'!he ~~1atfut- GUARDIAN

Contents

Meditations in Luke By EDWARD WYBENGA

Why Are We Opposed to the NCC? By ROBERT L. VINING

A Good Name By ROBERT H. GRAHAM

OCTOBER 7, 1935 Aunt Polly's Letter ~~~:b lJt~r1 tin Poetry ,lJilt-d-itin Editorials a ...... " Form of Government ml1

PRAYER Christ, 9i~e me strength to ,t.nd for Thy dUt N...... Tuientu-tioe Years Ago Fo. 01 the glo.y of Thy Written Word, In 'pif. of jUri or l."9hter, ""•• ';"9 bl._, Or light indifference of mind. uM'ilTed. Thine il the battle.l.m but .. br..th. T.~••11 the honor. fOil' the .1..."".. 011 me. Nerve Thou my erm. end WI' my ...... till ...... Whick hour .lone will HIt the.oIdi.r '",e.

De., lord ond Christ. Tholl pe.dOfled I;n.....' Friend, Who ont.... ctOH h.st borne my 1••dof guilt. Howc:ouId I poyTh_for Thy mot<;hleu grece1 Yet give .... fhi.: To •• rve The-e 0' Thou wilt, Until the .nd.---Ilnk.r.d, triumphant ."d, When t.er-climmed ey" th•• 'H'upon Thy F"e. K.l.W. VOLUME 29, NO. 10

D .. II " """ ...... D OCTOBER, 1960 TME PRESBYTERIAN (ONSTITUTIONAL (OVENANT UNiON Studies and Meditations in the Gospel of Luke The Book and Its Author

By EWARD WYBENGA

he Gospel of Luke has been Luke shows Christ to be the ideal probably a distinguished Roman or T called "the most beautiful book man, the perfect man, a man of fear­ Greek who had been converted to the in the world." If that be true (and less courage in the face of all oppo­ Christian Faith, and who wished to few would wish to dispute it), then sition, a man of unswerving loyalty have a full and accurate account of we do well to make a study of this to duty. He had no fear of his ene­ the ministry of Jesus. To meet this wonderful book. mies; and he could not be drawn need and desire the evangelist, Luke, Who Was Luke? aside from following the way that now sets himself the task of writing The apostle Paul calls him "the led to the cross. He was also a man the Gospel that bears his name (cp. beloved physician." He was loved by of boundless love, compassion, and Acts 1:1). all, a man of culture and learning. tenderness toward the needy, the And thus we too are reassured that A Gentile by birth, he was a proselyte suffering, the sinful, the lost. our Christian beliefs are founded upon to the Jewish faith. He was a com­ He was further a man of invincible historical facts which can not be dis­ panion of the apostle Paul in his faith in God. He lived in constant proved. We should be thankful to missionary journeys. But Luke was fellowship with the Father and spent God for the solid ground upon which not an eye-witness of Jesus, nor him­ much time in prayer. Already as a our salvation rests; and for God's care self an apostle. As a writer Luke was boy he said: "I must be about my in preserving a record of these facts a careful and accurate historian. He Father's business" (2 :49). And at the in permanent form for future genera­ is the author of both The Third close of his life he said: "Father, into tions to read even until the end of Gospel and The Book of Acts. thy hands I commend my spirit" time. (23 :46). Luke has done the church a service Authenticity of Luke's Gospel Luke not only portrays Christ as of inestimable value; and the world, Proofs for the authenticity of Luke the ideal and perfect man but also too, for a lost world needs this may be adduced from the following as the divine Saviour of the world. Saviour whom Luke so strikingly por­ facts. The Gospel of Luke was re­ The gospel is the good news of salva­ trays, and needs this gospel which ceived by all the churches as divinely tion. That salvation was procured by Luke so clearly sets forth. And we inspired. The book was published the life and ministry, by the death and need it also. The old, old story is during the lifetime of Peter, John, resurrection of Jesus. Thus Luke sets ever new to those who have learned and Paul, and was approved by them. forth Jesus as the Son of God who to know it and love it. May it be It bears the marks of inspiration by its offers salvation to all who will receive that to us! elevated character. It is an indepen­ it in humble repentance and true dent treatise of the life of Jesus, yet faith. it does not contradict the other And now let us enter upon a study Here is the first of a series of medi­ Gospels. of the Gospel itself. Turn with me tations based on the Third Gospel to chapter one. prepared by the pastor of the West­ Characteristics of this Gospel minster Orthodox Presbyterian Church The book has a beauty of literary The Preface - 1:1-4 of Bend, Oregon. style that has not been surpassed. It Many persons had written this and is intensely human, a story of real life that about Jesus' teachings and min­ Forasmuch as many have taken in with its joys and sorrows, its songs istry - things they had heard from and tears, its praise and prayer. It is hand to set forth in order a declara­ others who had been with Jesus. Luke tion of those things which are most a book of universal interest because had made a careful study of these it appeals to the needs and longings surely believed among us, even as detached sayings or fragments of in­ they delivered them unto us, which of the human heart everywhere. formation. It was his intention now from the beginning were eye-wit­ Luke's Portraits of Jesus to write a complete and full and nesses, and ministers of the word; Matthew portrays Jesus in his trustworthy narrative of the life of it seemed good to me also, having majesty; Mark, in his vigor; John, in Christ. had perfect understanding of all his sublimity; Luke, in his beauty ­ This writing of Luke was directed things from the very first, to write unto thee in order, most excellent four different portraits which, when to Theophilus, a friend of Luke, and Theophilus, that thou mightest know blended together, give us the com­ a man of high rank and office for he the certainty of those things, wherein plete man, the Son of God, the only is honored with the title "most ex­ thou hast been instructed (Luke Saviour of the world. cellent" or "most noble." He was 1:1-4).

The Presbyterian Guardian is published monthly by the Presbyterian Guardian Publishing Corporation, 7401 Old York Road, Philadelphia 26, Po., at the following rates, payable in advance in any part of the world, postage prepaid: $3.00 per year ($2.50 in Clubs of ten or more); $1.00 for four months; 25c per single copy. Second Class mail privileges authorized at the Pas' Office, Philadelphia, Po. 146 The Presbyterian Guardian Why Are We Opposed to the

National [ouncil of [hurches •

By ROBERT L. VINING At the present time the NCC claims modernist-an individual without pre­ to be composed of 33 member de­ existence, incarnation, and virgin T the triennial meeting of the Na­ nominations with some 38,000,000 birth? Is it the mythical Christ of A tional Council of the Churches members. Bultmann-s-a person stripped of all of Christ in America, held in St. The Council claims that it is con­ supernaturalism? Is it the synthetic Louis, Mo., in early December, 1957, trolled by its member churches, whose Christ of Professor John Knox-a the Rev. Dr. Roy G. Ross, one of the representatives come together trien­ man whom the community elevated General Secretaries, acknowledged in nially in the General Assembly and to a symbol? Is it the metamorphosed his report on the State of the Council, three times yearly in the General Christ of Tillich - a human person that "most of the people of America, Board. In actual practice, a well­ who became divine? Or is it the Christ including the members of our church­ entrenched bureaucracy wields signifi­ revealed in Scriptures-the second per­ es, know little about the National cant influence in formulating the NCC son of the Trinity, God-incarnate, Son Council and its role within the orbit policies and in carrying them out. of the living God, virgin born, Head of the Protestant and Orthodox While we are opposed to the NCC of the Church, and Lord of the na­ Churches" (1957 Triennial Report, p. because of its manifestations of paci­ tions? What Christ will receive the 15). If most of the people belonging fism, socialism and softness on Com­ pre-eminence in the ecumenical move­ to member churches in the National munism, our basic criticism of the ment?" (Ecumenism and the Evan­ Council of Churches are largely ig­ NCC is in the realm of doctrine. It gelical, p. 11). norant of it then it is reasonable to has a doctrinal basis so weak as to be Liberals prefer to have any doc­ believe that Christians in Bible-believ­ practically meaningless. The Preamble trinal statement brief and ambiguous. ing denominations, not affiliated with to its Constitution states: "IN THE Thus all shades of theological belief the National Council, are even less in­ PROVIDENCE OF GOD, the time (and unbelief) may take shelter under formed concerning it. has come when it seems fitting more it. Dr. Eugene Carson Blake, President of the NCC, 1954-57, defends a brief Occasionally, when some controversy fully to manifest oneness in Jesus Christ as Divine Lord and Saviour by doctrinal basis. While he was writing breaks out, as regards the findings of the creation of an inclusive co-opera­ concerning the doctrinal basis of the the World Order Study Conference tive agency of the Christian churches World Council of Churches, which is on Red China, or on the Air Force of the United States of America ..." much the same as that of the National Training Manual, we read about the The emphasis is on "oneness." In pass­ Council, his remarks would seemingly National Council of Churches, herein ing, some reference is made to Jesus apply equally well to the National usually designated simply the NCe. Christ. The terms used of Jesus Christ Council: "There is no explicit refer­ The National Council of the are not defined. Each church that ence to the Scriptures. There is no ex­ Churches of Christ in the United wishes to join the NCC may place its plicit reference to the Trinity. Recog­ States of America came into official ex­ own interpretation upon "Divine Lord nizing that there is some force to each istence on November 29, 1950, at a and Saviour." of these criticisms of the basis, there Constituting Convention in Cleveland, Old Words with New Meaning are many Churches and theologians Ohio. It resulted from the merger of who believe that to amend the basis eight interdenominational agencies: Dr. Machen used to tell us that would be to open Pandora's box" the Federal Council of the Churches liberals love vagueness. They shun (The Ecumenical Era in Church and of Christ in America, Foreign Mis­ theological precision. Moreover, lib­ Society, p. 84). Dr. Blake appears to sions Conference of North America, erals have great facility in emptying hold that it is better to say little or Home Missions Council of North words of their true meaning and pour­ nothing than to attempt to define pre­ America, International Council of Re­ ing other meaning into them. When cisely and thus get into hot water. ligious Education, Missionary Educa­ a Communist speaks of "democracy" tion Movement of the United States and "peace" he understands these Unscriptural Teaching and Canada, National Protestant Coun­ words in a quite different sense than In the literature of the NCC the cil of Higher Education, United Coun­ the American. When a liberal speaks universal fatherhood of God and the cil of Church Women, United Stew­ of Jesus as "Divine Lord and Savior," universal brotherhood of man are re­ ardship Council. Of these eight agen­ he understands these words in a quite garded as unquestionably true. But cies the Federal Council of Churches different sense than the evangelical. does the Bible teach that God is the was probably the best known, al­ "What think ye of Christ?" is an Father of all men indiscriminately? To though the Foreign Missions Confer­ exceedingly important and crucial be sure, God is the Father of all in the ence of North America commanded question. J. Marcellus Kik has writ­ sense that He is the Creator of all. the widest support among the denom­ ten, "To what Christ will ecumenicity But, spiritually, He is the Father only inations in America. cleave? Is it the human Christ of the of the redeemed. "But to as many

October, 1960 147 as received Him (Christ Jesus) to But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other them gave he power to become the gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto yOll, let sons of God" (John 1 :12). On the other hand, the Lord Jesus, speaking him be accursed (Galatians 1:8). to the unregenerate Jews, said, "Ye are of your father, the devil" (John Low View of the Gospel the doctrine of the substitutionary 8:44). We might hope that the D~part­ atonement. On page 42 he writes: Once the fatherhood of God is ment of Evangelism would gIve a "But must God have a sacrifice, the seen to be an unscriptural doctrine as clear, ringing witness to the gospel. lamb slain from the beginning of the the liberals present it, its corollary, the The General Board of the NCC ap­ foundation of the world, as the Book brotherhood of man, is likewise seen pointed a Commission to make a study says? No, no, I cannot think of it this to be false. We are not the spiritual of "the need, nature and purpose of way." Again, he writes, "I cannot see brothers of all men, only of those who Evangelism for contemporary Amer­ forgiveness as predicated upon the act are united, along with us, to Christ. ica." A booklet was published en­ of someone else. It is my sin. I must The sons of God are not brothers to titled "The Good News of God" with atone." Here is a blatant denial of one those who are sons of the devil. a subtitle "The Nature and Task of of the most basic doctrines of the A Fallible Bible Evangelism." In the booklet the doc­ Christian faith. The NCC is in no way One of the four major divisions of trine of total depravity is rejected. We responsible for this particular book by the NCC is the Division of Christian read, "There is no need to assert again Bishop Oxnam. Nevertheless, we may Education. What is its view of the the extravagances that led great num­ ask, why should a man with such Bible? In its official publication, the In­ bers of Christians to reject the doc­ views be an elder statesmen in its ternational Iournal of Religious Educa­ trine-no need to assert man's fall ranks, as Oxnam undoubtedly is? tion, there appeared in February, 1955, from original perfection into total de­ In his presidential address at the tri­ an article on "The Word of God." It pravity, or a physical inheritance of ennial meeting of the National Coun­ stated: "Where does the Christian go guilt by children yet unborn" (p. 12). cil in 1957 Dr. Eugene Blake men­ for authority? Does he simply consult But our Westminster Confession of tioned a practice which he regards as his own experience to discover his re­ Faith, Chapter VI, teaches: "By this highly desirable. "The practice of lation with God and God's activity in sin they (Adam and Eve) fell from bringing to meetings of the General life? Does he accept the dogmatic in­ their original righteousness and com­ Board some of the great theological terpretations of an infallible Pope? munion with God, and so became voices of our Churches: Niebur (sic!), Or does he find authority in an in­ dead in sin, and wholly defiled in all Tillich, Calhoun. This to the end that fallible Scripture? In wrestling with the faculties and parts of soul and the thought and discussions shall be this question, theologians have redis­ body. They being the root of all man­ deeply oriented in the best available covered the Protestant concept of 'the kind, tho: guilt of this sin was imputed insights into the nature of the Gospel Word of God.' God's Word is neither and the same death in sin and cor­ itself" (Triennial Report, 1957, p. 8). an infallible book or Pope, nor indi­ rupted nature conveyed to all their This is pious language, indeed, but dis­ vidual experience. It is God's action in posterity descending from them by or­ tinguished as these theologians may be human life, revealed partially in all dinary generation." The Confession of they are far from orthodox. In a fea­ human experience and fully in Jesus Faith, of course, is based on such ture article on Tillich in March 16, Christ. The Bible has authority only Scriptures as Eph. 2: 3: "And were by 1959, Time magazine reported on a as it speaks God's Word ... Accord­ nature the children of wrath, even as book containing essays in his honor by ing to this view, the Bible is a book others" and Rom. 5: 12: "Wherefore, 25 liberals but added, "The man thus which historical criticism must analyze. as by one man sin entered into the acclaimed is also denounced by some It witnesses to the fact that 'God was world, and death by sin; and so death orthodox Christian believers as not a in Christ reconciling the world to him­ passed upon all men, for that all have Christian at all and possibly an out­ self.' The Christian is not bound to sinned." Were there no Presbyterians right atheist" (p. 46). particular words as God's Word." with convictions on this Commission Since then the doctrinal statement It is obvious from the above that to protest this denial of the doctrine of the NCC is so brief as to be mean­ this official publication of one of of total depravity? One prominent ingless, since the organization is domi­ the divisions of the National Council Presbyterian on the Commission was nated by liberals and exalts liberals, teaches that the Bible is not infallible E. G. Hornrighausen, a Professor in and frequently is at variance with the and that it is not all the Word of God. Princeton Theological Seminary. historic Christian faith, we are op­ But the Lord Jesus made frequent ap­ posed to the National Council. peals to the Scriptures. He declared, Liberal Leadership "Thy word is truth." Numerous events Among the leaders in the National This is the first of two articles deal­ connected with His sufferings and Council of Churches are some of the ing with the NCC by Mr. Vining, death occurred to the end that "Scrip­ outstanding liberals in our country. pastor of Bethany Orthodox Presby­ ture must be fulfilled." The apostle Bishop G. Bromley Oxnam of the terian Church, Nottingham, Pa. T hq Paul declared, "All Scripture is given Methodist Church is such a one. At attention of our readers is also called by inspiration of God .. .' These one time he was president of the Fed­ to a previous article by Mr. Vining are just a few of the texts that indi­ eral Council of Churches and one of on "The National Council's Inter­ cate that the Bible is infallible, that the presidents of the World Council preter of the Bible," which appeared the Bible is the Word of God, not of Churches. In his mis-named book, in Volume 28, Number 6, dated March merely contains it. "A Testament of Faith," he rejects 25, 1959.

148 The Presbyterian Guardian tiveness. This is an age of religious indifference and we ought to avoid A Good Numn any temptation to protect ourselves from the uncompromising name which By ROBERT H. GRAHAM it is our privilege to bear. It is a straightforward name whose meaning is clear. One of a series on What's Right with Answering Some Objections the Orthodox Presbyterian Church \'Ve are not unmindful of the rea­ sons set forth for not using or for concealing the name Orthodox. Some rthodox Presbyterian Church is a to appeal to the uninformed or the say, "It makes the title too long." O name which has increased in sig­ stranger to consider the particular local We can think of successful denomi­ nificance and importance since the day group as "just another Presbyterian nations with much longer names. it first appeared, February 9, 1939. It church." Others have said that our name is is a name which well describes the Now it may be thought easier to fill suggestive of a synagogue or of a character of the church which chose a church in our nee-religious suburbs Greek or other Eastern Catholic it. More than that, it is a name which by advertising the church simply as Church. Such instances are doubtless by the labor of the church and the "Presbyterian" but it is bound to be rare, but when they occur they usually travail of the people of God during misleading. Why not rather empha­ afford opportunity for witness. these more than two decades has come size our stand for the faith once de­ It seems to me, further, that we to epitomize the great cause of his­ livered? Some of our most successful should no more abandon the word toric Christianity and our Presbyter­ home mission congregations have orthodox than we should abandon the ian heritage. boldly declared themselves to the com­ words Christian or catholic simply be­ Our name stands in contradistinc­ munity as Orthodox Presbyterian and cause inferior churches use them. Is tion to the defections from the faith thus taken advantage of our distinc- it not significant that in our day the of some numerically larger but doc­ trinally deficient Presbyterian bodies in America. Weare thankful that, WHAT'S IN A NAME? by the grace of God, we are affiliated with that denomination now known RT H ODOX is a name with meaning: it identifies a "straight teaching" as the Orthodox Presbyterian Church. O church, one that upholds "sound doctrine." Moreover, we have a It is because we are committed to n.ame that is in common usage. It appears in your newspaper or maga­ what this great name stands for that zines often. You hear it on radio or television. we are distressed at the neglect of the On the sports page you read of the golfer who has an 'orthodox' full title of our denomination which swing or of the batter who uses an 'unorthodox' stance. The financial is sometimes observed. section notes a book by an 'orthodox' economist and the medical editor In conversation with a ruling elder writes of changing techniques in what was once regarded as the 'ortho­ tr~ting not so long ago we were shocked by dox' way .of a certain disease. Your women's page will tell you the near-contempt which he appeared of the hair stylist whose innovations are quite 'unorthodox' and on page to have for the name Orthodox Pres­ one you may read of a politician who always follows the 'orthodox' byterian. I can't help but feel that party line. some of the dislike for this good name The sportscaster describes a team that has lined up in 'orthodox' stems from a weak view of historic punt formation and your favorite newscaster may announce that a cer­ Presbyterianism-a view evidenced by tain professor was fired because of his 'unorthodox' leanings toward an 'Independent' spirit. In the mind Marxism. of the 'Independent' the denomina­ . A.nd of course the word crops up on nearly every page of the reli­ tion is minimized because the local gIOus Journals of the day: 'orthodox' and 'nee-orthodox' and 'unortho­ work doesn't take seriously enough its dox'. The word denotes something definite concerning the faith of a responsibility for the corporate wit­ man or a church. It tells us how closely a position conforms to the ness of the church. st~nda:d, that is, th.e supreme rule for faith and practice, which is the Frankly, it also seems to me that BIble Itself. Surely In our day the connotation of 'orthodox' is far less the hiding of the full and proper title vague than such more loosely used terms as 'evangelical' or 'conservative'. of our denomination misrepresents . The word orthodox is easily understood. It stands for something. who we really are. At the very least It IS relevant to our age, especially in religion. Yet it is an old word, it is confusing to the public and may one which has not changed its meaning through the centuries. It is a lead to unnecessary misunderstanding. good word, wholesome, positive, a reminder of unchanging truth a Some of our churches fail to identify promise of sound teaching. ' themselves, on an outdoor sign, with Increasingly we have come to like its rich overtones and to be grate­ the denomination to which they be­ ful for .it~ c~oice. If w~ ~ust be. known in the contemporary scene by long. Others sometimes omit it from some distinctive denominational title, we can't think of anything we'd weekly bulletins or newspaper adver­ rather be called than a member of the Orthodox Presbyterian Church! tising. Whatever the reason for leav­ R. E. N. ing out the word Orthodox it tends

October, 1960 149 word orthodox has become the word stances departed from the Bible. But ner. If we belong to this great church among liberals as well as conserva­ there is also an invitation to a church and testimony then let us delight to tives for expressing the historic Chris­ which still holds to that historic and fly her banner, not at half-mast but tian position? Actually the word biblical creed known as Presbyterian, for all to see. We shall strengthen the orthodox is in much more common a church that proclaims in its fullness whole cause of the Reformed Faith usage than was the case a quarter cen­ the gospel of Jesus Christ. in our country as we stand together tury ago. In a very real sense we as members in our assemblies and presbyteries and It is also claimed by a few that we of the Orthodox Presbyterian Church local congregations both in unitedly need not use the Orthodox in our are helping to make history. The local title because we have every right spiritual succession of the Presbyterian declaring the Word of God and in to the historic one-word designation Church U. S. A. is today the Ortho­ publicly making ourselves known as of Presbyterian. We are a true Pres­ dox Presbyterian Church. By the grace the Orthodox Presbyterian Church. byterian church, it is said, and so we of God, we are thankful for so mean­ Let us make our cities and our sub­ do not need to apologize for the use ingful a name. It is a name which in urbs and our countryside conscious of of the good word Presbyterian by add­ many cities and communities is mak­ the fact that the Orthodox Presbyter­ ing the objectionable Orthodox! They ing a deep impact upon men and ian Church is here to proclaim the reason that the word Presbyterian women for our heritage. We may pure gospel and to defend the whole stands for a system of doctrine and cherish it with proper pride and true counsel of God. Among other ways church government, and that since we humility. this is best done consistently on the are carrying on that historic system Our name stands not only for his­ local level when we use our name we have every right to use the name toric Presbyterianism but also for a without hesitation, not as an apolo­ alone. Now although we have much Cause in our century. We need never getic appendage to another name but sympathy for this argument and do be ashamed of the negative implica­ as an apt and vital designation of who not doubt the sincerity of those who tions of the full title of our denomi­ and what we are. Let our local church­ contend for it, we still believe that nation. We are against religious es become known as the Calvary or it is not realistic. The common name Modernism in all its forms as well as Grace or First (or whatever) Ortho­ "Presbyterian Church," at least being for Scriptural Presbyterianism. dox Presbyterian Church. This is a throughout the North and the West, Orthodox Presbyterianism is our ban- name to be held in honor. represents more than any church hold­ ing to that system. In the popular mind it means a denomination, and Grace Abounding it is foolish to suppose that the name in the course of a couple of centuries od's Word. is v.ery clear concerning the way of salvation. It tells us has not attached itself largely to a G that salvation IS by grace - through faith - not of works. "For certain ecclesiastical body. What is by grace are ye saved through faith . . . not of works, lest any man now called the United Presbyterian should boast" (Ephesians 2:8-9). Church in the U. S. A. may not be It is by grace. Grace is the unmerited favor of God. If we are to the only organization which has, in be saved, it must be by the favor of God that we ourselves do not deserve. ~t f~ith. the public view, become known as is through Saving faith is simply taking at face value God's "the Presbyterian Church" - but it promise, that He Will save us if we put our trust in Christ. is a church which has defiled and dis­ It is not of works. This is one of the simplest yet one of the hardest torted that great and honored name. truths for man to learn. Many believe that one can gain merit, much as people coll~t green. or red stamps at the store. One collects the stamps ANarne with Meaning a few at a tIm~ until he .has enough to redeem for a prize. Many would We therefore believe that the al~o collect units of ment - so much for a prayer, so much for a pil­ identifying name Orthodox Presby­ gnmage, so much for entering a certain church - so that they can terian is a good name because it so merit salvation. quickly and so forcibly says all that . That is not God's way of salvation. It is impossible to gain salva- we want it to say. It in no way yields tion by works, bec~use. it is impossible for .us to gain the perfection the word Presbyterian to the liberals. that God demands In HIS law. Instead of taking away sin, the law only It is a good name because it tells the makes our sins more obvious. So the Bible says that the law has con­ truth. How we rejoice that upon our cluded all under sin (Romans 3:22-23). American religious scene there has . Howeve~, God.has let the law conclude all under sin, only so that appeared the noble name of the HIS grace might shine the more brightly. God's gospel, the good news Orthodox Presbyterian Church! preached by the apostles, is, "Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou This name announces to all who shalt be saved ... " (Acts 16:31). read it or hear it two things of im­ In God's way salvation is not of works; it is of grace through portance in our generation: that th ere faith, so that no man will be able to boast. We may not boast of our are some churches using the name works: we can only rejoice that God has offered us salvation in Christ Presbyterian which are false but that and that we can receive it through faith in Him. here is one (though not the only one) To take your own way is to ignore the plain teachings of God's that is true. There is a warning for Word; to take God's .way is to believe in Christ and to enjoy the won- souls to take knowledge of the fact derful benefits of HIS salvation. ROBERT D. KNUDSEN that Presbyterianism has in many in-

150 The Presbyterian Guardian the Lord continued. So his father de­ cided that the thing to do was to Lutter from Aunt Polly send him away from Taichung so that he could not go to the Bookroom at 72 Chun Hsaio Road buggy to play. From birth till they all. He was made to go to a small Taichung, Taiwan learn to walk they are always 'bowed' country town and live with some rela­ September 13, 1960 except when sleeping. So very often tives. One day he returned home for it was late in the evening before his first visit. Late that night he stole rJ)ear young (;friends: Cheng-chung would get a few min­ to the Bookroom to tell Uncle Dick When we were in the States, more utes in the Bookroom. how happy he was in his country place than a year ago now, we asked you After more than a year of visiting for he had found a Presbyterian to pray for Chang, Cheng-chung. the Bookroom Cheng-chung under­ church there and he might go as he Have you remembered to do that? stood a good bit about God and His wished. He is much in need of prayer. He love. He would talk in his timid, Months passed and we did not see has no Christian mother or father to modest way of the happiness he felt or hear from Cheng-chung. A year pray with and for him and no friends in his heart, and he learned to know passed while we were home on fur­ except Uncle Dick and myself. Christ as his personal Savior. When lough. Upon our return to Taichung Cheng-chung's home is six doors you accept Christ into your heart the one of the first visitors to the Book­ from our Bookroom. It is a building things you do and say become differ­ room to welcome us was Cheng-chung. that looks much like our Bookroom, ent - so much so that people can He looked so different! His face had which is like most of the buildings notice it. That is just what hap­ lost its sad look. He said that his along the business streets of Taiwan. pened to Cheng-chung. His father father was now willing for him to Mr. Chang is a dentist. His dental and older brother noticed the change serve the Lord. He came to church office is in the front room as you and they were anything but pleased. services, young people's meetings and enter from the street, and the family You may think this strange but it even prayer meetings. How glad we live in the rear upstairs. The home is isn't at all. Satan is full of enmity were! a much better than average home. when we give our hearts to Jesus. One day about a year ago now, Five years ago when we first opened God told us that this would be so a soon after school opened, Cheng­ the Bookroom Cheng-chung was a long, long time ago, in Genesis 3: 15. chung stopped in the Bookroom on grade school student, slim, quiet, and If we love Jesus, Satan will see that his lunch hour. He admired a certain not very happy or healthy looking. his followers do all they can to hu-t Bible among the Bibles on the dis­ Every day he passed the Bookroom us. play rack. He said he would like to going to or coming from school. He Keeping Cheng-chung busy with have one like it but had no money began stopping to talk to Uncle Dick chores could very well be Satan's way for a Bible at that time. Uncle Dick and to read the storybooks for grade of keeping him from the fellowship suggested he take it and pay when school children. Unfortunately there in the Bookroom. He managed to get he could get the money. Since that are very few Christian books for chil­ there sometimes, nevertheless, and his noon hour when Cheng-chung re­ dren in the Chinese language, but faith and interest in the things of received the Bible, however, he has there is a Chinese edition of Vos' The Child's Story Bible. Cheng-chung Here is the inside of the Reformed Gospel Bookroom showing the became more interested in the Bible table around which Mr. Gaffin and visitors such as Cheng-chung sit and stories. His sisters and brothers came talk. Note the display of some of the Bibles and study booklets. to Sunday school, but he seldom came to any meetings. He always had good reasons for not coming. There were numberless chores to be taken care of. Perhaps he would have to help in the kitchen, fanning the fire to make it burn hotter while the family's food cooked. Every day some one had to go to market to buy food. Only exceedingly rich people have ice boxes or refrigerators, and food spoils quickly in a warm, moist climate such as we have in Taiwan. Sometimes Cheng-chung would be given the duty of greeting patients who came to his father's dental office. And if there was nothing else to do, there was in his home - as there is in nearly every Chinese home - a small baby to be 'bowed' (that means holding a baby in arms). Chinese babies are rarely placed in a bed or

October, 1960 151 not been inside the Bookroom. Only "It is a good thing to give thanks unto the Lord, and to sing a few times he has stopped by the praises unto thy name, 0 most High: to show forth thy loving kind­ door very briefly. He says he still be­ ness in the morning, and thy faithfulness every night." lieves and loves the Lord. We do not -Psalm 92: 1,2 know the sad things that must have happened to Cheng-chung because he brought home that Bible that he liked A Hymn OjO Praise so much. The letter below will tell you just about all we know. You will God, all nature sings Thy glory, pray for him and for others who And Thy works proclaim Thy might: come to the Bookroom, and for your Ordered vastness in the heavens, missionaries, won't you? Ordered course of day and night; Lovingly, Beauty in the changing seasons, .J[unf []Jolly Beauty in the storming sea; All the changing moods of nature Praise the changeless Trinity. "Mr. Gaffin: I bought this Holy Bible from you Clearer still we see Thy hand in at noon for which I did not pay. I Man whom Thou hast made for Thee: thoHght I toould hide this book and Ruler of creation's glory, my father u.ould not know that I had Image of Thy Majesty. it. But he [ound it. I feared my .Music, art, the fruitful garden, father so I told him I bougbt it in All the labor of his days, the market. My older brother told my Are the calling of his Maker father that I had bougbt it from you. To the harvest feast of praise. Tbereupon my father cursed me. He said, 'Why do yOH obey Christ yOHr But our sins have spoiled Thine image; Lord and do not obey yOHr father?' Nature, conscience only serve He forced me to send back this book As unceasing, grim remind~rs to you. I think I must obey my father. Of the wrath which we deserve. I know yOH are a mercijul pastor and Yet Thy grace and saving mercy I ask yOHr pardon. I also ask my In Thy Word of Truth revealed Lord to pardon me. I am ashamed of Claim the praise of all who know Thee, my willingness to throw OHt His In the blood of Jesus sealed. Word. I do not wish to disobey my Lord and yOHr merciful love. I am sending the Bible by my younger God of glory, power, mercy, brother. Please pardon my sin. Hap­ All creation praises Thee; piness and health be with you. We, Thy creatures, would adore Thee The sinner against God." Now and through eternity. Saved to magnify Thy goodness, Grant us strength to do Thy will; With our acts as with our voices Open House at New Thy commandments to fulfill. Administration Building DAVID CLOWNEY ATURDAY, October 22 was a gala S afternoon for the entire staff of This poem was written as a class hymn and was sung at the the Orthodox Presbyterian Church's graduation exercises of the Class of 1960 of the Philadelphia-Mont­ office building at 7401 Old York gomery Christian High School. David is now a freshman at Wheaton Road. It was the occasion of an "Open College. House" and guests were given a tour of the entire structure, followed by punch and homemade cookies supplied by some of the ladies. mittee on General Benevolence and the full beauty of autumn colors. It The building houses the offices of the Committee on Pensions use the should be noted that many friends in the Committee on Home Missions and conference room for their regular the local area had already visited the Church Extension, the Committee on meetings. building since its occupancy in the late Foreign Missions, and the Committee Among the one hundred and fifty summer, and that visitors are wel­ on Christian Education, including a visitors were some of the immediate comed at any time. mailing room and storage space. There neighbors as well as a few travelers is also a library and a conference from Wisconsin and South Dakota In a forthcoming issue the GHardian room. The Presbyterian Guardian has who happened to be in the vicinity. expects to present a picture-story of an office on the second floor. In addi­ Several floral bouquets were received this attractive and functional building tion to the above committees the Com- and the trees on the property were in for its readers.

152 The Presbyterian Guardian Our Second Quarter of a Century %~~ ith this issue the PRESBYTERIAN the truth of God remains forever GUARDIAN WGUARDIAN begins its second quar­ settled, just because it is God's truth. ter of a century of service. In our We are persuaded that his Word ­ previous number the President of the inspired, infallible, authoritative ­ EDITOR Corporation, himself editor of the must ever be the sole ground of faith Robert E. Nicholas magazine for many years and presently and duty. We believe that his Word is EDITORIAL COUNCIL senior member of the Editorial Coun­ applicable to all of life, and that it is Ned B. Stonehouse cil, gave a brief account of the origin a part of our task to seek to make its Edmund P. Clowney of the paper, with particular reference relevance ever more plain. to the choice of its name in relation We think we must continue to "try All correspondence should be ad­ dressed to The Presbyterian Guardian, to its purpose. He also reflected upon the spirits, whether they are of God: 7401 Old York Road, Phila. 26, Pa. its continuing significance as a part of because many false prophets are gone the movement with which it has been out into the world. " We must there­ associated from the beginning. fore be critical, but at the same time As we look to the future we simply constructive. Nor will it do to find Thank Offering wish to affirm our agreement with the fault with others unless we are willing ith what varied expressions and basic convictions of those who have also to examine ourselves by the W tones people say "Thank you"! sought to make the GUARDIAN a voice standards of "the perfect law of liber­ Some are just being polite, in a matter­ for orthodox Presbyterianism through­ ty." Above all, we must strive to set of-fact sort of way. Others appear out its first twenty-five years. Our forth the grand message of Scripture bored. Some are overly effusive. Still readers may be assured that we shall that its light may shine into the dark­ others say it from the heart, often endeavor to remain faithful to the his­ ness of men's minds and the Savior with a smile. Their genuine sense of toric Christian faith as it finds expres­ be made known as the Light of the gratitude is plain to see. sion in the Westminster Standards. world. Surely it is in this latter manner In a world where progress builds To this task we would humbly and that God's people will "enter into his upon relativity and perplexity founders prayerfully commit ourselves anew. gates with thanksgiving, and into his upon confusion, we are persuaded that R.E.N. courts with praise." Within the Ortho­ dox Presbyterian Church it has be­ come traditional to give outward ex­ Robert S. Marsden pression to our gratitude to God at n the morning of October 23 again to joy. this season by means of a Thank O while participating in the open­ Robert Marsden was born March Offering. It is a good tradition. It is ing worship of the Sunday school the 27, 1905 in Philadelphia. Following even a necessary practice, for the ful­ Rev. Robert S. Marsden suffered a his graduation from the University of fillment of obligations that we have heart attack and died almost immedi­ Pennsylvania he enrolled in Princeton assumed. But it is far more than a ately. It was in the Calvary Orthodox Theological Seminary. Alert to the good and necessary custom. Presbyterian Church of Middletown, issues of Modernism, he transferred The Thank Offering comes from Pa., whose first pastor he had been to the newly formed Westminster the hearts of those who have received and where he regularly taught the Theological Seminary in the fall of increasingly of the favor of God, Men's Bible Class. Every Sunday eve­ 1929 and was graduated as a mem­ "who daily loadeth us with benefits." ning, following the worship hour, he ber of its first class in 1930. He be­ It is far more than a sense of duty devoted his time to the young people, came pastor of the Presbyterian that impels us to respond generously by whom he was much beloved, as Church in Middletown, Pa. that same year after year to this opportunity. sponsor of the Senior Machen League. year and served the Presbytery of Truly it is our genuine gratitude for Thus quickly, from the midst of the Carlisle as its Moderator in 1932-3. both the bounties and the mercies of Lord's people met in the sanctuary of With the events in the Presbyterian God that makes us delight to say worship on earth, did this tireless ser­ Church in the U.S.A. culminating in "Thank You" in this way. vant of Jesus Christ enter into the the Syracuse Assembly in 1936 and Here too is the privilege of reveal­ promised rest of the Father's house of the organization of the Presbyterian ing the unity of our fellowship as we many mansions. Church of America (now the Ortho­ join in thankful testimony to God's He is survived by Bertha Mish dox Presbyterian Church) on June 11 faithfulness in providing many work­ Marsden, to whom he was married in of that year, Mr. Marsden led some ers for his vineyard. In bringing our 1935, and by their two sons, Robert 80 adults and their children out of the Thank Offering we show our con­ and George; and by two sisters, Mrs. local U.S.A. Church. They formed the fidence in and our love for faithful George Eckardt of Philadelphia and Calvary Orthodox Presbyterian Church servants of the Lord in home mission Mrs. Charles Sharer of Glendora, N. J. in Middletown on June 24, 1936 as a fields; for devoted laborers who toil Our prayer is that they may be com­ continuing testimony to the historic in foreign lands; and for consecrated forted in the assurance of the Christian Christian faith, and he remained as writers whose task it is to serve in the hope that because our Savior, who died their pastor until 1939. realm of Christian education. for our sins, rose again, we too and In the previous year he had been We are all co-workers in thanks­ all those who sleep in Jesus shall like­ called as General Secretary of the Com­ giving and praise to God. wise live. Our sorrow shall be turned mittees on Home Missions and Foreign

October, 1960 153 Missions, which office he occupied for Committee on the Twenty-fifth Anni­ ten years, years of many problems but versary) or of his Presbytery or of Ecuurenlcitv of gradual growth and solidifying of any committee of which he was a the church. He was chosen Moderator member; nor was he averse to doing ~~A,e you being torn apart by to- of the 12th General Assembly in 1945, the tedious and often thankless tasks getherness?" is an arresting and served as Clerk of three Assemb­ that sometimes go with such assign­ sentence on a comic card. It is arrest­ lies from 1955 to 1957. In his own ments. It is yet too soon to fully ing because it contains so much Presbytery of Philadelphia he had two realize how frequently we shall miss truth. There is a togetherness which terms as Moderator, first in 1937-8 his wise counsel, his sense of humor, tears the heart. Church union today and then in 1954-5. During the years his attention to detail, his willingness is making the headlines and lead he labored on numerous committees to see a job carried through to com­ articles in the slicks. But I have often of the church and at the time of his pletion. Robert Marsden was one of wondered what a story it would make death was a member of the Commit­ God's dependable and faithful ste­ tee on Home Missions and Church wards. A multitude will cherish the if today's ecumenicity could be told Extension. memory of his Christian character and not from the victor's but from the As chairman of the Committee on a give thanks to God who gives good victim's point of view. Here I earn­ Hymnal he had toiled diligently for gifts unto men. estly believe is the material for the many years, and only last month pre­ Most fitting was the text chosen by great novel of our generation. Writers pared a report published in the Dr. C. Van Til for his sermon at the take heart. GUARDIAN of this notable task now service in the Calvary Orthodox Pres­ Cried Niemoeller when Hitler's approaching its conclusion. His friends byterian Church of Middletown on bishop was uniting the church: "This October 26: "Therefore, my beloved will recall his vast knowledge of is the unity of tying branches of dif­ hymns and the very great number brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, ferent trees together!" The oneness always abounding in the work of the which he sang from memory. Jesus prayed for is quite different Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your Since 1948 his chief work, of from the giant mergers and sub­ labour is not in vain in the Lord" course, had been as Executive Secretary mergers of our day. By Christ's death (I Corinthians 15:58). of Westminster Theological Seminary. and resurrection He formed a spiritual The pastor, the Rev. Robert H. Gra­ His ceaseless labor in that capacity union of living branches in one living ham, presided and prayer was offered was of incalculable benefit to the in­ tree. The oneness which is mere by the Rev. Robley J. Johnston, a stitution in many ways: administrative jumboism is not of God. Church former pastor of the congregation and matters, promotion, recruitment, union achieved by modifying, ignor­ close associate. The graveside service broadening its financial base, inter­ ing or denying truth is a counterfeit was in charge of the Rev. John P. preting its position and significance to union. a growing number of friends, strength­ Clelland, President of the Board of The party spirit and intolerance of ening its total program in various Trustees of Westminster Seminary. present eeumenism is not hard to find. forms. In personal conversation, as a R. E. N. It does tear apart. "The one sin is correspondent and writer, and in the that of being divisive - you may not pulpit he was an effective, enthusiastic, Mayor of Camden to refuse to go along with the program," and often eloquent spokesman for the as someone put it. "I want to have truth of God for which Westminster Address Men's Rally catechism classes in my church," says stands. DINNER meeting to which "all another, "using the OPC catechetical Mr. Marsden was a prime mover in men of Reformed persuasion and A books, but I would be criticized for the organization and maintenance of their friends" are invited has been an­ using material other than our own. the Christian School in Middletown nounced for the first Saturday of De­ Of course," he continued, "it would and had held the arduous task of cember in Willow Grove, Pa. The not be refusing to use ours since our Board chairmanship from its begin­ Hon. Alfred R. Pierce, Mayor of Cam­ board does not publish any similar nings in 1945. Not the least of his den, N. J., is to speak on the subject, material, but I wonder if I dare ... " numerous interests was the PRESBY­ .The Christian's Responsibility." TERIAN GUARDIAN, of whose Trustees This rally for men is sponsored by "There's an article in The Guard­ he was Vice-president. As a member a joint committee of the local presby­ ian," remarks another, "that I know of the Editorial Council his advice teries of the Bible Presbyterian Church this elder would profit by and like, was both sought and sound. One of (Columbus Synod), the Orthodox but I would have to type the whole his last letters, received by the editor Presbyterian Church, and the Reformed article and give it to him that way. after his death, had to do with his Presbyterian Church (General Synod). Seeing it in that magazine he simply concern for the welfare of this periodi­ It is being planned as an evening of would not read it." "Certainly our cal, in whose behalf he frequently inspiration and fellowship and will minister is from that seminary," re­ wrote to our friends. At the recent include special music and group sing­ plies another; "he could not get this General Assembly he was a forceful Illg. church if he were not." protagonist for the magazine's con­ The time is set for 5: 30 P.M. on Here is the togetherness that sepa­ tinuance and financial stability. Arti­ ~aturday, December 3, and the place rates. Here is the pressure of liberal­ cles and editorials from his pen have IS the Calvary Presbyterian Church on ism - so broad, tolerant, and ecu­ appeared rather frequently in these North Easton Road. Dinner will be menical! It gives some idea of what pages. served at a nominal price. Men ~he believing minister is up against Rarely did he miss a meeting of an throughout the area are cordially Ill­ III today's ecclesiastical world. Assembly (he was chairman of the vited, R. K. CHURCHILL 154 The Presbyterian Guardian in his fellowship for divine worship, Form of Government mutual edification, and gospel wit­ ness; and submitting to a certain form of church government. Second Revised Version of Chapters I - IV CHAPTER III Of the Nature and Exercise of Church Power CHAPTER I church government must rest upon Of Christ, the King and Head the authority of Scripture alone. 1. The power which Christ has While not every circumstance concern­ committed to his church is not vested of the Church in the special officers alone, but in 1. Jesus Christ, upon whose ing church government is specified in Scripture, nevertheless in all circum­ the whole body. All believers are en­ shoulders the government is, whose dued with the Spirit and called of name is called Wonderful Counsellor, stances the general rules of the Word must be observed. Moreover, the Christ to join in the worship, edifi­ the Mighty God, the Everlasting cation, and witness of the church Father, the Prince of Peace, of the whole pattern of officers, ordinances, government and discipline appointed which grows as the body of Christ increase of whose government and fitly framed and knit together through peace there shall be no end, upon the in the Word must be obeyed as the commandment of the Lord to which that which every joint supplieth, ac­ throne of David, and upon his king­ cording to the working in due mea­ dom, to order it, and to establish it nothing is to be added and from which nothing is to be taken away. sure of each several part. This power, with judgment and justice, from as exercised by believers in their gen­ henceforth even forever, having all Although presbyterian government is not essential to the existence of the eral office, extends to the recognition power given unto him in heaven and of the gifts and calling of special of­ in earth by the Father, who raised church visible, yet it is the form of government taught in Scripture and fice-bearers in the church so that the him from the dead, and set him at regular exercise of oversight in a par­ his own right hand, far above all it is necessary to the perfection of the order of the church. ticular congregation is discharged by principality and power, and might those whose gifts and calling have been and dominion, and every name that 4. Since the ascension of Jesus acknowledged and their exercise de­ is named, not only in this world but Christ to heaven, he abides in his sired by vote of the people. also in that which is to come, and church by the Holy Spirit whom he 2. Those who join in exercising has sent. Through his Spirit he has put all things under his feet, and ecclesiastical jurisdiction are the min­ given his Word revealing his or­ gave him to be the head over all isters of the Word or teaching elders, dinances; through the Spirit also he things to the church, which is his and other church governors, common­ exerts his saving and governing body, the fullness of him that filleth ly called ruling elders. Since, accord­ power in the teaching of his Word all in all; he being ascended up far ing to the New Testament, these are and the administration of his ordi­ above all heavens, that he might fill the only permanent officers of the nances. Only by the gifts and calling all things, received gifts for his church with gifts for such rule, they of the Spirit are men endued and church and gave offices necessary for alone must exercise this authority, by qualified for office in Christ's church. the building of his church, for making delegation from Christ. In subjection disciples of all nations and perfecting CHAPTER II to Christ there is now no government his saints. Of the Church in the church higher than that exer­ 2. There is therefore but one King cised by teaching and ruling elders. and Head of the church, the only 1. The universal or catholic church Ruling elders and teaching elders Mediator between God and man, on earth consists of all those persons, join in congregational, presbyterial, Jesus Christ, who rules in his church in every nation, who have been united and synodical assemblies, for those by his Word and Spirit. His media­ to Christ and are members of his who share gifts for rule from Christ torial office includes all the offices in body. must exercise these gifts jointly not his church. It belongs to his Majesty 2. The Lord alone knows infallibly only in the fellowship of the saints from his throne of glory not only to those who are his, but all those who in one place but for the edification of rule his church directly but also to profess the true religion and their all the saints in larger areas so far as use the ministry of men in ruling and children are to be regarded as mem­ they are appointed thereunto in an teaching his church through his bers of the church and therefore are orderly manner, and are acknowledged Word and Spirit, thus exercising subject to the government which by the saints as those set over them through men his own authority and Christ has vested in the church. in the Lord. enforcing his own laws. The authority 3. The vast numbers of members We believe that government by of all such ministerial office rests of the church of the new covenant presbyters or elders is a New Testa­ upon his appointment, who has or­ are organized in many local congre­ ment ordinance, that their joint exer­ dained government in his church, re­ gations or particular churches ac­ cise of jurisdiction in presbyterial as­ vealed its nature to us in his Word, cording to the warrant of Scripture. semblies is set forth in the New and promised his presence in the 4. Each particular church under the Testament, and that the organization midst of his church as this govern­ new covenant consists of a number of of subordinate and superior courts is ment is exercised in his name. believers and their children associated founded upon and agreeable to the 3. Since Christ orders his church together in a given locality, in ac­ Word of God, expressing the unity by the rule of his Word, the form of cordance with Christ's institution, and of the church and the derivation of

October, 1960 155 ministerial authority from Christ the In 1948 the 15th General Assembly steward. Church government must Head of the church. erected a Committee on Revisions to maintain this fellowship in Christ and 3. All church power is only min­ the Form of Government, and it sub­ in the gifts of the Spirit and seek its isterial and declarative, for the Holy mitted its proposals for chapters I restoration when it has been dis­ Scriptures are the only infallible rule through IX to the 18th Assembly. At rupted through schism. of faith and manners. No church that Assembly the revision of the Book 2. It is the right and duty of those judicatory ought to pretend to make of Discipline was added to the Com­ who rule in the church of God to laws to bind the conscience in virtue mittee's task. By the time of the 20th maintain order and exercise discipline, of its own authority; all its decisions General Assembly work had been for the preservation both of truth and should be founded upon the Word completed through Chapter XX and duty. It is incumbent upon these offi­ of God. "God alone is Lord of the a proposed "Version" was circulated cers and upon the whole church to conscience, and hath left it free from among the churches early in 1954. censure or cast out the ignorant, erro­ the doctrines and commandments of The Committee continued to re­ neous, or scandalous, observing, in all men, which are, in any thing, con­ ceive suggestions, and from time to cases, the rules contained in the Word trary to His Word; or beside it, if time overtures came to the attention of God, and seeking the honor of matters of faith, or worship." of an Assembly and were referred to Christ's name, the good of his 4. Further, all church power is the Committee. A "Revised Version" church, and the reclamation of the wholly moral or spiritual. No church was presented to the 22nd General offender. officers or judicatories possess any Assembly in 1955 and submitted to 3. The unity of the church of civil jurisdiction, nor may they in­ the sessions and presbyteries for their Christ can only be manifest in sepa­ flict any civil penalties. We do not diligent study with the request that ration from the world. Apostasy in even wish to see any religious con­ comments or recommendations be faith and life is destructive of the stitution aided by the civil power transmitted to the Committee. A fellowship in Christ; only by rejecting further than may be necessary for "j\1inority Version" was also circu­ such error can Christian fellowship protection and security. lated in 1955. be maintained. There are many anti­ Nevertheless, the power of church Although the Committee reported christists, many false apostles and government, as appointed by the Lord in 1956 that its work on revising the teachers. From these the church must Jesus as King and Head of his church, Form of Government had been com­ turn away, and those who steadfastly in the hand of church officers, dis­ pleted and recommended that the hear the voice of false shepherds and tinct from the civil magistrate, is a "Revised Version" with certain altera­ follow them cannot be regarded as valid and authentic jurisdiction to tions be proposed to the presbyteries the sheep of Christ. There are or­ which Christians are commanded to for their approval, consideration at ganizations which falsely call them­ submit themselves. "To these officers this Denver Assembly did not pro­ selves churches of God, and others the Keys of the Kingdom of heaven ceed beyond certain points in the fil'St which once were churches, but have are committed, by virtue whereof they four chapters. An effort to adopt pro­ become synagogues of Satan. Com­ have power respectively to retain and visionally each chapter ended with munion with such is spiritual adultery remit sins, to shut that Kingdom the defeat of the motion concerning and an offense against Christ and his against the impenitent, both by the Chapter I. saints. Word and censures; and to open it Following a period of curtailed ac­ 4. The visible unity of the body of unto penitent sinners, by the min­ titlity the Committee on Revisions to Christ, though not altogether de­ istry of the gospel, and by absolution the Form of Government and Book stroyed, is greatly obscured by the from censures, as occasion shall re­ of Discipline submitted to the latest division of the Christian church into quire." General Assembly of the Orthodox different groups or denominations of Therefore the decrees and deter­ Presbyterian Church a "Second Re­ Christians who exercise a fellowship minations of church officers when vised Version" of Chapters I - IV toward each other in doctrine, wor­ properly rendered and if consonant to (to be substituted for Chapters I and ship, and order which they do not the Word of God, "are to be received II of the earlier Version). The As­ exercise toward others; yet all of with reverence and submission, not sembly in turn submitted this new these which maintain through a suffi­ only for their agreement with the Version to the presbyteries and ses­ cient discipline the Word and sacra­ Word, but also for the power where­ sions for study. We present it here­ ments in their fundamental integrity by they are made, as being an ordi­ with and commend it to all of our are to be recognized as true mani­ nance of God, appointed thereunto readers as profitable for a better un­ festations of the church of Jesus in his Word." derstanding of the ChU1'Ch of Jesus Christ. With all such we seek a closer Christ. fellowship, in accordance with the CHAPTER IV principles set forth above. Of the Unity of the Church 1. Since the church of Christ is whose call to govern in the church one body, united under and in one has been properly acknowledged, and Orthodox Presbyterian God and Father, one Lord, and one in particular must learn of those with Spirit, it must give diligence to keep gifts of teaching the Word of God. Women Gather in Wheaton this unity in the bond of peace. To Further, since every Christian is en­ EVENTY women from the mis­ this end the church must receive dued with some gift for the edifica­ S sionary societies of the Orthodox those endued with gifts of Christ as tion of the body, he must minister Presbyterian churches from the tri­ Christ himself, must submit to those this gift to the church as a faithful state areas of Wisconsin, Iowa, and

156 The Presbyterian Guardian Illinois met at Bethel Orthodox Presbyterian Church, Wheaton, in mid­ In the Presbyterian Guardian October for their fall biannual meet­ ings and fellowship. Reports were given concerning the Twenty-five Years Ago work of each society in their respec­ tive missionary supports and endeav­ ctober 7, 1935. This is the date one can appeal is as relevant today ors. Especially interesting was the re­ O that appears on the cover of the as when it appeared 25 years ago: port given by Mrs. Robert Miller, a first issue of the PRESBYTERIAN "The answer to that question is given member of the church established GUARDIAN. A reproduction of that by the text that gives us the program among the Stockbridge Indians in original cover appears on the first for all the corresponding pages in page of this issue. The magazine was Gresham, Wisconsin. Mrs. Miller, a future issues of THE PRESBYTERIAN published for the first eight and a half Stockbridge Indian herself, feels that GUARDIAN ... There is one thing months of its existence by The Presby­ missionary consciences among women that does not change. That one thing terian Constitutional Covenant Union are best established in early life. Be­ is the Word of God. The grass -until the issue of June 22, 1936 cause of this conviction Mrs. Miller withereth, the flower fadeth: but the when The Presbyterian Guardian Pub­ has, for many years, been encouraging Word of our God shall stand for­ lishing Corporation had been formed. ever.' .. and helping a group of young school An article in the earliest issue (by girls in home-spun missionary efforts. "Where shall we today find the the Rev. E. H. Rian) mentioned plans Their present project is making pot Word of God? Our answer is very for the first rally of the Covenant holders, embroidered with short Scrip­ simple. We find it in the whole Bible. Union scheduled for October 8 and ture verses, which the girls distribute We do not say, in Modernist fashion, stated the purpose of the Union to among their own and other Indian that the Bible contains the Word of "contend against all forms of unbe­ families. God. No, we say, in Christian fashion, lief" and "to maintain and defend that the Bible is the Word of God. Mrs. Miller's twenty year old daugh­ the inspired Word of God and the "There, at last, we find something ter, Ila Jean, has the same consecration Constitution of the Presbyterian that we can trust. We cannot trust the for missionary work among her own Church in the U.S.A. 'regardless of world; we cannot trust that elusive people as does her mother, and recently cost.''' The sequel, of course, came something known as 'civilization.' We has given up her job in a Michigan with the dissolution of the Covenant cannot, alas, trust the visible Church. hospital in order to do full time work Union at its first Convention the But when God speaks we can trust among their young people. following June together with the Him. He has spoken in the Bible. We The morning speaker was Mrs. J. J. formation of the Presbyterian Church can find our way through all the mists DeWaard of New York, widow of an of America (now the Orthodox Pres­ if we will make that blessed Book our Orthodox Presbyterian minister. She byterian Church). guide." spoke on "The Reformation and Switz­ Machen's Page The main editorial in the first issue erland" with current reflections con­ bore the title "The Word of God and cerning the country from her recent 'The Changing Scene and the Un­ the Word of Man." It opened with visit there. changing Word" carrying the by-line these three significant sentences: of Dr. J. Gresham Machen was a fea­ The afternoon message was given "Protestant Christianity is based ture of the first and subsequent issues. by Mrs. Francis Mahaffy, who with squarely upon the belief that God has In his introductory column, after de­ her husband and children is here on spoken in His Word, that this Word picting the "kaleidoscopic changes" in furlough from Eritrea, Africa. Mrs. is infallible, that its authority is final. the world at large, he asked the ques­ Protestantism began as a revolt against Mahaffy spoke on the problems which tion: "Is there anything solid at all a converted Christian individual or what the Reformers believed to be in the midst of the shifting sands? married couple must face in making a the word of man exalted as equal to Is there anything at all that we can or above the Word of God: namely break in their lives from certain con­ trust ?.. cepts and formalisms of their former the decrees of the Church of Rome. "Certainly we cannot trust the faith in one of the prevailing forms of True Protestantism has always been Church," he replied. "The truth is pseudo-Christianity in Eritrea, the sincerely and passionately jealous not that the bureaucracy in the Church has Coptic religion. only for the truth of God's Word, but not a bit more regard for the Con­ The newly elected officers of the for its final, supreme authority as stitution of the Church, than the well." Women's Presbyterial are: President, bureaucracy in the State has for the Mrs. Glenn Black, Westchester, Il­ Constitution of the State in so many Early Features linois; Vice-President, Mrs. Francis countries of the world. Weare today Among other interesting features Breisch, Wheaton; Secretary, Mrs. in the midst of a time when the land­ commencing with the first number of Vincent Scorsone, Waterloo, Iowa; marks are being destroyed . . . and the GUARDIAN was a Radio Page and Treasurer, Miss Ila Jean Miller, when people make solemn subscription edited by the Rev. Luther Craig Long. Gresham, Wisconsin. to a system of doctrine that solemn In his column he told of a series of Luncheon and late afternoon coffee pledge is treated as though it were a broadcasts to be known as the "West­ were served by the ladies of the mere empty form of words." minster Theological Seminary Hour" Bethel Church. Dr. Machen's reply to his query as every Sunday afternoon over WIP, VIRGINIA CARNEY to whether there is anything to which Philadelphia. Dr. Machen would bring

October, 1960 157 the messages on the general theme of Another story was headed, "Dr. Board of Trustees. They are Professor "The Christian Faith in the Modern Roy T. Brumbaugh leads most of Edmund Clowney and Dr. Kingsley Word." congregation out of church" and told Elder, treasurer of the Committee and A missionary page called "The of the formation of the First Inde­ an elder of the Trinity Orthodox Pres­ Regions Beyond" was edited by the pendent Church of Tacoma, in August byterian Church of Hatboro. Mr. Rev. Charles J. Woodbridge, then of 1935. "San Francisco Presbytery Glenn Andreas of Pella, Iowa, already General Secretary of the Independent ordains Mr. Joseph Young" was the a member of the Corporation, was Board for Presbyterian Foreign Mis­ account of a lengthy but unsuccessful named to the Trustees. sions. Ruling elder D. T. Richman of fight to prevent the licensure and Although it is not now feasible to Philadelphia wrote "The Elders' Page" ordination that September of the man publish the paper twice a month, the and the Rev. Gerard H. Snell pre­ identified as a "brilliant young grad­ Trustees did authorize an increase of sented material for use with "The uate of Westminster Seminary, Phila­ four pages in the size of each issue. Sunday School Lessons." "Lift Up delphia, who refused to pledge blind This will allow for greater flexibility Your Heart" by the Rev. David Free­ 'loyalty' to the Boards of the Church." and should make better balance and man was the beginning of a series of One additional news item from the regularity of certain features than has meditations from his pen. very first issue told of the death in heretofore been possible. Arrangements Chicago in September of Dr. James are being made for earlier publication Many readers will doubtless recall M. Gray, called "one of the foremost each month and the new plans and the cartoon-strip entitled "Gary" ­ evangelical leaders of America," at schedule will be in effect before the the story of a young lad from Goose the age of 84. A Reformed Epis­ end of the year. Creek Junction who left for college in copalian, he had become pastor of the opening sequence! Phil Saint, who Moody Church, then Dean of the was the artist, also did a cartoon for Bible Institute, and Editor of the Presbytery of California each number on pertinent ecclesiastical Moody Monthly. he Presbytery of California met issues. The first one was called Yes, it was all in the PRESBYTERIAN "Modern Fiery Furnace" and showed T at Portland, Oregon, September GUARDIAN a quarter of a century ago. three faithful Bible-believers before 21-22. The new pastor of the Port­ Many of the names no longer belong the throne of Modernism forced to land First Church, Albert Edwards, to the living. A number, however, are was received from the Presbytery of choose between bowing to the image today among the leaders of the con­ of "human authority" or being thrown New Jersey, and installed by the tinuing fight against unbelief, though into the fires of "church discipline." Presbytery on Wednesday evening. not all are so closely associated as they The moderator, Dwight H. Pound­ Headlines of the Time were at that time. We rejoice particu­ stone, presided at the installation, and A quick perusal of the headings of larly that the same clear sound of the Edward L. Kellogg preached the ser­ some of the news accounts will give trumpet in defense of the gospel mon. His subject was "Wrestling the tempo of the stirring events of which is so evident in the pages of With God." "Your pastor," he said, that fall of 1935. "Milwaukee Pres­ that first issue is still heard today in "before he enters the pulpit, needs to bytery ousts pastor who will not desist such institutions as the Orthodox Pres­ cry out to God for strength against a from critizing the Boards" concerned byterian Church, Westminster Theol­ greater enemy than Jacob's Esau ­ the Rev. John J. DeWaard whose ogical Seminary, and, we trust, this Apollyon. Surely if you people are in Cedar Grove congregation backed his periodical. May our sovereign God of earnest, you will pray for your stand 370 to 25. On the same page all grace be pleased to keep it so when pastor." appeared an account of a "Wisconsin another 25 years shall have passed! The charge to the minister was pastor disciplined for independent R. E. N. given by Edward Wybenga from the Bible camp." The man was the Rev. text, "And say to Archippus, Take A. F. Perkins and his sentence was heed to the ministry . . . " His main suspension from the ministry for two Guardian Trustees Meet points were: (1) A necessary ex­ years. Among the counsel for Mr. N October meeting of the Board hortation, since we are tempted to Perkins at his July trial was Dr. Harry A of Trustees of the Presbyterian take things easy even though dangers Rimmer of the First Church, Duluth. Guardian Corporation reached a firm threaten the flock. ( 2 ) A sacred "Secret trial ordered for two lay decision to continue publication of the trust. Christ himself gives us this members of Independent Board" ­ magazine. It was felt that the response ministry, and will not entrust it to Miss Mary Weldon Stewart and Mur­ of a good number of churches to the vain and faithless men. (3) An urgent ray Forst Thompson, Esq. - is a re­ urgent appeal of the General Assem­ duty. God's honor is at stake, and the minder of the high-handed and illegal bly for financial support of the Guard­ truth of God' s Word, as well as the procedures which characterized many ian promised increasing help from this salvation of souls. The charge is clear, of the so-called "trials" in that low important source. Some have sent a and the reward is sure. ebb of Presbyterian jurisprudence. special gift and others have placed or The charge to the congregation "Carl Mcintire convicted, appeal no­ have indicated that they will place the was given by a former Portland pas­ tice given" related another travesty Guardian on their benevolence budg­ tor, Lawrence R. Eyres. "Your pastor of justice, this one by the Special ets. is a man both frail and strong. He Judicial Commission of the Presbytery In the light of the decision of the knows his weakness, and I charge you of West Jersey, and from Chicago Committee on Christian Education to to defend and protect him against came the report, "Buswell case again aid the periodical, the two nominees 'battle fatigue'. There is much fatigue ordered to trial." of that Committee were elected to the in a small congregation. He will be

158 The Presbyterian Guardian tempted to do many chores. Protect the scene of Mr. Edwards, with his earlier of the Rev. Robert S. Marsden, him against becoming a taxi driver, strong recommendation that the place Executive Secretary. A committee com­ etc. Protect him against the Monday for future work in Portland was else­ prised of the Rev. Calvin K. Cum­ blues - by being present at both where than in the present area of mings, secretary of the Board, and services on Sunday. Protect him from Second Church, meant in effect that Professor John Murray was requested the deep frustrations which he will the Presbytery would not follow to prepare a Memorial Minute, a copy experience if you will not apply the through with aid for work in that of which we hope to present at a later answer he gives to your problem. locality. The Presbytery did examine date. Nothing will be changed, and he Mr. Wickholm further, and left the The vanous committees of the will be discouraged. And he also will door open for the Presbytery's Mis­ Board, with which Mr. Marsden as be discouraged about those who don't sions Committee to support him in Executive Secretary had been working come, feeling perhaps that he is at part, and even to aid in the purchase closely, presented their reports and fault. Protect him also from the sor­ of a Portland property, if a suitable recommendations. A committee made row of having to give a sad account location could be found. The major up of four members of the Board to­ at t~e judgment seat of Christ, con­ portion of the Second Church mem­ gether with three members of the cermng you. bership was present for most of the faculty was appointed to make recom­ "But he also is strong - because discussion, and indicated the possibil­ mendations concerning an executive he is a man of God, standing in the ity of their being absorbed by the secretary. Meanwhile an interim com­ name, the place, and the authority of First Church. mittee of three was set up to carry on Jesus Christ. You never will hear in EDWARDS E. ELLIOTT the essential responsibilities: Dr. Ned this life more direct words from B. Stonehouse, Dean of the faculty, Jesus Christ than you will hear from Mr. Glenn A. Andreas, a member of your pastor." Christmas in October the Board, and Murray Forst Thomp­ It was a pleasure for the Presby­ MMANUEL Orthodox Presbyterian son, Esq., treasurer of the Board. tery to have E. Lynne Wade present I Church of West Collingswood held and active. Mr. Wade had been its annual "Christmas for Mission­ brought from Guam in August, and aries" program on the second Sunday Fall Evangelism is under treatment at the Sawtelle of October. Instead of on a week N ADDITION to the usual Rally Veterans Hospital in west Los night as in previous years the plans I Day and Reformation services, re­ Angeles. He gave the devotional from were carried out in cooperation with ports have come of a week of special Psalm 103 on Thursday morning, and the Sunday school during the regular meetings in a number of Orthodox the words of praise, "who healeth all Sunday school hour. Presbyterian congregations this fall. thy diseases, who redeemeth thy life With appropriate decorations as a During the second week of October from destruction," seemed fraught background the program included the the Rev. Calvin A. Busch of Morris­ with special meaning as he read them. singing of carols, the reading of a town, N. J., gave a series of messages Fraternal delegates Kenneth Me­ portion of Luke 2, and a message by on "The Christian's Life" at the Cal­ Burney of the Reformed Presbyterian elder Wilfred Moses. There was also vary Orthodox Presbyterian Church of Church (Presbytery of the Pacific a missionary quiz, and the bulletin Middletown, Pa. Topics included "The Coast), and Howard B. Spaan of the listed the names and addresses of all Christian's Birth ... Repentance ... Christian Reformed Church (Classis Orthodox Presbyterian foreign mis­ Faith . . . Justification . . . Adoption Pacific), brought their greetings. sionaries, together with the birthdays . . . Sanctification . . . and Glorifica­ An unexpected thorny problem was of the nine Mahaffys - Immanuel's tion." Saturday was designated Youth faced Thursday, in the matter of "missionary family" for the year 1960­ Night. Pastor of Calvary Church is the whether the Presbytery should follow 61. Rev. Robert H. Graham. through with its summer expenditure Gifts for the missionaries together At the same time in St. Andrew's of effort in the Second Church, Port­ with an offering of over one hundred Church, Baltimore, Md., a week of land, field. Mr. Andrew Wickholm, a dollars were received. Dr. Kenneth evangelistic meetings brought the Rev. man of exceptional gifts and energy, Avis, superintendent, presented pen­ Thomas S. Champness of the Com­ a former school principal near Santee, cils to members of the Sunday school. munity Orthodox Presbyterian Church who is now under the care of the "The whole affair proved to be a of Garfield, N. J., as the gospel Presbytery with a view to entering the grand success," according to our re­ preacher. The Rev. Cromwell G. Ros­ ministry, was given the opportunity porter, Samuel Parker. kamp is the newly installed pastor of by the Spring meeting to spend his the Baltimore congregation. summer working in connection with Westminster Seminary Scheduled for a five-day "preach­ the Second Portland Church. The ing - teaching - reaching mission" momentum generated in that church Trustees Meet from November 13-17 at the Beverly by the good work of Mr. Wickholm H IRTEEN of the Trustees of Orthodox Presbyterian Church of Los had caused that congregation to hope T Westminster Theological Semi­ Angeles is the Rev. Henry W. Coray. that Mr. Wickholm could stay on and nary were present for the regular fall Mr. Coray is a home missionary of the keep things rolling. meeting of the Board on October 25 Presbytery of California and stated The Presbytery, on the other hand, under the chairmanship of the Rev. supply pastor of the Sunnyvale Ortho­ was apprehensive that Mr. Wickholm John P. Clelland, president. The meet­ dox Presbyterian Church. The Rev. had thus been prevented from enter­ ing was particularly urgent, of course, Arthur O. Olson is the pastor of the ing seminary this year. The arrival on because of the sudden death two days Beverly Church.

October, 1960 159 TWENTY-FIFTH ANNIVERSARY OFFER

...... YOUNG PEOPLE of MACHEN LEAGUES, YOUTH GROUPS or SUNDAY SCHOOL CLASSES:

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• for equipment for your meeting-place • for books for your library • for tracts for neighborhood calling • for missions - or whatever your need may be

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~ For every NEW subscription (including former subscriptions that have lapsed) that you obtain by January 10~ 1961 -

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• Single subscriptions $3.00 per year; keep SOc for yourselves • Club subscriptions $2.50 per year; keep SOc for yourselves (Club subscriptions may be added to your present church Club or a new Club may be started with 10 or more. Check with your Club secretary who will be glad to handle details and forward the names and money to our office. If your church doesn't now have a Club secretary, help us find one!)

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