Winter 2006 Winter 2006 • Chancellor’S Message

Home , Christianity Today, Tullian Tchividjian

Winter 2006 Winter 2006 • www.rts.edu Chancellor’s Message

Orlando area, it was a rare move among accredited seminaries. When RTS-Orlando held its first classes in 1989, our sovereign Lord was obviously blessing this effort to bring theological training to the students. The relevance of this model has been confirmed with the establishment of the residential campus in Charlotte in the 1990s, followed by branch campuses in Atlanta; Washington, D.C.; Boca Raton, Fla., and, Lord willing, additional cities to come. This vision — making theological education available, accessible and On the Cover: The development of the Orlando and Charlotte campuses in the late 1980s and through the 1990s flexible — has also led to the develop- was overseen by Luder Whitlock (far left), RTS president at ment of the Virtual Campus (distance the time. Faculty members he helped recruit during that education), which will be covered in the period included Will Norton (upper right) and Douglas Kelly (right, below Norton). third issue in the RTS 40th anniversary RQ series. Today more than ever, potential Lyn Perez, Editor in Chief seminarians are finding it increas- Paul Schwarz, Managing Editor ingly difficult to uproot themselves and Bill Henderson Design, Graphic Design their families from their communities, Jolene Burgdorf and Sherry Lanier, churches and ministries to move across Editorial Assistants the country to attend seminary. The Stephanie Hartley, Production Assistant Dr. Robert C. Cannada Jr. establishment of the Orlando and Char- Reformed Quarterly promotes RTS through lotte campuses were the beginning of articles designed to edify its readers through rom the day RTS opened its a trend in which RTS has purposed to solid biblical instruction, and through reports doors in 1966, its leaders have establish a variety of means of prepar- that focus primarily on the national and global been guided by a passion for ing students according to their unique impact of RTS students, faculty and alumni. making biblically sound theo- circumstances. Our goal is that readers will become partners logicalF education available to as many A motto RTS adopted in the 1980s, with RTS through prayer, financial giving, future ministers in the body of Christ “Standing Firm but Not Standing Still,” educational experience and student referral, as God would enable. In the first of our reflects this mindset. In everything we as well as providing placement opportunities. three-issue RQ series on the history of do we stand firm on the inerrancy of RTS, part of our ongoing celebration of God’s Word and the Westminster Con- RTS’ 40th anniversary, we addressed fession of Faith. However, we will not The material in this magazine is copyrighted. how the founding of the seminary was stand still as we seek new ways to spread For reprint permission, please call (407) 366-9493 or a significant event in the life of the these truths broadly through educating e-mail [email protected]. church in the Southeast. The found- increasing numbers of future pastors All Scripture references are from the ers of RTS took considerable personal and other church leaders in their pres- English Standard Version except where noted. risks in taking steps of faith to build a ent setting. The apostle Paul spoke of Visit RQ online at www.rts.edu/quarterly. seminary campus nearly from scratch, becoming “all things to all people, so humanly speaking. This current issue that by all means I might save some” Reformed Theological Seminary focuses on how that vision grew from a (1 Corinthians 9:22). RTS’ approach to Atlanta • Boca Raton • Charlotte • Jackson • regionally recognized seminary into a seminary education seeks to capture Orlando • Virtual • Washington, D.C. national and international institution. some of the essence of that principle of 1-800-543-2703 • [email protected] • www.rts.edu Our former president, Luder Whit- service to the glory of God.. lock, left a successful legacy in expand- As we move into, Lord willing, anoth- Inside This Issue ing our programs and making theo- er 40 years of ministry, we look forward logical education more accessible to as to seeing what other creative ideas He EXPANDING BORDERS: THE GROWTH OF RTS 4 many people as possible. In the 1980s, will provide us as we distribute theolog- DO WE NEED AN when he and the RTS Board of Trustees ical education to those who are called to INFALLIBLE BIBLE? by Luder Whitlock 12 began planning the establishment of a ministry. This RQ celebrates the imple- TULLIAN TCHIVIDIJIAN: second full residential campus in the mentation of just some of those ideas. ◆ CONTINUING THE LEGACY 16 DAVID AND BARRETT JORDAN: 2 Reformed Theological Seminary 40th anniversary LIKE FATHER, LIKE SON 20 » Dr. Stephen W. Brown, professor of » Dr. Simon J. Kistemaker, professor of PUBLICATIONS preaching and practical theology, will preach at New Testament emeritus, will travel to Jakarta » Dr. Richard Belcher, professor of Old Willow Creek Church, Winter Springs, Fla., Dec. 3 and Malang, Indonesia, in Jan. 2007 to teach 1 Testament, authored a new book, The Messiah and and 10 and Feb. 4, 2007. He will preach at a pastor’s Corinthians. the Psalms (Christian Focus), which was released in forum in Miami on Feb. 16-17, 007, and at Kendall November/December. Presbyterian Church in Miami on Feb. 18, 2007. On » Dr. Derek Thomas, John E. Richards profes- March 10, 11, 17 and 18, 2007, he will preach at sor of systematic theology, traveled to Houston in » Dr. John D. Currid, Carl W. McMurray Perimeter Church in Duluth, Ga. Sept. to speak at the Ligonier Conference on the “The professor of Old Testament, has written two books Ransom Theory of the Atonement.” He also traveled released in November. They are Calvin and the Biblical » Dr. Charles E. Hill, professor of New to Toronto to speak at a conference for Sola Scriptura Languages (Christian Focus), and Commentary on Testament, spoke at the Christian Study Center Ministries on “Interpreting Apocalyptic Literature” Deuteronomy, part of the Evangelical Press Study in Gainesville, Fla., Oct. 23, 30, and Nov. 13, on and “The Role of the Holy Spirit in Interpretation.” Commentary series. He has been appointed associate “(Un)Natural Selection: How the Church Ended up editor of Old Testament backgrounds and archaeology with Four – and Only Four – Gospels.” » Dr. Bruce K. Waltke, professor of Old for the upcoming ESV Study Bible by Crossway Books. Testament, traveled to Medford, Ore., Nov. 3-5 to teach a seminar on the Psalms at Cornerstone Church. » Dr. W. Andrew Hoffecker, professor of He taught Nov. 26 at the Institute for Biblical Studies church history, wrote Building A Christian Worldview, in Washington, D.C. which was recently translated into Indonesian. HONORS

» Dr. Simon J. Kistemaker, professor of » Dr. John M. Frame has been appointed New Testament emeritus, authored two new books: to the J. D. Trimble Chair of Systematic Theology ANNOUNCEMENTS The Miracles: Exploring the Mystery of Jesus’ Divine and Philosophy. He gave his inaugural lecture, Works (Baker Publishing Group), released in August; “Antithesis and the Doctrine of Scripture,” Nov. » Robert Bridges has been named executive and Memoirs: A Life of Service (TEC Publications), 29 at RTS-Orlando. director of the RTS Foundation. He has over 25 years released in September. The Complete New Testament of professional experience in gift and estate planning. Commentary has been translated into Portuguese, » Dr. Mark D. Futato, academic dean He may be contacted at [email protected]. published by Editora Cultura Crista and released in at RTS-Orlando, has been appointed to the August. Robert L. Maclellan Chair of Old Testament. His » Polly Stone has been named director of inaugural lecture, “Structure and Meaning: The institutional planning and assessment. She may be » Dr. Derek Thomas, John E. Richards professor Messages of Jonah,” will be at 10 a.m. on Feb. contacted at [email protected]. of systematic theology, had two articles published 7, 2007 in the Katherine B. Pamplin Chapel. on the Reformation 21 Web site: “Remembering » Introducing RTS on iTunes U Shostakovich” and “How Long, O Lord? Blues Psalms.” » Dr. Frank James III, president of RTS- The RTS Virtual Campus has worked with Apple Orlando, has been appointed by Florida Gov. Computer Company to develop a new platform for » Dr. Bruce K. Waltke, professor of Old Jeb Bush to a three-year term on the Florida delivering course materials to RTS students. This Testament, released his commentary on Micah Commission for Independent Education. platform, iTunes U, allows students 24/7 access to (Eerdmans) this fall. Theology of the Old Testament: A password-protected materials including audio lec- Canonical and Thematic Approach (Zondervan) will be » Dr. John W. P. Oliver has been tures, video role plays, syllabi and other items. Also, available in February 2007. appointed to the Robert Strong Chair of iTunes U allows friends of RTS free access to special Homiletics and Practical Theology. His inau- on-campus events including seminars, conferences, gural address, “Charge to the Student Body: chapel sessions and more. To experience RTS on TRAVEL Biblical Preaching” was given Aug. 29. iTunes U, visit itunes.rts.edu and click on “Click here to launch RTS on iTunes U.” To access RTS on iTunes RTS All-Korean Alumni Conference » Dr. Miles V. Van Pelt, assistant profes- U you will need to have iTunes already installed on In celebration of RTS’ 40th anniversary, Dr. Ric sor of Old Testament, was inducted into the your computer. The program may be downloaded by Cannada, chancellor, traveled to Pusan, Academic Hall of Honor at the C. P. Haggard visiting www.apple.com/itunes. South Korea, for the All-Korean Alumni Conference School of Theology at Azusa Pacific University on Oct. 11-13 at Sooyoungro Presbyterian Church, on Oct. 28. » RTS Newsletter where Dr. Pil-Do Jung is the senior pastor. Dr. The RTS Newsletter, available in a biweekly electronic Cannada was joined by Dr. Guy Richardson, » Dr. Bruce K. Waltke, professor of format, is a great way to stay informed about events, Dr. Allen Curry, Dr. Sam Larsen and Old Testament, was awarded the Doctor of activities and alumni. Subscribe by visiting www.rts. Dr. Eunsoo Kim. All Korean RTS alumni and Literature at Houghton College in New York on edu/Site/NewsEvents/nl_signup.aspx or e-mailing spouses were invited. Oct. 6. [email protected].

Winter 2006 3 Expanding Borders by John R. Muether

From the 1980s into the 21st century, formed theological education, many made it a core RTS grew beyond its Jackson roots, in the PCA came to regard RTS, value. Today becoming the dominant evangelical though independent, as its “unoffi- over 60 de- seminary in the Southeast by estab- cial” seminary. As the denomination nominations lishing the Orlando and Charlotte grew, so did RTS enrollment. The are repre- campuses. primary role RTS enjoyed in the ear- sented in the ly years of the PCA was challenged RTS student n the 1970s and early 1980s a when the RPCES/PCA union result- body, with number of significant eccle- ed in the PCA inheriting Covenant enrollment siastical changes affected the Theological Seminary in St. Louis. mushroom- ministry of Reformed Theologi- Covenant became the “official” semi- ing to over cal Seminary. The Presbyterian nary of the PCA, along with Cov- 2,500 stu- IChurch in America was founded in enant College in Tennessee. dents each 1973, the Evangelical Presbyterian Today, there are more RTS gradu- year. Church was established in 1981, and ates serving in the PCA than from in 1982 the Reformed Presbyterian any other seminary, and RTS is Looking Ahead Church, Evangelical Synod united committed to continuing to serve with the PCA. Also, in 1983, South- the PCA and train as many of its In 1986, Whitlock posed this ques- ern and Northern Presbyterians ministerial candidates as the Lord tion: “What would the seminary reunited to form the Presbyterian provides. But RTS’ ministry has be in the next 20 years?” What lay Church (USA). expanded greatly through its focus ahead were exciting times, he sug- While some RTS faculty remained on serving many denominations, gested, because “I have an unshak- in the old Presbyterian Church (U.S.) a commitment consistent with the able confidence in God’s promises.” and became part of the new PCUSA, seminary’s founding vision to propa- Whitlock’s gaze focused on the over the next decade the seminary gate the Reformed faith as widely millennium, as he urged the “shaping recruited fewer students from the as possible. Under the leadership of [of] a vision for the 21st century.” He mainline denomination. Originally Luder Whitlock, who became RTS had a keen interest in cultural trends, founded to provide a biblical and president in 1978, RTS energetically eager for seminarians to grow in cul- Reformed education for ministry applied this founding principle and tural discernment. Technology, med- candidates primarily in the PCUS, ical advances, pluralism, the informa- RTS refocused its recruiting beyond RTS-Orlando established its permanent tion explosion and globalization pre- the PCUS. campus (opposite page) in 1999 in sented challenges about which RTS Due to the few choices for a Re- suburban Oviedo, several miles from graduates needed to be well read. downtown Orlando (below).

4 Reformed Theological Seminary 40th anniversary Winter 2006 5 Orlando

Frank Horton, long-time RTS Ex- ecutive Committee member, once observed that from its earliest days RTS recruited many students from Florida. As interest and support from the Sunshine State continued to grow, Horton and his colleagues clearly felt that God was directing the school’s attention there. Florida was the fastest growing state in 1989. Central Florida was also becoming an entertainment and tourist mecca. Confirmation of the decision came from many quarters. The best- selling book Megatrends 2000, pub- The Orlando campus was bolstered by lished in 1990, focused on central the presence of R.C. Sproul of Ligonier Florida in its discussion on religion Ministries (above, while teaching at the in America. “In the bellwether state Jackson campus). of Florida,” wrote the authors, “the religious revival is spurring an ex- Today. Fifty years later, his name traordinary church building boom. remains on the masthead. When Central Florida’s more than 450 Nicole joined the faculty of RTS, he churches are not enough. ‘We’re brought his 25,000-volume personal growing so rapidly that we’re grow- library. He graciously shared the ing out of our churches,’ says Edward riches of his personal collection with Thomas, an Orlando architect.” students as the campus steadily built Professor Richard Pratt moved its own library holdings. to Orlando to help staff the campus Another prominent addition was (also serving as dean of students), Ronald Nash in 1991. Nash had along with Lyn Perez as campus taught for 27 years in the philosophy administrator. Perez set ambitious department at Western Kentucky goals for the campus, praying for 30 University, and also served as visit- Despite the progress, obstacles students in the first year and 100 stu- ing professor at Fuller Seminary, remained, one being RTS’ location dents by three years. He was shocked Trinity Evangelical Divinity School in the Deep South. In the late ’80s, to witness 94 students registering for and Southern Baptist Seminary. RTS received — and declined — a classes when the doors to its tempo- generous offer to entirely relocate rary campus in Maitland opened in the campus to South Florida. But September 1989. could RTS attempt a branch campus? Westminster had tried and failed to Prominent Faculty establish a south Florida branch, and RTS had considered participating in Whitlock invested considerable Westminster’s work. The seminary energy in recruiting faculty, includ- also explored extension work in Bir- ing Roger Nicole as visiting profes- mingham, Ala. sor of theology. Recently retired Whitlock urged the Board to fo- after four decades at Gordon-Con- cus on Atlanta and Orlando as pos- well Theological Seminary, Nicole sible extension sites. In May 1988, was one of the founding fathers and the Board determined to establish a staunchest defenders of the renais- branch campus in Orlando. For all sance of American evangelicalism in their vision, Whitlock and the Board the 20th century. In October 1956, could not imagine what would un- Nicole’s name appeared on the mast- fold over the next two decades. head of a new magazine, Christianity

6 Reformed Theological Seminary 40th anniversary He was widely published (over 35 books), and lectured extensively at over 70 colleges and universities in the United States and overseas. An heir of the theological tradition of Carl F.H. Henry and a lifelong student of Augustine, Nash impressed a love for philosophy upon his students. He taught at Orlando for a dozen years, and RTS mourned his passing in 2006 to a stroke. RTS’s arrival in Orlando was pre- ceded by Ligonier Ministries, the “teaching fellowship of R.C. Sproul.” Building a Campus ies from retired scholars, theologians With the opening of Orlando, Sproul, and historians. Combined with du- who had been associated with Jack- The Orlando campus quickly plicate materials from Jackson, the son as a professor since 1978, seized sought to build a library. Supple- Orlando library accessioned 50,000 the opportunity for greater involve- mented by Nicole’s substantial per- titles within its first five years. ment. While still directing Ligonier sonal library, aggressive collection Carl Henry was the speaker at the full time, Sproul came to campus included the purchase of a large col- first Orlando convocation in Septem- one day a week to teach two courses lection of materials from Princeton ber 1989. The selection of the former per semester in systematic theology. Seminary and other schools, as well Fuller professor and long-time edi- Originally Sproul also served as aca- as the acquisition of personal librar- tor of Christianity Today symbolized demic dean, while Rich- RTS’ hope to help shape American ard Watson paid regular evangelicalism. Henry spoke on visits from Jackson to “Christianity in a Troubled World.” establish the academic He called upon faculty and students program and advise to take on the challenge of mission to students. Ligonier con- the world with fresh courage. ferences were useful in recruiting prospective RTS-Orlando opened its doors in the fall of students, and Ligonier 1989 at a temporary location in Maitland, provided, and continues north of the city (opposite page, upper left). to provide, employment for many students and their spouses.

Winter 2006 7 Original RTS-Charlotte professor Douglas Kelly (right) is known by on a much smaller scale. his Jackson and Charlotte students The “Queen City” was the alike for his “five C’s” of theology: birthplace of Billy Graham, a Calvinian, conservative, Caldonian, city full of churches and rich Confederate and Carolinian. in Presbyterian history. The rapidly growing urban center Whitlock generally framed was becoming the headquar- his vision for RTS by invoking ters of several evangelical the spirit of the 16th-century parachurch organizations. Protestant Reformation. “Our RTS’ work in Charlotte be- real hope,” Whitlock wrote, gan when Douglas Kelly trav- “is to work for a new reforma- eled from Jackson to teach a tion. With the serious spiritual weekend course each semester declension in this country, we for two years, beginning in are seeing an absolute hemorrhage ment. In 1992 Whitlock and Sproul 1990. As local interest spread, the of Christian influence and effective- joined James Boice, Michael Horton seminary opened temporary quar- ness. Something must be done to and other Reformed evangelicals in ters in a former real-estate office in reverse it. What happened in Europe establishing the Alliance of Confess- 1992. Gordon Reed administered will happen here unless something ing Evangelicals. a program featuring evening and brings about a great spiritual re- weekend courses. Through dona- newal.” On to Charlotte tions from Jackson and Orlando, an One barometer for the seminary’s 8,000-volume library was quickly progress was a 1989 survey of Ameri- No sooner had RTS established assembled. can religious leaders taken by Chris- roots in Florida than it began to ex- Alumnus Robert C. (“Ric”) Can- tianity Today. Of dozens of semi- plore further extensions. In a sense, nada Jr., then pastor of First Pres- naries surveyed, RTS ranked 13th a campus in Charlotte, N.C., was byterian Church in Macon, Ga., in “seminary awareness,” first in the logical next step. If Florida pro- was appointed vice president for “doctrinal soundness,” and second duced its main stream of students, its administration in Charlotte. He was in “spiritual atmosphere.” Mean- second major source came from the joined by alumnus Robert Cara, a while, RTS joined other evangelicals Carolinas. Yet in contrast to the fan- Ph.D. candidate at Westminster who in debating how best to shape the fare and publicity accompanying the served as New Testament profes- theological direction of its move- Orlando opening, Charlotte began sor and interim librarian. Under

8 Reformed Theological Seminary 40th anniversary Harold O.J. Brown (below, arms folded) came to RTS-Charlotte after pastoring in Switzerland and helping establish the modern-day evangelical pro-life movement.

Cannada’s leadership the campus retired from Jackson), Frank quickly expanded to over 100 stu- Kik (who served as professor dents. The seminary soon relocated of practical theology after over to a 10-acre parcel purchased from 35 years in the pastorate) and Carmel Baptist Church. The former Richard Belcher. In 1999 Har- church property was fully retrofitted old O.J. Brown was appointed as a seminary campus in 1997, when professor of philosophy and Charles Colson spoke at the dedica- theology. The Harvard-educated tion service. By then the campus Fulbright scholar had taught at had five full-time faculty and its first Trinity for many years class of 16 graduates. and pastored a church in Switzerland. When The Campus Grows John Oliver joined the faculty in homiletics Kelly had relocated from Jackson (after serving as pastor to anchor the Charlotte faculty. Join- of First Presbyterian ing him were Will Norton (recently Church in Augusta,

Frank Kik (above, pointing) was part of the early group of professors who established the RTS-Charlotte faculty.

Fall 2006 9 Others with nationally recognized profiles who have served RTS over the years include RTS-Orlando professor and syndicated radio host Stephen Brown (right, seated), and former RTS-Charlotte president and former professional football player Frank Reich (opposite page, middle).

Ga., for 28 years), the small campus Measuring the Seminary’s Impact growing societal influence fit with held special strength in practical increasing engagement of evangeli- theology. The Charlotte campus prompted a cals in the “culture wars” of that day. As RTS established a full master’s significant reshaping of institutional RTS was poised, he claimed, to offer program in Charlotte, it quickly dis- life. With the establishment of a third the hope and encouragement of the covered that it was not the only school residential campus, a truly multi- gospel, not only to American culture with eyes on the city. Before long five campus institution began to emerge. but also throughout the world. evangelical seminaries were estab- This presented challenges, not least That same year British evangelical lished in the region. Cannada stressed to the accrediting agencies that visit- scholar Alister McGrath acknowl- the need for cooperation among the ed RTS. One accreditor threw up his edged RTS in his book, Evangelical- seminaries wherever possible. He en- hands in frustration and confessed ism and the Future of Christianity. couraged cross-registration privileges that the seminary seemed almost He cited RTS along with Fuller, for students, and RTS also led the as mysterious as the doctrine of the Regent, Trinity and Westminster as establishment of a library cooperative. Trinity: “We can’t figure out if you “leading evangelical centers of schol- The campus especially benefited are one or if you are three.” arship and research.” Together they from Bill Robinson’s years of devel- Luder Whitlock was aware of the were symbolic of a renaissance and opment labors. Robinson secured significant role RTS was assuming maturity of American evangelical deferred gifts, including several when he spoke at the groundbreak- theological reflection. Yet McGrath’s multi-million-dollar estates. Par- ing for the permanent Orlando congratulatory note also contained ticularly significant was the Barron campus in April 1995. “The minis- caution: Success can become an ene- Estate in Rock Hill, S.C., near Char- try of this seminary is needed now my, and the spread of the influence of lotte, which enabled the purchase of more than ever,” he noted. If it fails, schools such as RTS can contribute the Carmel Road property. “what shall our culture become?” to a dilution of its identity. An iden- Whitlock’s sense of the seminary’s tity, McGrath warned, must be “com-

10 Reformed Theological Seminary 40th anniversary sabbatical. He used it to pen his first book, The Spiritual Quest. He completed it from his study on the new 60-acre, lakefront Orlando campus in Oviedo on the east side of met- ropolitan Orlando. From one perspective, Whitlock could find great satisfaction in the realiza- tion of the seminary’s vision. On the eve of the new millennium, he wrote, “As the hours drift away and the 20th century becomes history, we are also aware that it has been a breathtaking ride during the past exciting 100 years. So much has happened one can hardly take it in.” That statement aptly described his long-time association with mensurate with its tradition.” For a RTS as well. seminary in the Reformed tradition, However, the collapse of the this was the challenge of Semper Re- stock market and high-tech formanda: always being Reformed industries in the late 1990s according to the Word of God. brought financial pressures to RTS through endowment-value Changes on the Horizon losses and declining income. This significantly affected the One of the crowning achievements growth and expansion of min- of Whitlock’s service at RTS oc- istry and building programs. In curred when he was elected president addition, after 23 years as pres- of the Association of Theological ident, Whitlock announced his faithfulness by renewing its ongoing Schools from 1998 to 2000. Not only retirement from RTS in May 2001. commitment that RTS would remain did this honor reflect the respect he After leaving RTS, Whitlock’s labors one united institution. The search commanded in American theologi- have included directing the Trinity for Whitlock’s successor in turn cal education, but it also revealed his Forum and serving as interim presi- raised questions about the means by success in leading RTS from its days dent at Erskine College and Semi- which the seminary would continue of ATS probation to recognized aca- nary in South Carolina. its expansion and yet maintain its demic excellence. Despite the financial pressures and Reformed identity. The serious finan- In 1999, the Board of Trustees Whitlock’s retirement, the Execu- cial challenges reminded the older granted Whitlock a long-overdue tive Committee acknowledged God’s committee members of the struggles during RTS’ founding, and the Ex- ecutive Committee committed itself toward “praying like we used to,” in the words of Frank Horton. ◆

In September 2002, RTS inaugurat- ed a new president and ambitiously began restructuring its leadership. The next RQ will describe how these changes, as well as the development of the Virtual Campus and new extension campuses, have positioned RTS to meet the challenges of the 21st century.

Winter 2006 11 Do We Need an Infallible Bible? by Luder Whitlock

In December 1962, former RTS Rather than attempting to under- president Sam Patterson read an ar- stand and obey God’s Word, they ticle in Presbyterian Outlook titled decide what they will believe and do. “Do We Need an Infallible Bible?”. These people readily agree, of The article categorically denied course, that the Bible is special, that the need for inerrancy in Scripture it contains God’s Word and that it is and maintained that the Bible was an important guide. But by believ- indeed subject to error. Shaken by ing that the Bible contains errors, the such opinions, Patterson threw all damage has been done. If that is so, his energy into the founding of a can you really believe what the Bible new seminary dedicated to the in- tells you about the creation of the fallibility of God’s Word. world or about a big fish swallowing Today, RTS is still firmly com- Jonah and then spitting him up alive mitted to the inerrancy of Scrip- three days later? What about its at- ture. In this adaptation of an arti- testation to the Resurrection? Can cle published in the fall of 1985 in the the Bible is the infallible, inerrant you believe its message about the RTS Bulletin, a precursor to Reformed Word of God or not. While a person forgiveness of sins and eternal life Quarterly, Luder Whitlock — also a may be a Christian without affirm- through the atoning death of Christ? former RTS president — looks at the ing this truth, there is abundant evi- The trustworthiness of the Scriptures question posed nearly a half-century dence that those who surrender the is seriously damaged when inerrancy ago in Presbyterian Outlook and an- doctrine of the infallibility and iner- is abandoned. swers with a timelessly resounding rancy of Scripture inevitably aban- Once the certainty of “Thus saith “Yes!” don orthodox Christianity as well. the Lord” has been lost, the church The reason for that inevitable drift is also loses its sense of direction and rustrated by the emotional the loss of the Bible as the ultimate begins to flounder. Determining trauma of a denomination- authority for what you believe and right and wrong becomes an entirely al controversy, someone how you live. different matter. The old biblical ab- asked, “Why isn’t it enough Once you grant that the Bible has solutes are washed away, and new to accept Jesus Christ as errors in it, then of course you are values are thrust upon the church. Fyour Savior and seek to follow Him under no obligation to believe the People no longer know what they can as the Lord of your life? Why do erroneous material. But who deter- and should believe. those people insist on plenary ver- mines what part is erroneous and For example, the Bible is unambig- bal inspiration and substitutionary what part is not? Someone must uous in designating homosexuality atonement? I’m not sure I even un- make that decision. By passing judg- as sinful behavior (Romans 1:26,27 derstand those terms!” ment on the Bible, people shift their et al.). Yet contemporary churchmen, That seems to be a fairly reason- authority from God’s Word to their some of them prominent leaders and able reaction, especially when posed own decisions. Let us understand teachers, have not been willing to by someone not familiar with the this transfer of authority clearly. condemn such behavior. Rather they technical terms used by theologians. Rather than listen to and obey God have offered a place in the church for Why do doctrinal issues become so and His Word, people determine that unrepentant, untransformed homo- controversial? Does it really make certain portions of the Bible are un- sexuals and have even suggested the that much difference? acceptable to them. They then reject possibility of their ordination and Of course it matters; it makes all those portions, considering them not service as church officers. the difference in the world whether binding upon themselves or others. Abortion is an entirely different

12 Reformed Theological Seminary 40th anniversary Winter 2006 13 kind of issue, but biblical advocacy men spoke from God as they were means disappear from the Law until of the sanctity of human life is in- carried along by the Holy Spirit” (2 everything is accomplished” (Mat- disputable. Moreover, the Ten Com- Peter 1:20,21, New International Ver- thew 5:17,18, NIV). mandments forbid murder (Exodus sion). The apostle Paul, in writing to To reject these clear, unambiguous 20:13). Such biblical texts should be Timothy, said essentially the same statements from the Bible regard- an adequate guide. In spite of that, thing in different words. He said, ing its origin and nature is to raise a some ministers and churches aggres- “All Scripture is God-breathed” (2 question regarding the credibility of sively agitate for the right of a preg- Timothy 3:16). It is straight from the any doctrine presented in its pages. nant woman to determine whether mouth of God. In the Old Testament Ultimately, the reflection thrusts you or not her unborn child shall be the mouth of God was regarded as into a sea of relativism regarding aborted. the source of the divine message, so what to believe. The least we should do is sound Paul is affirming that all the Scrip- But that is unnecessary — and an alarm, calling attention to the tures are God’s Word. wrong. God has spoken through dangerous consequences of weak- The attitude of Jesus toward Scrip- apostles and prophets — and with fi- ening the Bible’s authority. And of ture corroborates that of Peter and nality through His Son, Jesus Christ. course, that is really the point. The Paul. He countered the temptations His message is recorded in the Bible. Bible is no ordinary book. It is not of the devil by quoting the Scrip- It is just as much His Word as if He the product of human ingenuity or tures. For Him, the fact that “it is were to speak directly to you from authorship, although it was delivered written” (Matthew 4:11) was suf- heaven right now. It bears the full au- through human instrumentality. It is ficient. He knew that the Scriptures thority of His character and person. God’s Word — no less — His record- could not be broken, and in His great You can believe it. You can rely on it. ed message, given through apostles Sermon on the Mount, He reminded God doesn’t make mistakes. What and prophets by the Holy Spirit. His audience, “Do not think that I He says is true, and you must believe Peter the apostle stated it suc- have come to abolish the Law or the it for your salvation. cinctly: “Above all, you must under- Prophets; I have not come to abol- If you cannot turn to God and His stand that no prophecy of Scripture ish them but to fulfill them. I tell you sure Word, then where can you turn? came about by the prophet’s own the truth, until heaven and earth He alone has the words of eternal interpretation. For prophecy never disappear, not the smallest letter, not life. ◆ had its origin in the will of man, but the least stroke of a pen, will by any

Whitlock, Roger Nicole (center) and R.C. Sproul gave impetus to RTS’ expansion efforts, which began around the time this article was written.

14 Reformed Theological Seminary 40th anniversary Tribute to Luder Whitlock 1978 Whitlock began his presidency were pleased. by Dr. Simon J. Kistemaker with a period of listening and learn- Whitlock realized that funding ing. He adapted quickly to working for RTS needed to be increased, The 1986 article reprinted in with the Executive Committee of so he went to numerous donors this issue on the need for an infal- the Board, and served us faculty not only in the Southern states but lible Bible originally appeared in a with insight and wisdom. also to many people nationwide. magazine eventually evolving into For example, when a certain Over time this unrelenting pursuit Reformed Quarterly and launched professor began teaching doctrine began to pay off. The seminary de- under the supervision of Luder in conflict with the tenets of the veloped programs in counseling Whitlock, the article’s author. Simon seminary, students complained to and missions along with the Th.M. Kistemaker, professor emeritus of Whitlock. He talked to the man, and D.Min. degrees that attracted New Testament at RTS, is one of a who promised to mend his ways, students from numerous areas and handful of men who witnessed the but the following year he taught countries. entirety of Whitlock’s RTS presiden- the same doctrine again. Whitlock As president, Whitlock was a cy firsthand. “Dr. K,” a beloved fig- made a wise decision by promising man with vision. Realizing that a ure at RTS in his own right, reflects the man a sabbatical followed by seminary serves a particular region, on Whitlock’s influence. immediate dismissal. He prudently he launched the idea of having sep- solved the problem in such a way arate campuses in different areas. n 1975, an unassuming, gentle that all parties (students, faculty, Thus, in 1989 RTS started the Or- person joined the RTS faculty Board members and constituency) lando, Fla., campus, in 1993 the one Iin Jackson, Miss., in Charlotte, N.C., and in 1995 the in the area of mis- Virtual sions and evangelism. Campus that Luder Whitlock had would attract served Presbyterian students from congregations in Hol- numerous places lywood, Fla., and worldwide. In ad- Harriman, Tenn. dition, Whitlock During his ministry envisioned exten- in Tennessee, Van- sion campuses in derbilt University in both Washington, Nashville granted D.C., and Atlanta. him a Doctor of During his Ministry degree, 23-year presi- which enabled him dency, he raised to teach courses on RTS to a higher the seminary level. level of influence Within three and stature. Amid years at RTS he had all the growth, as earned the respect this 1986 article of the faculty and demonstrates, he administration. kept the seminary When Sam Pat- faithful to Sola terson retired as Scriptura and other RTS president, the tenets central to its Board of Trustees founding. ◆ looked to Whit- lock to replace him. The Board approved the ap- pointment, and in

Winter 2006 15 Continuing the Legacy A grandson of Billy Graham, Tullian Tchividjian is following his own calling in planting a church in South Florida.

by Paul Schwarz

f all the things that would concerning RTS was a person- describe Tullian Tchivi- al meeting with Luder Whit- djian, “church planter” lock, then president of the is not on his list. Dis- seminary. “Luder winsomely ciple, preacher, teacher, presented RTS-Orlando, Ohusband, father, grandson of Billy and I knew this was exactly Graham, great-grandson of a promi- where I wanted to go,” Tul- nent Presbyterian medical mission- lian says. Tullian started at ary to China — those might be some RTS in January 1998, gradu- of them. Tullian’s current ministry, ating in May 2001. though, was off his radar screen as Tullian’s time at RTS recently as three years ago. enabled the former phi- As pastor of New City Presbyte- losophy major to feed his rian Church in Margate, Fla., in the growing passion for the bustling Broward County area near realm of ideas. “It sounds Miami, Tullian is emulating his fa- a little sick,” Tullian re- mous grandfather in that he’s fulfill- calls, “but I remember ing a ministry calling, while forging spending free time liter- his own identity in a different type of ally walking up and down spiritual harvest field. the aisles of the library Tullian grew up in South Florida becoming well acquaint- as the middle of the seven children ed with books and writ- of Stephan Tchividjian, a prominent ers. I look at my time at psychologist born and reared in Swit- RTS as not just getting a zerland, and Gigi Graham Tchivi- formal education in the djian, an award-winning author and classroom.” speaker in her own right. His journey The ideas he ab- to faith in Christ took a wide detour sorbed did not re- into the world of partying, drugs and main locked up in the ether of the Like his famous grandfather (above), Tullian promiscuity. Eventually, though, his impractical. “John Stott once said (right, with wife, Kim) has been called to a hedonistic lifestyle left him, at age 21, that Christians need to be people preaching ministry. broken and desperate in the manner of double listening,” Tullian says, of the prodigal son. “both to the questions of the world way. “The one thing I swore I would After his conversion and eventual and the answers of the Word. I re- never do was plant a church,” he ac- graduation from Bible college in ally took that to heart. I felt that both knowledges. “The guys [at RTS] who South Carolina, Tullian enrolled at philosophically and sociologically were interested in planting churches RTS-Orlando. “I’m a native Florid- I was equipped to understand the were all the math and engineering ian, so the thought of going south of questions our culture raises.” He be- majors. They were all the detail-ori- the Florida state line was exciting,” gan to apply those lessons in earnest ented, administrative minds. I was Tullian says, only half-jokingly. “No when he and his wife, Kim, moved more a philosophical, big-idea guy.” more coats!” he adds, more jokingly. with their three children back to That mentality led him to reject The serious side of his journey to South Florida in 2003 to help plant his first invitation to help plant a RTS came in part through mentoring New City Presbyterian after two church. “I was thoroughly enjoying by Mike Potts, a South Florida pastor years in an associate pastorate at Ce- my work [in Knoxville] when I got an and former member of the RTS-Or- dar Springs Presbyterian Church in out-of-the-blue phone call from a guy lando advisory board. Knoxville, Tenn. down here,” Tullian recalls. “He said, The “deal-maker” for Tullian Not that Tullian planned it that ‘There are four or five of us who are

16 Reformed Theological Seminary 40th anniversary Winter 2006 17 praying about the possibility of start- ing a new church.’ I said, ‘Obviously the people who gave you my name don’t know me very well. I don’t know the first thing about church planting.” Regardless, the idea intrigued Tul- lian and Kim, because they were gen- uinely interested in returning home to South Florida. Tullian did agree to act as an informal consultant who would help the men find a pastor. The persistent men offered to fly him to Florida to meet with them, to which he agreed. “After spending three days with them,” Tullian says, “God planted a seed. He helped me see that if I ever were to plant a church, these would be the type of guys I would do it with. They were humble, resource- ful, godly, not disgruntled, not angry, not trying to do it right because ev- Ruth and Billy Graham pose with their grandson and his wife along with the Grahams’ eryone else is doing it wrong — which three great-grandchildren through them (from left): Genna Ruth, Nathan and Gabriel. I was very much looking out for.” The men then offered to fly Tullian Today, by Tullian’s estimation, the seeking to avoid intellectualism and and his whole family down to meet church has outgrown its meeting fa- emotionalism,” he explains. “There with a core group of about 70 people. cility at a local school. Also, the pas- are churches that do thinking really “We saw it as a free vacation,” Tullian toral staff team has grown, with RTS well but do feeling very poorly, while admits. “But that week is when God alumni and students like David Gor- other churches do feeling well but do confirmed that this is exactly what don as executive pastor, Paul Manuel thinking very poorly. We see having he wanted me to do.” An out-of-the- as body life pastor, Brandon Wells as to choose between the two as a weak- mouths-of-babes moment sealed the music director and Dylan Callion as ness in the church, not a strength.” calling. “I’m standing in line at some youth director. The harvest indeed is When it comes to his perspec- breakfast place with my two boys plentiful. tive on being in such a highly vis- who were at the time 8 and 6. I asked, “Ironically, the postmodern rejec- ible Christian family, Tullian sees ‘Guys, what do think about the possi- tion of absolute truth is beginning to strengths and weaknesses of its own. bility of moving back down here?’ My create a hunger for truth that is un- “I’ve had a front-row seat to watch a oldest, Gabe, said, ‘To be honest, Dad, precedented in recent generations,” man who has been given every op- I’m 50 percent happy and 50 percent he says. “I think the opportunity portunity under the sun to do just sad.’ I saw that as enough of a stop to be devotionally doctrinal in our about anything he’s wanted to do, sign to not do it. Then Gabe said, ‘But preaching is great today — at least and he has stayed the course,” he says, I think we should come here, because that’s what we’re finding here. [Peo- referring to his evangelist grandfa- Cedar Springs has other preachers, ple] keep coming because they are on ther. “There are fringe benefits — op- and these people have no preacher.’ the receiving end of something sub- portunities to meet people, speaking “I remember my eyes literally well- stantial, and they know it, whether opportunities, writing opportunities. ing up with tears while thinking to they understand everything about it Now that also contributes to the chal- myself, He’s right. The field is ripe or not. They know they are encoun- lenge, because ‘to whom much is giv- for harvest down here. I’m surprised tering something bigger than they en, much is required.’ Knowing how that as big as South Florida is, there are, and that gives them hope.” to wisely steward those opportunities are not more churches defined by the Tullian uses descriptions like keeps me very dependent on God.” strength of the pulpit. So I said, ‘God, “gravity and gladness,” “depth and One such opportunity is his first You do with me as a preacher what- delight,” “doctrine and devotion,” book, “Do I Know God?”, to be re- ever you want, with all my misgivings “precept and passion” and “truth leased in 2007 as part a two-book and inadequacies, and use me, and and love” to describe New City’s contract with Multnomah Press. “Be- I’ll come down there.” approach to worship and preaching the grandson of Billy Graham New City Prebyterian held its first ing. “We want to be a church that opens doors, but it doesn’t keep you worship service on August 24, 2003. thinks and feels theologically while in the house,” Tullian explains. “The

18 Reformed Theological Seminary 40th anniversary Tullian’s great-grandfather, L. Nelson [book opportunity] came Bell (below) was a leader in the about initially because of renewal movement in the Southern who my grandfather is. Now Presbyterian Church that led to the founding of RTS. if I write a bad book, those doors slam. So it requires me to exercise my God-given vacationing at the beach this gifts and passions in order summer. “‘What in the World to make an impact. God can is God Doing?’ would be about provide the platform to do something number two — that is, once he’s de- how God is expanding His kingdom worthy with the platform.” In this termined the final subject. One idea here and now,” he says. “I think most case Tullian is using the platform to is based on the working title “Feeling Christians assume that God’s goal for address “non-Christians and con- God.” “I make a distinction between His people is to pull them out of this fused Christians” about the subject of God-centered emotion and emotion- world and into heaven. The Lord’s assurance of salvation. alism,” he observes. “In many Re- Prayer offers a wonderful corrective “If you have a relationship with formed circles, we think that thinking to that — God intends to bring the God, He wants you to know it, and is more reliable than feeling. But if we reality of heaven, what’s going on up if you don’t have a relationship with really believe in total depravity, our there, namely the hallowing of His God, He wants you to know it [as thinking is just as unreliable as our name and the doing of His will, down well],” he says. “The two things God feeling and [vice versa]. So both are here.” does not want are for you to think you in the process of being sanctified. To It took 21 years before Tullian have a relationship with Him if you elevate our thought life above and be- Tchividjian encountered the real- don’t, or for you to not think you have yond our devotional life is a decision ity of God’s presence in his own a relationship with Him if you do.” God does not want us to make.” life. He’s devoting the rest of his life As soon as the book is finished, Like a true South Floridian, Tul- to helping lead others to the same Tullian will start working on book lian’s competing idea came while knowledge. ◆ RTS and the Billy Graham Family ing evangelical movement in the by Paul Schwarz United States after World War II. Billy and Ruth Graham later he connection between RTS and the world’s most supported RTS in that, as Tul- famous evangelist runs deeper than the fact that lian testifies, they so eagerly Tone of its graduates is a grandson of Billy Gra- embraced his choice of RTS that ham and his wife, Ruth. For one thing, when Tullian they helped pay for his educa- Tchividjian graduated from RTS-Orlando in 2001, Bil- tion there. ly Graham was slated to speak at the commencement This is consistent with the ceremony. However, the health problems that have fact that Ruth Graham in subsequently prompted Graham’s retirement from particular has a close family crusade evangelism kept him from following through connection to the founding of the seminary. on the invitation. Her father, L. Nelson Bell, was a prominent On a more personal level, Graham is a longtime Presbyterian missionary and statesman who was friend of Roger Nicole, the retired RTS-Orlando pro- instrumental in the evangelical renewal movement fessor who came to RTS after a distinguished career at among Southern Presbyterians that ultimately fueled Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary (see page 4 for the formation of RTS. more about Dr. Nicole). Graham helped in the forma- The about-to-be-published book written by John R. tion of Gordon- Muether, RTS librarian and professor, and Conwell, and excerpted in adapted form in both the Fall as such, he and and Winter issues of RQ (see page 4), con- Nicole were two tains more detail on Nelson Bell’s link to of the original RTS, indluding his speech on the Jackson “young lions” campus and the building named for him of the burgeon- there. ◆

Winter 2006 19 Like Father, Like Son David Jordan and his son Barrett attended RTS-Charlotte together.

by Paul Schwarz

ather-son relationships came the depths of despair. After lanta area — many of those associ- and their characteristic less than a year of marriage to his ated with Perimeter Church, the bonding activities have college sweetheart, he watched her influential congregation originally been well documented in leave and file for divorce. The break- founded by RTS alumnus Randy society, especially in dra- up of his first marriage led Barrett to Pope. “[People] encouraged me to go maticF portrayals. For example, the a renewed passion for His Savior. to seminary to get some training,” protagonist in the movie Field of His father, meanwhile, was begin- David says, “and this went on until I Dreams longs to be able to recon- ning to respond to an inner stir- was 51 years old.” nect with his father through a game ring that had percolated for a long of catch on the family farm. In a time. Over the years David and his sense, an Iowa cornfield became wife, Carol, had participated in five a North Carolina seminary class- church-planting efforts in the At- room for David and Barrett Jordan. Whereas fathers and sons typically bond through activities like playing catch, fishing, woodworking projects and so forth, the Jordans bonded in an unconventional manner — they went to seminary together. Granted, they didn’t plan it that way; David followed through on a calling to ministry relatively late in life, whereas Barrett’s calling was at a somewhat young age. The eventual result was a priceless family experience that took place on the ground floor of the establishment of the RTS-Charlotte campus in the late 1990s. The timing of their journey to RTS is not the only aspect of the experience that David and Barrett hold in common. They arrived there having both, in their own ways, resisted that calling for years. Barrett’s road carried some self-inflicted bumps. “I had felt that call pretty strongly in college, and had told the Lord, ‘No, that’s not what I wanted to do,’ says the graduate of Samford University in Birmingham, Ala. “So the way the Lord works, He gives you exactly what you want [so as] to prove to you that you’re miserable in it.” For Barrett, that meant making a lot of money for his age in pharma- ceutical sales. Along with it, though,

20 Reformed Theological Seminary 40th anniversary Finally, though, the Atlanta na- calls, “and was asked, ‘By the way, lives attending every single RTS tives began investigating seminar- do you know this guy Barrett Jor- class together, save one elective. “My ies. RTS resonated with them; David dan? He was accepted earlier this son had suspected that his dad was in particular first learned about the morning. Is he kin to you?’ I said, an idiot most of his life,” says David seminary because, with Mississippi ‘Yes, he’s my son.’ So I called him with exaggerated self-effacement. “I as part of his sales territory, he fre- and told him we were going togeth- then went to classes with him every quently visited Jackson. The two men er.” day, taking Greek and Hebrew, and settled on RTS-Charlotte in large Father and son moved to the in a systematic fashion proved to part because of its proximity. Barrett Charlotte area, where Carol found him I’m an idiot for the next three was already living in the Carolinas; a house for the three of them to live years.” David didn’t even know there was a in together; Barrett lived upstairs In more serious moments, though, Charlotte campus until he applied. from his parents. David and Barrett the two men acknowledge their What David did know, though, spent the next three years of their reconnection during that period was the news of Barrett’s acceptance by RTS before his son did. “I was told I’d been accepted,” David re-

— their first extended time together in Barrett’s adulthood. “Though we were always on great terms, I was always the son and he was Dad,” Bar- rett says. “Now I was coming back to him as somebody standing on my own two feet. I was able to spend many hours with my father and re- learn him in a sense. That was a huge blessing that I’ll always cherish.” Despite the new adult-to-adult dimension to their relationship, there was also the expected sense of

David (left) and Barrett graduated from RTS-Charlotte in 1998, the year after the campus occupied its permanent location.

Winter 2006 21 Though living hundreds of miles apart, David and his wife, Carol (left) visit as often as they can with Barrett and his wife, Judy, and three of their five grandchildren, including Alley, now 8.

tion], and some people don’t come because of that, but the Lord has sure been gracious in the location. It’s just perfect for worship for our church right now.” Barrett cites the fact that church is able to use the theater’s larg- est room for its main services and fatherly concern as Barrett worked begin. “I told Judy we’d give it three smaller rooms for other meetings as his way through seminary. “He’d get years to see what the Lord does,” one example of how the situation fits off work at midnight,” David remem- Barrett recalls. Redeemer’s needs. bers, “and I would stay up and pray Barrett and Judy have seen the In the midst of their respective for him until he got home at about congregation grow to the point pastoral responsibilities, Barrett and 12:20, and I’d open the door for him. where the church has taken to rent- his father maintain their relation- He would often study at night, and ing out a movie theater to meet its ship. David was interviewed for this we would jump up in the morning, needs. Considering the places he’s article while he and Carol drove to and I would drive to classes, and we called “church” over the years, that’s West Virginia to visit their older son would be there by 8:30. It concerned par for the course for him. “We met (Tim is a PCA deacon in the Nash- me a great deal that he was having to in hotels, funeral homes, roller rinks ville, Tenn., area). In that sense, they work so hard to [follow God’s call- and all kinds of places,” Barrett says, work to maintain the bond forged a ing], but it worked out.” reflecting on his family’s experi- decade ago in Charlotte. The semi- Today, in their respective pastor- ences with church plants, in which nary field may not be the “field of ates in the Presbyterian Church in he and his brother, Tim, were usually dreams” popularly associated with America, the Jordans are separated the first two members of the youth connecting fathers with their adult by several hundred miles. David is group. “When you couple that with sons, but for David and Barrett Jor- the pastor at Vineville Presbyterian the understanding that [church] was dan, it was part of a sovereignly in- Church in Macon, Ga., while Barrett always the people, not the building, spired script. ◆ and his family (he married Judy, his I [see that I] was being built for this, second wife, shortly before he and though I didn’t his father’s RTS graduation) moved know it at the to West Virginia to plant Redeemer time.” Presbyterian Church in a suburb of From Barrett’s Charleston, the state capital. vantage point, Having been, in his words, Redeemer’s wor- “primed for missions” through his ship venue is an upbringing in various church plants, example of God’s Barrett has become a church-planter common grace. himself. Redeemer was begun in “It’s built for wor- 2002 in Taze Valley, W.Va., a suburb ship,” he says. of the capital city of Charleston. The “To me, a theater church was a so-called “parachute is a pagan wor- plant,” in that the presbytery planted ship hall. It’s not the church without a pre-existing [a] traditional core group of people with which to [church loca-

22 Reformed Theological Seminary 40th anniversary The Charlotte Campus: Frank Kik Remembered

by Tim R. Watson

Just like David and Barrett Jordan, Dr. Frank Kik caring way he would provide guidance. Frank taught was a presence in the formative years of RTS-Charlotte. many things, but one key element was realism. Yes, The professor of practical theology left this earth in Au- the Lord’s church will stand, but the daily interac- gust after a brief battle with lung cancer. Tim Watson, tions sometimes get dirty. He loved the church and his RTS-Charlotte alumnus and pastor at New Sterling Lord, but he knew people, and he helped us to not have ARP Church in Stony Point, N.C., reflects on the loss of expectations that could lead to failure. his mentor. Frank believed the pastorate was the greatest call anyone could have, so he protected it furiously. He was I came to know Frank late in his ministry and early not afraid to tell someone they may need to consider in mine. He as professor and me as student quickly another career. Frank did not want anyone to step in established a relationship that developed into a bond the pulpit who may have been misled or unprepared. that would carry each of us through the ministries our He knew it was a challenging call and did not want Lord had given us. anyone to fail. Our bond quickly became more than simply profes- He was hard to take seriously at times, though. sor-student. He was called to serve as interim pastor When called on the phone, he sometimes answered, where I served as an elder and vice moderator. That “This is God; are you on your knees?” Then there was year and a half was more than an education in the the deep voice that would answer, “This is the Most dynamics of church operation. He, in short, said, Holy Right Reverend Honorable Esteemed Father; “I’ll take care of the preaching; you take care of every- speak, my child.” And can we ever forget the Jeff Gor- thing else.” He would call to check on things and give don neckties and the ugly suspenders he wore? advice, but he allowed me to lead. He trusted me and On a serious note, I asked him to officiate the ser- therefore allowed me to put to work the things we had vice for my 16-year-old daughter after her passing. discussed in class or in conversations. He told me he was just too close and thought of Marli In these years Frank became a confidant. I could as a daughter. I understood and appreciated his posi- call anytime with any question, and with his blunt yet tion. But in that time I saw his heart most clearly and understood that before any of his other titles, Frank was a tender man who loved greatly. The rough exterior many saw was not Frank at all. Through the tears he showed it was first necessary to be who you are — a person called by God to be and do many things, but first an individual with feelings, cares and limitations. He taught me we did not need to look strong and big in front of people, but be who God made us to be. I miss Frank Kik. I was not finished with him. There was so much yet he had to teach, and I was more than willing to listen. I can see his influence in much of what I do. Frank, I love you. Tell my Marli I said hello! ◆

Winter 2006 23 Reformed Theological Seminary Magazine Non-Profit 5422 Clinton Boulevard Organization Jackson, MS 39209 US Postage PAID Reformed Theological Seminary

Your IRA and Charitable Giving by Mark R. Seeley

On August 17, President Bush signed into law the Pension Protection Act of 2006. The new legislation includes provisions designed to promote charitable giving. The one provision that has drawn the most attention concerns individual retirement account rollovers to charity made during a donor’s life. The IRA rollover provision allows otherwise taxable distributions of up to $100,000 from a traditional IRA or a Roth IRA to be excluded from gross income. In addition, the amount rolled over will count against a donor’s minimum distribution requirement. As in previous versions of IRA rollover legislation, no federal income tax deduction is available for these contributions in addition to their exclusion from income. This new legislation offers a welcome incentive to donors who want to use the money in their IRAs to make charitable gifts. The legislation makes the process simple and assures these donors that their gifts will not increase their taxes. Donors to whom the new IRA rollover likely will appeal include those:

• already giving at their 50% deduction limit. • whose income level causes the phase-out of their exemptions. • who don’t itemize their deductions. • for whom additional income will cause more of their Social Security income to be taxed.

Here is the fine print: The donor must direct the IRA custodian to directly transfer funds to charity. A withdrawal followed by a contribution will still have to be reported as income. The donor must be at least age 70, and the recipient must be a tax-exempt organization to which deductible contributions can be made. Donor-advised funds and supporting organizations are not eligible. The gift must be outright; rollovers to a gift annuity or a charitable remainder trust do not qualify. The provision is effective only through December 31, 2007. If you are interested in discussing your options under this new provision, please contact me at (704) 688-4218 or [email protected]. As always, we recommend you seek the advice of your tax and/or legal counsel before deciding on a course of action.

Mark R. Seeley is vice president for planned giving for RTS.