In his preaching and teaching, Jesus Christ does not quote directly from the book of Ecclesiastes. Indeed, our Lord takes up the truth and concepts found in that book and expands on them in many of His parables. As such, the teachings of Ecclesiastes are part of the fabric of the gospel. The book undergirds the knowledge of the world as it is fallen in sin under God’s judgment. The world can afford us no salvation; man cannot deliver himself from bondage; under the sun the works of men do not profit; salvation, which is from above, is a work of God alone; God must enter into our misery in the person of His only begotten Son to save and redeem us. Under the sun, deliverance is not to be found, only vanity and death. Ecclesiastes points to the need for the work of God’s grace—in Christ, the true Saviour—as the only solution to the fallen world and its vanity!

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Thomas Miersma is minister emeritus in the Protestant Reformed Churches. During his ministry (1982–2017) he pastored two churches in Canada. He also laboured in the United States for many years as Western Home Missionary.

“Thomas Miersma’s Ecclesiastes: A Reflective Exposition is exactly what the title implies. It is not a technical commentary or even a popular-level commentary, at least not in the traditional sense … Rather, it reads much like a reflective homily, with a decidedly Reformed and Christocentric perspective on the contents of Ecclesiastes … After a brief introduction (composed of three chapters, two of which are the reproductions of Standard Bearer articles), the remaining twelve chapters offer reflec­tive commentary following the contents of the twelve chapters of Ecclesiastes. Within the commentary, Solomon is referenced by name as the author (rather than ‘Qohelet’), and the background of Solomon’s life therefore takes precedence in framing out the historical setting for the text. Interestingly, while affirming a Solo­monic context, Miersma takes a decidedly positive approach to the teachings of the ‘Preacher,’ with the spiritual virtues of Solomon’s wisdom emphasized over his downfall. In the reflective commentary, the words of the Preacher direct the reader to spiritually edifying truths that ultimately point to Christ” (Journal of the Evangelical Theological Society).

“Pastor Miersma demonstrates the principle of Scripture interpreting Scripture by supplying meaningful references from both the Old and New Testaments to sections of Ecclesiastes. One such reference is Ecclesiastes 3:14 (‘Nothing can be put to it, nor anything taken from it’) and Romans 11:36 (‘All things are of him and through him and to him’) (p. 56). It is apparent that much attention has been given to draw the rest of Scripture into the commentary. I myself intend to sit down to read the commentary as a devotional over many days, allowing the Wisdom of Solomon to do its work. The book is what it claims to be on the cover, A Reflective Exposition, worthy of reflective thought” (Africanus Journal).

A review of Ecclesiastes: A Reflective Exposition by Rev. Stephan Regnerus

An important virtue that every Christian seeks to have is the ability to live gratefully in the present moment.  This is no easy task.  So easily our minds wander either to the future – what I want to be someday! – or revert to the past – what I regret about yesterday – instead of focusing on the present moment – where has God placed me right now?  Our failure to live with contentment and gratitude in the present moment is not without consequence; how many worries and fears we bear up under because we fail to do this very thing!

Rev. T. Miersma’s reflections on the book of Ecclesiastes will be helpful to the one who is striving to grow in the Christian grace of contentment.  Solomon, the inspired writer, finishes the book: “Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments; for this is the whole duty of man” (Eccl. 12:13).  Miersma writes with the goal of helping the Christian honour God in his day by day living.  He states at the outset: “[Ecclesiastes’] purpose is not so much to give what is mistakenly called practical instruction or instruction on how to do something, but rather to give true practical wisdom by giving us to see the realities of life with spiritual discernment” (7).

Miersma’s book contains biblical instruction for many different areas of life.  This is done in accord with the duty of the wise preacher.  “And moreover, because the preacher was wise, he still taught the people knowledge; yea, he gave good heed, and sought out, and set in order many proverbs,” (Eccl. 12:9).  Miersma’s exposition teaches about parenting, work and employment, the nature and power of the Holy Scriptures, the proper use of money, and the struggle against lust and discontent.  Mothers and fathers, old and young, male and female alike will find application to their lives as they read through it.  

This is not to say that the book is simplistic or legalistic.  Rather, the book is powerful, for the book presents to the reader the gospel.  Miersma writes honestly and soberly: “Man is finite and fallen in sin.  That which is new can only be of God and that by a wonder of grace.  Ecclesiastes stands as part of the background of the gospel.  For as it paints a true portrait of the vanity of life it points us to God and the new thing which he alone has wrought in Jesus Christ” (33).  

Miersma is qualified to have written such a spiritual commentary.  One qualification that stands out is his many years of experience as a pastor.  Years of labouring as an under-shepherd has given him to see first hand the transitory nature of life on this earth.  He has observed that “to every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven” (Eccl. 3:1).  These life experiences, in conjunction with his own personal conviction of life after death, add depth and warmth to the book.

The book could be recommended for many reasons, but what stands out is the wise and time-appropriate instruction about money.  We live in a world in which materialism is not only permitted but even encouraged.  Men spend their days trying to earn more dollars; women and men alike spend their free time dreaming of ways they may spend their money.  Miersma cautions against such: “Earthly abundance does not satisfy.  Enough, whether of gold and silver or abundance, is never enough” (86).  Indeed, “the abundance of the rich will not suffer him to sleep” (Eccl. 5:12), because “riches for a man given to covetousness bring with them fretful care and worry lest they be lost” (89).  The sad end of the covetous man is “he now has nothing, and he will die and carry nothing away.  He has striven for the wind and obtained empty air” (92).  In contrast is the blessing “that grace brings to us as the children of God and [which] gives to us the light of life, even eternal life” (92).

Ecclesiastes is a deep book.  Anyone who has read through it will acknowledge the difficulty of understanding the figurative language used by Solomon.  Miersma, as a good teacher, has worked hard at taking that which is deep and mysterious and making it discernible and concrete to the reader.  Nonetheless, some readers will struggle to stay engaged; after all, the book is a biblical exposition, not a novel.  May I recommend that the earnest reader take small sections at a time – perhaps reading only a few pages at a time – and then meditate and pray over the truth, and you will find this book to be a blessing to you.

The book of Job is God’s commentary on the sufferings and trials of His people. Jehovah speaks to our struggles, first, from the viewpoint of His own interactions with Satan, then from the viewpoint of Job’s interactions with his friends and, finally, as the One who appears to Job and his friends in a tornado. The book describes suffering on a scale seldom seen. It shows our weaknesses and the temptations we face when under the hand of God or when called to bring comfort to others who are suffering. For that reason, it is instructive and corrective. But it is also of great encouragement, for it points those who are suffering to God’s sovereignty in trials, and to His faithfulness and saving grace to His own.

This work is not an exhaustive, verse-by-verse explanation of the book of Job. Instead, Rev. Hanko shows how the book fits together and leads up to its grand climax in the appearance of Almighty God! It also shows that Job has often been misunderstood and maligned, and though guilty of sin, as we all are in suffering, is nevertheless one whose faith and hope in God are sure. May it be of help to all who love God as Job did, especially when the God they love chastises and corrects them as He does all of His children.

Ronald Hanko is an emeritus minister in the Protestant Reformed Churches of America. He has served in the active ministry for 38 years. He has also written Doctrine According to Godliness: A Primer of Reformed Doctrine and The Coming of Zion’s Redeemer: The Prophecies of Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi.

Description

Christians want to know Christ from the Old Testament, from Micah, and the other minor prophets. And yet for many of us the minor prophets are like a sealed book. The inspired writing of the minor prophets are addressed to the people of God and addressed to us also in the New Testament church. As inspired scripture they indeed speak of Christ: Micah does so extensively, and not only in the obvious reference to Bethlehem in chapter 5:2.

The prophet Micah proclaims the incomparable God of judgment and mercy. This God is our God, the God of all who believe in Jesus Christ. And this prophecy has vital lessons to teach us today.

“I would like a copy of [Micah: Proclaiming the Incomparable God, the book by Rev. Martyn McGeown] … Recently, I started [delivering] a series on Micah in our Bible classes, for which I leaned heavily on the profitable sermon series by Rev. McGeown.” – Hungary

“I have almost finished Rev. McGeown’s book on Micah – just 20 pages to go. It is excellent; very clear and easy to understand. When I’m finished, I intend to read it all again. There is so much good material in it and, now that I am elderly, I find it harder to retain it all.” – N. Ireland

“I am, unusually, staying with the wonderful prophecy of Micah, even though I studied it slowly and carefully the first time. It has been so very good being given the entrance to it, as I so needed both its conviction and its comfort. How much we, the bride of Christ, need every part of God’s precious Word!” – England

Author interview—Rev. McGeown talks about his new book, Micah: Proclaiming the Incomparable God

Read a review of this book by Rev. Jerome Julian

Click here to read another review of Micah: Proclaiming the Incomparable God

The prophecy of Isaiah occupies a large place in the Old Testament canon of Scripture, not only from the viewpoint of its length, but also from the perspective of its significance. Second only to the psalms, it is the book most frequently quoted in the New Testament. Among the books of the prophets, it is quoted by Jesus and his apostles in support of the New Testament gospel of grace more frequently than all of the other prophets put together. In addition, Isaiah’s vocabulary is richer than that of any other prophet, and even more comprehensive and diverse than that of the psalms.

Why did Jesus and his apostles quote from Isaiah as often as they did? What did the author of this book see in the prophecy of Isaiah that made him concentrate much of his preaching on this book for some thirty years? The answer lies in the messianic characteristic of the book; Isaiah speaks of Christ. Sometimes the prophecy is indirect, vague, and difficult to understand. At other times clear, literal, and straightforward. In either case, Isaiah always speaks of the coming of the Messiah implying both the judgment of the wicked world and the salvation of Zion.

The author of this book, Homer C. Hoeksema served as minister in the Protestant Reformed Church from 1947 to 1959 as a professor of Old Testament and Dogmatics in the Theological School of the Protestant Reformed Churches from 1959 until his death in 1989. Hoeksema loved the prophecy of Isaiah and preached on 125 different passages from this book. Redeemed with Judgment: Sermons on Isaiah is the transcribed and edited collection of these sermons, some of which can be listened to free on-line.

BOOK REVIEW

This superb, hardback book sets forth powerful, unchanging truths for the Christian and the church of Jesus Christ. Thoroughly exegetical and expository, these sermons on Isaiah 1-39 open up the grand Messianic prophecies of the evangelical prophet (e.g., in Isaiah 2, 4, 7, 9, 11, etc.) and trace the experiences of the Old Testament church. The times were evil, with Israel facing not only the threats of war from her neighbouring enemies, but also apostasy from within. This apostasy manifested itself particularly through Israel’s unholy alliance with God’s enemies. Consequently, Israel provoked the righteous God to anger. Both the godly and the ungodly seed suffered the effects of Jehovah’s terrible judgments. But the faithful remnant must be comforted because “to outward, carnal Zion Isaiah prophesies doom and destruction, while to spiritual Zion he speaks comfort and salvation” (p. 44).

Deeply enthralling is the author’s ability to apply these OT lessons to the church today. As a picture of the New Testament church, Israel’s experiences necessitate our learning. Only too real is the similarity drawn between God’s people today and in Isaiah’s time. They always appear small in number and are constantly assailed and oppressed by their enemies. But we are assured that He “smites the righteous in divine love, and he smites the reprobate, ungodly world in divine wrath” (p. 299). In every sermon this idea is powerfully demonstrated. God destroys the wicked but chastises His children till they reach perfection through their crucified Redeemer. It is an amazing source of hope and comfort as the church of Jesus Christ sails through the stormy seas.

Appropriately discussed in these sermons are precious truths for the child of God. In the negative sense heresies and errors are exposed. Thus the evils of dispensationalism and common grace are condemned. On the positive side, God’s everlasting truth is maintained, serving as a sure foundation and guide for His children.

The theme of Isaiah, according to the author, is not only comforting but humbling: “The sovereignty of the holy and omnipotent God revealed in the salvation of covenant Zion in the way of judgment” (p. 8). Through judgment both God’s people and the ungodly are compelled to acknowledge Him as the Sovereign One. Through judgment God’s elect are separated from the ungodly world. Therefore, the salvation of God’s people “can come only in the way of Jehovah’s judgments” (p. 273). And redeemed they shall be!

Highly recommended. Volume 2 of Redeemed with Judgment on Isaiah 40-66 completes the set.

Aaron Lim, Singapore

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“Thank you! Excellent book [Redeemed with Judgment], could not put it down … May God continue to richly bless all of you.” – New York, USA

“I have just finished Redeemed with Judgment, a book I will treasure. Every page I turned was just filled with God’s truth.” – Co. Antrim, N. Ireland

Click here to read a review in the Protestant Reformed Theological Journal (vol. 41, no. 2, pp. 117-120).

Click here for a translation of chapter 1 into Italian.
Click here for a translation of chapter 1 into Portuguese.
Click here for a translation of chapter 12 into Portuguese.
Click here for a translation of chapter 47 into Portuguese.

The prophecy of Isaiah occupies a large place in the Old Testament canon of Scripture, not only from the viewpoint of its length, but also from the perspective of its significance. Second only to the psalms, it is the book most frequently quoted in the New Testament. Among the books of the prophets, it is quoted by Jesus and his apostles in support of the New Testament gospel of grace more frequently than all of the other prophets put together. In addition, Isaiah’s vocabulary is richer than that of any other prophet, and even more comprehensive and diverse than that of the psalms.

Why did Jesus and his apostles quote from Isaiah as often as they did? What did the author of this book see in the prophecy of Isaiah that made him concentrate much of his preaching on this book for some thirty years? The answer lies in the messianic characteristic of the book; Isaiah speaks of Christ. Sometimes the prophecy is indirect, vague, and difficult to understand. At other times clear, literal, and straightforward. In either case, Isaiah always speaks of the coming of the Messiah implying both the judgment of the wicked world and the salvation of Zion.

The author of this book, Homer C. Hoeksema served as minister in the Protestant Reformed Church from 1947 to 1959 as a professor of Old Testament and Dogmatics in the Theological School of the Protestant Reformed Churches from 1959 until his death in 1989. Hoeksema loved the prophecy of Isaiah and preached on 125 different passages from this book. Redeemed with Judgment: Sermons on Isaiah is the transcribed and edited collection of these sermons, some of which can be listened to free on-line.

In 950 pages—one chapter for every chapter of Genesis—the author shares a rich collection of facts and insights that he gathered over a thirty-year period from his own personal Bible study and from a variety of other disciplines. From natural history to biblical word studies, Rev. Harbach weaves a most interesting narrative, all undergirded with his belief in the inerrancy of Scripture. As one reviewer put it, the author “had the believer, not the learned doctors of theology in mind.” This work will make a most rewarding companion volume to your Bible the next time you read through Genesis. It is well documented with footnotes and an extensive bibliography. A subject index is included as well.

STUDIES IN THE BOOK OF GENESIS by Robert C. Harbach (reviewed by Prof. H. Hanko)

In my Seminary days I studied with Rev. Harbach under the instruction of Revs. Hoeksema and Ophoff. Over the years in the ministry he has been an esteemed colleague and it is with a sense of grief that I see his active ministry brought to a close by retirement. In a certain sense, this commentary by Rev. Harbach is a continuation of his ministry in our churches and his labours of love to believers throughout the world who love the Reformed faith. We are thankful that it has been published and wish to commend the congregation of Grandville for undertaking this work. It will be of abiding value for all those who love the Scriptures and who know that the Reformed faith is the truth of Scripture.

It is impossible, of course, to review the book in detail. But Rev. Harbach has made the study of the book of Genesis a project which spanned many years. His commentary on this book is not, therefore, hastily thrown together, but is the culmination of many years of thoughtful study and prayer, and has undergone the testing of societies and Bible classes which Rev. Harbach has led. It is a book which gives evidence of much thoughtful contemplation of the divine text.

As far as the format is concerned, a few things may be said. It is a detailed (though never tedious) and faithful exposition of the text itself and shows the author’s commitment to the truth of inerrant inspiration. It is interspersed with graphs, charts, quotations from other writers and from various poets. It has several notes on various doctrinal questions which arise out of the text which are, in themselves, important and interesting. At the end it contains an appendix which deals with the unbelief of higher criticism, especially applied to this book.

When the book is reprinted, I would suggest a couple of changes in format which would, I think, enhance the value of it. There is a certain lack of uniformity in format which, if corrected, would make the book better. For example, the first part of the book deals with the text verse by verse; the second part is written in more essay-type form. Sometimes the author includes, a long list of questions at the end of his discussion of a chapter; other times he does not. Sometimes a chapter begins with the author’s own translation of the passage; other times it does not. Perhaps these inconsistencies in format are the result of a long period of labour, but they ought to be changed in future printings.

The book is scholarly, thorough, and very interesting reading. It gives evidence of a wide range of learning in many fields and demonstrates clearly the terrible error of vicious higher and destructive criticism, something sorely needed in our day. It is written by a man who is not only deeply committed to the Reformed faith, but who is not averse to setting forth the Reformed faith over against those who deny it. It is, in a good sense, polemical.

Rev. Harbach comes from a different ecclesiastical tradition than that of the Dutch Reformed faith. To me this is one of the strengths of the book. Because of our upbringing, we are sometimes not as aware of ecclesiastical currents outside our Churches as we would like to be. Rev. Harbach, speaking from a different background, has something to say to us which we ought to hear. And he has not lost his ability to speak to others outside our own tradition in a way which we cannot. I find this refreshing and enriching.

While the commentary goes into various technical questions of Hebrew grammar and syntax, as well as various scientific questions which arise out of the attacks on the historicity of Genesis 1-11, it is never written in such a way that it lies beyond the understanding of all God’s people. Rev. Harbach had the believer, not learned doctors of theology, in mind when he wrote the book. All our readers, therefore, ought to have a copy in their libraries, not only to support the work of Grandville Church, but also to enrich their own understanding of this important book of the Bible.

Former missionary-pastor in the CPRC, Rev. Ron Hanko’s The Coming of Zion’s Redeemer is a commentary on the last three books of the Old Testament: Haggai, Zechariah and Malachi.

These prophecies, though not always easy to understand, are as much needed today as when they were inspired. Written for those living at the end of the Old Testament and looking forward to the first coming of Christ, they speak with authority and promise to those who are looking forward to the second coming of Christ and who live near the end of this present age. Though Haggai, Zechariah and Malachi are very different in style, they have a unity of theme and purpose in Christ, the great king, priest and prophet of His people.

Follow Rev. Hanko through the four prophecies of Haggai on “the desire of all nations;” the seven visions, three stories and two burdens of Zechariah on “the priest upon the throne;” and the six disputations of Malachi on “the messenger of the covenant.”

“The Coming of Zion’s Redeemer is the best OT commentary I have. It is beautifully finished and I loved every page of it.” – N. Ireland

“I’m very much enjoying Ronald Hanko’s The Coming of Zion’s Redeemer.” – England

An exposition of the Old Testament from a covenantal perspective. This is in an ongoing exposition: the first four volumes (covering Creation to the Conquest of Canaan) were authored by Prof. Homer C. Hoeksema. Volume 5 and 6 are authored by Prof. David J. Engelsma, who plans to write volume 7 as well.

“These very readable volumes are a veritable treasure store into which, when the believer dips, he will surely increase his spiritual wealth” (The Outlook).

“I have started Hoeksema’s Unfolding Covenant History. I have finished the first volume and am in the middle of the second. It is a work with very deep theology and a good and detailed overview of sacred history!” – Hungary

“Unfolding Covenant History is so well written—with clarity, depth and ‘liveliness’ (which I can only attribute to the Spirit of Christ in HCH [Homer Hoeksema] and DJE [David Engelsma])—it is a pleasure reading them. I find the folks who publish through RFPA the best of the theologians and writers.” – New York, USA

“I have been reading the first two volumes of the Unfolding Covenant History by the RFPA, and must say that I have enjoyed them immensely. I find the covenant theology of the PRC most compelling. – England

“Please send to me the third volume of Unfolding Covenant History. These books are certainly addictive as the review on the cover suggests!” – England

From Creation to the Flood is the first volume in Unfolding Covenant History, a series that will include Old Testament history syllabi written by the late Professor Homer C. Hoeksema and additional syllabi being written by Professor David J. Engelsma, his successor as Professor of Dogmatics and Old Testament at the Theological School of the Protestant Reformed Churches.

Prior to the publication of this series, mainly seminarians were able to benefit from this valuable material. Recognizing the great potential for the edification and comfort to all of God’s people, the Reformed Free Publishing Association has undertaken the publication of this work in a series of hardcover volumes at the rate of approximately one per year under the editorship of Mark H. Hoeksema, Professor Hoeksema’s son.

The unique feature of these volumes, which distinguishes them from other such writings, is their emphasis on the theme of God’s covenant of grace as the unifying principle of Old Testament history and of the very gospel itself. The appreciation for this truth by the reader will grow during the unfolding of the meaning of the covenant as history progresses through the books of the Old Testament.

Volume I covers Genesis 1:1 through Genesis 6, a small portion of the scriptures, yet a period that encompasses 1,650 years of biblical history. In this volume Professor Hoeksema shows that the “book of beginnings” has a significance that holds for God’s people today and endures to the end of the ages.

Click here to read an excerpt from this book in Italian.
Click here to read an excerpt from this book in Spanish.

“These very readable volumes are a veritable treasure store into which, when the believer dips, he will surely increase his spiritual wealth” (The Outlook).

“With my wife and family I spent two weeks in St. Ives in Cornwall for our vacation, During that time I read Unfolding Covenant History, vol. 1. It made the holiday for me. Do you have volume 2 in stock? If you have would you please send it to me? … I look forward to hearing the tapes of the coming Lord’s Day …” – England

“I have started Hoeksema’s Unfolding Covenant History. I have finished the first volume and am in the middle of the second. It is a work with very deep theology and a good and detailed overview of sacred history!” – Hungary

“I have been reading the first two volumes of the Unfolding Covenant History by the RFPA, and must say that I have enjoyed them immensely. I find the covenant theology of the PRC most compelling. – England

“Please send to me the third volume of Unfolding Covenant History. These books are certainly addictive as the review on the cover suggests!” – England

BOOK REVIEW

Unfolding Covenant History: An Exposition of the Old Testament, Volume 1, From Creation to the Flood. Homer C. Hoeksema, author. Mark H. Hoeksema, general editor. Grandville, MI: Reformed Free Publishing Association, 2000. 327pp. [Reviewed by Rev. Steven R. Key.]

The Reformed Free Publishing Association continues to make a significant contribution in the publication of substantial Reformed and biblical books with the printing of the first volume in a new series entitled Unfolding Covenant History: An Exposition of the Old Testament. The first volume, From Creation to the Flood, was written by the late Homer C. Hoeksema, my esteemed professor of Dogmatics and Old Testament History in the Seminary of the Protestant Reformed Churches. Those of us who were privileged to sit under Prof. Hoeksema’s teaching are happy to see the content of his instruction now being made widely available by the RFPA. Prof. Hoeksema’s love for the Old Testament was well known. It was evident in his teaching and preaching. It is evident also in his writings.

The value of this volume—as will be seen in the rest of the series as it is published, God willing—is found in its careful, exegetical unfolding of the history of God’s covenant.

That perspective is rare in our day. Not only is the literal interpretation of these opening chapters of the Bible steadfastly maintained and reasonably expounded by Prof. Hoeksema, but there is a unique covenantal perspective in his exposition. His development of Old Testament history takes into account the organic perspective of all history, as well as the unity of sacred history with its focus always upon Christ and the realization of God’s covenant with His people in Christ.

This kind of treatment of Old Testament history, and particularly this covenantal and organic perspective, has been sorely lacking. In fact, one searches for it largely in vain even among other Reformed theologians. It is a refreshing approach to the unfolding of biblical revelation.

Adding to the value of this volume is a 17-page introduction to the series written by the editor, Mark Hoeksema. This introduction explains the organic unity of Bible history and the covenant character of that history as it also determines our approach and method in Bible interpretation. Prof. Hoeksema’s book illustrates that concretely, as will all the books in this series.

Because of the importance of the opening chapters of Genesis to the whole of biblical doctrine, this volume is particularly valuable.

Prof. Hoeksema’s treatment of the creation account shows his unwavering devotion to the historical and literal interpretation of this portion of Scripture. In his words, maintaining the truth of God as Creator and maintaining the biblical account of creation is a matter of life and death for the church. “The church herself must not exchange the testimony of revelation for the language of the wisdom of man.” We must sit humbly at God’s footstool to learn of Him. Scripture, after all, is God’s own narrative with regard to His own work. The creation account is a matter of clear revelation. “There simply is no room in the record of scripture for a process of any kind…. Scripture certainly presents the work of creation as immediate and instantaneous.”

Already in the opening chapters, Hoeksema gives careful attention to the time factor in Genesis 1, repudiating theistic evolution (or what since has been more deceivingly named by its promoters “progressive creationism”), the framework hypothesis, and other theories that reject the clear teaching of the Genesis account and its literal interpretation.

Hoeksema develops the truth, which is often overlooked, of creation as an act of the Triune God. The book also contains a careful treatment of each day of creation week, including the significance of man as “the crowning work of God in the earthly creation,” God’s covenant friend. Hoeksema repudiates any idea of a “covenant of works,” and shows that the covenant that God established with man is a relationship, a “living bond of communion, that highest and most perfect form of the bond of life,” indeed, a reflection of God’s own life as the covenant God.

The significance of both the tree of life and the tree of knowledge of good and evil is spelled out—the establishment of God’s antithesis for man.

Careful attention is also given in this volume to the fall of our first parents and the devastating effects of that fall for the whole human race and the creation. Resulting from the fall is death, the universality of sin, the total depravity of all persons, and therefore the need for the revelation of the wonder of grace in Christ Jesus.

The book goes on to take us through the history of Cain and Abel and faithful Enoch, the development of sin in the world, and the salvation of Noah and his family by the waters of the great flood, a universal flood which brought such drastic change to the world that “we do not live in the same kind of universe as did the prediluvian generations. We now live in the second world, as, by the wonder of God’s grace, it emerged from the waters of the deluge.” This, Hoeksema points out, is the plain teaching of II Peter 3:5, 6.

Not to be overlooked in the book is Hoeksema’s treatment of the genealogy of Genesis 4:16-5:32. The professor’s fascination with the genealogies of Scripture is revealed in his devotion of a chapter to that genealogy with its data and significance.

There is a wealth of sound instruction in this book. Although the material was prepared for the instruction of seminary students, it is written in a form understandable by those who are high school age and older. Much of it, in fact, is written in a preaching style. It is valuable for all.

In my review of this book, I found one thing missing that would enhance its value, and that is a subject and textual index. Because this book is not a verse-by-verse commentary, a subject and textual index would enhance its value as a reference work. Even so, the book is readable from cover to cover, and highly recommended.

An exposition of the Old Testament from a covenantal perspective. This is in an ongoing exposition: the first four volumes (covering Creation to the Conquest of Canaan) were authored by Prof. Homer C. Hoeksema. Volume 5 and 6 are authored by Prof. David J. Engelsma, who plans to write volume 7 as well.

The second volume of the Unfolding Covenant History series is divided into three parts: the postdiluvian world and the patriarchal eras of Abraham and Isaac. The postdiluvian section covers the changed earth after the flood, the establishment by God of the sword-power ordinance, the covenant with Noah, Noah’s prophetic blessing and cursing, Nimrod, Babel, and the genealogy/chronology provided for Shem’s generations. Though the facts about the first two patriarchs are familiar, the covenantal perspective on those lives makes for a much richer interpretation than most readers have ever before encountered. In fact, this can be said of all the proposed books in this series.

Homer C. Hoeksema: “Finally, for a little while at the very end of history, the wicked world will apparently succeed in overcoming the effect of Babel’s deadly wound; but that will be only to enable the final kingdom of Antichrist to fill the cup of iniquity to the very last drop in order that the wicked may be cast out into the everlasting confusion and desolation of which Babel is a picture. The only true and lasting unity is made from all the nations of the world in our Lord Jesus Christ, crucified and raised, through his Spirit, beginning on the day of Pentecost. There the difference in tongues falls away, so that in Christ Jesus the elect, new humanity, the church, is united in the bond of faith. That kingdom of our Lord Jesus Christ shall have the everlasting victory. Babel is the name of the world. Babel is the world’s essential character. God confused them, and he shall confuse them in the end and forever. But they who love the Lord Jesus Christ shall inherit the everlasting kingdom” (Unfolding Covenant History, vol. 2, pp. 79-80).

“These very readable volumes are a veritable treasure store into which, when the believer dips, he will surely increase his spiritual wealth” (The Outlook).

“I’ve just gotten to part 3 of vol. 2 [of Unfolding Covenant History] and have so benefited from it, [that I] look forward to vol. 3. Thank you for your hard work in providing us with these lovely books.” – Yorkshire, England

“I have been reading the first two volumes of the Unfolding Covenant History by the RFPA, and must say that I have enjoyed them immensely. I find the covenant theology of the PRC most compelling. – England

“Please send to me the third volume of Unfolding Covenant History. These books are certainly addictive as the review on the cover suggests!” – England

An exposition of the Old Testament from a covenantal perspective. This is in an ongoing exposition: the first four volumes (covering Creation to the Conquest of Canaan) were authored by Prof. Homer C. Hoeksema. Volume 5 is authored by Prof. David J. Engelsma, who plans to writes volumes 6 and 7 as well.

Volume 3 of the Unfolding Covenant History series is divided into three parts: the history of Jacob, the history of Joseph, and the history of the bondage and exodus of Israel from Egypt.

Jacob is a very strong character in the history of God’s covenant. His sins and shortcomings, as well as his penchant for running ahead of the Lord, are graphically described by the author. Yet the great strength of his faith in the covenant promise of God is the overriding theme. The history of this father of the tribes of Israel makes for interesting reading.

The history of Joseph is perhaps even more intriguing. The story of his life, from his being sold into slavery to his ascension to a position as ruler of Egypt, is almost stranger than fiction. The author explains how—through the awesome power of God’s sovereign providence by means of Joseph—the line of the covenant was preserved, and the fledgling nation of Israel came to live in Egypt.

The section on the bondage and exodus details the increasingly oppressive bondage of God’s people. It describes the ten plagues visited by God upon Egypt, culminating in God’s powerful deliverance of his people from the land of bondage, which is typical of our deliverance from the dominion of sin.

“These very readable volumes are a veritable treasure store into which, when the believer dips, he will surely increase his spiritual wealth” (The Outlook).

An exposition of the Old Testament from a covenantal perspective. This is in an ongoing exposition: the first four volumes (covering creation to the conquest of Canaan) were authored by Prof. Homer C. Hoeksema. Volume 5 is authored by Prof. David J. Engelsma, who plans to writes volumes 6 and 7 as well.

Volume 4 of the Unfolding Covenant History series describes the journey of Israel from Egypt to the land of promise, as well as their conquering and inheritance of Canaan (i.e., the narrative sections from Exodus 15 to Joshua 24).

This book details Israel’s journey to Mt. Sinai, where by the giving of God’s law they were constituted as a covenant nation. It narrates their eventful progress towards Canaan, and their drawing back in unbelief when they were at the very door of the promised land.

After the fulfilment of God’s sentence to wander for forty years in the wilderness because of their unbelief, the chosen people must learn anew to trust in Jehovah as they seek to dispossess the inhabitants of the land of promise. Under the leadership of Joshua, and despite much stumbling, Israel learns to expect the victory from their covenant God and, finally, subdues and inherits Canaan.

There is a depth and a freshness to Prof. Hoeksema’s exposition; even those most familiar with these portions of God’s Word will learn a great deal. Do you reckon that Moses’ holding up his hands in the battle with Amalek is a picture of prayer (Ex. 17)? Think again. What about Israel’s incessant murmuring? What about the mixed multitude? The author also forcefully shows how Moses and Joshua were types of Christ, the perfect mediator.

“These very readable volumes are a veritable treasure store into which, when the believer dips, he will surely increase his spiritual wealth” (The Outlook).

An exposition of the Old Testament from a covenantal perspective. This is in an ongoing exposition: the first four volumes (covering Creation to the Conquest of Canaan) were authored by Prof. Homer C. Hoeksema. Volume 5 is authored by Prof. David J. Engelsma, who plans to writes volumes 6 and 7 as well.

This volume in the Unfolding Covenant History series continues an exposition of Old Testament history from the viewpoint of God’s covenant faithfulness toward his people begun by Prof. Homer Hoeksema. Prof. Engelsma intends (DV) to finish in this and succeeding volumes the history of God’s church in the old dispensation.

Part 1 dealing with Judges traces the dark history of the time of the judges with its recurring themes of Israel’s departure from Jehovah to serve heathen idols, God’s chastisement of his people by delivering them to the persecution and dominance of their enemies, their crying to him for help in their distress, and the Lord’s gracious deliverance of them by various judges.

Part 2 explains the familiar but amazing history of Ruth, which illustrates vividly the truth of God’s sovereign redemption in the salvation of the Gentiles and the inclusion of Ruth into the line of the covenant so that she becomes the grandmother of King David, the saviour of Israel as the theocratic king and a type of Christ.

To watch the video of the author interview concerning this book, click here.

Click here to read a review of this book by one of our readers!

“Delighted with the book [Unfolding Covenant History, vol. 5]. Many thanks.” – Scotland

Extracts of this book in Portuguese can be read here and here.

After a fifteen-year hiatus and fourteen other published titles, Prof. David J. Engelsma continues the Unfolding Covenant History series, a covenantal exposition of the Old Testament.

The Old Testament history covered in this volume is extensive, covering the account of the life and significance for the covenant of Samuel, Saul, David and Solomon. This is the history recorded in I and II Samuel, I Kings 1–11, I Chronicles 10–29 and II Chronicles 1–9. In addition, the volume takes into consideration other passages in Scripture, especially the Psalms, that reflect on this history.

This history is also rich in significance with regard to the development of God’s covenant and covenant dealings with His people. It includes the institution and early functioning of the office of the prophet; the institution of the office of king; the stark contrast between the people’s choice as king in the charismatic, but reprobate, Saul, and God’s elect, David; and the realization of the fellowship of the covenant in the Old Testament in the temple. Among the fascinating and controversial events of the history on which this volume sheds light are the appearance to Saul of the “witch of Endor” (I Sam. 28) and the “song of the bow” (II Sam. 1:17-27).

“Must Read. Excellent book by a spiritual giant.” – Singapore

“Just finished reading Prof Engelsma’s From Samuel to Solomon. Brilliant.” – Staffordshire, England