The

MessengerVOLUME 60 NO. 9 OCTOBER 2013 EDITION >> 2 Church News 3 Meditation: Thanksgiving for a Bountiful Harvest 6 Editorial: Why and Confessions? 10 Medical Ethics: A Reformed Perspective - 2 15 Gleanings from the Churches 16 Cubulco Churches Update 18 Free Reformed Church of Oxford County 20 Banner of Truth Radio Ministry 21 Book Review: Grappling with a Grief Engraved 22 The Mission of PRTS & FRC Involvement

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

OCTOBER 2013 I THE MESSENGER 1 CHURCH NEWS

FALL 2013 SYNODICAL COMMITTEE BRADENTON FLORIDA WORSHIP SERVICES SPEAKER EVENING MEETINGS: The worship services are scheduled to begin You are invited to a Speaker Evening Will be held at Dundas Free Reformed on December 15, 2013 and will conclude Rev. Timothy Bergsma plans to speak on Church, October 21 to 24, with Hamilton on Easter Sunday, April 20, 2014. The “The Learning Teacher” Free Reformed Church the hosting church. services will be held at the American Red Date: Friday, November 15, 2013 Cross Building located at 2905 59th St West, Time: 8:00 pm New Clerk, Vineland, Ontario: Bradenton FL 34209 at 10:30 a.m. and 3:00 Place: St. George Free Reformed Church Allan Brouwer, 1635 Third Ave., St. p.m. We are pleased to be able to announce Catharines, ON L2R 6P9; that preachers have been scheduled for all Everyone is heartily welcome, especially Tel. 905.682.5517; but four of the Sundays. Hopefully, those parents and teachers. Email: [email protected] remaining Sundays will be filled too. Any Hosted by the Free Reformed Church cancellations or unfilled Sundays will be Sunday School Association New Clerk: Calgary, Alberta supplemented by the reading of sermons. Mark du Preez, cell: 1(403) 874.7640; Please consider spending your holiday or HAMILTON FREE REFORMED CHURCH: home 1(403) 366.2499; email: vacation time in the Bradenton area so you Due to construction of a new church [email protected] too can enjoy fellowship with like-minded building on the current site, please note believers. the following changes. Temporary place of worship: Dundas NIPISSING, ONTARIO CHURCH PLANT: Contact Information: Mr. Marinus Staal Free Reformed Church - New Times: In Powassan (south of North Bay, (616) 363-8787 or (941) 751-9970 or email 11.30 am and 6.00 pm. Ontario, off Hwy. 11) [email protected] Services are held every Sunday at 11:00 Mr. William Noorduyn, 616-457-8973 or 941- AM and 2:30 PM with a fellowship lunch in 747-0313 or e-mail [email protected] between, usually upstairs at the Powassan Sportsplex, 433 Main Street, Powassan. YOU ARE INVITED TO A SPEAKER For up-to-date information check online EVENING: at www.nipissingfrc.com or contact Pastor Pastor Jerrold Lewis plans to speak on, Van Doodewaard, 604 Lindquist Line, A Plea for Purity in an Impure World Powassan, ON P0H 1Z0; Tel. 705-724-5070; 1Thessalonians 4:3 Email: [email protected] We welcome young people in the workforce, college, and university to OXFORD COUNTY, ONTARIO: attend our meetings. The Free Reformed Church of Oxford Pastor Jerrold Lewis is pastor of the meets at the Woodstock Seventh-Day Pompton Plains Free Reformed Church in Adventist Church, Highway 59, ½ km New Jersey. south of Hwy. 401. Worship services are DATE: Saturday October 19, 2013 held at 10.00 a.m. and 3.00 p.m. every TIME: 7:30 p.m. Lord’s Day. For Bible study times or other PLACE: Dundas FRC meeting room information, please contact Mr. Peter Kuivenhoven at 519-879-6263 or email: Hosted by the Free Reformed Student [email protected] (Oxford County includes Society. A collection to defray the costs of the city of Woodstock, the towns of the meeting will be taken. Ingersoll and Tillsonburg).

Schedule of 2013 FALL Synodical Committee Meetings to be held in the FREE REFORMED CHURCH OF dundas OCTOBER 21 OCTOBER 22 OCTOBER 23 Committee Membership: OCTOBER 19 Time Monday Tuesday Wednesday Ethics 5 Church Order 5 9.00 am Publications 10 Theological Ed 12 Interchurch Relations 13 Saturday Finance 6 10.30am lunch 10 lunch 12 lunch 13 Foreign Missions 10 LONDON 1.00 pm Publications 10 Theological Ed 12 Interchurch Relations 13 Outreach 12 Interchurch Relations 13 Combined Elders & 4.00 to 6.00 Theological Ed Psalter Revision Comm. 8 Deacons Conference supper 0 supper 0 supper 0 Publications 10 7.00 to 10.00 Ethics 5 Outreach 12 Youth & Ed 9 Theol. Student Support 4 Psalter Revision 8 Church Order 5 Theological Ed 12 Youth & Ed 9 Please direct requests for insertions/changes to: Hans Van Doodewaard - [email protected]

2 THE MESSENGER I OCTOB ER 2013 The Messenger OCTOBER 2013 • VOLUME 60 - NO.9

EDITOR Rev. C. Pronk 655 Park Road North, Unit 29

Brantford, ON N3R 0A2 CANADA Tel/Fax: 519.751.4470; E: [email protected] THANKSGIVING FOR

The Editor reports to the Synodical Publications Committee. Unsigned articles are by the Editor Assistant Editor A BOUNTIFUL HARVEST >> Dr. G. M. Bilkes • E: [email protected] Committee Members Rev. G. Hamstra Rev. D. H. Kranendonk, Secretary MEDITATION 593089 Oxford Road 13, R.R.1, Norwich, ON N0J 1P0 Tel/Fax: 519 468-4070 • E: [email protected] • Dr. G.M. Bilkes • Dr. L.W. Bilkes • Rev. J. Koopman • Rev. J. Overduin • Mr. H. Van Fall has arrived; its seasonal beauty is delightful and charming. The leaves are beginning Doodewaard • Rev. J. Lewis • Rev. R. Van Doodewaard • Mr. H. DenHollander to change with trees taking on golden, amber and scarlet hues. The manifold activities of SUBSCRIPTION RATE the summer days are past. The end of the harvest is rapidly approaching. It is time for our Canada & U.S.A. - $30.00 annually for individually mailed subscriptions. The Messenger is published annual Thanksgiving. In His wondrous loving care, God has again well provided. He caused 11 times per year. the soil to be fruitful, the sun to shine in its season, and gave the gentle rain when it was SUBSCRIPTIONS/REMITTANCES needed. The Lord remembered the labourers of the field. He gave them wisdom, health, Requests for subscriptions, all payments and inquiries regarding rates, invoices, and all remit- and strength. He granted them His protecting care by day and night. In His marvellous tances should be addressed to: goodness, our gracious God provided a bountiful harvest. THE MESSENGER c/o Janey Slingerland, Administrator 18 Chapala Crescent S.E., Calgary, AB T2X 3M4 The earth is full of the kindness of the Lord. It may never be empty of His praise. The barns Tel. 403 254-6591• E: [email protected] may be filled with a bountiful harvest, but when thanksgiving is nothing more than an OUTREACH & FOREIGN MISSIONS Keep contact with your missionaries on: outward formality, then hearts are barren and empty. “Let God be praised with reverence http://www.frcmissions.org deep; He daily comes our lives to steep in bounties freely given” (Psalter 420:5). Our heavenly EDITOR: Rev. E. Moerdyk P.O. Box 224, Coalhurst, AB T0L 0V0 CANADA Benefactor is worthy of our wholehearted gratitude. Tel. 403.381.7770 • E: [email protected] Thou crownest the year with Financial support for the various Outreach and Guided by God’s Word Foreign Missions should be directed as follows: Thy goodness; and thy paths Foreign Missions In our thankfulness, we do well to be guided by the Word William F. Laman, Treasurer. All funds should be drop fatness. Psalm 65:11 remitted to: Peter Luth, Financial Administrator. of God. In this meditation, we turn to the Book of the R.R.7, Dresden, ON N0P 1M0 CANADA Psalms, and in particular to Psalm 65. This remarkable Tel. 519.683.2243 • E: [email protected] song of praise is one of the most impressive psalms of David. It ranks foremost among his Radio Evangelism Banner of Truth Radio Broadcast inspired songs. Significant in this regard is the spiritual manner in which he develops the Ken Vandenberg, Treasurer 19 Majestic Court, Brantford, ON N3P 1N2 contents of this thanksgiving song. The gifted artist expresses himself here with rare poetic CANADA • Tel. 519.770.3639; beauty. Moreover, it is not a private song; David sings as king; he represents his nation, E: [email protected] Home Missions the church of his day. His song is also an appropriate guide for us in the way we ought to Bert Marskamp, Treasurer praise our Maker and our Benefactor for the harvest blessings. The theme of this psalm is: 78 Windsor Dr., P.O. Box 126 St. George, ON N0E 1N0 CANADA Thanksgiving to God for His fatherly care in providing a bountiful harvest. Tel. 519.448.1763 • E: [email protected] Refugee Fund In the opening verses, the inspired psalmist shows how, by the grace of God, a grateful James Van der Zwan, Treasurer 26829 – 33B Ave., Aldergrove, BC V4W 3G8 person is prepared for a blessed and profitable thanksgiving. His gratitude has a rich spiritual Tel. 604.818.3423 • E: [email protected] foundation. He begins with declaring that his heavenly Benefactor is so worthy to be praised. CHRISTIAN MINISTRY TO ISRAEL John Wilbrink. Treasurer This is especially so in the light of God’s exalted and gracious nature. Those who seek to be 8 Weneil Drive, Freelton, ON L0R 1K0 CANADA sincere in their thanksgiving do well to be aware of this truth and to follow this example. God Tel. 905.659.7413 • E: [email protected] THE YOUTH MESSENGER is incomprehensibly majestic and His gracious care for us can never be fully measured. The semi-annual publication for youth is under the direction of the Youth & Education Committee of Prayerful Waiting OCTOBER 21 OCTOBER 22 OCTOBER 23 the Free Reformed Churches of North America. EDITORS: Derek and Frances Baars Likewise, the psalmist has been much in prayer all throughout the past season. He has been Time Monday Tuesday Wednesday 4995 Governors Rd., R.R. #2, Lynden, ON L0R 1T0 waiting on the Lord to hear his pleadings. In Palestine, water was and is often a serious concern. Tel. 519.647.0769 • E: [email protected] 9.00 am Publications 10 Theological Ed 12 Interchurch Relations 13 ASSISTANT EDITOR: Rev. T. Bergsma “Behold, the husbandman waiteth for the precious fruit of the earth and has long patience for lunch 10 lunch 12 lunch 13 10 Ellwood Ave., Chatham, ON N7M 3K3 it, until he receive the early and latter rain” (James 5:7). David may gratefully record that the Tel. 519.354.3100 • E: [email protected] 1.00 pm Publications 10 Theological Ed 12 Interchurch Relations 13 ANNOUNCEMENTS/NOTICES Lord at various times has strikingly answered his fervent petitions. The Lord liberally provided All notices for family announcements, obituaries, rain whenever this became a concern for His needy children. The rain came in a rich abundance. 4.00 to 6.00 Theological Ed anniversaries, and non-commercial advertise- supper 0 supper 0 supper 0 ments for the November 2013 issue should reach The psalmist was deeply impressed by these divine answers to his pleadings. In his gratitude, the copy editor, Ricky (Frederika) Pronk, no later he gives the Lord a new name, the Hearer of prayer. It is God’s very nature, it is peculiar to Him 7.00 to 10.00 Ethics 5 Outreach 12 Youth & Ed 9 than October 10, 2013, and should be sent to: Psalter Revision 8 Church Order 5 THE M ESSENGER to hear and answer prayer. This truth should ever lead our confiding hearts to the Throne of 655 Park Road North, Unit 29, Grace. There the desired help in every time of need is to be found. Prayer is an essential element Please direct requests for insertions/changes to: Hans Van Doodewaard - [email protected] Brantford, ON N3R 0A2 CANADA Tel/Fax: 519.751.4470 • E: [email protected] of gratitude. Read The Messenger on the Free Reformed website: www.frcna.org OCTOBER 2013 I THE MESSENGER 3 MEDITATION CONTINUED... >> Sin and Grace David has a deep appreciation for the goodness of the Lord. A genuinely thankful person also reflects on the realities of his The entire harvest is an exceptional expression of this eternal sinful existence. We daily come short of the glory of God. This goodness that lives in the heart of God. Nowhere else can is not a trivial concern. Sin dishonours God. It estranges from we find anything that is like the fatherly love and care. His Him and brings us under God’s displeasure. The inspired poet is kindness excels all else. well aware of this. Likewise, he realizes that he cannot overcome Now it may be asked, what makes this goodness so special sin in his own strength. His human resources are not sufficient. and precious? He needs divine grace and deliverance. He sincerely confesses his sins; he earnestly desires, seeks, and finds God’s pardon. “A The answer is: It is so exceptional, because it is divine! mighty stream of foul transgression / Prevails from day to day; Human kindness may be helpful and well meant, but at /But Thou, O God in great compassion, / Wilt best it has many limitations and is hindered purge my guilt away” (Psalter 419:2). This song of by impossibilities. However, God’s goodness has no such boundaries. He has the wisdom, The psalmist knows with all God’s people thanksgiving is but the power, and the love to do whatsoever that God in His boundless mercy freely and brief, yet it describes pleases Him and to give the comfort of His fully pardons. A precious atonement has been in an eloquent kindness whenever it is humbly sought in made for the sins of God’s people. Christ’s faith. Moreover, the living Church of all ages substitutionary sacrifice is an infinitely effective manner how God’s may sing, “Surely goodness and mercy shall fountain of heavenly mercy. How valuable is the hand of love has follow me all the days of my life” (Psalm 23:6a). experience of God’s pardoning love and grace in graciously provided How much this goodness is to be desired! How Christ. Since by divine grace his sins have been for a bountiful blessed are they who may know it in their own forgiven, the psalmist enjoys anew a precious experience and who express their thankfulness intimate fellowship with His God. He humbly harvest. to God for the treasures of His fatherly love! acknowledges that his present blessedness is not of his own making, but is a precious fruit of God’s special grace David sees the harvest with all its attending blessings as a and of this grace alone. The way is now prepared for praising the fruit of heavenly care. His wholehearted adoration is gratefully Lord with joyful thanksgiving. directed towards this special divine goodness. All nature praises God and so does the psalmist. He invites others to join him in David’s thanksgiving is indeed God centered. He constantly praising and thanking God. alludes to what God has done so wondrously for him and for the church of his day. In the final analysis, the rich harvest To God Be the Glory is there only because the Lord came and provided it. At the This song of thanksgiving is but brief, yet it describes in beginning of the season when the labourers were plowing an eloquent manner how God’s hand of love has graciously and sowing, God sent rich showers. When the crops were provided for a bountiful harvest. The entire psalm gives the growing, they were watered constantly anew. God is pictured impression that the psalmist considers himself with all God’s as watering the earth whenever it was needed. The psalmist people to be richly blessed. could say, “The river of God is full of water.” His thankful heart gives all the glory to God as the fountain The Source of all these blessings. David is a very happy person. He finds A graphic picture is painted before our eyes. Wherever his deepest joy in God Himself, in His saving love and grace. we turn, we see God active and producing a multitude of However, he also enjoys the fruits of God’s fatherly care so blessings. Various references are pointing to the Most High richly experienced in the harvest of the land. The description God as the gracious source of all the great things that have of this biblical way of thanksgiving is very precious and taken place in the fields and meadows. David attributes every valuable. Those who may be thankful in this manner are step in the growing process to a divine activity. So does every indeed greatly blessed. truly thankful person today. Wholehearted thanksgiving to Thee will I bring, A bountiful harvest is the crown of the year and is the fruit In praise of Thy marvelous deeds I will sing. of the unmerited goodness of God. Where the King of kings In Thee I will joy and exultingly cry. places His footsteps, there He enriches the land; all His paths Thy Name I will praise, drop fatness. The poet portrays here the corn and grain, the O Jehovah Most High. fruits and vegetables, yea the entire harvest produced in the fields and gardens of the earth as a beautiful royal crown. Rev. Gerald Hamstra has been emeritus minister since 1999. He This crown is set on the head of the year by the hands of the and his wife are members of the Free Reformed Church of Dundas, majestic heavenly Benefactor. Ontario.

4 THE MESSENGER I OCTOBER 2013 Gleanings FROM THE CHURCHES BY REV. J. OVERDUIN SABBATICALS This past summer, three of our pastors enjoyed sabbaticals or times begin in Oxford?” Looking back, I am grateful for this time and the of extended rest and opportunity for various studies. All three were willingness of both congregations to make it possible. My studies invited to report briefly on their experiences. We print these reports progressed in a way that is not possible during full-time ministry. below to help us know more about the different interests and efforts of Personally at times reading Baynes’ exposition of God’s Word and our ministers. It is with the prayer that the Lord will bless the return to spiritual guidance was a blessing, and as a minister this humbling their local pulpits, not only that they may have been richly refreshed, time of reflection stirred the desire to be an unworthy instrument but also that the fruits of their studies may indeed be to the edification in the Lord’s mighty and gracious hand. of the churches and to the glory of the Lord, as is clearly the desire expressed below. Rev. Eric Moerdyk - pastor of the Monarch, Alberta Free Reformed Church Rev. Lawrence J. Bilkes – pastor of the Dundas, Ontario Free Reformed I was given four weeks of study time by my congregation, to Church work towards completing my master of thesis. This is the This past summer I was privileged to receive a six-week sabbatical. final step in receiving my degree from the theological university For me, my sabbatical meant not preaching in my own congregation of Apeldoorn in the . I spent the past four weeks (while still leading a number of services in other congregations), and studying the theme of union with Christ in the book of Philippians, minimal pastoral work. Of course, the six-weeks included several and will be preaching through this book in my congregation weeks of vacation in which our family was away in Ontario’s cottage starting this fall. I purposely picked a theme that would serve the country. However, in addition, I mainly worked churches, rather than a more obscure academic on writing several articles, several addresses, theme. It is my conviction that the balance There may be here and completing a course on Paul’s pastoral epistles between redemption accomplished in Christ and and commencing a study on one of the “flowers” there men of iron, to whom redemption applied by the Holy Spirit is of Paradise (marriage) which I hope to use for our wear and tear work no the key to biblical experiential preaching Adult Bible Class. During this time, Dr. A. Baars (one perceptible detriment, but and pastoral work. Overemphasizing one of the former pastors of our congregation) led the or the other leads to serious imbalances surely the rust frets even combined morning worship services together with in congregational and personal spiritual Hamilton (who are also using our church building) these; and as for ordinary life. When the apostle Paul looked at a and several others led our afternoon service. We men, the Lord knows, and particular congregation, he corrected are grateful for this sabbatical. It has been a busy makes them know, that errors in doctrine, life, or experience year in our family with the birth of twins. My by expounding on that part of they are but dust. workload has also increased with the departure of Christ’s work and its connection Rev. Procee from Hamilton in 2011. Ministers too to their lives that they did not yet are but creatures of the dust. Spurgeon said: “There may be here understand. This is why, for example, he wrote to and there men of iron, to whom wear and tear work no perceptible the Corinthians and only to the Corinthians that detriment, but surely the rust frets even these; and as for ordinary he determined to know nothing among them men, the Lord knows, and makes them know, that they are but dust” save Jesus Christ crucified. They were so focused (cf. G. M. Bilkes’ article - The Messenger, May 2012). Who does not on glory that they lost sight of the cross. Each need rest? But the greatest rest that we as ministers need is the same New Testament epistle contributes a unique rest that everyone else also needs: rest for our souls from the Rest- stressing of some part of Christ’s work and the Giver (Matt. 11:28) who gives it through His travail (Isa. 53:11) and it difference it makes in life. This study really could makes you taste and see that the Lord is gracious (1 Peter 2:3). be done about any New Testament epistle, but I picked Philippians because the apostle Rev. David Kranendonk - pastor of the Bornholm, Ontario Free is more personal there than anywhere else, Reformed Church telling the story of his own life in terms of After consideration and consultation with all involved, I had a this theme in every chapter. The title will three-month period between my official farewell to the Bornholm be: for me to live is Christ. During my study congregation and inauguration in the Oxford congregation. During leave, Rev. Pronk and student Ian MacLeod this period I not only attended Synod and preached on the Lord’s from Puritan Reformed Theological days, spent some time away with family, and moved to a new Seminary filled the pulpit. home, but also could do research for my dissertation. I was enabled to go through all the writings of the Puritan, Paul Baynes, and begin Rev. Joel Overduin is the pastor processing them in light of his contemporaries and what historians of the Free Reformed Church of write about his time-period. At first I thought, “Why don’t I just Vineland, Ontario.

OCTOBEROCTOBER 2013 2013 I THE MESSENGER 5 WHY CREEDS AND

CONFESSIONS? EDITORIAL >>

In the month of October we will be remembering the the Christian religion is the so-called Apostles’ . in the history of God’s Church. The Reformation In its oldest form it goes back to around A.D. 150, while through its successors and those who were faithful to the basic its present form dates from about A.D. 500. Although and foundational doctrines of the Bible gave us the three Forms the name “Apostles’ Creed” is, technically speaking, a of Unity to which our churches subscribe, along with several misnomer, as the apostles are not likely to have had a hand other Reformed denominations originating in the Netherlands. in formulating it, there is a certain legitimacy to this name Many who have grown up in churches that subscribe to these because the “Twelve Articles” do reflect the teaching of the creeds: the Heidelberg (1561), the apostles and may thus be regarded as a faithful summary (1563) and the (1618-19), hardly know their of the apostolic doctrine as it has been handed down contents. They don’t know that these creeds were the result of through the centuries. Having its roots in the ancient attacks by God’s enemies on the church and were formulated baptismal formula of Matthew 28, it can be said that the to defend the church against apostasy and heresy. Some think Apostles’ Creed arose out of the sacramental liturgy of they’re just dry doctrines and even think it is wrong to have such the New Testament Church, particularly baptism. But we confessional or creedal statements. They have the Bible and that must not overemphasize the role of baptism in the creed- is enough, they think. Their motto is: making process. The New Testament also contains many references to solemn expressions of faith in the forms No creed but Christ, no law but love! of hymns, prayers and devotional exclamations, which Doctrine divides, love unites! suggests that there were additional factors that led to the Down with doctrine, up with love! production of creeds. The Origin of Creeds A negative view of confessions may be born of ignorance The Ecumenical Creeds but it can also reflect lack of interest in or concern for The Apostles’ Creed represents the first of three so- precise formulations of biblical truth. Living as we do in an called ecumenical creeds, i.e., creedal statements that are era when mega churches are vying to attract huge crowds by recognized and subscribed to by Christians throughout giving people what they want rather than what they need, the world. it may seem useless to stress the importance of returning to The second of these worldwide creedal affirmations is a more confessional way of doing church. the Nicene Creed. This creed was the product of the first The practice of confessing the Christian faith by means ecumenical council held at Nicea in A.D. 325. This council of formal statements is of ancient origin. We find the convened to settle the Arian controversy regarding the Old Testament believers affirming their faith in the one co-equality of God the Father and God the Son. Arius true God in Deuteronomy 6:4 in the words of the shema: (c.250-c.336), a presbyter in the church of Constantinople “Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God is one Lord.” The New (Istanbul), taught “that Jesus Christ was the Word, a created Testament Christians likewise affirm their belief in Jesus being, which God called into existence before all times in order as Son of God and their Lord and Christ (Mark 8:29). Paul to create all other creatures through him.” The Council took reminds the believers in Rome that “if thou shalt confess issue with Arius and condemned his views, the controversy with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine centering on the terms homoousios (of one substance heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt with), which Arius rejected, and the term homoiousios (of be saved” (Rom. 10:9). similar substance) which he favoured. The majority opted for homoousios and thus a major decision in the history of The Apostles’ Creed Christian doctrine hinged on the use of one Greek letter. The earliest creed to summarize the essential articles of Homoousios became the password of orthodoxy.

6 THE MESSENGER I APRILDECEMBEROCTOBER 2013 2013 2012 >>

The last of the three classic creeds is the one associated with and through faith alone. the name Athanasius (c.296-373), bishop of Alexandria, although this “father of orthodoxy,” as he has been called, The Reformation, more than anything else, represented was not its author. The Athanasian Creed was the product a call to return to Scripture. Not what the Pope said or of individual or private confessions of faith, but since it church councils decreed, but what God says in His Word-- reflects the teaching of Athanasius, his name was attached that was decisive for Luther and the other Reformers. How to it, no doubt to give it authority. This creed was eventually beautifully our fathers stated this principle of Sola Scriptura adopted by the entire church as official doctrine. It consists (Scripture alone) in Article 7 of the Belgic Confession! “We of two parts, the first one dealing with the equality of the believe that those Holy Scriptures fully contain the will of Father, Son and Holy Spirit, and the double procession of God, and that whatever man ought to believe unto salvation the Spirit, namely from the Father and the Son; while the is sufficiently taught therein…” second part deals with the union of the two natures, divine The Purpose and Function of Creeds and human, in the one Person of Christ. What are creeds for? In his Creeds of Christendom, Philip The Reformation Creeds Schaff sums up the value and use of the creeds this way: There have been only two periods in church history which “They are summaries of the doctrines of the Bible, aids to may truly be called creed making ages. These its sound understanding, bonds of union are the fourth and fifth centuries during among their professors, public standards and which the so-called ecumenical creeds They [the creeds] are guards against false doctrine and practice.” were produced, and the sixteenth and summaries of the As summaries of the Bible the creeds are very seventeenth centuries which saw the writing doctrines of the Bible, useful, especially in the teaching ministry of the Church. of the great Reformation Confessions. aids to its sound We may see the guidance of the Spirit in “What is necessary for a Christian to this. The Church wrote her confessions in understanding, bonds believe?” the asks. times of great need, when she was facing of union among their And the answer is: “All things promised us in tremendous opposition, both from without professors, public the , which the articles of our catholic and from within, so that her very existence standards and guards undoubted Christian faith teach us” (Q.& was at stake. The great creeds of the church A. 22). Rather than referring the student to were not merely the fruits of theological or against false doctrine the Bible itself, the Catechism points him liturgical reflection but they were born in and practice. to the Apostles’ Creed as a brief statement times of tremendous struggle. comprising the essential truths which must Another reason why no new creeds were made for more be known for salvation, and then proceeds to expound each than a thousand years is that there was almost universal article in Lord’s Days 8-22. agreement on the doctrinal statements contained in the Creeds have always been seen as helps to a better Ecumenical Creeds. During the Middle Ages few dared understanding of Holy Writ. Experience shows that, to challenge the church’s teaching regarding the deity of generally speaking, people who know their catechism and Christ or the . But while Medieval Christendom was other confessional standards, will also have a good grasp in basic agreement with these creedal pronouncements of Scripture, while those who claim to have “No Creed relative to the doctrine of God, there were other doctrines but Christ” and profess a high regard for the Bible, often on which by the sixteenth century there was considerable know very little of its contents and meaning. The danger disagreement, at least among scholars. facing creedless churches is that preachers will select only I’m referring to those doctrines that have to do with those Scripture passages and themes that make people salvation, particularly the key doctrine of justification. feel good about themselves and avoid subjects that may That doctrine had never been the subject of intense offend their hearers. ecclesiastical reflection since the time of the apostles and by Luther’s time the biblical teaching on this vital subject Since creeds and confessions cover the full range of had almost been forgotten. The Reformers therefore, biblical truth, we may by using them as our guide, be although able to quote such men as Augustine and Bernard better equipped to present the whole counsel of God to of Clairvaux in support of their teaching on justification, the congregation. This is especially true of the Heidelberg had to go back beyond the Church Fathers and councils to Catechism but also the Belgic Confession and the Canons the New Testament itself for their authority to speak on of Dort. All three, each in their own way, can be of great the issue of salvation and its appropriation by grace alone help to preachers to keep nothing back from their flocks

OCTOBER 2013 I THE MESSENGER 7 >>

that is profitable to them (see Acts 20:20). A similar development took place after the Reformation. At the Synod of Emden it was decided that candidates for the The Unifying Factor of the Creeds ministry should be asked whether they agreed completely This function of the creeds may be illustrated by the with the doctrines contained in the Confession of Faith Heidelberg Catechism. Although written for Frederick and the Heidelberg Catechism. After the , II of the Palatinate to be used as an instruction manual the Canons of Dort were added to the other two official for the youth in his realm, this catechism was destined standards of the Reformed churches, and subscription to to become more than just a teaching aid. The Synod of these became a requirement for all Dort (1618-19) was so impressed by its contents that it who held offices in the church. adopted the Heidelberg Catechism as an official standard of the Reformed Church of the Netherlands, along with This mandatory requirement has not gone unchallenged the Belgic Confession and the Canons of Dort. To this in the history of the Reformed churches since the Synod day these Three Forms of Unity serve as a binding factor of Dort. Already at this Synod the Remonstrants warned for Reformed believers wherever they are found, not only that forcing office bearers to subscribe to confessional in the Netherlands but also in churches all standards implies putting that standard on over the world that trace their origin to the the same level with Holy Scripture. It is easy European continent. They are often used It was inevitable to see why they objected to this procedure. as a platform or foundation for discussions that in the course For them to sign would mean agreeing with among churches of the Reformed persuasion of time creeds and doctrinal statements they had come to as they seek to establish and maintain Synod to oppose. ecclesiastical relations with one another. confessions came to be regarded as standards When some two hundred years later the The Creeds Serve to Defend the Truth of orthodoxy or rules Reformed Church under King William I As Schaff makes clear, creeds are also had become liberal both in government and public standards, which guard against false of faith in terms of doctrine, candidates for the ministry were doctrine and practice. As such one may which candidates given the option of signing the Form of speak of an antithetical aspect of creeds and for admission to the Subscription whole heartedly or with mental confessions. Already in the New Testament church were examined. reservations. They were allowed to subscribe the confessional “yea” was accompanied by to the Reformed Confessions either because the equally confessional “nay.” For instance, they agreed with the Word of God or in so in 1 John 4:2,3 the apostle reminds believers, “Hereby far as they did. With this loophole the door was opened know ye the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesseth to complete freedom of doctrine (leervrijheid) and this that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God: And every became one of the issues that contributed to the Secession spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the of 1834, led by Hendrik de Cock. flesh is not of God.” But also in later years many continued to voice objections Accordingly, both the Ecumenical and the Reformed to certain aspects of the contents of the Reformed Confessions contain antithetical elements. The Athanasian Confessions, especially the Canons of Dort, which have Creed, for instance, begins like this: “Whosoever will be always borne the brunt of the attacks. saved, before all it is necessary that he hold the catholic faith; which faith except everyone do keep whole and The Religion of the Confessions undefiled, without doubt he shall perish everlastingly.” What the opponents were and are still opposing is not really the confessions as such but the religion of the The Reformed Confessions are no less antithetical. confessions. As J. VanderGraaf writes: Taking issue with both Rome and Anabaptists, the Reformers reject “whatsoever does not agree with this You can only bind yourself to a confession if you infallible rule of Scripture” (Belgic Confession, Article know yourself to be bound to its religion. With all the 7). It was inevitable that in the course of time creeds discussions which are currently being held relative to and confessions came to be regarded as standards of the confessions, I cannot rid myself of the impression orthodoxy or rules of faith in terms of which candidates that many no longer feel that the confessions reflect for admission to the church were examined. Also, as early their religion. They have a different religion. What as 325, those holding the office of bishop in the church the confessions say sounds strange to them. The were required to subscribe to the creed set forth by the truths confessed in them are foreign to their spiritual Council of Nicea held in that year. experience.

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The confessions speak the language of faith; more and autonomous thinking. This conflict determines specifically faith in a sovereign God in whose hand are the and characterizes the history of mankind. There are, destinies of men; who has mercy on whom He will have consequently, only two kinds of people in the world. mercy and who hardens whom He will. The Confessions, Those who live out of the Adamic principle of self-will and moreover, are admittedly exclusivistic and intolerant. If rely on their own understanding, despite their claims to there is one word that characterizes them it is the word believe in God and His Word; and those who by grace have “sola”--alone. Christ alone; the Word alone; grace alone; learned to renounce their own ‘wisdom’ and to bring “into faith alone. captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ” (2 Cor. 10:5). The natural man does not like the word “alone.” To insist upon it brings out his resentment and enmity. Man does They are people who are willing to be called foolish and not want to be saved by grace alone and guided by the backward by those who claim to be more progressive Word alone, but will always try to add the word “and.” and sensitive to the needs of the present time. They are He simply cannot resist this very natural tendency to add prepared to bear the reproach of Christ because they something originating with man to the revelation and understand this has always been the lot of those who wish work of God. to remain faithful to the infallible and inerrant Word of the living God and to the Confessions based on that Word. This explains why so many, also in Reformed circles, have problems with the Confessions. It is because the May we belong to that people! May we never be ashamed of Confessions reflect what Graafland calls “theonomic” the great heritage left to us by our Reformed fathers! They thinking, that is thinking which results from complete have handed down to us these great creedal statements submission to what God has revealed in His Word. Those in which we possess an authentic expression of the God- who find fault with the Confessions, on the other hand, centred character of the Christian faith. They are worth show that they have been influenced, if not brainwashed, defending, therefore, because they reflect “the faith which by a radically different kind of thinking, namely that was once delivered unto the saints” and which will be of autonomous man who relies on his own reason and necessary unto salvation as long as there are sinners who preferences and refuses to bow before divine revelation. need to be saved. The Roots of Autonomous Thinking We often trace this kind of thinking to the Enlightenment and the Renaissance, but actually we need to go back to the New Testament where Paul speaks of the Gospel as being a stumbling block to Jews and foolishness to Greeks. Both these negative reactions stem from the same source, really: natural man’s pride. The Gospel is a threat to man’s self-esteem. He wants to remain autonomous. He wants to decide for himself and work out his salvation in his own way, not with fear and trembling, relying on the power and good pleasure of God, but self-confident and in full charge of the process. He is not against religion as long as it will not reduce him to helpless dependence. The Jew believed in God and was willing to live by the letter of His law in an effort to establish his own righteousness before God. And the Greek relied on his reason to control his lower passions, in order to attain to the virtuous life. Both, in other words, rejected the word “sola.” Each in his own way chose a religion of God and man. If we want to trace this kind of thinking to its very beginning we have to go back to the Garden of Eden. www.christiancounsellingcentre.ca There we find the roots of the conflict between theonomic

OCTOBER 2013 I THE MESSENGER 9 MEDICAL ETHICS:

A REFORMED PERSPECTIVE - 2 ETHICAL ISSUES By Joel Hamstra >>

Editor’s Note: These articles were first delivered as an address are directed toward the up-building of His people. “All things at the Spring 2013 Elders and Deacons Conference of the Free work together for good to them that love God” (Rom. 8:28). Reformed Churches in London, Ontario. The written outline was Even the evil that befalls His children, works to their good. reviewed by the members of the Free Reformed Ethical and Public Affairs Committee and comments were incorporated in this One of the most vivid examples that we find in Scripture of document. Therefore, this series of articles may be understood as someone submitting to the sovereignty of God is the story written on behalf of the Committee, although it is written in the of Job. He received much evil at the hand of Satan, allowed first person. by God. After all the awful things had happened to him, he could still say, “Though he slay me, yet will I trust in him” Biblical Doctrines In Medical Ethics (Job 13:15). So, first and foremost when a challenge arises, Last time I left off with the plan to present somewhat of consider this – God is in control. However, if one is not united a framework that may be helpful when working through to Christ, then all things will not necessarily work together for ethical dilemmas. This framework is not my own. It is drawn good. This provides us with a place to begin in our counselling. from a book that I recommend, “Bioethics and the Christian Life,” by David VanDrunen.1 2. The Image of God Another key biblical doctrine to keep in mind when dealing VanDrunen suggests that there are four key doctrines found with medical ethics is that man is created in the image of in Scripture that can help to inform our decisions. There are God. It is worthwhile to pause for a minute to consider that many other doctrines that are found in Scripture that can truth as well. God made this entire wonderful, awesome apply in different situations. In fact, for each dilemma or creation with all its vastness, beauty, and incredible decision that we face, we must do our utmost to prayerfully diversity. But out of all of it, only man was created in the consider the whole counsel of God before proceeding; image of God. Psalm 8 comes to mind as an exposition of however, these four doctrines are a starting point. how man truly is the pinnacle of God’s creation. Today, most physicians, and in fact most people in our society 1. The Sovereignty of God at large fail to see much of a distinction between human The first is the doctrine of the sovereignty of God and divine beings and the rest of creation. Human beings are held in providence. The Bible makes it very clear that God is in control much the same regard as other animal life. The reality that of all things. Not one sparrow falls to the ground without the a human being is special because he/she is created in the will of our heavenly Father (Matt. 10:29). He ordains every image of God has largely been lost. detail of our lives. The hairs of our head are numbered (Matt. 10:30). What we perceive as ‘good’ or even what we perceive To most physicians the concept of an eternal soul is foreign. as evil, is under His control. We often find it easy to see the But in reality, human life is radically different from any other providential hand of God and acknowledge His sovereignty life that we find on this earth. From the moment that new in the good things that happen to us. In times of adversity life is formed at conception, God creates a unique human this is much more difficult. As the Heidelberg Catechism being with both a body and a soul, which remain together states in Question and Answer 27, the providence of God until separated by death. No other creature has a living soul. is “the almighty and everywhere present power of God; (a) whereby, as it were by his hand, he upholds and governs (b) We live in a very visual culture; we thrive on images. If we heaven, earth, and all creatures; so that herbs and grass, rain can’t see something, we tend to disbelieve it or minimize its and drought, (c) fruitful and barren years, meat and drink, importance. This can have a subtle, yet profound influence on health and sickness, (d) riches and poverty, (e) yea, and all how we think about the beginning and end of life issues. Human things come, not by chance, but by his fatherly hand.” embryos, only a few cells in number, invisible to the naked eye, look nothing like a human being. In our visually driven culture, Scripture also tells us that God’s providence and sovereignty these are not given the respect that they deserve. These tiny

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microscopic collections of cells are a living soul, incredibly resurrection and the world to come. precious, deserving of honour and protection as God’s image This biblical concept of death is utterly foreign to our society. bearers. The elderly person, curled up in a fetal position in bed, By focusing on the manner of how we die, free of pain, too weak to rise up, his mind clouded by Alzheimer’s, his voice dignity intact, in full control of our faculties, society has too weak to speak, is also an image-bearer. distracted us from the fearsome reality of what lies beyond Perhaps what I have said sounds a little too man-centred or the grave. According to this view, death is good if it is noble almost as man-worship. That is not my intention. Mankind and preserves our autonomy or pride. as image bearers has tarnished this image by the fall. I believe that the Bible teaches that in our natural state we are totally We too can be drawn into this way of thinking; this depraved. As Psalm 9 teaches us, we also need to know misguided focus on the manner of death. Now, please ourselves to be ‘but men.’ Our true, full glory as image bearers don’t misunderstand me. Physicians, healthcare workers, will not be seen until we are risen again when the Bridegroom and family members, when caring for those who are returns and we are found among that company gathered experiencing a great deal of pain and suffering, have an around the throne of the Lamb. We must view obligation to provide comfort, support and care mankind from this balanced perspective. Every Our natural for those at the end of their lives. We must hold image bearer, bears the image of God and because response to firm, however, to the belief that life, even when of this deserves our respect. suffering is often it may involve suffering or pain or incapacity is still an inherent good, a God-breathed gift, 3. The Reality and Nature of Death to question God. worth protecting. This is the third doctrine that is often helpful to Reflexively we consider when thinking about medical ethics. ask, “Why me?” 4. The Reality of Suffering This is somewhat of a difficult thing to explain. The fourth key doctrine to consider is the In our current society, perhaps even more so in or “How could a reality of suffering. Suffering is inevitable. To Europe than in North America, we normalize loving God allow, quote VanDrunen: “For Christians the question death. Death is seen as a natural thing. Much has even ordain that is not really whether we will suffer but how been written to define the stages of dying and such a thing we will suffer. Will we suffer in a godly way or coming to terms with a terminal diagnosis. The not?”2 Scripture says: “In the world ye shall have should happen?” goal of this is to help lessen the sting of death, tribulation” (John 16:33). Many issues that to take away the fear associated with death. We give rise to difficult ethical dilemmas involve are told that those suffering from chronic diseases should suffering. Issues regarding infertility, chronic pain, chronic welcome death as a means to escape this suffering. Yet is this illness, these all can cause those struggling with these understanding and attitude toward death scriptural? matters to experience great suffering. Death first entered into the world through sin. Death is a Our natural response to suffering is often to question God. punishment for sin, man’s sin. Death was never supposed to Reflexively we ask, “Why me?” or “How could a loving God be. Man was created to live. God breathed into his nostrils allow, even ordain that such a thing should happen?” Yet the breath of life. Life (both physical and more importantly we must accept, through prayerful submission, that God eternal life) is what humans were created for. It is in life that is loving and wise. “For [as] the heavens are higher than we bear the image of God. Therefore we as Christians should the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my always act to affirm life; to choose life over death. We need to thoughts than your thoughts” (Isa. 55:9). Think again on the accept that death will come to all, but death in and of itself example of Job. When Job questions why all these things should not be embraced. Death is a fearsome thing. It is an have happened to him, God reminds him in chapters 38-41 awful thing. It separates soul and body. This is, in the deepest how great He is and how small Job is. sense, wholly unnatural. Although we are not called to go looking for suffering, we I agree that in once sense of the word death is natural. It is should pray for grace to bear a burden of suffering if God natural in that it happens to all creatures; none will escape chooses to place it upon us. Suffering is not the ultimate evil. it. Perhaps it is better to say that death is inevitable (as a We may not necessarily do all that we can to avoid suffering; result of sin) but not natural. In fact, Jesus has come and at times we must accept it as God’s will. Think for instance conquered death so that His people do not have to suffer of the suffering that a person with a spinal cord injury eternal death. For His people even the sting of physical death experiences. Such a person may be unable to walk, possibly has been taken away. Now death, instead of being a portal to unable to perform even basic self-care. Now suppose medical eternal woe, is a portal to eternal life in anticipation of the science had found a way to use embryonic stem cells, derived

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from ‘spare’ human embryos to cause regeneration of the faith in Christ. We see that medical ethics and, in fact, any nervous system and treatment of the injury. This would decision-making is at its very core a spiritual matter. What provide immense relief and heal the suffering of many, yet is our relationship with God? If this is not right, then can it would be wrong, because it has involved the taking of anything else go right? These questions provide a place to innocent life. start, especially from a pastoral, counselling perspective. Romans 14:23 teaches us that whatever is not of faith is sin. Suffering must be endured if the means that we would use Faith is the starting point. All of the other virtues that we to end it are contrary to the revealed will of God. In fact, it will consider spring from faith. is in times of suffering that God’s people are often drawn closer to Him, made more dependent on Him and become Hope more gloriously aware of their adoption as His children. The second virtue or character trait that we must seek to “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of put into practice when making decisions, is hope. Hope is an death, I will fear no evil for thou art with me” (Ps. 23:4). essential virtue when facing trials. If faith is trusting in God and in His goodness in the present, then hope is looking So, to briefly recap, four important biblical doctrines that forward in trust. Hope is the expectation that God will do we should keep in mind are the providence what He says. It is what the psalmist is urging of God – He controls and directs all things. How does faith help when he says, “wait on the Lord” (Ps. 27:14). Second, man is an image bearer of God and as us to make right such deserves respect. Third, the reality and How does hope help us to make the right nature of death – that it is wholly unnatural decisions and go on to decisions – also as it relates to our health? Often and that the only way for the sting of the Godo to the now, right ye thing?that say, The Today ethical challenges and the suffering that can grave to be lost is through redemption by most basic answer to come with them, tempt people to despair. The future can seem very bleak. Take for instance Christ. Fourth, the nature of suffering – at this question is found times we are called to suffer and we must do the couple grappling with infertility. The hope so in a God-honouring way. in Hebrews 11:16, they have placed in medical remedies has been “without faith it is disappointing. This couple needs to be exhorted Christian Character Traits impossible to to hope in the Lord. Romans chapter 4 relates These are some doctrines of the Bible that how Abraham placed his hope in the Lord, even please God.” we should consider when making ethical when things seemed impossible. In chapter decisions. But in order to make right, God- 5 we read, “But we glory in tribulations also; honouring decisions, we must be a certain kind of person. knowing that tribulation worketh patience; and patience We must, above all, be born again. What then are the experience; and experience, hope: And hope maketh not virtues or character traits that a Christian must possess ashamed.” We ought to live as citizens of heaven and set our and bring to bear when making ethical decisions? David minds on things above. Whatever we suffer here pales in VanDrunen,3 an ethicist whose book has formed much comparison to the glory that shall be revealed. of the basis of these articles, has highlighted six virtues or characteristics that Christians should seek to put into Love practice when making ethical decisions: Faith, Hope, Love, The third of the six virtues that should characterize our Courage, Contentment and Wisdom.4 approach to decision-making is love. In our culture, love refers to a feeling or a state of action. The biblical concept Faith of love, unlike how we tend to use the term in our culture, How does faith help us to make right decisions and go on to does not refer to a feeling, but rather something or things do the right thing? The most basic answer to this question that we do. Think of first Corinthians 13, which gives is found in Hebrews 11:16, “without faith it is impossible us a grand description of love, or the words of the first to please God.” The positive side of this statement is that epistle of John, chapter 4:10-11: “Herein is love, not that only with faith is it possible to please God. The Heidelberg we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to Catechism acknowledges this in Lord’s Day 3, Q&A 91, be the propitiation for our sins. Beloved, if God so loved “What are good works? Only those which are done out us, we ought also to love one another.” The essence of love of true faith in accordance with the law of God, and to involves self-sacrifice. his glory, and not those based on our own opinion or on precepts of men.” How can we demonstrate this virtue or characteristic when making decisions? Suppose we have been diagnosed with a Faith is the foundation. We cannot be justified in the serious illness and we are trying to decide whether to continue sight of God and we cannot do good works outside of treatment. In difficult situations, we can be so focused on

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our own troubles that we may not even consider how our in life.” This implies a dis-satisfaction with our current decisions may impact others. Yet, if we are to show the kind state and a desire to have something more or better. This of self-giving love of Scripture, we must think about what prevailing attitude or characteristic of discontentment is impact our decisions will make on others. It is often helpful completely at odds with what Scripture teaches. One of the to ask ourselves or ask those whom we are counselling, how clearest expressions in the Bible of the value of contentment we can show love through the choices that we make. is found in the book of Philippians. Paul begins in chapter 1, stating the all-sufficiency of Christ for him. In chapter So far we have looked at three virtues that are important to 2, he urges those in the church to look after each other. In demonstrate when making decisions: faith, hope and love. chapter 3, he speaks about his previous zeal in persecuting There are three other virtues, perhaps more particularly the church and contrasts this with his current zeal in serving relevant to medical decision-making that we need to discuss. Christ. Then, in chapter 4, he sums up this discussion of They are courage, contentment and wisdom. his faith and life with the words of verse 11: “Not that I Courage speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever The fourth virtue is courage. Courage is pursuing what state I am, [therewith] to be content” or as he exhorts in 1 is good in the face of danger or hardship. The Bible gives Timothy 6:6: “Godliness with contentment is great gain.” examples of courage and the good that can result and also How then does this virtue function in ethical decision-making? the evil that can result from a lack of courage. Take for instance an experimental therapy for a Think of David fighting Goliath. David’s faith Courage is pursuing chronic illness. We can place all our hope in this in the God who had kept him from the paws what is good in the therapy, become so caught up in the prospect of of the bear and of the lion gave him hope that relief from our illness, that we lose sight of the face of danger or he could defeat the giant and therefore he need to be content with the state that we are in. proceeded with courage. hardship. In praying for deliverance, we should also pray For a biblical example of the consequence of for the grace to accept and bear our burden, if it lacking courage, think also of Numbers 13:31-33. Ten of is God’s will that we not be delivered from it. the twelve spies who had been sent out to scout the land of Wisdom Canaan gave an evil report. They said that Israel would never The final virtue or characteristic of a Christian that must be able to conquer the inhabitants of Canaan. It was because be demonstrated when making a decision is wisdom. What the ten spies lacked faith in God that they had no hope of is wisdom? Wisdom is that virtue that enables a person to possessing the land and because of the hardships that they put his/her virtues into concrete practice and apply his/her perceived, they lacked courage. As a result, God’s judgment moral rules in real life.5 It is not enough simply to know fell upon Israel and the spies with the evil report. moral rules, we need understanding about how to apply These examples show how courage proceeds from faith and them, how to live them out in the real world. hope. But how then, is courage necessary in ethical decision- How do we obtain such wisdom? Two key texts come to making? There are times when it is very clear what is the mind: “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge” right thing to do (or not do) but the course of action is very (Prov. 1:7) and “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of difficult, fraught with personal sacrifice. To proceed requires God, that giveth to all men liberally and upbraideth not” courage, courage that only God can give. “Be of good courage, (Jas. 1:5). The book of Proverbs demonstrates very clearly and he shall strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in the the wisdom we can gain by listening to the wise advice of Lord” (Ps. 31:24). fathers and elders. Contentment This is something that, I fear, we as individuals and office The fifth virtue is that of contentment. Contentment bearers do not do enough. I am sure that you as office is submitting to and finding peace in God’s will for our bearers have seen instances in your congregation when condition in every circumstance of life. Although none of members have made certain ethical decisions that may the virtues mentioned thus far are found in us by nature, have come as quite a surprise to you. You may not have contentment seems to be even more alien to our fallen state been aware that someone was struggling with a particular than some of the others. Contentment is especially rare in issue, because they never shared it with anyone. our current age. I fear that often, we as members of a church do not share our The mantra of the world in which we live is “strive, succeed, burdens and trials with others. In so doing, we miss out on overcome, work for the top, try to earn more, get ahead the opportunity to be led and instructed by those who may

OCTOBER 2013 I THE MESSENGER 13 >>

have gone through the same struggles that we are facing. man. True faith, true hope, true love; these are not found Also, we miss out on the opportunity to be exhorted to in any of us by nature. Just as the Beatitudes describe the continue in the faith. I think that this presents a challenge characteristics of the true Christian, so too, these virtues to office bearers. To rise to this challenge, I suggest that that we have discussed are only found in those who are in they strive to be men who know the church. They need to Christ. The outworking of this is clear; none of our actions, be men who know what is on the minds of the members in none of the ethical decisions that we make, can be truly the congregation, but not in a way that pries unnecessarily made rightly unless we are in Christ. into the affairs of others. Office-bearers must be seen to be friendly and approachable to members and visitors alike. Next time we will work through some ethical-medical Only then will members feel comfortable sharing their decisions based on what we have discussed so far. burdens. Seek to develop a reputation as one who is warm, (Endnotes) open, understanding and wise; ready to speak a word in 1. David VanDrunen. Bioethics and the Christian Life: A season and to share the riches of Christ. Guide to Making Difficult Decisions (Wheaton: Crossway, Perhaps another virtue that we must have, and I am not sure 2009). that it is distinct from love, is kindness and humility. When 2. Ibid., p. 62. advising those who are grappling with difficult decisions or 3. Ibid. are experiencing much suffering, our advice and counsel 4. VanDrunen, p. 71. should be rooted in God’s Word mixed with love. We need to 5. VanDrunen, p. 92. speak to one another in love. “Speak the truth in love” (Eph 4:15). Much good counsel can be made to be harmful, when Dr. Joel Hamstra, B.Sc. M.D. FRCPC is a member of the it is not given in humility and love. Free Reformed Church of Dundas, Ontario and is Assistant Clinical Professor of Anesthesia at McMaster University and We need to realize that having considered all these virtues Director of Obstetrical Anesthesia, St. Joseph’s Healthcare that they are not virtues that are found in the natural Hamilton, Ontario.

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A fellow this will mean critiquing one another’s sions greatly used because he was submissive to Scot, Sinclair Ferguson, writes in the ministry; never, please God, to score God; therefore, God strengthened him as he Foreword: “Here, then, is an ideal primer points, but to provoke one another to a • Historical Fiction endured persecution and exile, faced down for beginners, a great refresher course for greater conformity to Christ and a greater the wrath of mighty monarchs, and prayed, anyone who has got lost in the woods conformity to his word.” Among those • Marriage, Family, preached, and wrote with no fear of man, attempting to read Scripture the Emmaus who are acknowledged by the editors for manifesting the glory of God. Knox’s life Road way, and a wonderful reminder to us their input are Danny Hyde, Jon D. Payne, Parenting offers a powerful message of the biblical all that it was Jesus himself who taught us Joseph A. Pipa and Iain H. Murray (p.14). truth that God often delights to work most • Music, Psalters that he is at the heart of the entire Bible, Softcover, 240 pages, Evangelical Press powerfully through people who are most and not just the right hand side of it!” RBS Price $13.50 weak in themselves but most strong in Him. • Practical Religion Softcover, 245 pages, Thomas Nelson Hardcover, 151 pages, Reformation Trust RBS Price $14.25 • Revival RBS Price $12.50 In Canada: REFORMED BOOK SERVICES • Sermons The Unwavering Resolve of Engaging With Keller: Thinking 230 Lynden Road, Unit 5A, Brantford, Jonathan Edwards Through the Theology of an Influential ON N3R 8A3 Tel: 519.304.4709 • Theology By Steven J. Lawson Evangelical email: [email protected] In this series, “Long Line Tim Keller’s name is www.reformedbookservices.ca of Godly Men Profile,” known across the Store Hour: Monday 10-5; Thursday CDs of beautiful the author shows how evangelical world as 10-9; Friday 10-5; Saturday10-3. choral and the personal resolutions a pastor-teacher who Jonathan Edwards has sought to make USA Customers: composed in his youth the gospel relevant for instrumental guided him in all spheres of his life and fruitful a modern generation. REFORMATION HERITAGE ministry. The resolutions cover everything In this collection of BOOKS music from glorifying God to repenting of sin to essays, several Reformed and Presbyterian 2965 Leonard St. N.E., Grand Rapids, managing time. In Edwards’ example, we theologians engage with aspects of MI 49525 find helpful instruction for all times. Keller’s thought. While indebted to Keller Tel. 616-977-0599 Fax: 626-285-3246 Gift Certificates Hardcover, 200 pages, Reformation Trust in many ways, they also wish to examine www.heritagebooks.org RBS Price $15.00 his position in the light of Scripture and to email: [email protected]

OCTOBER 2013 I THE MESSENGER 15 MISSIONS Cubulco Churches Update By Nico Kattenberg

Challenges Furthermore, we often faced the challenge that the obreros The organization of the churches in Cubulco has been a (church leaders) and members wanted to organize the church in challenge. We tried setting up regional oversight committees the same way as they would organize their community, school that meet every other month for churches that did not meet committee, etc. However, the biggest challenge was to get the the criteria for having a consistory according to church order. churches and the obreros to understand the importance of However, most of these committees would eventually stop having structure and convincing them that this was not being functioning. We faced different hurdles and challenges along imposed on them by the foreign missionaries. the way. Many of the churches lack committed and qualified men (in some churches the women are much more committed Attempts and numerous than the men). Another challenge was that When Pastor Edgar Xicara was called to serve the churches of many people are illiterate. Cubulco in 2011, one of the tasks he was charged with was to work at organizing the churches. We hoped that perhaps it would be more accepted coming from a Guatemalan rather than from a foreigner. Initially, he worked with each local church and helped them put in place some structure. Again, the churches and leaders were receptive and cooperative as they had been in the past, but as a whole they still did not understand the importance of having structure. As a result not much was accomplished. Pastor Xicara and I were rather frustrated because of a lack of progress and discussed this together on numerous occasions. Earlier this year an idea came to our mind which was to contact the Presbyterian Church and get permission to let our obreros participate in the various activities they have each year. We had a two-fold goal in mind. In the first place, we hoped that the obreros would be inspired to organize their churches by seeing how the Presbyterians are structured, and that they would see that this is not something that is done only in North America but also in Guatemala and in churches and contexts very similar to theirs. Secondly, we hoped that by attending these events our churches would be drawn closer to the Presbyterian Church. Our hope for many years has been that the churches would become part of the Presbyterian denomination.

Presbyterian Connection The Cubulco churches have had a relationship with the Presbyterian Church for many years through the Seminary and the Bible Institute, and VBS. The Presbyterians are the oldest evangelical church as they were the first church, other than the Catholic Church, to be invited to come into Guatemala over 130 years ago. It has a membership of over 500,000 and there are over 300 churches throughout the country. Although there are some differences, doctrinally they are quite similar. For quite a few years we have been talking with the churches and the obreros about this, but they resisted. Their reasons varied and since the “future” of the churches is in the hands of the people themselves, we did not force this decision on them. Instead, we

16 THE MESSENGER I OCTOBER 2013 OCTOBER 2013 I THE MESSENGER 16 left them to ponder on the idea and looked for ways to make the spiritually by a Presbyterian pastor/professor from Colombia. transition happen. Because of other commitments I could only attend one day, but After contacting the Presbyterians we received permission to from talking with each of them, it was obvious that they finally attend the annual general assembly in May. They were very understood the benefit of being part of something bigger. All accommodating and agreed to let the obreros attend for the same four of them returned to Cubulco refreshed and with a desire fee as their pastors (only $17 for 5 days of food and lodging). to continue on with the process of organizing the churches We were excited, but only one of the and joining the Presbyterian obreros (Santos) was able to attend denomination. along with Pastor Xicara (I attended for ½ day as well to promote the Jonkman’s God’s Hand Sunday School Curriculum). After the The road leading up to this has meetings, Santos went back to his been quite challenging and church, inspired by what he witnessed frustrating at times, but we can and convinced of the importance of now see God’s hand in all of this. organizing the church and joining the As much as we would like to see Presbyterian denomination. He also things happen more quickly and left with an invitation to attend the within our agenda, God’s timing is next pastoral retreat in August. always best and it is also best when things happens because the people Favourable Results themselves are convinced of it. Santos shared what he had seen and heard with his church and the other We ask that you continue to obreros. Immediately, the church of remember the churches and Pichal started working with Pastor the obreros in your prayers and Xicara on the training and election of that this process will be to the office bearers. At the end of August honour and glory of God and the church in Pichal had a special the edification of the Reformed service in which office bearers where Churches of Cubulco. installed. The church in Patuy will follow suit in September and we hope that before the end of Nico Kattenberg is a missionary working for Free Reformed the year the obreros of these two churches will be ordained as Missions International (FRMI) in Guatemala. He and his wife Lia pastors. As well in August, four of the obreros along with Pastor and children live in Guatemala City. For more information about Xicara attended a three day conference in which they were fed FRMI, see the website: http://www.frcmissions.org

Free Reformed Missions International - IncomeFree Reformed Statement Missions International vs. Budget January through August 2013Income Statement vs. Budget January through August 2013

Jan - Aug 13 Budget % of Budget Financial Report Income 4200 · Free Reformed Churches 99,051 293,000 33.8% The financial statement shows activity for the first 4300 · Gifts 14,800 5,500 269.1% eight months of 2013. Wasn’t it just a few months 4500 · Interest Income 4,922 6,650 74.0% 4600 · Ladies League 625 3,000 20.8% ago that we began a new year? As you read this 4800 · Other Churches 28,791 32,500 88.6% report we are well into the count down of 2013. Total Income 148,189 340,650 43.5% As can be seen in the report, our expenses are Expense nicely within the budget framework, with the Exchange Gain/Loss 0 125 0.0% income lagging behind. The remaining months 5050 · Cubulco Mission Post 10,170 98,000 10.4% will be crucial for being able to break even at the 5051 · Education-AMG 63,180 72,000 87.8% 5465 · Mailbox 151 250 60.4% end of the year. One factor that is affecting us a 6100 · Salary and Benefits 83,174 136,685 60.9% bit negatively this year is a weakening Canadian 6200 · Travel/Accom 18,686 26,700 70.0% dollar. That might cause some expense categories 6310 · Education/Training 0 5,000 0.0% 6700 · Office /Bank 1,204 1,640 73.4% to go over budget. 6800 · Telephone 0 250 0.0% William Laman Total Expense 176,565 340,650 51.8% Net Income -28,376 0 100.0%

OCTOBER 2013 I THE MESSENGER 17 CHURCH NEWS Free Reformed Church of Oxford County Institution and Installation

The newest Free Reformed congregation, located in Oxford were installed as elders and brothers Simon VanDyk and County, Ontario, has enjoyed two special events: its institution Cees Brouwer as deacons. as a congregation on the Lord’s Day, July 21, 2013 and the installation of its first pastor on Thursday, August 29, 2013. Bearing Record of the Word On Thursday, August 29, beginning at 7:30 pm, the Christ Builds His Church installation of Rev. D. H. Kranendonk took place in This congregation had gathered as a preaching station of the building of the Burgessville Heritage Reformed the Hamilton congregation for around two and a half years. Congregation. The congregation gathered with many It is comprised of around one hundred members, many of visitors from the area and other Free Reformed which belong to young families. They meet in a Seventh congregations, together with online listeners, for this Day Adventist building just south of Woodstock. At our special service. Rev. Kranendonk’s father-in-law and recent Synod meetings, permission was given for it to be the former pastor of the Hamilton congregation, Rev. instituted as a congregation. G. R. Procee of Middelharnis, the Netherlands, led the service. This took place in a service led by the counsellor of Hamilton, Rev. L. He preached on Revelation 1:2, J. Bilkes, who preached on Matthew where the apostle John states that he 16:18b: “upon this rock I will build “bare record of the word of God, and of my church; and the gates of hell shall the testimony of Jesus Christ, and of all not prevail against it.” His theme things that he saw.” John had a special and points were: Christ Builds His calling as an eye- and ear-witness, Church: 1. The Foundation of this apostle, and writer of Scripture, yet Church; 2. The Construction of this the task of a minister is also to bear Church; 3. The Safety of His Church. record of the Word of God. God’s Word in all its fullness and details needs to Every good and solid building be laid before the congregation. That must have a foundation. A house Word accuses sinners of their lost built on sand will collapse. Christ condition in Adam, exposes their builds His church on the most solid guilt before a holy God, and reveals foundation of His person and work, God’s way of redemption. which cannot be shaken. May He set many sinners also in Oxford John also “bare record of the testimony county on this solid Rock and make of Jesus Christ.” A minister is to give them living stones in His church (1 a clear testimony of the Lord Jesus. Peter 2:5). All such are safe. Though He himself explained to the travellers there is a wrecking company trying to Emmaus, “beginning at Moses and to demolish the walls and remove all the prophets, in all the scriptures stones, and God’s children may fear they will perish, the the things concerning himself” (Luke 24: 27). Without the gates of hell shall not prevail against His church. Because infinite grandeur of Immanuel, preaching becomes dull. the church is stronger than the gates of hell? No, because Preaching practical sermons on virtues and vices, without the Builder is stronger than the demolisher and, in the the great truths of Christ for us and in us, is like building a words of Martin Luther, “He must win the battle.” One car without an engine. Let us seek to love Christ, know Him day the last stone will be added, the scaffold be taken more and so be enabled to preach Him. down, and He will show before the world “the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven” John’s task was also to “bare record of all things that he saw.” This (Rev. 21:1-4). What an eternal wonder! refers to the visions of the book of Revelation, but the Lord still enlightens the minds of His servants to see His beauty, the In this service brothers Brand Kroesbergen and Jacob Bos preciousness of His salvation, and the mysteries of godliness.

18 THE MESSENGER I OCTOBER 2013 NEW PUBLICATIONS This gives a special depth and warmth to their preaching. The Free Reformed Publications Committee has been That is why ministers must study the Scriptures daily blessed to receive several projects over the past year. We and be much engaged in prayer for light on God’s Word commend these new and soon to be coming resources for your and God’s mercy on the congregation. The minister will edification and instruction. Note that these resources promote see the glory of God’s Word and this precious Gospel will The Three Forms of Unity (our Reformed Confessions of Faith) never weary. that bind our federation of churches to a treasured heritage of the biblical doctrines of grace. Knowing Christ Only After Rev. Kranendonk was officially installed, he The Believer’s Only Comfort – A Study Guide for the preached on Paul’s Resolve to Know Christ Only, based on Heidelberg Catechism: Lord’s Days 1-25 by Pastor Jack 1 Corinthians 2:2: “For I determined not to know any thing Schoeman. A Teacher’s Manual will also be printed. Highly among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified.” First, this recommended for senior Catechism instruction. Expected in is a man-humbling resolve. The text is the reason Paul September – watch for this! did not come as a self-serving orator or philosopher Memoirs of the Way Home – Ezra and (v.1), but showing that this resolve humbles ministers. It Nehemiah as a Call to Conversion. Bible humbles congregations like Corinth that fall into sin and studies with discussion questions by Dr. divisions through pride. It also humbles each person. Gerald M. Bilkes – available now. If the resolve is to know no Mediator but Christ, then Sunday School Curriculum Activity nothing of us can be mixed with Him and everything Sheets – A tear-off note pad of activities in us must be cut off as having no value to contribute designed for use with the Sunday school to salvation. Preaching Christ only cuts off everything materials based on the Teacher’s Bible apart from Christ. Commentary. Very useful for our Sunday School programs! Available early Second, this resolve is grace-filled. The focus is Christ’s September. person and work. As the crucified Saviour, He has the The King in His Beauty – A treasure of fullness of grace for sinners. He is wisdom, righteousness, biblical meditations guiding the reader sanctification, and redemption. God is pleased to use the to worship the King – written by Pastor foolishness of preaching to draw sinners to this Saviour Gerald Hamstra – available now! and lead His people further into the knowledge of Him. Christ’s Ministry in the Christian – The Administration of His Offices in the Last, this resolve is God-glorifying. Christ glorified God Believer – a very useful experiential in all His work. God glorified His wisdom, power, and all presentation of our Lord’s blessed work His attributes in His Son. He is well pleased with Him. in His people – written by the highly The only way to glorify God is by knowing Christ alone. esteemed For God’s glory to shine in the churches, they must be Professor G. Wisse – Beautiful, hard churches under the cross. cover, 123 pages; $14.00 ($12.60 each After preaching, Kranendonk led in prayer, commending for purchases of ten or more). also the Bornholm congregation and the other vacant Expository Sermons on the Canons congregations to God. After the worship service, he, of Dort by Pastor Cornelis (Neil) Pronk his family, and congregation were addressed by Rev. – this is a newly edited and improved J. Schoeman on behalf of the denomination, elder S. re-print of this collection of sermons Kranendonk on behalf of the Hamilton congregation, - an excellent source of insight and Rev. D. Lipsy, the new minister of the Burgessville edifying application of the foundational Heritage Reformed Congregation, on behalf of the local principles of our heritage - available this churches, and Elder J. Bos on behalf of the congregation. fall. Rev. Kranendonk thanked the speakers and those they Expository Sermons on the Belgic Confession by Pastor Carl represented, acknowledged the pain involved in the Schouls – eagerly expected late fall 2013 or early winter 2014. formation of the congregation, and commended all the local Reformed churches to God’s grace. Afterwards, FREE REFORMED PUBLICATIONS refreshments were served. 18 Chapala Crescent S.E., Calgary, AB T2X 3M4 Canada Email: [email protected] • Tel. 403-254-6591 Submitted by Rev. David Kranendonk for the Consistory of http:/www.frcna.org the Free Reformed Church of Oxford County.

OCTOBER 2013 I THE MESSENGER 19 OUTREACH BANNER OF TRUTH RADIO MNISTRY Report from the Radio Pastor, Rev. H. Overduin

In Colossians 1:28, where the apostle Paul speaks of faith and love which is in Christ Jesus. proclaiming Christ to the Gentiles, Christ in you, the hope This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that of glory, he says in the next verse (29), Whom we preach, Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; I am chief. that we may present every man perfect in Christ. Notice Howbeit for this cause I obtained mercy, that in me first the threefold mention of every man. In connection with Jesus Christ might show forth all longsuffering, for a that verse, Rob Ventura and Jeremy Walker write in an pattern to them which should hereafter believe on him to excellent book entitled, “A Portrait of Paul— life everlasting. (1 Tim.1:12-16) Identifying a True Minister of Christ,” the following commentary. May God continue to So there is a divinely inspired desire driving Paul preached a gospel for all people. The bless this ministry, this divinely mandated labor, all carried out emphatic threefold use of ‘every man’ having the gospel seed with a divinely patterned end in mind. in this verse stresses the universality of sown and bear fruit I humbly suggest that this same goal lies the gospel. Poor and rich, slave and free, according to behind the Banner of Truth Broadcast male and female, Jew and Gentile—all ministry which was established forty-plus were on the radar of Paul’s gospel labors. His sovereign years ago. May God continue to bless this As our Lord commanded, the gospel was good pleasure. ministry, having the gospel seed sown and for ‘every creature’ (Mark 16:15), so the bear fruit according to His sovereign good scope of Paul’s work was never limited. pleasure. Cast thy bread upon the waters: for There is a principled hopefulness and broad extent in thou shalt find it after many days… As thou knowest not what this work. On the one hand, Paul is not foolish or naïve. is the way of the spirit, nor how the bones do grow in the womb He recognizes that not every man will bow the knee of her that is with child: even so thou knowest not the works to Jesus Christ in faith and love. He also reckons with of God who maketh all (Ecclesiastes 11:1, 5). We thank the powerful adversarial activity of his opponents in you all for your ongoing prayers and financial support for the human as well as the spiritual realm. At the same the radio ministry of our churches. During the summer time, he is a servant of the God ‘who is longsuffering months we made use of a series of eight messages on to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that Psalm 23 by Pastor Jack Schoeman. all should come to repentance’ (2 Peter 3:9). Paul’s holy desire is that by preaching and teaching he might see Focusing this time on some responses from our Canadian every man come to repentance toward God and faith listeners, here are a few encouraging notes to pass on to you. in Jesus Christ. He mentally excludes none from this prospect—not the most hardened, the most vindictive, • While visiting a couple in Alberta Children’s Hospital the most aggressive, the most antagonistic. When he I was reading the Bible and praying with them when prays, he prays for all. Why should he dismiss or despair a native woman came in the room and heard and of any? Is he himself not a potent example of the efficacy observed us. She later spoke with the couple and in of God’s saving grace in Christ? the conversation it came out she is a regular listener to Banner of Truth radio broadcast. And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who hath enabled me, for that he counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry; • In early June I officiated at the funeral of a 95-year old Who was before a blasphemer, and a persecutor, and man who listened to the Banner of Truth Broadcast injurious: but I obtained mercy, because I did it ignorantly for years. There is evidence he died in the Lord, by in unbelief. God’s grace. There were about 60 people at the funeral And the grace of our Lord was exceeding abundant with service. The text for the sermon was John 14:6, where

20 THE MESSENGER I OCTOBER 2013 Jesus states, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man message. The message was titled, “Not Left As cometh unto the Father, but by me. Orphans,” based on John 14:18 where Jesus says, I will not leave you comfortless [literally, as orphans]: I • I also visit with a 90-year old man, George (no will come to you. As she requested, we sent her a CD longer able to come to church), who looks forward to copy of the message. hearing the Banner of Truth Broadcast every week. This man struggles with getting angry quickly and • Another person in Calgary wrote in June, “Dear falling into sin with bad language when frustrated. Christian friend, Sure enjoy your wonderful programme Every visit I reinforce the gospel message how we every Sunday morning,” including a $50.00 donation are saved by grace alone through Christ alone, but in the envelope. Not many weeks later, again another how that message is appropriated by Spirit-led note, “Thanks for your radio ministry. A small donation conviction of sin and a calling out to Jesus Christ ($50.00) enclosed. the crucified and risen Saviour as our only hope and refuge. It is encouraging to see George coming • In response to the Psalm 23 series by Pastor Jack to an understanding of the gospel and learning his Schoeman, two listeners so far have requested the desperate need for the saving and sanctifying work whole series. I will be visiting with one of them, a man of our Saviour God and that only Name under heaven from China living here in Calgary. given among men whereby we must be saved. I pray So you see, the work continues to be blessed. God be that God by His Holy Spirit will bless the gospel praised for that, and to Him, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit message by way of the radio messages and pastoral be all the glory. visits, to his eternal salvation. • On Sunday evening, June 16th, when I came home With Christian greetings, following our afternoon service, a listener to that Pastor Hans Overduin, Minister of the Banner of Truth Radio day’s broadcast on KARI called from Vancouver Broadcast expressing her great appreciation for the radio August 2013.

BOOK REVIEW BY Maurice Roberts

Grappling with A Grief Engraved

Editor’s Note: A review of this poignant and deeply spiritual John Goris was born in the Netherlands and emigrated with book of poems was forwarded by Maurice Roberts, a dear his parents to Australia in 1955. He entered the Christian friend of author Rev. John Goris, also known ministry in 1966 and served as pastor in by some of our pastors through international Reformed churches both in Australia and New meetings, including the editor who had edifying Zealand. His late beloved wife was born in and collegial fellowship with him personally and Malaysia and died after almost three months by correspondence. of hospitalization and treatment for leukemia. The author’s poems reflect his deep sense of GRAPPLING WITH A GRIEF ENGRAVED by loss and yet also his assured comfort because John Goris. Published by Matrix Typography of the gospel. Husbands and wives who love Ltd. Wellington, New Zealand. Price in Jesus Christ must at their deaths part for a sterling: £12.75 (including postage). Price time; but in glory they will at last be received in US dollars: $17.50 (including postage). To forever. In sweet poetic language John Goris order email: [email protected] weaves these two emotions together in a way that will bring help and comfort to other This charming book, just published in 2013, contains Christian believers who have gone through the sorrowful almost fifty poems written by the author to express his experience of losing their precious wife or husband. tender sorrow on the death of his beloved wife Yoke Lan (known also as Diane), who passed to her eternal rest in By Maurice Roberts, minister emeritus of the Free Church of Christ early in 2012. The author has dedicated it to their Scotland (Continuing), past editor of the Banner of Truth children, Grace and Sam. magazine and author of many books.

OCTOBER 2013 I THE MESSENGER 21 THEOLOGICAL EDUCATION

The Mission Of Puritan Reformed Free Reformed Theological Seminary & Involvement

Since 1998 our denomination has used Puritan Dr. David Murray as a Free Reformed pastor/instructor Reformed Theological Reformed Seminary (PRTS) as we have an additional full-time Free Reformed faculty the seminary for training our Free Reformed Churches’ member. When we calculate our denomination’s teaching (FRC) theological students in close partnership with the load, a total of thirty-three courses, we realize the Heritage Reformed Congregations of North America. tremendous input our denomination has on the seminary. That was the same year our professor, Dr. Jerry Bilkes, Free Reformed Support began serving PRTS. To date, eight of our current Free The Board of Trustees, faculty, and staff of PRTS are Reformed pastors had their training at PRTS. deeply grateful to the Free Reformed denomination for Free Reformed Instructors this tremendous support. It is also important for our Free A number of our ministers became teachers at the Reformed membership to know that most of the costs seminary for courses in which they had done some involved for these FRC instructors are covered by our advanced study and preparation. Rev. Paul DenButter denomination. In addition, for the past several years the taught preaching courses. Rev. Carl Schouls taught denomination has committed to an annual gift of $65,000 covenant theology and preaching courses to our Free to assist the seminary’s approximately $2,000,000 Reformed students. Rev. Ken Herfst teaches mission annual operating budget. Numerous members of our courses. Revs. Gerald Procee, Pieter VanderMeyden, and churches have also faithfully and generously supported David Kranendonk taught courses on the Three Forms the financial needs of the seminary. of Unity (our Reformed Confessions) and the doctrines How does this effort align itself with the vision for of the church. Rev. Neil Pronk continues to teach church ministry we as churches embrace? I believe this can history courses, focusing on the roots and history of the be answered in two significant ways. First, it is our Free Reformed Churches. conviction as a denomination that the theological With the 2013 Free Reformed Synod decision to receive training of our students for the ministry be done by the

22 THE MESSENGER I OCTOBER 2013 church for the church. PRTS is the closest institution we know of that serves this conviction.

Free Reformed Representation Our denomination is represented in the leadership of the seminary at the Board level with three voting members and two advisory members; at the administrative level with two full-time faculty members, our director of distance learning, and our director of operations. Each of the seminary’s supporting committees involves FRC members. In a growing sense PRTS is our seminary. Secondly, the vision of PRTS to prepare students to serve Christ and His church through biblical, experiential, and practical ministry is also the vision of our Free Reformed denomination. The FRC also has a history of seeking ways to prepare men to serve the church and to proclaim Christ’s gospel in the world.

Mission to the World The seminary, by God’s remarkable providence has been used to broaden our denomination’s influence through her students and alumni throughout the world. At the present time there are thirty-three international students in the seminary’s degree programs. Twenty- four denominations are represented in the student body and among the seminary alumni. Our seventy- nine graduates are bringing the Word to millions of church members and students around the globe. Many of our students have blogs and newsletters reaching Aid to Churches and Christians their people in their languages. It is humbling to realize in Eastern Europe and Russia the tremendous impact of our denomination’s ministry around the globe as illustrated on the map. Among our alumni are professors in secular universities, REHAB ministers of the gospel, missionaries, college teachers, seminary professors, ministry administrators, Thou hast put gladness church planters, evangelists, medical professionals, in my heart, more than in seminary presidents, business leaders, engineers, and the time that their corn denominational leaders. Who would have dreamed and their wine increased. of this world–wide outreach from our denomination PSALM 4: 7 because of the involvement with PRTS? Drug and alcohol As one close to the vision of the seminary and deeply addicts may be taught involved with the ministry of our Free Reformed to drown their thoughts Churches I can only conclude that it is the Lord Who is in work. These become “regulars” in rehabilitation programs. Not building and keeping this house. May our prayers and so in our program. We know addicts need quiet time—time to support continue and even increase as the Lord enables feel the hopelessness, time to be driven to the cry: “What must I and directs. do to be saved?” True freedom begins there at the cross of Calvary. What joy when our “children” find this freedom, and leave to start Henk Kleyn, Chief Executive Officer, PRTS, Grand independent lives. Local churches provide basic house-keeping Rapids, Michigan. necessities for our graduates, but we still need a house and For more information check the PRTS website: minivan. Can you help? More about this on our website. http://puritanseminary.org Phone: 888-844-2624 Website: coah.org Email: [email protected]

OCTOBER 2013 I THE MESSENGER 23 ANNOUNCEMENTS

ANNIVERSARY October 12, 1983-2013 “O God, our help in ages past, our hope for years to come…” With thankfulness to God, AUTUMN ORGAN & we celebrate the 50th anniversary of our parents, grandparents and great-grandparents PANFLUTE CONCERT TOUR OCTOBER, 2013 BEN & JANE BOEKESTEIN (nee Wassink)  ANDRE KNEVEL, Organ LISELOTTE ROKYTA Panflute Albert & Yvonne Boekestein Rebecca & Colin (Azlynn), Benjamin, Evalyn, Shae-Lynn October 16 St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church Wendy & Herman den Hollander 47 Owen St. Barrie, ON 12 noon to 1 PM Leona, Nathan, Joshua, Jessica Info: 905-775-3708 Carolyn & Grant Prince October 16 Hebron Christian Reformed Church Christopher, Aleah With O.C.M.A & director L. Kooy We pray that God would bless you and us 4240 Anderson St. Whitby, ON Time: 7:30 pm with many more years together. Info: 416-636-9779 Home Address: October 17 Immanuel Orthodox Reformed Church 175 Hwy. 8, R.R. 1, Dundas, ON L9H 5E1 With Leah Theune harp and Rebecca Reitsma cello 2900 Fourth Ave. and Nineteenth St. Jordan, ON Time 8:00 pm. Info: 905-562-8223 ANNIVERSARY October 22, 1988 – 2013 October 18 Preakness Valley United Reformed Church 480 Valley Rd. Wayne, N.J. “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should Time 8:00 pm go: I will guide you with my eye.” Psalm 32: 8 Info: 973-471-7506 With joy and gratitude to the Lord we announce the October 19 Christian Reformed Church 25th Wedding Anniversary With the O.C.M.A & director L. Kooy 11611 Maple Ave. &Trafalgar Rd. Georgetown, ON of our dear parents, Time 7:30 pm DAVID & DINIE TAMMINGA Info: 416-636-9779 (nee Vangameren) October 22 First Christian Reformed Church th We pray that God will continue to bless 201, 4 Avenue W. Owen Sound, ON Time, 7:30 pm you with His strength and blessings. Info: 519-376-2787 John, Suzanna, Emma, David, Catherine October 24 Rehoboth Canadian Reformed Church Home Address: 1225 Dundas St. RR 1 Burlington, ON 50 Crestcombe Rd., St. Catharines, ON L2S 2J4 Time 8:00 PM

October 25 Roy Thompson Hall With O.C.M.A. & director L. Kooy and other musicians 60 Simcoe St. Toronto, ON RECYCLE YOUR GOOD USED BOOKS Time 8:00 pm Info: 416- 636-9779 Reformed Book Services will thankfully receive your good used books, specifically books by Reformed authors. October 26 Canadian Reformed Church Contact Susan Keuning at 905.627.3910; 330 Station St. Smithville, ON Fax 905.628.2896; • Email: [email protected] Time 8:00 PM Thank you to those who donated books. Info: 905-562-6422

24 THE MESSENGER I OCTOBER 2013