NEW HORIZONS in the ORTHODOX PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

5 on the 7 John Knox and OCTOBER 2014 // Public Prayer // by A. Boyd Miller IV by Glen J. Clary

John Knox

Prophet and Pastor by Simonetta Carr // 3 VOLUME 35, NUMBER 9 CONTENTS New Horizons in the Orthodox Presbyterian Church Editor: Danny E. Olinger Managing Editor: James W. Scott FEATURES Editorial Assistant: Patricia E. Clawson 3 Cover Designer: Christopher Tobias John Knox—Prophet and Pastor Proofreader: Sarah J. Pederson Editorial Board: The Committee on Christian By Simonetta Carr Education’s Subcommittee on Serial Publications 5 John Knox on the Scottish Reformation © 2014 by The Committee on Christian Education of By A. Boyd Miller IV The Orthodox Presbyterian Church. All rights reserved. Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations 7 John Knox and Public Prayer are from The Holy Bible, English Standard Version, copyright © 2001, 2007 by Crossway Bibles, a division By Glen J. Clary of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All 9 rights reserved. A Walk through the Valley of Shadows Articles previously published may be slightly edited. By Mark S. Schneider New Horizons (ISSN: 0199-3518) is published monthly except for a combined issue, usually August- September, by the Committee on Christian Education of the Orthodox Presbyterian Church, 607 N. Easton DEPARTMENTS Road, Bldg. E, Willow Grove, PA 19090-2539; tel. 215- 830-0900; fax 215-830-0350. 10 Letters to the editor are welcome. They should deal Home Missions with an issue the magazine has recently addressed. Pataskala, Ohio Their language should be temperate, and they may not charge anyone with an offense. They should be brief, 12 Christian Education and they may be condensed by the editor. Send inquiries, letters to the editor, and other Sunday school materials for ages 2–5 correspondence to the editor at [email protected]. • ABCs of • Out of the mouth … Send address changes to [email protected]. Allow six weeks for address changes. 14 Foreign Missions The digital edition (PDF, ePub, mobi) and an archive of previous issues are available at www.opc.org. Meet Ray and Michele Call Views expressed by our writers are not necessarily 16 those of the editors or official positions of the Stewardship Orthodox Presbyterian Church. The hope of Hiram Copies are distributed free to members and friends of the Orthodox Presbyterian Church. Nonmembers 17 are asked to donate $20.00 for an annual subscription Prayer Calendar (USD $30.00 if sent to addresses in Canada; $40.00 20 elsewhere abroad). A free e-mail PDF subscription is News, Views, & Reviews also available. Requests for a subscription should be sent to [email protected] or the address below. Periodicals postage is paid at Willow Grove, Pa., and at additional mailing offices.Postmaster: Send address changes to New Horizons in the Orthodox Presbyterian Church, 607 N. Easton Road, Bldg. E, Willow Grove, PA 19090-2539.

While his wife was shopping at the famed Pearl Market in Beijing last summer, Don McCrory was catching up on his reading. He was teaching English in China for part of the summer. Don is an elder at Harvest OPC in Wyoming, Michigan.

2 / NEW HORIZONS / OCTOBER 2014 JOHN KNOX— PROPHET AND PASTOR

SIMONETTA CARR // After returning to Scotland in 1559, John Knox galvanized the crowds with his preaching. His fiery denun- ciation of idolatry provoked a series of iconoclastic riots, which brought to a head the long-standing conflict between the Protes- tant Scottish nobility and the Roman Catholic crown. This is the

Knox that most people remember, the one of his friends shows he was short At that point, Knox moved to Ge- thundering Scot who, in the words of and stocky. Still, when his anger was neva, where he would have loved to his contemporaries, preached with the kindled, his dark blue eyes, encased un- remain, were not the pleading invita- sound of “ten thousand trumpets” and, der thick frowning eyebrows, became tions from the Protestant community in even in his weakest days, “was like to fearsome, and his stern sermons caused Scotland so insistent. In 1559, he found ding that pulpit in blads [beat the pulpit many to tremble. himself plunged into a revolution, to pieces], and fly out of it.” His Life and Legacy which turned Scotland from Roman His fierce stand for purity of Catholic to Protestant in the course of worship was legendary and of- Knox’s personal history, which two years. ten made people uncomfortable. reads like an epic tale, corroborates this Soon after this turn of events, Knox In England, he obtained from larger-than-life image. After a child- wrote with other pastors the Scottish Archbishop Cranmer a begrudging hood and youth on which he always Confession and Book of Discipline, addendum to the Book of Common remained silent, he entered the scene which were instrumental in constitut- Prayer, which explained that kneeling in 1545, at about thirty-one years of ing the new church government and during the Lord’s Supper was not a age, holding a two-handed sword in reforming the theology of the church. worshiping of the elements. In Frank- defense of George Wishart, a rousing He continued to serve as preacher and furt, his inflammatory sermon on simi- Reformed preacher. After the execution pastor until his death in 1572. His epi- lar issues, including the failures of the of Wishart and the violent revenge by taph reads, “Here lies one who neither Edwardian church, divided the congre- other young Protestants, Knox served flattered nor feared any flesh.” gation, and Knox was reported to the shortly as minister of the gospel at St. Over the years, Knox’s insistence local magistrates. Andrews, a medieval fortress turned on purity and simplicity in worship be- His lack of diplomacy was equally into a revolutionary stronghold. came a model and source of inspiration noticeable. He was finally expelled from Captured by the French, he spent to many, particularly to the Scottish Frankfurt when he compared Emperor nineteen months as a prisoner on war Covenanters and English Puritans. Be- Charles V to Nero. He was forbidden to galleys, until the English government sides, his vision for the organization of enter England after the publication of obtained his freedom and assigned him the church and his rejection of a church his First Blast of the Trumpet against the a pastorate in Berwick, a small town hierarchy headed by the monarch have Monstrous Regiment of Women (, near the Scottish border. In 1553, how- served as building blocks for Presbyte- 1558) upset the newly crowned Eliza- ever, Mary Tudor rose to the throne, rianism. beth I. establishing Roman Catholicism as the His political thought was original Physically, he was not an impos- state religion and prosecuting religious and radical in his day. Troubled by the ing figure. A verbal sketch provided by dissidents. Marian persecution in England and the

NEW HORIZONS / OCTOBER 2014 / 3 grateful for their advice. ceived as possibly contrary to the doc- John Knox as Pastor trine of sola fide. Knox identified with many of Eliz- Knox saw himself pri- abeth’s doubts. “When I heard proceed marily as a prophet, blow- from your mouth the very same words ing God’s trumpet—be it a that he [Satan] troubles me with, I did call to repentance, a signal wonder, and from my heart lament of God’s impending action, your sore trouble, knowing in myself or an exhortation to praise. the dolor thereof,” he wrote. He admit- It’s easy to forget that, ted he often felt, like Job, that his pain when he boldly made his would never end in this life, and that, first appearance as Wis- while God is certainly able to alter cir- hart’s associate, he was an cumstances, “dolor and pain, with sore unobserved tutor to three anguish, cry the contrary.” “And this is A painting of John Knox by Matt Abraxas young men. In fact, he con- more plain than I ever spoke,” he added, tinued to tutor them even “to let you know you have a fellow and during a protracted siege in companion in trouble. And thus, rest in potential threats stemming from Mary St. Andrew’s Castle, grounding them in Christ, for the head of the Serpent is Stuart’s rule in Scotland, he gradually the New Testament book he seemed to already broken down, and he is stinging came to the conclusion that ungodly love most: the gospel of John. us upon the heel.” rulers are by definition illegitimate and He would have been content to This combination of candid hon- that rebellion against them is a plausi- continue his quiet duty if the Reformed esty about his own trials (especially evi- ble option for Christians. Whether one pastor and the congregation had not dent in his letters to his mother-in-law, agrees with Knox or not, his writings on insistently encouraged him to preach. but partially even in his discussions with this subject have provided new consid- His first reaction to the official call— Mary Stuart) and theological clarity erations in times of political oppression. “most abundant tears”—highlights the and certainty is powerful, as Knox could For Scotland, in general, Knox left deep sense of privilege and respect he identify with the weak and doubting, an important educational legacy by attached to the ministry of the Word. respect them as fellow warriors in the insisting on the establishment of lo- Knox’s pastoral concern emerged Lord, and point them to the firm Rock cal parish schools for the education of again when, as a prisoner on a galley, he of Christ. all children. The historical and literary used the few winter months of inactiv- This humble and straightforward value of his History of the Reformation ity to summarize the contents of a book exchange of letters with Elizabeth may of Religion within the Realm of Scotland on justification for the comfort of oth- very well have helped Knox to develop (London, 1587) has been widely recog- ers, while most of the other prisoners his 1560 treatise on predestination. nized. made objects to sell for extra food. Knox didn’t hesitate to recognize his Nonetheless, Knox is relatively His first established pastorate was dependence on friends (both male and unknown today. Dismissed as a fanat- in Berwick, a border town populated by female, in spite of his misogynist im- ic during the Enlightenment, he has many Scottish refugees and rough Eng- age). In fact, it’s to one of his closest survived in popular memory mostly lish soldiers. This mixture had created friends, English poetess and translator through romantic nineteenth-century an atmosphere of feuding and violence, Ann Lok, that he made the notorious accounts and more recent big-screen which Knox, during his two-year min- confession, “Of nature I am churlish, accounts, highlighting his opposition to istry, was able to improve. At that time, and in conditions different from many,” Mary Stuart. The combination of this he wrote his most pastoral and gentle adding, “I have rather need of all [my opposition and his First Blast has cre- writings, including a treatise on prayer friends] than that any hath need of me.” ated the popular image of a misogynist and a summary of the Lord’s Supper. In 1572, as Knox approached the and killjoy. In Berwick, he also met his future end of his course as prophet and pas- Without minimizing Knox’s role as wife, Marjory Bowes, and started a life- tor, he asked his second wife, Margaret, an unfaltering, roaring prophet, schol- long correspondence with her mother, to read to him the chapter where he ars today, five hundred years after his Elizabeth, who frequently had theolog- “had cast [his] first anchor”—John 17, birth, are revealing another side to him: ical questions, particularly about assur- Christ’s pastoral prayer. a humble and loving man, occasionally ance and salvation. This correspondence humorous, at times fearful and uncer- is a true window into the pastoral heart The author is a member of Christ URC in tain, often discouraged, and always of Knox, as he patiently explained many Santee, Calif. She has written a biography deeply appreciative of his friends and scriptural passages that Elizabeth per- of John Knox for young readers.

4 / NEW HORIZONS / OCTOBER 2014 JOHN KNOX ON THE SCOTTISH REFORMATION

A. BOYD MILLER IV // In 1981, the movie Chariots of Fire, which won an Academy award for best picture, opened in theaters and demonstrated that a film with a strong Christian protagonist—even one who was intent on keeping the Lord’s Day Sabbath holy—could do well with audiences and critics alike.

As a young teenager at the time, his account of the historic years as an to be an excuse to withdraw their hearts I certainly did not understand every- apologetic for the world. He was greatly from due obedience to their Sovereign thing in the film; however, among the concerned that enemies of the Refor- (p. 443). Indeed, Knox warns his fellow memorable scenes of that movie, one mation would misconstrue events in reformers of God’s judgment upon their portrayed Ian Charleson as the Scottish Scotland for the purpose of persecuting work of reformation if they seek with Olympian, Eric Lidell, running past a Protestants in foreign lands, particu- sinful motives to depose the queen, great statute of a heavily bearded man. larly in France. Thus, Knox was anxious rather than seeking the preservation of As Lidell dashes toward the church, he to convey to civil magistrates abroad their nation (p. 443). Thus, for Knox, lifts his hat high in salute to the statue. that Scotland “sought not rebellion and success for the Reformation depended Only many years later would I realize revolution, but a Reformation of man- upon the blessing of God, which in that the statue was of the great John ners and abuses in Religion” (History of turn meant the avoidance of a carnal Knox. This month we in the Orthodox the Reformation, Book II, page 298, in and revolutionary spirit among his Presbyterian Church tip our own hat to The Works of John Knox, edited by David people toward authority in general and Knox in remembrance of his birth five Laing). Documents such as Protestant the queen in particular. Indeed, Knox hundred years ago. As we reflect upon petitions to the Queen Regent, indeed, labored to convince the Queen Regent, the life and ministry of Knox, we would suggest the truth of Knox’s thesis. “We Mary of Guise, that the Reformers were do well to remember two significant are obedient subjects, yet desire redress of more of a friend to her than her own and surprising points made by the Re- wrongs and reformation [of the] Estate flattering advisors because they told her former himself in his work History of the Ecclesiastical,” reads one petition from the truth in love (p. 339). Reformation in Scotland. the nobility. Not the Work of One Man Not a Political Rebellion This subjection to lawful authority for Knox was no mere external perfor- Secondly, Knox’s History of the Ref- First, Knox makes clear in his his- mance, but an inward Christian duty in ormation in Scotland demonstrates that torical apology that the Reformation the sight of the living God, who search- the Protestant cause was not the work was not a political rebellion or a revolu- es the minds and hearts of his people. of one man alone, but rather the work tion. Toward the end of his years, when Addressing his fellow Protestants on of the Lord through all of his people in the Reformation had entered a period of this matter, Knox declares that the in- his church. It was a movement of God’s greater peace and stability, Knox wrote iquity of the Queen Regent ought not Spirit upon God’s people. Certainly

NEW HORIZONS / OCTOBER 2014 / 5 Knox was a critical figure in the Prot- teachers, moms, and grandparents. God pressing the petitions for church re- estant cause, but his History reminds us has placed you strategically in the body forms: that the vernacular be allowed that the Reformation in Scotland was a of Christ and in the wider culture for a in the reading of the Bible, baptis- team effort under the Lord. The Lord specific purpose to further the cause of mal vows, and the Lord’s Supper; that used many of his people. Some are re- Christ in your own context. qualified men might interpret when a corded by name. Most remain obscure, The challenges for us are differ- minister was unavailable; that the laity except to the Lord. Knox recounts ent from those of our brethren in the might drink from the cup at the Lord’s the martyrdoms of Patrick Hamilton, sixteenth century, but their lessons still Supper; and that wicked and scandal- George Wishart, Walter Mille, and oth- apply to us. While we pray for more ous clergy be disciplined. Knox notes ers. Mention is given to early preachers laborers of the harvest like Knox, let that the Reformation had four primary like John Willock and Paul Methven in us not despise our own role and duty goals, all of which had the support of the late 1550s. Knox praises Willock as to Christ’s cause in our nation. Knox’s many from the nobility: the preaching one “deserving immortal praise … for writings demonstrate that Protestant of Christ and his gospel; the proper his faithful labors and bold courage.… successes were attained under the Lord administration of ; the sup- He preferred the comfort of his breth- through many members of the body of pression of superstition, tyranny, and ren and the countenance of the Kirk to Christ. He surprisingly notes that the idolatry; and liberty within Scotland his own life” (p. 388). Methven, how- Lord’s early work of reformation was from foreign tyranny, such as the quar- ever, would tragically fall into grievous regularly accomplished in the absence, tering of French soldiers in their towns. sin and be subject to church discipline, not only of Knox himself, but also of Like the author of the eleventh despite his earlier usefulness. any ministers—with only the help of chapter of Hebrews, Americans love Lessons for Us Today zealous men serving as exhorters. Be- their heroes. I am no exception. Knox’s lievers gathered for meetings of fasting portrait hangs behind me as I type in Knox also notes the many con- and prayer, followed later by assemblies my study. We love the romance of God tributions of the laity. Merchants and for more prayers, Scripture reading, and raising up champions who do great businessmen with access to foreign exhortation (pp. 299–300). things for the Lord, turn nations upside countries imported and disseminated In addition to the ordinary laity, down, and make queens cry, putting the writings of Protestants, which was the nobility of Scotland also proved iron in our blood and fire in our bones. especially critical when ministers in instrumental to the development of re- We love godly men who suffer as gal- Scotland were suppressed or exiled. ligious liberty and ecclesiastical reform ley slaves for the faith, yet rise to preach Such an acknowledgement by Knox in the nation. When we think of Knox, under the very steeples they almost nev- ought to encourage you who serve the we often think of those four dramatic er saw again. We love men who boldly Lord today as businessmen, tradesmen, interviews between the Reformer and condemn the guardians of idolatry with Mary Queen of Scots. Yet Knox re- all the fervor of Jesus cleansing the lates that prior to those encounters, temple, yet sweetly offer consolation to several Scottish nobles had their own those among his people who are weary suspenseful dialogues with the previ- and heavy laden. We love heroes whose ous Queen Regent. In 1559, when the prayers cause more fear among tyrants Reformation had gained some sudden than invading armies. Those are men and open victories in Johnstone and St. of great faith, courage, love, and zeal. Andrews, followed by Queen Mary of Knox, of course, is a great hero of the Guise vacating , Knox notes faith. We name our churches, children, that the nobility of Ruthven, James, and even pets after him. He is worthy of Boyd, and Olgletree pressed the crown much better treatment from his fellow for the Christian liberties of the Protes- Scots than a burial plot under a modern tant cause. One wonders whether Knox parking lot. Yet, for our love of heroes might have remained in permanent and of Knox himself, we should consid- exile or returned home only to suffer er his writings and note well that Knox the flames of martyrdom, like his pre- saw the work in Scotland as a work of decessors Hamilton and Wishart, had the living God through the body of not the Lord turned the hearts of the Christ—not as revolutionaries, but as nobility to the gospel and the attending his humble and obedient servants. interests of the Protestants. Statute of John Knox in Edinburgh The nobility served an indispens- The author is the pastor of Covenant OPC able role with Knox in creating and in LaGrange, Ga.

6 / NEW HORIZONS / OCTOBER 2014 JOHN KNOX AND PUBLIC PRAYER

GLEN J. CLARY // One of the primary goals of the Protestant Reformation was to reform the worship of the church according to Scripture, the only infallible authority. The Reformers gave care- ful attention to revising the various elements of worship, including public prayer. As Presbyterians, we may be encouraged to know that some of the best literature written others desiring to follow the liturgy of to be “the most perfect school of Christ on the subject of public prayer comes Calvin. Knox had increasingly become … since the days of the apostles.”4 from John Knox. convinced that the Book of Common The Genevan Book of Order was al- Even though Knox was not a pio- Prayer contained some things that were ready known in Scotland by the time neer in the area of liturgical reform, “superstitious, impure, unclean and im- that Knox returned. In 1564, it was of- he played a significant role in shaping perfect.”1 He therefore sided with those ficially adopted as the standard of wor- the service of worship among English- who wanted to use Calvin’s liturgy, ship by an act of the General Assembly, speaking Protestants. Knox was deeply deeming it “most godly and farthest off which required every minister to “use devoted to the purification of Christian from superstition.”2 However, his min- the order contained therein, in prayers, worship, and he endeavored to lead the istry in Frankfurt came to an abrupt end marriage, and the administration of the church in worship that was faithful to due to opposition. sacraments.”5 This Book of Common Or- Scripture and free from man-made The Genevan Book of Order der, as it came to be called, continued to inventions. Knox followed the liturgi- be used in Scotland until it was super- cal paths cut out before him by other After leaving Frankfurt, Knox set- seded by the Westminster Directory for Reformers, especially Martin Bucer in tled in Geneva and became the pastor Public Worship in 1645. Strasbourg and in Geneva. of the English-speaking refugees who One of Knox’s greatest contribu- However, he was no mere carbon copy were permitted to worship in what is tions to Reformed worship was his de- of these men; rather, he took their pio- now known as the Auditoire de Calvin. velopment of public prayer. At the be- neering work and improved it consider- For their services of worship, Knox used ginning of his liturgy, we find a prayer ably. an order that was drawn from Calvin’s of confession of sin and supplication The influence of Calvin’s liturgy liturgy. This order was published in 1556 for God’s mercy. Knox gives two differ- on Knox is clearly seen in the “wor- as The Form of Prayers and Ministration ent forms for the Prayer of Confession. ship wars” that took place in the city of the Sacraments, etc. used in the English The liturgy instructs the minister to use of Frankfurt on the Main. Some two Congregation at Geneva: and approved by one of the forms or one “like in effect” hundred Protestants from England had the famous and godly learned man, John and to exhort “the people diligently to taken refuge in Frankfurt, after Mary Calvin.3 Today, it is often referred to as examine themselves, following in their Tudor began her reign, and Knox was the Genevan Book of Order or simply as hearts the tenor of his words.”6 Though called to serve as their pastor. The con- Knox’s liturgy. Knox served this congre- Knox (like Bucer and Calvin)always led gregation was divided on matters of gation until his return to Scotland in public prayer with written or printed worship, with some insisting on using 1559. These were the happiest years of guidance, he did not prescribe the read- Cranmer’s and his ministry, and he considered Geneva ing of liturgical formulas. He did not

NEW HORIZONS / OCTOBER 2014 / 7 produce “a fixed liturgy like a medieval prayer, but leaves it up to the discretion the which therefore, we thy Congrega- service-book or the Book of Common of the minister. tion, moved by thy Holy Spirit, render Prayer,” nor did he produce a mere di- The longest prayer in the service thee all thanks, praise, and glory, for rectory.7 came after the sermon. The exposi- ever and ever. Amen.” On the one hand, the Reformers tion of Scripture quite naturally led In the liturgy of John Knox, we see wrote forms of prayer for worship that the congregation into prayer. There an attempt to give the congregation a could be read right out of the book. On was a Prayer of Intercession, or, as it is full diet of prayer. The various bibli- the other hand, ministers were given called in Knox’s liturgy, “a prayer for the cal genres of prayer are represented in a large measure of freedom to frame whole estate of Christ’s church.” Here the service in one manner or another. their own prayers, provided that those the church prays for the ministry of the The three main prayers are the Prayer prayers were in keeping with the liturgy. Word, for the faithfulness of church of- of Confession and Supplication at the That is, they could either use the prayer ficers, for the perfection of the , beginning of the service, the Prayer of forms or pray “in like effect.” A minister for the salvation of all people, for the Intercession following the sermon, and had to honor the liturgy and not simply deliverance of the afflicted, and, as Paul the Prayer of Thanksgiving at the Com- pray what seemed good in his own eyes. instructed Timothy, for all civil authori- munion table. Complementing these At the same time, however, he was al- ties (1 Tim. 2:1–8). This long Prayer public prayers is a full course of Psalm lowed to pray, says Knox, “as the Spirit of Intercession was concluded by the singing, another prominent feature of of God shall move his heart.” In later Lord’s Prayer, which, in turn, was fol- Reformed worship. years, Pietism would make this allow- lowed by a Confession of Faith using Presbyterian worship has seen ance such a mark of sincerity and piety the Apostles’ Creed. many changes since the Reformation that all prayer forms, even the biblical Prayer during the Lord’s Supper era, and in some ways we have strayed forms such as the Psalms and the Lord’s far from our roots. By God’s grace, the Prayer, were eventually excluded from When the of the Lord’s Orthodox Presbyterian Church still the service. Supper was observed, the Creed was holds firmly to the biblical principles For the Reformers, however, prayer followed by the reading of the Words of worship taught by our forefathers, was not a matter of human creativ- of Institution from 1 Corinthians 11, in and we desire, as they did, to worship ity but of speaking to God in his own order to establish the biblical warrant the Lord in accordance with Scripture. words. For this reason, the forms of for the sacrament. This was followed As we celebrate the five hundredth an- prayer that they produced were drawn by a Communion Exhortation and a niversary of the birth of John Knox this from the Holy Scriptures. Knox’s Prayer Prayer of Thanksgiving (or Eucharis- year, we would do well to remember his of Confession, for example, is based on tic Prayer). The form for this prayer in contributions to the shape of Reformed Daniel’s confession of sin on behalf of Knox’s liturgy is one of the most beau- worship and to follow his example of the nation of Israel (Dan. 9:1–19). This tiful liturgical texts produced in the public prayer. was a particularly appropriate confes- Reformation. It is a thanksgiving for sion to use for a congregation of exiles, creation and redemption that resembles The author is the associate pastor of Provi- such as Knox pastored in Geneva. Knox the great eucharistic prayers of the an- dence Presby. Church in Pflugerville, Tex. had a profound sense of biblical typol- cient church. ogy that shaped his understanding of The Eucharistic Prayer recounts ministry and often colored his prayers. with thanksgiving the incarnation of 1 Bard Thompson, Liturgies of the West- In Reformed liturgies, the Prayer Christ, his death to satisfy divine jus- ern Church (Philadelphia: Fortress Press, of Confession was often followed by tice, and his resurrection to destroy the 1980), 288. 2 Ibid. an Assurance of Pardon spoken by author of death and bring life again to 3 Ibid., 295. the minister and a Psalm of Thanks- the world, “from which the whole off- 4 John Knox, Works, ed. David Laing, giving sung by the congregation, after spring of Adam most justly was exiled.” vol. 4 (Edinburgh: Johnstone and Hunter, which came the reading and preaching The prayer also gives thanks for all the 1855), 240. of Holy Scripture. The ministry of the benefits of the new covenant (explic- 5 William D. Maxwell, The Liturgi- Word was also prefaced by a Prayer for itly naming many of them), which are cal Portions of the Genevan Service Book Illumination. In Knox’s liturgy, no form given in Christ and sealed in the sacra- (Great Britain: Faith Press, 1965), 8. 6 The Genevan Book of Order, available is provided for this prayer, but “the min- ment of Christ’s body and blood. Knox online at http://www.swrb.com/newslett/ ister prays for the assistance of God’s concludes the prayer with a Trinitarian actualNLs/GBO_ch04.htm. Holy Spirit, as the same shall move his doxology acknowledging that “these 7 Duncan B. Forrester and Douglas M. heart.” Here, Knox is again following most inestimable benefits” are received Murray, eds., Studies in the History of Wor- the example of Calvin’s Genevan lit- by God’s free mercy and grace, through ship in Scotland (Edinburgh: T&T Clark, urgy, which provides no form for this his only beloved Son, Jesus Christ, “for 1996), 40.

8 / NEW HORIZONS / OCTOBER 2014 A WALK THROUGH THE VALLEY OF SHADOWS

MARK S. SCHNEIDER // Amidst the dark shadows, light can be a revelatory shepherd. My nocturnal epiphany began while on a church retreat. I decided to take a late afternoon stroll alone in the woods. The cool, crisp autumn air and the beguiling fragrance of fresh pine lured me to see what was ahead, while I failed to note the path I left behind. I neglected to make virtuous, and the rest of the world con- with daily readings from the Gospels. a mental map directing me back to the sisted of Gentile Christians whom he He was unable to speak, but appeared to lodge. Suddenly I became aware of the viewed with suspicion. Yet he married express satisfaction, learning about him swiftly setting sun. The shadows of a Spanish Catholic woman (Olga Ve- whose light enables us to see light. It is eventide quickly surrounded me as the ronica Fernandez), much to the chagrin my hope that God’s Word was a lamp sun yawned one final time and went to of most of his family. He was a man cut to my father’s feet, lighting his path and sleep. Blindsided by the rush of dark- asunder between Jewish pride and love emancipating his spirit. Perhaps finally ness blanketing the forest, I lost my for my mother. This combustible fusion he found his way home. sense of direction. I could no longer find led to inner torment and a volatile tem- A moonless, cloudy sky was the my way back home. perament. accomplice to the night, transforming When entangled by the dark shad- My father always said he would the forest into an impenetrable veil of ows, light can become a redemptive live forever, while denying the Author darkness. The cacophony of crickets and hope. Consider the case of my father, of life. He was a truly autonomous man, a blustering wind were my only com- Murray Schneider. A life of ethnic and suppressing the reality of his depen- panions. I felt incapacitated and stood humanistic pride enmeshed him in the dence on the One in whom we live and motionless, trying to pierce the night. dark shadows, in defiance of his Cre- move and have our being. In the closing The darkness was becoming a shroud, ator. He was raised in a Jewish family chapters of his life, though, he was beset and I stopped to pray in order to sense in Russia, where Hebrew cultural pride with crippling diseases, which left this the rod and staff of my Lord, who had dominated, but God took a subordinate once strong man mentally and physi- never failed to shepherd me. role. My father embraced an agnostic cally incapacitated. One night, as I was The dark shadows beguile, but light piety, seeing God as an enigma to whom taking him to bed in his wheelchair, I brings clarity. My maternal grandpar- he turned a blind eye, yet he saw himself noticed he was sitting motionless. His ents enjoyed a moment of love without as a knowable deity. Self-worship mixed wide-open eyes seemed to observe what marriage, resulting in the birth of my with his insecurities was a toxic brew to is unobservable to the living. My father mother. The culture dictated that family his soul, leading him to maintain tight was dead. The closing curtain of his life unity was not an option. Consequently, control over my mother, my sister, and became his shroud. My father never my mother was given to a distant rela- me. For my father, the world was divid- verbally welcomed God into his life, tive for care. This arrangement didn’t ed into two camps. The Jews were the but during his final years I lit his way [Continued on page 19]

NEW HORIZONS / OCTOBER 2014 / 9 HOME MISSIONS MORE THAN A BUILDING: PATASKALA, OHIO The new property of Providence OPC in // JOHN S. SHAW Pataskala, Ohio

up a congregation with more than ninety members—a body committed to biblical preaching, evangelistic outreach, love of God, and love for neighbor. All of this happened while meet- he history of meeting places for Providence OPC in Pa- ing in rented space for almost two decades. taskala, Ohio, probably looks very similar to that of other Second, we learn that while church buildings are not nec- OrthodoxT Presbyterian congregations. Since the first Sunday essary for the development of healthy church bodies, they are evening Bible studies in 1995, this congregation has met in certainly useful tools for Christian ministry. The transition to the living rooms and family rooms of members, at the Grange, a new building presents many challenges, including new costs at Pickerington High School, in a Methodist church build- and new labor. But what a blessing it is for the people of Prov- ing, in an American Legion hall, in a hotel conference room, idence OPC to have their own building, to have a foothold in and most recently in the building of a Seventh Day Baptist the community, to have a structure and a sign that announce congregation. Throughout their time in rented facilities, the their presence to people who drive by, to have enough parking Lord continued to grow and develop this fledgling group into space for visitors, and to have a place to hold midweek meet- a healthy church body. ings in a central location. New opportunities for ministry and This congregation finally had the opportunity to purchase outreach are available with a well-designed, well-used build- a more permanent meeting location in June. Their most recent ing. rental situation proved to be a blessing, but consistent growth Third, we learn how the Lord builds his church through stretched the capacity of the property. Christian education relationships with neighbors and fellow believers. Through space was limited, and it became necessary to double-park cars relationships built outside the immediate church family, the on most Sundays. As the congregation prayed and waited, the Lord provided this building for Providence OPC. Let me ex- Lord used relationships with neighbors and other believers to plain the connections. provide a building that beautifully meets their needs. What The Fruit of Friendship can we learn from their experience? Three Things We Learn Pastor Stephen Dufresne and his family came to Provi- dence OPC more than eight years ago, moving some dis- First, we learn that church buildings are not necessary tance from their immediate family. Yet they have enjoyed a for the development of healthy church bodies. We know that full house for the holidays, inviting both church members from our history as a denomination. The Orthodox Presby- and neighbors. One of those neighbors introduced Stephen terian Church began with congregations that placed biblical to her father, the pastor of Cathedral of Praise, a church only fidelity before comfort and convenience. Faithful believers one-half mile from the Dufresne home. This introduction led made great sacrifices to form the OPC, and many of our first to a relationship between Providence OPC and Cathedral of congregations gave up their buildings for the sake of biblical Praise. truth. God used these congregations to build a denomination. Each November, Providence has held a harvest dinner We know that as well from the history of Providence that has been far too large for their regular meeting place. They OPC. This congregation began with five or six families seek- rented the fellowship space at Cathedral of Praise in 2012 ing a biblical, Reformed church on the east side of the Colum- (and again in 2013). Pastor Stiffler met some of the members bus metro area. From those early seeds, the Lord has raised of Providence, and he observed that this congregation used

10 / NEW HORIZONS / OCTOBER 2014 the rented space well, enjoy- ing Christian fellowship and leaving things better than when they arrived. Not long after that, Cathedral of Praise sought renters for their fellowship hall as the congregation struggled. Pastor Dufresne inquired about renting a Sunday school room for reg- ular office space. Remem- bering how carefully the OP congregation had cared for the property previously, Pas- tor Stiffler agreed. The two pastors became The congregation of Providence OPC in their new auditorium friends while sharing the building space during the week. They prayed together, sang together, talked about the ing purchase in this way: “To love God’s people has innumer- Lord together, and ate together. They learned what they had able blessings in friendships—through a relationship with in common—in particular, their love for the Lord, their com- neighbors came a relationship with a local pastor, out of which mitment to the Bible, and their partnership in the gospel. They came a new building and we pray a new relationship with a shared personal experiences and struggles. They forged a rela- community.” tionship that brought great encouragement to both pastors. Is owning one’s own building necessary for the ministry of Cathedral of Praise continued to struggle and eventually a local congregation? Of course not. The history of the church, decided to sell the building. Based on their warm fellowship, the history of the OPC, and the history of Providence OPC Pastor Stiffler expressed a desire to sell the property to Provi- show that. And, of course, the Scriptures remind us what is dence OPC. The process of purchasing the building involved necessary for the building of the church (e.g., Acts 2:42–47 lawyers, inspectors, and negotiations. There was potential for and Eph. 2:11–22). Yet the Lord does provide temporal bless- disagreement, but instead new relationships formed between ings that serve the ministry of his local congregations, and we the pastors and trustees of both congregations. can thank God for those blessings. Buying a Building Praise the Lord for the physical provisions he gives to his church and for the provision of buildings for congregations Negotiations over the sale price gave Providence an op- throughout the OPC. Praise the Lord for the blessing of a portunity to explain their commitment to financially support- new building for Providence OPC. Pray that the Lord will ing Worldwide Outreach, which required them to maintain give them wisdom to use the building well, for the building up a reasonable building expense. These negotiations reminded of the church and the service of the kingdom. everyone of their mutual commitment to kingdom ministry, The experience of Providence OPC reminds us of another but also produced a new sale price that met the needs of both blessing we enjoy as a denomination. The congregation secured parties. the necessary funding for this purchase from the OPC Loan With all the legal details handled and the purchase com- Fund. This fund has its origins in the Church Extension Fund, pleted, Providence OPC enjoyed their first Sunday worship which was established by the Committee on Home Missions service in the new building on June 22. and Church Extension in 1957 to provide loans for congrega- Providence OPC observed the providence of God at tions to build, purchase, or renovate buildings. The Committee work in the provision of a building, as the Lord provided in established the OPC Loan Fund in 1994 as a replacement in surprising ways through the forming of new relationships. response to changing investment laws. Today more than 70 Pastor Dufresne summarizes the events that led to the build- percent of congregations in the OPC have benefitted from loans from the Loan Fund. Home Missions Today If you would like to receive further information regarding For up-to-date Home Missions news and prayer the OPC Loan Fund, including an Offering Circular, please updates, e-mail [email protected]. email your request to [email protected]. The Loan Fund is New editions: October 8, 22. currently serving over fifty-five congregations with total assets that now exceed thirteen million dollars.

NEW HORIZONS / OCTOBER 2014 / 11 CHRISTIAN EDUCATION LAYING A FIRM FOUNDATION PART ONE: AGES 2 TO 5 // MARK L. LOWREY, JR.

historical plan, beginning with the Creation and the Fall. We tell them of the promised Messiah and the coming of the e all know the importance of the early years in a child’s Promised One, Jesus Christ. We show them how we, as God’s growth and development. There are many skills, habits, people, are to live before our holy God. andW words that we teach our children within their first five These little ones can even learn a basic summary of Chris- years of life—more than we would want to count. Crucial to tian truth (theology) by memorizing the first fifteen questions that teaching is our Christian faith and heritage. and answers of the First Catechism. Through this method, We are to teach our children the great and powerful works our covenant children learn these fundamental and profound of our God. We are to teach them God’s Word, his law, and his truths, laying a firm foundation for the coming years: gospel as part of his covenant people. We are to teach them • The Bible is God’s Word and it’s true. things that we have heard and known, that our fathers have • Prayer is talking to God. told us. We will not hide them from their children, but tell • God created everything. to the coming generation the glorious deeds of the Lord, • God loves and takes care of his children. and his might, and the wonders that he has done … that the • God always keeps his promises. next generation might know them, the children yet unborn, • Sin is saying no to God. and arise and tell them to their children, so that they should • God sent his Son, Jesus. set their hope in God and not forget the works of God, but • Jesus saves his children from sin. keep his commandments. (Ps. 78:3–4, 6–7) • We put our trust in Jesus as our Savior. • We obey God because he loves us. Through ourShow Me Jesus and Kids’ Quest curriculum, • We obey God because we trust and love him. Great Commission Publications provides resources for the • The church is made up of God’s people. church and the family to assist in this important task for chil- dren from age 2 through the elementary years. Let’s focus on how we do this for toddlers (ages 2–3) and preschool children (ages 4–5). Two- and Three-Year-Olds: Toddler

Toddlers are beginning to learn basic vocabulary as well as the words of faith. Did you know that a typical two-year-old knows some 200 words, which grows to an astounding 1,800 words by age 3? How important it is, then, that both the home and the covenant community teach and model the words of faith! We do this by teaching both the Scriptures and our confessional standards. We tell our toddlers the stories of the Bible, introducing God’s redemptive-

12 / NEW HORIZONS / OCTOBER 2014 Four- and Five-Year-Olds: Preschool ABCs of PRESBYTERIANISM As a child moves into the preschool years, the foundation The Sheep Follow Him, is reinforced and strengthened. Four- and five-year-olds for- mulate ideas through concrete experiences. Therefore, lessons for They Know His Voice and teaching times are designed to take preschoolers from what is familiar and real to deeper truths about God and how Larry Wilson they apply to their everyday lives. The exalted Jesus himself gathers, builds, rules, pre- Anyone who’s around preschoolers knows that they are serves, and perfects his church. He does so by his Word and generally curious, talkative, and growing in independence. Spirit. Accordingly, when he speaks by his Word and Spirit, They also know their attention span is short—five to ten min- what happens? “The sheep follow him, for they know his utes. Their worlds are small: parents, siblings, grandparents, voice” (John 10:4). playmates, classmates, and the church. Because of this, the ba- The Good Shepherd comes to his sheep ( John 10:2– sic concrete experience for a preschooler is the family in which 4). He comes to do them good. He knows and loves his he grows and learns. sheep, so much so that he laid down his life for them. He But preschoolers are also taught and experience what it calls them each by name. He leads his sheep; he does not means to be part of God’s family and how to live as God’s drive them. And what is the main tool the Good Shepherd uses? “His voice.” children. That’s why we teach the Old Testament stories of On the other hand, false shepherds come into the Creation, the Fall, the promised Savior, and God’s faithful- fold ( John 10:1). They are thieves and robbers, predators in ness to his people. In the New Testament, they see that Jesus disguise (cf. 2 Cor. 11:14–15). What is their main tool? It is was sent because of God’s great love. They follow the stories also “their voice” (John 10:5). They use deceit and tell lies. of Jesus from the manger onward and encounter him through It is important, then, for believers to listen to the min- his powerful signs and wonders, the cross, and his resurrec- istry of God’s Word prayerfully and with their Bibles open, tion. All this is designed to point children to Jesus—that they straining to hear the voice of the true Shepherd. might believe that he is the Christ, the Son of God, and that It is important for them to rely on proven teachers by believing in him they might have eternal life as part of the whom the true Shepherd has given. For example, Reformed family of God. confessions and catechisms have proven to be reliable road Here are our spiritual goals for preschoolers: maps to the Bible (see the CCE booklet Why Christians Need Confessions, by Carl R. Trueman). • To know that Jesus died to save us It is also important for them to align themselves with • To know that God loves us and forgives us genuine sheep. Genuine sheep listen for the voice of the • To know that we are part of God’s covenant family Good Shepherd ( John 10:3–9; cf. James 1:18, 19–21; 1 • To respond to his love with hearts that trust and obey Peter 1:23–25; 2:2–3). They flee from the voice of false him shepherds ( John 10:5). This is partly why the OPC was • To begin to understand and respond to God in worship formed in 1936; the sheep were fleeing from wolves. Genu- ine sheep follow the Good Shepherd ( John 10:4). They Preschoolers can also expand their faith vocabulary by hear his Word with faith (cf. Gal. 3:2, 5). They submit to learning First Catechism. In the Beginning Kids’ Quest cur- his Word and obey (cf. James 1:22). It’s vital for believers to riculum, they learn the first forty-five questions and answers, join themselves to a faithful flock of genuine sheep follow- covering such Bible truths as Creation, the Trinity, God, the ing the voice of the Good Shepherd. Scriptures, Adam and Eve, covenant, sin, the Fall, and grace. Who runs the church? The Good Shepherd himself. No matter what age group God has entrusted to your His sheep hear him speak by his Word and Spirit, and they follow him. care, our prayer is that the Holy Spirit will mold the hearts of your children and develop in them a response of trust in and grateful obedience to the Savior. In all of this, show them Jesus. Out of the Mouth . . . Congratulations My son Ivan, age 2, successfully answered the first The Shorter Catechism has been recited by: thirteen questions of the Catechism for Young • Robert Baldree, Matthews OPC, Matthews, NC Children, so I asked him Q. 14: “Where do you learn how to love and obey God?” • Gio Cassaro, Providence OPC, Temecula, CA Ivan replied: “I can do that right here!” • Jennifer Hook, Providence OPC, Temecula, CA —Virginia Miner • Michael Taylor, Providence OPC, Temecula, CA Scottsdale, Arizona

NEW HORIZONS / OCTOBER 2014 / 13 FOREIGN MISSIONS

MORE MISSIONARIES TO URUGUAY Missionaries Ray and Michele Call with their // RAYMOND E. CALL III children (from the left) AnnaGrace, Christina, Jeremiah, Daniel, Peter, Rebecca, and John

The Word of God became precious to Ray, and he read through the Bible while also attending Bible studies and prayer meet- ay was born and raised along the coast of Southern Cali- ings. Then came graduation and entrance to university. Ray fornia, where he frequented the beaches of his hometown, feared going to a secular university, but the Lord sustained RHuntington Beach. Ray’s father worked in the Air Force Re- him and he was able to maintain a strong faith and be a wit- serve and as a realtor; his mother was a homemaker and also ness for Christ on campus. It was at that time that he went worked outside the home at the local grocery store. Ray grew on three short-term missions trips and became interested in up as the older brother to two sisters, and he never imagined world evangelization. It was also at this time that he met his that he would have more than three children himself. In his future wife, Michele. She was a young woman with a passion early years, the family never attended church, but when Ray for the Lord and his service. She agreed to marry him, even was about nine years old, his family became Roman Catholic. though she was smarter! Aside from the , there were two other early After Ray and Michele were married, they worked for a childhood influences on his spiritual life. The Lord was at couple of years and then joined the staff of Campus Crusade work through the prayers and witnessing of his grandmoth- for Christ at Fresno State. Their passion for the Lord grew. It er, who had walked away from her childhood faith, but had was during this time that they joined a Presbyterian church returned at about the time Ray was born. Another influence (PCA). They had listened to teachings by such theologians as was the family across the street; they would regularly bring R.C. Sproul, John Gerstner, and Michael Horton and were the Call kids to a children’s ministry and to their local evan- convinced that the Reformed perspective on theology was the gelical church. Ray received his first Bible there. After reading biblical one. Soon after that, they put their faith into practice through the first couple of chapters of Genesis, he was unable by having their first three children baptized. It became ap- to continue, but the seeds of the Word of God were planted, parent that if Ray wanted to continue to teach the Bible, he only to sprout years later. would need to get more training, so they left for Covenant As is the case with so many, high school brought about Seminary in St. Louis, where they settled into seminary life a time of searching for identity. Though not consciously, he and Ray worked as an intern, first at Kirk of the Hills Presby- began wondering about things like, “Where do I fit in?” and terian Church (PCA) and later at Christ Presbyterian Church “What is my purpose?” It was around this time that Ray be- (now OPC). came immersed in music and began identifying with other One focus of Ray’s internship was to minister to interna- young people who were labeled “Gothic.” At about that time, tional students from Latin America. As a result, God placed a the Lord brought along a young classmate who challenged special desire within the Calls to continue that cross-cultural Ray on the meaning of the words in one of his favorite songs. work after seminary. Right around graduation in 2006, Ray That stirred an interest that culminated in him going to a Bi- and Michele began serving with Mission to the World, the ble study and hearing preaching through the gospel of John. mission agency of the PCA. Their first term was spent on the Six months later his life had dramatically shifted. He was now U.S.-Mexico border. Ray was ordained in the PCA in 2007, a born-again Christian. There was no doubt about it: the Holy and the Calls arrived in language school in 2008. The Lord Spirit had regenerated him. blessed their time of service during that first term, and Ray That last year of high school proved to be a fruitful one. gained much-needed experience in ministering in Spanish

14 / NEW HORIZONS / OCTOBER 2014 as he had opportunities to teach, preach, and shepherd God’s a new church. On the first Sunday in the area, they decided to people and to evangelize the lost. visit a church belonging to the Presbyterian Church in Amer- Through a number of circumstances, the Calls began ica (PCA). They had been exposed to enough Reformed theol- looking for a new area of service for the Lord. It was with ogy to know that they were very interested in the doctrines, great joy that they pursued working with the OPC Mission in and Michele was especially drawn to the view that children Uruguay. Having met with the Committee on Foreign Mis- were welcome participants in the worship service. They loved sions, and Ray having visited the team on the field, the Calls the church, eventually becoming members and getting their were appointed as associate missionaries with the OPC. Ray now three young children (ages 4 and under) baptized. will maintain his credentials with the PCA, and will be work- After a few years, their new Reformed faith began to ing under a cooperative agreement between Mission to the change how they viewed ministry, and they felt that Campus World and the OPC’s Committee on Foreign Missions. Crusade was no longer the best fit for them. Ray desired to Ray and Michele have seven children, so it looks like God attend seminary, so that he might learn the Scriptures in a has overridden Ray’s expectation to have no more than three. deeper way. This was no easy undertaking for a family with The Call family looks forward to how our Lord will work to three young children, but they picked up and moved from glorify his name on the foreign missions field! California to St. Louis, where Ray attended seminary for four years. The Lord provided for them during this time, and by the end they prayerfully decided to become missionaries with the MY STORY mission agency of the PCA. They spent their first term on the U.S.-Mexico border, Michele R. Call ministering for two years in Mexicali, Mexico, and then three Michele was born and raised in the Los Angeles area. She years in San Diego. During this time, Michele also became was baptized Roman Catholic, but when she was just two or an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IB- three, her mom was born again during the height of the Je- CLC). Helping mothers meet their breast-feeding goals has sus Movement of the 1970s. When she was six, her family been a passion and a delight for Michele for many years. And became involved with a Calvary Chapel church plant, where now they and their seven children are excited to be joining the she attended for the next twenty years. Michele was first ex- OPC work in Montevideo, Uruguay. posed to Reformed teachings during high school through a group called Christians United for Reformation. This group included both Lutheran and Reformed members, and she was initially drawn more to the Lutheran liturgy. She was just be- What’s New ginning to look into membership at a local Lutheran church when she started dating her future husband, Ray Call, who // Appointments was still attending her old church. Reformed and Lutheran Appointed as missionary associates in 2014: Miss teachings were thus set aside. C. M. B. (Cornerstone OPC, Ambler, Pa.), one year At that time, she also began attending Biola University, in Asia, beginning in August; Mr. T. W. D. (Covenant where she majored in biblical studies. She and Ray were no OPC, Barre, Vt.), two years in Asia, beginning in August; Ms. Heather E. Foss (Calvary OPC, Tallahas- longer dating, and Michele felt a desire to work in full-time see, Fla.), one year in Nakaale, Karamoja, Uganda, ministry. Although her deepest longing was to be a wife and beginning in April; Miss Catherine M. Mill (Reforma- mother, upon graduation she decided to apply for a master’s tion OPC, Castle Rock, Colo.), six months in Mbale, program in teaching English as a second language, which Uganda, beginning in August; Miss T. M. DeJ. would allow her to minister the gospel to refugees and im- (Westminster OPC, Hamill, S.Dak.), reappointed for migrants. Once again her plans were changed when she began one year in Asia, beginning in August; Miss Taryn A. to date her future husband for the second time. This time dat- Dieckmann (Orthodox Presbyterian Church, Franklin ing led quickly to marriage. They married just a few months Square, N.Y.), reappointed for two years in Nakaale, after Michele graduated with her bachelor’s degree. The Lord Karamoja, Uganda, beginning in September; Miss H. blessed them with children not too long after that, and thus L. (Reformed Church of Brooklyn, RCNZ, Wellington, began what has been Michele’s greatest joy and fulfillment in NZ), reappointed for one year in Asia, beginning in life—being a wife and mother. August. They were still not Reformed, but Michele made it a mat- // Comings/Goings ter of prayer that the Lord would convict her husband of the Missionary deacon Mark D. Weber (Mbale, Uganda) truth of infant , so they could get their little ones bap- resigned from missionary service in August and re- tized. They joined the staff of Campus Crusade for Christ in turned with his family to the U.S. 1999, and moved to Fresno, California, to minister at the uni- versity there. This was the first time they had ever looked for

NEW HORIZONS / OCTOBER 2014 / 15 STEWARDSHIP

before the entrance to the city (Rev. 22:2, 14). Through his covenant with Solomon (1 Kings 5:12), Hiram was seeking THE HOPE OF what the temple revealed—not the riches of this world, but the riches of God’s glorious inheritance in the saints. Hiram forms a contrast to Solomon, who struggled HIRAM against the idolatrous desire to exalt the type and shadow over the substance—that is, to turn the kingdom of God into a (1 KINGS 9:10–14) kingdom of this world. This is suggested by Solomon’s inter- rupting of the building of the house of the Lord in order to // JONATHAN HUTCHISON build his own house, a house made entirely with hands, within and without, from bottom to top (1 Kings 7:9), in stark con- trast to the temple (1 Kings 6:7). Likewise, when Solomon turned from the Lord to idolatry, it was through his love of foreign women (i.e., foreign kingdoms). 1 Kings 9:10–14 belongs to a series of passages chroni- Kings 9:10–14 presents a rather curious and sad conclusion cling Solomon’s becoming a king like the kings of the nations to the relationship between Hiram and Solomon. How are of the earth. The narrator shares Hiram’s negative judgment by 1we to understand Hiram’s displeasure with Solomon’s gift? Is indicating that the cities given to him were thereafter called the fault with Hiram or with Solomon? The text and context the land of Cabul, the land of bondage. Solomon’s gift to Hi- of this passage direct us to find fault with Solomon and to see ram was symbolic of the kingdoms of this world and their the displeasure of Hiram as expressing the hope of Hiram. glory, rather than the inheritance of the sons of God, the city 1 Kings 9:10–14 comes after the building of the temple. above that is free. That Hiram was seeking the latter is in- At its consecration, Solomon concludes, “Blessed be the Lord dicated by how Hiram addresses Solomon: “What cities are who has given rest to his people Israel, according to all that these, which you have given me, my brother?” Hiram desired to he promised” (1 Kings 8:56). With Solomon, the people of be a fellow heir with Solomon, an heir of God. God entered into rest. The kingdom under Solomon was thus What Hiram failed to receive from Solomon, we have re- a type and shadow of the Sabbath rest that remains for the ceived in Christ. The hope of Hiram is the hope in which we people of God. The chief feature of that rest is the dwelling of were saved. And it speaks now as it did then: “Where your God with man. Solomon’s building of the temple was thus a treasure is, there your heart will also be.” revelation of the consummation of the kingdom of God. In 1 Kings 5:7, Hiram rejoices upon hearing of Solomon’s The author is pastor of Reformation OPC in Morgantown, W.Va. intention to build a house for the Lord and shares in that work by giving costly materials Worldwide Outreach Year-to-Date and builders for it. In exchange, Solomon pro- 2014 Receipts with 2014 Goal 4,000 vides food for Hiram’s household. From this it is clear that Hiram was not seeking material 3,500 Total YTD deficit: $259,702 (-13.2%) gain by his participation in the work. More- Christian Ed deficit: $39,174 (-18.5%) Home Missions deficit: $113,547 (-19.2%) 3,000 over, Hiram seems to have understood some- Foreign Missions deficit: $106,981 (-18.5%) thing of the better and greater reality to which 2,500 the temple was pointing (a house made with- out hands, that is, not of this creation). One 2,000 example of this is the two pillars set before the Thousands entrance of the house, on either side. These 1,500 tree-like pillars, built by Hiram (either the king 1,000 himself or one bearing his name, filled with the Spirit [1 Kings 7:14; cf. Ex. 31:3]), were 500 not part of the temple, but reflected its heav- 0 enly pattern—the tree of life on either side of Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec the river flowing from the throne of God, set

16 / NEW HORIZONS / OCTOBER 2014 PRAYER CALENDAR OCTOBER

1. Pray for Ray and Michele Call, Montevideo, Uruguay, Covenant OPC in Orland Park, Ill. as they make final preparations to arrive on the field 8. Brian and Sara Chang, Cottonwood, Ariz. Ask the later this month. / Carlos and Diana Cruz, Ponce, P.R. Lord to grow and strengthen Verde Valley Reformed Pray for Mission de Ponce, OPC, that God’s elect would Chapel. / Kaz and Katie Yaegashi, Yamagata, Japan. be brought in. / Rodney King, chairman of the Sub- Pray that God would raise up men qualified to serve as committee on Internet elders. / David Haney, director of finance and planned Ministries. giving for the Committee on Coordination. 2. Pray for Chris Walmer, 9. Calvin and Edie Cummings, Sendai, Japan. Pray for area home missions good attendance at outreach activities. / Tony and coordinator, as he works Mica Garbarino, Morgan Hill, Calif. Pray that the Lord with church plants in the would bless Providence Presbyterian Church’s move to Presbytery of Central a new location and a morning worship service. / Army Pennsylvania. / Mark and chaplain Kyle (and Laurel) Brown. Jeni Richline, Montevi- deo, Uruguay. Pray for 10. Joshua and Jessica Lyon, Carson, Calif. Pray for unity the youth ministries with and growth within the congregation of Grace OPC. which they work. / James / Pray for a bold witness as missionary associates Jordan, yearlong intern Amanda McCrina and Akiko Oshimizu, Sendai, Japan, at Church of the Cov- interact with unbelieving contacts. / Pray for wisdom enant in Hackettstown, Mark and Jeni Richline for those who are planning the 2015 Timothy Confer- N.J. ence. 3. Ben and Heather Hopp, Haiti. Pray for the printing of 11. Pray for the labors of affiliated missionaries Craig and Reformed literature in Haitian Creole. / Brandon and Ree Coulbourne and Linda Karner, Japan. / Kim and Laurie Wilkins, Crystal Lake, Ill. Pray for the outreach Barbara Kuhfuss, Eau Claire, Wis. Pray that visitors to and evangelism of Christ Covenant Presbyterian Providence Reformed Church will desire to join in com- Church, that God would bring some to faith in Jesus municant fellowship. / Robert (and Adelinda) Canode, Christ. / Chris Tobias, New Horizons cover designer. yearlong intern at Providence Presbyterian Church in Pflugerville, Tex. 4. Jonathan and Kristin Moersch, Capistrano Beach, Calif. Pray that Trinity OPC will find a suitable facility for 12. Home Missions general secretary John Shaw. / Ben meeting on Sunday evening and throughout the week. and Melanie Westerveld, Quebec, Canada. Pray for / Associate missionaries Octavius and Marie Delfils, St-Marc’s session as they seek to meet the needs of the Haiti. Pray for political stability in Haiti. / Greg Rey- congregation. / Pray for short-term missions coordina- nolds, Ordained Servant editor. tor David Nakhla as he works to make short-term mis- sions become an increased blessing to both the fields 5. Brian and Dorothy Wingard, South Africa (on fur- and the participants. lough). Pray that their time of furlough will refresh and strengthen them for future service. / Jim and Tricia 13. Pray for Foreign Missions associate general secretary Stevenson, Tulsa, Okla. Pray for Providence OPC’s Douglas Clawson, who is in Haiti to assist with the discipleship and ministry. / Jeffrey (and Maryfrances) training of church leaders. / Chris and Megan Harts- Carter, yearlong intern at Calvary OPC in Glenside, Pa. horn, Anaheim Hills, Calif. Pray that many will visit Ana- heim Hills Presbyterian Church and desire to join the 6. Bill and Sessie Welzien, Key West, Fla. Pray that God church. / Pray for the serious health concerns of Navy would bless Keys Presbyterian Church’s outreach with chaplain Bryan (and Shelly) Weaver. numerical growth. / Heero and Anya Hacquebord, L’viv, Ukraine. Pray that those attending outreach activi- 14. Pray for Jim Bosgraf, regional home missionary, as he ties will come to know Christ. / Pray for Danny Olinger, assists church plants in the Presbytery of the Midwest. / Christian Education general secretary, as he meets with Pray for Foreign Missions general secretary Mark Bube the Committee on Christian Education on Tuesday and as he presents our General Assembly’s letter to the Wednesday. General Assembly of the Reformed Church in Japan. / Diane Olinger, Ordained Servant proofreader. 7. Woody and Laurie Lauer, Numazu, Japan. Pray that visitors from the community will attend worship servic- 15. Pray for Foreign Missions administrative assistant es. / Joseph and Carla Fowler, Gastonia, N.C. Pray that Linda Posthuma and newlywed secretary Abigail the Lord would bless Reformation OPC with additional Yates. / Todd and Julie Wagenmaker, St. Louis, Mo. families. / Jeff (and Diane) Downs, yearlong intern at Pray for new visitors to come to Gateway OPC and

NEW HORIZONS / OCTOBER 2014 / 17 PRAYER CALENDAR Continued opportunities to reach the lost. / Louis (and Lizette) intern at Bethel Presbyterian Church in Wheaton, Ill. Cloete, yearlong intern at Redeemer OPC Mission in 25. Bob and Martha Wright, Nakaale, Uganda. Pray that Pittsburgh, Pa. workers assisting with the farm project will be open 16. Drew and Sonya Adcock, Williamsport, Pa. Pray that to hearing the gospel. / Jim and Bonnie Hoekstra, the congregation of Omega OPC will grow in spiritual Andover, Minn. Pray for the continued development maturity. / Mr. and Mrs. F., Asia. Pray for opportunities of Immanuel OPC’s ministry. / Kathy Bube, Loan Fund for Sam to talk to students about Christ. / Pray for GA administrator. stated clerk Ross Graham as he prepares the 2015 edi- 26. John and Wenny tion of The Book of Church Order for publication. Ro, Chicago, 17. Missionary associates C. B. and T. D., Asia. Pray for a Ill. (downtown). fruitful term of teaching and learning experiences. / Pray that God Mark and Michele Winder, Collierville, Tenn. Pray that would bring new the Lord would bless Wolf River Presbyterian Church’s people to Gospel efforts at outreach. / Part-time staff accountant Doug Life Presbyterian Watson. Church. / David and Sunshine 18. Eric and Donna Hausler, Naples, Fla. Pray that the Lord Okken, Nakaale, would provide Naples Presbyterian Church with a Uganda. Pray for more permanent meeting place and mission station. / Dave’s efforts Mr. and Mrs. M., Asia (on furlough). Pray for safe travel to give those and good visits in OP churches. / Charlene Tipton, to whom he database administrator. ministers a solid 19. Pray for tentmaker missionary T. L. L., Asia, as she understanding John and Wenny Ro builds relationships with colleagues and students. / of God’s Word. Mika and Christina Edmondson, Grand Rapids, Mich. / Pray for the Pray that Sunday school classes at New City Fellowship meeting of the Board of Trustees of Great Commission will be fruitful. / Janet Birkmann, Diaconal Ministries Publications tomorrow. administrative assistant. 27. Al and Laurie Tricarico, Nakaale, Uganda. Pray for our 20. Ben and Sarah Miller, Huntington, N.Y. Ask God to missionaries as they interact with their neighbors. / guide Trinity Church in making a decision about a new Andrew and Billie Moody, San Antonio, Tex. Pray that worship location. / Pray for the labors of missionary the people of San Antonio Reformed Church will have associates J. B., T. DeJ., and H. L., Asia. / Andrew (and a godly zeal for evangelism. / Matthew (and Melinda) Samatha) Fortenberry, yearlong intern at Trinity OPC in Cole, yearlong intern at Immanuel OPC in Bellmawr, Hatboro, Pa. N.J. 21. Affiliated missionaries Jerry and Marilyn Farnik, 28. Sacha and Martina Walicord, Mt. Vernon, Ohio. Pray Prague, Czech Republic. Pray for opportunities to for Knox Presbyterian Church’s efforts to reach the lost. present the gospel to seekers. / Everett and Kimberly / Pray for the labors of missionary associate teachers Henes, Hillsdale, Mich. Pray that God would knit Hills- Erika Bulthuis, Taryn Dieckmann, and Catherine Mill, dale OPC together in love. / Alan Strange, chairman of Uganda. / Army chaplain Stephen (and Lindsey) Rob- the Psalter-Hymnal Committee. erts. 22. Jonathan and Lauryn Shishko, Queens, N.Y. Pray that 29. Missionary associates Christopher and Chloe Verdick, the Lord would provide Reformation Presbyterian Nakaale, Uganda. Pray for Chloe in her responsibilities Church with a building that can be rented throughout as Mission bookkeeper. / Kent and Laurie Harding, the week. / Missionary associate Mary York, Prague, Doniphan, Mo. Pray that Sovereign Grace Reformed Czech Republic. Pray for good rapport with her English Church’s outreach will be fruitful for the cause of the students. / Sarah Pederson, New Horizons proofreader. gospel. / Jan Gregson, assistant to the finance director. 23. James and Jenny Knox, M.D. and R.N., Nakaale, Ugan- 30. Phil Strong, Lander, Wyo. Pray that the people of Grace da, are thankful for the birth of Eoin Daniel in July. / Reformed Fellowship will continue to grow in their love Ken and Cressid Golden, Davenport, Iowa. Pray that for the Lord and for each other. / Eric and Dianna Tuin- the preaching of the Word at Sovereign Grace OPC inga, Mbale, Uganda. Pray for the men who are train- will bring edification and conversion. /New Horizons ing at Knox Theological College to be church leaders. managing editor and publications coordinator Jim 31. Pray that retired missionaries Betty Andrews, Greet Scott. Rietkerk, Young and Mary Lou Son, and Fumi Uomoto 24. Home Missions associate general secretary Dick Ger- will be an encouragement to their families and caregiv- ber. / Pray for missionary associates Heather Foss, Leah ers. / Home Missions staff administrator Sean Gregg. / Hopp (on home leave), and Jesse Van Gorkom, Na- Pat Clawson, New Horizons editorial assistant and CCE kaale, Uganda. / Matthew (and Trina) Patton, yearlong secretary.

18 / NEW HORIZONS / OCTOBER 2014 A WALK THROUGH the loving arms of her Redeemer. She had THE VALLEY OF found her way home. SHADOWS It is a shad- owed valley of death [Continued from page 9] in which we often last long, and soon my mother found find ourselves during herself growing up in the shadowlands life’s pilgrimage. The of many foster homes. She never found good news is that we a permanent family to call her own until are never alone. The she married my father. Yet she never felt green pastures and alone. Our Lord had made his presence still waters restor- known to her, and as a Roman Catholic ing our souls are the she loved him as her Father. This piety Good Shepherd, Je- was reinforced when she spent a few sus Christ. It is only years living in a convent. She was deeply Jesus who can dispel impressed with the holiness of the nuns the shadows, guide who extended Christlike love to her. us, and prepare a Through the years, my mother al- table before us in the ways sensed the loving rod and staff of presence of our en- her heavenly Father, but was not always emies. At the table of responsive to his guidance. She met my the Lord, we are his father at a dance, and his romantic and honored guests. He The author with his parents and sister in the 1970s charming personality wooed her to be feeds us himself, thus unequally yoked in marriage. Once they uniting us with him. dark shadows, and shepherds me with were wed, my father forbade my mother The result is a persevering spirit his revelatory light. It is like the night to practice her faith. This spiritual pro- finding pleasure in God amidst the in the forest, when I feared my demise. hibition extended to my sister and me. howling cackles of an unbelieving When I prayed, I received a new sense Proscriptions may succeed, but they can world. The demonic adversary of our of direction. I did not die, but lived to also serve as prescriptions for greater souls takes the form of innumerable celebrate my Savior’s mercy and grace. piety. For my mother, it regenerated her foes from sources outside of us and de- Suddenly, I saw the lights of the lodge devotion to Christ, which she privately pravity within us. The Good Shepherd, and was on my way home. shared with my sister and me. though, steps in amidst the roaring li- The author is a member of Calvary OPC Finally, at the end of her years, she ons seeking to devour us. He lifts us in Glenside, Pa. was bedridden with debilitating dis- above their snapping jaws, and places us eases. Physically she was wasting away, securely on his shoulders. The Lord has but spiritually she was renewed day by borne my weight for many years since day. Suffering only increased her faith he first found me on a wide road to de- Chaplains as she clung to Christ, gave him her struction. He has altered my journey to Needed pain, and received rest for her soul. She a narrow road leading to Emmaus and understood how much Jesus suffered to new life. Like water turned to wine, he Ministers, licentiates, and secure her salvation. In comparison, her transformed my recalcitrant soul into a men under care: There are discomfort was a slight, momentary af- submissive, joyful spirit. Now my chief current opportunities to pro- fliction in preparation for the glories goal is to enjoy and glorify my Redeem- claim the gospel to military of eternity. She was more than willing er. The way can be beset by battles with personnel, their families, and to carry her cross as a dull reflection of temptations and angst, but Jesus makes attached civilians as a Navy her Savior’s suffering. Ultimately her my yoke easy and my burden light. chaplain. Navy chaplains infirmities came to a fatal conclusion. I I have spent much time grieving serve not only in the Navy, came home one night to find her in an over the loss of my parents. Yet my help but also in the Marine Corps unconscious state, gasping for breath. comes from the Lord, the Maker of and the Coast Guard. For I called the hospice nurse, but it was heaven and earth. I fear no evil because more information, see the too late. My mother was dead. Death, the presence of my Lord is an overflow- news item for August 6 at though, was swallowed up in victory, ing cup filled with goodness and mercy. www.opc.org. because my mother was no stranger to He enables me to persevere through the

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CHAPLAIN WEAVER HONORED Corps Recruiting De- pot at Parris Island, On July 18, Navy Capt. Bryan Weaver, South Carolina. His an OP chaplain, was presented with responsibilities include the prestigious John H. Craven Servant supervising and men- Leadership Award by Rear Adm. Mark toring chaplains in the Tidd, chief of chaplains of the U.S. Navy. Eastern Recruiting The award was named for a chaplain Region. who ministered to sailors and marines Captain Weaver during some of the worst battles of World has been undergoing War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam medical procedures for War. malignant brain tu- Weaver, who is affectionately known as mors this year. Please “Battle Chaps,” has spent nineteen of his pray for him and his twenty-nine years of service with the Ma- family at this difficult Chaplain Bryan Weaver (right) receiving the John H. Craven Servant Leadership Award from Rear Adm. Mark Tidd rines. His years with the Marine Corps time. have been spent mostly in the field and in combat zones. He earned the respect ANDREW MILLER ORDAINED church. Andrew had served a yearlong in- of many by being present with them in ternship there under Steve Doe, and then challenging and dangerous circumstances. served as stated supply. Francis VanDelden “They need to see you,” explained Weaver. Megachurch pastor John the Baptist “You need to be able to rough it out. I’m A feast of praise, a feast on the Word, and reminded those present at the service not afraid to pick up a shovel, and I’m not a feast to celebrate—what a glorious way (through a sermon preached by Chad changing.” to spend a Saturday! The Presbytery of Van Dixhoorn) that “a person cannot re- “I’m just one beggar trying to tell the Mid-Atlantic and the congregation ceive even one thing unless it is given him another beggar where to find bread,” he of Bethel Reformed Presbyterian Church from heaven.” His successful ministry was added. “The bread of God.” in Fredericksburg, Virginia, joined in this marked by deep humility and the exalt- Since August 2013, Weaver has been feast on June 21 to ordain and install An- ing of Christ. John’s joy was to see Jesus the command chaplain at the Marine drew Miller as associate pastor of that increase, even if it meant that he would decrease ( John 3:2–36). Andrew was charged by Steve Doe to endure through the hardships and costli- ness of ministry by looking to the distant past, the recent past, and the present cloud of witnesses who have persevered in being faithful (Heb. 12:1). Rebekah, Andrew’s wife, was also encouraged to endure the trials of ministry. Phil Proctor charged the congregation to remember that even though a pastor may be young in years, he is not young in his role as minister. Rather, he is charged to care for their souls (Heb. 13:17). They are to be mature by looking through the vessel to the One who uses the vessel. Pastor Andrew Miller closed the ser- vice with a benediction, after which we At Andrew Miller’s ordination service were: (front) Brian Miller, Chip Hammond, Stuart celebrated with a great lunch provided by Jones, Andrew Miller, Steve Doe, Fred Krieg, John Waddell (PCA); (back) Gary Johnson the able congregants. Give thanks with us! (PCA), Francis VanDelden, Clark Brooking, Pete Spaulding, Phil Proctor, Bennett Weth- ered, Dan Clifford, Ed Cathey, Chad VanDixhoorn, Tim Flora, and Tony Monaghan You can listen to the sermons at www. bethelrpc.org/sermons.

20 / NEW HORIZONS / OCTOBER 2014 NEWS, VIEWS, & REVIEWS Continued

VALERIE MURRAY married John Murray (an GRACE MULLEN IN MEMORIAM OP minister and retired IN MEMORIAM Westminster professor). They had two children, Lo- Mary Murray James W. Scott gan and Anne-Margaret. Valerie Young (Knowl- Professor Murray died in Grace Elizabeth Mullen was born on ton) Murray was born 1975, and Anne-Margaret March 7, 1943, to Hopwood and Re- on January 9, 1927, in 1976. In 1981, Valerie becca Brandriff Mullen, and was raised in and grew up in Au- and Logan moved to Au- North Wildwood, New Jersey. She died gusta, Maine. She gusta, Maine, and later peacefully on July 20, 2014. graduated from Smith became active members of After graduating from Calvin Col- College in 1949 and Merrymeeting Bay OPC lege in 1965, she taught at three Christian was awarded a Ph.D. Valerie Murray in Brunswick. schools, earned a master’s degree at the at Harvard University Her long journey University of Pennsylvania, taught for a in 1956. While at Harvard, she became a through Alzheimer’s began in 2003, and year in Iran, and worked for the Presbyte- Christian, and later attended Westminster in 2008 she moved in with Logan, his rian Historical Society. Theological Seminary. She taught at the wife Mary, and their sons Joshua, Caleb, In 1975 she began a thirty-eight-year Woman’s Medical College of Pennsylva- and Seth. On August 8, at home with her career at Westminster Theological Semi- nia in Philadelphia from 1958 to 1967. family, Valerie died of pneumonia and nary in Glenside, Pennsylvania, where she In 1967, Valerie left teaching and passed into the presence of her Lord and served as archivist, assistant librarian, and moved to Badbea, Scotland, where she Savior Jesus Christ. acting library director on four occasions. She was also the first archivist of the Or- thodox Presbyterian Church. The OPC Archives Room is named in her honor. OPPORTUNITY IN northwest of Bismarck has brought new Her detailed knowledge of OPC history BOOMING BISMARCK opportunities, both financial and spiritual, including thousands of good and high- and of the Westminster library proved paying jobs. This demand for workers is invaluable to many scholars and students. Bruce Prentice drawing people to the area from all over Grace grew up at Calvary OPC in In 1913, Bethel Presbyterian Church the country. Wildwood, New Jersey, and in 1974 she was organized in Carson, North Da- This economic boom also presents became a member of Faith OPC in Elmer, kota. Then, in August 1936, along with a great spiritual opportunity to build an New Jersey. She also attended evening ser- churches in nearby Leith and Lark, Beth- OP church in Bismarck. Bethel has a fully vices regularly at Calvary OPC in Glen- el joined a new denomination that would supported pastor and two able and in- side. She provided hospitality to many soon be named the Orthodox Presbyte- volved elders leading a wonderful church international students. She was deeply in- rian Church. The following December, J. committed to this goal, but they could use volved with the French Creek Bible Con- Gresham Machen came to encourage the more help in developing a core group in ference, eventually as a board member. churches, but after preaching in Leith, he Bismarck. Grace was truly a gift of God’s grace contracted pneumonia and was taken to Putting these things together, if you to all who knew her. She was a humble the hospital in nearby Bismarck, where he need work and are looking for a new start, servant of the Lord and a blessing in the died on January 1, 1937. and would like to com- As the rural communities lost popula- bine that with helping to tion, the three thriving churches gradu- plant a church, consider ally declined in membership and eventu- coming to Bismarck. ally merged into one church in Carson. An OP church in North Bethel continues to minister, and sermons Dakota’s capital city is are still preached each week from the a real possibility. If the same solid-oak pulpit where Dr. Machen Lord would so lead you, preached his last sermon. the members of Bethel Today, fully half of the members of will help you in every Bethel do not live in Carson, and many way they can. For those make the sixty-mile trip every Lord’s Day in need of work, Bethel from Bismarck, a growing city of over has provided links to job 65,000 people that does not have a Pres- opportunities on their byterian or Reformed church. website at www.bethe- The oil boom that is centered to the lopc.net/jobs. Bethel OPC in Carson, N.Dak.

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Presbyterian Church. Davenant, as part of the British delega- tion, played a significant role at the • On September 1, U.S. Army chaplain of Dort. Second, neither Calamy, whose Jonathan C. Gibbs III retired from ac- views were rightly opposed by Reynolds, tive duty. nor his supporters were chased out of the • On June 21, the Presbytery of the Assembly. Within definite bounds, the Southwest dissolved the pastoral relation- Assembly was a unitive body, due to its ship between Scott R. Huber and Cove- being an instrument of Parliament for the nant Presbyterian Church of Fort Worth, consolidation of the Reformation in the Tex.; he has accepted a call to First Presby- three kingdoms. While hypothetical uni- terian Church (PCA) in Lexington, Miss. versalism was not adopted, its advocates were not treated as enemies. • On June 20, John F. A. Kramer was Robert Letham ordained and installed as a teacher at Bridgend, Wales Merrymeeting Bay OPC in Brunswick, Maine. GENERAL ASSEMBLY • Andrew J. Miller, formerly the stated Editor: Grace Mullen in the Westminster library supply, was ordained and installed as asso- ciate pastor of Bethel Reformed Presbyte- Prior to reading the August-Sep- rian Church in Fredericksburg, Virginia, tember article by Clifford Blair, I wasn’t lives of many. Her adorning was “the hid- on June 21. aware that some regard the initials OPC den person of the heart with the imper- as standing for “Only Perfect Church.” MILESTONES ishable beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, Rather, I’ve always thought (with appreci- which in God’s sight is very precious” (1 ation) that the initials stand for “Orderly • Former OPC and PCA pastor Kent Peter 3:4). Procedure Church,” a quality well exem- Torrey Hinkson, 71, who two years ago Grace quietly battled cancer for the fi- plified by the meeting of the General As- became an Anglican priest in Durham, nal decade of her life. In her suffering, she sembly as described by Mr. Blair. N.C., was murdered on August 4. was drawn nearer to her Savior, in whose Rollin Stearns arms she now rests. As her illness gradu- • Grace Mullen, 71, archivist of the OPC Bangor, Maine ally gained the upper hand, she provided and retired from Westminster Theological Editor: an example of uncomplaining faithfulness Seminary, died after a long fight with can- As one of the commissioners to the and perseverance to those around her. cer on July 20. 81st General Assembly, I read with inter- • Valerie Murray, 87, the widow of West- est the article in the August-September UPDATE minster Seminary professor John Murray, issue summarizing its goings on. Hav- died peacefully on August 8. ing heard from my seat that the struggle CHURCHES in the Presbytery of the Northwest over the issue of republication [the idea that • On April 28, the Presbytery of New LETTERS the Mosaic covenant was in some sense York and New England dissolved New a “republication” of the covenant of works Covenant Presbyterian Church in New- HYPOTHETICAL UNIVERSALISM before the Fall—Editor] has already led to ton Center, Mass. the departure from our denomination of Editor: one of its congregations, I was shocked to • Pilgrim Presbyterian Church in Do- In his review of From Heaven He see this struggle described as “brotherly ver, N.H., formerly a mission work, was Came and Sought Her, in the July issue, discord.” organized as a separate congregation by Benjamin W. Swinburnson, commenting Additionally, while I realize it was not the Presbytery of New York and New on hypothetical universalism, conflates incumbent upon the writer of the article England on June 27. theology and history. He is correct that, to delve into the theological complexities MINISTERS theologically, hypothetical universalism of republication, for it to be cast as an ob- weakens the particularism of the gos- scure point of theological minutia glosses • James J. Cassidy, formerly the pas- pel—this is the point of the whole vol- over the personal anguish being lived out tor of Calvary OPC in Ringoes, N.J., ume. However, in arguing that it was con- by good men on both sides of the issue, to was installed on July 18 as associate pas- sidered outside the bounds of Reformed say nothing of the six-plus hours spent in tor of Providence Presbyterian Church orthodoxy at the Westminster Assembly, debate on the floor of the Assembly. in Pflugerville (Austin), Tex., to serve he overlooks two crucial points. First, the Bruce Settergren as organizing pastor of South Austin leading spokesman for the position, John San Diego, Calif.

22 / NEW HORIZONS / OCTOBER 2014 NEWS, VIEWS, & REVIEWS Continued

from the Bible: “This is love: not that preaching pastor, consisting of people of Ohio Presbytery we loved God, but that he loved us and all ages, are those who can read this book. sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for We all need and can grasp this pastor’s Women’s Retreat our sins” (1 John 4:10 niv). Each chap- teaching on love, because it comes from ter title begins with “God’s Love Re- the heart of God’s own Word. October 24–25 • Logan, Ohio vealed in …,” emphasizing that our love ultimately derives from God’s love. • Theme: Hospitality with a Heart for Jesus The Pastor’s Family: Shepherding Your The table of contents shows the log- • Speaker: Lorianne Merritt Family through the Challenges of Pasto- ical flow—a classic biblical-theological ral Ministry, by Brian and Cara Croft. • Venue: Camp Akita, 29746 Logan- treatment—just as the subtitle promis- Zondervan, 2013. Paperback, 171 pages, Hornsmill Rd., Logan, Ohio es, “tracing the love of God throughout list price $16.99. Reviewed by OP pastor the biblical story.” What happened to • More information: Facebook or Ryan M. McGraw. www.daytonopc.org (register online) God’s love when the fall tarnished cre- ation? God’s response was one of love, Today, the phrase “pastor’s kid” often con- • Contact: Harleen Dizer at 937-912- revealed in his anger at sin. Next, God’s jures up images of a child who makes un- 5046 or [email protected] love is found in various themes: God’s churched children look tame. It is too easy goodness, his condescension, law, faith- to blame this phenomenon on election. fulness, mercy and grace, and, most ful- While it is true that there are Esaus in SCOTTISH REFORMATION ly, his love in the person of his Son, the the church as well as Jacobs, it is also true Lord Jesus Christ. An additional linkage (if we may believe the Crofts’ testimony) Editor: of the final four chapters shows the love that many ministers spend little time with As a member of the Scottish Refor- of God within the church, at the founda- their wives and children, neglect family mation Society, I was pleased to see the tion of reconciliation, worship, godliness, worship, and do not set parameters for article in the July issue about two young and mission. the church to respect in order to protect people who participated in the essay The effect of the book’s well-organized, their families. Governing his own house- contest. Two members of Westminster verse-backed argument is to persuade us hold and training obedient children are OPC in Hamden, Connecticut, also par- that God’s love is the central theme of the some of the primary qualifications for any ticipated in the essay contest and received Bible’s message! Yes, love is not merely man who is called to the pastoral ministry. certificates. They are Sarah Mack, who important, nor near the core. Love is at This little book on The Pastor’s Family feels won first prize for her essay on the life the center. How is the age-old debate the pulse of today’s ministry and offers a of John Knox, and Nathanael Mack, who about the main message of the Bible so much-needed call to encouragement and completed the project for his age group. I clearly settled here? With Scripture! The repentance. hope that many more young people in the index of Scripture references is ten pages The authors—with interspersed com- OPC will participate in future contests. long! So, for example, we are shown Je- ments from a few of their friends—divide James W. Campbell sus’ own summary of the law in Matthew the difficulties facing the pastor’s fam- Hamden, Conn. 22:37–40, in the commands to love God ily into three areas: the pastor’s heart, his and love others. But love is more than a wife, and his children. The way in which summary of the law. Both testaments pul- the Crofts search readers’ hearts is greatly REVIEWS sate with God’s love. needed. Their description of the trials that How a first-time author can provide us church members unintentionally create This Is Love: Tracing the Love of God with profound riches is no mystery when for their pastors’ families will shock many throughout the Biblical Story, by Neil we note his previous ministry in fruitful people. This book can also help pastors in- Tolsma. P&R, 2012. Paperback, 208 pastorates. Pastor Tolsma has long been directly if church members take the time pages, list price $14.99. Reviewed by OP adept at bringing us insights to read it in order to know better how to pastor Ben Snodgrass. that are both convicting and assist their ministers in this vital area. Where was this book? The engaging. Here he shows us Some of the solutions that the Crofts author drew the idea for his how we have absorbed and propose, such as spending time with each book from the widespread suffered from our culture’s child individually each week, are much need for it. Now it has ar- false ideas about love. Our needed. Others reveal the low ebb to rived, and the book delivers good pastor would never leave which the ministry has fallen, as when what it promises. It offers us there, for he counters with they say that they now commit to fam- healing for wrong ideas of refreshing biblical corrections. ily worship at least (only!) three times a love with its Scripture-laden Another sign of our author’s week. However, the basic premise of the presentation of the beauty of experience is his accessibil- book is that ministers are called to min- love. Even the title is drawn ity; the weekly audience of a ister to their wives and families, even

NEW HORIZONS / OCTOBER 2014 / 23 NEWS, VIEWS, & REVIEWS Continued

before they are called to minister to the night when their youngest child, David, church. In this regard, even great men told them the terrible secret that had kept who left wives and children behind and him trapped. In David’s Sword and Da- whom God used to spread the gospel far vid’s Shield, the family shares their story. and wide were wrong and their families The first book, from David’s perspec- suffered for it. The Crofts give us a jump tive, tells of the sexual abuse inflicted by start back in the right direction. a trusted friend and God’s healing for the In the late seventeenth century, Wil- wound that gashed him. “Goliath” intro- liam Perkins urged pastors to make the duced David to a “game,” which contin- ministry attractive to their sons, so that ued for months. David was confused, and more of them would desire to serve in the the abuser’s threats silenced him. David ministry themselves. His desire was often needed to step out of the darkness and realized in Reformed families. Now it is bring the secret—and Goliath—into the common for a pastor’s children in many light. God mercifully answered David’s circles not only to avoid the ministry like prayers, giving him courage to use his the plague, but perhaps even to avoid the voice to conquer Goliath with the patient church itself. We must always hope that help of his parents. The story offers hope God will do what we cannot do in the to other victims that they may be free of hearts of wayward children. But we must the abuse, free from shame, and free of the also take up God’s call to use the divinely fear keeping them captive. appointed means of grace in the lives of The second book centers on Dan, our children. Woe to us if we trust those the older brother of David. Dan tells of New Brochure Available means, but woe to us if we neglect them. God’s healing for the myriad feelings that for Evangelism and Outreach Brian and Cara Croft have in this book gripped him. He explains how he wrestled given the church a clear call to reset the with desiring vengeance and with guilt for The brochure Christ Proclaims a priorities of the pastor and of the church his inability to protect his brother. David’s Better Way is now available. It re- with regard to the pastor’s family. Shield offers that sibling hope and a bet- places the aging Get to Know Us ter way, God’s way. The book also tells of the unique challenges of helping a child Better (which remains available). David’s Sword, by David, Lee, and Ma- with special needs, as the story includes This tri-fold brochure offers an in- rybeth Elliott. Tate Publishing & En- the oldest brother, Mark, who has autism. troductory welcome to the OPC. It terprises, 2008. Paperback, 38 pages, list These books are unique in the field, is intended for wide distribution. price $7.99. David’s Shield, by Dan, Lee, and David uses his real name and a pho- This brochure is available in and Marybeth Elliott. Tate, 2010. Pa- tograph of himself to demonstrate that it packets of 100. Each packet costs perback, 63 pages, list price $7.99. Re- is truly safe to come forward. The books $10. If you order more than ten viewed by OP member Jennifer Foley. packets (1,000 brochures), the cost serve as excellent tools for preparing is reduced to $8 per packet. The sexual abuse of children is a pro- us to be alert and ready to help when a Order at https://store.opc.org foundly solemn topic. It is terrifying to need arises. They would be well placed at (to pay through PayPal) or from face, yet a child in your own church— church book tables and pastoral studies. the Christian Education office at even your own family—may be a victim of To order one or both books, write to the [email protected] (to be billed). abuse, even now. This nightmare pierced Elliotts at [email protected] the Christian home of the Elliotts one with “books” as the subject.

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