From the Reformed Presbyterian Church of Scotland | February 2021

Hate Crime

Pages 3-4 A Christian Doctor

Pages 5-6 National Reform in Great Britain

Pages 14-16 CONTENTS EDITORIAL

Dear readers, This edition of Good News commences a few new series. First, in our practical section we hope to look at different vocations over the next while to see how it makes a difference doing them from a Christian perspective. Since Christ is Lord of the workplace it should impact the way we work – an activity that we spend much of our lives doing. Each article will be written by a different person with a different job. CONTEMPORARY ISSUES Another new series of articles comes to us from Hate Crime | Rev. Dr. Tim Donachie ����������������������������������������������������������� 3-4 the RP Global Alliance and is being published in the PRACTICAL various magazines of the RP denominations. We are Vocation: A Christian Doctor | Dr. James Fraser ���������������������������������������� 5-6 thankful that the Global Alliance has taken on this work and we look forward to reading the contevnt DOCTRINAL from RP ministers around the world. The Marks of the Church: Part Three | Rev. William R. Matthess ����������7-8 The Beauty of Unity | Rev. Andrew Stewart ���������������������������������������� 9-10 The third new addition to Good News is a reprint of VISUAL THEOLOGY ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 11 an address from the First International Convention of Reformed Presbyterian Church in 1896. This particular CHURCH HISTORY address on National Reform was given by Rev. John John Owen: A Life Lived for Christ | Whitney Gamble ����������������������� 12-13 McDonald, a former minister of Airdrie. I must National Reform in Great Britain | Rev. John Macdonald �������������������� 14-16 confess that I had to lightly edit the address to fit INTERVIEW the constraints of our magazine. It is hoped that An Interview with | Melville-Knox Christian Schools ���������������������� 17-19 more of such historic addresses can be included NEWS in future editions. I feel like there is much hidden Congregational & News Presbytery ���������������������������������������������������������� 20-21 treasure from our denomination’s past that should Global News ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 22-23 be brought to light. TEENS Q&A All other series remain the same. Tim Donachie What does the Bible say about Teenagers’ Relationships with their Parents? writes on hate speech, an important, contemporary Rev. Peter Loughridge �������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 24 topic as it is being actively considered by the Scottish Children’s Story & Quiz ��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 25-26 Government. Bill Matthess continues his series on Recommended Reading ����������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 27 the marks of the church. We’re thankful that Whitney Poster �������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 28 Gamble has written for our Church History section on John Owen. Whitney is well known to some of our denomination as she spent time in North Edinburgh while working on her PhD. Once again, the teenage and children’s pages have useful content. Please encourage your children or grandchildren to take a read.

Every blessing, Stephen To subscribe email [email protected]

Editor – Rev. Stephen McCollum, Stornoway RPCS | Assistant Editor – Scott Maciver | Website – www.rpcscotland.org

Page 2 Contemporary Issues Rev. Dr. Tim Donachie

Hate Crime

It is generally accepted in Christian other, and where there have been proposed Bill, it would command circles that the rulers of a country numerous revivals of vital religion widespread acceptance, but sadly, the are due respect and honour because throughout the succeeding centuries, more the proposed Bill is studied, the of the position they hold; ‘the there is now a government in power more it appears that its purpose is to authorities that exist are appointed that bit by bit is seeking to undermine curtailfreedom of speech, especially by God’ Romans 13:1, but it becomes or destroy fundamental Christian concerning those activities that are increasingly difficult to give due teaching and practice based on the condemned in the Word of God. honour when the authorities plan to infallible Word of God; from denying implement laws which strike at the parents the right to discipline their When the new list of ‘protected very heart of Christian belief and children according to the teaching of characteristics’ is examined, it is clear practice. This must have been the scripture, through to the iniquitous to see the direction of government situation facing believers in the early ‘named person’ project and now the thinking. The present list of ‘protected years of the New Testament church introduction of the so-called ‘Hate characteristics’ is to be extended when Roman authorities sought Crime’ Bill which, at the time of to include age, disability, religion or to ban Christianity, but we should writing, is going through its various perceived religious affinity, sexual not think that such days are left stages in the Scottish parliament. orientation, transgender identity behind in the mists of history or are and variations in sex characteristics, confined to countries that practice It may seem strange that Christian so that certain groups of people are an exclusive religion such as Islam. people should be concerned about to have more protection under the legislation that seeks to ensure that law than others. Writing in ‘Spiked In a land where the reformation took people are treated fairly and kindly, online’ Carlton Brick, a lecturer in a stronger hold than in almost any and if that were the intention of the the school of education and social

Page 3 science at the University of the It is not that Christians are looking What, then, should be the Christian’s West of Scotland says, “The Hate for excuses to abuse or vilify response? It will always be a comfort Crime Bill would introduce a series anybody, we are commanded to love to Christian believers to remember of seven ‘protected characteristics’, our neighbour as we love ourselves, that none of the attempts of men which would allow the Scottish even if we abhor what our neighbour or of governments to dethrone courts to punish a hate crime much believes and practices, but there Christ or to destroy his kingdom can more severely than other offences. has to be thefreedom to expose, possibly succeed! God is sovereign Offences committed against victims criticise and reject the views and and he has given rule over all things who are covered by these ‘protected practices of others, without being to his beloved son, the Lord Jesus accused of hatred and of criminal characteristics’ would be subject to Christ and he is working out his a higher tariff”. So, for a Christian activity! Christians as individuals, and churches as bodies, have a duty purposes for the good of his people to say or to write that there are but and the glory of his own name. It is two sexes, and that it is impossible placed upon them by the sovereign God to declare the truth without fear also important to realise that we live for a man or woman to change sex, in a godless world and must expect could be seen as ‘stirring up hatred’ or favour. The fact that a government constant attacks from the evil one. against the so-called transgender declares that a particular thing is true, As long as the child of God is in community, even if there were does not make it so! The church is to this world, he will have a constant no intention of stirring up hatred, declare the truth as revealed in the merely the expression of a view. The struggle against the world, the flesh worry would be that all that it would and the devil and God has provided take would be for somebody to state both defensive and offensive weapons that they had been offended for the The fact to enable the believer to stand. Eph. police to initiate action. The severe that a 6:10-20. restrictions that the proposed Bill With regard to the practical things places on the citizen’sfreedom of government that can and must be done, there are speech is truly alarming. Even the three: National Secular Society, who initially declares that a welcomed the removal of the offense particular thing 1. Prayer. If believers really understood of blasphemy, now warn that the the severity of the attacks that are provisions of the Bill on religious is true, does not being launched against the church, hatred risk, ‘a de facto clampdown make it so! The they would pray more earnestly that onfreedom of expression’. There is God would be pleased to intervene no doubt that if the Bill is passed, church is to on behalf of his church. They would Scotland will become the most pray for those in authority, that God aggressive regulator of citizens’ declare the truth would cause them to see the folly of speech in the UK. as revealed in the trusting in their own wisdom rather The Bill, as originally presented, unchangeable on the wisdom that God supplies. has come under fierce criticism Never forget that God has defeated from many sectors of society, from Word of God armies and destroyed kingdoms in churches to the National Secular the past, and he can do it again! Society, and the consultation period even if it is elicited almost 2000 submissions contrary to the 2. The church must vigorously pointing out serious flaws in the proclaim the gospel message and proposed legislation. It is remarkable declared ‘truth’ of not be silenced by threats, no matter that organisations as diverse as from which quarter they come. There conservative evangelical churches the state.” must be no toning down of the truth and the secular society should of God in order to placate those who have the same concerns regarding unchangeable Word of God even if it would happily see every church in aspects of the Bill, albeit for different is contrary to the declared ‘truth’ of the land closed down. Scotland needs reasons. It is to be welcomed that the state. This has been the situation men who will fearlessly proclaim some of the most pernicious aspects that has faced the church of Christ that ‘Righteousness exalts a nation, of the Bill, like the possession of throughout the ages and throughout but sin is a reproach to any people’ ‘inflammatory material’, which the world. The early disciples were Prov.14:34. could well have included the Bible told not to preach in the name of and books explaining the Biblical Christ Acts 4:18 and many believers, 3. God’s people need to live lives view of homosexuality and gender to this very day, have been warned consistent with the profession they identity, are now to be dropped. in the same way and threatened with make. In spite of the provocations Whilst this is a positive move, the the same consequences, and it may be, they face, they should ‘let their lights measure is still deeply worrying for that the time is rapidly approaching so shine before men that they may Christian believers and for Church when believers in Scotland will suffer see their good works and glorify communities. the same fate! their father in heaven.

Page 4 SERIES Practical Dr. James Fraser Stranraer RPCS Vocation: A Christian Doctor

What is it like being a Christian are actually a form of spiritual (or to the biggest and most pertinent in the field of medicine? existential) distress, either in part or question that most unwell patients in whole. Many people struggle with have: “Why?”. Being a Christian I work as a GP in Stranraer. GPs see feeling “cheated” if they become doctor allows me to frame that patients who present with a wide unwell despite having taken steps to question in the context of an all- array of health problems and most of try and keep fit, eat well and avoid knowing, all-powerful God who does the joys (and frustrations!) come from unhealthy behaviours. Many more not perpetuate purposeless suffering the wide variety of health problems struggle with trying to present an on His people, but instead uses it to that people attend their doctor external image (even to those closest refine them and to make them realise about. Being a doctor is an immensely to them) of “having it all” in terms of their complete dependence on Him. privileged position of trust: within material things, while they desperately moments of starting a consultation struggle to find meaning in life. The secularisation of medicine has with a doctor (even if they have never brought frustrating restrictions on the met the doctor before), patients Until relatively recently in history, the kinds of conversations that Christian will candidly reveal deeply personal aims of medical science and Christian doctors can have with people who are information about themselves, their evangelism were seen as partners, struggling with life in this way. We are relationships, their fears about the whereas more recently, the medical largely prohibited from talking about future or even worries about death. world has tried to divorce itself from God (at least in specific terms) unless Being unwell (or fearing being unwell) Christianity. This vigorous attempt to this topic of conversation is initiated is a time of particular vulnerability and de-Christianise medicine has led to by the patient. However, some of the it often exposes worries that would a yawning void in the “spiritual care” best interactions I have ever had with usually be masked by the trappings of side of medicine. Modern medicine patients have been witnessing the “success”, as defined by the secular is increasingly good at answering the peace of someone who has their faith world. Many of the problems that questions, “what”, “how” and “when” in Christ, especially towards the end people present to the doctor with but doesn’t provide any answers of life.

Page 5 Being a Christian doctor enables both as a sufferer and as a clinician. ‘Whoever applies himself to medicine me to view all of the suffering I It is also a helpful guard against should seriously weigh the following witness in the light of a God who has becoming cynical, which is something considerations: foreordained every illness that will that many doctors slip in to. However, befall us. It is freeing as I know that I have found that Christian doctors, First, that he will one day have to despite all the wonderful medications in my experience, do not follow this render an account to the Supreme and treatments at my disposal, it is trajectory. Knowing that God is the Judge of the lives of sick persons committed to his care. only by God’s mercy and will that giver and sustainer of health helps to any of them will have an effect - my prevent the pride and egotism that Next, whatever skill or knowledge patients will not be cured by me, but can so often infect work as a doctor. he may, by the divine favour, become by God in his mercy, if it is His Will. It is tempting to accept the praise possessed of, should be devoted from a patient following a correct above all things to the glory of God How do your beliefs impact diagnosis or successful course of and the welfare of the human race. yourday to daylife? treatment, rather than give it to God Thirdly, he must remember that it It is an immense privilege to learn as we should do. is no mean or ignoble creature that more and more about the human The effects of the Fall are so clearly he deals with. We may ascertain the body and the wonderful way in which on display when working as a worth of the human race since for it has been designed by our Creator. doctor - it doesn’t take long to see its sake God’s only begotten Son The fact that wonderfully effective the brokenness of man. So much became man and thereby ennobled treatments (like morphine for severe suffering is caused by man’s cruelty the nature that he took upon him. pain or antibiotics for bacterial infections) exist are not a shining to his fellow man - our capacity to lie, cheat, steal from and abuse Finally, the physician should bear in beacon of human achievement, as mind that he himself is not exempt one another is endless. Biologically, many a medical textbook would from the common lot but is subject living is the process of dying slowly. proudly proclaim. They are instead a to the same laws of mortality and However, I am able to approach my reminder of God’s common mercy, disease as his fellows and he will care allowing doctors (Christian or not) job with the knowledge that although for the sick with more diligence and to try and relieve suffering and all of our bodies are predetermined tenderness if he remembers that he preserve life. to die, we all have an eternal soul himself is their fellow sufferer.’ that will never die. Only in Christ, Knowing that an illness was not the the Great Physician, do we have the Thomas Sydenham (1624-1689), result of blind cosmic chance, but means of a cure for our otherwise a Puritan who has been called the instead foreordained by God, helps terminal spiritual condition. “Father of English medicine”

Page 6 SERIES Doctrinal Rev. William R. Matthess

The Marks of the Church: Part Three

How do we come to understand gathering of the Lord’s people for What is a sacrament? A sacrament is that the reason for which we were worship on the Lord’s Day. Any such an authoritative decree or directive created is to glorify God and enjoy gathering will therefore evidence from God to His people. The Him forever? All that we can know this first and primary mark of a true sacraments as found in Scripture are of God is revealed to us by means of Church, the faithful preaching of the not only commanded, but they are His Word. It is through the Scriptures Word and the reverential hearing active and effectual. They are joined that we come to understand God’s of it. A Church without preaching with the Word to make it visible and plan of redemption. The Scriptures cannot be a true Church of Jesus tangible and to better present those tell us of the Son of God who came Christ. spiritual graces that the Lord is to sacrifice Himself in order that all working out inwardly in the hearts of who believe in His name should be In addition to the preaching of the His people. The sacraments act like savingly brought to God and fitted Word, there are other marks that signposts that point to Jesus Christ for heaven where they will behold give evidence of whether a Church in His great work of redemption. His beauty and rejoice forevermore. is a true Church of Jesus Christ or Not only do they point to Christ, Apart from reading Scripture privately, not. These marks accompany and but they are ordained as a means of the Word of God is ordinarily made depend on preaching, divorced from grace that convey Christ’s purchased known to us by way of proclamation. which, they will be unintelligible. The blessings for those He came to save. The Lord has ordained that His Word second of these marks is the faithful Empowered by the Holy Spirit, the is to be preached during the regular administration of the sacraments. sacraments serve to strengthen

Page 7 believers in their continuing struggle significance or perform them Lord’s Supper is no more than a with sin and are effectual in God’s properly. Although the sacraments commemoration of Christ or simply work of sanctification in them. are a means of grace, we must be a symbol of unity between the clear that they are not a means to Church and Christ. The Westminster Larger Catechism our salvation. The sacraments do not defines a sacrament in this “A way, unite us to Christ or bring us into The Reformers rejected the belief sacrament is anholy ordinance instituted the kingdom of heaven. They do not that Christ’s body was changed by Christ in his church, to signify, seal, take away sin or grant forgiveness into the elements of bread and and exhibit unto those that are within from God. wine(transubstantiation). They saw the covenant of grace, the benefits of his that the sacraments are signs, and that mediation; to strengthen and increase With respect to Baptism, there as signs, there is a difference between their faith, and all other graces; to oblige are those who wrongly affirm that the sign and the thing signified. The them to obedience; to testify and cherish God’s saving grace is conferred on sacramental signs of water and bread their love and communion one with the person baptized. This is not the are symbols that point to Jesus Christ another; and to distinguish them from teaching of Scripture. No one is saved and make Him more visible to us. those that are without.” by being baptized. When baptizing The elements are not transformed infants, it must be said that parents into the things they signify. When There are two sacraments that Christ should never be led to believe that we say “this is my body,” or “this is my Himself instituted for the benefit of blood,” the essence of Christ is not His Church. They are Baptism (Matt. contained or conveyed in the act of 28:18–20) and the Lord’s Supper eating bread or drinking wine. The (Matt. 26:26–29). Together, the The Reformers saw them as the second body of Jesus Christ is in heaven mark of what constitutes a true Reformers and his presence is communicated Church and that rightly administered, rejected the in a spiritual manner rather than a they both visibly display the very physical one. John Calvin wrote that heart of the Gospel. Baptism shows belief that the Lord,“spiritually nourishes our faith that Christians are saved by the Christ’s body by means of the sacraments, whose only washing away of sin through Christ, office is to make his promises visible to and the Lord’s Supper declares that was changed our eye, or rather, to be pledges of his Christians live through the body into the promises. and blood of Christ offered to God Why are the sacraments important in His sacrifice on the cross. Where elements of as a mark of the true Church? there is a right understanding of bread and wine They are a precious and necessary the teaching of Scripture, the right provision from our Lord. They are observance of the sacraments will (transubstantiation).” an effectual means of grace for the follow. They derive their content and sanctification of God’s people. The effectiveness from the Word of God. Heidelberg Catechism reminds us How then are the Sacraments to their children are saved through the that the sacraments are “holy signs be administered? Both are to be application of water. Baptism isa sign and seals for us to see” (Q65). administered by a lawfully ordained of admission into the visible Church Whenever the sacraments are minister of the Word, normally when and a seal of all that the covenant rightly received through faith, in the Church gathers together for of grace promises and provides effect, the Lord puts His seal to His the purpose of worship under the in Christ. The grace promised in covenant promise that He will be oversight of the elders. In the case of the ordinance of baptism is made the God of His people and that they Baptism, it is to be administered only effectual by the sovereign power are partakers of all that Christ has once to the recipient by the pouring of the Holy Spirit and conferred in purchased for them in the gospel of or sprinkling of water in the name of God’s appointed time. their salvation. When the sacraments the Father, Son and Holy Spirit (Matt. are administered in accordance with 28:18–20). The Lord’s Supper is to be Concerning the Lord’s Supper, some Scripture as Christ has appointed, celebrated regularly in remembrance would teach that Christ is present the true Church will flourish. of Christ as a sacred meal with physically at the communion table; the words of institution as Christ that the elements of bread and wine We do well to remember the Apostle directed (Matthew 26, Mark 14, Luke to be partaken of are transformed Paul’s instructions to Timothy, ”… I 22, 1 Corinthians 11). into the actual body and blood of write so that you may know how you the Lord. Others maintain that by ought to conduct yourself in the house Most evangelical churches still partaking of the elements, there is of God, which is the church of the living observe these two sacraments, an actual transference of the divine God, the pillar and ground of the truth” yet many do not understand their essence. Still others affirm that the (1 Timothy 3: 15).

Page 8 SERIES Doctrinal Rev. Andrew Stewart

The Beauty of Unity

An army advancing with banners. A • Jeff Stivason (RPCNA) –the In Psalm 133 David describes the beautiful bride. A royal priesthood. doctrine of the Church (3 articles) lofty ideal of unity among brothers, A new humanity. These phrases have the family of God. It is also a realistic been used to describe the Christian • Stephen Steele (RPCS) – mutual andrealisedideal. The Psalm begins Church. Although the powerful encouragement from RP historical with an exhortation, “Behold…” imagery behind these descriptions cooperation (2 articles) or “Look!” David is pointing to is drawn from the Bible, this is not • Robert McCollum (RPCI) – something real and visible. It may always how we imagine our local worldwide vision of the RP have been: church. What we see as we gather for Church (2 articles) worship each week may look more • one of the great pilgrim festivals like an ageing bride or a defeated army. The most basic Christian belief when the nation of Israel gathered about the Church is found in the as one to worship God. As Reformed Presbyterians we need Nicene Creed: “We believe …in • the time when David was to think of the Church biblically, one, holy, Catholic and Apostolic theologically, historically and with appointed King over all Israel (2 Church.” Reformed Presbyterians Samuel 5:3). missionary vision. Global Alliance is are orthodox and catholic in our preparing a series of articles on the commitment to this article. Our • the reconciliation after of ‘Unity of the Church’ for inclusion in our commitment to the unity of the Absalom’s rebellion, when David denominational magazines to stimulate Church is expressed when we sing appealed to his own tribe of and challenge thinking in these areas. Psalm 133. It is often sung at the Judah to take him back as king (2 We thank the editors for supporting Lord’s Table as a confirmation of Samuel 19:14). this project. Contributors are: commitment to the unity of the congregation. Whatever the occasion, David • Andrew Stewart (RPCA) – a exclaims, “…how good and pleasant biblical view of the Church (3 A Lofty Ideal (v 1) it is when brothers dwell in unity.” articles)

Page 9 ‘Good’ describes that which is head and onto his beard and robes and the ministry of God’s word is pleasing to God. It is our obligation to and produced a beautiful fragrance. like refreshing dew falling on parched pursue what pleases God. Moreover, Aaron was, quite literally, saturated ground. It produces a spiritual what pleases God will be pleasant to with oil,symbolising God pouring out fragrance which, to God’s people, is a us. Perhaps “pleasant” is too bland a his Spirit freely and generously. beautiful aroma and to the world has word to describe the unity of God’s evangelistic impact(John 17:23). people. True unity is beautiful and it This is significant because Aaron makes the heart rejoice. It results in as High Priest, and his successors, God’s command (v 3b) overflowing joy and exuberant praise. types of Christ, were appointed to a unifying ministry in Israel. They So, you say, “Let’s get practical, what Sadly, David’s delight did not last. represented the nation. When they are we to do?” Not so fast! Psalm Tension between brothers in Israel was went into the sanctuary they offered 133 concludes with a command, not a a recurring feature of Israel’s history. sacrifices for the nation. They wore command to do anything. The people Greed and hatred shattered what a breast piece with twelve precious of God described by David in Psalm is good. But that did not stop David stones, each bearing the name of one 133 have already responded to God’s pursuing the unity of God’s people. of the sons of Israel (Exodus 28:15- invitation to go up to Jerusalem to 21; 39:8-14). By making atonement worship. As they gather unitedly at So today there are divisions within they broke down the hostility that God’s appointed place of blessing, the Church. These too are a result had divided the tribes. Christ, our there God commands blessing. of sin. Churches sin by compromising great High Priest, made atonement biblical truth and in so doing they for his people, reconciling them to Mount Zion is the place God had fracture the foundations on which their Maker and to one another (Eph. chosen to dwell among his people. they rest. Some who contend for 2:16). Their unity in Christ produces There he accepted the sacrifices truth do so in crass and cantankerous a beautiful fragrance which is Spirit they offered. These sacrifices made it ways. Even in faithful branches of the given. the dew of Hermon possible for sinful people to come into Church there are Christians who God’s presence. It is here that “the refuse to speak to each other. They The unity of brothers is now Lord has commanded the blessing, retreat into huddles and show no compared to “the dew of Hermon”(v life for evermore.” Life forever is the interest in those who are not part 3a). Mount Hermon is situated in blessing that God commands. modern day Lebanon, 130 miles from of their ‘tribe’. This ought to grieve Note that this is not a command us. It challenges us to look afresh Jerusalem. It rises almost 3000m above sea level and gets 1352mm to obey. It is a promise’to enjoy. As at the ideal and recognise that this Luther would have put it, this is not is good. Our aim is that others will of precipitation each year. Much of it falls as snow. As warm air rises law but gospel. God commands the say what Pagans said of Christians blessing of eternal life to be given to in Tertullian’s day (155-240 AD), from the Mediterranean and meets the cold mountain air, heavy dews fall his people when they come to his “Behold (look!!) how these people appointed place, in the way that he love one another.” on its slopes making them fertile and fruitful. has appointed. His command conveys Two illustrations (vs 2-3a) urgency and certainty. Life for By contrast Jerusalem, in the evermore is not a vague possibility. a. the anointing of the High mountains of Zion, receives much It is an absolute certainty. “Whoever Priest less rain, under 540mm annually. believes in the Sonhaseternal life” Its slopes are arid, often crying out (John 3:36). David wants us to see and admire the for rain. When rain fell its people beauty of the unity of God’s people. rejoiced. David’s point is that the unity Note too that eternal life is not a That is why he uses two illustrations of God’s people is like the abundant blessing which believers enjoy in which engage our senses. As well as dew of Hermon falling in a place isolation from others. It is the life of describing the goodness of this unity, noted for its lack of rain, producing the chosen and redeemed people, in they also describe its source. Both spiritual fertility and fruitfulness. union with Christ and in fellowship point to the God who gathers and with one another. blesses his people. The unity and harmony of God’s people sends a powerful message This Psalm informs us why we are to The unity of brothers is compared, to to a world torn by division and love the Church. We are connected the ‘anointing of the High Priest’(v 2). conflict. It also revives the spirits to her, as by an umbilical cord. We Anointing was a ceremony which set of God’s people. There is nothing are to love our brothers and sisters a person apart for a special ministry, more discouraging and draining than in the Church. We are to love those as oil was poured on the head. living with division and disharmony we see each Lord’s Day, as well as Human hands poured the oil, but in the Church. These things are those we do not. We are to love God did the anointing. Such anointing spiritually draining, collectively and those who encourage us as well as empowered that person for the task individually. But when we gather those who annoy us. For we are one. ahead. The unity of God’s people is like the Church in Acts 1:14 who That oneness is beautiful. It will also like the “precious (or “good”,as in “… with one accord were devoting produce in us and through our united v 1) oil.” It was poured out in such themselves to prayer,” we find that witness, fragrance, and fruitfulness to abundance that it ran down over the that the fellowship of God’s people the glory of Christ.

Page 10 Page 11 Church History Dr Whitney Gamble

John Owen: A Life Lived for Christ

Today, John Owen is one of the ministry—his first wife. Owen Owen’s Life most well-known seventeenth- witnessed his friends’ severed heads century English theologians. Owen on spears around London. Owen’s Few details remain of Owen’s early experienced rare academic and hardships were not limited to the days. He came from a moderate political success—he was close surrounding world. He labored so Puritan home, his father, Henry, was advisor to Oliver Cromwell, vice- diligently for biblical reformation an Oxford-trained vicar. Owen was chancellor of the University of Oxford, that he ruined his health and suffered tutored at home, and in 1628, at elected Member of Parliament to the from depression and melancholy. age 12, he left grammar school to Protectoral Parliament, and raised At the end of his life, he watched register at Queen’s College, Oxford. and led army forces. He walked in England abandon the reformation he While Owen was at Oxford, King procession at Cromwell’s funeral and his colleagues had labored after Charles I appointed William Laud and often preached to Parliament. for years. to the see of Canterbury. Laud was Owen’s vast writings address nearly a proponent of Arminian theology every biblical and theological topic Upon examination of Owen’s life and and sought to implement practices context, questions naturally arise: and have become the standard for that mirrored those of the Roman How did Owen persevere through post-Reformation Reformed English Catholic Church. As could be such hardship to leave a lasting theology. Earthly accolades were his expected, Reformed leaders in the legacy? How was he not crippled in abundance. Owen was a man who church strongly opposed Laud and did all things well. by despair and defeat? Owen’s success in ministry and writing was flooded Parliament with repeated And yet, Owen lived during some of due to one thing: his was a life lived petitions, calling upon Parliament the most tumultuous decades England for Christ. Owen operated with a to address what they perceived as has ever seen. He experienced brutal singular focus—an infatuation with the abuses and corruption in the civil wars, a regicide, London’s Great the person and work of Christ. Church of England. Tensions grew Plague and Fire, and persecution Owen’s love for his Lord pervades to such an extreme that by 1642, of dissenters from the Church of nearly every page of his writings. the Church found itself suffering a England under the Act of Uniformity. When reading Owen, his dangerous crisis of identity. The nation itself He also suffered almost unimaginable and hard world into the background was at the brink of civil war as the personal tragedies. All of his 10 as his vision of Christ—his Savior, King, Laud, and the Royalists, aligned children preceded him in death,as Shepherd, and sweet comforter and themselves against the Parliament did his first beloved partner in lover of souls—comes to the fore. and the Reformed.

Page 12 Oxford University, the historic the standard for each area of the Christ; and about the perseverance home of the crown, supported Christian life. For instance, progress of the saints? Laud and began to impose Laud’s in sanctification should be measured theology and practices on students. not by the believer’s development He questioned why he would Now with his bachelor’s degree in of self-control, but upon how often contend with the various and sundry hand, Owen identified himself with one looks to Christ. Owen described disputes over the definitions of those opposed to Laud and, in a sanctification in these beautiful justification when the substance move foreshadowing Owen’s later words: ‘Look on him under the of the doctrine itself was openly life of conviction, in protest left weight of our sins, praying, bleeding, rejected: ‘Why should we debate Oxford—and with it, any hope of dying; bring him in that condition about the order and beautifying of future academic success. Owen was into thy heart by faith apply his blood the rooms in a house, whilst fire is ordained prior to leaving Oxford, so shed to thy corruptions: do this set unto the whole’? however, and served as chaplain to daily’. Similarly, Owen argued that Believing that the entire ‘house’ of the Lord Lovelace. As the King raised faith can be measured by how one church was in flames, Owen grieved his standard over Oxford and war interacts with Christ. Justifying faith is upon his deathbed for the future of officially broke out, Owen, now as a the act of the hopeless, helpless and the church and the nation. He wrote Parliamentarian, found himself forced lost soul receiving Christ, looking to millions of words to clarify Reformed to leave the Royalist Lovelace. Christ, coming to Christ, fleeing to and Protestant theology, ruining his Christ for refuge, cleaving to Christ, Owen’s Theology health to do so, with seemingly no and leaning, trusting, hoping, and effect on the hearts and minds of As the nation erupted in war, Owen resting on God. Conversely, Owen people in the church. He lamented published A Display of Arminianism, a described the practice of unbelief as over London, which had become a work which catapulted him to fame. a person not receiving Christ—or place of extreme suffering—with The treatise was both a political and more simply,rejecting—Christ. walls and gates ‘hung like shambles religious manifesto—it defended the Conclusion with the limbs of slaughtered persons Reformed understanding of salvation … and the ground around … strewn while simultaneously condemning The last decades of Owen’s life with the bones and ashes of men the prevailing ruling power of the were filled political retaliation, burned to death’. Yet, Owen’s horrific day. Owen continued to preach and social exclusion, and destruction all context caused him to reflect: write, and with such skill, he grew around from wars, fire, and plague. from a locally known pastor to a He even found himself occasionally Our things, and other men’s things, figure of national reputation during in physically danger. In Oxfordshire, the things of the nation, and the the 1640s. he evaded capture by hiding in bed things of families, so far as they are when his host informed soldiers in and of this world, are liable to a Central to Owen’s theology was his that he had already left. It was in destructive dissolution. … I pray let understanding of union with Christ. this context that Owen made some us believe that there is nothing in Owen is unmatched in his generation, of his most significant theological this world, but only the gospel of if not in the centuries surrounding him, contributions. Christ, and the interest of Christ, for his focus on and clear explanation and the grace and mercy of God of the doctrine of union with Christ. However, at the end of his life, Owen in the covenant, but it is liable to a Union with Christ for Owen is ‘the was a tired man. He was weary of destructive dissolution…. God hath principle and measure of all spiritual the controversies that continued reconciled all, and gathered all as the enjoyments and expectations’. to splinter England, both politically first-fruit and spirit of the whole into Owen was preeminently pastoral and theologically. He was dismayed one head; that is unto Christ. What is in his treatment of the topic; his as he watched the long work of gathered up into him never changes, aim was that Christians sitting in reformation unravel. In 1677, in his it is obnoxious to no dissolution. the pews might internalise the masterful treatise on the doctrine Whatever is gathered up into Christ, reality of their union with Christ. In of justification, Owen despaired that be it ever so little, if all the world Owen’s catechism, designed for the in ‘these dark times’, the state of the should set themselves to dissolve it, instruction of children and laypeople, church in England was so desperately they can never do it. he listed union with Christ as the troubled and burdened by controversy first privilege believers receive. that there was again the need for a Speaking from personal experience, he simple explanation of the doctrine of continued: ‘Wives, children, husbands, Through union with Christ, believers justification by faith, a cornerstone may be dead, our houses may be fired are so identified with Christ that they doctrine of the Reformation: and all consumed … there is only this, are reckoned to have accomplished the word of God, that abides for ever; what Christ has accomplished. Who would have thought that we the promises of God fail not’. Owen’s From this union flows all the should have come to an indifferency grip on the immovable promises of wondrous benefits of redemption: as to the doctrine of justification, and God in Christ enabled him to see adoption, justification, fruitfulness, quarrel and dispute about the interest above the darkness of own his day and perseverance, resurrection, and glory. of works in justification; about leave a vision of Christ that continues Practically, for Owen, this meant that general redemption, which takes off to inspire the church through her the person and work of Christ was the efficacy of the redeeming work of own trying times.

Page 13 Church History Rev. John Macdonald, Airdrie (1896)

National Reform in Great Britain

governs all relations. National Reform implies that there is something wrong in the nation - it may be in its constitution, its legislation, or its administrative procedure - something that needs to be overhauled and radically changed, that the land may attain to that righteousness that alone exalts a nation and render becoming allegiance to Him whose subjects all nations are. To speak of National Reform in Britain implies that there is national evil that needs to be removed, national wrong that needs to be undone, not forgetting grave national guilt that needs to be owned and repented of. It implies that this nation, with all its many noble characteristics and with all the greatness, power, and prosperity that have exalted it among the nations, yet comes short, far short, of that ideal character which the will National Reform is a subject of vast which all make for National Reform. of God requires and which may justly magnitude and importance. The word be expected from a nation which has “Reform” is not an uncommon word The subject of National Reform been favoured so exceptionally as in Britain. For the last half-century assumes its rightful place and Britain has been. “Reform” has been in the air. We have importance when we remember that it had Temperance Reform, Municipal is wider in its sweep and contemplates What, then, is there in this country Reform, Parliamentary Reform, etc. far farther-reaching claims than that makes Reform a necessity? But “National Reform” - its meaning all social reforms that engage the What is there, either so defective is not known to the great masses of attention of the community. Other or so positively evil as to need the the community. It represents an idea movements for Reform only affect Reformer’s hand? Is not Britain a that can hardly be said even to have individuals, societies, or corporations, great and honoured nation? Is not an existence in the public mind. No but this proposes to lay its hand on her monarch universally esteemed? Churchman ever speaks of it; no the nation itself. Other movements Are not her laws the pillars of social Dissenter ever hints at it; no politician for Reform propose to amend details justice and her institutions the ever dreams of it. It is a phrase that in the nation’s life and procedure, safeguards of life and human rights of exclusive right, as in its origin, putting right a wheel here and a rod wherever the Union Jack floats? Has belongs to the men and women of there in the great machinery. But this she not moreover established and the Covenant. The men and women proposes to renovate Christ-ward handsomely endowed professing on both sides of the Atlantic who the very constitution and being of Churches of Christ in the land? What, claim descent from the martyrs and the State, to make the heart and the then, is wrong that cries for Reform? who exhibit to the world the truths organs sound, that the body politic for which the martyrs died, alone may be strong to do the Master’s will. To enable us to answer this question there is another that demands proclaim it. It is the watchword of Reform anywhere implies the their testimony, the keynote of their attention. What is required of a nation presence of defects or evils that need that it meet the claims of the Supreme political dissent; for they consider that to be dealt with by some effective they are faithful to their Saviour and Ruler? Especially, what is required of process that will not only secure a nation that possesses the Divine King only when they hold forth to the their removal, but will also secure world those great Scriptural truths Word and that has received untold conformity to that Divine law which blessings from God? More especially

Page 14 still, what is required of a nation, an often did; as the professed Christian, in England (an evil borrowed, from the overwhelming multitude of whose alas! often does) but by formal process Church of Rome herself) we have the citizens are the professed followers she repudiated, disowned, and covered tap-root of a multitude of evils that of Christ? And most especially of all, with purposed dishonour her own prevail alike in Church and State. what is required of a nation that has vows to God. The Act by which she already once in its history risen to the did so still stands, with not one word What a fall from the high elevation of high level of allegiance to Christ by of it erased, upon the British Statute the National Covenants! To undo this, actual Covenant engagement to serve Book. To my mind, the Act Rescissory, to pluck this evil God-dishonouring and honour Him? by which this nation declared null and element from its place in the very void her own promises and all the heart of the British Constitution, Surely the duty of that nation is to attainments and laws of the Second and bring the nation back to its old own the God who is the author of its Reformation, was the ultimate and Covenanted ground, will be the work own existence and the source of all wilful national apostasy from God. of National Reform. authority in civil government, to own What made this Act, along with the When the nation cast off its Covenants His well-beloved Son as its exalted Act of Uniformity, more opprobrious King, and to own His Holy Word it parted company with the Word of still was the fact that they declared God as the standard of its laws and it as the standard of all its legislation that from that time henceforth the and the determining factor in all its has held on in the even tenor of its way government of the Church of Christ without any reference to that Divine national procedure. Starting on such in these lands should no longer a basis and guided by such a law, such standard. The only influence the Bible be vested in the Church herself has in the Halls of Legislature is the a nation will enact its every statute under Christ, but should belong as and order its every transaction by moral influence that it may perchance a prerogative to the Crown, i.e. that exert in and through a solitary the higher law of God; it will admit to supremacy over the Church should its posts of official responsibility only member here and there. In any other be vested in the Sovereign of the land. sense, or as an instrument to decide God-fearing men; it will keep an open And in point of fact, by statute law in eye on its every act to the glory of that all moral issues in the national life, it Britain, the monarch is supreme head has no standing in the Senate halls of God whom it is its highest honour of the Church of England to this hour. to serve; and, while it may not enter the British nation. There also, there is into organic union with the Church, it Now, in dealing with the moral need for National Reform. will honour and protect it, and it will, character of the British Nation we do Again, when Britain turned its back in its own sphere, cooperate with it not forget that she has not a written on the Covenants it fell into another in working for the extension of the Constitution like the USA. Her evil that has since been productive kingdom of their common Lord, for Constitution, which is the growth of of many sorrows - it ceased to they are “the two anointed ones that many years, is just the aggregate of her require Scriptural qualifications for stand before the Lord of the whole laws, with the recognized principles its legislators and civil officers. It earth.” of constitutional government that lie lowered its demands part by part, behind them; and as these laws unfold until today the Jew who denies Christ, All this the Word of God requires the spirit of the nation it is by these and, what is of importance to be and the Atheist who denies God, and that we must judge her now. Then one the Mohammedan who represents a remembered in its bearing on the of the fundamental elements of her question of National Reform in this religion that is a scourge to the earth, Constitution, an element designedly and the Romanist who breathes the land, all this this nation in solemn made as permanent, and guarded as Covenant earnestly promised to spirit of the doomed anti-Christ, are safely, as anything can be by human all eligible to make laws for the British do. Now the way is open to answer law, is this supremacy over the Church the question: What is defective or realms. A nation that opens wide the - a supremacy that sets the Church’s door of its halls of legislation and rule positively evil in the British Nation authority and rights aside and that that cries aloud for Reform? to such a heterogeneous company vests the whole governing power stands sorely in need of National We face this question with sincere in the monarch of the land. That is Reform. regret, for we are loath to utter one the supremacy that the Sovereign word against the land that gave us of Britain exercises today, acting I have thus far spoken of those birth, the country we love. Yet in very through her Parliament, which is elements embedded in the heart of love to our country and in the spirit composed of men of every class and the nation’s Constitution. I must not of the highest patriotism we must in creed. In that, supremacy the whole overlook some things which this anti- loyalty to Heaven’s King declare the nation, consciously or unconsciously, Christian Constitution has legalized truth. How stands Britain in regard to is a consenting partner, and to that and which intensify the necessity for these things? supremacy the State Church of Reform. England, as it receives its millions First, she has deliberately trampled annually from the State, willingly What shall I say of the desecration of under foot and declared to be illegal and without a murmur submits. In the Lord’s Day by the mail service? documents the Covenants in which this great evil of the ecclesiastical This nation requires 24,000 people she pledged her troth to God. She supremacy of the Crown, which to leave their homes part of every not only lapsed from her first love and enters into the very essence of the Sabbath to attend to the mail of forgot her first works (as Israel of old union between the Church and State the country. While London can do

Page 15 without a Sabbath delivery, there many that we have a set-off to all this in Protestantism that depends on such are 28 towns in Scotland that have the fact that the nation has established protection! Anyhow, the warfare has it, 158 in Ireland that have it, and 853 and endowed two Protestant begun around these State Churches. in England that have it. Mail trains are Churches, and that through them she One party calls for Disestablishment driven every Sabbath through the professes her allegiance to Christ pure and simple, that and nothing more; length and breadth of the land in the before the world. So that after all the another party calls for the unbroken nation’s service. That needs Reform. need for Reform is not so clamant as continuance of the status quo - touch I have represented it to be. To some them not all; a third party raises the Then what of the traffic in strong the presence of these State Churches rallying cry - disturb not the union, drink, which has the imprimatur of somewhat entangles the question but with all possible speed reform the the nation in the licensing laws? It is of National Reform, and makes the Churches themselves. It seems to me no exaggeration to say that, in spite of whole question a delicate and rather that there is room for a fourth party; the vast wealth invested in that traffic, a thorny one in Britain to touch at all. and the Church of the Covenants the thirty millions of revenue derived But I do not see why it should be so, should lead the way. Covenanters and from it, and the social honours it especially to Covenanters. has brought to the men whom it all students of history know that these national Churches are no national has floated in beer barrels into the Does the presence of these State testimony for Christ. With their State- peerage of the country, it is a national Churches in any degree mitigate the given Constitutions and Erastian sub sin against God - red with the blood need for Reform? No, it increases it - it serviency they were never designed of countless ruined souls: and to the spreads the area over which the most to be a national testimony for Christ true man who looks its ravages full radical Reform is required. Think first - nay, more, their endowment by a in the face it is a national disgrace. of the character of the parties that corrupt State has proved a fulcrum on King Khama, from Africa, pleading are united and consider the nature with Britain not to send drink into his of the union in which they are allied. which to rest the lever for the more dominions, adds his testimony to the First, there is an anti-Christian State: lavish endowment of the Romish demand for National Reform. and we have no hesitation in saying harlot herself - and to crown all, these that no pure Church, with a sense of Churches were both of them erected There are other matters, such as the loyalty to Christ and its own spiritual on the ruins of a broken Covenant. opium traffic in China, the Contagious independence, would enter into Diseases Acts in India, and the wars What then?To cry for Disestablishment alliance with it. Then there are two which Britain has waged without and to demand no more is nothing State Churches. With regard to these, warrant from the God of battles; but better than Secularism. To plead for the the one is literally honeycombed with to these I shall not allude farther than continuance of the State Churches as Romish dogmas and practices, posting to say: they are in the record against they stand, on the ground that they are on with all speed on the highway to the nation and they are the natural a national testimony to Christ, mocks Rome, while the other is industriously and national outcome of the nation’s the meaning of national subjection to copying the spirit and ritualistic abandonment of the Law and Covenant Christ. To claim for them to remain methods of her more powerful and of God. They all lend emphasis to the as they are in the hope of speedy aristocratic sister - State Churches cry for National Reform. Reform is deliberately to maintain evil from which we are constrained to until a remedy be found, and would be There is one farther point I must maintain ecclesiastical dissent, and to reverse our own policy as political with which a faithful Christian nation emphasize: the countenance and dissenters in the State, for we refuse would refuse to enter into alliance. support the nation has given for the to support the sinful Constitution of Then there is the character of the last hundred years to the Church of the State for even one hour in the union in which this State and these Rome. Britain is literally, in money, hope of future amendment. Besides, Churches are allied - a union that political power, and educational what friend of the Church of Christ involves in the Northern Church a no- opportunities, giving its strength would like to see it in unhallowed uncertain measure of Erastian control, to the beast. Although the Romish alliance with an anti-Christian State, as seen in the history of patronage system is acknowledged by the best even for one hour, on any ground interpreters of prophecy to be the and the interference of the Crown whatever? There is only one way of it: great Anti-Christ, whose end is to with the meetings of its Assemblies, Dissolve the union, for it never had the be destroyed, Britain has become a and a union that involves in the blessing of God and at the same time nursing father to the Papacy. It admits Southern Church a State supremacy proclaim the rights of King Messiah the devotees of that despotism to the over the Church such as no Christian alike in the Church and nation. Let highest positions in the State; and in State would propose and no faithful face of the fact that that system has Church of Christ would tolerate. the clarion cry be heard throughout been the foe of education, morality, the land - “Now, therefore, why speak and liberty wherever its influence has Surely there is need for Reform here. ye not a word of bringing the King been paramount, it now lavishes upon It is the whole lock, stock, and barrel back?” And if Britain remember from it annually not less than £1.25 million that needs to be renewed. Some speak whence she has fallen, and repent and for the furtherance of its work. of these Churches as bulwarks of the do her first works, and go back to her nation’s Protestantism! Yes, bulwarks own broken Covenant, then will that This brings me to remark before I built of Ritualistic and Romish stones, and every question be solved and the close that I find it to be the opinion of daubed with Erastian mortar - pity the work of Reform will be complete.

Page 16 An Interview with Melville Knox Christian Schools

www.melville-knox.org.uk

What are Melville-Knox in the Reformation in Scotland. Part Word. May God be pleased to bring Christian Schools? of his vision for the prosperity of much-needed reformation to the Christianity in the nation was that education system of our day! Melville-Knox Christian Schools are each parish should have a school Reformed Christian schools set up where children would be taught in How do you ensure that the for the honour of God by the Board a Christian system of education. Up education is Reformed? of Reformed Christian Education until the passing of the Education There are several Christian schools Scotland (BRCES). We want to (Scotland) Act 1872, schools were and curricula throughout the provide excellent education in a way under the control of churches. While UK but not many that maintain that is faithful to the infallible Word ministers may still have involvement Reformed positions. Members of all of God, trusting in His grace. We in schools, it is limited and over the our Boards (nationally and locally) believe that the heart of education is years the public education system and our teachers must subscribe to to get wisdom, for it is the principal has become increasingly secular. We thing (Proverbs 4:7), and that this is want to revive the mission of Knox one of the following confessions: the in accordance with learning to love for our day and establish Reformed Westminster Confession of Faith God with the whole heart, soul, schools throughout Scotland. and Larger and Shorter Catechisms and mind (Matthew 22:37). There Andrew Melville is known most of (1646); Three Forms of Unity: Belgic are numerous philosophic theories all for how he addressed King James Confession (1561), Heidelberg of education, but most are atheistic VI so boldly: “there are two kings Catechism (1563), Canons of Dort in their approach. We believe that and two kingdoms in Scotland...” (1619); or the London Baptist education is to be consciously Melville was hugely significant in the Confession (1689). We do not Christian throughout, in other words, advancement of education in the permit any teaching that is contrary that there is a Reformed approach. generation after Knox, particularly in to the doctrines contained in these becoming Principal of the University Reformed Confessions. We have Where does your name come further specified that only the Psalter from? of Glasgow. Universities in our day are often like towers of Babel, will be used during acts of worship. We chose to name our schools after building man-made philosophies to Our member schools invite local two Reformers: Andrew Melville and exalt us to Heaven. In Melville’s day, confessionally-Reformed churches John Knox. Knox is perhaps the better even higher education was seen to nominate representatives to known of the two. He was prominent to be under the authority of God’s sit on their boards. Ultimately, the

Page 17 Melville-Knox Glasgow preservation of Reformed doctrines opportunities to set up schools educating children that it is unfair can only be maintained by the grace there. We recognise that cities such and unreasonable to ask them to of God and we pray that He will as Glasgow are large enough that lobby the Government too. We hope keep us. they need more than one Reformed to take the pressure off the local school and so we pray that the Lord schools so that they can excel in All this being said, we do not intend will help us expand. There is a huge education. our school to only be for Reformed strength in having a network of families or even for Christian families. schools and we believe that there is Additionally, BRCES raises funds for We are very clear that all children are an advantage in these schools having our member schools. It takes a lot of welcome, from any denomination, a common name and brand, yet money to run a school. Think of all from any or no faith background. We having enough autonomy to make the expenditure required: teachers’ regard our work in this sense to be a local decisions. salaries, building costs, resources, mission opportunity. IT equipment, etc. If we are to What else does the Board have Christian schools throughout Where are there Melville- of Reformed Christian Scotland this money will need to Knox schools? Education Scotland do? be raised somehow. Unlike in the At the moment we have one As well as setting up Reformed Netherlands, Reformed Schools are fully set-up school, Melville-Knox schools, BRCES seeks to defend and not entitled to a penny from the Glasgow. This school was set up in promote Christian education more Government. Should the burden 2014 as Sunrise Christian School but widely. In a day when governments fall on the parents alone? There are agreed to become the first Melville- promote anti-family and anti- many private schools with exorbitant Knox school. A second school is Christian policies it is beneficial to fees. We want to keep our fees low currently being started in Aberdeen have a unified voice to defend what to allow as many as possible to take and it is currently advertising for its we hold dear. BRCES responds to advantage of Christian education. first teacher. We know that there are Government consultations that Therefore, BRCES actively fundraises many other parts of Scotland that relate to education to give a distinctly to help its member schools. One don’t have Christian schools and Christian perspective. Schools are major source of funding comes we hope that the Lord will provide so busy with the everyday job of through our Dutch charity.

Page 18 What is your relationship to would be found to bring the vision of for the progression of the plans to the Reformed Presbyterian the Board to fruition and also that all move into their own building. Church? the paperwork for the registration of One huge need, if we are to develop, the school with Education Scotland The Presbytery has appointed two is for staff – teachers, administrative could be completed efficiently for representatives to sit on the School staff, and classroom assistants. starting in August 2021. For Melville- Board of Melville-Knox Glasgow Perhaps you are looking for work or since its inception. Currently those Knox Glasgow we would ask you to a volunteering opportunity, or you representatives are Rev. Kenneth pray for additional teaching staff and know someone who is. Would you Stewart and Mr Donald MacKay. consider our schools? For young Through the years, this school has people who are thinking about their had many supporters, teachers, and One huge future careers, what about teaching classroom assistants from both the need, at a Christian school? There won’t Airdrie and Glasgow congregations be the same level of salary that is and we are so thankful for all if we are to possible in State schools, but there that help. The Board of Reformed are so many blessings in the work Christian Education Scotland was develop, is for that more than compensate. What a set up by like-minded brethren from staff – teachers, goal it would be to go through getting Reformed denominations, including a Postgraduate Diploma in Education Revs Andrew Quigley (our first administrative (PGDE) for the purpose of teaching chairman) and Stephen McCollum in a Christian school! (our current chairman). If, in God’s staff, and providence, other Melville-Knox classroom There are two options for giving schools are set up in the locality of financial support. Either you can Reformed Presbyterian churches assistants. support your local Melville-Knox then there will be the opportunity Perhaps you are school by giving directly to it, or you for even more involvement. may give to the Board of Reformed looking for work Christian Education Scotland. By How can we effectively offer choosing the latter course we are able our prayerful and practical or a volunteering to distribute funds according to need. support? opportunity, We have decided to split all regular Prayer is so important. The school donations amongst our member set up in Glasgow is simply the result or you know schools on a per pupil basis. Other of some mothers meeting for prayer. someone who donations will be divided where We ought not to underestimate there are specific needs, for example, God’s provision (Ephesians 3:20). is. Would you start-up costs, capital projects such Please pray for the teachers, pupils, consider our as buildings, etc. Cheques can be and needs of the schools. For sent to Board of Reformed Christian Melville-Knox Aberdeen we would schools?” Education Scotland, c/o 48 North ask you to pray that the right teacher Bridge Street, Airdrie, ML6 6NE.

Melville-Knox Glasgow

Page 19 Congregational News

Airdrie Glasgow and December (apart from the three outdoor services in the summer) Due to the coronavirus restrictions, In December, the Loughbrickland if it hadn’t been for this kindness in Airdrie RP Church moved their Kids congregation of the Reformed sharing their facilities with us. Club and Girls Group online in 2020. Presbyterian Church of Ireland called While we missed being able to meet Rev. Kenneth Stewart to be their pastor. The latest lockdown has, of course, in person, meeting online meant that seen services move back online. children from Stornoway, Stranraer, North Edinburgh While this is always a very clear Glasgow, and even Belfast could join ‘second best’ to meeting together, As mentioned in the last issue, us. We put together a video at the it has been possible for the Airdrie we continue to be thankful for end of the year, which you can see on congregation to join with us in our the generosity of a neighbouring the RPCS website. services. We look forward to both congregation – Granton Baptist congregations being able to resume During the vacancy the congregation Church – who allowed us to use their their own services, but have been has been able to sit under the building for our evening services from blessed in these times of shared preaching of various ministers from August to December. Due to our worship and fellowship together. within the Presbytery and from regular venues remaining unavailable, Stornoway Ireland. Please continue to pray for we would not have been able to the Session and congregation. meet together at all between March At the end of 2020 our newest member, Knox McCollum, was born. We are thankful to God for the safe arrival of this covenant child. We pray, “that our sons may be as plants grown up in their youth: that our daughters may bear pillars, sculptured in palace style” (Psalm 144:12) Several members are struggling with serious illness and others have had to deal with broken bones. We give thanks for God’s preservation of His people and trust that He has a purpose for our suffering. It is a lot harder to support one another when opportunities for fellowship have been removed through legal Kids Club regulations.

Page 20 long to share the hope of the Gospel. Please pray for us. Stranraer We had a hugely encouraging day at the end of November when we celebrated the Lord’s Supper for the first time in a year and welcomed three new members – James and Katie, upon transfer from the Knox McCollum Glasgow congregation, and Ian, upon Rev. Stephen Steele and Ian We are hoping to try to engage more profession of faith. prayer meetings to Zoom, Stephen of our neighbours in the community. Towards the end of the year, after We have drawn up a leaflet to target has had a couple of opportunities to being relatively untouched for most speak about the work in Stranraer those who may be lonely, depressed, of the pandemic, the new variant of to other congregations. He also or suicidal, to encourage them to COVID-19 reached Stranraer and had the opportunity to speak about pick up the phone and talk to us. In has taken its toll in the community, recent years there have been quite including in a care home where one former Stranraer minister William a few suicides in our town and we of our members is resident. Symington at the Lewis branch of would expect that the current the Scottish Reformation Society in difficulties would make it worse. We With many churches having moved February. Presbytery News Reformed Presbyterian Churches in Scotland, along with Presbytery, owe a great deal of gratitude and thanks to Beth for her diligence and energy in carrying out her work over these past twenty years. We give thanks to God who, in His providence, provided us with such an able worker to serve Him in this corner of His vineyard. Monetary gifts were presented to Beth from Airdrie and Presbytery in appreciation for all her work. Beth Bogue The Reformed Presbyterian Theological Ian & Shelby Gillies The Presbytery of the Reformed Seminary where Mr Ian Gillies studies recently reached out to the Presbyterian Church of Scotland met recently posted this: “At RPTS, MDiv surrounding community by providing online on the 3rd November. Besides students take at least four preaching much appreciated food supplies. Mr the regular Presbytery business classes during their studies, including Konteh continues to study distance and financial updates, Mr Sylvester preaching in chapel. Occasionally, we learning at Reformed Presbyterian Konteh (student under care of feature a student sermon on Sermon Theological Seminary, Pittsburgh. Presbytery) took the next stage of Audio. Such was the case with seniorIan Furthermore, he spends time teaching his Presbytery exams and passed. The Gilliesin the fall quarter. It was exciting the children of Life Impact Nursery to see that Ian’s sermon was the top 5-year review of Presbytery’s support School, run by his wife in Brikama, listen for November, with the UK having for the revitalisation of the Stranraer and at Sgoil Creideamh(Faith School) the most international clicks. This is not congregation was also held, and we in Kabekel. He is also spending surprising to us, as Ian is from Scotland! note with thankfulness that all the valuable time running the Pastors’ We encourage you to listen to his review criteria were being met by Fellowship from his home where the congregation. Please continue to sermon, Delighting in Suffering, from Acts they watch reformed lectures, share pray for the ministers and elders of 21:10-15. And as you listen, pray for Ian a meal, and spend time together in the RPCS as they seek to shepherd and his wife, Shelby, as they prepare to the flock of Christ. return to Scotland, Lord willing, after fellowship. This is a valuable means commencement in May 2021.” of sharing the reformed faith with November marked 20 years Beth other pastors. Please pray for the Bogue has worked for the RPCS. Sylvester Konteh and members of Lord’s blessing upon the work of the The Sessions and members of the Grace Reformed Church (Brikama) reformed church in the Gambia.

Page 21 Global News

Australia on “How Do You Cope With…” Knockbracken, New townards, and with topics of Grief, Children with Dervockin your prayers during their Give thanks that the churches are Additional Needs, and Retirement. time of vacancy. able to meet in person again. Give Convoy RPC produced a series of thanks for the young people who are YouTube videos around 5 minutes France taking membership classes to join the long on “Good News for…” with Work on the dossier for building McKinnon and Frankston churches. people in different situations permission is on-going. Please pray This year marks the 75thanniversary addressed. that this would get approved, so the of McKinnon RPC as a congregation. Rev. Andrew Kerr accepted a call to work on a new building can begin. In Ireland be minister of Ridgefield Park RPC the meantime please pray that they in New Jersey, USA. Rev. Robert would have access to the municipal Because of coronavirus restrictions, McCollum accepted a call to be the hall to meet for worship, as their a number of normal events had to be minister of Lisburn RPCI, and Rev. current premises are too small. Give can celled, but several churches ran Philip Dunwoody accepted a call to thanks for the family of 7 that will online events instead. Newtownards be the minister of Dromore RPC. be joining the congregation. They ran a series of online meetings Please keep the congregations of plan to develop their use of video

Rev. Robert McCollum Rev. Philip Dunwoody Rev. Andrew Kerr

Page 22 ministry, using YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram to reach out to the local community and to those further afield. Please pray for wisdom as they do this and as they plan a weekly “Thought for the week” which will go out each Wednesday. Spain Give thanks that 19 people are joining the live stream of the evening service. North America The Seattle RPC Session is beginning an investigation to determine what interest there is in planting a church in Boise, Idaho next spring, with Pastor Ryan Hemphill and his family relocating to Boise at that time, in Midwest Presbytery CY God’s providence. Rev. H. P. McCracken accepted a call to Salt and Light RPC inLongmount, Colorado. Please pray for the Orlando RPC during their time of vacancy. Rev. Caleb Allen was ordained and installed as minister of Denison RPC in Kansas, Rev. Gary McNamee was ordained and installed as minister of Grace RPC in Columbia, Missouri, and Rev. Noah Shepherd was ordained and installed as minister of San Diego RPC in California. The Midwest Presbytery CY was able to meet in the autumn, and the Pacific Coast Presbytery winter youth conference took place online. Rev. Caleb Allen Japan Give thanks that Dr. Yusuke Hirata was ordained and installed as the minister of Kasumigaoka RPC. South Asia, South Give thanks for a new family joining the congregation. Pray for the Bible studies starting up again. South Asia, North Currently there is one mission church and four house fellowships spread across two regions with new requests for teaching and help coming in regularly. Some men have completed elder training and are waiting to be ordained, and two other men are currently taking elder training. Give thanks for this growth. Dr Yusuke Hirata

Page 23 TEENS What does the Bible say about teenagers’ relationships with their parents? Rev. Peter Loughridge North Edinburgh RPCS

Probably the most significant Bible parents. I would add a fifth (though eyes at our parents, talking back to passage to keep in mind as we we could also add many more!) and our parents, mocking our parents, answer this question is Exodus you could remember these five on sneaking behind our parents’ backs 20:12 –Honour your father and your the fingers and thumb of one hand: – these are all expected and even mother, that your days may be long encouraged. in the land that the LORD your God • ‘Yes Dad/Mum’ – when they ask is giving you. us to do something, don’t say ‘No’ There’s also the added difficulty and don’t even say ‘Wait a minute’. that, as teenagers, we’re beginning What does it mean to honour our to develop a bit more maturity and parents? One very simple way that • ‘Thank you Dad/Mum’ – one independence. We’re less reliant we honour them is by obeying simple way to honour our parents on our parents for certain things them (unless they are asking us to is to appreciate all that they do than we were when we were do something sinful). Colossians for us. smaller. That’s a normal part of 3:20 says –Children, obey your growing up, but it can easily lead to • ‘I’m sorry’ – children and teenagers parents in everything. This is a huge us thinking we know better than get it wrong lots of times (so do part of what it means to honour our parents. Remember, the Bible parents) – our homes should be them and a massive factor in our describes this fifth commandment places where we’re quick to say relationship with them. God has as –the first commandment with a sorry and mean it. put them in charge! Do what they promise(Ephesians 6:2). What’s the say; do it straightaway; do it without • ‘Hello’ – talk to your parents! Put promise? That it may go well with complaining; do it without stomping you and that you may live long in the or snorting or huffing! The same your phone or device away! Tell them about you. land. Or, to put it more simply, God verse in Colossians says that this blesses us! Don’t go with the flow of obedience –pleases the Lord. • ‘I love you’ – precious words for where your own growing pains or However, it’s possible to obey without any parent to hear, no matter frustrations or the world around you honouring – to obey outwardly, to do what age children are. is leading. Go God’s way, honour your parents – and it will go well with you! the right thing, but have a heart full of Obviously, this is God’s commandment anger or hatred. Leviticus 19:3 says to all people, from the littlest children Finally, probably one of the hardest –Every one of you shall revere his up – even continuing to require our parts of any child’s relationship mother and father. God says we are honouring of our parents when we to treat our parents with reverence with parents is discipline (maybe are adults and when we are parents and respect. We should obey them especially for teenagers?) Proverbs because we love and respect and ourselves. But this commandment 13:1 reminds us –A wise son honour them. is, maybe, particularly hard for hears his father’s instruction, but a teenagers because of the world we scoffer does not listen to rebuke. An American preacher and writer, live in today. TV shows, films, songs, Challenging us and correcting us is a Kevin DeYoung, in his book on the the chat among our friends – often sign that our parents love us, just as Ten Commandments suggests four they’re all full of disrespect and God also disciplines those He loves things we can say that honour our dishonour for parents. Rolling our (Hebrews 12)

Page 24 Children’s Story

Joni Eareckson Tada

Since my last story for you, her injury would never fully with COVID19. Due to her things in this country have heal and she lost the ability disabilities and previous changed quite a lot. Shops, to move her body. illness, Joni was someone restaurants, schools and who may get very seriously churches have been closed At first Joni was bitterly ill with the virus. I have read while hospitals and doctors angry with God. How could that she is showing signs offices are full and busy. He do this to her? Over time of improvement, which is Many people have caught she began to realise that God wonderful. She has asked for COVID19 and recovered, remained good, even when people to pray for her in this, while sadly others haven’t. I bad things happened to her. and I’m sure that’s something read the other day about a He is good all the time. She we can all do. Christian who is recovering, began to feel happiness again, and I thought you might like and to see good in what Joni’s life shows us that, if we to hear something of her life. happened around her. love the Lord and trust in Him, He will be our strength Joni Eareckson Tada was a Although she needs full and joy no matter what typical teenage girl who loved time care and support, Joni comes into our lives. We can’t to spend time with her friends has given her life since her trust in our own strength, or and keep active and busy. recovery in telling others our health, because these are One of the things she really about Jesus Christ and His frail and could be gone at any loved was to go swimming at work of salvation. She is a time. If we trust in God we the beach with friends, and happy, lively Christian. Since on one warm summer’s day her accident she has also will have hope and joy even in July they went down to the suffered with cancer not when everything else falls shore. Sadly Joni misjudged once, but twice. Through all apart. the depth of the water where of this, she has pointed to she dove in; the water was God’s goodness and glory. too shallow, and she broke Margaret Murray her neck. Although she was Then, in December last rescued and taken to hospital, year, Joni was diagnosed Glasgow RPCS

Page 25 Children’s QUIZ All ThingsForGood Joni’s story shows us that we can be joyful in hard times because God is with us and is working all things for our good. It may seem like a maze to us, but it really is God’s perfect plan. Can you find your way through the crazy maze below?

Page 26 Grace and Glory Geerhardus Vos Vos’sermons require a reasonable amount of effort, especially for a weak and distracted reader like I am, but each sermon is worth every bit of investment. These sermons have fed my soul with a rich and lasting comprehension of God’s grace and glory in Jesus Christ like no other book I’ve read except the Bible itself. If I could take only two books into the wilderness to read for the remainder of my life, I’d take my Bible and this little book of sermons... with no regrets.

Rev. Shane Sapp (RPCNA)

The Life of Samuel Rutherford By Richard Hanulla In this short, accessible biography of the renowned Puritan and Scottish Covenanter Samuel Rutherford, Richard Hanulla gives us an enjoyable account of the most significant events of Rutherford’s Life. A Banished Minister, Subscriber of both the National Covenant and Solemn League and Covenant, Commissioner to the Westminster Assembly and ejected from his chair at St. Andrews University after the Restoration of the Monarchy in 1661, there is much to read about in this volume and as there are extracts of Rutherford’s writings scattered throughout, make this an ideal place to start learning about one of the most able and Godly Divines Scotland has ever produced.

James Hart (Airdrie)

Milk & Honey This devotional, published by Reformed Heritage Books and edited by Joel Beeke, is, as one reviewer said, “the ideal accompaniment to personal or family devotion.” The devotional is the product of 12 ministers from different denominations, all of the Reformed persuasion, and some of the names will be well-known to us. In addition to the editor, there are contributions from David Campbell, Hugh M Cartwright, David P Murray, Maurice J Roberts and David Silversides. Milk & Honey provides brief devotional thoughts that cover the major aspects of Scripture in the course of a year. Each minister each month covers a particular portion of Scripture. The result is a devotional survey of the Bible by able expositors of God’s Word and it is highly commended to those who will enjoy feeding from it.

Bill Lucas (Stornoway)

Page 27 “ For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. (John 3:16)

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