noted that the John P. Galbraith lights of those meetings as they affect the Bible "clearly allows Christian men and Robley J.Johnston interests of Christ's church. I am indebted women to enjoy at least some of the priv­ Arthur W. Kuschke to Mr. Joel Belz, News and Management ileges of wealth." Also, it noted that. Paul Settle Editor of The Presbyterian Journal and "Giving can come from poverty, and it is John H. Van Voorhis to Dr. L. De Koster, Editor of The Banner not simply something the rich should do," Class of 1981 for much of the material on which this Nevertheless the report clearly indicated Glenn H. Andreas report is based. a concern for the church to take seriously its ministry to the poor, giving extensive Edmund P. Clowney RPCES Le Roy B. Oliver scriptural quotations to support this con­ The Reformed Presbyterian Church Joseph A. Pipa cern. Evangelical Synod (RPCES) met in Robert L. Reymond Greenville, S.C. for its 157th General RPCNA A. Michael Schneider, III Synod, May 25-31. Dr. T. Robert Palmer, The Reformed Presbyterian Church of Officen: Vice-President for Development at Cov­ North America, (RPCNA) commonly re­ Acting President: O. Palmer Robertson enant Theological Seminary, succeeded ferred to as "Covenanters" became the Secretary: Le Roy B. Oliver Dr. David C. Jones as moderator. first of the NAPARC churches to officially Treasurer: George E. Haney , One major report before the Synod con­ commit itself to a '''one office" view of the I cerned the denomination's historic stance eldership. This decision was made at the I CONTENTS on ecclesiastical separation. Much dis­ denomination's 150th Synod meeting at , cussion surrounded the question of just Beaver Falls, Pa, The Synod which met what it means to call another denomina­ from June 8-15 elected the Rev. R. Ren­ I Synods and General Assemblies 2 tion "apostate." One speaker, Dr. John wick Wright as moderator. Mr. Wright I The Church and the School 4 M. L. Young of Covenant College, noted: serves as Professor of New Testament at I, Christianity and Politics in Peru 6 "I would like to see our report make a the Reformed Presbyterian Theological J Responding to Today's Holocaust 8 sharp distinction between the legitimacy Seminary in Pittsburgh, Pa. / Reformed Church Leader in Japan 10 of separating from a corrupt church and The RPCNA's decision on the eldership Book Reviews 12 the necessity of separating from such a issue means that teaching and ruling News and Views 13 church. elders enjoy the same role in the church, Letters 14 Our separatist movement was com­ although their functions may differ. Prac­ We Have Been Sued! 16 pletely legitimate but I don't think we are tical implications of the decision involve J in a position to say that after we had questions such as whether ruling elders • made the separation it was absolutely may administer the sacraments, perform ) The Presbyterian Guardian is published eleven necessary for others to do the same, or marriages, and whether their membership times each year, every month except for a com­ that it was sinful for them not to do the should be in the local churches where bined issue in July-August, by the Presbyterian Guardian Publishing Corporation, 7401 Old same." they serve or, as in the case of teaching York Road, Philadelphia, Pa. 19126, at the fol· A problem which the RPCES shares elders, in the presbyteries. lowing rates, payable in advance, postage pre­ paid: $4.75 per year ($4.25 in clubs of ten or with its sister denominations is that of Some members of Synod dissented from more; special rate for "every-family churches" defining the role of the ruling elder in the decision, and even those who sup­ on request). Second class mail privileges author­ ported it indicated the need for caution ized at the Post Office, Philadelphia, Pa. relation to that of the teaching elder. A

2 The Presbyterian Guardian in implementing the sweeping govern­ sions the elders may elect one of their own should be held. The PCA also decided mental changes which the decision in­ number to preside or to serve as tem­ not to join the other four NAPARC volves. porary moderator. churches for a second concurrent meeting One "Covenanter" distinctive is its The Assembly also added an amend­ of General Assemblies and Synods in at "Testimony," which is a practical up-to­ ment to the report, specifying that the Grand Rapids, Mi. in 1982. Instead, date commentary on the Westminster Con­ deacons of a local church as well as the the PCA will meet at Beaver Falls, Pa. fession of Faith and Catechisms. A re­ elders must be men. This was adopted in 1982. The other NAPARC churches vised "Testimony," ten years in the mak­ with only a few negative votes. have all agreed to meet in Grand Rapids. ing, is now completed and is being sent Another decision concerned divorced In another decision the Assembly voted down to the presbyteries and sessions for and remarried men holding office in the not to join the Reformed Ecumenical approval. Anticipated debate on the church. Divorced and remarried men who Synod, but to instruct the Interchurch "Testimony's" section on the use of alco­ have shown sufficient evidence of "repent­ Relations Committee to assemble and dis­ holic beverages never materialized. "To ance for sin" and who have been "re­ tribute to the churches a bibliography of prevent damage to our neighbor," says habilitated sufficiently in the confidence RES documents and to prepare a recom­ the section that was adopted, "to provide and respect of other Christians" may mendation regarding the advisability of mutual help in godly living and to serve as ministers and elders in the Pres­ membership in the RES for consideration strengthen each other in living a disci­ byterian Church in America, it was de. by the Eighth General Assembly. plined life, it is altogether wise and cided. CRC Some of the committee who had studied proper that Christians should refrain from The Synod of the Christian Reformed the questions for over two years ad­ the use, sale and manufacture of alcoholic Church, meeting in Grand Rapids, Mi. mitted they had changed their minds in beverages." from June 12-22. with the Rev. Leonard regard to critical New Testament passages J. Hofman of Holland, Mi. presiding, PeA such as I Timothy 3:2, where Paul says had a number of controversial issues with The Presbyterian Church in America that an elder must be "the husband of which to deal. (PCA) accomplished the unusual by fin­ one wife." The Greek, said one commit­ Perhaps the most serious concerned the ishing its business a day early at Char­ tee member, clearly indicated that polyg­ case of Dr. Allen Verhey, Assistant Profes­ lotte, N.C. The General Assembly was amy, not divorce is in view here. The final sor in Religion at Hope College, Holland, originally scheduled to meet from June vote was 418 to 108 with 38 commissioners Mi. Dr. Verhey was charged by the con­ 15-22. recording negative votes in the Assembly sistory of Dutton, Mi. with holding to a Mr. William F. Joseph, a ruling elder minutes. at Trinity Presbyterian Church in Mont­ method of biblical interpretation "that gomery, Ala. was elected moderator, to Perhaps the most controversial of the permits him to deny what the Bible says." succeed the Dr. G. Aiken Taylor. Mr. PCA's decisions-at least from the broad In particular, his views as to the histo­ Joseph's election perpetuated a PCA tra­ perspective of the NAPARC churches­ ricity of the Genesis account of man's fall dition of alternating between teaching was the refusal to join with the Orthodox and of the earthquake recorded in Mat­ and ruling elders in the selection of its Presbyterian Church and Reformed Pres­ thew 28:2 were questioned. moderators. byterian Church, Evangelical Synod in The Synod accepted Dr. Verhey's con­ The controversial issue of the number consultations with a plan of merger in fession that the Bible is the fully reliable of church officers has been studied by the view." Before the vote was taken, the As­ and authoritative Word of God, but urged PCA since 1974. Discussion of the ques­ sembly decided not to approve the pro­ him to reexamine his method of interpre­ tion was terminated this year with final posal unless three-fourths of the commis­ tation under the guidance of his consis­ adoption of a paper which specifies two sioners agreed. Thus, the 352-202 vote in tory (Neland Avenue Christian Reformed offices (elder and deacon) with certain favor of negotiations, although a consid­ Church, Grand Rapids, Mi.). The Dutton specific functions reserved for teaching erable majority was not sufficient for the consistory was commended for its concern, elders (ministers) in distinction to ruling proposal to pass. Supporters of the pro­ but cautioned not to continue making elders. Thus, only ordained ministers will posal were obviously dissatisfied with the "unwarranted and unsubstantial charges be allowed to administer the sacraments result and later managed to secure ap­ against Dr. Verhey." and they are considered to have a special proval of a six-man committee to "deter­ Among other actions of Synod are the "preaching" authority in distinction to mine and define possible areas of differ­ following: Appointment of a committee the privilege of "expounding the Word ence and difficulty" among the denomina­ to produce a new translation of the of God" or "exhorting." Only the pastor tions. The Reformed Presbyterian Church Canons of Dordt: appointment of a com­ may be the permanent moderator of a in North America (Coventers) was added mittee to prepare a preliminary draft of church's session, although on special occa- to the churches with whom discussions (continued on page 7)

July/August 3 of the theological education that ma}' properly be undertaken by the church. These limits do not allow for the in­ TheChurch clusion in the programme of theolog­ ical education undertaken by the I church of such a curriculum of theo­ I & The School logical studies as is necessary to equip I Wallace W. Marshall, Jr. men for a competent discharge of the gospel ministry. Since the church J must not exceed the terms of its com­ mission and must limit itself to those Introduction. sion be determined? It would seem that activities which Holy Scripture estab­ ~ The whole subject of the educational the "regulative principle" is certainly ap­ lishes as the proper function of the j ministry of the church is vast indeed; but plicable at this point, and that means that church, it is the judgment of the it is an area of concern which needs the church's mission or activity must be Committee that it would be a usurpa­ I periodic study and reevaluation by the limited to those tasks commanded in the tion of authority and a violation of church. The general subject of Christian Word of God. Neglect of this principle the order which Christ has instituted I education includes such complex ques­ , has greatly weakened the church in our in his church for the church to under­ tions as whether there is a teaching office own day. The church in many places is take the conduct of the comprehen­ in the church distinct from the pastoral J involved in world hunger relief, operation sive theological education which is office, and if so, where these teachers are of hospitals, schools, clinics of all sorts, ordinarily and properly undertaken to perform the duties of office. It in­ and a preoccupation with distinctly polit­ by theological seminaries or by theo­ J cludes the whole area of the nurture of ical and other temporal concerns. With­ logical faculties in universities! I covenant children and young people and out the regulative principle, the church ~ such things as a "Sunday school." It also, might think that any number of worth­ The report does not deal with the ques­ includes the area of church involvement while activities may be undertaken in tion of whether the church may operate j in general educational institutions. This support of its spiritual goals. academic institutions other than a sem­ report cannot adequately address the The late Professor John Murray, in an inary, but it is clear that if the church I whole area of Christian education. It is I article published in the Minutes of the may not operate a full theological train­ concerned in the first place with the spe­ 1945 General Assembly of the Orthodox ing program it may not operate an educa­ cific question of whether the church may Presbyterian Church says, "The church tional program which is broader and more I lawfully operate an academic institution. must limit itself to those activities which secular in its scope. In this particular However, other areas of interest in con­ the Holy Scripture defines as its proper study undertaken at the General Assembly nection with the primary subject will also function." The article was one of three level the majority and ihinority reports be discussed as a matter of interest and as and the report of a separate committee a basis for further study. This report will published as part of the majority report formed to evaluate the majority and concern itself, then, with four areas: First, of the Committee on Theological Educa­ minority papers-all concurred that "sec­ The basis on which the question must be tion appointed by the II th General As­ ular and vocational studies are not the answered; second, Responsibility for sembly "to study the extent of the respon­ proper domain of the church. The church Christian education of children; third, sibility of the church in the matter of pro­ should not attempt to establish educa­ Historical precedents; and fourth, The viding theological education and the man­ tional systems."! "doctoral" office in the church. ner in which this responsibility should be If we ask why the church may not discharged." Other articles in the majority operate a broad program of academic in­ I The Basis on Which the Question report were written by Professors R. B. struction the answer can only be that the Must Be Answered Kuiper and Paul Woolley. All three men Scriptures only define the teaching mission Should a church operate an academic concurred in the following statement in of the church in terms of teaching the institution. This must be answered in the introduction to the full report: Word of God. Indeed, the great commis­ terms of the mission of the church. In The commission given by God to sion given by our Lord to his disciples, other words, is such operation or should his church requires the conduct on "Go ye therefore and teach all nations, such operation be a part of the church's the part of the church of certain baptizing them in the name of the Father, mission? This question necessitates a fur­ forms of theological education. There ther question, How must the church's mis- • "Report of the Committee on Theological are, however, strict limits to the scope Education Elected by the Eleventh General Assembly," Minutes of the Twelfth General 'John Murray. "The Responsibility of the Assembly .of the Orthodox Presbyterian The Rev. Wallace W. Marshall, Jr. is Church in the Matter of Theological Educa­ Church, May 17-23, 1945, p. 74. a minister in the Orthodox Presbyterian tion," Minutes of the 12th General Assembly • Minutes of the Thirteenth General Assem­ of the Orthodox Presbyterian Church, May bly of the Orthodox Presbyterian Church, Church. 17-23, 1945, p. 81. May 21-28, 1946, p. 92.

4 The Presbyterian Guardian and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: task of the church has sought to establish Scottish mmisters in the SupervISion of teaching them to observe all things what­ a broader teaching ministry in the New general education was a thing assumed to soever I have commanded you," focuses Testament. It follows, then, that the be correct rather than something estab­ squarely on the centrality of teaching to church as the church cannot teach or as­ lished from Scripture. the mission of the church. However, it is sume responsibility for teaching anything No one will deny that there is a great the teaching of the Word of God ("what­ but the Word of God. Since the teaching need for distinctly Christian Schools, and soever I have commanded you") which is of science, mathematics, medicine, philos­ in the debate on Presbyterian parochial clearly in view. In both evangelism and ophy, law, and history is not the teaching schools in the mid-19th century, all on edification the church must teach the of the Word of God, instruction in these both sides of the debate were strongly whole counsel of God (Acts 20:27). We subjects may not lawfully be conducted opposed to the secularization of educa­ should remember that the work of our under the auspices of the church. Even tion. It may well be that teachers or­ Lord Jesus Christ was that of a teacher. within the sphere of theological education dained by the church should wherever "And Jesus went about all Galilee, teach­ in its broad sense there are some subjects possible teach the Word of God in such ing in their synagogues, and preaching the which do not come within the scope of schools (see section IV below); but in gospel of the kingdom ... ." (Matt. 4: the theological education which is the re­ answer to the question whether the 23). There are fifty-seven specific refer­ sponsibility of the church. One such area church may operate or sponsor such ences in the gospels to the teaching activ­ is instruction in the history of the church. schools the answer must be negative inas­ ity of our great Redeemer. He taught All would concede that such a study is much as such teaching exceeds the what the Father had taught him (John 8: most useful especially in the training of a church's divine mandate to teach and 28). How true was the acknowledgment of gospel minister. A good understanding of preach the gospel. Nicodemus, "We know that thou art a church history will help the minister to be In my study of this question I have teacher come from God" (John 3:2). The a more effective teacher of the Word of been driven back again and again to this Word of Christ is the Word of God, and God, but "since the teaching of church basic and fundamental consideration. And it was nothing less and nothing more than history is not teaching of the Word of the fact that this consideration has often this which the apostles taught. What Paul God, it is not a part of the teaching com­ been lacking in written testimony con­ the apostle taught in the churches was mitted to the church." Professor Murray cerning church involvement in general received by immediate revelation from also places instruction in the original education makes the consideration no less God (Gal. 1:12). All of the apostles taught languages of Scripture in the same care­ crucial. In matters regarding the church's what the Holy Spirit had brought to their gory. On the other hand Murray allows mission we dare not go where we are not remembrance: "he shall teach you all systematic theology, Old and New Testa­ commanded no matter how attractive the things, and bring all things to your re­ ment studies and some aspects of apolo­ prospect or urgent the appeal. membrance, whatsoever I have said unto getics as coming within the legitimate (to be continued) you" (John 14:26). This task of teaching scope of the church's instruction.' the Word of God is an enormous one. Many practical and often urgent arguments have been adduced to show the AT THE PRINTER NOW Rightly maintaining and dividing the need for church operation of schools. As Word of Truth, expounding and applying publicly and privately the doctrine of the we shall see under section III below (His­ sixty-six books of the Holy Bible, includ­ torical Precedents) some of the greatest diu ing those truths not expressly taught but figures in historic American Presbyterian­ IIlIDIOOI which are necessarily consequent from ism have argued at length for Presby­ by that which is expressly taught, is more terian parochial schools, but not one, to Berghoef/De Koster than enough to occupy the full attention my knowledge, has sought to show from Scripture that such an undertaking is a A PRACTICAL GUIDE and most diligent effort of the church as proper function of the church. Even the an institution. This church on earth has FOR CHURCH LEADERS ecclesiastical involvement of Genevan and never reached the place nor will it ever Christian's Library Press Inc. reach the place where it may say it has • John Murray, op. cit., p. 80 Box 2226 • Ibid. (At the same time it is interesting to adequately fulfilled this great task. note that Murray and R. B. Kuiper in an ar­ Grand Rapids, MI49501 Through most of its history it has fallen ticle immediately following Murray's in the far short of its great obligation to faith­ minutes, both affirm that even theology need not be conducted under the auspices of the Contacts in Arizona fully maintain and propound the Word church. Both men affirm that not all teaching Families of Reformed faith convictions who of God. of the Word of God need be conducted by the are moving to the Prescott, Arizona area will church. Teaching of the Word of God in the find like minds and fellowship with the Pres­ It cannot be shown that the teaching home by parents is cited as a case in point. function in the New Testament is any Prof. Kuiper goes on to maintain that "the cott Presbyterian Church in America. Provid­ ing a full ministry of preaching and teaching broader than the teaching of the Word of science of theology is not the exclusive prop­ erty of the church" (p, 83) and acknowledges in the Reformed Faith. Write Pastor Charles God. None of the materials I have re­ that theology has an important function to E. Turner, P.O. Box 248, Prescott. AZ 86302. viewed in connection with the educational fulfill with respect to other secular disciplines.) Ph. (602) 778·2538.

July/August 5 can be educated. However, I'm completely convinced that the essence of our prob­ lems is moral and spiritual. In this situa­ Christianity& tion, only a living faith in the living Christ can change our personal and social situation. Politics inPeru: Q What can a Christian do to bring about Aninterviewwith the necessary changes? A IbdroArana That is a very pertinent question. Christians should realize that our faith is personal, but not individualistic. That is Mr. Pedro Arana-Quiroz is the Latin faith in the Lord, faith that is based on to say, among other things, that we are American Secretary for the International the Scriptures. I thought about different Christians 24 hours of the day, in every Fellowship of Evangelical Students. He is areas that had to be taken into considera­ place we go. Jesus Christ cannot stay out­ a ruling elder in the San Andres Evan­ tion. The first area was the ideological side while I close a business deal, or when gelical Church of Peru. Last year he was one. A great number of the parties were I have to take care of a document with elected to a 100 member Constitutional of the Communist sort, that is to say justice, or when a case arises in which I Assembly (chosen from 1)200 candidates) dogmatic Marxists. I cannot see how a have to remind my unbelieving friends which has been commissioned to draft a Christian can be a committed evangelical of the present force of the ten com­ new constitution for Peru. Upon success­ and a dogmatic Marxist. The second mandments. That is to say that my faith ful completion of their task, elections are area was ecclesiastical. In the basic doesn't live and die with me, but that to be held for a civilian government fol­ Peruvian situation there are two parties by the grace of God we have to live it out lowing 11 years of military rule. The As­ with the name "Christian," but they have in this world in relation to other people. sembly has until July 28, 1979 to complete their connections with the Roman Cath­ Our faith is not merely something "religi­ its work. Mr. Arana kindly made the fol­ olic Church. For we evangelicals, "Chris­ ous" but it must embrace and effect the lowing interview available to us. tian" is always a name never an adjective. totality of our lives. This brings us to the It is a different thing to be a Christian fact that there is an evangelical ethic that Q than to participate in a popular party, or cannot be separated from faith. This ethic to belong to one where that which is is that for which we must ask for grace to Why did you get involved in political Christian is secondary. The third area is live in our labor relations, family and activities? strategy. There have existed in this coun­ social relations, economic relations, etc. A try parties that have represented families And the changes will come... We mustn't In the first place, let me say that all or groups with well defined economic forget that the Lord gives us "abundant Christians as citizens participate in power. They also represent an ideology, life" in order to begin to live here and politics; even our silence or "staying out in this case Capitalism, which I also feel now. The Christian hope should not be i of things," is also a form of participation. cannot be identified with the gospel. an excuse not to comply with our tem­ Personally, I've always understood the Their "pragmatic materialism" leaves poral responsibilities. gospel as a new life that Christ has given great sections of the common man have I us in order to live in this world, in the to suffer. As you can see, the options were Q different spheres of relationships where getting less. Taking them all together and What has been the reaction of the Evan­ 1 trusting in the leadership of the Lord, I I he has placed us and in the circumstances gelical Church to your election to the j ,nd contingencies of the world. Then, had to make my personal, non-transferable Constitutional Assembly? I when the opportunity came to participate decision. I directly in an affair of such great impor­ Q A J tance for the future of my country, I felt I I cannot give a general answer for the In your judgment, what are the most had no reason to deny myself this oppor­ church, but I have received moral support important changes that Peru should tunity, or this open door, and of seeing it from letters and words of encouragement J as the leading of our Lord. make? " from many brothers. Also, I have received f Q A spiritual support because of the prayers of I But you had to take a political option. The fundamental economic problem, to many people. In all sincerity I am pro­ How did you do it? my way of seeing things, is the land. Con­ foundly grateful. A Well, '1 had to think about the situa­ nected with this is nutrition and health, Q tion in my country in the light of my which are basic in order that the people What has been the attitude of your col-

6 The Presbyterian Guardian there can be no change. If we are his, Synods and General Assemblies we kpow that we are where we are (continued) because it is his will. Having said this, I understand my responsibility is to be a contemporary testimony. with mandate his witness where I am. Perhaps I am to report to Synod '83; rejection of an more conscious of two very simple, yet overture granting consistories the right to very profound things: that our testimony admit lodge members into church com­ will be unfruitful, negative or even munion; reiteration of positions previ­ counterproductive without the presence ously taken by Synods of 1959, 1961 and and power of the Holy Spirit; on the other 1972 on the inerrancy and infallibility of hand, it is not for me to do the work of the Scriptures; referral of the report and the Holy Spirit. I would like to express recommendations of a Study Committee it in the words that I think were on Capital Punishment to churches for Spurgeon's. "I am a man," he said, "that study, reflection and response until Octo­ cannot pray ten minutes consecutively, ber 15, with final report of this study and yet cannot be ten minutes without committee to Synod '81; appointment of a prayer." study committee to review without preju­ Pedro Arana Q dice the '78 report on hermeneutical prin­ How can biblical principles become a ciples and the decision to admit women leagues in the Assembly and what do they part of the actual situation in which Peru to the office of deacon, further to study think about your participation in it? is living? and define the office of deacon and the A A appointment of women as deacons in re­ lation to the concept of male headship My colleagues on the bench are very Perhaps you know that in 1970 I pre­ and the nature of authority ... instruct­ courteous and friendly and their recep­ sented my thesis to the Faculty of Theo­ ing consistories to defer implementation tion is helping me understand political logy of the Free Church of Scotland en­ of the 1978 decision until the study com­ work better. They, as well as the rest of titled, "Providence and Revolution" and mittee reports to Synod '81. the representatives, know my religious that it was later published with this title. position, and I have had the opportunity In it I have talked about this subject. In Conclusitm to converse with some of them on themes summary, I can say that the search for A first glance at the five NAPARC related to the gospel. On Wednesday, and the fight for justice is Christian work. churches at work might tend to highlight November 8, 1978 when a Bible was Politics is a vocation. Therefore, our their differences. In particular, there has given to each representative by the Bible country needs more Christians with this been growing concern over some of the Society of Peru, I was asked many ques­ vocation, participants in the national life. decisions of the CRC; concern which led tions about different passages. And I as For me the opportunity that was pre­ John Vander Ploeg, himself a member of well as our brother Arnaldo Alvarado, sented was to live in practice that which the CRC, to write in the June Outlook who is also participating in the Assembly, I had lived in my mind. . . now we are that this year's Synod would be another have had opportunities to testify to our being consistent. "battle for the Bible." Yet, it is clear that faith. Arnaldo spoke at a recent press there are those within the CRC who are conference how he came to know Jesus concerned about the direction in which Christ. This press conference was held in their church may be going. And, if noth­ preparation for the civic parade that we Teaching Positions ing else, this year's decision to reexamine held in Lima to commemorate the date, the issue of women deacons does seem to Make application immediately for openings November II, of the promulgation of this fall at Faith Christian School. Applicants reflect a concern to be faithful to Scrip­ liberty of public worship in churches in should have an understanding of and com­ ture. this country. mitment to the Lord Jesus Christ and ap­ On the more positive side, there ap­ plication of that commitment and under­ pears to be a growing awareness of the Q standing through a Biblical World & Life View as it relates to true God centered edu­ unity of the church. True, the PCA de­ Has there been any change in your cation. The openings are for a first grade cision not to pursue merger negotiations personal relationship with God because of teacher and a second & third grade combined is discouraging. Yet, the fact is that the classroom teacher. This is an opportunity to majority in the PCA do favor closer re­ the demands of the work you do? be involved in a growing Day School where A Christ is Lord. lations among the churches. Doubtless, the PCA will be missed in Grand Rapids Thanks to his sovereign grace, it is the Make inquiries to: in 1982, but the case is far from lost for Lord who has entered into relationship William C. Lanier Faith Christian School those whose hope it is to see the various with me; therefore, I am able to rest in 4100 Ronnaki Road churches discussing their strikingly similar his faithfulness. From this point of view, Anniston, AL. 36201 items of business under one roof.

July/August 7 Still, how should we respond? Some suggestions are listed here to help you in getting started. Remembering that Respondingto this is only a beginning, Christians nation­ wide ought ...

... to PRAY 'Iodays Holocaust Let Scripture guide your prayer (see Matt. 5:44; I Thess. 5:17; I Tim. 2:1; Jas. Tom Seelinger 5:16;. I Pet. 4:7). Pray for those in author­ ity. Pray for guidance concerning the ex­ I tent of your involvement in the pro-life The Lord said to Moses, "Say to the Is­ which idol are these children being sacri­ movement, as some are called to a deeper J raelites: 'Any Israelite or any alien living ficed through abortion? The idols are commitment than others. Remember that, in Israel who gives any of his children to varied, and though appearing sincere, they ... our struggle is not against flesh and Molech must be put to death. The people are nevertheless idols. blood, but against rulers, against the I are to stone him. I will set my face against Some children are sacrificed to the idol authorities, against the powers of this ) that man and will cut him off from his of "career hopes"; others to a god called, dark world and against the spiritual I people; for by giving his children to "quality of life." Many die in the name forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Molech, he has defiled my sanctuary and of, "the right to choose" or, "the woman's Eph.6:12 profaned my holy name. If the people of right over her own body." Remember that the gospel is the power the community close their eyes when that All of these can represent legitimate of God for the salvation of everyone who man gives one of his children to Molech, values when properly understood. None believes (Rom. I:16). and they fail to put him to death, I will of them were supposed to become idols. set my face against that man and his fam­ Yet they all have been held high and ... to EDUCATE YOURSELF ily and will cut off from their people both worshipped; in their names the murder AND OTHERS him and all who follow him in prostitut­ of the innocent is practiced. Three excellent books by evangelicals ing themselves to Molech.' " How should we respond? An example (Reformed) are: Lev. 20:1-5 (d. Lev. 18:21, from the ten commandments is instruc­ The Right to Live; The Right to Die, Dt. 18:10). tive. When Scripture teaches, "You shall C. Everett Koop, M.D., (Wheaton, Ill.: not lie," what does it mean? Certainly it Tyndale, 1976), Last year 1.3 million unborn children teaches every Christian to refrain from Death Before Birth, Harold O. J. in the U.S. died from an induced abortion. lying. But it also teaches more, by posi­ Brown, (Nashville: T. Nelson, 1977), (World-wide estimates ranged from 30-55 tively commanding that each Christian Thou Shalt Not Kill, ed. by Richard million.)That means over 3500 abortions should promote truth and forthrightness. Ganz (New Rochelle, N.Y.: Arlington took place daily in our country. So Likewise when Scripture commands, House, 1978). called, "therapeutic abortion" became the "You shall not murder," it means more A work which has been a standard second most common surgical procedure than avoiding personal sin. Christians reference tool for years is, in the land, behind circumcision. One of must obey by going further than just Handbook on Abortion, J. C. Willke, every four children conceived died from being "personally opposed" to abortion. M.D. (Cincinnati, OH: Hayes Pub. Co., an abortion procedure, revealing that un­ The commandment is also teaching us, 1975) born children were afforded less protec­ "You shall promote life." Good periodicals include: tion under the law than some endangered The passage quoted from Leviticus The Human Life Review, Human Life species of animals. Put another way, a teaches that we cannot close our eyes to Foundation (quarterly), convicted murderer had a greater chance the sin around us. The Book of Proverbs National Right to Life News, NRL of survival in 1978 than an innocent un­ echoes this principle. Committee (monthly), born child. Rescue those being led away to death; Action Line, Christian Action Council That was last year. The immediate hold back those staggering toward (monthly newsletter from an evan­ future looks no brighter. The blood of the slaughter. gelical perspective. Dr. Brown is the innocent is being spilled throughout the If you say, "But we knew nothing about national chairman; Drs. Koop and land. this," does not he who weighs the Ganz are sponsors) . What does all of this have to do with heart perceive it? A thorough study of the relevant bib­ children being "given" (sacrificed hy fire) Does not he who guards your life know lical passages is found in the "Report of to Molech? Simply this: our God detests it? the Committee to Study the Matter of the worship of false gods. His anger burns Will he not repay each person ac­ Abortion," 38th OPC General Assembly, when human beings which he created in cording to what he has done? 1971. It has been printed in booklet form his image are offered to idols. Prov. 24: 11-12 (d. Ez. 3: 17-21; and is available through Great Commis­ Who are the "Molechs" of today? To 33: 1-20) . sion Publications.

8 The Presbyterian Guardian '" to PROTEST August 31 to Christians must take a public stand on Jubilee Year the abortion issue, else our silence will Celebration September 3 be interpreted as approval. At this writ­ ing, discussions continue in Washington concerning the use of your tax dollars in funding abortions. Do your elected officials know your position and why you hold it? Have you urged them to support ,, a Human Life Amendment to the Con­ INTERPRETING GOD'S stitution of the U.S.? Use your vote and write some letters. Even more can be done INFALLIBLE WORD" by mobilizing your church's effort. Help Friday, August 31, 1979 Sunday, September 2, 1979 on how to do so can be found by con­ 2:00 p.m. Registration 3:00 p.m. Jubilee Rally - President Edmund P. tacting the local Christian Action Council 3:00 p.m. Dr. James B. Hurley-"Interpreting a Crux Clowney chapter in your area. Contact Curtis Passage: I Cor. 6:18-20" Music bytheWestminster Brass Ensemble Rev. Theophilus J. Herter-"The Soteric Monday. September 3, 1979 Young, Exec. Director, CAC, 788 National Intent of the Infallible Word" 9:00 a.m. Dr. Samuel T. Logan, Jr.-"The Press Bldg., Washington, D.C. 20045 to Dr. O. Palmer Robertson-Gen. 15:6 "New Hermeneutics of Jonathan Edwards" locate a representative, or start a group Testament Interpretation of an Old Testa­ Dr. Raymond B. Dillard-"Studies in ment Text" Chronicles" yourself. Existing pro-life groups will wel­ 4:00 p.m. Dr. Joseph Kickasola-"Theonomies and Dr. EdWin H. Palmer-"Scriptural Inter­ come another which focuses on mobilizing Theocracies: The Current Variety in Inter­ pretation and Translation" preting Biblical Law" protestants. 10:00a.m. Coffee Dr. Fred Klooster-"The Kingdom: An In­ 10:30a.m. Dr. William Van Gemeren-"The Reformed There is an aspect of protesting which terpretative Key to Scripture Interpretation" ApproaCh To and Use of the Prophetic disturbs most of us, and it boils down to Dr. Peter Steen-"The Book of Revelation Message" and the Problem of Hermeneutics in Re­ Dr. Robert Alden-"The Bible in the the question, "How far can we go?" Re­ formed Theology" Psalms with Special Reference to Psalm member Proverbs 24: "Rescue those being 5-7:00p.m. Dinner 119" led away to death; hold back those stagger­ 7:45 p.m. Dr. R. C. Sproul-"Hath God Said?" Professor Paul Wells-"The Christological ... Saturday, September 1, 1979 Analogy and Criticism" ing toward slaughter:' 9:00 a.m. Dr. Victor Adrian-"Faith and its Relation­ 12:00 noon Alumni Lunch What does this mean? Can we wait, ship to Justification and Sanctification" 1:30 p.m. Jubilee Slide Show Dr. Susumu Uda-"Biblical Interpretation 2:30 p.m. Dr. George P. Hutchinson-" Reflections perhaps a decade, until a Human Life in Japan" on Biblicai Authority" Amendment is approved to be satisfied 10:00a.m. Coffee Dr. Hendrik Krabbendam-"The Goal of with our efforts? What of the millions 10:30a.m. Dr. John Gerstner-"The Need for a Re­ Hermeneutics" formed Scofield Bible" Professor Pierre Courthial who would die in the meantime? Shall we Rev. George W. Knight III-"Test Cases 3:15 p.m. Coffee begin responding in a direct manner? for Hermeneutics: Slaves, Kings and 4:00 p.m. Panel Shall we hold rallies and marches? Shall Women" 6:00 p.m. Buffet Supper Dr. George M. Marsden-"Common Sense 7:45 p.m. Jubilee Convocation we boycott companies or organizations and Hermeneutics at Nineteenth-century The Rev. Geoffrey Thomas-" The Word of which support permissive abortion? How Princeton" theCross" 12:00 noon Lunch far do we go in submitting to the State? 1:00 p.m. Dr. William Young-"Modern Relativism Such questions, though difficult, must be and theAuthority of Scripture" Registration fortheconference is$15. For a single dayon asked. Our answers will be measured by Dr. Richard B. Gaffin Friday, Saturday or Monday, registration is $5. The 2:30 p.m. Recreation (Option: Jubilee Slide Show) Seminary is arranging for room and board at inexpensive our response. 5:30 p.m. Picnic Supper rates. Early registration is advlsabte, especially if the . . . to MINISTER 7:00 p.m. Jubilee Slide Show more economical lodging is desired . Opportunities abound for mmistry to others because of the abortion situation. WESTMINSTER THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY Needy expectant mothers require shelter and comfort, as they have often been re­ r------, jected by friends and family for refusing Westminster Theological Seminary an abortion. Many women are on the Box 27009, Philadelphia, PA 19118 brink of the abortion decision, and need o I plan to attend the entire conference. Enclosed is my registration fee, $15. counsel and support. Others have already I can attend only on 0 Friday 0 Saturday 0 Monday, ($5 each day) had an abortion, and seek release from o I will make my own arrangements for housing. the guilt and confusion which has o Please send additional information on housing and meals. lingered. Some single mothers would give their children up for adoption if they Name _ knew a Christian family would open its Address _ doors and its heart. Medical personnel (continued on page 16) City _

July/August State Zip ______J Oncho or Grace church. It is of interest to the writer to note that prior to Mr. Tokiwa's study at West­ Reformed Church minster and espousal of the Reformed faith, none of his pastorates was more than about three years, but from 1936 to Leader inJapan his retirement in 1967 he continued to serve the one congregation first as the Morimoto Cho Church of Tokyo affiliated R. Heber MacIlwain with the Church of Christ in Japan, and later as the Tokyo Oncho (Grace) Church of the RCJ. As reported above, he was The Rev. Taraoki Tokiwa, one of the this council. He also contributed regularly active in the establishment of the RCJ orgamzmg ministers of the Reformed to a publication of the radio ministry of and served in various capacities furthering Church in Japan (RCJ) was called to the Christian Reformed Japan Mission, its work. his eternal rest September 20, 1977. He replying to questions sent in by radio He also taught for several years in the was vitally interested in the propagation listeners. Womens Bible Institute at Yokohama, an of the Reformed faith, and was one of the institution which trained many women prime movers in the establishment of the Summary of Mr. Tokiwds Life for service as Bible teachers. A good many RCJ shortly after the end of World War of these ladies became helpful as the wives Mr. Tokiwa was born March 20, 1897 II. The RCJ was the first group to with­ of pastors. A brief Commentary on He­ at Shinjo, Yamagata Ken. His parents draw from the United Church of Christ brews written by Mr. Tokiwa was pub­ were school teachers and taught in Oki­ (commonly referred to as the Kyodan) lished in 1940, and he contributed articles nawa during his youth. He was baptized and the only one to do so before the ad­ in the periodicals not only of the RCJ in 1918 by one of the leading pastors of vent of resident missionaries who often connection, but of others as well. the Church of Christ in Japan, a denom­ became supportive agencies to encourage He retired as pastor of the Tokyo ination which was the fruit of the four other withdrawals. Oncho church in 1967, and died of a Presbyterian and Reformed Missions in heart attack September 20, 1977. A funeral Reiormed Church in Japan Japan (Northern and Southern Presby­ was conducted at the Tokyo Oncho terian, Dutch and German Reformed (Grace) Church September 24, the sermon The RCJ was constituted on April 29, Missions) . He entered Theological School was preached by the Rev. Minoru Okada, 1946 by 11 ministers, and their congrega­ in 1920, graduating in 1923. He served another of the organizing ministers of the tions became the charter congregations. briefly in Singapore, moved to Hokkaido RCJ under the title, "What Are the Ben­ Mr. Tokiwa continued as pastor of the and was married in Hokkaido in 1924. efits Believers Receive at Death?" Among same congregation until his retirement at Four children were born of this union, the overflow attendance were many non­ the age of 70 in 1967. During that time two sons and two daughters. He studied Christians. he served as moderator and stated clerk an additional year in Theological School of the Synod, and also as moderator of in Tokyo in 1927-1928. During the period Writer's Friendship with Mr. Tokiwa the Eastern Presbytery, one of the two from 1928-1935,he served in pioneer work This writer's first acquaintance with presbyteries established at the time of the in Toyohara, a city in Sakhalin and held Mr. Tokiwa was in 1935 when he called constitution of the denomination. Mr. two brief pastorates in Hokkaido. In the to seek information and assistance in ar­ Tokiwa was also active in the Japan fall of 1935 he enrolled as a special ranging to travel to the U.S. and enroll Protestant Council, an organization that student at Westminster Theological in Westminster Seminary. He originally came into being to sponsor a biblical Seminary, returning to Japan in 1936. planned to go to Westminster Seminary celebration of the 100th anniversary of Soon after his return, he started holding for one year, and then study at Edinburgh the opening of Protestant missions in services in his own home in Morimoto-cho the following year, but he told me that Japan. This council had as its unifying in Azabu ward, Tokyo. what he received at Westminster was principle the authority and inerrancy of This house was destroyed by fire as the enough to satisfy him as to the greatness the Scriptures and continued in existence, result of the bombing of Tokyo during of and conformity to Scripture of the Re­ without binding rules and regulations, the war, but the congregation met in formed faith. so he went back to Japan serving through its publications a forum other quarters, through its size dwindled and started proclaiming it without delay. for discussion and encouragement to those considerably during the war. The quarters Before moving to Manchoukuo in Oc­ holding to the principles stated above. made available were quite cramped and tober 1936, I attended several of the serv­ Mr. Tokiwa contributed quite a number dismal but the testimony was carried on. ices at Mr. Tokiwa's home in Morimoto­ of articles to its publications, and even The relief program under CRC auspices cho. I returned to Japan in late March after retirement as pastor of the Tokyo secured land and financed the building of 1938, and saw Mr. Tokiwa frequently till Grace Church was active in the work of a church and manse, and this became the I returned to the U.S. in May 1940 on my

10 The Presbyterian Guardian first furlough. During that time I served with Mr. Tokiwa as a speaker at a three day conference in Sendai for the propaga­ tion of the Reformed faith. This was by invitation of the Rev. K. Kakuda, an ar­ dent minister, who had been weaned away from Liberalism, through study under Dr. Warfield at Princeton. (He died during the war, but was responsible for the Re­ formed testimony in Sendai.) I last saw Mr. Tokiwa as he was waving good-bye on the dock in Yokohama when I left for furlough May 1940. I returned to Japan in December 1950, going from Taiwan to make arrangements for housing so that my wife and I could resume work in Japan. I spent several hours trying to locate Mr. Tokiwa, going to the address which had been given me, only to learn that he had moved a short while previously. This gave me the chance to get a glimpse of the former military barracks where a large number of families had been housed after being burned out in the bombing raids. What a dismal Mr. Tokiwa and Mr. Macllwain at Tokyo airport. place, with whole families crowded into single rooms, cooking as well as eating and sleeping under those conditions! But I'm sure the people there were thankful even for that. I was given the new address of the Tokiwa family, and what a con­ Banner of Truth trast! A small but ne~ dwelling adjoining 2nd Annual Pastors' Conference a rather small church building that would seat fifty or so people. It was a happy re­ union. After going to the Sendai area to To be held make final arrangements for housing, I October 30 to November 2, 1979 made the Tokiwa home my headquarters At for a few days, moving out of the Y.M.C.A. Capital Airport Inn During this time Mr. Tokiwa received let­ Atlanta, Georgia ters from the CRC missionary who was to come in March, and a letter describing the Speakers: Pastor Walter Chantry housing which he had arranged for was Dr. John R. de Witt Pastor Donald Dunkerley written by the guest to that missionary. Pastor Al Martin Mr. Tokiwa not only was helpful in locat­ Pastor lain Murray ing housing for the CRC missionaries, but Pastor Ernest Reisinger he also located a house for the Uomotos. Pastor Nell Pronk When my wife and I left Japan on the Topics include: "What Constitutes True Preaching"; "Preaching-Causes of occasion of our retirement, Mr. Tokiwa Its Decay and Its Renewal as Seen in Church History"; "Doctrines of was there at the airport and took charge Grace and Methods in Evangelism"; "Experimental Roots of Dutch Cal­ of a brief farewell service, reading a por­ vinistic Preaching"; "Holy Spirit in Preaching," and others. tion of Scripture and offering prayer for the safety and welfare of the travellers For Registration Infonnation, Write to: who left September 6th, 1976. Banner of Truth P.O. Box 621 The Rev. R. Heber MacIlwain is a re­ Carlisle, PA 17013 tired missionary of the Orthodox Presby­ terian Church.

July/August 11 1======Book Reviews·===~ JAMES lands Road, Glasgow G3 6LE, Scotland, out in a series of lessons. It was written by Robert Johnstone. Carlisle, Pa.: Ban­ 1976 $9.95. Reviewed by J. Cameron from the point of view of a pastor seeking ner of Truth, 1977, 444pp. $10.95. Fraser. to explain to his people the philosophical REVELATION: For some years now the edition of The presuppositions underlying contemporary an exposition of the first Westminster Confession of Faith pub­ society. eleven chapters lished by the Publications Committee of I have one small reservation. For a book by James B. Ramsey. Carlisle, Pa.: Ban­ the Free Presbyterian Church of Scotland on Understanding the Times the cover ner of Truth, 1977 518pp., $10.95 has been a standard reference work in format is rather dull and lacking in con­ Reviewed by Donald A. Dunkerley. churches and seminaries. The same com­ temporary appeal. I doubt if it would Both of these volumes are in the Geneva mittee has now reissued their publication catch the eye in a Christian bookstore. Series af commentaries, produced by the in larger print which makes for easy The contents, however, are up to Mr. Banner of Truth. The aim of the series reading. It is the unabridged version of Williamson's high standard of sound doc­ is to present a collection of commentaries The Confession based on the text of S. trine clearly taught. in which each would be an outstanding W. Carruthers which in tum was based on the original handwritten manuscript, work on its particular Bible book from A CHRISTIAN HANDBOOK a theological, devotional and practical written by Cornelius Burges in 1646. Also FOR DEFENDING THE FAITH viewpoint, regardless of what century the included are the Larger and Shorter Cate­ by Robert A. Morey. Phillipsburg, N.J.: commentary may be from. (Obviously, chisms and the Sum of Saving Knowledge Presbyterian and Reformed Publishing such a series of commentary reprints from together with various other documents. Co., 1979, 45 pp. paper, $1.50. Reviewed various centuries is not going to make In addition the committee has pro­ by J. Cameron Fraser. up-to-date scholarship one of its criteria) . duced the text of the Westminster Con­ This little book is an attempt to bring Both of these volumes are eminent fession itself without proof texts. This is Christian apologetics down to the level additions to the series. Both are 19th cen­ available in an attractive paperback for­ of the "man in the pew." It originated as tury works. Johnstone was a United Pres­ mat with a green, white and gold cover. a series of lectures delivered at Camp byterian in Scotland, and Ramsey, a It costs 20 pence. Susque, Trout Run, Pa, The author is Presbyterian in America. Ramsey, who pastor of New Life Bible Church in Dun­ was regarded as one of the outstanding UNDERSTANDING THE TIMES cannon, Pa. He is a graduate of West­ students at the old Princeton Theological by G. I. Williamson, Phillipsburg, N.J.: minster Theological Seminary. Seminary, became a pastor and a mission­ Presbyterian and Reformed Publishing After a brief chapter stressing the im­ ary to the Choctaw Indians. ce, 1979, 103 pp. paper $2.95. Reviewed portance of personal holiness for the one Both of these books are splendidly read­ by J. Cameron Fraser. who would do apologetics, the author able. It is not often that one goes through G. I. Williamson is well known for his outlines two major schools of apologetics: a commentary as if it were a novel, but popular expositions of The Westminster the "presuppositional" and the "eviden­ that has been my experience with both of Confession of Faith and The Shorter Cate­ tial." The evidentialist will defend the these books. Readability is due in large chism. In this book he turns his attention Christian position and defeat the non­ measure to the fact that each consists of to an analysis of contemporary society. Christian system of thought by "facts" lectures that were delivered to a congre­ Part one, entitled "Describing the Storm" drawn from science, reason and personal gation. They were written to be spoken describes modern thinking as expressed experience. The presuppositionalist on and not merely studied. The lecturer had through poetry, novels, art, music, the the other hand, will attack the non-Chris­ the spiritual needs of his audience in theater, the cinema and the church. Part tian presuppositions as being inconsistent, mind, so that there is close, practical ap­ two analyzes "The Cause of it All" which non-liveable etc. The author shows his plication as well as biblical interpretation. is man's sinful rebellion against God. preference for the "presuppositionalist" Charles Hodge, in his introduction to Part three, "The Attempted Solutions" ex­ approach by means of a series of questions Ramsey on Revelation, says, "The leading amines the tendency toward mysticism in and answers that he says should "be posed characteristic of these lectures is their Astrology, the Occult and the use of to each section of any non-Christian sys­ spirituality." The same judgment could drugs. Part six provides the biblical an­ tem of thought." well be made of Johnstone on James. swer and demonstrates the importance of The rest of the book is an attempt to The Westminster Confession understanding Christian as well as non­ develop a "Christian World and Life Christian presuppositions about the mean­ View" and to apply it to ethics, art, his­ of Faith ing of life. tory, psychology and marriage. A useful Free Presbyterian Publications, 113 Wood- As with his other books, this one is set book.

12 The Presbyterian Guardian A W mnan's Psalm Lord, I seem to be wandering in a maze of time money unfulfilled promises 1==News&Views===1 duties domestic situations. Christian Outreach activity in China, as well as dramatically I often feel hopelessly lost. Through Radio Increasing increased response from Chinese listeners The foliage has grown so thick that the to the programs. exit signs have been covered over. All the to China These developments may give UBS avenues lead to nowhere. NEW YORK, June 18 - The Bible members their first opportunity to com­ Sometimes I use the dead ends and tall Societies are preparing plans to double municate with Chinese Christians on a hedges as excuses for not plunging into the amount of broadcast Scripture pro­ regular basis since communications were something new and daring. gamming beamed into mainland China cut off in 1951 with the China Bible And yet, in the winter of my soull see within the next few months. House in Shanghai. Your deep wisdom Lord, for You have The broadcasts will be funded, as they A variety of new programs are planned created the hedges from deciduous shrubs. have been in the past, by the United Bible as part of the stepped-up efforts. One new The leaves fall Off. Societies (URS) , an international fellow­ program will be a daily English-by-radio The arrows pointing my way out are ship of Bible Societies, including the broadcast, aimed at Mandarin Chinese­ clearly marked. American Bible Society. speaking residents, based on Bible read­ Hasten my footsteps. The proposed plans to increase the ings. A bilingual program involving Grant me courage. broadcasts into China are being developed Scripture readings will also be produced And by Your grace I will emerge a better at a time of great change in China's re­ for children. servant of Christ. lationship with the West. Bible Society A children's program including Free Ofspirit. plans have been specifically prompted by dramatization of Bible stories, quizzes, and Walking in a verdant meadow where reports of increasingly open Christian Bible songs is planned. solemn sheep graze, and buttercups welcome me with upturned faces. And I will give Thee all the praise and glory Lord, for You and You alone can Obituary wise, and a call to obedience t.J God's grant me this perfect harmony ways. this tranquil spirit We of Westminster Church, Hamden this peace of mind The following is a memorial tribute to the have indeed been blessed in having Ron Amen and Amen. late Rev. Ronald E. Jenkins, drawn up Jenkins as our pastor. His ministry of the Jean Hurley by the session of Westminster Orthodox Word of God through his life and Presbyterian Church, Hamden, Conn. It preaching has united the congregation in the life of the church and drawn others is printed exactly as it was received. THE WASHINGTON into the fellowship. Even through his suf­ CHRISTIAN SCHOOL fering in the last two months of his life, of Pastor Ronald E. Jenkins was called to he maintained a strong witness to all who SILVER SPRING, MARYLAND be with the Lord on December 31, 1978 knew him. Now enrolling after suffering the affliction of inoperable The two years in Hamden were only a Kindergarten through cancer for several months. His ministry at portion of Ron's work in the gospel min­ Eighth Grade Westminster Church was relatively short istry. After graduating from Westminster 1216 Arcola Ave. in duration (lasting slightly more than Seminary in 1960, he served churches in Silver Spring, Md. 20902 two full years) but it was a remarkable Houlton, Me., Hamill, S. Dak. and Blue Tel. (301) 649-3118 ministry in the life of the church. Bell, Pa. prior to accepting the call to Hamden. Ron's ministry was characterized by a DIRECTOR careful and conscientious teaching and God's calling Ron home on the last day preaching of the Word of God. His loving of the year seems symbolically to assure us PHYSICAL PLANT that his work for the Lord on earth was concern, mild and tender manner, and Theological seminary in pleasant Mid­ faithfulness in "rightly dividing the word complete. We rejoice that he is now at Atlantic suburb invites applications for the of truth" made an impression on all mem­ rest with the saints who have gone before position of Director-Physical Plant. bers of the congregation and encouraged in the eternal presence and fellowship of Responsibilities include maintenance and many visitors to stay and worship with us. God. security of seventeen acre campus con­ sisting of six buildings (plus nearby apart­ Ron's example also of godly living as a He leaves behind his wife Joyce Smith ments for married students) and all related Christian husband and father was a faith­ Jenkins and children Lucille Boersema, Alan, Dianne, Stephen, Susan, Brian and equipment. Send resume to: The ful and effective testimony to all who Presbyterian Guardian, Dept. DPP, 7401 Calvin, and four grandchildren. knew him, an encouragement to do like- Old York Road, Philadelphia, Pa. 19126.

July/August 13 ">,

1======Letters======~

Inerrancy in Taiwan Who are the Jews? I just do not see why we should evangelize The following letter was writter from Tai­ The article on "Reformed Churches and heretic "Jews" any differently from heretic wan by the Rev. Egbert W. Andrews Jewish Evangelism" (March issue) as- Mormons, Protestant Liberals, or any shortly before he left Taiwan for medical sumes that everyone knows who the Jews other apostates. It is not biblical to create reasons. He is now retired in this country. are. I, for one, do not know who they are. such false distinctions regarding who and Most of us have "Jewish" friends. Ask how we evangelize. We were very pleased to receive the J an­ In fact most of us have heard "Jews" uary issue of The Presbyterian Guardian them and they will admit that their origin is Gentile. Though they now call them­ ridicule their background. The "Jew" and to find that it contained the state­ ment of the International Council on selves "Jews," is this reason enough for seems to fully realize that in the State of Biblical Inerrancy (ICBI). Several Re­ Christians to associate them with the Israel there are not many Jews. Those formed magazines made reference to the House of Jacob, which Paul agonized who now call themselves "Jews" came mostly from Eastern European conversions meeting of the ICBI last October, but only over in Romans 11? of whole Gentile states; these were mass the Guardian, to our knowledge, printed The Rev. Lewis Ruff, who wrote the conversions for political purposes. Again, the entire statement. Truly, as Francis March article, takes our Reformed churches to task for not evangelizing "the should Christians really associate these Shaeffer has said, inerrancy is the "water­ Jews," Who are the Jews? Mr. Ruff has no Gentile peoples with the promises of Ro­ shed" of the evangelical world. problem with identification, it would mans II. The "Jews" must indeed ridicule It is the "watershed" issue in Taiwan seem, but in Tel Aviv where there is Christians who propose a "ministry to the also. Twenty-one years ago we were in­ much expertise on this matter, the public Jews" with no seeming effort at all to vited to bring our work here under the officials have a severe problem. One solu­ determine who the ministry should be Presbyterian Church in Taiwan. We had tion has been to call him "a Jew" who directed toward. to decline to do so largely because of our claims a "Jewish" mother. There is a well-publicized group of so­ cleavage on this issue. Indeed, as Prof. called conservative "Jews" in Israel who Frame writes, "No Scripture means no The Rev. J. G. Vos of Geneva College do claim ethnic background. This small Christ," That is one of the reasons the ran a series of excellent articles in the Blue Banner, Faith and Life on the Jews, group (about 5 percent) disclaims the rest J church has had such little growth in I of the present-day population of Israel. Taiwan. An existential authority for the stressing the wonderful promises of Ro­ But Christians should challenge the 5 per­ Bible can never replace the authority of mans 11. In his whole series he never once cent. Anyone can lay claim to being a God. its divine author. addressed the question, "Who are the I "Jew," Having claimed this heritage he Years ago the Orthodox Presbyterian Jews?" Most Christians see no problem then can lay claim to ethnic background, Mission in Taiwan offered the ministers at all; most "Jews" see the problem very clearly. he can claim special attention from Chris­ and seminarians in the Presbyterian A very logical question is, "Are there tians, he can claim an interest in the State Church in Taiwan, a Chinese edition of I any Jews at all left today, representing of Israel, he then claims the promises of I J. 1. Packer's Fundamentalism and the the House of Jacob?" I think that Romans Scripture, he then claims Arab land, he Word of God at a very reduced rate. The II does point to at least a small remnant then claims dual US-Israeli citizenship ... I book was published by the well-known who are truly Jews. I hasten to add that and this goes on and on. All of this is Christian Witness Press, but there were the very existence of a small remnant claimed by most "Jews," and they never very few takers. A veteran evangelical should be viewed as a mighty miracle of had any ancestry in the House of Jacob. missionary of another mission remarked our Lord. Our Lord inflicted the Disper­ that the Taiwan Presbyterian Church is sion on the Jews of whom Paul spoke, and Again, there must be a small remnant "afraid of the Bible:' we should all recognize the havoc he and our Lord knows who they are; but I So we feel that defining inerrancy and intended by this Dispersion. The Jewish we do not. I doubt if this remnant is in Israel or in any of the world's big city stressing its importance is most timely. We blood line was literally destroyed. Most of the members of the Reformed ghettos, at least in any significant number. would like to see Packer's book now I like to think they are not in the syna­ made available again to the earnest young faith to whom Mr. Ruff appeals ("go out men who are studying at the two Presby­ and evangelize Jews") "probably have as gogues; I would think that most are al­ terian seminaries in Taiwan. We appre­ much Jewish blood in them as the "Jews" ready Christians (like Edith Evans, the ciate very much the Guardian of January, who lay claim to ethnic backgrounds. If Christian lady described in the same 1979. one Unitarian calls himself a "Jew" and issue of the Guardian). another Unitarian calls himself a Chris­ Egbert W. Andrews tian, should these two be evangelized And this is why I ask, "Who are 'the Kaohsiung, Taiwan differently on such a basis? I think notl Jews' we Reformed Christians are sup-

14 The Presbyterian Guardian posed to evangelize, and how do we find' because theirs is already a man-made I wish I could share Mrs. Duggan's con­ them?" sexual ethic that is entirely in accord with fidence that "given the American prin­ Ross F. Rogers humanistic ethics. ERA will in time offer ciple of the separation of church and Vienna, Va. legal sanction to them, if passed. state, I don't see how ERA could possibly ERA has been proposed and supported affect the church." However, we live in a by those who either purposely or blindly day when many Christian schools are The Problem with ERA determine to have a culture without the being threatened with the loss of their tax The problem with ERA is not essentially distinctions made bv the Creator (Romans exempt status on the presumption that its potential effects. The courts will in­ 1:18-25). The philosophical basis of the they are guilty until they prove to the IRS terpret ERA's application for a genera­ proposed amendment is thoroughly hu­ that they are innocent of being a racially tion before the effects will be known for manistic, and therefore must be opposed discriminatory body. I am not sure Mrs. sure, that is if ERA passes. The problem by every thinking Christian. The moti­ Duggan's confidence is realistic. with ERA is its humanistic foundation. vating forces pushing for ERA have them­ Mrs. Duggan personally opposes the For example, take Mrs. Susan Duggan's selves admittedly humanistic goals as well. drafting of women into the military, but statement in her article "Women's The pro-ERA book Everything You Need admits, "I can't seem to come up with any Rights?" (April issue), "Marriage is, by to Know About ERA, by Mary A. Dels­ really good biblical and/or other reason­ definition, a union between a male and a man should have been titled Everything We Want You To Know About ERA. You able arguments against it, as long as female. ERA could not change that re­ mothers of young children were ex­ quirement." Experts on Constitutional in­ should rather read their policy statements, empt ..." (emphasis mine). Is this not terpretation have stated in such places as such as the National Organization for precisely the kind of sexist provision the Yale Law Review that the application Women's Revolution Is NOW, wherein which ERA would prohibit? of ERA in the laws of the states will re­ ERA is seen as the first step toward les­ quire that a law may not have definitions bian and abortion rights and much more Mrs. Duggan is quite right in warning which include sexual terms. (Phyllis that will bring shame on our nation (Prov. Christian women not to accept the merely Schlafiy includes this material in her 29:15). ERA is a tool being used in a con­ traditional and the conventional as the works.) Therefore, marriage may be de­ temporary Reformation movement - a biblical. But we need to be sure that what fined, but without reference to "male and Humanistic Reformation. replaces the traditional is indeed biblical. female." Is this reasonable? To a human­ Charles R. Young III I don't want to condemn ERA through ist, "Yes." York, Ala. guilt by association, but when one looks at the support which it has received from radical feminist organizations, from homo­ A Humanist also believes there is no sexuals and from pro-abortionists, it is evidence of a supernatural god . . . More on ERA legitimate to ask whether ERA's roots lie It was good to receive the April issue of Let us remember that atheism is the in biblical justice or in a godless anti­ the Guardian with its focus on the family. belief that there is no god who cre­ nomianism. ated the world or who determines While I appreciate Mrs. Susan Duggan's man's behavior or hereafter. Let us efforts to present a balanced evaluation One area which Mrs. Duggan did not distinguish this from religious atti­ of the Equal Rights Amendment, I won­ discuss was the sweeping nature of ERA. tudes which can encompass morals der if she succeeds in giving us the help No one is quite sure what laws would be and ethics. Humanism is my religious we need to critically assess the issue. She declared unconstitutional if it passed. Its belief. . . . We must help the god­ believes "there is no reason why ERA final effects are difficult to predict. We indoctrinated person realize that should affect abortion laws one way or might well enter a time when much legis­ morals and ethics are man-made. We another." But many proponents of abor­ lation would in effect be rewritten by the must teach him that he must update tion, many pro-lifers, and some leading judicial system. It would appear a much or discard immoral, outmoded or evil constitutional authorities all agree that its wiser course for the Christian woman and values, replacing them with rational passage would give every woman a con­ man to seek the repeal or modification of ones. ("Humanists of the Southwest," stitutional right to abortion at will. That particular laws which she or he consider Oct. 1978, cited in International Year alone is reason enough for me to oppose to be unjust. of the Child/Kiddie Lib Packet, Pro­ ERA. Similarly, the passage of ERA John W. Mahaffy Family Forum, Ft. Worth, Tx.) (em­ would appear to make very difficult any Newberg, Oregon phasis mine.) legislation controlling homosexual activ­ The Gay and Lesbian forces support ERA ity.

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Responding to Today's Holocaust (continued) \\CRave who have participated in abortions some­ time live in silent shame, having allowed themselves, because of tremendous peer pressure, to practice what they despise. BeenSued! Christians must remember to forgive as they have been forgiven. The same Jesus who denounced hypocrisy and whose anger burned against the money changers in the temple also said, "Come to me all We have been sued: Myself as pastor, my people" (Prov. 14:34). you who are weary and burdened, and I congregation, and our presbytery have all We will fight this affrontery to the will give you rest.. :' been sued by an avowed homosexual be­ church of Christ. Jesus, not Caesar, is Our response to today's holocaust cause we would not allow him to partici­ Lord. Neither the State nor any group of should also be characterized by both a pate in the worship service by playing the men can dictate to the church which he prophetic utterance against sin in our organ. purchased with his own blood. They are culture, and a warm welcome to the Our city of San Francisco passed a city not asking for this man's job back. They broken-hearted in the name of Jesus. ordinance banning discrimination based are demanding that the laws of God give Only in this way will we be true salt and on sexual orientation - homosexuality. way to the laws of sinful men. light. This law was signed on April II, 1978 by The issue is this: Does Jesus Christ the a mayor who was some months later as­ King rule his own "body"-is his Word Mr. Tom Seelinger is President of the sassinated by the only city supervisor that alone the authoritative, infallible stand­ Philadelphia Chapter of the Christian voted against the ordinance. Justice was ard of justice and righteousness?1 And will Action Council. not done to the mayor nor was justice we who are called by his Name passively done to the assassin. sit by and let unrighteousness and in­ We haue been sued: The attorney for the justice rule the day? plaintiff is fighting for homosexual rights We have been sued: But we have also WHICH COLLEGE in San Francisco. Technically he repre­ been called to fight. We shall overcome AFTER HIGH SCHOOL? sentsthe interests of 200,000 homosexuals because of him who "loved us and gave For the best combination of Biblical, general, in the city. The organization which he himself for us that he might purify unto and professional studies, be sure to investi­ directs, The Gay Rights Advocates, seeks himself a peculiar people jealous for good gate what only RBC can give you! to advance the homosexual cause through - Four year training for missionaries, works." church Christian education workers, civil court action. He is not out for the We are asking for your prayers and evangelists (B.R.E.) money, at least not in our case, but for the prayers of all Christ's church. We are - Two year course for missionary candi­ dates with technical skills or for personal principle. asking for whatever help you can give us. growth (A.R.E.) We were threatened with a lawsuit ten -Two year course for transfer to liberal months ago. Who would have thought arts college in preparation for teacher "May the praise of God be in their certification, seminary admissions, etc., that immorality would be so bold as to mouths, and a Double-Edged Sword in with Biblical studies concentration (A.A.) bring suit against a church of Jesus Christ! We'll be glad to hear from you! their hands." Psalm 149:6 We have been sued: Our lives are on REFORMED BIBLE COLLEGE the line for the kingdom of Christ. We For Christ and his Kingdom, Charles A. 1869 ROBINSON ROAD, S.E. live in an openly decadent city. Im­ McIlhenny on behalf of the session and GRAND RAPIDS, MI 49506 morality is the law. Righteousness is to the Commission of the Presbytery of be destroyed. "Righteousness exalts a Northern California of the Orthodox 616-458-0404 nation but sin is a reproach to any Presbyterian Church. II

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