Volume 53, No. 22 • October 22, 2004

Intercession by the Saints?

Reformation begins with You!

Iraqi Churches Update Editorial N.H. Gootjes Intercession by the Saints? Dr. N.H. Gootjes is professor of Dogmatology at the Theological College of the Canadian Reformed Churches in Hamilton, Ontario. However, for the believers in the sixteenth [email protected] century, the issue whether we can invoke departed saints to pray for us was at least as important as the Holy Supper.

As members of God’s people, we pray for one another.We their death.These departed saints were seen as working for do not restrict ourselves to asking from God only for what we the benefit of people still living on earth.They were supposed need and like; we pray for others as well. In our prayers, we to speak to Jesus or to God on behalf of people on earth who remember other members of our extended family.We hear in needed help.A prime example of this kind of saint is Mary who church about members of the congregation who are in difficult was singled out to become the mother of our Lord Jesus circumstances or have special needs.We pray for people who Christ.The idea is that Mary and other saints had done much are experiencing hardship, who are sick, who are mourning, and that is good and pleasing in the eyes of the Lord.Therefore who are lonely. Interceding for one another is an integral part God will hear them when they intercede for people who are of our prayers. still living on earth.And God will act on that.This system was developed during the Middle Ages. The importance of this issue in the history of the Jesus Christ is bypassed and the request Christian church can be demonstrated in the Belgic for intercession is directed to someone Confession.Article 26, dealing with the issue of the intercession by the saints, is about the lengthiest article of the other than Jesus Christ. whole confession. Only one article exceeds it in length: article 35 which deals with the Lord’s Supper. But the difference is minimal: article 35 is longer by only two lines.That is We also expect others to pray for us, particularly our surprising.When we think about what separates us from the family and friends.When we find ourselves in situations of Roman Catholic doctrine, the first issue that comes to mind danger or hardship, we know of people who are aware of the situation and who are bringing this before the Lord in their is the Lord’s Supper. However, for the believers in the prayers. I remember a member of my congregation, who was sixteenth century, the issue whether we can invoke departed suddenly widowed, saying: I am surrounded by the prayers of saints to pray for us was at least as important as the Holy the congregation.That was true; during the lengthy period of Supper. Probably, the invocation of the saints was more vacancy she and her husband had done much in the important for the common people.At that time, the common congregation and they had continued to be very active.This is church members did not often partake of the Lord’s Supper. only one example; there are many more occasions where But they did frequently call on the saints for help and believers pray for the other members in special circumstances. support.This was a living issue. Another kind of intercession? A living issue? But there is also another kind of intercession. In this case,it Is this still so important that we as Reformed churches refers to prayers said by exceptional Christians who have done need to devote an extensive article to this issue? Is this not exceptionally good deeds. Since they, in their lifetime, had done something that is outdated in our present situation? Do we still so many good works, they were declared to be saints after need to maintain the lengthy discussion of the Confession ?

534 • OCTOBER 22, 2004 Published biweekly by Premier Printing Ltd.,Winnipeg, MB EDITORIAL COMMITTEE: Editor: J. Visscher; Managing Editor: R. Aasman This past summer, our family spent a week in a place close Coeditors: N.H. Gootjes, W.B. Slomp, Cl. Stam to Quebec City. On a rainy day, we decided to go and visit a ADDRESS FOR EDITORIAL MATTERS: huge Roman Catholic church building which we had seen CLARION, 26 Inverness Crescent, St. Albert, AB T8N 5J3 regularly.Although it was a weekday, there were many cars in Fax: (780) 418-1506 E-Mail: [email protected] the parking lot. Inside, several activities were going on, from ADDRESS FOR ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS: lighting candles and saying prayer to tours showing the (subscriptions, advertisements, etc.): impressive architecture and artwork of the building. CLARION, Premier Printing Ltd. In addition, the visitors were encouraged to pray to the One Beghin Avenue, Winnipeg, MB, Canada R2J 3X5 saints. Booklets were put out for people who wanted to pray Phone: (204) 663-9000 Fax: (204) 663-9202 Email: [email protected] to them.They could even pray to someone who had not yet RETURN UNDELIVERABLE CANADIAN ADDRESSES TO: been officially recognized as a saint.These booklets made it One Beghin Avenue, Winnipeg, MB, Canada R2J 3X5 Email: [email protected]

Subscription Rates for 2004 Regular Mail Air Mail Canada* $42.00* $69.00* Inside . . . U.S.A. U.S. Funds $44.50 $57.50 International $69.00 $103.00 On September 30, the Lord called to himself Dr. Jelle *Including 7% GST – No. 890967359RT Faber. Dr. Faber will be remembered for his important Advertisements: $13.50 per column inch Full Colour Display Advertisements: $19.00 per column inch work at our Theological College. But he was also editor We reserve the right to refuse ads. of Clarion from 1979-1983 and he wrote frequently for We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada, through the Pub- Clarion. Dr. C.Van Dam writes a fitting memoriam for our lication Assistance Program (PAP), toward our mailing costs. beloved professor. Cancellation Agreement Unless a written subscription cancellation is received we assume you wish to con- Most of us grew up with sermons which spoke of the tinue to subscribe. You will be invoiced prior to the subscription renewal date. invocation of the saints. It may have sounded archaic and Agreement No. 40063293; PAP Registration No. 9907; ISSN 0383-0438 hardly relevant to today’s situation. However, Dr. N.H. Copyright © Premier Printing Ltd. All rights reserved. No part may be reproduced in any manner without Gootjes shows us otherwise in his editorial. It all started permission in writing from the publisher, except brief quotations used in with his summer vacation to Quebec. . . . connection with a review in a magazine or newspaper. We also have the second part of Dr. Gootjes’ speech Useful Link: www.canrc.org at the Theological College evening this past September. It deals with the question: how much did Jesus Christ know? It is a fascinating topic because Jesus Christ is both IN THIS ISSUE God and man. During his life on earth, he knew a lot but Editorial – Intercession by the Saints? not everything.What is that all about? — N.H. Gootjes ...... 534 Dr. F.G.Oosterhoff continues her examination of Treasures New and Old – Reformation begins with You! Dr.A.L.Th. de Bruijne’s final essay in Woord op schrift. The — M.R. Jagt...... 537 question De Bruijne seeks to answer is to what extent it In Memoriam: Dr. Jelle Faber — C.Van Dam ...... 538 is possible today to apply biblical passages containing Ray of Sunshine — C. Gelms and E. Nordeman ...... 540 ethical directions not literally but metaphorically. We have quite a number of press releases in this Speech at the Theological College Evening (2) issue, including one from MERF-Canada.These press — N.H. Gootjes ...... 541 releases keep us apprised of life in our federation at the How Do We Read The Bible? (5) — F.G. Oosterhoff ...... 543 level of the broader assemblies. One learns a lot. MERF-Canada News...... 548 We have some of our regular columns, Treasures, New Children’s Catechism — J.Wiskerke Van Dooren ...... 550 and Old, Ray of Sunshine, Children’s Catechism and reformedevangelism.com — D. Moes ...... 551 reformedevangelism.com. Press Releases – Classis Contracta Niagara, Classis RA Contracta Pacific West, Central Ontario, Manitoba ...... 552

OCTOBER 22, 2004 • 535 very clear that the issue of article 26 of our Confession is not a Rather, the New Testament tells us to take Jesus Christ as dead issue from the past. Praying to the saints is still a living the example of complete obedience. Paul expressed that in his reality. It is disturbing to read the statements, and to consider letter to the congregation of Philippi. First he shows the the implications.At least, I was shocked by what I read. Here greatness of Jesus Christ: he was totally obedient, even to follows a short section from one of these booklets.1 death.And on that basis he calls the members to continue living Father Pampalon, intercede for us.Ask for us the grace to a life of obedience (Phil 2:5-13). always strive to be perfect like our heavenly Father.Amen. Our Father in heaven,Your love has made your servant It is regrettable, but the fact cannot be Alfred Pampalon strive for evangelical perfection. Grant that we may always follow in his footsteps.Amen. overlooked that slighting Jesus Christ by Most compassionate Father, may You be touched by the invoking the saints continues. supplications of Your servant. Grant us the special favour. . . that he is asking for us. It is remarkable that the name of this person is so prominently The third petition requests God to listen to the brought up.And looking carefully at the statements, we quickly supplications of Father Pampalon. However, this is taking away realize that in these petitions Pampalon has taken the place of from the work of Jesus Christ.The epistle to the Hebrews is Jesus Christ. very clear on this when it discusses Christ’s work as high A closer look priest. It is pointed out that Jesus lives forever and thus has a permanent priesthood:“Therefore he is able to save completely Take the first statement.The brochure does not teach the those who come to God through him, because he always lived believers to call on Jesus Christ to plead for us. Rather, to intercede for them” (Heb 9:25). Pampalon is asked to intercede. Jesus Christ is bypassed and It is regrettable, but the fact cannot be overlooked that the request for intercession is directed to someone other than slighting Jesus Christ by invoking the saints continues.The issue Jesus Christ. However, the Bible clearly teaches that Jesus already brought up in article 26 continues to be a living reality Christ is our high priest who intercedes for us:“But if anybody in our own country. It continues to be important for us to does sin, we have one who speaks to the Father in our defence know and maintain this article of the Belgic Confession, and to – Jesus Christ the Righteous One” (1 John 2:1). make others aware of the biblical teaching on prayer. May God Similar problems occur in the two following petitions. bless the preaching of Jesus Christ in our country, so that He Take the second petition that we may follow in Father alone will be honoured as our only and sufficient Saviour. Pampalon’s footsteps for evangelic perfection. It is possible that during his lifetime Pampalon strove to do good. 1 The quotations are taken from a booklet entitled “Novena to the However, that does not warrant calling on him for help Servant of God, Father Alfred Pampalon,” approved in 1998. It before God. Nowhere in Scripture do we read that some should be noted that Pampalon has not officially been recognized person on earth reached perfection.Actually, Paul denied it! as a saint.That may be the reason why it is added that this is for He stated that both the gentiles as well the people of God private use only. I also obtained another booklet entitled “Novena are under sin, and he used a long list of Old Testament texts to Saint Gerard Marjella” in which this limitation to private use is to prove the point (Rom 3:9-18). not mentioned.

536 • OCTOBER 22, 2004 Treasures, New and Old M.R. Jagt

Reformation MATTHEW 13:52 Rev. M.R. Jagt is minister of the Canadian Reformed Church at Ottawa, Ontario. [email protected] begins with You!

Then Nathan said to David, “You are the man!”. 2 Samuel 13:7

What is your biggest problem? humility? That evil out there, it’s first of First, we need to be washed in blood. Look at the disciples, for a moment. all in me.“Christ Jesus came to save We may sprinkle the water of baptism. They were hoping Jesus would sinners,” was the inspired saying in the But it is a sign we must be washed from improve things in Israel. Get rid of the early church,“of whom I am the worst” head to toe – and in blood, of all things! Romans. Reform the church. In fact, it (1 Tim 1:15). This is how great sin’s guilt is and how wasn’t just the followers of Christ who Look at baptism. Here too, we are greatly this guilt has stained us.The were hoping for something like this.The reminded of this. justice of God requires we be immersed people in Qumran, by the Dead Sea, Baptism, after all, is a sign or seal of in blood. wanted a new priesthood.There were God’s promised salvation. It’s a sign of his Secondly, we need to be washed in Zealots in Palestine who were a bit like covenant – and that covenant is about his oil.This is a sign of new life, a sign of the ancient terrorists.Anything to topple the aid, his help to us. It’s God’s solution to power of the Holy Spirit.The washing of corrupt regime of the day. our problems. regeneration must touch our whole lives. All these hopes have one thing in But look at that sign! Something Half measures will not do.We must be common: they are looking outside of us, happens to us! We receive water on our born again of “water and the Spirit” – the whether it’s in the church, in the nation, heads! Not something out there! Not Spirit who is like water, giving newness in the world. People point to something something on them! But on me! On you! where before there was death. out there – if only this or that was fixed, Baptism is challenge: God must deal with Will you confess that? This is where then life’s problems would be solved. me.We need to be washed, transformed. all reformation begins. What does all that have to do with We sing in Psalm 51 “bones You have But baptism does more than us? The Jews wanting to getting rid of the broken.” Christ must break us (Matt admonish us, of course. It also teaches us Romans – that’s just a nice bit of history, 21:43) and one of the tools He uses is about the sure promises of our Lord you say. our very baptism. Just as Nathan came to Jesus Christ. It’s not. David to make him fess up, the Holy It’s a “nice” bit of sinful human nature Spirit uses baptism to point the finger at You say you need a washing? You see – the same sinful human that you and I us – “You are the man!” John the Baptist the dirty guilt of your sins? Look at your have.We are blind to our real needs.We began his ministry by baptizing not the baptism. Christ has poured out his blood like to point our fingers to others, to heathens, but the very people of God in that you might be bathed in it, from head things around us. But never to take the the river Jordan! We confess in our Form to toe. blame ourselves. for Baptism that baptism “signifies the You say you need cleansing from sin’s What is your biggest problem? The impurity of our souls, so that we may power? Look at your baptism.The water work of Christ shows it. detest ourselves, humble ourselves signifies to you the work of the Spirit of You! before God, and seek our cleansing and Christ, whom Christ also pours out in Can you admit that? It’s not things salvation outside of ourselves” (Book of abundance, to completely regenerate out there that need to be changed.You Praise, p 584). and renew. need to be changed! You don’t need to Like the cleansing in the Old Baptism is a challenge. God must deal be saved from others! You need to be Testament,which often involved both with us first of all.And it is a promise. He saved from yourself! Yes,things out there blood and oil, we must be washed in has dealt with us, in Jesus Christ, through are bad. But do you speak with grace and two ways. his blood and Spirit.

OCTOBER 22, 2004 • 537 In Memoriam

DrDr.. JelleJelle FaberFaber (1924-2004)(1924-2004)

The Lord called his servant, Dr. J. Faber, home to Himself. The Theological College It happened while he was still asleep, early on September 30. It was the Synod of On October 4, a memorial service was held in the Orangeville in 1968 that made the Cornerstone Canadian Reformed Church in Hamilton. Rev. momentous decision to establish Cl. Stam preached on two passages:“For I resolved to know the Theological College and nothing while I was with you except Jesus Christ and him appointed Dr.Faber to teach Old crucified” (1 Cor 2:2) and “For we do not preach ourselves, Testament.Originally, the Synod but Jesus Christ as Lord” (2 Cor 4:5). By choosing these texts, had appointed Rev. Jules T. Rev. Stam honoured the request of Dr. Faber that Christ be at Van Popta of Cloverdale, B.C. to the centre of his funeral. His wish was fulfilled.The focus was instruct in the field of dogmatology.The Lord however decided on the crucified and risen Christ and the sermon clearly otherwise and called the Rev.Van Popta to Himself.After his brought out the power of the gospel. It was good to be there. death, the Synod changed Dr.Faber’s appointment to that of For the federation of churches, Dr.Faber’s departure to Dogmatology and at the same time charged Rev. François glory is in a real sense the end of an era.The last of the very first Kouwenhoven of Toronto with the Old Testament disciplines. faculty appointed to teach at the Theological College is now with Rev. Lubbertus Selles of Chatham, Ontario, had been appointed the Lord in heaven.The passing away of the College’s first to teach New Testament.As part-time lecturers Synod had principal gives reason to pause for thanksgiving to God for all He appointed Rev. Gijsbertus Van Dooren of Burlington to teach has granted the churches and the College in this faithful worker. the pastoral disciplines and Rev. Hendrik Scholten of Smithville Some background to instruct church history and church polity. The official opening of the Theological College took place Dr.Faber was born on May 12, 1924 in Drogeham, on Wednesday, September 10, 1969, at Central Presbyterian Friesland. However,the family soon moved and he was raised Church in Hamilton. Dr. Faber addressed the packed church in his beloved Amsterdam. Here he benefited from the ministry on “The Catholicity of the Belgic Confession.” There is no and teaching of Rev. M. B.Van’t Veer,as well as the preaching of doubt that he chose this topic because of his deep love for Rev. S. G. de Graaf. Because of sacrifices his siblings made, he the confession of the catholicity of the church. In faith Dr. could receive a formal education, the only one in the family to Faber knew of and could passionately speak about the grand do so. He was always very grateful for this support and scope of Christ’s gathering work and the task, be it a very opportunity and dedicated himself to his studies. It was during humble one, that we can have in that labour of our Saviour. the difficult years of World War II that he started his His subsequent reminders to his students and the churches theological studies. Especially the teaching of K. Schilder, S. of the catholicity of the church is a legacy we as churches Greijdanus, and B. Holwerda made a deep impression on him. should cherish for it points to the great work of our Saviour. Because of the tremendous shortage of ministers, he began As a member of the very first student body, I will never preaching the gospel as a student at the young age of nineteen. forget those beginning years and the enormous burdens In 1952, he graduated from the Theological University in placed on the first principal, Dr. Faber.Within a month of the Kampen, married Wietske Holwerda and became a minister opening of the College, the Old Testament professor, Rev. in Deventer where he served until 1958. His next pastorate Kouwenhoven, passed away unexpectedly. Until the next was the congregation of Schiebroek-Hillegersberg-Centrum regular Synod in 1971, Dr. Faber took upon himself the teaching of Old Testament exegesis without diminishing his in Rotterdam.While there he also taught religion at the regular full teaching load and responsibilities as principal.The Reformed high school in that city. Reformed education Rev. D.Van der Boom of Toronto was asked to help out in would remain a big priority in his life.As a minister, scholarly teaching Old Testament as well. Furthermore, during the first pursuits were also very much on his mind as he worked on few years the health of both lecturers was not always up to his doctoral dissertation and edited and contributed to an the task, complicating matters for the principal. Moreover, as interdisciplinary journal Lucerna. In 1969 he received the with any beginning of a new enterprise, many wrinkles had to degree of Doctor of Theology on his dissertation Vestigium be ironed out. It would have been normal for one to despair Ecclesiae which translated means “vestige of the church.” In at such a difficult situation. But the Lord had endowed this case it refers to baptism as a vestige or trace of the Dr. Faber with a cheerful and energetic disposition. He was church for it is recognized by Reformed churches even if always ready to take on the task of keeping the work of the administered in a church considered false.

538 • OCTOBER 22, 2004 College on track. Students and staff were greatly encouraged Unworthy Slave by his positive leadership. In a real way he was the glue that One of the passages of Scripture that Dr. Faber would kept the College together and going in those first years. often refer to was Luke 17:10. It typified his work in the In his days as principal and Professor of Dogmatology, service of the Lord Jesus. In this passage our Saviour remarks Dr. Faber saw much change in the Theological College. In on how a slave’s work for his master is never done and that as 1981 the Canadian Reformed Theological College Act was a slave one should not expect special compliments or thanks. passed by the Legislative Assembly of the Province of For, as the Lord put it:“When you (as a slave) have done Ontario, empowering the Senate to grant, among others, everything you were told to do, you should say,‘We are the degree of Master of Divinity. In 1985 the College unworthy slaves; we have only done our duty.’” Dr. Faber vacated the premises of 374 Queen Street South and knew himself to be such an unworthy slave, saved by grace moved to our present location on Hamilton’s west alone, and a fallible instrument in the hand of the Lord. He mountain. Of course also considerable changes in staff took rejoiced in the opportunity for service as a slave of Jesus place over the years.We are very thankful that the Lord Christ (see e.g. 1 Pet 2:16) and he never tired of giving himself gave us the expertise, vision, and enthusiasm of Dr. Faber as for the task.As a cheerful and tireless slave always seeking the the man of the first hour. best for the churches, he was an example and role model for And that is what he was, a man of the first hour of our others to follow.We thank the Lord also for this legacy. College. Dr. Faber also had the insight and wisdom to see As his health grew more and more tenuous and the that the way things were done at the beginning, namely with medical care more complicated, he remained cheerful, having a permanent principalship attached to the same knowing himself safe in the hands of the Lord. His dogmatics professor with a full teaching load, was not necessarily the was never an ivory tower exercise and as he grew older this best way for the future of the College.And so prior to his became even more obvious. He was ready to go whenever retirement on the first day of 1990, he had recommended the Lord would call him.The Lord has now summoned Dr. that the principalship should henceforth be rotating among Faber to glory and his task on earth is now finished.As a all the faculty members.Although he immensely enjoyed the faithful slave who has rendered his everything for the master, task of being principal, he also recognized that the weight of he too may know from the Lord himself:“Well done, good and this office meant he was not always able to do all the faithful slave, enter into the joy of your Master” (Matt 25:21). academic work that he would have liked to have done. He regretted that. He therefore recommended that the load of In conclusion the principalship be shared as it is at the present time. At Dr. Faber’s side and involved in a very active As a teacher, Dr. Faber taught with great enthusiasm and supportive role was Mrs. Faber.We would be remiss not to his scholarship was characterized by being very concretely mention her tremendous contribution. Especially in those based on specific Scripture. He had little patience with first difficult years, it was undoubtedly not easy for Mrs. theoretical constructions that were not grounded in divine Faber and the family. Much had to be sacrificed in view of the revelation. Everything had to be based on God’s Word.That enormous energy and time Dr. Faber expended on his task safeguards the gospel and keeps the church healthy. His being within the churches.The Theological College and the a minister of the Word was not just for the pulpit but also churches thank Mrs. Faber and the family for their support. for the classroom. We are grateful to God for having given in Mrs. Faber such a Dr. Faber’s specialties included Roman Catholic theology, dedicated and devoted helpmeet and strong support for the theological developments in the World Council of Churches, labours of Dr. Faber. and Calvin studies. He has addressed the Ministers’ We grieve the loss of a faithful servant.We will miss his Workshop and other forums on topics from these areas. upbeat character, his phenomenal memory, quick wit, and After his retirement, Dr. Faber participated with great encyclopaedic knowledge. But we rejoice in the Gospel, in the enthusiasm in colloquiums of the international Calvin Studies many good things the Lord has given us in him, and in the Society. Part of Dr. Faber’s academic legacy has been fruits of his labour that are still with us today. May the Lord gathered and published under the title Essays in Reformed continue to sustain with his promises Mrs. Faber and the family. Doctrine (Neerlandia: Inheritance, 1990). For those Praised be the Name of the Lord! interested, a short list of writings by Dr. Faber can be found at the College website and a full bibliography at the http://www.canrc.org/college/faber.html Spindleworks site. http://www.spindleworks.com/library/faber/faberbiblio.htm Besides his work for the Theological College, Dr. Faber also preached frequently in area churches, and laboured C.Van Dam fervently for the cause of local Reformed education at the Dr. C.Van Dam is principal and professor of Old Testament at the Theological elementary and secondary levels, and for the Teacher’s College of the Canadian Reformed Churches in Hamilton, Ontario. College. He also edited Clarion from 1979-1983. [email protected]

OCTOBER 22, 2004 • 539 Ray of Sunshine By Mrs. Corinne Gelms and Mrs. Erna Nordeman

Have mercy on me, O God, have mercy on me, for in You my soul takes refuge. Psalm 57:1a

We have come to the fifth Beatitude which states,“Blessed also to people who try to hurt us.We must be sorrowful for are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.” This is a very their sins and not treat them as if we are any better. searching statement for all of us.With each Beatitude we are There is also a second part to this Beatitude,“for they shall forced to examine ourselves. Each of us in our daily lives are obtain mercy.” God through the working of the Holy Spirit telling others by our words and actions that yes, we are “poor works in us so that we may be merciful and forgiving.This also in spirit, we do mourn over our sins, and we long to be meek, does not come from us.We are not merciful and kind in and we hunger and thirst for righteousness.” ourselves. One can never say “I am merciful so I will receive Now with this Beatitude we are faced with a question: are mercy.” It is only the saving work of Jesus Christ and Him we merciful and do we know what it is to be merciful? Mercy working in us through the Holy Spirit that we even know what can be compared with grace.While grace looks upon sin as a mercy is. If left on our own we would be anything but merciful. whole, mercy looks especially upon the miserable consequences We must all remember that Christ will return one day. Each of sin.The Lord in his grace and loving-kindness forgave us our one of us will stand before the judgement seat of Christ and sins through the blood of his Son. Knowing that it was for my give an account of our many sins.Thanks be to God for the sins that Christ died makes us have mercy and pity towards grace shown to us, for the Spirit of God who dwells in us. It is each other.With all the love that Christ has shown to us, we by the grace of God that makes us merciful and we can now in cannot but be merciful to others, also if they would do wrong return be merciful because of God’s grace.All thanks and praise be to Him alone! to us. In ourselves we are no better than others are, for we all fall short of living a Christian life.We also have to be kind to God, hear my plea, be merciful to me; enemies who intend to harm us. Treat me according to Thy loving-kindness. In Psalm 57:1, David is praying to God to deliver him from Blot out my misdeeds, done in sinful blindness, Saul. He cries to God to have mercy on him.The Lord hears his So that again Thy mercy I may see. prayers and shows to David his love and faithfulness. All my offences in Thy grace forgive, God is the supreme example of what it is to be merciful.The And wash away the guilt of my transgression, perfect and central example of mercy and being merciful is the That I may free from taint of evil live; sending by God of his only Son into this world.With God there Lord, from my sin cleanse me in Thy compassion. is mercy. He sees our pitiable state, He saw the suffering and in Psalm 51:1 spite of our many sins, it moved Him to action.The Lord had Birthdays in November: mercy during the Old Testament times with the Israelites in the 3 WILMA VAN DRONGELEN will be 47 desert. He forgave them countless times and remained to them 306-33375 Mayfair Avenue a merciful Father. Abbotsford, BC V2S 1P4 The prayer before baptism also shows God’s mercy to Noah and his family. In this prayer it states,“Almighty, eternal God, in Congratulations Wilma with your birthday. May our heavenly Thy righteous judgment Thou has punished the unbelieving and Father continue to keep you in his care and grant you all what unrepentant world with the flood, but in Thy great mercy hast you may need in this new year. Have an enjoyable day Wilma! saved and protected the believer Noah and his family.” Till next month, To know what Christ has all done for us, we can only be Mrs. C. Gelms and Mrs. E. Nordeman merciful to others.This we can only do because of the working 548 Kemp Road East, RR 2 of the Holy Spirit within our hearts.Thus this does not mean Beamsville, ON LOR 1B2 that we must only be merciful to our family and best friends, but 905-563-0380

540 • OCTOBER 22, 2004

N.H. Gootjes Speech at the Theological

Dr. N.H. Gootjes is professor of College Evening in Hamilton Dogmatology at the Theological College of the Canadian Reformed Churches in Hamilton, Ontario. on September 10, 2004 [email protected] How Much Did Jesus Christ Know? (Part 2)

Still learning same speech He also stated at one point Saying that Jesus did know it, but did not that He did not know the time of his want other people to know, is twisting Up to now, the pattern we found was return. Jesus Christ did not give any the words of the Bible. For Jesus Christ that Jesus Christ had normal human knowledge, for He increased in qualification. He said straight out that He himself said He did not know! knowledge. However, after He had been did not know when He would return to Calvin defended the early theologians baptized his knowledge extended beyond the earth. by saying they meant well for they were what ordinary people can know. He had confronted with denials of Christ’s comprehensive divine knowledge during divinity.At the same time he disagreed the three years of his public ministry. Jesus Christ did not give with their solution for it fails to do More must be said, however, for the any qualification. He said justice to Christ’s own statement. He Bible also points out that while Jesus was pointed out that Jesus Christ did not fulfilling his prophetic task among Israel, straight out that He did only mention his own ignorance, but also He did not know everything. He not know when He would that of the angels. His own interpretation mentioned that himself, not long before is based on the premise that Jesus He died.1 In this lengthy speech on the return to the earth. Christ’s divine nature was “in a state of future of the church, Jesus also discussed repose” and did not exert itself his own return.At that point in time He wherever it was necessary that the stated:“No one knows about that day, These biblical data have caused much human nature should act separately.4 not even the angels in heaven, nor the discussion in the church. Considering This may be true, but Calvin’s Son, but only the Father” (Mark 13:32). these texts, the Christian church solution fails to convince.The problem We need to take a close look at this correctly confessed that Jesus Christ was why Jesus Christ in this particular case text. Jesus Christ acknowledged his lack both God and man. But it proved to be said that the Son did not know the day of of knowledge when responding to a hard for them to fully acknowledge his return is not really discussed.We question by his disciples about the Christ’s lack of knowledge. How hard, need to investigate carefully the meaning destruction of the temple (13:1). In his can be demonstrated by the fact that the of the text in the context of the lengthy answer He had shown again that great theologian Augustine dealt Scriptures.5 He knew more than his contemporaries. repeatedly with this text, and not always He had stated that the temple would be in the same way! But his main solution is He was fully man destroyed (verse 2) and He had indicated clear: Mark’s statement that Jesus did not First of all we should note the what would happen about forty years know the time of his return, must be expression:“No one knows the day or later when Jerusalem would be besieged taken to mean that Jesus Christ does not the hour . . .not even the Son.” Christ and destroyed (verses 14ff). He had make it known to others!3 It is obvious makes it very clear that He himself did spoken with authority about events no that Augustine wanted to stay close to not know the time of his return. Jesus one at his time could predict, showing his Scripture, but at the same time it must Christ did know the time of the knowledge of the future.2 And yet, in the be noted that he failed to do justice to it. destruction of Jerusalem, which He had

OCTOBER 22, 2004 • 541 announced in detail. But the time of his However, at the end of his earthly even than John the Baptist. He had own return was unknown.6 This shows ministry He did not have knowledge of divine knowledge at his disposal.As a that Jesus Christ here, as more often in the time when He would be able to result He was able to preach to his the gospels, speaks as a human. Just as we return to this world to begin his people all they had to know. have no knowledge of the future, so Jesus glorious reign. He had to suffer and to Christ did not have knowledge of the die just as every human being: in faith future. He stated this emphatically. and trust. In his case, He would die the Jesus Christ had to live The question comes up how it would death of a condemned criminal, out of faith, and be be possible that Jesus Christ is ignorant something He already had made known of the time of his return to the earth. If to his disciples. He knew of his death, obedient unto death, just we want to do justice to this, we have to but He had to enter into the process as we have to do. begin by acknowledging that Jesus leading to his death, without knowing Christ was fully man. He became the time of his return. hungry when He did not eat for a long We may say that He used his divine • But for himself, there were limitations time. He was sad when He heard of the knowledge for instructing the people, but in his knowledge. It was part of his death of a close supporter, Lazarus. He not for comforting himself.That is the living in faith, that He had to go on fell asleep when He was tired. And in reason why the incarnate Son who lived with his work while trusting God and the same way, He was a man who did on earth, did not know when He would holding on to God’s revelation. By not know everything. return to this world. He did know the accepting these limitations He fact of his future triumphant return showed yet another aspect of his (13:26), but He was at this point of his faithfulness as Saviour for his people.7 He had divine knowledge, life ignorant of the day and hour this would take place. but not to use it for 1 As a side remark, it must be pointed out himself. Live from faith that the fact that he could die is another This is a very encouraging statement instance that he retained his human characteristics! for our own faith. For it means that 2 Jesus’ speech contains knowledge of the But did He not have divine during his life on earth even Jesus Christ future in vs. 6, 8, 9, 12, 20, 22, 24, 26ff. knowledge? He did, several examples had to live out of faith, and be obedient 3 On the patristic material, see Th.C. Oden, have been given before. In his teaching unto death, just as we have to do (Heb Ch.A. Hall, edds., Mark (Ancient Christian He showed clearly that He could speak 5:5-8). He had been going around being Commentary on Scripture; Downers with authority about God and his will. faithful in teaching and preaching in the Grove: IVP,1998), 192-95; see also H.A.W. But He did not always do that.We do villages of Israel, meeting people and Meyer, The Gospels of Mark and Luke (or. not read of extraordinary knowledge being rejected by many. Even when He ed., 1883; tr. R.E.Wallis; repr.Winona Lake when He grew up. Rather, the Bible says died He lived in faith, just like we. He IN,Alpha Publications, 1980), 165-6.A that He increased in knowledge.And also entrusted his spirit to God in heaven. survey of the historical development of Christology in the early centuries can be in the case of his return, He did not have Having surveyed the data Scripture found in J.N.D, Kelly, Early Christian Doctrines provides, what is the answer to the knowledge about the time. He did know (rev. ed.; San Francisco: Harper and Row, of his impending death and his question “How Much Did Jesus Know?” 1978), 280-343. resurrection, but He did not know While Jesus Christ on earth, He was 4 See Calvin’s exegesis of Matt. 24:35, in exactly when He would return.That both true God and true man. Scripture Commentary on a Harmony of the Evangelists means: He had to live out of faith! At this shows us both sides: his divine and his (Grand Rapids: Baker Book House, 1984), point in his life He was close to his human nature. But these two natures did vol. 3, 153-54. death, and He had to trust in God. not always appear side by side. 5 This text has long caused considerable He had divine knowledge, but not to • When Jesus Christ grew up, He debates in the church, see for a discussion, use it for himself. Perhaps it can be increased in knowledge.This shows G.C. Berkouwer, The Person of Christ expressed in this way, that He could that He had a normal human (Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1954), 211-23 . 6 W.L.Lane, The Gospel According to Mark access this divine knowledge in order to development, as far as knowledge is (Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1974), 481; J.Van tell the people what they needed to concerned. Bruggen, Marcus (Kampen: Kok, 1988), 319. know about God and his will. In his • From the time He began to teach and 7 This belongs to his active obedience, see function as Messiah and Saviour He preach He proved to know much on this my article ‘Christ’s Obedience and regularly showed that He knew God’s more than common Israelites know. Covenant Obedience,’ Koinonia,19,2 plan and was allowed to make it known. He was more than a prophet, more (2002), 2-22.

542 • OCTOBER 22, 2004 F.G.Oosterhoff How Do We Read Dr. F.G. Oosterhoff is a historian in Hamilton, Ontario. [email protected] The Bible? (5)

Christian Ethics observation of the Sabbath, pre-marital hermeneutical question – a question, De sex, and homosexual relations. How do Bruijne believes, that we cannot ignore if Christian ethics and the Christian we know that biblical guidelines on these we do not want to add to the lifestyle are the topics of A. L.Th. matters are not also time-bound? deterioration of the Christian lifestyle. De Bruijne’s final essay in Woord op schrift. In an explanatory article De Bruijne A contributing factor in today’s The question he seeks to answer is to explains that the question how we are to situation is that in our ethical what extent it is possible today to apply base our ethical choices on the Bible is deliberations we have often been biblical passages containing ethical not new (Ref., p. 688).The early church rationalistic and individualistic.We have directions not literally but metaphorically. already dealt with it. In our times, tended to see the Ten Commandments, My references in what follows will be however, it has become more urgent, for example, as a timeless, universal legal primarily to this essay, although I will give partly as a result of our openness to the code, which could be divorced from attention also to two explanatory outside world. Reformed people have every historical context and interpreted articles which De Bruijne wrote later never believed in isolating themselves quite apart from the community of and which were published in the weekly from the surrounding culture but have believers. Focusing on the commands as 1 De Reformatie. always interacted with it.This was not timeless rules, the individual Christian The hermeneutical question too risky as long as that culture could by careful logical reasoning, all by honoured a moral code that was in him or herself, come to the proper In the first instalment of this series I many respects derived from the Bible. ethical choices (Ref. 689). mentioned some of the problems people This usage, De Bruijne says, has led to meet today when attempting to base a reaction in our postmodern age. It is their ethical choices on the teachings of The Bible says, for true, the spirit of individualism is still the Bible. One of these concerns matters strong, but the trust in logical reasoning on which Scripture is silent, such as example, that we may not has greatly weakened.We have learned today’s medical ethics and other issues sell our land, take interest that human reason is never neutral, and that are unique to modern society.2 also that demonstrative certainty Another is why today we follow some of on money, or swear an generally escapes us. Reasoning gets us the biblical commands, but not all of oath; yet modern no further than plausibility, that is, them.The Bible says, for example, that we conclusions of greater or lesser may not sell our land, take interest on Christians do all these probability. Even contradictory positions money, or swear an oath; yet modern things. are often defended by logical reasoning. Christians do all these things.Apparently, Those who want to prove that the Bible this type of command was embedded in forbids homosexual relations, for and conditioned by the culture within Today, however, our society is post- example, can set up a rational which it was given.The question that is christian and pluralistic, and the wind of a demonstration that many will find being asked today is why this is not true postmodernist relativism freely enters convincing. But those who want to prove of other commands as well – for the church through its open windows. the contrary can set up a logical example of those concerning divorce and It is this factor that goes a long way in discourse that seems no less persuasive remarriage, women in office, the explaining the urgency of the to others (227f.).

OCTOBER 22, 2004 • 543

ChurChurchch NewsNews

Declined the call to Orangeville, The subjective element – specifically last one of Revelation. By God’s grace we Ontario: the belief that one’s personal desires and have been given a place in this story, Rev. D.G.J.Agema feelings should be considered – plays a together with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob of Attercliffe, Ontario. role in this type of reasoning, even and all the saints of the Old and New though the element is covered up. It can Testament.In this way we are connected Declined the call to Yarrow, also play a more overt role – in the to the narrative of Christ, as it is related British Columbia: matter of homosexual relationships and in the New Testament.If we receive in other situations, such as those Scripture as narrative rather than as a Rev. D.G.J.Agema concerning divorce and remarriage. De formal discourse with timeless moral of Attercliffe, Ontario. Bruijne gives an example. He writes that rules and concepts, its message reaches one of the problems a pastor meets us at a deeper and more personal level. New Address: when referring to the Bible in matters of Rev. C.J.VanderVelde ethics and lifestyle is that the other 810 Foss Road person explains the argument as the With Hays he believes that Fenwick, ON L0S 1C0 pastor’s subjective, personal vision. He Office phone: (905) 892-9121 counters it with his own vision. For we must stop looking at Home phone: (905) 892-4536 example, if he has been issued a warning, Scripture as a book of based on the Bible, against a second marriage after an unjustified divorce, the rules and concepts and answer frequently is:“That is your receive it for what in fact exegesis; my opinion is different.Why would ignore the fact that it is not in would God ask of me such an impossible it is, namely the history of abstract rules that as Christians we find way of life? When I read the Bible, I God’s redemptive deeds our identity, but in the historical events cannot see that” (Ref., 784). of the life of Christ – namely those of his In short, what we experience today in Christ. way of cross and resurrection. It is are an individualistic approach in the important to note that that identity, as making of ethical choices, a tendency the Bible teaches, has an effect on our toward rationalism and legalism, and a Stories have that effect.The emphasis in turning away from the Christian lifestyle the biblical narrative is on God’s acts in moral thinking and knowing. It implies a and the command to follow Christ. the history of redemption, on words and renewing of our mind, as a result of events and examples by means of which which we are able “to test and approve Narrative and discipleship He speaks to us today.This is what we what God’s will is – his good, pleasing These developments have convinced need for our Christian life. For it is not a and perfect will” (Rom 12:1,2).We are him, De Bruijne says, that in ethical moral rule, but the story of Christ that enabled spiritually to discern, and to matters we must learn to look at the wants to have authority over us and determine what really counts.The Bible Bible in a different manner than we have determine our lives as believers.We must speaks in this connection of our having been used to. He refers in his essay to live the history of our own lives in the “the mind of Christ” (1 Cor 2:16).The the work of yet another American light of Christ’s history.This means that Holy Spirit places upon us the stamp of theologian, namely Richard B. Hays, the central issue in Christian ethics is Jesus’ life and history in such a way that ethicist at Yale University.With Hays he discipleship, namely a following of Christ, a we begin to think, experience, and believes that we must stop looking at process wherein Christ forms us (199). apprehend in the style of Christ and in Scripture as a book of rules and When speaking of following Christ terms of his history of cross and concepts and receive it for what in fact it (navolging), De Bruijne does not have in resurrection to new creation (201, 206). is, namely the history of God’s mind an “imitation ethics,” as we meet it Elsewhere in his essay De Bruijne redemptive deeds in Christ. for example in the well-known rule shows the relevance of this discipleship That history comes to us in narrative “What Would Jesus Do.” Such an ethics for the issue we referred to form.This means that it is presented as a approach would again deny the earlier, that of remarriage after an consciously composed story, all the way uniqueness of Jesus’ history and imply an unjustified divorce. He does it in a from the first chapter of Genesis to the ethics that is reduced to timeless rules. It discussion with his colleague B. Loonstra,

544 • OCTOBER 22, 2004 who had argued that to forbid the wrapping. In the matter of ethics it Our economic order on the other hand remarriage in such a situation would go will mean that we will try to deduce is capitalistic, commercial, dependent on counter to the biblical theme of love. De from the Bible general rules which we large-scale operations, often inflationary, Bruijne replies that if our Christian can then interpret apart from the and focused on profit. Borrowing is now identity is indeed formed by the story of historical situations wherein they primarily a tool for investment.The Bible Christ, then Christ’s way of cross and originated.That approach, however, does does not ask that we reject our modern resurrection will become evident in our not work.We cannot peel the historical economic order in favour of that of lives and we will not so easily say that from Scripture, for the entire Bible is earlier times.What it does tell us is to having to stay unmarried is contrary to steeped in its own time and culture. If we interpret and translate the command in the totality of the biblical message. ignore this we will end up (as today’s present-day terms.Although we may Rather, it is by forgoing a second situation shows all too clearly), by invest our money to gain interest, we are marriage in the expectation of the new doubting the relevance and moral as followers of Christ instructed to do creation that something becomes visible authority of practically everything in the well to the poor, both at home and of Jesus and his work.We deny ourselves Bible (200). abroad. Serious financial sacrifices on something for the sake of the kingdom behalf of the needy are still being asked (Matt 19:12).As we read in Philippians of us. Similarities and differences, in 3:10f, we become like Christ in his death The Ten Commandments short, will come to the fore in a variety in order that we may also come to the must not be removed from of ways, as is typical of metaphors (201, resurrection from the dead.This choice Ref. 690). may serve, moreover, as an example the rest of the Torah, The use of metaphor in ethical within the Christian community and so matters is not restricted to directions help prevent a situation wherein the way nor are they to be seen as that are clearly conditioned by their of divorce becomes an acceptable the only moral guides. historical context, such as the alternative among us (210f). The history of the Torah prohibition of taking interest. It applies, Metaphor De Bruijne says, also to Bible texts that has moral significance we recognize as containing a direct It is through the Holy Spirit that the command, for these commands also Christian becomes part of the biblical as well. originated within a specific historical narrative.The believer has at the same time, however, his own story, embedded and cultural context (212f). He in his own time and culture and But if we may not cut the Bible up illustrates this with reference to the worldview, all of which are different from into two parts, neither are we to adopt Decalogue.Although the Ten Words the biblical ones. Because of these in an uncritical manner all the rules and must be received as authoritative for all differences, it becomes necessary to principles that come with the biblical times, they are nevertheless coloured reason by analogy, or to make, as De passage in question.To do this would by the time and culture of their period. Bruijne calls it,“metaphorical leaps”; to again imply a denial of the historical The sixth commandment, for example, translate from the biblical context into element.There are redemptive-historical tells us that we may not murder. our own. differences between “then” and “now”: Literally, however, this command forbids For the differences we encounter we are part of the same story as the vendettas and blood-feuds, usages we may not result in our ignoring certain believers of the Old Testament, but we no longer follow. How then can such a biblical passages.We are not to cut the are at a different point within that story, command direct us? It can do this Bible into two parts, one of which is and that difference must be kept in mind because we make a connection “time-bound” and as such irrelevant for (214).The switch from Sabbath to Sunday between the situation of today and that us, while the other transcends time and can serve as example (Ref. 689).Also of the biblical world and note the is therefore applicable to all periods, instructive is the Old Testament similarities. It is in that way that we cultures, and situations. In that case, the prohibition of the taking of interest.The experience the normative character of historical element in the Bible will count command fitted the economic order of the commandment.The necessity of for us as no more than the wrapping of the time, which was non-capitalistic, making a metaphorical leap applies supra-historical truths. Once we have small-scale, and primarily agricultural. equally to other commands in the unpacked these truths, we can discard One borrowed only in case of poverty. Decalogue. In addition to the sixth,

OCTOBER 22, 2004 • 545 De Bruijne specifically mentions the the land of Canaan. It is in its very Focal images fourth and the ninth. concreteness that the Torah is universally In the realm of ethics, we saw, the The metaphor theory, in short, helps valid: God is via that preliminary Bible gives us both normative commands us realize that, in spite of redemptive- community of Israel on his way to his and normative examples.We are not to historical differences, the entire Bible is new world for all nations.The Torah ignore any of these as “time-bound” and relevant for us today (205). It further shows how we have to follow God on therefore irrelevant; but neither are we shows us the need to approach the Bible that way. It is therefore not an arbitrary to remove them from their historical not only with our analytical reason, but way but points to God’s coming context.Taking into account that they also, and primarily, with our imaginative kingdom. But the same concreteness also originated in a different time and culture, understanding (200).The role of the explains why it is not possible to apply we must translate them from their former is not to be denied (229), but in the commandments without further ado original context into our own.As to the attempting to apply biblical commands to all other times and places. In the ethical cases about which the Bible is and examples we do not first of all history of redemption there will be altogether silent, we must attempt to find depend on logical reasoning. Rather, we issues that remain the same and issues solutions that are, as far as we can “recognize” the relevance of God’s that differ. ascertain, in accordance with the commands for our lives in spite of the teachings of the Bible. differences in time and culture.We learn To be able to do this we have to be that these commands are more than Ethical choices become aware, De Bruijne writes, of the overall moral rules.They are the living words of theme and intent of Scripture. He speaks God whereby He directs us on our convincing first of all in this connection of “focal images,” that way (213). because they “square” is, images which serve as lenses through Law as Torah which we discern the unity and central with the history told by message of the Bible. Following Hays, he De Bruijne refers in this connection the Bible. distinguishes in the New Testament the to the work of the American ethicist J.W. following focal images: community, cross, McClendon, who has described how the and new creation.These three “call forth Ten Commandments,together with for us the image that must guide our use other instructions in the Pentateuch (the Our traditional view of the law, De of the New Testament in ethical choices. Five Books of Moses), were given to the Bruijne believes, also fails to do justice to Together they present to us. . . the concrete community of Israel when, after the central place of Christ in the ethical narrative unity of the New Testament. the liberation from Egypt, it had to live a life. Jesus does more than maintain and This is the narrative of God, who forms life of service to the Lord in the land of explain the Ten Commandments.He around Christ the community of the new promise. He points out that with the gives a new Torah,for the way to the covenant, a community that is to follow word “law” we must not think first of all kingdom is now no longer restricted to Him on the way via the cross to a new of abstract moral rules.The Old the people of Israel but runs via a new creation” (198). Testament speaks of “Torah,” a word that community, one that is composed of all we can better translate not as “law,” but the peoples of the world. Jesus as Congregational ethics as “instruction” or “giving direction.” In mediator opens that new way and also In our following of Christ we are led the Torah God showed his people the embodies it, and his disciples must follow by the Holy Spirit, who rewrites our way in which they had to walk in Him and keep his commands, his Torah. narrative by means of the biblical Canaan (213f). Just as the Torah of Moses assumed the narrative and places us under the The Ten Commandments must not community of Israel, so the Torah of Jesus authority of the history of God’s be removed from the rest of the Torah, assumes the context of the Christian salvation in Christ (203, 232). He does nor are they to be seen as the only congregation.The change from Old to this within the framework of the moral guides.The history of the Torah has New Testament does not mean that the congregation, for the Christian identity is moral significance as well.The Torah is Torah of Moses with its Decalogue is a communal identity.We must form a also not to be divorced from its own forgotten. Jesus did not come to abolish communal conviction regarding our time and place. Its meaning was the the law, but to fulfil it. But with the lifestyle as part of the Christian identity. formation of a community around the coming of Jesus the Torah of Moses has The Spirit’s guidance and the worship of the one true God in a specific been given a place within a different congregational framework provide an phase of history and at a specific place: framework (Ref. 689f.) answer, De Bruijne believes, to a question

546 • OCTOBER 22, 2004 that inevitably arises with the and teaching show how a life of metaphorical approach, namely that of discipleship can take form and how it is arbitrariness and subjectivism. For how rewarded in this life and in the life to does one know that the choices one come (Luke 18:30); he needs members makes along the metaphorical route are who can “discern the spirits” and expose indeed valid? An analytical, rational the dynamics in differing points of view; approach seems safer, since it allows and so on. Ethical choices become one to ground ethical conclusions on convincing first of all because they the firm foundation of timeless, “square” with the history told by the universal moral rules and commands. Bible.And this “squaring” is evident not Within a narrative approach, demonstrative proofs are much harder only and not in the first place on the level to come by. Dependence on the Spirit, of our thinking, writing, and debating, but who will lead us in the truth, is on that of the Christian life (227). therefore essential.And instead of The more mature the congregation is rational proof, which the individual can in faith and Christian life, De Bruijne reach by his or her own individual believes, the better it will be able to read reasoning, there is the “test” within the and apply the Bible and understand its congregation.To have one’s life guided ethical guidelines.Where the message of by the narrative of Christ, in short, is a the Bible is not practised, believers make matter of Christian practice and it difficult for themselves and for others interaction within the community of to understand it.The proper believers.The congregation uses as interpretation begins with a life of guiding marks (ijkpunten) in this testing discipleship.And therefore De Bruijne specific biblical commands and examples can say that the hermeneutical problem as well as the commonly held focal is essentially an ethical problem. Its images. No less important is congregational prayer, not just as an resolution can never be given in a fully extra by the ethical reflection but as a rational formula. It is to be found in a life necessary part of that reflection (203). of conversion within the congregation In this connection De Bruijne refers (204). Discipleship is a matter of the to 1 Corinthians 12, which speaks of the congregation as a whole (232). different gifts that the Spirit distributes In the next and final article we turn among the members of the to the reception of this essay among congregation.This network of gifts is Reformed theologians. indispensable if we are to grow as congregation in the Christian life. De NOTES Bruijne uses the following illustration of 1 References to the essay in Woord op this use of the Spirit’s gifts: when a schrift will appear in the text with page pastor speaks with a homosexual number only, those to articles in De member and tries to convince him that Reformatie as Ref. with page number.The his participation in Christ’s narrative Reformatie articles to which I refer demands a life of abstinence, then he appear in the issues of June 14 and July requires the help of other members of the congregation. He needs, for 26, 2003, pp. 688-91 and 784-88 example, members with the gift of respectively. 2 compassion; he needs people with the De Bruijne mentions in addition to gift of “faith,” who show with their own medical ethics the use of the media, the life that trust in God makes possible use of luxury articles, tourism, and what may appear to be impossible; he investments. De Reformatie, June 14, 203, needs those who can by their example p. 688.

OCTOBER 22, 2004 • 547

Iraqi Churches Update

Thanks and greetings from your Iraqi prospect of falling bomb-shells, rocket- evangelistic efforts. Some sought to brothers and sisters in Christ – the six propelled grenades, stray bullets and car establish new churches. Such efforts congregations of Baghdad (2), Basra, bombs.Two families from the Baghdad were accompanied by the distribution of Mosul, Kirkuk and Irbil. In these turbulent congregations lost members in the food, books, tracts, etc.The newcomers times they receive much comfort from tumultuous events. Falling bombs focused on predominately Christian the knowledge that many fellow believers destroyed homes of two other families, neighborhoods around Baghdad, Kirkuk, are praying for them. seriously injuring two children. Mosul and several areas of the largely Evangelical Christian Iraqis along with Security Concerns Kurdish north. Roman Catholics who hosted Western The worsening security situation – The security situation remains workers, are considered by militant especially the rise of kidnappings of worrisome for all Iraqis – especially for Islamist groups as Western spies and foreigners – has prompted the departure Christians and other minorities. collaborators. Hundreds of Western and of many. Numerous Iraqis of Christian Protecting children and young women Korean missionaries entered Iraq after background had depended on financial from the growing wave of kidnappings is the fall of Baghdad last year. For months assistance from various Protestant and as much of a daily concern as the many of them engaged in public Catholic relief agencies which have now left the country. Losses and Gains Since jobs are scarce and it is unclear whether Iraq’s new central government will successfully regain control of the nationwide security situation, most congregations have lost large numbers of families who have emigrated to other countries. For example, the church in Basra has dwindled to about forty people.At the same time, some congregations have also gained families who moved into their community from less secure areas or from ancient church backgrounds, such as Assyrian or Chaldean Orthodox. But overall, most churches have experienced significant losses. The Arabic congregation in Baghdad is the largest and has lost about 60 families to emigration. It continues to minister to 235 families and 360 children, Iraq’s six Reformed churches (two in Baghdad) are persevering amidst difficulty. In contrast, the church in the northern

548 • OCTOBER 22, 2004 Iraqi city of Mosul has grown from ministering to just a handful of families to becoming a fellowship of 37 families and 60 children.The churches in northern Amidst continuing violence and insecurity, Iraqi churches have Iraq, Kirkuk and its daughter become more active in schooling children inside their buildings. congregation in Irbil, need our prayers as they also struggle with security concerns and shrinking numbers due to emigration. Sunday services, mid-week Bible studies, of the Islamic council of Sunni scholars. It Praise God for the beginning of a classes and activities for various age must be viewed as an answer to prayer! small group meeting in the largely groups. Security tends to improve on The pastors and elders of the Kurdish town of Suleymania in the north. Fridays – the Iraqi day off – when Reformed congregations of Iraq are congregations enjoy the best attendance working very hard to nurture the flocks Safe Haven at services and activities. the Lord has entrusted to them. Fervent Except for a brief period in mid- The churches in each of the major prayer is needed that law and order, as 2003, average Iraqis have not felt safe to cities have developed a weekly system of well as peace, will soon be restored move about freely.Although many visitation and diaconal care for members throughout the country for the good of schools and educational institutions have and friends.This insures that every family God’s people and the extension of Christ’s Kingdom. opened, many families have not dared to is regularly checked on. Thank you for your continued risk the dangers of traveling outside their The congregations of Baghdad, support! The Lord continues to gather local neighborhoods. Instead, families Mosul and Kirkuk have also established his people from all corners of the earth! have been bringing their children to the medical clinics offering care to the poor What a privilege to be able to support a safety of local church buildings during the from any religious background. MERF day to receive some education and take Reformed witness in the Middle East! By diaconal aid is an essential facilitator of part in church activities.At the initiative way of reminder: Please make all cheques these vital efforts. of moderate Muslim leaders, almost all payable to “MERF-Canada” and send Although serious security concerns church buildings are being kept secure by them to: neighborhood militias. In the less secure persist, recently one of the top MERF-Canada cities of Baghdad and Basra, families living clergymen of the Al-Sadr Shiite 1225 Dundas Street, RR #1, in the relatively safe communities near movement has added his voice to those Burlington, ON L7R 3X4 church buildings have opened their who call for the protection of Christians 905-332-3285 homes indefinitely to host families from and other minorities. He issued a fatwa [email protected] less secure areas. Give thanks for the (Islamic declaration) that “Iraqi Christians With warm regards, increased activities taking place in the are loyal citizens and faithful neighbors and yours in the Lord’s service, buildings of the six Reformed entitled to the protection awarded to good Rev. J. Mulder, chairman, congregations. Church programs include: Muslims.” This received the endorsement Mrs. J.VanDam, secretary

OCTOBER 22, 2004 • 549 Children’s Catechism J.Wiskerke van Dooren

Lord’s Day 21

Mrs. J. Wiskerke van Dooren published a Children’s Catechism in Dutch.This has been translated with her permission.

Before, in Lord’s Day 16, we spoke When a grandfather dies, an ad is In Lord’s Day 22, it says that the of the grave of the Lord Jesus. But we published in the newspaper. If he loved soul is immediately taken up in heaven. also mentioned other graves.The graves the Lord, the ad in the paper will say: And later, when the Lord Jesus returns, of granddad and grandma, the grave of The Lord has taken to himself our the graves will be opened.Then, the someone else we knew. beloved grandfather.Then his name is souls of all God’s children return to People who die are brought to a mentioned, and often a bible text the earth.They come back in their cemetery, and there they are buried. is added. renewed bodies.And they will always Often, a gravestone is placed on that How is that possible to say that? Is be with God. grave, mentioning who was buried grandpa in the grave, and at the same You see that dying is not as bad as it there. If he was your grandfather, you time with God in heaven? Yes, both looks.And if you really want to know can say: grandpa is here. are true. why, you should go back in the Catechism. Have another look at Lord’s Days 16 and 17. And that is not all.At the very end, the Apostles’ Creed speaks of the life everlasting. Isn’t that neat? The end of the Apostles’ Creed mentions something that has no end. It speaks about eternal life. The body has become a glorified body.And the soul is again united with its renewed body.And as a soul in a glorified body you may be with the Lord always. You know what is nice? Now already we can begin enjoying that feast. For you and I know that we belong to the Lord, always.And that makes you happy.When you are at school and when you are at home.When you are studying, or playing a game, or are sick and in your bed. Always happy. The future feast begins today. It will exceed your greatest dream.

550 • OCTOBER 22, 2004 reformedevangelism.com

D. Moes

Rev. Dick Moes is minister of the Surrey Covenant Reformed Church (URC) in Cloverdale, British Columbia. [email protected] reformedevangelism.com Part 2: How Christians Grow – Learning to Pray

In Part one of the Emmaus Nurture Developing good habits of prepare for prayer through praise, course, we looked at what Christians prayer confession and stillness. Second, they listen to God through attending to the believe. In Part two, we will look at how Have the people talk together about Christians grow. Part two is made up of four the different reasons why it is healthy Scriptures.Third, they talk to God about lessons: (1) Learning to pray, (2) Reading the and important for Christians to develop their own concerns, the concerns of Bible, (3) Belonging to the church and (4) good habits of prayer – and what some those who are close to them and the Celebrating the Lord’s Supper. of the difficulties might be. Be sure to concerns of the world. Have the groups The parable of the sower mention that: discuss together the importance of each • Prayer builds our relationship with part of their prayer time. The first lesson of part two begins God. Like any relationship, our with the parable of the sower.As the Praying with others relationship with God will develop parable of the lost son was fundamental Explain why praying with others is and grow as we spend quality time on to the first part of this course in that it important. Point out that this can be building the relationship. difficult at first.Tell the people not to showed that people need God in their • Prayer was a vital part of Jesus’ own worry about how other people pray. lives, so the parable of the sower is basic ministry.Thus, it should also be a vital Encourage them to be natural and to to part two. It shows people the need to part of our life. persevere. Remind them of what God grow as Christians. Read the parable • We grow more like the Lord Jesus as together as a group.Then, break into we spend more time with Him. tells us in Romans 8:26 that the Spirit small groups and have the groups discuss • Prayer strengthens us for our daily lives. helps us in our weakness, for we do not what kind of a person best corresponds • Through prayer God’s power is know what we ought to pray for.Thus the to each kind of soil.As the groups come released in the world, in the church Spirit himself intercedes for us with back together, have them share their and in our own lives. groans that words cannot express. findings. Go through the different kinds of Ask the people to reflect on how soil together with the group.Warn the Some first steps they might develop a helpful pattern of people that they will go through times of Stress that it is good to talk to God prayer. Encourage them to try to learn testing and that they will experience (and listen to Him) all through the day. the Lord’s Prayer by heart and to pray it thorns growing up to choke the life out Most Christians, however, find it very slowly each day, thinking carefully about of the seed. Give the people some kind of important to have a time each day to the words. Entertain any questions the an idea of how long it may take the seed spend with God in prayer. Emphasize that people may have at this time. to grow to maturity. it can be hard to find such a time because If you would like to view the outline for this lesson, go to The Lord’s Prayer of our own hectic schedule, our laziness and the activity of the devil. Highlight that www.reformedevangelism.com and follow Have the people talk together in small in order to establish a daily time of the links.We have added two classics on groups about their own experience of prayer, a person should find the time, the prayer to our library section.The first is prayer. Be sure to allow the people to place and plan the time. Be sure to point J.C. Ryle’s little booklet A Call to Prayer. articulate a wide ranger of experiences. out that there is no single,“right” way The second is Andrew Murray’s With Let the groups share their experiences that suits everyone.Whatever suits a Christ in the School of Prayer. Murray’s with the whole group.Then, introduce the person best is usually the best way for book contains no fewer than 31 chapters Lord’s Prayer. Guide the group through that person.Also be flexible when on various aspects of prayer. Read one the structure of this prayer, briefly speaking about the components of a chapter at a time and have your prayer commenting on the address, the petitions, person’s prayer time. One way that life formed by this classic. Next time, we the doxology and the Amen. people have found helpful is to first hope to introduce “Reading the Bible.”

OCTOBER 22, 2004 • 551 Press Releases

Press Release of Classis The chairman notes with All the documents were found to be in Contracta Niagara of August thankfulness that the meeting could be order. Classis approbated the call. 18, 2004 held in Lincoln, conducted in an orderly and brotherly Br. D. Deddens was appointed to manner.The Acts are read and adopted. represent Classis at the installation of Ontario The Press Release is approved.The Rev. J.P.VanVliet, and Rev. J.Visscher was Opening chairman leads in prayer of thanksgiving appointed to represent Classis at the and declares Classis closed. welcome evening.After prayer of On behalf of the convening Church For Classis, thanksgiving, Classis was closed. of Lincoln, Rev.J.VanVliet opens the D.G.J.Agema, Clerk e.t. Rev. E. Kampen, meeting in a Christian manner. He clerk at that time welcomes the delegates.The Churches of Press Release of Classis Attercliffe, Grassie, Lincoln and Smithville Contracta Pacific West of the have sent delegates.The credentials of Canadian Reformed Press Release of the meeting these churches are found to be in proper of Classis Central Ontario of Churches, held in Langley, order.The Church at Lincoln has two September 17, 2004 instructions in connection with the September 13, 2004 On behalf of the convening Church upcoming vacancy. Classis is declared The Maranatha Canadian Reformed of Burlington Fellowship, br. B. Poort constituted. Classis appoints the Church at Surrey had requested a Classis called the meeting to order. He following moderamen Contracta to approbate the call requested the singing of Psalm 87:1, 2, 5 Chairman – A.Souman extended by that congregation to Rev. J.P. and read Philippians 2:1-11, and led in Clerk – D.Agema VanVliet, which he accepted. prayer. He welcomed the brothers Vice-chairman – S.C.VanDam The meeting was opened by reading The Agenda is adopted as proposed delegates.The delegates of the Burlington from God’s Word and calling upon his Ebenezer Church examined the Release Rev.J.P.VanVliet name in prayer.The Churches at credentials and reported that they were Classis reviews the necessary Cloverdale, Langley, Surrey and in order. Classis was constituted.The documents and decides to release most Willoughby Heights were represented. officers took their places; the Rev. G. honourably the Rev. J.P.VanVliet from his Rev. J.Visscher was appointed as Nederveen volunteered to serve as clerk ministerial duties in the Classis Niagara. chairman and Rev. E. Kampen as clerk. in the absence of the Rev. J. Huijgen. Classis provides the Rev. J.P.VanVliet Classis reviewed the following The chairman, Rev. M. Jagt, expressed with a Certificate of Release in duplicate documents: words of thanks to the hosting church, in order that these documents – in 1. Letter of call from the Maranatha Burlington Ebenezer.As memorabilia he accordance with articles 5 and 9 of the Church at Surrey to Rev. J.P VanVliet. remembered the sabbatical of the Rev. Church Order – may serve him in the 2. Letter of acceptance of the call by W. den Hollander, the vacancy of the Maranatha Canadian Reformed Church Rev. J.P.VanVliet. Burlington Fellowship Church, and the at Surrey and the Classis Pacific West as 3. Certificate of honourable release various building activities in building legitimate testimony of his release from from the Canadian Reformed Church projects in Toronto, Fellowship, and on the Church at Lincoln and from the at Lincoln, Ontario. the mission field in PNG. He also drew Classis Niagara, and as a good 4. Certificate of honourable release the attention to the developments at the ecclesiastical attestation regarding his from Classis Niagara of the Canadian Theological College and the health doctrine and conduct. Classis sings Reformed Churches. concerns of Dr. J. Faber. Psalm 134:3. 5. Notice of assumption of After the agenda was established and responsibility for Rev. J.P.VanVliet by Instructions Lincoln adopted, Classis received audit reports the Maranatha Church at Surrey as of from the Church of Burlington The Church at Lincoln requests that 12:01 A.M. September 1, 2004. Fellowship re the archives, and from the Rev.Agema be appointed as counsellor 6. Letter from the Council of the Church at Burlington-Waterdown re the according to Art 45 Church Order.This Church at Surrey testifying that books of the Treasurer, the Fund for request is granted. Classis also grants the announcements had been made on Financial Aid to students for the ministry, Church at Lincoln pulpit supply.A August 15 and August 22 and that the and of the Fund for Needy Churches.All schedule is approved. congregation had given its these books were found to be in good Closing approbation to the call. order, which was noted with gratitude.

552 • OCTOBER 22, 2004 The Committee for Needy Churches h. Church for auditing the books of the manner. He welcomed the delegates, in submitted a report on the requests from Fund Financial Aid to Students for the particular the fraternal delegate, Rev. the Church at Ottawa and Burlington Ministry: Burlington-Waterdown V.Picknally from the POD-OPC Fellowship. Classis adopted the i. Committee for Needy Churches: (Presbytery of the Dakotas of the recommendations to grant the requests Fred Lodder (Burlington South): Orthodox Presbyterian Church).The of these two churches.The assessment Treasurer (2006) delegates of the convening church per communicant member was raised to Barry Hordijk (Flamborough) (2005) checked the credentials.The meeting $40.00 for the year 2005 (the amount of Harry Sloots (Burlington Ebenezer) could proceed.All churches were support for Burlington Fellowship will be (2007) represented by their primi delegates. prorated according to the number of j. Church to audit the books of the Denver could only send one delegate. months not vacant). Fund for Needy Churches: There was one instruction. In the Question Period according to Burlington-Waterdown As memorabilia br. Lodder art 44 CO, the Church of Burlington k. Observer Free Church of Scotland: mentioned that the Church of Carman Fellowship requested pulpit supply for G. Nederveen. East is still vacant.The brothers Rev. R. one Sunday per month, starting January l. The convening church for next Pot and candidate R. Bredenhof declined 2005.This request was granted.The Classis: Burlington-Waterdown – the calls to Carman East, accepting calls Burlington Ebenezer Church requested Dec. 10, 2004 to other congregations. Rev.T.G. advice in matters of church discipline,as m. Delegates to Regional Synod East of VanRaalte declined the call of the Free did the Burlington Fellowship Church. In November 10, 2004: Reformed Church at Launceston, closed session advice was given Ministers: J. DeGelder and M.R. Jagt; Tasmania,Australia. Furthermore the concurring with the requests to proceed Alternates:W.den Hollander, J. Huijgen recent college evening in Hamilton was in these matters of discipline. Elders:W.Horsman and H.VanderWel; mentioned; four young brothers Classis made the following Alternates:A. Smouter, E. Pol. graduated this year.Three new students appointments: No one made use of the question enrolled in the theological training at our a. Committee for Examinations: period.The chairman thanked the College. Since we need more ministers we should encourage young brothers to 1. Coordinators – W.den Hollander brothers for their cooperation and consider training for the ministry in and J. Huijgen harmony and thankfully observed that Hamilton. 2. Exegesis OT – G. Nederveen censure according to art 34 CO was not The following officers were 3. Exegesis NT – M.R. Jagt necessary.The Acts were read and appointed: Rev.A.J. Pol chairman; Rev. K. 4. Knowledge of Scripture – M.R. Jagt adopted; the Press Release was read and Jonker, vice-chairman; Rev. D.M. Boersma, 5. Doctrine and Creeds – J. DeGelder approved.After the singing of Hymn clerk. Classis was declared constituted. 6. Church History – W.den Hollander 46:1, 2, the chairman closed the meeting The agenda was proposed and adopted. 7. Ethics – J. DeGelder with prayer. Rev.V.Picknally from the OPC at Carson 8. Church Polity – G. Nederveen For Classis Central (ND) was seated as fraternal delegate. 9. Diaconiology – J. Huijgen of September 17, 2004: b. Church Visitors: J. DeGelder,W.den W. den Hollander, Reports, proposals and Hollander, J. Huijgen, and G. Nederveen vice-chairman at that time correspondence received: c. Church for taking care of the Press Release of Classis 1. The Classis Treasurer’s report was archives: Burlington Ebenezer Manitoba, Monday September received with thanks. d. Church to inspect the archives: 20, 2004 held in the building of 2 . The report from the Committee for Burlington Fellowship Aid to Needy Churches was e. Treasurer: br. H. J. Sloots, 568 Dynes the Canadian Reformed received. Classis accepted the report Road, Burlington ON, L7N 2V2 Church Carman East, with thanks to the committee Alternate: br. G. J. Nordeman Manitoba members. It was decided to grant the (Burlington Ebenezer) request of Denver for support.This f. Church to audit the books of the Opening support will amount to $66.00 per Classical Treasurer: Burlington- At 9:00 a.m., on behalf of the communicant member. Waterdown convening church at Carman East, br. L. 3. The Redeemer Canadian Reformed g. Church for Financial Aid to Students Lodder called the meeting to order. He Church reported that the books of for the Ministry: Flamborough opened the meeting in a Christian the Committee for Aid to Needy

OCTOBER 22, 2004 • 553 Churches were audited and found to 2. Rev. Picknally addressed the meeting c. Appointed delegates for Regional be in good order. and brought the greetings from the Synod West 2004 are: Primi- 4. The Committee for Aid to Needy POD. He informed the Classis about ministers: Rev. K. Jonker and A.J. Students also sent their report. It was church life in the Presbytery of the Pol; alternate-minister: Rev.T.G. received by Classis with thanks to Dakotas.Appreciation was expressed VanRaalte; Primi-elders: br.A. the committee members. for the dedication with which Classis Poppe and C.VanSeters; alternate- 5. The Grace Canadian Reformed Manitoba maintains the ecclesiastical elders: br.V.Schriemer (1) , br.W. Church reported that the books of relationship with the POD. Rev. VanderLinde (2). the Committee for Aid to Needy Picknally expressed the hope that the d. Appointed fraternal delegate to Students were audited and found to official contact may grow into more POD-OPC: Rev. D.M. Boersma; be in good order. practical contact between the and to the Northern Plains 6. The report of the church visitation to churches. He expressed gratitude for Classis of the RCUS: Rev.A.J. Pol. being invited to Classis. Denver on September 3, 2004 was In case a fraternal delegate from Rev.VanRaalte responded to the read in closed session. our classical region is unable to address. In prayer Classis 7. Observer’s report OPC-POD was visit the assemblies of our sister commended the churches of the received with thanks to Rev.T.G. churches, fraternal greetings will POD to the Lord’s care. VanRaalte who attended the POD be sent. 3. Rev. R. Pontier of the United meeting of April 2004.The report will Reformed Churches (Classis Central 5. During personal question period the be passed on to the Committee for U.S.) informed Classis that he is not Church at Denver thanked Classis for contact with Churches in the the contact person anymore. Rev. P. the financial support received. Americas (CCCA), which takes care Kloosterman has taken his place. Regarding calling work, the churches of our ecclesiastical contact with the Rev. Kloosterman sent a letter of were requested to officially inform OPC.The report also will be shared greetings and expressed the hope the classis churches when a minister with Classis Alberta. that a delegate can be sent from is called and his subsequent decision 8. The church at Carman West URC Classis Central U.S. to a future regarding the call. requested updating the Guidelines for Classis of Manitoba. Closing Conducting Church Visitation in the 4. The following appointments were The chairman concluded that censure Classis Manitoba. Classes accepted the made: idea that a review is necessary, but a. Next Classis, convening church: ad art 34 CO was not necessary. He that a local church can undertake this Carman West; tentative date: thanked the brothers for the pleasant matter. Classis suggested that Monday December 6, 2004; cooperation at this Classis. In turn the Carman West can make a proposal to alternate date: Monday March 7, chairman was thanked for his work “in the churches. 2005; place: in the Carman East the chair.” The Acts were read and church building; the suggested adopted.The Press Release was read and Classical matters officers are: chairman: Rev.T.G. approved. Psalm 89:1 was sung and the 1. Question period according to art 44 VanRaalte; vice-chairman: Rev.A.J. chairman led Classis in closing Prayer. CO was held. Carman East asked Pol; clerk: Rev. K. Jonker. Classis was closed. advice on a matter of church b. After a small change the For Classis Manitoba discipline.Advice was given in closed appointments in the standing September 20, 2004, session. committees were reconfirmed. Rev. K. Jonker, vice-chairman

554 • OCTOBER 22, 2004 CLARION ADVERTISEMENTS Advertisements: Announcements of Weddings, Anniversaries (with Open House) should be submitted six weeks in advance.

BIRIRTHS ENGAGEMENTS

Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what In Him our hearts rejoice, for we trust in His Holy name. Psalm 33:21 we do not see. Hebrews 11:1 With joy in our hearts and great thankfulness to God who has We give thanks to our gracious Father and praise his name for He brought us together, we has heard our prayers and granted us a healthy daughter AMY POORT KARLY FAITH BARTELS and Born August 4, 2004 JONATHAN REININK A sister for Jessica, Jamie, Kerri† and Kenton joyfully announce our engagement Wayne and Hilda Bartels on September 4, 2004 3302 Regional Road #9, York, ON N0A 1R0 1887 Hwy 20, RR 2, St. Anns, Ontario L0R 1Y0 n n …showing love to a thousand generations of those who love Me and keep my commandments. Deuteronomy 5:10 WEDDINGS GABRIEL FREDERICK HOLTVLÜWER Psalm 121 Born September 27, 2004 A brother to Lucas Henry, Noah Edward, and Elliott John LEANNE CHRISTINE BYSTERVELD 14th grandchild of Henk and Susan Holtvlüwer and 18th grandchild of Ed† and Ann Ludwig DWIGHT VANKAMMEN 54th great grandchild of Geert† and Aletta Wynia together with our parents, Albert and Rita Bysterveld and Peter and Erica Holtvlüwer Evert and Pearl VanKammen, joyfully announce our upcoming 2483-269A Street, Aldergrove, BC V4W 3V8 wedding. The ceremony will take place, D.V., on Friday, November 19, 2004 at 6:30 p.m. in the Yarrow Canadian Reformed Church, Yarrow, B.C. BIRIRTHDAY Rev. M. VanLuik officiating. 2201 Cole Road, Abbotsford, BC V3G 2H1 90th Birthday Celebration 1914 ~ November 15 ~ 2004 Give thanks to the LORD, for He is good. His love endures forever. ANNIVERSARIES Psalm 136:1 With much gratitude to our heavenly Father, we joyfully 1964 ~ November 21 ~ 2004 announce the 90th birthday of our mother, oma, and great oma Happy is he that hath the God of Jacob for his help, whose help is in the LORD his God. Psalm 146:5 ALETTA ANTONETTA WYNIA (nee Vander Mooren) With Joy we thank the LORD for blessing our dear Parents and Her thankful children: Grandparents, who brought us up in the covenant faith, with Ottawa, ON: Susan and Henk Holtvlüwer their 40th Wedding Anniversary John and Margaret Wynia Grand Valley, ON: Wilma and Bill Scheper KEITH and LINDA ELZINGA (Zeldenrust) Smithers, BC: Thys Wynia With Love, Callie and Bill Hofsink Burlington, ON: Ralph and Joanne Elzinga Ottawa, ON: Lettie and John Wynia Bradley Together with twenty-two grandchildren and fifty-four great- Onoway, AB: Harold and Linda Elzinga grandchildren. Dustin, Jamie A. Wynia Orangeville, ON: Krista and Tony VanOmmen 309-220 Viewmount Drive, Nepean, ON K2E 7M5 Roslynn, Justin, Darren, Matthew Caledon, ON: Charlotte and John Bouwers Corry, Kaylina Smithville, ON: Grace and Roger Otterman Thank-you Jessica, Lauryn Carvel, AB: Paul and Dorothy Elzinga Thank you to all the brothers and sisters for your best wishes Michael, Katherine, Nicole through cards, gifts, and visits on the occasion of my 80th Dunnville, ON: Frank Elzinga birthday. I truly felt the richness of the communion of saints. Open House to be held, D.V., on Saturday, November 20, 2004 Mrs. B. Vanderzwaag from 2:00-4:00 p.m. in the Attercliffe Canadian Reformed Church. Best wishes only.

OCTOBER 22, 2004 • 555 BIRIRTHDAY

The LORD is my strength and my song, and He has become my salvation: He is my God and I will praise Him, my father’s God and I will exalt Him. Exodus 15:2 With great thankfulness to the Lord, our God and Saviour, we hope to celebrate the 90th birthday of our beloved mother, grandmother and great-grandmother HELENA HENDRIKA BREMER-LIG-LIGT on November 25, 2004. We are deeply grateful for what He has given us in her, her faith and steadfastness. Since 1986 she has been the widow of her beloved husband, Berend Bremer. We also lovingly remember her beloved daughter, our sister Ria (1950) and her son-in-law, our husband, father and brother-in-law, Peter VanderBoom (1997)

St. Catharines, ON: Steve Bremer Burlington, ON: Hilda Bremer Mount Forest, ON: Steven and Lisa Bremer, Jesse Desboro, ON: Patricia and Bernard Breukelman Mount Hope, ON: Ed and Lisa Baker, Joshua, Simon Alex, Leah, Hannah, Erin, Denise Hamilton, ON: Darren Bremer Fergus, ON: Wendy and Duane Koster Burlington, ON: Helen and Albert Smouter Connor, Samuel, Bradley, Jackson Cathy and Gerald Bosscher Toronto, ON: Julie Vanderveen Ryan, Sarah, Andrew, Rebecca Desboro, ON: Dan Vanderveen Karen Mans Fergus, ON: Doug Vanderveen Kimberly, Jessica, Bradley, Jordan, Justin London, ON: Thea and John Heyink Beamsville, ON: Sharon and Paul VanSydenborgh Wellandport, ON: Dave and Wendy Heyink, Taylor, Mitchell Warren, Denise, Joel, Dean, Beth, Paige Hamilton, ON: Laura and Gregg Vandenberg, Hannah Debra and George Alkema Kevin and Laura H. Heyink Thomas, Jesse, Jacob, Benjamin Trevor Heyink Smithville, ON: Jennifer and Rick Lof Dunnville, ON: James Heyink Brianna, Alex, Ashley, Cameron Hamilton, ON: Nathan Heyink Eleanor and Chris Schulenberg Burlington, ON: Anne and Bert Van Straten Brooke, Caleb, Emily Binbrook, ON: Alison and Trevor Vanderwoude Burlington, ON: Albert and Michelle Smouter Emma, Justin Barry and Gail Bremer Burlington, ON: Tracy Van Straten Toronto, ON: B. Matt Bremer Amy Van Straten Burlington, ON: Heather and Daryl De Haan, Seth Carolyn Van Straten Andrew Bremer, Julia Carlisle, ON: Ron and Marian Bremer Hamilton, ON: Arlene Bremer Marina Bremer Burlington, ON: Femmie VanderBoom Melissa Bremer Mannheim, ON: Marianne Vanderboom Mark Bremer Jerseyville, ON: Pete and Chandra Vanderboom Meagan Bremer Vanessa, Justin, Melanie Madeline Bremer Ancaster, ON: Richard and Angeline Vanderboom Mitchell, Kailey Burlington, ON: Ken Vanderboom

We invite you to join us in celebration at an Open House to be held, D.V., November 27th, 2004 from 2-4 p.m. in the fellowship hall of the Ebenezer Canadian Reformed Church, 607 Dynes Road, Burlington, Ontario. Mailing address: Holland Christian Homes, Faith Manor, Room F101, 7900 McLaughlin Road South, Brampton, ON L6Y 5A7

556 • OCTOBER 22, 2004 OBITUARIES TEACHING POSITIONS

The Maranatha/Emmanuel Canadian Reformed School Society, May 12, 1924 – September 30, 2004 Inc. of Fergus, Guelph and district invites applications for: Yet in my flesh I will see God, TEACHING POSITIONS I myself will see Him with my own eyes. in both Grade 5 and Grade 6 Job 19:26 for the second half of the 2004-2005 school year. The Lord took unto Himself our beloved husband, father and grandfather Duties to commence early January/February of 2005. Our school is located in a beautiful and picturesque southern Ontario JELLE FABER town, where one would be very close to rural life and within easy We thank the Lord for His faithfulness and grace, reach of major urban areas. shown to him and through him. We have our assurance in The school currently has 251 students in grades 1-10. the triune God, Who lives and reigns forever. If interested in the above positions, or have any questions about Wietske Faber-Holwerda aspects of the positions or of the school, please contact one of the Christine and Henk van Halen Herman and Jo-Anne Faber following people for more information, or submit your resume to the Elissa and Tim Wildeboer, Cara and Mark, following address: Lydia and Adam, Adam, Mark Henk Nobel, principal Gayle and Gerry Jansen van Doorn (519) 843-3029 (work); (519) 843-1790 (home) Nathan, Laura and Francis, Lindsey and Riemer Faber, chairman of the board Andrew, Erika (519) 846-5222 (home) Riemer and Annelies Faber Kasper VanVeen, education committee chair Jelle, Jakob, Christine (519) 856-9605 Benne and Rita Faber Applications to be addressed to: Joel, Sarah, Geoffrey, William, Adrian c/o Education Committee Predeceased by his son, Anne, and two grandchildren. RR 3, Garafraxa Street, Fergus, ON N1M 2W4 226 Columbia Drive, Hamilton, Ontario L9C 3Y9 E-Mail: [email protected]

A SPECIAL OPPORTUNITY!

Encouraged by gifts received, both from May 12, 1924 – September 30, 2004 individuals and via deaconries, our The Lord took home into his eternal glory FOREIGN STUDENT BURSARY FUND has made JELLE FABER commitments to support two academically qualified, emeritus professor of Dogmatology and first Principal of but needy, students. One is from Sudan and the other the Theological College of the Canadian Reformed Churches from Russia. in Hamilton, Ontario. You now have the opportunity and privilege of helping We give thanks to the Lord for what He has given to the fund their studies in Canada. The Lord willing, your College community and to the churches in Dr. Faber as a faithful labourer in the gospel. donation will be instrumental in spreading the gospel in their countries of origin. May the Lord strengthen sr. W. Faber-Holwerda, her children and grandchildren in their loss of a beloved Gifts of any size are welcome and those of $10.00 and husband, father and grandfather. over qualify for a receipt for income tax purposes.

In grateful memory to the Lord, Please remit to the College at the following address, The Board of Governors of the Theological College with the cheque clearly identified as intended for the The Senate and Faculty of the College Staff and Students “FOREIGN STUDENT BURSARY FUND” The Theological College of the Canadian Reformed Churches 110 West 27th Street, Hamilton, ON L9C 5A1

OCTOBER 22, 2004 • 557 Eric VanGrootheest garden city realty inc., Sales REALTOR® Representative John Meerveld Associate Broker Old Fashioned Service – High Tech Advantage “Serving Fergus, Elora, Guelph and surrounding area (905) 333-3500 Serving the (905) 945-0660 Fax: 333-3616 Community Since 1979 Fax: 945-2982 Bus: (519) 843-5400 Royal LePage RCR Fax: (519) 843-2810 162 St. Andrew Street East email: [email protected] Cell: (519) 993-1780 Fergus, Ontario N1M 1R9 www.johnmeerveld.com email: [email protected]

League Day of the Canadian and American Reformed Men’s Societies “Remembering the Sabbath Day” The League of the Men’s Societies invites all interested men to come to its annual League Day. Date: Saturday, November 27, 2004 Time: Coffee and Registration at 9:30 a.m. Meeting starts at 10:00 a.m. Place: Cornerstone Canadian Reformed Church in Hamilton Escarpment Realty Topic: Remembering the Sabbath Day Independently Owned and Operated 370 Wilson Street East Speaker: Rev K.A. Kok John van Andel Ancaster, Ontario L9G 4S4 Sales Representative Cost: $10 which includes lunch Bus: (905) 304-3303 References: Roger T. Beckwith and Wilfrid Stott, Fax: (905) 574-1450 This Is The Day: The Biblical Doctrine of the Res: (905) 648-7705

Christian Sunday serving Ancaster, Dundas MEMBER Walter Chantry, Call The Sabbath A Delight Hamilton and James T. Dennison, The Market Day of the Soul surrounding areas. 100% CLUB J. Douma, The Ten Commandments, chapter 5 Richard B. Gaffin, “A Sabbath Rest Still Awaits the People of God,” in Pressing Toward The Mark, edited by Charles Dennison and Richard C. Gamble Anchor Canadian Reformed Association J. Geertsema, “The Sabbath Feast Day and/or for the Handicapped Day of Rest,” Clarion (1984), vol. 33 no. 1 We invite applications for the position of J. Geertsema, “Sunday or Sabbath,” Clarion (Jan. 9, 1987), vol. 36, no. 1 LIVE-IN MANAGER for our Twin Oaks Home in Burlington, Ontario, Canada. Driving Directions Hwy. 403 to Lincoln M. Alexander Pkwy. Head east to Upper Three residents require your love and support in a home setting Wentworth, turn south to Stone Church Road. Turn west and look for with their daily living. church on north side of road # 353. We are looking for a mature couple without dependent children. There will be an I.L.P.B. table, Applicants must be a member of a feel free to browse and purchase our Reformed Literature Canadian Reformed Church or an affiliated church. Any Questions?? For further information, please contact Call John Broersma Mr. Bert VanGoolen, Executive Director (519) 787-5258 905-701-4446

558 • OCTOBER 22, 2004 CORAM DEO INTERNATIONAL AID IS SEEKING MEMBERS HELP BRING EDUCATION AND MEDICAL ASSISTANCE TO HAITI’S DISABLED AND POOREST POPULATION.

YOUR $50.00 ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP FEE IS TAX DEDUCTIBLE. PLEASE SEND CHEQUES TO CDIA 110 ONEIDA BLVD., ANCASTER, ON L9G 3C8

YOU ARE INVITED TO THE 1ST ANNUAL GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING TO BE HELD AT 1:30 P.M. NOVEMBER 20, 2004

AT THE CORNERSTONE CANADIAN REFORMED CHURCH, HAMILTON www.coram-deo.org

COUNTRY TOWN REALTY INC. “Serving the Smithville, Attercliffe and surrounding areas. Call today for area information” (905) 957-5000 24 hr. pager

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OCTOBER 22, 2004 • 559 olin Organ and Vi

99 $ 19. S/H PLUS 12th Annual CDs Reformation Rally will be available at concerts, to be held or, to order, Friday, October 22, 2004 at 8:00 p.m. phone: 604-835-3398 email: [email protected] in the Listowel URC building. Speaker will be Rev. B. Berends from the CanRC, Brampton. Peter Wildeman and Lawrence Jansen The title of his speech is Western Canada Concert Tour The Call to Reformations, Successions, November 2004 and Liberations to remain true to the infallible November 2004 Word of God. (LOOK FOR DETAILS IN YOUR LOCAL CHURCH BULLETIN) This rally has been cosponsered by Mitchell Free Reformed, Clinton URC, and Elora CanRc. All are welcome.

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OCTOBER 22, 2004 • 560 PM 40063293 R 9907