The Magazine of the Trinitarian Bible Society

2016 Founded in 1831 for the circulation of Protestant or uncorrupted versions of the Word of God Officers and Executive Staff of the Society

President: General Secretary/Chief Executive: The Rev. G. Hamstra, B.A., M.Div. Mr. D. P. Rowland* Vice-Presidents: Resources Director: Mr. G. Bidston Mr. D. J. Broome, C.P.F.A. Mr. G. den Boer Editorial Director: The Rev. B. G. Felce, M.A. Mr. P. J. D. Hopkins, M.A. Oxf. The Rev. Dr. T. Gilmer Mr. D. Oldham Operations Manager: Pastor J. Stehouwer Mr. P. A. Blows, B.A. (Hons.) The Rev. M. Stuart Mr. D. Vermeulen The Rev. M. H. Watts Senior Editorial Consultant: Chairman: Mr. L.Brigden, B.Sc.(Hons.), M.Sc., B.A.(Hons.) Mr. G. D. Buss, B.Ed.* Editorial Consultants: Vice-Chairman: Mr. G. W. Anderson, B.A. The Rev. J. P. Thackway* Mr. A. Hembd, M.A.C.S. J. Cammenga, B.A., M.A., Ph.D. Treasurer: G. Fox, B.A. (Hons.), D.D., Ph.D. Pastor R. A. Clarke, B.Sc., F.C.A.* The Rev. W. M. Patterson Jnr., B.A., D.D. Mr. A. C. Thomson, M.A. Cantab. Members: Mr. G. R. Burrows, M.A.* * These are the serving members of the The Rev. R. G. Ferguson, B.A.* General Committee. The Rev. J. L. Goldby, M.A.* Pastor M. J. Harley* Mr. A. K. Jones, LLB. (Hons.) Solicitor* The Rev. E. T. Kirkland, B.A., Dipl.Th.* The Rev. A. J. Lewis* The Rev. D. Silversides, M.A.* Mr. M. A. Vogan, B.A. (Hons.), M.A., M.Litt.* Issue Number: 617 – OcOctobertot ber to DecemberDecemmber 201620166 4XDUWHUO\ 5HFRUG

Issue Number: 617 © Trinitarian Bible Society 2016 All rights reserved. The Trinitarian Bible Society permits October to reprinting of articles found in our printed and online Quarterly Record provided that prior permission is December 2016 obtained and proper acknowledgement is made.

Sabbath School Scripture Learning Prize Fund 2 Open Day – advance notice 3 From the General Secretary 3 Mary…Rabboni 7 Editorial Director's Report 10 Psalm 104.4 17 The Treasury 22 The Reformation: Returning to the Word of God (a preview) 24 Order forms 31 Telephoning the Society 31 Compact Westminster Reference Bibles 32 Membership Renewal 36 The Word of God among all Nations 37

Quarterly Record Production Team Editorial Director: P. J. D. Hopkins Editorial Manager: J. D. Arnold Senior Editor: Dr. D. E. Anderson Editorial Consultant: C. P. Hallihan Graphic Designers: P. Hughes, S. Talas Circulation: J. M. Wilson

1 TrinitarianTrinnitarian BibleBiblle SoSSocietyocicietety – QuQQuarterlyuaarrtteerlrly RecordReRecocordrd Sabbath School Scripture Learning Prize Fund

he Trinitarian Bible Society seeks to leather reference Bibles are awarded. Those encourage and enable children in who have memorised the first set of verses Tthe study of God’s Word by means may, upon reaching eleven years, receive of the Sabbath School Scripture Learning the reference Bible if they learn the verses Prize Fund. This fund was commenced a for the higher age group. The Society would number of years ago to encourage English- encourage all parents, office bearers and speaking children and young people other supporters of the Society who to memorise the Holy Scriptures seek the spiritual well-being of from the Authorised (King James) the young, whether or not the Version of the Bible. Under the children under their charge rules of the Fund, we provide attend a Sabbath school, to a list of verses to be memorised request further details of the by children in two age groups: those Sabbath School Scripture Learning Prize ten years of age and under, and those aged Fund from the Grants Department eleven to fifteen. To the younger children ([email protected]) at our London who memorise their verses, we present headquarters, or from any of the Society’s suitably inscribed bonded leather text Bibles Branches (for which the contact details are with gilt page edges. For the older children, on the inside back cover of this Quarterly suitably inscribed, gilt-edged, bonded Record).

2 Issue Number: 617 – October to December 2016 From the Desk of the General Secretary

n this edition of the Quarterly Record The Protestant Reformation of the will be found, among the many other sixteenth century was a mighty work Iitems of interest, a warm devotional of God that bore fruit in many of the article by our esteemed President, the nations of Europe. It was a great revival Rev. G. Hamstra; a fascinating study of God that not only had a tremendous, on Psalm 104.4 by our Senior Editorial powerful and most beneficial impact Consultant, Larry Brigden; an encouraging upon the peoples of the time, but it was account by the Editorial Director, Philip a movement that under the blessing Hopkins, of a recent visit to Turkey and God has had an enduring influence on India; and an interesting account of the true Biblical Christianity throughout the times leading up to the sixteenth century world. Today, the word ‘reformed’ has Protestant Reformation by Peter Hallihan, lost much of its original significance and one of our Editorial Consultants, which covers a very broad range of meanings is the first part of a booklet entitledThe and has little true import of a definitive Reformation: Returning to the Word of nature. Historically, it related to what God, to be published by the Society in was deemed to be Biblical Christianity. 2017 as part of our contribution to the Apostolic Christianity was Biblical commemoration of the 500th anniversary Christianity, Christianity that was squarely of the Reformation. Further details of based upon the Word of God. However, the Society’s proposed publications in the post apostolic era the professing in connection with the Reformation church of Christ became more and more anniversary will be found on pages 32–35. unbiblical, and thus it became deformed

ADVANCE NOTICE Open Day The Society will be holding an Open Day at our London premises, William Tyndale House, on 11 March 2017. Further information will be coming soon. Please put this date in your diary and make plans to join us.

3 Trinitarian Bible Society – Quarterly Record as it increasingly rejected the sole Lord was pleased to manifest His glory authority of God speaking in the divinely and work mightily in His church, and to inspired and wholly authoritative Holy commence the work of re-establishing Scriptures, and departed from the pure His church on the Holy Scriptures. These truth of them. In the centuries prior to were times of spiritual refreshing from the the Reformation, the professing church Lord. The glorious and wondrous truths was to a very great extent without the of Biblical Christianity were again brought Divine Rule of Holy Scriptures, and hence to light. Now, in the Lord’s goodness, the most of the professing church, and the tide was turning. The church that for so multitude of men and women held under long had been without the Bible, and its baneful influence, was during this time hence to a great extent deformed, was period also to a great extent unbiblical once again to have the perfect Law of the and deformed, and hence in need of Lord (cf. Psalm19.7) and be reformed. reform. It would probably be true to state that The Reformation period was a time when there has not been a time when there had the Lord was pleased wondrously to been a greater outpouring of the Spirit of revive His work and reform His church. God since the days of the Apostles than Importantly, and very notably, it was at there was in Europe during the sixteenth this very moment in time that there was century. The Bible had been rediscovered in the good providence of Almighty God and was now being translated, printed, the widespread rediscovery of the divine distributed, avidly read, meditated upon, origin, authority and power of the Holy prayed over and preached. Importantly, Scriptures. Once again, as in the times the Holy Spirit was once again powerfully of the apostles, the Word of God was to and demonstrably at work accompanying become central to true Christian thought, His Word (both preached and read) worship, doctrine and practice. The with power. The Word of God was again

The General Secretary with the main Simte translator and the Editorial Director during their recent visit to India

46 Issue Number: 617 – October to December 2016 before the people and influencing to a and schools began to appreciate the significant extent the life and witness spiritual value of this Divine Volume. both of individual Christians and of the In time many became subject to the Christian church. authority of God in His Word, and delighted in the compelling truths of During this extended period of time, Holy Scripture, and sought to distribute multitudes of men, women and children it to others also that they might with the throughout the many countries of Europe blessing of God come under its divine came under the mighty and convicting influence. work of the Holy Spirit. The Word of God literally seized hold of their minds and Truly these were wonderful days. In souls, causing them to seek with great many parts of Europe, men, women and earnestness the forgiveness and pardon children were no longer being taught the of their sins through the blood and myths and superstitions of man, but were righteousness of the Lord Jesus Christ. hearing the voice of the Almighty God Persuaded to flee from the wrath to come speaking in their own tongues as they by the mighty power of God attending heard the Bible—translated into their the reading and preaching of the Word of languages—preached and read with the God, they could find no rest, comfort or unction, authority and power of the Holy consolation until they found true refuge, Spirit. This was a time when multitudes peace and spiritual joy in Christ. This they became the subjects of the miraculous found only in the sovereign mercy and converting work of God. Many were grace of Almighty God revealed to them dramatically changed. The professing in the glorious person of the Redeemer, church of Christ that had become so made known to them in the living and greatly deformed through the absence authoritative Holy Scriptures. By the of the Holy Scriptures in its midst for so multiplying of such remarkable and many centuries, was now—by the grace miraculous demonstrations of the power and power of God—being reformed by and authority of God speaking (and the Word and Spirit of God in its midst; giving light and understanding to the and the people feasting upon the Word mind and heart) through His Word, the of God were growing in grace and in the Bible was by common consent brought knowledge of their Lord and Saviour, back and restored to its rightful place, Jesus Christ (2 Peter 3.18), prayerfully not only in the minds, hearts and lives seeking to have their individual lives of men and women, but also its rightful reformed by having the Bible as a lamp place in the church, in the state and in to their feet, and a light unto their path society at large. For centuries the Bible, (see Psalm 119.105). as the living, powerful and authoritative Word of God, had been sinfully excluded At the same time, the church, emerging from virtually every sector of society; now from its deformed state, was casting it had returned—at least in certain lands, off the vast array of sinful and unbiblical cities and towns—and the great work of beliefs and practises that it had accrued to reformation was underway. itself over the many centuries of spiritual darkness and was now seeking to have its Indeed, not only did private Christians doctrine and practice reformed to wholly desire to hear the Voice of their Almighty conform with the Truth of God as revealed God and Redeemer speaking to them in the Holy Scriptures. Desiring now to in their native tongues, but even kings, show its obedience and true subjection princes, parliaments, universities, colleges to the Lord Jesus Christ—its one King

5 Trinitarian Bible Society – Quarterly Record and Head—the church took heed to the evils causing us to lose our watchfulness command, ‘Go ye therefore, and teach and our convictions of the divine origin, all nations, baptizing them in the name power and authority of God in His of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Word? Or are our churches becoming Holy Ghost: teaching them to observe all (by the grace of God) more and more things whatsoever I have commanded reformed by our being Scripturally alert you’ (Matthew 28.19–20), seriously and watchful, diligently and prayerfully reflecting upon and applying practically seeking the mind of God in His Word, the injunction of the prophet, ‘To the law asking again and again the all-important and to the testimony: if they speak not question ‘What saith the Lord?’ and according to this word, it is because there continuously seeking to apply the lessons is no light in them’ (Isaiah 8.20). They were that we learn from the divinely inspired finding the contrast it aptly painted of Holy Scriptures to our own situations, what was a deformed church and what whatever the cost of our adherence to the was a reformed church. Word of God and its Divine Author may be.

The Bible was, then, the Book of the There is also a very personal application. Reformation. Under God, it was the Book This Book that was so wonderfully and that reformed the church in the sixteenth greatly used at the time of the sixteenth century, and made the professing church century Protestant Reformation in the of Christ once again a more Biblical conversion of thousands is the Holy Bible church. However, this is not merely a that we—you and I—in our day have in matter of historic interest. It has a very our hands and homes. It is the Book that direct and profound relevance and we also need to cherish, to love, to esteem application to us and our churches today. and to obey as the very Word of God, lest Are our churches today actively being we should ourselves also be characterised reformed by the Word of God, or are as deformed—unbiblical—unchristian we—like the professing pre-reformation even though we should be very familiar church—foolishly happy with the with the Bible and even closely identify distinctive witness, history, and traditions with those who support the prayerful of our churches and unwilling to bring distribution of the Holy Scriptures for them, and every doctrine and practice the spiritual benefit of others! How adhered to in them, to the infallible, inestimably terrible it will be for any inscrutable, unerring and searching light reader of this magazine if they were to live of the Word of God? In other words, as and die with the Bible before them, but the professing church of Christ in this never be reformed by its revelation of world—including our own individual mercy and grace in the Lord Jesus Christ churches—can and will never be free and be truly converted! from the rage and malice of Satan and the many and powerful influences for May the Lord grant that we may each be evil that are abroad in the dark and evil truly reformed and have a true love to world that surround us (and which will the Word of God and to its Divine Author, ever endeavour to infiltrate and harm the and be saying with the Psalmist, ‘Through church of God), are our churches in the thy precepts I get understanding: twenty-first century becoming more and therefore I hate every false way’ more deformed by worldliness and other (Psalm 119.104).

6 MARY…Issue Number: 617 – October to December 2016 RABBONI by the Rev G. Hamstra esus saith unto her, President of the Society JMary. She turned t dawn a company of devoted herself, and saith unto women went to the tomb in the AGarden of Joseph. Among them him, Rabboni; which is was Mary Magdalene; she seemed to have reached the holy tomb first. She noticed that to say, Master. the huge stone at the entrance had been John 20.16 rolled away. To her great amazement she discovered the tomb to be empty. Failing to understand the message of the empty tomb, she hastily concluded that the body of her Lord had been removed. Immediately

A walled garden in Jerusalem

7 Trinitarian Bible Society – Quarterly Record Mary returned to the lodgings of Peter and Lord and Saviour would somehow return John and told them: ‘They have taken away to her. Mary’s relationship to Christ was of the Lord out of the sepulchre, and we know such a nature that she could not possibly not where they have laid him’ (John 20.2). live without Him. Salvation is inconceivable Her startling news made the two disciples apart from being united to a living Christ. go at once. John outran Peter; he arrived first Wherever that union exists between the and merely glanced in. When Peter reached Saviour and the sinner, it can never be the tomb, he entered. With an intimate broken. interest he noticed the linen clothes in their Mary needed a living Saviour and was original folds lying in one place and the seeking a lifeless One. If the sorrowing Mary napkin that was about the Saviour’s head had found what she sought, she would in another. Presently John followed; what not have been satisfied. If by God’s grace, he observed left a familiar impression. It like Mary, we have known the burden of reminded him of his Master. He did not utter our sin and guilt, of our hopelessness and a word, yet in his heart he believed. Filled helplessness, and if Christ has become our with amazement the two disciples returned peace and pardon, then we can no longer to their lodgings. live without Him. An absent Christ must and Mary of Magdala remained in the garden. will return. She could not go home; her pure and simple Giving way to her sorrow Mary wept loud faith compelled her to stay. In the awareness and unrestrained. As she wept she looked of an ever-present need she continued to into the tomb and saw two angels in white seek the One on Whom she so uniquely sitting where Jesus had lain. The tomb in depended. He died on the cross, He was Joseph’s garden was no longer a house of buried in the tomb, and apparently His body death. It had become a portal of heaven. had been removed. Yet Mary could not be Christ had conquered death, and brought persuaded by this threefold witness that life and immortality to light. The heavenly her life would be forever without Him. Deep messengers filled the tomb with a sense of within her heart was a higher testimony: her mystery and celestial glory. Their presence spoke louder than the empty tomb of the wonder of the Saviour’s resurrection.

88 Issue Number: 617 – October to December 2016

The appearance of angels made very little whom she referred. Although she was impression on Mary, an indication how addressing ‘the gardener’, her confidence intensely her mind was preoccupied with was so far restored that she trusted that He the one desire to find her Lord. In her search understood she was speaking of the Lord. for Him, she would have turned away So her heart was prepared for the personal, from the angelic messengers had they not intimate revelation. Jesus said unto sympathetically addressed her with their her, ‘Mary’ (v. 16). Instantaneously she wondering question, ‘Woman, why weepest responded, ‘Rabboni’. One moment and thou?’ (v. 13). In Mary’s answer, speaking one word brought the wondrous change. about Jesus as ‘my Lord’, she showed once The wounded, weeping, hopeless heart more the deep-rooted appreciation of was now filled with joy in believing. The her relationship to Christ. In spite of all her recognition of His nearness made the misconceptions, she still owned Him as her difference. His absence caused the grief; His Lord. presence brought the joy. The brevity of the As if by intuition, Mary now turned herself communication, one word, one name, made around and saw, not recognising Him, Jesus it no less precious. What was experienced standing near. His appearance here was and felt in the heart can never be fully no coincidence. When all other means of communicated in human language. comfort were in vain, He came—in love—to Undoubtedly the tone of His voice brought seek the one who sought but could not to her memory the blessedness and joy of find Him. His first appearance after the that day when He had commanded the resurrection was to a burdened, weeping seven demons to come out of her. It was the woman. He first appears where He is needed voice that had become so familiar to her. most. How good it is to know that the Since she was delivered from her bondage exalted, the risen Saviour remains the same He had so often spoken to teach, guide and in His mercy, sympathy and compassion. He comfort her. The way in which He uttered shows the same personal tender mercies in her name immediately convinced her that the state of His exaltation as in the days of their relationship was and would remain His humiliation. unchanged. Her response, the Aramaic word The Lord did approach the sorrowing Mary Rabboni, has an emotional value that is lost in a wise and tender way. She had not in a literal translation such as my Lord or my recognised Him. Even after He spoke, she Master. It is the personal connotation that still supposed Him to be the gardener. His gave this special, appropriate character to first words, ‘Woman, why weepest thou? the response. He was as ever her Lord and whom seekest thou?’ (v. 15), were similar Saviour. to the angels’ question. Yet coming from Jesus Christ ascended. He left a promise to the voice of Him who knows the wounded the believers of all ages: ‘ye shall see me, heart in perfection, they made a deeper because I go to the Father’ (John 16.16). impression on Mary’s mind. The evidence is Seeing Christ by the eye of faith is still a in her response: ‘Sir, if thou have borne him possibility, and will be a reality to every hence, tell me where thou hast laid him, and contrite heart that longs for Him today. How I will take him away’. Three times she alluded precious is the comfort of His love! to the Lord as ‘Him’ without indicating to

9 TrinitarianTrinitarian BibleBible SocietSocietyy – QuarterQuarterlyly RecordRecord Editorial Director's Report by Philip J. D. Hopkins

Introduction n Psalm 119 three times the Psalmist directly expresses his great love for God’s Word: ‘I love thy testimonies’ (v. 119), ‘Therefore I love thy commandments above gold; yea, Iabove fine gold’ (v. 127), and ‘consider how I love thy precepts’ (v. 159)’. I wonder how much you and I love the Scriptures of Truth. Doubtless we ought to love it more than we do. We can be thankful, though, that evidence of the demand for faithful editions of God’s Word in different languages all over the world seems to grow each year, and this is reflected in the increasing number of Bible translation and revision projects in which the Society is engaged. During the month of September we were pleased to welcome into the department Miss Natalie Christie, who took up her role as Editor, reporting to the Editorial Manager, Jonathan Arnold. God willing, Natalie will be involved in many areas of editorial activity, including working on the calendars alongside Darren Cadapen, Editorial Assistant, who due to pastoral duties has reduced his work for the Society to two days per week. We are thankful that the Lord continues to bless us with capable and talented staff. The bulk of this report covers a trip made in July 2016 by the General Secretary and the Editorial Director first to Turkey and then on to India. Travelling for face-to-face meetings with Bible translators and revisers remains the best way to appreciate the need for a faithful Bible in the languages in which they are labouring and to gain a good understanding of the church, social, political and geographical backgrounds to their work.

than he had for a few years: a remarkable „ Visit to Istanbul, answer to prayer given his very poor health Turkey, 4–5 July 2016 only last December. In the first session we were also joined by the Turkish Bible The General Secretary and Editorial Director typesetter, who is doing a good job of flew out to Istanbul on Monday 4 July, setting the Bible. arriving in the late evening. We then met with our Turkish Bible translator for two In the Lord’s goodness, our Turkish Bible sessions on Tuesday 5 July. We were pleased translator has completed his third review of to find that he was looking much better the Old Testament, and the final draft text

10 Issue Number: 617 – October to December 2016 has recently been submitted to one of our Editorial Consultants for thorough review. „ Visit to Imphal, The translator has now turned his attention India, 6–13 July 2016 to reviewing the New Testament. Introduction On this visit we agreed on a figure of 5,000 copies of the Turkish Bible to be printed in Imphal is the capital city of the Indian due course, which will have to been done state of Manipur. It is set in a large plain in Turkey due to import restrictions. We between mountains and, being in the trust that our supporters will prayerfully midst of the monsoon season, was very remember the needs of this project. God warm and humid. Our hotel rooms had willing, once we are able to print these good air-conditioning units, for which we Bibles, a launch event will take place at a were very thankful. The main departure suitable venue in Istanbul. from modern life was the lack of a good

Istanbul

Internet connection, with only basic Wi-Fi „ Journey from being available in the hotel lobby. One Istanbul, Turkey, to other inconvenience was the close attention of biting mosquitoes. These small insects Imphal, India seemed impervious to strong repellent. We then flew out from Istanbul Atatürk The possibility of incurring an infected International Airport on the evening of bite meant we had to take malarial tablets Tuesday 5 July—exactly one week after before, during and after our visit. In every three terrorist suicide bombers blew other respect the hotel in Imphal was more themselves up at this airport, which was than adequate and served as an excellent a sobering reminder of our need for the base from which to work; all of our meetings Lord’s safety in travelling. After a six-hour were held in a meeting house in its pleasant layover in Delhi Airport we flew to Imphal grounds. in the far east of India, unexpectedly flying We were made most welcome by the via Guwahati, the largest city of the state individuals and groups with whom we of Assam. The city is situated on the south met during the course of our week-long bank of the River Brahmaputra, which visit, and in the Lord’s goodness we had had flooded vast swathes of land along its a very encouraging time. The desire and course. enthusiasm for a faithful edition of God’s

11 Trinitarian Bible Society – Quarterly Record

Busy street in Imphal

Word among the various tribes with whom of India, Myanmar and Bangladesh. The we met was heart-warming. A number great majority profess Christianity. of the tribes do not have a Bible or a New In November 2014 our General Secretary Testament in their own tongue; some attended the Thanksgiving Service held have Scriptures, but often these are poorly near Imphal for the launch of the Society’s translated from a Critical-Text-based edition Thadou New Testament. Since that visit of the English Bible such as Today’s English our main Thadou contact has assembled Version or the Revised Standard Version. We a team of six men to work with him on were, in the end, quite overwhelmed with the preparation of the Old Testament text. the demand for the Society to help some They are using as a basis an unpublished of the many tribes of Manipur produce translation made by an earlier TBS accurate versions of the Scriptures in their translation committee (most of whom heart languages. have passed away) using the English Authorised (King James) Version as their Thadou (an existing TBS project) basis. In revising this earlier work they are Our first meeting, lasting most of the day, making reference to the underlying Hebrew was on Thursday 7 July with the Thadou Masoretic text. We were able to advise them Bible translation committee. The population on a number of general and specific points of Thadous in Manipur is approximately concerning their endeavours. 200,000, making it one of the largest tribes in this small Indian state. There are a further Kom (a new TBS project) 100,000 Thadous spread across other parts Our first meeting on Friday 8 July was with a pastor who had been in touch with the Editorial Director for several months prior to the visit. He is from the Kom tribe, which number about 25,000, of which almost 100 per cent would consider themselves Christian. They are part of a tribal group known as ‘Kom Rem’ which includes five tribes: the Kom as the main tribe, and four subtribes collectively known as ‘Rem’ and numbering 10,000. The languages of these subtribes have 70 per cent homology with Kom. The Kom Rem tribes currently only have a Thadou Bible translation conference Bible published by the Bible Society of India

12 Issue Number: 617 – October to December 2016 which is a translation of the Good News Bible (Today’s English Version). Our contact has a strong desire to see a better Kom Bible translated from the Authorised (King James) Version. After discussion, we asked him to go back to his tribal group to try and assemble a team who could work with him Meitei Mayek Script to prepare an accurate version of the Kom Bible. It should be noted that, like several pastors and preachers we met with, in public has a great burden to reach the majority worship services he translates aloud into his Meitei people with the Gospel. The Meiteis’ tribal language as he reads the English Bible! situation is rather complex as an official Imagine having to do that! complete change in their alphabet has recently been introduced. From 2013 it has We had a second meeting on Wednesday been mandatory for children up to eighth 13 July with our main Kom contact, who grade to learn Meitei using the indigenous brought with him three other men: two Meitei Mayek Script, which differs very pastors and the chairman of a Baptist greatly from the previous Bengali Script. fellowship. We then found out more about However, both of the current Meitei Bibles each of them, their church and tribal are published in the Bengali script, and thus situation, and sought to advise them on cannot be read by young people under how they could carry out a translation from the age of sixteen, leaving young people the Authorised Version with reference to without the ability to read the published the underlying Hebrew and Greek texts. Bibles. On the other hand, those over sixteen We explained that our main financial years of age generally cannot read the commitment to any project like this is to Meitei Mayek Script. What Christian parents take responsibility for the typesetting, therefore have to do for their children so printing and shipping costs (with or without that they can read the Bible is to make their the help of partners) and to present the own conversion of certain Bible passages published Bible free of charge for careful into Roman Script. What a contrast to the onward circulation by trusted distributors. blessings English-speaking peoples enjoy, Meitei/Manipuri with a settled alphabet and script for hundreds of years. Our second meeting on Friday 8 July was with three men who were from the Meitei Simte (an existing TBS project) people. The Meiteis are the largest people We then had an all-day meeting on group in Manipur, numbering about Saturday 9 July with ten members of the 1.2 million. They live mainly in the large plain Simte Bible Revision Committee—the area, which includes Imphal, whilst the tribal Simte project being the main reason for our peoples are mainly found living in the hills. visit as we were invited to Manipur by the This is not the only contrast: the majority Simte Committee. We explored with them of the Meiteis follow the Hindu religion the history of this project which began in (although some are Muslims and a few are 1965! In 1973 the Society published the Christian), whilst the great majority of the Simte New Testament and then in 1992 the tribal peoples profess Christianity. complete Bible. We were encouraged to The Meitei delegation was introduced find that the TBS Simte Bible is still highly to us by our main Thadou contact, who valued even though it was only printed

13 Trinitarian Bible Society – Quarterly Record were at last present in person with them. Later we were presented with Simte tribal shawls and also greeted warmly by a number of individuals, including several who showed us their TBS Simte New Testament or Bible. It was a special joy to meet with the two original translators of the Simte Bible, both now in their late eighties but still full of mental vigour and able to recall corresponding with the late Terence Simte Bible revision committee H. Brown. The countryside on the drive between once more than twenty years ago, with the Imphal and Churchandpur was fascinating. stock exhausted within a few years. Since We observed the occasional yoke of oxen 2007, the Society has been working with ploughing a rice field, various birds flying the Simte Bible Revision Committee to above or fishing in the paddy fields, and a prepare an improved edition of the original range of very labour-intensive farming and Bible. light industrial practices. We also passed the buildings of a leper colony. We didn’t One of the highlights of our trip to take any photos as it was the Lord’s Day, Manipur was the opportunity to attend but we thought how good it would be for a a service in a Simte church in the town of professional photographer to accompany us Churchandpur. Early on the Lord's Day, another time to capture something of the 10 July, we commenced a two-hour road land, and the situations in which the local journey from Imphal to Churchandpur for people live and work. a special service at which both of us were due to preach. We were warmly welcomed On Monday 11 July we then had a second by the senior pastor and then accorded meeting with some of the Simte Bible the best seats in the church. By way of Revision Committee to go through a large preface to our sermons we expressed to number of specific questions they had the congregation of some four hundred about how to translate certain words and persons our desire to be able to give them phrases. We were able to give them advice a new edition of the Simte Bible in larger and answers accordingly. print and free of charge; this news was enthusiastically received. There was also Chothe (potentially a new TBS genuine appreciation that, after giving project) them the New Testament in 1973 and the We were still in process of saying goodbye Bible in 1992, the Trinitarian Bible Society to the five Simte brethren when two senior

Rice fields near Imphal (photo courtesy of Ginminthang Shoute) 11414144 Issue Number: 617 – October to December 2016 representatives from the Chothe tribe arrived. They were so keen to speak with us that we had a job to restrain them from starting until all the members of the Simte tribe had left the meeting room! Their story was rather sad, but also encouraging as they had a great desire to have a faithful Chothe Bible. One of the two men had begun to translate the first Chothe Scriptures from the Authorised Version. However, after he had Vaiphei Bible revision conference spent several years translating Matthew to Acts, the Bible Society of India (BSI) asked him to start again and to use the Vaiphei Bible Revision Committee. Over the Today’s English Version (TEV). Thus he then past two years the Society has worked with spent seven years translating the New one of the Committee members to carry Testament from the TEV into Chothe. This out a complete review of the 1983 Bible. was published in 2014 by the BSI. However, This evaluation showed that there were a he and others are not happy with the result. few places which needed to be more fully They know that it is missing key verses, conformed to the Received Text, but that phrases and words, and they do not want generally the quality of the translation was to translate the Old Testament from the TEV. otherwise good. Again we encountered a They would like a complete Chothe Bible clear desire for a better Bible and an evident translated from the Authorised Version. commitment to the Society’s principles. After suitable questions were raised, we then After our final meeting on Wednesday explained to them the Society’s principles, morning, we set off for Imphal Airport and outlined what they would need to do for our return flight to Delhi, again via before we could work together and how Guwahati. After a short night in Delhi, we they would need to go about the translation flew back to London, arriving at London work. Since our useful discussion with them Heathrow Airport at about midday on in Imphal they have had various meetings Thursday 14 July. and, at the time of writing, they have made a formal submission to work with us which is under consideration. The Chothe tribe is „ Reflections small—only numbering 5,000—and are The work of various organisations in India mostly poor subsistence farmers. which produce Bibles that are translated from inferior sources was not supported or Vaiphei (an existing TBS project) liked by many of the Indian people that we The Vaiphei are one of the larger tribes; met. Rather, there was a thirst from these about 65,000 speak the Vaiphei dialect, the different groups for a better Bible based great majority of them professing Protestant on the Received Text (principally for them Christians. In 1983 the Society published this means an edition translated from the the complete Vaiphei Bible, but only one Authorised Version as there are rarely the printing was made and it has thus been personnel with sufficient Hebrew and Greek out of print for many years. On Tuesday skills to undertake translation directly from 12 July we met with eight members of the the original languages; in these instances 15 Trinitarian Bible Society – Quarterly Record profess to be Protestant Christians. At each meeting we asked what proportion of those professing Christianity in each tribe were thought to be genuinely converted regular churchgoers and what proportion were merely nominal Christians. Typically the answer was that 40 per cent to 60 per cent of those professing faith were genuine practising Christians. That means that for a tribe of 20,000 roughly 10,000 would be committed Christians, which is a considerable number— even some European countries don’t have that number of conservative Protestant Christians in their population. In Manipur and the surrounding Indian states there are probably more than twenty tribes, largely Christianised; and of these the Society now has a definite project the Society checks to ensure conformity in four languages, and potential with the Greek and Hebrew texts). Their projects in three or four more. Following our desire for the Society to help them prepare decades-long involvement with a few of and publish a good Bible according to our the tribal languages it is an area where the principles was immensely encouraging. Society’s principles are increasingly known Some may ask, why do these small tribal and appreciated, and an area where the groups, sometimes numbering only 5,000, Society needs to develop its work. need their own Bible? The answer in the first place is that, although many are taught „ Conclusion English in schools, it is their tribal tongue As we consider the demand for faithful which is their heart language and the one Bibles based on the Hebrew Masoretic and they use every day in the home, at work, Greek Received Texts, our mind is often and in the church as they almost exclusively drawn to the Saviour’s words in Matthew worship with their own tribal group. 9.37, ‘Then saith he unto his disciples, The Additionally, some do not continue to use harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers English after leaving school (although the are few’. The only response, in view of the better educated retain a good knowledge Society’s often inadequate resources to of the language). The tribal peoples also meet the need for accurate Scriptures, is only learn as much of the state language that of the Lord to His own statement in the (Manipuri) as is needed to trade with other next verse: ‘Pray ye therefore the Lord of the tribal groups and the Meitei people. harvest, that he will send forth labourers Secondly, the vast majority of the into his harvest’ (Matthew 9.38). May God population of each tribal group we met hear our prayers!

16 IssueIsssue NuNumber:umbm er: 6161717 – OcOOctobertober to DecemberDecember 20162016

by L. Brigden Senior Editorial Consultant

Introduction also mean ‘his messengers’, and the could also ,רוחות ,’Hebrew for ‘spirits his article considers the mean ‘winds’. While the Authorised remarkable difference between Version translators understood these Tthe translation of Psalm 104.4 in Hebrew words in Psalm 104.4 to mean the Authorised (King James) Version angels and spirits, most modern versions and its translation in most modern understand them as messengers and English versions. In the Authorised winds. So which is correct? Version the verse appears thus: In order to answer this question we Who maketh his angels spirits; first consider the verse itself, then the his ministers a flaming fire context of the verse, and finally the important principle of the analogy of Most modern versions make no Scripture. mention of either ‘angels’ or ‘spirits’, but only of ‘messengers’ and ‘winds’. The The Verse Itself New International Version, for example, translates the verse: The Hebrew of Psalm 104.4 is as follows: עֹ ֶשה ַמ ְל ָא ָ כיו רּוחֹות ,He makes winds his messengers flames of fire his servants. ! ְמ ָשְר ָתיו ֵ אש ֵ ֹלהט The difference in the translation is principally due to the fact that the If we translate literally and keep to could the order in which the Hebrew words ,מלאכיו ,’Hebrew for ‘his angels 17 Trinitarian Bible Society – Quarterly Record to mean His the word order unless constrained by ַמ ְל ָא ָ כיו appear, taking spirits, we obtain: the context or some other pressing רּוחֹות angels and consideration to do so. But no such (he) making his angels spirits; constraint is evident in this case. his ministers a flaming fire So why did the NIV translators invert This agrees with the Authorised Version the order of the words? The surprising translation. answer is that it was actually due to their decision to translate the Hebrew, as His messengers rather than , ַמ ְל ָא ָ כיו It may be observed in this translation as רּוחֹות that His angels and His ministers are His angels, and to translate the subjects in the verse and spirits and winds rather than spirits. Once this a flaming fire are predicates. Of course, decision was made the close parallelism given the parallelism of the verse, His of the verse is broken up, there being minister in the second part of the verse now two subjects (winds and fire) and is most likely simply a reference to the not just one (angels), and the focus angels in the first part under another of the verse—and consequently its name, so that there is actually only one meaning—is shifted. It is no longer a subject. statement about the nature of angels, but now speaks of winds and fire and On the other hand, if we translate using how those elemental forces are servants messengers and winds we obtain: of the LORD. Thus, winds and fire have become the subjects of the verse and (he) making his messengers winds; His messengers and His servants the his ministers a flaming fire predicates. The NIV translators simply inverted the word order in their English This is closer to the NIV rendering of translation to reflect this idea. the verse, except that the NIV inverts the order of the words and places winds The inversion of the word order in before His messengers and flames of fire the NIV, contrary to the word order before His servants: of the Hebrew, is thus an inevitable consequence of the decision to translate as רּוחֹות as His messengers and ַמ ְל ָא ָ כיו ,He makes winds his messengers flames of fire his servants winds. This mismatch with the word order of the Hebrew ought to have This inversion makes winds and flames alerted the NIV translators that there of fire the subjects and His messengers was a problem with their translation and His servants predicates, contrary to choice. Why did they not consider the the order of the Hebrew words. While alternative translation using angels it is true that Hebrew is not so bound and winds since it was free from any by word order as English, it is also such problem? Apparently because true that when translating the Hebrew they were quite sure that the verse was we are not warranted to depart from not speaking of angels, but rather of 18 Issue Number: 617 – October to December 2016 winds and fire, and this preconception that the verse did not refer to angels, regarding the meaning of the verse but rather to inanimate, material led them to ignore the evidence of the substances, winds and fire, they normal reading of the Hebrew. naturally felt that ministers might be Another problem with the NIV somewhat too elevated a title and so translation is its use of the plural flames settled on the lesser term servants. of fire, even though the Hebrew is in In doing so they were not faithful to fact singular, a flaming fire. Why did the Hebrew, but were simply trying to the NIV translators arbitrarily, and cover over a problem that their own contrary to the Hebrew, translate with misunderstanding of the verse had the plural? Well, they were to some produced. degree compelled to do so because once they had inverted the word order of the On the other hand, angels are second part of the verse, and what was elsewhere in Scripture explicitly the subject now became the predicate; it said to be ministers of the LORD, would have looked odd to have a plural e.g. Psalm 103.21, and fire often forms a predicate, His servants, with a singular part of the description of the appearance subject, a flame of fire. We would not of angels or else is closely associated normally say a flaming fire His servants, with them. So the Authorised Version’s but rather flames of fire His servants. translation of the last part of the verse as Therefore they arbitrarily changed the singular in the Hebrew to a plural in his ministers a flaming fire their English translation. is entirely warranted and Finally, we may note a further problem unencumbered with any difficulty. in the NIV with its use of the word servants, rather than ministers, in the last part of the verse: Thus the Authorised Version translation of Psalm 104.4 which flames of fire his servants uses angels and spirits is clearly to be preferred as a plain and faithful translation of the Hebrew. It is a ,! ְמ ָשְר ָת יו,The Hebrew word used here is a plural participle form (with the translation free from difficulty and possessive pronominal suffix, his) of one which gives a perfectly good to minister, serve’. This sense, making a statement regarding‘ שרת the verb verb is always used of the higher order the nature of the angels, that is, that service of intelligent beings, such as they are spiritual beings rather than the Levites and priests who ministered corporeal, and that they have the nature in the Temple worship, and never of flaming fire. Other translations of the unthinking obedience of the governed by the preconception that inanimate creation. Therefore ministers the verse cannot be speaking of angels is surely the better translation. But involve themselves in numerous and since the NIV translators had decided needless difficulties. 19199 Trinitarian Bible Society – Quarterly Record The Context And how are we to explain the mention of fire in the second part of Let us now consider which translation verse 4 when the psalmist does not best fits the context. In Psalm 104 the come to the creation of the earth until psalmist praises God for His glorious verse 5? Some hold that flaming fire is works in creating and sustaining the a reference to a lightning bolt in the world (verses 1, 33–34). The psalmist heavens and not to literal fire. While begins with the creation of light and it is true that fire may apparently of the heavens (verse 2), describing sometimes be used poetically for how the LORD lays the beams of His lightning (Psalm 148.8), the particular chambers in the waters of the heavens, expression, flaming fire, is nowhere else making the clouds His chariots and used of lightning, and the addition of walking upon the wings of the wind the adjective flaming to fire certainly (verse 3). But before descending further seems to favour a literal rather than a to the glorious works of God in the poetic meaning. creation of the earth and the sustaining of it (verses 5–35), the psalmist speaks On the other hand, with the translation in verse 4 either of the angels as that that uses angels and spirits, the mention higher order of beings whom God of angels at verse 4 and the statement employs as His ministers, or else of regarding their nature come in quite winds and fire as the elemental forces naturally after speaking of the glory of and material substances that are His God and of His glorious works in the servants. heavens above, and before descending to His glorious works upon the earth Some argue that because there is a below. The angels in verse 4 are thus mention of winds in verse 3, therefore closely associated with God, just as winds in verse 4 best suits the angels also are in the previous psalm, context. But this argument is Psalm 103.20–21. superficial. In verse 3 the psalmist speaks of the LORD walking on Hence from an examination of the the wings of the wind and then, context of Psalm 104.4, there is good according to this argument, he is reason to prefer the Authorised speaking in verse 4 of making His Version’s rendering of the verse. messengers winds. But if verse 3 is to be understood metaphorically of the Consistent with the winds as divine messengers, how does verse 4 add anything to this thought? Principle of the Analogy It clearly adds nothing, but becomes a mere repetition of the last part of of Scripture verse 3. This is inconsistent with the But there is a further reason, and steady progression of thought and lack a weighty one, for preferring the of repetition seen elsewhere in the Authorised Version’s rendering of psalm. Psalm 104.4 and that is that it is 20 Issue Number: 617 – October to December 2016 consistent with the principle of the Hebrews 1.7 in the modern translations analogy of Scripture. The Apostle Paul only introduces an inconsistency quotes Psalm 104.4 in exactly the same where none need be. Clearly, such an sense as the Authorised Version in inconsistency would not have come Hebrews 1.7 as a proof text that the about except that modern translators angels are of lower dignity than the Son: generally ignored the principle of the analogy of Scripture. And of the angels he saith, Who maketh his angels spirits, Conclusion and his ministers a flame of fire. There are three solid reasons for In the Greek of this verse there is the preferring the Authorised Version’s same ambiguity as in the Hebrew rendering of Psalm 104.4 as: of Psalm 104.4: the Greek word for angels can also mean messengers and Who maketh his angels spirits; the Greek word for spirits can also his ministers a flaming fire mean winds. But most translators cannot deny that angels is the correct Firstly, it is a rendering of the verse translation here in Hebrews 1.7, since consistent with the normal reading it is quite evident from the context that of the Hebrew, from which there is Paul intends a comparison between no pressing necessity in this case to Christ and the angels (verses 5–6). depart. Secondly, the context of the Psalm favours this understanding of the Since Hebrews 1.7 cannot reasonably be verse. Thirdly, and very importantly, it translated otherwise than as: is consistent with the principle of the analogy of Scripture. The Apostle Paul Who maketh his angels spirits, quotes the verse in exactly the same and his ministers a flame of fire sense in Hebrews 1.7. and since the very same Spirit who Thus we conclude that the Authorised inspired Psalm 104.4 also inspired Version translators have correctly Hebrews 1.7, it may be pertinently rendered Psalm 104.4, in contrast to asked why translators have not taken most modern translations. Since the more heed of Hebrews 1.7 when Authorised Version translators were translating Psalm 104.4. After all, this men evidently called of God to the is clearly a case where the important work of translating the English Bible, principle of the analogy of Scripture it is not surprising that their work has should apply. Surely the lack of proved to be of a superior and enduring agreement between Psalm 104.4 and quality.

21 Trinitarian Bible Society – Quarterly Record The Treasury

By David J. Broome Resources Director

owards the end of that beautiful thy word is settled in heaven’; and again, in passage in Ecclesiastes 3, where Matthew 5.18, ‘Till heaven and earth pass, TSolomon has been reflecting on the one jot or tittle shall in no wise pass from different and contrasting times given to the law, till all be fulfilled’. As we seek to man, we read, ‘I know that, whatsoever God translate and distribute the Word of God, doeth, it shall be for ever: nothing can be we have the precious encouragement put to it, nor any thing taken from it: and God doeth it, that men should fear before that it is an eternal work in which we are him’ (verse 14). Amongst all God’s many engaged, and unlike so much of the work wondrous works, surely this relates very that Solomon spoke about in his preaching particularly to His precious Word. Indeed, (e.g. Ecclesiastes 1.14), one which cannot in Psalm 119.89, we read ‘For ever, O LORD, prove to be in vain.

29 Deer Park Road 22222 Issue Number: 617 – October to December 2016

As I write it is early August, a time when Quarterly Record 613 was a strategic review workloads at the Society tend to be slightly of governance, activities and finances. easier than at other times of year and when The Senior Management Team have now there is a little space for reflection. We commenced this in-depth exercise; when reflect at this time on the Lord’s continued comprehensive groundwork is complete, goodness in relation to the property. On detailed deliberations will start with 22 March 2016 the Society completed a ten- the General Committee. We seek your year lease with Burke & Wills Removals Ltd prayers for both of these major projects to rent our adjoining investment property, that much wisdom might be given and John Wycliffe House. This brought to a close good foundations laid, under God, for the the property project which had started continued work of the Society for many almost three years earlier and about which more years to come. we have so often written in these pages— We covet your continued prayers for the we are deeply thankful and humbled by all Society’s financial provision. The underlying the way which the Lord our God has led us financial situation of the Society in the (Proverbs 4.11). UK was remarkably strengthened by the We also reflect thankfully on progress on Property Project, but as we often find in the projects brought before you previously. In wise providential (and spiritual) dealings Quarterly Record no. 613, we mentioned of our God, a trial of faith follows a time of the challenging project of replacing the prosperity (Ecclesiastes 7.14). The financial Society’s main business system (Enterprise situation in 2016 is very challenging, MRM) and website, and potentially the with very limited known legacy income, finance system too. We can now reflect significant extra costs due to adverse with gratitude on the Lord’s remarkable foreign exchange movements following the provision of Mr Timothy Tribe, of Salisbury, recent EU referendum, and one of our key to lead these projects. It was truly an funding partners facing financial challenges instance of ‘before they call, I will answer’ of their own. At present, we are projecting (Isaiah 65.24): we had expected to use a General Fund deficit of around £550,000 external secular consultants for this in 2016, against a budgeted deficit of undertaking, but instead the Lord sent £154,000. We know that the Lord will send us an enthusiastic supporter who had us whatever resources He sees that we clearly been prepared of Him to lead the have need of rather than what we might project. We are now well into the task, want to keep us comfortable! Indeed, we with the prospect in October/November are promised that ‘my God shall supply all 2016 of shortlisting a company to supply your need according to his riches in glory a replacement system for Enterprise MRM by Christ Jesus’ (Philippians 4.19). Brethren, and the website in 2017. We have also pray for us! made excellent progress, with the help of We remain deeply thankful to all our our external consultant, Mr Michael Collins, members, supporters and friends for their on setting up governance arrangements partnership with us in this work, practically, for the better management of the Society’s financially, and especially in prayer. data and for a data cleansing exercise on We gratefully acknowledge receipt of our files prior to implementation of new anonymous gifts totalling £4,489.90 for the systems. period April to June 2016 (Matthew 6.4). The other project we spoke about in

23 Trinitarian Bible Society – Quarterly Record The

"#,/*1&,+L
Returning to the Word of God a sample of the forthcoming booklet

by C. P. Hallihan, Editorial Consultant 1: 
/,),$P"L hroughout 2017 a great deal will be written and many commemorations held marking the Tfive hundred years since the Reformation, but our primary interest in this article will be the Bible. Our contribution will endeavour to set the history of those times and events in connection with the written Word of God, the Bible: its interaction and impact with events then, as well as before and after. To erect some ‘triumphal arch’ for the years 1517 and 2017 would be a great mistake. Whatever do we mean by ‘Reformation’? It didn’t begin in 1517, and one sincerely hopes that it is not to end in 2017 (always excepting the return of the Lord Jesus Christ). Military pilots learn to avoid the dangers of what’s called target fixation: being so locked into the target that they lose all sense of location and thus fly into it. ‘1517 Fixation’ is not the way to understand the Reformation; we must consult our navigation aids and maps, theological, historical and

24 Issue Number: 617 – October to December 2016 geographical,1 looking behind and all Revelation: ‘Remember, Repent, and Do!’ around to see where we are going. And Over how many zealous conflicts should we then we need to recognise ‘the Reformation’ hear the voice of Jesus declaring, ‘Ye do err, when we find it. not knowing the scriptures, nor the power of God’ (Matthew 22.29). The Bible, the Word of God written, is by Divine purpose under the ministry of the Holy Spirit, not only the instrument of 2: redemption but also of reform. This Word "#,/"
Y`Yd
of God is truly the revelation of Almighty A: Precursors, their Bibles, God, and the Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ then Printing is the power of God unto salvation. Both Testaments also show the Scriptures as an „The Precursors instrument of reform unto the people of There were very many precursors, several of God. Consider the finding of the Book of the which have been featured in our Quarterly Law in Josiah’s day, 2 Kings 22–23, and the Record in recent years—Waldensians, word from the risen Christ and King to the Wycliffe, Hus and the Hussites, for example. seven churches of Revelation 2–3. Neither But ever since the ‘church of the catacombs’ of these striking Bible summons to reform had been morphed into the ‘church of effected a once-for-all recovery amongst the capitol’2 in the Latin West, there were God’s people. Nor did the individuals, congregations Reformation, even though and movements oppressed the first of the Ninety-five by the empty failures of Theses reads, ‘Our Lord medieval Christianity and and Master Jesus Christ in suppressed by Rome. saying: “Repent ye,” etc., These ever saw the need intended that the whole or an historical for submission solely to life of believers should be the rule of God’s Word, penitence’. Luther had well Ffix I offer this: In and following from that understood the sense of the a small market town the need for accessible seven letters in the Book of in the borders of Scriptures (in terms of England and Wales language, number, and the town hall burned right of use). down in 2000. From Here I must confess to a surviving timber, great inadequacy; I know cores were taken and too little about the Eastern a date for the felling churches: Greek, Russian, of the tree given as Armenian, and others, as 1697. Take away 200 well as the North African congregations. It is too easy years for growing and and unhelpful simply to you have Erasmus dismiss them all as heretical. aged 31, Luther aged Some were mission 14; Calvin was not minded, and the later yet born. ‘Protestant’ missionaries did find long-established

25 Trinitarian Bible Society – Quarterly Record Armenian congregations and preachers in because they did not ‘stand opposed’, surprising and well-scattered places east desiring thorough reformation as Wycliffe of the Mediterranean. There were also and then the Hussites did. But then, neither congregations attributing their origin to did the Waldensians: The followers of the labours of the Apostle Thomas heading Peter Waldo from the late twelfth century towards India. None of these ever seemed simply went their own spiritual way, with to be persecution- or power-play minded, Christ and the Scriptures as their guide, and thus fell out of sight to those in the embracing, and suffering for, the Truth. With West that were. Dean Stanley in his Lectures both Waldensians and Wycliffites however on the History of the Eastern Church3 quotes a their faith, hope and perseverance were Greek bishop as saying ‘Let foreigners bring sustained by their Bible, and they had a us light and we will thank them for it. But determination to have, and to share widely, we beg of them not to bring fire to burn our the Book in their own language, their house about our ears’. vernacular. Who would wish, anyway, to be without There were very different precursors the early Church Fathers Athanasius or too: those who resisted, exposed and Chrysostom, for example? Athanasius is denounced the power, errors and honoured amongst us for his successful ungodliness of the Roman Church, but singular stand against Arianism, but seemed to be without the Gospel. These much of that was part of a strong conflict also were contributors under God to the with the Roman popes and emperor. The breaking up of the monolithic structures of Eastern brethren regarded the the medieval church. Take as an example growing power and influence Girolamo Savonarola, 1452–1498, who of the Bishop of Rome preached in Florence on the sinfulness and with grave suspicion and apostasy of the time. For a while he was uneasiness. Were they proto- very popular; but his gospel was the Law, protestants? to be enacted through repression. This Possibly rigour, with claims to the gift of prophecy, not, brought the charge of heresy. Found guilty, he and two disciples were hanged and burned on 23 May 1498, still professing their adherence to the church, though not to Christ or the Gospel. Only very recently did I stumble upon this statement in a review of The Cambridge Companion to Reformation Theology.4 ‘If there is one thing that can be called a genuine breakthrough in the last half- century of Reformation studies, it would be the “discovery” that the Reformation had a background’. Exactly! „Early Vernacular Bibles Surprisingly enough, the Latin is among the very earliest vernacular translations, the Athanasius 26 IssueIssue Number: 6161717 – OOcOctobertober tto DDecembereceembber 201622016

New Testament being translated from the and Reformation nearly happened. All this Greek language of the Apostles into the Bible work was handwritten. What could be common or vulgar tongue of the residual done, literally ‘to spread the word?’ Roman Empire. (Discussing this with an Orthodox clergyman some years ago he teased me about the matter—‘what is all „Printing this fuss about the Erasmus 1516 Greek Johann Gutenberg (1400?–1468) of New Testament? We had it all along’.) How Mainz, Germany, was a silversmith by Jerome’s AD 405 revision of the Latin Bible profession and familiar with the process came to dominate in the West is another of reduplicating metalwork from a cast or story, but part of the sad fruit of this was ‘type’ of an original. Around 1430–1440 he developed the use of movable, interchangeable, reusable letter-type, for printing copies of documents; his first were reputedly copies of indulgence statements which could be sold. He produced a wooden press similar to those used for wine or cheese making, with a printing ink of his own concocting—an oily, varnish-like ink made of soot, turpentine and walnut oil. This new ‘print-shop’ business was backed financially by a man called Fust (or Faust). The Ostromir Gospels, a lectionary book in Church Slavonic, Gutenberg’s masterpiece of course is the dating back to 1057 Latin Bible printed in 1453–1454; there were 180 copies made, each of 1,282 pages that most of the ‘own language’ work in the and having 42 lines in two columns. (Bible West from 405 to 1516 was based on Latin collectors’ eyes grow misty at these words!) and not on Greek and Hebrew. On this basis The Bibles were to be completed by hand- the Bible had been translated into a dozen colouring of the main capitals, but Fust, languages by AD 500, including the Gothic his financial supporter, now called in his transcription by Ulfilas in the third century. money, and took possession of the press In 865 Cyril and Methodius produced a in default of payment, leading to aimless Slavic Bible; by 995 Anglo Saxon translations were being produced. Peter Waldo’s own translation from Latin into a form of Romaunt was presented to the Pope in1179. Perhaps it was in the light of this that it was decreed in 1229 that only a priest could own a Bible. Ignoring this, in 1382 John Wycliffe produced his magnificent English translation, owned of God to the saving of souls and furnishing his Lollard preachers with a plain, firm foundation for the preaching of ‘this Gospel of the Kingdom’.5 Then there were the early Czech Bibles of the Hussites, gladly following Wycliffe’s lead, Early printing press

277 Trinitarian Bible Society – Quarterly Record controversies over the years as to who actually did print the 1453 Bible (Erasmus said it was Fust). The early print process, once the type had been set up, aimed to print around six individual pages of a book per day. If that doesn’t sound many in comparison to a skilled and well-practiced scribe, remember that each day the press would produce multiple identical copies of each page. There were soon figures of twenty-five pages per hour on this basis. Improving the setting-up speed became a priority, and mass production of books had begun. Even Gutenberg Bible before 1500 a single press could produce 3,600 book pages in a working day, so that and the marketplace were still more useful in their own lifetimes the works of Erasmus than the written word. and Luther were sold by hundreds of Printed vernacular Bibles were to change all thousands. of this as people were becoming eager to This ‘art’ of printing by moveable type had read for themselves the truths of religion. been almost a trade secret in Mainz until The Bible in your own language was, and is, the perfect self-help book for life, death and truth. One literate friend or family member could read aloud the Scriptures in your hearing and in your own language, and so you also could begin to learn to read. Such acquisition of literacy had not often happened before outside the scholarly or clerical world (mostly the same thing anywhere in Europe at that time), and then Moveable type went largely unchanged it would almost certainly be in Latin. This till the late twentieth century, but is now increase in literacy and literature leads now superseded by digital typesetting to a brief consideration of the Renaissance. after 1462, when the city was plundered B: The Renaissance during an argument between two feuding The Renaissance is ‘the revival of arts and bishops. Then printing presses proliferated. letters under the influence of classical They appeared in Rome in 1467, Venice models, which began in Italy in the 14th in 1469, Paris in 1470, Krakow (Poland) in century’.6 The word is directly from French, 1474, Westminster (London) in 1476, and meaning ‘rebirth’, and a timeline in the then on across Europe, numbering about Atlas of the Renaissance runs from 1302 to 250 by early 1500s. Production of 27,000 1610.7 As a movement of general concern print editions by that time was impressive; with style and taste it lingered well into but on the other hand only one per cent of the nineteenth century. More specifically, Europe’s population owned any book! For for us it relates to the recovery of copies information and communication the pulpit of ancient texts and manuscripts in Greek,

28 IssueIssue Number: 6161717 – OOcOctobertober tto DDecembereceembber 201622016

Latin and, later, Arabic, along with old the Vandals came in 455. These Goths and translations between those languages. The Vandals were in religion, if anything, Arians. impact of this on scholars for philosophy, The last nominal Western emperor was religion, design and general sense of deposed in 476. historical reconnection was profound. For All of this had left Constantinople well our immediate interest the Renaissance established as heir of the Imperial Rome, brought to hand copies of the Greek New and encouraged the longstanding trend Testament Scriptures, hitherto lost to the for Greek material, West, which confirmed the long-held sacred and profane, concern that the text of the Latin Bible to go east to extant in the fifteenth century was, to say Byzantium. Ancient the least, unreliable. Perhaps the teachings Latin literature also supposedly supported by it would also turn accumulated there. out to be equally unreliable: the ‘precursors’ In general there were had for long been quietly sure of this. very few ordinary From the Apostles’ time, through Jerome’s dealings between era and after, even as far as Bede in 735, John Bessarion Constantinople and New Testament study and commentary had Rome. However, John usually been based on Greek Scriptures. Bessarion (1403–1472), born in Trebizond The Church Fathers certainly noted (now Trabzon, Turkey), was educated at variant readings encountered between Constantinople and then became a monk. the Greek and the Latin manuscript In 1437 the Byzantine Emperor John VIII texts that they used in their search for a made him archbishop of Nicaea. They two better understanding of their Greek New journeyed to Italy seeking some union Testament. Their Latin Testament was between the Byzantine and Western quite rightly assessed as a translation churches, and help in the growing struggle and not an original. From Bede’s time for against the Turks, now seriously threatening some 700 years, use or even awareness Constantinople. In 1439, in Rome, Pope of Greek diminished almost to vanishing Eugenius IV made Bessarion a cardinal and point in the West, and its study was viewed he settled there in Italy. as heretical and schismatic. Roger Bacon On the large scale, it was all too little too (1220–1292) was among the earliest to late. The Ottoman Turks besieged and renew the suggestion, even insistence, captured Constantinople in 1453, ‘ending that Bible scholars really must learn Greek the Byzantine Empire and the Middle Ages’.8 and Hebrew, and on these only should This Turkish conqueror was Mehmet II, base their expositions, commentaries and the Grand Turk. It was the most terrifying accurate Biblical texts. thing that had happened throughout Where had this store of ancient and Biblical Christendom, outranking even the loss of literature been for the years preceding Jerusalem to Saladin in October 1187— the Renaissance, and why did it seem to the latter had posed no direct threat to reappear all at once? The Roman Empire in Europe as a whole. Now such a possibility the West finally fell in 1250, but since 406 became an oppressive reality as Mehmet when the Barbarians crossed the frozen with his armies attacked, with marked Rhine and pierced the frontiers, it had been success, much of southern Europe.9 Europe but a poor lingering shadow of an empire. then was indebted to the Hungarian John In 410 the Goths sacked Rome, and then Hunyadi for heroic resistance to the very

299 Trinitarian Bible Society – Quarterly Record walls of Buda and Vienna. Mehmet II’s two sons, Jem Sultan,10 whose Nevertheless, Muslim mother tongue was Arabic, was effectively influence in the Balkans banished from the Ottoman world by had begun. his father and brother, but finished up in residence at the Papal Palace in Rome. For our concerns, However, he was treated as a political pawn however, this huge rather than serving as an experienced, and derangement by then well-travelled, linguist. did, in God’s good purpose, displace Greek and Classical „On to today scholars, with their We can be very glad of this reconnection manuscripts, with classical learning, literature and scholarship and manners after 1455, thankful under philosophy, God for renewal of linguistic skills and mostly toward materials touching upon Scripture and its John Hunyadi north Italy. interpretation. But we too much ignore The texts and the sizeable Trojan Horse of plain pagan linguistic skills, heathenism—and this to our continuing along with confusion five hundred years later. Today’s translations to prevailing philosophical satisfaction with and from Arabic, self as the chief end of man is directly had returned to the West. Bessarion in from Greek Epicurus via Latin Lucretius to particular spread the knowledge of Greek Renaissance Man and now to Modern Man language and learning. He formed schools also.11 Their creed declares that there is no of Greek and gathered a library with a God, no guilt, no afterlife; thus ‘Do what you large collection of Greek manuscripts, later want to do’ and every man doing what is donated to the Senate of Venice. Bessarion right in his own eyes. Too many of the great was made Latin patriarch of Constantinople names of the Renaissance subscribed in in 1463. some degree to this ethos. These events in Italy and through Europe However, we now have enough gave access to clearer sources of ancient background to consider Desiderius culture. Documents long forgotten but Erasmus, and the all-important collating, useful for the sixteenth century—and editing and printing of the text of a Greek ours—came to the fore: writings in Latin New Testament. such as those of Lucretius (99–55 BC) and in Greek of Epicurus (341–271 BC) irrevocably …to be continued changed philological and scientific criticism and historical research. In addition, the uncouth Latin of scholastic and monastic Endnotes writers was replaced by classic elegance 1 Where things happen is almost as important of style and form; ‘italic script’ made its for insight as when. Useful desk companions of appearance. the past months have been Tim Dowley’s Atlas of the European Reformations [note the plural Much more pernicious and enduring ‘reformations’] (Oxford, England: Lion Books, were the religious and moral views now 2015), and the much wider ranging Atlas of the reacquired from pagan antiquity. A Renaissance (several authors; London, England: peculiar event of the time was that one of Cassell Illustrated, 1993). 30 Issue Number: 617 – October to December 2016

2. The ancient church before Constantine which, (London, England: Yale University Press, 1980) with his proclamation of Christianity as the state and Peter Wallace wrote The Long European religion, became the church of the world. Reformation…1350–1750 (London, England: 3. A. P. Stanley, Lectures on the History of the Palgrave Macmillan, 2004). Eastern Church, quoted in Joseph Dent, Everyman’s 8. Gordon Kerr, Time-Line History of the World Library (London, England: J. M. Dent and Sons, Ltd, (London, England: Futura Publications, 2007). How 1924), p. 93. delightfully succinct! 4. David V. N. Bagchi and David C. Steinmetz, The 9. Spain is a different story, not to detain us now. Cambridge Companion to Reformation Theology 10. Jem Sultan by John Freely (Glasgow, Scotland: (Cambridge, England: Cambridge University Press, Harper Perennial, 2004) is an interesting read. 2004). 11. I am not ignoring that it is in fact direct from 5. Matthew 24.14. the Eden serpent, but very much concerned at the 6. Shorter Oxford English Dictionary, 2 vols. (Oxford, use of fine words like ‘Christian humanism’ as the England: Clarendon Press, 1980). fig leaf. Rome’s historians, strangely, seem to have 7. Steven Ozment’s book on the times is been more aware of this danger. actually called The Age of Reform 1250–1550

ORDER FORMS Please be aware that the Society will no longer be producing a printed sales order form. We would instead like to encourage our customers to order online at: www.tbsbibles.org/sales Ordering this way is quick and easy. Those not able to buy online will still be able to order by phoning, emailing or writing to their local branch—contact details are in the back of this Quarterly Record.

Telephoning the Please note that when Society’s London calling from within the UK, Headquarters the number is: 020 8543 7857. In our recent catalogue we listed our UK telephone number as +44 (0)20 8543 7857.

31 Compact Westminster Reference Bibles Authorised (King James) Version

he Society is pleased to The compact Westminster comes in several announce the bindings, including hardback, leather, and an Tpublication of our inexpensive vinyl-covered paperback. Westminster Reference In addition, there is also a special edition of Bible in a new, compact the compact Westminster commemorating size. The Westminster is the five hundredth anniversary of the appreciated by many for its Reformation in 2017. This 200,000 references which edition includes special facilitate the use of Scripture bindings for the occasion to interpret Scripture. and information on This new portable the Reformation size means that with a timeline of the Westminster important Bibles is now appropriate springing from the for use in the pew, and period. can be carried around easily.

Bible Contents Bible Features „ Gift presentation page „ Small print: 7.3 points „ The Epistle Dedicatory „ Good clear print „ Distinctive features of the AV „ Black text throughout „ Guide to using the Westminster „ Sewn binding „ Word definitions and explanations „ Bible paper „ Chapter summaries „ Decorative head and tail bands „ Table of moneys, weights and measures hardback: „ Daily Bible reading plan „ Two marker ribbons „ Full-colour maps leather: Page size: 166 x 118mm (6.6" x 4.7") „ Four marker ribbons Thickness: 31mm (1.3") „ Semi-yapp page protection „ Gift presentation box 3232 Issue Number: 617 – October to December 2016 Compact Westminster Reference Bible Commemorative Editions Authorised (King James) Version Westminster setting containing over pecial 1517–2017 200,000 cross references. The full-colour Scommemorative editions cover features a photograph of of our new Compact Wittenberg Market Square, Westminster Reference in which stand statues of Bible, a reduced-size Martin Luther and Philip edition of our popular Melanchthon; the Town and Parish Church of Special Features St Mary’s where Luther „ Reformation Edition contents regularly preached and was „ Anniversary title page married is also seen. „ Preface to the Reformation edition „ Timeline of the publication of Reformation-era translations Hardback (pictorial): Product Code: 60ACB Prices: UK £12.95, EURO €16.50, AUS $23.75, CAN $21.75, NZ $22.75, USA $17.00

Meriva full calfskin leather (brown): Product Code: 60UCB/BR Prices: UK £49.95, EURO €64.00, AUS $91.75, CAN $84.00, NZ $88.00, USA $64.00

Decorative presentation box for leather edition

33 Trinitarian Bible Society – Quarterly Record Compact Westminster Reference Bible Authorised (King James) Version he Compact Westminster Reference Bible, our popular Westminster Reference Bible in Ta reduced-size, portable edition, is also available in regular editions. Bible Contents Bible Features „ Gift presentation page „ Small print: 7.3 points „ The Epistle Dedicatory „ Good clear print „ Distinctive features of the AV „ Black text throughout „ Guide to using the Westminster „ Sewn binding „ Word definitions and explanations „ Two marker ribbons „ Chapter summaries „ Bible paper „ Table of moneys, weights and measures „ Decorative head and tail bands „ Daily Bible reading plan Page size: 166 x 118mm (6.6" x 4.7") „ Full-colour maps Thickness: 31mm (1.3")

60S/R Vinyl covered paperback (burgundy) Prices: UK £9.95, EURO €11.00, AUS $18.25, CAN $16.75, NZ $17.50, USA $13.00

60A/BK Hardback (black) 60A/BL Hardback (blue) 60A/R Hardback (red) Prices: UK £11.50, EURO €12.75, 60A/BK 60A/BL 60A/R AUS $21.00, CAN $19.50, NZ $20.25, USA $15.00

60U/BK Meriva full calfskin leather (black) Prices: UK £44.95, EURO €57.50, AUS $82.50, CAN $75.50, NZ $79.00, USA $58.00 PS60U/BK Meriva full calfskin leather (black) with Metrical Psalms Prices: UK £69.95, 60U/BK EURO €89.50, AUS $128.50, Decorative CAN $117.50, NZ $123.00, presentation box USA $75.00 for leather edition 34 IssueIssue NuNumber:mber: 616177 – OcOctobertober to DecemberDecember 20162016

The true light. John’s witness. LUKE 24, JOHN 1

* endued—endowed. Jerusalem, until ye be *endued from them, and ccarried up into c Jn. 20.17. with power from on high. heaven. 50 52 d d Mat. 28.9,17. z Mat. 21.1. Mar. 11.1. ¶ And he led them out as And they worshipped him, Ac. 1.10-12. far zas to Bethany, and he lift- and returned to Jerusalem with a Ge. 27.4; 48.9; 49.28. a e e Ps. 30.11; 149.2. Ps. 72.17. Ep. 1.3. ed up his hands, and blessed great joy: Jn. 14.31; 16.22. 53 Mat. 28.20. Mar. 16.19. Ac. 1.9,12. them. And were continually in the b f He. 1.3; 4.14. Ep. 1.20,21; 51 And it came to pass, while temple, praising and blessing f Ac. 2.46,47; 5.42. 4.8-10. 1Pe. 3.22. he blessed them, he bwas parted God. Amen.

THE GOSPEL ACCORDING TO JOHN

1 The divinity of Christ. 6 The mission of John, and end of 9 That lwas the true Light, which l v.4,5,7,8. ch. 8.12; 9.5; 12.46. Is. 49.6; 42.6,7; Christ’s coming. 14 The incarnation of the Word. 15 Christ’s lighteth every man that cometh 28.26-29. Lu. 2.32. 1Jn. 2.8; 5.20. Mal. 4.2. superior dignity witnessed by John, and made evident by his into the world. m He. 11.3; 1.2. Ep. 3.9. gracious dispensation. 19 John’s record of himself to the mes- 10 He was in the world, and mthe Col. 1.16,17. v.3. n n v.5. Is. 53.1-3. 1Co. 1.21; sengers of the Jews: 29 his public testimony to the person of world was made by him, and 2.8,14. 35 o Ro. 9.5. Ga. 4.4. Mat. 10.6; Christ: two of his disciples hearing it follow Jesus: Simon is the world knew him not. 15.24. Ac. 3.25,26; brought to Christ, and surnamed Cephas. 43 Philip is called, 11 oHe came unto his own, and 13.46. Ro. 15.8. p p Lu. 19.14. Is. 53.2,3. who bringeth Nathanael to Jesus. his own received him not. Mat. 21.38,39. He. 10.29. 12 qBut as many as received ch. 15.24. a 1 q Ro. 8.14,15. Ga. 3.26. a Ge. 1.1. Ps. 2.7. IN the beginning was the him, to them gave he power to 2Pe. 1.4. 1Jn. 3.1. Is. 56.5. Pr. 8.22-31. Col. 1.16,17. b 2Co. 6.17,18. Re. 1.2,9; 19.11,13,16. Word, and the Word was become the sons of God, even to b 1 1 Or, the right, or, privilege. 1Jn. 1.1,2; 5.7. He. 1.3; c d 4.12. ch. 3.34. v.14. with God, and the Word was them that believe on his name: r ch. 3.3,5,6,7. Ja. 1.18. Lu. 1.2. Ac. 20.32. God. 13 rWhich were born, not of 1Pe. 1.23. 1Co. 3.6. De. 30.6. Eze. 36.26. 2Pe. 3.5. 2 c Pr. 8.30. ch. 17.5. The same was in the begin- blood, nor of the will of the s Ga. 4.4. Ro. 1.3; 8.3; 9.5. Zec. 13.7. Is. 7.14. Mat. 1.16-25. ch. 10.30,33. Phi. 2.6. ning with God. flesh, nor of the will of man, but Lu. 1.26-35; 2.1-7,10,11. d e He. 1.3,8-13. 1Jn. 5.7,20. 3 All things were made by him; of God. Phi. 2.6-8. 1Ti. 3.16. Tit. 2.13. Ro. 9.5. Is. 9.6. 14 s He. 2.14,16. 1Jn. 3.8. v.1. e Ps. 33.6. v.10. Ep. 3.9. and without him was not any And the Word was made t Is. 9.6. He. 1.3. Phi. 2.6. 1Co. 8.6. Col. 1.16,17. t Col. 1.15; 2.9. Mat. 17.2. thing made that was made. flesh, and dwelt among us, ( and 1Jn. 1.1,2. 2Pe. 1.17. He. 1.2. ch. 5.17,19. f Re. 4.11. 4 In him was life; and the life we beheld his glory, the glory as Is. 40.5. Lu. 9.32. ch. 2.11. f ch. 5.26; 6.63; 11.25; g u Ps. 45.2. Col. 1.19; 2.3,9. 12.50. 1Jn. 5.11. was the light of men. of the only begotten of the Fa- 1Co. 1.30. Col. 3.3,4. Ga. 2.20. 5 And hthe light shineth in dark- ther,) ufull of grace and truth. v Ac. 13.24,25. Mat. 3.11. g ch. 8.12; 9.5; 12.46. ch. 3.26-36; 5.33. Is. 42.6,7; 49.6. ness; and the darkness compre- 15 ¶ John bare witness of him, v.27,30. h ch. 3.19. Ro. 1.19. v w v.1. Mi. 5.2. Pr. 8.22-30. He. 1.1. Ro. 8.7. Ep. 5.8. hended it not. and cried, saying, This was he ch. 17.5; 8.58. Is. 9.6. i 1Co. 2.14. 6 ¶ There was a man sent from of whom I spake, He that cometh Col. 1.17. i Mal. 3.1; 4.5,6. x Col. 1.19; 2.9,10,19. Is. 40.3-6. Mat. 3; 11; God, whose name was John. after me is preferred before me: ch. 15.1-5; 3.34. v.14,17. 14. Mar. 1.1-11. Lu. 1; 7 j w Ep. 1.3-7; 4.13. The same came for a witness, for he was before me. Ex. 20 to De. 31. Col. 2.17. 3. ch. 3.22-36; 5.33,35. x y Ac. 13.24,25; 19.3,4. to bear witness of the Light, that 16 And of his fulness have all we He. 1-10. Ps. 85.10. v.33. Ro. 5.21. j Mal. 3.1. Is. 40.3-9. all men through him might be- received, and grace for grace. z v.14. Ro. 6.14. Mat. 3. Mar. 1. Lu. 3; 17 y a ch. 8.32; 14.6. lieve. For the law was given by Mo- 1Ti. 6.16; 1.17. ch. 5.37. 1.16,17,76,77. 8 k z a b k v.20. ch. 3.28. Ac. 19.4. He was not that Light, but ses, but grace and truth came 1Jn. 4.9,12,20. Mat. 11.27; 3.17. Lu. 10.22. ch. 6.46; was sent to bear witness of that by Jesus Christ. 14.9. Ex. 33.20. De. 4.12. Light. 18 bNo man hath seen God at Is. 48.17; 61.1. Je. 31.34. 1261

Sample page from the Compact Westminster Reference Bible (actual size)

35 Trinitarian Bible Society – Quarterly Record

Membership Renewal Membership subscriptions People wishing to begin or renew ttheirhheiir membership must fill out a membership for 2017 are now due form each year. Husbands and wives may use one paper form, but both must complete very year we ask our supporters and and sign; husbands and wives applying friends to consider membership of online must complete separate applications Ethe Society. Membership has benefits using separate online accounts. Life for both you and us. As a member, you members must also complete a membership can participate more fully in the work and form yearly. (Life membership is no longer witness of the Society, and vote at our available for new applicants.) Annual General Meeting. And your annual Payment of the subscription fee can be subscription fee, held at a minimum for made by cheque, debit or credit card (please many years, helps support the Society in our provide your telephone number so we can day-to-day activities as we seek to distribute call to receive details) or online (including the Scriptures across the world. PayPal). Supporters who make regular As the new year approaches, we once donations by standing order direct into the again invite you to affirm your prayerful Society’s bank account can count one of association with the Society by completing these as a subscription—please indicate the membership form which you will find this on your completed membership form. included with printed copies of this (Please see the membership form in print or Quarterly Record or online at online at www.tbsbibles.org/membership www.tbsbibles.org/membership. for payment details.) Life members need not Membership runs from January to pay a subscription fee. December and is renewable annually. Our Quarterly Record magazine, which is free However, forms received after 1 October will upon request, is also sent automatically to all be counted for the following calendar year of the Society’s members, unless you advise unless you request otherwise. Membership us on the membership form that you receive forms can be completed online or returned it from another source or online. directly to the Society’s International Headquarters, to your national Branch To all who have faithfully supported us secretary (addresses are given in the back through membership, and to those who will of the Quarterly Record), or to your local take this opportunity to join, we, and those auxiliary secretary. Please contact us if you around the world who have received faithful have not received a membership form or copies of the Scriptures, are deeply thankful. would like additional copies.

3636 Issue Number: 617 – October to December 2016 The Word of God Among All Nations

Although certain phrases and expressions used in these letters may not be doctrinally accurate or in correct English, we reproduce the letters essentially as received, knowing that the Lord is using His Word to the glory of His Name and the furtherance of His Kingdom as the Scriptures are distributed among the nations of the world.

EEurope

FromF the Netherlands ThousandsT of Russian Bibles, ready to bbe distributed in the next three months to Russia, a country where people desperately need to read the Gospel. Thank you, TBS, for your cooperation in this united work of spreading the Bible! May the Lord bless the work of your Society! Bibles for refugees in Germany

sponsoring of 6,500 Bibles. It is our privilege that it is possible to be allowed to distribute so many Bibles among the refugees. The hunger for God’s Word is great among them, who seek for hope and salvation. We hope and pray that God will show them the only way to salvation from His Word. A small part of the English Bibles is now distributed, many presented to a pastor in Russian Bibles awaiting distribution an immense refugee camp. He serves on Sundays also meetings for the Christians who live in this camp. The demand for Bibles FromF Germany and Biblical readings is very large. English ByBy means of this letter we express language Bibles, donated by the TBS, will our thankfulness—after our Lord—to be distributed in this great camp among Trinitarian Bible Society, because of the women who live in this camp.

37 Trinitarian Bible Society – Quarterly Record Last week two pallets with English and every summer find comfort and peace for a Arabic language Bibles were sent to Sicily. few hours away from the ships visiting the We expect this transport to arrive next week. mission to use the Internet without charge Distribution of these Bibles will happen enabling them to contact their families. We during visits to the refugee camps that are also offer free gospel literature, Bibles and planned for June and July. The other part of New Testaments in over 30 languages. This the Bibles will be send to Sicily in August. short report and photo attached shows a Every time we visit the refugees in Sicily man from Brazil receiving one such Bible in we can see and experience that the Lord is Portuguese. Since I was brought up in Brazil working among these people. To the glory and speak Portuguese, I was able to have an of His name! in depth conversation with him about his need of trusting Christ for salvation, sharing some relevant verses in John’s Gospel with FromF Norway him. Interestingly he said, ‘my mother has SomeSo months ago I asked for five long pleaded with me to start reading the BiblesBibl in Portuguese and promised to Bible’! send information on how they were offered. I am at present helping at a Christian mission to seafarers in Bergen, Norway. Many poor FromF Scotland young men and women who work long WeW have been on our travels and hours on the cruise ships that visit Bergen we’re’ pleased to see these posters in Edinburgh Waverley and Windsor railway

Railway poster in Scotland

stations. The poster in Edinburgh is in the midst of a long line of other adverts but is easily the most visible and striking yet with nice colours.

FromF Ireland ThisT is a photograph from one of my contactscon in Cork. I gave him a Spanish R.V.-SBT New Testament and a few copies of the English children’s colouring book Go Down to the Sea which he passed on to a Portuguese Bible given to sailor seafarer from Mexico who was contacted

38 Issue Number: 617 – October to December 2016

Spanish New Testament and English FromF Russia colouring books in Ireland WeW thank you for your work, for WordsWo of Life Calendars and Russian Bibles, and for long-term cooperation with us. In 2015 we received 5,000 Words of Life Calendars 2016 and a box of Russian Bibles. A number of churches used these calendars to spread among the believers, and, primarily, the unbelievers. We handed out calendars during the evangelistic meetings in churches, villages, hospitals, prisons. Also a part of the calendars and Bibles were on a ship which anchored in Cobh, Cork Harbour. Scriptures for Russians

FromF Ukraine WeW inform you that Odessa congregationcon has received at the beginning of July 2016 a gift for Ukrainian soldiers—nine boxes with Bible small format in Russian language, in the total amount 180 pieces. One parcel is late, since it was sent in transit through capital of Russia Moscow. We are very grateful for such a precious gift of Bibles and are intending to distribute Bibles among distributed in the east of Ukraine. We put the soldiers of army forces. calendars in gift sets for adults and children, and gave to the believers for further There is a war in the east of Ukraine, distribution. May the Lord richly bless you in which has lasted for two years. Ukraine your very important and necessary work on was unprepared for war and lost a lot the field of God; bless you and your family. of lives. According to UN statistics, there were wounded since the beginning of war 21,880 men, women and children. Doctors of Ukrainian army hospitals are operating every day on the wounded, which are AustralasiaA brought into Odessa by army medical aircrafts. We were visiting the wounded soldiers in hospitals and presented them FromF the Philippines Bibles, calendars and some fruits. We ask you GreetingsG in the most blessed name to pray for peace in Ukraine and may the of the Lord Christ Jesus, our Saviour. I Lord bless you! apologize for my late reply. The first box to arrive contained the maroon New Testament (fifty copies). It was more than a month after that the second box containing thirty-eight copies of the Old and New

39 Trinitarian Bible Society – Quarterly Record this year except for the ten newly hired teachers for the current school year. We are planning to start a church plant in our local area and we will initially meet on 17 July 2016. Please be our prayer partner and may you consider sending us materials for children and adults alike as the Lord expands His kingdom here on earth. May I also request Bibles for distribution (black, blue, red) in Bibles given to Filipino youth school (our students in the Accelerated Christian Education), churches I know that I Testament arrived. One pastor requested can minister to in our area of Metro Manila. seven copies of the New Testament and Can I also avail of Bible word list and reading another requested one each. I’m sending plan, puzzle books, colouring books series 1, this message ahead together with a picture Royal Ruby of the youths who received both Old and Illustrated New Testaments; some of them attend my Bible, Metrical home Bible studies. Thank you so much and Psalms and a may God bless us. complete set of articles? If From the Philippines you can send materials that Christian greetings. How are you? I hope would benefit God is continually extending His kindness our personal to you and the ministry at TBS. Please see and church attached photo. I had the opportunity ministries to have devotions with our teachers here will and distributed eighteen Bibles for their be highly personal use. Please include them in your appreciated. prayers that God may grant some of them saving grace. I also received the notice that the calendars are already at the post office Bibles distributed for pick up. All of them received the calendar in the Philippines

40 International Headquarters International Branches Trinitarian Bible Society Australian Branch William Tyndale House National Secretary: Mr. A. Brown, B.E. Trinitarian Bible Society (Australia) 29 Deer Park Road P.O.Box 1381 GRAFTON NSW 2460, Australia London Tel.: +61 2 6642 8880 Fax: +61 2 6642 8881 SW19 3NN email: [email protected] England Brazilian Branch President: The Rev. Dr. T. L. Gilmer Telephone: (020) 8543 7857 Executive Secretary: Pr. H. R. Gilmer, M.A. Sociedade Bíblica Trinitariana do Brasil website: www.tbsbibles.org Rua Julio de Castilhos, 108/120 email: [email protected] Belenzinho 03059-000 São Paulo, SP, Brazil Facebook: www.facebook.com/pages/ Tel.: (11) 2693-5663 Fax: (11) 2695-3635 Trinitarian-Bible-Society/294634290628870 email: [email protected] Office Hours: Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm Canadian Branch Registered Charity No.: 233082 (England) SC038379 (Scotland) General Secretary: Mr. A. Stoutjesdyk, B.Ed., M.Ed. V.A.T. Registration No.: GB 215 9219 67 Trinitarian Bible Society (Canada) 9136 Young Road Chilliwack, B.C. Auditors: V2P 4R4, Canada Jacob Cavenagh & Skeet Tel.: (604) 793-2232 Fax: (604) 793-2262 5 Robin Hood Lane Toll free.: 1-855-793-2232 Sutton email: [email protected] Surrey, SM1 2SW Solicitors: New Zealand Branch Bates, Wells & Braithwaite Chairman: Mr. B. de Boer 10 Queen Street Place Trinitarian Bible Society (New Zealand) London, EC4R 1BE PO Box 137025 Parnell, Auckland 1151, New Zealand Bankers: Tel.: 09 263 5919 Arbuthnot Latham & Co Ltd email: [email protected] Arbuthnot House 7 Wilson St London, EC2M 2SN USA Branch General Secretary: Mr. W. Greendyk, B.A. Account Name: Trinitarian Bible Society Trinitarian Bible Society (USA) Sterling Account No.: 71529601 Sort Code: 30-13-93 927 Alpine Commerce Park, Suite 100, Swift ID Code/BIC: ARBUGB2L Grand Rapids, Michigan 49544, USA Euro Account No.: 31529601 Tel.: (616) 735-3695 Fax: (616) 785-7237 IBAN for Euro Account: GB19 ARBU 3003 0831 5296 01 email: [email protected] The aims of the Society

To publish and distribute the Holy Scriptures throughout the world in many languages.

To promote Bible translations which are accurate and trustworthy, conforming to the Hebrew Masoretic Text of the Old Testament, and the Greek Textus Receptus of the New Testament, upon which texts Simte Bible the English Authorised Version is based. Revision Committee To be instrumental in bringing light and life, through the Gospel of Christ, to those who are lost in sin and in the darkness of false religion and unbelief.

To uphold the doctrines of reformed Christianity, bearing witness to the equal and eternal deity of God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit, One God in three Persons.

To uphold the Bible as the inspired, inerrant Word of God.

For the Glory of God and the Increase of His Kingdom through the circulation of Protestant or uncorrupted versions of the Word of God.

For introductory literature and catalogue please contact the Society.

ISSN 0049-4712 William Tyndale House, 29 Deer Park Road London, SW19 3NN, England email: 9 770049 471000 [email protected] www.tbsbibles.org