“To know God … is to delight in him, to enjoy him, and to obey him”—so writes Rev. Ron Hanko in Doctrine According to Godliness. Rev. Hanko ministered in N. Ireland for eight years from 1993 to 2001 as the pastor of the Covenant Protestant Reformed Church, Ballymena. In fact, the book is made up of articles originally written in the manse outside Kells for the Covenant Reformed News, a short, monthly paper (available free by post or e-mail on request).

Doctrine According to Godliness consists of over 235 short, easy-to-read explanations of biblical topics arranged in 6 parts: “God and His Word,” “Man and His World,” “Christ and His Work,” “The Covenant and Salvation,” “The Church and the Sacraments” and “The Return of Christ and the Last Things.” Articles include “Knowing God,” “The Tree of Life,” “The Temptations of Christ,” “Peace,” “Church and Kingdom” and “The Wonder of the Resurrection.” The articles are only 1 or 2 pages each and make excellent devotional material.

This attractive hardback published by the Reformed Free Publishing Association (RFPA) in America has some 338 pages and comes complete with a helpful index.

Rev. Hanko is also the author of The Coming of Zion’s Redeemer and the joint author of Saved by Grace.

Click here for YouTube videos of readings from this book.

Click here to read a review of this book by one of our readers.
Click here to read a review by Prof. Dykstra in the Protestant Theological Journal.

A könyv megvásárlásához kérem, kattintson ide!

This Spanish edition of this book can be purchased through Amazon.

The whole or excerpts of this book can be read in Afrikaans, Amharic, Burmese, Chinese, Czech, French, German, Hungarian, Italian, Korean, Polish, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish, Tagalog, Ukrainian, and Urdu.

“Each explanation of doctrine in Doctrine According to Godliness might be short and simply explained, but this book is by no means simplistic. Over the course of the book, Rev. Hanko builds on the truths he has taught in previous sections. Taken as a whole, this book serves as an excellent manual of Christian doctrine.” – Tim Challies, Toronto, Canada

“What a wonderful book [Doctrine According to Godliness]! Anybody who really would like to worship and live in obedience to our Creator, has to read it … This book is even easy to read for people whose home language is not English. It contains short pieces, straight to the point … and so inspirational” – Namibia

“[I’m] really enjoying Rev. Hanko’s book that I got from you, Doctrine According to Godliness. It’s helping me understand a lot of the doctrines.” – Wales

“I have started reading a chapter of Doctrine According to Godliness each day, but can’t help looking ahead at various topics!” – N. Ireland

“… I am grateful that you have continued the CR News started by Rev. Ron Hanko, whose recently published book based on articles for the CR News I am now reading with great pleasure.” – England

“One recent book I do enjoy reading is Ron Hanko’s Doctrine According to Godliness—Excellent!” – S. Wales

“I have cut down my library, but have retained a good number of PRC books, especially [Rev. Hanko’s] Doctrine According to Godliness to which I frequently turn.” – England

“I read the book Doctrine According to Godliness by Ronald Hanko in the last few weeks, and found it really interesting and useful.” – Hungary

“I have a copy of Doctrine According to Godliness. I love it. Every portion of doctrine explained, short and to the point while being very accurate. it is a useful tool to give to new or interested newcomers to the reformed church as well as young children to have as something to refer to as they grow up. I will read it often and will read it to my children when they are old enough.” – Iowa, USA

“This book has quickly become my favourite title about Reformed (biblical) doctrines. It is a comprehensible, deep and persuasive writing! For example, before studying this book I had thought about baptism according to baptists! This book changed my opinions. There’s no return! I gladly recommend it.” – Czech Republic

“I have been reading Doctrine According to Godliness and it is an excellent book.” – Spain

“Thank you for the book, Doctrine According to Godliness. This volume, I believe should be widely read because the points of doctrine are clearly explained. I think this volume is the best introduction to Reformed doctrine.” – England

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!

_________________

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 believers James is writing to faced many problems as they made the transition from the Old Testament to the New Testament. James addresses these issues that the early Christians faced, including trials and temptations, true religion, wisdom, the use of the tongue, the judgment of the rich, patience, and spiritual help in trouble.

This eminently practical book gives instruction for living the Christian life in many of its aspects. A salient feature is the relation between justification and works, which James explains by the examples of Abraham and Rahab.

Review
by Rev. Matthew De Boer

How are we to live as those who are justified before God in Christ? In his commentary on the book of James, Faith Made Perfect, Prof. Herman Hanko answers this question by explaining the practical instruction the epistle of James gives to God’s children. The converted Jews, whom James addresses in this epistle, received instruction concerning the same things that we need to be instructed about today. As God’s people who are united to Christ by faith, we are taught in the book of James how to deal with trials and temptations, how to be wise, how to use our tongues, how to handle unfair treatment by those in authority over us, and how to deal with spiritual struggles. In exegeting these passages filled with practical demands in a verse-by-verse commentary, Professor Hanko provides excellent applications for all the members of God’s church today, including the elderly and the young people. He shows how we are to live to God’s glory in all of life and to manifest that we have genuine faith.

Understanding that we often fall short of obeying God’s commands and doing good works, even as those who are his children and united to Christ, Professor Hanko always makes sure to lead the reader to the cross of Christ. In interpreting the admonitions of James to the converted Jews of that day concerning their walk of life, Hanko shows that we also often do not follow God’s commands in this epistle and that we often do not live out of the bond of faith we have with Christ. Yet, Hanko always emphasizes that there is hope for us in Christ. For instance, concerning James 4:7, which calls us to “resist the devil,” Hanko writes, “When we fall into sin, as so often we do, we have the victory of the cross to which we flee in humble confession” (207). This book is truly Christ-centered.

In his discussion of the practical instruction and commands we are given in the book of James, Hanko explains the teaching of the book concerning the relationship between faith and works. He exegetes key passages in the book of James that deal with our justification in the sight of God. The Roman Catholic Church as well as the proponents of the federal vision use passages in James to teach that we are justified by faith and works. They appeal to texts such as James 2:21, which states, “Was not Abraham justified by works?” to attempt to prove their position. Hanko examines James 2:21 and other passages like it that are so often falsely interpreted and proves that James teaches the same truth of justification by faith alone as Paul did in Romans and in Galatians by the inspiration of the Spirit. In his explanation Hanko shows that there are indeed no contradictions in scripture.

After reading this book the child of God most definitely will have a greater knowledge of the book of James and will surely be spiritually edified. Professor Hanko spends much time explaining the connections between the verses that can sometimes be difficult to find. In describing the connections, he gives the reader a richer understanding of each individual passage. Also, his explanation of many of the key words used in the original language help the believer better understand the important concepts of this epistle. In reading this careful work on the book of James, the believer will certainly grow in knowledge of his God and will develop in his understanding of how he is to live his everyday life as one who is one with Jesus Christ.

Review
by Rev. Martyn McGeown

This is Herman Hanko’s third commentary. He has written previously on Galatians and 1 Peter, and Faith Made Perfect follows the same basic format. This is a commentary not a series of sermons, although it is certainly the fruit of thorough exegesis. In the preface Hanko mentions that he had preached a series on Galatians. I believe he may have preached, or planned to preach, a series on James also. Be that as it may, Faith Made Perfect would be helpful to the preacher today who considered preaching a series of sermons on James.

However, like all of Hanko’s books, and, indeed, like all of the books published by the Reformed Free Publishing Association (RFPA), this book is not designed to be only for preachers, theologians, or biblical scholars. There are useful footnotes, in which various points of Greek grammar are elucidated, but these are not at all off-putting to the Christian without any knowledge of the Greek language of the New Testament. These notes are useful to the pastor as he struggles with exegesis. In addition, Hanko does not bore us with extraneous details of textual criticism, historical background, or other matters, but quickly, after a brief introduction, delves into the text of scripture, which is our spiritual meat.

The title of the book, Faith Made Perfect, captures the theme of the epistle—faith is made perfect by works. The purpose of James, and more importantly the purpose of the Spirit who inspired James, is to contrast the dead “faith” of the hypocrite with the living, works-producing faith of the child of God. Pivotal to James, and pivotal to Faith Made Perfect, is chapter 2, which in church history has been a battleground not only between Rome and the reformers, but also now between the Reformed and the men of the federal vision. In light of this fact, every Reformed Christian must know what James means when he declares, “Seest thou how faith wrought with his works, and by works was faith made perfect?” and “Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only” (James 2:22, 24).

Something that impressed me about this book—and this is something that we ministers need to bear in mind when we preach series—is that Hanko never loses sight of his main theme as he works through the epistle. Always that main theme colors his exegesis and applications. For example, in his explanation of chapter 1, where James exhorts his readers to hear and to do the word of God, Hanko rightly remarks:

Immediately, the apostle slams the door in the face of all Arminians and those who teach justification by faith and works by pointing out that because we are regenerated, we are to perform these good works, which good works are what these admonitions require. James also closes the door to the antinomians, who claim that good works are unnecessary. He says, “You are regenerated, therefore God has given you the spiritual power to do these good works. Be what God has made you. You are justified by faith, and faith produces good works” (58).

Antinomianism is not an issue only in chapter 3—it is James’ concern throughout the epistle. Hanko never lets us forget it!

Another feature of Faith Made Perfect is the multiplicity of illustrations and applications. In this way Hanko follows the style of the book that he is expositing, for James uses many homely or earthy illustrations and makes numerous pointed applications. One need only list a few from chapter one—the wave of the sea (v. 6), the burning heat of the sun (v. 11), lust’s conception and bringing forth of sin and death (v. 15), and the forgetful mirror-gazer (vv. 23–24). Hanko applies the word sharply and pointedly—to himself and then to us:

This is strange, but true. You can hear a child of God sing fervently God’s praises in church on the Lord’s day as he sits next to you in the pew. But when you stand near him outside of church, you may hear him curse someone as he relates what that person did to him. You are inclined to ask, “Can this be the same person?” Then it comes to you sharply and as a dagger. You do the same in your home. You lead the family in devotions, but suddenly you speak evil of someone within the congregation and repeat a juicy bit of gossip that was told you by one of your fellow workers on the job (169).

Faith Made Perfect combines good exegesis, sound theology, helpful illustrations, and heart-searching applications. The reader will understand the epistle of James when he has finished the book, which will be useful for Bible study groups and pastors alike. Not only will the reader understand James, but also, if he has read carefully and prayerfully, he will be found humbled and comforted at the feet of Christ, where all true faith leads us.

Many books concerning the place of women in the kingdom of God are negative. Women may not preach; women may not be elders; women may not be deacons. This book, however, seeks to do more than affirm that women are excluded from the special offices of the church. Their positive contribution, a vital one, an indispensable one is set forth.

Far Above Rubies extols God-fearing women and underlines their importance. Without godly and pious women the Church could not survive. Infected by feminism, many in the professing church-world view the work of the home as “an intolerable bore” (p. 136).  However, as the book points out, “the Scriptures do not present it that way. The Scriptures speak rather of the fact that there are few, if any, callings in all of life that are more noble than the calling [of] Christian mothers” (p. 136). Bringing forth children was the hope of Old Testament women, because they believed that the Seed of the women (Gen. 3:15) would bring salvation: they longed to bring forth the Christ. That is why women like Jehosheba (II Chron. 22:11) risked life-and-limb to save the seed royal during the dark days of godless Athaliah; that is why Hannah poured out her heart for a son during the apostate days of the judges (I Sam. 1:11). New Testament women bring forth the church, future members of Christ’s body.

One contributor describes the role of covenant mothers as “shaking Satan’s kingdom” because “there is no sound more grating to the ears of Satan than the groans of mothers bringing forth the true Israel. In that cry he does not gloat. Who knows what these little ones will grow up to be and how they will withstand his kingdom!” (p. 80).

Feminists claim that Christians and the Bible are “against” women, because the Bible does not allow women to hold special offices in the Church. Far Above Rubies demonstrates that only the biblical position is for women’: “the Bible has the woman’s own best interests in view, and prescribes what is best for the woman herself” (p. 158).  Office-bearers are not lords over God’s people (I Pet. 5:3), rather “to occupy a place of authority means very, very simply that you be a slave to God’s people, the lowliest of slaves to God’s people” (p. 133) so the idea that forbidding women office is to treat them as inferiors is mistaken. Another contributor reminds us that the Bible is “very concerned to guard against the headship of the man being interpreted to justify a harsh, tyrannical, domineering rule of the man over the woman” (p. 159).  Facing the objections head-on, he dismisses as ridiculous and a mere emotional appeal the argument that not to ordain women is to waste their gifts, and he issues this challenge to those who believe the Bible is culturally-conditioned: “Do you suppose for one minute that the Lord Jesus would allow Himself to be pressured by the cultural situation of His day? Did He ever cave in to the prejudices and wrongs of the culture of His day?” (p. 169)  Such a rhetorical question ought to silence all objection.  At stake is the doctrine of Scripture.

There is also practical advice on finding a godly woman and maintaining a godly marriage: “Young men even in the church often look only for a woman with physical attractiveness and charm. And if a girl lacks what the advertisers are looking for in a ‘cover girl’, even if she is marked by godliness and the fear of the Lord, then many young men in the church look away from her. Who is looking for a virtuous woman? I warn you, if you look for less, then the Lord may well give you what you are looking for, and you can spend a life-time learning that ‘favour is deceitful and beauty is vain.’ How many men are there, even in the church, whose lives are a little bit like hell, because God gave them that pretty she-devil that they were seeking?” (p. 8).  This is the stark warning to young men in the church.

The daughters of Sarah, therefore, ought not to envy the godless women of the world, for “generally speaking there has never been a more troubled, dissatisfied, unhappy and ungodly woman than the modern emancipated American woman” (p. 66), writes one contributor. Rather they ought to find satisfaction and fulfilment in their God-given role. The Proverb says of the virtuous woman, “Her children rise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her” (31:28). Thus this book will also encourage the men of the church to bless God for their godly wives, mothers and sisters.

REVIEW

Far Above Rubies: Today’s Virtuous Woman, edited by Herman Hanko; Reformed Free Publishing Association, 1992; 187 pp., paperwork. [Reviewed by Rev. Dale H. Kuiper.]

The1atest offering of the RFPA is a compilation of eleven sermons, speeches, pamphlets, and magazine articles by five ministers and three professors from the Protestant Reformed Churches. Editor Hanko has also included four articles of charming simplicity by Abraham Kuyper from his popular book, When Thou Sittest in Thine House. As the subtitle of the book indicates, the subject of all this writing is the woman, more particularly, today’s “virtuous woman.”

Several words come to mind as one reads through these chapters: timely, biblical, consistent, practical, and positive. Timely because the place of the woman in marriage, the home, the church, and society needs definition today. Biblical because only God may, can, and does define these important roles. Consistency is itself a ruby because it is rare that across a denomination and its seminary a unified, certain sound is sent forth. The great need is for the practical application of the Scriptural givens, so that a woman’s daily problems are addressed and she knows where to turn and how to behave. Believing women are not only informed what they are not to be doing, but are in every chapter encouraged positively in the calling whereunto God calls them. A few chapter headings will whet the appetite: “A Virtuous Woman,” “Children in Marriage,” “The Calling of the Truly Liberated Woman,” “Women in Church Office.”

A couple of criticisms come to mind. Perhaps it is inevitable with a compilation such as this that there is a degree of overlapping or repetition in the articles. In several chapters the same biblical passages are treated, identical arguments are made, and the same examples employed. While this results in some reinforcement of the reader in the biblical positions, it does become tedious if several chapters are read in one sitting. Perhaps it would be best to read the book over a period of time.

The second matter that we question is the elevating of the place and work of the woman to such exalted heights that the labors of others are made all but insignificant. For example, the work of “mothers in the home is an everlasting work. From a certain point of view, it is the only work that will ever endure” (p. 72). The work of artists and craftsmen, etc., will not endure; “there is one great work that will not be removed, but shall endure, and that is the life of the child who has been formed and molded by believing hands” (p. 82). We are of the conviction that all the labors of every child of God are kingdom labors, that none of them are in vain, and, that God is faithful to reward every one of them in time and in eternity. Among those labors of the faithful are those performed by believing women in the home. With the thoughts that a mother’s work is of great significance, and that the work is one which only she can perform, we heartily concur!

This book ought to be in every Christian home. The older girls and young women should read it to learn what they are called by God to be. The older women should read it to discover what they should be teaching by word and example. The young men must read these things to know what to look for in a wife. The older men should also read it, that they might know what to guard against and what to stand for in the home and church. A profitable book, then; one that the Holy Spirit will surely use to bring forth fruit in the home and in the church of Gods Son.

To read chapter 7 of this book in Afrikaans, click here.

To read chapter 11 of this book in Afrikaans, click here.

The contemporary heresy of the Federal Vision is wreaking havoc in the Reformed and Presbyterian churches in North America and other parts of the world. Today’s Christian needs not only to be aware of it but armed against it. Prof. Engelsma helps us here by exposing the ugly root of the heresy (a conditional covenant), setting forth the truth of the unconditional covenant and proclaiming the Reformation’s gospel of salvation by grace alone!

CONTENTS

Part 1: Eradicating the Federal Vision
1. Introduction to the Federal Vision Controversy
2. The Development of a Conditional Covenant
3. The Root of the Federal Vision
4. Taking Hold of the Root
5. The Gospel of the Reformation at Issue

Part 2: Answers to Questions About the Federal Vision and the Covenant of Grace
6. The Federal Vision, Its Doctrines, and Its Defenders
7. The Federal Vision and Conditions
8. The Federal Vision and Scripture
9. The Federal Vision and the Covenant with Adam
10. The Federal Vision and Common Grace
11. The Federal Vision and the Baptism Form
12. The Federal Vision and Covenant Children
13. The Federal Vision and Its Consequences
14. The Federal Vision and the Churches
15. The Federal Vision and the Protestant Reformed Churches
16. The Federal Vision and Defense of the Faith

Appendix: A critical review of the book Trust and Obey: Norman Shepherd and the Justification Controversy at Westminster Theological Seminary by Ian A. Hewitson.

“I just ordered a copy of David Engelsma’s book Federal Vision: Heresy at the Root. When I went to the web page about the book on the RFPA’s web site, I noticed the video interviewing Engelsma about the book. I had actually watched at least part of that video several months ago, but today I definitely watched the whole video. That video was excellent, and it convinced me to go ahead and order the book.” – Mississippi, USA

“I just tore myself away from the [Federal Vision: Heresy at the Root] book I received from you this morning. So much said together between only two covers! This will really be the last say in my search for the bottom of this error (heresy!). The question/reply format in the second part really equips one to defend the faith. Excellent! Thank you ever so much.” – South Africa

“I read your excellent review of David Engelsma’s book, Federal Vision: Heresy at the Root. I have this book and you’re right. He destroys it at the root … I wish to thank you for your confirmation of my recent learning that the FV is false theology and for the great work that you are doing for the Lord in your excellent and beautiful country.” – California, USA

“Concise and hard-hitting.” – North Carolina, USA

For a review of this book by a reader in the Rep. of Ireland, click here.
For a review of this book by a reader in N. Ireland, click here.
For a review of this book by a reader in England, click here.
For a review of this book by a reader in Wales, click here.

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

Among Reformed Christians, the celebration of the anniversary of the Synod of Dordt (1618–1619) is second only to the commemoration of the Reformation of the sixteenth century. Indeed, marking the anniversary of the “great synod,” as it soon was called, is commemoration of the Reformation. For Dordt’s main accomplishment was the preservation of the gospel of God’s sovereign grace, which was restored to the church through the Reformation.

The Protestant Reformed Theological Seminary held a conference to celebrate the four hundredth anniversary of the Synod of Dordt. For God’s Glory and the Church’s Consolation includes all the presentations made at this conference, plus a bit more. The book explores the heritage that faithful Reformed churches ought to esteem, as that heritage was defended and handed down by the Synod of Dordt.

The chapters included in this book are written by Prof. Douglas Kuiper, Rev. Angus Stewart, Prof. Brian Huizinga, Rev. Mark Shand, Rev. William Langerak, Prof. Ronald Cammenga and Prof. Barrett Gritters. 

Contents

Editor’s Preface – Prof. Ronald Cammenga

Chapter 1
The Controversy Regarding Sovereign Grace: The Synod of Dordt and Its Relevance for Today – Prof. Douglas Kuiper

Chapter 2
The Canons as the Original Five Points of Calvinism – Rev. Angus Stewart

Chapter 3
Warring a Good Warfare with the Canons – Prof. Brian Huizinga

Chapter 4
Dordt’s Unfeigned Call of the Gospel – Rev. Mark Shand

Chapter 5
The Doctrine of the Covenant in the Canons of Dordt – Prof. Douglas Kuiper

Chapter 6
The Polity of Dordt: Om Goede Orde in de Gemeente Christi te Onderhouden (To Maintain Good Order in the Church of Christ) – Rev. William Langerak

Chapter 7
Illustrating and Recommending the Grace of Election: Dordt’s Doctrine of Reprobation – Prof. Ronald Cammenga

Chapter 8
Assurance: Sovereign Grace’s Speech to the Heart – Prof. Barrett Gritters

Appendix 1
The Sessions of the Synod of Dordt, 1618-1619 – Prof. Douglas Kuiper

Appendix 2
Balthasar Lydius’ Prayer at the Convening of the Synod of Dordt – translated and edited by Prof. Douglas Kuiper and Dr. H. David Schuringa

“I started reading For God’s Glory and the Church’s Consolation. It’s wonderful!” – France

“I just finished reading For God’s Glory and the Church’s Consolation. A wonderful read, especially on reprobation.” – England

This book relates the beginnings of the Protestant Reformed Churches in America, starting from its roots many years before it’s actual formation in 1925. From the doctrines and church order laid down at the historic Synod of Dordrecht of 1618-1619 and revitalized in the early 19th century by dissenters to the established state church of the Netherlands, the author traces the immigration of Dutch Calvinists to the United States when they were forced to escape ecclesiastical and economic persecution.

Several CRC ministers and congregations who opposed the Arminian tendencies in the CRC led to the formation of the PRC. Amid severe controversy, first in 1924 as they broke away from the CRC and later in 1953 amongst themselves, this fledging group of churches fought for its existence.

For Thy Truth’s Sake is not a mere relating of the people, places, and events involved – although they are included and make fascinating reading. The focus is rather on the PRC’s struggle to maintain the truth of sovereign, particular grace. The author clearly and concisely defines Protestant Reformed doctrinal distinctives. His history is brought further to life by the inclusion of 24 pages of more than 70 historic photos.

Includes Scripture and subject indexes, entire text of ten historic documents, and 24 pages of historic photos.

This book was reviewed in the Protestant Reformed Theological Journal.  Click here to read the review.

To read chapter 11 in Italian, click here.

Two books on early Protestant Reformed history may be read on-line:

A Study of the Relation Between the Views of Prof. R. Janssen and Common Grace by Herman Hanko (covers two, related, doctrinal controversies in the Christian Reformed Church [1920-1925]: the Janssen controversy over the nature and authority of Scripture and the common grace controversy, shedding much light on PRC origins)

The History of the Protestant Reformed Churches by Herman Hoeksema (covers 1924-1936)

“For Thy Truth’s Sake certainly is a good read. My immediate reaction was to think, ‘Here we go again—another book I can’t put down!’ – Warwickshire, England

“I want to share with you what a great blessing For Thy Truth’s Sake is being to me. I must admit that, initially I wasn’t interested as I thought it wasn’t about the church in England’s history. Then I saw how wrong that was of me, as the church in any land is our history, so I ordered it from you and it arrived safely last Monday. Thank you! It is so very wonderful! I hadn’t really taken in what ‘A Doctrinal History’ would mean. I have already read the first three parts and a bit of part 4. It has been really thrilling! – Halifax, England

“In pursuing the doctrinal side of the PRC, I have been through Prof. Hanko’s For Thy Truth’s Sake. Brilliant!” – Gloucestershire, England

“Lately I been profiting greatly by reading For Thy Truth’s Sake. I have been especially impressed by the portrayal of Herman Hoeksema. He comes across as someone given both to original thinking, as well as confessional fidelity. The origins of the common grace controversy is fascinating. That’s all been new to me; also the connection between diverse doctrines has also helped me to ‘piece things together,’ especially the covenant and the doctrine of marriage.” – London, England

“Ignore this book … at your peril. For its implications concern the whole Church of God militant” (British Reformed Journal).

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

Some say that the Reformed doctrines of election and God’s covenant with believers and their children discourage or even impede missions and evangelism. Though those claims are erroneous, the reality is that some in Reformed circles have often inadvertently given them credibility by neglecting evangelism and maintaining a self-focused church culture. 

But that does not have to be so.

In Go Into All the World, Daniel Holstege demonstrates that, far from impeding missions, a proper understanding of the doctrine of God’s covenant actually encourages evangelism. Go Into All the World starts from the inner life of the Triune God, who sent His Son into the world as the chief missionary, and ends with the final consummation of God’s covenant with His people. While waiting for that final day, not only ministers but all Christians are called by the Lord to bear witness of the gospel of Jesus Christ to their neighbours. The task can be difficult and intimidating. But whether you need doctrinal clarity, practical advice, encouragement for personal or church witness or a combination of these, Go Into All the World will help you grow in your ability and zeal to be a witness of Jesus Christ, according to your gifts and calling in life. 

Daniel Holstege is the pastor of Wingham Protestant Reformed Church (Wingham, ON). He was a missionary in the Philippines for five years.

What others are saying about this book:

“Daniel Holstege has written an important book on the importance and necessity for every church to be engaged in outreach and evangelism. Every church would benefit from reading through, absorbing, and putting into practice what is here written.” — Paul T. Murphy, pastor of evangelism, Messiah’s Reformed Fellowship (New York)

“I read Daniel Holstege’s book with appreciation and joy. He ably shows how the covenant of grace, even if one sees that covenant differently than him, should inspire us to preach the gospel to the nations. Too often we limit the covenant to discussions of parents and their children, when in fact the covenant is about that and so much more. The covenant demands that we also be outward-focused, preaching the gospel to those who are ‘far off.’ Holstege connects all these dots and urges Reformed churches to develop a culture of missions. Any Reformed reader (and beyond) would benefit from the well-researched and well-presented argument of this book.” — Eric Onderwater, pastor of Grace Canadian Reformed Church (Brampton, Ontario)

“With a passion for both covenant theology and the Great Commission, Daniel Holstege offers a compelling call for churches to embrace their ‘covenantal mission mandate.’ Drawing from Scripture and the Reformed tradition, he challenges believers to see that God’s covenant is not only for our children but also extends to the nations through the preaching of the gospel. Even where readers may differ on certain covenantal nuances, they will find this book to be a biblically grounded and stirring reminder that the church must proclaim Christ to all people, trusting that God will gather His own. A valuable and timely encouragement for those who long to see missions thrive in a covenantal framework.” — Tim Bergsma, pastor of Living Hope Free Reformed Church (Chatham, Ontario)

“Here is an important book on missions that is scriptural, doctrinal, practical, personal, and concise. What a unique and important work! God’s people will be blessed as Daniel Holstege recounts his experiences as a missionary to the Philippines and his own personal development in love for the mission mandate of the church, all while carefully expounding that mandate for our benefit. Avoiding an imbalanced position, Rev. Holstege has developed a mature and holistic view of God’s purposes that can be of great help to the church and the individual child of God. May God use it to grow many in love for Him and the fullness of His covenant!” — Cory J. Griess, Professor of Practical Theology and New Testament Studies Protestant Reformed Theological Seminary (Wyoming, MI)

“Go Into All the World by Daniel Holstege is proving to be a wonderful book. The questions after each chapter provoke further study and deeper cconsideration. The book is very gripping and carries a freshness on doing evangelism biblically! This is the best book I’ve read on missions. God willing in the future I can buy further copies.” – England

God’s covenant of grace with His elect people in Jesus Christ—a truth that lies at the very heart of the Reformed faith and life—is the subject of this significant study. Because the covenant is in its roots God-centred, the author treats his subject theologically. Because the covenant is the golden thread in God’s revelation in Scripture, the author treats his subject biblically and historically. Because the covenant has important application to the believer’s life and walk, the author treats his subject practically.

The focus of this book is the unity of the covenant in all dispensations and the sovereignty of God’s grace in establishing and maintaining the covenant. Some of the topics considered are the covenant with Adam, Noah, Abraham, Old Testament Israel, and the New Testament church, the mediator of the covenant, infant baptism, and the believer’s part in the covenant.

GOD’S EVERLASTING COVENANT OF GRACE, by Herman Hanko (Reformed Free Publishing Association, 236 pp., paperback). Reviewed by David J. Engelsma.

This is a book to be read for pleasure and profit. This covenant theologian, professor of theology at the Protestant Reformed Theological Seminary, gives us a thorough exposition of the truth of the covenant. This is no small gift, for, as the author declares:

It is by no means an exaggeration to say that God’s covenant is the key to the interpretation of the whole of God’s Word. It is a truth written large on every page of Holy Writ. It is a truth in the light of which the whole of the Scriptures must be interpreted. It is the central teaching of all that God has said in His infallible Word. (p. 229)

Throughout, there is practical application to the life and experience of the member of the covenant, convinced as Hanko is that “it (the covenant) is the greatest possible comfort and hope for the child of God as he wends his weary way in the pilgrimage of this life” (p. 229). The approach is historical; beginning with the covenant life of God Himself, the book treats the covenant in its historical revelation—the covenant with Adam; the covenant with Noah; etc. Not only should those espousing dispensationalism give this presentation of covenant theology a hearing, but also those holding to covenant theology in the Reformed and Presbyterian denominations ought to acquaint themselves with the doctrine (and life) of the covenant as this doctrine (and life) have been developed in the Protestant Reformed Churches. To refer only to ,one aspect of the truth of the covenant, the covenant with Noah will be seen in an entirely different light than is the case generally in Reformed and Presbyterian circles—and a glorious light at that! Hanko and the Reformed Free Publishing Association are to be thanked for this valuable contribution to Reformed literature.

“[This book is] easily understandable by the Christian layman” (The Presbyterian).

“Would you please send me a copy of God’s Everlasting Covenant of Grace by Prof. Hanko. The video interview with Prof. Hanko has whet my appetite to read it. I’m looking forward to thinking more about the wonderful covenant that God made with Christ and with us in Him.”  – Yorkshire, England

“Finished reading this amazing book by Professor Herman Hanko. I’m going to sing its praises because this book has thrilled my soul right throughout its reading and brought such comfort in understanding God’s everlasting covenant of grace for his elect people. For those who miss the covenant, whose church does not teach it in all its boundless beauty, you have no idea what you are missing out on!” – Co. Antrim

Click here to read excerpts of this book in Portuguese.
Chapter 3 has been translated and is available here in Polish.

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

What does the Bible teach regarding God’s attitude to the reprobate ungodly? What are the implications of the notion that Jehovah has an attitude of favour to the wicked? Do the Psalms support or give the lie to the theory of common grace? Does Zwier’s “triple cord” of biblical texts hold firm or is it cut to ribbons? Read and gain new appreciation for the truth that God’s goodness is always particular.

In this work, written in 1939, Herman Hoeksema answers a Rev. Daniel Zwier, who wrote an extensive series of articles defending the doctrine of common grace as adopted by the Christian Reformed Church in 1924. Rev. Zwier attempted to demonstrate the errors of Rev. Hoeksema and the Protestant Reformed Churches in their rejection of common grace. Zwier’s criticism was very pointed. Hoeksema’s reply was very pointed in return.

This book is extremely valuable for many reasons.

First, Rev. Hoeksema exposes the claim that to accept mutually exclusive propositions and to insist that “scripture teaches both” is a manifestation of “childlike faith.” Today, when propositional knowledge itself is being attacked, it is good to be regrounded on the biblical concept of logic. Hoeksema states,

[Zwier] is aware that we apply [what he calls] “miserable human logic,” which he despises, but we highly value as one of the noblest and most beautiful gifts of God to man and which we, in harmony with the will of God and in profound respect for the word of God, apply to the utmost of our power to the interpretation of scripture not to impose our notions on the holy scriptures … but to understand the scriptures in their own light (logical light, because it is light of revelation).

Second, Hoeksema exposes the dreadful implications and the absurdity of the doctrine of common grace for one’s conception of God. He uses the examples of Pharaoh, Nero and those who crucified Jesus to illustrate the terrible implications of the doctrine of common grace.

Third, Hoeksema clearly demonstrates the proper exegetical method of comparing Scripture with Scripture. This quote aptly describes the subject.

Zwier assumes that interpretation of a text apart from its connection with the current teaching of the Bible is interpretation of scripture, while I am convinced that the word of God is one organic whole that presents the same teaching throughout. Because of this, one can explain a certain text in the Bible without interpreting scripture. The whole of scripture must be considered when one interprets any particular passage, so that every text must be explained according to the rule of scripture … the current teaching of the Bible. The entire scriptural foundation on which Zwier attempts to build the superstructure of his doctrine of God’s general goodness consists of a few individual scriptural passages that superficially appear to support his view. However, his interpretation of them directly opposes not only several other clear texts of the Bible, but also the current teaching of Holy Writ. He is well aware of this conflict and admits it, but he refuses to explain scripture in its own light.

Fourth, in four chapters Hoeksema demonstrates that “scripture throughout teaches that God’s goodness is always particular and that the ungodly are never its object in time or eternity.”

Fifth, Hoeksema confronts the supposed “triple cord” of common grace proof texts put forth by Rev. Zwier (Psalm 145:9; Acts 14:16-17; Luke 6:35). They are the same texts used by the Christian Reformed Synod in 1924 and still wrongly interpreted by many today! The explanation of them is of great significance. Hoeksema severs each strand of Zwier’s “triple cord.”

Sixth, Hoeksema concludes by clarifying what happened at the Synod of 1924 and the days leading up to it. Had the ministers seceded from the Christian Reformed Church, as Rev. Zwier claimed, or had they been expelled? Had Rev. Hoeksema acted in harmony with or violated his promise governed by the Formula of Subscription? It is good that current and future generations understand what transpired then, in order to have an appreciation for the spiritual courage of their fathers and the doctrinal heritage that stems from their God-given boldness and convictions.

This work contains some of the most pointed and forceful writings of Hoeksema. His criticism of Zwier, his methods and his conclusions are simply devastating. This work is an example of how sharp one should be when doing battle with spiritual opponents. God’s honour is at stake. The arguments of those attempting to deny the truth and to teach error must be exposed. On the positive side, the proper explanations of some of the controversial passages are a refreshing reminder of how to understand these passages in light of all Scripture and the Reformed confessions.

As Hoeksema wrote in the preface to the book, “Let those who are shy of controversy remember that in this world it is impossible to maintain the truth unless one is ready and willing to defend it against gainsayers.”

For an excerpt of this book in Spanish, click here.

“God’s Goodness Always Particular—Excellent!” – London

“Just finished the book (God’s Goodness Always Particular). Excellent read.” – S. Wales

“Hoeksema does an incredible job [in God’s Goodness Always Particular] of not only handling a handful of disputed passages, but he demonstrates the ‘current’ of the Bible’s teaching on the doctrine of grace. It is hard not to look at the two denominations that came away from this theological battle in 1924 and not see that Hoeksema and company were right. Ninety-two years later, the PRC is still upholding the Reformed faith, still training ministers to be faithful to scripture, and still adhering faithfully to the Three Forms of Unity. [The] CRC is riddled with liberalism and moral relativism—the very things Hoeksema warned would come as a result of their pernicious doctrine of ‘common grace.’” – Illinois, USA

“Today I started to read Herman Hoeksema’s God’s Goodness Always Particular, which is a great work … The more I listen to HH … the more he is going to be on my list of favourite theologians.” – Netherlands

God’s Goodness Always Particular Reprinted

Since the contents of this book were originally Standard Bearer articles written in Dutch, the RFPA decided to translate these articles into English and print them in book format back in 1939. In 2016 we published a second edition of this book and printed 300 copies. By mid-2019 this book had sold out! Since we continued to receive requests for this book, we decided to keep it in stock and reprinted another 200 copies in May 2020. If you haven’t ever read this book, now is your chance to order a copy and give it a read!

From the Preface: “The material is controversial, but the reader will find sufficient positive instruction to make the reading worthwhile. Let those who are shy of controversy remember that in this world it is impossible to maintain the truth unless one is ready and willing to defend it against gainsayers.”—Herman Hoeksema

From the Foreword to the second edition: “Why is the Reformed Free Publishing Association publishing this book? It is polemical. The content is sharply worded. Motives are judged. Hoeksema says the content is controversial. None of this is popular today in the climate of political correctness.
Besides, is this controversy not ancient history? Does it really matter today? If it does matter, why does it matter? … The value of this book is no different from what it was almost eighty years ago. The reason is that the issue has not changed. At stake is still the doctrine of sovereign grace. In
the defense and development of the true doctrine of grace, the publisher is pleased to present the second edition of this book for the instruction and edification of God’s people.”

—Mark Hoeksema

A Response to Iain Murray’s The Psalter—The Only Hymnal?  (James Beggs Society)

Alice was dying from Lou Gehrig’s disease. During the last stages of her illness, letters arrived daily to comfort and encourage her. Were these notes from the Hemlock Society, urging Alice to claim her right to die with dignity and call someone in to assist her in suicide? Were these messages from the Stoic, coaching Alice to keep a stiff upper lip, to suck in her gut, and to draw from her inner resources in order calmly to resign herself to her fate? Or were these daily words to the dying Alice from God the heavenly Father Himself, reminding Alice of His sovereignty, goodness, and love—even in suffering and death—and teaching Alice to rest, by faith, in His will and in the sufficiency of His grace?

The attitude of the Christian toward suffering, based on a theology that recognizes the sovereignty of God in all trials, is well defined in the foreword by Professor Herman Hanko. For comfort in suffering and for an example of how to be a godly comforter to others in their suffering, read Good Morning, Alice.

REVIEW

“Good Morning Alice,” by Gise J. VanBaren. Grand Rapids: Reformed Free Publishing Association, 1994. 157 pp. (paperback). [Reviewed by Prof. Robert D. Decker.]

We quote from the jacket of the book: “Alice (the author’s sister, RDD) was dying from Lou Gehrig’s disease (ALS, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, RDD). During the last stages of her illness, notes from an anonymous friend arrived daily to comfort and encourage Alice. Each note reflected on a Scripture passage. These reflections helped Alice come to terms with her suffering and brought her to acknowledge the sovereignty of God in His way for her.

“The author skilfully weaves these letters into his account of and commentary on Alice’s illness and death. In these pages the reader also can find comfort and strength to endure the sufferings, discouragements, and tragedies which come to each child of God and can find the joy and peace of trusting God in all His works and ways.”

God’s children who struggle with terminal illness, or those who have loved ones struggling with serious or terminal illness, will want to read this moving account. Any believer who wrestles with the question of how a good God can cause His beloved saints to suffer will benefit from the book and from the preface which was written by Prof. Herman Hanko.

Gise J. Van Baren was a minister in the Protestant Reformed Churches in America until his death.

The RFPA is to be commended for making this moving story available to the reading public.

AD 2017 marks the five-hundredth anniversary of the Reformation of the church of Jesus Christ. In 1517 the Reformer Martin Luther affixed the ninety-five theses to the door of the church in Wittenberg, Germany, the act by which Jesus Christ began His reformation of his church. Essential to this Reformation was the gospel-truth of justification by faith alone.

The book is a thorough explanation of the divine, saving act of justification and a vigorous defence of the doctrine, not only against the old heresies of Rome and of Arminianism, but also against the contemporary attacks on justification by the New Perspective on Paul, Evangelicals and Catholics Together, and the Federal Vision.

Originally conceived by the author as a polemical work against the modern attacks on, and departures from, the truth of justification, the book became instead a thorough, systematic and largely positive treatment of the doctrine. Instead of contending with the theologians, it instructs Reformed and Presbyterian believers, including perhaps some ministers, in the truth that is the heart of the gospel and that, therefore, bears on all the other truths of the gospel. The book explains justification as imputation; that justification is by faith; the essential importance of justification’s being by faith “only;” the meaning of justification’s being “by the faith of Jesus;” the assurance of faith, with particular reference to the error of much of Puritanism; the “when” of justification, including a careful, moderate and biblical defence of eternal justification; the origin of justification in the counsel of the covenant; the merit of Christ’s active obedience; the still controversial relation of Paul and James; the necessary relation of justification and election; and more.

The book is permeated with biblical exposition and the doctrine is founded upon Scripture. Although not mainly polemical, the book throughout defends justification by faith alone, especially against contemporary false doctrines and teachers. It names names. This alone makes the book worthwhile. For the present-day Reformed churches and theologians, facing an assault on the gospel truth of justification that threatens and undoes everything that the Reformation confessed and for which the Reformers contended, either fall into a cowardly silence or subtly compromise the fundamental gospel truth. Thus, there is a great falling away (unto perdition)—not of the “liberal” Protestant churches, which became apostate long ago and are ready, if not eager, to fall into the embrace of Rome—but of the Reformed and Presbyterian churches that still have a reputation of “conservative” and orthodox.

Nevertheless, the book is more than a contemporary defence of justification against modern heresies and heretics, including the New Perspective on Paul, the Federal Vision, N. T. Wright and Norman Shepherd. It is also more than only a historical commemoration of the sixteenth-century Reformation’s stand on behalf of the truth of justification by faith alone. These two features alone would make the book timely.

In two respects the book can justly, if audaciously, claim to be a development of the doctrine that was the heart of the Reformation. First, contemporary heresies have occasioned development of the doctrine, for example, the ultimate grounding of justification in the counsel of the covenant. Second, the book is a systematic, thorough, concentrated treatment of justification. The Reformers worked the truth of justification into their commentaries, theological treatises on various subjects and polemical works. They did not, so far as I am aware, produce a work devoted strictly to justification in a systematic, concentrated, thorough treatment of the doctrine.

The RFPA contributes to the commemoration of the Reformation, therefore, not only by remembering the gospel truth of justification, but also by explaining the doctrine to a new, much later generation of Protestant believers, by defending it against contemporary foes and by developing it further.

At such a time as this, a work that echoes Luther’s “here I stand” with specific regard to the fundamental doctrine of the Reformation is not only appropriate, but necessary. Clearly, unequivocally, creedally, biblically, the gospel truth of justification by faith alone, without works—any works, all works! Only the alien, perfect work of the Son of God in our flesh, Jesus the justifying Christ of God! Received by faith alone! Luther—to whose memory the book is dedicated—would be glad.

“… so thrilled with this last book. I’d like to order three more copies to give to the staff members at my church.” – USA

“I strongly recommend this book. It will most certainly challenge even Reformed readers to more thoroughly work out their understanding of the doctrine of justification.” – Douglas Douma (Presbyterian pastor and author)

“What a pleasure to read so many things from so many angles about the utter sufficiency and power of Christ and His righteousness to freely justify us through faith! Engelsma states ‘justification is a perfect act of salvation,’ with us receiving a ‘perfectly accomplished verdict’ (p. 449). In Christ we are right with God forever, as safe and justified now as we ever will be! Also the book is so helpful in understanding how the wrong teachings of the federal vision and the new perspectives on Paul are perpetuated through both subtlety and outright misinterpretation of scripture, causing Engelsma to say: ‘the federal vision is as ignorant of the law as it is of the gospel’ (p. 488). But this [is] a book to make us see we are co-heirs with Christ and have a right to all his blessings only for the sake of His righteousness.” – Pennsylvania, USA

“This is a great book! I bought a bunch to use … for a class or as gifts!”

A recent radio interview of Prof. Engelsma about his book, Gospel Truth of Justification, is now available on the CPRC website!

For an excerpt of this book in Hungarian, click here.

To read this book in Polish, click here.

Book Review by Rev. John Marcus.

Who would have thought that the gospel truth of justification by faith alone would be under attack today in churches that have their heritage in the Protestant Reformation? Yet Engelsma makes plain that such is exactly the case, even as we celebrate the five-hundredth anniversary of the Reformation. The current controversy concerning justification is so critical to the gospel that we do well to learn to defend the truth against the lie that spreads itself throughout the church world.

Anyone who is intimidated by the word justification in the title of this book and has the notion that such a book must belong only in seminaries and pastors’ studies is sorely mistaken. This book belongs not only in the homes of those who care for the truth of the gospel, but also in their hands as they read every page. It belongs in the hands of members of faithful churches as a means by which God may protect the church. It belongs as well in the hands of members of churches that have not faithfully maintained the truth, so that they might begin once again to stand for the truth. And it belongs in the hands of those who have wavered concerning the truth of justification, so that they might learn the truth and repent of any errors they have held.

Gospel Truth of Justification is a sound and helpful exposition of the basic truth of justification by faith alone. The author covers the truth of justification from multiple angles, so that by the time one is finished with the book, he or she should have a thorough knowledge concerning justification, the “main hinge upon which religion turns” (as Calvin called the truth of justification). Engelsma quotes the Reformed and Presbyterian creeds to demonstrate the definition of justification as “God’s pardon of the guilty sinner—the forgiveness of sins—delivering the sinner from eternal damnation. It is also the gift to the sinner of a righteousness that makes the sinner worthy of eternal life and glory.” He shows that the creeds and scripture clearly teach that justification is 1) by imputation, not by infusion of righteousness; 2) a legal act that changes the sinner’s legal standing before God; 3) by faith alone apart from the good works that proceed from faith; 4) not based on faith itself as an act that substitutes for good works; and 5) based “wholly and exclusively [on] the righteousness of Jesus Christ.”

The book is especially valuable because it exposes the errors of ancient and modern heretics alike. One of the strengths of Engelsma’s work is that he helps the reader see errors hidden in the words of the most smooth-talking heretics. For the benefit of rooting out error and warning God’s people, he is not afraid to name names. In characteristic fashion he takes aim at various errorists, showing what they teach and then demolishing their arguments one by one. He deals with the related errors of the Roman Catholic Church; the Arminian heresy; the heresy of federal vision, which is rooted in the doctrine of a conditional covenant; and the new perspective on Paul, all of which deny justification by faith alone apart from works.

Lastly, the book is valuable for Engelsma’s development of the doctrine of justification as he unfolds the truth to reveal more of its beauty to sinners saved by grace. Some helpful topics discussed are assurance of justification; when justification takes place, including a discussion of eternal justification; the place of Christ’s active obedience in justification; the reward of good works; the harmony between the inspired apostles Paul and James in Romans and James, respectively; the tight connection between election and justification; and the relationship of justification to the final judgment.

This book deserves to be widely read and discussed. A hearty thanks to the author for his defense of the gospel truth. Above all, thanks be to God for his unspeakable gift.

Those were the Dark Ages, the days of knights and castles and kings and queens, of monasteries, Vikings and monks. But one monk stood out from all the rest. One monk stood firm for the truth. This is the story of Gottschalk of Orbais, a light of truth in the darkness of his age—a light of truth in ours.

For several years the RFPA has discussed publishing books for younger readers and Gottschalk: Servant of God represents our first effort. This book is intended for high school ages. Because the story is intriguing and the history of Gottschalk is not well-known, adults will also enjoy this book and find it profitable.

“I’ve found [the biography of] Gottschalk very encouraging. How wonderful that the Lord kept him faithful though standing alone and imprisoned for nearly 20 years!” – W. Yorkshire, England

“What a beautifully produced book this is!” – Leicestershire, England

I’ve enjoyed reading Gottschalk: Servant of God. Gottschalk was a great Christian, who stood alone for sound doctrine – Lincoln, England

Listen to the audio of a lecture on “Gottschalk: Medieval Confessor of God’s Absolute Sovereignty.”
Watch the video of a lecture “Gottschalk: Medieval Confessor of God’s Absolute Sovereignty” and its Q. & A. session.

Book Review

Published in the English Churchman (15 & 22, April 2016)

This helpful little book was recently published by Reformed Free Publishing Association (RFPA) based in Michigan, USA. I had never heard of Gottschalk before and what a treat and tonic I had to read about his life. In a day when even orthodox Calvinistic thinkers are watering down their message to present a more palatable presentation of the gospel, this book is an antidote to such conduct. Even more surprising is a clear defence of the twin doctrines of election and reprobation from a Benedictine monk in the 9^th century. The Westminster Confession does state in Chapter 3 section 8 that the doctrine of predestination is to be handled prudently and carefully but this chapter of the confession clearly proclaims the doctrines of election and reprobation.

Gottschalk was born around 806 in Saxony into a high ranking family. However, this child was born the “The Dark Ages” and the state of Christianity was very poor. His parents donated him to a monastery along with his inheritance. Any student of the Roman Catholic Church knows how the people can be manipulated form money in return for eternal security. However God, in his providence, had different plans for Gottschalk.

The book charts the life of Gottschalk through his monastic training and then his public church life, where he made the most audacious stand for sovereign grace. We are presented with a young man who was soaked in the Scriptures and the church fathers, especially Augustine. We trace a line that flows from the apostles to Augustine to Calvin in the clear presentation of election and reprobation. When in attendance at the Synod of Mainz in 829 (when he was approximately 23!), he set out his confession of faith as follows:

I, Gottschalk, believe and confess, profess and testify, from God the Father, through God the Son, and in God the Holy Spirit, and affirm and assert before God and His Holiness that predestination is double whether of election to peace or of reprobation to death. Because just as God, by free grace, has unchangeably predestined all His elect to life eternal, so likewise (similiter) the same unchangeable God by just judgment has unchangeably predestinated all the reprobate, who in the day of judgment are damned on account of their evil merits, to merited eternal death” (p. 75).

What a clear statement of truth from a Roman Catholic monk! He would shame the vast majority of Protestantism today. Note also his tender age. We are said to expect too much of our young people but in reality we expect too little. Gottschalk is an example of how young men can be fully theological literate when they truly desire the truth.

Gottschalk was harassed, silenced, beaten and imprisoned for his faith, and died defending sovereign grace. Just like today, “Calvinist” church men stated they were Augustinian in doctrine but then taught predestination, like Gottschalk’s foe Hincmar, in language which is not distinct or clear and with no room for reprobation. A synod at Quierzy declared Gottschalk a heretic. He was flogged within an inch of his life so that his blood stained the ground and he was forced to throw his writings in the fire. He was led bleeding, bruised and wounded to a prison room. Even as he was dying, Hincmar tempted Gottschalk to water down his views with the promise of the sacraments and a Christian burial. However, he did not bend. In the final chapter of the book, it is put as follows:

Gottschalk knew that long ago in eternity God had chosen him to be an elect of God in Jesus Christ for no other reason than that God wanted to. By himself Gottschalk was only a man, a sinner like everyone else. He knew that. The reason for election is in God alone. Gottschalk knew that too. God does not change his decrees. Gottschalk knew the devil cannot steal one elect out of God’s hand. Even locked away in his prison cell, Gottschalk knew the devil could not steal him. His election and salvation was sure. His path in this life was sure. His place in heaven was sure. In that knowledge Gottschalk could die for the truth he loved (pp. 121-122).

Gottschalk died around 868. He gave his life and death for sovereign grace. Oh, for men like this today who will stand for orthodox truth instead of saying you can be a Calvinist but preach like an Arminian! I strongly recommend this book. It is an easy read which would not challenge teenagers. We need to hear the truth and this is a superb introduction to election and reprobation.

In 1618-1619 the great Synod of Dordt met to counter the Arminian error that was threatening the peace and welfare of the Reformed churches in the Netherlands. The fruit of their deliberations was the Canons of Dordt, a creed which has defined the Calvinist, Reformed faith for centuries.

This accessible commentary on the Canons leads readers through the comforting message of the creed: being wholly saved by God’s grace—not one’s own merit—comes with the steadfast assurance of eternal and unchangeable election.

A recent radio interview of Rev. McGeown about his book, Grace and Assurance: The Message of the Canons of Dordt, is available!

Part 2 of a recent radio interview with Rev. McGeown about Grace and Assurance

REVIEW

Grace and Assurance: The Message of the Canons of Dordt, by Martyn McGeown. Jenison, MI: Reformed Free Publishing Association, 2018. Hardcover. 384 pages. [Reviewed by Derrick Span, a member of Immanuel Protestant Reformed Church.]

Rev. Martyn McGeown’s book, entitled Grace and Assurance: The Message of the Canons of Dordt, emphasizes the necessity, as Reformed Christians, to thoroughly understand our creeds and confessions. These creeds and confessions exhibit what heresies our fathers fought against and what they clung to with ardent zeal. We might ask what value there is in reading a book about the Canons, or we might object that the Canons, Belgic Confession, and Heidelberg Catechism are only creeds. Should we be spending our time studying these old creeds and confessions when we have big enough problems understanding our Bible? Are we not supposed to hold to sola scriptura? While these areas of concern are essential, they express a misunderstanding that we cannot learn from those who came before us. We must be careful in speaking in that way. Instead, we ought to read and listen to those who fought for the truth, seeking the truth from them. By hearing them, we will be better equipped to read God’s word through an informed outlook. So I encourage the use of this book not just for informing us of what our fathers taught, but as a means to examine what we hold to and whether we maintain the understanding of God’s word. To encourage this mindset, a brief explanation of the book is necessary.

The author’s explanation of the Canons begins with the intent, namely to expose Arminianism as erroneous from the ground up. To accomplish this purpose, our fathers had to explain many different doctrines as clearly as possible to leave no room for Arminianism to stand. Where would they begin? Would they start with the main point that Arminian fought against, i.e., reprobation? As a reading of the Canons would illustrate, they did not begin with reprobation; in fact, they did not for some time. The Canons began with who God is and who man is in relation to God. McGeown and our forefathers teach us a crucial bit of wisdom by starting with God in their explanation.

Explaining the context surrounding the creeds, the author dives into the material, systematically explaining all five heads by showing that all the articles connect to create an excellent understanding of God’s word. In chapter one head one is covered. Starting with the scriptures, Dordt formed its foundation for theology. The author explains in head one that the Canons’ foundation includes the following: what kind of God we have; who we are to him; and God’s purpose for predestination. After establishing a foundation on these topics, Dordt could confidently examine the objections the Arminians had towards election and reprobation including questions like: what kind of loving God would send people to hell?; and, alternatively, how does predestination not destroy any possibility of a personal decision? McGeown shows how the answers to these questions and more are developed further through all five heads.

In chapter two head two builds on head one in that it takes up the subject of Christ’s death in relation to predestination. For example, why did Christ have to die for his people? Could God not have just “forgotten” their debt to him? Would he not have been merciful in doing that? The answers to these questions need to be developed from the foundation of head one because they are rooted in the character of who God is. Many Arminians explain that God is a loving God that loves all men, so he tries to persuade all men to believe. What a perversion of the truth!

The answers in chapter two prepare the reader for chapter three heads three and four, which explain the Arminian view of resistible grace, engaging in the hard topic of free will. The Canons do not stop with describing the Reformed view of free will though. Even if everyone understood that they were totally depraved and inclined to all wickedness, how would they obtain comfort in their knowledge of that doctrine? How do they find comfort in the fact that they are unable to do any good? The author explains this by developing the relationship between the preaching and regeneration, showing that regeneration occurs not from goodness rooted in the sinful heart of believers, but from the inward workings of the Holy Ghost, which cannot end with believers being left comfortless. Chapter four furthers the explanation of this comfort.

Head five considers the preservation of the saints in chapter four. What does the preservation of the saints mean? McGeown develops Dordt’s explanation of this doctrine, using very personal language. What would it mean if a believer could lose their salvation? He explains that this loss would imply losing faith, which means that they would need to become regenerated again and again. What are the implications of that Arminian view? The Canons explain the preservation of the saints by first delving into what a saint is and what their actions ought to be. In addition to teaching what a believer is, the Canons develop how to understand sin. How does God expect his people to understand concerning their sinful inclinations? Getting to the point more: why do believers fall into sin? These questions are quite relevant for our everyday lives, and the Canons explain these questions quite clearly. McGeown states, “the Canons are realistic and experiential in that they reflect the real experiences of God’s children in this world.”

The Canons explain who God and man are. Although the Canons are extensive and can be complicated, McGeown explains it as follows, “If you have ever wondered why theology is so complicated, blame the heretics.” In other words, God’s word is simple, but the lie of the devil tries to change that. The devil attempts to take away any form of comfort we have in Jesus, and to keep this comfort we need to know all assaults on the joy of the gospel and how to defend against any threat to it. This defense occurs when we study threats that arise that would destroy our comfort. A great way to keep on top of heresy is by staying sharp in our understanding of them. The Canons build a clear knowledge of salvation, so we are obligated to use it to further our knowledge of the truth. McGeown’s exposition of the Canons is a valuable tool, and this book builds an excellent foundation for the truth. We have an obligation to read it and seek guidance from it. May it guide you as it did me.

The massive development of the sixteenth-century Reformation included the crucial issues of justification by faith alone, the supreme authority of Scripture, the office of believer and biblical worship. This book also covers two lesser-known, yet highly significant, aspects of the Reformation: the unique progress of the Reformation in the Lowlands and the Reformers’ response to the Anabaptist radicals. The chapters of Here We Stand are written by theological lectures and Reformed pastors in America, the British Isles and Australia: Prof. Ron Cammenga (editor), Rev. David Torlach, Prof. Barry Gritters, Rev. Martyn McGeown, Prof. Russell Dykstra and Rev. Steven Key.

Prof. Cammenga, the editor of Here We Stand, speaks about this fine book in this video. 

“I highly recommend this book as a succinct account of this marvellous period in church history.” –  N. Ireland

This book ably sets forth and defends the Reformed doctrine of the call of the gospel against the hyper-Calvinistic restriction of the call on the one hand, and the Arminian universalizing of grace in a well-meant offer, on the other hand. This issue is very much alive in Calvinistic circles today.

Professor Engelsma examines Scripture, the Reformation confessions and the Reformed tradition, including John Calvin, Francis Turretin, Simon Van Velzen, Abraham Kuyper and Herman Hoeksema.

Dr. John H. Gerstner: “This is certainly an interesting, informative, lively, learned discussion of the essence of the gospel call to all mankind. In my opinion, Professor Engelsma carefully defines and convincingly avoids ‘hyper-Calvinism’ himself and clears his denomination, the Protestant Reformed Churches [PRC], of so teaching … Herman Hoeksema, the Protestant Reformed denomination, and our author David Engelsma in this book emphatically reject the ‘well-meant offer’ as including God’s desire and intention to save reprobates. As a Calvinist … I feel it absolutely necessary to hold with [the PRC] here where she stands, almost alone today, and suffers massive vituperation and ridicule from Calvinists (no less), for her faithfulness at this point to the gospel of God” (from the “Foreword”).

“Here is a clear statement from one of the most vigorous Reformed communities in North America. No serious study of the matter can avoid considering the Protestant Reformed perspective on the issue” (Christian Observer).

“This book is an opportunity to listen to a committed five-point Calvinist speaking to other five-point Calvinists about what he considers to be an extreme form of Calvinism on the one hand, and the free-will positions of Arminians, on the other. It is a fascinating book. I think it is well worth reading and having” (Journal of the Grace Evangelical Society).

“The reader of this book who wishes to be consistently biblical (Reformed) in his views should find this book a helpful historical and biblical study of an important, if not crucial, doctrine which affects not simply one’s view of preaching but also of evangelism and missions” (Vox Reformata).

“A well-written defence of ‘pure’ Calvinism against the inroads of Arminianism … Anyone who is interested in reading a clear presentation of what pure Calvinism is can find it in this book” (Wisconsin Lutheran Quarterly).

“There is here the high ground of Protestant Reformed apologetic with chapters on Calvin, Turretin and Kuyper” (Calvin Theological Journal).

“Best book on ‘free offer’ controversy” (Still Waters Revival Books).

“I must comment on the re-print of Professor Engelsma’s poignant re-print of Hyper-Calvinism and the Call of the Gospel. Firstly, I am grateful to have it back in print. The new graphics are superb. The re-print is truly refreshed. This book has done more to stimulate and further my study of the Scriptures than any other work concerning the doctrine of Grace. Not being Reformed, there was a decided gap in areas of my biblical training. Professor Engelsma’s book brought me face to face with the wonderful truth that God alone sought me and bought me from before the foundations of the world. NOTHING is more amazing to consider. This book is essential reading for every serious student of Holy Scripture.” – Russ Spees, Institute for Biblical Textual Studies

“When I arrived in Brazil, I started to talk about common grace with my pastor, the teacher of systematic theology at the seminary I attend, who believed in it. I gave to him the copy of Hyper-Calvinism and the Call of the Gospel you sent to me … My pastor says he now denies common grace. Now he teaches against common grace at the seminary and in his preaching. I say this as a testimony about what the work with translations and books is doing for the pure doctrine and the glory of God.” – Chile

“I found the book Hyper-Calvinism and the Call of the Gospel of great help in clarifying my thoughts upon the preaching of the gospel. It is in the process of being lent to some of my friends. In the UK (as I am sure you know) The Banner of Truth are pushing the well-meant offer as Reformed orthodoxy which I am very worried about. In his Spurgeon v Hyper-Calvinism Iain Murray defends and promotes a very confusing thesis and uses John Murray to do so (especially upon the issue of the love of God).” – Newcastle, England

“I am re-reading Prof. Engelsma’s Hyper-Calvinism and the Call of the Gospel which I must have read about 25 years ago. Once again, I thank God that I have always believed in reprobation. It to often is the unwelcome doctrine in the Reformed faith to so many Calvinists.” – Co. Antrim

“I think David Engelsma is very accurate and biblical in his teaching about the call of the gospel. It is very Reformed, Calvinistic, orthodox and sound. I really enjoyed the book. It was easy to read and gripping. In the future, I plan to buy further copies to give to friends.” – England

Review by Rev. Rodney Kleyn

In defence of the gospel and of the doctrines of sovereign grace, the RFPA has recently published a third edition of David J. Engelsma’s book Hyper-Calvinism and the Call of the Gospel: An Examination of the Well Meant Offer of the Gospel. Since I first read this book, some twenty years ago, it has been a favorite of mine, high on the list of books I recommend to others. If you want to be a biblically consistent Calvinist and if you want to understand how the church is to preach the gospel call, you must read this book.

So, what is hyper-Calvinism and what is the well-meant offer? These are the rock on the one side and the whirlpool on the other, through which “the reformed doctrine of the preaching of the gospel must sail,” so that it “neither be smashed on the one nor swallowed up by the other” (65).

Because the label “hyper-Calvinism” is used very loosely today to speak disparagingly of anyone who is more Calvinistic than oneself, Engelsma gives this careful and precise definition of hyper-Calvinism: “[It] is the denial that God in the preaching of the gospel calls everyone who hears the preaching to repent and believe. It is the denial that the church should call everyone in the preaching. It is the denial that the unregenerate have a duty to repent and believe” (15). Hyper-Calvinism says that the gospel call in the preaching is to be addressed only to those who “show signs of regeneration and, thereby, of election” (15). Hyper-Calvinism manifests itself in “a minimizing of Christ’s mission mandate to his church with an appeal to election as the guarantee that God will save his people” (191). Upon this rock, we must never be smashed. The Reformed faith should never “recommend passivity or excuse negligence in the matter of missions but calls the church to go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature, commanding all men everywhere to repent and believe” (192).

On the other side is the whirlpool of Arminianism, the alluring outer swirls of which are the teaching of the well-meant offer of the gospel. “The free offer, according to those who hold to it, is the grace of God to all men in the preaching of the gospel, grace rooted in God’s love for all men” (39). Engelsma’s objection to the free offer of the gospel is not because of its “teaching that the church must preach the gospel to everyone and must call all hearers to faith in Jesus Christ” (37). Rather, “the error of the doctrine of the offer, and the reason a Reformed man must repudiate it, is its teaching that the grace of God in Jesus Christ, grace that is saving in character, is directed to all men in the preaching of the gospel. Inherent in the offer of the gospel is the notion that God loves and desires to save all men; the notion that the preaching of the gospel is God’s grace to all men, an expression of God’s love to all men, and an attempt by God to save all men; and the notion that salvation is dependent upon man’s acceptance of the offered salvation, that is, that salvation depends on the free will of the sinner” (36–37). The outer swirls of the well-meant offer lead right into the whirlpool of Arminianism and we need to be wary of being sucked in to this whirlpool.

Between the rock and the whirlpool sails “The Reformed Doctrine on the Call of the Gospel,” the title of the third chapter in this book. In preaching the gospel we do not set aside the biblical and Reformed truth of predestination and preach the gospel as a declaration of God’s universal love to all who hear, or as an “invitation” or an “offer” from a God who cannot accomplish what He desires. We are not motivated to preach the gospel because God wants all men to be saved or desires as many as possible to be saved. Rather, the biblical teaching of double predestination stands behind, is a part of the message of, and is the motivation for gospel preaching. God is pleased to use the call of the gospel, the command to believe in Jesus Christ, to gather His elect and to leave the rest who hear with no excuse. Through the preaching, God accomplishes His eternal purposes of predestination. To reduce preaching to an expression of God’s universal love (which is what the well-meant-offer does), is to deny the most basic teaching of the Reformed faith, the sovereignty of God in predestination and in the salvation of the sinner.

Many who read this book will dismiss it as merely an attempt to clear the Protestant Reformed Churches of the charge of hyper-Calvinism because of their denial of the well-meant offer of the gospel. Engelsma anticipates this and he pleads with the critics, “Is it too much to ask that rather than condemning the book out of hand you attempt to refute it?” And fair enough, not only because of how earlier editions have been reviewed, but also because the book itself is much more than just a defence of the Protestant Reformed denomination. The charitable reader will find in this book a consistent setting forth of the “reasonable” faith of Calvinism. He will find here a sound and balanced—not hyper—defence of the Reformed faith. He will be educated in the history of this debate, learning along the way that John Calvin, Francis Turretin and Abraham Kuyper all repudiated the notion of a well-meant offer in the preaching of the gospel. He will also be instructed from the Reformed confessions and Scripture in the content and manner of true gospel preaching and so will learn himself, if a preacher, how to issue the call of the gospel, or if a pew-sitter, to listen with discernment for the inroads of Arminian thinking into Reformed pulpits. And if he takes all this to heart, not just to head, he will grow in his love for the Reformed faith and in his desire to see the gospel preached through missions to the ends of the earth.

Click here to read a chapter of this book in Hungarian.
Click here to read the “Foreword” to this book in Portuguese.
Click here to read a chapter of this book in Portuguese.