The

VOLUME 57 NO.10 NOVEMBER 2010 EDITION >>Messenger INSIDE 2 Church News 3 Saved By Grace: The Great (Re)Discovery of the Protestant Reformation 6 The Rescue of the Chilean Miners 8 Gleanings From the Churches 10 Boring Bach or the Blessing of Justification? 13 News Notes & Comments 16 Profiting From the Parables - An Enemy Hath Done This 18 Seminary Day 2010: A Call to Serve 20 Address from the Dutch Delegates to Synod 2010 22 The Ordination & Installation of Timothy Bergsma

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

NOVEMBER 2010 I THE MESSENGER 1 CHURCH NEWS >> NEW ADDRESS NIPISSING PREACHING STATION: Powassan, ON Rev. Tim and Jen Bergsma, 10 Ellwood Ave, Chatham, ON N7M 3K3, (South of North Bay, Ontario, off Hwy. 11) Tel. 519-397-4259 (Home); 519-354-3100 (Church Study); Services are held every Sunday at 395 Main Street, Powassan. Directions: Email: [email protected] Take the most southern exit from Highway 11 into Powassan, LACOMBE, Alberta turn left onto Main Street, and The Free Reformed Church of Lacombe meets in the Trinity Lutheran follow through town until you Church, 5227 C & E Trail, Lacombe, AB. Worship services are held at 9.00 see a small white church on the a.m. and 3.00 p.m. corner. Service times are 11:00 AM and 2:30 PM with a potluck CALGARY, Alberta fellowship lunch in between. Worship Services are held every Lord’s Day at 9.30 a.m. and 4.00 p.m. When no ministers are scheduled and are conducted by Rev. Hans Overduin, the pastor. Sunday school, to preach, the worship services Catechism and Adult Sunday school classes are held after the morning of the Brantford Free Reformed Church are broadcast. Check online: www. service. Location: 6167 6th Street SE, Calgary AB T2H 1L9 (northwest nipissingfrc.com for the preaching schedule, detailed directions and other corner of Blackfoot and Glenmore Trails). For information contact: Rev. information. For additional information contact: email [email protected] Hans Overduin, Tel. 403 474-5385; email: [email protected] or John Janssen at 705 493-0259. TORONTO, Ontario Radio Broadcast (North Bay Area) The Free Reformed Church of Toronto meets at 1130 Finch Avenue West, The Banner of Truth Radio Broadcast can be heard every Sunday on 103.5 North York, Ontario. Worship services are at 10.00 a.m. and 5.30 p.m. on FM at 8.30 AM and covers a radius of about 40 to 50 kilometres around the Lord’s Day. For Bible study times or for more information, North Bay. please call Mr. Rick Fintelman at 905 852-3754 or email: [email protected] Open Windows BI-MONTHLY CHILDREN’S PUBLICATION CANDIDATE DEREK BAARS This Christian bi-monthly full-colour magazine Synod 2010 notifies the churches that as of December 10, 2009, for children ages 4 to 12 is filled with fresh ideas brother Derek Baars has been declared to be a candidate for to open children’s minds for a new look at the the ministry in the Free Reformed Churches. May the Lord Bible, history, and the world. Open Windows also graciously lead the churches in prayerful consideration of contains colouring contests, crafts, a look back in his candidacy so that the heartfelt desire of brother time and book reviews that will get even the most Baars to serve the Lord in the ordained Ministry reluctant readers reading. An excellent tool for of the Word may be confirmed and realized. evangelism, outreach, school libraries, and home-schooling. Candidate Baars may be contacted at: 2012 Power Line Road West, Annual Subscription for 2010 is $17.50. Make cheques pay- R.R.#2, Lynden, ON L0R 1T0, able to FREE REFORMED PUBLICATIONS. Tel. 905-304-9773. Send cheque with your order to: Open Windows, 69 Albert Street, SS1, Mitchell, ON N0K 1N0 Canada

2 THE MESSENGER II NOVEMBER 2010 The SAVED BY GRACE: MessengerNOVEMBER 2010 The Great (Re)Discovery

EDITOR of the Protestant Rev. C. Pronk 655 Park Road North, Unit 29 Reformation Brantford, ON N3R 0A2

Tel/Fax: 519 751-4470

Email: [email protected] The Editor reports to the >> Synodical Publications Committee MEDITATION By Rev. J. Schoeman

Assistant Editor Dr. G. M. Bilkes ctober 31, 1517 marks the beginning of the Protestant Reformation. The Email: [email protected] OReformation started when the pope issued a special indulgence, the pro- ceeds of which would be used to finance the Committee Members Rev. G.R. Procee, Chairman construction of St. Peter’s basilica in Rome. “For by grace are ye saved Rev. D. H. Kranendonk, Secretary Tetzel, the man in charge of the sale of these through faith; and that not of 69 Albert Street indulgences, claimed that anyone who pur- yourselves: it is the gift of God: SS1, Mitchell, ON N0K 1N0 chased this indulgence would drastically re- Tel/Fax: 519 348-0436 Not of works, lest any man duce the amount of time they or a departed Email: [email protected] should boast. For we are his Rev. C. Pronk loved one would spend in purgatory. His slo- workmanship, created in Christ Dr. L.W. Bilkes gan was: “As soon as the silver in the coffer Rev. J. Koopman rings, the soul out of purgatory springs.” One Jesus unto good works, which Rev. J. Overduin God hath before ordained that Mr. H. VanDoodewaard day, a German monk by the name of Martin Rev. J. Lewis Luther, heard Tetzel hawking his indulgen- we should walk in them” ces in the city of Wittenberg. Luther was so Ephesians 2:8-10 SUBSCRIPTION RATE outraged by Tetzel’s claims that he posted 95 Canada & U.S.A. - $25.00 Annually The Messenger is published 11 times per year. Theses on the castle door at Wittenberg, Germany, inviting anyone to debate him on the subject; thus sparking the Protestant Reformation. SUBSCRIPTIONS/REMITTANCES Requests for subscriptions, all payments and As time passed, however, Luther began to realize that the fundamental problem inquiries regarding rates, invoices, and all remittances should be addressed to: with the Roman Catholic Church was its teaching on justification. The Roman Catholic Church taught that we are justified by faith plus works. They said that THE MESSENGER in order to be saved, you had to believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, but you also c/o Marianne Overduin, Administrator had to do good works. Our works, they said, count for something towards our P.O. Box 1094 Mitchell, ON N0K 1N0 salvation. Tel./Fax: 519 348-0020 Email: [email protected] Saved By Grace Apart From Works Through his own independent study of the Scriptures, however, Luther discov- All notices for family announcements, obituaries, anniversaries, and non-commercial advertisements ered that that is not what the Bible teaches. He discovered that we are saved by for the December 2010 issue should reach the grace through faith apart from works. One of the texts that led him to this con- copy editor, Frederika Pronk, no later than Tuesday, clusion was Ephesians 2: 8-10, where Paul states: “For by grace are ye saved through November 15, 2010, and should be sent to: faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should THE MESSENGER boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which 655 Park Road North, Unit 29 God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.” Here Paul, under the inspira- Brantford, ON N3R 0A2 CANADA tion of the Holy Spirit, describes how God saves sinners: He saves them by grace, Telephone/Fax: 519 751-4470 through faith, not of works. Email: [email protected] or [email protected] The word “saved” is a key word in our text. What does this word mean? What Free Reformed website: www.frcna.org does it mean to be “saved”? The word “saved” means to rescue from danger or

NOVEMBER 2010 I THE MESSENGER 3 MEDITATION CONTINUED... >> destruction. Let’s say you are hanging by your fingers over works, you may even (after you die) be elevated to saint- the edge of a very high bridge. There is no way you can get hood and share some of your excess grace with others. back on the bridge. It is only a matter of time before you fall on the rocks below. Then let’s say someone comes along and But Luther discovered that this was not true. We are not pulls you up on the bridge. We would say that person saved saved by works. In fact, our works do not count for any- you. He saved you from certain destruction. Such is the case thing towards our salvation. That is clear from our text. Paul when God saves a sinner. He saves him or her from certain writes that we are saved “not of works.” Why not? Because destruction. they are all defiled with sin. In Isaiah 64: 6, Isaiah writes: “We are all as an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses Why Do We Need To Be Saved? are as filthy rags.” In order for our works to merit the favour To understand this, we need to realize that by nature you of God, they must be perfect. But therein lies the problem: and I are conceived and born in sin. We received this sin na- nothing we do is perfect! Even our best works are defiled ture from our first parents, Adam and Eve, with sin. Therefore, our works cannot count in Paradise. When God placed man in the for anything towards our salvation. To understand this, we Garden of Eden, He told him that of all the trees of the garden he could freely eat ex- need to realize that by By Grace Alone cept for the tree of the knowledge of good nature you and I are But our text gives another reason why our and evil. The day he ate of that tree he would conceived and born in sin. works do not count for anything towards surely die. Sadly, however, man disregard- We received this sin nature our salvation: “lest any man should boast.” ed God’s command (and his warning). He from our first parents, What Paul is saying is this: if our works ate of the tree. In so doing, he brought on Adam and Eve, in Paradise. counted for something towards our salva- himself and all his posterity the wrath and tion then we could take at least some of curse of God. From that day forward, man the credit for ourselves. But that is some- would die and spend an everlasting eternity in hell. When thing God will not tolerate. God reserves all the glory for God saves a sinner, however, He rescues him from this im- our salvation to Himself. That is why He excludes works as minent destruction. forming any part of the basis for our salvation. He does so lest any man should boast and steal the glory that rightly On What Basis Does God Save Sinners? belongs to Him. This, of course, raises an important question – a question that was central to the Reformation: on what basis does God If works form no part of the basis of our salvation, on what do this? On what basis does God save a sinner? basis does God save a sinner? The answer is in our text: grace. “By grace are ye saved.” What is grace? Grace is un- First, we need to be clear on what basis He does NOT save merited favour. This is how God saves a sinner. He saves us a sinner. God does NOT save a sinner on the ground of his by grace, and grace alone. good works. There are many people – also many professing Christians - who think this way. They think that as long as And that is a good thing. If God did not save sinners by grace we do certain things and not do other things, we can some- and grace alone, then He would have to save us - wholly or how earn the favour of God. in part - on the basis of our works. But if God saved us on the basis of our works, then none of us could be saved. This was also the teaching of the Roman Catholic Church during the time of the Reformation. The Roman Catholic Luther understood this by personal experience. Before Church of that time, and still today, teaches that our works his conversion, Luther believed everything that the Ro- count for something towards our salvation. She taught that man Catholic Church taught him. He believed that a sinner in order to be saved, you not only had to believe on the Lord is saved by faith PLUS works. He also believed that these Jesus Christ, you also had to do good works. You had to works had to be perfect. The problem was, no matter how make confession of your sins to the priest, you had to par- hard he tried, he found he could not do anything perfect- take of the mass, you had to do penance, help the poor, be ly. All his works were defiled by sin. Needless to say, this kind to your neighbour, etc… In fact, the more works you eventually led him to despair. He thought he would never do, the more grace you will accumulate and the less time you be saved. He thought he would have to spend an everlasting will spend in purgatory. What is more, if you do a lot of good eternity in hell.

4 THE MESSENGER I NOVEMBER 2010

>> www.ChristianCounsellingCentre.ca But then he discovered what Paul teaches in our text: that sinners are saved by grace, and grace alone. How liberating this was for Luther! He says in one his writings that when he discovered this truth, “the gates of paradise” were opened Individual, Marriage, and Family Counselling to him. At long last he could stop trying to earn his own salvation. He was saved by grace, and grace alone. Toll Free Telephone: 1-866-833-2741 Do We Trust In Grace Alone? Have you also come to experience this? Like the Roman Catholics of Luther’s day, we too are Locations prone to think that salvation depends somehow, Burlington London in some way, on us. To be sure, we know that we (905) 632-2317 (519) 652-2770 cannot earn our salvation by our works. And yet 3425 Harvester Road 7038 Longwoods Rd. Units 20 & 21 (corner of Hwy 2 & 4) there is in each of us a tendency to think that we Burlington, ON Lambeth, ON have to contribute something to our salvation. I have to be more godly. I have to forsake sin. I have to be more religious. I have to pray more Mailing Address and read my Bible more. If I do all these things, 7038 Longwoods Road then, maybe then, the Lord will save me. P.O. Box 503, Lambeth Station London, ON N6P 1R1 To be sure, these things are important. We “Bringing Glory to God by Caring for Each Other” should be more godly. We should forsake sin. We should be more religious, etc., but not in or- der to earn anything by them. That is impossible Word & Deed seeks to help people in need by (as we have seen), for we are saved by grace, and bringing aid in the name of Jesus Christ. grace alone. What should we do? We should rest This is done through spiritual and physical help. in Christ and Christ alone. With the hymn writ- WORD & DEED PROJECTS EMPHASIZE: er we need to learn to say, “Nothing in my hands • A focus on the gospel and discipleship • A reliance on indigenous partnerships I bring, simply to Thy cross I cling.” (they know the language and culture best) • A goal of self-suffi ciency (teach them to fi sh) Can you say that? Is that your testimony? Is your Word & Deed supports 5,500 orphans in Malawi, only hope and refuge the finished work of Jesus child sponsorship in several countries (provid- ing a Christian education, basic medical care, a Christ on the cross? If not, if you are trusting warm meal and a uniform), agricultural projects, – even a little bit – in yourself - you are not a an HIV/AIDS hospice, vocational training, a home Christian. A Christian is one who has learned by for recovering substance abusers, disaster relief, the grace of the Holy Spirit to look away from and much more. There are opportunities to sponsor a child, or a self to find everything in Christ and to rest com- project. As well, business groups are being set up pletely in Christ. to sponsor projects with representatives of those groups visiting the projects. Please call toll free to fi nd out more (see below). With your help, we May God grant that we may discover this for can make a world of difference in thousands of ourselves, if we have not done so already. Then, lives. with Luther, we shall find the gates of Paradise CANADA OFFICE: Toll Free 877.375.9673 open – also for us – and, looking to Jesus, we PO Box 20100, St. Thomas, ON N5P 4H4 shall enter in with joy and live and reign with email: offi [email protected] God forever. U.S.A. OFFICE: Toll Free 866.391.5728 PO Box 157 Hudsonville, MI 49426 Rev. Jack Schoeman is the pastor of the Free Re- email: usoffi [email protected] formed Church of St. George, Ontario. Website: www.wordanddeed.org

NOVEMBER 2010 I THE MESSENGER 5 THE RESCUE OF THE CHILEAN MINERS:

A Testimony To God’s Goodness EDITORIAL >>

n October 13 the whole world watched in amazement that an event like this must confuse atheists like Sam Ohow thirty-three Chilean miners who had been Harris, Richard Dawkins and Christopher Hitchens. All given up for dead were miraculously raised from the three authors wrote books recently in which they argue bowels of the earth and brought to safety, after having that based on the prevalence of evil in the world, there been holed up in cramped quarters for sixty-nine days either is no God, or if He exists, He cannot possibly be and nights. How we all rejoiced with these survivors as good. In his Letter to a Christian Nation, Harris writes, they emerged, one at a time, from the capsule in which “If God exists either He can do nothing to stop the they were enclosed and fell into the arms of their loved most egregious calamities, or He does not care to. God, ones amid the cheers of rescue workers, compatriots and therefore, is either impotent or evil.” Harris prefers a government officials! It was a welcome third option, which he considers the least sight, indeed! After the deluge of bad news This was certainly the odious, namely that “the biblical god is the media bring us almost 24-7, here was case with these miners. a fiction, like Zeus and the thousands of some good news for a change. When I saw They were like death-row other dead gods whom most sane human all those happy faces, I thought of what prisoners in a dungeon beings now ignore.” Dawkins shows his David says in Psalm 145:9, “The Lord is agreement with Harris by entitling his half-a-mile below the good to all and his tender mercies are over recent bestseller, The God Delusion, while all his works.” And although in Isaiah 42:7 surface, where they would Hitchens reveals his true feelings on the the prophet is referring to what God does certainly have died if no matter in his book, God Is Not Great. in a spiritual way for His people, we can outside help had arrived. also say that He sometimes quite literally What all three authors agree on is that the “brings out the prisoners and them that sit in darkness God portrayed in the Bible does not deserve the attribute out of the prison house.” of goodness. Yet, in spite of their strongly held negative convictions regarding the character of the God of the Bible, Like Prisoners On Death Row we may be sure that like the rest of us, they also applauded This was certainly the case with these miners. They were the successful rescue operation of the Chilean miners. like death-row prisoners in a dungeon half-a-mile below They, no doubt, called it a good and not an evil thing. the surface, where they would certainly have died if no outside help had arrived. The miners were very well aware Goodness In A Godless World? of their helplessness throughout their “imprisonment” But on what basis? Given their philosophy and world and they publicly acknowledged that they owed their view, they have no logical explanation for the existence deliverance to God. As one of them said, “There were not of goodness in the universe. If, as they insist, man is 33 of us in the mine but there were 34, because God was the product of aeons-long evolutionary processes, an there with us.” The miraculous rescue of these men thus accident of nature whose origin lies in sludge and its stands as a testimony to God`s goodness and grace. destiny in dust, where does goodness come in, and evil too, for that matter? In a world without God and lacking A Problem For Atheists an absolute standard, it is impossible to distinguish As I further reflected on this, the thought struck me between them.

6 THE MESSENGER I NOVEMBER 2010 >> In his book, Does God believe in Atheists? John Blanchard The Only True Answer mentions that during a debate between a Jewish atheist The answer is found in Scripture, which explains that and a Christian apologist, the former challenged his goodness is rooted in God and revealed by God. Genesis opponent by saying, “If the God of the Bible exists, 1:1 tells us, “In the beginning God created the heaven and He should be sued for being asleep at the wheel of the earth,” and in verse 31 we read that the Creator of all the universe when my grandfather and uncle were things called His cosmos “very good.” That’s the origin of murdered in Auschwitz.” But, says Blanchard, on what goodness, a goodness which survived even the terrible fall basis can atheists complain about Hitler`s treatment of into badness, not only as saving grace for the elect, but also Jews if there is no God to judge human behaviour? “In as common grace to all sons and daughters of Adam and a godless universe, what one animal does to another Eve. As Randy Alcorn writes in his excellent book, If God is animal is ethically irrelevant, and there is no moral Good, “God’s common grace infuses goodness, implants a basis for anger or outrage against anything. Whatever measure of it in the consciences of His image-bearers, and happens happens, and that is all there is restrains much evil” (p.121). to it”(p. 521). Where then does good come from? Atheists All agree that the rescue of the Chilean miners But when something good happens, cannot answer this was a superb illustration of goodness. But not even atheists welcome it, especially if it question. Evil they may all understand or will admit that this goodness benefits them. They will also approve of is God’s gift to man, His image-bearer. For trace to evolution and the good things happening to others, as was twenty-four hours the world watched a great the case with those miners. But again, survival of the fittest idea, rescue miracle unfold. Millions waited with they cannot account for this “good” but not goodness. baited breath for the carefully lowered capsule except to say that it just happens. Their to return with its precious cargo. What a relief philosophy does not lead them to expect goodness, it was to see the first miners arrive safely above ground! How because after all, they live in a universe devoid of moving to see the tears of joy and the shouts of jubilation any design or purpose and operated by “blind pitiless that greeted the long lost loved ones! For many, if not most indifference” (Richard Dawkins). spectators around the world, I’m afraid, it was a touching display of humanitarian kindness, but no more. Evolution Can Explain Evil But Not Goodness Where then does good come from? Atheists cannot answer For the discerning observer, however, it was much more this question. Evil they may trace to evolution and the than that. It was a vivid and powerful manifestation of survival of the fittest idea, but not goodness. The “tooth divine goodness and benevolent love. In bringing these and claw” principle that seems to govern both animal men back from the grave as it were, and restoring them and human life can account for cruelty, ruthlessness, to their natural life, God pictures before the whole world selfishness, self-preservation, lust for power, world a much more important spiritual resurrection, which He domination, greed, war, torture and revenge, but not offers to sinners who are spiritually dead and therefore love, kindness, compassion, and self-sacrifice. imprisoned in a far worse sense than these men were. However, this resurrection is granted only to those who Blind, pitiless indifference, which Dawkins says is the repent of their sins and believe the Gospel of Jesus modus operandi governing the universe, did not inspire Christ, the greatest manifestation of God’s goodness. Christians to care for millions of victims of the Black Death in medieval Europe, at great risk to their own lives. “O that men would praise the Lord for his goodness and for Survival of the fittest was not the motive of perfectly his wonderful works to the children of men! … He brought healthy missionaries who ventured into leper colonies them out of darkness and the shadow of death, and brake in India and other places. Personal safety and wellbeing their bands in sunder“ (Psalm 107:8, 14). “He brought me was not the prime concern for the rescue workers in up also out of an horrible pit, out of the miry clay, and Chile, especially not for those who volunteered to step set my feet upon a rock and established my goings. And into the capsule to be lowered down to where the thirty- he hath put a new song in my mouth, even praise unto three miners were confined. How do we account for such our God; many shall see it, and fear, and shall trust in the unselfish conduct? Lord” (Psalm 40:2,3).

NOVEMBER 2010 I THE MESSENGER 7 FROM THE CHURCHES BY REV. J. OVERDUIN

Ministers in Transition grace fill all our pulpits with faithful ministers, so that GleaningsDr. & Mrs. L.W. Bilkes His Word may more effectively have “free course and be Dr. L.W. Bilkes finished his full-time work in the Grand glorified” in our churches and beyond (2 Thess. 3:1). Rapids, Michigan Free Reformed congregation when he retired from active ministry in June of this year. The “Fellowship” Meetings in Grand Rapids congregation has asked him to stay on, however, in a Free Reformed Church part-time position, at least until a new minister arrives. These meetings have been featured in this column This means that the Bilkes’s will continue to live in the before. Patterned after church fellowship meetings in Grand Rapids parsonage, and Dr. Bilkes will continue churches in the United Kingdom, the Grand Rapids to make pastoral visits in the congregation as well as consistory has organized these biweekly meetings teach the senior catechism class. Let us pray for the for the congregation; one of them each month in- Lord’s blessing on Dr. Bilkes’ work (Acts 15:36) as he cluding a meal and always a time of singing and continues to make known to the younger generation the a meditation or Bible study followed by prayer. praise, strength and wonderful works of the Lord (Ps. The intent is to involve the whole congregation 78:4-8). and promote and build the “fellowship” of the gathered body of Christ. This year, Drs. Jerry Rev. & Mrs. Lewis and Family Bilkes and David Murray are leading the Across the land, north to Lacombe, Alberta, Rev. and fellowship meetings, taking as their subject, Mrs. Lewis and family continue to wait the outcome of “Christ in all the Scriptures.” Each time Dr. their visa application to move to and serve the church in Murray leads a meeting, he plans to take Pompton Plains, New Jersey. As of this writing, the hope a Bible book in the Old Testament and is that the paperwork will be approved sometime in No- highlight Christ in that book. Dr. Murray vember. In the meantime, the congregation of Monarch will start with Genesis and plans to work has invited Rev. Lewis to fill its pulpit regularly, unless his way through Judges by April 2011. Monarch receives its own minister. Rev. Lewis and the Every time Dr. Bilkes leads a meeting, Lacombe consistory have agreed that Rev. Lewis ac- he will explore the same theme in the cept this invitation as it will give closure to his work in books of the New Testament, starting Lacombe and allow the Lacombe congregation to begin with Matthew, and finishing in April actively looking for another minister. Accordingly, Rev. with the book of Acts. A recent Grand Lewis preached his farewell sermon in Lacombe on Oc- Rapids bulletin encouraged the congre- tober 3rd and he and his family were scheduled to move gation: “Let us come together to see temporarily to Monarch at the end of October. Let us Christ in all the Scriptures and worship pray for the Lord’s hand to move the king’s heart, so to Him under His Word.” May God bless speak (Prov. 21:1), so that the visa of Rev. Lewis may be this study and these meetings to glorify approved and he and his family may make the transition His Son and to build up His church. to the church and place the Lord has called him. But let us also remember the Lacombe, Monarch and Pomp- “Pilgrim’s Progress” at Chilliwack ton Plains congregations, and all our vacant churches, Free Reformed Church praying that the Lord might in good time and in great We are approaching Reformation Day

8 THE MESSENGER I NOVEMBER 2010 again. In fact, by the time you read this, it will have Plant: This is to let you know that we are back from already passed. No doubt every one of our congre- our 2-months’ stay in Powassan. Ricky and I stayed gations organizes some kind of commemoration in North Bay in a house rented for us. North Bay is a evening or else has the opportunity to join with 20-minute drive north of Powassan, where the church other congregations or even federations to remem- is located. We have thoroughly enjoyed our time there ber God’s work in previous times and to pray for with the small group of believers who are hoping to the revival of His work in the midst of these years. start a Free Reformed Church in the area. Although How blessed we are to be able to do all this so their number is small (8 adults and 4 children) they easily and so freely. This year the youth group show much zeal and love for the Lord’s work and we at Chilliwack FRC is hosting an evening for the enjoyed spending time with them, visiting at their congregation on Saturday, October 30. There homes and encouraging them. Sundays were the will be some games for the children in the late highlights for us as we met in the little church building afternoon and then a light supper. But the right in the centre of the town. The attendance was highlight of the evening is a re-enactment of good, mostly because of vacationers who are glad to John Bunyan’s “Pilgrim’s Progress.” The pre- be able to attend Reformed worship services. There sentation is about an hour and-a-half long are no other Reformed churches in the Nipissing area, and involves the young people at different so when cottagers found out last year that the FRC levels. Part of the purpose of the evening had started a work in the area, many were eager to is to raise funds for the youth ministry of come. Some Sundays we were filled to capacity and the church and for AMG ministries (with most stayed for potluck meals between the services. whom Nico and Lia Kattenberg are as- We had people from various Reformed denominations sociated). But the main purpose of the attending: Free Reformed, United Reformed, Heritage evening is to help bring an old story Reformed, Canadian Reformed, Orthodox Presbyterian, alive in a creative and memorable way. Netherlands Reformed and a couple of local Mennonite Let us pray that God might bless the young men who come quite frequently and who also young people of Chilliwack and all the attend Bible studies. We hope and pray that the Lord young people of our churches that all will bless these outreach efforts. We have investigated of them might be true pilgrims whose Powassan and environs and introduced ourselves and progress to the Celestial City is faith- the church to locals in the two coffee-shops this town ful and to the honour of the King, the boasts, as well as grocery and other stores, and the li- Lord Jesus Christ. brary. We look back on a pleasant and hopefully fruitful time and pray that some more young couples may feel From the St. George Free Re- called to move to the Powassan area to help the small formed Bulletin congregation grow. Real estate is relatively cheap and Rev. Pronk informed the congre- job availability is quite good, especially in the trades. gation of St. George, where they Older couples and retirees are most welcome too! have their membership, about their activities during the summer. Rev. Joel Overduin is the pastor of the Free Reformed Serving the Powassan Church Church of Mitchell, Ontario.

NOVEMBER 2010 I THE MESSENGER 9 LEARNING FROM CHURCH HISTORY boring bach or the blessing of justification?

By Rev. G.R. Procee

Boring Bach!? Some people cannot find any pleasure in listening to cantatas or other music written by the famous composer, Johann Sebastian Bach. They find it boring. But when one learns to discern the beautiful harmony in the music, one will be amazed at the quality of the music written by Bach. One simply has to see it. There are other things people find boring, simply because they do not understand the beauty of what they are studying. Some students find studying the human body most boring, but when they see how intricately our bodies are formed and all the individual cells are like manufacturing plants with input and output, they will stand in awe at how “fearfully and wonderfully” we are made (Ps. 139:14). We will exclaim: “marvelous are thy works,” and it will not be boring to study the human body. On the contrary, we will find it mind boggling and God glorifying.

Likewise, some find justification to be a boring and outdated theological doctrine, which gives answers to questions nobody seems to ask anymore. However, when our eyes are opened for the reality of what justification means, we will be greatly amazed. To understand the doctrine of justification will be as if we were being led through the gates of Paradise. That is how Martin Luther experienced it.

Justification Is By Faith Alone It was probably early 1518 when Luther clearly saw the unlimited blessing of justification by faith. It is because it is the imputed righteousness of Christ. This discovery was the result of a development that seems to have begun around the year 1513 when Luther lectured on the Psalms and the book of Romans. It was in 1518 that he experienced what he called his tower experience (Turmerlebnis). For it was in the tower of the University of Wittenberg that Luther had his study and while working there it became clear to him that righteousness is not the righteousness that man has to accomplish and bring to God as a sacrifice. Righteousness is the perfect righteousness accomplished by Christ, which is imputed to the sinner by grace alone without any works, in the way of faith alone.

This imputed righteousness of Christ grants the sinner a full pardon for all his sins, whereby he is declared just in the sight of God and he receives the God-given right to enter eternal life. This glorious liberating doctrine caused Luther to rejoice greatly. He explains it in his own words:

At last, by the mercy of God, meditating day and night, I gave heed to the context of the words, namely, ‘In it the righteousness of God is revealed’, as it is written, ‘He who through faith is righteous shall live.’ There I began to understand that the righteousness of God is that by which the righteous lives as a gift of God, received by faith.... Here I felt that I was altogether born again and had entered paradise itself through open gates.

The doctrine of justification may appear to be boring, but in reality it is of the most profound significance for every human being. We are all personally faced with matters of justice and guilt. Mankind struggles to find peace. Books on how to gain inner peace abound. But without Christ they are all doomed to mislead. The only way to gain inner

10 THE MESSENGER I NOVEMBER 2010 peace is in the way of being justified by faith alone in the finished no sin to be forgiven. They were justified because they kept God’s work of the Lord Jesus Christ. Christ said: “I am the way, the commandments. Such justification is totally beyond the reach truth and the life.” The apostles testify in Acts 4:12, “Neither is of guilty depraved beings. Yet, although God cannot justify the there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under guilty and cannot condemn the righteous, we see this astounding heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.” We see truth in Scripture: For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of then that justification, instead of being boring, is of the most vital God; being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is importance, because it deals with everlasting bliss or misery. The in Christ Jesus (Rom. 3:23, 24) and God is the justifier of him which justification of the sinner by grace alone is the only way a person believeth in Jesus (v.26). can be delivered from guilt, and gain everlasting happiness and eternal life. That is how wonderful this doctrine of justification This doctrine is an old and proven doctrine and at the same is! time it is new, fresh, living, and joyful when we discover it for ourselves. When we understand justification it seems too good All people are faced with the dark reality of their sin and guilt. to be true for us. It is like a beam of heavenly light shining into Many try to hide from it, but it is all in vain. Their misery is that our dark and troubled spirits. It can never become obsolete, for a we transgress God’s laws. Little children already fight with each full pardon of our sin and a sure right to enter everlasting life is other. Grown-ups slander and resent each other. We all disobey needed by everyone. These privileges belong to the sinner as soon God in many ways. This constitutes man’s as he relies on Christ alone for salvation! deepest problem: We sin against God and This doctrine is an old and plunge ourselves into unhappiness, misery and There is widespread unrest in churches about death. Mankind wrestles with the question proven doctrine and at the what constitutes biblical doctrine and worship. of how to find deliverance and how to gain same time it is new, fresh, Much of this is due to a defective understanding peace. It is only found when we come to see the living, and joyful when we of the doctrine of justification. That is why glorious doctrine of justification. some churches are moving in the direction of discover it for ourselves. ritualism, others end up with presumption and The Reformation unfounded emotionalism. But if we would have A short time ago we commemorated the work of God in the a clear understanding of justification by faith alone, we will not Protestant Reformation. The Reformers brought attention to this turn to rituals or crave emotional highs. Neither will we presume blessed doctrine of justification by faith alone without works. This that everything is right between God and us merely because we liberating doctrine had been exchanged for miserable doctrine attend church. When we experience justification by faith alone, of salvation by works that never gave anyone any peace. In the we will be overjoyed, like Martin Luther, and filled with love in days of the Reformation this glorious doctrine was re-discovered. return, zealous to share this liberating good news. Then we will Luther stated that the church stands or falls with the doctrine desire to live only for the Lord. of the justification of the sinner by faith alone. Repeatedly, this cardinal doctrine has been under attack. The Blessings of This Doctrine Justification by faith aloneis liberating. It means that all my guilt is Today, most churches, even those who officially subscribe to the removed and God forgives all my sins. I receive a different status doctrine of justification by faith alone, basically teach a doctrine because I am no longer guilty, but innocent. The law no longer of salvation by works. Those in Reformed churches who follow accuses me; my conscience is finally put to rest. The accusations the teaching of the New Perspective believe that they are just of the devil hold no water for the blood of Jesus Christ has by faithfulness to God’s covenant rather than by faith in Christ cleansed me from all my sin. I am clothed in the robes of Christ’s alone. How necessary, therefore, to continually emphasize the righteousness for His righteousness is imputed to me. God sees doctrine of justification by faith alone. me as if I had never committed or had any sin, but on the contrary, I have done all God commanded me to do in His law. I have a right The Comfort of This Doctrine to everlasting life with the Lord. This delivers me from all fear. It The doctrine of justification is a most comforting doctrine. How is as Zachariah said in Luke 1:74, “That we being delivered out of can a doctrine that gives liberty, joy and happiness be boring!? the hand of our enemies might serve him without fear.| That is only so when we have not understood what justification is. Buchanan gives this definition: “By Justification we mean Justification by faith alone is God glorifying. It implies a high view man’s acceptance with God or his being regarded and treated of God and His justice, righteousness and mercy. God does not as righteous in His sight; as the object of His favour, and not overlook sin, but punishes it. He displays His severity in punishing of His wrath; of His blessing, and not of His curse” (Doctrine of His Son while He displays His love and mercy by receiving sinners Justification, p.17). for Jesus’ sake. The justified sinner sees that God is righteous and just, and at the same time is full of loving kindness. Buchanan explains further that justification is not merely forgiveness of sins, for he points out that justification is more; it Justification by faith alone humbles man. Salvation does not depend causes man to be accepted into God’s favour. Angels who did not on myself or my achievements, but rests on the finished work of fall away from God but ‘kept their first estate’ were also justified. Christ alone. I see that I have utterly failed and owe my salvation That is, they were accepted by God in favour, although they had wholly to God. And as I still have a sinful nature I remain fully

NOVEMBER 2010 I THE MESSENGER 11 CHURCH HISTORY CONTINUED...

dependent on His grace.

Justification is soul enriching. It leads sinners to love Him who first loved us. It gives profound joy and unspeakable peace. Because of Christ’s finished work we may rest in full assurance on God’s salvation. The same justice that first condemned us now acquits those who are justified. As God caused Jesus to carry away our sins, according to His righteousness and justice, we will never have to bear the punishment for sin. All sins are paid for; guilt is removed and we are clothed in the righteousness of Christ. This means full assurance in Christ. In response, believers are made most willing to love and serve Him all the days of their life in holiness and righteousness.

These blessings are received by faith alone. We must realize that faith is not a work; rather, it is ceasing from work and we do not need to bring something to God. Faith is knowing God and His truth. It is agreeing with God and His truth; it is also trusting in God. God’s Spirit works this faith through His Word.

May God give us grace to live in this faith. Let us know and rejoice in this doctrine of justification by faith alone.

Rev. Gerald R. Procee is the pastor of the Free Reformed Church of Hamilton, Ontario.

PROVIDENCE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL BOOKS TO FEED invites applications for the position of Full-Time YOUR MIND AND SOUL Junior/Senior High Teacher for the current school year For Catechism Material, Bible Study Guides, Daily Devotions for Adults Providence Christian School is situated in a beau- and Children, Children’s Bible Lessons, and much more, tiful, southern Alberta rural community, minutes request an Order Form or visit: www.frcna.org (click on RESOURCES) from Lethbridge. PCS has grades K-12 with about 120 students attending and 12 staff members. We offer: • a four-day school week • competitive salaries/benefits • a growing, committed school community FREE REFORMED PUBLICATIONS • a dedicated team of teaching staff P.O. Box 1094 We encourage qualified teachers who submit to Mitchell, ON God’s Holy Word and the Reformed confessions, N0K 1N0 CANADA and are committed to educating children and Email: [email protected]; youth in the Reformed Christian perspective to Tel./Fax: 519 348-0020 apply. Please send your resume, references, state- ment of faith and philosophy of Christian educa- http://www.frcna.org tion to: Churches and bookstores can Mr. G. Van de Haar, Principal be invoiced at reduced prices for Providence Christian School bulk quantities of 10 or more. Box 240, Monarch, AB T0L 1M0 or for more information: e-mail: [email protected] 403-381-4418 (school) • 403-824-3182 (home)

12 THE MESSENGER I NOVEMBER 2010 news notes & comments By Rev. H. A. Bergsma

BAKER FACING EVICTION DUE TO MORAL STAND: An Indianapolis cookie shop could be evicted from its long-time location for refusing a special order from a college homosexual group. The bakery, “Just Cookies,” has operated in a city-owned market for over twenty years. The president of the board that oversees the market told the Indianapolis Star that he would “hate to lose them” as a tenant -- but that could very well happen because owner David Stockton took a moral stand and did not want to endorse homosexual activity. Controversy arose this week after the owners of the bakery cited moral objections to a special-order request for rainbow-decorated cookies for next week’s “National Coming Out Day” observance at a nearby university campus. Stockton told the caller he did not feel comfortable in supporting homosexual values, especially because it would not set a good example for his two daughters. Micah Clark of the American Family Association of Indiana says there are reports the city might evict Stockton, citing a local “anti-discrimination” statute. Had the shop filled the special order, the owner felt he would be providing a microphone for homosexuals to celebrate their lifestyle. But there is another consideration, says Clark. “If this were a Muslim-owned bakery, what would happen?” he wonders. “I don’t think the city would pursue it the way they’re pursuing it now. I think this is part of the liberal agenda where people must conform to the views that our culture wants in support of homosexuality.” In an interview with the Star, the AFA of Indiana spokesman argued for the rights of business owners. “It’s one thing if someone walks into a store and buys a cookie off the shelf, but [the Stocktons] were being asked to become part of the [pro-homosexual] celebration. To make rainbow cookies for a special event with which the company has a disagreement -- I think that goes beyond the pale of what we should expect companies to do.” (From OneNewsNow) Meanwhile, homosexual groups are circulating memos encouraging people to stop purchasing at Just Cookies. Clark’s response to that is to ask residents to do business there in support of the owners and their wholesome beliefs. This is clearly not just a “cookie” matter, but another evidence of the battle against spiritual darkness.

PASTOR EXPLORES RELATIONSHIP OF SCIENCE AND THEOLOGY: Rev. Jacques Nel, pastor of Trinity Reformed Church (of America), 326 W. Cork St., Kalamazoo, Michigan, will begin a series of presentations on the relationship of science and theology at 11:30 a.m. Sunday. He’ll be talking about the origins of the universe, evolution and other subjects. “By insisting that we use the creation and fall accounts in He leads none Genesis 1-3 as a literal scientific description of the way and order in which things happened, we are doing a disservice to both the book to heaven but of Genesis and the people we hope to reach for Christ,” he wrote in an e-mail to the Gazette. Nel said he has a long-time interest in this whom He subject and is getting a research proposal ready on “strategies for sanctifies on moving away from the conflict between science and theology” for his doctoral thesis at the University of Stellenbosch in South Africa. the earth. He is originally from South Africa. (From Presbyterians Week) Obviously, this pastor is more concerned about doing a disservice John Owen. to the people than doing a disservice to God and to His inspired Word. NOVEMBER 2010 I THE MESSENGER 13 JONI EARECKSON-TADA’S CANCER news notes & comments SURGERY SUCCESSFUL: continued... Quadriplegic disability advocate, Joni Eareckson Tada, has emerged “success- fully” from breast cancer surgery and is OBAMA, ‘CHRISTIAN BY CHOICE’: hopeful of a positive prognosis, a leader President Barack Obama, in a rare discussion about his religious beliefs, described himself with her ministry reported Tuesday. “Jo- as a “Christian by choice” who arrived at his faith in adulthood because “the precepts ni’s surgery was completed successfully of Jesus Christ” helped him envision the kind of life he wanted to lead. He talked about yesterday evening, and she is resting his beliefs when he was asked, “Why are you a Christian?” The question was posed by comfortably, preparing to begin the rest of her course of treatment in the next few a woman at a backyard conversation as part of a series of meetings Obama is holding days,” stated Doug Mazza, president and to talk informally with Americans. Some conservatives and political opponents have CEO of the Joni and Friends International questioned Obama’s Christian faith. In fact, a Pew Research Center poll in August found Disability Center, following Monday’s sur- that 18 percent of people wrongly believe Obama is Muslim - up from 11 percent who gery. Tada, who founded Joni and Friends said so in March 2009. Just 34 percent said they thought Obama is Christian. “I’m a in 1979 to accelerate Christian ministry in Christian by choice,” Obama told his audience. “My family didn’t - frankly, they weren’t the disability community, was diagnosed folks who went to church every week. And my mother was one of the most spiritual with cancer early last week and was in- formed last Tuesday that the tumour was people I knew, but she didn’t raise me in the church. So I came to my Christian faith malignant. Though the 60-year-old min- later in life, and it was because the precepts of Jesus Christ spoke to me in terms of the istry leader confessed that news of the kind of life that I would want to lead - being my brothers’ and sisters’ keeper, treating cancer was “alarming,” she and her hus- others as they would treat me,” he continued. “And I think also understanding that band said they affirmed their faith in God Jesus Christ dying for my sins spoke to the humility we all have to have as human and said doctors had assured them by beings; that we’re sinful and we’re flawed and we make mistakes, and that we achieve noting how more advancement has been made in the last five years in treating salvation through the grace of God,” Obama said. “But what we can do, as flawed as breast cancer than in the last 150 years. we are, is still see God in other people and do our best to help them find their own “Although cancer is something new, I am grace.” Obama said he seeks to do that through daily prayer and public service. “That’s content to receive from God whatever what I strive to do. That’s what I pray to do every day,” he said. “I think my public He deems fit for me,” said Tada, who has service is part of that effort to express my Christian faith.” Obama is the son of a Muslim been a quadriplegic for more than 40 father from Kenya. His mother was from Kansas. As a boy, he lived for several years years. According to Mazza, Tada’s family in predominantly Muslim Indonesia with his mother and Indonesian stepfather. Some physician, Dr. Geoffrey Drew, was with the disability advocate all day at Los Robles think his full name, Barack Hussein Obama, sounds Muslim. Obama turned his extended Medical Center and Hospital in Thousand reply to the question about his faith into a subtle call for religious tolerance. “One thing Oaks, California, standing by as the on- I want to emphasize, having spoken about something that obviously relates to me very cology surgeon, Dr. David Chi, performed personally, as president of the United States I’m also somebody who deeply believes the procedure. Drew, following the sur- that part of the bedrock strength of this country is that it embraces people of many gery, said Tada’s cancer was determined faiths and no faith,” he said. “That this is a country that is still predominantly Christian, to be in Stage 2. “And while some lymph but we have Jews, Muslims, Hindus, atheists, agnostics, Buddhists, and that their own nodes were affected and Joni will need chemotherapy to follow up this surgery, path to grace is one that we have to revere and respect as much as our own.” “That’s this is a highly survivable cancer and part of what makes this country what it is,” Obama said. He was a long-time member of we anticipate a positive prognosis,” he Trinity United Church of Christ in Chicago. But during the 2008 presidential campaign he reported. Mazza, in Tuesday’s announce- resigned from the church and cut ties with its pastor, the Rev. Jeremiah Wright. Wright ment, asked supporters for continued had helped Obama embrace Christianity, officiated at his wedding and baptized Obama prayers on Tada’s behalf, particularly that and daughters Malia and Sasha. Obama and his family have worshipped at several God would give Tada and her husband, Ken, “more grace and peace for the next churches in Washington, and aides say the president enjoys attending services at the steps.” “With prayer and good care, we chapel at the Camp David presidential retreat. But he has yet to join a congregation in look forward to her full recovery,” Mazza the nation’s capital. (From Associated Press) remarked. (From The Christian Post) There are several troubling aspects to Obama’s Christianity: One, He suggests Christ Joni has done much good in the Chris- died on the cross to convey humility. Two, he believes there are other paths to grace that tian disability community. Her books, such should be revered. Three, He sees no conflict between abortion and the precepts of Jesus as Diamonds in the Dust (and other devo- Christ tionals) are prized by many. Pray that she may enjoy full recovery. Rev. Henk A. Bergsma is the pastor of the Free Reformed Church of Fenwick, ON.

14 THE MESSENGER I NOVEMBER 2010 A DAILY DEVOTIONAL FOR TEENS Musica Sacra Chorus Ages 12 to 15 invites you to our This soon-to-be-published Annual Christmas Concerts one-year daily devotional targets youth ages 12 to 15. Authored by contemporary Reformed ministers in the Netherlands and now trans- lated into English, each day’s reading directs the young reader to a particular passage of Scripture and highlights one verse or phrase with several brief paragraphs of comment and concludes with a question to provoke further personal reflection. Meant to convict, comfort and challenge, this devotional will, with God’s blessing, be a help and guide for teens in our churches and elsewhere. Now vailable from Free Reformed Publications - $15.00. For more information, Brantford contact [email protected] Saturday, November 27, 2010 at 8:00 p.m. DV with Guest Choir: Grace Free Reformed Youth Choir Hope Christian Reformed Church 64 Buchanan Crescent, Brantford Proceeds for Brantford Crisis Pregnancy Centre

Aylmer Saturday, December 11, 2010 at 8:00 p.m. DV Bethel United Reformed Church 49823 Talbot Line, Aylmer, ON Proceeds for Springfield Rehoboth Home Tickets for this concert are available at the door or in advance from: Hendrik deWit: [email protected] Patsy DeJonge: [email protected], 519-842-4025

Woodstock Saturday, December 18, 2010 at 8:00 p.m. DV Knox Presbyterian Church 59 Riddell St. Woodstock, ON Proceeds for the Norwich Food Bank

Admission for all concerts: $10 per person • $25 per family Children 5 and under free

www.musicasacrachorus.com REFORMATION DAY - Remembering Our Rich Heritage

NOVEMBER 2010 I THE MESSENGER 15 PROFITING FROM THE PARABLES

Study 8: An Enemy Hath Done This BIBLE STUDY BY DR. G.M. BILKES Read: Matthew 13:24-30; 36-43. >>

e all know how frustrating it is to deal with weeds. separate out the wheat from the tares. He responds: “Nay, WPerhaps you’ve planted a vegetable or flower garden, lest while ye gather up the tares, ye root up also the wheat only to find rather quickly that the weeds were more nu- with them. Let both grow together until the harvest” (vv. merous than the plants you were expecting to see sprout 29-30). It’s clear from the householder’s answer that only from the ground. Perhaps you looked out over the weeds in the final stage will the difference between the wheat and wondered whether the painstaking and backbreaking and the tares be such that the reapers can separate the labour would be worth it. The problem that presents itself two accurately and effectively. Until then, the two must in the parable of the tares, however, is more serious yet. grow together. As they sprout and grow, tares look practically identical to wheat. It is nearly impossible to identify them correctly; The Substance the difference only becomes obvious at harvest time. It is important to notice how the parable opens: “The kingdom of heaven is likened...” (Matt. 13:24). Some The Scenery people have been confused by the fact that later Christ Matthew is the only gospel writer who includes the explains that the field is “the world,” and assume that parable of the tares. It is the second among a series of He is teaching that there are both good and bad people seven parables that deal with the mystery of the kingdom in the world at large. Though that is true, Christ is here of heaven (Matt. 13:11). This parable and the parable of focused on the kingdom in the world, in other words, on the Sower are the only ones among all the parables for the visible church. The way in which God through Christ which Christ gives an explicit explanation (vv. 36-43). brings His reign of grace into this world (the field) could be compared to sowing. This parable begins by introducing us to a sower and his seed, as did the parable of the Sower. But Christ speaks Notice that in this parable the seed is not the Word of now of good seed, as opposed to good soil (Matt. 13:24; see God (as it was in the parable of the Sower), but the people also Matt. 13:8). The farmer sows good wheat seed on his whom God has regenerated through His Spirit by means field, but then, at night, an enemy of the farmer oversows of His Word (1 Pet. 1:23; James 1:18). Christ tells us it with bad seed. Jesus used the word “tares” to describe that the “good seed are the children of the kingdom” (v. this bad seed. As an expert in botany has explained, the 38). They have the good heart (Luke 8:15), which God tare is not a weed, but actually a far inferior, and unusable alone can give through the miracle of the rebirth. This member of the same family of grasses that includes wheat. comparison was also used in Hosea, where God speaks of As it grows, it is virtually indistinguishable from wheat. His people and says: “I will sow her unto me in the earth” Only its leaf size is different by a few millimeters. You (Hos. 2:23). This is the first aspect of the kingdom in the can only clearly tell the difference when you get towards world, namely, the true children of the kingdom. the harvest, and the useless (some even say, poisonous) kernel appears. There is also a second aspect, namely, the bad seed, or as Christ explains, “the children of the wicked one” (v. 38). According to the parable, there is a point when the Now Christ is speaking about more than just the mystery servants of the master do recognize what has happened of the kingdom. He is explaining what Scripture elsewhere (v. 27). They suggest to their master that they try to calls “the mystery of iniquity” (2 Thess. 2:7). Contrary to

16 THE MESSENGER I NOVEMBER 2010 >>

what many imagine, the kingdom of God does not come householder’s primary concern here is that none of the in one sweeping development, where things simply get wheat be lost. After all, the tares do not hurt the wheat; better and better. Instead, there is “an enemy” (v. 28). they only obscure it – and only for a time. God will ensure Satan is the wicked imitator of the Lord. He tries to that not a single stalk of wheat will be mistaken as a tare parallel what the Lord does, but through evil means and in the end, no matter how mixed up the two are in the to evil ends. He comes under the cover of night. That field. means it’s impossible to know and see exactly what he has done. Often the results can only be seen much later. The Saviour Christ is present in the parable in three ways. First of all, Christ’s parable, then, is taking the whole history of the Christ is the Source of His people. He sows His people in world and compressing it into one agricultural cycle of the field of this world that they might live forever to the sowing and reaping. All those in the visible church from glory and praise of God. Nothing of His work will be lost, all times and places are in this field. There is wheat as well for in the end the righteous shall “shine forth as the sun as tares, the unregenerate and the in the kingdom of their Father” regenerate; Jacobs as well as Esaus; (v. 43). It’s important to notice the elect and the reprobate, true QUESTIONS: how this parable puts the work believers as well as hypocrites. 1. There are some similarities as well as differ- of Christ first. Before the enemy ences between this parable and the parable can do anything, Christ sows His At first, it is as if there is no apparent of theGo Sower to now, (Matt. ye 13:1-8).that say, If, whenToday you people. And Satan cannot undo difference between all these plants read the parable of the Tares, you are afraid what Christ has done. He cannot on the field of the visible church. you do not belong to God’s people, how consume the seed of Christ. He only The good and bad seeds grow up might the parable of the Sower help you? can confuse the people of God (for together. People come into your 2. “Let them both grow together” (v. 30). a time), by trying to copy what the Could this be said to contradict what Christ church and everything seems Lord does, working deceit, but he teaches elsewhere in Matthew about church well, but the devil has brought cannot consume the good seed. discipline (Matt. 18:18-19)? How then can them in under the cover of night. we properly apply verse 30 of our parable to Others grow up in the church and the church? Secondly, Christ is the Exposer of everything seems to be going well 3. Find other passages that also show how Satan’s devices. It is He who helps His with them. However, again the patiently Christ endures the mixture of his people understand “the mystery of devil has brought them in under church. Can this teach us to have more pa- iniquity.” Notice that in the parable the cover of night, and in the end tience with the imperfections and inadequa- the servants do not know where there is only bad fruit. cies that we see in the church around us? the tares could have come from. 4. What practical lessons can we learn from this The householder needs to explain Throughout the history of the parable about how Satan works? What other that the enemy has sown them (v. kingdom, there has always been things does Scripture tells us about Satan’s 28). Sometimes we wonder why the tendency to want to put in schemes or devices? so many bad things happen in the the sickle of judgment before the church: corruption, abuse, strife, allotted time. How often have church leaders or other dissension, and so on. As a result we can sometimes even Christians, like the servants in the parable, not been wonder whether the visible church is indeed God’s work. too hasty in judgment and in their desire to purge the Shouldn’t we expect the church to be all neat and tidy if church? So often we want to rid ourselves of those whom it is truly the Lord’s work? Instead, Christ here reveals we consider a blight on the kingdom of God. Two of that it’s precisely because the church is God’s work that Jesus’ own disciples, James and John, on one occasion, the devil comes alongside and sows his evil seed as well. asked Christ: “Wilt thou that we command fire to come down from heaven, and consume them, even as Elias Thirdly, Christ is the patient Protector of His people. The did?” (Luke 9:54) If the householder of the parable had comfort of the parable is that Christ does not need to let his servants do what they wanted, they might indeed depend on His servants to root out the problem of the have gotten rid of some of the tares. But likely they would tares. Instead, He has come to destroy the works of the have missed plenty as well. More importantly, they would devil (1 John 3:8). He did so principally on the cross, and have pulled up some of the wheat with the tares. The Continued on page 17

NOVEMBER 2010 I THE MESSENGER 17 SECOND ANNUAL SEMINARY DAY 2010: A CALL TO SERVE

On the last summer Saturday of the season, September the their families. The international students make great sacrifices 19th, the second Seminary Day was held in the spacious Free Re- to come to PRTS and often have to leave family members behind formed Church of Dundas on Weir’s Lane. The attendance was while struggling to adjust to a new culture and challenging stud- a bit less from the previous year, perhaps due to the glorious ies. Their aim is to return to their countries and equip others to summer weather and several local events which involved church bring a truly biblical and Reformed message to their people who members. Scheduling for another year, D.V., could perhaps take have a hunger for the Gospel. into account that many other events take place on this particular Saturday in September. Yet, over the course of the day, several The speakers for the day, Rev. Gangar, who has recently begun hundred people, all ages, old and young and in-between, some a ministry to the Sikhs in British Columbia on behalf of our with young children, came to show their interest in the theologi- churches, and Rev. VanderMeyden, pastor of the Vineland FRC, cal education of students for the ministry and the speakers for challenged the attendees with thought-provoking speeches in- the day. volving the call to spread God’s Word. We were admonished to make those outside our culture feel welcome and we also learned The primary reason why this day is held and is called Seminary how the Lord extended His church in history. Day is to draw attention to the calling of church members to sup- port the work of the Seminary in training the future ministers A time of good fellowship was enjoyed and acquaintances were of our churches. It is fitting that the annual Church Day, which renewed during pre-meeting coffee-time, lunch time and post- has been held as long as the Free Reformed denomination has meeting refreshments. Tables with books for all ages by Re- existed, is now called Seminary Day. formed Book Services, a not-for-profit bookstore in Brantford, gave everyone ample opportunity to purchase literature to feed It was pointed out that by studying at the Puritan Reformed their minds and souls. Theological Seminary in Grand Rapids, Michigan, the Free Re- formed students, Tim Bergsma, Seth Huckstead and Robert Van- The St. George FRC had the responsibility of hosting the day and Doodewaard, receive a well-rounded education, which includes organizing the food services, including nursery and child care, being exposed to a variety of international students. Two from and youth activities after the meeting. This means that even the Malawi, with their spouses and children, were introduced by Mr. littlest ones are welcome and no age group is left behind. So, Henk Kleyn, registrar at PRTS and mentor of these students and when considering to attend next year, the Lord willing, whether

18 THE MESSENGER I NOVEMBER 2010 Continued from page 15 >>

He will do so in a final way at the end of time. He will do it at a time and in a way in which none of His own work will be ruined.

How patient Christ shows Himself to be! He allows the wicked and the righteous to coexist, until the full harvest is ready. He so loves His own work that He endures the work of Satan up to a point that will most magnificently display His own glory. Paul describes the Lord’s patience this way: “What if God, willing to show his wrath, and to make his power known, endured with much longsuffering the vessels of wrath fitted to destruction”? (Rom. 9:22) What patience and care on the part of the Saviour!

Lessons The parable teaches us three basic lessons. 1. We need heavenly insight. Just as the servants needed the perspective of their master on the situation in the field, so we too need the Lord’s perspective. We need it especially as it pertains to the presence of evil in our lives, in the church, and in the world, as well as what His purposes are in midst of this world. 2. We need heavenly patience. The servants in this parable needed the same patience as their Master. Just because there is wickedness on every side, and things seem to be getting worse rather than better, doesn’t mean that God’s purposes will fail. We need patience in order to do what God commands, and wait to inherit the full promise when He wants us to have it for the whole day or only the morning or afternoon ses- (see Heb. 10:36). Christians are people whose hearts sion, keep in mind that every age group is welcome. are directed to patiently wait for the full fulfillment of God purposes (see 2 Thess. 3:5). Our Heidelberg Catechism reminds us that a requirement 3. We need heavenly hope. This is the flip side of the coin of implied in the keeping of the Lord’s Day is “that the min- our need for patience. Believers can take encouragement istry of the gospel and the schools be maintained” (L.D. from the vast difference between the final destination 38 A. 103), the “schools” being the training that is re- of the wheat and the final destination of the tares. For quired for Christian ministry. Seminary Day focuses on many weeks, the tares grew in harmony with the wheat, this duty, not only to be informed about how the Lord perhaps even with their roots intertwined. Yet, the day is using seminary education, but also to learn how we came when they were perfectly separated, and every may support it with our prayers and finances. Another stalk of good wheat ended up safely in the Master’s barn. important aspect is that our youth is invited and chal- May our hope be for the day when all the mixture will be lenged to explore whether the Lord may not be calling over and done with, and then to only shine brightly in them to service in His church and kingdom. As we could the kingdom of God (v. 42). witness with our own eyes by way of the international students and hear from the speakers: “The harvest truly Dr. G.M. Bilkes is an ordained minster in the Free Reformed is plentiful, but the labourers are few. Therefore pray the Churches and a Professor of New Testament and Biblical The- Lord of the harvest to send out labourers into His har- ology at Puritan Reformed Theological Seminary in Grand vest” (Matt.9:38). May our annual Seminary Day contin- Rapids, Michigan. ue to challenge us and teach us these important duties.

NOVEMBER 2010 I THE MESSENGER 19 ADDRESS FROM THE DUTCH DELEGATE TO SYNOD 2010 >>

It is customary that every few years our Dutch sister churches send a delegate to bring greetings from our sister church in the Netherlands, the Christelijke Gereformeerde Kerken in Nederland (CGKN). Rev. H. Korving of Urk, The Netherlands, delivered this address at the Free Reformed Synod held this past summer.

Esteemed Brothers and Fathers in Christ, A great privilege – that is the first word that comes with at the coming Synod of our Churches next fall to mind to express my feelings at this moment. It is a [this synod is being held as this article is placed, C.P.]. privilege to be here in your midst and to attend your A striking development in the churches in the Synod. Thank you very much for your invitation and Netherlands is that while at the synodical level there warm welcome. On behalf of the CGKN I greet you in was no majority to enter into a federation growth the Name of our Lord, the King of the Church. model with the Gereformeerde Kerken Vrijgemaakt You will know that in the history of our two (Canadian/American Reformed Churches), many local denominations there were strong bonds and there churches seek closer contact and cooperation with still are. But the time is far behind us that we would these churches. speak in terms of a mother–daughter relationship. We In some of the bigger cities in the Netherlands, rejoice to have this special bond of love and unity with churches are in a difficult position because of you, our sister churches in Canada. It really feels like decreasing membership. In Rotterdam, the well known I am in your midst on a family visit. Also in a spiritual congregation Rotterdam-West, had to close its doors. sense, this is a family visit. Here and there new projects are started as church I just referred to the Lord as the King of the Church. plants in a kind of missionary setting. It is a marvellous thought that this King is served by The Theological University at Apeldoorn was His people all over the world. Together they form one confronted with a government decision which no family and one people; it is the household of the Lord. longer makes it mandatory for theological institutions So easily we use the word denomination instead of to require the knowledge of the Greek and Latin Church. We are used to the word denomination but languages. This means that our denominational we do not find it in the Bible. It is because of sin that university, where ministers of the Gospel are trained, the church of Christ has split into many divisions, also faces the difficulty of how to integrate these subjects the churches of the Reformation. Calvin never had the into the regular curriculum. idea of denominations in mind when he wrote about The upcoming synod also will have to deal with the Church. The Church is, of course, more than our a report on homosexuality in relation to church two denominations with a few more. We should try membership, pastoral care and church discipline. to keep in mind that it is our privilege as well as our Another item on synod’s agenda will be the report duty as denominations to show as much as we can the on a revision of the so-called Statenvertaling [Dutch Church as the image of the body of Christ. We need States Bible]. This revision is expected to be finalized to exhibit the same marks as the Church on the day at the end of the year. of Pentecost: continuing steadfastly in the apostle’s So often we are inclined to focus on things that are doctrine, and fellowship, in breaking of bread, and in difficult, which have the potential of causing trouble prayers. This is being faithful to the Word and keeping and even divisions. We are not a perfect church. Our the truth in the spirit of love. membership is declining. But we are called to be The bond we feel as churches in Canada and in the watchful. The face of our society is changing. More and Netherlands reminds us that the Lord’s people are one. more Christian principles, for example those that deal The best day in the history of the Church will be when with ethical issues, are being ridiculed or swept aside. all who truly belong to Him will be gathered together When people claim the right of self-determination before His throne. even to decide when to end their life, this is a sign of You may wonder what the situation is in the CGK a declining Christian civilization. A group of liberal- in the Netherlands. It is hard to summarize that in a minded politicians and citizens recently launched an few sentences, but I will bring a few items to the fore. initiative to make a suicide pill available for the elderly There are quite a number of issues that cause tensions who decide that they no longer want to continue to in these churches. Some of them will have to be dealt live.

20 THE MESSENGER I NOVEMBER 2010 >> Yet we should not close our eyes for the many May the Lord bless you as Free Reformed Churches undeserved blessings we still have. We may say that in North America to sound forth the truth of the Bible the Lord still has dealings with us. His Word may still and to show what it means to fear the Lord, so that be proclaimed. There is a people that desires to serve His Name will be glorified here and in Europe, and the Lord. There are young people who truly have a everywhere in the world. Pray for us as we pray for love for the things of the Lord. The work of missions you that our denomination may be His Church, His continues steadfastly and new mission fields are being Bride, waiting and looking forward to the Great Day explored. of His second coming. Let us both persevere as well as We endeavour to admonish one another in things ardently pray: Thy Kingdom come, as explained by our essential, and to bear with each other in things non- Heidelberg Catechism: essential. We appreciate very much to keep in touch with you as sister-church, as well as with other Rule us so by Thy word and Spirit, that we may confessional Reformed churches throughout the world. submit ourselves more and more to thee; preserve Recently, a European conference brought together a and increase thy church; destroy the works of the number of churches affiliated with the International devil and all violence which would exalt itself Council of Reformed Churches (ICRC). The discussion against thee; and also all wicked counsels devised focussed on ways we could be helpful to each other against thy holy word; till the full perfection of thy because Europe is quickly losing its historical Christian kingdom take place, wherein Thou shalt be all in heritage. all.

Book yourFALL DINNER seat... TOUR For the second tour in November, we will have the Nigerian Ambassador to Pompton Plains, NJ - November 17 Canada as our keynote speaker for the dinners being held in Pompton Plains and Grand Rapids. *Details Grand Rapids, MI - November 19 about the London dinner will be provided through our website and London, ON * many local church bulletins.

All the Lord willing. Please call 877.375.9673 (Canada) or 866.391.5728 (USA) to book your seat! www.wordanddeed.org

Dinner Ad-2nd Tour.indd 1 NOVEMBER 2010 I THE 9/27/10MESSENGER 1:33:02 PM 21 ORDINATION AND INSTALLATION:

On the evening of October 1, 2010, can- didate Tim Bergsma was ordained as a imothy Bergsma Minister of the Gospel and installed as the new pastor of the Chatham Free Reformed Church. The service was conducted by Can- didate Bergsma’s father, Rev. Henk Bergsma, pastor of the Free Refored congregation of Fenwick, Ontario. T

The Scripture reading was from Revelation 21, and Rev. Bergsma’s text was Revelation 21:9b. The theme was, “Come, I will show you the bride, the Lamb’s wife.” Rev. Bergs- ma expounded on two points, the vision for the future and the vision for the present.

After reading the Form for Ordination of Ministers of the Gospel, candidate Bergsma answered; “Yes, truly, with all my heart” to the questions posed to him. This was followed by the solemn and impressive ceremony of laying on of hands conducted by several elders and speaking a verse of Scripture by each of the pastors who were present. The chairman of the Chatham con- sistory read the Form of Subscription, which was signed by Rev. Tim Bergsma as newly ordained pastor. Rev. & Mrs. Rev. & Mrs. Tim Bergsma and daughter, and Rev. & Mrs. Henk Bergsma

Our new minister then read from Revelation 22, and based his message on the words of him for his contributions to the Grand Rap- congregation, family, friends and visitors the text in verse 20b, “Come, Lord Jesus.” ids congregation while he and his wife wor- from various Free Reformed congregations The theme of his message was, “A prayer shipped there. Our former pastor, Rev. Carl and church representatives congratulated that every faithful pastor longs to hear,” giv- Schouls, now of Brantford, spoke words of the new pastor and his wife.. ing six reasons why a pastor longs to hear congratulations on behalf of the denomina- from his congregation these words, “Come, tion and as chairman of the Free Reformed As a congregation we acknowledge the Lord Jesus”. Theological Education Committee. Letters Lord for His faithfulness, in that He again of well wishes from various congregations has provided for us by sending a pastor. Our The chairman of consistory, elder Henry were acknowledged by the consistory. prayer is that his work may bear much fruit, Zuidema, addressed Pastor Tim Bergsma, to the glory of God and for the upbuilding of his wife and young daughter, on behalf of The service was closed by pastor Tim His church. “We give thanks to You, O God, the congregation. Mr. Henk Kleyn, Registrar Bergsma thanking those who came and we give thanks! For your wondrous works of Puritan Reformed Theological Seminary all who took part in the service. He then declare that your name is near.” (Psalm 75:1) in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and elder of the spoke the words of the benediction for the Grand Rapids Free Reformed congregation, first time. The service was followed by a Submitted by Mr. Jack Roffel, addressed the congregation and its new pas- time of fellowship and refreshments in the Elder of the Free Reformed Church of tor on behalf of the seminary, also thanking fellowship hall, where the members of the Chatham, Ontario.

22 THE MESSENGER I NOVEMBER 2010 ReformedBookServices PROMOTING GODLINESS, REVIVAL & REFORMATION

• Bibles BOOKS AT DISCOUNTED PRICES

• Bible Reference Stop Dating the Church: Fall in Love Lessons for Life – 4 Volumes • Bible Commentaries With the Family of God by Jill Masters. by Joshua Harris. Each of the 4 volumes in this series contains 46 • Bible Studies We are a generation of consumers, lessons (supplemented with optional visual aid sug- independent and critical. We attend gestions and drawings) of Bible stories and lessons, • Biographies church, but we don’t want to settle ideal for children’s outreach. All the lessons have an down and truly invest ourselves. evangelistic emphasis, but they also present the great • Bible History We’re not into commitment - we events and doctrines of the Bible in a way that chil- only want to date the church. Some dren will not easily forget. Suitable for children ages • Children & Youth shop around, looking for a church six and up. that suits their lifestyle. It’s dating, Softcover, 250-259 pages in each book, Wakeman • Christian Living and with no assurances, no obligations. Are you dating Trust. RBS Price $9.00 the church, or are you committed? The church is the World View place God grows us, encourages us, and uses us best. Recommended for youth group study and discussions. Morning and Evening Hardback, 140 pages, Multnomah. RBS Price (Revised and Updated by Alistair Begg) • Church Government $12.00 by C.H. Spurgeon. and Sacraments Noted pastor and author, Alistair The Most Important Thing You’ll Begg, has updated Spurgeon’s Ever Study language while preserving the • Church History dignity and clarity of Spurgeon’s by Starr Meade. original words. This edition will This series of four volumes is a Bible • Confessional be helpful to introduce Spur- survey course in an easy-to-follow geon to those who find the workbook format and leads young Standards older style of English too tedious. Hardcover, 400 teens through the history of the pages, Crossway. RBS Price $19.00 The Economy of the Covenants Bible chronologically, teaching them • Counselling about the important themes and Between God and Man (2 Volume Set) topics of Scripture. Every Bible book Word, Water, and Spirit: A • Creation by Herman Witsius. is included from Genesis to Revela- Reformed Perspective on Baptism This is the author’s “mag- tion. The Old Testament books are covered in volumes by John V. Fesko. • Daily Devotionals num opus,” and is a reflec- 1 and 2 and the New Testament in volumes 3 and 4. This scholarly but readable treat- tion of some of the most Volume 5 contains the answer key to the questions ment of baptism delves into its • Evangelism & fruitful and mature thinking which are interspersed throughout the workbook. The history, gives a biblical theologi- on federal theology during author gives a running commentary with explana- cal survey of this doctrine and Missions the seventeenth century, and tions that show God is the author of salvation, add- provides a systematic theo- still holds a preeminent place ing appropriate doctrinal and personal applications. logical construction. The author • Historical Fiction in our own day. Reformed theology has always In addition, the workbooks include a Bible reading shows conclusively that baptism understood the biblical doctrine of the cov- plan that takes the student through the whole Bible. ought to be administered to both adult believers • Marriage, Family, enant to be the theological framework which Highly recommended for the home, school and church and children. With the addition of an extensive best unifies Scripture, making it a consistent - probably the most thorough and best Bible survey bibliography, this will become the most compre- Parenting hermeneutic. Anyone interested in studying Re- available from a Reformed standpoint. hensive and authoritative resource ministers and formed theology will want to own this book, for • Music, Psalters Softcover, 1005 pages, Crossway. church leaders will consult on this topic. Hardcover, RBS Price $48.00 480 pages, Reformation Heritage Books. it is Reformed theology at its best. RBS Price $28.00 Hardcover, 932 pages, Reformation Heritage. • Practical Religion RBS Price $37.00 • Revival BOOKLETS FOR EVANGELISM How Can I Find God Today? • Sermons In Canada 31 pages (pkg. of 10) • Theology REFORMED BOOK SERVICES How Can God Accept Me? 230 Lynden Road, Unit 5A, 32 pages (pkg. of 10) Brantford, ON N3R 8A3 CDs of beautiful Tel: 519.304.4709 • email: sales@ How Can I Become a Real Christian? reformedbookservices.ca • www.reformedbookservices.ca choral and 29 pages (pkg. of 10) Store Hour: Monday 10-5; Thursday 10- instrumental by Gerard Crispin; Day One Publications. 9; Friday 10-5; Saturday10-3. These attractive booklets fit easily into the pocket or handbag and are USA Customers music ideal for giving to those we meet. They address problems people face in seeking God in today’s hostile world to Christianity and are suitable for REFORMATION HERITAGE BOOKS missions, church evangelism, personal evangelism, visitation, youth, the 2965 Leonard St. N.E., student world, rest homes, hospitals and prisons. They also take into ac- Grand Rapids, MI 49525 Gift Certificates count various international cultures. Tel. 616-977-0599 Fax: 626-285-3246 • RBS Price for each pkg. of 10 is $8.50 www.heritagebooks.org; • email: [email protected]

NOVEMBER 2010 I THE MESSENGER 23 FAMILY ANNOUNCEMENTS OBITUARY ANNIVERSARY ANNIVERSARY Psalm 89:1a “I will sing of the “Casting all your care upon 1950 December 19 2010 mercies of the Lord forever” him; for he careth for you” 1 Peter 5: 7 “Then he said unto Him, ‘If On September 17, 2010, it your Presence does not go with pleased the Lord to take to With much gratitude to the us, do not bring us up from Himself our dear wife, mother, Lord for his sparing mercies, here.” Exodus. 33:15 oma and great oma we wish to celebrate the 50th Wedding Anniversary With praise and thankfulness PEARL RINTJEMA of our parents and to our heavenly Father (NEE KOOPMAN) grandparents, we hope to celebrate the 60th Wedding Anniversary at the age of 76. STUART AND RITA of our parents, grand and great- grandparents We thank the Lord for giving (HENDRIKA) DE VRIES us such a wonderful example of God’s love and grace December 10, 1960 – PETE & ANNIE HOOGENDAM through her. December 10, 2010 We praise God for His Lovingly remembered by her We pray the Lord will uphold faithfulness and pray for His husband, Martin and sustain you for the future, continued blessing in your life. and that all you receive may Dearest Mom to: be for God’s glory. Cathy & Tony Vyn Jack Rintjema, Chatham, ON Jasper & Jane Hoogendam Diane & Keith Vreman, Barbara and Tim Wolfe George & Yolanda Hoogendam Chatham, ON Matthew, Virginia, Elizabeth, Rick & Ineke Hoogendam Ray Rintjema, Chatham, ON Calvin, Anna Alice & Randy Vroon Joyce & John Menger, Fenwick, ON Melissa and John Comyn 18 Grandchildren Tom Rintjema, Chatham, ON Stuart, Liam, and Sean 7 Great grandchildren Sue &John Koopman, St. Thomas, ON The Lord willing, we will have Open House: Dave & Trudy Rintjema, an Open House on Saturday, December 18, 2-4 p.m. Chatham, ON December 11, 2010, in Vineland Free Reformed Rob & Arlene Rintjema, 2- 4pm in the Mitchell Free Church, 3685 King Street Chatham, ON Reformed Church. (formerly Highway 8) Christina & Phil Oosterman, Ripon, CA Home Address: Home Address: 291 John Street S., 501 - 400 Vine St. Dearest Oma to: Stratford, ON N5A 7T2 St. Catharines, ON L2M 3S3 24 Grandchildren 4 Grandchildren (through marriage) SPEAKER EVENING 6 Great Grandchildren You are invited to a Speaker Evening... The funeral service was held on Rev. Schouls Tuesday, September 21, 2010, plans to speak on at the Free Reformed Church of Chatham, with Rev. John “Addressing Our Covenant Children” Koopman and Rev. Henry VanEssen officiating. Date: Friday, November 12, 2010 Time: 8:00 pm Correspondence Address: Martin Rintjema, Place: Hamilton Free Reformed Church 22785 Creek Rd. RR#3, Chatham ON N7M 5J3 Everyone is heartily welcome, Phone: 519-354-3102 especially parents and teachers.

24 THE MESSENGER I NOVEMBER 2010