The MESSENGER • March 2008 • 1

Announcements 20

• Gleanings from the Churches Gleanings from Book Review • 7 • 11 Why Sponsor Refugees (2) Sponsor Why • 16 News Notes & Comments 23 30 Years in Ministry Years 30 The Christian’s Great Interest Great The Christian’s the Free Reformed Churches • 10 • 5 Youth Page Youth A Heart for Evangelism

• 20 • 14

tion of A Captive Set Free The • 3

Christian Ministry to Israel Hersteld Hervormde Kerk Hersteld Volume 55, No. 3, March 2008 March 3, No. 55, Volume

Church News Church Revival of Pyongyang (2) The Korean Messenger 12 18 2 8

The Official Publica Inside 2 The MESSENGER • March 2008 • Church News Saturday, March 29, 2008 in theLondonFree Reformed Brantford, Ontario N3R 7Z9 with the elders and deacons with theeldersanddeacons DEACONS CONFERENE can be invoiced at reduced The Place of Israel Today as • Children’s BibleLessons Request an Order Form or Mr. David Zadok of Rishon Combined Fall Conference Churches and bookstores Books prices for bulk quantities of the Heritage Reformed of theHeritageReformed 10.00 a.m. The meeting [email protected]; Coffee will be served at Coffee willbeservedat God’s CovenantPeople (click onRESOURCES) • CatechismMaterial 265 KingGeorgeRd, • BibleStudyGuides SPR begins at10.30a.m. visit: www.frcna.org Fax: 519751-4470 Tel. 519752-4413; F Mind and Soul Advance Notice: • DailyDevotions PUBLICA REE RE Congregations. of 10ormore LeTsion, Israel I Church D.V. NG E Speaker: CANADA Box 104, to Feed Y Topic: F LD ORME TIONS

ERS &

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253 Weirs Lane, Dundas, ON Sponsored bytheFederation We also meet at this location BELLEVUE, W the Person Fellowship Hall of Messages forRev. Gangaror will beheld Tuesday, May6, Street, Bellevue, Washington Everyone who understands Everyone whounderstands church mailmaybesentto: Friday eveningat7.00p.m. 1.00 p.m. and 6.00 p.m. in for Bible Study every other for BibleStudyeveryother ANNUAL DUTCHDA of Free ReformedLadies’ Worship services are held Free ReformedChurch, Grace Lutheran Church, located at 9625 NE 8th For furtherinformation, 2006, D.V. 10.30a.m. Coffee will be served Coffee willbeserved (three blocks west of (three blockswestof call (425)649-9676, the Dutch language the Dutchlanguage or visitourwebsite: Rev. Gerald Procee frcna.org/bellevue. each Lord’s Dayat Bellevue Square). is verywelcome. [email protected]

LOCATION: at 9.45a.m. SPEAKER: Societies ASHINGTON Y Church of Grand Rapids, Michigan before April 11, 2008. All material should be sent electronically service. Location: 61676thSt. Slingerland at 403-254-6591 Slingerland at403-254-6591 7 to10p.m. 4 to6p.m. 1.00 p.m. 9.00 a.m. Time The Free ReformedChurchof Worship services are held at (northwest cornerofBlack- or e-mail Harold and Janey Brantford, OntarioFree ReformedChurchonJune2-6, 2008. All overtures, reports andother contact: Harold and Janey Sunday school classes are foot andGlenmore Trails). The Lord willing, the Free Reformed Churches of North America Synod 2008 will meet at the correspondence forthe Agenda ofSynodmustbereceivedbytheclerkFree Reformed 9.30 a.m. and2.30p.m. CALGARY, LACOMBE, held everyLord’s Dayat 9.00 a.m. and3.00p.m. held afterthe2.30p.m. SE, Calgary AB T2H 1L9 On behalfoftheGrand RapidsFree ReformedChurch–conveningforSynod2008, Trinity Lutheran Church, to beheldintheFree ReformedChurchofHamilton, 1114OldMohawkRd., Ancastser, ONL9C3K9 [email protected]. For moreinformation, Lacombe meets in the Lacombe meetsinthe Worship Servicesare 5227 C&E Trail, Slingerland at Lacombe, AB. Synodical CommitteeeMeetingCoordinator, as attachmentsinMS-Word [email protected]

Ministerial Mtg Supper 0 Publications 11 Publications Lunch 11 Publications Tuesday March 25 Albert Albert SPRING 2008SYNODICALCOMMTTEEMEETNGS Please direct requests foradditions/changesto: a a [email protected]; Tel. 905701-5275 SYNOD 2008 Home Missions7 Supper 0 Evangelism &Radio5 Interchurch Relations14 Lunch 14 Interchurch Relations Wednesday March 26 100,000 150,000 200,000 250,000 300,000 350,000 400,000 50,000 H. Kleyn, Clerk. Free ReformedMissionsInternational 0 ANNOUNCEMENT Income vs.Budget 282,441 Youth &Education9 Supper 0 Theological Ed. Theological Ed. Lunch 12 Theological Ed. Thursday March 27 Free ReformedChurches AnnualBudget Jan-NovBudget Jan-NovReceipts Hans Van Doodewaard 2007 345,500

345,500 Theological Ed. Theological Ed. Lunch 12 Theological Ed. Friday March 28 The MESSENGER • March 2008 • 3 Scripture tells us that Christ assumed our assumed Christ that us tells Scripture and the sooner does our appear, No Lord ree not believe, is not due to lack of evidence, but because Satan has blinded their eyes (2 rule devil’s the under are men All 4:4). Cor. brought and Christ by free set are they until under new management. ord Over The Devil Over Of Our Lord Power would think there was no hope for this You man, since he lived in Jesus had limited His mission Gentile to the house territory. of Israel. But he was one of Christ’s sheep and it is this that brought our Saviour to the spot where the man was. The disciples of a Christ storm had the just been through and would avoided rather night have before an encounter altogether. demons were aware of coming Christ’s and It seems guarded their captive the well. A whole legion possessed the man. destroy might he death through “that nature, the is, that death, of power the had that him devil; and deliver them, who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject bondage” (Heb. 2:14-15). to It is sin that has men brought into bondage, which the devil no is Man Adam. did he as with men tempts match for the devil. nor Neither his family, to be Thanks man. this deliver could society than that Christ is one who is stronger God the enemy of soul. man’s Christ came into works the destroy “to told, are we world, the 3:8). (1 John of the devil” demons fall down before him and cry out, “What have I to do with thee, thou Son of God Most High? I beseech thee, torment me not” There(v.28). are many who think Christ and Satan are equal contestants in a battle over the souls of men. Some even evil see they because winning, is Satan think increasing. But one command from Christ will fell this arch foe. tremble at Here the approach the and command demons of Christ.

All Men Outside Of Christ Men Men and women claim to be free, but This man, who had been created in the By Rev. K. Gangar K. By Rev. Position Of Position We may think this man is teaches unique Scripture so. not is it in but condition, his that all men born of Adam are born under the called is devil The dominion. devil’s the “god of this world” (2 Cor. 4:4). but manifestation; extreme an have In we man this all are ruled by the devil. Our Lord called the respectable Pharisees “sons,” (John 8:44). the devil” but “of Abraham, not of everywhere they are in chains. Look at the world in the present day and you women will and see Men manifestations. same these Pornographic inhibitions. all off casting are sites on the Internet are viewers, drawing which many is life. destructive The devil of aliveis family and well planet on earth, when you consider the number books published of and sold on that subject. TheBible tells us that thereason men do Set F A Captive 8:26-39 Luke Scripture: Condition of the Man Pathetic This story of the man possessed of demons is also found in Matthew and Mark. It is relevant to our times, when sold you being angels and devils consider on literature the in the bookstores. There are two occasions when Jesus was in a place of tombs--here, and at the tomb occasions He brought of life where there was Lazarus. On death. Lazarus was physically dead, and the both man was dead to the things of this world, though physically alive. devils. of haunt a become had God, of image legion a by but one, by not possessed was He of devils. He was naked. All inhibition was gone. He had forsaken home and society, living among the tombs. Since he had to be bound with he menace to society, was a chains. The misery man’s was such that he was driven to take his own life. He would often cut himself. How the glorious image had become tarnished, like a castle in ruins! Meditation Tuesday, Tuesday, ANCES TE

ANT EDITOR The Administrator

Free Reformed Website: www.frcna.org Website: Reformed Free March 18, 2008 and sent to: 18, March THE MESSENGER Editor Pronk, C. c/o Rev. 10 Highgate Place ON N3R 5V4 CANADA Brantford, 519 751-4470 Telephone/Fax: Email: [email protected] or [email protected] SUBSCRIPTIONS/REMITT obitu- All notices for family announcements, anniversaries, andaries, non-commercial advertisementsApril for the2008 issue should be received no later than SUBSCRIPTION RA Annually - $25.00 Canada & U.S.A. MessengerThe is published 11 times per year. Requests for subscriptions, all payments and inquiries regarding and invoices, all rates, remittances should be addressed to: THE MESSENGER Send to The Dennis DeVries Mr. Box #104 265 King George Rd., ON N3R 7Z9 Brantford, 519 751-4470 Fax: 519 752-4413; Tel. [email protected] Email: COMMITTEE MEMBERS Chairman Procee, G.R. Rev. Secretary Kranendonk, H. D. Rev. Albert Street 69 ON N0K 1N0 Mitchell, SS1, 519 348-0436 Tel/Fax: [email protected] Email: Pronk C. Rev. Sr. Bilkes L.W. Dr. Koopman J. Rev. Tamminga J. Mr. Overduin J. Rev. VanDoodewaard H. Mr. Lewis J. Rev. Dr. G. M. Bilkes M. G. Dr. [email protected] Email: ASSIST The Editor reports to the Editor reports to The Committee Synodical Publications EDITOR Pronk C. Rev. Place 10 Highgate ON N3R 5V4 Brantford, 519 751-4470 Tel/Fax: [email protected] Email: Messenger 4 The MESSENGER • March 2008 • and by the removal of sin alone, could the bondage, into man brought that sin was It cross. Calvary’s on make shortly would Christ that sacrifice the by but He power, of word Christ. a by simply not of free, set been work had the to testimony God. of ways the are Strange man! this refused He while demons, the of request in the be answered Jesus Jesus. to of company the desired He welcome. not was Saviour his where place a in stay to wish not did He citizens! grieved the of request the been at have must man the How Proclamation Of The Gospel demon-possessed, hadbeensetfree! considered they one the while dominion, men showed these they were action, still under this the devil’s By free. set are we that Saviour the to eyes blind our opens and us regenerates SpiritHoly the when only is it No, here. evidence enough than more was There Christians. people makes what not tyranny, they ask Him to leave. Evidence is Satan’sstay,fromfree to live might they so Jesus welcoming than Rather swine. their lost had their they that only in cared They stood midst. God of Son the that not cared Satan’sThey from restoredbondage. they askJesus toleave theirregion! this, Yetall mind. despite right his in now control, of out was who man a saw They Jesus.of feet the at sitting now shrieks, his who had run wild and filled the region with now man a restored saw They home. his to home and society to live among the tombs, around run had naked, now clothed; one who had forsaken who one, them; from freed now demons, many had who man a seen had of citizens The evidences depravity.man’s saddest the of one is Here Protest Of The CitizensOf The purpose. to them divine His served it because pigs, the enter permitted He animals. above control.Finally, man of showsworth it the their from delivered fully was he that man the assure to be could reason second The man. the in continue had to allowed been they power destructive their show to may be, reason One all. at permission gives such Lord the why puzzled be may We pigs. the enter to permission request and time, their beforeabyss the into sent being The former demoniac was a living was demoniac former The been had man the that not cared They from spared be to only asked devils The Area vdn t ohr, n or oy ak of life? walk holy freedom your in this others, Is to evident Saviour? the of others tell may you that it Is it? use you do how 8:36). (John indeed” free be shall ye free, you make shall therefore Son the “If Christ. is that and Satan, than stronger is who One only is There Christ. the devil, for they to saw no need to believe in bondage in were they yet respectable, were Pharisees The captive. Satan’s be to still you for man this as extreme as be to Lord the to today andbegHim tosetyou free. out Cry bondage. your of evidence sure is you, to proclaimed is He when even Christ, of need no see you that free, while they are in chains! The be very fact to themselves think they that him, by his under Men dominion. and women are so blinded still are Christ, by freed been not have who all us, tells Bible may the feel, you However him.” to bondage in been never “I’ve say, may You bondage? the word went out,tothewholeregion. heard him. He the became which means through who those to apparent was it and Saviour, the of goodness the experienced personally had He marvelled. many that saint a is home. at who devil a but abroad man the resemble they in character the it. Like of empty is home their but matters, religious about speak to how know who many are There be known. is she intimately to or most he where ought home the change in evident this changed, is region. this in and home own his in done had Lord the what proclaim to begin to was man This death! his of place very -the Jerusalem- at proclamation their begin to Jesus told His disciples after He had risen, repentance. to come should all that but perish should none that willing is Lord the He how Wesee them. yetto mercy territory,extended their in be longer no Evenman toperform. thoughJesus could lose hiscaptives. to loath is Satan power. by and purchase captive be set free. Jesus saves men both by Reformed Church ofBellevue, Washington. Free the of pastor the is Gangar Kuldip Rev. If you have experienced this freedom, freedom, this experienced have you If have not does case your Remember, Satan’s from free set been you Have so message the proclaimed man The woman or man a when that true is It the for mission special a had now Jesus M igi’ Progress, Pilgrim’s FREE REORMEDMISSONSNTERNA 751-4470; email: [email protected].” Highgate Place, Brantford. ON N3R 5V4; contact: Tel/Fax: inquiries 519 Mrs.10 for Secretary,Pronk,Frederikac/o Haven,Peace and resume a with apply To importance.primary of are learn to willingness a and skills,inter-personalservice, good Christian for heart A Ontario. Brantford, in individuals needs special for care respite and residential offering home group otherswhoare willing tobetrained, tostaff smalla forpart-time support workers who are qualified, and PeaceHaven,FreeReformed Association, lookingis SPECIAL CONERT [email protected] andinclude yourname, Mattaniah ChristianMaleChoir at Hamilton FREE OrganCDoftheInaugural OrganConcert St (FRMI) Free ReformedMissionsInternational, In connectionwiththe25thanniversary, the Hosanna Choir will be in concert with the http://freereformedconcertcd.blogspot.com/ Send a cheque for a donation of $20.00 to Send achequefordonationof$20.00to FRC Jan OverduinCD, 34-19 Augusta Cr., Saturday, March 29, 2008, 7.30p.m. For moreinformation, call905-628-1211 André Knevel&John Vanderlaan - (mailing costwillbeaddedtoyourorder) Liselotte RokytafromHolland- of theSt. Thomas Free ReformedChurch aff forSmallGroupHome Scott Harrison, PhilipSeguin- address, postal codeandthenumberof or visitwww.hosanna-choir.org St. Thomas, ONN5R6J7, Canada, For further information see also or placeyourorderbyemailto: Musical participants include Place, theLordwilling, on copies youwishtoorder. 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organ TIONAL The MESSENGER • March 2008 • 5 aw Work A Saving Law

He He is now preoccupied with the quest for Some Evidences Of Some Evidences Of Paul of case the is as violent, be may work This and the Philippian jailor. But, says Guthrie, more work this on carries sometimes Lord the protracting softly it and so gradually, calmly, that the several exercise under steps of man’s first, convinced, is very He are discernable. it of certain particular sins, then of more sins and of sin itself and of his own unbelief and ungodliness. salvation. He is frightened of dying unsaved. He may be tormented with fear of committed having the unpardonable sin, tempted and even to be suicide; but God upholds him, “quietly and…by mind infusingthe possibility of his salvation” (p.36). into his He seeks salvation by his own then works; “the but Lord makes a new convincing him even thoroughly more him,” assault upon of the spirituality of the law, his own utter corruption and the filthiness of his fancied righteousness. He withdraws from company to seek God in self-abhorrence and despair, and in grief for his past Christians contempt and of abuse true of the merciful long- suffering ofGod, he begins to pray. “Now,” says Guthrie, “it is about the dawning of the 43). (p. day with the man” Intensity Of Degrees Varying Guthrie reaffirms that thispreparatory law- work is not experienced by all. Nor do who all do experience it, do degree so of intensity, to or the for an same period. equally The long main thing we are to in for look these legal awakenings is whether stirrings these and convictions purpose for which the Lord sends accomplish them into the the soul, namely “self-despair, fear of sin, a high valuation of Christ and the Gospel and submit to thankfully and patiently readiness a (p.48). lordship” saving to His (1)

1 Guthrie maintains, first of all, that it is of the of is it that all, of first maintains, Guthrie But how can we tell whether a person of experience necessary for salvation higher does. than Scripture utmost importance for a man to be savingly in covenant with God, and he rebukes those who will not take any pains to discover their true position. Quoting 2 Corinthians 13:5 ashamed, “Be continues, he 1:10, Peter 2 and you who spend so much time in reading of romances, in adorning of your persons, in hawking and hunting, in consulting the law concerning your outward state in the world, and it may be in worse things than these… Be ashamed, you that spend so little time in search of this, whether ye be an heir of glory or not.” has a valid title to says life Guthrie, various characteristics eternal? peculiar There are, to the children of God, and he consideration selects for “two from marks” among great these, namely justifying and in holiness. faith and personal renewal principal The Law Of Work The Preparatory pauses he however, these, with dealing Before to discuss the law-work, which, he says, the Lord usually uses in preparing His own way law- a such experience all Not souls. men’s in work, Guthrie says. Some are the called womb, from as John the Baptist, or in childhood early as Timothy. Others are brought to Christ in a sovereign gospel way by some few words of love as Zacchaeus, and others, leave did Christ, by spoken word a upon who all and followed Him. hear We nothing of a close they before them with dealing law-work with Christ Jesus. All these, deeplyconvicted of sin after coming to faith, however, are as Zacchaeus’ case shows. Others, again, are called on their deathbeds, but only few are saved this way. Ordinarily, however, a clear and discernable law-work of conviction and faith. humiliation precedes Interest Great

orn in Scotland in 1620, Guthrie pastored pastored Guthrie 1620, in Scotland in orn only one church, Fenwick in Ayrshire,

Since Since there are so many people living under the grace] ordinances pretending, [means without ground, to of a special interest in Christ… And since many who have good ground of claim to Christ, are not established in the confidence of His favour, but remain in the dark without comfort, hesitating concerning the reality of godliness in themselves… speak a little I respecting to things shall of the greatest concern. The one is, how a person may if know he doth lay just claim to God’s favour and salvation. The other is, in caseshort a of assurance person in this falls trial, what course he should take.

B The editorial for this month will take the formof review an orextended summary of a book that became a spiritual classic almost as soon as it was writings. my all in than it in divinity more is there that it of said Owen John And read.” ever I book best “the it called Chalmers Thomas published. Interest. Great Christian’s little classic, The Guthrie’s William to I am referring The Christian’s The Editorial from 1650 to 1664, where he became known known became he where 1664, to 1650 from as ‘a great light in the Having poured all West his teaching of and pastoral Scotland.’ experience into this work--his one book, he ministered to thousand of Christians during his lifetime and many more thousands have benefited from this spiritual gem sincedeath his in 1665. On the cover of my copy of Guthrie’s book it says, “From the riches of seeking still those and Christians, pages these Christ, have been drawing for three hundred [by now 350] years as the book has passed through more than eighty editions.” Why is great its of Because popular? so still book this importance. Listen to what Guthrie says in his introduction: A Model Of Balance questions difficult these of treatment Guthrie’s is a model of balance. While clearly showing how the true believer’s from experience that differs of the hypocrite, temptation to he raise the resists minimum the standard 6 The MESSENGER • March 2008 • once abused…are now employed as weapons were which members those that so foot the and hand, the ear, the eye, the tongue, the outward members of the man are renewed… 31:33; Ezek. 36:26-27). (Jer. glory His of God robs that everything and God and sin hates lovesand saints His God’sin image he that so heart his upon written is God of law the renewed; also are affections and heart His God. of things the of reality the discerns and God the of be wisdom to gospel the recognizes he that so (Col. renewed, is understanding His(p.75). Christ 3:10) of image the in degree some to renewed is consequently and man,’ the ‘new on put has he 5:17); Cor. (2 creature’ in holiness. in interest second saving his Christ, namely the a renewal of the whole man to of mark” on “principle moves now Guthrie Renewal OfManInHoliness thing” (p.69). discernable a is this nowhereelse, and there, resting and in terminating men, of life the of Lord as Him approves and discovery that in the new covenant; if it goes after Christ in fullness, his heart is pleased with God’s device himself, upon the report and fame of Christ’s in distress known know,from clearly if may man “a for it, have they know may it have the even who those and but faith saving is faith weak, weakest be may Faith Him. about truth the in acquiescing and accepting Christ of matter a is it understanding; do imagine” (p. 55). men than easy more thing a (p.57), faith is (Ps.thingSuch it? a 81:10). to way give and mouth’ my ‘open manner a in and it, take and accept but will I if mine, be to declared receive a thing that is offered, held forth, and to and Saviour…(Isa. 45:22), exalted that to look to earnestly difficulty, insuperable and after hunger that righteousness.’ Is it a ‘blessed matter of such intricacy are they for have they it; appetite, an but have men …if difficult, mysterious thing, hardly attainable; a not is Faith Christ... through salvation of plan God’s with satisfaction heart’s the by heart’s closing with Christ in the Gospel and the by ways: two in discernable “is argues, he “Faith,” in faith. interest justifying namely saving Christ, a of two his marks” of “principal first the to turns next Guthrie Justifying F In addition to this, Guthrie says, the very very the says, Guthrie this, to addition In ‘new a is says, Guthrie Christ, in man A the and heart the both involves Faith aith

a. Hypocrites mayprofess akindoffaithbut 1. 2. c. result seldom convictions Hypocrites’ b. a. believer.a true becomes who person the in found generally but hypocrite a of experience the in found Guthrie mentions three things that are rarely list: following the up draws he believer true the between the experiences of the hypocrite and manner of life.” Tohis in help us see the difference change real a and faith of sort a sin, about conscience of stirrings “great as such counterfeit of all the marks of a true believer, a extent certain a to possesses who hypocrite a of case the discuss to turns now Guthrie True Believers Differences he isforthatreason unrenewed. that this from conclude to need no is there it, about distressed and displeased is and sin However, if a man is overcome by a particular change appear throughout of the whole man...” (p.87). measure “it some that that necessary insists is Guthrie degree, perfect a to life new is the of evidence Christian present to no able Although Lord.” the see shall man no which without “holiness the (p. 79). 6:19) (Rom. holiness unto righteousness of b. They never receive Christ as King to rule to King as Christ receive never They b. Thehypocrite’s faith

Guthrie equates this renewal of life with life of renewal this equates Guthrie

The hypocrite’s conviction in Judas’ case. leads to utter despair ending in suicide as it increases, and continues conviction if Or, trembling. his of more no hear and we time convenient more a for waits Felix convictions. his of heard is more no and a city builds and goes Cain lived. Hypocrites’ convictions are usually short- own their righteousness” (Rom. establish 10:13). to about “go still corruption, they that so inner helplessness, and inability of recognition in both generalandspecificsins. of conviction produces hand, other the on law-work, true A sins. specific any to or sinfulness in general without referring transgressions gross few a only usually concern hypocrite a of convictions the over man in all things, as Priest to procure with Christalone. every other ground of confidence to close They never give up works so as to forsake Between Hypocrites And zon. - Ama including sources, different many from online Christian’s Saving Interest,” can easily be purchased purchased be easily can Interest,” Saving Christian’s in up-to-date English, and sometimes known as “The “The as known sometimes and English, up-to-date in erature in the 1960s. Copies of Guthries’ book, also also book, Guthries’ of Copies 1960s. the in erature - lit similar and Puritan purchase could one sources Publications, Swengel, PA. 17880, one of the few few the of one 17880, PA. Swengel, Publications, of Scotland, 1951 and was purchased from Reiner Reiner from purchased was and 1951 Scotland, of 3. 1 FOOTNOTES lication Committee of the Free Presbyterian Church Church Presbyterian Free the of Committee lication To becontinued. and intention ofthelawandgospel(p. 97). purpose great the answered have you since reprobates, and hypocrites atheists, all of reach the beyond are you things, these to claim just and clear a lay can you if are, you 3) 2) 1) c. b. a. c. - Pub The by published is using am I copy The Therefore, Guthrie concludes, whoever concludes, Guthrie Therefore,

The hypocrite’s reformation oflife whole yoke withoutexception. Christ’swith close earnest in never they and satisfy; enrich can that jewel and treasure only the as Christ Jesus embraced never they themselves; of their own righteousness so as to loathe have they are not broken in heart and emptied they lack thethree great essentialsofreligion: Guthrie, says Yetgraces. saving all they of counterfeits fact, In (Heb. come” 6:4-p.93). to world the of powers the and God of word good the of “taste and experiences striking have may They 13:3). Cor. (1 martyrdom to submit even and Cor.1 (Acts5:2; saints the to and 13:3), God to goods their of all even or much humble themselves (1 Kings 21:27), give (John 26:21) God Sam. (1 sins of their confess 7:46), things the degree a to like the Pharisees (Luke 18), and approve duties, religious to themselves give and joy (Mat. with 13:20), avoid many word sinful practices the receive 6:4), (Heb. men. They may changed display much knowledge be to appear may Hypocrites points. from result certain at back shy but Christ, following that inconveniences the all toaccept prepared seldom are They and counselusinallmatters. teach to and wisdom, our be to Prophet pardon for sin and to make peace, and as M den Hollander (905-628-1211).

By Rev. Joel Overduin Grand Rapids, Michigan Gleanings from the Churches The pro-life cause should never be far from Pulpit Supply BC area, featuring Rick Holland, Dr. Richard our minds and hearts, and at the same time For the six vacant congregations of our de- Ganz, and also Dr. J. Pipa, who the next Lord’s always much in our prayers. In his book on the nomination (Calgary, Chatham, Fenwick, Lan- day preached in our Chilliwack and Langley pastoral ministry, Brothers, We are not profes- gley, Pompton Plains and Toronto) securing congregations. On Friday, February 22, elder sionals, John Piper includes a chapter titled, pulpit supply is an ongoing challenge. Often Jerry Benjamins of Brantford Free Reformed “Brothers, blow the trumpet for the unborn.” the elders will read sermons, and Revs. Ham- Church (FRC) spoke at Zion FRC in Fenwick There are many ways we can help to do this, stra, Roth, and Van Essen do help to fill the for their annual Sunday School meeting. Ben- such as supporting local pro-life groups and void. Also, several of our ministers regularly jamins’ subject was Family Worship. Then on pregnancy resource centres. One project the lead three services per Lord’s day (an addi- Friday, March 7, Rev. D. H. Kranendonk spoke Grand Rapids congregation has done for quite tional one in a vacant congregation) to help, in the Dundas FRC building for the Cana- a few years every January is to purchase a crib and theological student, Derek Baars, has dian Lord’s Day Association. His subject was and for several weeks encourage members to visited a number of our congregations too. “Sabbath Struggles: The English Sabbath and fill it with all kinds of baby items – clothing, But still, there is a need for more preachers. the Dutch Sunday.” On March 14-15, Dr. J.R. So some of our congregations have turned Beeke was scheduled to speak at the annual to the seminary and to others for help. For Cambridge Reformed Bible Conference on example, Dr. David Murray, the new profes- the subject of “Assurance.” Later in April, the sor at Puritan Reformed Theological Semi- churches in the west are organizing a Bible nary (PRTS), has served several of the Ontario conference with Dr. Derek Thomas speaking congregations and the Grand Rapids con- on the subject of afflictions in the Christian gregation. Candidate Bill Boekestein, recent life. There may be more. What a lot of oppor- graduate of PRTS and member of the United tunities to hear the Word of God and hear Reformed Church (URC) of Dutton, Michigan, about the Work of God in this world, and so has led services in some Ontario congrega- to be nurtured and challenged in the gospel tions and in Calgary, Alberta. Another supply way. We are a very blessed people, for sure. blankets, diapers, etc. Then it is all donated to is Maarten Kuivenhoven, a Heritage Reformed Let us therefore take advantage of the op- a local pregnancy resource centre where the Congregation (HRC) student at PRTS. In addi- portunities that come to us, especially on the items are distributed to pregnant women who tion, there are other HRC ministers and a URC Lord’s day and on other occasions as much are in need. In the Grand Rapids congrega- minister filling some of our pulpits on occa- as we are able, – “not forsaking the assem- tion, the project is spearheaded by the Dorcas sion. Then in the west, the Langley congre- bling of ourselves together, as is the manner Guild, but as the guild’s president wrote, and gation often hears the preaching of Rev. Tom of some, but exhorting one another and so as you can see from the picture, “Each year the Aicken, of the Independent Reformed Church much the more as we see the day approach- project is a huge success.” This might be an in New Westminster, British Columbia. There ing” (Heb. 10:25). idea for other congregations or church groups, may be more who serve our churches. We are as we stir each other up to care for the unborn thankful for all this help, and let us pray much Dundas, Ontario – Hosanna Choir in a land that more and more does not care for for the Lord to bless His Word and to make it Many of our members, especially in Ontar- the unborn. mighty in us all, in our churches and in our io, will be familiar with the Hosanna Choir communities. At the same time, the need we originating from the Dundas FRC but having London, Ontario have as churches should impress again the members from other local FRCs and denomi- Members of this congregation hosted a ‘Trips words of the Lord Jesus, that we “pray to the nations as well. This year, the choir is cele- Evening’ on Saturday, February 23rd, at the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth brating its 25th anniversary, and so a special church. There was a dinner featuring food labourers into his harvest” (Matt. 9:38). May concert will be given at Hamilton Place on dishes from Kenya, Mexico, and Peru. After- He hear and answer our prayers to His glory. Saturday, March 29. Director is Herman den wards, several members who had gone to Hollander and the accompanists include John these countries for school-related purposes, gave presentations on their trips. What a neat Speaker Evenings Vanderlaan and Andre Knevel on organ, and The MESSENGER • February 2008 • 7 A number of our churches or denominational/ Joyce Postmus on piano. In addition, guest idea to help us learn about other countries and national/local societies are holding speaker instrumentalists will be present, includ- cultures. Most of all, let us long for God’s king- evenings in these months. Early in February, ing Liselotte Rokyta from Holland, playing dom to come, not only here but throughout Mr. Charles Schreur, an English teacher in the pan flute, and Scott Harrison and Philip the world. China, visited a number of our churches and Seguin, playing the trumpets. It promises to M spoke on the work of Bonisa Mission. Dur- be an enjoyable evening. May it be to the The editor of this column is Rev. Joel Overduin, ing the weekend of February 15-16, there glory of God. Anyone wanting to purchase pastor of the Free Reformed Church of Mitch- was a Sola Scriptura conference in the Surrey, tickets may contact Joyce Otten, or Herman ell, Ontario. Experiential Matters Revivals: The Korean Revival of Pyongyang (2)

By Rev. Gerald Procee

Last time we considered the events leading up to the Pyongyang revival of 1907. We saw that when Presbyterian missionaries had come to Korea in the 1880s there was a positive response to this missionary endeavour. The Korean church grew quickly. However, due to political developments in which the United States and Britain were criticized for their support of the 1905 Japanese occupation of Korea, a spirit of coldness and even hatred set in. The missionaries saw the need for divine intervention and gathered for continual and fervent prayer. Sermons were preached to uncover sin and prayer was lifted up for God to work broken hearts and sorrow for sin. The need for God’s Spirit to come down and work mightily was deeply felt.

n Monday evening, January 8, as peo- and the steady growth of the Korean church each other have infected us; the Holy Spirit Ople entered the Central Presbyterian prior to the 1907 Pyongyang revival, spiri- is grieved and He removes Himself. Church of Pyongyang with a seating capac- tual life was in serious decline. A spirit of Let us examine ourselves. What do we ity of 1500, they were aware of the presence coldness had come upon the church. This find living within us? Is it love or is it re- of God. The church was crowded and after coldness was fostered by hatred against the sentment? We are called to love even our a preliminary sermon, the need for prayer Japanese and resentment against each other, enemies. Yet we are inclined to resent even was strongly felt. The officiating minister especially against the American missionar- brothers and sisters in the same congrega- gave permission for personal prayer and to ies. Because of unconfessed sins and feel- tion, even colleagues in the ministry, and offer up audible prayers. ings of hatefulness, spiritual life was at a fellow office bearers. This may have no place What happened next was indescribable. low ebb. The Spirit was withdrawing Him- in our Christian life. This was the plague of Many wept, publicly confessing their sins self, for He cannot be present where hatred the Korean church of 1906 one hundred and crying out to God to save them. They is harboured. years ago and that may easily be our plague confessed their sins of hatefulness and en- The Holy Spirit is grieved when hatred too. tertaining suspicious thoughts against each and resentment are present in a congrega- other and the missionaries. They also con- tion. Neither can the Holy Spirit live in a Need For Confession Of Sins fessed their spirit of hatred against the Japa- heart that is filled with hatred against oth- The second lesson we can learn is the need nese as sin before the Lord and as the cause ers, even against unbelievers. The result of for confession of our sins. The Korean for God’s Spirit to have departed from such resentment will be that a spirit of cold- church saw its need to confess their sins. them. ness and spiritual barrenness prevails. There Individual members were under such a de- The following evening, Tuesday January is a message for us here. gree of conviction that they saw the need 9, the scene was even more overwhelming. How is our personal, spiritual life far- to confess their sins publicly. Their eyes People were wailing and weeping as they ing? What is the spiritual condition of our were opened for the fact that their sins were convicted of the horror of their sins congregation? There can be external growth were the cause of God’s Spirit to withdraw and they cried out to the Lord Jesus Christ while at the same time there is a spirit of Himself. They realized that according to for mercy. The results were overpowering. coldness and barrenness upon us. No God’s righteous judgment they were wor- All the people in the Korean peninsula were outpourings of God’s love are experi- thy of being cast away forever. They real- affected and as a result many were added to enced. We are not moved by God’s love ized that they had forfeited every blessing. the church. and the Gospel does not affect us. God Hence the cries were heard for God to save What can we, today, learn from these seems to be far away from us. There them and to have mercy upon them. That events? There are, I believe, several lessons are no conversions and the over-all was the manner whereby they confessed we can learn. state of spiritual life is low. There their sins. They saw themselves as vile is a cause for this. Maybe the rea- before the holy God and worthy of His Grieving The Spirit son is that resentment and a spirit just punishment. The first thing is that we ought to be aware of hatefulness are secretly har- In order for spiritual that the Holy Spirit is a tender Spirit. He boured in our hearts. In a subtle restoration to take place, man is easily grieved and the result is that He manner, perhaps without being must confess his wrongdoings. withdraws. In spite of much church work aware of it, misgivings against The heart has to be laid bare • February 2008 • 8 The MESSENGER • February before the Lord. Hidden sins have to be Regular prayer meetings were held every of God. God’s Word must “read” our lives expressed. The Spirit of God works up- evening during the end of December 1906 so that it is like a mirror in which one ob- rightness and grants truth in the inward and at the beginning of 1907. At this time serves one’s sins before the face of God. The parts of man’s soul, so that nothing will be of the year missionaries had the custom to preaching of God’s Word can work mira- kept from God in secret. Sins will be freely come together from all over the country cles. The evidence is the preaching that trig- and openly confessed before His face. to re-acquaint themselves with each other. gered the revival of 1907 in Korea. We read of such times in many places Normally, these were social gatherings. But in God’s Word: I acknowledged my sin unto because of the perceived prevailing spiri- Need For Revival thee, and mine iniquity have I not hid. I tual coldness, they had no heart for social In conclusion, we may say that we too are in said, I will confess my transgressions unto gatherings. Instead, they came together for need of revival. The over-all spiritual state of the LORD; and thou forgavest the iniquity prayer. There was continual, fervent prayer our congregations is not high. At synodical of my sin (Ps. 32:5). Also, if we confess our for the Lord’s presence to return. meetings churches report an increase of dis- sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our Prayer often marks the beginning of a cipline cases. Even within churches people sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteous- revival. There have been other occasions in do not fear God or His judgment and con- ness (1 John 1:9). The Spirit leads the sin- church history when people came together sequently easily engage in sin. The spiritual ner to be open and honest before God. for prayer and this was the beginning of a condition of our soul is too often based on Sins are confessed to the Lord and sins are revival. The 1859 revival in Northern Ire- presumption instead of a true living faith. also confessed to one another. It is only in land was initiated by the prayer of one man, It is possible to rejoice in spiritual blessings the way of confession of sins that forgive- James McQuilken, who together with a few that were never received. Much thanksgiv- ness can be received and that restoration of others began to meet in a secluded school- ing may be offered to God while there is spiritual life can be established. room outside the village of Connor. The little supplication and very few needs are The Korean Christians freely confessed Lord sometimes lays it on the hearts of cer- brought to Him. This is indicative of spiri- their sins. Therefore, we may well ask tain of God’s people to come together for tual blindness. ourselves the question: have we confessed prayer to plead for revival. The idea is not God can do great things, also in our our sins before the Lord? Have we been to broadly advertise such a prayer meeting day. We are in need of revival and God made open and sincere? Psalm 32 says that and obtain the support of many to come. can work this revival. Let us learn from the as long as we keep silent, we will have no We do not need man’s support; we need the 1907 Pyongyang revival the need to recog- peace. Do we perhaps have hidden, mali- support of the Holy Spirit. nize within us the sins of hatefulness and cious attitudes against people that we re- How is it with our prayer life? Do we resentment—and we might add--the sins of fuse to admit and that we do not lay before know what it is to be engaged in fervent love for self and for the world. God in prayer? Maybe we even refuse to prayer? Are we concerned about the over-all Counsellors speak of three ways whereby admit that we have such attitudes. But all state of religion in this world? Do we have the devil enslaves church members in our along our spiritual life is cold and we feel concern for our own denomination and for day: money, sex and power. The love of ourselves far removed from God. our own congregation? Do we see the need money is the root of all evil. Sexual lusts God is hiding His face and He will con- for a spiritual awakening in our own lives? enslave people, especially because of easy tinue to do this unless we learn to confess Is it not true that every generation must ex- access through Internet. Power is exercised our sins freely and openly before Him. If perience some kind of spiritual awakening when people want to control each other. we have shown resentment publicly against to re-discover personally for themselves the Let us realize the need to confess these our neighbour, this should also be openly beauty of the Lord’s service? Therefore, we sins openly and freely before God, and confessed to him or her. James 5:16 states, stand in need of prayer. Is this not one of when appropriate, also before men. Let us Confess your faults one to another, and pray the great shortcomings of our day, that all be fervent in our prayers, for God will do one for another, that ye may be healed. too often prayer is lacking, or lacks power? mighty works in answer to prayer. Let us expose ourselves to the Word to be con- Necessity Of Prayer Uncovering Preaching victed and admonished so as to receive a A third matter we can learn from this event Finally, there is this lesson that people were humble heart and a contrite spirit. For thus is the necessity of prayer. When the mis- convicted when uncovering sermons were saith the high and lofty One that inhabiteth The MESSENGER • February 2008 • 9 sionaries in Pyongyang realized that all the preached that laid bare the resentment and eternity, whose name is Holy; I dwell in the mission work and the whole future of the hatred within a church and affects the whole high and holy place, with him also that is of a church in Korea were in jeopardy because congregation. The Word exposed their sins. contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of resentment and coldness, they engaged Through the preaching of God’s Word the of the humble, and to revive the heart of the in prayer. Prayer meetings were held in people were shown the errors of their way. contrite ones (Isa. 57:15). which the Lord was implored for the out- This shows us the necessity for discriminat- M pouring of His Spirit to grant repentance ing and uncovering preaching. Also person- Rev. Gerald Procee is the pastor of the Free and to heal their backsliding. ally, one needs to be exposed by the Word Reformed Church of Hamilton, Ontario. 10 The MESSENGER • March 2008 • tion, andreferences. educa- Sendto: Christian of philosophy faith, of ment aged toapply. encour are education Christian to and faith our staffteam. join to teachers energetic qualified, for need a ex- have curriculum,we school secondary panding an and grades elementary the in growth to Due 2008. September, in 12 grade add to are plans Our 11. grade to Kindergarten offer we and students 205 is enrolment present Our run school serving local Reformed communities. parent- recently-established, a Ontario.are We Springford, in Woodstock of south minutes 20 to the Principal, the to ment of Faith State- and your Philosophy of Education a with along resume your send Please application. your receiving to forward look would team,we teaching our joining in interested are you and children, to perspective Reformed a from teach to qualified committed energetic, are you If • • • Positions forthe2008/2009schoolyear. School isarural K-12schoolwithabout150 Applications should include a resume, state- resume, a include should Applications Reformed the to committed applicants All setting, rural a in located currently is ORCS Mark Fintelman, [email protected], Elementary andSecondary Teaching 2008-2009 schoolyear. JordanChristian Tel.: 519-842-3230; Fax: 519-842-5841 Peninsula. We areanticipatingopenings Oxford Reformed Christian School Oxford ReformedChristianSchool Lower Elementaryposition. and possibly, a Intermediate homeroomteacher, curriculum coordinatorresponsibilities, Secondary teacherwiththepossibilityof Reformed ChristianSchool students, locatedinthescenicNiagara or theEducationCommitteesecretary, TEACHERS NEEDED is inviting teacher applications for the is invitingteacherapplicationsforthe P.O. Box 68, Springford, ONN0J1X0. Email: [email protected] John Berman,[email protected]. JORDAN CHRISTIASOOL c/o Mr. J. Beeke (BoardPresident) 4171 15thStreet, JordanStation The Bo Jordan ChristianSchool Ontario, Canada, L0R1S0. invites applications for invites applicationsfor in thefollowingareas: ard ofOxf ord - spoke of what Pastor Schouls’ ministry ministry Schouls’ Pastor what of spoke Benjamins Jerry elder congregation, the them eachakindersurprisecandy. VanHarten,gaveHans Ceremonies, of ter Mas- courage, their for reward a As song. the a sang and front in the to went congregation children old three-year two-and The surprise.” “Kinder the was program the in entry special very a children, little loves Schouls Pastor that realized quickly way ofseveral stories. by reinforced was attract” “opposites that saying familiar The together. ministry the family inGrand Rapidsbefore hemarried. Schouls the with boardedVanderMeyden together; lived even Schouls and Meyden estant Reformed Seminary. Pastors Vander- ing several humorous incidents at the Prot- recall- together, seminary in were Schouls Pastorand he years the istry,about us told min- the in anniversary 30th his ebrating selection entitled,“OGive Thanks”. appropriate very a sang also choir youth dren sang, “Be strong in the Lord” and the Pastorof The chil- Schouls. school Sunday favourite a Bach, J.S. Wake”“Sleepers,by played Postma Garry Organist program. the in part took congregation the of bers mem- various hymns, and Psalters of tion selec- a of singing robust the with spersed Inter- congregations. other from guests of number a and family his with together try anniversary of Rev. Carl A. Schouls’ minis- O n eaf f oh h cnitr and consistory the both of behalf On has congregation Brantford the Since Rev. C. Pronk spoke about their years in cel- also P.Rev.is VanderMeyden,who tion of Brantford celebrated the 30th congrega- the 2008, 25, January n Celebrating 30 YEARS IN THE MINISTRY Rev. Schouls’ Holy KingofKings? Who shallnotextolThee, He didwondrous things God haswrought salvation, Be thepraisealone, And theLamb, victorious, Sitting onthethrone, “Unto God Almighty, specialevening: very to this end fitting a provided verse third the of words The Crystal.” of Sea the “By to meettheneedsofourdenomination. evening. May the Lord raise up young men try was mentioned several times during the many years yet. will Lord abundantly equip the him to minister to us for that pray We Brantford. in here now and Chatham followed Vineland, by Mitchell, in years--first 30 for Pastorof ministry Schoulsthe nomination wife Margaret provided. late his that encouragement and support thirty years of ministry and highlighted the still. Otohave highthoughtsofHim!” greater FARgreater, is He doubts, our or indifference, our or sin, our great how ter but also a willing Saviour; and that no mat- that He is not only an all-powerful Saviour clear it making for you Thank beautiful. is He that and glorious, is He that eminent, You’veChrist. pre- is Christ that us shown You’veus us. shown to meant already has Submitted by Elder Rick Postma, Brantford Brantford Postma, Rick Elder by Submitted Free Reformed Church Reformed Free h eeig ne wt te ign of singing the with ended evening The The need for new students for the minis- de- our giving for Lord the thank We Pastor Schouls looked back briefly on his M The MESSENGER • March 2008 • 11

N TITLES AN UREAND FUT 2965 Leonard N.E. Tel. 616-977-0599; 616-977-0599; Tel. For further information, further information, For PURIT www.heritagebooks.org. contact John M. Duncan, Duncan, contact John M. Vice President of Ministry Vice IA DEO GLOR SOLI 407-333-4244; ligonier.org 407-333-4244; Outreach, Ligonier Ministries; Ligonier Ministries; Outreach, We We are delighted to announce the For past Soli few Deoyears, has Books Heritage Reformation To be placed on the mailing list BOOKS Grand Rapids, Michigan 49525 Rapids, Grand Reformation Heritage Books that Soli Deo Gloria Publications, which has put numerous Puritan books back into print, has been Heritage Reformation by acquired Books in Grand Rapids, gan. Michi- produced been have books Gloria by Ligonier Ministries in Orlando, Florida. In 2007, Ligonier asked Reformation Heritage Books for guidance on managing Soli Deo Gloria Publications and later in- Books Heritage Reformation vited to publish and distribute the Soli Deo Gloria titles. received nearly 50,000 Soli Deo Gloria books that are in print, and we currently are ready to dis- tribute them to individuals andbookstores. Plans are under way to publish numerous additional Puritan titles. Reformation Heri- tage Books has agreed to tinue con- publishing a select number of titles under the Soli Deo Gloria imprint, which Ligonier will con- tinue to advertise in its catalogs; meanwhile, most Soli Deo Gloria titles will now be reprinted with the Reformation Heritage Books imprint. Reformation Books Heritage and Ligonier look forward to Ministries collaborating in order to promote Puritan - litera ture around the world. for catalogs that include all the Soli Deo Gloria titles (as well as publishers) other from titles 3,000 currently available at discounted contact prices, [email protected]; Email: M

It is in the last chapters where the author’s pas- author’s the where chapters last the in is It The The underlying motif is “the law of kindness,” P.S. The P.S. husbands are recommended to read people lacking kindness. The worst cases “were those people who had been sexually abused as a They are child. scarred for life” Surpris- (p.177). there are hardly any references to Reformed ingly, or Puritan although sources, she constantly refers An exception is the to chapter Scripture. “’Bul- on which is quite academic. lying,” persua- argues she when strongly most felt is sion needy most the to out goes love Christ’s that sively the and disabled, the unlovely, and feeble elderly, in our city the and people in next our door, world, who need the Gospel. This is women to where use their she gifts, stressing calls church their the in also but role wives, and mothers as at home and in their There is neighbourhood. an appendix entitled, “Mommy, please don’t go!” Persuading Beeke Mary home, the outside work to not women can’t “You take material writes: gods with you to eternity. But here is good news: your most - valu We … you! with go can children, your assets, able are nurturing eternal souls. Nothing else is more (pp.227-8). important” his wife. Frederika Pronk is the assistant to the editor and before Kind their Husband” wives “The chapter 5, do. which permeates everything the author about says— her husband, her children, and “not She theacknowledges that she is mentioned. everyone same person today as when I set out to write this book. [And] some of my attitudes have changed” (p.3). I believe everyone who reads this book will is That why say I this recommend too. it especially to our young women (and also older need ones to mentor who the younger There ones). are dis- cussion questions in the back and if the women’s attend- have I ones the like is church your in group ed, it will create lots of lively discussion, centring on women’s relationships in carrying out the role Word. and character the Lord has prescribed in His -

his is a surprising book; not so much because of because much so not book; surprising a is his the title but or becausethe topics it deals with, As may be expected, Mary Beeke’s theology is language The is simple and I don’t recall seeing The book is interspersed with stories from the THE LAW OF KINDNESS, Serving with Heart and Serving with KINDNESS, THE LAW OF by Mary with Study Questions, Hands, by Reformation Published Beeke. St., 2965 Leonard Heritage Books, Tel. 2007. MI 49525, Grand Rapids, NE, email: 616 285-3246; 616-977-0599/Fax $9.00 US. soft cover 247pages, [email protected]; of the openness and candidness of the In author. that respect it is not many unlike current women’s books by authors such as Nancy (a Leigh favourite with DeMoss FRC younger women), Elizabeth George, Sharon James, Susan Hunt, Carolyn Ma- haney, Elisabeth Elliott and Edith Schaeffer, who all write from a more or less Reformed This base. book, is however, by the wife of the - Theo well-known Reformed Puritan of president Beeke, Joel Dr. logical Seminary. Reformed, and she takes care to explain that be- ing kind and doing good works is the response of a heart-change. Basing her theme on “the law of Spir the of fruits the of one (Prov.31:26), kindness” this it book (Col.3:12), first explains topics such as then and Motives,” “Our and Kindness?” Is “What she applies it to the relationships in Kind “The Husband” a Wife,” Kind such “The as life, woman’s with “Parenting husband), (written by the author’s Thoughts,” “Kind Role,” Teacher’s “The Kindness,” and “Kind Words,” she even Letter includes “A to Teens.” Children and theological terms such as justification or sanctifi- She cation. refers to needing being repen- sinners, tance, and the Lord Jesus, who took “the - punish ment of hell for sinners like you and me” (p.146) and who “sincerely offers is reference the Himself Often, 146.). to 31, 4, those 3, cf. who (p.25, ask” to the work of the Lord Jesus in salvation and His example for practising kindness. author’s family and stories taken from her local environment (the Grand Rapids Press) to illustrate what she means--a method used by many popu- lar The chapter authors about and using speakers. kindness in teaching, no doubt reflects her expe- rience and training as teacher (she has an M.A.T. in Learning Disabilities and was teacher). As a a nurse in high a psychiatric hospital, school she witnessed the consequences of pain caused by

T Book Review Book 12 The MESSENGER • March 2008 • Hersteld HervormdeKerk Kerk, the merger,the the continued.Priorto be to hadchurch national a old the longer that felt was it church, Reformed truly no as PKN the Viewing tolerated. officially are beliefs of variety a where church, claims that this turns the PKN into a pluralistic formeerdeKerken the with merged church, national large It came into being on May 1, 2004, when when 2004, 1, the May on being into came It ed, as you can easily guess, in The Netherlands. The Its Formation Netherlands isexplainedindetail.Editor. In this well-researched and documented article the origin and nature of this denomination in The towardspossibility.stage excludethis a correspondence,not as levelof does seen higher it ily a but with the HHK, which is largely of an introductory and nature.communicatory It is not necessar- Synod 2007 of our Free Reformed Churches decided to enter into a Limited Contact relationship By ConnorJ. Keuning (Restored ReformedChurch) Interchurch Relations eiiae otnain f h NK Sev - along went ministers NHK. orthodox respected, eral the of continuation legitimate that thisdelegatehadsomeexplaining todo! saying without goes It 75%. exactly by passed voted to go along and the motion to merge was merger,own the their stopped of have one but were members of the requiring a 75% approval, synod delegates who big day when voting for the merger took place, which no negotiation was possible. on point important very a was this union the of proponents many for relations; homosexual of blessing the sanctions orderchurch new the addition, In confessions. Reformed classic the points the Lutheran confessions are at odds with Lutheran confessions. Lutheran the include to expanded was – unity of forms three the – basis confessional its merger,since could not in good conscience go along with the selves from the old national church. national old the from selves merger,them- separate they would neither but the with along go not could it that stated cally erland h PN a epce, iw isl asthe itself views as expected, PKN, The The HHK congregations and ministers and ministers congregations HHK The Nederlands Hervormde Kerk Hervormde Nederlands HersteldKerkHervormde 4 and became the 5 (PKN) . (PKN) . GereformeerdeBond 3 and the and Gereformeerde Bond could Protestantse Kerk in Ned- 6 On several important important several On EvangelischLutherse 1 (HHK) is locat- is (HHK) 2 (NHK), the the (NHK), 7 8 The HHK unequivo- 9 On the the On Gere - a measure of mistreatment by the PKN, which suffered allegedly has HHK The nominations. de- other in friends as well as supporters their instructing of decades many after publication respected kerk.nl. www.hersteldhervormde - at website a has and Kerkblad called magazine bi-weekly a out puts ald the called university,this inside own their of seminary a the teaching program. Essentially, in they operate participation extensive allowed were they where Amsterdam, of University Free the at home welcome very a found brothers HHK However,Apeldoorn. the of University logical would send they their students to their seminary, that the Theo- hoped had (CGK), Kerken the churches, sister Our program. training ministerial a developed it on, Early stage. organizing its of end the ing (excluding retired pastors). The church is near- bers, some 125 congregations, and 60 ministers mem- 65,000 about has currently HHK The Early Development pragmatism atwork. based on biblical, Reformed principles, or only really is view this whether questions stay.One even may,or I tolerated am I as long Essentially, as this: downto boils rationale this church? this leave why so Reformed: truly was weretices remnanta order only the day; the of start with: all forms of false doctrines and prac- to church Reformed faithful a not was NHK old the that merger. is the rationale with Their Hof and Dr. W. van Vlastuin. vanW. Dr. and Hof Op’t W.J. Dr. Vries, P. de Dr. are University Freethe at teach who men HHK the of Some It is noteworthy that just recently the widely GereformeerdWeekblad esed evrd Seminarium. Hervormd Hersteld 10 hitlje Gereformeerde Christelijke 12 The church The 13 ceased its its ceased , to to have, 11

the CGK and the and CGK the as such churches Secession progress. in still is use) to wishes ardently Hervormde HHK the (which Kerk name the of use continued and properties of ownership regarding case court A HHK. the to unacceptable decisions been often have Their needed. is membership and buildings about settlement a where case local The PKN created a committee to consider each rolls, but seldom if ever attend church services. membership on kept are who those including members, their of go let reluctantto quite also is It parsonages. and halls meeting buildings, church their reluctanton pass to very been has pletely ignored. Instead, many CGK brothers ented PKN churches, but this advice was com- local the with contact congregationsits encouraged had 2004 seek to to explore pulpit exchange. The CGK Synod of relevantthe and HHK, aredeputies instructed the with contact closer seek to congregations men from theHHKaswell asthePKN. not a few members of the of members few a not our own Free Reformed spiritual affinity is that of proof further A both. by appreciated much bearers’ conferences with office the HHK, combined which were of number a in participated basis. annual an on together come ministers minded like- 150 some typically where retreats isterial finds its expression in venues such as joint min- grace, of doctrines cardinal the on in centred of spirit, unity This hypocrites. many!) haps (per- includes also which believers, true of ing gather- a as church the sees which Confession, Belgic the of 27-29 articles with closely more tend church. only one-third of the membership regularly at- ied. In the NHK it was not uncommon to have marriages solemnized and their loved ones bur- they came to have their children baptized, their straying members could still be addressed when practice, little discipline is exercised, but where men had a vision of a people’s church, where in the essence, the In of church). doctrine (the when ecclesiology to except came points, it on most agreed They the and (CGK) churches sister our in many between unity spiritual of sense a been always has there years, the Over Spiritual Bonds ings forworshipservices. build- their of use the offered generously have The CGK Synod of 2007 has mandated their The secession churches aimed to comply to aimed churches secession The 15 o tee eras r atne by attended are retreats these Now Gereformeerde Gemeenten Gereformeerde ori- GereformeerdeBond Gereformeerde Bond. Gereformeerde eeomed Bond Gereformeerde Gereformeerde Bond 16 14

The MESSENGER • March 2008 • 13

20 . Today, we are are we Today, . 21 Continued on page 15

22 May the brokenness of 24 we have a troublesome array troublesome a have we 23 M

Translated it Translated could be called the Restored Reformed Church. Netherlands Reformed Church - not to be confused (NRC) Congregations Reformed Netherlands the with of- Reformation, the of church national original, the - ten referred to as “the planting of the Lord” by its conservative members who did not join church national the from seceded they when with fathers” “our in 1834. whether whether the answer to decay in the church is to be found by continually separating. As an aside, happily there have also been a few wor - thy mergers since the 1834 Secession, such as the 1869 reunion of a number of independent churches the “under cross” with the - secession ists, and the merger brought about in under 1907 the leadership of Rev. G.H. Kersten. In the North American scene we may recall the recall may we scene American North the In Re- Christian Free and Old the of reunification 1960s the in Churches formed of Reformed and churches, Presbyterian many are there them Among small. very are which of churches that would not feel justified to sepa- rate from each other, but which nevertheless for historic, personal or other reasons simply continue separately. 1 2 Connor Keuning is the Secretary of the - Inter Committee Relations church FOOTNOTES seeing a move towards a merger of the Cana- Christian Orthodox Churches, Reformed dian Reformed United the and Churches Reformed Churches, churches that are quite similar in doctrine and practice. Conclusion Let us pray that the Lord will yet do a work in great our not old merely country, by bring- ing together members of His Church in one outward manifestation, but through a mighty revival and reformation. need We the same in eth- different the all of because America, North backgrounds nic the Church cause us to “lament after the Lord” Lord” the after “lament to us cause Church the work, gracious and mighty a do to 7:2) Sam. (1 bringing together those who truly belong to- gether! That the world may know and believe (John 17:21) that there is a God in who and reigns rules all things, and who offers heaven, His amazing grace to all, for the sake of beloved the Head of the Church, the Lord Jesus Christ, whose accomplished redemption is ap- saving plied to all the elect Spirit’s by the Holy hope work. We and pray that our relationship with the HHK will be profitable to that lofty end.

and the HHK the if if the HHK is in fact an or- return. One of the difficulties is that is difficulties the of One return. must When considering relations with the HHK, So, and this is the critical point, critical the is this and So, is rightly viewed as a legitimate continuation of the old national Reformed church in The Netherlands, and thodox Reformed church, then the numerous churches which trace their roots to the - Seces sion, the Secession churches have become comfort- able with their many separateness. Outwardly, have grown considerably in the last 100 years. The Secession churchesedifices, huge to ministers untrained and barns have moved from and in most cases, thoroughly educated men. Many have their own seminary, and are used to their own way of doing things, some have developed their own theology, and even their spiritual vocabulary. own the Secession churches may well have a desire to wait and see how the HHK develops, and the if But this. in wisdom undoubtedly is there un- wait to going simply are churches Secession its height of maturity til the HHK has reached will never the time for and the purity, “return” come. As Secession churches we will need to admit that the proliferation of splits that fol- lowed the 1834 Secession makes one wonder which which the Lord planted in The Netherlands, one is somewhat at a loss how this applies to - deter you do How scene. American North the mine which is the national church in Canada commit- our instructed has Synod USA? the or tee to work towards a distinctive ecclesiastical relationship with these is cause for joy It congregations. lately. down has work slowed This to our friends in the RCA that Rev. D. - Bud ding, a respected pastor in the PKN, has ac- RCA. cepted a call to the Providence Question Big The Back to The Netherlands, it is interesting to note that Hendrik de Cock and others called the Secession of 1834 an Act of Secession Return! Our fathers had no notion to remain separate indefinitely. Theyloved the large na- tional church in which they were born, bap- tized, confessed their faith and even preached. merely not church this regarded they However, consistent be to therefore, and false, but sick as with their confession (Belgic Confession, Art. they that is fact (the secede to had they 27-29), NHK the if that meant This out). thrown were would cease to be a false church, and stop tol- worship and practices, erating liberal theology, the Secessionists were under obligation to join church. this restored

17 in the Reformed Church of 18 In In North America we have had some con- The HHK“houses” mostly members of the America (RCA), which were developed after they invited several of our ministers to serve their vacant pulpits. these Recently, - congrega tions have reduced the number of invitations; our of appearance frequent the because possibly by requests generated pulpits their on ministers the joining consider seriously to members their since FRC, they feel very isolated in the RCA. These congregations love the- scriptural-experi of view the to comes it When preaching. ential imbibed clearly have they however, church, the the ecclesiology of the Dutch national church, as taught or reinforced by visiting NHK/PKN ministers. While a case can been) made for staying in the national church, (or could have - At the crossed they when churches, our joined lantic after War ll. World Perhaps as many as 25% of our members (or their parents) were the NHK. members of tact, including several meetings, congregations with two Relationships At the June 2007 meeting of formed Synod our it was Free decided - Re to enter into a Limited Contact relationship with the HHK. - intro an of largely is level this at relationship A ductory and communicatory nature. It is not level higher a towards stage a as seen necessarily this exclude not does it but correspondence, of Thepossibility. HHKwelcomed our overture, and their newly formed counterpart Interchurch to Relations Committee is our expected to develop dialogue with us in the near future. Our committee intends to visit one G.R. of Rev. October, Last soon. meetings Synod their Procee met with leaders of the HHK and was warmly welcomed. Gereformeerde Bond, but not exclusively. As a orthodox an as viewed be can HHK the whole, Reformed church, free from liberal hyper- of pockets theology. encounter however, may, You Calvinism. Like the CGK, they not homo- are geneous, but in all fairness, the HHK is not nearly as divided as our CGK sister churches. question- a pursued has CGK the grief, our To able policy of establishing ecclesiastical - rela tionships with neo-Calvinistic denominations (particularly at the local level), have given in to experimentation in worship practices, and display too much tolerance towards unortho - dox views; these developments continue to eat away at the little sense of unity that is still left within the CGK. 14 The MESSENGER • March 2008 • His delightisinthelawofLORD; andinhislawdothhemeditatedaynight.Ps. 1:2 r n goy f hit te oe profound more the Christ, of glory and er be. The more deeply she experiences the pow- the result of the church something the church place, first the in not, is evangelism that is 9:2,3). [his] heart” for his lost Jewish brethren (Rom had “great heaviness and continual sorrow in over Jerusalem. We read that the apostle Paul wept who Saviour the of mind the had they compassion for men’s souls. On the contrary, ously, the New Testament writers did not lack Obvi- on this? explain we teaching do How evangelism. direct little is there that able W By Dr. Lawrence W. Bilkes A HeartforEvangelism Pastoral/Ethical Issues ht s la fo te e Testament New the from clear is What is in the New Testament, it is remark- there instruction practical the all ith will be the impression made made impression the be will has to learn; rather, it is being what she should upon the world. world. the upon n te words, other In the Christian, Christian, the by definition, definition, by should have should hs n five points. in this unpack to me Allow gelism. heart for evan- a n hw hy a “und o o from God to idols” (1Thess.1:9). “turned had they how and God-ward” to “faith their was about spoke and observed pagans the What lives. their of soul winning, but rather due to the character in acquired had Christians these skill some to due not was gospel the of spread the that clear makes Paul abroad….” spread is God- ward to faith your place every in also but Lordthe Macedoniain only not Achaia,and of word the out sounded you “From lonica: Thessa- at Christians the about 1:8 salonians 3:3). Theirlives proclaim thegospel. but “with the Spirit of the living God” (2 Cor ink with not hearts, their on written Christ of letters] [or epistles are They 3:1,2). Cor. (2 men” all of read and “known in world, the Christ of epistles legible are Christians Corinthian the that Paulwherewrites 3, ans [that] cannotbehid” (Matt. 5:14). … hill a on set is that “city world,”a the of light “the are people These etc. teousness,” righ- after thirst and “hunger they “meek,” are “mourn,”they they spirit,” in they “poor are says: He like? people these are What evangelism. for heart a have who people the describes He There Jesus. Lord thebeati- the of tudes from for instance, clear, is This 1. Christ has commanded: “This gospel of the the of gospel “This commanded: has Christ Evangelism is one of the activities that that activities the of one is Evangelism Or think about what Paul writes in 1 Thes- Corinthi- 2 from clear is thing same The hat o eagls i te conse- quence ofreal the spiritualexperience. is evangelism for heart A 2. A heart for evangelism has has evangelism for heart A God’s inview. glory h bbia rl is: rule biblical The obeying His Word.His obeying “Do all to the the to all “Do lrf Gd by God glorify Cor. 10:31). WeCor.10:31). of glory God” (1

overflow with love to God so that this love this that so God to love with overflow of our lack. We ought to pray that we may so ashamed truly be to grace for ask to is do to need we What Satan. and sin to yielding are we that fact the face to sponsibility,need we than toknow Jesus Christ. there is nothing that they need more urgently tell others of the love of Christ, knowing that as our own. It is a great privilege to be able to Christ with others whose need is just as great of knowledge precious the share to reluctant is not a good sign if we lack that love and are It 5:14). Cor (2 us” constraineth Christ of love “the declared, Paul that souls for sion compas- ously.his with connection in Itwas spontane- us to come to ought men fellow needy spiritually our for compassion of tude atti- this then hell, and death from us saved has that grace the for hearts our in gratitude of measure any is there if and ourselves for us aswe seeourneighbour’s needofChrist. to impulse evangelize should spring up spontaneously in The Christ? of knowledge the need has anyone than the need to learn about good unto all men” (Gal 6:10). do What greater us let opportunity, have we “As writes: Paul10:37). Luke 12:31; (Mark ourselves as neighbour our love should we that demand Old the Testament confirms Jesus Lord The again. born been has who everyone of the in heart love of outflow spontaneous the be should Christ for lost the win to desire The 3. is that honouring andglorifyingtoGod. itself in activity an is power saving His and Christ Jesus Lord the about verted uncon- the to talk to Christian a For 96:2). people”the all (Ps.among wonders his then, day.to day hea- the among Declare glory his from salvation his forth “shew to us exhorts mighty works are made known. The psalmist His when glorified is God sinners. of vation sal- the for done has God things great what world the tell we evangelism in because also cause evangelizing is an act of obedience, but We glorify God by evangelizing, not only be- obey His commandtoevangelize. must we Him, glorify to concerned are and God love we If task. my and task your is It 13:10). Markcf. witness” (Matt.24:14; a for world the all in preached be shall kingdom If we find ourselves shrinking from this re- Christ of love the of anything know we If thought. this to strand further a is There by love forthelost. constrained is evangelism for heart A The MESSENGER • March 2008 • 15 - - - Reformed Churches. They were formed in 1892 with merged and church national the from exodus second a led Kuyper when Dr. Abraham the bulk of the are They 1834 the Secession sister church. churches of America. Reformed Churches in North the Christian merger. this in partner smallest the far by Church, Lutheran Evangelical Protestant Church in The There Netherlands. were likely a number of motives for the One merger. probably was the need to consolidate a large number of congregations with dwindling memberships and at- tendance. While Martin Luther was crystal clear on the cardinal doctrine of justi- hefication, and his followers erred in their views on regeneration and Supper. the Lord’s Here you see a dangerous development where congregations aggres- sively adopt unbiblical measures, which the broader to assemblies (adequately) deal with, and fail which after some time are legitimized. Strict compliance to the church order is a must for the well being of a church federation! The Reformed Alliance, an influential, and by far the largest conser vative vative party in the NHK formed in the early Late 1900’s. Het called in NHK, the in formed was the group conservative another 20th century, Gekrookte Riet Bruised this (The Reed); group felt affinityto the expe- to ceased organization This right. far the on churches Reformed riential exits shortly after the 2004 merger. The merging churches were anxious to retain their conservative mem- bers since they were by far the best financial contributors. One wonders how parsonage the and loss salary of effected buildings, these decisions. percent Forty of the theological program is provided by The their men. - practi hermeneutics, biblical theology, courses on systematic theology, cal theology and a part of church history are supplied by the seminary. which part are of church history and courses, exegesis, Greek, Hebrew, University proper. at the Free are taken not strictly theological, in 2006. Vries lectured at our ministerial retreat de Dr. The Gereformeerd Weekblad predates the formeerde formation Bond. Its of editors and the contributors Gere- were mainly men of this organization. conservative the more America. North in NRC the of churches sister Congregations, Reformed The Haamstede van conferences are organized Klooster, by ten ministers Goudriaan, from four Butter, de- den Revs. the are They nominations. Westerink. and (J.) Vreugdenhil Vlastuin, Mostly of the Bewaar Het Bewaar persuasion. Het Pand (derived Pand founded 6:20a), in is 1966, Tim. from a 1 conservative organization in the CGK which seeks to keep the church close to its with heritage, its emphasis on experiential, discriminating preaching, simplicity of wor was goals its of One etc. lifestyle, conservative Psalmody, exclusive ship, to avoid a split in the CGK. In that respect their aim has been met so den Butter is which one has of the editors of their biweekly, P. Rev. far. church magazine. official CGK’s Wekker, as wide a readership as De Hamilton our of consistory the of majority the time one at Interestingly, FRC was hervormd, creating some nervousness among the “sons and CGK. of the daughters” Providence RCA in Rapids Grand and the RCA congregation in Spring- Ontario. ford, Amster of Classis and under the oversight, RCA started as part of, The dam of the Dutch national church. It has been a sister church of and now presumably of the PKN. the NHK for many years, the Forming Gereformeerde sister Gemeenten, churches of the NRC in America. North Churches. Reformed Now our Free of most seen have URC the with merging formally not while OCRC The standing a has URC The years. recent in URC the join congregation their planned merger of the CanRC The invitation to the OCRC to join them. and the URC is at an advanced stage, although there are signs slow-down. of a and …? Scottish, Irish, Hungarian, German, Dutch, “… and what does not justify the making of a separation justify does the John maintaining MacLeod not of Dr. (at it.” one time Principal Echos in Ferrier M. Hugh Rev. by quoted as College) Church Free the of from Scotland’s Heritage of Free Grace, Church of Scotland (Continu- 210. p. 2006, ing), Continued from page 13 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 M

If If souls were given us without any effort, anxiety or it prayer, would be our loss to have it so, because the anxieties which throb within a com- passionate spirit exercise his graces; they produce grateful love to God; they try his faith in the power of God to save others; they drive him to the mercy-seat; they strengthen his patience and perseverance, and every grace within the man is educated and by increased his travail for souls… I have little confidence in elaborate speech and polished sentences as the means of reaching hearts; men’s but I have great faith in minded that Christian simple- woman, who must day have prays who Christian souls humble that converted in and them; or over out she eyes her will weep and night in secret, and then avails himself of every opportunity to ad- we affection the and feel, we emotion The sinners. to word loving a dress are bear, the most powerful implements of soul winning. God the Holy hearts tender hearts. by hard usually breaks Ghost A chief way of doing this is to seek ways and means of spreading the gospel ThenChrist. of knowledge our him with share to is good doing of way One There could be so much prayermore among us the salvationfor of un- We We should not imagine, however, that simply repeating a prayer is what Dr. Lawrence W. Bilkes is the pastor of the Free Reformed Church of Grand Rapids, Grand of Church Reformed Free the of pastor the is Bilkes W. Lawrence Dr. Michigan It It is the nature of love to be enterprising. If him. you please and love person someone, that help you best are can you con- how about think to trying stantly gives you It pleasure to give him the things you devise to help him. If we then done has [they have] – for all that He Spirit and Holy Son, – Father, God love for us, we will muster every initiative and enterprise we can think of to make glory. the most of every situation for God’s we if Similarly, everywhere. disciples make to command divine the obeying and we will muster our everylove neighbour, initiative and enterprise to find ways and means of doing him good. we will not ask reluctantly how much we have to do in this area, as if - evange lizing were a distasteful and burdensome task. will We not enquire nervously what is the minimum effort in evangelism that will satisfyGod. But we will earnestly seek to do as much as lies in our power to spread the knowledge of Christ. Once we see what the possibilities are, we will give ourselves to do so us such an enterprising spirit. give God May prayerfully. converted people, particularly for our own family and among our friends and everyday associates, but also for our communities. 5. A heart is an enterprising heart. for evangelism prayer. 4. A heart fervent is steeped in for evangelism Before the harvest of souls on the day of Pentecost, the church met continu- ally for prayer and and supplication. Barnabas Before Paul were sent out from Antioch, the church prayed and fasted. When we we pray, let things go from our own hands. Since evangelism must not be it our is work, most but God’s, fitting and properWe to can give prayed, it doover to muchGod. afterwe’ve (Bunyan). prayed have until we cannot do anything but we lit- “My Galatians: the to says Paul prayer. in labour to are We means. Scripture you…” in formed be Christ birthuntil in again travail I whom of children, tle (4:19). What is true in nature is also true in grace: unless said it well: Spurgeon no children. there for new are birth,labouring in prayer there is travail or spills over to our fellow men and we share the them. Good News of Christ with 16 The MESSENGER • March 2008 • Albert andRose withtheirchildren. refugee campuntilthistime. the region to Uganda and has remained in a region in 1989. At that time, our family fled our attacked government Northern-Sudan Muslim predominant the when account, bank his including business, his lost he ly, Unfortunate- meat. for sheep and goats ing farmer,rais- a be to used dad My survivors. four now are there and family, my in dren chil- border.Uganda seven where the There from miles 25 about is that district Pageri Loa, called is lived we where village small The Africa. Sudan, Southern in tribe Madi the Myfromyears. comes 7 family for lived have we where Canada, B.C. Chilliwack, year.this We in liveone turn to hopes who Grace and 5 Easton 9, Daniel 11, Mersilia My wife Rose and I [Albert] have 4 children; does family.Where your 1. Describe contact theaddress -Editor attheendofthisarticle. to Rev. Moerdyk’s article in the January 2008 issue of The Messenger to see how our churches can help people like this family. For more information, This is an interview conducted with Albert, the father of a refugee family, sponsored 7 years ago, by the Free Reformed Refugee Committee. Turn back Why SponsorRefugees?(2) Diaconal Assistance By BertBos. your familycomefrom? said to me the following: “Our boss (who (who boss “Our following: the me to said worked I whom with group Islamic radical the of member a time one At us. to happen could arrest an as such anything anytime, that indications clear were very These place. work the at also and home at church, the in us to happening were investigations sary unneces- many Besides, killed. and arrested being were friends and relatives members, ger that led us to escape is that many church dan- of threat The Canada. to sponsorship our got wewhere from Egypt in refuge take and Sudan escape to had we result a as and directly, affected were churches Christian from 1983-2005. As a result of the civil war, lasted which war, civil second intensive an Basically, Sudaninto fallen had country our 2. refugees? that madeyouandyourfamily What tookplaceinyourlife before. happened it as time any fail can it men, by made accord peace a trust never us let but Lord, the by made be only can about, talk sorship is still necessary, for the peace people spon- that you urge weSo, Egypt. Cairo, in for three months before they could joint me behind kids two the with wife my leaving escaped; I very therefore and me were to threatening that statements final the were These you.” with deal to how know will I Once I get rid of your friend (the Brit); then was a British white man) loves you so dearly! through friends in the Sudanese Community coordinator’saddress refugee across came I 4. How didyougetincontact with fast compared toothers. quite is which processed, be to application sponsorship our for waiting while years two few years ago. We stayed in Egypt for at least Egyptiangovernmentbythe a recently as as member many have been attacked and killed rerefugees.I - all for unsafe become also has side in barrels for days. From thereon, Egypt drinking dirty water that had been kept out- fed with dry bread, which they call “Gorgos,” days, morning beaten and with a stick every I was arrested in Egypt and put in jail for four refugees. Christian Southern-Sudanese the against government Northern-Sudan the of ideology radical same the applying started government Egyptian the and long not but Sudan, Egypt in in than lives safer be to our seemed few months first The 3. Describe what happened once you Church Refugeecoordinator? the EmmanuelFree Reformed escaped Sudan? The MESSENGER • March 2008 • 17 M ing by living in Canada? that is considering sponsoring a family? or refugee’s refugee We are very thankful to God, and also for also and God, to verythankful are We Michael, Michael, age 23, attended the Chilliwack FRC FRC and the funeral was conducted by the with Overduin, many Sudanese Rev. pastor, from the Fraser Valley attending and some taking part in the memorial service. It was a moving experience, a FRC member com- mented; and another said that it of heaven.” “like a foretaste seemed Bert Bos is a member of the Free Emmanuel Reformed Church Refugee Program botsford, - (Ab B.C.). Thisinterview ducted was by him con- and is written on behalf of the Refugee Committee Board, 8893-185th Street, Surrey, BC V4N 3T2; Phone/Fax: 604-882-1170; e-mail: shaw.ca vanderwoerd@ * after work (supper time) and weekends at home because we did things together. But what can we say; we give it all in the hands of the Lord. Our great hope is that we be- the Lord. he is with lieved - bless What has been the greatest 9- Thegreatest blessings in living in Canada are so far: the freedom of our Christianity, health care, security and safety compared to Sudan, hopefully our children’s education and the new loving friends that we found here in Canada. It was also a great blessing Michael. with my brother to be reunited What would you say to a church 10. I would sponsoring say, refugee(s) is a very considerate act. However, the definition of sponsorship is quite wide and could mean: offering within, from Sudan rebuild helping scholarships which can eradicate illiteracy, camps sponsoring with refugee’s food, shel- ters, sanitation etc. Reformed the people of the Chilliwack Free Church for what they have done for us. I would like to thank some of the churches of thinking be might who advance--those in sponsoring families around the world, and we also would like to thank every churches on behalf of the Sudanese community for participating in sponsorships You. Thank programs. Tell us about the recent death of us about the recent Tell Michael* and how your brother this has changed your life? What have been some of the challenges in adapting to life in Canada? From my human point of view, my life in life my view, of point human my From 8. 8. Michael died on Nov 10, 2007 in Golden two and he while accident car tragic in B.C. other friends were on their way to attend a funeral service in Edmonton, Alberta. My dear brother (and uncle), Michael Abel was sponsored 4 years ago to be reunited with us in Canada. I took care of Michael since he was at age of between 8 to 9 because we were separated from our parents due to war in Sudan. He has been like our to firstborn myself and Rose. However, the impact of the death of my brother Michael in my family is beyond measure indescribable. It has dismantled my entire family right from we because especially oldest, the to youngest in the same home. lived Canada has become so I lonely. do - remem ber him every morning, in the afternoon lbert’s father, who still lives in a father, Albert’s camp in Uganda. refugee 7. Some of greatest challenges in adapting to life in Canada are: how to budget, buying a home, adapting to the weather and acquir- ing training skills as an adult. The challenge of adapting to a culture which seems to be more “individualistic,” rather than - “com orientated. munity” self? anada with regards to work, to work, in Canada with regards and life in general. church Church Church in Canada is generally quite experiences describe your first Basically, Basically, our family supports themselves through working. I lately came to improve my mechanical aptitude by taking a courses and gaining practical few experience by turf and golf garden, and lawn with working tractors, etc. I work now full-time as service technician for a John Deere dealer, - Green line Equipment. My wife learned how to sew trampolines, which she does from our supportsalso somein us church Our house. of our needs. 6. How does your family support it 6. My My first experience in Canada was thatwe were very much scared, especially at night. We looked through the large transparent windows of our house, and we watched out the at sleep good a got and night the of most morning hours. In regard to work, my first job was the type of work I liked but its rule [structured work setting] was - overwhelm to talk to allowed never were we as such ing, each other. Secondly, working by standing for full eight hours is honestly one of the my is it and know I far so challenges biggest found we Canada in Generally, too. problem it sometimes difficult to work because, the people can be as challenging they to “read,” appear friendly but always don’t come out and say what they mean. example, For they work at mistake a made I if me, tell not may or in speaking. the same except it is more organized. The church in Canada has enough Bibles and Psalm books for everyone; it baby a instruments, has musical facilities, school Sunday etc. kitchen, sitting, baby and room sleeping Sometime it is a little bit difficult to follow church The from. came I where to compared they are culturally friend- families generally, ly although it is not easy to understand few easily talk. who don’t 5. Church, Church, which operated in Cairo under the umbrella of western humanitarian Service I Organizations). Government (Non NGOs came in contact with Ben der Woerd] [Van application to him. mailing an by 18 The MESSENGER • March 2008 • Missions some oftheminarage. tion of the “Messiah” may be enough to put often fiercely anti-Christian. The mere men- are They Scriptures. Testament) (Old the on based is believe they which religion, and traditions Jewish of maintenance their in Jewsare orthodox the themselves pride who These head. his on hat broad-brimmed or kippah round small a with white and black Jew is a dark-haired, bearded man dressed in a picture of Messiah. typical the The of tion rejec - its in persists whole a as Israel of tion na- the Israel, of land the in also and world the throughout scattered Jews people the among His has certainly Lord the While A is awonder. Their continuancevery as a state and people map.Israelworld of the fromstate the wipe circled by Arab nations who would prefer to being despite 1948, since have state a They remained ago. long so Abraham to ised have had their own state in the region prom- 1948 since and nation distinct a remained have nationality.Yet,they Jewish their lose and lived they which in countries other the into assimilated gradually have to expected been have could they passed, As centuries the world. the throughout scattered people were Jewish The existed. Israel of state no centuries many Forwonder. a is people small one. lion in 2007, the state of Israel itself is a very mil- 6.5 under just of population estimated and about few the Hausa in Africa. With an Jews the about knows everyone yet people, Jewish million 15 the than people Hausa not because of their size. There may be more However, is news. it the in not are Jews the and Israel which in by goes week a Hardly A RemarkableExistence

Many other Jews are very secular. They They secular. very are Jews other Many and state small that of existence the Yet, B linded People By Rev. DavidH. Kranendonk iour? iour? Sav- only the rejects which Israel of welfare spiritual the with moved be not can Gentile. Who or Jew are we whether saved, be one thatbelieveth” (Rom. 10:1-4). the end of the law for righteousness to every unto the righteousness of God. For Christ is themselves submitted not have teousness, and going about to establish their own righ- God’sof righteousness, ignorant being they of God, but not according to knowledge. For zeal a have they recordthat them bear ForI saved. be might they that is, Israel for God to prayer and desire heart’s my “Brethren, said: he when heart, Paul’s filled that pain the feel to is there reason What nation. this found in Christ Jesus alone with concern for knowis to that come grace has the who one reconciles sinnerstothelivingGod. They also have need the for no Saviour who nations.” “Christian the of secularism the have been influenced not by Christianity but Robert Murray M’Cheyne (who visited Is- visited (who M’Cheyne Murray Robert roots to an organization founded in 1842 by its traces organization Christ.”JesusThis of ciety reaching Jewish people with the gospel so- missionary evangelical denominational, non- international, “an as itself defines site web- CWI’s The (CWI). Israel ofChristian to Witness work the supporting ficially of- began they mid-1980s the In Jews. the gan collecting funds for mission work among be- they mid-1970s the InJews. the among gospel the long of spread the for concern shown have Churches Reformed Free The A Free ReformedConcern There is only one name whereby name must one we only There is That reality already is sufficient to fill any- position we are required totake.” the understand can and past the in support tions. They replied that they appreciated our condi- current the under ministry their port sup- longer no can we regretfully that them informing CWI to sent was letter “A that, had been channeled, reported to Synod 2006 the mission committee, through which funds result, a As charities. foreign support to ted permit- longer no were churches our 2001, 9, September on strike terrorism the after stated: “There is a mutual interest to find to interest amutual is “There stated: They fund. Costa da the of delegates with met had they that 2007 committee Synod to reported Missions Reformed Free The A NewInitiative Congregation. and GraceTruth the in elder an Zadok, vid formed Board for Israel, it also supports Da- Re- Netherlands Dutch the and CWI with Together countries. speaking immigrants Russian from are Israel in even Jews many since language Russian the in periodical a publishes fund Costa da the things, other Among soon. quite completed be to hopes has taken much longer than project anticipated, but the Jews, Orthodox by challenges legal lengthy to part in Due Maoz. Baruch by pastored LeTzion,Israel, Rishon in tion Congrega- Christian Truth and Grace the a support for the building of providea new church for to being into came It Jews. the among gospel the spreading in CWI closely with works organization This Ontario. and Rehoboth Christian School, Copetown, church FreeReformedVineland the in tion presenta- a given had fund, Costa da Isaac delegation from the Dutch organization, the Ray Johnson, John Ross, andBaruch Maoz. MacLeod, Murdo ministers the as such es, men”church- “CWI our ous for spoke who vari- by speeches passionate and warm the remember will people and Many publications. tracts support, financial with efforts evangelism congregational and missionaries various provides It America. and Zealand, New Europe, in also but Israel in only not Jews reaches CWI others. and himself) rael At that same synod, note was taken that a Due to tightening charity laws, especially especially laws, charity tightening to Due The MESSENGER • March 2008 • 19 M why was this so? In Romans 11:15 the conversion of Israel is said to be ‘life argu- His world. the for dead’ the from ment is this: if Gentiles have benefited so much from stumbling, Israel’s how much more will they benefit by the Jews. of spiritual restoration the This hope for the conversion of theJews For some, questions may remain: Is this As the Christian Ministry to begins Israel and its subsequent blessing for the Gentiles lived in the hearts of many as Puritans, Iain book, classic his in demonstrated has Murray by held is conviction This Hope. Puritan The many Presbyterians in Scotland, Reformed in Holland, and also in our churches. 1978, In while pastor wrote Butter den in P. the Rev. Free Toronto, of Reformed Church a Dutch book on the place of the people of Israel (Volk tussen eeuwigheid en eenzaam- heid), which argued the scriptural basis for this hope that God would still work in way among the Jews. powerful a what Scripture really teaches? What is the basis of this hope? How should we look at David 29, March Saturday, On today? Israel Israel Place of hopes to speak on “The Zadok as Today God’s Covenant at People” the Free Reformed Elders and conference. Deacon’s a have will office-bearers former and Present these discuss and hear to opportunity special themes. to develop, let our prayer be for the Lord to open doors for ministry among the Jews, for hearts open to Lord the for especially but His law that crushes all self-righteousness and proud secularism and His gospel of a crucified and risenRedeemer that brings a and Gentile. to Jew full salvation Rev. Kranendonk Rev. is the pastor of the Free - Re of Bornholm,formed Ontario. Church In In God’s strategy for world missions Jewish evangelism is given a place. central This idea findsclearest expres- sion in Romans 1:16. It is as - gos the as though long as that saying were Paul pel continues to be power ‘the of God unto salvation’ it continues to have a special relevance to the Jewish people. In his missionary strategy Paul always towns whatever in Jews the to first went thatfact the despite visited, he cities or he was the apostle to the Gentiles! But (Friday, Apr. 4) Apr. (Friday, Chilliwack 5) Apr. (Saturday, Monarch An Enduring Hope raised have may article this of beginning The an unanswered question: Why should this very small ethnic group receive our atten- tion? One answer could be that all nations must hear the gospel, whether they speak Achi or Hebrew. Another answer the CWI: by pressed is ex- • • stimulating. be to promise presentations His David Zadok was born in Israel into an or- thodox Jewish family, but lived in Iran for well over a decade in his youth. He moved to America for studies, but God’s purpose was to bring him under the gospel, which He blessed to his soul. Zadok served in the because hebut had to resign military, Israeli a in elder an and Christ Jesus of soldier a was the- studied he then Since church. Christian (California), Seminary Westminster at ology and is now active in the local congregation, working and literature, Christian publishing with other Christian churches in Israel. To think you make to be would more much say because presentation the to go not need you you know enough already, rather than stir to go to hear and see more. interest up your

(Wednesday, Mar. 26) Mar. (Wednesday, Plains Pompton Christian School, Copetown Rehoboth 28) Mar. (Friday, YPS Vineland and Fenwick (Sunday, Mar. 30) Mar. (Sunday, 31) Mar. (Monday, Mitchell 1) Apr. Rapids (Tuesday, Grand 2) Apr. Thomas (Wednesday, St. 3) Apr. Chatham (Thursday, As a result, such a committee has been • • • Speaking Tour A Speaking At the end of March and the beginning of April 2008, David Zadok, the Israel North to come Field to agreed has CWI, of Leader America to give several presentations about the work being done in Israel. Since means being this away from his wife and three children, he desires to keep occupied. Since numerous congregations have expressed in- occupied, be will he presentation, a in terest the Lord willing. Presentations have been arranged for: • • • • ways that our denomination and others can support this work in Israel in accordance with Canadian charity and tax laws. mission The board would like to to recommend Synod that possibly an ad hoc - Commit tee be appointed with the mandate to assist this investigate further to organizations these possibility, recognizing that the long-term goal is that this become an - interdenomina sup- clear expressed Synod endeavor.” tional port for this initiative to re-open channels It to support mission among work the Jews. form- with Committee Mission the charged of institution the oversee to committee a ing a Canadian organization. formed. It is comprised of Rev. Bergsma, Mr. Ryan Boumeester, Mr. Bert DeJong, Kranendonk, Rev. and Mr. John Wilbrink. Presently, it is pursuing incorporation and charitable status. This sub-committee the Mission of committee is to develop into an inter-denominational organization be to known as Christian Ministry to (CMI), a Israel similar acronym to CWI. CMI is grateful for the support of especially the da co- close in work to intends and fund Costa operation with CWI and the da Costa fund to spread among Word God’s the Jews and support Messianic Jews. Throughmeans of CMI, the Reformed Free Churches may - re sume their long-standing support for work among the Jews. OUT Y PAGE H By Mrs. Doreen Tamminga

This is the third part “Want to see a movie?” Cecilia asked as the two warned Cecilia. “Can’t you see she’s dark, like her of an allegorical girls were dropped off at the mall. name? There’s no light in her.” story, teaching the “Nah,” Keera answered. “There’s nothing good “She’s dark? There’s no light in her?” Cecilia order of salvation: playing. I’ll go next week with you, though. There’s echoed. “You’re getting weird, Slade.” misery, deliverance, a new movie coming out with Wylie Arden in it. “Dominic,” he corrected. “You can call it and thankfulness (or It’s going to be totally amazing.” weirdness, if you want, but give me a minute to sin, salvation, and The two girls headed into a teen store and started explain,” he said. And he led Cecilia out to a curb service). Last time we checking out the accessories and makeup. Keera at the edge of the parking lot. learned that Slade fiddled with the rings piercing her eyebrow, as she “I have a new name, because I’m a new being. has been washed examined the lipstick tubes. I’m no longer Slade, child of the valley, but from his sins and was “Isn’t this the ugliest colour?” Cecilia exclaimed. Dominic, belonging to the Lord.” Dominic swung given a new name: “Who would wear orange lipstick?” She waved the off his backpack and sat down. “You see, it’s not Dominic, belong- tube in the air, then stopped short as she saw Keera weirdness that has changed me,” he explained, “it’s ing to the Lord. The slip a tube into her pocket. Truth. I’ve found out the Truth about this valley evangelist, Luken, The two girls left the store a moment later, but and the Evil One who rules it, and I found out the has sent him back to neither mentioned the stolen lipstick. The rest Truth about the evil inside me. And then I found his hometown to tell of the afternoon passed slowly for Cecilia. The the One who could save me.” Dominic paused and others of the danger incident with the lipstick had taken the fun out reached into his backpack. they are in. Dominic of shopping. Cecilia perched next to him on the curb, and returns, intent on Before leaving the mall, the girls stopped at the looked suspiciously at the book that he pulled out. finding his friend drugstore to pick out a new fashion magazine from “What’s that?” she asked. Cecilia. the checkout counter. Cecilia’s mind, however, “It’s the Bible. The Word of God. I’ve been was not on the glamorous women covering the reading and reading in it the last few days, and front pages; it was back in the store at the make- learning how to serve the Righteous One.” up counter. It was just a tube of lipstick, she told “Why would you want to serve someone else?” herself. No big deal. Then why couldn’t she stop Cecilia asked sceptically. “You and me, we’ve always thinking about it? done our own thing – we knew how to have fun!” It wasn’t until Friday that Cecilia bumped into “No, Cecilia!” Dominic said fervently. “We were Dominic. She and Keera were just coming out of wrong! We weren’t out doing our own thing. We the theatre, and Keera was raving about the new weren’t free at all! We were actually serving the Evil actor. “Wasn’t he to die for? I’ve got to get his One, all along. We were doing his evil works.” poster for my room.” “No way,” Cecilia protested. “We weren’t doing Mrs. Doreen Tamminga Suddenly, Cecilia saw him. “Slade!” she evil things.” But even as she spoke, she thought of is a teacher by exclaimed in surprise. the tube of lipstick slipping into Keera’s pocket. profession and a “Hey, Cecilia!” Dominic said with a friendly She hadn’t said anything at the time. Did that mother-at-home by smile. “I figured I’d find you here.” make her a partner in crime? vocation. “Where have you been?” Cecilia asked. “Alright, finish your piece,” Cecilia said when “It’s a long story,” Dominic began. Dominic didn’t argue. She leaned forward, folding Mrs. Doreen Tamminga “Alright,” Keera interrupted with a flip of her her arms across her knees. 2179 Governors Rd., long black hair. “If you two want to catch up, I’m Dominic appeared not to notice her attitude P.O. Box 92 out of here. My mom’s picking me up in a few and pressed on. He would not let this opportunity Copetown, ON minutes anyways.” And she strutted away. slip by. L0R 1J0 CANADA Dominic frowned at Keera’s retreating form. “You might not see the evil in you and around [email protected] “You shouldn’t hang out with her all the time,” he you,” he said, “but you’ve got to see the emptiness • February 2008 • 20 The MESSENGER • February in your life.” He gestured behind him at the theatre, its entrance Tamin, back to the evil, back to destruction. Why hadn’t she framed with transfixing posters. He gestured around the plaza at believed the Truth? the stores bursting with new fashions. “Don’t you see? All this The next morning Keera called, asking Cecilia to meet her at following of actors and trying to keep up with the newest looks the mall. Glad of the diversion, Cecilia quickly agreed. is a ploy of the Evil One. He wants to keep you too busy to find It was only an hour later that Cecilia wished she had stayed the Truth.” home. The new fall jackets were out, displayed appealingly in Cecilia looked around at the stream of people leaving the the store window. The price was well beyond the girls’ means, theatre, and the crowds swarming onto the parking lots and but Keera insisted on trying one on. plaza like a colony of ants scurrying here and there – busy, When Keera told Cecilia to keep the salesperson busy, a knot always busy. She didn’t reply. of dread formed in her stomach. “No,” she told her. “You’re Dominic glanced at his watch and stood up. “Come with me. on your own for this one.” And she turned and walked out the I want to show you something.” store. The afternoon sun was still high as the two headed out of Arms folded, Cecilia waited in the mall. Only a minute passed town. Dominic kept glancing over his shoulder, as though before Keera sauntered out also. The bulk under her sweatshirt expecting someone, but the road behind them remained empty. told Cecilia that she was wearing the stolen jacket underneath. The warm sun shining down gave a feeling of quiet and peace, Cecilia waited until they were out of earshot of the store, and and Dominic’s escape last week seemed almost a dream. then turned to Keera. They turned off when they reached the sign for Barlow, amid “What are you thinking?” she hissed. “How can you stoop so Cecilia’s complaints. “This better be worth it,” she muttered. low?” “I’ve got a huge blister on my foot.” “Low?” Keera repeated archly. “Their stuff is way overpriced. The narrow path was dusty beneath their feet, and the two Besides, I needed a new jacket to go with the boots I bought.” trudged on silently, single-file. “It’s totally wrong, Keera,” Cecilia said. “And you know it.” “We’re almost there,” Dominic said, anticipation tingeing his She could see that her words had no effect on her friend. Sick to voice. “It’s just over this hill.” And he scrambled up, turning to her stomach now, Cecilia could feel a headache coming on, and lend Cecilia a hand. she told Keera she was going home. Dusting off her hands, Cecilia straightened up and looked up “Suit yourself,” Keera said and grinned. at the rough wooden beams of a cross. She frowned. “What’s “I’ve got some more shopping to do.” this?” Troubled and confused, Cecilia “It’s the cross!” Dominic said eagerly. “The cross of the headed out of the mall and Righteous One. See the ashes here below? They are from the fire of God’s wrath that burned against Him here.” “So?” Cecilia said with raised eyebrow. “Don’t you see?” Dominic asked, gesturing to the cross. “He died and paid the penalty for the sin and evil that lives in your heart. All you have to do is believe, and your sins will also be forgiven!” He stopped and turned to catch Cecilia’s reaction. Her expression was not what he had expected, nor were her words, when at last she spoke. “We hiked all the way out here to look at this?” she asked. “You’re becoming strange, Slade, or Dominic – whatever you call yourself – and if you don’t snap out of it, you’re going to lose any friends you have.” Dominic felt like he had been punched in the chest. He took a step backward, then The MESSENGER • February 2008 • 21 stood frozen to the spot as Cecilia slid down the rocky hill and strode back down the path, her back straight and head high. What was going on? Why didn’t Cecilia see her sin the way he had? Why didn’t she see the full salvation and beauty in the work of the Righteous One? Tears of disappointment filled his eyes as he watched her disappear around the bend back to 22 The MESSENGER • March 2008 • Instructions forPrinting with Bible the ThroughThemes Lesson Five-Day 7 denBerg” (DundsFRC). Sincerely,VanLiz - work. hard your to now,thanks smoothly quite runs one. VBS made copy a having one printed copy and any of the teachers simply who were interested in we - Manual Teacher’s the of end the at normally were outlines, which story five year.likeother just every booklets print Wedid The CD. the with well very managed user:“We a From ous teachingstylesandsituations. vari- to adapted be can it that so is form electronic in available it make to object years.The many for 5-lesson into modules and has been tested by arrangeddozens of churches are that themes different seven of consists It God. of the Word with reached School, summer camps, or wherever children can be clubs, Bible Vacation Bible Neighbourhood as such outreach, for intended primarily is curriculum This • • • • • • Email: [email protected]: http//www.frcna.org

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tu Who istheEvilOne? The ______. If youputthewordsincorrect blanks, thecircledletterswillanswer thisquestion: (1) The wages ofsinis______. [Romans6] (4) The floodsof______men mademeafraid. [Psalm 18] (3) Godis______withthewicked everyday. [Psalm7] (1) ______fromthewrathtocome. [Luke 3] (2) The ______ofdeathcompassedme. [Psalm18] (3) For thegreat______ofHiswrathiscome. [Revelation6] (4) Hedeliveredmefrommystrong______. [Psalm18] (5) Letthe______forsake hisway. [Isaiah 55] (11) Isnot______tothewicked? [Job31] (2) The wicked shallbeturnedinto______. [Psalm9] blank. (Needhelp?SeetheJanuary Youth Page forversenumbers.) Fill intheblankswithmissingword. Then usethenumbertocircleoneletterfromeach PUZZLE ae o eii’ mn. n e qet for quest her In mind. Cecilia’s to came it, thenitburst. touch she did sooner no but one, caught finally she as delight in squealed she last At fingertips. her beyond just them lifting and them catching kept wind The them. blowing soap bubbles and running to catch bridge. She could see a little girl on awooden the other side, onto shuffled Cecilia the Truth.” find to busy too you keep to wants He One. Evilploythe a of newestis the looks with up keep to trying and actors of following this All Slade’s words came to mind. unbidden, and, wondered, she had? they what with Wassatisfied pond. anyone the she had? home. at wasn’tWhy what with jackets satisfied she other dozen half a has She anyway? Cecilia thought. jacket, the stolen hadn’t Keera if quiet greenness, shecouldthink. the amid least, at There, bench. wooden a onto dropped and pond a along path the rned towards a nearby park. She followed a te huh that thought the was life, my That’s pockets, her into hands her Shoving Could Slade beright? Restlessly, Cecilia got up to walk around simpler much so been have would Things

h dd h ne te jacket, the need she did Why

“Don’t see? you could seetheEvil One, smiling. that lefttheirviewersunsatisfied. excitements and missing in one’s own thrills life – empty pleasures the doors, their promising through millions drawing bubbles, hollow within. the like and outside, the on glamour and world of stars and super models. All glitter of the dazzle and buzz of who’s who in the topped her dresser at home, magazines full more. for return to only out, them spewing and in them door,pulling continues, cycle the spinning a Like more. for stores the into back people the sucking advertisements and commercials billboards, Flyers, side. watchthe to fell soon that things – to listen and and wear to things of boxes and bags with emerging malls, the shopping People all. it of futility the see suddenly inside. was that emptiness the revealing popped, seemed within her grasp, the bubble always the soap bubble. And just when happiness chasinggirl little that was she styles, latest the with up keeping the and excitement And in the background of it all, Cecilia all, it of background the in And thetheatres saw she time first the For that magazines the see could Cecilia could Cecilia eye, mind’s her In Could Slade berightafterall? M NEWS NOTES & COMMENTS

By Rev. H.A. Bergsma

MURDER OF GAZA CHRISTIAN UNRE- most severe and uncontrolled persecution comes Huckabee through the remaining primaries,” but SOLVED AS THREATS CONTINUE: Palestin- by way of Palestinian Muslims. it wasn’t clear whether that meant campaigning ian Christian widow, Pauline Ayyad, gave birth for him. A Huckabee campaign spokeswoman in Gaza City recently to a healthy little girl, four CREATIONISTS SEEK FOOTHOLD IN EU- said late Thursday he was unavailable for com- months after the tiny infant’s father was kid- ROPE: “Evolution is a lie, and it’s being taught ment, but confirmed that he and Dobson had napped and shot to death by Islamist radicals in schools as fact, and it’s leading our kids in spoken. (From Crosswalk) still at large. Rami Ayyad, 29, was serving as the wrong direction,” said British cabbie James Christian Renewal of January 30, 2008 fea- manager of the Palestinian Bible Society book- McLean after a weekend service. “But now people tured an article on Huckabee by Emma Elliot, who shop in Gaza when he was kidnapped and found like Ken Ham are tearing evolution to pieces.” Ham, stated that, “Christianity is the central element of dead on October 7 last year, less than a mile from founder of Answers in Genesis and northern Ken- Huckabee’s campaign.” When asked about his re- the bookshop. The bookshop was bombed last tucky’s Creation Museum, is part of an effort to markable rise, he said, “There is only one explana- April but no one was injured. Ayyad’s family has bring creationist theory to Europe. McLean is one of tion for it, and it’s not a human one. It’s the same yet to receive any concrete information on the a growing number of British evangelicals embrac- power that helped a little boy with two fish and investigation that Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh ing the message that the Bible, not Darwin, tells five loaves feed a crowd of 5,000 people.” ordered, vowing to bring the murderers to jus- the true history of Earth. According to ABC News, tice. “At the beginning, the Hamas authorities Europeans have long viewed the conflict between CANADIAN TEACHER MAY LOSE LI- told us they had found the car Rami was taken evolutionists and creationists as primarily an Ameri- CENSE FOR DEFENDING CHRISTIAN BE- in, and also the people who were in the car with can phenomenon, but it has recently jumped the LIEFS: According to LifeSiteNews.com, British him,” Pauline Ayyad told Compass Direct. “They Atlantic Ocean with skirmishes in Italy, Germany, Columbia teacher Chris Kempling was cited in said they hadn’t captured the driver yet, but they Poland and, notably, Britain, where Darwin was 2003 by the College of Teachers for professional knew his name. And we heard that the murderer born and where he published his, “Origin of Spe- misconduct after he wrote to a local newspaper had confessed, and the case was being taken cies” in 1859. (From Religion Today) outlining Christian teachings on homosexuality. to the National Internal Security officials.” But It is hard to believe that Europeans have been Kempling was found guilty of the charges, and the widow said that a week later, “We started ignorant of Darwin’s theory. But whatever the case, his teaching license was suspended for a month. to hear all kinds of contradictions. They claimed it is good that Answers in Genesis is making in- Kempling appealed that decision in the Canadian they hadn’t captured anyone, and that they just roads in Europe. court system, all the way to the Supreme Court had suspicions to go on.” At the same time, an of Canada. In the process he spent “well over” a evacuated Bible Society staff member told Com- DOBSON ENDORSES MIKE HUCKABEE: hundred thousand dollars in legal fees, he says. pass that Christians “feel real pressures now be- The Associated Press reported Thursday night that In the end, the Supreme Court denied his appeal. tween the Muslims and Christians in Gaza. Many evangelical leader James Dobson backed Mike And now Kempling has discovered that he is fac- of the Muslims believe that Rami was evange- Huckabee’s presidential bid, giving the former Ar- ing yet another citation from the College; and lizing people, so it was OK to kill him.” Many kansas governor a long-sought endorsement. In a this time around, says Kempling, it is possible Baptist leaders have fled the Gaza Strip, taking statement first obtained by The Associated Press, that he could lose his teaching license altogether. refuge in the West Bank. Pastor Hanna Massad Dobson reiterated his declaration on Super Tues- Kempling told supporters that he received a let- and his family are among eight families who re- day that he could not in good conscience vote for ter informing him that he is being cited on nu- located because they felt it was too dangerous to John McCain, the front-runner, because of concerns merous counts for conduct “unbecoming” of a remain in their homeland. “The Lord is teaching over the Arizona senator’s conservative credentials. teacher. One of the counts on which he has been us many things during this time. To follow Christ With Mitt Romney’s campaign suspended, Dobson cited, he says, is simply for being a candidate for is very real to us now,” Massad said. “There’s a said, “The remaining candidate for whom I could the federal political party, the Christian Heritage The MESSENGER • January 2008 • 23 price to pay to follow our Lord. We see people vote is Governor Huckabee. His unwavering posi- Party. “They have cited me for participating in willing to give their life for Christ. Every day, Gaza tions on the social issues, notably the institution of a CBC radio interview where I quoted the Bible Christians are confronted with the question, ‘Are marriage, the importance of faith and the sanctity saying that homosexual behaviour is a barrier to you willing to follow?’” (From Crosswalk) of human life, resonate deeply with me and with salvation,” he wrote. There are Christians in Gaza and there are many others... I believe he is our best remaining M Christians in Israel, living in opposite sides of the choice for president of the United States.” Dob- Rev. Bergsma is the minister of the Free Re- fenced border. Both face persecution. But the son’s statement said he would “support Governor formed Church of London, Ontario.

Word & Deed seeks to help people in need by bringing aid in the name of Jesus Christ. FamilyanniversARY Ads l obituARY l This is done through spiritual and physical help. 1983 April 15 2008 January 22, 1928, Zuidewolde WORD & DEED PROJECTS EMPHASIZE: “But the mercy of the Lord is February 2, 2008, Grimsby • A focus on the gospel and discipleship from everlasting to everlasting • A reliance on indigenous partnerships upon them that fear him, and “Send out Thy light and Thy truth: let them lead me; let them (they know the language and culture best) his righteousness unto children’s • A goal of self-suffi ciency (teach them to fi sh) children.” Psalm 103:17 bring me unto Thy holy hill, and to Thy tabernacles. Then will I go Word & Deed supports 5,500 orphans in Malawi, With joy and thanksgiving to unto the altar of God, unto God child sponsorship in several countries (provid- God, we announce the my exceeding joy.” Psalm 43:3-4 ing a Christian education, basic medical care, a 25th Wedding Anniversary warm meal and a uniform), agricultural projects, of our parents The Lord has called to Himself a beloved mother, cherished an HIV/AIDS hospice, vocational training, a home Jim & Linda Pol grandmother and dear for recovering substance abusers, disaster relief, (nee Guichelaar) great-grandmother, and much more. With love from your children Annie Zwiep (Otten) There are opportunities to sponsor a child, or a and grandchild, project. As well, business groups are being set up Christine & Hank (fiancé) on Saturday, February 2, 2008 to sponsor projects with representatives of those Daryl & Kirby groups visiting the projects. Please call toll free Luca She was a long-standing to fi nd out more (see below). With your help, we Richard & Jaclyn (friend) member of the Free Reformed can make a world of difference in thousands of Laura churches and secretary of the lives. Vineland Dutch Ladies Society An Open House will be held ‘Trifosa’. Her testimony of the CANADA OFFICE: Toll Free 877.375.9673 on Saturday, April 19, 2008, Saviour and walk with the PO Box 20100, St. Thomas, ON N5P 4H4 DV, from 2 to 5pm Lord has been a great email: offi [email protected] at the Mitchell Legion, encouragement to all. 175 St. Andrew St., U.S.A. OFFICE: Toll Free 866.391.5728 Mitchell, ON Beloved wife for 55 years of PO Box 157 Hudsonville, MI 49426 Best Wishes only please. Willem Zwiep (1927-2006) email: usoffi [email protected] Home address: Father of Website: www.wordanddeed.org 5535, Line 49, RR #2, • Bill and Margaret Monkton, ON, N0K 1P0 (Houweling) Zwiep • Murray and Elly anniversARY l (Schoeman) Zwiep THE CHRISTIAN obituARY • Clarence Zwiep 50th Wedding Anniversary COUNSELLING CENTRE The Lord has taken out of our • Alfred and Tina midst our dear member God has granted (Werdekker) Zwiep Mailing Address: • Triva and Ed and Jansen Stoffer and Tina Otten Annie Zwiep (nee Postma) 7038 Longwoods Road on February 2,2008. • Linda and John Zuidersma • Ann and Ivan Pol 50 years of marriage P.O. Box 503, Lambeth Station She will be greatly missed for • Jean and Dick Koomans London, ON N6P 1R1 everything she has done for • Ken and Wendy April 12, 1958 - April 12, 2008 Toll Free Telephone: our society. (Kruitbosch) Zwiep 1-866-833-2741 We, their children, praise Him May the Lord comfort and Grandmother of 36 and for His faithfulness in preserving strengthen the bereaved Executive Director/Counsellor: great-grandmother of them in their marriage, Henk C. Van Dooren, family. 20 covenant children. and thank Him for the blessing MSW, Adv.Dip.SW, CSW Dutch Ladies Society The funeral was held Tuesday, that they have been to us. of Vineland February 5 at the For an appointment to see a Vineland Free Reformed Church Home Address: counsellor, please call one of the 6716 Smithville Road with Rev. Pieter VanderMeyden following offices: PLANNING A TRIP TO officiating. R.R.#1 ALBERTA? Smithville, ON Burlington L0R 2A0 Come and stay in one of “I am the resurrection, and the 3425 Harvester Road, Units 20 our cozy farm cottages. life: he that believeth in Me, & 21 though he were dead, yet shall Burlington, ON L7N 3N1 A CHOICE YOU WILL he live.” John 11:25 NEVER REGRET! Tel. (905) 632-2317 Lambeth (near London): Ernst and Louise Sluijmers Corresponding Address: Tel. 403-329-8181 4746 Spring Creek Road 7038 Longwoods Rd. (corner hwy. Website: Vineland, Ontario 2 & 4) • Tel. (519) 652-2770 WWW.ELBAS.COM L0R 2C0