Chapter 7

Family Life, Education, Church, and Work

And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins. (1 Peter 4:8)
Give instruction to a youth about his way,
Even when he is old he turneth not from it. (Proverbs 22:6, YLTHB)
Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever. (1 John 2:15-17)
If your life would have guidance and strength to follow that guidance, then you will find that in the Word of God.
If you would have your marriage to be what it would be, what God would have it to be, then search the Scriptures daily.
If you would have your children to grow up and be anything but rebels, then teach them the Word of God.
If you would have financial success in business, then work and operate your business according to the Word of God. -- D. James Kennedy (1930-2007)

Contents: Chapter 7, "Family Life, Education, Church, and Work"

Singleness
Premarital Counsel
Marriage
Family Worship and Devotions
Personal and Family Finances, Family Businesses
Marital Counseling, Marriage Counseling
The Christian Home, Domestic Duties
Problem Solving in Marriage
Spouse an Unbeliever
Birth Control
Abortion and the Sanctity of Life
Post-abortion Counseling
Stillborn and Miscarriage
Infertility, Barrenness, Childlessness
Adoption of Children
Sexual Relationship
Sexual Wholeness
Counseling for Sex Related Problems, Illegitimacy
Gratuitous Sex, a Cause of Violence
Parenting
Fatherhood
Motherhood
Sharing Christ With Your Children
Filial Love (Love Toward Parents)
Teaching/Training Children
Counsel for Young Men
Counsel for Young Women
Disciplining Children
Problem Solving With Children
Counseling Children
Sex Ethics, Sex Education
Protecting Children From Dangers
Preparing Children for the World
Single Parenting
Christian Literature for Boys and Girls
Family
Counseling the Family
Family Management
Holidays
Christmas
Theater, Sports, and Entertainment
Teens
Teens and Parents
Counseling Teens
Courtship
Teens and Sex
Finding the Perfect Parent in God
Teens Coping With the World
Colonial Education
Education
Home Schooling
Public Schools, Public Education
DVD, Multimedia
Teaching/Training Children
The Local Church
Church History and the History of Local Churches
The Local Church and Counseling
Church Discipline
Small Groups and the Local Church
The Laity
Churches That Abuse
Church Leadership
Reform of the Church
Interpersonal Relations in the Local Church
The Church Universal, The Church Invisible
Resources for Students
Christianity in the Workplace
Leadership
The Military
Reconciliation of Marriage Partners
Avoiding Divorce
The Church and Divorce
Divorce
Children of Divorce
Rebuilding
Remarriage
Stepfamilies
Chapter 7 Related Weblinks

Combined Interactive Contents for The Web Edition of Biblical Counsel: Resources for Renewal
http://www.lettermen2.com/combtoc.html

Chapter 7
Family Life, Education, Church, and Work

Singleness

Art thou bound unto a wife? seek not to be loosed. Art thou loosed from a wife? seek not a wife. (1 Corinthians 7:27)
Calvin's clarification of the inconsistency between Paul's recommendation of singleness in 1 Corinthians 7:1-2 and the words of the Lord in Genesis 2:18 may be found in his commentary on 1 Corinthians 7:1-2.
But I would have you without carefulness. He that is unmarried careth for the things that belong to the Lord, how he may please the Lord: but he that is married careth for the things that are of the world, how he may please his wife. (1 Corinthians 7:32,33)
Brethren, let every man, wherein he is called, therein abide with God. (1 Corinthians 7:24)
Paul's teaching on celibacy, virginity, singleness, marriage, and remarriage -- John Calvin commenting on 1 Corinthians 6:1-9 -- 1 Corinthians 7:40.
Godly and Ungodly Marriage
A life of misery is usually the lot of those who are united in marriage, or in any other way of their own choosing, with the men of the world.
But a very fruitful source of ruin to Church members is that of a young man or a young woman choosing an ungodly partner in life. They never can expect God's blessing upon it. They tell you sometimes they hope to be the means of their friends conversion. They have no right to hope such a thing; it so seldom occurs.
Those ill-assorted unions between believers and unbelievers rob our churches of more members than any other popular delinquency that I know of. Seldom, I might say almost never, do I meet with a woman professing godliness who becomes joined in wedlock to a man of the world but what she goes away. She ceases to follow Jesus, and we hear no more of her. Absorbed in the pursuits, the passions, and the pleasures of the life that now is, she is sucked under the stream and drawn into the vortex. In the romance of her courtship, she glibly said, "I shall win him;" but, in the reality of their conjugal bonds, he could coolly say, "I have won you."
If you want to wither your happiness for ever, you have only to go and be yoked with an unbeliever. I have known some Christian women who have forgotten the divine precept, and have been married to ungodly men; and I have seen godly men married to ungodly women; and mark this, my experience has not been very long, but it has been very wide. I never knew any good to come of it.
It can never conduce to the comfort of any Christian man or woman to be unequally yoked together with an unbeliever; you had far better remain in the cold of your bachelor or spinster life than warm your hands at the fire of an unhallowed marriage.
You do, in fact, give Christ up when you take that ungodly man, and you, young man, when you seek after that Christless woman; you deny your Lord and Master; so far as you can do it, you deny him, and give him up for the sake of earthly pleasures. -- C.H. Spurgeon (1834-1892), on 2 Corinthians 6:14
For in the resurrection they neither marry, nor are given in marriage, but are as the angels of God in heaven. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 22:30)
And Jesus said unto them, Verily I say unto you, That ye which have followed me, in the regeneration when the Son of man shall sit in the throne of his glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel.
And every one that hath forsaken houses, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my name's sake, shall receive an hundredfold, and shall inherit everlasting life.
But many [that are] first shall be last; and the last [shall be] first. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 19:28-30)
And Jesus answering said unto them, The children of this world marry, and are given in marriage:
But they which shall be accounted worthy to obtain that world, and the resurrection from the dead, neither marry, nor are given in marriage:
Neither can they die any more: for they are equal unto the angels; and are the children of God, being the children of the resurrection. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 20:34-36)
And I will betroth thee unto me for ever; yea, I will betroth thee unto me in righteousness, and in judgment, and in loving kindness, and in mercies. I will even betroth thee unto me in faithfulness; and thou shalt know the Lord. (Hosea 2:19-20)
Betrothment unto the Lord! What an honor and a joy! My soul, is Jesus indeed thine by His own condescending betrothal? Then, mark it is forever. He will never break His engagement, much less sue out a divorce against a soul joined to Himself in marriage bonds.
Three times the Lord says, I will betroth thee. What words He heaps together to set forth the betrothal! Righteousness comes in to make the covenant legal; none can forbid these lawful bans. Judgment sanctions the alliance with its decree: none can see folly or error in the match. Lovingkindness warrants that this is a love union, for without love betrothal is bondage and not blessedness. Meanwhile, mercy smiles and even sings; yea, she multiplies herself into "mercies" because of the abounding grace of this holy union.
Faithfulness is the registrar and records the marriage, and the Holy Spirit says "Amen" to it as He promises to teach the betrothal heart all the sacred knowledge needful for its high destiny, What a promise! -- C.H. Spurgeon in Faith's Checkbook
Marriage is honorable in all. . . (Hebrews 13:4)
*Has Christianity Failed You? an interview of Ravi Zacharias with Danielle DuRant
"There are an awful lot of Christians walking around these days who are disappointed with their faith. They've been hurt by the church or other believers and it's affected their walk with God."
Includes rare, frank, and wise commentary on the institution of marriage.
"DD: You have spoken of this parenthesis, and you speak of three tensions in the book that leave many feeling that Christianity has failed them. One such tension is the longing for sexual fulfillment. You write, 'If marital consummation is an act of worship, and if the ultimate seduction is false worship, I would dare suggest that those who are longing for a relationship of touch and intimacy -- that lesser act of worship which is marriage -- seek the greater form of worship until the day they can legitimately participate in sexual love.' Why is the single person who is longing for marriage seen as not seeking this greater form of worship because they are also seeking the lesser form, when the married person has also longed for and is now even participating in this lesser form of worship?
"RZ: I think this must be viewed from at least three different lenses. The first lens is an understanding of what consummate relationships are and what they're not. I dare say that people who enjoy this intimacy sometimes fall into the trap of enjoying the feeling and ignoring the cost. I have met many women trapped in a wrong relationship who have told me, as crass as this may sound, that the men who seek them out are more often than not someone who has already experienced sex legitimately and then seeks for it in stolen waters. But I'll tell you, the moment the human body experiences this kind of relationship, the seduction is to have the experience without having to pay the cost. Yet it is the cost -- namely, commitment -- that actually preserves the emotional side of the relationship. If there is no commitment, the feeling is merely physical, and the emotion that gives the relationship value ultimately dies. Sex is not just a feeling; it is a commitment, which, when properly expressed, preserves the feeling. If it is improperly expressed, the feeling will die, and the person becomes diminished in the process. The second lens is an understanding of what marriage is and what marriage offers to you. This may sound shocking, but marriage is not what it's cracked up to be. In fact, I know many young people who, having observed their parents' marriages, will say they are reluctant to become married themselves. I think that marriage has suffered an awful lot because of all the false images and expectations of marriage placed before us. This may be unpopular to say, but the exhaustion of a professional life drains marriage. You cannot serve two masters. Adrenaline keeps us moving throughout the day as we work, whether it's selling shirts or automobiles or computers. When the adrenaline rush is over and you go home to your spouse and children (if you have any), there is little left in your tank to be able to give your family, and it becomes harder and harder to fulfill the obligations of marriage. And when both partners in a marriage work outside the home, the toll on the marriage is twice as great. The third lens is an understanding that this longing of sexual fulfillment is a God-planted desire in us. And with fleeting time it becomes a fleeting hope. The unrequited God-given longing for this kind of relationship is, I believe, and I say this carefully, one of the most difficult crosses to bear. This is not the Calvary you want. You find yourself asking God if there is any way to be spared from the ache of this longing and to receive the companionship you see so many others enjoying. Of course, marriage goes beyond the consummate relationship of the physical side; it means caring, cherishing, and loving. This should be what you are ultimately craving. To that person I say, as painful and perhaps flippant as it may sound, just as others who face other unmet desires, you have to learn to receive the strength from the Lord to crucify that desire and make Jesus Christ the focus of your desire to be cared for, cherished, and loved -- because only he can ultimately meet this desire, even if you are married. It's a little bit like doing a puzzle. You've got only three pieces missing out of five hundred, but you just can't make it all come together. I just say, as F.W. Boreham does, that this longing for the legitimate expression of sexual love is one of those painful things that is easier borne by a person who has never experienced it than by the one who daily lives with this sense of loss. In other words, the emotions that are part of this longing cannot be fully understood by one who has not experienced it for whatever reason.
"DD: You've expressed that in any intimate relationship there will be times of distance or even a sense of dryness. So perhaps we ought not to be surprised when we feel this in our relationship with God. What do you do during times of spiritual dryness? Are there particular authors, books, sermons, or disciplines that you turn to when you feel the passion that you long for just isn't there?
"RZ: If there is anybody who has not experienced what you have described, I really want to touch them. It's not only a common thing; it can be a frequent thing. It's like C.S. Lewis's Screwtape telling the junior devil, 'Encourage their horror of the Same Old Thing.' I think that's actually what's happened to the West right now. We've heard the gospel so much that we're experiencing the horror of the same old thing. So we buy into nonsensical notions that are actually bizarre while sounding sophisticated. They don't make any sense, but they come with mystical, new terminology, and we are wowed by them. This is why, by the way, I think people church-hop. There are no more unexpected moments at the church they've been going to, and all of a sudden, it's the same old thing -- and so they move on to something new. The human ability to remain firm in our convictions and commitments is very, very limited. That's why I think good reading, good viewing, and good friendships are good places in which to find renewal. There are so many considerations to the dryness we may experience at any given time. You may not feel well, or you may be tired -- all of this takes its toll on you. Sometimes a lack of discipline or a lack of perseverance may well be because of lack of sleep. It could be your mind, your body, is tired, and you need a vacation. You may have become stagnant because your reading material is not helping your growth process. Reading a variety of authors is a good way to light a new spark within you. I love reading biographies. I love reading authors whose language is outstanding because they quicken the imagination by just the right turn of phrase. Sometimes all it takes is one phrase to turn your life around. You have to have variety in your devotional life, in your relational life, in your church life. And it is important to remain balanced -- to keep physically healthy, to keep your viewing life enchanted so that you're looking at the right things. That's one advantage I have in my life: I'm in new places so often that I experience an enormous array of God's diversity."
https://www.rzim.org/read/just-thinking-magazine/has-christianity-failed-you
Ultimately the Seventh Commandment (Exodus 20:14), is about our fidelity to Christ. (Hosea 2:19-20; 1 Corinthians 6:15-20; James 4:4)
To fracture the Seventh Commandment is to break covenant with the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.
The sexual revolution is really a revolution against God. (Numbers 25:1-3, 29; Joshua 22:17; Psalm 106:30,31)
See: Engelsma, Marriage, the Mystery of Christ and the Church.
Calvin seems to see the Seventh as interrelated to, as summing up, all Ten Commandments of the Law.*
Although one kind of impurity is alone referred to, it is sufficiently plain, from the principle laid down, that believers are generally exhorted to chastity; for, if the Law be a perfect rule of holy living, it would be more than absurd to give a license for fornication, adultery alone being excepted. Furthermore, it is incontrovertible that God will by no means approve or excuse before this tribunal, what the common sense of mankind declares to be obscene; for, although lewdness has everywhere been rampant in every age, still the opinion could never be utterly extinguished, that fornication is a scandal and a sin. . . . [Titus 2:12; Isaiah 30:21; Matthew 19:17; Romans 13:8]
Now, if Christ and the Apostles, who are the best interpreters of the Law, declare that God's Law is violated no less by fornication than by theft, we assuredly infer, *that in this Commandment the whole genus is comprehended under a single species. . . . [Hebrews 13:4; Leviticus 21:14; Deuteronomy 23:17; Hosea 4:11; Hosea 1:2; Numbers 25:9; 1 Corinthians 10:8; Acts 15:20; 1 Corinthians 6:18; 2 Corinthians 7:1; 1 Thessalonians 4:4,5] -- John Calvin commenting on Exodus 20:14 and Deuteronomy 5:18 and context

Allberry, Sam, 7 Myths About Singleness, ISBN: 9781433561535 1433561530 9781433561542 1433561549 9781433561559 1433561557.
"This book sets forth a positive vision of singleness by responding to seven common misconceptions about singleness in the church today." -- Publisher

Andrews, Gini, Sons of Freedom: God and the Single Man.

Andrews, Gini, Your Half of the Apple: God and the Single Girl, ISBN: 0551004975 9780551004979.
Foreword by Francis A. Schaeffer.
"A realistic treatment of the problems as well as the opportunities facing single people in a couple's world. Insightful." -- Cyril J. Barber

Ankerberg, John, and John Weldon, The Myth of Safe sex: The Devastating Consequences of Violating God's Plan, ISBN: 0802456391 9780802456397. Alternate title: THE MYTH OF SAFE SEX: THE TRAGIC CONSEQUENCES OF VIOLATING GOD'S PLAN.

*Baker, Yvonne G., Successfully Single. A Christian classic.
"Another classic -- restated in modern English -- but retaining its verve and value for contemporary Christians." -- Cyril J. Barber

*Baxter, Richard (1615-1691), Compassionate Counsel to all Young men, The Mother's Catechism, The Catechizing of Families, and The Poor Man's Family Book. Available in Baxter, Richard, THE REFORMED PASTOR: BAXTER'S PRACTICAL WORKS, VOL. 4, 1877611360 9781877611360.
"This is the fourth and final volume in this great set. Includes, 'The Reformed Pastor' and 25 other sermons, treatises, and catechisms. Dr. J.I. Packer says, 'For me, the great joy of this year is that it see the completion of Soli Deo Gloria's reprint of Baxter's incomparable PRACTICAL WORKS'." -- GCB
Baxter, Compassionate Counsel to all Young men, 1681.
Compassionate Counsel to all Young men (1681), by Richard Baxter
http://www.lettermen2.com/ccaym.html

Bettler, John F., God as Husband/Lover (Westminster Media).
Audio cassette POG06 [audio file].

Brown, Raymond K., Reach out to Singles: A Challenge to Ministry, ISBN: 0664242707 9780664242701.
"Examines the hard questions single people are asking, and attempts to provide candid and helpful answers. An important resource for pastors and those who work with single people in the church." -- Cyril J. Barber

Caldwell, Genevieve, First Person, Singular, ISBN: 0840730721 9780840730725.
"She [the author], sees Christian single women shortchanging themselves and encourages them to shake off the shroud of passivity and actively build new, meaningful relationships." -- Cyril J. Barber

Case, Thomas (1598-1682), The Excellent Woman, a Sermon Preached at the Funeral of Mrs. Elizabeth Scott, Dec. 16, 1658. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
"THE EXCELLENT WOMAN examines the book of Proverbs to teach of the value and character of the virtuous woman. In the forward Dr. William Sprague writes, 'This is a work that will bear to be read more than once, and each successive reading will be likely to reveal some new gem of thought, which, in the general mass of excellence, had been overlooked before. It is a book suitable for the husband to present to his wife, the mother to her daughter, and the brother to his sister; and the more widely it is circulated, the better for the country and the world'." -- Publisher

Clarkson, Margaret, So You're Single! ISBN: 0877887721 9780877887720.
"One of the best works on the subject of aloneness. Deserves widespread circulation." -- Cyril J. Barber

Coleman, Barry (editor), Sex and the Single Christian: Candid Conversations, ISBN: 0830711074 9780830711079.
"The contributors to this slender volume are all people with established reputations. The questions focus on frequently misunderstood issues of sexuality. The 'bottom line' counsel of this work is to underscore the teaching of Scripture while warning against the abuses that are prevalent in our society." -- Cyril J. Barber

Coleman, Sarah Jepson (Sarah Ann Jepson), For the Love of Singles.

*Crawford, Dan R. (compiler), Single Adults: Resource and Recipients for Revival, ISBN: 0805432361 9780805432367.
Includes bibliography.

Eisenman, Tom L., Temptations men Face, ISBN: 0830813799 9780830813797.

*Foster, David Kyle, Sexual Healing: God's Plan for the Sanctification of Broken Lives: A Reference Manual for Ministering to Those Trapped in Sexual sin and Brokenness, ISBN: 0830737154 9780830737154 0830737340 9780830737345.
This is a unique work and the best resource known to the compiler offering biblical counsel for healing sexual brokenness. See: "Foundations" and "Divine Intent for Sexuality" for a biblical explanation of the spiritual significance of sexuality. These two chapters alone make the purchase of the book worthwhile. Includes chapters, study guides, and exercises for Root sources for improper sexual development, Sexual identity confusion, Child sex abuse, Sexual addition, Pornography, Masturbation, voyeurism and exhibitionism, Why people remain in sexual sin and bondage, Failure and self-condemnation, A comprehensive game plan for sexual healing, and so forth.
Includes bibliography and index.
Mastering Life Ministries
http://www.MasteringLife.org

*Havergal, Frances, Kept for the Master's use, ISBN: 080246582X. A Christian classic.
"If ever a woman lived her whole life as if she were married to Christ, it is Frances Havergal. Her every breath was drawn for Him, and so her every utterance breathed of Him . . . You will thrill to her expressions of praise. And when she leads us to a dedicated Christian life, we find it compelling. By all means read this book. You will never forget it." -- Jay P. Green, Sr. (1918-2008)
Kept for the Master's use
https://archive.org/details/keptformastersus00haverich/page/14

Lum, Ada, Single and Human, ISBN: 0877843619 9780877843610.

Mowday Rabey, Lois, The Snare: Avoiding Emotional and Sexual Entanglements, ISBN: 0891091556 9780891091554.

Powlison, David (1949-2019), and John Yenchko, Pre-engagement: Five Questions to ask Yourselves, ISBN: 0875526799 9780875526799.

Poythress V., Marriage and Singleness; Marriage (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Audio cassette VP105 [audio file].

Rinck, Margaret (Josephson), Christian men who Hate Women: Healing Hurting Relationships, ISBN: 0310517516 9780310517511.

Ryle, J.C. (1816-1900), Thoughts for Young men: An Exhortation Directed to Those in the Prime of Life, ISBN: 1879737094 9781879737099.
Thoughts for Young Men
http://www.iserv.net/~mrbill/espan/young01.html

Smith, Virginia W., The Single Parent, ISBN: 0800751051 9780800751050.

Tweedie, W.K. (1803-1863), Seed-time and Harvest: or, Sow Well and Reap Well. A Book for the Young.

Tweedie, W.K. (1803-1863), Virtuous Womanhood: Christ's Work and Single Women. Available in A THEOLOGY OF THE FAMILY, an anthology.

Vincent, Thomas (1634-1678), Christ the Best Husband: or An Invitation of Young Women Unto Christ. Delivered in a Sermon to Young Women, 1672.

Whitefield, George (1714-1770), Christ the Best Husband: Or an Earnest Invitation to Young Women to Come and see Christ, preached to a Society of Young Women in Fetter-Lane.
http://www.jesus-is-lord.com/whitefie.htm

*Zacharias, Ravi (1946-2020), Has Christianity Failed you? ISBN: 9780310269557 0310269555.
Ravi Zacharias considers this to be his most important book.
"HAS CHRISTIANITY FAILED YOU? is for you, if you have struggled to understand what exactly it is you believe. Acclaimed apologist Ravi Zacharias explores the hard questions about what it means to be a follower of Jesus Christ. In his landmark new book, he addresses the struggle he hears from both skeptics and Christians: Has Christianity failed us? And can irrefutable charges be brought against it by skeptics and disappointed believers alike?
"In 2006, Ravi Zacharias International Ministries (RZIM) held an open forum at the Fox Theater in Atlanta to address the subject: 'Has Christianity Failed you?' Tickets were sold for the event and -- to the complete surprise of everyone -- the event was sold out with a capacity crowd of over 5,000. People lined up offering to buy tickets from folks in line for higher prices. Before the event, an RZIM cameraman walked the streets and asked people if they had rejected the faith they held at one time. One answered that, because of a Christian's rejection of his gay lifestyle he had done just that. Another answered that she had left her faith because she had fallen into adultery and could never live it down in the church. Others had their own reasons. Some said it was just intellectually untenable in an age of reason. They chose to come to the event to judge if there were adequate answers. It is estimated that for every one person who writes a letter or attends an event, there are one thousand who agree. If the Atlanta crowd was any indication, the question is real and troubling. Why is it that many live with silent doubt, many leaving the 'evangelical fold' for something else? Is there something wrong with the message, the communicator, the hearer . . . or is it all three? It's time to ask the hard questions of what it means to be a follower of Jesus Christ and why it seems as though God has made it so hard to continue believing. In fact, the son of a prominent U.S. Senator phoned me with that very question. 'Why has God made it so hard to believe in Him?' Such skepticism is not just representative of the hostile; it also represents many honest questioners. This book attempts to lay out the response to those within as well as those outside the Christian faith, so as to understand what it is we believe, and why it is so hard to do so. More to the point: Why it is actually so hard to deny God and still make sense out of life? In the end the answers should be both felt and real, with the added truth that God is nearer than you think. He desires that we sense Him very near to us, and not distant. But closeness comes at a cost just as any relationship of love and commitment does.
"For over thirty-five years, Ravi Zacharias has spoken all over the world in great halls and universities, notably Harvard, Princeton, and numerous universities internationally. He is listed as a Senior Research Fellow at Wycliffe Hall, Oxford University. He has appeared on CNN and other international broadcasts. The author of several books for adults and children, he powerfully mixes biblical teaching and Christian apologetics. His most recent works include WALKING FROM EAST TO WEST, A MEMOIR; THE GRAND WEAVER, AN EXPLORATION OF GOD'S INTENTION IN BOTH THE ORDINARY AND THE STARTLING ELEMENTS OF LIFE; AND THE END OF REASON, A REBUTTAL OF THE CLAIMS OF THE SO-CALLED NEW ATHEISTS. His weekly radio program, 'Let My People Think,' is broadcast on 1,692 stations worldwide, and his weekday program, 'Just Thinking,' is on 412. He is founder and chairman of the board of Ravi Zacharias International Ministries, headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, with additional offices in Canada, Hong Kong, India, Singapore, the United Kingdom, and the United Arab Emirates. Dr. Zacharias and his wife, Margie, have three grown children and reside in Atlanta." -- Publisher
Has Christianity Failed You? [audio file], Ravi Zacharias (2019/07/20)
https://www.rzim.org/listen/let-my-people-think/has-christianity-failed-you-part-1
*Has Christianity Failed You? an interview of Ravi Zacharias with Danielle DuRant
"There are an awful lot of Christians walking around these days who are disappointed with their faith. They've been hurt by the church or other believers and it's affected their walk with God."
Includes rare, frank, and wise commentary on the institution of marriage.
https://www.rzim.org/read/just-thinking-magazine/has-christianity-failed-you

Zacharias, Ravi K., I, Isaac, take thee, Rebekah, ISBN: 0849917980 9780849917981 0849908221 9780849908224.
"I feel this book is not only good for couples but singles who desire marriage one day . . . Ravi is great at pointing to Christ as a foundation for love and all relationships." -- Reader's Comment
"His briefer message [an excerpt from the book] by the same name remains one of the most popular and requested resources from our radio (and now podcast) audiences." -- Danielle DuRant, editor of Just Thinking

See also: The sovereignty of god, The doctrine of man (human nature, total depravity), The sovereign grace of god: his everlasting mercy and lovingkindness, Repentance the key to salvation and change, Justification, Justifying faith, Singleness, Freedom, a gift of the grace of god, Christian character, Manhood, Courtship, Premarital counseling, Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, Sexual relationship, Spiritual adultery (spiritual whoredom/harlotry), Abstinence, Single parenting, Child abuse and pedophilia, Counsel for young men, Reconciliation of relationships, Forgiveness, Unforgiveness, Gratuitous sex, a cause of violence, Womanhood, Abuse, Rape, Incest, and so forth, and so on.
TCRB5: 199, 1253, 3022, 3210, 3914-3918, 4152

Related Weblinks

Mastering Life Ministries
http://www.MasteringLife.org

Respect Incorporated (formerly Sex Respect)
http://www.sexrespect.com/main.html

True Love Waits
http://www.truelovewaits.com/

Premarital Counsel

Married couples who study the sovereignty of God together sovereignly stay together.
Kindness is perhaps one of the most important characteristics to look for in a mate. Lack of kindness during courtship is a sign that marriage would probably be a mistake. The slightest unkindness can be taken as a sign that later, in marriage, they (woman or man), will harm their spouse.
Paul's teaching on celibacy, virginity, singleness, marriage, and remarriage -- John Calvin commenting on 1 Corinthians 6:1-9 -- 1 Corinthians 7:40.

*Bonar, Horatius (1808-1889), The Everlasting Righteousness, or How Shall man be Just With God? A Christian classic. Considered to be among the ten greatest books in the English language.
"First published in 1874, THE EVERLASTING RIGHTEOUSNESS, may be the best book on the doctrine of justification by faith alone ever written.
"Since the seventeenth century, the church's adherence to the central doctrine of the Christian faith has been weakening; in the twentieth century it has all but disappeared. But to those who remain faithful -- to those who are called of God -- justification by faith alone is the best news there could ever be: that Christ died for our sins, and we shall live forever because of Christ's righteousness.
"Justification by faith alone -- the 'principal hinge of religion,' according to John Calvin, the 'doctrine by which the church stands or falls,' according to Martin Luther -- is salvation. Without it, all hope is lost; with it, Heaven gained. Bonar's discussion is without equal in the English language." -- John W. Robbins
The Everlasting Righteousness, Horatius Bonar
http://books.google.com/books?id=nQMDAAAAQAAJ&ie=ISO-8859-1&output=html

Defoe, Daniel, Conjugal Lewdness or Matrimonial Whoredom: A Treatise Concerning the use and Abuse of the Marriage bed (1727), ISBN: 0820110132 9780820110134. Available in WORKS OF DANIEL DEFOE on the Puritan Hard Drive.

Engelsma, David, Better To Mary: Sex and Marriage in Corinthians 6 and 7, ISBN: 0916206491 9780916206499.
Appendix, "The remarriage of the 'innocent party' " -- a sermon.

*Engelsma, David, Marriage, the Mystery of Christ and the Church, ISBN: 0825425190 9780825425196.
"Engelsma is a pastor in the Protestant Reformed Church, and also is editor of their paper, The Standard Bearer. The chapters in this book were preached as sermons in the author's church at Loveland, Colorado. Engelsma sees the corruption of the sacred institution of marriage as being a cause of myriads of the evils that abound in our day. He says, 'There is the bitter misery of soul that shatters those who have been unfaithful and that leads to drink, drugs, nervous breakdown, and even suicide. . . . The author does a good job of expounding Ephesians 5:31,32, This is a great mystery: but I speak concerning Christ and the church. He explains that this 'mystery' has to do with the intimacy and oneness of a truly married couple. And this typifies the 'underlying reality of the union of Christ with His Church'." -- Jay P. Green, Sr. (1918-2008)

*Eyrich, Howard, Three to Get Ready: Premarital Counseling Manual, ISBN: 1885904169 9781885904164.
"Eyrich has significantly expanded and reworked his program for conducting seven sessions of premarital counseling. Covers basics of biblical marriage, self-awareness of personal traits, communication, money, sex, wedding details. 'Some people will read this manual and ask, "What is a pastor doing discussing life insurance, budgeting, or sex?" The answer is simple. He is responsible for the spiritual welfare of his flock. . . . Life is the legitimate domain of the spiritual counselor.' Contains numerous questionnaires and personal inventories to xerox and use in counseling." -- David Powlison (1949-2019)
"A manual on premarital counseling presenting a step-by-step guide through the major areas to be covered. Chock full of practical advice. Jay Adams says: 'Here it is! The premarital counseling guide you have been waiting for'." -- Publisher

*Finley, Martha (1828-1909), Book 2: Elsie's Holidays at Roselands, ISBN: 9781888306323 1888306327.
"When Elsie's father becomes ill, she takes on the job of nurse-companion, and all goes well until Elsie, because it is the Sabbath, as a matter of conscience refuses to read to him from a secular book. The battle of wills that ensues nearly causes first her father's death, and then Elsie's. Lonely Elsie -- punished, ostracized, and then abandoned by her father -- turns to her heavenly Father for comfort and assurance. Will her father realize that Elsie's obedience to God must be paramount, and submit himself to the same Divine Authority?" -- Publisher
On an even more serious note, one moral of this story is the broader life and death struggle between Truth and Falsehood (See: Absolute truth and relativism [duality and non-duality], Epistemology of theology, the theory of knowledge, and Christian scholarship.) The consequence of conflict of will is death of the "One," or war of the "Many" (see Rushdoony, THE ONE AND THE MANY: STUDIES IN THE PHILOSOPHY OF ORDER AND ULTIMACY. Conflict of will (see Will and recalcitrance, Rebellion and lawlessness: wickedness, demonic possession, abnormal behavior, insanity, mental illness, mental retardation,) may begin when one individual (see The doctrine of man [human nature, total depravity],) or the corporate body (see Corporate faithfulness and sanctification), tries to usurping authority over others (see Power, Authority) -- tries to control and possess the other (see Tyranny, Slavery, our systems of enslavement, economic enslavement.) The means of control may be either outward or occult (see The occult, spiritism, witchcraft), deceit, repression or suppression of the truth, replacing moral and ethical absolutes with relativism (see Ethics, computer ethics, cyberethics, Medical ethics, Absolute truth and relativism [duality and non-duality], unfaithfulness to the highest ethical standards (see The ten commandments: the moral law, The holy bible), Heresy and apostasy (apostacy, old english), Spiritual adultery [spiritual whoredom/harlotry,] (see Idolatry, syncretism, Jeremiah and lamentations,) invocation of the demonic, Oaths, ensnaring vows, promises, and covenants, bonds with the ungodly Carnality and flesh pleasing: desires, pleasure, Justice, judgment, god's final judgment, the great white throne judgment, the day of the lord,) attempts to take authority over another politically or by mental malpractice (see Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, making up their own rules (see Absolute truth and relativism [duality and non-duality],) ignoring or changing constitutional or creedal documents, unjust laws for the accumulation of wealth and power, indebtedness, disenfranchisement, (see denial of freedom,) Priestcraft, pharisaism, soul-stealing, possessiveness, physical seduction and whoredom, political economic or sexual enslavement (see Sexual relationship,) and so forth, and so on.
This abuse, this soul-violence, quenches the Holy Spirit (see Owen, God's Presence With a People the Spring of Their Prosperity; With Their Special Interest in Abiding in Him.) If either side is immovable, then death is the consequence (see Soteriology, atonement, The blood of christ, Hell, and Heaven.)
How are conflicts of will resolved? By submission to the Absolute Truths of God's word, the great common denominator, Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (John 14:6)
All this bears a strain of the Gospel (see Book-length presentations of the free offer of the gospel message of salvation and the life to come: the means of grace, The westminster confession of faith.)
Book 2: Holidays at Roselands
http://archive.org/details/holidaysatrosel00finlgoog
Holidays at Roselands (Gutenberg text)
http://onlinebooks.library.upenn.edu/webbin/gutbook/lookup?num=14280
Mantle Ministries (Elsie Dinsmore Series and Mildred Series)
http://www.mantlemin.com

*Garland, Diana S. Richmond, and David E. Garland, Beyond Companionship: Christians in Marriage, ISBN: 0664240186 9780664240189.
"After carefully examining New Testament sources, the authors conclude that truly Christian marriage must be a companionship of equal persons. But they go further, affirming that companionship is not enough, because Christian marriage must be an active partnership of equals working together to fulfill the divine purpose." -- David and Vera Mace

Hurley, James B., Man and Woman in Biblical Perspective, ISBN: 0310427312 9780310427315.
"A thorough, sound, Biblical, and background survey. It is valuable not only for its erudition and meticulous reasoning but for its great sensitivity in the application of Biblical principles." -- John Gerstner
Dr. Hurley is Associate Professor of Theology at Westminster Theological Seminary.
"This is an excellent study of the roles of men and women in Old Testament, New Testament, and Inter-Testamental times. Roles covered include family life, commercial, managerial, governmental and religious. Except for the inter-testamental period, the analysis sticks strictly to the scriptures and is very objective. When the subject of religious roles is discussed, the author, who is a member of the Presbyterian Church in America (PCA) denomination, is careful to define modern church offices in terms of their New Testament counterparts.
"Mr. Hurley is well qualified for this inquiry since he has a doctorate in Pauline Theology and also extensive experience in marriage counseling.
"I found the book to be very helpful as I went through the process of deciding whether ordination of women was an approved biblical practice." -- Reader's Comment

James, John Angell (1785-1859), Addresses to Young men, ISBN: 1877611972 9781877611971.
"James, the author of FEMALE PIETY, one of our bestselling books, also wrote this one for young men. Though the situations about which he wrote in the 19th century may be a bit outdated, the biblical principles and insights he brings out are as relevant today as they were a thousand years ago." -- Publisher

*James, John Angell (1785-1859), Female Piety or the Young Woman's Friend and Guide Through Life to Immortality, ISBN: 1573581038 9781573581035.
"This is another in a series of books on the family. By the author of THE CHRISTIAN FATHER'S PRESENT TO HIS CHILDREN, this is James' book on raising a godly daughter. He deals with early piety, the elevation of women by the gospel, the importance of personal religion, and how to be a good wife and mother. This is a book every parent should read to their daughters. Here is a book that girls should read to know what to become, and boys should read to know what to look for! There is a foreword by Mrs. Edna Gerstner." -- Publisher

James, John Angell (1785-1859), The Marriage Ring; or, How to Make Home Happy
"This little volume is intended as a manual for those just entering the marriage state. John Angel James was an author beloved and esteemed for his many practical writings. He remarks, 'It is an unquestionable truth that if a man be not happy at home, he cannot be happy anywhere; and he who is happy there need be miserable nowhere. The secret of happiness lies folded up in the leaves of the Bible and is carried in the bosom of religion.' He treats of the foundation of the marriage union, the family circle, the mutual and special duties of husband and wife." -- Gospel Union

James, John Angell (1785-1859), and Don Kistler, A Woman's Mission, ISBN: 1573581178 9781573581172. Available in FEMALE PIETY OR THE YOUNG WOMAN'S FRIEND AND GUIDE THROUGH LIFE TO IMMORTALITY.

*Kennedy, D. James (1930-2007), Learning to Live With the People you Love, ISBN: 0883681900 9780883681909.
Love "is sharing life together in a way that brings glory to God and enriches the lives of every family member."
Dr. Kennedy says no book he has written has brought so many comments as this one.
Read this in conjunction with Dr. Kennedy's 6-message audio cassette [audio file], series "Secrets of Successful Marriages," the audio cassette message "Why Some Marriages Fail and Others Succeed," and the 4-message audio cassette [audio file], series "The Christian Marriage Series."

Knudsen, Robert D., Ethics and Birth Control.

*Lockyer, Herbert, All the Promises of the Bible, ISBN: 0310281318.
"A devotional expositional compilation of all the promises [about 3,300 of the approximate 8,810 promises -- compiler], that are found in Scripture." -- Publisher
"Lockyer's in-depth look at the scope of God's promises arranges them in categories that cover the full array of human concerns, from the spiritual to the material and the corporate to the personal. As you come to understand God's promises and how they apply to every aspect of your life, you'll gain a trust in God that will sustain you through the worst of times and be your source of rejoicing in the best.
"Dr. Herbert Lockyer was born in London in 1886, and held pastorates in Scotland and England for 25 years before coming to the United States in 1935. In 1937 he received the honorary Doctor of Divinity degree from Northwestern Evangelical Seminary. In 1955 he returned to England where he lived for many years. He then returned to the United States where he continued to devote time to the writing ministry until his death in November of 1984." -- Publisher

Mack, Wayne A., and Nathan A. Mack, Preparing for Marriage God's way, ISBN: 1563220199: 9781563220197.
"A workbook that gives you 'seven basic tools for a successful marriage. It enables you to: [1] assess your marital readiness; [2] know the other person for what he/she really is; [3] uncover any current problems and pinpoint future ones; [4] understand the solutions for both current and future difficulties; [5] develop skills for communication and conflict resolution; [6] prevent future heartache; and [7] prepare for a satisfying, fulfilling and God-honoring marriage.' Thirteen chapters, each with a couple of pages of teaching and then questionnaires, inventories and Bible studies designed to help readers make personal application. -- David Powlison (1949-2019)
"PREPARING FOR MARRIAGE GOD'S WAY guides you to an understanding of what to do when the glow of courtship must be replaced by the daily responsibility of marriage." -- Publisher

*Marshall, Walter (1628-1680), The Gospel-Mystery of Sanctification: Growing in Holiness by Living in Union With Christ, ISBN: 189277724X. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
The Reformation Heritage Books edition is a reprint of the 1954 edition set by Oliphants and includes an introduction by Joel R. Beeke. Also includes the author's famous sermon on "The Doctrine of Justification Opened and Applied."
See the WorldCat record for various foreign language editions.
Other editions:
Marshall, Walter, The Gospel-Mystery of Sanctification, ISBN: 1597520543 9781597520546.
"This is by far the best book on the doctrine of Sanctification in print. It was originally written in the 17th century, but has been put into modern English with this edition. This book will help you better understand the Gospel and its power not only for our Justification, but our Sanctification as well." -- Reader's Comment
Marshall, Walter, The Gospel-Mystery of Sanctification, ISBN: 1589600630 9781589600638.
"Here you will read the most closely reasoned defense of scriptural sanctification to be found anywhere. . . . Fourteen directions are given to the reader, all perfected with the aim of explaining to sincere souls what sanctification is, what it is not, and how to attain a holy walk before God. . . ." -- Jay P. Green, Sr. (1918-2008)
Marshall, Walter, The Gospel-mystery of Sanctification, Opened, in Sundry Practical Directions: Suited Especially to the Case of Those who Labor Under the Guilt and Power of Indwelling Sin. To Which is Added a Sermon on Justification (1859)
http://archive.org/details/gospelmysteryofs02mars

*Miles, Herbert J., Sexual Understanding Before Marriage.
"Ranks as one of the most practical and helpful treatments on the subject. Examines attitudes and techniques essential to sexual harmony and happiness in marriage, and provides needful correctives to some of the abuses of marriage." -- GCB
"A realistic approach based on a solid moral foundation for young unmarried people." -- Cyril J. Barber

*Perkins, William (1558-1602), Christian Oeconomie, or, A Short Survey of the Right Manner of Erecting and Ordering a Familie According to the Scriptures first written in Latine by the author M.W. Perkins; And now set forth in the vulgar tongue for more common vse and benefit by Tho. Pickering . . . 1609, ISBN: 0921148623. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.

Powlison, David (1949-2019), and John Yenchko, Pre-engagement: Five Questions to ask Yourselves, ISBN: 0875526799 9780875526799.

Rank, Maureen, Dealing With the dad of Your Past, ISBN: 0871236222 9780871236227.
"Practical, biblical counsel for every woman.
"Although fathers are not the only determining influence in their daughters' lives, it is true that their impact at times may be the most ignored. Current research shows that a girl's relationship with her father is absolutely critical to her psychological, social, and spiritual development. This is grim news to a group of people whom psychologists are labelling, 'The Fatherless Generation.' Physically absent dads (the current experience of one-fourth of American children under 18), emotionally absent dads, and abusive dads are impacting daughters as well as sons.
"God as Father designed earthly fathers to model His loving care through personal involvement, warmth, discipline, and wise direction and counsel toward maturity. Where these are lacking in a daughter's life, profound effects occur. As difficult as that may be to face, that process is the only way to emotional and spiritual wholeness. It requires a sometimes painful look back and honest assessment of the dad of the past. It means coming to terms with who he really was, who he wasn't, and what can be done about it now. Through God's restoring process, daughters will be challenged to embrace the One perfect Father who is always there and allow His life-changing truth and power to 'make all things new'." -- Publisher

Ryle, J.C. (1816-1900), Examples of Holiness, ISBN: 0801076544 9780801076541.
"Selected from his book HOLINESS, published in 1879."

*Ryle, J.C. (1816-1900), Holiness: Its Nature, Hindrances, Difficulties, and Roots, ISBN: 0852341369. A Christian classic.
"Ryle, like his great masters, has no easy way to holiness to offer us, and no 'patent' method by which it can be obtained; but he invariably produces that 'hunger and thirst after righteousness' which is the only indispensable condition to being 'filled'." -- D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones
"Newly typeset edition from Evangelical Press with preface done by J.I. Packer. Complete and unabridged." -- GCB
Holiness, J.C. Ryle
http://archive.org/details/HolinessJcRyle

*Sowell, Thomas, A Conflict of Visions, ISBN: 9780465002054 0465002056.
"Controversies in politics arise from many sources, but the conflicts that endure for generations or for centuries show a remarkably consistent pattern. The analysis of this pattern is the purpose of A CONFLICT OF VISIONS. Its theme is that the enduring political controversies of the past two centuries reflect radically different visions of the nature of man. Issues as diverse as criminal justice, income distribution, or war and peace repeatedly show those with one vision lining up on one side and those with another vision lining up on the other.
"Dr. Thomas Sowell describes A CONFLICT OF VISIONS as 'the culmination of thirty years of work in the history of ideas' -- a field in which he established his professional reputation years before writing any of his well-known books on ethnicity and other social issues. Dr. Sowell and his books have received a number of awards and honors, and have been translated into several languages. He has been a consultant to three administrations of both parties, as well as scholar-in-residence at three "think tanks." He is now a Senior Fellow at the Hoover Institute in Stanford, California." -- Publisher

*Swanson, Andrew, Whom Shall I Marry? ISBN: 0851516882 9780851516882.
"Andrew Swanson writes with sensitivity on the struggles and difficulties young people from various cultures face in regard to the choice of a life mate. He writes about the ways in which God guides and directs those whose central desire is to do his will." -- Publisher

Swartley, Dick, and Anne Swartley, Right Start Premarital Program (R.H. and A.L. Swartley, 1993), (for further information contact the authors, 487 Glenwyth Rd., Wayne, PA, 19087-5304).
"Detailed instruction manuals for setting up a mentoring program in a local church to handle premarital counseling. Includes three notebooks, one for prospective couples, one for mentors, and for the pastor or counselor overseeing the premarital counseling.

Terkelsen, Helen E., Counseling the Unwed Mother.

Terkelsen, Helen E., I'm Going to Have a Baby and I'm not Married, ISBN: 0800619943.

Vincent, Thomas (1634-1678), Christ the Best Husband: or An Invitation of Young Women Unto Christ. Delivered in a Sermon to Young Women, 1672.

*Watson, Thomas (1620-1686), The Doctrine of Repentance, ISBN: 0851515215. A Christian classic. Considered to be among the ten greatest books in the English language. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
"Knowing what repentance is, and actually repenting are essentials to true Christianity. Jesus Christ himself said that if we do not repent, we will perish! It is vital, therefore, to read and study what Scripture has to say about this theme.
"Few better guides have existed in this or any other language. . . . He was a master of both Scripture and the human heart, and wrote with a simplicity and directness that keeps his work fresh and powerful for the twentieth century." -- Publisher
The Doctrine of Repentance, Thomas Watson
http://archive.org/details/TheDoctrineOfRepentance
The Doctrine of Repentance, Thomas Watson
http://ntslibrary.com/PDF%20Books/Repentance%20by%20T%20Watson.pdf
The Doctrine of Repentance, Thomas Watson
http://books.google.com/books?id=V1QCAAAACAAJ&ie=ISO-8859-1&output=html
The Doctrine of Repentance, Thomas Watson (excerpts)
http://www.fivesolas.com/watson/drepenti.htm

Wilde, Gary (editor), Bible Promises to Treasure for Couples: Inspiring Words for Every Occasion, ISBN: 1558197133 9781558197138.

Wilde, Gary (editor), Bible Promises to Treasure for Newlyweds: Inspiring Words for Every Occasion (Bible Promises to Treasure), ISBN: 0805493913 9780805493917.

Wilson, P. Bunny, Liberated by Submission, ISBN: 1565077202 9781565077201. Alternate title: LIBERATED THROUGH SUBMISSION.
Submission is the whole thing, submission to God, the Ultimate Judge, Lawgiver, Holiness, and submission to others. The caveat -- everyone tries to play god, and thus interferes with what God is doing, thus the need for discerning submission.
"LIBERATED THROUGH SUBMISSION has given me the boldness to stand up and say that my desire is to be a submitted wife and the reasons why. Before I read this book, I sat silently when other women exploded about the forbidden 's' word. The Bible tells us clearly to submit and I did, as an act of obedience to God, however, I did not like it. As a result of reading Bunny's book, not only do I want to submit, but I recognize that I cannot afford not to. I am now 'Liberated' because submission allows me to step back and watch God move. . . !" -- Reader's Comment

See also: The sovereignty of god, The doctrine of man (human nature, total depravity), The inspiration and infallibility of scripture (the doctrine of revelation, the doctrine of plenary inspiration, the doctrine of divine inspiration, the doctrine of verbal inspiration, theopneustia, sufficiency of scripture), The ten commandments: the moral law, The christian home, domestic duties, Trusting god, Repentance the key to salvation and change, Justification, Justifying faith, Forgiveness, Bible promises, Sanctification, Conscience, casuistry, cases of conscience, Ethics, Men and Women, Singleness, Christian liberty, Men, women and god, Premarital counseling, Marital counseling, Problem solving in marriage, Reconciliation of marriage partners, Counseling the family, Biblical counsel by subject, Reconciliation of relationships, Sexual relationship, Spiritual adultery (spiritual whoredom/harlotry), Carnality and flesh pleasing: lust, desires, ambition, Adultery, Child abuse and pedophilia, Fatherlessness, Counsel for young men, Counsel for young women, Abstinence, Christian counseling and educational foundation, Westminster media, Works of Jay Adams, and Audio cassettes, CCEF speakers, Sexual wholeness, Marriage, Singleness, Feminism, Gratuitous sex, a cause of violence, Homosexuality, lesbianism, gay, bisexual, transvestite, queer (lgbtq), Cowardice, Pseudo-christian movements: a selection of works, Works by and for women, The new age and women, Self, Self-denial, The occult, Sorcery, Women and the new age, Soul-violence, Churches that abuse, Divorce, Hostility, Incest, Rape, Sex ethics, sex education, Pornography, Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, Unforgiveness, and so forth, and so on.

Related Weblinks

Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation (CCEF)
1803 East Willow Grove Avenue
Glenside, PA 19038
Telephone: 215.884.7676
http://www.ccef.org/

Institute of Biblical Counseling and Discipleship (formerly CCEF West)
http://www.ibcd.org/

Institute for Nouthetic Counseling
"Study Biblical Counseling with Dr. Jay Adams."
"Here is a list of the courses we have ready:

Introduction to Biblical Counseling/Counseling Principles and Practices
The Counselor Himself
Critical Stages in Biblical Counseling
Counseling Problems
Premarital Counseling
Marriage, Divorce, and Remarriage
Theology and Counseling
Church Discipline
Forgiveness
Medical Issues in Counseling I and II
Marriage and Family Counseling
We are currently working on the following:
Counseling Theories and Issues Abroad in the Church Today
Legal Issues in Counseling
Counseling Women
The Christian Counselor's Casebook Studies"

http://www.nouthetic.org

Mastering Life Ministries
http://www.MasteringLife.org

National Association of Nouthetic Counselors (NANC) Library
http://www.nanc.org/Resources/NANC-Library

Marriage

Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh. (Genesis 2:24)
See the Theological Notes: "The Image of God," at Genesis 1:27 in The Reformation Study Bible.
So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them. (Genesis 1:27)
See the Theological Notes: "Body and Soul, Male and Female" at Genesis 2:7 in The Reformation Study Bible.
See the Theological Notes: "Marriage and Divorce," at Malachi 2:16 in The Reformation Study Bible.
For the LORD, the God of Israel, saith that he hateth putting away: for one covereth violence with his garment, saith the LORD of hosts: therefore take heed to your spirit, that ye deal not treacherously. (Malachi 2:16).
For this cause shall a man leave father and mother, and shall cleave to his wife: and they twain shall be one flesh? Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 19:5-6)
John Gill commenting on Matthew 19:6
http://www.biblestudytools.com/my-bible/#/left:passage/kjv/matthew/19:6/&right:reference/commentaries/gills-exposition-of-the-bible/matthew-19-6.html
Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins.
Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another. (1 John 4:10,11)
Marriage was the last relic of paradise left among men and Jesus hasted to honour it with His first miracle. -- C.H. Spurgeon (1834-1892)
Where there is an agreement between husband and wife, in faith and the fear of the Lord, it makes way unto a blessed success in all their duties: when it is otherwise, nothing succeeds unto their comfort. -- John Owen (1616-1683)
Married couples who study the sovereignty of God together sovereignly stay together.
When husbands and wives are well yoked, how light their load becomes! -- C.H. Spurgeon (1834-1892)
Children have a tendency to imitate their parents. A man and wife who are well yoked together (Genesis 1:27; Genesis 2:7; Genesis 2:18; Genesis 2:24; Psalm 67:1,2; Matthew 19:5-6; Ephesians 5:22-30; 1 Timothy 5:8; 1 John 4:10,11), model Christ for their children.
Except the Lord build the house, they labour in vain that build it. (Psalm 127:1a)
Godly and Ungodly Marriage
A life of misery is usually the lot of those who are united in marriage, or in any other way of their own choosing, with the men of the world.
But a very fruitful source of ruin to Church members is that of a young man or a young woman choosing an ungodly partner in life. They never can expect God's blessing upon it. They tell you sometimes they hope to be the means of their friends conversion. They have no right to hope such a thing; it so seldom occurs.
Those ill-assorted unions between believers and unbelievers rob our churches of more members than any other popular delinquency that I know of. Seldom, I might say almost never, do I meet with a woman professing godliness who becomes joined in wedlock to a man of the world but what she goes away. She ceases to follow Jesus, and we hear no more of her. Absorbed in the pursuits, the passions, and the pleasures of the life that now is, she is sucked under the stream and drawn into the vortex. In the romance of her courtship, she glibly said, "I shall win him;" but, in the reality of their conjugal bonds, he could coolly say, "I have won you."
If you want to wither your happiness for ever, you have only to go and be yoked with an unbeliever. I have known some Christian women who have forgotten the divine precept, and have been married to ungodly men; and I have seen godly men married to ungodly women; and mark this, my experience has not been very long, but it has been very wide. I never knew any good to come of it.
It can never conduce to the comfort of any Christian man or woman to be unequally yoked together with an unbeliever; you had far better remain in the cold of your bachelor or spinster life than warm your hands at the fire of an unhallowed marriage.
You do, in fact, give Christ up when you take that ungodly man, and you, young man, when you seek after that Christless woman; you deny your Lord and Master; so far as you can do it, you deny him, and give him up for the sake of earthly pleasures. -- C.H. Spurgeon (1834-1892), on 2 Corinthians 6:14
God be merciful unto us, and bless us: and cause his face to shine upon us: That thy way may be known upon earth, thy saving health among all nations. (Psalm 67:1,2)
Paul's teaching on celibacy, virginity, singleness, marriage, and remarriage -- John Calvin commenting on 1 Corinthians 6:1-9 -- 1 Corinthians 7:40.
For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall be one flesh. (Ephesians 5:31)
Marriage is honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge. (Hebrews 13:4)
Submitting yourselves one to another in the fear of God. Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord. Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it. (Ephesians 5:21,22,25)
And when all things shall be subdued unto him, then shall the Son also himself be subject unto him that put all things under him, that God may be all in all. (1 Corinthians 15:28)
Many marriages have been healed by a commitment to Christ first and to each other second. -- D. James Kennedy (1930-2007) and Jerry Newcombe, What if Jesus had Never Been Born, p. 140
Prior to the Fall in the Garden of Eden man was in perfect relationship with God and with woman, a heavenly existence. After the Fall man's relationships with God and men were broken. The only way for man and wife, and family, and society to live together happily is to pursue holiness through Christ Jesus. See: The Everlasting Righteousness, or How Shall man be Just With God? Horatius Bonar.
God's promises to married persons deepens their love for each other.
As God by creation made two of one, so again by marriage He made one of two. -- Thomas Adams
Woman takes her being from man, man takes his well-being from woman. -- Thomas Adams
All history bears witness to the fact that when vital goodness is at a low ebb, the sacred institution of marriage is held in light esteem. It is both solemn and sad to behold an exemplification of the same in our own times; as the claims of God are less and less regarded by those of high and low estate alike; the holy obligations of wedlock are gradually whittled down and then increasingly disregarded. When a country, avowedly Christian, begins to tamper with the institution of marriage it is a certain proof of its ethical decadence. -- Arthur Pink (1886-1952), The Sermon on the Mount
Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the Lord, she shall be praised. Give her of the fruit of her hands; and let her own works praise her in the gates. (Proverbs 31:30,31)
Religion [holiness -- compiler] is the root of happiness. Piety has charms which abide in all their freshness when mere fleshly beauty has given place to the wrinkles of old age. May the new household be founded in prayer, built up in holiness, and crowned with the divine blessing. -- C.H. Spurgeon commenting on Proverbs 31:30,31 in Spurgeon's Devotional Bible, p. 778
He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God? (Micah 6:8)

Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), A Counseling Seminar: A 12-tape [audio file], Album for Laymen and Pastors Covering the Basic Reasons, Methods and Purpose of Nouthetic Counseling as Based on the Scriptures.
Contents: Hope and counseling (3 tapes), [audio file] -- Christian forgiveness (2 tapes), [audio file] -- Change (2 tapes), [audio file] -- The husband (2 tapes), [audio file] -- The wife (2 tapes), [audio file] -- Questions and answers.
Search the series "Jay Adams Tape Library" in WorldCat (OCLC) for a listing of 21 audio tapes [audio file].

Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), Effective Communication; Disabled people; Inferiority complex; Unsaved wife; Be prepared! (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Audio cassette JA406 [audio file].

Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), Marriage and Family Life: Purpose of Companionship, Cleaving (part 1), (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Audio cassette JA401 [audio file].

Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), Marriage and Family Life (part 2): Headship, Husband's Helper, Submission (part 2) (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Audio cassette JA402 [audio file].

Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), Marriage and Family Life (part 3): Discipline, Motivation, Good for Evil (part 3), (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Audio cassette JA403 [audio file].

Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), The Role of Father in the Home (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Audio cassette JAR02 [audio file].

Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), The Role of Husband in the Home (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Audio cassette JAR01 [audio file].

Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), Role-play and Critique (part 3), (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
"Wife's Husband Dies; Mother's Baby Born Deformed; Pregnant Unwed Daughter."
Audio cassette JA212 [audio file].

Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), Role-play and Critique (part 4) (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
"Husband Wants Wife-Swapping."
Audio cassette JA213 [audio file].

Baxter, Richard, A Breviate of the Life of Margaret, the Daughter of Francis Charlton of Apply in Shropshire Esq.; and Wife of Richard Baxter. For the use of all, but especially of their Kindred. There is also Published the Character of her Mother, truly described in her Published Funeral Sermon. Reprinted at her Daughter's Request, called 'The Last Word of a Believer, His passing-prayer, recommending his departing Spirit to Christ, to be received by him.

*Baxter, Richard (1615-1691), A Christian Directory: Baxter's Practical Works, Vol. 1. Full title: A Christian Directory: or A Sum of Practical Theology, and Cases of Conscience. Directing Christians how to use Their Knowledge and Faith; How to Improve all Helps and Means, and to Perform all Duties; How to Overcome Temptations, and to Escape or Mortify Every Sin. In Four Parts.
I. Christian Ethics (or Private Duties)
II. Christian Economics (or Family Duties)
III. Christian Ecclesiastics (or Church Duties)
IV. Christian Politics (or Duties to Our Rulers and Neighbours) (Morgan, PA: Soli Deo Gloria Publications, 1997, 1990, 1838, 1707, 1678, 1673), ISBN: 1877611131 9781877611131. Foreword by J.I. Packer (Soli Deo Gloria edition only). The Soli Deo Gloria publication is a facsimile reprint of the 19th century reprint by George Virtue, London, 1846. The original 1673 edition and the 1678 edition, both printed by Robert White for Nevill Simmons. Bibliographic and scriptural footnotes. A Christian classic. Considered to be among the ten greatest books in the English language. Available (less the J.I. Packer's Foreword, but searchable with an OCR-based index), on the Puritan Hard Drive.
This work is available in many editions, and in many formats.
Reformation Heritage Books has new copies of the Soli Deo Gloria edition (including the J.I. Packer Introduction), as of March 2008, even though it is generally thought to be out of print. They acquired Soli Deo Gloria from Ligonier Ministries in late 2007.
The best digital format of the reprint by George Virtue is included on the Puritan Hard Drive. It has an OCR scan in the background, meaning one can search the entire volume and copy text into another document. It also has a computer generated indexed from the OCR scan which is, of course, in Baxter's vocabulary.
A PDF image scan only of the same edition is available on the Reformation Bookshelf CD #21.
The reprint by George Virtue is available online and may be downloaded in PDF format at Christian Classics Ethereal Library.
The reprint by George Virtue appears in full preview in Google Books but may not be downloaded. So it is useful if the reader wants to become acquainted with the book. Text can be searched, but can not be copied into another document. This particular Google Books scan includes the contents in detail on pages iii-xix which is not included in the Christian Classics Ethereal Library PDF files. About five other editions from libraries are available in Google Books, and may be downloaded (August 2008).
Notice that the e-text in Google Books has the advantage of being searchable. Searching an image-based PDF file (without an OCR scan in the background), is not possible, unless the user owns software such as Abode Acrobat Pro or Kirtas BookScan Editor. They both have an OCR (optical character recognition), feature that will search an image-based PDFs (bit-map scans). Searches appear to be perfect in this work, although one must know Baxter's vocabulary. Text can be cut and pasted from image-based PDF format to OCR (character) format. This particular Google Books scan can not be cut and pasted or downloaded.
One of the older, multi-volume editions of THE WORKS OF RICHARD BAXTER is available at Monergism.com in the "Puritan Library," "Richard Baxter." A CHRISTIAN DIRECTORY, volume 23. It can be downloaded.
http://www.puritanlibrary.com/
Another older edition is available on microfilm (Ann Arbor, MI: University Microfilms, 1970), 1 microfilm reel, 35 mm (Early English books, 1641-1700; 343:11).
"The complete practical works of Richard Baxter are in print in four volumes entitled BAXTER'S PRACTICAL WORKS. This volume (about 1 1/4 million words, 1028 pages), is volume one of the set. The editor's preface (1707), p. xiii, stated that the works of Richard Baxter are 'perhaps the best body of practical divinity that is extent in our own or any other tongue.' Richard Baxter lived from 1615-1691. The DIRECTORY was completed in 1665. Its scope was intended to cover all of practical theology, a summa of casuistry . . ." -- Don Kistler
"Baxter's series, which grew in range and scope as it proceeded . . . is a peak point in Puritan devotional writing, and remains a precious resource for all, in this or any age, who want to know what is involved in Biblical godliness. . . . A CHRISTIAN DIRECTORY may justly be described as a landmark. It is the fullest, most thorough, and in this writer's judgment, most profound treatment of Christian spirituality and standards that has ever been attempted by an English-speaking Evangelical author. The fact that it embraces both spirituality and standards (the principles of communion with God plus the specifics of obedience to God), merits approving comment in itself; nowadays spirituality and ethics have become two distinct disciplines in the schools, and books written on either say virtually nothing about the other . . ." -- J.I. Packer
Timothy Keller calls it the greatest manual on Biblical counseling ever produced.
"There are many Puritan classics on this subject. Thomas Brooks' PRECIOUS REMEDIES FOR SATAN'S DEVICES, Thomas Goodwin's A CHILD OF LIGHT WALKING IN DARKNESS, William Bridge's A LIFTING UP FOR THE DOWNCAST, and many other similar works give evidence that the Puritans were. . . . masters at applying Biblical answers and principles to problems that can only be solved by spiritual means. No Puritan work, however, has ever approached the popularity, the scope, or the depth of Baxter's classic treatise. With the widespread interest in counseling in today's church, this reprint of Baxter's work should be a welcome addition to every pastor's library, or to anyone else who wishes to give solid Biblical answers to man's questions." -- Don Kistler
"We have long waited for a purely Biblical treatment of the spiritual ills and cures of men which is untainted by the views of psychology. Since Baxter lived about 200 years before psychology arrived, his deep work is completely void of its encroachment -- thankfully!" -- John MacArthur
"The kings men sought to arrest Richard Baxter, but he traveled ceaselessly from place to place, writing his sermons and his books even on horseback (he had an inkwell in his saddle), and preached over a wide area." -- Brian H. Edwards
"Baxter was a wonder of his age. His writings total 72 large volumes, much of it written on horseback as he traveled in his widespread preaching efforts. He seldom, if ever, edited anything he wrote. Knowing this any reader will be amazed at how well he communicated his deep love for his Savior. For 26 years he was public enemy No. 1 to the king, yet he lived to see the flight of the king in 1688." -- Jay P. Green, Sr. (1918-2008)
POOR MAN'S FAMILY BOOK (1674) and THE CATECHIZING OF FAMILIES (1683), are less detailed works and are found in THE REFORMED PASTOR: BAXTER'S PRACTICAL WORKS, VOL. 4. They are more suitable for family instruction than are the detailed presentation in A CHRISTIAN DIRECTORY.
"Ptacek in FAMILY WORSHIP: BIBLICAL BASIS, HISTORICAL REALITY, CURRENT NEED (pp. 51-52), supplies the following information in regard to Baxter and this book. He notes that after the Episcopalians ejected numerous 'nonconformists,' in what is know as the 'great ejection,' in 1662, 'Baxter pastored from house to house, visiting families of his parish in their homes. These visits contributed to Baxter's A CHRISTIAN DIRECTORY, a large and still very relevant manual of pastoral care.' Focusing on just one area of great importance, Ptacek demonstrates how this book's relevance is not limited by time or culture, though sometimes the use of specific words are. 'Published in 1673, but written 1664-65, a large book-length part of Baxter's CHRISTIAN DIRECTORY is devoted to the family. It is entitled 'Christian Economics' based on the archaic usage of the word, which reflects the proper sense of the Greek root oikonomos as the manager of a household, in the Christian case, the spiritual leader of the family. The family head is essential to Baxter's view of family worship and instruction. Baxter asserts that it is God's will that this instruction be carried out by the rulers of the families.' For a male head of the household to fail to do so, or to have another instruct in the family, is contrary to his position of authority.' This is the kind of book that can be passed on from generation to generation and still find much use in the service of the kingdom of God.
"Though relatively weak on corporate sanctification, corporate faithfulness and some important areas of doctrine (such as justification), Baxter's work on subjects related to personal piety can be of good practical use to the Christian -- if one is careful to separate out his aberrant doctrinal views and any practical errors they may lead to." -- Publisher
The following three excerpts are included as bonus free books on Reformation Bookshelf CD #28.
1. "The Duties of Parents for Their Children" from BAXTER'S PRACTICAL WORKS, VOL. 1, A CHRISTIAN DIRECTORY, on Christian Economics, Chap. X., pp. 449-454.
2. "The Special Duties of Children Towards Their Parents" from BAXTER'S PRACTICAL WORKS, VOL. 1, A CHRISTIAN DIRECTORY, on Christian Economics, Chap. XI., pp. 454-457.
3. "The Special Duties of Children and Youth Towards God" from BAXTER'S PRACTICAL WORKS, VOL. 1, A CHRISTIAN DIRECTORY, on Christian Economics, Chap. XII., pp. 457-458).
A summary of currently (2012) available publications.
http://www.lettermen2.com/pwrbcd.html
Richard Baxter, from Wikipedia
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Richard_Baxter

Baxter, Richard (1615-1691), The Poor Man's Family Book: 1. Teaching him how to Become a True Christian, 2. How to Live as a Christian, Towards God, Himself and Others, in all his Relations, Especially in His Family, 3. How to die as a Christian in Hope and Comfort, and so to be Glorified With Christ for Ever: In Plain Familiar Conferences Between a Teacher and a Learner. Available in THE REFORMED PASTOR: BAXTER'S PRACTICAL WORKS, VOL. 4.

*Baxter, Richard, The Reformed Pastor: Baxter's Practical Works, Vol. 4, ISBN: 1877611360. A Christian classic.
"This is the fourth and final volume in this great set. Includes, 'Compassionate Counsel to all Young men,' 'The Reformed Pastor,' 'Poor Man's Family Book,' 'The Catechizing of Families,' and 'The Mother's Catechism,' in all 25 sermons, treatises, and catechisms. Dr. J.I. Packer says, 'For me, the great joy of this year is that it see the completion of Soli Deo Gloria's reprint of Baxter's incomparable PRACTICAL WORKS'." -- GCB
Richard Baxter, from Wikipedia
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Richard_Baxter
Compassionate Counsel to all Young men (1681), by Richard Baxter
http://www.lettermen2.com/ccaym.html

Beeke, Joel, Calling of a Christian Husband, (MP3), [audio file]. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.

Beeke, Joel, Calling of a Christian Wife, (MP3), [audio file]. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.

Berry, Jo, How to Live With an Unbeliever, ISBN: 0310426227 9780310426226.
"This little booklet of 60 pages is excerpted from the author's BELOVED UNBELIEVER. Basic scriptural principles are used to show wives of unbelievers how to be a good 'helper,' act on 1 Peter 3, deal with decision making, raise children in the Lord, and love their husbands into the kingdom." -- GCB

Bilezikian, Gilbert, Beyond Sex Roles: A Guide for the Study of Female Roles in the Bible, ISBN: 0801008859 9780801008856.

Bouma, Mary LaGrand, Creative Homemaker, ISBN: 087123078X 9780871230782.

Defoe, Daniel, The Family-instructor. In Three Parts; I. Relating to Fathers and Children. II. To Masters and Servants. III. To Husbands and Wives. 4th edition, 1717, 2 volumes.

Ellis, Charles, and Norma Ellis, Heirs Together of Life: Daily Bible Readings for Husbands and Wives, ISBN: 0851513115 9780851513119.
"Short discussions on almost 200 passages from the Bible, Genesis through Revelation in sequence. Each selection is related to marriage and the home. Designed as a devotional to be used by husband and wife together." -- GCB

*Gill, John (1697-1771), Exposition of the Book of Solomon's Song: Commonly Called Canticles: Wherein the Authority of it is Established and Vindicated, Against Objections Both Ancient and Modern.
"A full, devotional, typological exposition in which the writer stresses the relationship of Christ to the believer. Originally published in 1776." -- Cyril J. Barber

Grimm, Robert, Love and Sexuality.
"A Biblically sound view of sex and marriage." -- Cyril J. Barber

*Guernsey, Dennis B., Thoroughly Married.
"A clear delineation of the way in which a proper understanding of the Bible's teaching on marriage contributes toward the development of a stable life-style, a healthier sex life, and a happier home." -- Cyril J. Barber

*Hardisty, Margaret, Forever my Love: What Every man Should Know About his Wife, ISBN: 0890810117 9780890810118.
"Excellent book for husbands on learning to live with their wives in understanding." -- Robert B. Somerville

Harris, J. Gordon, Biblical Perspectives on Aging: God and the Elderly, ISBN: 9780789035370 0789035375.
"The elderly are frequently an embarrassment to their children who do not know what to do with them. Often the responsibility for their care is placed upon one family member or they are placed in a retirement home. This book will be an important reference work and resource guide for those who seek a connection between the Biblical text and the needs of their parents." -- Cyril J. Barber

Hunt, Angela Everett, Loving Someone Else's Child, ISBN: 0842338632 9780842338639.
"Angela Hunt and her husband, Gary, are two of the most sensitive and caring people I know. Angie's book is written out of her own experience and is much needed in our fractured culture. It will be a blessing to all in need of assurance that parenting is more than biology." -- Cal Thomas

Hurley, James B., Christ as the Husband, The Church as the Bride.

Hurley, James B., Headship and Submission in Ephesians 5.

Hurley, James B., Women's Role in the Church, MP3 [audio file] (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).

*Kennedy, D. James (1930-2007), Learning to Live With the People you Love, ISBN: 0883681900 9780883681909.
Love "is sharing life together in a way that brings glory to God and enriches the lives of every family member."
Dr. Kennedy says no book he has written has brought so many comments as this one.
Read this in conjunction with Dr. Kennedy's 6-message audio cassette [audio file], series "Secrets of Successful Marriages," the audio cassette [audio file], message "Why Some Marriages Fail and Others Succeed," and the 4-message audio cassette [audio file], series "The Christian Marriage Series."

*Knight, George W., and Wayne A. Grudem, The Role Relationship of men and Women: New Testament Teaching, ISBN: 0802473695 9780802473691.
"One of the best works of its kind. Treats all the New Testament passages that perplex modern minds. Because so much confusion has arisen over whether or not kephale means 'source' or 'authority,' an appendix by Wayne Grundem has been added in which that issue is discussed at length. . . ." -- Cyril J. Barber
Contains material useful in counseling.

*Lloyd-Jones, David Martyn (1899-1981), Life in the Spirit in Marriage, Home and Work: An Exposition of Ephesians 5:18 -- 6:9 [Ephesians 5:18 -- Ephesians 6:9], ISBN: 080105799X 9780801057991.

Mack, Wayne, Developing Deeper Unity in Marriage (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation),
A series of six audio CDs, MP3s [audio file].

*Mack, Wayne, How to Develop Deep Unity in the Marriage Relationship: A how to Manual for Christian Growth and Development. Alternate title: STRENGTHENING YOUR MARRIAGE, and ONE PLUS ONE EQUALS ONE, ISBN: 0875523331 9780875523330.
"Eight units cover the basics of marital unity: God's purpose for marriage; wife's responsibilities; husband's responsibilities; communication; finances; sex; raising children; family religion. Each chapter has about 10 pages of outlined teaching followed by Bible study, self-analysis, and personalized response and application." -- David Powlison (1949-2019)
"A manual to be used by husband and wife together. Step-by-step lessons, with appropriate exercises, take a couple through all the important scriptural aspects of marriage. Extremely helpful . . . very practical." Three units of this work are now available. Contains material useful in counseling.

Mack, Wayne, Strengthening Your Marriage. Alternate title: HOW TO DEVELOP DEEP UNITY IN THE MARRIAGE RELATIONSHIP: A HOW TO MANUAL FOR CHRISTIAN GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT, ISBN: 0875523331 9780875523330.
"Eight units cover the basics of marital unity: God's purpose for marriage; wife's responsibilities; husband's responsibilities; communication; finances; sex; raising children; family religion. Each chapter has about 10 pages of outlined teaching followed by Bible study, self-analysis, and personalized response and application."

Mack, Wayne A., and Strengthening Ministries International, Counseling Observations, 2002, DVD series (Strengthening Ministries International [Center Valley, PA]), distributed by Audubon Press, Laurel, MS.

Mack, Wayne A., and Strengthening Ministries International, Child Abuse, Marriage, Depression, Financial Problems, Depression, 2 DVDs.
Mack, Wayne A., and Strengthening Ministries International, Marital Relations, Conflict, Communications, Blended Family Issues: Session 1-2 of 6, DVD.
Mack, Wayne A., and Strengthening Ministries International, Drunkenness and Marriage, 2 DVDs.
Mack, Wayne A., and Strengthening Ministries International, Depression, anxiety, panic attacks, bad theology, 2 DVDs.
Wayne Mack conducts five counseling sessions focused on the following: depression, anxiety, panic attacks, and bad theology.

Miles, Herbert Jackson, Sexual Happiness in Marriage.
"Ranks as one of the most practical and helpful treatments on the subject. Examines attitudes and techniques essential to sexual harmony and happiness in marriage, and provides needful correctives to some of the abuses of marriage." -- Cyril J. Barber

Miles, Herbert Jackson, and Fern Harrington Miles, Husband-Wife Equality, ISBN: 0800709063 9780800709068.

Miller, C. John (1928-1996), Husband and Father as Spiritual Leader (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).

Miller, C. John (1928-1996), The Puritan Style of Love and Marriage, (part 1 and 2), [audio file]. Available from the Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation.

Miller, C. John (1928-1996), The Role of Woman in the Home (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation),
World Harvest Mission
http://www.whm.org/home.htm

*Murray, John (1898-1975), Principles of Conduct, ISBN: 0802811442 9780802811448.
"This is a far-ranging book with a recurring emphasis on the majestic moral demands of Scripture and the relation of the Gospel to those demands. Scripture teaching is lucidly brought to bear on vital ethical issues such as marriage, work as a calling, capital punishment, the sanctity of truth, and the fear of God. Undoubtedly this is the foremost contemporary book in the field." -- William J. Grier

Piper, Otto A., The Biblical View of Sex and Marriage.
"After discussing the Biblical view of sex, the writer proceeds to elaborate on the standards which he deems to be necessary for an adequate sexual life. He then discusses the objectives of marriage in the light of the Scriptures." -- Cyril J. Barber

Price, Greg L., Christian Education in the Home: Help! My Daughter Wants to Date, 25 pages. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #11.
"Contrasts the non-covenantal pagan view of dating with the covenantal Christian view of Biblical courtship. Shows how the world has insidiously invaded the church (through music, TV, movies, godless public education, etc.), and how this has impacted the raising of our children. Includes a lengthy list of questions for interviewing prospective suitors and an appendix on the Biblical role of women. A very practical, unique item, laying the foundation for blessed biblical marriages." -- Publisher
See also: Price, Greg L., Dating or Courtship: Which is Biblical? (1/2), [audio file]. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.

Price, Greg L., Dating or Courtship: Which is Biblical? (1/2), [audio file]. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.

*Price, Greg L., Peacemakers at war With sin, audio cassette [audio file]. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
"Focusing on Matthew 5:9, Blessed are the peacemakers, Price demonstrate what this portion of Scripture means by contrasting it with what it does not mean. Using this 'Turretin-like' method of proclaiming the truth some surprising results are often mined from God's Word, and this sermon is no exception. Special attention is given to marriage and family relationships, but how this verity applies to the church and the state is also covered -- the United Nations receiving its share of scathing rebukes for the false, anti-Christian peace it promotes. Mere external 'peace' and 'obedience' are condemned as Price sets his sights on promoting classic Puritan experimental heart Christianity. Showing that true peace only consists in reconciliation based on God's truth, the peacemaker's Scripture refers to are often judged by the carnal and disaffected to be the greatest troublemakers -- the Lord Jesus Christ being the prime example. He hated and fought against idolatry, covenant breaking and all other violations of God's law (as the greatest peacemaker that ever lived), to such an extent that those who desired the peace of the world tortured and murdered him. Prophets and wise men since have often fared no better in seeking to set forth the only true peace. Biblical peace is not based on compromise, pragmatism or the removal of Biblical (Reformation) landmarks, it is seen in this sermon to be based on truth and faithfulness. Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God (James 4:4). Heresy, the false ecumenical movement of mystery Babylon, Calvin on schism, unity and numerous other points are all addressed. Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid." (John 14:27) -- Publisher
Peacemakers at war With sin
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=101005105926

Price, Greg L., The Puritan View of Marriage and the Family, an ongoing MP3 [audio file] and video series. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #22.

The Puritan View of Marriage and the Family (#1) "The Divine Institution of Marriage."
The Puritan View of Marriage and the Family (#2) "Preparing for Marriage 1/2," contains advanced teaching on courtship.
The Puritan View of Marriage and the Family (#3) "Preparing for Marriage 2/2," contains advanced teaching on courtship.
The Puritan View of Marriage and the Family (#4) "Husband's Role and Duty 1/2"
The Puritan View of Marriage and the Family (#5) "Husband's Role and Duty 2/2"
The Puritan View of Marriage and the Family (#6) "Wife's Role and Duty 1/2"
The Puritan View of Marriage and the Family (#7) "Wife's Role and Duty 2/2"

Price, Greg L., Wives and Biblical Submission, [audio file]. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
"The Covenanter view of authority and submission set forth with special application to husbands and wives. Directed primarily to the ladies of the covenant (but containing a good deal of exhortation to husbands), this is about as practical a sermon as you will hear. There was good reason why Puritan families were so strong and why divorce was unheard of among these Calvinists; much of it (as the listener will certainly notice), can be traced back to what Price sets forth in this sermon. If you desire a godly family and a marriage relationship analogous to that which Christ enjoys with his bride (the church), you will be pleased with the strong, uncompromising (and yet loving), biblical stand set forth here. A Price classic!" -- Publisher

Poythress V., Marriage and Singleness; Marriage (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Audio cassette VP105 [audio file].

*Rogers, Daniel, Matrimonial Honor, 1642, ISBN: 9781936473007 1936473003. Retypeset and modernized.
"This rare Puritan treatise on marriage is finally back in print after over 350 years. The great importance of godly marriages is emphasized by Daniel Rogers. 'Marriage is the preservative of chastity, the seminary of the commonwealth, seed-plot of the church, pillar (under God) of the world, right-hand of providence, supporter of laws, states, orders, offices, gifts, and services: the glory of peace, the sinews of war, the maintenance of policy, the life of the dead, the solace of the living, the ambition of virginity, the foundation of countries, cities, universities, succession of families, crowns, and kingdoms; truly (besides the being of these) it is the wellbeing of them being made, and whatsoever is excellent in them, or any other thing, the very furniture of heaven (in a kind) depending thereupon.'
"Rogers begins the treatise by showing that marriage is honorable. He then instructs the reader on what is necessary for a good entrance into marriage. It is necessary that one marries in the Lord and that there is aptness and suitableness to the match. Rogers then digresses to handle two points, which are consent of parents and the marriage contract. Returning to the main point of the treatise, he discusses three joint duties of the married, which are unity in religion, chastity, and mutual consent. Rogers then proceeds to handle the respective duties of the husband and the wife. Starting with the husband, he instructs the husband in three duties, namely, that he should be a man of understanding, providence, and given to honor and respect his wife. He then handles the reflective duties of the wife in response to the three duties of the husband. Her subjection to her husband is a response to his understanding. The helpfulness of the wife is in response to the husband's providence. Finally, the husband's giving of honor or respect to the wife is reflected back on him by the wife's gracefulness. Rogers has added a lengthy appendix to the treatise regarding God's terrible judgments against the defilers of marriage, with sundry means and counsels to pursue chastity." -- Publisher

Swindoll, Charles R., Commitment: The key to Marriage, ISBN: 0930014650 9780930014650.
Contains material useful in counseling.
We believe that desirelessness on the part of both man and woman are also an important ingredient to successful marriages.
But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed.
Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death. (James 1:14,15)

Talley, James, and Leslie H. Stobbe, Reconcilable Differences: Mending Broken Relationships, ISBN: 0840731965 9780840731968.
"Designed to help troubled couples regain harmony through understanding. Points the way to defusing areas of conflict, and recommends steps that will help couples rekindle lost love and reestablish lost unity. Recommended." -- Cyril J. Barber
"Is it possible for a couple whose marriage is in serious trouble or a couple who is already divorced to restore harmony -- and even love -- to their relationship? Jim Talley believes it is. RECONCILABLE DIFFERENCES shows why reconciliation is worth the effort and provides practical, biblical advice on how to resolve conflicts and develop a relationship based on mutual love, respect, and trust." -- Publisher

Vincent, Thomas (1634-1678), and Don Kistler, The Good Work Begun in the day of Grace Performed Until the day of Christ: With, Christ the Best Husband, an Invitation to Young Women Unto Christ, and The Best Gift, God's Call Upon Young men for Their Hearts, ISBN: 1573580821 9781573580823.

Welch, Edward T., Co-Dependency (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Audio cassette HFTF34 [audio file].

Welch, Edward T., When People are big and God is Small: Overcoming Peer Pressure, Codependency, and the Fear of Man, ISBN: 0875526004 9780875526003.
"Overly concerned about what people think of you? Welch uncovers the spiritual dimension of people-pleasing and points the way through a true knowledge of God, ourselves, and others." -- Publisher

Wilde, Gary (editor), Bible Promises to Treasure for Couples: Inspiring Words for Every Occasion, ISBN: 1558197133 9781558197138.

Wilde, Gary (editor), Bible Promises to Treasure for Men: Inspiring Words for Every Occasion, ISBN: 080549328X 9780805493283.

Wilde, Gary (editor), Bible Promises to Treasure for Moms: Inspiring Words for Every Occasion, ISBN: 1558197117 9781558197114.

Wilde, Gary (editor), Bible Promises to Treasure for Newlyweds: Inspiring Words for Every Occasion (Bible Promises to Treasure), ISBN: 0805493913 9780805493917.

Wilde, Gary (editor), Bible Promises to Treasure for Parents, ISBN: 1558197125 9781558197121.

Wilde, Gary (editor), Bible Promises to Treasure for Women: Inspiring Words for Every Occasion, ISBN: 0805493298 9780805493290.

See also: The sovereign grace of god: his everlasting mercy and lovingkindness, The doctrine of man (human nature, total depravity), Repentance the key to salvation and change, Justification, Justifying faith, Men, women, and god, Friendship, Happiness, holiness, Christ our example, Affliction, adversity, trials, suffering, chastisement, Ecclesiastes, Husband not a believer (women), Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, Sexual relationship, Spiritual adultery (spiritual whoredom/harlotry), Idolatry, syncretism, Sexual wholeness, Slavery, our systems of enslavement, economic enslavement, Carnality and flesh pleasing: lust, desires, ambition, Gratuitous sex, a cause of violence, Reconciliation of relationships, Communication, Problem solving in marriage, Repentance the key to salvation and change, Justifying faith, Forgiveness, Marital counseling, Biblical counsel by subject, Counseling the family, Husband not a believer, The fatherhood of god, Works of Jay Adams, Abuse, Adultery, Divorce, Family, Love and counseling problems, Men and Women, Parenting, Feminism, Pseudo-christian movements: a selection of works, Secret Societies and Ungodly Alliance, Classic christian fiction by martha finley, and so forth and so on.
TCRB5: 381, 735, 1620-1628, 2255-2257, 2986, 3036, 3233, 3733, 3861, 3862, 3875, 3877, 4071

Related Weblinks

The Cost of Raising a Child in America: $241,080, August 15, 2013
It has been said that if a man and woman are not willing to accept the responsibilities of raising children, then they should not marry.
"The costs of raising a child from birth to age 17, including housing, food, clothing, health care, education, and other expenses, will come to $241,080 for a child born in 2012 [a college education not included -- compiler], up 2.6 percent from the year before, according to new data released by the Department of Agriculture. The annual cost for a child in a middle-income, two-parent family ranges from $12,600 to $14,700."
http://thinkprogress.org/economy/2013/08/15/2471981/cost-of-raising-a-child/

*Has Christianity Failed You? an interview of Ravi Zacharias with Danielle DuRant
"There are an awful lot of Christians walking around these days who are disappointed with their faith. They've been hurt by the church or other believers and it's affected their walk with God."
Includes rare, frank, and wise commentary on the institution of marriage.
"DD: You have spoken of this parenthesis, and you speak of three tensions in the book that leave many feeling that Christianity has failed them. One such tension is the longing for sexual fulfillment. You write, 'If marital consummation is an act of worship, and if the ultimate seduction is false worship, I would dare suggest that those who are longing for a relationship of touch and intimacy -- that lesser act of worship which is marriage -- seek the greater form of worship until the day they can legitimately participate in sexual love.' Why is the single person who is longing for marriage seen as not seeking this greater form of worship because they are also seeking the lesser form, when the married person has also longed for and is now even participating in this lesser form of worship?
"RZ: I think this must be viewed from at least three different lenses. The first lens is an understanding of what consummate relationships are and what they're not. I dare say that people who enjoy this intimacy sometimes fall into the trap of enjoying the feeling and ignoring the cost. I have met many women trapped in a wrong relationship who have told me, as crass as this may sound, that the men who seek them out are more often than not someone who has already experienced sex legitimately and then seeks for it in stolen waters. But I'll tell you, the moment the human body experiences this kind of relationship, the seduction is to have the experience without having to pay the cost. Yet it is the cost -- namely, commitment -- that actually preserves the emotional side of the relationship. If there is no commitment, the feeling is merely physical, and the emotion that gives the relationship value ultimately dies. Sex is not just a feeling; it is a commitment, which, when properly expressed, preserves the feeling. If it is improperly expressed, the feeling will die, and the person becomes diminished in the process. The second lens is an understanding of what marriage is and what marriage offers to you. This may sound shocking, but marriage is not what it's cracked up to be. In fact, I know many young people who, having observed their parents' marriages, will say they are reluctant to become married themselves. I think that marriage has suffered an awful lot because of all the false images and expectations of marriage placed before us. This may be unpopular to say, but the exhaustion of a professional life drains marriage. You cannot serve two masters. Adrenaline keeps us moving throughout the day as we work, whether it's selling shirts or automobiles or computers. When the adrenaline rush is over and you go home to your spouse and children (if you have any), there is little left in your tank to be able to give your family, and it becomes harder and harder to fulfill the obligations of marriage. And when both partners in a marriage work outside the home, the toll on the marriage is twice as great. The third lens is an understanding that this longing of sexual fulfillment is a God-planted desire in us. And with fleeting time it becomes a fleeting hope. The unrequited God-given longing for this kind of relationship is, I believe, and I say this carefully, one of the most difficult crosses to bear. This is not the Calvary you want. You find yourself asking God if there is any way to be spared from the ache of this longing and to receive the companionship you see so many others enjoying. Of course, marriage goes beyond the consummate relationship of the physical side; it means caring, cherishing, and loving. This should be what you are ultimately craving. To that person I say, as painful and perhaps flippant as it may sound, just as others who face other unmet desires, you have to learn to receive the strength from the Lord to crucify that desire and make Jesus Christ the focus of your desire to be cared for, cherished, and loved -- because only he can ultimately meet this desire, even if you are married. It's a little bit like doing a puzzle. You've got only three pieces missing out of five hundred, but you just can't make it all come together. I just say, as F.W. Boreham does, that this longing for the legitimate expression of sexual love is one of those painful things that is easier borne by a person who has never experienced it than by the one who daily lives with this sense of loss. In other words, the emotions that are part of this longing cannot be fully understood by one who has not experienced it for whatever reason.
"DD: You've expressed that in any intimate relationship there will be times of distance or even a sense of dryness. So perhaps we ought not to be surprised when we feel this in our relationship with God. What do you do during times of spiritual dryness? Are there particular authors, books, sermons, or disciplines that you turn to when you feel the passion that you long for just isn't there?
"RZ: If there is anybody who has not experienced what you have described, I really want to touch them. It's not only a common thing; it can be a frequent thing. It's like C.S. Lewis's Screwtape telling the junior devil, 'Encourage their horror of the Same Old Thing.' I think that's actually what's happened to the West right now. We've heard the gospel so much that we're experiencing the horror of the same old thing. So we buy into nonsensical notions that are actually bizarre while sounding sophisticated. They don't make any sense, but they come with mystical, new terminology, and we are wowed by them. This is why, by the way, I think people church-hop. There are no more unexpected moments at the church they've been going to, and all of a sudden, it's the same old thing -- and so they move on to something new. The human ability to remain firm in our convictions and commitments is very, very limited. That's why I think good reading, good viewing, and good friendships are good places in which to find renewal. There are so many considerations to the dryness we may experience at any given time. You may not feel well, or you may be tired -- all of this takes its toll on you. Sometimes a lack of discipline or a lack of perseverance may well be because of lack of sleep. It could be your mind, your body, is tired, and you need a vacation. You may have become stagnant because your reading material is not helping your growth process. Reading a variety of authors is a good way to light a new spark within you. I love reading biographies. I love reading authors whose language is outstanding because they quicken the imagination by just the right turn of phrase. Sometimes all it takes is one phrase to turn your life around. You have to have variety in your devotional life, in your relational life, in your church life. And it is important to remain balanced -- to keep physically healthy, to keep your viewing life enchanted so that you're looking at the right things. That's one advantage I have in my life: I'm in new places so often that I experience an enormous array of God's diversity."
https://www.rzim.org/read/just-thinking-magazine/has-christianity-failed-you

*Marriage (FGB #200)
The Excellence of Marriage, Pink, A.W. (1886-1952) | Mutual Duties of Husbands and Wives, James, John Angell (1785-1859) | A Husband's Love for his Wife, Steele, Richard (1629-1692) | A Wife's Respect for her Husband, Steele, Richard (1629-1692) | Duties That Preserve Marriage, Gouge, William (1578-1653) | Thoughts on Finding a Marriage Partner, James, John Angell (1785-1859) | The Marriage of the Lamb, Spurgeon, C.H. (1834-1892)
https://www.chapellibrary.org/book/marrfg/marriage

Reformed Presbyterian Theological Seminary
For the work of C. John Miller (1928-1996).
http://71.182.134.18:82/

Richard Baxter, from Wikipedia
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Richard_Baxter

Why Sex is the Best Argument for Creation (and Against Evolution)
"I'm referring to everything from that first moment of attraction between a man and a woman, to the complementary anatomical structures and organs that work so well together, to the millions of interactions that happen on the physical/hormonal/emotional levels, to the love and pleasure of two people becoming one flesh, to cells smaller than the head of a pin contributing 1.5 billion letters of DNA each in order to form a new 3 billion-letter blueprint, to the nonstop application of that genome as it rapidly develops into over 20 trillion cells and 200 types of tissue and hundreds of organs and meters of blood vessels all interacting together, to the final moment a fully-functioning, crying, squirming baby emerges from its mother 6,480 hours later."
https://isgenesishistory.com/why-sex-is-the-best-argument-for-creation-against-evolution/

Family Worship and Devotions

God be merciful unto us, and bless us: and cause his face to shine upon us: That thy way may be known upon earth, thy saving health among all nations. (Psalm 67:1,2)
But as for me [Joshua] and my house, we will serve the LORD. (Joshua 24:15b)
In everything give thanks; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. (1 Thessalonians 5:18)
See the Theological Notes: "The Christian Family," at Ephesians 5:22 in The Reformation Study Bible.
See the Theological Notes: "Body and Soul, Male and Female" at Genesis 2:7 in The Reformation Study Bible.
See the Theological Notes: "The Fall" at Genesis 3:6 in The Reformation Study Bible.
See the Theological Notes: "God's Covenant of Grace" at Genesis 12:1 in The Reformation Study Bible.
See the Theological Notes: "The Greatness of God," at 1 Chronicles 29:11 in The Reformation Study Bible.
Thine, O Lord is the greatness, and the power, and the glory, and the victory, and the majesty: for all that is in the heaven and in the earth is thine; thine is the kingdom, O Lord, and thou art exalted as head above all. (1 Chronicles 29:11)
He is the fountain and centre of every thing that is bright and blessed. All that we can, in our most exalted praises, attribute to him he has an unquestionable title to. His is the greatness; his greatness is immense and incomprehensible; and all others are little, are nothing, in comparison of him. His is the power, and it is almighty and irresistible; power belongs to him, and all the power of all the creatures is derived from him and depends upon him. His is the glory; for his glory is his own end and the end of the whole creation. All the glory we can give him with our hearts, lips, and lives, comes infinitely short of what is his due. His is the victory; he transcends and surpasses all, and is able to conquer and subdue all things to himself; and his victories are incontestable and uncontrollable. And his is the majesty, real and personal; with him is terrible majesty, inexpressible and inconceivable. . . . His sovereign dominion, as rightful owner and possessor of all: "All that is in the heaven, and in the earth, is thine, and at thy disposal, by the indisputable right of creation, and as supreme ruler and commander of all: thine is the kingdom, and all kings are thy subjects; for thou art head, and art to be exalted and worshipped as head above all." -- Matthew Henry (1662-1714), An Exposition of the Old and New Testaments
Family reformation is the easiest and the most likely way to a common reformation; at least to send many souls to heaven and train up multitudes for God, if it reach not to national reformation. -- Richard Baxter (1615-1691)
"The practice of family worship has done more for comprehensive Reformation than any other means available to man."
Be sure that you keep up family religion; especially in the careful education of youth. Read the Scriptures and good books, and call upon God, and sing his praise; and recreate youth with reading the history of the church, and the lives of holy men and martyrs: instruct them in catechisms and fundamentals. . . . Above all, live in love to God and man. -- Richard Baxter (1615-1691)
Family worship was also, to the Puritans, vitally important. Every home should be a church, with the head of the house as its minister. Daily and indeed twice daily, the Puritans recommended, the family as a family should hear the word read, and pray to God. Sunday by Sunday, the family should seek to pool the profiting of its members from the public ordinances; day by day, its members should seek to encourage each other in the way of God. Parents must teach their children the Scriptures; all members of the household must be given time and a place to pray. Thus, informally, but conscientiously, the worship and service of God in the home must be carried on. -- J.I. Packer
As to your families, O shine as lights there; lay out your talents as many ways as they may possibly be improvable for the good of all about you, especially those under your guardianship and charge, Exodus 20:10. By this the power of godliness must be discovered in you, and begotten and kept alive in them. The Jews have a tradition, that the fire of the altar was miraculously preserved under-ground, during the Babylonish captivity. I am sure this is the way to preserve religion alive, now the public ordinary means are ceased. Precepts are not wanting to enforce this duty upon you; Deuteronomy 4:9,10 -- 6:6,7 [Deuteronomy 6:6,7]; Exodus 12:24,26,27; Joshua 4:6,7,21,22; Psalm 78:5,6; Proverbs 22:6; Ephesians 6:4 nor yet worthy examples to encourage to it; Genesis 18:19; 1 Chronicles 28:9; Proverbs 31:20; 2 Timothy 3:15; 2 John 1,4. Aquila and Priscilla had a church in their house, 1 Corinthians 16:19. Nymphas and Philemon in theirs, Colossians 4:15, Philemon 2. "Hence it is, saith Davenant on the place, that the apostle sends a special salutation to them, by name; because of their singular piety which manifested itself in their family government." And indeed, how fresh and glorious a remembrance in the scriptures have those worthy saints unto this day, and so shall have, where-ever the gospel is preached, unto the end of the world, who have burned with an holy zeal, not only to offer up themselves, but their families also unto God! David well understood how near this duty lay to the heart of religion, when he puts his soul under the bond of such a solemn engagement to the Lord, Psalm 101:2. It doth not a little affect me to read what a learned man observes of the Jews; "Although religion be miserably deformed among them, yet it seems there are some prints of their ancient family-discipline to this day, remaining among them; for (saith he) they are so careful to teach their children in their tender years, the law, and books of Moses, and after that their Talmudica traditions, as that their skill in Judaism at 17, exceeds the knowledge of many among us in Christianity at 70." Nay, the very Jesuits boast themselves, the grand conservators of the Romish religion, in that they are catechizers. Oh let this provoke Christians! we see how light breaks out more and more in every age; as Luther said, "I see more than blessed Austin [Augustine] saw; and they that come after me will see more than I see." And we have great hopes and expectations of the young generation, that they may enter into the good land, though we should die in this wilderness, O then let us labour to prepare and make them ready for the Lord; and that not only by instructing them in the principles of religion in a catechistical way, (though that be an ordinance of God, and of singular use in its kind) but by endeavoring to the utmost, by counsels, persuasions, prayers for, and with them, to have the power of godliness wrought in their hearts, to travail with them, again in pain, till Christ be formed in them. And to this duty, these arguments among many others, may persuade. -- John Flavel (1627-1691)
There is a family in this state in which the Scriptures have been read daily for more than a quarter of a century, and in this reading the children have been interested, one after another, from the time they were old enough to speak. The father, to secure this interest, and make the service pleasant to each child, has practiced pausing here and there in the chapter, and asking this or that child to repeat the last words or lines read, selecting the easiest words for the youngest child, and perhaps asking of an older child an exposition of a verse or phrase. In this way, the constant attention of each child is secured, as neither the oldest or youngest is willing to lose a sentence, lest he should be called upon to repeat it, and not be able. -- The Christian Observer, 38.40 (6 Oct. 1859), pg. 1. Originally published in The New York Examiner
All Christians employ themselves in David's Psalms more frequently than in any other part of the Old or New Testament. The grace of the Holy Ghost hath so ordered it that they should be sung every night and day . . . Many who know not a letter can say David's Psalms by heart. . . . where men converse with God, David is the first, the midst, and the last. -- Chrysostom

*Alexander, James W. (1804-1859), Family Worship: A Biblical Duty, 1847. Alternate title: THOUGHTS ON FAMILY WORSHIP, ISBN: 1573580813 9781573580816. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #22.
First printed in 1847 by the Presbyterian Board of Education.
"No minister in our church was a more accomplished scholar. The pulpit was his appropriate sphere." -- Charles Hodge
"It would be almost impossible to overemphasis the importance of daily family worship. It is a blessed privilege for those who have known it as children and/or adults. It is foundational to any lasting revival or reformation. It is a duty commanded by God in Scripture, and to neglect it is, without a doubt, sinful. The Westminster Divines made it clear, in their amazing Directory for Family Worship, that obstinacy in the sin of neglecting family worship should lead where there are faithful elders to the head of the offending house being 'suspended and debarred from the Lord's supper.' This book gives the nature, warrant, and history of family worship in easy to read large print." -- Publisher
"The author's goal is 'extending the domestic worship of God's people and especially in arousing the children of the covenant to honor the God of their fathers.' To fulfill this purpose, Alexander traces family worship from Eden on through the Old and New Testaments and church history. The universal voice of the Church, in its best periods, has been in favor of family worship. . . .' He demonstrates that family worship is a means of intellectual improvement: 'True piety improves the understanding. . . .' " -- Robert H. Duvall

*Alexander, James W. (1804-1859), Family Worship: Its Influence Over all of Life. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #22.
"Some have postulated that the Reformation would have fizzled out in no time had it not been for the faithful men who led their families in daily worship. Nothing is more calculated to enhanced and abet all other spiritual duties than daily family worship. It will curtail divorce and domestic violence, both of which were unheard of among the Puritans because of their love for the use of the means of grace within this setting, and help lead many individuals and ultimately nations to Christ. This book covers the influence of family worship on the individual piety of parents and children. It shows it to be a means of intellectual improvement and a bond of domestic harmony and love. Men, if you really want to change the world, start with your own immediate sphere of influence and responsibility. Preparing your own heart before the Lord and instituting daily family worship will do more good than most can imagine! This is your commanded duty." -- Publisher

*Alexander, James W. (1804-1859), and B.M. Palmer, The Family in its Civil and Churchly Aspects: An Essay in two Parts, 2 volumes, 551 pages. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available (Alexander and Palmer), on Reformation Bookshelf CD #22, 25.
"If you are interest in family matters, you will look long and hard to find a book that matches this one. It is actually two books bound under one cover. Palmer's THE FAMILY, IN ITS CIVIL AND CHURCHLY ASPECTS (1876) and Alexander's THOUGHTS ON FAMILY WORSHIP (1847)." -- Publisher

*Baxter, Richard (1615-1691), A Christian Directory: Baxter's Practical Works, Vol. 1. Full title: A Christian Directory: or A Sum of Practical Theology, and Cases of Conscience. Directing Christians how to use Their Knowledge and Faith; How to Improve all Helps and Means, and to Perform all Duties; How to Overcome Temptations, and to Escape or Mortify Every Sin. In Four Parts.
I. Christian Ethics (or Private Duties)
II. Christian Economics (or Family Duties)
III. Christian Ecclesiastics (or Church Duties)
IV. Christian Politics (or Duties to Our Rulers and Neighbours) (Morgan, PA: Soli Deo Gloria Publications, 1997, 1990, 1838, 1707, 1678, 1673), ISBN: 1877611131 9781877611131. Foreword by J.I. Packer (Soli Deo Gloria edition only). The Soli Deo Gloria publication is a facsimile reprint of the 19th century reprint by George Virtue, London, 1846. The original 1673 edition and the 1678 edition, both printed by Robert White for Nevill Simmons. Bibliographic and scriptural footnotes. A Christian classic. Considered to be among the ten greatest books in the English language. Available (less the J.I. Packer's Foreword, but searchable with an OCR-based index), on the Puritan Hard Drive.
This work is available in many editions, and in many formats.
Reformation Heritage Books has new copies of the Soli Deo Gloria edition (including the J.I. Packer Introduction), as of March 2008, even though it is generally thought to be out of print. They acquired Soli Deo Gloria from Ligonier Ministries in late 2007.
The best digital format of the reprint by George Virtue is included on the Puritan Hard Drive. It has an OCR scan in the background, meaning one can search the entire volume and copy text into another document. It also has a computer generated indexed from the OCR scan which is, of course, in Baxter's vocabulary.
A PDF image scan only of the same edition is available on the Reformation Bookshelf CD #21.
The reprint by George Virtue is available online and may be downloaded in PDF format at Christian Classics Ethereal Library.
The reprint by George Virtue appears in full preview in Google Books but may not be downloaded. So it is useful if the reader wants to become acquainted with the book. Text can be searched, but can not be copied into another document. This particular Google Books scan includes the contents in detail on pages iii-xix which is not included in the Christian Classics Ethereal Library PDF files. About five other editions from libraries are available in Google Books, and may be downloaded (August 2008).
Notice that the e-text in Google Books has the advantage of being searchable. Searching an image-based PDF file (without an OCR scan in the background), is not possible, unless the user owns software such as Abode Acrobat Pro or Kirtas BookScan Editor. They both have an OCR (optical character recognition), feature that will search an image-based PDFs (bit-map scans). Searches appear to be perfect in this work, although one must know Baxter's vocabulary. Text can be cut and pasted from image-based PDF format to OCR (character) format. This particular Google Books scan can not be cut and pasted or downloaded.
One of the older, multi-volume editions of THE WORKS OF RICHARD BAXTER is available at Monergism.com in the "Puritan Library," "Richard Baxter." A CHRISTIAN DIRECTORY, volume 23. It can be downloaded.
http://www.puritanlibrary.com/
Another older edition is available on microfilm (Ann Arbor, MI: University Microfilms, 1970), 1 microfilm reel, 35 mm (Early English books, 1641-1700; 343:11).
"The complete practical works of Richard Baxter are in print in four volumes entitled BAXTER'S PRACTICAL WORKS. This volume (about 1 1/4 million words, 1028 pages), is volume one of the set. The editor's preface (1707), p. xiii, stated that the works of Richard Baxter are 'perhaps the best body of practical divinity that is extent in our own or any other tongue.' Richard Baxter lived from 1615-1691. The DIRECTORY was completed in 1665. Its scope was intended to cover all of practical theology, a summa of casuistry . . ." -- Don Kistler
"Baxter's series, which grew in range and scope as it proceeded . . . is a peak point in Puritan devotional writing, and remains a precious resource for all, in this or any age, who want to know what is involved in Biblical godliness. . . . A CHRISTIAN DIRECTORY may justly be described as a landmark. It is the fullest, most thorough, and in this writer's judgment, most profound treatment of Christian spirituality and standards that has ever been attempted by an English-speaking Evangelical author. The fact that it embraces both spirituality and standards (the principles of communion with God plus the specifics of obedience to God), merits approving comment in itself; nowadays spirituality and ethics have become two distinct disciplines in the schools, and books written on either say virtually nothing about the other . . ." -- J.I. Packer
Timothy Keller calls it the greatest manual on Biblical counseling ever produced.
"There are many Puritan classics on this subject. Thomas Brooks' PRECIOUS REMEDIES FOR SATAN'S DEVICES, Thomas Goodwin's A CHILD OF LIGHT WALKING IN DARKNESS, William Bridge's A LIFTING UP FOR THE DOWNCAST, and many other similar works give evidence that the Puritans were. . . . masters at applying Biblical answers and principles to problems that can only be solved by spiritual means. No Puritan work, however, has ever approached the popularity, the scope, or the depth of Baxter's classic treatise. With the widespread interest in counseling in today's church, this reprint of Baxter's work should be a welcome addition to every pastor's library, or to anyone else who wishes to give solid Biblical answers to man's questions." -- Don Kistler
"We have long waited for a purely Biblical treatment of the spiritual ills and cures of men which is untainted by the views of psychology. Since Baxter lived about 200 years before psychology arrived, his deep work is completely void of its encroachment -- thankfully!" -- John MacArthur
"The kings men sought to arrest Richard Baxter, but he traveled ceaselessly from place to place, writing his sermons and his books even on horseback (he had an inkwell in his saddle), and preached over a wide area." -- Brian H. Edwards
"Baxter was a wonder of his age. His writings total 72 large volumes, much of it written on horseback as he traveled in his widespread preaching efforts. He seldom, if ever, edited anything he wrote. Knowing this any reader will be amazed at how well he communicated his deep love for his Savior. For 26 years he was public enemy No. 1 to the king, yet he lived to see the flight of the king in 1688." -- Jay P. Green, Sr. (1918-2008)
POOR MAN'S FAMILY BOOK (1674) and THE CATECHIZING OF FAMILIES (1683), are less detailed works and are found in THE REFORMED PASTOR: BAXTER'S PRACTICAL WORKS, VOL. 4. They are more suitable for family instruction than are the detailed presentation in A CHRISTIAN DIRECTORY.
"Ptacek in FAMILY WORSHIP: BIBLICAL BASIS, HISTORICAL REALITY, CURRENT NEED (pp. 51-52), supplies the following information in regard to Baxter and this book. He notes that after the Episcopalians ejected numerous 'nonconformists,' in what is know as the 'great ejection,' in 1662, 'Baxter pastored from house to house, visiting families of his parish in their homes. These visits contributed to Baxter's A CHRISTIAN DIRECTORY, a large and still very relevant manual of pastoral care.' Focusing on just one area of great importance, Ptacek demonstrates how this book's relevance is not limited by time or culture, though sometimes the use of specific words are. 'Published in 1673, but written 1664-65, a large book-length part of Baxter's CHRISTIAN DIRECTORY is devoted to the family. It is entitled 'Christian Economics' based on the archaic usage of the word, which reflects the proper sense of the Greek root oikonomos as the manager of a household, in the Christian case, the spiritual leader of the family. The family head is essential to Baxter's view of family worship and instruction. Baxter asserts that it is God's will that this instruction be carried out by the rulers of the families.' For a male head of the household to fail to do so, or to have another instruct in the family, is contrary to his position of authority.' This is the kind of book that can be passed on from generation to generation and still find much use in the service of the kingdom of God.
"Though relatively weak on corporate sanctification, corporate faithfulness and some important areas of doctrine (such as justification), Baxter's work on subjects related to personal piety can be of good practical use to the Christian -- if one is careful to separate out his aberrant doctrinal views and any practical errors they may lead to." -- Publisher
The following three excerpts are included as bonus free books on Reformation Bookshelf CD #28.
1. "The Duties of Parents for Their Children" from BAXTER'S PRACTICAL WORKS, VOL. 1, A CHRISTIAN DIRECTORY, on Christian Economics, Chap. X., pp. 449-454.
2. "The Special Duties of Children Towards Their Parents" from BAXTER'S PRACTICAL WORKS, VOL. 1, A CHRISTIAN DIRECTORY, on Christian Economics, Chap. XI., pp. 454-457.
3. "The Special Duties of Children and Youth Towards God" from BAXTER'S PRACTICAL WORKS, VOL. 1, A CHRISTIAN DIRECTORY, on Christian Economics, Chap. XII., pp. 457-458).
A summary of currently (2012) available publications.
http://www.lettermen2.com/pwrbcd.html
Richard Baxter, from Wikipedia
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Richard_Baxter

Baxter, Richard, A Paraphrase on the New Testament, With Notes, Doctrinal and Practical, Fitted to the use of Religious Families, . . . by the Late Rev. Mr. Richard Baxter. . . . Blackburn, 1798.

Boston, Thomas (1676-1732), Personal and Family Fasting and Humiliation. Alternate title: A MEMORIAL CONCERNING PERSONAL AND FAMILY-FASTING AND HUMILIATION, PRESENTED TO SAINTS AND SINNERS. Available (THE WORKS OF THOMAS BOSTON, VOL. 11), on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available (THE WORKS OF THOMAS BOSTON, VOL. 11), on Reformation Bookshelf CD #6.

Carr, S. Wallace, The Bible and the Christian Home (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).

Cawdrey, Daniel (1588-1664), Family Reformation Promoted: In a Sermon on Joshua, chap. 24. ver. 15., and by Short Catechismes Fitted for the Three-fold Relations in a Family of 1. Children and Parents, 2. Servants and Masters, 3. Husband and Wife. [Joshua 24:15]

Chambers, Humphrey, and Samuel Man, A Divine Ballance to Weigh Religious Fasts in: Applyed to Present vse, in a Sermon Preached Before the Honourable House of Commons, in S. Margarets Westminster at their Publique Fast, Sept. 27. 1643, James 3:18.

Covenanted General Assembly of the Church of Scotland, Directions of the General Assembly Concerning Secret and Private Worship, and Mutual Edification, For Cherishing Piety, For Maintaining Unity, and Avoiding Schism and Division, 1647. Alternate title: FAMILY WORSHIP: MR. THOMAS MANTON'S EPISTLE TO THE READER OF THE WESTMINSTER CONFESSION OF FAITH AND LARGER AND SHORTER CATECHISMS.

D'Aubign�, J.H. Merle (1794-1872), Family Worship: Motives and Directions for Domestic Piety. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.

*Davies, Samuel (1723-1761, editor), et al., The Godly Family: A Series of Essays on the Duties of Parents and Children, ISBN: 1877611735 9781877611735, 341 pages.
"Gary Ezzo has collected 16 essays and sermons from 17th and 18th century pastors on ordering a godly home. The book is divided into four section: 1) The Importance of Family Religion, 2) The Duties of Parents, 3) The Duties of Children, 4) The Eternal Family. . . . All of these have been retypeset and updated for easier reading." -- Publisher
"The necessity and excellence of family religion / by Samuel Davies -- The great duty of family religion / by George Whitefield -- A plain and serious address on the important subject of family religion / by Philip Doddridge -- Parental duties illustrated / by Samuel Worcester -- The duties of parents towards their children / by Henry Venn -- Disciplining children / by Arthur Hildersham -- On the method of instructing children / by Henry Venn -- Four sermons on the religious education of children / by Philip Doddridge -- Blessings consequent upon parental fidelity / by Thomas Houston -- The duties of children to their parents / by Samuel Stennett -- The duties of children / by Henry Venn -- Heaven considered as a family / by Samuel Stennett."

Davies, Samuel (1723-1761), The Necessity and Excellence of Family Religion. Available in THE GODLY FAMILY: A SERIES OF ESSAYS ON THE DUTIES OF PARENTS AND CHILDREN. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #22.
"Promotes daily family worship based on an indirect application of 1 Tim. 5:8 [1 Timothy 5:8], 'But if any provide not for his own, and especially for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel'." -- Publisher

*Davies, Samuel (1723-1761), Sermons on the Most Useful and Important Subjects, Adapted to the Family and Closet by the Rev. Samuel Davies, A.M. Late President of the College at Princeton in New-Jersey. In Three Volumes. . . . To Which are Prefixed, A Sermon on the Death of Mr. Davies, by Samuel Finley, D.D. and Another Discourse on the Same Occasion, Together With an Elegiac Poem to the Memory of Mr. Davies, by Thomas Gibbons, D.D.

*De Graaf, Simon Gerrit, Promise and Deliverance, 4 volumes (Scarsdale, NY [Westminster Discount Book Service, P.O. Box 125H, Scarsdale 10583]: Westminster Discount Book Service, 1977). Translated from the Dutch by H. Evan Runner and Elisabeth Wichers Runner. A Christian classic.
"A landmark in interpreting the simple stories of the Bible . . . an invaluable resource for teachers, ministers, and parents." -- Christianity Today
"In Scripture, religion means covenant. By His Word, God called into being an order of creation culminating in man. By that Word He also gave man His favor and brought him into a life of conscious covenantal fellowship with Himself. As De Graaf himself puts it: 'Without covenant, there is no religion, no conscious fellowship between man and God, no exchange of love and faithfulness. Without the covenant, man would be just an instrument in God's hand. When God created man, He had more than an instrument in mind: He made a creature that could respond to Him. . . .'
"This renewed insight into Biblical revelation is the perspective undergirding De Graaf's treatment of all Bible stories. It makes his book a unique presentation of God's revelation of Himself in the covenant and keeps his interpretations of the stories from degenerating into mere moralizing. Religion is not morality." -- H. Evan Runner
"I highly recommend this book. One of the best books available." -- R.C. Sproul

Derham, A. Morgan (editor), Time for the Family, 2 volumes (Wayne, PA [Scripture Union, 150 Strafford Avenue, Wayne 19087]: Scripture Union), ISBN: 0854219870 9780854219872.
"Each volume provides six full months of Bible readings, prayers, and activity material in a lively and readable form. Designed to take just ten minutes a day."

Doolittle, Thomas, (1630-1707), How may the Duty of Daily Family Prayer be Best Managed for the Spiritual Benefit of Every one in the Family, 1675. From THE MORNING EXERCISES AT CRIPPLEGATE, ST. GILES IN THE FIELDS, AND IN SOUTHWARK: BEING DIVERS SERMONS, PREACHED A.D. MDCLIX-MDCLXXXIX BY SEVERAL MINISTERS OF THE GOSPEL IN OR NEAR LONDON. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #22.

Flavel, John (1628-1691), A Warning Against Backsliding, False Worship and False Teachers. Available (THE WORKS OF JOHN FLAVEL), on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #27.
"Exposes the subtlety of false worship and false teachers and counsels all Christians to remove themselves from under ministries that practice such things. Promotes family religion and house gatherings in times of great declension and apostasy (such as ours)." -- Publisher

*Henry, Matthew (1662-1714), A Church in the House: A Sermon Concerning Family Religion, 1704. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
"Family worship is presently one of the most powerful weapons in a Christian parents arsenal of truth. Read this Puritan sermon and see why! In time past, when the churches saw the family as 'little churches' within the church, elders saw to it that family worship was practiced daily and that offenders against this Godly order were censured. Daily family worship is a monumental blessing on the one hand and a serious sin of omission, when not practiced, on the other. Though Kevin Reed was speaking of public worship in the following quotation, the directive can easily be applied to family worship also. Reed notes, 'heads of households you husbands and fathers -- it is incumbent on you to lead your family in the narrow path which leads to life. Compromise in worship is a form of apostasy, which teaches children that we love family approval more than obedience to Christ . . . You have no right to set aside biblical principles of worship.' (John Knox the Forgotten Reformer, p. 99). Furthermore, Ptacek has written that, 'the role of the head of the family was given the highest possible status by Matthew Henry. In a 1704 sermon on family religion, Henry followed Cawdrey in arguing that the head of the family holds all of the offices of Christ with respect to his household: prophet, priest and king. Henry's design for family religion is based on the exercise of these three offices. As a prophet the head of the family teaches doctrine through the reading of Scripture and catechizing. The head's priestly office is expressed in praying for his family. His exercise of discipline reflects the office of king, both in encouraging godly behaviour and discouraging sinful practices. Although Matthew Henry was the best known Puritan preacher of his time, he asserted without fear of controversy that his view of the role of the head of the family was one in which all agree.' (Family Worship, pp. 52-53). For parents, and especially fathers, this may be one of the most important works you will ever read. When family worship is practiced faithfully (and the responsibility for this rests with the head of the house primarily, and the elders of the church secondarily -- through encouragement, help and discipline of the unfaithful), nations and generations to come will be greatly influenced to bow humbly before the Lord Jesus Christ and serve Him alone!" -- Publisher

Henry, Matthew (1662-1714), Family Religion: Principles for Raising a Godly Family, ISBN: 1845503139 9781845503130.
"Be not Christians upon your knees, and unbelievers in your shops. While you seem saints in your devotions, prove not yourselves sinners in your conversations. Having begun the day in the fear of God, be in that fear all day long. Let the example you set in your families be throughout good, and by it teach them not only to read and pray, for this is half their work, but by it teach them to be meek and humble, sober and temperate, loving and peaceable, just and honest; so shall you adorn the doctrine of God our Saviour; and those who will not be won by the Word, shall be won by your conversation. Your family worship is an honour to you, see to it that neither you nor yours be in anything a disgrace to it." -- Matthew Henry in Family Religion, p. 60

Howe, John (1630-1705), The Obligations From Nature and Revelation to Family-religion and Worship Represented and Pressed in six Sermons.

Jay, William, Prayers for the use of Families, or, The Domestic Minister's Assistant. With an appendix containing a number of select and original prayers for particular occasions.

Jay, William, Short Discourses to be Read in Families, 1805.

*Manton, Thomas (1620-1677), Family Worship: Mr. Thomas Manton's Epistle to the Reader of the Westminster Confession of Faith and Larger and Shorter Catechisms. Alternate title: DIRECTIONS OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY CONCERNING SECRET AND PRIVATE WORSHIP AND MUTUAL EDIFICATION FOR CHERISHING PIETY, FOR MAINTAINING UNITY AND AVOIDING SCHISM AND DIVISION (1646). Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #11.
"Manton was a covenanted English Presbyterian (he swore the Solemn League and Covenant). He was also chosen to write the 'Epistle to the Reader' in THE WESTMINSTER CONFESSION OF FAITH, 1647 [sic], which speaks volumes as to his credibility among the preachers and scholars of his day." -- Publisher
Mr. Thomas Manton's Epistle to the Reader of the Westminster Confession of Faith (1646) and Larger and Shorter Catechisms
http://www.swrb.com//newslett/actualnls/famworship.htm

Palmer, B.M., and B.B. Warfield, The Family in its Offices of Instruction and Worship, 1876. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #22.
"The author notes that 'from the earliest period in the history of the Church, the duty of family instruction has been emphasized as the most important of all agencies in perpetuating the knowledge of Divine truth.' Furthermore, he writes, 'each pious household is a separate fibre of those roots by which the Church of the living God takes hold upon the earth, and preserves its existence in a sinful world.' It is especially important that fathers study material like this, for if they will not lead their families in instruction and daily family worship, they have, for all intents and purposes, denied the faith. For when 1 Timothy 5:8 states, But if any provide not for his own, and specially for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel, it should be taken to heart. Even if this verse refers specifically to the material aspects of life, how much more important are the spiritual duties? This book should be a great encouragement to those entrusted with these most important spiritual duties and privileges!" -- Publisher

Palmer, Samuel (1741-1813), A Collection of Family-prayers From the Devotional Writings of Baxter: Henry, Willison, Bennett, Watts, Doddridge, and others. With Various Occasional Forms, 1783.

Palmer, Samuel, The Covenanters Catechisme, or, A Brief and Familiar Analysis and Exposition of the Covenant: First delivered in sundry sermons to a particular congregation, and now resolved into questions and answers for the more publike good, 1644.

*Perkins, William (1558-1602), The Foundation of Christian Religion Gathered Into Fixed Principles (1608). Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
"Interestingly, just below the title on the front cover of this 756-page book we find the words: 'And it is to be learned of ignorant people, that they may be fit to hear sermons with profit, and to receive the Lord's Supper with comfort.' Called 'the principal architect of Elizabethan Puritanism' and 'the most important Puritan writer, Perkins was the first theologian of the reformed English church to gain an international reputation,' writes McKim. (Encyclopaedia of the Reformed Faith, p. 274)
"This hefty tome contains the following works by Perkins: 'A Golden Chain: or, The Description of Theology, Containing the order of the causes of Salvation and Damnation . . . Hereunto is adjoined the order which M. Theodore Beza used in comforting afflicted consciences;' 'An Exposition of the Symbol or Creed of the Apostles;' 'An Exposition of the Lord's Prayer, In the Way of Catechizing Serving for Ignorant People;' 'A Treatise Tending Unto a Declaration Whether a Man Be in the Estate of Damnation, or in the Estate of Grace: And if He Be in the First, How He May in Time Come Out of it: If in the Second, How He May Discern It, and Persevere in the Same to the End;' 'A Case of Conscience, the Greatest that Ever Was: How a Man May Know Whether He Be the Child of God, or No (Whereunto is added a brief discourse taken out of H. Zanchius);' 'A Direction for the Government of the Tongue According to God's Word;' 'Two Treatises: 1. On the Nature and Practice of Repentance; 2. Of the Combat of the Flesh and the Spirit;' 'A Treatise How To Live Well, In All Estates and Times, Specially When Helps and Comforts Fail;' 'The Treatise of Dying Well;' 'A Discourse of Conscience Wherein is Set Down the Nature, Properties, and Differences Thereof: as Also the Way to Get and Keep a Good Conscience;' 'A Reformed Catholic: Or, A Declaration Showing How Near We May Come to the Present Church of Rome in Sundry Points of Religion; and Wherein We Must For Ever Depart From Them -- With an Advertisement to all Favourers of the Roman Religion, Showing How the Said Religion is Against the Catholic Principles and Grounds of the Catechism;' 'A Declaration of the True Manner of Knowing Christ Crucified;' 'A Grain of Mustard Seed: Or, The Least Measure of Grace that is or Can Be Effectual to Salvation;' 'The True Gain, More in Worth then All the Goods of the World;' 'A Warning Against Idolatry of the Last Times and an Instruction Touching Religious Divine Worship;' 'A Treatise of God's Free Grace and Man's Free Will;' 'A Treatise of the Vocations, Or Callings of Men, With the Sorts and Kinds of Them, and the Right Use Thereof.'
"Several of Perkins' works have been translated into Latin, French, Dutch, and Spanish." (Darling, Cyclopaedia Bibliographica, p. 2337) -- Publisher

Price, Greg L., Family Worship, a series of audio files [audio file]. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #22.
"A great introduction to the duty and privilege of daily family worship with much 'how to' instruction from Scripture. Family worship has always been a major component of all true revivals. Among the Old Testament people of God, in the days of the Apostles, during the great Reformations that took place in the 16th and 17th centuries, at the founding of the American colonies, and wherever there is a love for the Truth, daily family worship has been a sign of faithfulness to God. When it is practiced faithfully, daily family worship is one of the great blessings of covenant life; when it is ignored or set aside, it is a serious sin which has devastating consequences (and evidences and lack of true spirituality)." -- Publisher

*Pride, Mary, All the way Home: Power for Your Family to be its Best, ISBN: 0891074651 9780891074656.
"ALL THE WAY HOME is the long-awaited sequel to Mary Pride's revolutionary book, THE WAY HOME. Building on the theme of the home as the center of life, this book will change your ideas on what is possible for families today. More than a problem-solving manual, this text helps families do it right from the start." -- Publisher
"Reading Mary's book has reassured me that all scripture is valid even today. It's a pity every woman by age 15 has not been made to study these concepts, fully understand her God-given role in life and how exciting it truly can be. Now if we women of today would just pick up the baton and run the race, as Mary has clearly outlined for us in her book, God would bless our families and children again. If you are hungry to see God's hand in your life, Mary has written a beautiful book calling women back to the place God prepared for us in the beginning. Buy this and let the rebuke and encouragement draw you back to the 66 books that make up our Bible and guide our lives in the path God has laid out for us as women." -- Reader's Comment
"If you are a Christian woman who needs help redefining your purpose in life because you don't have children, BUY this book. If you are a wife and/or mother who is tired of society (violent media, TV, video, music, etc.), defining you . . . . and you/your children's wants and needs, this is the book for you too." -- Reader's Comment

*Ptacek, Kerry, Family Worship: Biblical Basis, Historical Reality, Current Need.
"The practice of family worship has done more for the comprehensive Reformation than any other means available to man. A revival of this Biblically ordained practice should be studied, prayed for, and implemented throughout all lands, at the earliest possible date. If you are serious about your faith and you would love to see the Earth full of the knowledge of the Lord as the waters cover the sea (Isaiah 11:9), then this is as good a place to start as any. . . .
"A splendid contemporary examination, full of encouragement and help in regard to this sacred duty of daily family worship. Covers God's covenants with families, looks at house churches in history, the Reformation period, American history, causes for decline in family worship, etc. Notes that 'family worship continued in the early centuries of the history of Christ's church and was revived in the Reformation, especially among Puritans and Scottish Presbyterians. The early settlers of the thirteen colonies brought family worship with them from Scotland, England, France and other countries of the Reformation. Family worship was the norm among American Presbyterians until the middle of the 19th century.' Chapters 1-6 treat Old Testament and New Testament passages relevant to family worship. Chapters 7-8 cover family worship in church history. Chapters 9-10 survey the rise and decline of family worship in America and the last two chapters argue for a revival of this practice. Explains, in easy to understand terms, not only the great spiritual benefits of family worship, but how to begin, how often it should be done, and what you should do -- according to Scripture. Regarding the sacred stewardship parents have been given by God, over their childrens lives, family worship and Christian education are basic to covenantal faithfulness to Christ. This is one of the most important books published on the family in some time. Priced as low as possible, with the hope of widest possible distribution; it is well laid out, easy to read and suitable for group or individual study. Parents, teachers and Pastors please don't miss this one!" -- Publisher

*Reformed Presbyterian Church of North America, The Book of Psalms for Singing, ISBN: 1884527108 9781884527104.
Reformed Presbyterian Church of North America, The Book of Psalms for Singing: Tune Library (Pittsburgh, PA: Crown & Covenant Publications), a CD-ROM or MP3 [audio file].
See also: McBurney, Charles, Improving Our Praise: Four Studies in Congregational Singing Using the Book of Psalms for Singing, a video [DVD] seminary.

Reformed Presbyterian Church, Scotland, Guide to Private Social Worship, Recommended by the Reformed Presbyterian Synod of Scotland in 1823, as a Directory in Conducting Prayer Meetings, 1854.

*Ryle, J.C. (1816-1900), Expository Thoughts on the Gospels, 4 volumes.
"The new 4-volume set is a preacher's handbook to the enduring truths of the Gospels. It is also a wonderful personal or family devotional guide to this portion of Scripture. Written by one of the greatest men of the Church of England in the late 1800's." -- GCB

*Smith, B.M., Family Religion, or the Domestic Relations as Regulated by Christian Principles (1859). Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #22.
"Smith's family was greatly influenced by Samuel Davies. Smith himself was a friend of R.L. Dabney. As the editor notes, the importance of this book is seen in the fact that 'reform of the family would soon diffuse itself throughout the whole constitution of society, a higher tone of morals would be inspired, and not only would the moral influence of the church be enlarged, but the stability and security of the state would be perpetuated.' Or as the DIRECTORY FOR FAMILY WORSHIP, appended to the Westminster Confession, so wisely points out, 'besides the public worship in congregations, mercifully established in this land in great purity, it is expedient and necessary that secret worship of each person alone, and private worship of families, be pressed and set up; that, with national reformation, the profession and power of godliness, both personal and domestic, be advanced.' This was a prize winning essay, covering, in depth, the family and its duties." -- Publisher

*Spurgeon, C.H. (1834-1892), Spurgeon's Devotional Bible: Selected Passages From the Word of God With Running Comments, ISBN: 0852343434 0852340583. Alternate title: Originally published under the title, THE INTERPRETER: SPURGEON'S MORNING AND EVENING DEVOTIONS FROM THE BIBLE.
"For anyone who wants to restore daily devotions on an individual or family basis, SPURGEON'S DEVOTIONAL BIBLE is the perfect answer. One can read through this book in a year when morning and evening devotions are maintained. . . .
"The gist of the entire Bible is found between the covers of this book. . . . some verses [and chapters], were omitted in whole or in part, but they are always summarized in such a way that the narrative or teaching remains clear. The emphasis is always on Scripture . . ." -- Publisher
Commenting on typology is a way to convince piers of the reality and immediacy of the Gospel. The concise, succinct, erudite comments point again and again to parallels in Scripture to the life and work of Christ. For example, see the comments on the life of Joseph, on the first Passover, and on God's provision of manna for Israel in the wilderness.
This work, by a modern Puritan, is preeminently practical. Spurgeon emphasizes application of Scripture to everyday life. Key verses appear at the top of each page.
Spurgeon's discerning mind has captured essential and profound lessons. He brings together Old and New Testament passages with similar lessons. Here is little known insight that should not be ignored or overlooked.
The Bible is full of wisdom on human behavior, real psychology, and Spurgeon points out these lessons everywhere.
The text is the Authorized King James Version.
A footnote at the bottom of page 643 (Baker Book House edition), states "In this reading the first five notes are from Lange's Commentary. All through the work we have gathered from every available source." Looking at other works by Spurgeon, for example, THE TREASURY OF DAVID, and knowing that he had a huge library, it could be expected he selected freely from the works of other authors. Poetry has been added after the Bible selection and notes. It would appear the notes and poetry have not been documented for practical purposes, to make the book seamless and uncluttered. It is a drawback, however, to not know which notes and poetry was from Spurgeon's pen and which he selected from other authors.
The Interpreter: Spurgeon's Devotional Bible. Alternate title: SPURGEON'S DEVOTIONAL BIBLE: SELECTED PASSAGES FROM THE WORD OF GOD WITH RUNNING COMMENTS.
"THE INTERPRETER: SPURGEON DEVOTIONAL BIBLE contains the text of the entire Bible, along with Spurgeon's reflections on nearly every verse. This Bible, arranged topically instead of canonically, allows readers to experience the text of Scripture along with Charles Spurgeon himself. His commentary illuminates the texts, and provides notes on interpretation and application of the Bible. The Logos Bible Software edition of THE INTERPRETER: SPURGEON'S DEVOTIONAL BIBLE was originally published in London by Passmore and Alabaster from 1869-1887." -- Publisher
https://www.logos.com/product/6798/the-interpreter-spurgeons-devotional-bible
Pilgrim Publications
Sells new copies of SPURGEON'S DEVOTIONAL BIBLE.
http://pilgrimpublications.auctivacommerce.com/
Power BibleCD
Includes SPURGEON'S DEVOTIONAL BIBLE.
http://www.powerbible.com/
C.H. Spurgeon wrote, among other things:

THE TREASURY OF DAVID, "the most important and practical work of the ages on the Psalter." -- Dr. Philip Schaff
A TREASURY OF SPURGEON ON THE LIFE AND WORK OF OUR LORD, 6 volumes, a compilation of sermons, and
FAITH'S CHECKBOOK, commenting on the promises of Scripture.

*Spurgeon, C.H. (1834-1892), The Treasury of David, 3 volumes, ISBN: 0917006259 9780917006258. A Christian classic. Considered to be among the ten greatest books in the English language. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
"The most important and practical work of the ages on the Psalter." -- Dr. Philip Schaff
"Spurgeon's own exposition appears under each verse; after that you'll find 'explanatory notes and quaint sayings' (illuminating quotes from Spurgeon's contemporaries as well as from the great Puritan expositors of the 17th and 18th centuries). Each Psalm closes with a short section of 'Hints to Preachers'." -- CBD
Recommended for daily devotions.
The Treasury of David
http://archive.spurgeon.org/treasury/treasury.php
The Treasury of David (1881)
http://archive.org/details/thetreasuryofdav00spuruoft

*Westminster Assembly (1643-1652), The Westminster Confession of Faith (1646), [completed and first printed in 1646, approved by the Assembly, August 27, 1647, Session 23 -- compiler] (Glasgow, Scotland: Free Presbyterian Publication [133 Woodlands Road, Glasgow G3 6LE], 1994), ISBN: 0902506080 (case-bound), and ISBN: 0902506358 (paperback). Among the ten greatest works in the English language. Available (THE WESTMINSTER CONFESSION OF FAITH (1646) with all its subordinate documents in searchable format) on the Puritan Hard Drive. Also available (THE WESTMINSTER CONFESSION OF FAITH (1646) with all its subordinate documents in searchable format) on Reformation Bookshelf CD #1.
Westminster Confession of Faith (1646) With Scripture Proofs
http://www.reformed.org/documents/wcf_with_proofs/
The Confession of Faith, the Larger and Shorter Catechisms, With the Scripture Proofs at Large: Together With The sum of Saving Knowledge (contained in the Holy Scriptures, and held forth in the said Confession and Catechisms), and Practical use Thereof, Covenants National and Solemn League, Acknowledgment of Sins and Engagement to Duties, Directories, Form of Church-government, &c. of Public Authority in the Church of Scotland, With Acts of Assembly and Parliament, Relative to, and Approbative of the Same (1757) [the original version of 1646, prior to the changes of the "American Version" of 1789 -- compiler]
http://archive.org/details/confessionofscot00chur
" 'The product of Puritan conflict,' stated Shedd, reaching 'a perfection of statement never elsewhere achieved.' All that learning the most profound and extensive, intellect the most acute and searching, and piety the most sincere and earnest, could accomplish, was thus concentrated in the Westminster Assembly's Confession of Faith, which may be safely termed the most perfect statement of Systematic Theology ever framed by the Christian Church,' writes Hetherington. (The History of the Westminster Assembly of Divines, p. 345).
"Concerning The Shorter Catechism, which is one of the items also included in this book, Mitchell notes: 'it is a thoroughly Calvinistic and Puritan catechism, the ripest fruit of the Assembly's thought and experience, maturing and finally fixing the definitions of theological terms to which Puritanism for half a century had been leading up and gradually coming closer and closer to in its legion of catechisms.' (Westminster Assembly: Its History and Standards, p. 431).
"THE WESTMINSTER CONFESSION OF FAITH (1646) is the greatest of all the creeds of the Christian church. The church of Christ cannot be creedless and live. Especially in an age of doubt and confusion, it is her duty to define and proclaim the one true faith. Nowhere has the Reformed church done this so effectively as in the WESTMINSTER CONFESSION, and family of documents. This book represents Reformed thinking at its purest and best. It was intended, as part of the Covenanted Reformation taking place during its compilation, to be adopted as the binding confessional standard for every individual, family, court, church, and legislature in the British Isles." -- Publisher
This is considered to be the definitive publication of the Westminster family of documents. It includes the following:

"To the Christian Reader, Especially Heads of Families"
http://www.reformed.org/documents/wcf_standards/index.html?mainframe=/documents/wcf_standards/p005-to_head_of_families.html
"Mr. Thomas Manton's Epistle to the Reader"
https://reformed.org/documents/wcf_standards/index.html
THE CONFESSION OF FAITH (1646), the full and original edition with Scripture proofs written out
http://www.reformed.org/documents/wcf_with_proofs/
THE LARGER CATECHISM with Scripture proofs written out
http://www.reformed.org/documents/wlc_w_proofs/index.html
THE SHORTER CATECHISM with Scripture proofs written out
http://www.reformed.org/documents/WSC_frames.html
THE SUM OF SAVING KNOWLEDGE
http://www.reformed.org/master/index.html?mainframe=/documents/sum/sum.html
"The National Covenant"
http://www.reformed.org/documents/wcf_standards/index.html?mainframe=/documents/wcf_standards/p345-nat_covenant.html
"The Solemn League and Covenant"
http://www.reformed.org/documents/wcf_standards/index.html?mainframe=/documents/wcf_standards/p355-solemn_league.html
"A Solemn Acknowledgement of Publick Sins and Breaches of the Covenant; and a Solemn Engagement to all the Duties Contained Therein"
http://www.truecovenanter.com/covenants/scotland_covenant_renewal_1648.html
THE DIRECTORY FOR PUBLIC WORSHIP
http://www.reformed.org/documents/wcf_standards/index.html?mainframe=/documents/wcf_standards/p369-direct_pub_worship.html
THE FORM OF PRESBYTERIAL CHURCH GOVERNMENT
http://www.reformed.org/documents/wcf_standards/index.html?mainframe=/documents/wcf_standards/p395-form_presby_gov.html
"The Directory for Family-Worship, Approved by the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland, for Piety and Uniformity in Secret and Private Worship, and Mutual Edification"
http://www.reformed.org/documents/wcf_standards/index.html

THE WESTMINSTER CONFESSION OF FAITH (1646) is said to be the finest summary of THE HOLY BIBLE available. It is recommended for daily devotions. See the following resources:

THE SIGNIFICANCE OF THE WESTMINSTER STANDARDS AS A CREED
http://www.fpcr.org/blue_banner_articles/signific.htm
"The Complete Scripture Index to the Westminster Confession (1646), Larger and Shorter Catechisms." Alternate title: SCRIPTURE INDEX TO THE WESTMINSTER STANDARDS. Available on Library of Presbyterian Heritage Publications [and] Protestant Heritage Press CD. Also available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
Bordwine, James, A GUIDE TO THE WESTMINSTER STANDARDS: CONFESSION OF FAITH AND LARGER CATECHISM, ISBN: 0940931303 9780940931305.
Includes a unique, 100-page topical index to both the CONFESSION and the LARGER CATECHISM.
WESTMINSTER LARGER CATECHISM WITH PROOF TEXTS
http://www.reformed.org/documents/wlc_w_proofs/index.html
THE SHORTER CATECHISM WITH SCRIPTURE PROOFS
Arguably the greatest tract ever created, all factors considered.
http://www.reformed.org/documents/WSC_frames.html
THE SHORTER CATECHISM
Free downloadable PDF file.
http://www.greenvillepresbyterian.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/shorter-catechism.pdf
Westminster Shorter Catechism Project
"Click on any of the individual questions below to get the answer and Biblical references, as well as links to works by John Flavel, Thomas Watson, Thomas Boston, James Fisher, and John Whitecross, and others."
http://www.shortercatechism.com/
Commentaries on the Westminster Standards Including the Westminster Confession of Faith, The Larger Catechism, and The Shorter Catechism
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr3ch.html#cwswcsc
The Westminster Confession of Faith (1646), (The Westminster Standards), and Related Works: A Study Guide
http://www.lettermen2.com/suggest.html
The Scottish Covenanted Reformation continued the work of The Westminster Assembly. David Steel (1803-1887), is considered to be one of the most faithful Covenanter ministers in America. Notice that the citation following is an authorized, complete edition of their final TESTIMONY.
Reformed Presbytery in North America "Steelite," David Steele (1803-1887), John Thorburn (1730?-1788), John Courtass (d. 1795), et al., ACT, DECLARATION, AND TESTIMONY, FOR THE WHOLE OF THE COVENANTED REFORMATION, AS ATTAINED TO, AND ESTABLISHED IN, BRITAIN AND IRELAND; PARTICULARLY BETWIXT THE YEARS 1638 AND 1649, INCLUSIVE. AS, ALSO, AGAINST ALL THE STEPS OF DEFECTION FROM SAID REFORMATION, WHETHER IN FORMER OR LATER TIMES, SINCE THE OVERTHROW OF THAT GLORIOUS WORK, DOWN TO THIS PRESENT DAY (1876), (Philadelphia, PA: Printed by Rue and Jones, 1876).
This is a new edition of the Ploughlandhead Testimony of 1761. It was the subordinate standard of the original "Steelite" Reformed Presbytery that was constitutes in 1840.
https://archive.org/details/actdeclarationte00refo
Church and State
Works listed here discuss the decline of the influence of Calvinism and the Covenanted Reformation in Great Britain and the United States. The various alterations to the Westminster Standards are also discussed.
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr9chc.html#churchstate
Heresies Defined and the Necessity of Heresies Explained, by George Gillespie, Scottish Commissioner to the Assembly of Divines at Westminster
http://www.truecovenanter.com/gillespie/ggilles09.html

*Westminster Assembly of Divines (1643-1652), The Directory for Family Worship, (1646). Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #18.
"It doesn't get any better than this! These are the documents approved by the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland in her purest days. Reproduced in large print for easy reading. The DIRECTORY FOR FAMILY WORSHIP lays out the Biblical path to piety and uniformity in secret and private (family) worship, for godly edification. THE DIRECTORY FOR PUBLIC WORSHIP aimed at fulfilling the Reformation goals of covenanted uniformity in religion between the churches of Christ in the kingdoms of Scotland, England and Ireland. 'Behind its production lay extensive discussion of the proper application of the Puritan regulative principle reducing elements of acceptable worship to what is prescribed or necessarily deducible from Scripture alone. . . . It contains perhaps the finest brief description of expository preaching to be found in the English language.' (Nigel Cameron, editor, Dictionary of Scottish Church History and Theology, p. 864). During the days of the Second Reformation Gillespie notes that 'the parliament heath also, by their ordinance dated the 23d of August 1645, imposed the DIRECTORY OF WORSHIP under certain mulcts and penalties to be inflicted upon such as do not observe it, or preach or write against it.' ('Miscellany Questions' in Gillespie's Works, p. 87). Oh, for the days of comprehensive, full-orbed, God honoring Reformation like that again! An indispensable document for those who are Presbyterian's. However, it can also be very helpful to all those who seek to worship the LORD in spirit and in truth, regardless of denominational affiliation. These two fine historic documents have yet to be equaled in terms of the intent and purpose for which they were originally produced." -- Publisher
The Directory for Family-Worship, Approved by the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland, for Piety and Uniformity in Secret and Private Worship, and Mutual Edification (1646)
http://www.covenanter.org/reformed/2015/7/14/the-directory-for-family-worship-approved-by-the-general-assembly-of-the-church-of-scotland-for-piety-and-uniformity-in-secret-and-private-worship-and-mutual-edification
Westminster Shorter Catechism With Proof Texts
http://www.reformed.org/documents/WSC_frames.html

Wooden, Keith, Teaching Children to Pray, ISBN: 0310544815 9780310544814.
"Here is a book for all parents. Children don't just know how to pray, you have to show them. This book is a good place to start." -- GCB

See also: Christ jesus the lord, God, Music, Praise, Prayer, Psalms in worship, Regulative principle of worship, The directory for family worship, Rejoicing, Thanksgiving, gratitude, Teaching/training children, Creeds, confessions and catechisms, Parenting, Sharing christ with your children, Repentance the key to salvation and change, Justification, Justifying faith, Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, Follow-up, Gospel tracts, The free offer of the gospel message of salvation and the life to come: the means of grace, the covenant of eternal salvation, Book-length presentations of the free offer of the gospel message of salvation and the life to come: the means of grace, Small groups, Small group evangelism, Small groups as healing agents, Small group resources, Sorcery, The occult, and so forth, and so on.
TCRB5: 1646, 1668-1672, 2823

Related Weblinks

The Covenant Family Fellowship
A number of citations from historic Reformed folk: John Knox, Matthew Henry, Jonathan Edwards, etc., covering the period from 100 AD to 1912 AD regarding family worship.
http://covenantfamily.nfshost.com/

The Directory for Family-Worship, Approved by the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland, for Piety and Uniformity in Secret and Private Worship, and Mutual Edification (1646)
http://www.covenanter.org/reformed/2015/7/14/the-directory-for-family-worship-approved-by-the-general-assembly-of-the-church-of-scotland-for-piety-and-uniformity-in-secret-and-private-worship-and-mutual-edification

Family Worship (FGB #188)
One Cause of the Decay of Religion London Baptist Confession 1677 | A Remedy for Decaying Religion, Heywood, Oliver (1629-1702) | The Nature, Warrant, and History of Family Worship, Alexander, J.W. (1804-1859) | What God is to Families, Doolittle, Thomas (1630-1707) | Motives for Family Worship, D'Aubigne, J. Merle (1794-1872) | The Word of God and Family Worship, Doolittle, Thomas (1630-1707) | Seven Reasons Families Should Pray, Doolittle, Thomas (1630-1707) | The Father and Family Worship, Alexander, J.W. (1804-1859) | Women Leading Family Worship, Howe, John (1630-1705) | Memories of Family Worship, Paton, John G. (1824-1907) | Implementing Family Worship, Beeke, Joel | Heathens and Christians, Paton, John G. (1824-1907)
https://www.chapellibrary.org/book/fworfg/family-worship

Family Worship, The Christian Home, Family Alter, Family Devotion
An online library of articles.
http://www.graceonlinelibrary.org/

J.H. Merle D'Aubign�'s Discourse on Family Worship
http://www.covenanter.org/reformed/2015/7/14/jh-merle-daubignes-discourse-on-family-worship

John L. Girardeau's Sermon on Family Religion
http://www.covenanter.org/reformed/2015/7/14/john-l-girardeaus-sermon-on-family-religion

Mr. Thomas Manton's Epistle to the Reader of the Westminster Confession of Faith (1646) and Larger and Shorter Catechisms
http://www.swrb.com//newslett/actualnls/famworship.htm
Westminster Shorter Catechism With Proof Texts
http://www.reformed.org/documents/WSC_frames.html

NetHymnal
Here is musical accompaniment from your computer for personal or family devotions in the home. Tunes may be identified here that can be used with THE SCOTTISH METRIC PSALTER.
"This site has over 4,800 Christian hymns and Gospel songs from many denominations. You'll find lyrics, scores, MIDI files, pictures, history, and more. To use the site effectively, you'll need speakers, a sound card, and a browser that supports JavaScript and XHTML, and can play MIDI files.
"This worship and teaching resource is provided as a public service."
http://www.cyberhymnal.org/

Philip Doddridge's Letter on Family Worship
http://www.covenanter.org/reformed/2015/7/14/philip-doddridges-letter-on-family-worship

The Religious Nurture of Children: The Reformed Faith in its Ethical Consequences in the Family, John Macleod (1872-1948)
http://www.westminsterconfession.org/godly-living/the-reformed-faith-in-its-ethical-consequences-in-the-family.php

S.G. Winchester's Book on the Importance of Family Religion
http://www.covenanter.org/reformed/2015/7/14/sg-winchesters-book-on-the-importance-of-family-religion

Westminster Shorter Catechism Project
"Click on any of the individual questions below to get the answer and Biblical references, as well as links to works by John Flavel, Thomas Watson, Thomas Boston, James Fisher, and John Whitecross, and others."
http://www.shortercatechism.com/

Westminster Shorter Catechism With Proof Texts
http://www.reformed.org/documents/WSC_frames.html

Personal and Family Finances, Family Businesses

Personal and Family Finances, Family Businesses
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr6ch.html#pffnncs

Marital Counseling, Marriage Counseling

And only in Christian theism is love preexistent within the Trinity, which means that love precedes human life and becomes the absolute value for us. This absolute is ultimately found only in God, and in knowing and loving God we work our way through the struggles of pain, knowing of its ultimate connection to evil and its ultimate destruction by the One who is all-good and all-loving; who in fact has given us the very basis for the words good [God] and love [live] both in concept and in language. -- Ravi Zacharias
Where there is an agreement between husband and wife, in faith and the fear of the Lord, it makes way unto a blessed success in all their duties: when it is otherwise, nothing succeeds unto their comfort. -- John Owen (1616-1683)
Paul's teaching on celibacy, virginity, singleness, marriage, and remarriage -- John Calvin commenting on 1 Corinthians 6:1-9 -- 1 Corinthians 7:40.

*Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), Christian Living in the Home, ISBN: 0801000513 9780801000515.
"His [Adam's], approach to family life is conditioned completely by the Bible. He writes, 'A truly Christian home is a place where sinners live; but it is also a place where the members of that home admit the fact and understand the problem, know what to do about it, and as a result grow by grace'." -- Jay P. Green, Sr. (1918-2008)
"This bestselling title will challenge, encourage, and aid the reader in the development of a truly Christian home. Christians will find this volume full of practical, biblical advice on Christ-centered family living, communication with family members, family guidance and discipline, living with an unbelieving spouse, and many other areas. Pastors and Christian counselors will value this work for its insight and faithfulness to God's Word." -- Publisher
"Written to check the erosion of the family as the basic foundation of society. Practical applications of Scripture to family living are given." -- GCB
A study guide is available.
Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), Christian Living in the Home: Recording for the Blind and Dyslexic.
Barker, Dorothy Anderson, and
Jay Adams, Leader's Guide for Jay E. Adams's CHRISTIAN LIVING IN THE HOME. Alternate title: CHRISTIAN LIVING IN THE HOME (STUDY GUIDE).
"Thirteen week guide for the leader of a Sunday school or Bible study class that utilizes Adams's book on marriage and family." -- David Powlison (1949-2019)

Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), Solving Marriage Problems: Biblical Solutions for Christian Counselors.
"Marriage and family problems are the number one counseling problem. Too many times Christian counselors combine worldly ideas, from purely secular sources, with the Bible. Adams tries a purely Biblical approach which assumes that God speaks authoritatively on marriage." -- GCB
Includes bibliographical references.
"Practical training for counselors in how to understand and solve marriage problems. What are the basics of the biblical view of marriage? What sorts of problems destroy marriages?: [1] unbiblical concepts ('problems of error'); [2] sinful living patterns ('problems of practice']; [3] relationships with others (e.g., companions, in-laws, children, former spouse); [4] general influences in society. Gives methods for discovering and solving problems." -- David Powlison (1949-2019)

*Baxter, Richard (1615-1691), A Christian Directory: Baxter's Practical Works, Vol. 1. Full title: A Christian Directory: or A Sum of Practical Theology, and Cases of Conscience. Directing Christians how to use Their Knowledge and Faith; How to Improve all Helps and Means, and to Perform all Duties; How to Overcome Temptations, and to Escape or Mortify Every Sin. In Four Parts.
I. Christian Ethics (or Private Duties)
II. Christian Economics (or Family Duties)
III. Christian Ecclesiastics (or Church Duties)
IV. Christian Politics (or Duties to Our Rulers and Neighbours) (Morgan, PA: Soli Deo Gloria Publications, 1997, 1990, 1838, 1707, 1678, 1673), ISBN: 1877611131 9781877611131. Foreword by J.I. Packer (Soli Deo Gloria edition only). The Soli Deo Gloria publication is a facsimile reprint of the 19th century reprint by George Virtue, London, 1846. The original 1673 edition and the 1678 edition, both printed by Robert White for Nevill Simmons. Bibliographic and scriptural footnotes. A Christian classic. Considered to be among the ten greatest books in the English language. Available (less the J.I. Packer's Foreword, but searchable with an OCR-based index), on the Puritan Hard Drive.
This work is available in many editions, and in many formats.
Reformation Heritage Books has new copies of the Soli Deo Gloria edition (including the J.I. Packer Introduction), as of March 2008, even though it is generally thought to be out of print. They acquired Soli Deo Gloria from Ligonier Ministries in late 2007.
The best digital format of the reprint by George Virtue is included on the Puritan Hard Drive. It has an OCR scan in the background, meaning one can search the entire volume and copy text into another document. It also has a computer generated indexed from the OCR scan which is, of course, in Baxter's vocabulary.
A PDF image scan only of the same edition is available on the Reformation Bookshelf CD #21.
The reprint by George Virtue is available online and may be downloaded in PDF format at Christian Classics Ethereal Library.
The reprint by George Virtue appears in full preview in Google Books but may not be downloaded. So it is useful if the reader wants to become acquainted with the book. Text can be searched, but can not be copied into another document. This particular Google Books scan includes the contents in detail on pages iii-xix which is not included in the Christian Classics Ethereal Library PDF files. About five other editions from libraries are available in Google Books, and may be downloaded (August 2008).
Notice that the e-text in Google Books has the advantage of being searchable. Searching an image-based PDF file (without an OCR scan in the background), is not possible, unless the user owns software such as Abode Acrobat Pro or Kirtas BookScan Editor. They both have an OCR (optical character recognition), feature that will search an image-based PDFs (bit-map scans). Searches appear to be perfect in this work, although one must know Baxter's vocabulary. Text can be cut and pasted from image-based PDF format to OCR (character) format. This particular Google Books scan can not be cut and pasted or downloaded.
One of the older, multi-volume editions of THE WORKS OF RICHARD BAXTER is available at Monergism.com in the "Puritan Library," "Richard Baxter." A CHRISTIAN DIRECTORY, volume 23. It can be downloaded.
http://www.puritanlibrary.com/
Another older edition is available on microfilm (Ann Arbor, MI: University Microfilms, 1970), 1 microfilm reel, 35 mm (Early English books, 1641-1700; 343:11).
"The complete practical works of Richard Baxter are in print in four volumes entitled BAXTER'S PRACTICAL WORKS. This volume (about 1 1/4 million words, 1028 pages), is volume one of the set. The editor's preface (1707), p. xiii, stated that the works of Richard Baxter are 'perhaps the best body of practical divinity that is extent in our own or any other tongue.' Richard Baxter lived from 1615-1691. The DIRECTORY was completed in 1665. Its scope was intended to cover all of practical theology, a summa of casuistry . . ." -- Don Kistler
"Baxter's series, which grew in range and scope as it proceeded . . . is a peak point in Puritan devotional writing, and remains a precious resource for all, in this or any age, who want to know what is involved in Biblical godliness. . . . A CHRISTIAN DIRECTORY may justly be described as a landmark. It is the fullest, most thorough, and in this writer's judgment, most profound treatment of Christian spirituality and standards that has ever been attempted by an English-speaking Evangelical author. The fact that it embraces both spirituality and standards (the principles of communion with God plus the specifics of obedience to God), merits approving comment in itself; nowadays spirituality and ethics have become two distinct disciplines in the schools, and books written on either say virtually nothing about the other . . ." -- J.I. Packer
Timothy Keller calls it the greatest manual on Biblical counseling ever produced.
"There are many Puritan classics on this subject. Thomas Brooks' PRECIOUS REMEDIES FOR SATAN'S DEVICES, Thomas Goodwin's A CHILD OF LIGHT WALKING IN DARKNESS, William Bridge's A LIFTING UP FOR THE DOWNCAST, and many other similar works give evidence that the Puritans were. . . . masters at applying Biblical answers and principles to problems that can only be solved by spiritual means. No Puritan work, however, has ever approached the popularity, the scope, or the depth of Baxter's classic treatise. With the widespread interest in counseling in today's church, this reprint of Baxter's work should be a welcome addition to every pastor's library, or to anyone else who wishes to give solid Biblical answers to man's questions." -- Don Kistler
"We have long waited for a purely Biblical treatment of the spiritual ills and cures of men which is untainted by the views of psychology. Since Baxter lived about 200 years before psychology arrived, his deep work is completely void of its encroachment -- thankfully!" -- John MacArthur
"The kings men sought to arrest Richard Baxter, but he traveled ceaselessly from place to place, writing his sermons and his books even on horseback (he had an inkwell in his saddle), and preached over a wide area." -- Brian H. Edwards
"Baxter was a wonder of his age. His writings total 72 large volumes, much of it written on horseback as he traveled in his widespread preaching efforts. He seldom, if ever, edited anything he wrote. Knowing this any reader will be amazed at how well he communicated his deep love for his Savior. For 26 years he was public enemy No. 1 to the king, yet he lived to see the flight of the king in 1688." -- Jay P. Green, Sr. (1918-2008)
POOR MAN'S FAMILY BOOK (1674) and THE CATECHIZING OF FAMILIES (1683), are less detailed works and are found in THE REFORMED PASTOR: BAXTER'S PRACTICAL WORKS, VOL. 4. They are more suitable for family instruction than are the detailed presentation in A CHRISTIAN DIRECTORY.
"Ptacek in FAMILY WORSHIP: BIBLICAL BASIS, HISTORICAL REALITY, CURRENT NEED (pp. 51-52), supplies the following information in regard to Baxter and this book. He notes that after the Episcopalians ejected numerous 'nonconformists,' in what is know as the 'great ejection,' in 1662, 'Baxter pastored from house to house, visiting families of his parish in their homes. These visits contributed to Baxter's A CHRISTIAN DIRECTORY, a large and still very relevant manual of pastoral care.' Focusing on just one area of great importance, Ptacek demonstrates how this book's relevance is not limited by time or culture, though sometimes the use of specific words are. 'Published in 1673, but written 1664-65, a large book-length part of Baxter's CHRISTIAN DIRECTORY is devoted to the family. It is entitled 'Christian Economics' based on the archaic usage of the word, which reflects the proper sense of the Greek root oikonomos as the manager of a household, in the Christian case, the spiritual leader of the family. The family head is essential to Baxter's view of family worship and instruction. Baxter asserts that it is God's will that this instruction be carried out by the rulers of the families.' For a male head of the household to fail to do so, or to have another instruct in the family, is contrary to his position of authority.' This is the kind of book that can be passed on from generation to generation and still find much use in the service of the kingdom of God.
"Though relatively weak on corporate sanctification, corporate faithfulness and some important areas of doctrine (such as justification), Baxter's work on subjects related to personal piety can be of good practical use to the Christian -- if one is careful to separate out his aberrant doctrinal views and any practical errors they may lead to." -- Publisher
The following three excerpts are included as bonus free books on Reformation Bookshelf CD #28.
1. "The Duties of Parents for Their Children" from BAXTER'S PRACTICAL WORKS, VOL. 1, A CHRISTIAN DIRECTORY, on Christian Economics, Chap. X., pp. 449-454.
2. "The Special Duties of Children Towards Their Parents" from BAXTER'S PRACTICAL WORKS, VOL. 1, A CHRISTIAN DIRECTORY, on Christian Economics, Chap. XI., pp. 454-457.
3. "The Special Duties of Children and Youth Towards God" from BAXTER'S PRACTICAL WORKS, VOL. 1, A CHRISTIAN DIRECTORY, on Christian Economics, Chap. XII., pp. 457-458).
A summary of currently (2012) available publications.
http://www.lettermen2.com/pwrbcd.html
Richard Baxter, from Wikipedia
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Richard_Baxter

Bilezikian, Gilbert, Beyond Sex Roles: A Guide for the Study of Female Roles in the Bible, ISBN: 0801008859 9780801008856.

*Broger, John C. (developer/editor, 1915-2002), Self-Confrontation: A Manual for In-depth Discipleship: Based on the Old and New Testaments as the Only Authoritative Rule of Faith and Conduct, Alternate title: COURSE I: THE SELF-CONFRONTATION SYLLABUS FOR BIBLICAL COUNSELING TRAINING, ISBN: 0785282467 978-0785282464 and Course I: Self-Confrontation Tapes (10 cassette tapes [audio file]), (Rancho Mirage, CA: Biblical Counseling Foundation).
"Contains 24 weekly lessons intended to move a person through the change process personally as the foundation for working on becoming a counselor (Matthew 7:1-5). Intended for Sunday school and other classes or personal study. The first eight lessons lay the biblical foundation for change. The grace of the God in the gospel of Jesus Christ is spring of all true change, and it prompts a self-confrontation: 'Man's way is oriented to self: to please self, to comfort self, to rely on self, to fulfill self, to forgive self, to exalt self, and to love self. . . . [God's way], emphasizes that you are to live for Him.' The next thirteen lessons treat particular problem areas: selfishness, anger, interpersonal conflict, marriage and family, depression, fear, life-dominating sins. The final three lessons summarize and set the foundation for Course II, Biblical Counseling Training." -- David Powlison (1949-2019)
"Helps Christians solve their personal problems Biblically and equips laymen and women to counsel others Biblically within the church." Particularly valuable for its system of identifying root problems in counseling cases. Some of the material presented is from various writings by Jay E. Adams. The audio cassette tape [audio file], series by John Broger is designed to accompany the course and includes practical examples."
Biblical Counseling Foundation
http://bcfministries.org

Chapman, Gary D., and Amy Summers, The Five Love Languages: How to Express Heartfelt Commitment to Your Mate, ISBN: 1415857318 9781415857311.
"While working as a marriage counselor for more than 30 years, he identified five love languages: Words of Affirmation, Quality Time, Receiving Gifts, Acts of Service, and Physical Touch." -- Reader's Comment

Douglas, Edward, and Sharon Douglas The Blended Family: Achieving Peace and Harmony in the Christian Home, ISBN: 1577361792 9781577361794.
"This book can give anyone married, single, remarried, or engaged a biblical view and understanding of what Christ wants to do in our homes. The authors do an exceptional job at directing the reader to God's plan and provision for marriage and family. . . . THE BLENDED FAMILY encourages trust in Christ and the word of God as the blueprint for building a strong family. . . ." -- Reader's Comment

Johnson, Rex, At Home With sex, ISBN: 0882076396 9780882076393.
"It is a great young married curriculum and can be used to help parents to educate their own children. . . . A study guide, overhead projection masters, and course outlines and suggestions are available." -- Publisher

*Kennedy, D. James (1930-2007), Learning to Live With the People you Love, ISBN: 0883681900 9780883681909.
Love "is sharing life together in a way that brings glory to God and enriches the lives of every family member."
Dr. Kennedy says no book he has written has brought so many comments as this one.
Read this in conjunction with Dr. Kennedy's 6-message audio cassette [audio file], series "Secrets of Successful Marriages," the audio cassette [audio file], message "Why Some Marriages Fail and Others Succeed," and the 4-message audio cassette [audio file], series "The Christian Marriage Series."

L'Abate, Luciano, and Bess L'Abate, How to Avoid Divorce, ISBN: 0804211183 9780804211185.

*Lloyd-Jones, David Martyn (1899-1981), Life in the Spirit in Marriage, Home and Work: An Exposition of Ephesians 5:18 -- 6:9 [Ephesians 5:18 -- Ephesians 6:9], ISBN: 080105799X 9780801057991.

Mayo, Mary Ann, A Christian Guide to Sexual Counseling: Recovering the Mystery and the Reality of "One Flesh," ISBN: 0310359902 9780310359906.
"A book to equip pastors and counselors for the task of helping couples understand and deal with sexual problems in a marriage."
Includes bibliography.

Morris, James Kenneth, Marriage Counseling: A Manual for Ministers
"A helpful manual containing the tried and tested methods used when counseling couples in conflict. Covers the entire counseling process in detail from the first interview to intermittent follow-ups. Of inestimable value." -- Cyril J. Barber

Pellauer, Mary D. (editor), Barbara Chester (editor), and Jane Boyajian (editor), Sexual Assault and Abuse: A Handbook for Clergy and Religious Professionals, ISBN: 0060665076 9780060665074.
"Illustrated with case histories this book, primarily by women (only two chapters are by men), helps counselors and therapists recognize the patterns of sexual assault and sexual abuse. From this premise the gears are switched and the contributors discuss the reasons for violence in our milieu, and the threat this poses to children, teens, and adults." -- Cyril J. Barber

Pitt, Theodore K., Premarital Counseling Handbook for Ministers, ISBN: 0817010718 9780817010713.
Includes bibliography.

Powlison, David (1949-2019), Renewing Marital Intimacy: Closing the gap Between you and Your Spouse, 23 pages, ISBN: 9781934885345 1934885347.

Powlison, David (1949-2019), Paul David Tripp, and Edward T. Welch, Domestic Abuse: How to Help, ISBN: 087552687X 9780875526874.

Powlison, David (1949-2019), and John Yenchko, Pre-engagement: Five Questions to ask Yourselves, ISBN: 0875526799 9780875526799.

Preston, John (1587-1628), Sinnes Overthrow: or, A Godly and Learned Treatise of Mortification: Wherein is excellently handled; First, the generall doctrine of mortification: and Then particularly, how to mortifie fornication. Uncleannesse. Evill concupiscence. Inordinate affection. And covetousnesse. All being the substance of severall sermons upon Colos. 3.5. Mortifie therefore your members, &c. Delivered by that late faithfull preacher, and worthie instrument of Gods glorie, John Preston, Dr. in Divinitie, chaplin in ordinarie to his Majestie, master of Emanuell Colledge in Cambridge, and sometimes preacher of Lincolns-Inne, 1635, ISSN: 00279358. [Colossians 3:5]
Preston, Sinnes Overthrow: or, A Godly and Learned Treatise of Mortification . . . All Being the Substance of Severall Sermons Upon Colos. 3. 5 [Colossians 3:5]
https://archive.org/details/siwo00pres/page/n1

Price, Greg L., Dating or Courtship: Which is Biblical? (1/2), [audio file]. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.

Rassieur, Charles L., Pastor, Our Marriage is in Trouble: A Guide to Short-term Counseling, ISBN: 0664250335 9780664250331 .
Includes bibliography.

Rogers, Daniel, Matrimonial Honor, 1642, ISBN: 9781936473007 1936473003. Retypeset and modernized.
"This rare Puritan treatise on marriage is finally back in print after over 350 years. The great importance of godly marriages is emphasized by Daniel Rogers. 'Marriage is the preservative of chastity, the seminary of the commonwealth, seed-plot of the church, pillar (under God) of the world, right-hand of providence, supporter of laws, states, orders, offices, gifts, and services: the glory of peace, the sinews of war, the maintenance of policy, the life of the dead, the solace of the living, the ambition of virginity, the foundation of countries, cities, universities, succession of families, crowns, and kingdoms; truly (besides the being of these) it is the wellbeing of them being made, and whatsoever is excellent in them, or any other thing, the very furniture of heaven (in a kind) depending thereupon.'
"Rogers begins the treatise by showing that marriage is honorable. He then instructs the reader on what is necessary for a good entrance into marriage. It is necessary that one marries in the Lord and that there is aptness and suitableness to the match. Rogers then digresses to handle two points, which are consent of parents and the marriage contract. Returning to the main point of the treatise, he discusses three joint duties of the married, which are unity in religion, chastity, and mutual consent. Rogers then proceeds to handle the respective duties of the husband and the wife. Starting with the husband, he instructs the husband in three duties, namely, that he should be a man of understanding, providence, and given to honor and respect his wife. He then handles the reflective duties of the wife in response to the three duties of the husband. Her subjection to her husband is a response to his understanding. The helpfulness of the wife is in response to the husband's providence. Finally, the husband's giving of honor or respect to the wife is reflected back on him by the wife's gracefulness. Rogers has added a lengthy appendix to the treatise regarding God's terrible judgments against the defilers of marriage, with sundry means and counsels to pursue chastity." -- Publisher

Swindoll, C.R., Commitment: The key to Marriage, ISBN: 0930014650 9780930014650.
Contains material useful in counseling.
We believe that desirelessness on the part of both man and woman are also an important ingredient to successful marriages.
But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed.
Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death. (James 1:14,15)

Wheat, Ed, Before the Wedding Night: Pre-Marriage Counsel, 2 audio files [audio file].

Yoder, Andrew, Counseling and Human Sexuality: Foundations of a Biblical Approach,

See also: The sovereignty of god, The doctrine of man (human nature, total depravity), Repentance the key to salvation and change, Justification, Justifying faith, Covetousness, greed, and selfishness, The inspiration and infallibility of scripture (the doctrine of revelation, the doctrine of plenary inspiration, the doctrine of divine inspiration, the doctrine of verbal inspiration, theopneustia, sufficiency of scripture), The ten commandments: the moral law, Trusting god, Forgiveness, Bible promises, Covenant theology and the ordinance of covenanting, Sanctification, Unity and uniformity in the visible church: unity in the truth, Conscience, casuistry, cases of conscience, Ethics, Men and Women, Christian liberty, Men, women and god, Premarital counseling, Marital counseling, Problem solving in marriage, Reconciliation of marriage partners, Counseling the family, Biblical counsel by subject, Reconciliation of relationships, Sexual relationship, Spiritual adultery (spiritual whoredom/harlotry), Slavery, our systems of enslavement, economic enslavement, Carnality and flesh pleasing: lust, desires, ambition, Adultery, Child abuse and pedophilia, Fatherlessness, Counsel for young men, Counsel for young women, Abstinence, Christian counseling and educational foundation, Westminster media, Works of Jay Adams, and Audio cassettes, CCEF speakers, Child abuse and pedophilia, Sexual wholeness, Marriage, Singleness, Feminism, Gratuitous sex, a cause of violence, Homosexuality, lesbianism, gay, bisexual, transvestite, queer (lgbtq), Cowardice, Pseudo-christian movements: a selection of works, Works by and for women, The new age and women, Self, Self-denial, The occult, Sorcery, Women and the new age, Soul-violence, Churches that abuse, Divorce, Hostility, Incest, Rape, Sex ethics, sex education, Pornography, Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, Unforgiveness, The christian home, domestic duties, Duties of the Christian, and so forth, and so on.

Related Weblinks

Justifying Faith
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr1cha.html#justfaith

Mastering Life Ministries
http://www.MasteringLife.org

Respect Incorporated (formerly Sex Respect)
http://www.sexrespect.com/main.html

True Love Waits
http://www.truelovewaits.com/

The Christian Home, Domestic Duties

Submitting yourselves one to another in the fear of God.
Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord.
Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it. (Ephesians 5:21,22,25)

Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), The Role of Husband in the Home (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Audio cassette JAR01 [audio file].

Adams, Richard, What are the Duties of Parents and Children; and How are They to be Managed According to Scripture? 1674. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
"This Puritan author writes, 'My business is not to discuss the entity of relations in their foundation and terms, which the philosopher is conversant about; but to discourse (on) the efficacy of the chiefest in Christian practice; that is, to inquire into the nature and management of those reciprocal offices betwixt parents and children, which if well discharged according to the sense of the divine oracles, do contribute most to the happiness of human society, and give reputation to the communion of saints.' And that 'their children may continue, and their seed shall be established before' them (Psalm 102:28)." -- Publisher

Bilezikian, Gilbert, Beyond Sex Roles: A Guide for the Study of Female Roles in the Bible, ISBN: 0801008859 9780801008856.

Candlish, Robert S., The Relative Duties of Home Life.

Cleaver, Robert, Roger Carr, Robert Cawdry, and John Dod, A Godly Forme of Houshold Gouernment: For the Ordering of Priuate Families, According to the Direction of Gods Word. Whereunto is adioyned in a more particular manner, the seuerall duties of the husband towards his wife: and the wiues dutie towards her husband: the parents dutie towards their children; and the childrens towards their parents: the masters dutie towards his seruants; and also the seruants dutie towards their masters. First gathered by R.C. and now newly perused, amended, and augmented, by Iohn Dod and Robert Cleuer.
Duties of Husband and Wife, John Dod and Robert Cleaver
http://www.westminsterconfession.org/godly-living/duties-of-husband-and-wife.php

Gouge, William (1578-1653), Of Domesticall Duties Eight Treatises. I. An Exposition of That Part of Scripture out of Which Domesticall Duties are Raised. . . . VIII. Duties of Masters. Available (MP3 format), [audio file] on the Puritan Hard Drive.
Notes: An expansion of the sermon on Ephesians in his "An exposition of the whole fifth chapter of S. Johns Gospell".

*Kennedy, D. James (1930-2007), Learning to Live With the People you Love, ISBN: 0883681900 9780883681909.
Love "is sharing life together in a way that brings glory to God and enriches the lives of every family member."
Dr. Kennedy says no book he has written has brought so many comments as this one.
Read this in conjunction with Dr. Kennedy's 6-message audio cassette series [audio file], "Secrets of Successful Marriages," the audio cassette [audio file], message "Why Some Marriages Fail and Others Succeed," and the 4-message audio cassette [audio file], series "The Christian Marriage Series."

Miller, C. John (1928-1996), The Role of Woman in the Home (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
World Harvest Mission
http://www.whm.org/home.htm

Price, Greg L., The Puritan View of Marriage and the Family, an ongoing MP3 [audio file] and video series. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #22.

The Puritan View of Marriage and the Family (#1) "The Divine Institution of Marriage."
The Puritan View of Marriage and the Family (#2) "Preparing for Marriage 1/2," contains advanced teaching on courtship.
The Puritan View of Marriage and the Family (#3) "Preparing for Marriage 2/2," contains advanced teaching on courtship.
The Puritan View of Marriage and the Family (#4) "Husband's Role and Duty 1/2"
The Puritan View of Marriage and the Family (#5) "Husband's Role and Duty 2/2"
The Puritan View of Marriage and the Family (#6) "Wife's Role and Duty 1/2"
The Puritan View of Marriage and the Family (#7) "Wife's Role and Duty 2/2"

Steele, Richard (1629-1692), What are the Duties of Husbands and Wives Towards Each Other? 1674. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #22.

Wilson, Alex, Your Green Home: A Guide to Planning a Healthy, Environmentally Friendly new Home, ISBN: 9780865715554 0865715556.

See also: Parenting, Motherhood, Fatherhood, Counseling children, Men and women, Family management, Counseling the family, Home schooling, Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, Duties of the Christian, and so forth, and so on.
TCRB5: 735, 1623-1625, 1627, 1630, 3861, 3865

Related Weblinks

Duties of Sons and Daughters (FGB #208)
A Prayer for Sons and Daughters, Pike, J.G. (1784-1854) | Honor Your Father and Mother, Watson, Thomas (1620-1686) | Duties of Sons and Daughters to Parents, James, John Angell (1785-1859) | Children, Authority, and Society, Lloyd-Jones, D.M. (1899-1981) | Sins of Children and Youth, Pike, J.G. (1784-1854) | Children, Seek the Good Shepherd, M'Cheyne (1813-1843) | Why Sons and Daughters Need Faith in Christ, Walker, Charles (1791-1870) | Children Walking in Truth Ryle, J.C. (1816-1900) | To the Children of Godly Parents, Spurgeon, C.H. (1834-1892)
https://www.chapellibrary.org/book/dosafg/duties-of-sons-and-daughters

Duties of Husband and Wife, John Dod and Robert Cleaver
http://www.westminsterconfession.org/godly-living/duties-of-husband-and-wife.php

*The Godly Home (FGB #170)
Family Worship, Pink, A.W. (1886-1952) | Duties of Husbands and Wives, Steele, Richard (1629-1692) | Family Duty, Bunyan, John (1628-1688) | Blood of Sprinkling and the Children, Spurgeon, C.H. (1834-1892) | Children to be Educated for Christ | Faith and the Holy Spirit, Bunyan, John (1628-1688)
https://www.chapellibrary.org/book/ghomfg/godly-home-the

Problem Solving in Marriage

And when all things shall be subdued unto him, then shall the Son also himself be subject unto him that put all things under him, that God may be all in all. (1 Corinthians 15:28)
Many marriages have been healed by a commitment to Christ first and to each other second. -- D. James Kennedy (1930-2007) and Jerry Newcombe, What if Jesus had Never Been Born, p. 140
Prior to the Fall in the Garden of Eden man was in perfect relationship with God and with woman, a heavenly existence. After the Fall man's relationships with God and men were broken. The only way for man and wife, and family, and society to live together happily is to pursue holiness through Christ Jesus. See: The Everlasting Righteousness, or How Shall man be Just With God? Horatius Bonar.
Prayer together with your spouse daily is the single most helpful thing to bring your hearts together and to bless your marriage. Alternate day-by-day praying for a few of your burdens, and then pray for your spouses burdens.
God's promises to married persons deepens their love for each other.

*Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), From Forgiven to Forgiving: Discover the Path to Biblical Forgiveness, ISBN: 1879737124 9781879737129.
"For the 'average Christian,' to shed light on all aspects of forgiveness seeking and granting, and to counter erroneous views. How do forgiven persons -- God's children -- become forgiving persons? Defines, illustrates, motivates and challenges people to deal with forgiveness issues biblically. Clear thinking is essential: 'Labels are important not only as signs of the thing they signify but also as signposts that point to solutions to the problems they categorize.' Tackles unbiblical concepts such as forgiving self, forgiving God, apologizing, 'forgive and forget'." -- David Powlison (1949-2019)
"A detailed look at forgiveness from the Bible. He finds that much of what passes for Biblical teaching on this subject just plain misses the mark." -- GCB

Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), Questions and Answers: What is Marriage? Marriage and Family Problems (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Audio cassette JA104 [audio file].

Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), Role-play and Critique (part 1); Wife Abandoned; Potential Suicide (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Audio cassette JA210 [audio file].

Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), Role-Play and Critique (part 2); Wife Won't Speak; Homosexuality; Wife With Cancer (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Audio cassette JA211 [audio file].

*Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), What do you do When Your Marriage Goes Sour? Alternate title: YOU CAN SWEETEN A SOUR MARRIAGE, ISBN: 0875520480 9780875520483.
"Love is not first a feeling, because God commands love: to wife, to neighbor, even to enemy. You must learn how to give. You must forgive: a promise not to use it against the person, not to talk to others, not to dwell on it yourself. The husband is responsible to take initiative in love." -- David Powlison (1949-2019)

Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), You can Sweeten a Sour Marriage, ISBN: 0801000963 9780801000966. Alternate title: WHAT DO YOU DO WHEN YOUR MARRIAGE GOES SOUR.
"Love is not first a feeling, because God commands love: to wife, to neighbor, even to enemy. [with conditions -- compiler]. You must learn how to give. You must forgive: a promise not to use it [a wrong -- compiler], against the person, not to talk to others, not to dwell on it yourself. The husband is responsible to take initiative in love." -- David Powlison (1949-2019)

Bloem, Diane Brummel, and Robert C. Bloem, A Workshop on Bible Marriages, ISBN: 0310213916 9780310213918.

Bloem, Diane Brummel, and Robert C. Bloem, A Woman's Workshop on Bible Marriages: Leader's Manual, ISBN: 0310214017 9780310214014.

Bloem, Diane Brummel, and Robert C. Bloem, A Woman's Workshop on Bible Marriages: Student's Manual, ISBN: 0310213916 9780310213918.

*Bower, Robert K., Solving Problems in Marriage: Guidelines for Christian Couples, ISBN: 0802813380 9780802813381.
"Spells out ways in which husbands and wives can find solutions to the problems which arise in the normal course of everyday living. Practical." -- Cyril J. Barber

*Bromiley, Geoffrey W., God and Marriage, ISBN: 080281851X 9780802818515.
"Brief and to the point, these chapters deal with the Trinity and note how each member of the Godhead affects the marriage of the Christian couple and contributes toward it stability." -- Cyril J. Barber

Chesser, Barbara, 21 Myths That Can Wreck Your Marriage, ISBN: 0849931614 9780849931611 0849908205 9780849908200.

Cushenberry, Donald C., Coping With Life After Your Mate Dies, ISBN: 0801057655 9780801057656.
"For Donald and Rita Cushenberry, practical wisdom for grieving and getting on with life came from personal experience. Each has lost a spouse, grieved, and eventually found new life. This book brings comfort and helps survivors face decisions." -- Publisher

Dallas, Joe, Desires in Conflict: Answering the Struggle for Sexual Identity, ISBN: 0736912118 9780736912112.
"This book offers a workable approach to sexual and emotional sanctification illuminating the power of God's Grace at work in the sincerely repentant soul." -- GCB
Joe Dallas operates Genesis Counseling in Orange County, California, and is president of Exodus International, an organization that has helped countless thousands out of homosexuality. For more information write to the "Truths That Transform" radio program and ask for the "Joe Dallas Actions Sheet."

Friesen, DeLoss, David Friesen, and Ruby M. Friesen, Counseling and Marriage, ISBN: 084990501X 9780849905018.
Includes bibliographical references.

Gray, Edward P., Counseling to the Heart: A Training Program to Equip Women to Counsel Women (Covenant Theological Seminary, D.Min. thesis, 1990).
"This thesis describes a women-counseling-women program in the context of a local congregation. The program uses a counseling methodology based on a Biblical understanding of the heart. . . . Practical and theological implications of the program are presented. The thesis develops a Biblical foundation for counseling in the areas of marriage and divorce and presents case studies to show how the concept of heart counseling can be applied. . . ." -- Publisher

Greene, Lawrence J., Learning Disabilities and Your Child: A Survival Handbook, ISBN: 0893343242 9780893343248. Alternate title: KIDS WHO HATE SCHOOL.
"Learning disabilities don't have to stand in the way of your child's success.
"A learning disability can be at the root of your child's resistance, failure, and low self-esteem. It's no wonder that children with learning disabilities have difficulties both at home and at school, difficulties that are reflected in poor performance records.
"Lawrence J. Greene, a pioneer in the field of learning disabilities and the Executive Director of the Developmental Learning Center in San Jose, California, for seventeen years, shares his knowledge and experience in compassionate and understanding terms. He explains how to diagnose learning disabilities ranging from dyslexia and hyperactivity to language disorders and tuning out -- and how they might affect your child. He offers helpful advice on choosing the right school or program for your child and on getting the support you need. Anecdotes, where parents and children speak out, as well as step-by-step programs that you can begin right now, make this unique book a vital guide for parents and teachers of learning disabled children." -- Publisher

Hallowell, Edward M., and John J. Ratey, Delivered From Distraction: Getting the Most out of Life With Attention Deficit Disorder, ISBN: 0345442318 9780345442314.
"Medication? Maybe. Marry the right person and find the right job? A must if you are an adult suffering from ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder). So say psychiatrists Edward M. Hallowell and John J. Ratey, authors of the influential DRIVEN TO DISTRACTION, published in 1994. In their new book, DELIVERED FROM DISTRACTION, Hallowell and Ratey survey the current medical landscape concerning ADD, combining their own clinical observations with the latest research to paint a much more complex and, in many ways, positive picture of the condition than has generally been presented.
"Hallowell and Ratey embrace the idea that success in life comes more from playing to your strengths than overcoming your weaknesses. In the case of a person with ADD (child or adult), these strengths often include unusually high levels of creativity, charisma, intelligence, and energy. The authors insist that, while medication and other treatments can sometimes work wonders in reducing limitations, surrounding yourself with people who promote these positive traits, be they in your personal or professional life, is the single most important element to living well with ADD. As both Hallowell and Ratey are not only experts in the field, but "ADDers" themselves, the tips and stories they share for how to do so are fresh, funny, and far more helpful than tired arguments over drugs verse no drugs or whether there's even such a thing as ADD at all." -- Patrick Jennings
Hallowell Center and Hallowell Connections
The Hallowell Center was founded by Dr. Edward M. Hallowell and specializes in the treatment of Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD), Worry/Anxiety, and Child Learning Disabilities.
http://www.drhallowell.com/

Harvard, Allen, and Margaret Harvard, Death and Rebirth of a Marriage.
"A true-to-life story about a marriage on the rocks . . . until God stepped in." -- Cyril J. Barber

Horner, Bob, and Jan Horner, Resolving Conflict in Your Marriage, ISBN: 9781602003279 1602003270.

Horner, Bob, and Jan Horner, Resolving Conflict in Marriage (Study Guide), ISBN: 084998338X 9780849983382.
"Six lessons covering: areas of potential conflict, develop transparency, listening skills, confront, forgiveness, blessing, and grow together." -- GCB

*Kennedy, D. James (1930-2007), Learning to Live With the People you Love, ISBN: 0883681900 9780883681909.
Love "is sharing life together in a way that brings glory to God and enriches the lives of every family member."
Dr. Kennedy says no book he has written has brought so many comments as this one.
Read this in conjunction with Dr. Kennedy's 6-message audio cassette [audio file], series "Secrets of Successful Marriages," the audio cassette [audio file], message "Why Some Marriages Fail and Others Succeed," and the 4-message audio cassette [audio file], series "The Christian Marriage Series."

L'Abate, Luciano, and Bess L'Abate, How to Avoid Divorce, ISBN: 0804211183 9780804211185.

*Lloyd-Jones, David Martyn (1899-1981), Life in the Spirit in Marriage, Home and Work: An Exposition of Ephesians 5:18 -- 6:9 [Ephesians 5:18 -- Ephesians 6:9], ISBN: 080105799X 9780801057991.

Luther, Martin (1483-1546), and Walter Lynne (translator), A VVatch-vvord for VVilfull VVomen. An Excellent Pithie Dialogue Betvveene two Sisters, of Contrary Dispositions: the one a Vertuous Matrone: Fearing God: The Other a VVilfull Husvvife: of Disordered Behauioure. Wherein is righte Christianly discoursed, what singuler commodity commeth by vertuous education, as otherwise what torment to a quiet man, a skowlding [and] vndiscrete woman is. Alternate title: FRUTEFUL PREDICATION OR SERMON OF D. MART. LUTH. CONCERNYNGE MATRIMONY, 1581.

Lutz, Ron, Marital Crisis and Church Discipline, MP3 [audio file]. Available on Earl Cook, Ronald E. Lutz, and the Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation, 1987 Alumni Conference, 2 MP3 files [audio file] (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
"Notes: Features the professional counseling staff of the Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation."

Mack, Wayne A., Family and Marital Problems, ISBN: 0875523579 9780875523576.

*Mack, Wayne, A Homework Manual for Biblical Counseling, Vol. I: Personal and Interpersonal Problems, ISBN: 0875523560 9780875523569.
"The counseling session is not the 'magic hour,' and this gives homework assignments that can help with a wide range of problems. Covers about 35 problems, from 'Anger' and 'Anxiety,' through 'Communication' and 'Changing Sinful Thought Patterns,' to 'Vocation' and 'Work.' Typical assignments contain Bible studies, self-analysis questions, brief teachings, and plans to solve problems with a biblical course of action." -- David Powlison (1949-2019)

*Mack, Wayne, A Homework Manual for Biblical Counseling, Vol. II: Family and Marital Problems, ISBN: 0875523579 9780875523576.
"Homework covering a wide range of marital and child-rearing issues: communication, finances, data gathering (e.g., 'Rate Your Marriage' and 'Log Lists'), ways to show love, how parents provoke children to wrath, principles of bringing up children God's way. Includes teaching outlines, self-evaluation forms and questions, plans for biblical change, Bible studies." -- David Powlison (1949-2019)
"These are tested and proven books and are most helpful for study and assignments. Great refreshers and topical studies in areas dealt with most often." -- CCEF

Mack, Wayne A., How to Develop Deep Unity in the Marriage Relationship. Unit III. One Plus one Equals one.

Mack, Wayne A., In-laws: Married With Parents, ISBN: 9781596381704 1596381701.

Mack, Wayne A., Maximum Impact: Living and Loving for God's Glory, ISBN: 9781596382046 159638204X.

Mack, Wayne A., Personal and Interpersonal Problems.

Mack, Wayne A., Preparing for Marriage God's way, ISBN: 1563220199 9781563220197.

*Mack, Wayne, Special Marriage Problems (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
A series of five audio cassettes [audio file].

Mack, Wayne A., You can Resolve Interpersonal Conflicts, ISBN: 0801061032 9780801061035.

Mack, Wayne A., and Deborah Howard, "It's not Fair!" Finding Hope When Times are Tough, ISBN: 9781596381124 1596381124.
"With wonderful insight and clarity, Wayne Mack explores the difficult issue of how to reconcile God's justice with His sovereignty. He shines the bright light of Scripture on some of the toughest questions of all, and then carefully explores the answers in a way that is easy to follow and truly helpful." -- Publisher

Mack, Wayne A., and Strengthening Ministries International, Child Abuse, Marriage, Depression, Financial Problems, Depression, 2 DVDs.
Mack, Wayne A., and Strengthening Ministries International, Marital Relations, Conflict, Communications, Blended Family Issues: Session 1-2 of 6, DVD.
Mack, Wayne A., and Strengthening Ministries International, Drunkenness and Marriage, 2 DVDs.
Mack, Wayne A., and Strengthening Ministries International, Depression, anxiety, panic attacks, bad theology, 2 DVDs.
Wayne Mack conducts five counseling sessions focused on the following: depression, anxiety, panic attacks, and bad theology.

McNair, Mac, and Amy McNair, Ten Principles for a Successful Marriage: Practical Lessons From the Ten Commandments, ISBN: 1581820224 9781581820225.
"Nearly everyone has heard of the Ten Commandments, and most people can even name a few of them. Through fifty-five years of marriage Mac and Amy McNair have drawn from them the following guidelines for living together:

Respect each other's position of authority
Have singleness of purpose in your marriage
Practice effective communication
Maintain a proper balance between work and rest
Show respect for your elders and seek counsel from those who are older and wiser
Show respect for one another and love one another
Maintain a proper physical relationship
Face financial issues together
Demonstrate honesty and integrity to one another
Be content with yourself and your marriage

"A simply written, deeply personal look at marriage, TEN PRINCIPLES FOR A SUCCESSFUL MARRIAGE is a recounting of the principles that have guided the authors in their own marriage. While at first these insights may seem like simple common courtesy and common sense, the McNairs have found a great deal of profundity in this very simplicity. Inspired by the Ten Commandments, TEN PRINCIPLES FOR A SUCCESSFUL MARRIAGE is an intensely practical, time-tested guide to happy, successful living that could be applied to other areas of life as well.
"Mac McNair is a former career Air Force officer, professor at North Carolina State University, and director of aerospace programs at the Pentagon. Currently president of McNair Associates, a management consulting firm, he also is chairman of the Executive Leadership Foundation, which seeks to apply Judeo-Christian ethics in business and society. He also is co-author of the leadership development program for the U.S. Attorney General's office. Amy McNair, a homemaker, teaches classes with Mac on the principles of successful marriage. They live near Atlanta, Georgia." -- Publisher

Powlison, David (1949-2019), Renewing Marital Intimacy: Closing the gap Between you and Your Spouse, 23 pages, ISBN: 9781934885345 1934885347.

Strom, Kay Marshall, In the Name of Submission: A Painful Look at Wife Battering, ISBN: 0880701633 9780880701631.
"A very sensitive book. The author confronts the harsh reality in the best possible way. She assesses the complex personal, ethical, and spiritual dilemmas facing the victim of abuse and offers sage suggestions to ensure her personal safety and that of any children. Practical. Recommended." -- Cyril J. Barber
"This is the first book with a Christian perspective that I read which gave a basis for ending my abusive marriage. . . . A must for any woman who questions her husband's controlling, isolating or abusive behavior, especially if she is a Christian and believes in the sanctity of marriage." -- Reader's Comment

Tripp, Paul, When Things go From bad to Worse (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Audio cassette HFTF08 [audio file].

Welch, Edward T., Living With an Angry Spouse: Help for Victims of Abuse, ISBN: 9781934885352 1934885355.

See also: The sovereignty of god, The doctrine of man (human nature, total depravity), Repentance the key to salvation and change, Justification, Justifying faith, Covetousness, greed, and selfishness, The inspiration and infallibility of scripture (the doctrine of revelation, the doctrine of plenary inspiration, the doctrine of divine inspiration, the doctrine of verbal inspiration, theopneustia, sufficiency of scripture), The ten commandments: the moral law, Trusting god, Repentance the key to salvation and change, Justifying faith, Forgiveness, Bible promises, Sanctification, Conscience, casuistry, cases of conscience, Ethics, Men and Women, Christian liberty, Men, women and god, Premarital counseling, Marital counseling, Marriage, Problem solving in marriage, Reconciliation of marriage partners, Biblical counsel by subject, Counseling the family, Reconciliation of relationships, Sexual relationship, Spiritual adultery (spiritual whoredom/harlotry), Incest, Slavery, our systems of enslavement, economic enslavement, Carnality and flesh pleasing: lust, desires, ambition, Adultery, Child abuse and pedophilia, Fatherlessness, Counsel for young men, Counsel for young women, Abstinence, Christian counseling and educational foundation, Westminster media, Works of Jay Adams, and Audio cassettes, CCEF speakers, Sexual wholeness, Marriage, Singleness, Feminism, Gratuitous sex, a cause of violence, Homosexuality, lesbianism, gay, bisexual, transvestite, queer (lgbtq), Cowardice, Pseudo-christian movements: a selection of works, Works by and for women, The new age and women, Self, Self-denial, The occult, Sorcery, Women and the new age, Soul-violence, Churches that abuse, Divorce, Hostility, Incest, Rape, Sex ethics, sex education, Pornography, Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, Unforgiveness, The christian home, domestic duties, Duties of the Christian, and so forth, and so on.
TCRB5: 1658-1661, 1642, 3733, 4152

Related Weblinks

Biblical Principles for Solving Problems in the Family
http://www.reformed.com/pub/marriage.htm

Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation Resources Audio Archives
http://www.wts.edu/resources/login.html/

Mastering Life Ministries
http://www.MasteringLife.org

Spouse an Unbeliever

For what knowest thou, O wife, whether thou shalt save thy husband? or how knowest thou, O man, whether thou shalt save thy wife? (1 Corinthians 7:16)

Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), Counseling Workshop: Multiple Persons; Unbeliever Doesn't Leave; Discipling Children; Obesity and Fatness, six audio cassettes or MP3s [audio file], (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Audio cassette JA505 [audio file].

Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), Winning Your Unsaved Husband (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Audio cassette JA404 [audio file].

Berry, Jo, Beloved Unbeliever: Loving Your Husband Into the Faith, ISBN: 0310426219 9780310426219.
"This book offers new hope for the thousands of Christian wives married to unbelieving husbands. It gives guidance on communicating with your husband, determining spiritual priorities, and showing Christian behavior at home without alienating your husband. Suited for individual and group study." -- Publisher
"This ten-session book on 'loving a husband into the faith' can be used one-on-one or in a small group study." -- Publisher

Davis, Linda, How to be the Happy Wife of an Unsaved Husband, ISBN: 0883681897 9780883681893.
"In a tactful and personal way, Davis confronts the delicate and sometimes difficult issues raised when a believing woman is married to an unbelieving husband. From a strong Biblical perspective, the spiritual issues are forthrightly addressed. The man's point of view is well represented in this book." -- GCB

*Lloyd-Jones, David Martyn (1899-1981), Life in the Spirit in Marriage, Home and Work: An Exposition of Ephesians 5:18 -- 6:9 [Ephesians 5:18 -- Ephesians 6:9], ISBN: 080105799X 9780801057991.

Birth Control

Birth Control
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr2chb.html#bcontrol

Abortion and the Sanctity of Life

Abortion and the Sanctity of Life
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr2chb.html

Post-abortion Counseling

Post-abortion Counseling
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr2cha.html#postac

Stillborn and Miscarriage

Rank, Maureen, Free to Grieve: Miscarriage and Stillbirth, ISBN: 0871238063 9780871238061.
"Combining her own personal experience with extensive research, Maureen Rank offers guidance to the grieving and help in looking toward the future.
"The author, herself the survivor of four miscarriages, believes that healing can begin when these basic principles are recognized:

Grief is justifiable.
Grief is necessary.
Grief is individual.
Grief will some day end.

"Along with the sorrow of miscarriage and stillbirth come the inevitable questions: 'Why did this happen?' 'Can the problem be remedied?' and 'Should we try again?' Avoiding cold, purely medical technicalities, this book faces these questions squarely and explores options for treatment and emotional healing.
"Written from a Christian perspective and including the latest in medical technology, this book is an important resource for pastors and counselors.
"Comfort, encouragement, and sound advice for those who have suffered the losses of miscarriage and stillbirth." -- Publisher

Rue, Nancy, Handling the Heartbreak of Miscarriage, ISBN: 0898401291 9780898401295.
"An intelligent response to the private agony over a baby who didn't make it to birth. In the three decades since my own lost babies I have never read a more thorough and sensitive treatment of this common, yet always unique, experience of desolation." -- Jeanne W. Hendricks

Infertility, Barrenness, Childlessness

Bassett, William T., Counseling the Childless Couple.

Ebel, Frank J., The Christian's Filial Relationship to God

Gardner, Michelle, Adoption as a Ministry, Adoption as a Blessing, ISBN: 1579215815 9781579215811.

Regenmorter, John Van, Sylvia Van Regenmorter, and Joe S. McIlhaney Dear God, why Can't we Have a Baby?: A Guide for the Infertile Couple, ISBN: 0801093015 9780801093012.
"A Reformed pastor and his wife struggled with the infertility problem for eight years. After much ignorant advice this couple squarely faced the problem. In these pages you will find questions, answers, and sound advice. Dr. McIlhaney's comments come mainly from his book, 1250 HEALTH-CARE QUESTIONS WOMEN ASK." -- GCB

Stephenson, Lynda, Give us a Child: Coping With the Personal Crisis of Infertility, ISBN: 0060675918 9780060675912.
"Covers such topics as: your emotions when you can't have children, what are the treatments for infertility, what you should know about the new, high-tech procedures, and how to keep your marriage strong during this crisis." -- GCB

Stigger, Judith, Coping With Infertility, ISBN: 0806619562 9780806619569.
"A guide for couples, families, and counselors."

Strom, Kay Marshall, The Complete Adoption Handbook, ISBN: 0310574617 9780310574613.
"She does not 'sugar coat' adoption like it's the TV sitcom, 'The Brady Bunch,' but weaves in accounts of actual families as they made their way through adoption. Though not a technical reference book like THE ADOPTION RESOURCE BOOK by Lois Gilman (by the way, is an invaluable adoption tool), Kay Strom makes you stop and evaluate your motivations before you jump into adoption. I highly recommend this book to any Christian since she does not 'push' any particular 'religious affiliation' when she encourages one to seek the Lord for His guidance. -- Reader's Comment

Vergin, Leslie, Infertility: A Guide for Pastoral Care and Counseling,

See also: The fatherhood of god, Fatherhood, Filial love (love toward parents), Adoption of children, Infertility, barrenness (women), and so forth, and so on.
TCRB5: 1660

Adoption of Children

Melina, Lois R., Raising Adopted Children: A Manual for Adoptive Parents, ISBN: 0060960396 9780060960391.
This book "is important reading before, during, and after adopting [a child]. By replacing the myth of adoption with the realistic issues involved, it offers parents valuable insights into how to deal openly and honestly with themselves, as well as with the emotional and psychological needs of their child." -- Betty Jean Lifton

See also: Infertility, barrenness, childlessness, The fatherhood of god, Parenting, Sharing christ with your children, Women and parenting, Children of divorce, and so forth, and so on.
TCRB5: 1654

Sexual Relationship

Sexual Relationship
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr2chb.html#sex

Counseling for Sex Related Problems, Illegitimacy

For this cause shall a man leave father and mother, and shall cleave to his wife: and they twain shall be one flesh? Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 19:5-6)
John Gill commenting on Matthew 19:6
http://www.biblestudytools.com/my-bible/#/left:passage/kjv/matthew/19:6/&right:reference/commentaries/gills-exposition-of-the-bible/matthew-19-6.html
Illegitimate births have increased 400 percent since 1963, the historical date that marks the beginning of the sexual revolution. [Medical Institute for Sexual Health, 1990 figures]. Nearly 40 percent of babies born in the United States in 2007 were delivered by unwed mothers, according to data released last month by the National Center for Health Statistics.
Percent of all births to unmarried women: 40.7 percent. -- Data are for the U.S., 2012. Source: Births: Final Data for 2012, Table C (See link to statistics below).
All things are lawful unto me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of any. Meats for the belly, and the belly for meats: but God shall destroy both it and them. Now the body is not for fornication, but for the Lord; and the Lord for the body. And God hath both raised up the Lord, and will also raise up us by his own power.
Know ye not that your bodies are the members of Christ? shall I then take the members of Christ, and make them the members of an harlot? God forbid. What? know ye not that he which is joined to an harlot is one body? for two, saith he, shall be one flesh. But he that is joined unto the Lord is one spirit.
Flee fornication. Every sin that a man doeth is without the body; but he that committeth fornication sinneth against his own body. What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's. (1 Corinthians 6:12-20)
Calvin seems to see the Seventh as interrelated to, as summing up, all Ten Commandments of the Law.*
Although one kind of impurity is alone referred to, it is sufficiently plain, from the principle laid down, that believers are generally exhorted to chastity; for, if the Law be a perfect rule of holy living, it would be more than absurd to give a license for fornication, adultery alone being excepted. Furthermore, it is incontrovertible that God will by no means approve or excuse before this tribunal, what the common sense of mankind declares to be obscene; for, although lewdness has everywhere been rampant in every age, still the opinion could never be utterly extinguished, that fornication is a scandal and a sin. . . . [Titus 2:12; Isaiah 30:21; Matthew 19:17; Romans 13:8]
Now, if Christ and the Apostles, who are the best interpreters of the Law, declare that God's Law is violated no less by fornication than by theft, we assuredly infer, *that in this Commandment the whole genus is comprehended under a single species. . . . [Hebrews 13:4; Leviticus 21:14; Deuteronomy 23:17; Hosea 4:11; Hosea 1:2; Numbers 25:9; 1 Corinthians 10:8; Acts 15:20; 1 Corinthians 6:18; 2 Corinthians 7:1; 1 Thessalonians 4:4,5] -- John Calvin commenting on Exodus 20:14 and Deuteronomy 5:18 and context
Our first love is our only love because, by definition, a man can become one flesh (Genesis 2:24; 1 Corinthians 6:15-20) with only one woman, and visa versa. Men and women have only ONE CHANCE to become one flesh. Promiscuity then is a hopelessly impossible attempt to again know that oneness which has been lost.
No sin that a person commits has more built-in pitfalls, problems, and destructiveness than sexual sin. It has broken more marriages, shattered more homes, caused more heartache and disease, and destroyed more lives than alcohol and drugs combined. It causes lying, stealing, cheating, and killing, as well as bitterness, hatred, slander, gossip, and unforgiveness.
The dangers and harm of sexual sin are nowhere presented more vividly and forcefully than in Proverbs. The lips of an adulteress drip honey, and smoother than oil is her speech (Proverbs 5:3). The basic truth applies to a prostitute or to any other woman who tries to seduce a man. It also applies to a man who tries to seduce a woman. The point is that sexual allurement is extremely enticing and powerful. It seems nice, enjoyable, and good. It promises nothing but pleasure and satisfaction. But what it ends up giving is bitter as wormwood, sharp as a two -- edged sword. Her feet go down to death, her steps lay hold of Sheol. She does not ponder the path of life; her ways are unstable, she does not know it (Proverbs 5:4-6). The first characteristic of sexual sin is deceit. It never delivers what it promises. It offers great satisfaction but gives great disappointment. It claims to be real living but is really the way to death. Illicit sexual relationships are always "unstable." Nothing binds those involved except the temporary and impersonal gratification of physical impulses. That is poor cement. Another tragedy of sexual sin is that often those involved do "not know it" is unstable, do not realize perhaps for a long time that their relationship cannot be lasting. Thus they fall deeper and deeper into the pit of their doomed relationship, which makes the dissolution all the more devastating and painful.
Those who consider all sex to be basically evil, however, are as far from the truth as those who consider all sex to be basically good and permissible. God is not against sex. He created and blessed it. When used exclusively within marriage, as the Lord intends, sex is beautiful, satisfying, and stabilizing. Let your fountain be blessed, Scripture says, and rejoice in the wife of your youth. . . . Be exhilarated always with her love (Proverbs 5:18,19).
The Bible's advice for avoiding sexual involvement outside marriage is simple: stay as far away as possible from the persons and places likely to get you in trouble. Keep your way far from her, and do not go near the door of her house (Proverbs 5:8). When repeatedly enticed by Potiphar's wife, Joseph refused not only to lie beside her but even to be with her (Genesis 39:10). When she tried to force him into adultery and grabbed his coat, he left his garment in her hand and fled, and went outside (Genesis 39:12). It was not the time for argument or explanation but for flight. When we unavoidably get caught in such a situation, the only sensible thing to do is to get away from it as quickly as we can. Passion is not rational or sensible, and sexually dangerous situations should be avoided or fled, not debated. -- John MacArthur commenting on the destructiveness of sexual immorality, Christian Liberty, 1 Corinthians 6
Our virginity before marriage is a great possession.
Soon teenage daughters and sons will be sent off to college. Away from home for the first time, they will be on their own, separated from parental guidance and protection. They will be alone and eager for quick acceptance.
Girls and young men should understand that virginity is probably the most important gift and possession that we have, next to spiritual regeneration, that is, knowing Christ. The godless are blind to this fact, and often are in severe denial about sexual purity. (Colossians 3:4,5). Lose of virginity throws us into bondage, and into submission to this Fallen World. It is a stealing of our souls. Our first love is our only love. Once we have sexual relations with another, then we are never the same again.
True femininity is to know and to understand that God has a special design and plan for your life. It guarantees that a girl will know true oneness with the man of God's choosing for a partner in her life. Being a virgin until marriage assures us that God's design for our lives will be fulfilled.
One of the strategies used by the principalities and powers is to rob us of our virginity. (Ephesians 6:12). Some other strategies of the Adversary are: childhood sexual abuse, incest (the "boot camp" for prostitution), high school peer pressures, exclusive "clubs," gangs, drunkenness (especially in the company of the opposite sex), cults and cultic beliefs, the cultural influence from a godless secular humanism and its acceptance of sexual sin, the occult, sorority (and fraternity), pledging, rushing, hazing, and initiation, and so forth, and so on.
Lose of virginity is a powerful "socializing influence" in the wrong sense. It conforming us to this fallen world. It can be seen as a conditioning for later life, when we will be expected to submit in the workplace to big corporations, to political parties, and to the influence of secular and secularized institutions.
Of course, one is not able "to glorify God and enjoy him fully for ever" when under bondage. To lead a chaste, moral life, by the help of God, is to glorify God. That is beyond all comparison to the idolatry, of the secular humanistic world -- looking to man for our good.
Of course, nothing can separate those who are true to Christ from the salvation and forgiveness found in the Gospel. (Romans 8:37-39). But Christian girls (and young men), should bear in mind that the sexual sins of our youth can bear a life long influence, even after we are forgiven.
We should be on guard against the "emotionally blackmail" of the world. We should resist the temptation to become "joiners," by "selling out" to their destructive lies. (Matthew 16:24-26). Ignorance of sexual morality is a sure sign of hypocrisy. (Mark 7:20-23)
17th century Puritans were keenly aware of the social consequences of illegitimacy. (See: Sexual relationship, Gratuitous sex, a cause of violence, Homosexuality, lesbianism, gay, bisexual, transvestite, queer (lgbtq), Illegitimacy, sex related problems, counseling for, Sexually transmitted diseases, Sexual wholeness, Sex ethics, sex education, Sex ethics, sex education, Teens and sex, Prostitution, harlotry, Fatherlessness, Soul-violence, The sanctity of life, abortion, Child abuse and pedophilia, and so forth, and so on). During the ten year Protectorate of Oliver Cromwell, all manner of adultery and fornication was against the law. Suspected violators were tried on the charge "For Uncondoned Carnal Knowledge." The acronym for this legal charge has been a vulgarity for immoral sex for the last 360 years.

*Bork, Robert H., Slouching Towards Gomorrah: Modern Liberalism and American Decline, ISBN: 0060391634 9780060391638.
"In Robert H. Bork's SLOUCHING TOWARDS GOMORRAH, one of our nation's most distinguished conservative scholars offers a prophetic and unprecedented view of a culture in decline, a nation in such serious moral trouble that its very foundation is crumbling. Of our own President, Bork writes: 'Thirty years ago, Clinton's behavior would have been absolutely disqualifying. Since the 1992 election, the public has learned far more about what is known, euphemistically, as the 'character issue.' Yet none of this appears to affect Clinton's popularity. It is difficult not to conclude that something about our moral perceptions and reactions has changed profoundly. If that change is permanent, the implication for our future is bleak.'
"The root of our decline, Bork argues, is the rise of modern liberalism, which stresses the dual forces of radical egalitarianism (the equality of outcomes rather than opportunities) and radical individualism (the drastic reduction of limits to personal gratification). The roots of modern liberalism are deeply embedded in the past two and a half centuries -- and perhaps -- arise from the very nature of Western civilization itself. From the collapse of popular culture to the general weakening of intellect, from the role of the Supreme Court as an agent of modern liberalism to the trouble in religion, from the assault of radical feminism on American institutions and freedoms to the 'killing for convenience' of abortion and euthanasia, Bork has brilliantly encapsulated a nation and a culture on the brink. He courageously sounds an alarm for all Americans.
"To understand our current plight and the direction in which we are moving, Bork believes we must look to the Sixties, a decade in which the moral integrity of our nation came under full-blown assault. We have never recovered from that attack because the radicals of the Sixties have taken over or heavily modified the cultural institutions they once sought to destroy. . . .
"Robert H. Bork received his undergraduate and law degrees at the University of Chicago. He has been a partner at a major law firm, taught constitutional law as the Alexander M. Bickell Professor of Public Law at the Yale law school, served as Solicitor General and as Acting Attorney General of the United States and served as a United States Court of Appeals judge. Author of the bestselling THE TEMPTING OF AMERICA: THE POLITICAL SEDUCTION OF THE LAW, he and his wife live in Washington DC, where he is the John M. Olin Scholar in Legal Studies at the American Enterprise Institute." -- Publisher

Jackson, Mark, Newborn Child Murder: Women, Illegitimacy and the Courts in Eighteenth-Century England. ISBN: 0719046076 9780719046070.
Of course, abortion is not unprecedented. Furthermore it is not unprecedented for man's law to be lenient toward mothers who murder their own children.
"Includes trials of eighteenth-century child murder cases."

Love, Christopher (1618-1651), The Combat Between the Flesh and the Spirit. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive (MP3). Available on Reformation bookshelf CD #4, #21 (MPS), audio file.

*Owen, John (1616-1683), The Mortification of sin in Believers: Containing the necessity, nature, and means of it. With a resolution of sundry cases of conscience thereunto belonging. By John Owen, D.D. . . . A new edition London, 1783.
"I owe more to John Owen than to any other theologian, ancient or modern; and I owe more to [THE MORTIFICATION OF SIN] than to anything else he wrote." -- J.I. Packer
The Mortification of sin, an e-book
https://www.monergism.com/mortification-sin-believers-ebook-0
The Mortification of sin
https://faculty.gordon.edu/hu/bi/ted_hildebrandt/SpiritualFormation/Texts/Owen_MortificationOfSin.pdf
"John Owen's treatises on INDWELLING SIN IN BELIEVERS [in TEMPTATION AND SIN,] and THE MORTIFICATION OF SIN [see: THE MORTIFICATION OF SIN IN BELIEVERS] are, in my opinion, the most helpful writings on personal holiness ever written." -- Jerry Bridges
On the Mortification of Sin in Believers, John Owen (1 of 6), an audio file reading
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=62906111628

Putnam, Bill, Daddy, I'm Pregnant, ISBN: 0880702044 9780880702041.
Counsel from a father who had his 14 year old daughter tell him she was pregnant.

Rassieur, Charles L., The Problem Clergymen Don't Talk About, ISBN: 0664247903 9780664247904.
The problem is the danger of sexual involvement with female counselees. Includes bibliographical references.

Smith, Robert D., Biblical Principles of Sex, 51 pages, ISBN: 1889032395 9781889032399.

Storey, Duane, Sandy Kulkin, Mary Ann Mayo, and Mayo Kulkin, Body and Soul: A Married Couple's Guide to Discovering and Understanding our Unique Sexual Personalities, ISBN: 0880707429 9780880707428.
"Combining helpful self-tests with seasoned counsel, the authors show how you and your partner can develop a relationship that is deeply fulfilling -- both physically and emotionally with Body and Soul." -- Publisher

Terkelsen, Helen E., Counseling the Unwed Mother.

Terkelsen, Helen E., I'm Going to Have a Baby and I'm not Married, ISBN: 0800619943.

Yoder, Andrew, Counseling and Human Sexuality: Foundations of a Biblical Approach,

Related Weblinks

Cardinal Apologizes Over Abuse Claims. Church to Pay Record Amount to Victims of Clergy, by Gillian Flaccus, Associated Press, Posted: 2007-07-16
"LOS ANGELES (July 16) -- After a whirlwind weekend, the negotiations that produced a landmark $660 million settlement between the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Los Angeles and more than 500 alleged victims of clergy abuse are moving from the cathedral to the courthouse.
http://news.aol.com/story/_a/cardinal-apologizes-over-abuse-claims/20070714212509990001?ncid=NWS00010000000001

Catholic sex Abuse Cases
"According to Donald Cozzens, "by the end of the mid 1990s, it was estimated that more than half a billion dollars had been paid in jury awards, settlements and legal fees." This figure grew to about one billion dollars by 2002.[46] Roman Catholics spent $615 million on sex abuse cases in 2007.[47]"
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Catholic_sex_abuse_cases

Facts on Induced Abortion in the United States (05/2006)
Comprehensive documented statistics on legal abortions performed in the Unites States compiled by the Guttmacher Institute.
http://www.guttmacher.org/pubs/fb_induced_abortion.html

Legitimacy (family law)
"Births outside marriage represent the majority in many countries of Western Europe and in many former European colonies."
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Legitimacy_(family_law)

Mastering Life Ministries
http://www.MasteringLife.org

Non-marital Birth Rates in the United States, 1940-2014
https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Nonmarital_Birth_Rates_in_the_United_States,_1940-2014.png

Respect Incorporated (formerly Sex Respect)
http://www.sexrespect.com/main.html

True Love Waits
http://www.truelovewaits.com/

Unintended Pregnancy
"Worldwide, the unintended pregnancy rate is approximately 45 percent of all pregnancies, but rates of unintended pregnancy vary in different geographic areas and among different socio-demographic groups. [Bearak J., Popinchalk A., Alkema L., Sedgh G. (April 2018). "Global, regional, and subregional trends in unintended pregnancy and its outcomes from 1990 to 2014: estimates from a Bayesian hierarchical model". The Lancet. Global Health. 6 (4): e380, e389."
"According to the Guttmacher Institute, slightly less than half (45 percent) of U.S. pregnancies in 2011 were unintended, approximately 2.8 million pregnancies per year.[4]. . . .
"Over 92 percent of abortions are the result of unintended pregnancy,[13] and unintended pregnancies result in about 800,000 abortions/year.[14] In 2001, 44 percent of unintended pregnancies resulted in births, 42 percent resulted in induced abortion, and the rest in miscarriage.[15] It is estimated that more than half of US women have had an unintended pregnancy by age 45.[16] According to one study, over one-third of living people in the US under 31 years of age (born since 1982) were the result of unintended pregnancies, a rate that has remained largely unchanged to date.[17][18]" -- Wikipedia, "Unintended pregnancy"

Unmarried Childbearing
"Percent of all births to unmarried women: 40.7 percent. . . .
"Data are for the U.S., 2012. Source: Births: Final Data for 2012, Table C."
http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/fastats/unmarry.htm

*Wisdom Guards the Heart, a sermon by Phil Johnson
"Mortify your evil thoughts -- Mortify, therefore, your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry (Colossians 3:5) -- this is a recurring theme in the Apostle Paul's writings, this idea of putting to death sin in your body, mortifying the sin. For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live. (Romans 8:13) What he's saying is this: put your evil thoughts to death. Deal with them ruthlessly. Don't allow them any breathing room. Choke the life out of them. Mortify them. Put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfill the lusts thereof. (Romans 13:14)
By the way, this is one of the marks of the true Christian. Galatians 5:24 says, And they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts. We haven't done it perfectly. It's a process of crucifixion, and that's a slow death, so those affections and lusts continually come back to plague us; but if you are truly a believer, then at some point and in some way, you have begun the process of crucifying these lusts and affections. . . ." -- Phil Johnson
Wisdom Guards the Heart
https://www.gracechurch.org/sermons/10356 Wisdom Guards the Heart
https://archive.org/details/podcast_biblical-counseling-institute_wisdom-guards-the-heart_1000393915063

Gratuitous Sex, a Cause of Violence

Gratuitous Sex, a Cause of Violence
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr2chb.html#gsacov

Parenting

God be merciful unto us, and bless us: and cause his face to shine upon us: That thy way may be known upon earth, thy saving health among all nations. (Psalm 67:1,2)
See the Theological Notes: "The Image of God," at Genesis 1:27 in The Reformation Study Bible.
So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them. (Genesis 1:27)
See the Theological Notes: "The Fall" at Genesis 3:6 in The Reformation Study Bible.
See the Theological Notes: "Angels," at Zechariah 1:9 in The Reformation Study Bible.
See the Theological Notes: "The Christian Family," at Ephesians 5:22 in The Reformation Study Bible.
And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins. (1 Peter 4:8)
It would be easy to show that all those tremendous evils which shake the foundations of civil society such as theft, murder, adultery, perjury, and the like, originate from the want of natural affection, and a failure in filial obedience. -- Samuel Stennett, The Godly Family
Lo, children are an heritage of the Lord: and the fruit of the womb is his reward. (Psalm 127:3)
Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven.
And whoso shall receive one such little child in my name receiveth me.
But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and [that] he were drowned in the depth of the sea. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 18:4-6)
And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 25:40)
Whosoever shall receive one of such children in my name, receiveth me: and whosoever shall receive me, receiveth not me, but him that sent me. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Mark 9:37)
But Jesus called them unto him, and said, Suffer little children to come unto me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 18:16)
At that time Abijah the son of Jeroboam fell sick.
And Jeroboam said to his wife, Arise, I pray thee, and disguise thyself, that thou be not known to be the wife of Jeroboam; and get thee to Shiloh: behold, there is Ahijah the prophet, which told me that I should be king over this people.
And take with thee ten loaves, and cracknels, and a cruse of honey, and go to him: he shall tell thee what shall become of the child. (1 Kings 14:1-3), (Bad men cannot help respecting God's true messengers. Why did not Jeroboam go to the prophets of the calves? The ungodly and those who follow false religions lose all confidence in their notions in times of necessity, and begin to look about them for better comfort. Ahijah's word had been powerful with the king before, and therefore he sent to him again. Many a sinner has a something in his conscience which bears witness to the Lord's minister, for his word has in former times been full of power.)
Go, tell Jeroboam, Thus saith the LORD God of Israel, Forasmuch as I exalted thee from among the people, and made thee prince over my people Israel,
And rent the kingdom away from the house of David, and gave it thee: and yet thou hast not been as my servant David, who kept my commandments, and who followed me with all his heart, to do that only which was right in mine eyes;
But hast done evil above all that were before thee: for thou hast gone and made thee other gods, and molten images, to provoke me to anger, and hast cast me behind thy back: (1 Kings 14:7-9), (Therefore the Lord declared that there should be no sons left of the family of Jeroboam, and none to perpetuate his name and race. The whole family was devoted to utter destruction and erasure from among the households of Israel. God knows how to punish as well as how to bless.)
And Jeroboam's wife arose, and departed, and came to Tirzah: and when she came to the threshold of the door, the child died;
And they buried him; and all Israel mourned for him, according to the word of the LORD, which he spake by the hand of his servant Ahijah the prophet. (1 Kings 14:17,18), (Upon this incident Matthew Henry remarks: "Those are good in whom are good things towards the Lord God of Israel; good inclinations, good intentions, good desires towards him. Where there is but some good thing of that kind, it will be found; God who seeks it sees it, be it never so little, and is pleased with it. A little grace goes a great way with great folks. It is so rare to find princes well affected to religion, that when they are so, they are worthy of double honour. Pious dispositions are in a peculair manner amiable and acceptable when they are found in those that are young. The divine image in miniature has a peculair lustre and beauty in it. A good child in the house of Jeroboam is a miracle of divine grace: to be there untainted is like being in the firey furnace unhurt, unsinged. Observe the care taken of him: he only of all Jeroboam's family shall be buried, and shall be lamented, as one that lived desired. Those that are distinguished by the divine grace shall be distinguished by the divine providence." In this family we trust there are some who have in them hopefuly signs of grace: let such be encouraged by observing that the Lord notices the smallest measure of grace which may be found in any one of us.) -- Matthew Henry commenting on 1 Kings 14:1-31
Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become [as] sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal. And though I have [the gift of] prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing. And though I bestow all my goods to feed [the poor], and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing.
Charity suffereth long, [and] is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil; Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth; Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things.
Charity never faileth: but whether [there be] prophecies, they shall fail; whether [there be] tongues, they shall cease; whether [there be] knowledge, it shall vanish away. For we know in part, and we prophesy in part. But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away. When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things. For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known. And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these [is] charity. (1 Corinthians 13)
One of the kindest things we can do is introduce a [the] biblical sin plan [forgiveness of sin and everlasting life through the substitutionary, atoning death of Christ on the cross for our sins, and His resurrection] to our families, so they can enjoy the full benefits of the Gospel [reconciliation of us all together with Christ]. If we do this, [then] we will begin to release an entire generation of people who will sin, but quickly [turn in faith to the Gospel] remove it, eliminating the lingering effects of sin [unforgiveness] which so many of us had experienced from those who had gone before us, as they tried to hide the obvious [our fallen state] in plain sight, while affecting [isolating] us generationally. We will sin before [against] our families and friends, so let's demonstrate what we are supposed to do about it [confess our sin, repent, trust in the shed Blood of Christ to wash us clean]. Let them see how we may be [are] ashamed of our sins, but we are not ashamed of the Gospel." -- Life With Coffee, Lifehack #0056
Word: "disease"; Meaning; "disturb"; Sample location: "Luke 8:49" -- from the "Glossary," 1599 Geneva Bible, Tolle Lege edition
DISEASE, n. Dizeze. [dis and ease].
1. In its primary sense, pain, uneasiness, distress, and so used by Spenser; but in this sense, obsolete.
2. The cause of pain or uneasiness . . . disorder; any state of a living body in which the natural functions of the organs are interrupted or disturbed . . . The first effect of disease is uneasiness or pain, and the ultimate effect is death. . . .
3. A disordered state of the mind or intellect, by which the reason is impaired.
4. In society, vice; corrupt state of morals. Vices are called moral diseases. A wise man converses with the wicked, as a physician with the sick, not to catch the disease, but to cure it.
5. Political or civil disorder, or vices in a state; any practice which tends to disturb the peace of society, or impede or prevent the regular administration of government.
The instability, injustice and confusion introduced into the public councils have, in truth, been the mortal diseases under which popular governments have every where perished. -- 1846 edition of An American Dictionary of the English Language
DISEASE, v.t. dizeze.
1. To interrupt or impair any or all the natural and regular functions of the several organs of a living body [i.e. robbing a neighbor of sleep -- compiler]; to afflict with pain or sickness to make morbid . . .
2. To interrupt or render imperfect the regular functions of the brain, or of the intellect; to disorder; to derange.
3. To infect; to communicate disease to, by contagion.
4. To pain; to make uneasy. -- 1828 edition of Webster's American Dictionary of the English Language
Wicked parents are the most notable servants of the devil in all the world and the bloodiest enemies to their children's souls. More souls are damned by ungodly parents, and next [to them] ungodly ministers and magistrates, than by any instruments in the world besides. -- Richard Baxter (1615-1691) in Baxter's Practical Works, vol. 1, A Christian Directory, Part II, Christian Economics: or, The Family Directory . . , Chapter X, "The Duties of Parents for Their Children," the Soli Deo Gloria Publications reprint, 1990, of the 19th century reprint by George Virtue, London, p. 451
Children's ruin is often owing very much to parents' indulgence. -- Matthew Henry (1662-1714)
Child depression rates

Child depression rates in the United States have jumped exponentially in the last decade. Between 1995 and 2002, the number of hospital visits for depression among seven-to seventeen-year-olds jumped from 1.44 million to 3.22 million. The majority of these children are girls. The number of girls under six who are taking antidepressants and similar drugs has jumped to over a million.
Over four million U.S. boys are on Ritalin or other mind- and mood-altering drugs. They are being medicated at ever younger ages, even though the FDA has not approved these drugs for these age groups. In general, the use of antipsychotic drugs for both girls and boys has jumped fivefold in the seven years between 1995 and 2002.
Increasingly, the minds of our children are growing up to be antisocial. Children diagnosed with Antisocial Personality Disorder now number in the millions. As the Carnegie-Mellon survey notes, our primary social response to the new antisocial nature of children has not been to rethink how we raise them, but rather to expand punishment and incarceration systems. A Department of Justice study reports that at our present rates of incarceration, one in twenty babies born in the United States today will spend some part of life incarcerated. As of 2004, 1 in every 138 U.S. residents was in prison.
More than seven million U.S. girls struggle now with eating disorders -- quite often their brains' serotonin levels are so askew in their high-pressure lives that they must excessively diet, vomit food, and impede their own physical maturation just to rebalance themselves.
Just under two million girls each year cut themselves with knives and other sharp objects in response to desperation and need for emotional contact.
Millions of adolescent children abuse substances and binge drink. (Boys especially fit in the latter category). These children seek emotional relief and escape from pressure through means other than healthy human contact and healthy personal growth.
Boys and girls are sleeping one to two hours less per night than their brains need for healthy growth. This lack of sleep is an underreported epidemic with profound consequences, including antisocial behavior, substance abuse, and school failure.
In the last twenty years, our children's physical weight rates have risen to nearly one in two children overweight and one in five obese. Obesity is the number one health problem among American children and is tied to many other problems: alcohol abuse, drugs, self-cutting, depression, media addiction, and listlessness.
Dr. Philip Thomas, a pediatric obesity specialist, fears "This is going to be the first generation that's going to have a lower life expectancy than its parents."
In total, even after accounting for overlap in a number of these statistics, about one-third of our children are now diagnosed with some significant mental or physical disorder." -- Michael Gurian in Nurture the Nature
Biblical counselors report that parental neglect, rejection, or abuse are the most frequent complaints of counselees.
Transgression beyond a certain point ends responsibility. Thus, in the law of the delinquent son (Deut. 21:18-21 [Deuteronomy 21:18-21]), the parents' responsibility to provide for and protect their son ended with the son's delinquency; their duty and their moral responsibility then became denunciation of and separation from their son.
As previously noted, responsibility is not a one-way street. The responsibility of parents for a child ends when that child refuses to submit to the godly authority and discipline of the parents.
The same is true of the responsibility of children for their parents. Again, it is not a one-way street. . . . Another illustration: a mother, a militant liberal or modernist in religion, made her home with her daughter and son-in-law, both devout, orthodox believers. The mother regarded the family's faith, church, and family worship with contempt, belittled it to her grandchildren and daily ridiculed her daughter for her 'ignorant, reactionary' faith. Having denied openly the authority of her son-in-law, and having denied the faith of the family, she had forfeited any right to its care and protection. The family's patient suffering was not godly. Because responsibility is a two-way street, the mother had the duty to respect the family's faith, her son-in-law's authority, and her daughter's devotion.
Thus, we may say that, not only does transgression beyond a certain point end responsibility, but fourth, if responsibility is maintained beyond that point it becomes a robbery. Where a juvenile delinquent is tolerated or protected, or a lawless parent allowed to be an affront to the family's faith and authority, the other members of the family are robbed of their due. Unconditional honor and service are due to God alone, not to man. St. Paul's admonition is 'Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due, custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour.' (Rom. 13:7 [Romans 13:7]). No relationship between man and man can be absolutized. We have no absolute bond which ties us unconditionally to any man, either to obey or to love him. Marriage is dissolved by certain transgressions. The parent's duty to the child is nullified by his incorrigible conduct. The child's duty to the parent is limited by his prior obedience to God and the maintenance of God's law-order. In every human relationship, the only absolute is God's law, not man's relationship.
Fifth, not only does the absolutizing of a human relationship involve theft, in that the indulgence of a delinquent family or society member is the robbing of another, but it also involves theft Godward as well as manward. It is an infraction of God's order to indulge evil. It involves robbing one person of his due in order to reward or indulge another, and this means also the violation of God's order to continue man's disorder.
To repeat again, responsibility is not a one-way street. If the ox, an animal of limited intelligence, is accountable for his acts, then every man in his station is also responsible. In every relationship, there is responsibility on every side by every person.
Modern man is hostile to responsibility; he replaces responsibility with sensitivity, sensitivity being defined as awareness of humanity. Thus, a rebellious nun of the Immaculate Heart of Mary Sisters defies authority and declares, 'These men (church officials), have no right to make a judgment when they don't know us.' (Terrence Shea, "A Community Divided. Dissent Nuns now Face a Bigger Split -- With Rome Itself," The National Observer, Monday, November 17, 1969, p. 14). This nun had entered an order requiring authority but had refused to submit to it. Her freedom to leave and establish her own way of life was not in question. She denied the principle of any responsibility beyond that which she owed to herself. (483, 484) -- R.J. Rushdoony, Institutes of Biblical Law, pp. 481-484
Often "actions speak louder than words."

Adams, Dan, The Child Influencers: Restoring the Lost Art of Parenting, ISBN: 0962634905 9780962634901.
"Dan Adams does a great job focusing on the needs of our children and how we as parents can and should meet those needs. It is not the responsibility of the church, YMCA, day-care center, or public school to meet those needs. As parents, we need to take seriously the God-given responsibility we have been given and determine to be the main influence in our children's lives. The result of our efforts can either be rewards for a job well done, or grief from a rebellious child that was not properly guided. This book contains many insights on how to spend quantity time, not just quality time, with our children and gives many ideas on how to turn the TV set off and get our children to enjoy reading alone as well as reading together as a family, and build memories as a family that will be the root system that the child will need to withstand the "winds" later in life." -- Reader's Comment

Adams, Jay, Sibling Rivalry in the Household of God, ISBN: 0896362361 9780896362369.
"About 'the causes and effects of rivalry among brothers and sisters in Christ and what can be done about it. . . .' 'Sibling rivalry in the household of faith -- just like at home -- is due entirely to sin.' Other supposed causes are not causes but occasions for our self-centered human nature to act. The Holy Spirit gives practical guidance in His Word for solving rivalry and conflict through repentance, faith and obedience." -- David Powlison (1949-2019)

Alexander, Archibald (1772-1851), Evangelical Truth: Practical Sermons for the Christian Home, ISBN: 1932474544 9781932474541.

Block, Mary Ann, No More Ritalin: Treating ADHD Without Drugs, ISBN: 1575661268 9781575661261 9781575662398,

Brown, John (of Haddington, 1722-1787), The Fearful Shame and Contempt of Those Professed Christians, who Neglect to Raise up Spiritual Children to Jesus Christ: Being the substance of two sermons, preached, the one after the ordination of Mr. Ebenezer Brown at Inverkeithing; and the other after a sacramental occasion, at Whitburn.

*Campbell, Ross, How to Really Love Your Child, ISBN: 0882077511 9780882077512.
"This book is unique. It rightly assumes that almost all parents love their children, but few know how to express that love so their children feel and understand it. It tends to lean exclusively toward the relationship without considering discipline, and at times downplays rebellious behavior. But it remains a standard on relationship building." -- GCB

Campbell, Ross, How to Really Love Your Teenager, ISBN: 0882073419 9780882073415.

Christenson, Evelyn, What Happens When we Pray for our Families, ISBN: 0896935418 9780896935419.
LEADER'S GUIDE available.
"When women pray, wonderful things happen -- and Evelyn Christenson knows it from experience! Now she looks back over her 50 years of marriage to reveal prayer secrets that will help you pray effectively for your family. When illness or tragedy strikes, when family relationships are fractured, when children stray -- prayer can make a difference! "Christenson shows you how to hang on in faith and wait for what God will do . . ." -- CBD

Clark, Kristen, Girl Defined: God's Radical Design for Beauty, Femininity, and Identity, ISBN: 9780801008450 080100845X.
"Presents a Christian perspective on femininity and female identity, maintaining that women should derive their feelings of self-worth and dignity from the teachings of Jesus Christ and a trust in God's love." -- Publisher
"GIRL DEFINED answered questions such as, 'What does it mean to be a woman? How should a career fit into our lives? Is one gender more valuable than the other? Is my sole purpose just to grow up, get married, and have kids?' . . . .
"It challenged the thinking of girls at any stage of life, and stood up to cultural norms to see what the Bible really says. "One of my favorite . . . . quotes, 'God designed us to function best when we're paddling together for a cause greater than ourselves.' . . .
"And another favorite . . . quote that sums up one of the central themes of the entire book, 'Helping others is foundational in God's design for womanhood.' . . .
I've been following Kristen and Bethany's blog, girldefined.com, for quite some time now, and have loved their posts about what biblical womanhood looks like. This book was a fantastic summarization of everything they blog about -- from gender roles, to beauty, to identity, to culture, and relationships." -- Reader's Comment

Clark, Kristen, Love Defined: Embracing God's Vision for Lasting Love and Satisfying Relationships, ISBN: 9780801075568 0801075564.
"In a culture obsessed with love and romance, why is it so hard for us to find satisfying love that lasts?
"Maybe we've been looking at this thing called love all wrong.
"In this insightful, encouraging and totally candid book, sisters Kristen Clark and Bethany Baird share a radically better and refreshingly biblical approach to navigating your love life. Covering topics such as true love, purposeful relationships, sex, boundaries, and singleness, LOVE DEFINED will take you on a journey to discovering God's good and original design for romance." -- Publisher

Cook, Earl, Bringing up Your Children (part 1) (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Audio cassette HFTF09 [audio file].

Cook, Earl, Bringing up Your Children (part 2) (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Audio cassette HFTF12 [audio file].

Cook, Earl, Bringing up Your Children (part 3); Q&A (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Audio cassette HFTF15 [audio file].

Cook, Earl, Christian Parenting (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
An 8-tape series [audio file] hosted by James Klukow. Over 45 ten-minute devotionals on the 'how tos' of raising Godly children.

Cook, Earl, Counseling Children (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Audio cassette AC881 [audio file].

Cook, Earl, Fathers: Don't Provoke Your Children (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Audio cassette HFTF06 [audio file].

Dabney, Robert L. (1820-1898), Parental Responsibilities. Alternate title: PARENTAL OBLIGATION. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #22.

*Davis, John Jefferson, The Christian's Guide to Pregnancy and Childbirth: Choosing the Best for You and Your Baby From Conception to Delivery, ISBN: 0891073914 9780891073918.
"A needed book! An important book! Nothing else like it from a distinctly Christian position. Covers what to expect, prenatal diagnosis, nutrition and beauty tips, delivery methods, hospital procedures, family size, contraception, infant bonding, breast feeding, and more." -- GCB

*Decker, Barbara, Proverbs for Parenting: A Topical Guide for Child Raising From the Book of Proverbs, King James Version.
"An indispensable tool for parenting, this book arranges the proverbs into over 70 realistic, helpful topics. A sampling of topics covered include: trust in God, obedience, honesty, anger, self-control, temper, arguing, boasting, complaining, love, friendship, happiness, discretion, faithfulness, stewardship, work and many more." -- Publisher
An accompanying book, A COLORING BOOK OF BIBLE PROVERBS is 'a 30-page coloring book illustrating various passages from the Book of Proverbs. Can be used with or without the above hardback book'." -- GCB

De Witt, John Richard (John R. DeWitt), Amazing Love: The Parable of the Prodigal Son, ISBN: 085151328X 9780851513287.
A professor of Systematic Theology, Reformed Seminary in Jackson.

Doner, Colonel V., The Responsible Parent's Guide to TV: A Noted Expert Looks at Television's Role in Changing our Children's Values, ISBN: 0910311501 9780910311502.
"Drawn from scientific surveys, expert opinion, and insightful commentary the evidence indicates the media has become the cutting edge of a new anti-family revolution."

Dreizler, Carl, and Phil Phillips, Fun Things to do With Your Kids: The Family Book of Games, Hobbies, Trips and Activities, ISBN: 088365895X 9780883658956.
"A collection of simple, practical activities gives kids a good reason to turn off the television and spend time with their families -- putting together a photo album, visiting nearby historic spots, 'adopting' a grandparent -- and helps turn values and life skills into family fun." -- Publisher

Gurian, Michael, Nurture the Nature: Understanding and Supporting Your Child's Unique Core Personality, ISBN: 078798633X 9780787986339.
"Negative stress, in contrast, is something we need to be very careful about, especially with our children. In the most general terms, as experts at the University of Maryland Medical School wrote recently, 'When these symptoms persist, you are at risk for serious health problems. This kind of stress can exhaust your immune system. Recent research demonstrates that 90 percent of illness is stress-related.' When stress goes beyond the stimulating (positive stress), and becomes debilitating (negative stress), symptoms fall into three categories: physical, emotional, and relational." -- Publisher
Resist the Latest Parenting Fads, Says New Book NURTURE THE NATURE Encourages Parents to Determine Their Child's Core Personality
"Increasingly, the minds of our children are growing up to be antisocial. Children diagnosed with Antisocial Personality Disorder now number in the millions. As the Carnegie-Mellon survey notes, our primary social response to the new antisocial nature of children has not been to rethink how we raise them, but rather to expand punishment and incarceration systems. A Department of Justice study reports that at our present rates of incarceration, one in twenty babies born in the United States today will spend some part of life incarcerated. As of 2004, 1 in every 138 U.S. residents was in prison."
http://abcnews.go.com/GMA/NewYearNewYou/story?id=3119291&page=1

Hendricks, Howard G., The Encyclopedia of Christian Parenting, ISBN: 0800712765 9780800712761.
Includes bibliography.

Houston, Thomas (1803-1882), The Divine Commendation of Abraham: or, Parental Duties, and the Blessings Resulting From Their Faithful Performance. Alternate title: PARENTAL DUTIES. Also available in WORKS, DOCTRINAL AND PRACTICAL, volume 1. Available (WORKS, DOCTRINAL AND PRACTICAL), on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available (WORKS, DOCTRINAL AND PRACTICAL), on Reformation Bookshelf CD #22.

Huggins, Kevin, Parenting Adolescents, ISBN: 0891095799 9780891095798.
"Examines the many ties between rearing mature, Christlike kids, and developing maturity, wisdom, and Christlikeness in your own life." -- Publisher

*Hunt, Gladys M., Honey for a Child's Heart: The Imaginative use of Books in Family Life, revised edition, ISBN: 0310263816 9780310263814.
"THE IMAGINATIVE USE OF BOOKS IN FAMILY LIFE offers warm, practical advice on how to instill a love for reading in children. Extensive bibliography grouped according to ages.
"HONEY FOR A CHILD'S HEART, now in its third edition, is one of the best guides to children's books available. It is for parents who know the value of reaching their children with good books. A good book is a gateway into a wider world of wonder, beauty, delight, and adventure. But children don't stumble onto the best books by themselves. They need a parent's help. Author Gladys Hunt discusses everything from how to choose good books for your children to encouraging them to be avid readers. This edition includes an indexed and updated 85-page list of the best children's favorites, HONEY FOR A CHILD'S HEART opens new worlds of reading possibilities for children and parents alike. Are you concerned about building whole children -- children who are alive emotionally, spiritually, and intellectually? Then this book can help. Gladys Hunt deeply believes in the potential of books to assist in this building process. Her tastes are broad, her advice is rooted in experience, and her suggestions will enrich the cultural life of any home.
"Gladys Hunt is a popular and well-known writer. Among her many books are READ FOR YOUR LIFE and several volumes of the FISHERMAN BIBLE STUDY GUIDE SERIES. She lives in Grand Rapids, Michigan." -- Publisher
"There's got to be a reason a book is in its 50th printing! This book is both motivational and informative. I wrote it to encourage parents to read aloud to their children -- and to keep on reading together long after children can read for themselves. Few things bind people together as much as sharing a good book. Without ever leaving your home, you can go on fantastic adventures, meet the same people, laugh at the ridiculous together, weep together over the plight of your favorite characters and learn life lessons from the bravery or foolishness of your main characters! Everyone who has ever read a ripping good story wants to share it with someone else. C.S. Lewis was right when he said that any book worth reading at 10 should be worth reading at 50. That means as you read with your children you get to catch up on all the stories you missed when you were growing up. Reading together gives you a reservoir of experiences from which to examine life and to figure out how to live it. And the bibliography at the end of the book introduces you to books your children should have the opportunity to read Take it to the library with you." -- Gladys Hunt

Ikeler, Bernard, Parenting Your Disabled Child, ISBN: 0664240445 9780664240448.
"Assesses the process of healing that occurs 'after one is willing to share the pain with others, rather than suffer in isolation.' Anyone who has directly experienced or lived in a family with a disability will find this must reading. It provided me, as a professional, with valuable new insight into dealing with my disabled parents." -- Robin Line

Jay, William, Prayers for the use of Families, or, The Domestic Minister's Assistant. With an appendix containing a number of select and original prayers for particular occasions.

Kesler, Jay, and Virginia R. Mollenkott, The Condition of the Family in America Today and our Priorities for the 90's, an audio recording [audio file].

*Kesler, Jay (editor), Ron Beers (editor), and Lavonne Neff (editor), Parents and Children: A Guide to Solving Problems and Building Relationships, ISBN: 0896938093 9780896938090.
"Over 70 Christian leaders give practical advice on parents and children. Almost 700 double-column pages." -- GCB

Lester, Andrew D., When Children Suffer: A Sourcebook for Ministry With Children in Crisis, ISBN: 0664213278 9780664213275.
"Focuses on the significant crises in childhood. Treats issues like unresolved grief, unnecessary fear, lack of trust, a low sense of worth, distorted ideas about the person of God and the world in which they live. Well-done; makes a valuable contribution." -- Cyril J. Barber

Lewis, Margie M., and Gregg Lewis, The Hurting Parent: Help and Hope for Parents of Prodigals, ISBN: 9780310286615 0310286611,

*Lloyd-Jones, David Martyn (1899-1981), Life in the Spirit in Marriage, Home and Work: An Exposition of Ephesians 5:18 -- 6:9 [Ephesians 5:18 -- Ephesians 6:9], ISBN: 080105799X 9780801057991.

Mack, Wayne, Developing Effective Parenting (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
A series of seven audio cassettes [audio file].

Meyer, Jerome Sydney, The Big Book of Family Games: The Most Complete Treasury of Fun-filled Games and Activities for Family and Friends, ISBN: 0883650495 9780883650493.

*Miller, C. John "Jack" (1928-1996), Finding Healthy Self-Esteem Through Being Completely Forgiven (Quality Living Series. Jenkintown, PA [World Harvest, Box 2175, Jenkintown, 19046]: World Harvest, 1987).
"Do you feel inadequate? That you need to do more or be better in order to be happy and fulfilled? You may not realize it, but your biggest problem is . . . you don't feel completely forgiven."
World Harvest Mission
http://www.whm.org/home.htm

Miller, C. John (1928-1996), Husband and Father as Spiritual Leader in the Home (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).

Payne, Kim John, The Soul of Discipline: The Simplicity Parenting Approach to Warm, Firm, and Calm Guidance -- From Toddlers to Teens, ISBN: 9780345548672 0345548671.
"Payne conducted a study in which he simplified the lives of children with attention deficit disorder. Within four short months 68 per cent went from being clinically dysfunctional to clinically functional. The children also displayed a 37 percent increase in academic and cognitive aptitude, an effect not seen with commonly prescribed drugs like Ritalin. . . .
"Brilliant, wise, informative, innovative, entertaining, and urgently needed, this timely book is a godsend for all who love children, and for children themselves. It provides a doable plan for providing the kind of childhood that kids desperately need today!" -- Edward M. Hallowell, M.D., author of The Childhood Roots of Adult Happiness
Simplifying Childhood may Protect Against Mental Health Issues
http://www.huffingtonpost.ca/tracy-gillett/children-mental-health_b_9400848.html

Petty, Jim, Family Priorities for the 90s (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Audio cassette HFTF20 [audio file].

Petty, Jim, Focusing Love (part 1), (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Audio cassette HFTF19 [audio file].

Petty, Jim, Focusing Love (part 2), (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Audio cassette HFTF21 [audio file].

Petty, Jim, Helps for Family Leaders (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Audio cassette HFTF05 [audio file].

Petty, Jim, Money, Ambition and the Christian Family (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Audio cassette HFTF10 [audio file].

*Ray, Bruce A., Jay Adams (foreword), Withhold not Correction, ISBN: 0875524001 9780875524009.
"If children were animals then behavioral manipulation would be appropriate. If children were innocent then diverting them into other activities when they are angry or selfish would be appropriate. But children bear the image of God, distorted by sin and correctable by the Gospel. 'The tablet is not blank: it's filled with sin.' Therefore child-rearing is a process of correction and reorientation, and it must be guided by Scripture. Contrary to how it is often viewed, 'discipline is not hate; discipline is love.' Lays out eight principles for biblical correction of children. Closes with a 'Parents' Topical Reference' to Bible passages on two dozen issues relevant to children." -- David Powlison (1949-2019)
"This is an exceptional book for the parent who seriously searches the Word of God for His will in rearing children. His constant aim is to display the Scripture bearing on his subject in order to 'bring our children into a subordinate relationship to the living God.' He uses often the term, Biblical discipline, and he applies this not only to the use of the rod to correct, but also the use of prayer with the child, the constant attention to shaping the child's character, etc. He quotes from many good authors, such as Charles Bridges and Charles Hodge. Very good!" -- Jay P. Green, Sr. (1918-2008)

Richards, Larry, You the Parent, ISBN: 0802498329 9780802498328.

Robbins, Alexandra, The Overachievers: The Secret Lives of Driven Kids, ISBN: 1401302017 9781401302016.
"A look at the world of teens [the author went to high school in the Washington metropolitan area where pressures to achieve are particularly intense. -- compiler], who face unbearable pressure to succeed explores such issues as intense stress, sports rage, parental guilt, the study drug black market, and the cutthroat college admissions process, as well as their impact on young people." -- Publisher
"THE OVERACHIEVERS is overall a great book, being very informative and providing much insight into what really goes on in the educational system. Every page keeps you wanting more, and the shockingly true facts that this book is replete with only add to this feeling. Alexandra Robbins is a fantastic investigative journalist, and she has done an excellent job documenting the struggles and challenges in the lives of multiple students. [case studies -- compiler]. Not only are the stories of the students interesting and engaging, but they each reflect a major flaw in the American educational system.
"In short, THE OVERACHIEVERS is a great book and should not be missed." -- Reader's Comment

Rushford, Patricia H., Caring for Your Sick Child, ISBN: 0800752112 9780800752118.
"A practical handbook discussing prevention of illnesses and diseases. Deals alphabetically with a variety of ailments from 'Abdominal Pain' to 'Whooping Cough.' Provides practical counsel on the symptoms, home treatment, and when to call the doctor. Recommended." -- Cyril J. Barber

*Ryle, J.C. (1816-1900), The Duties of Parents, ISBN: 1583391703 9781583391709. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #22.
"Ryle said something which is as true in our day as it was in his. Without proper instruction children will not grow up to be good followers of Christ. This small book is a strong encouragement and exhortation to all parents to train up their children in the way of truth." -- GCB
The Duties of Parents
http://archive.org/details/J.C.RyleKindleBooks

*Sawin, Margaret M., Family Enrichment With Family Clusters, ISBN: 0817008306 9780817008307.
"One of the most important books to be published in recent years. Shows how small groups operating in the church can strengthen family ties." -- Cyril J. Barber

Sears, William, Christian Parenting and Child Care, ISBN: 0840732279 9780840732279.
"Few resources take the reader from the first weeks of pregnancy through the child's growing years. This one does. Each chapter is crammed with practical information, including the importance of sharing responsibilities and the need for both father and mother to become involved in the process of child-rearing. Recommended." -- Cyril J. Barber

Shaw, I., Christian Family Matters, ISBN: 1850490201 9781850490203.

Spock, Benjamin (1903-1998), and Mary Morgan, Spock on Spock: A Memoir of Growing up With the Century, ISBN: 0394578139 9780394578132.
"Spock married Mary Morgan, whom he collaborated with to write his book."
"Dr. Spock's book BABY AND CHILD CARE was a runaway success and remains a bestseller today. With over 50 million copies in print, it has become one of the world's best selling non-fiction publications (second only to the Bible in that category)." -- Publisher
Spock was considered the "father of permissiveness." However, when writing this book, he confessed, "The more people have studied different methods of bringing up children the more they have come to the conclusion that what good mothers and fathers instinctively feel like doing for their babies is the best after all."
"The weight of evidence suggests that ultimately Spock's ideas have not helped to produce more secure and well-adjusted children and adults. He saw the need for morals and values, but he failed to recognize that they stem from a godly perspective. What he never understood is that the positive changes he sought are simply unachievable on the basis of humanism." -- John Meakin and Kae Tattersall
"We went to Dr. Spock to find out how to rear children and produced the most rebellious generation of kids this country has ever seen. . . . I think that since we believe that "this is my Father's world," we ought to go to God and find out how He would like to have His world run." -- D. James Kennedy (1930-2007)

*Sprague, William B., Lectures to Young People, ISBN: 0873779479. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
"This great evangelistic tool provides parents a faithful means of presenting Gospel truth to their young people." -- Lloyd T. Sprinkle

Spurgeon, C.H., Spiritual Parenting, ISBN: 0883689596 9780883689592.
"From the depths of his God-given wisdom, Spurgeon offers encouragement and advice to parents and teachers on guiding the spiritual development of children from infancy through young adulthood." -- Publisher

Symington, Andrew (1785-1853, the older brother of William), Lectures on the Claims of the Church and Society on Young Men, 1855.

Tripp, Paul David, Age of Opportunity: A Biblical Guide to Parenting Teens, ISBN: 0875526055 9780875526058.
"With wit, wisdom, humility, and compassion, Tripp shows parents how to seize the countless opportunities to deepen communication, learn, and grow with their teenagers." -- Publisher

Tripp, Paul, War of Words: Getting to the Heart of Your Communication Struggles, 4 DVDs. Alternate title: "GETTING TO THE HEART OF COMMUNICATIONS." (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).

Tripp, Paul, Parenting (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Audio cassette HFTF33 [audio file].

Tripp, Paul, Understanding Your Job Description as a Parent (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Audio cassette HFTF16 [audio file].

Tripp, Paul, Shepherding a Child's Heart: Teenage Years, part: 13 of 15 [audio file], (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Lecture by Paul Tripp, pastor and author of SHEPHERDING A CHILD'S HEART.

Tripp, Paul, and Edward T. Welch, Grace Parenting in the 90's, 4 audio files [audio file].

*Tripp, Theodore A., and David Powlison (introduction), Shepherding a Child's Heart, ISBN: 0966378601 9780966378603.
"Written for parents with children of any age, this insightful book provides perspectives and procedures for shepherding your child's heart into the paths of life. SHEPHERDING A CHILD'S HEART gives fresh biblical approaches to child rearing." -- Publisher
"This is a masterful book." -- David Powlison (1949-2019)
"Solid, trustworthy, biblical help for parents." -- John MacArthur.

Van Dyken, Donald, Rediscovering Catechism: The art of Equipping Covenant Children, ISBN: 0875524648 9780875524641.

Welch, Ed, Parenting (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Audio cassette HFTF29 [audio file].

Welch, Ed, Using the Gospel in Your Home (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Audio cassette HFTF07 [audio file].

Whitehead, John, The Rights of Religious Persons in Public Education, ISBN: 0891077375 9780891077374.

Wilde, Gary (editor), Bible Promises to Treasure for Grandparents: Inspiring Words for Every Occasion, ISBN: 080549331X 9780805493313.

Wilde, Gary (editor), Bible Promises to Treasure for Newborns: Inspiring Words for Every Occasion, ISBN: 0805493328 9780805493320.

Witherspoon, Thomas D., Children of the Covenant.

Wynn, John Charles, How Christian Parents Face Family Problems.
"Contains sane counsel for troubled parents, and includes a Christian approach to child-rearing. Nontechnical." -- Cyril J. Barber

Yates, John, and Susan Yates, What Really Matters at Home: Eight Crucial Elements for Building Character in Your Family, ISBN: 1561211052 9781561211050 0849934168 9780849934162. Alternate title: RAISING KIDS WITH CHARACTER THAT LASTS.

See also: The sovereign grace of god: his everlasting mercy and lovingkindness, Child abuse and pedophilia, Sharing christ with your children, Conscience, casuistry, cases of conscience, Repentance the key to salvation and change, Justification, Justifying faith, The christian home, domestic duties, Adoption, Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, Problem solving with children, Counseling children, Sex ethics, sex education, Protecting children from dangers, Preparing children for the world, Counseling the family, Sexual relationship, Spiritual adultery (spiritual whoredom/harlotry), Slavery, our systems of enslavement, economic enslavement, The free offer of the gospel message of salvation and the life to come: the means of grace, the covenant of eternal salvation, Book-length presentations of the free offer of the gospel message of salvation and the life to come: the means of grace, Protecting children from dangers, Courtship, Counsel for young men, Counsel for young women, Christian fiction, Classic christian fiction by martha finley, the elsie books series and so forth, and so on.
TCRB5: 1574, 1575, 1624, 1625, 1629-1672, 3971-3976

Related Weblinks

31-day Parenting Devotion, Rick Thomas
"Christians enjoy and benefit from the gospel because of forgiveness (See Romans 10:9,13). For example, we confessed our sin, requested forgiveness, and our kind Lord forgave us. Confession, forgiveness, and reconciliation are the stepping stones to happiness. (Deuteronomy 33:29)"
https://rickthomas.net/category/devotionals/31-day-parenting-devotion/

Americans Agree: Kids are not Being Prepared for Life
"According to a new survey from The Barna Group, however, there is one issue on which most adults agree: the nation's children are not being adequately prepared for life."
http://www.barna.org/barna-update/article/5-barna-update/197-americans-agree-kids-are-not-being-prepared-for-life

Biblical Parenthood (FGB)
Bringing up Children for God, Payson, Edward (1783-1827) | Nurture and Admonition, Lloyd-Jones, D.M. (1899-1981) | Primary Obligations of Parents, Ryle, J.C. (1816-1900) | Teaching Children About God, Doddridge, Philip (1702-1751) | Art of Balanced Discipline, The Lloyd-Jones, D.M. (1899-1981) | Teaching Children Character, Doddridge, Philip (1702-1751) | Obstacles in Bringing up Children for Christ, James, John Angell (1785-1859) | The Calamity of Ungodly Children, Lawrence, Edward (1623-1695) | Directions for Grieving Over Ungodly Children, Lawrence, Edward (1623-1695) | Unique Opportunity of Witnessing to the World Lloyd-Jones, D.M. (1899-1981)
https://www.chapellibrary.org/book/bparfg/biblical-parenthood

Martha Finley, Wikipedia entry
Lists Elsie books that are online at Project Gutenberg.
"Martha Finley (1828-1909), was a teacher and author of numerous works, the most well known being the 28 volume Elsie Dinsmore series which was published over a span of 38 years. The daughter of Presbyterian minister Dr. James Brown Finley and his wife and cousin Maria Theresa Brown Finley, she was born on April 26th, 1828 in Chillicothe, Ohio. Finley wrote many of her books under the pseudonym Martha Farquharson. She died in 1909 in Elkton, Maryland, where she moved in 1876.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martha_Finley

How Authoritarian Parents Rear Legalistic Children, Rick Thomas
https://rickthomas.net/how-authoritarian-parents-rear-legalistic-children/

The Influence of a Godly Mother, a sermon by D. James Kennedy
"What is a mother's influence on society? Motherhood has been de-valued by our secular society. What you don't hear is how much influence mothers really have on the course of human events. James Kennedy brings light to the powerful influence of a Godly Mother on The Coral Ridge Hour."
Children who do not bond with their mother often have difficulty bonding with others in society.
http://www.truthinaction.org/sermon/INFLUENCE%20OF%20A%20GODLY%20MOTHER-1994-THE_110912.pdf

Parenting -- The Important Role of Fathers
https://rickthomas.net/podcast/ep-382-webinar-parenting-the-important-role-of-fathers/

Society for Parent-Controlled Christian Schools in Scotland, John Murray (1898-1975)
http://www.westminsterconfession.org/godly-living/society-for-parent-controlled-christian-schools-in-scotland.php

Tips on Parenting a Child From Zero to Adulthood
https://rickthomas.net/tips-on-parenting-a-child-from-zero-to-adulthood/

What is Worthwhile Under the Sun? (part 1 of 2), [audio file], Ravi Zacharias
"Why does a life focused on pleasure leave you feeling empty, and how can you deal with it? Is there a way to tell what pleasures are good and which ones are bad? Are your pleasures getting in the way of your relationships with God, or with others? Ravi Zacharias explores the problem of pleasure and what you can do about it."
http://rzim.org/let-my-people-think-broadcasts/what-is-worthwhile-under-the-sun-part-1-of-2/ What is Worthwhile Under the Sun? (part 2 of 2), [audio file], Ravi Zacharias
"Why does a life focused on pleasure leave you feeling empty, and how can you deal with it? Is there a way to tell what pleasures are good and which ones are bad? Are your pleasures getting in the way of your relationships with God, or with others? Ravi Zacharias explores the problem of pleasure and what you can do about it. That's this week on Let My People Think."
http://rzim.org/let-my-people-think-broadcasts/what-is-worthwhile-under-the-sun-part-2-of-2/

Fatherhood

As for me, this is my covenant with them, saith the LORD; My spirit that is upon thee, and my words which I have put in thy mouth, shall not depart out of thy mouth, nor out of the mouth of thy seed, nor out of the mouth of thy seed's seed, saith the LORD, from henceforth and for ever. (Isaiah 59:21)
The fathers! vex not your children, lest they be discouraged. (Colossians 4:21, YLTHB)
Remember that you have a charge of the souls in your family, and are as a priest and teacher in your own house; and therefore see that you keep them to the constant worshipping of God, especially on the Lord's day, in public and private; and that you teach them the things that concern their salvation (as in afterward directed). And pray for them daily, as well as for yourselves. -- Richard Baxter (1615-1691)
Life is ever fragrant in a home when a father, loving his Heavenly Father and striving to please Him in all his ways, so orders his home life as to give his children a beautiful conception of love, sympathy, and protection of the Father above. The greatest responsibility of any father is to reflect the character of God. -- from Lockyer, All the Promises of the Bible
The attack of the modern world system upon boys, manhood, fathers, the family, and the church is really an attack on man's God-ordained role to protect their families, subordinates, and society from evil.
Elias Boudinot, in a letter to his daughter [October 30, 1782]:
You have been instructed from your childhood in the knowledge of your lost state by nature -- the absolute necessity of a change of heart and an entire renovation of soul to the image of Jesus Christ -- of salvation through His meritorious righteousness only -- and the indispensable necessity of personal holiness without which no man shall see the Lord [Hebrews 12:14]. You are well acquainted that the most perfect and consummate doctrinal knowledge is of no avail without it operates on and sincerely affects the heart, changes the practice, and totally influences the will -- and that without the almighty power of the Spirit of God enlightening your mind, subduing your will, and continually drawing you to Himself, you can do nothing. -- Elias Boudinot, President of Congress; signed the Peace Treaty to end the American Revolution; first attorney admitted to the U.S. Supreme Court Bar; framer of the Bill of Rights; director of the U.S. Mint.
A good father is one of the most unsung, unpraised, unnoticed, and yet one of the most valuable assets in our society." -- Billy Graham
He who is the father of a host of spiritual children is unquestionably happy. He can answer all opponents by pointing to souls who have been saved by his means. Converts are emphatically the heritage of the Lord, and the reward of the preacher's soul travail. By these, under the power of the Holy Ghost, the city of the church is both built up and watched, and the Lord has the glory of it. -- C.H. Spurgeon commenting on verse 5 of Psalm 127 [Psalm 127:5], in The Treasury of David

Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), The Role of Father in the Home (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Audio cassette JAR02 [audio file].

Armerding, Hudson T., The Heart of Godly Leadership, ISBN: 0891076751 9780891076759.
"A former Wheaton College president brings a seasoned scriptural perspective to the subject of godly leadership, giving Biblical examples relating to delegating authority, handling success, and passing leadership on to the next generation. Tackles family, church, and society." -- GCB

Cook, Earl, Fathers: Don't Provoke Your Children (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Audio cassette HFTF06 [audio file].

Dalbey, Gordon, Father and Son: The Wound, The Healing, the Call to Manhood, ISBN: 0840734506 9780840734501.

Davis, Phil, The Father I Never Knew: Finding the Perfect Parent in God, ISBN: 0891096124 9780891096122.
"Painful memories or inadequate parenting examples often rob Christians of a healthy, Biblical framework for understanding what it really means to be God's child. THE FATHER I NEVER KNEW provides an abundance of rich images and stirring analogies on God's unfailingly committed, secure, and intimate parenting." -- Publisher

Defoe, Daniel, The Family-instructor. In Three Parts; I. Relating to Fathers and Children. II. To Masters and Servants. III. To Husbands and Wives. 4th edition, 1717, 2 volumes.

Engstrom Ted W., with Norman B. Rohrer, The Fine Art of Mentoring: Passing on to Others What God has Given to You, ISBN: 0943497639 9780943497631.
"In this book the authors guide you through a careful understanding of the principles of 'mentoring' -- leading another person to Christian maturity, then helping him to understand the importance of leading someone else. An important book for today!" -- GCB

Farris, Michael P., What a Daughter Needs From her Dad: How a man Prepares his Daughter for Life, ISBN: 0764228706 9780764228704. Alternate title: HOW A MAN PREPARES HIS DAUGHTERS FOR LIFE.
"WHAT A DAUGHTER NEEDS FROM HER DAD pulls no punches, offering simple yet powerful techniques to help you be the kind of dad your daughter desperately needs. Michael Farris's insights will give you day-to-day strategies that can build character and spiritual strength in you growing daughter from infancy through the turbulent teens years and on into adulthood. Instead of glossing over common father-daughter conflicts that may arise, Farris offers solid, practical advice." -- Publisher

Flavel, John (1630-1691), Husbandry Spiritualized: or, The Heavenly use of Earthly Things, in Which Husbandmen are . . . (1824). Available in (THE WORKS OF JOHN FLAVEL), on the Puritan Hard Drive.
http://archive.org/details/husbandryspirit00flavgoog

Gangel, Kenneth O., and Jeffrey S. Gangel, Fathering Like the Father: Becoming the dad God Wants you to be, ISBN: 0801064325 9780801064326.

Henry, Matthew (1662-1714), The Catechising of Youth and Christ's Favour to Little Children Displayed (1713). Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #22.
"The two sermons noted above form foundational teaching that every family should be aware of and practice. A faithful ministry and faithful parents, who catechize their children daily, will do more for true Reformation and godliness than just about any other means to this end. Here Henry also adds simple questions to each question of the Westminster Shorter Catechism to help explain it to beginners. Very practical!" -- Publisher
Westminster Shorter Catechism With Proof Texts
http://www.reformed.org/documents/WSC_frames.html

James, John Angell (1785-1859), The Christian Father's Present to his Children.
"This is a wonderful book by an early 19th century preacher in England encouraging fathers as they lead in their homes. Most of his writings had to do with the pastoral ministry; but this book is for fathers. The main tenet of the book is that the best gift fathers can give to their children is a godly upbringing in the fear and admonition of the Lord, firm but loving discipline to restrain evil in them, and to build a moral conscience into their children, so that even if God does not save them, their punishment will be less." -- Publisher

Miller, C. John (1928-1996), Husband and Father as Spiritual Leader in the Home (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).

Rutherford, Samuel (1600-1661), The Forlorn Son, audio file [audio file] series of 7 sermons. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #10.
Read by elder Lyndon Dohms from the book QUAINT SERMONS OF SAMUEL RUTHERFORD. The subject is the prodigal son.

Strom, Kay Marshall, Making Friends With Your Father: A Book for Daughters, ISBN: 0310548918 9780310548911.
"Looks at how your father has affected you, how your father influences your choice of men, how to deal with problem fathers, and much more." -- GCB

Strom, Kay Marshall, Making Friends With Your Mother, ISBN: 0310532515 9780310532514.

Symington, Andrew (1785-1853, the older brother of William), Lectures on the Claims of the Church and Society on Young Men, 1855.

Van Dyken, Donald, Rediscovering Catechism: The art of Equipping Covenant Children, ISBN: 0875524648 9780875524641.

Various, Proceedings of the Fourth Calvinistic Congress: Held in Edinburgh 6th to 11th July, 1938.
"Contents: Reformed faith and its ethical consequences: to the individual / E. Sebestyen; W. Childs Robinson | in the family / John Macleod | in the church / G.T. Thomson | in society / R.J.G. M'Knight | in the state / V.H. Rutgers | in economics / J.H.S. Burleigh | in art / Leon Wencelius, and P.R. Musculus | The interrelation of theology and secular knowledge / J. de Saussure | Significance of the Old Testament for the Christian life / W. Vischer | Speeches delivered at public meetings / G.D. Henderson, Auguste Lecerf, M.P. Ramsey, David Read, Dr. Kromsigt, Stewart M. Robinson, J.B. Soucek, and W.H. Hamilton."

Wilde, Gary (editor), Bible Promises to Treasure for Dads: Inspiring Words for Every Occasion, ISBN: 1558197109 9781558197107.

See also: The sovereign grace of god: his everlasting mercy and lovingkindness, The doctrine of man (human nature, total depravity), Sharing christ with your children, Repentance the key to salvation and change, Justification, Justifying faith, Filial love (love toward parents), Mentoring (women), Discipleship, Christian life, Family worship, Protecting children from dangers, Slavery, our systems of enslavement, economic enslavement, Preparing children for the world, Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, Sexual relationship, Spiritual adultery (spiritual whoredom/harlotry), Sharing christ with your children, Sex ethics, sex education, Gratuitous sex, a cause of violence, Counseling the family, Problem solving with children, Motherhood, Parenting, Counsel for young men, Counsel for young women, Teens and parents, Courtship, Home schooling, Public schools, public education, Christian scholarship, Manhood, Men, women, and god, The fatherhood of God, Finding the perfect parent in God, Pseudo-christian movements: a selection of works, Appendix c: psychology and psychiatry, and so forth, and so on.
TCRB5: 359, 1624, 1625, 1629-1672

Related Weblinks

An Analysis of how to Destroy a Family, Church, or Country, Rick Thomas
https://rickthomas.net/an-analysis-of-how-to-destroy-a-family-church-or-country/

The Consequences of Fatherlessness
http://www.fathers.com/statistics-and-research/the-consequences-of-fatherlessness/

National Fatherhood Initiative
http://fatherhood.org/

Parenting -- The Important Role of Fathers
https://rickthomas.net/podcast/ep-382-webinar-parenting-the-important-role-of-fathers/

Motherhood

The four "Servant Songs" of Isaiah are Isaiah 42:1-9; Isaiah 49:1-7; Isaiah 50:4-11; and Isaiah 52:13 -- Isaiah 53:12. See the annotations in The Reformation Study Bible.
Our Triune God has ordained that the preeminent leader of the Church is the Lord Jesus Christ, the God Man, Our Righteousness. (John 1:1-18; Matthew 19:30; Matthew 28:18-20; Isaiah 49:7; Colossians 1:16-19; Colossians 2:9,10; Hebrews 12:1,2; Revelation 5:1-14; Revelation 19:11-15; Revelation 20:11-15; Revelation 22:12, and so forth, and so on). Human leadership is also divinely ordained and tends to devolve to those who are most perfectly at one with Christ, and to those who also know the most Truth (the Apostle Paul, Saint Augustine, Martin Luther, John Calvin, Puritan leaders, The Scots Worthies, and so forth, and so on).
And Jesus said unto them, Verily I say unto you, That ye which have followed me, in the regeneration when the Son of man shall sit in the throne of his glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 19:28). See: (Matthew 19:28, 1599 Geneva Bible)
Then his master said unto him, It is well done good servant and faithful, Thou hast been faithful in little, I will make thee ruler over much: enter into thy master's joy. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 25:21) (Matthew 25:21 1599 Geneva Bible)
Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 25:34). See: (Matthew 25:34, 1599 Geneva Bible)
And he said unto him, Well, good servant: because thou hast been faithful in a very little thing, take thou authority over ten cities. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 19:17) (Luke 19:17, 1599 Geneva Bible)
Therefore I appoint unto you a kingdom, as my Father hath appointed unto me. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 22:29) (Luke 22:29, 1599 Geneva Bible)
And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together. (Romans 8:17). See: (Romans 8:17, 1599 Geneva Bible)
Know ye not that we shall judge angels? how much more things that pertain to this life? (1 Corinthians 6:3). See: (1 Corinthians 6:3, 1599 Geneva Bible)
And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus. (Ephesians 2:6). See: (Ephesians 2:6, 1599 Geneva Bible)
To execute vengeance upon the heathen, and corrections among the people:
To bind their kings in chains, and their nobles with fetters of iron,
That they may execute upon them the judgment that is written: this honor shall be to all his Saints. Praise ye the Lord. (Psalm 149:7-9) (Psalm 149:7-9, 1599 Geneva Bible)
But I suffer not a woman to teach, nor to usurp authority over the man, but to be in silence. (1 Timothy 2:12), (1 Timothy 2:12, 1599 Geneva Bible)
And he that overcometh, and keepeth my works unto the end, to him will I give power over the nations. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Revelation 2:26). See: (Revelation 2:26, 1599 Geneva Bible)
To serve God is to reign. -- Seneca (4 BC -- 65 AD)
I urge you, Madam, a nearer communion with Christ, and a growing communion. There are curtains to be opened in Christ that we have never seen before, and new layers of love in Him. I despair that I will ever make it to the far end of that love, there are so many layers in it. Therefore dig deep, and sweat, and labour. Take pains for Him, and set aside as much time as you can in each day for Him. Christ will be won with labour. -- Samuel Rutherford (1600-1661), Letters of Samuel Rutherford, Letter 104 To Lady Kenmure
Jesus saith unto her, Woman, what have I to do with thee? mine hour is not yet come. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (John 2:4)

Arndt, Elise, A Mother's Touch, ISBN: 0882071017 9780882071015.
"A mother-teacher in you home, you prepare you children for life. No one can replace your love and care in their early years. And no one else can teach them, as you can, of Jesus' love and his world." -- GCB

*Baxter, Richard (1615-1691), The Catechizing of Families, ISBN: 1877611360. Alternate title: THE CATECHIZING OF FAMILIES: A TEACHER OF HOUSHOLDERS HOW TO TEACH THEIR HOUSHOLDS: USEFUL ALSO TO SCHOOL-MASTERS AND TUTORS OF YOUTH: FOR THOSE THAT ARE PAST THE COMMON SMALL CHATECHISMS [SIC], AND WOULD GROW TO A MORE ROOTED FAITH, AND TO THE FULLER UNDERSTANDING OF ALL THAT IS COMMONLY NEEDFUL TO A SAFE, HOLY, COMFORTABLE AND PROFITABLE LIFE. Available in THE REFORMED PASTOR: BAXTER'S PRACTICAL WORKS, VOL. 4.

*Baxter, Richard, The Mother's Catechism, and The Catechizing of Families in THE REFORMED PASTOR: BAXTER'S PRACTICAL WORKS, VOL. 4, ISBN: 0840791011 9780840791016.
"Here are distinctively Christian perspective on everything from pregnancy and childbirth through rewarding grandmothering -- all from an experienced parent and pediatrician! -- CBD

Lush, Jean, and Pam W. Vredevelt, Mothers and Sons: Raising Boys to be men, ISBN: 0800786823 9780800786823.
"This is a great book on building emotional, spiritual, and sexual stability in your son. It provides ways to create a healthy home atmosphere and to teach your son how to work, how to be successful, how to take whining out of work, etc. . . ." -- Reader's Comment

*Miller, C. John (1928-1996), Woman's Role in the Home (part 1) (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Audio cassette CMR03 [audio file].
World Harvest Mission
http://www.whm.org/home.htm

*Miller, C. John (1928-1996), Woman's Role in the Home (part 2) (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Audio cassette CMR04 [audio file].

Nash, Ronald H., When a Baby Dies: Answers to Comfort Grieving Parents, ISBN: 0310225566 9780310225560.

Owen, Pat H., Idea Book for Mothers, ISBN: 0842315586 9780842315586.

Rischer, Carol, Insights for Young Mothers, ISBN: 0890814856 9780890814857.

Sprague, William Buell, The Excellent Woman as Described in the Book of Proverbs.

Van Dyken, Donald, Rediscovering Catechism: The art of Equipping Covenant Children, ISBN: 0875524648 9780875524641.

Wilde, Gary (editor), Bible Promises to Treasure for Moms: Inspiring Words for Every Occasion, ISBN: 1558197117 9781558197114.

Related Weblinks

Covenanted Motherhood, a sermon by Greg Price on Matthew 12:46-50
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?currSection=sermonsspeaker&sermonID=19013812

Sharing Christ With Your Children

But Jesus called them unto him, and said, Suffer little children to come unto me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 18:16)
Therefore it is apparent, that the ordinary appointed means for the first actual grace, is parents' godly instruction and education of their children. -- Richard Baxter (1615-1691)
But when once they are renewed by the Spirit of Christ, they are the charge of all the blessed Trinity, and under God the charge of angels: living or dying they are safe; for the eternal God is their portion and defense. -- Richard Baxter (1615-1691)
Jesus, My all in all (1 Corinthians 15:24-28):

When I was lost, He found me (Luke 15:6-7).
When I was in doubt, He gave me faith (John 20:25-29).
When I sinned, He forgave me (1 John 1:9).
When praying, He answers (John 16:23).
When I err, He corrects me (Matthew 8:23-27).
When tempted, He helps me say no (1 Corinthians 10:13).
When depressed, He quickens me (Psalm 119:25).
When weak, He is my strength (Philippians 4:13).
When confused, He gives me understanding (2 Timothy 2:7).
When foolish, He gives me wisdom (James 1:5-6).
When I wander, He seeks me out (Luke 19:10).
When in crises, He stands with me (Philippians 4:6-9).
When falsely accused, He vindicates me (Matthew 5:11-12).
When I hurt, He heals (Matthew 11:28-30).
When put down, He lifts me up (2 Timothy 4:16-18).
When friendless, He is my friend (John 16:1-15).
When betrayed, He is loyal (Romans 8:35-39).
When I am afraid, He gives me peace (John 14:27).
When I am bitter, He helps me forgive and forget (Colossians 3:12-17).
When I am hungry, He feeds my soul (John 6:47-51).
When I backslide, He lovingly chastens and corrects me (Hebrews 12:6).
When out of church, He draws me back in (Hebrews 12:11-14; 13:17). -- Anonymous
Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy, to the only wise God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen. (Jude 24,25)
See the Theological Notes: "Angels," at Zechariah 1:9 in The Reformation Study Bible.
We must never allow ourselves to suppose that little children's souls may be safely let alone. Their character depends exceedingly on what they see and hear during their first seven years. They are never too young to learn evil and sin. They are never too young to receive religious impressions. They think in their childish way about God, their souls, and a world to come, far sooner and far more deeply than most people are aware. They are far more ready to respond to appeals to their feeling of right and wrong than many suppose. They have each a conscience. God has mercifully not left Himself without a witness in their hearts, fallen and corrupt as their natures are. Each have a soul which will live forever in heaven or in hell. We cannot begin too soon to endeavor to bring them to Christ. -- J.C. Ryle (1816-1900)
It is startling to realize that three-fourths of all who make lasting decision for Christ in America do so by the age of 21 -- and yet, in our nation today, young people know less about Jesus than any generation in our history. -- Franklin Graham
One of the kindest things we can do is introduce a [the] biblical sin plan [forgiveness of sin and everlasting life through the substitutionary, atoning death of Christ on the cross for our sins, and His resurrection] to our families, so they can enjoy the full benefits of the Gospel [reconciliation of us all together with Christ]. If we do this, [then] we will begin to release an entire generation of people who will sin, but quickly [turn in faith to the Gospel] remove it, eliminating the lingering effects of sin [unforgiveness] which so many of us had experienced from those who had gone before us, as they tried to hide the obvious [our fallen state] in plain sight, while affecting [isolating] us generationally. We will sin before [against] our families and friends, so let's demonstrate what we are supposed to do about it [confess our sin, repent, trust in the shed Blood of Christ to wash us clean]. Let them see how we may be [are] ashamed of our sins, but we are not ashamed of the Gospel." -- Life With Coffee, Lifehack #0056
Considering how prevalent a parent's love for their child is, that love can only compound the parent's suffering in Hell when they recognize that, because of them, their child also is suffering there with them.
A Biblical Counselor tells the story of his high school son who attended church regularly with the family, but with little or no enthusiasm.
His father entered into a deal with his son to memorize verses of Scripture. The conditions: the father would select the verse, the son would memorize the verse, the father could request that he recite any verse at any time, each time he recited a verse correctly his father would pay him $5.00 (about 1976), if he failed to recite a verse correctly (word for word with the book, chapter, and verse), then he paid his father $5.00.
At first he memorized just for the money. Later he began requesting more verses. His father selected verses bearing on events in his son's life at the moment. As the number of verses grew, the father was able to request verses to be recited that spoke to the specific needs of the moment. By the time of his graduation from high school he had over 100 verses of Scripture committed to memory. The son then went to Columbia Seminary and is now a pastor. (For those who do not immediately see, this is a practical way to purchase the soul of a child, spouse, or neighbor for Christ before they barter it for a "mess of pottage.")
It is time that I now showed you how this same fight is carried on ON EARTH. Amongst men in these lower places of conflict saints overcome through the blood of the Lamb by their testimony to that blood. Every believer is to bear witness to the atoning sacrifice and its power to save. He is to tell out the doctrine; he is to emphasize it by earnest faith in it; and he is to support it and prove it by his experience of the effect of it. You cannot all speak from the pulpit, but you can all speak for Jesus as opportunity is given you. Our main business is to bear witness with the blood in the power of the Spirit. To this point we can all testify. You cannot go into all manner of deep doctrines or curious points, but you can tell to all those round about you that "There is life in a look at the Crucified One." You can bear witness to the power of the blood of Jesus in your own soul. If you do this, you will overcome men in many ways. -- C.H. Spurgeon in a sermon, The Blood of the Lamb, the Conquering Weapon

Anonymous, The Psalter: or, Psalms of David: With the Proverbs of Solomon, and Christ's Sermon on the Mount: Being an Introduction for Children to the Reading of the Holy Scriptures: Carefully Copied From the Holy Bible. With the Proverbs of Solomon, and Christ's Sermon on the Mount: Being an Introduction for Children to the Reading of the Holy Scriptures: Carefully Copied From the Holy Bible, 1784.

*Baxter, Richard, The Mother's Catechism, and The Catechizing of Families in THE REFORMED PASTOR: BAXTER'S PRACTICAL WORKS, VOL. 4.
"This is the fourth and final volume in this great set. Includes, 'The Reformed Pastor' and 25 other sermons, treatises, and catechisms. Dr. J.I. Packer says, 'For me, the great joy of this year is that it see the completion of Soli Deo Gloria's reprint of Baxter's incomparable PRACTICAL WORKS'." -- GCB
Includes: POOR MAN'S FAMILY BOOK, THE CATECHIZING OF FAMILIES, and THE MOTHER'S CATECHISM.
Richard Baxter, from Wikipedia
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Richard_Baxter
Compassionate Counsel to all Young men (1681), by Richard Baxter
http://www.lettermen2.com/ccaym.html

Beeke, Joel, Bringing our Children to Christ or are we Hindering our Children? a sermon. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=411091044509

*[Bible], The Reformation Study Bible: The Word That Changes Lives -- the Faith That Changed The World, New King James Version (Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson Publishers, March 2001), ISBN: 0785258523 9780785258520. Previously published under the title New Geneva Study Bible: Bringing the Light of the Reformation to Scripture (Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson Publishers, 1995), ISBN: 0840710917 9780840710918.
"The NEW GENEVA STUDY BIBLE offers a restatement of Reformation truth for Christians today. The first Geneva Bible was a pivotal force in the Reformation. Using the everyday language of its time, it opened the pages of Scripture to readers and provided helpful notes to assist them in understanding its message. It became the family Bible of the English people, and was the Bible that the Pilgrims brought to the New World. Since that time a multitude of English translations and study Bibles have appeared, but none of these has incorporated a summary of Reformed theology." -- Thomas Nelson Publishers
Also available in digital format from Logos Bible Software.
Geneva Bible Notes: Reviews of the 1599 and the 1672 editions of the Notes, and of the Reformation Study Bible
http://www.lettermen2.com/geneva.html
Readers of THE REFORMATION STUDY BIBLE should also be familiar with the Geneva Bible Notes, The Westminster Family of Documents, the doctrine of the Mediatorial Dominion of Jesus Christ, and the literature of the Covenanted Reformation.
The Westminster Confession of Faith (1646, The Westminster Standards), and Related Works: A Study Guide
http://www.lettermen2.com/suggest.html
The Covenanted Reformation of Scotland Author/Title Listing
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr9chb.html#crsstl
Reformed Presbyterian Catechism, William L. Roberts D.D.
http://archive.org/details/ReformedPresbyterianCatechism

*Boston, Thomas (1676-1732), Commentary on the Shorter Catechism, 2 volumes. A Christian classic. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
" 'Two large volumes of over 1300 pages! Boston's work is the most comprehensive reference set ever penned on The Westminster Shorter Catechism. Concerning The Shorter Catechism, A.F. Mitchell states '. . . it is a thoroughly Calvinistic and Puritan catechism, the ripest fruit of the Assembly's thought and experience, maturing and finally fixing the definitions of theological terms to which Puritanism for half a century had been leading up and gradually coming closer and closer to in its legion of catechisms' (The Westminster Assembly (1643-1652) . . . ). The Shorter Catechism is the 'king of the catechisms' for shear power of expression, combining logical cogency with succinctness. Boston's exposition is unrivalled; there is nothing else like it. Here you have the cream of Puritan catechisms married to the cream of clear Puritan exposition! This is likely Boston's most important work. A set that will meet numerous needs, ranging from use in family worship, Christian education and personal study, to sermon preparation -- and for help in settling debated questions on the Presbytery floor. A one-of-a-kind set of books that will serve your family for generations to come!" -- Publisher
"It is worth while to be a Shorter Catechism boy. They grow to be men. And better than that, the are exceedingly apt to grow to be men of God." -- B.B. Warfield
Westminster Shorter Catechism With Proof Texts
http://www.reformed.org/documents/WSC_frames.html
Westminster Shorter Catechism Project
"Click on any of the individual questions below to get the answer and Biblical references, as well as links to works by John Flavel, Thomas Watson, Thomas Boston, James Fisher, and John Whitecross, and others."
http://www.shortercatechism.com/

Boykin, Caroline, The Well-versed Family: Raising Kids of Faith Through Do-able Scripture Memory, ISBN: 1598867687 9781598867688.

*Brown, John (of Haddington, 1722-1787), Addresses to Children Concerning Salvation. Available as a free PDF download.
"John Brown of Haddington was a minister and professor of the Associate (Burgher) Synod in Scotland in the latter part of the eighteenth century. [John Brown of Edinburgh (1784-1858) was his grandson. -- compiler] The following addresses were written in connection with two of his most popular works (both catechisms for children). They were originally delivered within the context of instructing children born to Christian parents in 'the faith which was once delivered unto the saints' (Jude 3). However, these addresses are suitable for persons of all ages and conditions, eminently adapted (by the working of God's Spirit) to bring home to the conscience the desperate condition of the soul not trusting in Christ, the glorious truth of the gospel of free salvation through His finished work, and the necessity of resting upon Him alone for salvation." -- Preface
Includes "An Address to the Rising Generation" which appeared as an appendix to TWO SHORT CATECHISMS MUTUALLY CONNECTED, and "An Address to the Young Readers of this Catechism," which appeared as a preface to AN ESSAY TOWARDS AN EASY, PLAIN, PRACTICAL, AND EXTENSIVE EXPLICATION OF THE ASSEMBLY'S SHORTER CATECHISM." -- Publisher

Bunyan, John (1628-1688), Christiana's Journey: La Peregrina. Alternate title: THE CHILD'S PILGRIM'S PROGRESS, PART SECOND: CHRISTIANA AND HER CHILDREN. Available (THE WORKS OF JOHN BUNYAN), on the Puritan Hard Drive.
This is the second part of Bunyan's, THE PILGRIM'S PROGRESS, in which Christian's wife and children make their dangerous journey, and safely arrive at the desired country. It is usually bound with PILGRIM'S PROGRESS.
Pilgrim's Page: A John Bunyan Archive
This is the complete set of THE WORKS OF JOHN BUNYAN, George Offor edition, the edition reprinted by The Banner of Truth. It is free online, and is downloadable in the following formats: HTML, RTF, TEXT, and PDF.
http://www.mountzion.org/bunyan.html

*Bunyan, John (1628-1688), The Pilgrim's Progress, complete and unabridged. A Christian classic. Considered to be among the ten greatest books in the English language. Available (THE WORKS OF JOHN BUNYAN), on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #21.
Said to be "the greatest book, other than Scripture, which an Englishman has given to mankind." -- GCB
The Banner of Truth Trust publication is recommended. It is facsimile reprinted from the unabridged edition of 1895 published by John C. Nimmo, Ltd. containing the original marginal notes and Scripture references and illustrated with etchings by William Strang.
"Bunyan had better insight into the human heart than modern psychology; namely, because he did not study man apart from his Creator and apart from his deep inward problem." -- Ernest Reisinger (1924-2018)
Pilgrim's Page: A John Bunyan Archive
This is the complete set of THE WORKS OF JOHN BUNYAN, George Offor edition, reprinted by The Banner of Truth. It is free online, and is downloadable in the following formats: HTML, RTF, TEXT, and PDF.
http://www.chapellibrary.org/literature/bunyan/
THE COMPLETE WORKS OF JOHN BUNYAN is also available at Project Gutenberg.
Pilgrim's Progress John Bunyan [audio file]
http://www.sermonaudio.com/search.asp?SpeakerOnly=true&currSection=sermonsspeaker&keyword=John%5EBunyan

*Bunyan, John (1628-1688), and Robert Philip (1791-1858), The Greatness of the Soul: and The Unspeakableness of the Loss Thereof; No way to Heaven but by Jesus Christ; The Strait Gate. Alternate title: THE GREATNESS OF THE SOUL, AND UNSPEAKABLENESS OF THE LOSS THEREOF: WITH THE CAUSES OF THE LOSING IT: FIRST PREACHED AT PINNERS HALL, AND NOW ENLARGED, AND PUBLISHED FOR GOOD. A Christian classic. Considered to be among the ten greatest books in the English language. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
"In the 1660s, Charles II, King of England, asked John Owen (1616-1683), why he went to hear the preaching of an uneducated tinker. [John Bunyan -- compiler]. Looking the King in the eye, Owen answered, 'May it please your Majesty, could I possess the tinker's ability for preaching, I would willingly relinquish all my learning'." -- Andrew Thomson, John Owen, Prince of Puritans
Owen would not have been surprised to learn that Bunyan's most influential work, PILGRIM'S PROGRESS, would be translated into more languages over the next 400 years than any book except the Bible.
The Greatness of the Soul: and The Unspeakableness of the Loss Thereof; No way to Heaven but by Jesus Christ; The Strait Gate
http://archive.org/details/greatnessofsoulu00bunyuoft
Pilgrim's Page: A John Bunyan Archive
This is the complete set of THE WORKS OF JOHN BUNYAN, George Offor edition, the edition reprinted by The Banner of Truth. It is free online, and is downloadable in the following formats: HTML, RTF, TEXT, and PDF.
http://www.mountzion.org/bunyan.html

*Bunyan, John (1628-1688), Craig John Lovik, Tim Lundeen, and Oasis Audio (firm), The Pilgrim's Progress: From This World to That Which is to Come [audio file], ISBN: 9781441622846 1441622845. A Christian classic.
"The entire book, virtually unabridged -- rewritten for the modern ear by Jim Pappas and brought to life by 77 actors with original music and sound effects -- is now available on audio cassette [audio file]." -- GCB
Pilgrim's Progress John Bunyan [audio file]
http://www.sermonaudio.com/search.asp?SpeakerOnly=true&currSection=sermonsspeaker&keyword=John%5EBunyan

Calvin, John (1509-1564), Catechism of the Church of Geneva: Being a Form of Instruction for Children in the Doctrine of Christ. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #1. Available in CALVIN'S SELECTED WORKS, TRACTS AND LETTERS.

Carr, S. Wallace, The Bible and the Christian Home (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).

Cook, Earl, Raising Godly Children (Psalm 13) (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Audio cassette HFTF11 [audio file].

*Cotton, John (1584-1652, editor), and The Westminster Assembly (1643-1652), New England Primer: Improved for the More Easy Attaining the True Reading of English. To Which is Added The Assembly of Divines, and Mr. Cotton's Catechism. A Christian classic. Considered to be among the ten greatest books in the English language.
"THE NEW ENGLAND PRIMER was the first textbook ever printed in America and was used to teach reading and Bible lessons in our schools until the twentieth century. In fact, many of the Founders and their children learned to read from THE PRIMER. This pocket-size edition is an historical reprint of the 1777 version used in many schools during the Founding Era." -- Publisher
"THE NEW ENGLAND PRIMER was one of the greatest books ever published. It went through innumerable editions; it reflected in a marvelous way the spirit of the age that produced it, and contributed, perhaps more than any other book except the BIBLE, to the molding of those sturdy generations that gave to America its liberty and its institutions.
"The Founding Fathers of this country and other Americans learned to read from this little treasure. There is much that we can learn about them and the way they thought by examining its contents. The true study of history should incorporate the study of what motivated people to do the things they did. This reprint makes for great classroom discussion. It makes for an excellent addition to any American History class at all grade levels and all ages. It is pocket-size, and kids and adults love it. I highly recommend it!" -- Reader's Comment
"WEBSTER'S BLUE-BACKED SPELLING BOOK and the NEW ENGLAND PRIMER were basic, foundational textbooks used in the schools of our Republic in the 18th and 19th centuries.
"These two textbooks prove our founding fathers expected moral truths to be taught in every school subject." -- Reader's Comment
The New-England Primer Improved for the More Easy Attaining the True Reading of English: To Which is Added The Assembly of Divines, and Mr. Cotton's Catechism (1777)
http://archive.org/details/newenglandprimer00west

*Decker, Barbara, Proverbs for Parenting: A Topical Guide for Child Raising From the Book of Proverbs, King James Version, ISBN: 0961860839.
"An indispensable tool for parenting, this book arranges the proverbs into over 70 realistic, helpful topics. A sampling of topics covered include: trust in God, obedience, honesty, anger, self-control, temper, arguing, boasting, complaining, love, friendship, happiness, discretion, faithfulness, stewardship, work and many more." -- Publisher
An accompanying book, A COLORING BOOK OF BIBLE PROVERBS is 'a 30-page coloring book illustrating various passages from the Book of Proverbs. Can be used with or without the above hardback book'." -- GCB

*Fennema, Jack, Nurturing Children in the Lord: A Study Guide for Teachers on Developing a Biblical Approach to Discipline.
Sharing Christ with your children. Contains material useful in counseling.
"Such a clear-cut and Biblical approach clearly demonstrates that parents along with teachers, and NOT secular psychology, can do an excellent job of discipline if they follow the guidelines of the Word of God. . . . This 1977 book has proven its worth." -- GCB

*Finley, Martha (1828-1909), Martha Finley Ultimate Collection -- 35+ Novels in one Volume (including the complete Elsie Dinsmore Series and Mildred Keith Collection)
"Martha Finley was a teacher and author of numerous works, the most well-known being the 28-volume Elsie Dinsmore Series which was published over a span of 38 years." -- Publisher
The Elsie Books, that take Elsie from girlhood to grandmotherhood, and the Mildred Books, a 7-book series, are classic, Christian, didactic fiction.
"This carefully crafted e-book: MARTHA FINLEY ULTIMATE COLLECTION -- 35+ NOVELS IN ONE VOLUME (INCLUDING THE COMPLETE ELSIE DINSMORE SERIES AND MILDRED KEITH COLLECTION) is formatted for your eReader with a functional and detailed table of contents: Elsie Dinsmore Series: Elsie Dinsmore; Elsie's Holidays at Roselands; Elsie's Girlhood; Elsie's Womanhood; Elsie's Motherhood; Elsie's Children; Elsie's Widowhood; Grandmother Elsie; Elsie's New Relations; Elsie at Nantucket; Two Elsies; Elsie's Kith and Kin; Elsie's Friends at Woodburn; Christmas with Grandma Elsie; Elsie and the Raymonds; Elsie Yachting with the Raymonds; Elsie's Vacation; Elsie at Viamede; Elsie at Ion; Elsie at the World's Fair; Elsie's Journey on Inland Waters; Elsie at Home; Elsie on the Hudson; Elsie in the South; Elsie's Young Folks; Elsie's Winter Trip; Elsie and Her Loved Ones; Elsie and Her Namesakes; Mildred Keith Series: Mildred Keith; Mildred at Roselands; Mildred and Elsie; Mildred's Married Life; Mildred at Home; Mildred's Boys and Girls; Mildred's New Daughter; Other Novels: Edith's Sacrifice; Ella Clinton; Signing the Contract and What it Cost; The Thorn in the Nest; and The Tragedy of Wild River Valley." -- Publisher
Links to e-text for many of Martha Finley's Works
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr11ch.html#cfbmf

Haidle, Helen, and Cheri Bladholm (illustrations), What did Jesus Promise?
For ages 4-8.
"Presents sixteen selections from the Bible containing promises which Jesus spoke concerning forgiveness, prayer, giving, and heaven."

Hill, Harold, Bible Answers for King's Kids.
Compiled by Gretchen Zimmer Black with Irene Burk Harrell.

*Hoeksema, Herman Believers and Their Seed: Children in the Covenant,

Hunt, Susan, and Richie Hunt, Big Truths for Little Kids: Teaching Your Children to Live for God, ISBN: 1581341067 9781581341065.
"These commandments that I give you today are to be upon your hearts. Impress them on your children. (Deuteronomy 6:6-7a) Your children are a blessing from God. A gift that brings an abundance of joy and the privilege of teaching them God's ways. When they're young their potential to learn is amazing. And because actions and beliefs go hand in hand, the lessons they learn from you now will shape their lives forever. This wonderful book, with its easy-to-use story format, can help you teach the basic truths of the Christian faith to your children. They'll learn right along with Caleb and Cassie that God's ways are the best -- and that even as kids, they can live for His glory every day." -- Publisher

James, John Angell (1785-1859), The Christian Father's Present to his Children, ISBN: 1877611700 9781877611704.
"This is a wonderful book by an early 19th century preacher in England encouraging fathers as they lead in their homes. Most of his writings had to do with the pastoral ministry; but this book is for fathers. The main tenet of the book is that the best gift fathers can give to their children is a godly upbringing in the fear and admonition of the Lord, firm but loving discipline to restrain evil in them, and to build a moral conscience into their children, so that even if God does not save them, their punishment will be less." -- Publisher

Johnson, Ron, Joseph W. Hinkle, and Charles M. Lowry, Oikos: A Practical Approach to Family Evangelism, ISBN: 0805462341 9780805462340.

Klaus, Sandra, Ten to Grow on: Teaching the Ten Commandments to Today's Children, ISBN: 0310540615 9780310540618.
"For ages 8-12. Introduction to each commandment, modern-day story which illustrates the commandment, discussion questions, memory verse activities, song suggestions, classroom activities, and reproducible puzzles." -- GCB

Macleod, John (1872-1948), The Religious Nurture of Children: The Reformed Faith in its Ethical Consequences in the Family, John Macleod (1872-1948). Available in PROCEEDINGS OF THE FOURTH CALVINISTIC CONGRESS: HELD IN EDINBURGH 6TH TO 11TH JULY, 1938.
http://www.westminsterconfession.org/godly-living/the-reformed-faith-in-its-ethical-consequences-in-the-family.php

Masters, Lavonne, The Bible Verse Book, ISBN: 0840732295 9780840732293.
"Presents five steps to help children memorize the Scriptures and understand and apply those verses to their lives." -- GCB

Merrill, Dean, and Grace Merrill, Together at Home: 100 Proven Ways to Nurture Your Child's Faith, ISBN: 0840759932 9780840759931.
"An encyclopedia of action-ideas. Creative discussions which will especially help the parents of 6-12 year olds. Nuts and bolts stuff for becoming a family by doing things together." -- GCB

Murphy, Elspeth Campbell, God, You Fill us up With Joy: Psalm 100 for Children, ISBN: 1555130372 9781555130374.
Illustrated by Jane E. Nelson.

*Palmer, Peter, Manning De V. Lee, and Jay P. Sr. Green (editor), The Children's Bible Story Book, ISBN: 1878442899 9781878442895.
Said to be the best of the Bible story books.

Phillips, Phil, and Syvelle Phillips, Helping Your Children Walk With God, ISBN: 0840791380 9780840791382.

*Price, Greg L., Bringing our Children to Christ. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #8.

*Reimer, Kathie, 1001 Ways to Introduce Your Child to God, ISBN: 0842347577 9780842347570.
"Creative ideas to help children develop godly attitudes and healthy ways of thinking." -- Publisher

Richards, Lawrence O., It Couldn't Just Happen: Faith Building Evidences for Young People, ISBN: 0849907152 9780849907159 0849935830 9780849935831.
"An incredible book. Makes the study of astronomy and biology fascinating. Uses information from these disciplines to present the awesome wonder of creation in terms that will captivate teens (as well as those who teach them). Highly recommended." -- Cyril J. Barber

*Rogers, Judy, Judy Rogers Tapes (Jackson, MS [Judy Rogers Tapes, 5125 Robinson Road, Jackson 39204]: Judy Rogers Tapes).
"Judy Rogers' tapes are one of a kind. Biblically concerned parents should obtain them at all costs!" -- Jay E. Adams

Rogers, Judy, Pilgrim's Praise: Series of Worship and Praise Based on PILGRIM'S PROGRESS.
"A masterful series of worship and praise songs, and songs from PILGRIM'S PROGRESS by John Bunyan . . . full of sheer encouragement for Christians."
Rogers, Judy, Why Can't I see God? And Other Questions Children ask About God.
Twenty songs for children covering the great themes of the Bible. "Judy Rogers has done the impossible . . . and it is good!" -- Mary Pride
"I thought it was a wonderful way to present the catechism to kids by putting it in a song. A great way to start teaching your children about some of those hard to understand topics." -- Listener's Comment
Rogers, Judy, Go to the ant: Songs Taken From Proverbs for Children, [audio file].
"Our whole family enjoys it! Your music is filled with wonderful Biblical truths for everyone."
Rogers, Judy, Walkin' Wise.
Songs based on Psalms, Proverbs, and Ecclesiastes for teens.
"A powerful message for teens."
Rogers, Judy, Stand Up.
"Songs dealing with 'Teen' issues challenging Christian young people to deeper commitment. Songs such as 'Glorify Him' (1 Corinthians 10:31); 'That's not Love' (1 Corinthians 13)."
Rogers, Judy, Arise! Shine! New Recording!
"Heart and soul inspiring Scripture songs and hymns of praise and worship! Songs such as 'Arise! Shine!' (Isaiah 60, 2 Chronicles 7:14); 'Clap Your Hands' (Psalm 47).
Rogers, Judy, Guard Your Heart, [audio file], ISBN: 0005158524 9780005158524.
Rogers, Judy, and Trena Rogers, Straight for the heart.
Shop Judy Rogers Music Online
http://www.judyrogers.com/catalog.php?item=4&ret=judyrogers.com%2Fcatalog.php%3Fpage%3D1%26item%3D6

*Schoolland, Marian M., Leading Little Ones to God: A Child's Book of Bible Teachings, ISBN: 0802851207 9780802851208.
Contains material useful in counseling.

*Spotts, Dwight, and David Veerman, Reaching out to Troubled Youth, ISBN: 0896932966 9780896932968.
"A very important book that those who work with children and youth will find extremely helpful. The material is arranged topically, shows evidence of extensive research, and provides helpful quotations of relevant material. A valuable resource." -- Cyril J. Barber
"This double-column book is a resource tool offering facts, figures, case studies, and practical advice for reaching out to young people who hurt. Advice is offered on how to: communicate, discipline, share the hope of the Gospel, and how to deal with special problems like substance abuse, child abuse, and homosexuality." -- GCB

Spurgeon, C.H. (1834-1892), Come ye Children: A Book on the Christian Training of Children, ISBN: 0686168402 9781845505127 1845505123. Alternate title: COME YE CHILDREN PRACTICAL HELP TELLING PEOPLE ABOUT JESUS.
"In this book Spurgeon provides valuable aid for parents, teachers and youth leaders on the subject of training children." -- GCB
"A book for parents and teachers on the Christian training of children as well as the evangelization of children called by the grace of God. Contains such chapters as: "Fed my Lambs -- How to Do It," "Do Not Hinder the Children," "Of Such is the Kingdom of Heaven," "The Child Timothy and His Teachers," and "Abijah's 'Some Good Thing'." -- Gospel Mission
Come ye Children, by C.H. Spurgeon
http://archive.spurgeon.org/misc/cyc.php

*Spurgeon, Charles Haddon (1834-1892), A Good Start: A Book for Young Men and Women, ISBN: 1573580082 9781573580083.
"Spurgeon at his best for young people!
"Teaches the character forming age that faithful warning, wise counsel, and sympathetic admonition are particularly valuable. Spurgeon aims to lead them to Christ and to encourage and stimulate them in their aspirations after nobility." -- Reader's Comment

*Spurgeon, C.H. (1834-1892), Jesus Christ Himself. (Ephesians 2:20) A sermon by C.H. Spurgeon delivered on Lord's-day morning, December 9, 1877, at the Metropolitan Tabernacle, Newington, Sermon no. 1388.
"Beyond all argument or miracle, Jesus Christ Himself is the proof of His own Gospel. And as He is the proof of it, so, Beloved, He is the marrow and essence of it. When the Apostle Paul meant that the Gospel was preached, He said, Christ is preached, for the Gospel is Christ Himself! If you want to know what Jesus taught, know Him! He is the incarnation of that Truth of God which by Him and in Him is revealed to the sons of men. Did He not, Himself say, I am the way, the truth, and the life?
"You have not to take down innumerable books, nor to pore over mysterious sentences of double meaning in order to know what our great Teacher has revealed. You have but to turn and gaze upon His countenance, behold His actions and note His spirit and you know His teaching. He lived what He taught. If we wish to know Him, we may hear His gentle voice saying, Come and see. Study His wounds and you understand His innermost philosophy. To know Him and the power of His Resurrection is the highest degree of spiritual learning. He is the end of the Law and the soul of the Gospel -- and when we have preached His Word to the fullest, we may close by saying, Now, of the things which we have spoken, this is the sum -- we have an High Priest who is set on the right hand of the Throne of the Majesty in the heavens." -- C.H. Spurgeon
http://www.spurgeongems.org/vols22-24/chs1388.pdf

Stonehouse, Catherine, and Scottie May, Listening to Children on the Spiritual Journey: Guidance for Those who Teach and Nurture, ISBN: 9780801032363 0801032369.
"Through case studies, it provides insight into children's perceptions of God and how they process their faith. In addition, the book suggests how parents, teachers, and ministry leaders can more effectively relate to and work with children and pre-adolescents to nurture their faith, offering a helpful picture of adults and children on the spiritual journey together. -- Publisher

Tallach, John, They Shall be Mine, ISBN: 0851513204 9780851513201.
"A book for young people. He tells about men and women from all over the world who have proved themselves to be faithful followers of the Lord." -- GCB

Trumbull, Henry Clay, Hints on Child Training, ISBN: 188393401X 9781883934019.
"This book has been called the 'single best volume on the subject of child training ever written.' . . . This is the 1890 writing by the author setting forth the same time-tested and proven methods that have helped to raise children for over 100 years." -- Publisher

Van Dyken, Donald, Rediscovering Catechism: The art of Equipping Covenant Children, ISBN: 0875524648 9780875524641.

*Vos, Catherine, Child's Story Bible, ISBN: 0802850111 9780802850119.
"Since the CHILDREN'S BIBLE STORY BOOK by Peter Palmer is presently out of print [notice it is again in print as of February 2002 -- compiler], this by Vos is undoubtedly the best of the Bible story books. She is sound in her doctrine, restrains her imaginative additions to the Biblical record, and shows an understanding of the mind of a child." -- Jay P. Green, Sr. (1918-2008)
"Parents themselves don't often model personal devotions because so much of the Bible is difficult to understand. Read this every night and I guarantee you'll understand your own Bible much better, and have the best basic biblical overview possible! Vos doesn't water down the Bible stories -- even some of the gory details -- but in a respectful, careful manner she presents nearly every bible story. We LOVE this book!" -- Reader's Comment

Watson, Carol, and Ann Baum (contributor), 365 Children's Prayers: Prayers old and new for Today and Every day, ISBN: 0745914543 9780745914541 0745917216 9780745917214 074591912X 9780745919126 0732400104 9780732400101.
"This is a wondrous book on praying for it offers 365 prayers -- most written by children. The prayers cover topical issues and are separated into six easy to follow categories. I have purchased many copies of this book over the years for use as gifts, for use in Sunday School, and I have two copies for personal use. An excellent choice!" -- Reader's Comment

Welch, Ed, Using the Gospel in Your Home (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Audio cassette HFTF07 [audio file].

White, William R. (compiler), Stories for the Journey: A Sourcebook for Christian Storytellers, ISBN: 0806623640 9780806623641.
Includes bibliography.

*Williamson, G.I., and Paul Gunter Settle, Catechism for Young Children: An Introduction to the Shorter Catechism. Alternate title: FIRST CATECHISM. ISBN: 0934688680 9780934688680.
"FIRST CATECHISM is a primer on the Christian faith in general and the Reformed faith in particular. It is intended to be used with children, beginning at the earliest age feasible.
"The structure and content are drawn from the CATECHISM FOR YOUNG CHILDREN, originally published in 1840 by Joseph P. Engels. His work was an effort to introduce and simplify the concepts of the Shorter Catechism -- one part of the Westminster Standards, which serve as the doctrinal foundation of Presbyterians worldwide.
"In this adaptation, we have incorporated changes in vocabulary, grammar and the sequence of questions to make the catechism clearer and more accessible to young children. Where possible, the more personal first- or second-person pronouns are used.
"Catechizing -- systematic instruction using simple questions and answers -- is a tried and effective tool for spiritual nurture. In the Presbyterian/Reformed tradition, this has been a common form for expressing and memorizing key elements of the Bible and our system of doctrine. The objective of FIRST CATECHISM is to make that process work better and with greater dynamic impact in the lives of the learners.
"Ideally, covenant children should begin learning the answers from FIRST CATECHISM as they begin to talk. By so doing, they will add to their vocabulary the words that reflect biblical truth and especially the doctrines of grace. This will prepare them to take on a Godward perspective toward themselves, God and his creation.
"It should be regarded as a stepping stone for young people to later study the WESTMINSTER SHORTER CATECHISM.
"FIRST CATECHISM teaches children to know, love and serve God.
"Our prayer is that the fruit will be a desire in them to fulfill man's chief end -- to glorify God and enjoy him forever." -- Preface
New First Catechism to Go: Beginning Discipleship in the Christian Faith
"Interactive PDF to use on all devices."
https://www.gcp.org/downloads/DigitalDownloads/FC2Go-website-sample.pdf

Witherspoon, Thomas D., Children of the Covenant.

See also: Creeds, Confessions, and Catechisms, Family worship, Filial love (love toward parents), Believer's Position in christ and sonship, The free offer of the gospel message of salvation and the life to come: the means of grace, the covenant of eternal salvation, Book-length presentations of the free offer of the gospel message of salvation and the life to come: the means of grace, Evangelism, Other works on the gospel, Peer counseling, one-on-one evangelism, Cross of Christ, Gospel tracts and witnessing tools, Teaching children, Classic christian fiction by martha finley, Christian fiction, Apologetics, Problem solving with children, Counseling children, Conscience, casuistry, cases of conscience, Protecting children from dangers, Preparing children for the world, Repentance the key to salvation and change, Justification, Justifying faith, Words of Christ appearing in the web edition of biblical counsel: resources for renewal, Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, Grace of God, Holiness, Justification and sanctification, Knowing Christ, Prayer, Priesthood of believers, Pseudo-christian movements: a selection of works, False gospels, Resources for students, Revival, Sharing christ with your children, Small group evangelism, Spiritual warfare, Student resources, and so forth, and so on.
TCRB5: 1671, 4140

Related Weblinks

Apostles Creed
http://www.reformed.org/documents/apostles_creed.html

Bible Broadcasting Network: Programs for Children
https://bbn1.bbnradio.org/english/home/categories/for-children/

Bible Presbyterian Church Westminster Shorter Catechism Project
http://shortercatechism.com/

Catechism for Young Children: An Introduction to the Shorter Catechism
http://www.reformed.org/documents/cat_for_young_children.html

Child Evangelism Fellowship
http://www.cefonline.com/

Classic Christian Fiction by Martha Finley
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr11ch.html#cfbmf

The Commandments of Jesus, J.S. McConnell (1925)
http://www.wowzone.com/commandm.htm

Dare to be a Daniel
"Did you know that most people come to faith in Jesus Christ before the age of 18? What better way to reach the next generation than through their classmates and friends who already believe.
"Dare to Be a Daniel is a new training program from the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association (BGEA) to help equip boys and girls ages 9 to 14 to share their faith in Jesus with others. Through a printed booklet, a CD-ROM, this fun, interactive Website, and other tools, youth are given simple steps they can use when telling others about Christ. We are also developing a 13-week Sunday school curriculum based on this program."
http://www.daretobeadaniel.com/

A Guide for Young Christians, John W. Robbins
http://www.trinityfoundation.org/journal.php?id=125

Judy Rogers Music Online
http://www.judyrogers.com/testimonials.html

Mantle Ministries (Elsie Dinsmore Series Series and Mildred Series)
http://www.mantlemin.com

Nave's Topical Bible -- Christ, Prayers of
http://bible.crosswalk.com/Concordances/naves-topical-bible/ntb.cgi?number=T2807

Prayers of Jesus
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prayers_of_Jesus

Richard Baxter, from Wikipedia
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Richard_Baxter

Small Children's Catechism
http://www.reformed.org/documents/child_cat.html

Westminster Larger Catechism With Proof Texts
http://www.reformed.org/documents/wlc_w_proofs/index.html

Westminster Shorter Catechism With Proof Texts
http://www.reformed.org/documents/WSC_frames.html

Classic Christian Fiction by Martha Finley
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr11ch.html#cfbmf

Filial Love (Love Toward Parents)

Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins.
Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another. (1 John 4:10,11)
See the Theological Note at 1 Corinthians 13:13, "Love" in The Reformation Study Bible.
But now faith, hope, love, abide these three; but the greatest of these is love. (1 Corinthians 13:13)
Charity never faileth. (1 Corinthians 13:8a)
It would be easy to show that all those tremendous evils which shake the foundations of civil society such as theft, murder, adultery, perjury, and the like, originate from the want of natural affection, and a failure in filial obedience. -- Samuel Stennett, The Godly Family
The Elsie Books 28-book series by Martha Finley, in its original, unabridged text, is probably the best fictional model of the Christian family ever written.
Likewise, the example of Elsie's life is one of the best models for Christian girls.
Filial love, the love of a child for their parents, is one of the themes of the series.
Recommended for ages 10 and up. Martha Finley wrote them originally for girls, but they are enjoyed by boys and adults alike.
Notice the original text of this series is becoming available free in Project Gutenberg e-text. We have added links to the e-text as of May 2007.

Ebel, Frank J., The Christian's Filial Relationship to God

*Finley, Martha (1828-1909, aka Martha Farquharson, Galic for Finley), The Elsie Books, 4-book set (Holly Hall Publications, 1997), ISBN: 1888306351 9781888306354.
"Originally written in the late 1800's for girls and young women, the Elsie Dinsmore books were bestsellers for over thirty years. When we are introduced to Elsie in the first book she is a sweet and humble eight-year-old whose great desire in life is to be reunited with her father, whom she has never met. Her faith and her obedience to God's commandments uphold her in the great troubles she often faces, and the drama to which we are spectators is as timely for today's girls as it was for the young ladies of the 19th century. A new edition of one of GCB's best sellers, the series offers Christian values and character building examples through stories that are compelling, heartwarming, and enduring. Ages 10 and up." -- GCB
"The Elsie Books -- 28 in all -- are some of the most widely read children's stories ever written. When they first came out more than a hundred years ago, the publisher could scarcely keep them in stock. . ." -- Publisher
"Altogether Miss Finley's novels sold more than 28,000,000 copies in the last century. This made them among the bestselling novels of all time . . ." -- Jay P. Green, Sr. (1918-2008)
*Book 1: Elsie Dinsmore, ISBN: 1888306319 9781888306316.
"Set amid the sweet blossoms of a southern mansion, this timeless classic delves into the heart of Elsie -- by all counts, an extraordinary little girl. Share in Elsie's quest for love from her earthly father as it leads to a mature understanding of the love of her Father in Heaven. Join Elsie as she suffers through endless hours of scrutiny from Miss Day, her mean-spirited school teacher, taunting from her mischievous young Uncle Arthur, and scoldings from a cold-hearted father she so desires to please -- all with the peace and quiet countenance that comes from knowing she is God's child. This, the first of the heart-warming Elsie Books, will both challenge and inspire you." -- Publisher
Elsie Dinsmore: Book 1, Martha Finley
http://archive.org/details/elsiedinsmore00ferqgoog
ClassicReader.com
http://www.classicreader.com/
*Book 2: Elsie's Holidays at Roselands, ISBN: 9781888306323 1888306327.
"When Elsie's father becomes ill, she takes on the job of nurse-companion, and all goes well until Elsie, because it is the Sabbath, as a matter of conscience refuses to read to him from a secular book. The battle of wills that ensues nearly causes first her father's death, and then Elsie's. Lonely Elsie -- punished, ostracized, and then abandoned by her father -- turns to her heavenly Father for comfort and assurance. Will her father realize that Elsie's obedience to God must be paramount, and submit himself to the same Divine Authority?" -- Publisher
On an even more serious note, one moral of this story is the broader life and death struggle between Truth and Falsehood (See: Absolute truth and relativism [duality and non-duality], Epistemology of theology, the theory of knowledge, and Christian scholarship.) The consequence of conflict of will is death of the "One," or war of the "Many" (see Rushdoony, THE ONE AND THE MANY: STUDIES IN THE PHILOSOPHY OF ORDER AND ULTIMACY. Conflict of will (see Will and recalcitrance, Rebellion and lawlessness: wickedness, demonic possession, abnormal behavior, insanity, mental illness, mental retardation,) may begin when one individual (see The doctrine of man [human nature, total depravity],) or the corporate body (see Corporate faithfulness and sanctification), tries to usurping authority over others (see Power, Authority) -- tries to control and possess the other (see Tyranny, Slavery, our systems of enslavement, economic enslavement.) The means of control may be either outward or occult (see The occult, spiritism, witchcraft), deceit, repression or suppression of the truth, replacing moral and ethical absolutes with relativism (see Ethics, computer ethics, cyberethics, Medical ethics, Absolute truth and relativism [duality and non-duality], unfaithfulness to the highest ethical standards (see The ten commandments: the moral law, The holy bible), Heresy and apostasy (apostacy, old english), Spiritual adultery [spiritual whoredom/harlotry,] (see Idolatry, syncretism, Jeremiah and lamentations,) invocation of the demonic, Oaths, ensnaring vows, promises, and covenants, bonds with the ungodly Carnality and flesh pleasing: desires, pleasure, Justice, judgment, god's final judgment, the great white throne judgment, the day of the lord,) attempts to take authority over another politically or by mental malpractice (see Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, making up their own rules (see Absolute truth and relativism [duality and non-duality],) ignoring or changing constitutional or creedal documents, unjust laws for the accumulation of wealth and power, indebtedness, disenfranchisement, (see denial of freedom,) Priestcraft, pharisaism, soul-stealing, possessiveness, physical seduction and whoredom, political economic or sexual enslavement (see Sexual relationship,) and so forth, and so on.
This abuse, this soul-violence, quenches the Holy Spirit (see Owen, God's Presence With a People the Spring of Their Prosperity; With Their Special Interest in Abiding in Him.) If either side is immovable, then death is the consequence (see Soteriology, atonement, The blood of christ, Hell, and Heaven.)
How are conflicts of will resolved? By submission to the Absolute Truths of God's word, the great common denominator, Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (John 14:6)
All this bears a strain of the Gospel (see Book-length presentations of the free offer of the gospel message of salvation and the life to come: the means of grace, The westminster confession of faith.)
Book 2: Holidays at Roselands
http://archive.org/details/holidaysatrosel00finlgoog
Holidays at Roselands (Gutenberg text)
http://onlinebooks.library.upenn.edu/webbin/gutbook/lookup?num=14280
Mantle Ministries (Elsie Dinsmore Series and Mildred Series)
http://www.mantlemin.com

Strom, Kay Marshall, Making Friends With Your Mother, ISBN: 0310532515 9780310532514.

See also: Sharing christ with your children, Problem solving with children, Conscience, casuistry, cases of conscience, Counseling children, Protecting children from dangers, Preparing children for the world, The fatherhood of god, Adoption into god's family, Repentance the key to salvation and change, Justification, Justifying faith, Fatherhood, Fatherlessness, Christian fiction (for all the Elsie books), Classic christian fiction by martha finley, Finding the perfect parent in god, and so forth, and so on.
TCRB5: 3971-3974

Related Weblinks

Classic Christian Fiction by Martha Finley
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr11ch.html#cfbmf

Elsie Book Reviews
http://www.amazon.com/Elsie-Dinsmore-Original-Classics-Book/dp/158182064X

*Love (FGB #159)
Increasing and Abounding in Love | The Fulfillment of the two Greatest Commandments | 20 Motives/Pleas That Christ Might Have Your Love | Brotherly Love | The Lamb Teaches you to Love | Triumph of Forbearing Love
https://www.chapellibrary.org/book/lovefg/love

Mantle Ministries (Elsie Dinsmore Series and Mildred Series)
http://www.mantlemin.com

Teaching/Training Children

And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart: And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up. And thou shalt bind them for a sign upon thine hand, and they shall be as frontlets between thine eyes. And thou shalt write them upon the posts of thy house, and on thy gates. (Deuteronomy 6:6-9)
I will be a SHEPHERD to you (Psalm 23:1; Psalm 80:1). Do not be afraid of evil tidings, for I am with you. My rod and My staff shall comfort you. You shall not lack, for I will feed you; you shall not wander or be lost, for I will restore you. I will cause you to lie down in green pastures, and will lead you beside the still waters (Psalm 23). I will gather you with My arm, carry you in My bosom, and will lead on as softly as the flock and the children are able to endure (Isaiah 40:11; Genesis 33:13-14). If officers are careless, I will do the work Myself. I will judge between cattle and cattle. I will seek that which was lost, and bring again that which was driven away. I will bind up that which was broken, and strengthen that which was sick; but I will destroy the fat and the strong, and will feed them with judgment (Ezekiel 34:16-17 compared with verses 2-4 [Ezekiel 34:2-4]). I will watch over My flock by night (Isaiah 27:3). Behold, I have appointed My ministers as your watchmen, as overseers who watch for your souls (Hebrews 13:17; Acts 20:28). Yes, My angels shall be your watchers, and shall keep a constant guard upon My flock (Daniel 3:17, 23; Psalm 34:7). And if the servants should sleep (Matthew 13:25, 27), My own eyes shall keep a perpetual watch by night and by day (Psalm 34:15; Psalm 33:18; 2 Chronicles 16:9). The Keeper of Israel never slumbers nor sleeps (Psalm 121:3-5), nor withdraws His eyes from the righteous (Job 36:7). I will guide you with My eye. I will never trust you out of My sight (Psalm 32:8). -- Joseph Alleine (1634-1668)
Give instruction to a youth about his way,
Even when he is old he turneth not from it. (Proverbs 22:6, YLTHB)
But Jesus called them unto him, and said, Suffer little children to come unto me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 18:16)
The Treasury of David, Psalm 51, C.H. Spurgeon
The sacrifices of God, are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, thou will not despise. (Psalm 51:17)
Children must be taught to possess their own spirits.
http://archive.spurgeon.org/treasury/ps051.php
It is impossible to estimate full influence of the reading of the Word in a home day after day and year after year. It filters into the hearts of the young. It is absorbed into their souls. It colors all their thoughts. It is wrought into the very fiber of their minds. It imbues them with its own spirit. Its holy teachings become the principles of their lives, which rule their conduct and shape all their actions. -- J.R. Miller (1840-1912)
Fill their minds with Scripture. Let the Word dwell in them richly. Give them the Bible, the whole Bible, even while they are young. -- J.C. Ryle (1816-1900)
Practice love diligently. It is one of those graces, above all, which grow by constant exercise. Strive more and more to carry it into every little detail of daily life.
Watch over your own tongue and temper throughout every hour of the day, -- and especially in your dealing with children and near relatives. Remember the character of the excellent woman: She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue. (Proverbs 31:26) Remember the words of Paul: Do everything in love. (1 Corinthians 16:14)
Love should be seen in little things as well as in great ones. Remember, not least, the words of Peter: Love each other deeply; not a love which just barely is a flame, but a burning, shining fire, which everyone around us can see. (1 Peter 4:8) It may cost pains and trouble to keep these things in mind. There may be little encouragement from the example of others. But persevere. Love like this brings its own reward. -- J.C. Ryle (1816-1900)
Nothing doeth take so much with anyone, as that which is known to come from love; the greater love is discerned in your instruction, the greater success may you expect. -- Richard Baxter (1615-1691)
It is said that the best thing a husband and wife can do for their children is to set an example for them by modelling a loving relationship with their spouse.
Those by the way side are they that hear; then cometh the devil, and taketh away the word out of their hearts, lest they should believe and be saved. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 8:12)
For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding. (Colossians 1:9)
Let it be the principal part of your care and labour in all their educations, to make holiness appear to them the most necessary, honourable, gainful, pleasant, delightful, amiable state of life; and to keep them from apprehending it either as needless, dishonourable, hurtful, or uncomfortable. Especially draw them to the love of it, by representing it as lovely. And therefore begin with that which is easiest and most grateful to them (as the history of the Scripture, and the lives of the martyrs, and other good men, and some short, familiar lessons). For though in restraining them from sin, you must go to the highest step at first, and not think to draw them from it by allowing them the least degree; (for every degree disposeth to more, and none is to be allowed, and a general reformation is the easiest as well as absolutely necessary); yet in putting them upon the practice of religious duties, you must carry them on by degrees, and put them at first upon no more than they can bear; either upon the learning or doctrines too high and spiritual for them, or upon such duty for quality or quantity as is over-burdensome to them; for if you once turn their hearts against religion, and make it seem a slavery and a tedious life to them, you take the course to harden them against it. And therefore all children must not be used alike. . . . -- Richard Baxter (1615-1691)
One of the kindest things we can do is introduce a [the] biblical sin plan [forgiveness of sin and everlasting life through the substitutionary, atoning death of Christ on the cross for our sins, and His resurrection] to our families, so they can enjoy the full benefits of the Gospel [reconciliation of us all together with Christ]. If we do this, [then] we will begin to release an entire generation of people who will sin, but quickly [turn in faith to the Gospel] remove it, eliminating the lingering effects of sin [unforgiveness] which so many of us had experienced from those who had gone before us, as they tried to hide the obvious [our fallen state] in plain sight, while affecting [isolating] us generationally. We will sin before [against] our families and friends, so let's demonstrate what we are supposed to do about it [confess our sin, repent, trust in the shed Blood of Christ to wash us clean]. Let them see how we may be [are] ashamed of our sins, but we are not ashamed of the Gospel." -- Life With Coffee, Lifehack #0056
Conscience is a most powerful part of our natural constitution. It cannot save our souls. It never leads a man to Christ. It is often blind, and ignorant, and misdirected.
Yet conscience often raises a mighty testimony against sin in the sinner's heart, and makes him feel that 'it is an evil and a bitter thing' to depart from God. Young people ought especially to remember this, and, remembering it, to take heed to their ways. Let them not flatter themselves that all is right, when their sins are past, and done, and forgotten by the world. Let them know that conscience can bring up each sin before the eyes of their minds, and make it bite like a serpent. -- J.C. Ryle (1816-1900)
Although the evils of the "Sunday school" are so many and so gross as to call for very severe criticisms, even from its advocates, they stubbornly refuse to see that these evils are inherent in the system itself. The following are some of the evils specified: When the parents are entering the house of public worship the children are going out; few children attend public worship; a large percentage of such scholars never become members of the church; it fails to impart adequate instruction; many of the pupils become criminals; the mass of Sunday school teachers are ignorant. There are qualifications clearly laid down in the Bible for every ecclesiastical officer, from the deacon to the minister; but it knows nothing of the "Sunday school" teacher, and therefore prescribes neither moral nor intellectual qualifications for him. As far as we know, no church court has made any rules to govern the election, installation, or qualifications of these "lawless" ones (anomoi). 2 Thessalonians 2:8: Then shall that wicked (anomos) be revealed, whom the Lord shall consume with the spirit of his mouth, and shall destroy with the brightness of his coming. -- Reformed Presbyterian Church, General Meeting, Causes of Fasting (1898)
A Biblical Counselor tells the story of his high school son who attended church regularly with the family, but with little or no enthusiasm.
His father entered into a deal with his son to memorize verses of Scripture. The conditions: the father would select the verse, the son would memorize the verse, the father could request that he recite any verse at any time, each time he recited a verse correctly his father would pay him $5.00 (about 1976), if he failed to recite a verse correctly (word for word with the book, chapter, and verse), then he paid his father $5.00.
At first he memorized just for the money. Later he began requesting more verses. His father selected verses bearing on events in his son's life at the moment. As the number of verses grew, the father was able to request verses to be recited that spoke to the specific needs of the moment. By the time of his graduation from high school he had over 100 verses of Scripture committed to memory. The son then went to Columbia Seminary and is now a pastor. (For those who do not immediately see, this is a practical way to purchase the soul of a child, spouse, or neighbor for Christ before they barter it for a "mess of pottage.")

Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), Back to the Blackboard: Design for a Biblical Christian School: A Book for Parents, Teachers, and Administrators, 154 pages, ISBN: 0875520758 9780875520759.
"For parents, teachers and administrators of elementary and secondary Christian day schools (with implications for colleges and seminaries). 'Christian schools, on all levels, are little more than adaptations of pagan schools,' built on an academic model rather than a discipleship model. Educators must give God his proper weight as they design schools. A radical rethinking of education must occur: everything from abolishing grades and homework, to learning 'subjects' in the context of real life projects." -- David Powlison (1949-2019)

Adams, Richard, What are the Duties of Parents and Children; and How are They to be Managed According to Scripture? 1674. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
"This Puritan author writes, 'My business is not to discuss the entity of relations in their foundation and terms, which the philosopher is conversant about; but to discourse on the efficacy of the chiefest in Christian practice; that is, to inquire into the nature and management of those reciprocal offices betwixt parents and children, which if well discharged according to the sense of the divine oracles, do contribute most to the happiness of human society, and give reputation to the communion of saints.' And that 'their children may continue, and their seed shall be established before' them (Psalm 102:28)." -- Publisher

Alexander, Archibald (1772-1851), The Stuff of Life: Forty-two Brief Talks on Daily Duty and Religion.

Alexander, Archibald (1772-1851), Turn but a Stone Addresses to Children.

*Andreola, Karen, Beautiful Girlhood, ISBN: 1883934028 9781883934026.
"The book deals primarily with the Christian character development, moral virtues, and manners of pre-teen and teenage girls. It is one of the bestselling titles in the homeschooling community." -- Publisher

*Andreola, Karen, A Charlotte Mason Companion: Personal Reflections on the Gentle Art of Learning, ISBN: 1889209023 9781889209029.
"A thorough chapter-by-chapter overview of the inspiring teaching principles of Christian educator Charlotte Mason, this book reveals the practical day by day method of how to teach the Charlotte Mason way. The author offers friendly advice, and humor, along with the joys and struggles of real homeschool life. The book covers education, parenting, homeschooling and lots of encouraging advice for mothers." -- Publisher

Banks, Robert J. (editor), and R. Paul Stevens (editor), The Complete Book of Everyday Christianity: An A-to-Z Guide to Following Christ in Every Aspect of Life, ISBN: 083081454X 9780830814541.

Barna, George, Transforming Children Into Spiritual Champions, ISBN: 9780801018794 080101879X.

*Baxter, Richard (1615-1691), The Catechizing of Families Alternate title: THE CATECHIZING OF FAMILIES: A TEACHER OF HOUSHOLDERS HOW TO TEACH THEIR HOUSHOLDS: USEFUL ALSO TO SCHOOL-MASTERS AND TUTORS OF YOUTH: FOR THOSE THAT ARE PAST THE COMMON SMALL CHATECHISMS [SIC], AND WOULD GROW TO A MORE ROOTED FAITH, AND TO THE FULLER UNDERSTANDING OF ALL THAT IS COMMONLY NEEDFUL TO A SAFE, HOLY, COMFORTABLE AND PROFITABLE LIFE, ISBN: 1877611360. Available in THE REFORMED PASTOR: BAXTER'S PRACTICAL WORKS, VOL. 4.

Beeke, Joel, Catechising our Children, (MP3), [audio file]. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.

Clark, Gordon H. (1902-1985), A Christian Philosophy of Education, ISBN: 1891777068.
"The first edition of this book was published in 1946. It sparked the contemporary interest in Christian schools. Dr. Clark has thoroughly revised and updated it, and it is needed now more than ever. Its chapters include: The need for a world-view, The christian world-view, The alternative to christian theism, Neutrality, Ethics, The christian philosophy of education, Academic matters, Kindergarten to university.
"This is a complete statement of the need for and purpose of a Christian education by one of the leading Christian educators of the twentieth century. The book is completely indexed and may be studied with profit by both teachers and students . . .
"Three appendices are included as well: The relationship of public education to christianity, A protestant world-view, and Art and the gospel." -- The Trinity Foundation

Dedrick, William, and Colleen Dedrick, The Little Book of Christian Character and Manners, ISBN: 188830622X 9781888306224.
"Are you looking for a brief and thoroughly Biblical book on training children from a Reformed perspective? The sections on eating habits, table manners, cleanliness, self-restraint, quietness, and industry are among the most helpful. You will want to use this as a 'working handbook' to read and re-read in training your children." -- Publisher

Du Plessis, Susan, and Jan Strydom, The Creators of ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) on Trial: And of Youth Violence, the Drug Culture, Teen-age Promiscuity, the Wave of Teen Suicides and Illiteracy, ISBN: 1919751076 9781919751078.

Du Plessis, Susan, and Jan Strydom, The Myth of ADHD and Other Learning Disabilities: Parenting Without Ritalin, ISBN: 1563841800 9781563841804.
"If your child has been diagnosed with ADHD or some other behavior disorder, be careful. This diagnosis might be false. . . . The authors of this book explain how parents can teach their children the skills of concentration and self-control without drugging them into submission. Book jacket." -- Publisher

Elliott, Delbert H., Handbook for Young Christians: Relating to Faith and Conduct.

Faris, Jerri, Covenanters of Scotland: A History for Children, ISBN: 1884527124 9781884527128.

Fitzpatrick, Elyse, More Than Bread: A Workbook for Women who Struggle With Eating (San Diego, CA: CCEF West [now Institute of Biblical Counseling and Discipleship]). Available from Institute of Biblical Counseling and Discipleship, 3495 College Ave., San Diego, CA, 92115; 619-582-5554.
"A workbook that addresses ungodly eating habits, both the obvious behaviors and the typical motives of the heart that produce such behavior. Addresses three main categories of sinful eating: overeating, anorexia, and bulimia." -- David Powlison (1949-2019)
Institute of Biblical Counseling and Discipleship (formerly CCEF West)
http://www.ibcd.org/

Froehlich, Mary Ann, Music Education in the Christian Home: How to Nurture the Musician in Your Child, ISBN: 1568570317 9781568570310.
" 'Music is a wonderful gift from God and an appreciation for music should have its roots in the home, but knowing where and how to begin, and what to include can often make the task less than appealing,' says the author. Helps parents to understand the importance and role of music in worship, gives an overview of music history, tells how to encourage your child musically, and discusses the role of church and school." -- GCB

Fugate, J. Richard, What the Bible Says About Child Training, 2nd edition, ISBN: 1888306513 9781888306514.
"Saturated with sound biblical support, the book opens with the God-ordained concepts of creation, authority, leadership, and obedience. Fugate then links these biblical concepts to the responsibility of parents in parenting and the child's respect of authority. The author then shows how our children's response to physical authorities (parents, teachers, government), will influence his or her response to the authority of God and His Word. This book is a must for anyone striving to be a godly parent and praying for the salvation of their children! Every new Christian parent should own one!" -- Reader's Comment

Fulbright, Robert G., New Dimension in Teaching Children, ISBN: 0805449175 9780805449174.
"This is a book designed to assist teachers in guiding their pupils into a real-life involvement with Jesus Christ." -- Cyril J. Barber

Fuller, Cheri, Unlocking Your Child's Learning Potential: How to Equip Kids to Succeed in School and Life, ISBN: 0891098348 9780891098348.

Glaspey, Terry W., Great Books of the Christian Tradition, ISBN: 1565073568 9781565073562.
Suggestions for books and reading, including ten books to get started, lists for specific time periods, short excerpts from many authors, 100 novels for group discussion, and 100 books to read with children. -- Publisher
"Have used this book heavily to build my library of classics. It is an annotated book list divided into Christian, non-Christian, and Children's literature and by historical periods: The Ancient World, The Middle Ages, The Early Modern World (The Reformation, Renaissance), The Eighteenth Century, The Nineteenth Century, The Twentieth Century, and Contemporary Candidates for Greatness. Parents, such as myself, will greatly appreciate the separate chapter and list dedicated solely to Children's literature. I have used this chapter to collect quality books for my children.
"Glaspey gives you a short commentary on each book (and excerpts from some authors), and tells you how best to make use of the reading lists he provides. He also gives good reasons why Christians should read non-Christian books. Also provided is a list of ten books which he feels every Christian ought to know. Included are books by C.S. Lewis, Dostoevsky, Augustine, and Tozer among others.
"This is a book for Christian biblioholics to savor. It was through this book that I discovered some of my favorites such as A TESTAMENT OF DEVOTION by Thomas Kelly, and Christian authors such as Walker Percy, Alexander Solzhenitsyn, and Flannery O'Connor. Many books he names, Christian and non-Christian, I already knew and read, and others, such as books by Norman Geisler, I was disappointed to find missing. But overall, this is an excellent resource and one that is unique. Highly recommended." -- Reader's Comment

Goertzel, Victor, Mildred George Goertzel, Ted George Goertzel, and Ariel Hansen, Cradles of Eminence: Childhoods of More Than Seven Hundred Famous men and Women: The Complete Original Text, ISBN: 0910707561 9780910707565 091070757X 9780910707572 (OCoLC)690828797.
This work shows how God uses adversity in life to draw out the best in individuals. Authors and subjects are, for the most part, secular.
A "newly published, updated, and expanded second edition of Ted Goertzel and Ariel Hanzen's CRADLES OF EMINENCE: CHILDHOODS OF MORE THAN 700 FAMOUS MEN AND WOMEN features the childhood biographies of more than 700 outstanding personalities. These sketches of the formative years of distinguished individuals reveal amazing insights into factors that can contribute to greatness, particularly in todays demanding and ever-changing world. Fascinating to read in its own right, and a wealth of anecdotal information about the youthful struggles of truly remarkable people including Alfred Hitchcock, Oprah Winfrey, Helen Keller, The Dalai Lama, Pablo Picasso, and many more." -- Reader's Comment
"This book is a fascinating look at the family patterns of eminent individuals across many generations. I couldn't put it down. If you like biographies, this is the ultimate collection of interesting stories." -- Reader's Comment "Do eminent adults have common childhood experiences? Did their parents help foster environments that could lead to eminence? Findings from [this book], reveal that eminent adults, in their childhoods, strongly disliked school but had families who valued education; had highly opinionated parents often with a dominating mother; grew up 'feeling different' from others. Readers are challenged to consider what factors will foster eminence in today's world of mass media and technological change." -- Publisher
"Victor Goertzel, a psychologist specializing in psychotherapy, was past president of the National Association for Gifted Children. Mildred George Goertzel directed a school for emotionally disturbed children. Ted George Goertzel is a professor and former chairperson in the sociology department at Rutgers University in Camden, NJ. Ariel Hansen is a recent graduate from Haverford College and works in the field of science journalism." -- Publisher

*Gregory, John Milton, The Seven Laws of Teaching, ISBN: 0801052726 9780801052729.
"An unabridged reprint of the 1886 edition. Each principle of education is supported by Scripture, a factor alone that makes this edition an invaluable reference tool." -- Cyril J. Barber

Guroian, Vigen, Tending the Heart of Virtue: How Classic Stories Awaken a Child's Moral Imagination, ISBN: 0195117875 9780195117875. Includes bibliography.
"Guroian illuminates the complex ways in which fairy tales and fantasies educate the moral imagination from earliest childhood. Examining a wide range of stories -- from PINOCCHIO and THE LITTLE MERMAID to CHARLOTTE'S WEB, THE VELVETEEN RABBIT, THE WIND IN THE WILLOWS, and THE NARNIA CHRONICLES -- he argues that these tales capture the meaning of morality through vivid depictions of the struggle between good and evil." -- Publisher
"Guroian demonstrates that the best children's stories combine an almost mystical love of goodness with a high degree of dramatic realism. . . ." -- Gregory Wolfe, coauthor of Books That Build Character
"Not since Chesterton have we seen such an open, affectionate, and brilliant analysis of fairy and fantasy tales. For parents, teachers, and clergy, here is a theological perspective on BEAUTY, BEAST, PINOCCHIO, BAMBI, NARNIA, THE VELVETEEN RABBIT (among others) -- all as seedlings in growing a child's garden of morals and virtues. It is a fresh, embracing, and enlightening view, and, I might add, long overdue." -- Jim Trelease, author of The Read-Aloud Handbook

*Henry, Matthew (1662-1714), The Young Christian, ISBN: 0906731569 9780906731567.
"Using Paul's letter to Titus, Henry shows us in practical way how best to live as a Christian." -- GCB

*Henty, G.A., G.A. Henty Collection of Books for Boys
"Hard bound, soft bound, and CD-ROM editions. Available at Project Gutenberg.
"All 99 of G.A. Henty's books are now available in print and digital formats. The CDs also includes 53 short stories by Henty and 216 short stories by his contemporaries.
"Written during the latter part of the 19th century, G.A. Henty's books were very popular and widely used in the schools of Britain and the United States during the late 19th and early 20th Centuries.
"While many children's adventure books that emphasize the traits of courage, high moral character, diligence, perseverance and other valuable personal virtues were written during this period, G.A. Henty's books are unique. Each adventure takes place within the setting of some important period in human history. From the fall of Jerusalem to the American Civil War, Henty's heroes live their adventures within exciting historical events. The reader learns much detailed history while he is being entertained and taught by exemplary heroes.
"Moreover, through his personal experiences and careful scholarship, Henty provides very detailed and accurate accounts of history.
"While one might read a section of a history book concerning, for example, the conquering of Mexico by Spain, most such accounts are dry and shallow in comparison with Henty's tale of the primary happenings and of the way of life of the people caught up in those events.
"From the French Revolution to the Great Plague of London, from the Crusades to the American Civil War, Henty readers learn in-depth history, superior vocabulary and literary techniques, and the advantages of high personal character -- while they are being entertained by a master storyteller.
"The Robinson Books Henty Collection is outstanding reading for any person -- young or old, regardless of educational background." -- Publisher
http://www.henty.com/
Gutenberg, Project
http://www.gutenberg.org/
ClassicReader.com
http://www.classicreader.com/
G.A. Henty, Wikipedia article
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/G._A._Henty

Hoeksema, Gertrude, Peaceable Fruit for the Nurture of Covenant Youth, ISBN: 0825428211 9780825428210.

Houston, Thomas (1803-1882), Youthful Devotedness; or, The Youth of the Church Instructed in the Duties of Practical Religion. Available (WORKS: DOCTRINAL AND PRACTICAL, volume 2 only), on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available (WORKS: DOCTRINAL AND PRACTICAL, volume 2 only), on Reformation Bookshelf CD #22.

Hughes, Peggy, Getting to the Heart of Your Child, ISBN: 9780988406209 0988406209.
"GETTING TO THE HEART OF YOUR CHILD (already an award winning book, winning 1st place in the Parenting Category of The Fall 2013 Christian Writers Award), really is a must have book for all parents. Peggy Hughes, is a Licensed Professional Counselor and mother who specializes in family relationships in her private practice. She uses her professional knowledge and experience combined with their own personal family stories to deliver an insightful, practical and proven help for parents! Train up a child in the way he should go . . . You have probably heard this biblical instruction before, but what does it mean? How do you 'train' your child, and where are they suppose to 'go'? Peggy Hughes helps answer these questions and shares the vital importance of knowing your child's heart. Discover two indispensable keys to unlock your child's heart, Three building blocks to establishing a good relationship and the incredible value of good discipline." -- Publisher

Hunter, Emily, Christian Charm Course: Student's Manual, ISBN: 0890815089 9780890815083.
"Aimed at young girls, this popular study book has been used by countless homeschool families to teach young girls good manners and godly behavior. With practical guidelines for grooming, dress, politeness, conversation skills, and spiritual growth, this book will help children integrate inner beauty with outer beauty." -- Publisher

Hunter, Emily, and Wayne Hunter, Man in Demand, ISBN: 0890815100 9780890815106.
See also: MAN IN DEMAND: STUDENT TRAINING MANUAL.
"Aimed at boys, MAN IN DEMAND has been used by countless homeschool families to teach young boys good manners and Godly behavior. With practical guidelines for grooming, dress, politeness, conversation skills, and spiritual growth, the books will help children integrate inner beauty with outer beauty." -- Publisher

Hunter, Wayne, and Emily Hunter, Man in Demand: Student Training Manual, ISBN: 0890815100 9780890815106.

Jehle, Paul, Go ye Therefore and Teach: Operation Manual for Christian day School.

Lewis, Paul, 40 Ways to Teach Your Child Values: Honesty, Managing Money, Making Good Choices, Controlling TV, Courage, ISBN: 0310216990 9780310216995.

*Lloyd-Jones, David Martyn (1899-1981), Life in the Spirit in Marriage, Home and Work: An Exposition of Ephesians 5:18 -- 6:9 [Ephesians 5:18 -- Ephesians 6:9], ISBN: 080105799X 9780801057991.

*Lopez, Diane D., and Elizabeth Laraway Wilson, Teaching Children: A Curriculum Guide to What Children Need to Know at Each Level Through Grade six, ISBN: 0891074899 9780891074892.
"Diane Lopez is principal of Bethany Christian School, Sierra Madre, California. This is a unique curriculum guide for grade levels K through 6. It is an excellent educational approach which naturally integrates a Christian worldview and scriptural principles. . . ." -- Jay P. Green, Sr. (1918-2008)
"If you have not read FOR THE CHILDREN'S SAKE or Karen Andreola's A CHARLOTTE MASON COMPANION, which cover the same ideas in more depth, they would be a good introduction to the educational principles of Charlotte Mason." -- Reader's Comment

Lye, Thomas, The Assemblies Shorter Catechism Drawn out Into Distinct Propositions, and Proved by Plain, and Pertinent Texts of scripture at Large: With short rules of direction for masters of families, how to use this book to the best advantage. By Thomas Lye, M.A. and sometimes minister of the Gospel at Alhallows Lumbard-street, 1672.

Lye, Thomas, By What Scriptural Rules may Catechizing be so Managed, as That it may Become Most Universally Profitable, a sermon on Prov. xxii. 6. [Proverbs 22:6]
Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #22.

Lye, Thomas, An Explanation of the Shorter Catechism Compos'd by the Assembly of Divines at Westminster, 1647: With a Plain, and Familiar Method of Instructing the Younger Sort, in That Catechism, Specially Intended for Governours of Families, and humbly submitted to the candid judgment of the godly and judicious reader, 1675.

Lye, Thomas, What may Gracious Parents Best do for the Conversion of Those Children Whose Wickedness is Occasioned by Their Sinful Severity or Indulgence? (Malachi 4:6) Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #22.

*Maffet, Gregory J., Biblical Schools for Covenant Children, ISBN: 0941221008 9780941221009.
Introduction by Jay Adams.

McDowell, Stephen, Loving God With all Your Mind: Books and Films to Encourage, Inspire, and Equip in a Biblical Worldview.
"This booklet contains lists of books that will help you develop a Biblical worldview. Book lists are given for all ages including: picture books for the youngest children, literature, history, and biographies for students; resource books for adults or older children on many aspects of Biblical worldview and providential history.
"A list of movies is also presented, many with Biblical themes and principles, with most simply good, wholesome movies enjoyed by young and old."
These resources will implant Godly principles and character, teach good and great ideas, and inspire the student of any age to a life of learning and excellence." -- Publisher

McMaster (M'Master), Gilbert (1778-1854), The Parent's Assistant for the Sabbath Evening Instruction of his Children: From the Appendix to Dr. McMaster's Analysis of the Westminster Shorter Catechism.

McMaster (M'Master), Gilbert (1778-1854), The Shorter Catechism Analyzed: Containing a Distinct Exhibition of the Particular Doctrines Under Each Question, With Appropriate Proofs From Scripture. Alternate title: ANALYSIS OF THE WESTMINSTER SHORTER CATECHISM.

McPherson, Gary, The Child as Musician: A Handbook of Musical Development, ISBN: 0198530315 9780198530312.

*Morris, Benjamin Franklin, Christian Life and Character of the Civil Institutions of the United States, Developed in the Official and Historical Annals of the Republic, 1864, ISBN: 0243184069 9780243184064.
"This volume is committed to the American people, in the firm assurance that the invaluable facts which it records will be grateful to every patriotic and pious heart. In it, as from the richest mines, has been brought out the pure gold of our history. Its treasures have been gathered and placed in this casket for the instruction and benefit of the present and future. We have a noble historic life; for our ancestors were the worthies of the world. We have a noble nation, full of the evidences of the molding presence of Christian truth, and of the power and goodness of Divine wisdom in rearing up a Christian republic for all time. That this was the spirit and aim of the early founders of our institutions, the facts in this volume fully testify.
"The field through which the reader will walk, in this work, must give wider expansion to his political views, quicken the pulses of his loyalty, add to his conscious dignity as an American citizen, strengthen his confidence in our future, and impart a higher tone to his piety.
"The single object of the compiler was to link, in a connected form, the golden chain of our Christian history, and to reveal the basis on which our institutions stand.
"The documents and facts are authentic, and have been collected, with laborious diligence, from standard historical works and from the political and Christian annals of the nation. The volume is the voice of the best and wisest men of the republic. It must, therefore, have weight with the American people, and be a political and Christian thesaurus and text-book to the scholar, the teacher, the patriot, the politician, the statesman, the jurist, the legislator, the divine, and, in a word, to all classes of American citizens. The work is not speculative or theoretical, but a series of facts to unfold and establish the Christian life and character of the civil institutions of the United States, in the light of which every American citizen can trace to its source the true glory of the nation and learn to appreciate its institutions and to venerate and imitate the great and good men who founded them. . . .
"It has been a delightful task of patriotism and piety to the compiler to prepare the volume, and to lay it as a grateful offering upon the common altar of his country and of Christianity.
"It is also the ardent hope of the compiler that the facts and principles recorded in this volume, and in which, in our early struggle, all denominations of Christians uttered with such harmony their convictions that the only sure and stable basis of our civil institutions was in the Christian religion, may contribute to strengthen the union of patriotism and piety in all parts of the country, to save the nation from the perils of a wicked rebellion, and be the brightest hope of the future. . . .
"The volume is committed to the blessing of God and to the judgment and favor of the American people, in humble trust that it may aid in preserving and perpetuating to future generations the Union of the States, the integrity of the best government ever instituted by the wisdom of men, and the nationality of the American Republic." -- Rev. Byron Sunderland, D.D., late Pastor of the First Presbyterian Church of Washington City, and Chaplain to the Senate of the United States in the Thirty-Seventh Congress, from the Preface
Christian Life and Character of the Civil Institutions of the United States, 1864
https://ia800205.us.archive.org/27/items/christianlifecha00morr/christianlifecha00morr_bw.pdf

Murphy, Elspeth Campbell, God, You Fill us up With Joy: Psalm 100 for Children, ISBN: 1555130372 9781555130374.
Illustrated by Jane E. Nelson.

Owen, John (1616-1683), The Primer: Or, an Easie way to Teach Children the True Reading of English. With a Necessary Catechisme, to instruct youth in the grounds of Christian religion. Also choice places of Scripture for that purpose. Composed by John Owen, minister of the Gospel. Approved and allowed by a committee of Parliament, 1652.

*Perks, Stephen C., The Christian Philosophy of Education Explained, ISBN: 0951889907 9780951889909.
"The editor of Calvinism Today magazine has written a book which, in the words of Samuel L. Blumenfeld, demonstrates with simplicity the cogent argument that the Christian and humanist worldviews are mutually exclusive, and that it is 'treason against God' to put children in the hands of non-believers for their education. Every Christian parent should read this challenging, forthright, insightful book before deciding where and how to educate his or her children." -- GCB

*Pink, Michael, Tough Questions, Straight Answers
"A great topical arrangement of Scriptures on modern subjects that our children bump up against everyday. Just Bible passages. Highly recommended." -- GCB

Potter, William, The Boy's Guide to the Historical Adventures of G.A. Henty (Vocabulary of a Warrior), ISBN: 1929241151 9781929241156.
"This unique book charts Henty's works of historical fiction chronologically and provides both a plot summary and an historical overview of over 70 of his classic tales." -- Publisher
"HOME EDUCATORS: If you are trying to put together a history-based curriculum, this volume is very helpful! You can gauge which time periods in your student's course of study need some bolstering up (or livening up), and search in this book for the proper Henty novel to introduce. For example, to bulk up our study on 'Ancient Times,' I needed a novel about Hannibal. This terrific reference book tells me to get Henty's 'The Young Carthaginian' to meet that requirement.
"Another problem it solves is that sometimes a history-based curriculum can get predictable. Everyone seems to be covering the same things and the only variance is how deeply they're studied. This guide covers all of Henty's books and makes it easy to locate his books on obscure subjects and events which you can tantalize your children with. Children seem to love citing these forgotten tales and bedazzling their peers and family with them!
"This volume will also prove invaluable to PEOPLE EDUCATING THEMSELVES. As an adult who is battling her 'learning gaps,' I just page through this reference until I find something that doesn't ring ANY bells! By reading a Henty, I enjoy a terrific adventure (which I can later discuss with my children), educate myself and, if I want to, pursue the subject more deeply later on." -- Reader's Comment
"G.A. Henty wrote around 144 books. Many of the books revolve around a fictional character who interacts with real persons from that historical period. Heroism, honor, courage, and leadership are integral characteristics of the main protagonists. I have trouble putting down a Henty story. I highly recommend this resource." -- Reader's Comment

*Pride, Mary, Schoolproof: How to Help Your Family Beat the System and Learn to Love Learning the Easy Natural way, ISBN: 0891074805 9780891074809.
"Schoolproofing means having children who learn to read, who learn to obey authority, who learn to stand against injustice." -- GCB "Mary Pride's book will help parents make sure their children get a great education, no matter what political or educational theory happens to be in vogue. Schoolproofing means having children who learn to read, who learn to obey authority, who learn to stand against injustice. Just a few of the topics covered: getting organized; motivating your students while respecting them; steps to independent learning -- including one commonly-forgotten but absolutely essential step; 20 ways to present a lesson and more. This book helps you understand why different educational philosophies work (or don't), and where we should go from here." -- Publisher

*Reimer, Kathie, 1001 Ways to Introduce Your Child to God, ISBN: 0842347577 9780842347570.
"Creative ideas to help children develop godly attitudes and healthy ways of thinking." -- Publisher

Spurgeon, C.H. (1834-1892), Come ye Children: A Book on the Christian Training of Children, ISBN: 0686168402. Alternate title: COME YE CHILDREN PRACTICAL HELP TELLING PEOPLE ABOUT JESUS.
"In this book Spurgeon provides valuable aid for parents, teachers and youth leaders on the subject of training children." -- GCB
"A book for parents and teachers on the Christian training of children as well as the evangelization of children called by the grace of God. Contains such chapters as: "Fed my Lambs -- How to Do It," "Do Not Hinder the Children," "Of Such is the Kingdom of Heaven," "The Child Timothy and His Teachers," and "Abijah's 'Some Good Thing'." -- Gospel Mission
Come ye Children, by C.H. Spurgeon
http://archive.spurgeon.org/misc/cyc.php

*Spurgeon, Charles Haddon (1834-1892), Spurgeon's Catechism: A Puritan Catechism.
Spurgeon's Catechism: A Puritan Catechism
http://storage.cloversites.com/northpointecommunitychurch1/documents/Spurgeon_Catechism.pdf

Stewart, Bruce Cameron, and The Reformed Presbyterian Church of North America. Board of Education and Publication, Covenant Family Home Training Guide, 1960.

Strydom, Jan, Susan du Plessis, and Benetta Strydom, The Bible's way to Victory Over ADHD and Other Childhood Challenges
"A free online book, providing sound answers on preventing and overcoming behavioral, emotional and learning problems, including ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder), ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder), ODD (Oppositional Defiant Disorder), Conduct Disorder and Tourette's Syndrome."
http://www.audiblox2000.com/onlinebook/index.htm
E-mail: benetta@mweb.co.za

Sturkie, Joan, and Siang-Yang Tan, Advanced Peer Counseling in Youth Groups: Equipping Your Kids to Help Each Other With the Tough Issues, ISBN: 0310373018 9780310373018.

Sturkie, Joan, and Siang-Yang Tan, Peer Counseling in Youth Groups: Equipping Your Kids to Help Each Other, ISBN: 031054081X 9780310540816.

*Thompson-Iserbyt, Charlotte, The Deliberate Dumbing Down of America: A Chronological Paper Trail, ISBN: 0966707109 9780966707106.
"This book is the book to have. Every concerned parent in America should invest in a copy. It's the encyclopedia, in year date order, of just what has been going on in America in the public school system for years and years. It holds answers to many unanswered questions. Years of research at our fingertips and it's the size of a telephone book. It's the best inside look. It's honest, official documentation, undisputable evidence. If every parent were to read this, we could right a terrible wrong being done in public schools today. The fact she was once a Senior Policy Advisor for the U.S. Department of Education weighs a lot on the books credibility factor." -- Reader's Comment

Van Dyken, Donald, Rediscovering Catechism: The art of Equipping Covenant Children, ISBN: 0875524648 9780875524641.

Venning, Ralph, Learning in Christ's School: Babes, Children, Youth, and Fathers, ISBN: 0851517641 9780851517643.

*Vincent, Thomas (1634-1678), Shorter Catechism Explained From Scripture. Alternate title: THE SHORTER CATECHISM OF THE WESTMINSTER ASSEMBLY EXPLAINED AND PROVED FROM SCRIPTURE, ISBN: 085151314X. A Christian classic. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
"Forty Puritans including John Owen, Thomas Manton, Thomas Brooks and Thomas Watson recommended this useful volume as a very worth aid for family instruction. This volume gives parents very simple explanations to take their children through the Westminster Shorter Catechism."
Westminster Shorter Catechism With Proof Texts
http://www.reformed.org/documents/WSC_frames.html
Westminster Shorter Catechism Project: Body of Divinity Contained in Sermons Upon the Assembly's Catechism by the Rev. Thomas Watson
"Click on any of the individual questions below to get the answer and Biblical references, as well as links to works by John Flavel, Thomas Watson, Thomas Boston, James Fisher, and John Whitecross, and others."
http://www.shortercatechism.com/

*Watson, Thomas (1620-1686), Body of Divinity: Contained in Sermons Upon the Westminster Assembly's Catechism, ISBN: 0851511449. A Christian classic. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
"The first book published by the Trust, this has been one of the best sellers and consistently the most useful and influential of our publications . . . It deals with the foremost doctrinal and experimental truths of the Christian faith . . . It is based on the Westminster Assembly's Shorter Catechism, in which the main principles of Christianity that lie scattered in the Scriptures are brought together and set forth in the form of question and answer. This catechism is unsurpassed for its 'terse exactitude of definition' and 'logical elaboration' of the fundamentals. . . . Watson conveys his thorough doctrinal and experimental knowledge of the truth in such an original, concise, pithy, pungent, racy, rich, and illustrative style that he is rightly regarded as the most readable of the Puritans." -- Publisher
"As an introduction to Puritan theology, as a short and sweet course in Christian doctrine, as devotional reading, and as a preacher's gold-mine, Watson's work can hardly be praised too highly." -- J.I. Packer
"Contains Watson's exposition of the Westminster Shorter Catechism, excluding the Lord's Prayer and the Ten Commandments." -- GCB
Westminster Shorter Catechism Project: Body of Divinity Contained in Sermons Upon the Assembly's Catechism by the Rev. Thomas Watson
http://www.shortercatechism.com/resources/vincent/wsc_vi_001.html?page_id=205
Westminster Shorter Catechism With Proof Texts
http://www.reformed.org/documents/WSC_frames.html
The Complete Scripture Index to the Westminster Confession (1646), Larger and Shorter Catechisms. Alternate title: SCRIPTURE INDEX TO THE WESTMINSTER STANDARDS. Available on Library of Presbyterian Heritage Publications and Protestant Heritage Press. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
The Complete Scripture Index to the Westminster Confession (1646), Larger and Shorter Catechisms.
http://www.swrb.com/newslett/actualnls/index01.htm
Westminster Shorter Catechism Project
"Click on any of the individual questions below to get the answer and Biblical references, as well as links to works by John Flavel, Thomas Watson, Thomas Boston, James Fisher, and John Whitecross, and others."
http://www.shortercatechism.com/
Watson, A Body of Practical Divinity Sermons on the Shorter Catechism of the Westminster Assembly, also Select Sermons on Various Subjects, Together with The Art of Divine Contentment, and Christ's Various Fulness (1859)
http://archive.org/details/bodyofpracticald00watsuoft
Bordwine, James, A Guide to the Westminster Standards: Confession of Faith and Larger Catechism (Unicoi, TN: (The Trinity Foundation, 1996), ISBN: 0940931303 9780940931305.
Includes a unique, 100-page topical index to both the Confession and the Catechism.

Whitecross, John, The Shorter Catechism Illustrated, ISBN: 1932474080 9781932474084.
The Shorter Catechism Illustrated, John Whitecross
http://www.shortercatechism.com/resources/whitecross/wsc_wh_001.html
Illustrations of the Shorter Catechism for children and youth (1864), Jonathan Cross [Whitecross -- compiler]
http://archive.org/details/illustrationsoft01crosuoft

Wileman, William, John Calvin: His Life, his Teaching, and his Influence.
Both juvenile and adult reading. Available in THE COMPLETE JOHN CALVIN COLLECTION offered by Ages Software (now defunct).
"The following pages contain an attempt to set forth in a readable and attractive form the principal features of a great life.
"While thus recording facts, the aim of the writer has been to give an honest and impartial view of those living truths of God that are commonly associated with the name of Calvin.
"He has also kept in view a desire to write what should be worthy of the attention of our young people, who are warmly invited to read what God did in days of old. -- Preface

Willard, Samuel (1639-1707), The Franklin Primer: Containing a new and Useful Selection of Moral Lessons . . . Calculated to Strike a Lasting Impression on the Tender Minds of Children.

Wonderly, Gustava M., Training Children: From the Beginning as "Unto the Lord."

Zwingli, Ulrich (1484-1531), The Christian Education of Youth.

See also: The sovereignty of god, The doctrine of man (human nature, total depravity), Conscience, casuistry, cases of conscience, The sovereign grace of god: his everlasting mercy and lovingkindness, The inspiration and infallibility of scripture (the doctrine of revelation, the doctrine of plenary inspiration, the doctrine of divine inspiration, the doctrine of verbal inspiration, theopneustia, sufficiency of scripture), The holy bible, The teaching of our lord jesus christ, Repentance the key to salvation and change, Justification, Justifying faith, Creeds, confessions and catechisms, The free offer of the gospel message of salvation and the life to come: the means of grace, the covenant of eternal salvation, Sharing christ with your children, Book-length presentation of the gospel message and the life to come, the means of grace, The westminster confession of faith, The shorter catechism, Creeds, catechisms, and confessions, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Parenting, Family worship, Problem solving with children, Counseling children, Protecting children from dangers, Preparing children for the world, Christian fiction, Sexual relationship, Spiritual adultery (spiritual whoredom/harlotry), Slavery, our systems of enslavement, economic enslavement, Parenting, Fatherhood, Motherhood, Physiological problems, Counsel for young men, Counsel for young women, Disciplining children, Counseling children, Home schooling, Home schooling (women), Works by martha finley, Christian biography, Christian scholarship, Works considered to be among the ten greatest in the english language, Christian classics: a short title listing, The web edition of biblical counsel: resources for renewal, The best books in this bibliography, Some complementary books, How to find a book, Reformed publisher online, Chapter 5: Reference Works, Students, The covenanted reformation of scotland background and history, Public education, Ethics, computer ethics, cyberethics, Sex ethics, sex education, Conscience, casuistry, cases of conscience, Abstinence, Preparing children for the world, Protecting children from dangers, Teaching/training children, Christian life, Discipleship, Bad relationships a cause of disease and death, Problem solving with children, Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, For all counselors, Christian fiction, and so forth, and so on.
TCRB5: 1123, 1631-1637, 1643-1657, 1672, 1780, 3840, 3841, 3848, 4140

Related Weblinks

The Biblical Answer to the Education Crisis, an address on Deuteronomy 6:1-9, Peter Hammond
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=1231365421

Dyslexia
"As youngsters across the country settle into a new school year, some parents will receive disturbing news: little Jason or Emma has dyslexia. While this difficulty in processing written words can create challenges, it can be overcome with creativity. Two extraordinarily accomplished adults relate how their struggles with dyslexia in childhood contributed to their current achievements. Learn how parents can help children confront this challenge.
"Guests: Dr. Edward (Ned) Hallowell is a child and adult psychiatrist and the founder of The Hallowell Center for Cognitive and Emotional Health in Sudbury, MA and New York City. He is the author of DRIVEN TO DISTRACTION, DELIVERED FROM DISTRACTION, and 16 other books. The website is www.drhallowell.com. The photo is of Dr. Hallowell.
"Philip Schultz is an American poet, and winner of a Pulitzer Prize for his poetry. He is the founder and director of The Writers Studio, a private school for fiction and poetry writing based in New York City. The website is www.writerstudio.com. His most recent book, a memoir, is MY DYSLEXIA. His article for The New York Times is "Words Failed, Then Saved Me."
http://www.peoplespharmacy.com/2011/09/17/828-dyslexia/

A Guide for Young Christians, John W. Robbins
http://www.trinityfoundation.org/journal.php?id=125

Logos Research Systems, Memlok Bible Memory System Starter Kit
"Now it is easier than ever to memorize scripture. You know you should do it, you know you want to do it, you know it will have a tremendous benefit in your life. Now you can have a system that is proven to be effective, and is easy to use. . . !
"This is perfect for you if you use your computer every day. You can have Memlok run itself at start-up each day. Just five minutes every day for five days a week and you are memorizing scripture!" -- Publisher

Mount Olive Tape Library of Reformed Theology
This collection has been in the custody of the Greenville Presbyterian Seminary since 2006. It appears (September 8, 2016) that the Media Center at the Seminary have digitized practically none of the audio cassette and video tape addresses.
"The following listing was developed by George Calhoun, the founder of Mt. Olive Tape Library, over the course of some thirty years. This catalog reflects the personal quest of Mr. Calhoun for a balanced education in Reformed Theology. The speakers herein have been scrutinized for their faithfulness to the Bible. These tapes will enable students to pursue the study of Reformed theology at a minimum of financial expense."
"FOR YOUR INFORMATION . . . [from the introduction to the Mount Olive Tape Catalog -- compiler]
"The tapes included in this catalog are recordings of sermons and lectures given by various pastors, theologians, Bible teachers, and conference speakers who confess adherence to the broad perspectives of historic Reformed theology. We have diligently tried to screen all the materials as to their basic commitment to the Biblical perspectives reflected in the Reformed creeds and confessions.
"Since, however, no human interpreter of God's Word is infallible, it is the prayer of those responsible for sending forth these tapes that all who listen to them will cultivate the spirit of the Bereans, who 'searched the Scriptures daily to see whether these things were so.'
"Also, it should be emphasized that the tapes included in this catalog have been evaluated in terms of their basic content as they were originally given, and the inclusion of them in this catalog should not be construed as an unreserved approval of the men who originally gave them. Christians grow in grace and knowledge with the passing of time, yet it must be recognized that some turn aside from the norms of Scripture. It is our hope, therefore, that no one will attach himself to any of the men whose tapes are included in this catalog on the basis of the tapes alone. We are all commanded to be discerning toward those who would instruct us in the faith.
"Finally, it would be a tragic abuse of the intent in providing these sermons and lectures should they in any way cultivate a party spirit so clearly condemned by the Apostle Paul in 1 Corinthians 3. Paul reminded the Corinthians that all things were theirs -- Paul, Cephas, and Apollos included. We, too, may recognize that the various servants of Christ whose voices are heard on these tapes are God's gifts to us and that we are to follow them only insofar as they follow Christ and the clear teachings of His holy and infallible Word! Since not all men have the same gifts, learn to drink from the gifts of many men -- not just one fountain."
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Mount Olive Tape Library lectures (MP3 [audio files]), [audio file], approximately 161 of 171
http://www.sermonaudio.com/search.asp?speakeronly=true&currsection=sermonsspeaker&keyword=Dr._C._Gregg_Singer
The Catalog of the Mount Olive Tape Library in PDF Format
http://www.lettermen2.com/olivecat.pdf
Mt. Olive Audio Library, Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary
http://gpts.edu/media/index.php?currpage=1&sa_action=
Greenville Seminary and Mt. Olive
http://www.sermonaudio.com/source_detail.asp?sourceid=gpts

Reformed Children's Books
http://www.swrb.com/links/children.htm

RZIM (Ravi Zacharias International Ministries) Academy
Various resources in apologetics.
http://rzimacademy.org/

SermonAudio.com
"SermonAudio.com is the largest library of audio sermons on the web from conservative Christian churches and ministries with over 438,500 FREE MP3 [audio file] sermons which can be streamed online for immediate listening or downloaded to your computer or MP3 player for listening at a later time. You can easily search through the entire sermon library by broadcaster, Bible reference, topic, speaker, date preached, language, or any keyword.
"The mission of SermonAudio.com is to help faithful, local churches broadcast their audio sermons to the maximum amount of people with the least amount of cost. Our chief purpose is for the preservation and propagation of great Bible preaching and teaching in its audio form for this generation and the next.
"Additionally, through our Transcription and Translation service, any sermon that is available on SermonAudio.com can be professionally and accurately transcribed by a real human and then machine-translated into 20 plus foreign languages."
http://www.sermonaudio.com/

The Shorter Catechism Deck
"The Shorter Catechism Deck is a card deck that incorporates all 107 questions of the Westminster Shorter Catechism (17th Century) on 54 bridge sized playing cards. The idea for this project spawned out of necessity. The Shorter Catechism is normally printed in a collection of other documents, which can often make for a rather large book. So, what we did was create something that would allow for a convenient and practical catechizing tool for at home or on the go."
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/386341857/the-shorter-catechism-deck?ref=user_menu

*Westminster Shorter Catechism, video series
"THE WESTMINSTER SHORTER CATECHISM is a catechism written in 1646 and 1647 by the Westminster Assembly, a synod of English and Scottish theologians and laymen intended to bring the Church of England into greater conformity with the Church of Scotland. The Catechism is in a question and answer format, which had been popularized by Martin Luther as a way to help children learn the meaning of the material, rather than simply memorizing the Lord's Prayer, Ten Commandments, and Apostles' Creed as had been the practice prior to the Reformation. The catechism is composed of 107 questions and answers. Each video segment in the 'Westminster Shorter Catechism Series' is a self-contained unit for use in individual and family study. Suggested uses may include use as part of a Home School Curriculum or for discussion in Family Worship. We trust the Lord would use these lessons to enrich and bless your souls."
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCliClfWuYGWapz08HOsTQHA?app=desktop

Small Children's Catechism
http://www.reformed.org/documents/child_cat.html

Westminster Shorter Catechism With Proof Texts
http://www.reformed.org/documents/WSC_frames.html

Counsel for Young Men

This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success. (Joshua 1:8)
Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding. (Proverbs 4:7)
Hast thou not known? Hast thou not heard, that the everlasting God, the LORD, the Creator of the ends of the earth, fainteth not, neither is weary? There is no searching of his understanding. He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might he increaseth strength. Even the youths shall faint and be weary, and the young men shall utterly fall: But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint. (Isaiah 40:28-31)
Isaiah 40 "is perhaps the most famous passage in the Old Testament on God's work of creation." -- John Gill commenting on Isaiah 40:28-31
Nothing perhaps affects man's character more than the company he keeps. We catch the ways and tone of those we live and talk with, and unhappily get harm far more easily than good. Disease is infectious, but health is not.
Now if a professing Christian deliberately chooses to be intimate with those who are not friends of God and who cling to the world, his soul is sure to take harm. It is hard enough to serve Christ under any circumstances in such a world as this. But it is doubly hard to do it if we are friends of the thoughtless and ungodly. Mistakes in friendship or marriage engagements are the whole reason why some have entirely ceased to grow. Evil communications corrupt good manners. . . . The friendship of the world is enmity with God. (1 Corinthians 15:33; James 4:4) -- J.C. Ryle (1816-1900)
Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart. (2 Timothy 2:22)
Our first love is our only love because, by definition, a man can become one flesh (Genesis 2:24; 1 Corinthians 6:15-20) with only one woman, and visa versa. Men and women have only ONE CHANCE to become one flesh. Promiscuity then is a hopelessly impossible attempt to again know that oneness which has been lost.
On the contrary, he charges them with gross and voluntary ignorance, as if he had said that, by their madness, they brought down destruction on themselves. The meaning therefore is, that the people perished because they despised instruction . . . .
Hence we draw a useful doctrine; namely, that the source of all our calamities is, that we do not allow ourselves to be taught by the word of God, and this is what the Prophet chiefly intended that we should observe. . . .
So then it is a true statement, that the reason why the people endure such a variety of afflictions is, that they are ignorant of God, and will not allow themselves to be taught by him. -- John Calvin commenting on Isaiah 5:13
You only have one life, it will soon be past. Only what is done for Christ will last. -- C.T. Studd
Make your life count for eternity.
Give up your small ambitions and follow Christ! -- Peter Hammond
The selection of Scripture verses that follow are suggested as appropriate for young men to memorize. They may be viewed in their context with commentary at CrossWalk.com.
CrossWalk.com
http://www.biblestudytools.com/
See the Biblical counselor's story about his son found at the beginning of the topical listing "Scripture Memory Systems":
Scripture Memory Systems
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr2cha.html#smsys
Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (John 14:23)
Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed;
And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (John 8:31,32)
He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (John 14:21)
For it seemed good to the Holy Ghost, and to us, to lay upon you no greater burden than these necessary things: That ye abstain from meats offered to idols, and from blood, and from things strangled, and from fornication: from which if ye keep yourselves, ye shall do well. Fare ye well. (Acts 15:28,29) -- From a letter written by the Apostles after they had consulted together, and declared to the church at Antioch
When my father and my mother forsake me, then the Lord will take me up. (Psalm 27:10)
Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth, while the evil days come not, nor the years draw nigh, when thou shalt say, I have no pleasure in them. (Ecclesiastes 12:1 1)
Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? by taking heed thereto according to thy word. (Psalm 119:9)
He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God? (Micah 6:8)
This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success. (Joshua 1:8)
My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge: because thou hast rejected knowledge, I will also reject thee, that thou shalt be no priest to me: seeing thou hast forgotten the law of thy God, I will also forget thy children.
As they were increased, so they sinned against me: therefore will I change their glory into shame. (Hosea 4:6,7)
The Treasury of David, Psalm 25, C.H. Spurgeon
The meek will he guide in judgment: and the meek will he teach His way.
All the paths of the LORD are mercy and truth unto such as keep his covenant and his testimonies. (Psalm 25:9,10)
The secret of the Lord is with them that fear him; and he will shew them his covenant. (Psalm 25:14)
http://archive.spurgeon.org/treasury/ps025.php
The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction. (Proverbs 1:7)
Ask and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: for every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened. Or what man is there of you, whom if his son ask bread, will he give him a stone? Or if he ask a fish, will he give him a serpent? If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask him? -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 7:7-11)
This is the stone which was set at nought of you builders, which is become the head of the corner.
Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved. (Acts 4:11,12)
The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, thou wilt not despise. (Psalm 51:17)
Thus saith the Lord; Cursed be the man that trusteth in man, and maketh flesh his arm, and whose heart departeth from the Lord. For he shall be like the heath in the desert, and shall not see when good cometh; but shall inhabit the parched places in the wilderness, in a salt land and not inhabited. Blessed is the man that trusteth in the Lord, and whose hope the Lord is. For he shall be as a tree planted by the waters, and that spreadeth out her roots by the river, and shall not see when heat cometh, but her leaf shall be green; and shall not be careful in the year of drought, neither shall cease from yielding fruit. (Jeremiah 17:5-8)
Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 4:10)
Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity! (Psalm 133:1)
Fret not thyself because of evildoers,
neither be thou envious against the workers of iniquity.
For they shall soon be cut down like the grass,
and wither as the green herb.
Trust in the LORD, and do good;
so shalt thou dwell in the land, and verily thou shalt be fed.
Delight thyself also in the LORD;
and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart. (Psalm 37:1-4)
Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path. (Psalm 119:105)
Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.
For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.
And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever. (John 2:15-17)
Commit thy works unto the LORD, and thy thoughts shall be established. (Proverbs 16:3)
And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men;
Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ. (Colossians 3:23,24)
And the spirit of the LORD shall rest upon him, the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and might, the spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the LORD. (Isaiah 11:2)
(For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;) Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ. (2 Corinthians 10:4-5, verses associated with The Trinity Foundation)
I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me. (Galatians 2:20)
Concerning the works of men, by the word of thy lips I have kept me from the paths of the destroyer. (Psalm 17:4)
But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 4:4)
Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness. (Isaiah 41:10)
No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD, and their righteousness is of me, saith the LORD. (Isaiah 54:17)
And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. (Romans 12:2)
And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 25:40)
And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation; (Corinthians 5:18)
And now I say unto you, Refrain from these men, and let them alone: for if this counsel or this work be of men, it will come to nought:
But if it be of God, ye cannot overthrow it; lest haply ye be found even to fight against God. (Acts 5:38,39)
Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us,
Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen. (Ephesians 3:20,21)
And Jesus said unto them, Verily I say unto you, That ye which have followed me, in the regeneration when the Son of man shall sit in the throne of his glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel.
And every one that hath forsaken houses, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my name's sake, shall receive an hundredfold, and shall inherit everlasting life.
But many [that are] first shall be last; and the last [shall be] first. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 19:28-30)
The four "Servant Songs" of Isaiah are Isaiah 42:1-9; Isaiah 49:1-7; Isaiah 50:4-11; and Isaiah 52:13 -- Isaiah 53:12. See the annotations in The Reformation Study Bible.
Our Triune God has ordained that the preeminent leader of the Church is the Lord Jesus Christ, the God Man, Our Righteousness. (John 1:1-18; Matthew 19:30; Matthew 28:18-20; Isaiah 49:7; Colossians 1:16-19; Colossians 2:9,10; Hebrews 12:1,2; Revelation 5:1-14; Revelation 19:11-15; Revelation 20:11-15; Revelation 22:12, and so forth, and so on). Human leadership is also divinely ordained and tends to devolve to those who are most perfectly at one with Christ, and to those who also know the most Truth (the Apostle Paul, Saint Augustine, Martin Luther, John Calvin, Puritan leaders, The Scots Worthies, and so forth, and so on).
And Jesus said unto them, Verily I say unto you, That ye which have followed me, in the regeneration when the Son of man shall sit in the throne of his glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 19:28). See: (Matthew 19:28, 1599 Geneva Bible)
Then his master said unto him, It is well done good servant and faithful, Thou hast been faithful in little, I will make thee ruler over much: enter into thy master's joy. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 25:21) (Matthew 25:21 1599 Geneva Bible)
Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 25:34). See: (Matthew 25:34, 1599 Geneva Bible)
And he said unto him, Well, good servant: because thou hast been faithful in a very little thing, take thou authority over ten cities. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 19:17) (Luke 19:17, 1599 Geneva Bible)
Therefore I appoint unto you a kingdom, as my Father hath appointed unto me. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 22:29) (Luke 22:29, 1599 Geneva Bible)
And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together. (Romans 8:17). See: (Romans 8:17, 1599 Geneva Bible)
Know ye not that we shall judge angels? how much more things that pertain to this life? (1 Corinthians 6:3). See: (1 Corinthians 6:3, 1599 Geneva Bible)
And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus. (Ephesians 2:6). See: (Ephesians 2:6, 1599 Geneva Bible)
To execute vengeance upon the heathen, and corrections among the people:
To bind their kings in chains, and their nobles with fetters of iron,
That they may execute upon them the judgment that is written: this honor shall be to all his Saints. Praise ye the Lord. (Psalm 149:7-9) (Psalm 149:7-9, 1599 Geneva Bible)
But I suffer not a woman to teach, nor to usurp authority over the man, but to be in silence. (1 Timothy 2:12), (1 Timothy 2:12, 1599 Geneva Bible)
And he that overcometh, and keepeth my works unto the end, to him will I give power over the nations. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Revelation 2:26). See: (Revelation 2:26, 1599 Geneva Bible)
To serve God is to reign. -- Seneca (4 BC -- 65 AD)
Choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season;
Esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt: for he had respect unto the recompence of the reward. (Hebrews 11:25-26)
This clause ought to be carefully noticed; for we here learn that we ought to shun as a deadly poison whatever cannot be enjoyed without offending God; for the pleasures of sin he calls all the allurements of the world which draw us away from God and our calling. But the comforts of our earthly life, which we are allowed by pure conscience, and God's permission to enjoy, are not included here. Let us then ever remember that we ought to know and understand what God allows us. There are indeed some things in themselves lawful, but the use of which is prohibited to us, owing to circumstances as to time, place, or other things. Hence as to all the blessings connected with the present life, what is ever to be regarded is, that they should be to us helps and aids to follow God and not hindrances. And he calls these pleasures of sin temporary or for a time, because they soon vanish away together with life itself.
"In opposition to these he sets the reproach of Christ, which all the godly ought willingly to undergo. For those whom God has chosen, he has also foreordained to be conformed to the image of his own son; not that he exercises them all by the same kind of reproaches or by the same cross, but that they are all to be so minded as not to decline to undertake the cross in common with Christ. Let every one then bear in mind, that as he is called to this fellowship he is to throw off all hindrances. Nor must we omit to say, that he reckons among the reproaches of Christ all the ignominious trials which the faithful have had to endure from the beginning of the world; for as they were the member of the same body, so they had nothing different from what we have. As all sorrows are indeed the rewards of sin, so they are also the fruits of the curse pronounced on the first man: but whatever wrongs we endure from the ungodly on account of Christ, these he regards as his own. Hence Paul gloried that he made up what was wanting as to the sufferings of Christ. Were we rightly to consider this, it would not be so grievous and bitter for us to suffer for Christ.
"He also explains more fully what he means in this clause by the reproach of Christ, by what he has previously declared when he said, that Moses chose to suffer affliction with the people of God. He could not have otherwise avowed himself as one of God's people, except he had made himself a companion to his own nation in their miseries. Since, then, this is the end, let us not separate ourselves from the body of the Church: whatever we suffer, let us know that it is consecrated on account of the head. So on the other hand he calls those things the treasures of Egypt, which no one can otherwise possess than by renouncing and forsaking the Church. For he had respect unto the recompense of the reward, or for he looked to the remuneration. He proves by the description he gives, that the magnanimity of Moses' mind was owing to faith; for he had his eyes fixed on the promise of God. For he could not have hoped that it would be better for him to be with the people of Israel than with the Egyptians, had he not trusted in the promise and in nothing else.
By faith he forsook Egypt, etc.
This may be said of his first as well as of his second departure, that is, when he brought out the people with him. He then indeed left Egypt when he fled from the house of Pharaoh. Add to this, that his going out is recorded by the Apostle before he mentions the celebration of the Passover. He seems then to speak of the flight of Moses; nor is what he adds, that he feared not the wrath of the king, any objection to this, though Moses himself relates that he was constrained to do so by fear. For if we look at the beginning of his course he did not fear, that is, when he avowed himself to be the avenger of his people. However, when I consider all the circumstances, I am inclined to regard this as his second departure; for it was then that he bravely disregarded the fierce wrath of the king, being armed with such power by God's Spirit, that he often of his own accord defied the fury of that wild beast. It was doubtless an instance of the wonderful strength of faith, that he brought out a multitude untrained for war and burdened with many encumbrances, and yet hoped that a way would be opened to him by God's hand through innumerable difficulties. He saw a most powerful king in a furious rage, and he knew that he would not cease till he had tried his utmost. But as he knew that God had commanded him to depart, he committed the event to him, nor did he doubt but that he would in dug time restrain all the assaults of the Egyptians.
As seeing him who is invisible. Nay, but he had seen God in the midst of the burning bush: this then seems to have been said improperly, and not very suitable to the present subject. I indeed allow, that Moses was strengthened in his faith by that vision, before he took in hand the glorious work of delivering the people; but I do not admit that it was such a view of God, as divested him of his bodily senses, and transferred him beyond the trials of this world. God at that time only showed him a certain symbol of his presence; but he was far from seeing God as he is. Now, the Apostle means, that Moses so endured, as though he was taken up to heaven, and had God only before his eyes; and as though he had nothing to do with men, was not exposed to the perils of this world and had no contests with Pharaoh. And yet, it is certain, that he was surrounded with so many difficulties, that he could not but think sometimes that God was far away from him, or at least, that the obstinacy of the king, furnished as it was with so many means of resistance, would at length overcome him. In short, God appeared to Moses in such a way, as still to leave room for faith; and Moses, when beset by terrors on every side, turned all his thoughts to God. He was indeed assisted to do this, by the vision which we have mentioned; but yet he saw more in God than what that symbol intimated: for he understood his power, and that absorbed all his fears and dangers. Relying on God's promise, he felt assured that the people, though then oppressed by the tyranny of the Egyptians, were already, as it were, the lords of the promised land.
We hence learn, that the true character of faith is to set God always before our eyes; secondly, that faith beholds higher and more hidden things in God than what our senses can perceive; and thirdly, that a view of God alone is sufficient to strengthen our weakness, so that we may become firmer than rocks to withstand all the assaults of Satan. It hence follows, that the weaker and the less resolute any one is, the less faith he has. -- John Calvin commenting on Hebrew 11:25-27
Then he answered and spake unto me, saying, This is the word of the LORD unto Zerubbabel, saying, Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the LORD of hosts. (Zechariah 4:6)
The just Lord is in the midst thereof; he will not do iniquity: every morning doth he bring his judgment to light, he faileth not; but the unjust knoweth no shame. (Zephaniah 3:5)
Thus saith the Lord; Cursed be the man that trusteth in man, and maketh flesh his arm, and whose heart departeth from the Lord. For he shall be like the heath in the desert, and shall not see when good cometh; but shall inhabit the parched places in the wilderness, in a salt land and not inhabited. Blessed is the man that trusteth in the Lord, and whose hope the Lord is. For he shall be as a tree planted by the waters, and that spreadeth out her roots by the river, and shall not see when heat cometh, but her leaf shall be green; and shall not be careful in the year of drought, neither shall cease from yielding fruit. (Jeremiah 17:5-8)
Blessed is the man that trusteth in the LORD, and whose hope the LORD is. (Jeremiah 17:7)
He must increase, but I must decrease. (John 3:30)
To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Acts 26:18)
I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called,
With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love;
Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. (Ephesians 4:1-3)
He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city. (Proverbs 16:32)
And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins. (1 Peter 4:8)
Honour all men. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honour the king. (1 Peter 2:17)
But the Lord is faithful, who shall stablish you, and keep you from evil. (2 Thessalonians 3:3)
Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves: be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 10:16)
A lying tongue hateth those that are afflicted by it; and a flattering mouth worketh ruin. (Proverbs 26:28)
He that is of a proud heart stirreth up strife: but he that putteth his trust in the LORD shall be made fat. (Proverbs 28:25)
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,
Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. (Galatians 5:22,23)
I know that, whatsoever God doeth, it shall be for ever: nothing can be put to it, nor any thing taken from it: and God doeth it, that men should fear before him. (Ecclesiastes 3:14)
For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. (Hebrews 4:12)
Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin. (James 4:17)
A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.
By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (John 13:34,35)
This is the day which the LORD hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it. (Psalm 118:24)

Alexander, Archibald (1772-1851), Counsels of the Aged to the Young.

Alexander, James W. (1804-1859), My Brother's Keeper: Letters to a Younger Brother on the Virtues and Vices, Duties and Dangers of Youth, ISBN: 1932474668 9781932474664.

Allchin, Ronald A., Sr., Ripening Sonship: "A Wise Father's Counsel to his Son," A Study in Proverbs for Sons (Cudahy, Wisconsin: Reminder Printing, 1994), 129 pages plus appendix. Available from the author, 862 Thornton Lane, Buffalo Grove, Illinois.
"This workbook from the Proverbs is for fathers and sons to work through together. A dozen lessons tackle important areas of life: wisdom, companions, relation to parents, relations with women, the tongue, knowledge of Christ the Lord." -- David Powlison (1949-2019)

Anderson, Wayne J., How to Understand Sex: Guidelines for Students.

Baxter, Richard, Compassionate Warning and Advice to all, Especially to Young Persons. Being the Gift of the Author, Richard Baxter. London, 1708.

Bilezikian, Gilbert, Beyond Sex Roles: A Guide for the Study of Female Roles in the Bible, ISBN: 0801008859 9780801008856.

Brooks, Thomas (1608-1680), Apples of Gold for Young men and Women, and, A Crown of Glory for old men and Women. Or, the happiness of being good betimes, and the honour of being an old disciple. Clearly and fully discovered, and closely and faithfully applied. Also, the young man's objections answered, and the old man's doubts resolved. In The Works of Thomas Brooks, 1886 (1:167-284). Available (THE WORKS OF THOMAS BROOKS) on the Puritan Hard Drive.
"On whether the sins of God's true people will be brought into judgment, see chapter 5 (1:220-24)."

Clare, Austin, Our Example: Twelve Studies of the Character of our Lord, Drawn From His Precepts and Practice, for the Formation of the Christian Character.

Clare, Austin, The Young Man's Book of Piety: A Practical Manual of Christian Duties for the Formation of the Manly Character.

Doolittle, Thomas (1632?-1707), The Young Man's Instructer, and the old Man's Remembrancer, or, Controversies and Practical Truths, Fitted to the Capacity of Children, and the more ignorant sort of people: Being done in a catechetical exercise, on the Lords Day, in explaining the questions of the Reverend Assemblies Shorter catechisme . . .: Together with a practical application of the truth confirmed . . . Alternate title: THE YOUNG MAN'S INSTRUCTER, AND THE OLD MAN'S REMEMBRANCER, OR, CONTROVERSIES AND PRACTICAL TRUTHS, FITTED TO THE CAPACITY OF CHILDREN, AND THE MORE IGNORANT SORT OF PEOPLE, 1673. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.

Henry, Matthew (1662-1714), The Young Christian, ISBN: 0906731569 9780906731567.
"Using Paul's letter to Titus, Henry shows us in practical way how best to live as a Christian." -- GCB

Hunter, Wayne, and Emily Hunter, Man in Demand: Student Training Manual, ISBN: 0890815100 9780890815106.

*Lawson, George (1749-1820), Lectures on the History of Joseph.

Lawson, James R., The Character of Joseph; or, The Young Man's Model: An Address, Delivered Before the Saint John Young Men's Christian Association, on Thursday Evening, 20th March, 1856, ISBN: 0665480490 9780665480492.

Look Magazine, The Decline of the American Male.

McKnight, William John (1865-1951), A Study in Standards: Meant to be a Companion-piece to THE YOUNG PEOPLE'S MANUAL.

McKnight, William John (1865-1951), and Reformed Presbyterian Church in North America, The Young People's Manual Setting Forth in Plain Terms What we of the Reformed Presbyterian Church in North America Believe and why we Believe it, 1929.
The Young People's Manual
http://books.google.com/books?id=Cm1gHAAACAAJ&dq=The+Young+People's+Manual&hl=en&sa=X&ei=JRa5ULajAcW7iwKwyoDoCA&ved=0CDMQ6AEwAg

Plumer, William S. (William Swan, 1802-1880), A Friendly Letter to a Young man.

Powlison, David (1949-2019), and John Yenchko, Pre-engagement: Five Questions to ask Yourselves, ISBN: 0875526799 9780875526799.

Robbins, Alexandra, Fraternity: An Inside Look at a Year of College Boys Becoming Men, ISBN: 1101986743 9781101986745.
"The reader will notice similarities in the culture of college fraternities and the military, government, corporations, the workplace, and the institutionalized church." -- Reader's Comment

Rutherford, Samuel (1600-1661), The Forlorn Son, audio file series of 7 sermons. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #10.
Read by elder Lyndon Dohms from the book QUAINT SERMONS OF SAMUEL RUTHERFORD. The subject is the prodigal son.

*Schlink, Bernhard, and Carol Brown Janeway (translator), The Reader -- A Novel, 218 pages, ISBN: 0307454894 9780307454898.
This is primarily a study of the guilt of the German society over the holocaust. Interwoven with that theme it shows the long-term consequences in a man's life of youthful sexual sin.
Weinstein Company Home Entertainment, The, Stephen Daldry (director), David Hare, Anthony Minghella, Sydney Pollack, Donna Gigliotti, The Reader, 124 min., DVD.
"Based on the book DER VORLESER by Bernhard Schlink. Originally released as a motion picture in 2008. Special features: deleted scenes; Adapting a timeless masterpiece: making The reader; A conversation with David Kross and Stephen Daldry; Kate Winslet on the art of aging Hanna Schmitz; A new voice: a look at composer Nico Muhly; Coming to grips with the past: production designer Brigitte Broch; theatrical trailer." -- Publisher

Sprague, William B., Letters of Practical Subjects to a Daughter, ISBN: 0873779479. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
"The counsel of this book is applicable to sons as well as daughters. . . . here is a 19th century Solomon intent upon imparting to his child a wisdom and sanctified common sense akin to the Proverbs." -- Publisher

Sprague, William B., Letters to Young men Founded on the History of Joseph, ISBN: 1573580082 9781573580083.
"Teaches the character forming age that faithful warning, wise counsel, and sympathetic admonition are particularly valuable. Spurgeon aims to lead them to Christ and to encourage and stimulate them in their aspirations after nobility." -- Reader's Comment

Spurgeon, C.H. (1834-1892), Come ye Children: A Book on the Christian Training of Children, ISBN: 0686168402. Alternate title: COME YE CHILDREN PRACTICAL HELP TELLING PEOPLE ABOUT JESU.
"In this book Spurgeon provides valuable aid for parents, teachers and youth leaders on the subject of training children." -- GCB
"A book for parents and teachers on the Christian training of children as well as the evangelization of children called by the grace of God. Contains such chapters as: "Fed my Lambs -- How to Do It," "Do Not Hinder the Children," "Of Such is the Kingdom of Heaven," "The Child Timothy and His Teachers," and "Abijah's 'Some Good Thing'." -- Gospel Mission
Come ye Children, by C.H. Spurgeon
http://archive.spurgeon.org/misc/cyc.php

Symington, Andrew (1785-1853, the older brother of William), Lectures on the Claims of the Church and Society on Young Men, 1855.

Tweedie, W.K. (1803-1863), Seed-time and Harvest: or, Sow Well and Reap Well. A Book for the Young.

Venning, Ralph, Learning in Christ's School: Babes, Children, Youth, and Fathers, ISBN: 0851517641 9780851517643.

*Vincent, Thomas (1634-1678), The Best Gift, or God's Call Upon Young men for Their Hearts. Delivered in a Sermon to Young men. By Thomas Vincent, Minister Sometime of Maudlins Milkstreet, London, 1672.

*Vincent, Thomas (1634-1678), Words of Advice to Young men Delivered in two Sermons at two Conventions of Young men, the one Decemb. 25, 1666, the other Decemb. 25, 1667.

Williams, Daniel (1643?-1716), The Vanity of Childhood and Youth Wherein the Depraved Nature of Young People is Represented and Means for Their Reformation Proposed: Being some sermons preached in Hand-Alley at the request of several young men, to which is added a catechism for youth, 1691.

See also: The sovereign grace of god: his everlasting mercy and lovingkindness, The doctrine of man (human nature, total depravity), Christ our example, Sex ethics, sex education, Affliction, adversity, trials, suffering, chastisement, The shorter catechism, Sharing christ with your children, Repentance the key to salvation and change, Justification, Justifying faith, Manhood, Christian character, Men, women, and god, Teens and sex, Teaching/training children, Discipleship, Christian life, Premarital counsel, Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, Sexual relationship, Spiritual adultery (spiritual whoredom/harlotry), Slavery, our systems of enslavement, economic enslavement, Abstinence, Counseling children, Protecting children from danger, Preparing children for the world, Christian scholarship, Home schooling, Public education, Counsel for young women, Spiritual warfare, Parenting, Christian fiction, Classic christian fiction by martha finley, the elsie books series and so forth and so on.
TCRB5: 3966-3967, *4312 (Practical Helps for Young People and Christian Workers Generally)

Related Weblinks

20 Things I Would Tell my 20-year-old Self, Rich Thomas

Embrace your ignorance: You don't know everything. (1 Corinthians 8:2)
Find your Paul: Be a learner from those who know more than you do. (Romans 15:14)
Govern your idealism: You're not going to change the world. Be realistic. (Proverbs 16:9)
Start relational problem-solving with you: Keep the log firmly planted in your eye. (Matthew 7:3-5)
Learn to serve, not to be helped: You find true freedom in serving. (Mark 10:45)
Repent often: Be a confessional Christian. (1 John 1:7-10)
Create godly habits: Choose good habits to discipline yourself. (Hebrews 5:14)
Overlook offenses: As much as possible, don't sweat the smaller annoyances. (Romans 12:18)
Find honest friends: Surround yourself with honest truth-tellers. (Proverbs 27:6)
Marry to bless your spouse: Don't make marriage about what you want. (Ephesians 5:22-33)
Only one opinion matters: What God thinks about you is most important. (John 3:36)
Teach others after you die: Export the gospel to others who can export it to others. (2 Timothy 2:2)
Take risks: Make decisions with faith while not limiting what the Lord can do through you. (Matthew 14:28-33)
Apply what you learn: Don't be a knowledge collector with no application. (James 1:22-25)
Paint a picture: Show people what the practical Jesus looks like in real life. (1 Corinthians 11:1)
Teach yourself to reflect: Become a thinker. Train your mind to process life through a Bible lens. (Proverbs 15:28)
Connect your gifts to your vocation: Find satisfaction by merging your gifts with your career. (1 Peter 4:10)
Be mastered by the Word: Brainwash your mind with God's Word. (Psalm 119:11)
Pray without ceasing: Ask the Spirit for constant, step-by-step illumination. (John 16:13)

Following Christ, while helping others to do the same is the best kind of life you'll ever have.
https://rickthomas.net/20-things-tell-20-year-old-self/

On Dangerous Reading: A Warning Against the Reading of Novels, Fiction, and Other Poisonous Literature, Robert L. Dabney
http://www.truecovenanter.com/against_the_world/dabney_on_dangerous_reading.html

Five Dangers for Young Men, J.C. Ryle
http://www.jcryle.info/2015/09/5-dangers-for-young-men.html

*Godly Manhood (FGB #192)
True Godliness Described, Keach, Benjamin (1640-1704) | Nature of an Upright man, Steele, Richard (1629-1692) | Signs and Character of a Godly man, Watson, Thomas (c. 1620-1686) | Husbands, Love Your Wives, Gouge, William (1578-1653) | The Conversion of Family Members, Lee, Samuel (1627-1691) | A Godly Father's Anger, Gill, John (1697-1771) | Threats to Godliness in Young Men, James, John Angell (1785-1859) | How True Manhood is Restored, Spurgeon, C.H. (1834-1892)
https://www.chapellibrary.org/book/gmanfg/godly-manhood

Respect Incorporated (formerly Sex Respect)
http://www.sexrespect.com/main.html

Richard Baxter, from Wikipedia
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Richard_Baxter

Thoughts for Young People (FGB #212)
Thoughts for Young People, Alexander, Archibald (1772-1851) | General Counsels for Young People, Ryle, J.C. (1816-1900) | Youth Warned Against sin, James, John Angell (1785-1859) | Persuasions to Sober-mindedness, Henry, Matthew (1622-1714) | Brothers and Sisters, James, John Angell (1785-1859) | Standing Fast or Falling Away? Vincent, Thomas (1634-1678) | No Excuses: Believe the Gospel, Spurgeon, C.H. (1834-1892)
https://www.chapellibrary.org/book/tempfg/temptation

The top 50 Things I Want my Son to Know, Rick Thomas
"Keep in mind how you treat your sisters and mother. Your treatment of them is how you will treat your future wife. Once the honeymoon is over and life starts happening, the real you will come through, whether good or bad. The real you is how you treat your sisters. (Ephesians 5:25)"
https://rickthomas.net/50-things-i-want-my-son-to-know/

True Love Waits
http://www.truelovewaits.com/

Counsel for Young Women

Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the Lord, she shall be praised. (Proverbs 31:30)
Let mount Zion rejoice, let the daughters of Judah be glad, because of thy judgments. (Psalm 48:11)
When my father and my mother forsake me, then the Lord will take me up. (Psalm 27:10)
For it seemed good to the Holy Ghost, and to us, to lay upon you no greater burden than these necessary things: That ye abstain from meats offered to idols, and from blood, and from things strangled, and from fornication: from which if ye keep yourselves, ye shall do well. Fare ye well. (Acts 15:28,29) -- From a letter written by the Apostles after they had consulted together, and declared to the church at Antioch
Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart. (2 Timothy 2:22)

Alexander, Archibald (1772-1851), Counsels of the Aged to the Young.

Barnes, Emilie, Michal Sparks (illustrator), and Anne Christian Buchanan (contributor), A Little Book of Manners: Etiquette for Young Ladies, ISBN: 1565076788 9781565076785.
"Aimed at girls six to ten, this book introduces children to basic good manners, explaining the 'whys' as well as the 'hows' and stressing a loving attitude over simply following rules. Like LET'S HAVE A TEA PARTY, this book is written from the point of view of Emilie Marie, a little girl who is basically Emilie as a child -- passing along information Emilie has learned as an adult." -- Publisher

Baxter, Richard, Compassionate Warning and Advice to all, Especially to Young Persons. Being the Gift of the Author, Richard Baxter. London, 1708.

Clare, Austin, Our Example: Twelve Studies of the Character of our Lord, Drawn From His Precepts and Practice, for the Formation of the Christian Character.

Clare, Austin, The Young Lady's Book of Piety: A Practical Manual of Christian Duties for the Formation of the Female Character.

Clare, Austin, The Young Lady's Sunday Book: A Practical Manual of the Christian Duties of Piety, Benevolence and Self-government. Prepared With Particular Reference to the Formation of the Female Character.
"By the author of THE YOUNG LADY'S BOOK OF PIETY, THE YOUNG MAN'S BOOK OF PIETY: A PRACTICAL MANUAL OF CHRISTIAN DUTIES FOR THE FORMATION OF THE MANLY CHARACTER, THE YOUNG LADY'S BOOK OF PIETY: A PRACTICAL MANUAL OF CHRISTIAN DUTIES FOR THE FORMATION OF THE FEMALE CHARACTER, and OUR EXAMPLE: TWELVE STUDIES OF THE CHARACTER OF OUR LORD, DRAWN FROM HIS PRECEPTS AND PRACTICE, FOR THE FORMATION OF THE CHRISTIAN CHARACTER.

Clark, Kristen, and Bethany Beal, Sex, Purity, and the Longings of a Girl's Heart: Discovering the Beauty and Freedom of God-defined Sexuality, ISBN: 9781493417582 1493417584.
"For the modern Christian woman living in today's sexually charged society, embracing God's design for sex and purity can often feel like an impossible pursuit. As the culture seeks to normalize things such as pornography, erotica, and casual sex, both single and married women of all ages feel immense pressure to conform. With alluring temptations constantly inviting them to join in, they might even begin to question whether God's design is truly good. They wrestle with questions like -- What is the purpose of my sexuality? -- What does it mean to pursue purity? -- Are my sexual longings good or bad? In this encouraging book, Kristen Clark and Bethany Beal share honestly about their own struggles and victories, and invite women on a personal journey to discover and reclaim a biblical vision for their sexuality. Kristen and Bethany help women understand why God's design for sexuality is good, relevant, and leads to true hope and lasting freedom." -- Publisher

Elliot, Elisabeth, Keep a Quiet Heart, ISBN: 9780800759902 0800759907.
"This is one of those books I go back to several times a year for wisdom. It has been a life changing book for me. A quiet heart is something I still long for and pray for. If you also long for one you need to read this book." -- Reader's Comment

Elliot, Elisabeth, Let me be a Woman, ISBN: 0842321616 9780842321617 0842321624 9780842321624.
" 'In order to learn what it means to be a woman, we must start with the One who made her.' Working from Scripture, well-known speaker and author Elisabeth Elliot shares her observations and experiences in a number of essays on what it means to be a Christian woman, whether single, married, or widowed. . . .
"We are called to be women. The fact that I am a woman does not make me a different kind of Christian, but the fact that I am a Christian does make me a different kind of woman. For I have accepted God's idea of me, and my whole life is an offering back to him of all that I am and all that he wants me to be. In these days of conflicting demands and cultural pressures, what kind of woman do you wish to be? How should you respond? What should you think? Elisabeth Elliot is one of Christendom's most able and articulate writers. In this profound and moving book she presents her unique perspective. Now married a third time after losing two husbands through death, she offers golden insights which apply to the single, the married, and the widowed. These notes on womanhood, written to her daughter Valerie a few weeks before Val's marriage, are a gift of lasting worth for all Christian women."

Elliot, Elisabeth, Trusting God in a Twisted World, ISBN: 0800753038 9780800753030.
Counsel on many subjects.

Fiddler, Carol, and Elisabeth Elliot, A Girl of Beauty: Developing Character in Young Girls, ISBN: 0847414280 9780847414284.
"Addresses up-to-date issues girls face daily.
"Family therapists are noting that children as young as 8, 9, and 10 are obsessed with their bodies and that this excessive focus hinders the normal growth and development of children. Modern psychologists are saying that we need to teach our children how to navigate through modern culture because they are, for the first time in history, learning how to behave from watching TV personae rather than real people.
"Dealing with up-to-date issues that girls face today, this book is short, concise, and user-friendly for your fast-paced life. It covers topics girls deal with on a daily basis including: truthfulness, loyal friendships, contentment, life ambition, gossip, competition, outlook/attitude and more.
"This book is for those who feel the pull of the world on their daughters or the special girl in their life and want a tool to aid in the teaching and training of girls in good, solid, godly character. The message that all they need to get through life is image and outward beauty is faulty and shortsighted.
"Children, especially girls, need guidance and direction to counter this message. The recent trend for high school girls is cosmetic surgery to fix their 'flaws' in hopes of finding security in themselves. Unfortunately this temporary fix will not satisfy them. They need to develop themselves as a whole person, full of godly character that gives them value as a complete person, beyond the surface exterior. Their security needs to be found not in temporary outward appearance, but in the development of inward qualities that are lasting. This book is a relationship-building book for parents and their daughters in understanding the heart of God for their identity and 'whole-ness' as a person.
"There is great versatility in using the book. Feedback I have received from those who have used it found it a fun reference for a mom/daughter Bible study. One particular group met once a week in the summer with a different mom/daughter team in charge of the fun events (roller blades, water balloons, etc.), and teaching the character topic. Another mom offered it as an after school group to all the girls in her daughter's school class and it has built camaraderie in the group. They meet once a month. One gal used it as a camp counselor for her cabin devotions.
"A GIRL OF BEAUTY is a book you'll want to use over and over again (thick, high quality pages, spiral bound). Each time you go through it, something different and new comes out in discussion and application. We never stop learning and growing! Enjoy!" -- Carol Fiddler, the author

*Finley, Martha (1828-1909, aka Martha Farquharson, Galic for Finley), The Elsie Books, 4-book set (Holly Hall Publications, 1997), ISBN: 1888306351 9781888306354.
"Originally written in the late 1800's for girls and young women, the Elsie Dinsmore books were bestsellers for over thirty years. When we are introduced to Elsie in the first book she is a sweet and humble eight-year-old whose great desire in life is to be reunited with her father, whom she has never met. Her faith and her obedience to God's commandments uphold her in the great troubles she often faces, and the drama to which we are spectators is as timely for today's girls as it was for the young ladies of the 19th century. A new edition of one of GCB's best sellers, the series offers Christian values and character building examples through stories that are compelling, heartwarming, and enduring. Ages 10 and up." -- GCB
"The Elsie Books -- 28 in all -- are some of the most widely read children's stories ever written. When they first came out more than a hundred years ago, the publisher could scarcely keep them in stock. . ." -- Publisher
"Altogether Miss Finley's novels sold more than 28,000,000 copies in the last century. This made them among the bestselling novels of all time . . ." -- Jay P. Green, Sr. (1918-2008)
*Book 1: Elsie Dinsmore, ISBN: 1888306319 9781888306316.
"Set amid the sweet blossoms of a southern mansion, this timeless classic delves into the heart of Elsie -- by all counts, an extraordinary little girl. Share in Elsie's quest for love from her earthly father as it leads to a mature understanding of the love of her Father in Heaven. Join Elsie as she suffers through endless hours of scrutiny from Miss Day, her mean-spirited school teacher, taunting from her mischievous young Uncle Arthur, and scoldings from a cold-hearted father she so desires to please -- all with the peace and quiet countenance that comes from knowing she is God's child. This, the first of the heart-warming Elsie Books, will both challenge and inspire you." -- Publisher
Elsie Dinsmore: Book 1, Martha Finley
http://archive.org/details/elsiedinsmore00ferqgoog
ClassicReader.com
http://www.classicreader.com/
*Book 2: Elsie's Holidays at Roselands, ISBN: 9781888306323 1888306327.
"When Elsie's father becomes ill, she takes on the job of nurse-companion, and all goes well until Elsie, because it is the Sabbath, as a matter of conscience refuses to read to him from a secular book. The battle of wills that ensues nearly causes first her father's death, and then Elsie's. Lonely Elsie -- punished, ostracized, and then abandoned by her father -- turns to her heavenly Father for comfort and assurance. Will her father realize that Elsie's obedience to God must be paramount, and submit himself to the same Divine Authority?" -- Publisher
On an even more serious note, one moral of this story is the broader life and death struggle between Truth and Falsehood (See: Absolute truth and relativism [duality and non-duality], Epistemology of theology, the theory of knowledge, and Christian scholarship.) The consequence of conflict of will is death of the "One," or war of the "Many" (see Rushdoony, THE ONE AND THE MANY: STUDIES IN THE PHILOSOPHY OF ORDER AND ULTIMACY. Conflict of will (see Will and recalcitrance, Rebellion and lawlessness: wickedness, demonic possession, abnormal behavior, insanity, mental illness, mental retardation,) may begin when one individual (see The doctrine of man [human nature, total depravity],) or the corporate body (see Corporate faithfulness and sanctification), tries to usurping authority over others (see Power, Authority) -- tries to control and possess the other (see Tyranny, Slavery, our systems of enslavement, economic enslavement.) The means of control may be either outward or occult (see The occult, spiritism, witchcraft), deceit, repression or suppression of the truth, replacing moral and ethical absolutes with relativism (see Ethics, computer ethics, cyberethics, Medical ethics, Absolute truth and relativism [duality and non-duality], unfaithfulness to the highest ethical standards (see The ten commandments: the moral law, The holy bible), Heresy and apostasy (apostacy, old english), Spiritual adultery [spiritual whoredom/harlotry,] (see Idolatry, syncretism, Jeremiah and lamentations,) invocation of the demonic, Oaths, ensnaring vows, promises, and covenants, bonds with the ungodly (see Carnality and flesh pleasing: desires, pleasure, Justice, judgment, god's final judgment, the great white throne judgment, the day of the lord,) attempts to take authority over another politically or by mental malpractice (see Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, making up their own rules (see Absolute truth and relativism [duality and non-duality],) ignoring or changing constitutional or creedal documents, unjust laws for the accumulation of wealth and power, indebtedness, disenfranchisement, (see denial of freedom,) Priestcraft, pharisaism, soul-stealing, possessiveness, physical seduction and whoredom, political economic or sexual enslavement (see Sexual relationship,) and so forth, and so on.
This abuse, this soul-violence, quenches the Holy Spirit (see Owen, God's Presence With a People the Spring of Their Prosperity; With Their Special Interest in Abiding in Him.) If either side is immovable, then death is the consequence (see Soteriology, atonement, The blood of christ, Hell, and Heaven.)
How are conflicts of will resolved? By submission to the Absolute Truths of God's word, the great common denominator, Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (John 14:6)
All this bears a strain of the Gospel (see Book-length presentations of the free offer of the gospel message of salvation and the life to come: the means of grace, The westminster confession of faith.)
Book 2: Holidays at Roselands
http://archive.org/details/holidaysatrosel00finlgoog
Holidays at Roselands (Gutenberg text)
http://onlinebooks.library.upenn.edu/webbin/gutbook/lookup?num=14280
Mantle Ministries (Elsie Dinsmore Series and Mildred Series)
http://www.mantlemin.com

Powlison, David (1949-2019), and John Yenchko, Pre-engagement: Five Questions to ask Yourselves, ISBN: 0875526799 9780875526799.

Tweedie, W.K. (1803-1863), Virtuous Womanhood: Christ's Work and Single Women. Available in A THEOLOGY OF THE FAMILY, an anthology.

Venning, Ralph, Learning in Christ's School: Babes, Children, Youth, and Fathers, ISBN: 0851517641 9780851517643.

Vincent, Thomas (1634-1678), Christ the Best Husband: or An Invitation of Young Women Unto Christ. Delivered in a Sermon to Young Women, 1672.

Wise, Daniel, The Young Lady's Counselor, or, Outlines and Illustrations of the Sphere, the Duties and the Dangers of Young Women, 1860.

See also: The sovereign grace of god: his everlasting mercy and lovingkindness, The doctrine of man (human nature, total depravity), Sharing christ with your children, Repentance the key to salvation and change, Justification, Justifying faith, Sexual relationship, Spiritual adultery (spiritual whoredom/harlotry), Slavery, our systems of enslavement, economic enslavement, Christ our example, Womanhood (women), Affliction, adversity, trials, suffering, chastisement, Motherhood, Men, women, and god, Teens and sex, Christian character, Counsel for young men, Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, Abstinence, Christian fiction, Classic christian fiction by martha finley, the elsie books series, and so forth, and so on.
TCRB5: 381, 3968, *4312 (Practical Helps for Young People and Christian Workers Generally)

Related Weblinks

Gateway to Joy, Elisabeth Elliot
"April 14, 2014, BBN (Bible Broadcasting Network) began re-broadcasting Gateway to Joy, Monday through Friday at 11:15 am (eastern time) on BBN radio. A listing of their stations across the U.S. can be found on their website, and if you are out of range for that network, don't fret -- daily broadcasts are available on demand here, so you can choose your own hour. . . .
"Anything, if offered to God, can and will become your gateway to joy." -- Elisabeth Elliot
http://www.elisabethelliot.org/radio.html

Girl Defined
https://www.girldefined.com/

A Guide for Young Christians, John W. Robbins
http://www.trinityfoundation.org/journal.php?id=125

Respect Incorporated (formerly Sex Respect)
http://www.sexrespect.com/main.html

Richard Baxter, from Wikipedia
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Richard_Baxter

Ruth Bell Graham a Lifetime Pilgrimage
http://www.citizen-times.com/apps/pbcs.dll/section?Category=BILLYGRAHAM02

Ruth Bell Graham Memorial Site
http://bgea.org/rbg_default.asp

The top 50 Things I Want my Daughter to Know
https://rickthomas.net/50-things-i-want-my-daughter-to-know/

True Love Waits
http://www.truelovewaits.com/

Virtuousreality.com, A Website for all Women
http://www.virtuousreality.com/

Disciplining Children

Black, Jeff, Helping Parents Make Discipline Work (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Audio cassette AC882 [audio file].

Campbell, Ross, Kids Who Follow, Kids Who Don't, ISBN: 0896937593 9780896937598. Alternate title: HOW TO REALLY KNOW YOUR CHILD.

Cook, Earl, Blessing Children Through Discipline (part 1) (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Audio cassette HFTF17 [audio file].

Cook, Earl, Blessing Children Through Discipline (part 2) (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Audio cassette HFTF18 [audio file].

Cook, Earl, Bringing up Your Children (part 1) (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Audio cassette HFTF09 [audio file].

Cook, Earl, Bringing up Your Children (part 2) (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Audio cassette HFTF12 [audio file].

Cook, Earl, Bringing up Your Children (part 3); Q&A (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Audio cassette HFTF15 [audio file].

*Fitzpatrick, Elyse M., and Jessica Thompson, Give Them Grace: Dazzling Your Kids With the Love of Jesus, ISBN: 9781433520099 1433520095.
"In GIVE THEM GRACE, parents will learn how to connect the benefits of the cross -- especially regeneration, adoption, and justification -- to their children's daily lives. Fitzpatrick and Thompson also discuss discipline, dealing with popular culture, and evangelism as a way of life. . . .
"We must tell our kids of the grace-giving God who freely adopts rebels and transforms them into loving sons and daughters. If this is not the message your children hear, if you are just telling them to 'be good,' then the gospel needs to transform your parenting too.
"GIVE THEM GRACE is a revolutionary perspective on parenting that shows us how to receive the gospel afresh and give grace in abundance, helping our children know the dazzling love of Jesus and respond with heartfelt obedience. -- Publisher
"So many Christian parents fall into the trap of asking the law to do in the hearts of their children what only grace can accomplish. Armed with threats, manipulation, and guilt, they attempt to create change that only the cross of Jesus Christ makes possible. It is so encouraging to read a parenting book that points parents to the grace of the cross and shows them how to be instruments of that grace in the lives of their children." -- Paul Tripp

*Lloyd-Jones, David Martyn (1899-1981), Life in the Spirit in Marriage, Home and Work: An Exposition of Ephesians 5:18 -- 6:9 [Ephesians 5:18 -- Ephesians 6:9], ISBN: 080105799X 9780801057991.

Mack, Wayne A., Your Family, God's way: Developing and Sustaining Relationships in the Home. Alternate title: BUILDING YOUR FAMILY GOD'S WAY: THE ROLE OF EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION IN THE HOME, ISBN: 0875523587 9780875523583.
"Unfolds Psalm 128's vision of godly family life. Calls on a husband and father to be first and foremost a "God-fearing" man. Calls on a wife and mother to become a "fruitful vine" because of the intimacy of her relationship with God. Calls on parents to view their children as precious "olive plants." Extensive and practical discussion of communication and problem-solving principles. Contains study and application assignments for each chapter." -- David Powlison (1949-2019)
"Mack offers Biblical insight and practical wisdom for two crucial areas of family life: communication and conflict resolution. Stories of success and application questions give hope and clear direction to all who wish to build stronger families." -- Publisher

See also: The sovereignty of god, The doctrine of man (human nature, total depravity), Sharing christ with your children, Repentance the key to salvation and change, Justification, Justifying faith, Problem solving with children, Counseling children, Protecting children from dangers, Preparing children for the world, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Biblical counsel by subject, Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, Sexual relationship, Spiritual adultery (spiritual whoredom/harlotry), Abstinence, Parenting, Child abuse and pedophilia, Fatherhood, Motherhood, Counsel for young men, Counsel for young women, Disciplining children, Counseling children, Problem solving with children, Creeds, catechisms and confessions, Homeschooling, Christian fiction, Classic christian fiction by martha finley, the elsie books series, Ethics, Anger, and so forth, and so on.
TCRB5: 1629, 1630, 3971, 3973

Related Weblinks

Disciplining Children
"Witness today, the almost limitless number of young adults who have grown up under the teachings of Dr. Benjamin Spock, who for a generation past taught parents that a child must never be physically disciplined for any reason. Yes, a whole generation has since arisen by these anti-Christian humanistic teachings, to the detriment of society. Amazingly, Dr. Spock has since retracted his own approval of what he wrote, but in spite of this, his books still sell with great popularity." -- Dennis L. Finnan

The more people have studied different methods of bringing up children the more they have come to the conclusion that what good mothers and fathers instinctively feel like doing for their babies is the best after all. -- Benjamin McLane Spock (May 2, 1903 -- March 15, 1998), from his autobiography

http://www.christian-parents.net/Children/C110_Disciplining_Children.htm

Problem Solving With Children

Kesler, Jay (editor), Ron Beers (editor), and Lavonne Neff (editor), Parents and Children: A Guide to Solving Problems and Building Relationships, ISBN: 0896938093 9780896938090.
"Over 70 Christian leaders give practical advice on parents and children. Almost 700 double-column pages." -- GCB

*Lloyd-Jones, David Martyn (1899-1981), Life in the Spirit in Marriage, Home and Work: An Exposition of Ephesians 5:18 -- 6:9 [Ephesians 5:18 -- Ephesians 6:9], ISBN: 080105799X 9780801057991.

Strom, Kay Marshall, Making Friends With Your Mother, ISBN: 0310532515 9780310532514.

Vander Goot, Mary, Healthy Emotions: Helping Children Grow, ISBN: 0801093031 9780801093036.
"This book is about the normal emotions of normal children. Its purpose is to help adults deal with children's emotions effectively." -- GCB

Counseling Children

And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins. (1 Peter 4:8)
Children obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right. And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. (Ephesians 6:1,4)
When my father and my mother forsake me, then the Lord will take me up. (Psalm 27:10)

Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), Accepting Retarded Children; Handling Troubles; and etc. (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).

Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), Sex Change; Division in Eldership; Children; Suicide; Paranoia; Repression; Forgetting; Death (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Audio cassette JA506 [audio file].

Alexander, Archibald (1772-1851), Difficulty of Knowing our Faults. In EVANGELICAL TRUTH: PRACTICAL SERMONS FOR THE CHRISTIAN HOME.

Barger, Eric, From Rock To Rock: The Music of the Darkness Exposed, ISBN: 0910311617 9780910311618.
"Eric Barger, for twenty years involved in the Rock music industry, offers solid, Biblical counsel for parents and teens wondering what to do about Rock music. Includes the first Music Rating System classifying 1500 groups and artists." -- Publisher

Baxter, Richard, Compassionate Warning and Advice to all, Especially to Young Persons. Being the Gift of the Author, Richard Baxter. London, 1708.

Burns, R., How to Get Students Involved in Serving Others (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Audio cassette TT102 [audio file].

Byrd, Walter, Counseling and Children, ISBN: 0849905974 9780849905971.

Cook, Earl, Counseling Children (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Audio cassette AC881 [audio file].

*Fitzpatrick, Elyse M., and Jessica Thompson Give Them Grace: Dazzling Your Kids With the Love of Jesus, ISBN: 9781433520099 1433520095.
"In GIVE THEM GRACE, parents will learn how to connect the benefits of the cross -- especially regeneration, adoption, and justification -- to their children's daily lives. Fitzpatrick and Thompson also discuss discipline, dealing with popular culture, and evangelism as a way of life. . . .
"We must tell our kids of the grace-giving God who freely adopts rebels and transforms them into loving sons and daughters. If this is not the message your children hear, if you are just telling them to 'be good,' then the gospel needs to transform your parenting too.
"GIVE THEM GRACE is a revolutionary perspective on parenting that shows us how to receive the gospel afresh and give grace in abundance, helping our children know the dazzling love of Jesus and respond with heartfelt obedience. -- Publisher
"So many Christian parents fall into the trap of asking the law to do in the hearts of their children what only grace can accomplish. Armed with threats, manipulation, and guilt, they attempt to create change that only the cross of Jesus Christ makes possible. It is so encouraging to read a parenting book that points parents to the grace of the cross and shows them how to be instruments of that grace in the lives of their children." -- Paul Tripp

Greene, Lawrence J., Learning Disabilities and Your Child: A Survival Handbook, ISBN: 0893343242 9780893343248. Alternate title: KIDS WHO HATE SCHOOL (1983).
"Learning disabilities don't have to stand in the way of your child's success.
"A learning disability can be at the root of your child's resistance, failure, and low self-esteem. It's no wonder that children with learning disabilities have difficulties both at home and at school, difficulties that are reflected in poor performance records.
"Lawrence J. Greene, a pioneer in the field of learning disabilities and the Executive Director of the Developmental Learning Center in San Jose, California, for seventeen years, shares his knowledge and experience in compassionate and understanding terms. He explains how to diagnose learning disabilities ranging from dyslexia and hyperactivity to language disorders and tuning out -- and how they might affect your child. He offers helpful advice on choosing the right school or program for your child and on getting the support you need. Anecdotes, where parents and children speak out, as well as step-by-step programs that you can begin right now, make this unique book a vital guide for parents and teachers of learning disabled children." -- Publisher

Kopp, Ruth, Where has Grandpa Gone? Helping Children Cope With Grief and Loss, ISBN: 0310416116 9780310416111.

McElhinney, Glenn R., A Nouthetic Approach to Counseling Elementary School-age Children (Philadelphia, PA: Westminster Theological Seminary, D.Min. thesis, 1986).
Includes bibliography.

McIlhaney, Joe S., Jr., Sexuality and Sexually Transmitted Diseases, ISBN: 0801062748 9780801062742.
"Without being an alarmist, McIlhaney documents why all young adults should have an enlightened fear of STD which is spreading throughout the country like firestorm." -- GCB

Miller, C. John (1928-1996), Youth Evangelism: Dealing With Depression and Suicide (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Audio cassette CM101 [audio file].

Paul, James L. (editor), The Exceptional Child: A Guidebook for Churches and Community Agencies

*Schoolland, Marian M., Leading Little Ones to God: A Child's Book of Bible Teachings, ISBN: 0802851207 9780802851208.
Contains material useful in counseling.

Sturkie, Joan, and Siang-Yang Tan, Advanced Peer Counseling in Youth Groups: Equipping Your Kids to Help Each Other With the Tough Issues, ISBN: 0310373018 9780310373018.

Sturkie, Joan, and Siang-Yang Tan, Peer Counseling in Youth Groups: Equipping Your Kids to Help Each Other, ISBN: 031054081X 9780310540816.

Terkelsen, Helen E., Counseling the Unwed Mother.

Terkelsen, Helen E., I'm Going to Have a Baby and I'm not Married, ISBN: 0800619943.

Tweedie, W.K. (1803-1863), Seed-time and Harvest: or, Sow Well and Reap Well. A Book for the Young.

Van Dyken, Donald, Rediscovering Catechism: The art of Equipping Covenant Children, ISBN: 0875524648 9780875524641.

*Voshell, Dorothy, Whom Shall I Marry? A Question of Vital Concern to Young Christians, Their Parents and the Church, ISBN: 0875525091 9780875525099.
"Should be in every pastor's library. Excellent for counselors. Best book for those considering marriage." -- GCB

Wilson, Earl D., A Silence to be Broken: Hope for Those Caught in the web of Incest, ISBN: 0851104975 9780851104973.
"A difficult subject is handled in a sensitive way thus providing compassion and relief for those who have been gripped with this problem. Sources of help are offered as well as what the church can do. Wilson writes with a contagious confidence in God's redemptive power, and it give us hope." -- GCB

Wynn, John Charles, How Christian Parents Face Family Problems.
"Contains sane counsel for troubled parents, and includes a Christian approach to child-rearing. Nontechnical." -- Cyril J. Barber

Related Weblinks

Protecting Children From Dangers

For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 24:24)
He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God? (Micah 6:8)

Buehrer, Eric, The New Age Masquerade: The Hidden Agenda in Your Child's Classroom, ISBN: 1561210196 9781561210190.
"This is one book the New Agers will not want the public to read." -- Johanna Michaelsen
"There is a growing New Age trend sweeping public schools. This trend is known as 'global education.' Few books even touch on this dimension of New Age philosophy, yet the public schools are where our culture is the most vulnerable. Eric Buehrer presents a fully documented expos� of the infiltration by the New Age into the public school system. He reveals what teachers are teaching and specific examples, both from small town schools as well as from large urban districts. Must reading!" -- GCB

Christenson, Evelyn, Battling the Prince of Darkness: Rescuing Captives From Satan's Kingdom, ISBN: 0896932516 9780896932517.
"When you study Evelyn Christenson's new book you'll learn about the recent explosion of Satanic activity, and about the Prince of the Kingdom of Darkness. But this book isn't just about problems, it's about the one and only solution -- The Lord Jesus Christ. And it's about evangelism -- the very best strategy for defeating Satan." -- Publisher
Ideal for group study.

DeMoss, Robert G., Jr., Learn to Discern, ISBN: 0310518318 9780310518310 156121096X 9781561210961.
"Movie and record companies spend billions each year to seduce your kids. They're creative. They're smart. They know what they're doing. To protect your children read this very frank book." -- GCB

*Duffy, Cathy, Government Nannies: the Cradle-to-grave Agenda of Goals 2000 and Outcome Based Education, ISBN: 1568570090 9781568570099.
"Confusing stories about Goals 2000 and outcome-based education have made the front page of every newspaper in the country. It is a tangled web of 'government-nanny' programs that invade the privacy of families and destroys the principle of individual responsibility. This book describes where we are heading under Goals 2000." -- Publisher

*Enroth, Ronald, Youth, Brainwashing and Extremist Cults, ISBN: 0310242711.
"Written to prepare parents and those who work with young people for the psychological, sociological, and pseudo-spiritual onslaughts of cultists who yearly ensnare into their totalitarian systems large numbers of America's youth. Provides timely warning." -- Cyril J. Barber

Grant, George, The Family Under Siege: What the New Social Engineers Have in Mind for you and Your Children, ISBN: 1556613504 9781556613500.
"As many Christian families sense their values being undermined, Grant offers a fast-paced, well-researched look at some of the major powers at work -- groups like the ACLU, NEA, National Organization of Women -- to show how new social agendas of these groups are gaining control over the most sacred areas of life." -- Publisher

*Hassan, Steven, Combating Cult Mind Control: The #1 Best-selling Guide to Protection, Rescue and Recovery From Destructive Cults, ISBN: 0892814225 9780892814220.
Recognize the signs of destructive organizations and protect yourself from psychological manipulation.
"Remarkably useful and important. I heartily recommend this book to anyone affected by the cult experience. Hassan's work will be valuable to health professionals, clergy, attorneys, and all those involved with cults, their members, and the families whose lives they touch." -- Louis Jolyon West, M.D., Chairman, Department of Psychiatry, UCLA School of Medicine.
Chapter 4, "Understanding Mind Control," explains how to recognize mind control activities.
Includes bibliography, bibliographical footnotes, index, and an appendix of resource organizations. Recommended as a valuable reference work. A secular author.
An Understanding of Cult Mind Control
http://www.shassan.com/

Hexham, Irving, Karla Poewe, and J.I. Packer, Understanding Cults and New Religions.
"This book is designed to help Christian laymen, pastors, youth workers, and students understand cults from a social, psychological, and religious perspective. . . ." -- GCB

Holbrook, David, The Case Against Pornography.
"Wildmon is executive Director of the National Federation for Decency. When you finish reading this book you will know why pornography must be stopped. There is a note of hope: As an American citizen you can do something about it!" -- GCB

Hyde, Margaret O., Alcohol: Drink or Drug? ISBN: 007031635X 9780070316355.

Hyde, Margaret O., Brainwashing and Other Forms of Mind Control, ISBN: 0070316392 9780070316393.

*Hyde, Margaret O., Cry Softly! The Story of Child Abuse, ISBN: 0664327230 9780664327231.
Includes bibliography and index.
"The rising tide of child abuse makes this book a must. Deals with the reasons, as well as the treatment. Provides information on 'Hotlines,' 'Suggestions for Further Reading,' and 'National Organizations Concerned With Child Abuse'." -- Cyril J. Barber

Hyde, Margaret O., Gambling: Winners and Losers, ISBN: 1562945327 9781562945329.
For grades 6-9. "In her latest book, Hyde focuses on gambling as a sociopolitical issue. The information is clearly laid out, with Hyde providing some basic historical perspective before exploring contemporary aspects of the subject. She looks briefly at gambling in both its legal and illegal forms, does some speculating on its rise among teens, and takes a look at the characteristics of a pathological gambler. Personal histories are concrete but too few and rather dry, and although Hyde does attempt to present both sides of the issue, her negative arguments are more fully developed. Turn to Edward Dolan's TEENAGERS AND COMPULSIVE GAMBLING (1994), for a much better, more detailed discussion of gambling among YAs; use this book as a general overview and a consciousness raiser. Unfortunately, the further readings are mostly adult." -- Stephanie Zvirin

Hyde, Margaret O., Sexual Abuse: Let's Talk About it, ISBN: 0664327257 9780664327255.
"Draws attention to what is becoming a 'national epidemic.' Points out how pastors may recognize the victims and deal with the trauma and anger of those who feel violated. Practical." -- Cyril J. Barber
"Discusses the sexual abuse of children, how they can protect themselves, where they can seek help, the kinds of help available, and how to increase public awareness of this problem."

Hyde, Margaret O., The Silent Epidemic [suicide -- compiler], DVD, ISBN: 0070316376 9780070316379 0070316384 9780070316386.

Hyde, Margaret O., and Elizabeth Held Forsyth, The Sexual Abuse of Children and Adolescents: From Infants to Adolescents, ISBN: 0585219478 9780585219479.
For grades 7-12. "Opening with a statement that most children and adolescents never suffer sexual abuse, but for those who do, the emotional problems can be devastating, well-known YA nonfiction authors Hyde (author of SEXUAL ABUSE: LET'S TALK ABOUT IT [1987]), and Forsyth offer a clear, thorough, meticulously documented examination of the complex factors that cause the sexual abuse of young people, and they explain the need for educating people of all ages about it. The history of sexual abuse of children is covered in a chapter entitled 'From the Ancients to the Internet,' but the bulk of the book looks more specifically at such things as abuser profiles; New Jersey's Megan's Law, which is aimed at protecting communities from sex offenders; types and success records of treatment for sex offenders; the short-and long-term effects of sexual abuse on the young victims; the issue of repressed versus false memory; and abuse prevention programs. A directory of help services is included." -- Sally Estes
Margaret O. Hyde had written many books for youth guiding them through difficult subjects. Over 100 titles by Hyde are listed on Amazon.com

Hyde, Margaret O., and Elizabeth Forsyth, Suicide: The Hidden Epidemic, ISBN: 0531102513 9780531102510.
"This third, updated edition explores the history, realities, and causes of suicide, and includes a list of prevention and intervention agencies. Thorough and useful. Bibliography." -- Publisher

Kjos, Berit, Your Child and the New Age, ISBN: 089693795X 9780896937956.

Maddux, Bob, The Fantasy Explosion.
"This book will make you aware of how you and your family are being exploited by pornography and teenage sex films, music videos, occult films, toys, soap operas and romantic novels, role-playing games, and comic books. The book will challenge you to new and creative action by offering positive suggestions." -- GCB

Mawyer, Martin, Silent Shame: The Alarming Rise of Child Sexual Abuse and how to Protect Your Children From it, ISBN: 0891074198 9780891074199.
"This informative study provides an in-depth profile of sexual abusers -- their methods, motivations, strategies, hangouts -- so that parents can understand what makes a child vulnerable to their overtures. This work provides practical steps to take to prevent children from becoming victims of sexual abuse." -- GCB

Medved, Michael, Hollywood vs. America: Popular Culture and the war Against Traditional Values, ISBN: 0060924357 9780060924355.
"The author exposes the attacks by the motion picture industry, television, and music stars against the church and Christians. He expresses our frustrations. He not only suggests a way out for Hollywood, but also concrete suggestions for concerned citizens who want to protect themselves and their children." -- GCB

Medved, Michael and Diane Medved Saving Childhood: Protecting our Children From the National Assault on Innocence, ISBN: 0060932244 9780060932244.
"SAVING CHILDHOOD offers parents and grandparents practical strategies to cope with a society that seems perversely determined to frighten and corrupt its young. Cultural critic and popular radio host Michael Medved and his wife, psychologist Diane Medved, argue that in a mistaken effort to curb problems plaguing its youth, our culture has changed from protecting childhood as a precious time of growth to hammering even the smallest youngsters with a grim, harsh, and menacing view of the world. The Medveds systematically present unassailable scientific evidence, moving anecdotes, and personal experiences of raising their three young children to explain the attack from four primary directions -- media, schools, peers, and even well-intentioned parents themselves.
"In a unique analysis, the Medveds define innocence not as ignorance but as the result of three components -- security, a sense of wonder, and optimism. They empower parents and all who care about childhood with concrete, easily accomplished means to fend off the assault, as well as advice for handling hurdles such as the Internet, television, peer pressure, and the plague of pessimism. SAVING CHILDHOOD enables us to restore and maintain for our children imagination, confidence, and hope for the future." -- Publisher

Michaelsen, Johanna, Like Lambs to the Slaughter: Your Child and the Occult, ISBN: 0890816174 9780890816172.
"Great resource for parents worried about their kids and the occult in society and schools."
"Johanna Michaelsen takes the concerned parent into the world of the innocent child by exploring and exposing the growing power of the occult in the lives of our children." -- Publisher
"Although a bit out of date by now (it was written in the 80s), Michaelsen's LIKE LAMBS TO THE SLAUGHTER provides signposts for occult influences on children that every parent should be aware of. Contrary to some of the other reviews on this page, what Michaelsen points out is both true and alarming. One may call it paranoid to consider cartoons such as the Smurfs occultic in content, but when the Smurfs feature Gargamel standing in the middle of a pentagram calling down a curse in the name of Beelzebub -- others would call it discerning. If you can get this book, get it. Though out of date, it will be helpful to you as you raise your children. I hope Michaelsen updates her work soon." -- Reader's Comment

*Morey, Robert, How to Keep Your Kids Drug Free, ISBN: 092570301X 9780925703019.
"We can highly recommend this title as the best book on the subject we offer." -- GCB

Phillips, Phil, 52 Things for Your Kids to do Instead of Watching TV, ISBN: 0840796382 9780840796387.
"I have read all of Mr. Phillips' books, and they all reflect a massive amount of research and dedication to exposing so-called kids' shows or toys for what they really are: ways for Satan to infiltrate young kids' minds and desensitize them to violence and occult. Of course there are good toys and shows out there, but you really have to hunt for them. To help you with that, I would recommend Mr. Phillips' other book which describes the 52 best toys and games for kids. . . ." -- Reader's Comment

Phillips, Phil, Dinosaurs: The Bible, Barney and Beyond, ISBN: 0914984594: 9780914984597.
"In-depth look at evolution, creation science, and dinosaurs in the media and toys." -- Publisher

Phillips, Phil, Halloween and Satanism, ISBN: 091498411X 9780914984115.
"Is Halloween for children, or is there a definite link between Halloween and Satanism? What about 'Trick or treat,' 'Jack-o-lanterns,' and 'bobbing for apples?' Do you read horoscopes? Do you play with Ouija board? Are you involved with Tarot Cards? Do you 'dabble' with tea-leaf reading, Scrying (to practice crystal gazing), Palmistry? Good luck charms? If you answered yes to any of those, then you have a 'link' to the occult." -- Publisher

Phillips, Phil, Saturday Morning Mind Control, ISBN: 0840795815 9780840795816.
"Just a little harmless cartoon-watching? No, says Phillips. Today's cartoons and children's TV shows -- along with their spinoff toys, books, and movies -- endanger a child's developing social skills, motor coordination, and worldview. 'Mind control' is not far off the mark!
"Phillips (author of TURMOIL IN THE TOYBOX), examines what TV really teaches children and outlines what parents can do to minimize its influence." -- CBD

Phillips, Phil, Turmoil in the Toybox, ISBN: 0914984047 9780914984047.
"A shocking expos� of the toy and cartoon industry that unmasks the New Age. Occult, violent, and Satanic influences that have invaded the once innocent toy box. The author also explains the importance of play, and how toys can enhance or stunt a child's development." -- GCB

Reisman, Judith, Crafting gay Children, a study.
"Social researcher Dr. Judith Reisman says that the incidence of homosexuals molesting children is 40 times greater than the number of heterosexuals who molest children. In her study, CRAFTING GAY CHILDREN, Reisman notes that heterosexuals outnumber homosexuals by 44 to 1 in our culture. She also points out that 17-24 percent of boys are being abused by age 18 and 25 percent of girls.
"In a 1991 population study by the Department of Commerce, statistics showed that 8 million girls were abused by age 18 by heterosexual men -- a ratio of 1 victim to 11 adult men. However, 6-8 million boys were abused by age 18 by 1-2 million adult homosexuals -- a ratio of 3-5 victims for every homosexual adult male.
"Dr. Reisman concludes that the Boy Scouts organization is correct to ban homosexuals from membership because of the high rate of molestations committed by homosexual males. To read more on this, go to: http://bpnews.net/bpnews.asp?ID=11002

Reisman, Judith A., Sexual Sabotage: How one mad Scientist Unleashed a Plague of Corruption and Contagion on America, ISBN: 9781935071853 1935071858.
"Alfred Kinsey's statistics on American sexual behavior was greatly skewed towards unusual sexual practices. Subsequent researchers at the Kinsey Institute have claimed that they have cleaned up the data, and found the same incidence rates. It is not possible to clean up data that was drawn from a sample that was not representative of the American people as a whole. The psychologist Abraham Maslow pointed out that Kinsey's data suffered from volunteer bias. And eminent statisticians pointed out that his statistics were invalid.
"Reisman points out that if sex outside of marriage had really been as common as Kinsey claimed, there would have been much more abortion, divorce, children born out of wedlock, and sexually transmitted diseases in the 1940s than there actually was.
"Kinsey's books did much to weaken the laws against sex outside of marriage, because it did not seem reasonable to outlaw behavior that was commonplace. Reisman documents how the American Law Institute Model Penal Code was substantially changed by the Kinsey reports. The ALI MPC frequently quoted Kinsey as a reference when reducing or eliminating penalties for sex crimes. Kinsey's assertion that children desire sex has lead to efforts to lower the age of consent. Marriage was originally a contract designed to enforce sexual exclusivity, to provide for the care of children, and to prevent women from being abandoned. Kinsey's promotion of hedonism has weakened the institution of marriage, to the detriment of women and children.
"Judith Reisman is a voice in the wilderness, repeatedly drawing attention to one of the biggest crimes of the 20th century. Alfred Kinsey lied about the sex lives of the American people, in particular, about the Greatest Generation, the people who carried America through the Great Depression and World War II. Kinsey claimed that sex outside of marriage was common, when, in fact, it was unusual. Kinsey caused the children of the greatest generation to believe that their parents were hypocrites, who preached traditional sexual morality, but practiced sexual immorality." -- Reader's Comment

*Reisman, Judith A., Soft Porn Plays Hardball, ISBN: 091031165X 9780910311656.
"Reisman demonstrates the tragic effects of 'soft porn' on women, children, and the family." -- GCB

Richman, Sheldon, Separating School and State: How to Liberate America's Families, ISBN: 0964044714.
"Sheldon Richman presents us with a fascinating story here. Why were public schools first founded? Because people were illiterate? No. Records from colonial times show that literacy rates were higher than they are now in some places. There were all kinds of instructors, schools, schoolmasters, tutors, and self-taught leaders like Benjamin Franklin, and Alexander Hamilton, at the time of the American Revolution. There was tremendous resistance, well into the 20th century against government-owned, operated, and controlled "free schools." And no wonder. We now have an established school system that manifests all the problems the Founders saw inherent in an established church. The arguments the promoters gave are presented here, and some of then are pretty scary. The goals of the public school founders had more to do with the state's interests, than children's or family's interests. The idea was to indoctrinate children with the morality preferred by "politically correct" officials of the time. Compulsory laws came in when labor unions wanted to keep kids from competing for jobs. The opponents give their side here, too. Like a lot of people, I did not know much about the history of public schools before I started reading books like this one. I have come to agree with this author. This is an excellent argument for freedom of education, and giving control back to families and parents." -- Reader's Comment

Sanders, Bill, Tough Turf: A Teen Survival Manual, ISBN: 0800752120 9780800752125.
"Written for teenagers by a man who specializes in young people. He covers drinking, drugs, peer-pressure, and building a positive self-image." -- GCB

Sciacca, Fran, Generation at Risk: What Legacy are the Baby-boomers Leaving Their kids? ISBN: 089066174X 9780890661741.
"For those who want to understand what is happening to the younger generation and why and how we should respond." -- GCB

Seabolt, Dorothy, Occult Abuse of Youth: A Guide to Protecting Children.

Thoburn, Robert L., The Children Trap: The Biblical Blueprint for Education.
"One of today's outstanding educators sees the peril our children are in. What can Christians do to avert even greater problems in the future? Why do so many Christians still believe that the public schools are neutral concerning Christianity? What should true education consist of?" -- GCB

Van Dyken, Donald, Rediscovering Catechism: The art of Equipping Covenant Children, ISBN: 0875524648 9780875524641.

Weldon, John, and James Bjornstad, Playing With Fire: Dungeons and Dragons, Tunnels and Trolls, Chivalry and Sorcery and Other Fantasy Games, ISBN: 0802404251 9780802404251.
Exposes the danger of the fantasy game Dungeons and Dragons.

See also: The sovereignty of god, The doctrine of man (human nature, total depravity), Sharing christ with your children, Repentance the key to salvation and change, Justification, Justifying faith, Forgiveness, Problem solving with children, Counseling children, Protecting children from dangers, Preparing children for the world, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Covetousness, greed, and selfishness, The inspiration and infallibility of scripture (the doctrine of revelation, the doctrine of plenary inspiration, the doctrine of divine inspiration, the doctrine of verbal inspiration, theopneustia, sufficiency of scripture), The ten commandments: the moral law, Trusting god, Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, Bible promises, Sanctification, Slavery, our systems of enslavement, economic enslavement, Conscience, casuistry, cases of conscience, Sharing christ with your children, Sexual relationship, Spiritual adultery (spiritual whoredom/harlotry), Protecting children from dangers, Teaching/training children, Problem solving with children, Ethics, computer ethics, cyberethics, Sex ethics, sex education, Conscience, casuistry, cases of conscience, Preparing Children for the World, Home schooling, Teaching/training children, Counsel to young men, Counsel to young women, Bad relationships a cause of disease and death, Anger, Parenting, Child abuse and pedophilia, Mind control, intimidation, and coercion, Bad relationships a cause of disease and death, Suicide, Gambling, Abstinence, Christian fiction, Classic christian fiction by martha finley, the elsie books series, Pseudo-christian movements: a selection of works, Spiritual warfare, Resources for students, and so forth, and so on.
TCRB5: 143, 1671

Related Weblinks

Family Watchdog
This national website tracks sexual offenders in your area.
"Enter an address below to view a map of registered sex offenders near you."
While this is much needed data, and we commend efforts thus far, this map will not include the following sexual offenders who should (when known), be publicly identified until they repent of their sexual crimes:

sexual offenders who have not been caught, tried, and convicted (the arrest/conviction ratio for all offenses was approximately 100/25 in the mid 90s);
sexual offenders who have violated parole;
sexual offenders who have failed to report their address or address change;
sexual offenders using an alias (The FBI "believes 1 in 6 persons with a criminal record may be using alias names and identification." -- U.S. Congress, Office of Technology Assessment, OTA-TCT-497);
sexual offenders who have been convicted on some other charge;
ex-convicts and inmates who have committed sodomy in prison;
offenders guilty of raping their spouse and the offense has gone unreported;
wives who deliberately commit adultery as part of a "pre-planned divorce," that is, who married with plans to divorce for financial gain;
offenders guilty of unreported incest;
offenders guilty of unreported date rape;
offenders who have committed unreported sexual offenses when drunk or under the influence of drugs;
offenders who have committed unreported sexual offenses with mutual consent;
individual members of Alcoholics Anonymous (who are frequently ex-convicts, mentally ill, and/or mentally retarded, and prefer to be identified as alcoholics to avoid the social stigma of the other categories), or other related 10-Step addiction treatment programs who have committed unreported sexual offenses with other members, or while being a sponsor of another member;
individual members of Alcoholics Anonymous and related 10 Step codependent treatment programs who use the programs as vehicles to find new sexual partners;
offenders who have committed unreported sexual offenses with other members of Alcoholics Anonymous or other related 10-Step addiction treatment programs while in a codependent relationship with another member;
members of Sex Addicts Anonymous who have committed unreported sexual offenses;
prostitutes still at-large in society;
offenders who frequent prostitutes;
men and women who are self-employed in the "sex industry" (professionals deliberately practicing prostitution within the business community);
individuals employed in the pornography industry, including child pornography;
individuals addicted to pornography or child pornography;
individuals guilty of unreported sodomy and homosexuality;
unreported homosexual pedophiles ("Homosexuals are over-represented in child sex offenses: Individuals from the 1 to 3 percent of the population that is sexually attracted to the same sex are committing up to one-third of the sex crimes against children." -- Timothy J. Dailey, Ph.D. in "Homosexuality and Child Sexual Abuse");
offenders guilty of unreported rape;
offenders guilty of unreported fornication;
offenders guilty of unreported adultery;
offenders living in licentious cohabitation;
offenders who are mentally retarded and promiscuous;
offenders who have sever mental illness and are promiscuous;
offenders with AIDS disease;
offenders with any of the 30 other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) in the United States;
individuals who dabble in, or actively participate in satanic cults, or related destructive cults that practice sexual rituals;
offenders who are licensed mental health care professionals (Psychiatrists, Clinical Psychologists, Psych Nurses, Medical Doctors, Counselors, Priests, Pastors, and Churchmen, and so forth), who become sexually involved with their patients, clients, counselees, or church members;
individuals in the legal profession who judged in favor of legalized abortion or who aided in the legal process;
individuals participating in organized crime who run and profit from most of the abortion clinics in the United States;
medical professionals who perform abortions;
men who have paid for abortions performed on their daughters;
men who have paid for abortions performed on their sexual partners;
mothers who have aborted children from their wombs (any of the 43 million abortions performed in the United States since Roe vs. Wade in 1973), [56 million American babies from 1973 to 2014, annual rate continues at 1.2 million babies a year.];
individuals in the drug industry who developed "the morning after pill";
druggists who sell "the morning after pill";
women who have used "the morning after pill";
and so forth, and so on.

http://www12.familywatchdog.us/

Generation Rescue
"The incidence of autism has increased from 1 in 10,000 in the 1970s to 1 in 150 today, an increase of over 6,000 percent. Many more children have been diagnosed with other neurodevelopmental disorders all considered to be on the same spectrum including Asperger's, ADHD/ADD, speech delay, and many other developmental delays and learning disabilities.

During these investigations, numerous scientists from around the globe have testified before the committee, and have presented credible peer-reviewed research studies that indicated a direct link between the exposure of mercury, a widely known neurotoxin, and the increasing incidences of autism." -- Congressman Dan Burton (R-IN), Chairman, Subcommittee on Human Rights and Wellness, U.S. Congress, Head of Three Year Congressional Investigation into Mercury In Medicine, September 8, 2004

http://www.generationrescue.org/

A Redneck Resolution Against Self-destruction
http://www.lettermen2.com/redneck.html

The Way of the Heathen: A Brief History of Halloween, C. Matthew McMahon
Learn not the way of the heathen. (Jeremiah 10:2)
"The Old Testament is leavened with a multitude of verses which condemn occultism and its practices, and to avoid them completely: Exodus 22:18; Leviticus 3:17; Leviticus 7:26; Leviticus 17:12-14; Leviticus 19:26, 31; Deuteronomy 12:31; 2 Kings 17:16-17; 1 Chronicles 10:13-14; 2 Chronicles 28:3-4; 2 Chronicles 33:1-6; Isaiah 8:19; Jeremiah 10:2; Ezekiel 20:31, and many others. Deuteronomy 18:9-14 is one of the more explicit pericopes covering an overview of the occult practices to disdain, When you are come into the land which Jehovah your God gives you, you shall not learn to do according to the abominations of those nations. There shall not be found among you he that makes his son or his daughter to pass through the fire, that uses divination, that uses auguries, or an enchanter, or a sorcerer, or a charmer, or one that inquires of a spirit of Python, or a soothsayer, or one that consults the dead. For every one that does these things is an abomination to Jehovah, and because of these abominations Jehovah your God does dispossess them from before you. You shall be perfect with Jehovah your God. For these nations, which you shall dispossess, hearkened unto those that use auguries, and that use divination; but as for you, Jehovah your God has not suffered you to do so. The strongest word in the Old Testament for wicked actions, besides the word 'wicked' itself, is the word 'abomination.' These practices are abominable. They are abominable whether they are just for fun, or for real. God desired that his people abhor such practices, and rid the land of those who practice such evils. Exodus 22:18, You shall not let a witch live. They were to kill them and liberate the land of the abominable practice of witchcraft and sorcery."
http://www.apuritansmind.com/the-christian-walk/a-brief-history-of-halloween-by-dr-c-mathew-mcmahon/

Preparing Children for the World

See the Theological Notes: "The Fall" at Genesis 3:6 in The Reformation Study Bible.
See the Theological Notes: "God's Covenant of Grace" at Genesis 12:1 in The Reformation Study Bible.
The happiest people in this world are those who make the Bible the rule of their lives. They read their Bibles often. They believe what the Bible says. They love that Savior, Jesus Christ, of whom the Bible speaks.
They try to obey what the Bible commands. None are so happy as these people. They cannot prevent sickness and trouble from coming to them at times. But they learn from the Bible to bear them patiently. Children, if you would get through this world happily, make the Bible your best friend. -- J.C. Ryle (1816-1900

Black, Thom, Lynda Stephenson, and Mary Chambers, Born to Fly: How to Discover and Encourage Your Child's Natural Gifts, ISBN: 0310402816.

Bradley, Reb, Born Liberal, Raised Right: How to Rescue America From Moral Decline -- One Family at a Time, ISBN: 9781935071587 1935071580.
"America has a problem. Conservatives aren't helping their kids mature past that arrested development phase also known as liberalism! In this groundbreaking book, noted speaker Reb Bradley proves that societal pressures and foolish child-raising theories that have gone mainstream are preventing parents from developing in their kids the key ingredients of maturity, including self-control. Too many children are becoming adults who are ruled purely by magical thinking, passions, emotions and desires -- the hallmarks of the liberal mindset. It's up to parents to turn their baby Bolsheviks into good citizens by helping their kids mature past their infantile liberal stage. Reb Bradley shows how." -- Publisher

Ford, Sallie Rochester, Mary Bunyan, the Dreamer's Blind Daughter: A Tale of Religious Persecution.

Fortune, Don, and Kathie Fortune, Discover Your Children's Gifts: A Parent's Handbook to Recognize and Develop Your Children's God-Given Gifts, ISBN: 0800791517 9780800791513.
"Every child is blessed with extraordinary, unique gifts from God. Now you can encourage your children to become more fruitful adults by learning how to recognize and nurture each child's individual spiritual gifts. Through age-related tests ranging from pre-school through the teenage years, the sensitive, caring authors show you how to understand your children better and develop their unique abilities." -- Publisher
Includes a 13-week study guide.

Fuller, Cheri, Unlocking Your Child's Learning Potential: How to Equip Kids to Succeed in School and Life, ISBN: 0891098348 9780891098348.

Garborg, Rolf, Gary Smalley (foreword), and John Trent (foreword), The Family Blessing: A Simple Parental act That will Help Your Children Feel Loved and Cherished, ISBN: 0849907810 9780849907814. Alternate title: THE FAMILY BLESSING: CREATING A SPIRITUAL COVERING FOR YOUR FAMILY'S FUTURE.
"Explains exactly what it means not only to have a regular 'blessing time' in your home, but also to make affirmation and encouragement the basis of all your communications." -- Publisher

Harris, Gregg, The Home and Family Business Workshop: A Complete Workshop for Parents and Teens on how to Start a Successful Business for Your Family.
This series of seven audio cassette tapes [audio file], includes: The Biblical Basis for Your Family Business, How to Start Your Family Business, The Marks of Truly Christian Business People, Home Banking and Other Strategies to Avoid Debt, Proven Business Ideas You Can Start Immediately, How to Find and Keep Your Customers, and How to Manage Yourself and Your Time.

Kesler, Jay, Raising Responsible Kids: Ten Things you can do now to Prepare Your Child for a Lifetime of Independence. Alternate title: RAISING RESPONSIBLE KIDS: HOW TO GUIDE YOUR CHILD TOWARD INDEPENDENT ADULTHOOD, ISBN: 1561210528 9781561210527 0380719762 9780380719761.
"If you wait until your child is ready for his diploma before you teach him/her responsible independence, you have waited too long. The teaching of responsibility comes gradually through specific lessons and experience. Here is help for parents in accomplishing this task -- by starting right now." -- GCB

*Lucas, J.R., Parenting of Champions: Raising Godly Children in an Evil Age, ISBN: 094349785X 9780943497853.
"The evils of our culture are attacking our families from every side -- with the biggest guns aimed straight at our children. . . . First step is for parents to set a championship example, to actually become what they want their children to become." -- GCB
"This is one of the most honest, courageous parenting books you will ever read." -- CRM

Martin, Paul R., Cult Proofing Your Kids, ISBN: 0310537614 9780310537618.
"This examination of the cult problem offers practical advice. It is a comprehensive psychological, social and evangelical treatment of the growing trend of cults. Dr Martin offers advice to institutions on developing cult education programs, and to parents on how to get children out of cults." -- Publisher

Martin, Walter, Seven Campus Curses, [audio file].
"The seven most common objections to the Christian Faith are dealt with in a hard-hitting, fast-moving expository on the existence of God, miracles, creation, Biblical inspiration, and other issues crucial to the faith." -- Publisher

Moyer, Homer E. Jr., The R.A.T. Real-World Aptitude Test: Preparing Yourself for Leaving Home, ISBN: 1931868425 9781931868426.
"Just revised with new chapters on 'Living Away from Home' and 'The Environment' -- The R.A.T. Revised is perfect for young adults leaving the nest for the first time. Do you know how many teaspoons of sugar the average 12 ounce can of soda contains? Can you change a flat tire? Can you identify the ten largest cities in the world? The R.A.T. (Real-World Aptitude Test) answers these questions and more. Divided into two parts, like the SATs, the first section contains questions in thirty different subject areas, and the second part provides answers and explanations to these life-defining questions. Subject areas include cooking, managing money, etiquette, geography, sports and many more. As a test of preparedness for the real world, the R.A.T. provides answers to some of life's most common stumbling blocks, such as how to change a flat tire or how to handle computer problems as well as facts on generalized knowledge in areas such as geography and politics. The R.A.T. is perfect for young adults leaving the nest and adults who are entering a new phase of life such as parenthood or retirement." -- Reader's Comment

Norris, Bill, What the Bible Says About Growing Old, ISBN: 0899002587 9780899002583.

Paul, James L. (editor), The Exceptional Child: A Guidebook for Churches and Community Agencies

*Spurgeon, C.H. (1834-1892), Words of Warning for Daily Life.

Van Dyken, Donald, Rediscovering Catechism: The art of Equipping Covenant Children, ISBN: 0875524648 9780875524641.

See also: The sovereignty of god, The doctrine of man (human nature, total depravity), Sharing christ with your children, Repentance the key to salvation and change, Justification, Justifying faith, The inspiration and infallibility of scripture (the doctrine of revelation, the doctrine of plenary inspiration, the doctrine of divine inspiration, the doctrine of verbal inspiration, theopneustia, sufficiency of scripture), The sovereign grace of god: his everlasting mercy and lovingkindness, The ten commandments: the moral law, The commandments of christ, Knowing god, Trusting god, The all-sufficiency of christ, Problem solving with children, Counseling children, Protecting children from dangers, Preparing children for the world, Sexual relationship, Spiritual adultery (spiritual whoredom/harlotry), Slavery, our systems of enslavement, economic enslavement, Teaching/training children, Bad relationships a cause of disease and death, Problem solving with children, Idolatry, Sexual relationship, Spiritual adultery (spiritual whoredom/harlotry), Covetousness, greed, and selfishness, Theft, fraud, stealing: property rights and freedom, Rebellion and lawlessness: wickedness, demonic possession, substance abuse, abnormal behavior, insanity, mental illness, mental retardation, Anger, Justice, the theology of judgment, god's final judgment, the great white throne judgment, the day of the lord, Justifying faith, Forgiveness, Sanctification, The covenant faithfulness of god, The Lordship of jesus christ, Christ's kingdom, Creeds, Confessions, and Catechisms, Sexual relationship, Spiritual adultery (spiritual whoredom/harlotry), Abstinence, Conscience, casuistry, cases of conscience, Covenant Theology and Covenanting, Covenant theology and the ordinance of covenanting, The covenanted reformation, The covenanted reformation of scotland background and history, Covenanted reformation short title listing, Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, The works of c. gregg singer, The one and the many, Corporate faithfulness and sanctification, Individual responsibility for corporate faithfulness and sanctification, Unfaithful reformed ministries, Secret societies, ungodly alliances, voluntary associations, Conspiracy, corruption, organized crime, Pseudo-christian movements: a selection of works, Politics, Politics, The aged, Christian fiction, Classic christian fiction by martha finley,Classic christian fiction by martha finley, the elsie books series, and so forth, and so on.

Related Weblinks

Girl Defined
https://www.girldefined.com/

Virtuousreality.com, a Website for all Women
http://www.virtuousreality.com/

Single Parenting

Jones, Robert D., Single Parents: Daily Grace for the Hardest Job, ISBN: 9781934885277 1934885274.

Peppler, Alice S., Single Again -- This Time With Children: A Christian Guide for the Single Parent, ISBN: 0806619104 9780806619101.

Smith, Virginia W., The Single Parent, ISBN: 0800751051 9780800751050.

Wilde, Gary, Bible Wisdom for Single Parents, ISBN: 0781400724 9780781400725.

Womack, Charles R., Ministry to Single Parents Through a Small Growth Group Setting.

Worth, Jill, and Christine Tufnell, Journey Through Single Parenting, ISBN: 0340651903 9780340651902.

See also: The sovereign grace of god: his everlasting mercy and lovingkindness, The doctrine of man (human nature, total depravity), Sharing christ with your children, Teaching/training children, Conscience, casuistry, cases of conscience, Repentance the key to salvation and change, Justification, Justifying faith, Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, Sexual relationship, Spiritual adultery (spiritual whoredom/harlotry), Being single (women), Parenting, Child abuse and pedophilia, Singleness, Women and parenting, Personal finance, Counsel for young men, Counsel for young women, Christian fiction, Classic christian fiction by martha finley the elsie books series, and so forth, and so on.

Related Weblinks

Girl Defined
https://www.girldefined.com/

Virtuousreality.com, a Website for all Women
http://www.virtuousreality.com/

Christian Literature for Boys and Girls

The Elsie Books 28-book series in its original unmodernized text probably models the Christian family better than any other fiction. Likewise, the example of Elsie's life is one of the best models for Christian girls.
Notice the original text of this series is becoming available free in Project Gutenberg e-text. We have added links to the e-text as of May 2007.

American Sunday-School Union, Grace Raymond: or, The Evil and Cure of a Passionate Temper.

Aprile, Michael Dante, and the Aprile Family, The Character of Elsie Dinsmore (Plano, TX [Utmost Enterprises, PO Box 940205, Plano, 75094-0205]: Utmost Enterprises), ISBN: 1581822014 9781581822014. An e-text book on CD-ROM.
"This book was written by members of the Aprile family who desire, as did Elsie, to follow the Godly character traits, exemplified by Jesus Christ, in their everyday walk. . . . In this book, we have attempted to show, through Elsie's eyes, how a person, whose will is to follow the Lord, is able to take up the cross and follow Him.
"You will find that this book is good for instruction and illustration in the teaching of thirty-eight Character Traits to your children. This book can serve as a supplement to your current curriculum or some creative people might find ways to use it as a curriculum itself." -- The Aprile Family
The Character of Elsie Dinsmore (excerpts)
http://www.utmost-way.com/tcoed.htm

Beers, V. Gilbert, and Samuel Butcher, Precious Moments Bedtime Stories, ISBN: 0801009596 9780801009594.

Beers, V. Gilbert, and Samuel Butcher, Precious Moments Stories From the Bible, ISBN: 0801043115 9780801043116. Alternate title: GOOD NEWS FOR CHILDREN.

Beers, V. Gilbert (text), and Samuel J. Butcher (illustrations), Precious Moments: Through-the-Day Stories, ISBN: 0801009928 9780801009921.
"Brief story-poems heighten our awareness of the special features of wake-up time, mail time, chore time, family time, and other such times of the day, highlighting God's role in all aspects of our lives.
"Here's a delightful collection of fantasy, daydreams, sleepytime tales . . . stories just right for daytime snuggle times or evening tuck-in routines. Spend some golden moments with your child reading and chuckling over happy, upbeat poems and stories. . . . the delicate, sensitive, and appealing Precious Moments drawings are often a story-within-a-story and offer a strong, pleasant combination of text and illustration." -- Publisher

Beers, V. Gilbert, and Samuel Butcher, Precious Moments Through-the-Year Stories, ISBN: 0801009731 9780801009730.
These are short stories for pre-school children.

Bridge, Stephanie Marie, Puritan Fairy Tales: Short Stories and Poems for Young and Old.

Bouma, Ralph, et al., The Children's Classics, a series of Christian classics for children selected by Ralph Bouma.
"Each of these classics, which teach character, exalt Christ, and honor God's Word in a refreshing manner not found in more modern books . . ." -- GCB
These works were originally printed in the 18th and 19th centuries and are filled with Godly principles which build character. Triangle Press has rewritten them in children's language and proper English. Write requesting a complete listing of titles.

Bible Truths for Little Children, 5 volumes.

Bouma, Ralph, Family Focus on Christ,

Godliness is Great Gain, ISBN: 9781583390511 1583390510.

Little Daisy and the Swearing Class

Little Medicine Carrier

A Little Rebel Becomes a Saint, ISBN: 9781583390566 1583390561.

Roses and Thorns and Prison Roses, ISBN: 158339057X 9781583390573.

Bouma, Ralph, Short Devotions: 100 Messages for Daily Life,

Bouma, Ralph, Spiritual Wrestling, ISBN: 1583390170.

Baird, E. Thompson, Theobold the Iron-Hearted, ISBN: 9781583390580 1583390588.

The Weed With an ill Name.

Tampering With Temptation, ISBN: 1583390596 9781583390597.

More, Hannah, The Bible in the Wall, ISBN: 9781583390535 1583390537.

The Reward of Childhood Truth; and, The Story of Little Mary's First and Last Falsehood, ISBN: 9781583390603 158339060X.
See also: Various, Collector's Edition: A Collection of six Favorite Children's Stories With Illustrations. Published by Gospel Mission Press, Choteau, Montana.

Children's Heritage Series, The Children of the Bible.

Children's Heritage Series, The Little Girl's Treasury of Precious Things.

Faris, Jerri, Covenanters of Scotland: A History for Children, ISBN: 1884527124 9781884527128.

*Haan, Sheri, Precious Moments Storybook Treasury, ISBN: 0801044588 9780801044588. Combines two title: PRECIOUS MOMENTS BIBLE STORIES (by Sheri Dunham Haan), and PRECIOUS MOMENTS BEDTIME STORIES (formerly titled GOOD NEWS FOR CHILDREN), (by Samuel J. and Jon David Butcher, Debbie Ann and Steven Craig Wiersma).
"This is a delightful book aimed at pre-schoolers, and, of course, to the adults who read to their children. It is in very large print, with unique water color illustrations from Sam Butcher. There is some scene-setting to attract the attention of the child, and then there is a paraphrased version of what the Bible says. Yet despite this, and the simplified language, the stores are sound. Doctrines are taught without flinching. Sin is identified as sin, lying as lying. It is remarkably well done. It makes an ideal gift book for grandparents, parents, or children." -- Jay P. Green, Sr. (1918-2008)

*Haycock, Ruth, Encyclopedia of Bible Truths, in one volume, 443 pages (Colorado Springs, CO: Association of Christian Schools International, c1993). Former title: ENCYCLOPEDIA OF BIBLE TRUTHS FOR SCHOOL SUBJECTS (Purposeful Design Publications, 1979), in four volumes.
Volume 1: Social Studies, 129 pages
Volume 2: Language, Arts/English, 85 pages
Volume 3: Science/Mathematics, 107 pages
Volume 4: Fine Arts/Health, 116 pages
"This comprehensive index to the Bible is the fruit of a life's dedication and study by Dr. Ruth Haycock. Because a wide variety of subjects are covered and defined in light of Scripture, this tool will become your constant companion as you answer questions, prepare lessons, do research, and lead topical studies." -- Publisher
"With this unique resource you can help your students understand how God's Word relates to every subject. Whether the topic is Geography or Geometry, Literature or Law, this book establishes the fundamental connection between each discipline and the truth of the Scriptures. Originally published in four separate paperbacks, it is now available in a single, hardback edition. It can be used for lesson preparation, research, project completion, more!" -- GCB
"Dr. Haycock's work is listed in the current ACSI product catalog for $25 for ACSI member schools. You can obtain a copy by calling the order department in Colorado Springs (800) 367-0798. This is still a very popular item at our conventions and for schools in the accreditation process." -- Bill Wilson
May be purchased in Great Britain from:
Homeschool
http://www.homeschool.co.uk/

Kingston, William Henry Giles, Rescue at the Eleventh Hour, ISBN: 9781583391228 1583391223.

Lockman, Vic, Literature for Children -- Works of Vic Lockman
http://www.worldcat.org/search?q=au%3AVic+Lockman&qt=advanced&dblist=638

Lockman, Vic, The Westminster Shorter Catechism With Cartoons, ISBN: 0936175281 9780936175287.

Lockman, Vic, The Worship Principle: Elements and Circumstances. Alternate title: HOW SHALL WE WORSHIP GOD? A CATECHISM FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY.

*Palmer, Peter, Manning De V. Lee, and Jay P. Sr. Green (editor), The Children's Bible Story Book, ISBN: 1878442899 9781878442895.
Said to be the best of the Bible story books.

Peretti, Frank E., Cooper Kids Adventure Series, ISBN: 1581346913 9781581346916.
"These four Indiana Jones-style adventures about archaeologist Dr. Jake Cooper and his two young teens, Jay and Lila, teach kids sound values -- while keeping them glued to their seats! The slipcased softcover set includes THE DOOR IN THE DRAGON'S THROAT, ESCAPE FROM THE ISLAND OF AQUARIUS, THE TOMBS OF ANAK, and TRAPPED AT THE BOTTOM OF THE SEA." -- CBD
Frank Peretti has written many other pieces of juvenile fiction.

Pride, Mary, Baby Doe, ISBN: 0943497949 9780943497945.
Juvenile fiction.

*Richmond, Legh, The Dairyman's Daughter, ISBN: 1583391266 9781583391266. Alternate title: THE DAIRYMAN'S DAUGHTER AND OTHER PERSONAL TESTIMONIES.

Robb, G.M., Reformed Presbyterian Church of North America, and Covenanter Young People's Union, Covenant Recollections, 1959.

Ryle, J.C., The two Bears: And Other Addresses to Children.

Unknown, Aunt Margaret's Twelve Stories: To Illustrate and Impress Important Truths.

Van Zweden, Johan, Kanousky and David Brainerd, The Indian's Missionary.

Various, Collector's Edition: A Collection of six Favorite Children's Stories With Illustrations. Published by Gospel Mission Press, Choteau, Montana.

White, William R. (compiler), Stories for the Journey: A Sourcebook for Christian Storytellers, ISBN: 0806623640 9780806623641.
Includes bibliography.

Wilson, Elizabeth, Choosing Children's Books (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Two audio cassettes [audio file].

Wilson, Elizabeth, Living Books (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation). Two audio cassettes [audio file].

*Wilson, Elizabeth, and Susan Schaeffer Macaulay (foreword), Books Children Love: A Guide to the Best Children's Literature, ISBN: 0891074414 9780891074410.
"At last here is a book that will help parents open up the wonderful world of reading for their children! Here are books that embody the ideals of traditional values and a Christian worldview. Only books that really catch and hold children's attention, that are finely written, and that reflect basic Biblical values have been chosen." -- GCB
"This book is arranged by subject and reading level. There is a good variety of choices, and the books listed have all been evaluated to be wholesome and reinforce proper priorities, human relationships and good attitudes. There are wonderful classic books and newer books also. My child has enjoyed every title we have read from the book lists. -- Reader's Comment

See also: Sharing christ with your children, Christian biography, Christian fiction, Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, Classic christian fiction by martha finley, the elsie books series, Christian fiction, Christian biography, Home schooling, Some complementary works, Problem solving with children, Counseling children, Protecting children from dangers, Preparing children for the world, and so forth, and so on.

Related Weblinks

Literature for Children -- Works of Vic Lockman
http://www.worldcat.org/search?q=au%3AVic+Lockman&qt=advanced&dblist=638

Family

See the Theological Notes: "The Church," at Ephesians 2:19 in The Reformation Study Bible.
See the Theological Notes: "The Local Church," at Revelation 2:1 in The Reformation Study Bible.
See the Theological Notes: "The Christian Family," at Ephesians 5:22 in The Reformation Study Bible.
Except the Lord build the house, they labor in vain that build it. (Psalm 127:1)
God be merciful unto us, and bless us: and cause his face to shine upon us: That thy way may be known upon earth, thy saving health among all nations. (Psalm 67:1,2)
The Treasury of David, Psalm 67, C.H. Spurgeon
http://archive.spurgeon.org/treasury/ps067.php
Now therefore fear the Lord, and serve him in sincerity and in truth: and put away the gods which your fathers served on the other side of the flood, and in Egypt; and serve ye the Lord. And if it seem evil unto you to serve the Lord, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord. (Joshua 24:14,15)
All bonds are easily broken and cast away (by the soul at least, if not by the body), which are not perceived to be divine. -- Richard Baxter (1615-1691)
God setteth the solitary in families: he bringeth out those which are bound with chains: but the rebellious dwell in a dry land. (Psalm 68:6)
For whosoever shall do the will of my Father which is in heaven, the same is my brother, and sister, and mother. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 12:50)
Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (2 Timothy 3:12)
The four "Servant Songs" of Isaiah are Isaiah 42:1-9; Isaiah 49:1-7; Isaiah 50:4-11; and Isaiah 52:13 -- Isaiah 53:12. See the annotations in The Reformation Study Bible.
Our Triune God has ordained that the preeminent leader of the Church is the Lord Jesus Christ, the God Man, Our Righteousness. (John 1:1-18; Matthew 19:30; Matthew 28:18-20; Isaiah 49:7; Colossians 1:16-19; Colossians 2:9,10; Hebrews 12:1,2; Revelation 5:1-14; Revelation 19:11-15; Revelation 20:11-15; Revelation 22:12, and so forth, and so on). Human leadership is also divinely ordained and tends to devolve to those who are most perfectly at one with Christ, and to those who also know the most Truth (the Apostle Paul, Saint Augustine, Martin Luther, John Calvin, Puritan leaders, The Scots Worthies, and so forth, and so on).
And Jesus said unto them, Verily I say unto you, That ye which have followed me, in the regeneration when the Son of man shall sit in the throne of his glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 19:28). See: (Matthew 19:28, 1599 Geneva Bible)
Then his master said unto him, It is well done good servant and faithful, Thou hast been faithful in little, I will make thee ruler over much: enter into thy master's joy. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 25:21) (Matthew 25:21 1599 Geneva Bible)
Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 25:34). See: (Matthew 25:34, 1599 Geneva Bible)
And he said unto him, Well, good servant: because thou hast been faithful in a very little thing, take thou authority over ten cities. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 19:17) (Luke 19:17, 1599 Geneva Bible)
Therefore I appoint unto you a kingdom, as my Father hath appointed unto me. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 22:29) (Luke 22:29, 1599 Geneva Bible)
And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together. (Romans 8:17). See: (Romans 8:17, 1599 Geneva Bible)
Know ye not that we shall judge angels? how much more things that pertain to this life? (1 Corinthians 6:3). See: (1 Corinthians 6:3, 1599 Geneva Bible)
And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus. (Ephesians 2:6). See: (Ephesians 2:6, 1599 Geneva Bible)
To execute vengeance upon the heathen, and corrections among the people:
To bind their kings in chains, and their nobles with fetters of iron,
That they may execute upon them the judgment that is written: this honor shall be to all his Saints. Praise ye the Lord. (Psalm 149:7-9) (Psalm 149:7-9, 1599 Geneva Bible)
But I suffer not a woman to teach, nor to usurp authority over the man, but to be in silence. (1 Timothy 2:12), (1 Timothy 2:12, 1599 Geneva Bible)
And he that overcometh, and keepeth my works unto the end, to him will I give power over the nations. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Revelation 2:26). See: (Revelation 2:26, 1599 Geneva Bible)
To serve God is to reign. -- Seneca (4 BC -- 65 AD)
And when all things shall be subdued unto him, then shall the Son also himself be subject unto him that put all things under him, that God may be all in all. (1 Corinthians 15:28)
But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear: Having a good conscience. . . (1 Peter 3:15, 16a)
Oh how highly we are to be concerned that our conscience be tender, and yet how little care is taken of it! What has become of the authority of conscience, when your thoughts and your passions, when your eyes and your ears and your appetite and your tongue are left unbridled and unconquered? When every servant is set up to be master, to bear rule in you, where is your conscience? When your soul is no better kept, what poverty and leanness is growing on it, what a starveling it is both in grace and peace, eaten out with lust, evaporated into vanity, sunk into sensuality, your spirit even transubstantiated into perishing flesh, ready to die away, because you have not had a tender conscience. If you have not better kept your covenant with God, when you have not performed the duties you have vowed, when your hours of prayer are so short, your sabbaths such wintry, cold days, where has your conscience been? When your God is so shamefully neglected, never hears from you even when you have nothing else to do; yea, when your corn, your cattle, your pleasures, your friends (even those you vowed to renounce), are invited into your heart to steal it away from Heaven, then where is your conscience? When you lie asleep and allow God's enemies to sow tares in your field; when you are being a busy-body in other men's affairs, while your own vineyard is not being kept; when both your heart and your house are so much out of order, where is your conscience? When you leave your wife and your children and your servants to do all that is right in their own eyes; when you take care more for your possessions than for your sons and daughters, ready to die for lack of instruction, where is your conscience? And if you have no conscience, then where is your covenant? And if you have no covenant, then where is your God and your peace? -- C.H. Spurgeon commenting on I Peter 3:15,16a [1 Peter 3:15,16a], quoted in Morning and Evening II: A Second Year of Daily Devotions by C.H. Spurgeon, May 28, p. 149 found in Devotional Classics of C.H. Spurgeon
The Elsie Books 28-book set, in its original, unabridged text, probably models the Christian family better than any other fiction. Likewise, the example of Elsie's life is one of the best models for Christian girls.

Andrew, James O., Family Government: A Treatise on Conjugal, Parental, and Filial Duties, 1847.

Barna, George, The Future of the American Family, ISBN: 0802428991 9780802428998.
"George Barna uses tons of well-interpreted statistics to outline what church leaders and concerned parents need to know about the impact on families of different influence agents, ways families can cope with negative influences, and ideas on what families might do to effectively anticipate and respond to future stress points." -- CBD

Bension-von der Ohe, Elizabeth, and Valmari M. Mason, An Annotated Bibliography of U.S. Scholarship on the History of the Family, ISBN: 0404616062 9780404616069.
"Comprehensive annotated bibliographies are worth their weight in gold. This one is extensive and covers virtually all aspects of marriage and family living. Included are dissertations, journal articles, book reviews, and replicated research. D.Min. students will find this an invaluable resource." -- Cyril J. Barber

Chartier, Jan, and Myron Chartier, Caring Together: Faith, Hope and Love in Your Family, ISBN: 0664240194 9780664240196.
"This book is written by a Christian couple, both seminary professors, with two children, who affirm that true spirituality can be found and expressed in ordinary, everyday life. They claim that the teaching of the Bible can be fully practiced in a modern family -- and they tell us, in detail, how to do it." -- David and Vera Mace

Christenson, Larry, The Christian Family.
Contains material useful in counseling.

Cleaver, Nancy, The Treasury of Family Fun; Indoor and Outdoor Activities, Ideas and Projects for Every Month of the Year.
"A manual on indoor and outdoor activities with ideas and projects for every month of the year." -- Cyril J. Barber

DeBardeleben, Martha Graves, and Jay Adams (foreword), Fear's Answers: Case History in Nouthetic Counseling, ISBN: 087552236X 9780875522364.
" 'It was the summer of 1970. I had already discarded my faith in psychology as the source of truth and remedy for the human dilemma. I was more and more finding in God's Word the answers. I was introduced to Jay Adams and his systematizing of Scripture as it applies to the problems of everyday living. I was thrilled to find that Dr. Adams' discoveries both paralleled and went far beyond my own.' Then in 1978 a 78 year old woman with pain, fear, depression, manipulation, hallucinations comes to live with the author. They speak biblically about pride, anger, fear, self-centeredness and lack of trust in God, instead of saying she needs her delusions and is too old for truth. 'What was most crucial in her recovery was that because she had a loving Savior, she could dare face the truth about herself'." -- David Powlison (1949-2019)

Defoe, Daniel, The Family-instructor. In Three Parts; I. Relating to Fathers and Children. II. To Masters and Servants. III. To Husbands and Wives. 4th edition, 1717, 2 volumes.

Denton, Wallace, What's Happening to our Families?
"A constructive discussion on the structure and changing patterns of family life today. Evaluates the emasculated man and the unfulfilled woman, anxious parents, accelerated living, retirement, the demise of religious belief, and family isolation. A final section considers the new role of churches in rebuilding family life." -- Cyril J. Barber

Dodd, Elizabeth D., Marriage to a Difficult Man: The 'Uncommon Union' of Jonathan and Sarah Edwards, ISBN: 0664209009 9780664209001.
About Sarah Perrepont's marriage to Jonathan Edwards and the raising of their 11 children.

Evans, Robert A., Alice F. Evans, Louis Weeks, and Carolyn Weeks, Casebook for Christian Living: Value Formation for Families and Congregations, ISBN: 0804220328 9780804220323.
Includes bibliographical references.

Hibbard, Ann, Family Celebrations at Birthdays and for Vacations and Other Holidays, ISBN: 080105513X 9780801055133. Alternate title: FAMILY CELEBRATIONS: MEETING CHRIST IN YOUR HOLIDAYS AND SPECIAL OCCASIONS.
"Here are practical tips and tested advice for planning birthdays that everyone will enjoy. Fun, memorable parties need not cost a bundle either. Hibbard helps you draw on your creativity instead of your checkbook!" -- Publisher

*Howe, John (1630-1705), Of Charity in Reference to Other Men's Sins, 1 Corinthians 13:5, 1681. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
"According to James Darling's CYCLOPAEDIA BIBLIOGRAPHICA, John Howe was one of the faithful English Puritan ministers who was ejected from his church in 1662. Darling adds that 'The late Robert Hall said that he had learned more from John Howe than from any other author he had ever read, and that there is an astonishing magnificence in his conceptions.' (p. 1560)
"This book is about Christians' attitudes towards the sins of other people. For example, Howe notes that some people are happy to see others sin because it makes them feel superior to those people. But it is itself sinful for a Christian to feel this way. 'What is it now to rejoice in another man's sin? Think what it is, and how impossible it is to be where the love of God hath any place. What to be glad that such a one is turning a man into a devil! A reasonable immortal soul, capable of Heaven, into a fiend of Hell! To be glad that such a soul is tearing itself off from God, is blasting its own eternal hopes, and destroying all its possibilities of a future well-being! Blessed God! How repugnant is this to Charity?' (p. 18)
" 'One would think them indeed but half men, and scarce any Christians, that can allow themselves so inhumane, and unhallowed a pleasure, as rejoicing in another's sin!
" 'Tis very unworthy of a man to take pleasure in seeing his fellowman turning beast. There is little in it of the ingenuity that belongs to humane nature, to delight in the harms of others; much less of the prudence, to make sport of a common mischief.' (p. 54)
"Rather than rejoicing over the sins of others, Christians should mourn over the sin and pray for the repentance of the offender.
"In some cases, however, charity and duty will require separation from the offender. 'We are to decline their society: i.e. when their heinous guilt appears, and while their repentance appears not. Scripture is so plain, and copious to this purpose, that it would suppose them very ignorant of the Bible, for whom it should be needful to quote texts. We must avoid them for our own sake, that we be not infected, nor be partakers in their sin, and guilt. For theirs (and so charity requires it), that they may be ashamed, which may be the means of their reduction and salvation: And (which is most considerable), for the honour of the Christian religion, that it may be vindicated, and rescued from reproach, as much as in us lies.' (pp. 41-42)
"In this respect Christians have an infallible example. 'The great God is our example, who refuses the fellowship of apostate persons, yea and churches: Departs, and withdraws his affronted Glory. It is pure, and declines all taint'." (p. 42) -- Publisher
The Whole Works of the Rev. John Howe, M.A., With a Memoir of the Author (1822), vol. 1 of 8.
http://archive.org/details/wholeworksofrevj01howeuoft

Howse, Brannon, Reclaiming a Nation at Risk: The Battle for Your Faith, Family and Freedoms.

James, John Angell (1785-1859), A Help to Domestic Happiness, ISBN: 1573580058 9781573580052.
"This is James' book on how to rightly order the family, which originated from sermons preached on Ephesians. James emphasizes that the chief end of every Christian parent must be the spiritual interests, religious character, and eternal salvation of their children. Here is just one quote from the book that will give an idea of its content and depth: "The secret of happiness lies folded up in the leaves of the Bible, and is carried in the bosom of religion." -- Publisher

Johnson, Ron, Joseph W. Hinkle, and Charles M. Lowry, Oikos: A Practical Approach to Family Evangelism, ISBN: 0805462341 9780805462340.

Mack, Wayne A., Your Family, God's way: Developing and Sustaining Relationships in the Home. Alternate title: BUILDING YOUR FAMILY GOD'S WAY: THE ROLE OF EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION IN THE HOME, ISBN: 0875523587 9780875523583.
"Mack offers Biblical insight and practical wisdom for two crucial areas of family life: communication and conflict resolution. Stories of success and application questions give hope and clear direction to all who wish to build stronger families." -- Publisher

Martin, Walter, Authority or Anarchy: Crisis in the American Family, an audio cassette [audio file], (San Juan Capistrano, CA: Christian Research Institute International).
"Dr. Martin analyses the underlying problem within the structure of the American family, giving clear guidelines for husbands and wives, parents, and children."

M'Crie, Thomas (1772-1835), John Owen, and Ralph Erskine, Calvinistic Family Library: Devoted to the Republication of Standard Calvinistic Works.

Miller, David R., Breaking Free: Rescuing Families From the Clutches of Legalism.

Morgan, Edmund Sears, The Puritan Family: Religion and Domestic Relations in Seventeenth-century New England.
"Examines the various social, political, religious, and economic aspects of marriage and the family in Puritan New England, considering household relationships and the family's place in the Puritan social order." -- Publisher

Petty, Jim, Helps for Family Leaders (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Audio cassette HFTF05 [audio file].

Petty, Jim, Money, Ambition and the Christian Family (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Audio cassette HFTF10 [audio file].

Petty, Jim, Suffering in the Home (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Audio cassette HFTF26 [audio file].

Pollard, Jeff (editor), and Scott T. Brown (editor), A Theology of the Family, an anthology, ISBN: 9781624180460 1624180469.
"This book presents a perspective on the family largely forgotten by the modern church. There are fifty-six authors featured in this volume. Each of them gives a powerful testimony that the twenty-first century church needs to be reminded of what she used to believe about family life. These authors bring a measure of the correction and the balm necessary to heal our amnesia and return us to biblical order. . . .
"Five centuries of biblical wisdom for family life.
"A THEOLOGY OF THE FAMILY is the result of more than a decade of editorial work on the Free Grace Broadcaster." -- Publisher
An alphabetical index of "Authors featured in A THEOLOGY OF THE FAMILY," pp. 27-33.

Powlison, David (1949-2019), and Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation, What is a Dysfunctional Family? 5 MP3 files [audio file].

*Pride, Mary, The Big Book of Home Learning, 4 volumes, ISBN: 0891075488 9780891075486 0891075496 9780891075493.
Volume 1: Getting Started. Introduces all major home school methods and answers your most frequently asked questions.
Volume 2: Preschool and Elementary.
Volume 3: Junior High Through College.
Volume 4: Afterschooling and Extras.
Each volume is over 500 pages and includes full contact information for every product reviewed.
"Mary Pride has researched tons of educational products. . . . I love Pride's philosophy of teaching and trust her conclusions. She has saved me years of hunting for good educational supplies." -- Reader's Comment "Here is a complete guide to everything educational for you and your children. . . . You will find resources and information here that are not available elsewhere." -- GCB

*Pride, Mary, Next Book of Home Learning.
"This new book brings us a whole new range of additional educational resources for home schoolers of all ages to complement her first book. With its broad spectrum of hard-to-find information . . . this book is an indispensable resource for home schoolers . . ." -- GCB

Reformed Presbytery (Scotland), A Pastoral Letter to the Old Dissenters, Concerning Family and Social Duties.

Rupprecht, David, and Ruth Rupprecht, Radical Hospitality, ISBN: 0875524214 9780875524214 0875524206 9780875524207.
"An important book which is a call for believers to open their doors to people needing the love, care, and discipline of a Christian home. Biblical reasons for doing this and the experience of five families who practice hospitality are given. What is involved? What effect will it have on family members?" -- GCB

Scipione, George, The Biblical Battle for the Family: A Theology of Family Life.
"Sets the biblical view of family life in contrast to contemporary social forces that oppose such a view. Includes strategic and tactical suggestions for waging the battle successfully. Intended to establish the worldview that must undergird marriage and family counseling." -- David Powlison (1949-2019)
Institute of Biblical Counseling and Discipleship (formerly CCEF West)
http://www.ibcd.org/

Scipione, George C., Marriage and Family Counseling: Course Syllabus, 134 pages.
Introduction. Why study the family?: What is the family? -- What is marriage and family counseling? -- Why is it necessary to study and to help the family? How to study the family: The starting point is God's holy created norms found in scripture, not sinful, sociological, statistical norms -- God starts mankind's history with a family, not any other institution -- God works through families in His covenant of grace -- God made the family a symbol, analogy or model -- The family is central to the functioning of the other God-ordained institutions. The Biblical theology of the family and its relationship to theology: The family is a major key in understanding God's nature -- The family is a major key in understanding God's redemptive covenant of grace -- Modern secular views of the family, as well as contemporary evangelical views, distort God's nature and His acts in history. The history of the family: Biblical history -- General conclusions from the biblical data -- Para biblical and post biblical history. The biblical theology of the family: Biblical theology of gender roles -- Marriage -- The husband, the loving leader -- The wife, the suitable helper -- Communication in marriage -- Problem solving in marriage -- Sexuality in marriage -- Children -- Parenting -- Growth, maturity, aging -- Education of children -- Assessment and diagnosis of "dyslexia" -- Assessment and diagnosis of ADD with hyperactivity -- Finances and inheritance -- Covenantal family view of contracting marriage vs. American romantic dating -- Premarital counseling -- A biblical theology of divorce -- Divorce counseling -- Remarriage -- Physical abuse -- Pornography, adultery, etc. -- Incest -- Family worship -- Adoption. The soteriology of the family: Problems defined -- Solutions developed by the culture (psychotherapies by the culture, codependency or co-idolatry?) -- A biblical framework for marriage and family counseling. How to do marriage and family counseling: The seven key elements hold true -- Team counseling and specialists. Case studies. Questions and answers. Appendices: Appendix A (marriage enrichment weekend) -- Appendix B (the family: an annotated bibliography) -- Appendix C (requirements for the course for credit students) -- Appendix D (The Westminster Confession of Faith on marriage and divorce) -- Appendix E (Calvin: Institutes of Christian Religion, book 1, chapter 1) -- Appendix F (Van Til: A Christian Theory of Knowledge).

Shaw, I., Christian Family Matters, ISBN: 1850490201 9781850490203.

Swinnock, George (1627-1673), The Christian-man's Calling, or, A Treatise of Making Religion Ones Business wherein, the nature and necessity of it is discovered: as also, the Christian directed how he may perform it, in religious duties, natural actions, his particular vocation, his family directions, and his own recreations / by George Swinnock, 1662. Available (WORKS OF GEORGE SWINNOCK), on the Puritan Hard Drive.
Includes bibliographical references.
Swinnock, George, Works of George Swinnock, M.A (1868), volume 1 of 5.
http://archive.org/details/worksofgeorgeswi01swin

Various, God's Word for the Family, ISBN: 0849951372 9780849951374 0849951461 9780849951466.

Welch, Ed, Using the Gospel in Your Home (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Audio cassette HFTF07 [audio file].

*Wilson, Carl W., Our Dance has Turned to Death: But we can Renew the Family and Nation! ISBN: 0842347828 9780842347822.
"A substantive account of the major causes of America's national decline and what each family can do about it. . . ." -- Cyril J. Barber

Wolf, Stewart, and John Bruhn, The Power of Clan: The Influence of Human Relationships on Heart Disease, new edition, ISBN: 0765804492 9780765804495.
"The notion that the quality of our social relationships may have a profound effect on our health and longevity has a long history but a short scientific past. A much publicized study that set out to show an association between social cohesion in the community and coronary heart disease mortality was begun in 1962 by Drs. Bruhn and Wolf. Their focus was on the town of Roseto, a cohesive and relatively stable Italian-American community in Pennsylvania. There the death rate from heart attacks was substantially lower than that of nearby towns. However, Roseto has changed over the years and so have its mortality statistics.
"THE POWER OF CLAN is a sequel to THE ROSETO STORY: AN ANATOMY OF HEALTH (1979). It includes the results from a follow-up survey that was done in collaboration with the Center for Social Research at Lehigh University. The authors intended to document the changes in Roseto as its people have adapted to an American lifestyle that is characterized by individualism, competitiveness, and materialism. One of the authors, Stewart Wolf, virtually acted as a participant-observer, contributing to a vivid and lively account of these changes that is supported by many anecdotes and an additional 22 pages of photographs. The book includes many tables showing demographic and health characteristics of Rosetans and their controls, and discusses potential mechanisms linking social change to increased death rates from myocardial infarction. This wealth of information provides a rich source of hypotheses and should encourage the development of sound psychometric instruments to test more rigorously the link between mutually supportive attitudes, cooperation, and health outcomes.
"THE POWER OF CLAN will stimulate and revive discussion on the effects of personal relationships on health. We are reminded of the work by J.J. Groen that urged us to adopt a more comprehensive approach to our understanding and, ultimately, control of coronary heart disease in both women and men." -- Gerdi Weidner
"Stewart Wolf was really one of the pioneers of psychosomatic medicine," noted Paul Rosch, president of the American Institute of Stress, in The Lancet. "His book on stress and hypertension is still considered a classic in the field . . . He was a marvelous cultured person who was able to bring a broad background in the humanities to his approach to patients and to teaching." -- Publisher

See also: The sovereign grace of god: his everlasting mercy and lovingkindness, The doctrine of man (human nature, total depravity), Family worship, Sharing christ with your children, Repentance the key to salvation and change, Justification, Justifying faith, Prayer, Intercessory prayer, Problem solving with children, Counseling children, Protecting children from dangers, Preparing children for the world, Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, Words of christ appearing in the web edition of biblical counsel: resources for renewal, Sexual relationship, Spiritual adultery (spiritual whoredom/harlotry), Christian fiction, Classic christian fiction by martha finley, the elsie books series, The promises of Christ, Bible promises, Reconciliation of relationships, and so forth, and so on.
TCRB5: 1623-1625, 1642, 1668, 1671, 2823, 4152 (in the General Index see "Family")

Related Weblinks

Books on the Family From Still Waters Revival Books
http://www.swrb.com/newslett/FREEBOOK/family.htm

J. Wilbur Chapman's Tract on an Old-Fashioned Home
http://www.covenanter.org/reformed/2015/7/15/j-wilbur-chapmans-tract-on-an-old-fashioned-home

The Christian Family Homepage
http://www.covenanter.org/reformed/2015/6/29/family

The Elsie Books 28-book set, in its original, unabridged text, models the Christian family better probably than any other fiction. Likewise, the example of Elsie's life is one of the best models for Christian girls.
Notice the original text of this series is becoming available free in Project Gutenberg e-text. We have added links to the e-text as of May 2007.
Chapter 11: Christian Fiction
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr11ch.html#cfiction

Nave's Topical Bible -- Christ, Prayers of
http://bible.crosswalk.com/Concordances/naves-topical-bible/ntb.cgi?number=T2807

Counseling the Family

Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), The Role of Father in the Home (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Audio cassette JAR02 [audio file].

Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), The Role of Husband in the Home (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Audio cassette JAR01 [audio file].

Alexander, Archibald (1772-1851), Difficulty of Knowing our Faults. In EVANGELICAL TRUTH: PRACTICAL SERMONS FOR THE CHRISTIAN HOME.

Alexander, James W. (1804-1859), My Brother's Keeper: Letters to a Younger Brother on the Virtues and Vices, Duties and Dangers of Youth, ISBN: 1932474668 9781932474664.

Barker, Dorothy Anderson, and Jay Adams, Leader's Guide for Jay E. Adams's Christian Living in the Home.
"Thirteen week guide for the leader of a Sunday school or Bible study class that utilizes Adams's book on marriage and family." -- David Powlison (1949-2019)

*Baxter, Richard (1615-1691), A Christian Directory: Baxter's Practical Works, Vol. 1. Full title: A Christian Directory: or A Sum of Practical Theology, and Cases of Conscience. Directing Christians how to use Their Knowledge and Faith; How to Improve all Helps and Means, and to Perform all Duties; How to Overcome Temptations, and to Escape or Mortify Every Sin. In Four Parts.
I. Christian Ethics (or Private Duties)
II. Christian Economics (or Family Duties)
III. Christian Ecclesiastics (or Church Duties)
IV. Christian Politics (or Duties to Our Rulers and Neighbours) (Morgan, PA: Soli Deo Gloria Publications, 1997, 1990, 1838, 1707, 1678, 1673), ISBN: 1877611131 9781877611131. Foreword by J.I. Packer (Soli Deo Gloria edition only). The Soli Deo Gloria publication is a facsimile reprint of the 19th century reprint by George Virtue, London, 1846. The original 1673 edition and the 1678 edition, both printed by Robert White for Nevill Simmons. Bibliographic and scriptural footnotes. A Christian classic. Considered to be among the ten greatest books in the English language. Available (less the J.I. Packer's Foreword, but searchable with an OCR-based index), on the Puritan Hard Drive.
This work is available in many editions, and in many formats.
Reformation Heritage Books has new copies of the Soli Deo Gloria edition (including the J.I. Packer Introduction), as of March 2008, even though it is generally thought to be out of print. They acquired Soli Deo Gloria from Ligonier Ministries in late 2007.
The best digital format of the reprint by George Virtue is included on the Puritan Hard Drive. It has an OCR scan in the background, meaning one can search the entire volume and copy text into another document. It also has a computer generated indexed from the OCR scan which is, of course, in Baxter's vocabulary.
A PDF image scan only of the same edition is available on the Reformation Bookshelf CD #21.
The reprint by George Virtue is available online and may be downloaded in PDF format at Christian Classics Ethereal Library.
The reprint by George Virtue appears in full preview in Google Books but may not be downloaded. So it is useful if the reader wants to become acquainted with the book. Text can be searched, but can not be copied into another document. This particular Google Books scan includes the contents in detail on pages iii-xix which is not included in the Christian Classics Ethereal Library PDF files. About five other editions from libraries are available in Google Books, and may be downloaded (August 2008).
Notice that the e-text in Google Books has the advantage of being searchable. Searching an image-based PDF file (without an OCR scan in the background), is not possible, unless the user owns software such as Abode Acrobat Pro or Kirtas BookScan Editor. They both have an OCR (optical character recognition), feature that will search an image-based PDFs (bit-map scans). Searches appear to be perfect in this work, although one must know Baxter's vocabulary. Text can be cut and pasted from image-based PDF format to OCR (character) format. This particular Google Books scan can not be cut and pasted or downloaded.
One of the older, multi-volume editions of THE WORKS OF RICHARD BAXTER is available at Monergism.com in the "Puritan Library," "Richard Baxter." A CHRISTIAN DIRECTORY, volume 23. It can be downloaded.
http://www.puritanlibrary.com/
Another older edition is available on microfilm (Ann Arbor, MI: University Microfilms, 1970), 1 microfilm reel, 35 mm (Early English books, 1641-1700; 343:11).
"The complete practical works of Richard Baxter are in print in four volumes entitled BAXTER'S PRACTICAL WORKS. This volume (about 1 1/4 million words, 1028 pages), is volume one of the set. The editor's preface (1707), p. xiii, stated that the works of Richard Baxter are 'perhaps the best body of practical divinity that is extent in our own or any other tongue.' Richard Baxter lived from 1615-1691. The DIRECTORY was completed in 1665. Its scope was intended to cover all of practical theology, a summa of casuistry . . ." -- Don Kistler
"Baxter's series, which grew in range and scope as it proceeded . . . is a peak point in Puritan devotional writing, and remains a precious resource for all, in this or any age, who want to know what is involved in Biblical godliness. . . . A CHRISTIAN DIRECTORY may justly be described as a landmark. It is the fullest, most thorough, and in this writer's judgment, most profound treatment of Christian spirituality and standards that has ever been attempted by an English-speaking Evangelical author. The fact that it embraces both spirituality and standards (the principles of communion with God plus the specifics of obedience to God), merits approving comment in itself; nowadays spirituality and ethics have become two distinct disciplines in the schools, and books written on either say virtually nothing about the other . . ." -- J.I. Packer
Timothy Keller calls it the greatest manual on Biblical counseling ever produced.
"There are many Puritan classics on this subject. Thomas Brooks' PRECIOUS REMEDIES FOR SATAN'S DEVICES, Thomas Goodwin's A CHILD OF LIGHT WALKING IN DARKNESS, William Bridge's A LIFTING UP FOR THE DOWNCAST, and many other similar works give evidence that the Puritans were. . . . masters at applying Biblical answers and principles to problems that can only be solved by spiritual means. No Puritan work, however, has ever approached the popularity, the scope, or the depth of Baxter's classic treatise. With the widespread interest in counseling in today's church, this reprint of Baxter's work should be a welcome addition to every pastor's library, or to anyone else who wishes to give solid Biblical answers to man's questions." -- Don Kistler
"We have long waited for a purely Biblical treatment of the spiritual ills and cures of men which is untainted by the views of psychology. Since Baxter lived about 200 years before psychology arrived, his deep work is completely void of its encroachment -- thankfully!" -- John MacArthur
"The kings men sought to arrest Richard Baxter, but he traveled ceaselessly from place to place, writing his sermons and his books even on horseback (he had an inkwell in his saddle), and preached over a wide area." -- Brian H. Edwards
"Baxter was a wonder of his age. His writings total 72 large volumes, much of it written on horseback as he traveled in his widespread preaching efforts. He seldom, if ever, edited anything he wrote. Knowing this any reader will be amazed at how well he communicated his deep love for his Savior. For 26 years he was public enemy No. 1 to the king, yet he lived to see the flight of the king in 1688." -- Jay P. Green, Sr. (1918-2008)
POOR MAN'S FAMILY BOOK (1674) and THE CATECHIZING OF FAMILIES (1683), are less detailed works and are found in THE REFORMED PASTOR: BAXTER'S PRACTICAL WORKS, VOL. 4. They are more suitable for family instruction than are the detailed presentation in A CHRISTIAN DIRECTORY.
"Ptacek in FAMILY WORSHIP: BIBLICAL BASIS, HISTORICAL REALITY, CURRENT NEED (pp. 51-52), supplies the following information in regard to Baxter and this book. He notes that after the Episcopalians ejected numerous 'nonconformists,' in what is know as the 'great ejection,' in 1662, 'Baxter pastored from house to house, visiting families of his parish in their homes. These visits contributed to Baxter's A CHRISTIAN DIRECTORY, a large and still very relevant manual of pastoral care.' Focusing on just one area of great importance, Ptacek demonstrates how this book's relevance is not limited by time or culture, though sometimes the use of specific words are. 'Published in 1673, but written 1664-65, a large book-length part of Baxter's CHRISTIAN DIRECTORY is devoted to the family. It is entitled 'Christian Economics' based on the archaic usage of the word, which reflects the proper sense of the Greek root oikonomos as the manager of a household, in the Christian case, the spiritual leader of the family. The family head is essential to Baxter's view of family worship and instruction. Baxter asserts that it is God's will that this instruction be carried out by the rulers of the families.' For a male head of the household to fail to do so, or to have another instruct in the family, is contrary to his position of authority.' This is the kind of book that can be passed on from generation to generation and still find much use in the service of the kingdom of God.
"Though relatively weak on corporate sanctification, corporate faithfulness and some important areas of doctrine (such as justification), Baxter's work on subjects related to personal piety can be of good practical use to the Christian -- if one is careful to separate out his aberrant doctrinal views and any practical errors they may lead to." -- Publisher
The following three excerpts are included as bonus free books on Reformation Bookshelf CD #28.
1. "The Duties of Parents for Their Children" from BAXTER'S PRACTICAL WORKS, VOL. 1, A CHRISTIAN DIRECTORY, on Christian Economics, Chap. X., pp. 449-454.
2. "The Special Duties of Children Towards Their Parents" from BAXTER'S PRACTICAL WORKS, VOL. 1, A CHRISTIAN DIRECTORY, on Christian Economics, Chap. XI., pp. 454-457.
3. "The Special Duties of Children and Youth Towards God" from BAXTER'S PRACTICAL WORKS, VOL. 1, A CHRISTIAN DIRECTORY, on Christian Economics, Chap. XII., pp. 457-458).
A summary of currently (2012) available publications.
http://www.lettermen2.com/pwrbcd.html
Richard Baxter, from Wikipedia
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Richard_Baxter

Kavar, Louis F., Pastoral Ministry in the AIDS Era: Focus on Families and Friends of Persons With AIDS, ISBN: 0934104077 9780934104074.

*Kennedy, D. James (1930-2007), Learning to Live With the People you Love, ISBN: 0883681900 9780883681909.
Love "is sharing life together in a way that brings glory to God and enriches the lives of every family member."
Dr. Kennedy says no book he has written has brought so many comments as this one.
Read this in conjunction with Dr. Kennedy's 6-message audio cassette [audio file], series "Secrets of Successful Marriages," the audio cassette [audio file], message "Why Some Marriages Fail and Others Succeed," and the 4-message audio cassette [audio file], series "The Christian Marriage Series."

*Lloyd-Jones, David Martyn (1899-1981), Life in the Spirit in Marriage, Home and Work: An Exposition of Ephesians 5:18 -- 6:9 [Ephesians 5:18 -- Ephesians 6:9], ISBN: 080105799X 9780801057991.

Martin, Grant, Counseling in Cases of Family Violence and Abuse, ISBN: 0849905877 9780849905872.

Miller, C. John (1928-1996), Christ and the 10 Commandments; Harmony in Home Through the 5th Commandment (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Audio cassette CM106 [audio file].

Miller, David R., Breaking Free: Rescuing Families From the Clutches of Legalism.

Minirth, Frank B., The Workaholic and his Family, ISBN: 0801061113 9780801061110.

*Ryle, J.C. (John Charles, 1816-1900), Home Truths, Volume 1. A Christian classic.
"This reprint of a classic is much needed in our day." -- CVBBS
Home Truths, Miscellaneous Addresses and Tracts, 1854
http://archive.org/details/hometruthsmisce01rylegoog

*Ryle, J.C. (John Charles, 1816-1900), Home Truths, Volume 2, ISBN: 1583391738. Alternate title: HOME TRUTHS: SECOND SERIES.
There is some confusion over the various editions of HOME TRUTHS. Apparently one edition included 8 volumes.
Home Truths, Miscellaneous Addresses and Tracts (1857)
http://archive.org/details/hometruthsmisce02rylegoog

*Ryle, J.C. (1816-1900), and J.I. Packer (foreword), Practical Religion: Being Plain Papers on the Daily Duties, Experience, Dangers and Privileges of Professing Christians, ISBN: 085234449X 9780852344491. A Christian classic. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
"PRACTICAL RELIGION is classic as a manual on the practice of Christianity -- a concise guide to the daily duties, experiences, dangers, privileges, and responsibilities faced by professing Christians. It is an excellent companion volume to J.C. Ryle's other classic, HOLINESS.
"In PRACTICAL RELIGION, Ryle expounds the great central themes of the Christian life with realism, power, and depth. This volume, along with his other works such as EXPOSITORY THOUGHTS ON THE GOSPELS, has been treasured by generations of evangelical Christians all over the world." -- Publisher
"Discusses: self-iniquity, self-exertion, reality, prayer, Bible reading, charity, zeal, happiness, formality, the world, riches and poverty, sickness, family of God, heirs of God, eternity, and others." -- GCB
Practical Religion: Being Plain Papers on the Daily Duties, Experience, Dangers, and Privileges of Professing Christians (1883)
http://archive.org/details/practicalreligio00ryle

See also: The sovereignty of god, The doctrine of man (human nature, total depravity), Sharing christ with your children, Repentance the key to salvation and change, Justification, Justifying faith, Christ our example, Affliction, adversity, trials, suffering, chastisement, Covetousness, greed, and selfishness, The inspiration and infallibility of scripture (the doctrine of revelation, the doctrine of plenary inspiration, the doctrine of divine inspiration, the doctrine of verbal inspiration, theopneustia, sufficiency of scripture), The sovereign grace of god: his everlasting mercy and lovingkindness, The ten commandments: the moral law, Trusting god, Forgiveness, Bible promises, Sanctification, Problem solving with children, Counseling children, Protecting children from dangers, Preparing children for the world, Conscience, casuistry, cases of conscience, Ethics, Men and Women, Christian liberty, Men, women and god, Premarital counseling, Marital counseling, Problem solving in marriage, Reconciliation of marriage partners, Counseling the family, Parenting, Biblical counsel by subject, Reconciliation of relationships, Sexual relationship, Spiritual adultery (spiritual whoredom/harlotry), Slavery, our systems of enslavement, economic enslavement, Carnality and flesh pleasing: lust, desires, ambition, Adultery, Child abuse and pedophilia, Fatherlessness, Counsel for young men, Counsel for young women, Abstinence, Works of Jay Adams, Christian counseling and educational foundation, Westminster media, Works of Jay Adams, and Audio cassettes, CCEF speakers, Sexual wholeness, Marriage, Singleness, Feminism, Gratuitous sex, a cause of violence, Homosexuality, lesbianism, gay, bisexual, transvestite, queer (lgbtq), Cowardice, Pseudo-christian movements: a selection of works, Works by and for women, The new age and women, Self, Self-denial, The occult, Sorcery, Women and the new age, Soul-violence, Churches that abuse, Divorce, Hostility, Incest, Rape, Sex ethics, sex education, Pornography, Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, Unforgiveness, The christian home, domestic duties, Duties of the Christian, Christian fiction, Classic christian fiction by martha finley, the elsie books series, and so forth, and so on.
TCRB5: 1642, 1658-1661, 3733, 4152

Related Weblinks

Directives for Avoiding Dissension in the Home by Richard Baxter (1615-1691)
http://www.crownrights.com/fbs

Girl Defined
https://www.girldefined.com/

Respect Incorporated (formerly Sex Respect)
http://www.sexrespect.com/main.html

True Love Waits
http://www.truelovewaits.com/

Virtuousreality.com, a Website for all Women
http://www.virtuousreality.com/

Family Management

Andrew, James O., Family Government: A Treatise on Conjugal, Parental, and Filial Duties, 1847.

*Anson, Elva, and Kathie Liden, The Complete Book of Home Management, ISBN: 0802415954 9780802415950.
"This is a practical book for everyday living. And in the first chapter, 'How to Achieve Quality Living,' they give the best practical advice of all: Live by the Scripture with an eye to Christ and His advice. What follows is unique. It takes up the skill of management. And the house, the time, the workload, the children, the money, and the nutrition are all discussed in a practical way. In places it is like 'Hints From Heloise,' yet they never leave Jesus out of the picture. It is an excellent book for the family." -- Jay P. Green, Sr. (1918-2008)

Bouma, Mary LaGrand, Creative Homemaker, ISBN: 087123078X 9780871230782.

James, John Angell (1785-1859), The Widow Directed to the Widow's God, ISBN: 157358035X 9781573580359.
"In this book, James directs widows to take their sufferings to God for relief. He tenderly shows that the widow 'needs a special message of comfort from her Lord.' There are practical suggestions and helps for widows, Scriptural examples of widows, letters from widows, and letters to widows." -- Publisher

Moore, Raymond, and Dorothy Moore, Minding Your own Business, ISBN: 1561210080 9781561210084.
"These education experts have compiled the actual experiences of families who, as families, have first structured their homes like a successful business, THEN have actually developed revenue producing home-based operations. They give creative ideas and tips that have helped families gain control, and begin to earn money, and have fun together doing it." -- GCB

Petty, James C., When the Money Runs out: Hope and Help for the Financially Stressed, ISBN: 9781935273059 1935273051.

See also: Fatherhood, Manhood, The christian home, domestic duties, Christian duties, Family management (women), Personal and family finances, family businesses, Physical health, Summary and research index of key information in chapter 8: physical health and healthcare, Home management (women), Widowhood, and so forth, and so on.
TCRB5: 1630

Related Weblinks

2014 Buy Fresh, Buy Local, Shenandoah Valley
Issued annually.
http://buylocalshenvalley.org/find-it-in-the-guide/

Organic Valley Family of Farms
http://www.organicvalley.com/

Polyface, "the farm of many faces"
"Polyface, Inc. is a family owned, multi-generational, pasture-based, beyond organic, local-market farm and informational outreach in Virginia's Shenandoah Valley."
http://www.polyfacefarms.com/

Holidays

Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all ye lands. Serve the Lord with gladness: come before his presence with singing. Know ye that the Lord he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture. Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name. For the Lord is good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all generations. (Psalm 103)

Calderwood, David (1600-1666), and William Cowper, Reasons Against Festival Days. Alternate title: THE RE-EXAMINATION OF TWO OF THE ARTICLES ABRIDGED: TO WIT, OF THE COMMUNICANTS GESTURE IN THE ACT OF RECEAVING, EATING, AND DRINKING: AND THE OBSERVATION OF FESTIVALL DAYES. Available (Christmas and Easter, parts 1-4, MP3), [audio file] on the Puritan Hard Drive.
http://www.naphtali.com/days.htm

Gillespie, George (1613-1648), On Holy Days
http://www.naphtali.com/gghodays.htm
Gillespie, George (1613-1648), Part 1: Holy Days Take Away our Christian Liberty Proved out of the Law
http://www.naphtali.com/articles/george-gillespie/holy-days/epc-out-of-the-law/
Gillespie, George (1613-1648), Part 2: Holy Days Take Away our Christian Liberty Proved out of the Gospel
http://www.naphtali.com/articles/george-gillespie/holy-days/epc-out-of-the-gospel/

IMP, The Pagan Invasion Series (Jeremiah Films)
Volume 1: Halloween: Trick or Treat
Witness Inc. and Jeremiah Films Video Tapes, DVD.
http://www.witnessiync.com/ordering_materials.html

Unknown, Against Pagan and Roman Catholic Holy-days (Holidays), a tract. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
"A very strong and thorough testimony about why the celebration of Christmas is a violation of the commandments of God and is therefore sinful. Shows how the teaching of the Lord Jesus Christ condemns all man-invented holy days. Christmas is essentially a pagan holiday and its religious elements foster an imitation gospel which actually keeps the world from understanding the true gospel." -- Publisher
http://www.swrb.com/newslett/FREEBOOK/holyday.htm

Williamson, G.I., On the Observance of Sacred Days.

See also: Christmas, Holidays, The regulative principle of worship, Public worship, The psalms in worship, Family worship, and so forth, and so on.

Related Weblinks

Anti-Observance of Holy Days of man Homepage
http://www.covenanter.org/reformed/2015/6/29/observance-of-holy-days

The Way of the Heathen: A Brief History of Halloween, C. Matthew McMahon
Learn not the way of the heathen. (Jeremiah 10:2)
"The Old Testament is leavened with a multitude of verses which condemn occultism and its practices, and to avoid them completely: Exodus 22:18; Leviticus 3:17; Leviticus 7:26; Leviticus 17:12-14; Leviticus 19:26, 31; Deuteronomy 12:31; 2 Kings 17:16-17; 1 Chronicles 10:13-14; 2 Chronicles 28:3-4; 2 Chronicles 33:1-6; Isaiah 8:19; Jeremiah 10:2; Ezekiel 20:31, and many others. Deuteronomy 18:9-14 is one of the more explicit pericopes covering an overview of the occult practices to disdain, When you are come into the land which Jehovah your God gives you, you shall not learn to do according to the abominations of those nations. There shall not be found among you he that makes his son or his daughter to pass through the fire, that uses divination, that uses auguries, or an enchanter, or a sorcerer, or a charmer, or one that inquires of a spirit of Python, or a soothsayer, or one that consults the dead. For every one that does these things is an abomination to Jehovah, and because of these abominations Jehovah your God does dispossess them from before you. You shall be perfect with Jehovah your God. For these nations, which you shall dispossess, hearkened unto those that use auguries, and that use divination; but as for you, Jehovah your God has not suffered you to do so."
http://www.apuritansmind.com/the-christian-walk/a-brief-history-of-halloween-by-dr-c-mathew-mcmahon/

Christmas

Isaiah 9:2-7

Cawdrey, Daniel (1588-1664), Diatribe Triplex, or, A Threefold Exercitation: Concerning 1. Superstition, 2. Will-worship, 3. Christmas Festivall, With the Reverend and Learned Dr. Hammond. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.

Clowney, E., Would You Believe . . . In Christmas? (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Audio cassette EC103 [audio file].

*Handel, George Frederick, "The Messiah" (various artists and recordings). This musical composition has probably inspired more individuals to faith in Christ than any other piece of music.

1. The complete oratorio is performed by The London Philharmonic Orchestra and Choir, conducted by John Alldis, 2 CDs.
This is said to be the top-selling recording of The London Philharmonic Orchestra and Choir.
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B000062T9E/qid=1040845852/sr=2-1/ref=sr_2_1/103-0225174-5677440
2. Handel, George Frederick, Messiah (complete traditional), George Frideric Handel (composer), Christopher Hogwood (conductor), Academy of Ancient Music (orchestra), Emma Kirkby (performer), Carolyn Watkinson (performer), Judith Nelson (performer), Paul Elliott (performer), David Thomas (performer), Oxford Choir of Christ Church Cathedral (performer), 2 CDs.
"This is the 'Messiah' that started it all -- the first period instrument performance recorded with a choir of men and boys. It introduced music lovers the world over to Christopher Hogwood, Emma Kirkby, and a whole host of performers who have since become ubiquitous as the 'English Early Music Mafia,' appearing as they do under zillions of different ensemble names on a variety of labels. Hogwood's performance still holds its own, however, as one of the finest and freshest available. A first-rate effort." -- David Hurwitz
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/B000004CXU/qid=1040846214/sr=1-11/ref=sr_1_11/103-0225174-5677440?v=glance&s=classical
3. Also recommended is Handel, George Frederick, Messiah (the complete oratorio) with Erickson, McNair, Hodgson, Humphrey, Stilwell, The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and The Atlanta Symphony Chamber Chorus, Robert Shaw conducting, 2 CDs. http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B000003CT7/qid=1040838855/sr=2-1/ref=sr_2_1/103-0225174-5677440
4. Handel, George Frederick, Messiah With E. Farrell, Lipton, Cunningham, Warfield, The Philadelphia Orchestra, Eugene Ormandy conducting, with the Mormon Tabernacle Choir, 2 CDs.
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/B0000024OE/qid=1040845852/sr=1-10/ref=sr_1_10/103-0225174-5677440?v=glance&s=classical
See also:

Newton, John (1725-1807), Messiah: Fifty Expository Discourses on the Series of Scriptural Passages Which Form the Subject of the Celebrated Oratorio of Handel: Preached in the Years 1784 and 1785, in the Parish-church of St. Mary, Woolnoth, Lombard-street. Available in WORKS OF JOHN NEWTON.

Smith, Ruth, Charles Jennens [1700-1773]: The man Behind Handel's Messiah, (2012).
Charles Jennens compiled the text for "Messiah" and was also an editor of Shakespeare.

The unabridged lyrics to "Handel's Messiah" at:
The Free Offer of the Gospel Message of Salvation and the Life to Come: The Means of Grace
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr1cha.html#tfootgmos

*Newton, John (1725-1807), Messiah. Fifty Expository Discourses, on the Series of Scriptural Passages, Which Form the Subject of the Celebrated Oratorio of Handel, 2 volumes.

Price, Greg L., Christmass Condemned, a 3-tape [audio file], series (MP3), [audio file]. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #19.
"Price shows how the teaching of the Lord Jesus Christ condemns all man-invented holy days. Scripture and history are brought to bear most specifically on the celebration of Christ-mass, demonstrating why it is a sin to celebrate this day. It is also noted that Scripture never commands the celebration of this day and that there is no evidence that Christ and the Apostles ever celebrated this day -- in fact, this syncretism of paganism and 'Babylonian' Christianity was not first celebrated until 354 A.D. (when December 25 was chosen, in accord with the Pagan feast of Saturnalia, as the day of 'celebration'). Price also clearly shows that to call yourself Reformed while you hold on to this Roman Catholic/Pagan monument of idolatry makes for a serious contradiction in your testimony -- as the best Reformed churches have always disciplined those (in accord with Scriptural teaching), who broke the second and fourth commandments by keeping anti-Christian festival days like Christ-mass, Easter, etc. Citations from Luther, Calvin and the company of Geneva Pastors, the Church of Scotland's First Book of Discipline, the 1620 Dutch Synod, the Civil Government of Holland (1625), the U.S. Colonies and the Westminster Assembly all speak with one voice against this Romish corruption. Common objections against the classic Reformed position are also answered. Thus saith the LORD, Learn not the way of the heathen." (Jeremiah 10:2) -- Publisher

Reed, Kevin, Christmas: An Historical Survey Regarding its Origins and Opposition to it.

Schneider, Michael, Is Christmas Christian? Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
"An excellent introduction to Christian opposition to Christmas. Is Christmas Christian?
http://www.swrb.com/newslett/actualnls/Xmas_ch0.htm

See also: Holidays, Christmas, The regulative principle of worship, public worship, The religion of secular humanism: man as god, human autonomy, Hypocrisy, and so forth, and so on.

Related Weblinks

An Article From the Associate Presbyterian Magazine on Christmas
http://www.covenanter.org/reformed/2015/8/14/an-article-from-the-associate-presbyterian-magazine-on-christmas

An Article from the Reformation Advocate on Faith in Christmas
http://www.covenanter.org/reformed/2015/8/14/an-article-from-the-reformation-advocate-on-faith-in-christmas

An Article From the Reformation Advocate Magazine on Christmas Trees
http://www.covenanter.org/reformed/2015/8/14/an-article-from-the-reformation-advocate-magazine-on-christmas-trees

Christmas: A Biblical Critique by Kevin Reed and M. Schneider
http://www.swrb.com/newslett/actualnls/Xmas_ch0.htm

Increase Mather's Testimony Against That Prophane and Superstitious Custom of Christ-mass Keeping
http://www.covenanter.org/reformed/2015/8/14/increase-mathers-testimony-against-that-prophane-and-superstitious-custom-of-christ-mass-keeping

Schwertley, Brian, Historical Overview of Christmas, a sermon [audio file].
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=122505183840

Schwertley, Brian, The Regulative Principle of Worship and Christmas, a series of 13 messages, [audio file]. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=7506111921

Theater, Sports, and Entertainment

Theater, Sports, and Entertainment
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr6ch.html#tsaentrtn

Teens

Let no one despise thy youth, but a pattern become thou of those believing in word, in behaviour, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity. (1 Timothy 4:12, YLTHB)
George Barna reviewed more than a dozen national surveys related to matters of faith conducted by the Barna Research Group during 2000 and devised three lists of faith-related survey results -- particularly noteworthy insights . . ."
Surveys showed the following results:

A minority of born again adults (44 percent), and an even smaller proportion of born again teenagers (9 percent), are certain of the existence of absolute moral truth.
Fewer than one-third of all teenagers are likely to attend a Christian church once they are living independent of their parents.
Only a minority of born again teenagers (44 percent), claim that they are "absolutely committed to the Christian faith."
Baby Buster adults are widely regarded as highly spiritual, yet the share of 18-29 year olds within the born again population has dropped from 20 percent in 1991 to just 14 percent today.
Born again Christians spend seven times as much time on entertainment as they do on spiritual activities.
Although two-thirds of all teenagers say they know all the basic teachings and principles of the Christian faith, two-thirds of them reject the existence of Satan, three-fifths reject the existence of the Holy Spirit, and half believe that Jesus sinned during His lifetime. -- The Barna Research Group

Baucom, John Q., Fatal Choice: The Teenage Suicide Crisis, ISBN: 080242533X 9780802425331.
"In the face of the rising tide of teenage suicides, Baucom describes the reasons for depression, stresses, and failed expectations; self-destructiveness; and the hidden cries for help. He then furnishes a plan of action for health care professionals." -- Cyril J. Barber

*Borthwick, Paul, But you Don't Understand, ISBN: 0840795408 9780840795403.
"Borthwick gives solid advice on the everyday problems faced by parents of teenagers. In some ways, this is a bigger challenge than dealing with acute crises. It is in the day-in and day-out jousting over issues like honesty, morality, trust, and forgiveness, that Christian life patterns are shaped." -- Terry C. Muck

Cook, Earl, The Teenage Puzzle (part 1), (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
"What are the Biblical guidelines for raising Godly teenagers?" A 3-tape series of over 15 radio devotionals helping parents understand teenagers.
Audio cassette HFTF23 [audio file].

Cook, Earl, The Teenage Puzzle (part 2), (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Audio cassette HFTF28 [audio file].

Cook, Earl, The Teenage Puzzle (part 3), (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).

Morris, Harold, Twice Pardoned: An Ex-Con Talks to Parents and Teens, ISBN: 0849906059 9780849906053.
"A true story in which a number of names have been changed to protect certain people. Morris had been convicted and sentenced to serve two life terms in jail. Today he is free and pardoned of his crimes and free in Christ. A truly amazing story of new birth and God's providential workings." -- GCB

Related Weblinks

The Caleb Campaign Office, Caleb Issues and Answers (West Frankfort, IL [The Caleb Campaign Office, Route 4, Box 274, West Frankfort 62896]: The Caleb Campaign).
This is a Christian newspaper for high school students. Boldly presents controversial issues of concern to teens, such as sexually transmitted diseases and abortion. For more information request the "Bill Jack Action Sheet" of August 21, 1991 from "Truths that Transform."

Girl Defined
https://www.girldefined.com/

Virtuousreality.com, a Website for all Women
http://www.virtuousreality.com/

Teens and Parents

Give instruction to a youth about his way,
Even when he is old he turneth not from it. (Proverbs 22:6, YLTHB)
The fathers! vex not your children, lest they be discouraged. (Colossians 4:21, YLTHB)

Davis, Ken, How to Live With Your Parents Without Losing Your Mind! ISBN: 0310323312 9780310323310.
"Will teach teenagers how to change their families by making changes in themselves -- and in the way they view their parents. Ken Davis gives those teenagers hope who previously felt that nothing could be done about their difficult home situations." -- Publisher

Floding, M., Ministering to Parents (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Audio cassette TT106 [audio file].

Johnson, Rex, Communication: Key to Your Parents, ISBN: 0890811571 9780890811573.

Kesler, Jay, Ten Mistakes Parents Make With Teenagers (And how to Avoid Them), ISBN: 0943497175 9780943497174.
"A very specific, practical book that provides a workable guide for parenting that is invaluable. Kesler's insights come from his many years of working with teenagers." -- GCB

McPherson, John, How to Parent Your Teen Without Losing Your Mind: Questions and Answers for Parents From Today's Top Experts: From the Editors of "Christian Parenting Today" and "Campus Life," ISBN: 080549362X 9780805493627.

Strom, Kay Marshall, Making Friends With Your Mother, ISBN: 0310532515 9780310532514.

See also: Sharing christ with your children, Repentance the key to salvation and change, Justification, Justifying faith, Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, Sexual relationship, Spiritual adultery (spiritual whoredom/harlotry), Christian fiction, Classic christian fiction by martha finley, the elsie books series, and so forth, and so on.
TCRB5: 1629, 1634, 1635, 1644, 1648, 1672

Counseling Teens

Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth, while the evil days come not, nor the years draw nigh, when thou shalt say, I have no pleasure in them. (Ecclesiastes 12:1 1)
Thou wilt find then that it was easier deceiving thyself than God. For if a man think himself to be something, when he is nothing, he deceiveth himself.
But let every man prove his own work, and then shall he have rejoicing in himself alone, and not in another.
Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. For he that soweth to the flesh, shall of the flesh reap corruption: but he that soweth to the Spirit, shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting. (Galatians 6:3-5,7)
Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy, to the only wise God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen. (Jude 24,25)
A Biblical Counselor tells the story of his high school son who attended church regularly with the family, but with little or no enthusiasm.
His father entered into a deal with his son to memorize verses of Scripture. The conditions: the father would select the verse, the son would memorize the verse, the father could request that he recite any verse at any time, each time he recited a verse correctly his father would pay him $5.00 (about 1976), if he failed to recite a verse correctly (word for word with the book, chapter, and verse), then he paid his father $5.00.
At first he memorized just for the money. Later he began requesting more verses. His father selected verses bearing on events in his son's life at the moment. As the number of verses grew, the father was able to request verses to be recited that spoke to the specific needs of the moment. By the time of his graduation from high school he had over 100 verses of Scripture committed to memory. The son then went to Columbia Seminary and is now a pastor. (For those who do not immediately see, this is a practical way to purchase the soul of a child, spouse, or neighbor for Christ before they barter it for a "mess of pottage.")

Alexander, Archibald (1772-1851), Difficulty of Knowing our Faults. In EVANGELICAL TRUTH: PRACTICAL SERMONS FOR THE CHRISTIAN HOME.

*Baxter, Richard (1615-1691), A Christian Directory: Baxter's Practical Works, Vol. 1. Full title: A Christian Directory: or A Sum of Practical Theology, and Cases of Conscience. Directing Christians how to use Their Knowledge and Faith; How to Improve all Helps and Means, and to Perform all Duties; How to Overcome Temptations, and to Escape or Mortify Every Sin. In Four Parts.
I. Christian Ethics (or Private Duties)
II. Christian Economics (or Family Duties)
III. Christian Ecclesiastics (or Church Duties)
IV. Christian Politics (or Duties to Our Rulers and Neighbours) (Morgan, PA: Soli Deo Gloria Publications, 1997, 1990, 1838, 1707, 1678, 1673), ISBN: 1877611131 9781877611131. Foreword by J.I. Packer (Soli Deo Gloria edition only). The Soli Deo Gloria publication is a facsimile reprint of the 19th century reprint by George Virtue, London, 1846. The original 1673 edition and the 1678 edition, both printed by Robert White for Nevill Simmons. Bibliographic and scriptural footnotes. A Christian classic. Considered to be among the ten greatest books in the English language. Available (less the J.I. Packer's Foreword, but searchable with an OCR-based index), on the Puritan Hard Drive.
This work is available in many editions, and in many formats.
Reformation Heritage Books has new copies of the Soli Deo Gloria edition (including the J.I. Packer Introduction), as of March 2008, even though it is generally thought to be out of print. They acquired Soli Deo Gloria from Ligonier Ministries in late 2007.
The best digital format of the reprint by George Virtue is included on the Puritan Hard Drive. It has an OCR scan in the background, meaning one can search the entire volume and copy text into another document. It also has a computer generated indexed from the OCR scan which is, of course, in Baxter's vocabulary.
A PDF image scan only of the same edition is available on the Reformation Bookshelf CD #21.
The reprint by George Virtue is available online and may be downloaded in PDF format at Christian Classics Ethereal Library.
The reprint by George Virtue appears in full preview in Google Books but may not be downloaded. So it is useful if the reader wants to become acquainted with the book. Text can be searched, but can not be copied into another document. This particular Google Books scan includes the contents in detail on pages iii-xix which is not included in the Christian Classics Ethereal Library PDF files. About five other editions from libraries are available in Google Books, and may be downloaded (August 2008).
Notice that the e-text in Google Books has the advantage of being searchable. Searching an image-based PDF file (without an OCR scan in the background), is not possible, unless the user owns software such as Abode Acrobat Pro or Kirtas BookScan Editor. They both have an OCR (optical character recognition), feature that will search an image-based PDFs (bit-map scans). Searches appear to be perfect in this work, although one must know Baxter's vocabulary. Text can be cut and pasted from image-based PDF format to OCR (character) format. This particular Google Books scan can not be cut and pasted or downloaded.
One of the older, multi-volume editions of THE WORKS OF RICHARD BAXTER is available at Monergism.com in the "Puritan Library," "Richard Baxter." A CHRISTIAN DIRECTORY, volume 23. It can be downloaded.
http://www.puritanlibrary.com/
Another older edition is available on microfilm (Ann Arbor, MI: University Microfilms, 1970), 1 microfilm reel, 35 mm (Early English books, 1641-1700; 343:11).
"The complete practical works of Richard Baxter are in print in four volumes entitled BAXTER'S PRACTICAL WORKS. This volume (about 1 1/4 million words, 1028 pages), is volume one of the set. The editor's preface (1707), p. xiii, stated that the works of Richard Baxter are 'perhaps the best body of practical divinity that is extent in our own or any other tongue.' Richard Baxter lived from 1615-1691. The DIRECTORY was completed in 1665. Its scope was intended to cover all of practical theology, a summa of casuistry . . ." -- Don Kistler
"Baxter's series, which grew in range and scope as it proceeded . . . is a peak point in Puritan devotional writing, and remains a precious resource for all, in this or any age, who want to know what is involved in Biblical godliness. . . . A CHRISTIAN DIRECTORY may justly be described as a landmark. It is the fullest, most thorough, and in this writer's judgment, most profound treatment of Christian spirituality and standards that has ever been attempted by an English-speaking Evangelical author. The fact that it embraces both spirituality and standards (the principles of communion with God plus the specifics of obedience to God), merits approving comment in itself; nowadays spirituality and ethics have become two distinct disciplines in the schools, and books written on either say virtually nothing about the other . . ." -- J.I. Packer
Timothy Keller calls it the greatest manual on Biblical counseling ever produced.
"There are many Puritan classics on this subject. Thomas Brooks' PRECIOUS REMEDIES FOR SATAN'S DEVICES, Thomas Goodwin's A CHILD OF LIGHT WALKING IN DARKNESS, William Bridge's A LIFTING UP FOR THE DOWNCAST, and many other similar works give evidence that the Puritans were. . . . masters at applying Biblical answers and principles to problems that can only be solved by spiritual means. No Puritan work, however, has ever approached the popularity, the scope, or the depth of Baxter's classic treatise. With the widespread interest in counseling in today's church, this reprint of Baxter's work should be a welcome addition to every pastor's library, or to anyone else who wishes to give solid Biblical answers to man's questions." -- Don Kistler
"We have long waited for a purely Biblical treatment of the spiritual ills and cures of men which is untainted by the views of psychology. Since Baxter lived about 200 years before psychology arrived, his deep work is completely void of its encroachment -- thankfully!" -- John MacArthur
"The kings men sought to arrest Richard Baxter, but he traveled ceaselessly from place to place, writing his sermons and his books even on horseback (he had an inkwell in his saddle), and preached over a wide area." -- Brian H. Edwards
"Baxter was a wonder of his age. His writings total 72 large volumes, much of it written on horseback as he traveled in his widespread preaching efforts. He seldom, if ever, edited anything he wrote. Knowing this any reader will be amazed at how well he communicated his deep love for his Savior. For 26 years he was public enemy No. 1 to the king, yet he lived to see the flight of the king in 1688." -- Jay P. Green, Sr. (1918-2008)
POOR MAN'S FAMILY BOOK (1674) and THE CATECHIZING OF FAMILIES (1683), are less detailed works and are found in THE REFORMED PASTOR: BAXTER'S PRACTICAL WORKS, VOL. 4. They are more suitable for family instruction than are the detailed presentation in A CHRISTIAN DIRECTORY.
"Ptacek in FAMILY WORSHIP: BIBLICAL BASIS, HISTORICAL REALITY, CURRENT NEED (pp. 51-52), supplies the following information in regard to Baxter and this book. He notes that after the Episcopalians ejected numerous 'nonconformists,' in what is know as the 'great ejection,' in 1662, 'Baxter pastored from house to house, visiting families of his parish in their homes. These visits contributed to Baxter's A CHRISTIAN DIRECTORY, a large and still very relevant manual of pastoral care.' Focusing on just one area of great importance, Ptacek demonstrates how this book's relevance is not limited by time or culture, though sometimes the use of specific words are. 'Published in 1673, but written 1664-65, a large book-length part of Baxter's CHRISTIAN DIRECTORY is devoted to the family. It is entitled 'Christian Economics' based on the archaic usage of the word, which reflects the proper sense of the Greek root oikonomos as the manager of a household, in the Christian case, the spiritual leader of the family. The family head is essential to Baxter's view of family worship and instruction. Baxter asserts that it is God's will that this instruction be carried out by the rulers of the families.' For a male head of the household to fail to do so, or to have another instruct in the family, is contrary to his position of authority.' This is the kind of book that can be passed on from generation to generation and still find much use in the service of the kingdom of God.
"Though relatively weak on corporate sanctification, corporate faithfulness and some important areas of doctrine (such as justification), Baxter's work on subjects related to personal piety can be of good practical use to the Christian -- if one is careful to separate out his aberrant doctrinal views and any practical errors they may lead to." -- Publisher
The following three excerpts are included as bonus free books on Reformation Bookshelf CD #28.
1. "The Duties of Parents for Their Children" from BAXTER'S PRACTICAL WORKS, VOL. 1, A CHRISTIAN DIRECTORY, on Christian Economics, Chap. X., pp. 449-454.
2. "The Special Duties of Children Towards Their Parents" from BAXTER'S PRACTICAL WORKS, VOL. 1, A CHRISTIAN DIRECTORY, on Christian Economics, Chap. XI., pp. 454-457.
3. "The Special Duties of Children and Youth Towards God" from BAXTER'S PRACTICAL WORKS, VOL. 1, A CHRISTIAN DIRECTORY, on Christian Economics, Chap. XII., pp. 457-458).
A summary of currently (2012) available publications.
http://www.lettermen2.com/pwrbcd.html
Richard Baxter, from Wikipedia
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Richard_Baxter

Miller, C. John (1928-1996), Youth Evangelism: Dealing With Depression and Suicide (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Audio cassette CM101 [audio file].

Rogers, Judy, Pilgrim's Praise: Series of Worship and Praise Based on PILGRIM'S PROGRESS.
"A masterful series of worship and praise songs, and songs from PILGRIM'S PROGRESS by John Bunyan . . . full of sheer encouragement for Christians."
Rogers, Judy, Why Can't I see God? And Other Questions Children ask About God.
Twenty songs for children covering the great themes of the Bible. "Judy Rogers has done the impossible . . . and it is good!" -- Mary Pride
"I thought it was a wonderful way to present the catechism to kids by putting it in a song. A great way to start teaching your children about some of those hard to understand topics." -- Listener's Comment
Rogers, Judy, Go to the ant: Songs Taken From Proverbs for Children, [audio file].
"Our whole family enjoys it! Your music is filled with wonderful Biblical truths for everyone."
Rogers, Judy, Walkin' Wise.
Songs based on Psalms, Proverbs, and Ecclesiastes for teens.
"A powerful message for teens."
Rogers, Judy, Stand Up.
"Songs dealing with 'Teen' issues challenging Christian young people to deeper commitment. Songs such as 'Glorify Him' (1 Corinthians 10:31); 'That's not Love' (1 Corinthians 13)."
Rogers, Judy, Arise! Shine! New Recording!
"Heart and soul inspiring Scripture songs and hymns of praise and worship! Songs such as 'Arise! Shine!' (Isaiah 60, 2 Chronicles 7:14); 'Clap Your Hands' (Psalm 47).
Rogers, Judy, Guard Your Heart, [audio file], ISBN: 0005158524 9780005158524.
Rogers, Judy, and Trena Rogers, Straight for the heart.
Shop Judy Rogers Music Online
http://www.judyrogers.com/catalog.php?item=4&ret=judyrogers.com%2Fcatalog.php%3Fpage%3D1%26item%3D6

Sherouse, Deborah L., Adolescent Drug and Alcohol Abuse Handbook: For Parents and Professionals, ISBN: 0398051682 9780398051686.
"A must for parents, teachers, and pastors. Describes the symptoms of substance abuse and its effects on communication and relationships. Explains the path to recovery. Comprehensive in its treatment, with information on resources and state referral agencies." -- Cyril J. Barber

Terkelsen, Helen E., Counseling the Unwed Mother.

Terkelsen, Helen E., I'm Going to Have a Baby and I'm not Married, ISBN: 0800619943.

See also: The sovereign grace of god: his everlasting mercy and lovingkindness, The doctrine of man (human nature, total depravity), Sharing christ with your children, Repentance the key to salvation and change, Justification, Justifying faith, Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, Sexual relationship, Spiritual adultery (spiritual whoredom/harlotry), Slavery, our systems of enslavement, economic enslavement, Counsel for young men, Counsel for young women, Counseling the family, Courtship, Abstinence, Christian fiction, Classic christian fiction by martha finley, Sexually transmitted diseases, Sex ethics, sex education, Counseling the family, Biblical counsel by subject, Parenting, Justifying faith, Topical listings of Scripture, Training in biblical counseling, Works of jay adams, Classic christian fiction by martha finley, and so forth, and so on.
TCRB5: 1647, 1649, 1650, 1657

Related Weblinks

Girl Defined
https://www.girldefined.com/

Virtuousreality.com, a Website for all Women
http://www.virtuousreality.com/

Courtship

Defoe, Daniel, Religious Courtship: Being Historical Discourses, on the Necessity of Marrying Religious Husbands and Wives Only, 1743. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #22.

Powlison, David (1949-2019), and John Yenchko, Pre-engagement: Five Questions to ask Yourselves, ISBN: 0875526799 9780875526799.

Price, Greg L., Dating or Courtship: Which is Biblical? (1/2). Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.

Price, Greg L., The Puritan View of Marriage and the Family (#3),"Preparing for Marriage," an ongoing MP3 [audio file] and video series. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #22.
Contains advanced teaching on courtship.

West, Jim, Christian Courtship Verses the Dating Game.
"Important Biblical principles are considered that have nearly been lost in our day." -- GCB

Wood, Stephen D., The ABC's of Choosing a Good Husband: How to Find and Marry a Great guy, ISBN: 1965856241 9781965856246.

See also: Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, Sexual relationship, Spiritual adultery (spiritual whoredom/harlotry), Slavery, our systems of enslavement, economic enslavement, Abstinence, Men, women and God, Christian fiction, Classic christian fiction by martha finley, the elsie books series, and so forth, and so on.
TCRB5: 1619, 3875, 3880

Related Weblinks

Girl Defined
https://www.girldefined.com/

Virtuousreality.com, a Website for all Women
http://www.virtuousreality.com/

Teens and Sex
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr2chb.html#tnsasx

Finding the Perfect Parent in God

Remember that you are entering into the way to everlasting life, and not into a place of happiness or continuance. Presently therefore set your hearts on heaven, and make it the design of all your lives, to live in heaven with Christ for ever. O happy you, if God betimes will thoroughly teach you to know what it is that must make you happy; and if at your first setting out, your end be right, and your faces be heavenward! Remember that as soon as you begin to live, you are hasting towards the end of your lives: even as a candle as soon as it beginneth to burn, and the hour-glass as soon as it is turned, is wasting, and hasting to its end; so as soon as you begin to live, your lives are in consumption, and posting towards your final hour. . . . -- Richard Baxter (1615-1691)
When my father and my mother forsake me, then the LORD will take me up. (Psalm 27:10)

Clark, Kristen, Girl Defined: God's Radical Design for Beauty, Femininity, and Identity, ISBN: 9780801008450 080100845X.
"Presents a Christian perspective on femininity and female identity, maintaining that women should derive their feelings of self-worth and dignity from the teachings of Jesus Christ and a trust in God's love." -- Publisher
"GIRL DEFINED answered questions such as, 'What does it mean to be a woman? How should a career fit into our lives? Is one gender more valuable than the other? Is my sole purpose just to grow up, get married, and have kids?' . . . .
"It challenged the thinking of girls at any stage of life, and stood up to cultural norms to see what the Bible really says.
"One of my favorite . . . . quotes, 'God designed us to function best when we're paddling together for a cause greater than ourselves.' . . .
"And another favorite . . . quote that sums up one of the central themes of the entire book, 'Helping others is foundational in God's design for womanhood.' . . .
I've been following Kristen and Bethany's blog, girldefined.com, for quite some time now, and have loved their posts about what biblical womanhood looks like. This book was a fantastic summarization of everything they blog about -- from gender roles, to beauty, to identity, to culture, and relationships." -- Reader's Comment

McClung, Floyd, Jr., The Father Heart of God, ISBN: 9780736912150 0736912150.
"You'll will discover that no problem is too great or too insignificant for your Father in Heaven. The author illustrates how the loving, compassion of God enables us to overcome insecurity and the devastating effects of some of life's most painful experiences." -- Publisher
Helpful for those who may be alienated from God in part by family problems.

Packer, J.I. (1926-2020), Your Father Loves you: Daily Insights for Knowing God, ISBN: 0877889759 9780877889755.

See also: The sovereign grace of god: his everlasting mercy and lovingkindness, The doctrine of man (human nature, total depravity), The characteristics and attributes of god, The fatherhood of god, Repentance the key to salvation and change, Justification, Justifying faith, Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, and so forth, and so on.
TCRB5: 739-745, 1246, 1247

Teens Coping With the World

See the Theological Notes: "The Fall" at Genesis 3:6 in The Reformation Study Bible.
But of the fruit of the tree which is in the midst of the garden, God hath said, Ye shall not eat of it, neither shall ye touch it, lest ye die.
And the serpent said unto the woman, Ye shall not surely die: For God doth know that in the day ye eat thereof, then your eyes shall be opened, and ye shall be as gods, knowing good and evil.
And when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree to be desired to make one wise, she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat, and gave also unto her husband with her; and he did eat. And the eyes of them both were opened, and they knew that they were naked; and they sewed fig leaves together, and made themselves aprons. (Genesis 3:3-7)
Matthew Henry commenting on Genesis 3:6-13
https://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/matthew-henry-complete/genesis/3.html
John Gill commenting on Genesis 3:7
https://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/gills-exposition-of-the-bible/genesis-3-7.html

*Baxter, Richard (1615-1691), A Christian Directory: Baxter's Practical Works, Vol. 1. Full title: A Christian Directory: or A Sum of Practical Theology, and Cases of Conscience. Directing Christians how to use Their Knowledge and Faith; How to Improve all Helps and Means, and to Perform all Duties; How to Overcome Temptations, and to Escape or Mortify Every Sin. In Four Parts.
I. Christian Ethics (or Private Duties)
II. Christian Economics (or Family Duties)
III. Christian Ecclesiastics (or Church Duties)
IV. Christian Politics (or Duties to Our Rulers and Neighbours) (Morgan, PA: Soli Deo Gloria Publications, 1997, 1990, 1838, 1707, 1678, 1673), ISBN: 1877611131 9781877611131. Foreword by J.I. Packer (Soli Deo Gloria edition only). The Soli Deo Gloria publication is a facsimile reprint of the 19th century reprint by George Virtue, London, 1846. The original 1673 edition and the 1678 edition, both printed by Robert White for Nevill Simmons. Bibliographic and scriptural footnotes. A Christian classic. Considered to be among the ten greatest books in the English language. Available (less the J.I. Packer's Foreword, but searchable with an OCR-based index), on the Puritan Hard Drive.
This work is available in many editions, and in many formats.
Reformation Heritage Books has new copies of the Soli Deo Gloria edition (including the J.I. Packer Introduction), as of March 2008, even though it is generally thought to be out of print. They acquired Soli Deo Gloria from Ligonier Ministries in late 2007.
The best digital format of the reprint by George Virtue is included on the Puritan Hard Drive. It has an OCR scan in the background, meaning one can search the entire volume and copy text into another document. It also has a computer generated indexed from the OCR scan which is, of course, in Baxter's vocabulary.
A PDF image scan only of the same edition is available on the Reformation Bookshelf CD #21.
The reprint by George Virtue is available online and may be downloaded in PDF format at Christian Classics Ethereal Library.
The reprint by George Virtue appears in full preview in Google Books but may not be downloaded. So it is useful if the reader wants to become acquainted with the book. Text can be searched, but can not be copied into another document. This particular Google Books scan includes the contents in detail on pages iii-xix which is not included in the Christian Classics Ethereal Library PDF files. About five other editions from libraries are available in Google Books, and may be downloaded (August 2008).
Notice that the e-text in Google Books has the advantage of being searchable. Searching an image-based PDF file (without an OCR scan in the background), is not possible, unless the user owns software such as Abode Acrobat Pro or Kirtas BookScan Editor. They both have an OCR (optical character recognition), feature that will search an image-based PDFs (bit-map scans). Searches appear to be perfect in this work, although one must know Baxter's vocabulary. Text can be cut and pasted from image-based PDF format to OCR (character) format. This particular Google Books scan can not be cut and pasted or downloaded.
One of the older, multi-volume editions of THE WORKS OF RICHARD BAXTER is available at Monergism.com in the "Puritan Library," "Richard Baxter." A CHRISTIAN DIRECTORY, volume 23. It can be downloaded.
http://www.puritanlibrary.com/
Another older edition is available on microfilm (Ann Arbor, MI: University Microfilms, 1970), 1 microfilm reel, 35 mm (Early English books, 1641-1700; 343:11).
"The complete practical works of Richard Baxter are in print in four volumes entitled BAXTER'S PRACTICAL WORKS. This volume (about 1 1/4 million words, 1028 pages), is volume one of the set. The editor's preface (1707), p. xiii, stated that the works of Richard Baxter are 'perhaps the best body of practical divinity that is extent in our own or any other tongue.' Richard Baxter lived from 1615-1691. The DIRECTORY was completed in 1665. Its scope was intended to cover all of practical theology, a summa of casuistry . . ." -- Don Kistler
"Baxter's series, which grew in range and scope as it proceeded . . . is a peak point in Puritan devotional writing, and remains a precious resource for all, in this or any age, who want to know what is involved in Biblical godliness. . . . A CHRISTIAN DIRECTORY may justly be described as a landmark. It is the fullest, most thorough, and in this writer's judgment, most profound treatment of Christian spirituality and standards that has ever been attempted by an English-speaking Evangelical author. The fact that it embraces both spirituality and standards (the principles of communion with God plus the specifics of obedience to God), merits approving comment in itself; nowadays spirituality and ethics have become two distinct disciplines in the schools, and books written on either say virtually nothing about the other . . ." -- J.I. Packer
Timothy Keller calls it the greatest manual on Biblical counseling ever produced.
"There are many Puritan classics on this subject. Thomas Brooks' PRECIOUS REMEDIES FOR SATAN'S DEVICES, Thomas Goodwin's A CHILD OF LIGHT WALKING IN DARKNESS, William Bridge's A LIFTING UP FOR THE DOWNCAST, and many other similar works give evidence that the Puritans were. . . . masters at applying Biblical answers and principles to problems that can only be solved by spiritual means. No Puritan work, however, has ever approached the popularity, the scope, or the depth of Baxter's classic treatise. With the widespread interest in counseling in today's church, this reprint of Baxter's work should be a welcome addition to every pastor's library, or to anyone else who wishes to give solid Biblical answers to man's questions." -- Don Kistler
"We have long waited for a purely Biblical treatment of the spiritual ills and cures of men which is untainted by the views of psychology. Since Baxter lived about 200 years before psychology arrived, his deep work is completely void of its encroachment -- thankfully!" -- John MacArthur
"The kings men sought to arrest Richard Baxter, but he traveled ceaselessly from place to place, writing his sermons and his books even on horseback (he had an inkwell in his saddle), and preached over a wide area." -- Brian H. Edwards
"Baxter was a wonder of his age. His writings total 72 large volumes, much of it written on horseback as he traveled in his widespread preaching efforts. He seldom, if ever, edited anything he wrote. Knowing this any reader will be amazed at how well he communicated his deep love for his Savior. For 26 years he was public enemy No. 1 to the king, yet he lived to see the flight of the king in 1688." -- Jay P. Green, Sr. (1918-2008)
POOR MAN'S FAMILY BOOK (1674) and THE CATECHIZING OF FAMILIES (1683), are less detailed works and are found in THE REFORMED PASTOR: BAXTER'S PRACTICAL WORKS, VOL. 4. They are more suitable for family instruction than are the detailed presentation in A CHRISTIAN DIRECTORY.
"Ptacek in FAMILY WORSHIP: BIBLICAL BASIS, HISTORICAL REALITY, CURRENT NEED (pp. 51-52), supplies the following information in regard to Baxter and this book. He notes that after the Episcopalians ejected numerous 'nonconformists,' in what is know as the 'great ejection,' in 1662, 'Baxter pastored from house to house, visiting families of his parish in their homes. These visits contributed to Baxter's A CHRISTIAN DIRECTORY, a large and still very relevant manual of pastoral care.' Focusing on just one area of great importance, Ptacek demonstrates how this book's relevance is not limited by time or culture, though sometimes the use of specific words are. 'Published in 1673, but written 1664-65, a large book-length part of Baxter's CHRISTIAN DIRECTORY is devoted to the family. It is entitled 'Christian Economics' based on the archaic usage of the word, which reflects the proper sense of the Greek root oikonomos as the manager of a household, in the Christian case, the spiritual leader of the family. The family head is essential to Baxter's view of family worship and instruction. Baxter asserts that it is God's will that this instruction be carried out by the rulers of the families.' For a male head of the household to fail to do so, or to have another instruct in the family, is contrary to his position of authority.' This is the kind of book that can be passed on from generation to generation and still find much use in the service of the kingdom of God.
"Though relatively weak on corporate sanctification, corporate faithfulness and some important areas of doctrine (such as justification), Baxter's work on subjects related to personal piety can be of good practical use to the Christian -- if one is careful to separate out his aberrant doctrinal views and any practical errors they may lead to." -- Publisher
The following three excerpts are included as bonus free books on Reformation Bookshelf CD #28.
1. "The Duties of Parents for Their Children" from BAXTER'S PRACTICAL WORKS, VOL. 1, A CHRISTIAN DIRECTORY, on Christian Economics, Chap. X., pp. 449-454.
2. "The Special Duties of Children Towards Their Parents" from BAXTER'S PRACTICAL WORKS, VOL. 1, A CHRISTIAN DIRECTORY, on Christian Economics, Chap. XI., pp. 454-457.
3. "The Special Duties of Children and Youth Towards God" from BAXTER'S PRACTICAL WORKS, VOL. 1, A CHRISTIAN DIRECTORY, on Christian Economics, Chap. XII., pp. 457-458).
A summary of currently (2012) available publications.
http://www.lettermen2.com/pwrbcd.html
Richard Baxter, from Wikipedia
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Richard_Baxter

Becker, Verne, The Campus Life Guide to Surviving High School, ISBN: 0310710014 9780310710011. Alternate title: SURVIVING HIGH SCHOOL.
"A guide to coping with the conflicts and changes of the high school years, including feelings, family relationships, and one's own body. Uses firsthand stories of people who have found God helpful." -- Publisher
"Articles by Jay Kesler, Philip Yancey, Ruth Senter, Tim Stafford, Steve Lawhead, and others." -- GCB

Cook, Robert, It's Tough to be a Teenager.
"Written by one who is cognizant of and sympathetic with the problems of youth." -- Cyril J. Barber

Miller, C. John (1928-1996), Youth Evangelism: Dealing With Depression and Suicide (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Audio cassette CM101 [audio file].

See also: Creeds, confessions and catechisms, Biblical counsel by subject, Sharing christ with your children, Repentance the key to salvation and change, Justification, Justifying faith, Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, Sexual relationship, Spiritual adultery (spiritual whoredom/harlotry), Slavery, our systems of enslavement, economic enslavement, Abstinence, Preparing children for the world, Protecting children from dangers, Suicide, Christianity and the workplace, Counseling teens, Crisis counseling, Depression, Parenting, Prodigals, Pseudo-christian movements: a selection of works, Reconciliation of relationships, Resources for students, Secret societies and unholy alliance, Sex, Sexually transmitted diseases Sex ethics, sex education, Teens, and so forth, and so on.

Related Weblinks

Girl Defined
https://www.girldefined.com/

Mastering Life Ministries
http://www.MasteringLife.org

Respect Incorporated (formerly Sex Respect)
http://www.sexrespect.com/main.html

True Love Waits
http://www.truelovewaits.com/

Virtuousreality.com, a Website for all Women
http://www.virtuousreality.com/

Colonial Education

One hundred and six of the first 108 schools in America were founded on the Christian faith.
In early American history, a literate and well-educated majority of Americans thrived without a national, tax-funded educational program. In fact, few of the men who signed the Declaration of Independence and drafted the U.S. Constitution had ever seen a public school, and yet they benefitted from a free system of education vastly superior to the imagined benefits of today's state-controlled schooling.
What happened over the course of the last two and a half centuries? Why did Americans surrender the educational freedom that produced such widespread academic excellence to embrace a state of functional illiteracy under complete government control? In his seminal book Is Public Education Necessary? Samuel Blumenfeld unpacks two centuries of source material to present an accurate history of the religious and philosophical transformations that gave birth to the educational statism controlling America's children today. -- Samuel Blumenfeld in Is Public Education Necessary?

Alexander, Archibald (1772-1851), Biographical Sketches of the Founder and Principal Alumni of the Log College: Together With an Account of the Revivals of Religion Under Their Ministry, ISBN: 0851510043 9780851510040. Alternate title: THE LOG COLLEGE: BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES OF WILLIAM TENNENT AND HIS STUDENTS.
Biographical Sketches of the Founder and Principal Alumni of the Log College
http://archive.org/details/biographicalske00alexgoog

*Blumenfeld, Samuel, Is Public Education Necessary? ISBN: 0815958269 9780815958260.
"This book tells, for the first time, the story of how and why Americans gave up educational freedom so early in their history for the imagined benefits of state-controlled education. The author delves into a wealth of original sources to reveal how a comparative handful of secularists, who were more concerned with destroying religion than with freeing man, spearheaded the drive toward public education. Centered at Harvard, this nineteenth-century liberal elite worked tirelessly -- and successfully -- to put America on the road to educational statism. By exploring the very roots of the system, this book provides the missing link in our educational history." -- Publisher

Cremin, Lawrence A., American Education, ISBN: 0060109122 9780060109127.
"The most authoritative work on this subject is the brilliantly researched 688-page volume by Lawrence A. Cremin. . . . Dr. Cremin makes it plain there was no such thing as a secular school in colonial America. There were many kinds of schools, but all were explicitly Christian." -- Charles Hull Wolff

Cunningham, William (1805-1861), The Meaning of Religious Education.
"William Cunningham was an eminent Anglican priest and author in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
"He was born in Edinburgh [3] on 23 December 1849 and educated at the city's Academy before becoming a scholar at Trinity College, Cambridge. He was ordained in 1873 and was a Lecturer at his old university to 1891 when he became Professor of Economics at King's College, London.[4] In 1907 he was appointed Archdeacon of Ely, a post he held until[5] his death on 10 June 1919.[6]" -- Wikipedia (William Cunningham)

Day, Heather F., Protestant Theological Education in America: A Bibliography, ISBN: 0810818426 9780810818422.

Gangel, Kenneth O., and Warren S. Benson, Christian Education: Its History and Philosophy, ISBN: 0802435610 9780802435613.
"This is a detailed look into the history of Christian Education, starting in the Old Testament and considering the impact of Greek philosophy right on through the last quarter of the 20th century. It is a historical study of the philosophical thought of education from a Christian point of view." -- GCB

McGuffey, William, McGuffey's Eclectic Readers, 1836-37, 7 volumes, ISBN: 0880620145 9780880620147.

Ringenberg, William C., The Christian College: A History of Protestant Higher Education in America, ISBN: 0802819966 9780802819963

*Singer, C. Gregg (1910-1999), From Rationalism to Irrationality: The Decline of the Western Mind From the Renaissance to the Present, ISBN: 0875524281 9780875524283 and a reprint of the P&R Publishing edition of 1979 (Wipf and Stock, 2006), 479 pp.
"Now, frankly students, this course is presented from obviously the Reformed Theology. I hold unabashedly, unashamedly to the whole of Reformed Theology as we find it specifically in the Westminster Confession of Faith (1646) and the Larger and Shorter Catechisms.
"At the same time I hold to a position in regard to Apologetics generally known as Presuppositionalism, and particularly that view held by Cornelius Van Til.
"This book is an attempt to enlarge and to broaden the scope of Van Til's own Apologetical system, and also his Epistemology. By that I mean, and I worked this book with him, so anything that I say is not to be construed as a criticism of Cornelius Van Til. I might add he wrote me a letter. He is delighted with this book. But what I did was to take his principles, both of Apologetics and of Epistemology, and apply them to all realms of modern thought.
"Dr. Van Til, for good and sufficient reason, sought to limit to the main stream of what we might call pure Philosophy, that is from Saint Thomas, well even before them, back to the Greeks, but particularly in the more modern period, from Saint Thomas Aquinas, William of Ockham (Occam), down through Descartes, the Rationalists, the Empiricists, down to Kant and Hegel, and of course Modern Philosophy and Modern Theology. Very seldom has he gone into what we might call the arena of Political Philosophy, or the arena of Social Thought, or the arena of Psychology and Psychiatry, the realm of Educational Philosophy, and into Art, Music, and so on, to the Fine Arts.
"This book is an attempt to apply his system, and show what happens when the Western mind has forsaken his principles, or the principles which he has espoused, and turned into its own way. And thus the book called FROM RATIONALISM TO IRRATIONALITY. The thesis being that the Rationalism inherent in Saint Thomas and the post-Thomists, and more particularly, and more openly, in the Philosophy of the Renaissance, and Descartes, and Spinosa, and Leibniz has, as it's gained momentum in the modern world, brought Western Culture to its knees. We are living, as I would think, in the death throws of the Western Cultures, the Western Civilization." -- Dr. C. Gregg Singer, in the introductory address to his course in Apologetics soon after FROM RATIONALISM TO IRRATIONALITY came off the press in 1979
Apologetics: #01: Classical and Medieval Thought #1
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Apologetics, 56 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=2250511453
"Locke endeavored to set forth a political philosophy which would anchor his democratic political thought on what he felt were the firm foundations of his empiricism. However, his insistence that nature has bestowed upon mankind certain basic and inalienable rights was an assumption quite contrary to his empiricism. His denial of conscience as an innate possession or quality makes it impossible for men to know that they possess the rights of life, liberty, and property. The very concept of a human right is moral in nature and has its basis of authority in the human conscience. It is thus impossible for men to know through the senses that they have these cherished human rights. Granted that it was far from Locke's intention to undermine or destroy the traditional English concept of personal rights, his empiricism removed from his political thought the necessary foundations on which a government could be built for the protection of these rights. His empiricism supported neither the idea that men have such rights nor that they are inalienable. (p. 61)
"Underlying the secular and naturalistic assumptions of the thought of the Enlightenment was a related and equally serious problem. In their political and economic thought the leaders of this era were passionately devoted to the pursuit of freedom, and yet they seemed to be completely unaware of this incompatibility between their quest for freedom on the one hand and their reliance upon natural law on the other. How can an impersonal and deterministic concept of law produce and sustain a meaningful concept of freedom? Blindly convinced that there was no problem involved in the contradiction, the leaders of the Enlightenment pushed boldly ahead in the quest for political and economic liberty. However, their failure to recognize the issues involved in this quest led not only to the disaster of the French Revolution but to the growth of the totalitarian political and economic philosophies which first appeared in Hegel and Marx during the nineteenth century and reached their culmination in the totalitarianism of the twentieth century." (p. 73) -- quoted at the blog, Imago Veritatis: Post-modern Reformed Paleo-orthodoxy
Singer used this as textbook for his course in Apologetics. Epistemology is a recurring theme throughout the textbook and the course. The series of 24 addresses on Apologetics is available free online. See: "Apologetics" under:
Works of C. Gregg Singer
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr3ch.html#cgsinger

*Singer, C. Gregg (1910-1999), A Theological Interpretation of American History, 1994 edition, 354 pages (Greenville, SC: A Press, 1994, 1981, 1975, 1974, 1964), ISBN: 0875524265 9780875524269. A Christian classic.
This book portrays "the influence of theology and the changing doctrines in the life of the church on the pattern of American political, constitutional, social and economic development.
"The author shows that the decline of constitutional government in this country is the result of the departure from historical Christian faith and the resulting rise of alien political philosophies. Particularly does he emphasize the intimate relationship between theological liberalism on the one hand and political, social, and economic liberalism on the other. This theological liberalism has been a major agent in the decline of the Constitution in the political life of the people and in the appearance of a highly centralized government." -- Publisher
"There is between the democratic philosophy and theological liberalism a basic affinity which has placed them in the same camp in many major political struggles.
"This condition exists because theological liberalism shares the basic postulates of the democratic philosophy. . . .
"Theological liberalism at heart has been a continuing protest against Calvinism, particularly against its insistence on the Sovereignty of God and the Total Depravity of the race. These two Biblical doctrines have often proved to be a stumbling block to theologians within the church as well as to the unbelieving world.
"The result of theological liberalism has been the movement away from constitutionalism and away from liberty, and a movement toward collectivistic society and totalitarian regime." -- C. Gregg Singer, A Theological Interpretation of American History, p. 290
See also: John Knox, the Scottish Covenanters, and the Westminster Assembly (tape 3 of 5) in a series of addresses History Notes on Presbyterianism, Reformation, and Theology by Dr. C. Gregg Singer on SermonAudio.com
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=12607114250
Dr. C. Gregg Singer at SermonAudio.com (161 messages)
http://www.sermonaudio.com/search.asp?SpeakerOnly=true&currSection=sermonsspeaker&Keyword=Dr.^C.^Gregg^Singer

See also: The sovereignty of god, The doctrine of man (human nature, total depravity), Justice, the theology of judgment, god's final judgment, the great white throne judgment, the day of the lord, The sovereign grace of god: his everlasting mercy and lovingkindness, Commitment, surrender, The commandments of christ, Family worship, Sharing christ with your children, Protecting children from dangers, Preparing children for the world, God's deliverance of nations, Covenant theology and the ordinance of covenanting, Sexual relationship, Spiritual adultery (spiritual whoredom/harlotry), Idolatry, syncretism, Sexual wholeness, The covenant of redemption, The christian foundation of america, colonial history, Church history and history of local churches, The covenant faithfulness of god, Christ's influence on western civilization, The protestant reformation, Calvinism, Church history and history of local churches, The history of reformation of the church, The puritan revolution, Works by and about puritans, Christian scholarship, Education, Resources for students, Works of c. gregg singer, A theological interpretation of american history, The providence of god, Christian biography, and so forth, and so on.

Related Weblinks

Christian Education
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Christian Education, 24 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=12160372315

Decline in Education
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Decline of American Culture
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=9902215826

The History of Educational Philosophy in America
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Christian Education, 82 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=12160372614

The History and Role of the Church in Education
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Christian Education, 87 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=1216037249

A Necessary Theological Foundation for Education
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Christian Education, 86 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=1216037257

Regulations at Yale College (1745)
Showing the centrality of Calvinism and the Westminster Confession (1646) in Colonial higher education.
http://www.constitution.org/primarysources/yale.html

The Theistic Basis for all Culture and Education
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Christian Education, 54 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=12170365847

Education

See the Theological Notes: "The Fall" at Genesis 3:6 in The Reformation Study Bible.
But of the fruit of the tree which is in the midst of the garden, God hath said, Ye shall not eat of it, neither shall ye touch it, lest ye die.
And the serpent said unto the woman, Ye shall not surely die: For God doth know that in the day ye eat thereof, then your eyes shall be opened, and ye shall be as gods, knowing good and evil.
And when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree to be desired to make one wise, she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat, and gave also unto her husband with her; and he did eat. And the eyes of them both were opened, and they knew that they were naked; and they sewed fig leaves together, and made themselves aprons. (Genesis 3:3-7)
Matthew Henry commenting on Genesis 3:6-13
https://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/matthew-henry-complete/genesis/3.html
John Gill commenting on Genesis 3:7
https://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/gills-exposition-of-the-bible/genesis-3-7.html
A man can receive nothing, except it be given him from heaven. (John 3:27)
Right views of God's truth are not an intellectual attainment, but a blessing bestowed on us by God. -- Arthur Pink (1886-1952), He Instructed Him
Ever learning and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth. (2 Timothy 3:7)
For the earth shall be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the Lord, as the waters cover the sea. (Habakkuk 2:14. See also: Numbers 14:21; Psalm 72:19; Isaiah 6:3; Isaiah 11:9)
As for me, this is my covenant with them, saith the LORD; My spirit that is upon thee, and my words which I have put in thy mouth, shall not depart out of thy mouth, nor out of the mouth of thy seed, nor out of the mouth of thy seed's seed, saith the LORD, from henceforth and for ever. (Isaiah 59:21)
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge. (Proverbs 1:7a)
My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge: because thou hast rejected knowledge, I will also reject thee, that thou shalt be no priest to me: seeing thou hast forgotten the law of thy God, I will also forget thy children. As they were increased, so they sinned against me: therefore will I change their glory into shame. (Hosea 4:6,7)
See that no one shall be carrying you away as spoil through the philosophy and vain deceit, according to the deliverance of men, according to the rudiments of the world, and not according to Christ, because in him doth tabernacle all the fulness of the Godhead bodily, and ye are in him made full, who is the head of all principality and authority. (Colossians 2:2-10, YLTHB)
Unhappy they who weary themselves, as the world generally does, in wandering through many winding paths, neglecting the gospel, and pleasing themselves with wild romances, ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth, (2 Timothy 3:7), or to find life! But happy they who have embraced the gospel, and whose attachment to it is steadfast; for this, beyond all doubt, is truth and life." -- John Calvin commenting on Ephesians 1:13
We are an illiterate nation incapable of understanding great truth. -- C. Gregg Singer (1910-1999)
One hundred and six of the first 108 schools in America were founded on the Christian faith.
Since about 1840, men have been putting philosophy in the place of revelation, and ideas before what God himself has so graciously been pleased to reveal. -- D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones
Mortimer Adler, in GREAT BOOKS OF WESTERN CIVILIZATION, concluded that more problems are caused by the denial of God than by anything else -- it changes the whole tenure of life.
On the contrary, he charges them with gross and voluntary ignorance, as if he had said that, by their madness, they brought down destruction on themselves. The meaning therefore is, that the people perished because they despised instruction . . . .
Hence we draw a useful doctrine; namely, that the source of all our calamities is, that we do not allow ourselves to be taught by the word of God, and this is what the Prophet chiefly intended that we should observe. . . .
So then it is a true statement, that the reason why the people endure such a variety of afflictions is, that they are ignorant of God, and will not allow themselves to be taught by him. -- John Calvin commenting on Isaiah 5:13
THE INSTITUTES OF THE CHRISTIAN RELIGION by John Calvin is "still considered by many to be the finest explanation and defense of the Protestant Reformation available."
"The work is divided into four books: I. The Knowledge of God the Creator, II. The Knowledge of God the Redeemer in Christ, III. The Mode of Obtaining the Grace of Christ, IV. The External Means or Helps by Which God Allures us Into Fellowship With Christ and Keeps us in it. . . . THE INSTITUTES is praised by the secular philosopher, Will Durant, as one of the ten books that shook the world."
Will Durant and his wife, Ariel, spent their lifetimes writing THE STORY OF CIVILIZATION in 11 volumes.
We are an illiterate nation incapable of understanding great truth. -- C. Gregg Singer (1910-1999)
So many times people in the pew and the pulpit say, well how did all this get started? How did psychology descend to its present level? . . . How did political science produce our political thought, produce the dictatorships which are engulfing the modern world? Why are we in the economic mess in which we are today? Why is sociology such a jumble of immorality? Why is education as it is today? Why is art so meaningless? . . . Why is modern music an affront to the modern ears as well as to the mind and ear of God? . . . Why are all these things!? . . .
I would suggest to you that if you will follow this course with thought and care, you will finally come to see the answer to the questions which haunt us today in Western society." -- Singer, C. Gregg (1910-1999), in the Apologetics series of 24 lectures using FROM RATIONALISM TO IRRATIONALITY: THE DECLINE OF THE WESTERN MIND FROM THE RENAISSANCE TO THE PRESENT (1979) as the text, and delivered in Decatur, Georgia, beginning November, 1979.
Apologetics: #01: Classical and Medieval Thought #1
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Apologetics, 56 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=2250511453
Autodidact: A self-taught person.
The whole of the prophecies of Isaiah are precious, and should be read by us constantly in private. -- C.H. Spurgeon, Spurgeon's Devotional Bible
But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 6:33)
Then, when he had expatiated somewhat more fully, and had more copiously illustrated the benefits of its presence [harmony -- compiler], and the ruinous effects of its absence upon a state, Pilus, one of the company present at the discussion, struck in and demanded that the question should be more thoroughly sifted, and that the subject of justice should be freely discussed for the sake of ascertaining what truth there was in the maxim which was then becoming daily more current, that "the republic cannot be governed without injustice." Scipio expressed his willingness to have this maxim discussed and sifted, and gave it as his opinion that it was baseless, and that no progress could be made in discussing the republic unless it was established, not only that this maxim, that "the republic cannot be governed without injustice," was false, but also that the truth is, that it cannot be governed without the most absolute justice. And the discussion of this question, being deferred till the next day, is carried on in the third book with great animation. For Pilus himself undertook to defend the position that the republic cannot be governed without injustice, at the same time being at special pains to clear himself of any real participation in that opinion. He advocated with great keenness the cause of injustice against justice, and endeavored by plausible reasons and examples to demonstrate that the former is beneficial, the latter useless, to the republic. Then, at the request of the company, L�lius attempted to defend justice, and strained every nerve to prove that nothing is so hurtful to a state as injustice; and that without justice a republic can neither be governed, nor even continue to exist.
When this question has been handled to the satisfaction of the company, Scipio reverts to the original thread of discourse, and repeats with commendation his own brief definition of a republic, that it is the weal of the people. "The people" he defines as being not every assemblage or mob, but an assemblage associated by a common acknowledgment of law, and by a community of interests. Then he shows the use of definition in debate; and from these definitions of his own he gathers that a republic, or "weal of the people," then exists only when it is well and justly governed, whether by a monarch, or an aristocracy, or by the whole people. But when the monarch is unjust, or, as the Greeks say, a tyrant; or the aristocrats are unjust, and form a faction; or the people themselves are unjust, and become, as Scipio for want of a better name calls them, themselves the tyrant, then the republic is not only blemished (as had been proved the day before), but by legitimate deduction from those definitions, it altogether ceases to be.
Tully [Cicero -- compiler], himself, too, speaking not in the person of Scipio or any one else, but uttering his own sentiments, uses the following language in the beginning of the fifth book, after quoting a line from the poet Ennius, in which he said, "Rome's severe morality and her citizens are her safeguard." "This verse," says Cicero, "seems to me to have all the sententious truthfulness of an oracle. For neither would the citizens have availed without the morality of the community, nor would the morality of the commons without outstanding men have availed either to establish or so long to maintain in vigor so grand a republic with so wide and just an empire. Accordingly, before our day, the hereditary usages formed our foremost men, and they on their part retained the usages and institutions of their fathers. But our age, receiving the republic as a chef-d'oeuvre of another age which has already begun to grow old, has not merely neglected to restore the colors of the original, but has not even been at the pains to preserve so much as the general outline and most outstanding features. For what survives of that primitive morality which the poet called Rome's safeguard? It is so obsolete and forgotten, that, far from practicing it, one does not even know it. And of the citizens what shall I say? Morality has perished through poverty of great men; a poverty for which we must not only assign a reason, but for the guilt of which we must answer as criminals charged with a capital crime. For it is through our vices, and not by any mishap, that we retain only the name of a republic, and have long since lost the reality. . . ."
For I mean in its own place to show that -- according to the definitions in which Cicero himself, using Scipio as his mouthpiece, briefly propounded what a republic is, and what a people is, and according to many testimonies, both of his own lips and of those who took part in that same debate -- Rome never was a republic, because true justice had never a place in it. But accepting the more feasible definitions of a republic, I grant there was a republic of a certain kind, and certainly much better administered by the more ancient Romans than by their modern representatives. But the fact is, true justice has no existence save in that republic whose founder and ruler is Christ, if at least any choose to call this a republic; and indeed we cannot deny that it is the people's weal.
But if perchance this name, which has become familiar in other connections, be considered alien to our common parlance, we may at all events say that in this city is true justice; the city of which Holy Scripture says, "Glorious things are said of thee, O city of God." -- Augustine in The City of God, Book 2, Chapter 21, Cicero's Opinion of the Roman Republic
People fear the Turks, wars, and floods, for in such matters they can see what is injurious or beneficial; but what the devil has in mind no one sees or fears. Yet where we would give a florin [dollar] to defend ourselves against the Turks, we should give a hundred florins to protect us against ignorance, even if only one boy could be taught to be a truly Christian man; for the good such a man can accomplish is beyond all computation. -- Martin Luther (1483-1546)
There is no man that ever understood the interest of mankind, of families, cities, kingdoms, churches, and of Jesus Christ the King and Saviour, but he must needs know that the right instruction, education, and sanctification of youth, is of unspeakable consequence to them all. In the place where God most blessed my labours (at Kidderminster, in Worcestershire), my first and greatest success was upon the youth. And (which was a marvellous way of divine mercy), when God had touched the hearts of young men and girls with a love of goodness, and delightful obedience to the truth, the parents and grandfathers, who had grown old in an ignorant, worldly state, did many of them fall into liking and love of piety, induced by the love of their children, whom they perceived to be made by it much wiser and better, and more dutiful to them. -- Richard Baxter (1615-1691)
Heart-knowledge, we must always remember, is the one thing needful. It is something which schools and universities cannot confer. It is the gift of God.
To find out the plague of our own hearts and hate sin -- to become familiar with the throne of grace and the fountain of Christ's blood -- to sit daily at the feet of Jesus, and humbly learn of Him -- this is the highest degree of knowledge to which mortal man can attain. Let any one thank God who knows anything of these things. One may be ignorant of Greek, Latin, Hebrew, and mathematics, but they shall be saved. -- J.C. Ryle (1816-1900)
Bad men cannot make good citizens. It is impossible that a nation of infidels or idolaters should be a nation of freemen. It is when a people forget God that tyrants forge their chains. A vitiated [defective] state of morals, a corrupted public conscience, are incompatible with freedom. -- Patrick Henry
To the orthodox Christian, the shabby incarnations of the reigning historiographies are both absurd and offensive. They are idols, and he is forbidden to bow down to them and must indeed wage war against them. -- R.J. Rushdoony (1916-2001)
As the apostle says to Timothy, so also he says to every-one, Give yourself to reading. [1 Timothy 4:13] . . . He who will not use the thoughts of other men's brains proves that he has no brains of his own . . . You need to read. Renounce as much as you will all light literature, but study as much as possible sound theological works, especially the Puritanic writers, and expositions of the Bible . . . the best way for you to spend your leisure is to be either reading or praying. -- Charles Haddon Spurgeon (1834-1892)

Adler, Mortimer, How to Read a Book: The Classic Guide to Intelligent Reading, ISBN: 067121280X 9780671212803.
"Originally published in 1940, this book has become a rare phenomenon, a living classic. It is the best and most successful guide to reading comprehension for the general reader. And now it has been completely rewritten and updated. You are told about various levels of reading and how to achieve them, from elementary reading, through systematic skimming and inspectional reading, to speed reading. You learn how to pigeonhole a book, X-ray it, extract the author's message, and criticize. You are taught different reading techniques for reading practical books, imaginative literature, plays, poetry, history, science and mathematics, philosophy (religion) and social science." -- Publisher

Beechick, Ruth, A Biblical Psychology of Learning: How Your Mind Works, ISBN: 0896360830.
"May be the finest book on the contemporary scene that explains the learning process, while allowing the Scriptures to judge the vast array of learning theories. The mode of learning the author presents and her discussion of creativity, higher thinking, and the spiritual developmental tasks are provocative. But her use of the Biblical concept of the heart marks the book with its uniqueness. It pries open a variety of areas with a new touch." -- Warren S. Benson

*Bell, Robert, Impure Science: Fraud, Compromise, and Political Influence in Scientific Research, ISBN: 0471529133 9780471529132, 320 pages.
"The author lifts the veil of secrecy from scientific research conducted in this country. He presents a shattering indictment of the scientific community from the halls of government to the research centers at major universities and corporations. Documents case after case of influence peddling, doctored research and outright fraud, and reveals how the twin forces of money and status compromise and corrupt the pursuit of scientific truth." -- Publisher

Boykin, Caroline, The Well-versed Family: Raising Kids of Faith Through Do-able Scripture Memory, ISBN: 1598867687 9781598867688.

*Calvin, John (1509-1564), The Institutes of the Christian Religion, 2 volumes, ISBN: 0664220207 9780664220204. Considered to be among the ten greatest books in the English language. A Christian classic.
"Edited by John McNeill and translated by Ford Lewis Battles, this is the definitive English language edition of one of the monumental works of the Christian church -- Calvin's INSTITUTES.
"Still considered by many to be the finest explanation and defense of the Protestant Reformation available.
"The work is divided into four books: I. The Knowledge of God the Creator, II. The Knowledge of God the Redeemer in Christ, III. The Mode of Obtaining the Grace of Christ, IV. The External Means or Helps by Which God Allures us Into Fellowship With Christ and Keeps us in it. . . . THE INSTITUTES is praised by the secular philosopher, Will Durant, as one of the ten books that shook the world." -- GCB
Calvin spent a lifetime writing and perfecting INSTITUTES OF CHRISTIAN RELIGION. His Prefatory Address makes it clear that he intended the work to be a defense of Christianity to the King of France.
Therefore, plainly stated, one of the most influential works ever published in the English language is a defense of Christianity to leaders of State.
Prefatory Address to His Most Christian Majesty, The Most Mighty and Illustrious Monarch, Francis, King of the French, His Sovereign, John Calvin. Available in THE INSTITUTES OF THE CHRISTIAN RELIGION.
"Indeed, this consideration makes a true king: to recognize himself a minister of God in governing his kingdom. Now, that king, who in ruling over his realm does not serve God's glory, exercises not kingly rule but brigandage. [Footnote: 'Nec iam regnum ille sed latrocinium exercet.' An echo of Augustine's famous phrase: 'When justice is taken away, what are kingdoms [[regna]] but a vast banditry [[magna latocinia]]?' City of God, IV. iv (MPL [[Migne, J.P., Patrologiae cursus completus, series Latina]], 41. 115; tr. NPNF [[A Select Library of the Nicene and Post-Nicene Fathers, second series]], II. 66)]. Furthermore, he is deceived who looks for enduring prosperity in his kingdom when it is not ruled by God's scepter, that is, his Holy Word; for the heavenly oracle that proclaims that where prophecy fails the people are scattered [Prov. 29:18 (Proverbs 29:18)], cannot lie." (Battles translation)
"The characteristic of a true sovereign is, to acknowledge that, in the administration of his kingdom, he is a minister of God. He who does not make his reign subservient to the divine glory, acts the part not of a king, but a robber. He, moreover, deceives himself who anticipates long prosperity to any kingdom which is not ruled by the sceptre of God, that is, by his divine word. For the heavenly oracle is infallible which has declared, that where there is no vision the people perish (Proverbs 29:18), (Beveridge translation)."
See the entire Prefatory Address, Beveridge translation. Considered to be one of the greatest prefaces ever written.
http://www.ccel.org/ccel/calvin/institutes.ii.viii.html
"The doctrines of covenant liberty were rediscovered in the Reformation. John Calvin went further than anyone else in defining liberty and what Christians need to do to maintain it. Includes bibliographies."
It is recommended that INSTITUTES OF CHRISTIAN RELIGION be used for daily devotions and may be used in combination with Ford Lewis Battles and John Walchenbach, AN ANALYSIS OF THE INSTITUTES OF THE CHRISTIAN RELIGION OF JOHN CALVIN and with CALVIN'S COMMENTARIES.
Calvin's Commentaries at BibleStudyGuide.org
http://www.biblestudyguide.org/comment/calvin/comm_index.htm
Calvin's Commentaries, complete
From the Calvin Translation Society edition.
http://www.ccel.org/ccel/calvin/commentaries.i.html
One Hundred Aphorisms, Containing, Within a Narrow Compass, the Substance and Order of the Four Books of The Institutes of the Christian Religion
http://www.lettermen2.com/pringle.html
Contents and Chapter Sections for Calvin's Institutes of the Christian Religion, 1559 (McNeill/Battles)
http://www.lettermen2.com/icrcont.html
Calvin, Institutes of the Christian Religion; A New Translation by Henry Beveridge (1845), Volume: 1
http://archive.org/details/instituteschrist01calvuoft
Calvin, Institutes of the Christian Religion; A New Translation by Henry Beveridge (1845), Volume: 2
http://archive.org/details/institutesofreli02calvuoft
Calvin, Institutes of the Christian Religion, Beveridge translation
http://www.ccel.org/ccel/calvin/institutes.iii.vii.html
Monergism: Commentaries
From Mongergism.com search "commentaries."
http://www.monergism.com

*Calvin, Jean (John, 1509-1564), Theodore de Beza, Robert Estienne, Academiae de Geneve, Leges Academiae Genevensis. Alternate title (French): L'ORDRE DU COLLEGE DE GENEUE. Language: Latin.
"First edition of the new Academy of Geneva founded by John Calvin. It contains the complete speeches made at the inauguration by John Calvin and Theodore de Beza, the first Rector of the Academy. Also a complete outline of the curriculum, from seventh to first grade, with a complete reading list in classical authors for each grade, and the by-laws and regulations for appointing the faculty. One of the two imprints by Robert Estienne to bear the place of publication as Geneva."

Clark, Gordon H. (1902-1985), The Relationship of Public Education to Christianity, Trinity Review #43.

Clark, Gordon H. (1902-1985), William James and John Dewey, ISBN: 0940931435 9780940931435.
"Few philosophers have had as great an impact on American public education as John Dewey. Yet Dewey denied that men had minds, and he believed that a person thought with his muscles -- that is why he emphasized learning by doing. This is an analysis of his educational philosophy from a Christian point of view. It may be studied with profit by teachers and parents." -- The Trinity Foundation

Davis, D. Clair, The Church in the Modern Age: Kuyper and Educational Reformation, a series of 46 audio files [audio file], (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Audio cassette CD234 [audio file].
"The Church in the Modern Age" is a series including "The Church in the Modern Age: Kuyper and the Dutch Church," and "The Medieval Church: Authority," among many other lectures.

Day, Heather F., Protestant Theological Education in America: A Bibliography, ISBN: 0810818426 9780810818422.

Downes, Stephen, Stephen Downes Guide to the Logical Fallacies.
"Stephen Downes, an information architect with a background in philosophy, created this site with the aim of identifying, indexing, and describing 'all known logical fallacies.' A logical fallacy can be defined as an error in reasoning in which a conclusion appears to follow from a set of premises but in reality does not. Downes groups the fallacies into thirteen categories, such as Fallacies of Distraction, Inductive Fallacies, and Syllogistic Errors. Each fallacy (over 50 in all), is described with its name, definition, examples of how it might be used in an argument, and how the argument can be proven fallacious. The How to Use this Guide section of the site provides a helpful introduction, and a robust bibliography offers possibilities for further study of logic. In addition, users may register at the site (no fee), to gain access to discussion boards on the topic. The author notes that his Guide "is intended to help you in your own thinking, not to help you demolish someone else's argument." Regardless of how a reader uses the information, however, the site remains an interesting and fun investigation of how logical arguments are constructed." "Lists all known logical fallacies, with definitions, examples, and the steps needed to prove that the fallacy is committed. Site also includes links to logic references and resources."
Stephen's Guide to Logical Fallacies
http://www.fallacies.ca/welcome.htm

Gangel, Kenneth O., Called to Teach: A Biblical Challenge to Renounce Intellectual Idolatry and Dedicate Ourselves to Spiritual Discipleship on Christian School Campuses.

Gangel, Kenneth O., and Jeffrey S. Gangel, Fathering Like the Father: Becoming the dad God Wants you to be, ISBN: 0801064325 9780801064326.

*Hall, David W., and David J. Vaughan, A Heart Promptly Offered: The Revolutionary Leadership of John Calvin, ISBN: 9781581825053 1581825056.
"Few today realize the extent to which John Calvin, the great Genevan reformer, and his work have shaped modern culture. Few know that it was John Calvin who pioneered the effort to decentralize government by calling for checks and balances against the rule of the few or the king. Equally unknown are his efforts to establish a productive social safety net for immigrants, create educational models that were far ahead of his time, and instill a sense of self-worth in all citizens (regardless of their occupations or class). He was also known for his support of free markets, the rise of private enterprise, and the advancement of publishing and knowledge beyond its medieval confines. The result of his efforts was an explosion of culture and liberty, a story that often is lost or ignored in the rush to offer criticism of the man. A HEART PROMPTLY OFFERED presents the basic story of Calvin's life, along with numerous excerpts from his own pen -- writings from his letters, commentaries, and sermons. In addition to summarizing the main topics of CALVIN'S INSTITUTES, it lays out his ground-breaking political theory." -- Publisher

Holmes, Arthur Frank, The Idea of a Christian College, ISBN: 0802815928 9780802815927.
"In this timely treatise Holmes sets forth the sine qua non of Christian higher education: The integration of faith and learning." -- Cyril J. Barber
"This is a revised edition of the book that first appeared in 1975. It provided a concise case for the Christian college and defines its distinctive mission and contribution. Also includes two new chapters: Liberal Arts as Career Preparation and The Marks of an Educated Person." -- GCB

Houston, Thomas (1803-1882), The Duty of Nations Favoured With Divine Revelation to Promote Scriptural Education: In Two Discourses.

Jeffreys, Montague Vaughan Castelman (M.V.C Jeffreys), Truth is not Neutral: A Study of Freedom and Authority in Religious Education.

Jehle, Paul, Go ye Therefore and Teach: Operation Manual for Christian day School.

Johnson, Paul, Intellectuals: From Marx and Tolstoy to Sartre and Chomsky, ISBN: 0061253170 9780061253171.
"The trail of the intellectuals is filled with radicalism and perversion. It is very interesting to see the men and women behind the theories and ideas that have greatly influenced culture in the past few centuries. Intellectuals may be brilliant in art or have a certain area of expertise, but when an intellectual begins to express influence in an area outside of where he or she has proven his or her mastery of a subject, beware. 'A dozen people picked at random on the street are at least as likely to offer sensible views on moral and political matters as a cross-section of the intelligentsia.' But I would go further. One of the principal lessons of our tragic century, which has seen so many millions of innocent lives sacrificed in schemes to improve the lot of humanity, is -- beware intellectuals. Not merely should they be kept well away from the levers of power, they should also be objects of particular suspicion when they seek to offer collective advice. Beware committees, conferences and leagues of intellectuals. Distrust public statements issued from their serried ranks. Discount their verdicts on political leaders and important events." -- Reader's Comment

Lee, Francis Nigel, The Biblical Theory of Christian Education

*Lee, Rachel Gillespie, Learning Centers for Better Christian Education, ISBN: 0817009272 9780817009274.
"An able treatise in which the author advocates a new method of education in the church. Describes how to set up and administer a learning resource center. Deserves careful reading. Recommended." -- Cyril J. Barber

Leming, James S. (compiler), Foundations of Moral Education: An Annotated Bibliography, ISBN: 0313241651 9780313241659.
"This bibliography is designed to be used in two ways. The first, through the author and subject indexes, should enable the user to identify items and subjects of interest. The second approach may be more efficient. The arrangement of the bibliography allows the user to peruse related items of interest and determine the amount of information available on a given subject. Whichever method is chosen, the information contained within these covers would help to facilitate research on the all-important issue of moral education." -- Cyril J. Barber

*Machen, Gresham J., Education, Christianity and the State, ISBN: 0940931192 9780940931190.
"Machen was one of the foremost educators, theologians, and defenders of Christianity in the twentieth century. The author of numerous scholarly books, Machen saw clearly that if Christianity is to survive and flourish, a system of Christian grade schools must be established. This collection of essays captures his thought on education over nearly three decades.
"What role does the government have to play in education? What is the relationship between faith and knowledge? Is scholarship important, or is education the same as training? This book has been adopted as required reading by a large college in Florida. It may be studied with profit by teachers, parents, and students. Contents include: Faith and Knowledge, The Importance of Christian Scholarship, Christianity and Culture, Reforming the Government Schools, The Necessity of The Christian School, Shall We Have a Federal Department of Education? Proposed Department of Education, The Christian School: The Hope of America, Westminster Theological Seminary: Its Purpose and Plan." -- The Trinity Foundation

*Maffet, Gregory J., Biblical Schools for Covenant Children, ISBN: 0941221008 9780941221009.
Introduction by Jay Adams.

Malik, Charles Habib, A Christian Critique of the University, ISBN: 0877843848 9780877843849.

McPherson, Gary, The Child as Musician: A Handbook of Musical Development, ISBN: 0198530315 9780198530312.

Mooremann, Phillip, The Christian Home Study Handbook, 1986: A Guide to Christian Correspondence Schools, Cassette [audio file], and Video-taped [DVD] Instruction, Computer programs, and Christian Home Schools, ISBN: 0961432306 9780961432300.
"Ideal for those who want reliable guidance on correspondence courses. Also of value to pastors who are asked about continuing education. Includes information on video and cassette [audio file], tapes, lending libraries, and available software. Well produced, reliable." -- Cyril J. Barber

Morris, Henry Madison, Education for the Real World: "Education for Time and Eternity," ISBN: 0890510369 9780890510360.

Murray, Iain H., The Undercover Revolution: How Fiction Changed Britain, ISBN: 9781848710122 1848710127.
"Late Victorian and Edwardian Britain saw a mega-change in reading habits. For the first time fiction took the primary place in book publishing, and the medium was taken up by brilliant and entertaining authors with an agenda for 'a brave new world.' Such men as Thomas Hardy, H.G. Wells and George Bernard Shaw were the opinion-makers for coming generations." -- Publisher
This book . . . focused on a particular class and era of novelists such as Robert Louis Stevenson and Thomas Hardy. It devotes a chapter to each of those two men and seeks to show that their lives tell a very different story than their books. Their books paint the 'new morality' or rather immorality of 'free love' and other sins in glowing colors and soft lights. They make sin look happy. But when you look at their lives as they seek to live this way, the picture is very different. Their lives are not like the lives of their characters. Reality shows sin in all of its ugly colors and there is nothing happy about it. I think this is a danger in much of fiction. It is dangerous to be able to write the world anyway we want. Even Christian fiction writers can fall into describing the world the way they want it to be (i.e. Christians always prosper) and not the way God in his wisdom allows it to be." -- Reader's Comment

Presbyterian Church in the United States of America. Board of Education, [Miscellaneous, vol. 4].
Contents: Concio ad clerum; a sermon delivered in the chapel of Yale College, September 10, 1828. / Nathaniel W. Taylor -- Nature and worth of the science of church history; an address delivered before the directors of the Union Theological Seminary, New York, Feb. 12, 1851. / Henry Boynton Smith -- Theology of the Puritans. / [Sr. Woods, Andover] -- The memory of the just; a sermon commemorative of the life and labors of the Rev. William Kirby. / Julian Monson Sturtevant -- The Princeton review, January 1840, No. 1 -- The Biblical repository and classical review; third series, no. III, whole number LIX, July 1845 -- The Biblical repository and classical review; third series, no. v, whole number LXI, January 1846 -- Home, the school, and the church; or the Presbyterian Education Repository. / Cortlandt van Rensselaer, ed. -- The family a religious institution. / Erastus Hopkins -- How children are to be regarded and treated. / John Summerfield -- Domestic christian education. / Isaac Ferris -- Plea for the restoration of the Bible to the common schools. / Robert J. Breckinridge -- The spirit of a teacher. / David P. Page -- His dignity and aim. / Thomas Fuller -- The nobler exercises of his profession. / Richard Baxter -- An instructor of religion. / [R.S.C.] -- Counsels for teachers. / [G.W.D.] -- Report on parochial schools to the general assembly of 1846. / J.W. Alexander -- Dangers of a college life. / James Carnahan -- On certain errors of pious students in college. / James W. Alexander -- The preservation of health. / Samuel Miller -- The choice of a profession. / John Proudfit -- Public religious education enforced in a discussion of different plans. / Charles Hodge -- What constitutes a call to the gospel ministry. / [Anonymous] -- Hindrances to eminent piety in candidates. / Archibald Alexander -- The importance of thorough and adequate preparatory study for the holy ministry. / Samuel Miller -- The necessity of aiding indigent candidates. / B.B. Edwards -- The ministerial character and preparation suited to our country and the age. / John H. Rice -- Education in the Presbyterian Church; The day of prayer for colleges; Rules of the Board of Education; Plans for schools. / [Presbyterian Church in the United States of America], Board of Education.

Ringenberg, William C., The Christian College: A History of Protestant Higher Education in America, ISBN: 0802819966 9780802819963

*Robbins, John W. (1949-2008), What is Christian Philosophy? a tract.
"Those who put their trust in science as the key to understanding the universe are embarrassed by the fact that science never discovers truth. If the Bible is the source of all truth, science cannot discover truth.
"One of the insoluble problems of the scientific method is the fallacy of induction; induction, in fact, is a problem for all forms of empiricism (learning by experience). The problem is simply this: Induction, arguing from the particular to the general, is always a logical fallacy. No matter how many crows, for example, you observe to be black, the conclusion that all crows are black is never warranted. The reason is quite simple: Even assuming you have good eyesight, are not colorblind, and are actually looking at crows, you have not, and cannot, see all crows. Millions have already died. Millions more are on the opposite side of the planet. Millions more will hatch after you die. Induction is always a fallacy.
"There is another fatal fallacy in science as well: the fallacy of asserting the consequent. The atheist philosopher Bertrand Russell put the matter this way:

All inductive arguments in the last resort reduce themselves to the following form: If this is true, that is true: now that is true, therefore this is true. This argument is, of course, formally fallacious. Suppose I were to say: "If bread is a stone and stones are nourishing, then this bread will nourish me; now this bread does nourish me; therefore it is a stone and stones are nourishing. If I were to advance such an argument, I should certainly be thought foolish, yet it would not be fundamentally different from the argument upon which all scientific laws are based.

"Recognizing that induction is always fallacious, philosophers of science in the twentieth century, in an effort to defend science, developed the notion that science does not rely on induction at all. Instead, it consists of conjectures, experiments to test those conjectures, and refutations of conjectures. But in their attempts to save science from logical disgrace, the philosophers of science had to abandon any claim to knowledge: Science is only conjectures and refutations of conjectures. Karl Popper, one of the twentieth century's greatest philosophers of science, wrote:

First, although in science we do our best to find the truth, we are conscious of the fact that we can never be sure whether we have got it . . . . We know that our scientific theories always remain hypotheses . . . . In science there is no "knowledge" in the sense in which Plato and Aristotle understood the word, in the sense which implies finality; in science, we never have sufficient reason for the belief that we have attained the truth . . . . Einstein declared that his theory was false: he said that it would be a better approximation to the truth than Newton's, but he gave reasons why he would not, even if all predictions came out right, regard it as a true theory . . . . Our attempts to see and to find the truth are not final, but open to improvement: . . . our knowledge, our doctrine is conjectural; . . . it consist of guesses, of hypotheses rather than of final and certain truths.

"Observation and science cannot furnish us with truth about the universe, let alone truth about God. The secular worldview, which begins by denying God and divine revelation, cannot furnish us with knowledge at all." -- John W. Robbins
http://www.trinityfoundation.org/journal.php?id=218

*Rushdoony, Rousas J. (1916-2001), Christianity and the State, ISBN: 9996717755. Available through Exodus Books.
"The need to return to a Biblical doctrine of civil government is evidenced by our century's worldwide drift into tyranny. Humanism invariably rushes in to fill the world's theological vacuums: the need of the hour is to restore a full-orbed, Biblical, theology of the state. This work sets forth that theology." -- GCB

*Rushdoony, Rousas J. (1916-2001), The Messianic Character of American Education (Philadelphia, PA: The Presbyterian and Reformed Publishing Co.).
"Charts the growth of public education in America and its function as a government tool of indoctrination into the secular humanist worldview."

Rushdoony, Rousas J. (1916-2001), The Philosophy of the Christian Curriculum.
"Many -- not just Christian educators -- will appreciate this thoughtful study of the integration of the Christian worldview with the education of our children." -- GCB

Ryken, Leland, Windows to the World: Literature in Christian Perspective.
"It is Ryken's observation that the biases Christians bring to literature can either prove helpful in opening up a whole new vista of understanding or becloud the issues and perpetuate a shallow experience of reality. In this book he examines such topics as truth, morality, and imagination in literature and then places these concepts within a Christian framework. His book is written for both Christians and non-Christians. . . ." -- Cyril J. Barber

*Singer, C. Gregg (1910-1999), The Apologetics lecture series using FROM RATIONALISM TO IRRATIONALITY: THE DECLINE OF THE WESTERN MIND FROM THE RENAISSANCE TO THE PRESENT (1979) as the text, and delivered in Decatur, Georgia, beginning November, 1979, 17 MP3 files [audio file].
"So many times people in the pew and the pulpit say, well how did all this get started? How did psychology descend to its present level? . . . How did political science produce our political thought, produce the dictatorships which are engulfing the modern world? Why are we in the economic mess in which we are today? Why is sociology such a jumble of immorality? Why is education as it is today? Why is art so meaningless? . . . Why is modern music an affront to the modern ears as well as to the mind and ear of God? . . . Why are all these things!? . . .
"I would suggest to you that if you will follow this course with thought and care, you will finally come to see the answer to the questions which haunt us today in Western society." -- C. Gregg Singer, from this cited lecture series
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=2250511453

*Singer, C. Gregg (1910-1999), From Rationalism to Irrationality: The Decline of the Western Mind From the Renaissance to the Present (Philadelphia, PA: The Presbyterian and Reformed Publishing Co., 1979), ISBN: 0875524281 9780875524283 and a reprint of the P&R Publishing edition of 1979 (Wipf and Stock, 2006), 479 pp.
"Now, frankly students, this course is presented from obviously the Reformed Theology. I hold unabashedly, unashamedly to the whole of Reformed Theology as we find it specifically in the Westminster Confession of Faith (1646) and the Larger and Shorter Catechisms.
"At the same time I hold to a position in regard to Apologetics generally known as Presuppositionalism, and particularly that view held by Cornelius Van Til.
"This book is an attempt to enlarge and to broaden the scope of Van Til's own Apologetical system, and also his Epistemology. By that I mean, and I worked this book with him, so anything that I say is not to be construed as a criticism of Cornelius Van Til. I might add he wrote me a letter. He is delighted with this book. But what I did was to take his principles, both of Apologetics and of Epistemology, and apply them to all realms of modern thought.
"Dr. Van Til, for good and sufficient reason, sought to limit to the main stream of what we might call pure Philosophy, that is from Saint Thomas, well even before them, back to the Greeks, but particularly in the more modern period, from Saint Thomas Aquinas, William of Ockham (Occam), down through Descartes, the Rationalists, the Empiricists, down to Kant and Hegel, and of course Modern Philosophy and Modern Theology. Very seldom has he gone into what we might call the arena of Political Philosophy, or the arena of Social Thought, or the arena of Psychology and Psychiatry, the realm of Educational Philosophy, and into Art, Music, and so on, to the Fine Arts.
"This book is an attempt to apply his system, and show what happens when the Western mind has forsaken his principles, or the principles which he has espoused, and turned into its own way. And thus the book called FROM RATIONALISM TO IRRATIONALITY. The thesis being that the Rationalism inherent in Saint Thomas and the post-Thomists, and more particularly, and more openly, in the Philosophy of the Renaissance, and Descartes, and Spinosa, and Leibniz has, as it's gained momentum in the modern world, brought Western Culture to its knees. We are living, as I would think, in the death throws of the Western Cultures, the Western Civilization." -- Dr. C. Gregg Singer, in the introductory address to his course in Apologetics soon after FROM RATIONALISM TO IRRATIONALITY came off the press in 1979
Apologetics: #01: Classical and Medieval Thought #1
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Apologetics, 56 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=2250511453
"Locke endeavored to set forth a political philosophy which would anchor his democratic political thought on what he felt were the firm foundations of his empiricism. However, his insistence that nature has bestowed upon mankind certain basic and inalienable rights was an assumption quite contrary to his empiricism. His denial of conscience as an innate possession or quality makes it impossible for men to know that they possess the rights of life, liberty, and property. The very concept of a human right is moral in nature and has its basis of authority in the human conscience. It is thus impossible for men to know through the senses that they have these cherished human rights. Granted that it was far from Locke's intention to undermine or destroy the traditional English concept of personal rights, his empiricism removed from his political thought the necessary foundations on which a government could be built for the protection of these rights. His empiricism supported neither the idea that men have such rights nor that they are inalienable. (p. 61)
"Underlying the secular and naturalistic assumptions of the thought of the Enlightenment was a related and equally serious problem. In their political and economic thought the leaders of this era were passionately devoted to the pursuit of freedom, and yet they seemed to be completely unaware of this incompatibility between their quest for freedom on the one hand and their reliance upon natural law on the other. How can an impersonal and deterministic concept of law produce and sustain a meaningful concept of freedom? Blindly convinced that there was no problem involved in the contradiction, the leaders of the Enlightenment pushed boldly ahead in the quest for political and economic liberty. However, their failure to recognize the issues involved in this quest led not only to the disaster of the French Revolution but to the growth of the totalitarian political and economic philosophies which first appeared in Hegel and Marx during the nineteenth century and reached their culmination in the totalitarianism of the twentieth century." (p. 73) -- quoted at the blog, Imago Veritatis: Post-modern Reformed Paleo-orthodoxy
Singer used this as textbook for his course in Apologetics. Epistemology is a recurring theme throughout the textbook and the course. The series of 24 addresses on Apologetics is available free online. See: "Apologetics" under:
Works of C. Gregg Singer
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr3ch.html#cgsinger

Singer, C. Gregg (1910-1999), Towards a Better Understanding of Christian Education
http://www.understandingchristianeducation.com/understanding-christian-education-christian-education-audio-and-sermons/c-gregg-singer-christian-education-sermons/

Sloane, J.R.W., What Should a College be?: Inaugural Address of James Renwick Willson Sloane: March 24, 1852.

Smith, Gregory A., The Role of the Library in the Character Formation of the Christian College Student.

Tod, Walter, The Obligation of Civil Rulers to Establish the Means of Religious Knowledge and Instruction; Deduced From the Universal Moral Government of God (Edinburgh: John Anderson, 1836), 120 pages.
"Tod preaches on Romans 13:1, The powers that be are ordained of God. He argues that the Church and the State are not independent societies and that Jesus Christ Governor and Ruler of both. Tod examines many common arguments proffered against his proposition. He calls puritan John Owen to his side with this quote,

If it comes to this, that you shall say you have nothing to do with religion, as rulers of the nation, God will quickly manifest that he has nothing to do with you as rulers of the nation. Certainly it is incumbent upon you to take care that the faith which was once delivered to the saints, in all necessary concernments of it, may be protected, preserved, and propagated to and among the people over whom God has set you.

"Tod also briefly exhorts Civil Rulers upon how they ought to preserve the Sabbath. He ends the whole on a positive (post-mill), note,

"There may yet be retrogressions in the progress of knowledge, religion, virtue, and liberty, among different nations of the earth, and England may be among the fated number; but every ebbing of the tide of religious and moral improvement, like the smaller retrocessions of the waves of the ocean, which accumulate larger billows that roll over the former limits, every retrocession of the waves of religious and moral advancement among mankind will be succeeded by a higher and a higher tide of religious and moral advancement from the fountain of eternal truth, till the knowledge of the Lord shall cover the earth as the waters cover the sea." -- Steve Worth

Van Dyken, Donald, Rediscovering Catechism: The art of Equipping Covenant Children, ISBN: 0875524648 9780875524641.

Various, Christian Higher Education: The Contemporary Challenge: Proceedings of the First International Conference of Reformed Institutions for Christian Scholarship (Potchefstroom: Institute for the Advancement of Calvinism; Toronto; distributed in Canada and the U.S.A. by Wedge Pub. Foundation, 1976), ISBN: 0869903209 9780869903209.

Voeller, Brad, Accelerated Distance Learning: The new way to Earn Your College Degree in the Twenty-first Century, ISBN: 0970156316 9780970156310.
"Home school graduate Brad Voeller earned his four-year, fully-accredited college degree in less than six months for less than $5,000 by applying the revolutionary techniques of accelerated distance learning. In this book, he shares with you tested approaches to learning that will allow you to earn a college degree in less than half the normal time -- for a fraction of the cost. Discover how to: receive college credit for life experiences; earn college credit quickly and easily through credit-by-examination; speed up the learning process while improving comprehension; cut study time by at least 50 percent; make a wise decision in choosing a distance-learning program; and complete college in less than half the time for less than half the cost." -- Doug Phillips

Wagner, Michael G., Private Versus Public Education: The Alberta Debate, 1995.

Webster, Noah, Noah Webster's Value of the Bible and Excellence of the Christian Religion: For the use of Families and Schools, 1834.

Whitehead, John, The Rights of Religious Persons in Public Education, ISBN: 0891077375 9780891077374.

Wilde, Gary (editor), Bible Promises to Treasure for Teachers: Inspiring Words for Every Occasion, ISBN: 0805493883 9780805493887.

Wilkes, Peter (editor), Christianity Challenges the University, ISBN: 0877844747 9780877844747.
"Exposes the fallacy of an anthropocentric education, and demonstrates the superiority and viability of a Christocentric approach." -- Cyril J. Barber

Wolterstorff, Nicholas P., Educating for Responsible Action, ISBN: 0802818579 9780802818577.
"Helpful theories and strategies for moral education." -- Mark Branson

Wylie, James A. (1808-1890), The Road to Rome via Oxford: or, Ritualism Identical With Romanism.

Zimmerman, Paul A., Robert T. Ingram, Rousas John Rushdoony, C. Gregg Singer, and R. Clyde McCone, Papers Presented at Association for Christian Schools Conference, 92 pages.
"Contents: Can we accept theistic evolution? / Paul A. Zimmerman -- The law: Adam, Noah and Moses / T. Robert Ingram -- The dimension of victory / R.J. Rushdoony -- The dimension of time / R.J. Rushdoony -- Education: a house divided / Gregg Singer -- The origins of civilization: archaeological data and the problems of evolutionary explanation / R. Clyde McCone -- The origins of civilization: the Biblical record and problems of historical explanation / R.C. McCone."

See also: The sovereignty of god, The doctrine of man (human nature, total depravity), Covetousness, greed, and selfishness, Sharing christ with your children, Problem solving with children, Counseling children, Protecting children from dangers, Preparing children for the world, Home schooling, Public schools, public education, Covenant theology and covenanting, The application of scripture to the corporate bodies of church and state, Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, The inspiration and infallibility of scripture (the doctrine of revelation, the doctrine of plenary inspiration, the doctrine of divine inspiration, the doctrine of verbal inspiration, theopneustia, sufficiency of scripture), The ten commandments: the moral law, Absolute truth and relativism, Epistemology, Creeds, Confessions, and Catechisms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, The wisdom books, Wisdom, Knowledge of god and virtue, Christian scholarship, Resources for students, The autodidact (self-taught), The works of c. gregg singer, Colonial education, Trusting god, Christian fiction, Classic christian fiction by martha finley, Idolatry, Power, Carnality and flesh pleasing: lust, desires, ambition, pleasure, Church and state, selfishness, Secular humanism, Mind control, intimidation, and coersion, The decline of american society, irrationality, the decline of western thought, Male role and responsibility, gender equality, suffrage, reproductive rights, and the decline of american society, Sexual relationship, Spiritual adultery (spiritual whoredom/harlotry), and so forth, and so on.
TCRB5: 1778-1782

Related Weblinks

Apologetics #24: The Recovery of Christian Theism
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Apologetics, 58 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?ID=3205142039

The Autodidact (Self-taught)
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr9cha.html#atddct

The Biblical Answer to the Education Crisis, an address on Deuteronomy 6:1-9, Peter Hammond
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=1231365421

The Christian and Politics #09: The Place of Biblical Law in our Society #1
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, The Christian and Politics
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=12705183429

Contents and Chapter Sections for Calvin's Institutes of the Christian Religion, 1559 (McNeill/Battles)
http://www.lettermen2.com/icrcont.html

Critical Thinking: A Christian Essential [audio file], Ravi Zacharias
"What is critical thinking? Why is it so important when it comes to discussing and sharing our faith?"
https://www.rzim.org/listen/let-my-people-think/critical-thinking-a-christian-essential-part-1

Epistemology of Theology, The Theory of Knowledge
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr1cha.html#epist

The Fourfold Treasure, a sermon by C.H. Spurgeon delivered on Thursday Evening, April 27th, 1871, at the Metropolitan Tabernacle, Newington, Sermon No. 991.
Sermon topic: 1 Corinthians 1:30,31, Christ is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption.
This is to be wise, to have Christ's teaching, Christ's example, and above all, Christ's presence; so may the poorest find the Lord Jesus made of God unto them wisdom.
Pause just a minute. Let none of us ever be so foolish as to suppose that when we have received Jesus and his gospel, we have occasion to blush when we are in the company of the very wisest of the present day. Carry a bold face when you confront the brazen faced philosophy which insults your Lord. The man who does not believe the Bible does not know so much as thou dost. Blush not, though with mimic wisdom the unbeliever tries to laugh or argue thee down. He who knows not Christ, though he propounds wonderful theories as to the creation of mankind and the formation of the world, and though he has a glib tongue, is only an educated fool, a learned idiot, who thinks his own rushlight brighter than God's own sun. "Ah! but he has been to college, and he has a degree, and he is esteemed by men; for he has written books that nobody can comprehend." The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God; and I do not care even if he be a Solon, if he has said that there is no God, he is a fool. Do not blush, then, if you find yourself in his company, do not make yourself the blushing one because the fool is there. Self-conceit were to be avoided and loathed; but this is not self-conceit, but a holy courage in a case which demands of you to be courageous. To know Christ is the best of all philosophy, the highest of all sciences. [emphasis added -- compiler]. Angels desire to look into this; but I do not know that they care a fig for half the sciences so valued among men. If you know Christ you never need be afraid of being ashamed and confounded whatever company you may be in. If you stood in a senate of emperors, or amidst a parliament of philosophers, and only told them of the God that came in human flesh, and loved, and lived, and died to redeem mankind, you would have told them a greater mystery and a profounder secret than reason could discover. Be not ashamed, then, amid the intellectual pride of this boastful age. -- C.H. Spurgeon in a sermon, The Fourfold Treasure

Functional Illiteracy
"Functional illiteracy is a term used to describe reading and writing skills that are inadequate 'to manage daily living and employment tasks that require reading skills beyond a basic level.' Functional illiteracy is contrasted with illiteracy in the strict sense, meaning the inability to read or write simple sentences in any language. . . .
"Links with poverty and crime
"In developed countries, the level of functional literacy of an individual is proportional to his/her income level and risk of committing crime. For example, according to the National Center for Educational Statistics in the United States:

Over 60 percent of adults in the U.S. Prison System read at or below the fourth grade level

85 percent of U.S. juvenile inmates are functionally illiterate.

Adult inmates who received educational services while in prison had a 16 percent chance of returning to prison, as opposed to 70 percent for those who received no instruction. [this statistic not in citation given -- compiler]

43 percent of adults at the lowest level of literacy lived below the poverty line, as opposed to 4 percent of those with the highest levels of literacy.

"According to BeginToRead.com:

Two thirds of students who cannot read proficiently by the fourth grade will end up in jail or on welfare.

Three out of four individuals who receive food stamps read on the two lowest levels of literacy.

16 to 19 year old girls at the poverty level and below, with below average skills, are 6 times more likely to have out-of-wedlock children than their reading counterparts. . . .

"The National Center for Education Statistics provides more detail. Literacy is broken down into three parameters: prose, document, and quantitative literacy. Each parameter has four levels: below basic, basic, intermediate, and proficient. For prose literacy, for example, a below basic level of literacy means that a person can look at a short piece of text to get a small piece of uncomplicated information, while a person who is below basic in quantitative literacy would be able to do simple addition. In the US, 14 percent of the adult population is at the 'below basic' level for prose literacy; 12 percent are at the 'below basic' level for document literacy; and 22 percent are at that level for quantitative literacy. Only 13 percent of the population is proficient in these three areas -- able to compare viewpoints in two editorials; interpret a table about blood pressure, age, and physical activity; or compute and compare the cost per ounce of food items."
In other words, in 2011, 87 percent of Americans were "below basic" levels of literacy in one or more of the following: prose literacy, document literacy, and/or quantitative literacy. See: "Data Files for the 2003 National Assessment of Adult Literacy."
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Functional_literacy

The History of Calvinism
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, The Christian View of History
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=72902195726

John McAuley's Article on Secular Versus Christian Education
http://www.covenanter.org/reformed/2015/7/14/john-mcauleys-article-on-secular-versus-christian-education

Christian Education

Christian Education
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Christian Education, 24 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=12160372315
The History and Role of the Church in Education
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Christian Education, 87 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=1216037249
A Necessary Theological Foundation for Education
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Christian Education, 86 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=1216037257
The History of Educational Philosophy in America
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Christian Education, 82 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=12160372614
The Theistic Basis for all Culture and Education
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Christian Education, 54 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=12170365847
Decline in Education
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Decline of American Culture
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=9902215826

Christian Scholarship
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr9cha.html#cschol

William S. Plumer's Tract on a Sad but Instructive History
http://www.covenanter.org/reformed/2015/7/14/william-s-plumers-tract-on-a-sad-but-instructive-history

Regulations at Yale College (1745)
Showing the centrality of Calvinism and the Westminster Confession in Colonial higher education.
http://www.constitution.org/primarysources/yale.html

Report Card Report: America's Best Websites for School Profiles
Would you like to see how your child's school compares with others? A new Heritage Foundation Website may be the answer. Www.heritage.org/reportcards provides access to school rating reports not only for parents seeking information on schools they might want to put their child into, but also for those seeking more information on the school their child already is in. Compiled by Heritage education analyst Thomas Dawson and researcher Mira Zawadzki, "Report Card Report: America's Best WebSites for School Profiles," is a valuable resource not only for parents, but also educators and lawmakers. The Heritage report card Website provides links to scores of Websites that provide a range of information on schools in districts across the nation, including academic rankings, test scores, student-teacher ratios, enrollment totals, per-student expenditures, and percentages of special-education students.
http://www.heritage.org/reportcards

A Resolution to Combat Mind Control With Truth
http://www.lettermen2.com/mindc.html

RZIM (Ravi Zacharias International Ministries) Academy
Various resources in apologetics.
http://rzimacademy.org/

Speaking on Calvinism
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, 53 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=8110391415

Study Finds Rising Narcissism, Self-centeredness Among College Students, Associated Press, March 1, 2007
"Today's college students are more narcissistic and self-centered than their predecessors, according to a comprehensive new study by five psychologists who worry that the trend could be harmful to personal relationships and American society . . .
" 'Unfortunately, narcissism can also have very negative consequences for society, including the breakdown of close relationships with others, he says . . .'
"The researchers describe their study as the largest ever of its type, and say students' NPI scores have risen steadily since the current test was introduced in 1982. By 2006, they say two-thirds of the students had above-average scores, 30 percent more than in 1982 . . .
"The study asserts that narcissists 'are more likely to have romantic relationships that are short-lived, at risk for infidelity, lack emotional warmth and to exhibit game-playing, dishonesty and over-controlling and violent behaviors.'
"Twenge, the author of GENERATION ME: WHY TODAY'S YOUNG AMERICANS ARE MORE CONFIDENT, ASSERTIVE, ENTITLED AND MORE MISERABLE THAN EVER BEFORE, says narcissists tend to lack empathy, react aggressively to criticism and favor self-promotion over helping others.
"The researchers traced the phenomenon back to what they called the 'self-esteem movement' that emerged in the 1980s, asserting that the effort to build self-confidence had gone too far . . .
"The new report follows a study released by the University of California, Los Angeles last month that found that nearly three-quarters of the freshmen it surveyed thought it was important to be 'very well-off financially.' That compared with 62.5 percent who said the same in 1980 and 42 percent in 1966."
http://www.diverseeducation.com/artman/publish/article_7068.shtml

The Trinity Foundation
http://trinityfoundation.org

Works of C. Gregg Singer
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr3ch.html#cgsinger

You are What you Read, Frontline Fellowship
"A man is known by the company he keeps. It is also true that a person's character is to a large extent developed by the books he reads. A man is known by the company his mind keeps. A book is good company." -- Frontline Fellowship
"The reading of all good books is like conversation with the finest men of past centuries." -- Descartes
"The man who does not read good books, has no advantage over the man who cannot read them." -- Mark Twain
"In a very real sense, people who have read good literature have lived more than people who cannot, or will not, read -- it is not true we have only one life to live; if we can read, we can live as many more lives and as many kinds of lives as we wish." -- S.I. Hayakawa
"Read the best books first, or you may not have the chance to read them at all." -- Henry David Thoreau
"Employ your time in improving yourself by other men's writings so that you shall come easily by what others have labored hard for." -- Socrates
"Next to the Holy Scriptures, the greatest aide to the life of faith may be Christian biographies." -- A.W. Tozer
"The reading of good biography forms an important part of a Christian's education. It provides him with numberless illustrations for use in his own service. He learns to assess the true worth of character, to glimpse a work goal for his own life, to decide how best to attain it, what self-denial is needed to curb unworthy aspirations, and all the time he learns how God breaks into the dedicated life to bring about His own purposes." -- Ransome W. Cooper
"Biography transmits personality -- who can gauge the inspiration to the cause of missions of great biographies like those of William Carey, Adoniran Judson, Hudson Taylor, Charles Studd�." -- J. Oswald Sanders
https://www.slideshare.net/frontfel/you-are-what-you-read-70851777

Home Schooling

My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge: because thou hast rejected knowledge, I will also reject thee, that thou shalt be no priest to me: seeing thou hast forgotten the law of thy God, I will also forget thy children. As they were increased, so they sinned against me: therefore will I change their glory into shame. (Hosea 4:6,7)
That their hearts may be comforted, being united in love, and to all riches of the full assurance of the understanding, to the full knowledge of the secret of the God and Father, and of the Christ, in whom are all the treasures of the wisdom and the knowledge hid, and this I say, that no one may beguile you in enticing words, for if even in the flesh I am absent -- yet in the spirit I am with you, joying and beholding your order, and the stedfastness of your faith in regard to Christ; as, then, ye did receive Christ Jesus the Lord, in him walk ye, being rooted and built up in him, and confirmed in the faith, as ye were taught -- abounding in it in thanksgiving.
"See that no one shall be carrying you away as spoil through the philosophy and vain deceit, according to the deliverance of men, according to the rudiments of the world, and not according to Christ, because in him doth tabernacle all the fulness of the Godhead bodily, and ye are in him made full, who is the head of all principality and authority. (Colossians 2:2-10, YLTHB)
Remember still how much the happiness or misery of church, and kingdoms, and of the world, doth lie on the right or wrong educating of youth, by PARENTS, much more than our UNIVERSITIES or SCHOOLS.
Remember that your own comfort or sorrow in them lieth most on your own duty or neglect. If they prove wicked and plagues of the world, and you are the cause, it may tear your hearts. But what a joy is it to be the means of their salvation, and of their public service in the world!
Disgrace sin to them, and commend holiness by word and practice; and be yourselves what you would have them be; and pray daily for them and yourselves. The Lord bless this counsel to them and you! -- Richard Baxter (1615-1691)
See the Theological Notes: "The Christian Family," at Ephesians 5:22 in The Reformation Study Bible.
Then, when he had expatiated somewhat more fully, and had more copiously illustrated the benefits of its presence [harmony -- compiler], and the ruinous effects of its absence upon a state, Pilus, one of the company present at the discussion, struck in and demanded that the question should be more thoroughly sifted, and that the subject of justice should be freely discussed for the sake of ascertaining what truth there was in the maxim which was then becoming daily more current, that "the republic cannot be governed without injustice." Scipio expressed his willingness to have this maxim discussed and sifted, and gave it as his opinion that it was baseless, and that no progress could be made in discussing the republic unless it was established, not only that this maxim, that "the republic cannot be governed without injustice," was false, but also that the truth is, that it cannot be governed without the most absolute justice. And the discussion of this question, being deferred till the next day, is carried on in the third book with great animation. For Pilus himself undertook to defend the position that the republic cannot be governed without injustice, at the same time being at special pains to clear himself of any real participation in that opinion. He advocated with great keenness the cause of injustice against justice, and endeavored by plausible reasons and examples to demonstrate that the former is beneficial, the latter useless, to the republic. Then, at the request of the company, L�lius attempted to defend justice, and strained every nerve to prove that nothing is so hurtful to a state as injustice; and that without justice a republic can neither be governed, nor even continue to exist.
When this question has been handled to the satisfaction of the company, Scipio reverts to the original thread of discourse, and repeats with commendation his own brief definition of a republic, that it is the weal of the people. "The people" he defines as being not every assemblage or mob, but an assemblage associated by a common acknowledgment of law, and by a community of interests. Then he shows the use of definition in debate; and from these definitions of his own he gathers that a republic, or "weal of the people," then exists only when it is well and justly governed, whether by a monarch, or an aristocracy, or by the whole people. But when the monarch is unjust, or, as the Greeks say, a tyrant; or the aristocrats are unjust, and form a faction; or the people themselves are unjust, and become, as Scipio for want of a better name calls them, themselves the tyrant, then the republic is not only blemished (as had been proved the day before), but by legitimate deduction from those definitions, it altogether ceases to be.
Tully [Cicero -- compiler], himself, too, speaking not in the person of Scipio or any one else, but uttering his own sentiments, uses the following language in the beginning of the fifth book, after quoting a line from the poet Ennius, in which he said, "Rome's severe morality and her citizens are her safeguard." "This verse," says Cicero, "seems to me to have all the sententious truthfulness of an oracle. For neither would the citizens have availed without the morality of the community, nor would the morality of the commons without outstanding men have availed either to establish or so long to maintain in vigor so grand a republic with so wide and just an empire. Accordingly, before our day, the hereditary usages formed our foremost men, and they on their part retained the usages and institutions of their fathers. But our age, receiving the republic as a chef-d'oeuvre of another age which has already begun to grow old, has not merely neglected to restore the colors of the original, but has not even been at the pains to preserve so much as the general outline and most outstanding features. For what survives of that primitive morality which the poet called Rome's safeguard? It is so obsolete and forgotten, that, far from practicing it, one does not even know it. And of the citizens what shall I say? Morality has perished through poverty of great men; a poverty for which we must not only assign a reason, but for the guilt of which we must answer as criminals charged with a capital crime. For it is through our vices, and not by any mishap, that we retain only the name of a republic, and have long since lost the reality. . . ."
For I mean in its own place to show that -- according to the definitions in which Cicero himself, using Scipio as his mouthpiece, briefly propounded what a republic is, and what a people is, and according to many testimonies, both of his own lips and of those who took part in that same debate -- Rome never was a republic, because true justice had never a place in it. But accepting the more feasible definitions of a republic, I grant there was a republic of a certain kind, and certainly much better administered by the more ancient Romans than by their modern representatives. But the fact is, true justice has no existence save in that republic whose founder and ruler is Christ, if at least any choose to call this a republic; and indeed we cannot deny that it is the people's weal.
But if perchance this name, which has become familiar in other connections, be considered alien to our common parlance, we may at all events say that in this city is true justice; the city of which Holy Scripture says, "Glorious things are said of thee, O city of God." -- Augustine in The City of God, Book 2, Chapter 21, Cicero's Opinion of the Roman Republic
So many times people in the pew and the pulpit say, well how did all this get started? How did psychology descend to its present level? . . . How did political science produce our political thought, produce the dictatorships which are engulfing the modern world? Why are we in the economic mess in which we are today? Why is sociology such a jumble of immorality? Why is education as it is today? Why is art so meaningless? . . . Why is modern music an affront to the modern ears as well as to the mind and ear of God? . . . Why are all these things!? . . .
I would suggest to you that if you will follow this course with thought and care, you will finally come to see the answer to the questions which haunt us today in Western society." -- Singer, C. Gregg (1910-1999), in the Apologetics series of 24 lectures using FROM RATIONALISM TO IRRATIONALITY: THE DECLINE OF THE WESTERN MIND FROM THE RENAISSANCE TO THE PRESENT (1979) as the text, and delivered in Decatur, Georgia, beginning November, 1979.
Apologetics: #01: Classical and Medieval Thought #1
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Apologetics, 56 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=2250511453
On the contrary, he charges them with gross and voluntary ignorance, as if he had said that, by their madness, they brought down destruction on themselves. The meaning therefore is, that the people perished because they despised instruction . . . .
Hence we draw a useful doctrine; namely, that the source of all our calamities is, that we do not allow ourselves to be taught by the word of God, and this is what the Prophet chiefly intended that we should observe. . . .
So then it is a true statement, that the reason why the people endure such a variety of afflictions is, that they are ignorant of God, and will not allow themselves to be taught by him. -- John Calvin commenting on Isaiah 5:13
We are an illiterate nation incapable of understanding great truth. -- C. Gregg Singer (1910-1999)
Those who love reading have everything within their reach.
For a small price one can visit other lands and great periods of history, learn from some of the greatest minds and world shapers, grapple with great issues, learn in a space of a few hours what others grappled with, researched and studied for their whole lives. -- Peter Hammond

Alexander, Archibald (1772-1851), Evangelical Truth: Practical Sermons for the Christian Home, ISBN: 1932474544 9781932474541.

*Brooks, Thomas (1608-1680), The Crown and Glory of Christianity: or Holiness the Only way to Happiness. Discovered in 58 Sermons, From Heb. 12:14 [Hebrews 12:14]. Where you have the necessity, excellency, rarity, beauty and glory of holiness set forth: with the resolution of many weighty questions and cases. Also motives and means to perfect holiness: with many other things of very high and great importance to all the sons and daughters of men, that had rather be blessed than cursed, saved than damned. In THE WORKS OF THOMAS BROOKS, 1886 (4:1-446). Available (THE WORKS OF THOMAS BROOKS), on the Puritan Hard Drive.
Brooks, Complete Works of Thomas Brooks (1866), vol. 1 of 6.
http://archive.org/details/completeworksoft01broo

Carden, Allen, Puritan Christianity in America: Religion and Life in Seventeenth-Century Massachusetts, ISBN: 0801025435 9780801025433.
"After exploring the Biblical basis of the Puritan movement, Carden's thematic study examines all aspects of Puritan theology as well as the Puritan's approach to the Christian life, social ethics, politics, family life, education, and culture. He concludes with an overview of the legacy bequeathed to American culture." -- GCB

*Christian Book Distributors, CBD Home School Resources Catalog (Peabody, MA [Christian Book Distributors, P.O. Box 7000, Peabody, 01961-7000]: Christian Book Distributors).
These catalogs include extensive listings of home schooling books. Some of the books are reviewed by Dean, Karen, and Yolanda Andreola.
Christian Book Distributors (CBD)
http://www.christianbook.com/

Clark, Gordon H. (1902-1985), The Relationship of Public Education to Christianity, Trinity Review #43.

*Comstock, Anna Botsford (1854-1930), Handbook of Nature Study, ISBN: 0801419131 9780801419133 0801493846 9780801493843. Anna Botsford Comstock was Professor of Nature Study in Cornell University. The first edition came out in 1911 and was dedicated to Lyberty Hyde Bailey, a professor at Cornell, head of the Department of Ornamental Horticulture, and author.
"This is a wonderful book for studying ANY aspect of nature (except ocean life.) Thoroughly discusses all details of any living thing that you could dream of . . . want to know where a cricket's ears are located? How to tell if you have a male/female? What should you feed your cricket? Ever wondered why a lightning bug "lights up"? How can you tell if you have a male or female? Covers birds, fish, reptiles, wild animals, farm animals, pets, trees, flowers, rocks, weather, stars, etc, ETC!!! Many labeled diagrams. A GREAT book, and written to fit in wonderfully with a Charlotte Mason philosophy. Geared towards elementary grades and complete with lessons, questions, projects, etc. Over 800 pages of easily understood information. As the original was published in 1911, be aware that the photos are not in color, nor as clear as modern nature guides, but the book MORE than makes up for this in so many ways! HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!" -- Reader's Comment

Discovery House, The Life of George Washington Carver, DVD (Discovery House, January 1, 2005), 30 minutes.
"A slave-born man who helped shape 20th century America with his passion for God's creation. You probably remember that George Washington Carver invented over 300 uses for peanut butter. Did you know that while at Tuskegee Institute he became one of the world's foremost experts in horticulture?
"In fact, George Washington Carver almost single-handedly reinvented land management in the South following the ravages of too much cotton and tobacco farming. He was so brilliant that Henry Ford and Thomas Edison tried to hire him, but he said no. Do you know why?
"Because he wasn't after fame or fortune. The most important thing in George Washington Carver's life was that he was a Christian. He simply marveled at God's creation and wanted to help all mankind.
"When you get this 2-part DVD -- hosted by Wintley Phipps -- you'll discover someone who grew up 'colored' in segregated America with poverty, frailty, sickness, and the KKK, but who saw each and every obstacle as a blessing and an opportunity to learn.
"Get to know the man who discovered uses for the peanut, the sweet potato, and the soybean and helped shape twentieth-century America through his profound spiritual conviction, a passion for exploration, and a deep wonder about the world around him. You'll find that one person can make a difference, no matter what stands in the way." -- Publisher

*Duffy, Cathy, 100 Top Picks for Homeschool Curriculum: Choosing the Right Curriculum and Approach for Your Child's Learning Style, ISBN: 0805431381 9780805431384.
"I love Cathy Duffy's dedication at the beginning of this book: 'To the thousands of dedicated homeschoolers who have resisted the impulse to imitate 'real school' and have chosen instead to figure out what is best for each of their children, even if it meant writing their own curriculum. You have made the world of homeschool curriculum far richer than the most well-funded schools in the world.'
"And what Cathy has done in her book is to help us do just that -- figure out what is best for each of our children. Under her direction, using pertinent questions and an easy-to-use chart, a homeschooling mom can determine which of the eight approaches to homeschooling would fit her child's learning style and her own overall goals and priorities for her child's education. It takes the guesswork and confusion out of homeschooling.
"The largest portion of the book is taken up with Cathy's reviews of her '100 Top Picks' for homeschooling books and curricula. She gives us thorough descriptions and necessary ordering details, strengths and weaknesses of the curriculum, and her own impressions on how it would work with the different learning styles. One of the best features of this book is an amazing eight page chart putting all the information together so parents can see at a glance and compare and contrast all the details of each 'Top Pick'.
"I would suggest that if you're having a hard time wading through all of your curriculum choices, you might consider buying 100 TOP PICKS. Keep it handy, because you'll be consulting it often." -- Laurie Bluedorn
"I've read a lot of homeschooling books in planning for my children's education and I learned something from each one, whether I liked the book or not! This book, however, is a planner's dream! It truly has you plan from the bottom up, applying thought to aspects of homeschooling that I had not previously considered.
"Cathy Duffy begins by having you come up with your own philosophy of education. As she puts it, 'If there were no laws requiring you to educate your child, what would you want them to learn anyway?' Wow! That question really gets to the heart of the matter for most people choosing to homeschool. Then, she has you consider your thoughts about how you want to teach and run your school (teach different ages together, work directly with your children or have them work independently, real books vs. textbooks, field trips, adhering to a schedule or remaining flexible, etc.). She has you take a sort of quiz about your preferred approaches to learning that shows which styles might appeal to you most. After leaning so heavily toward Charlotte Mason after all my reading, I was somewhat surprised to find that I have an equally high regard for unit studies and -- gasp! -- unschooling (a 'curriculum' choice that petrifies me a bit)! She describes the various homeschooling methods (traditional, Charlotte Mason, classical, unit study, unschooling, independent study, eclectic, and umbrella programs). Then, she asks you to consider your confidence/experience level, time available to teach, finances, and religious beliefs. In addition, one of the most important differences about this book is that it addresses your teaching style and your child's learning style. This is such an important consideration when deciding what curriculum to choose. I'm sad to admit that I've been so gleefully planning what I want them to learn and what I think they'll enjoy that I've given very little SERIOUS thought to their perspective about things. Not anymore . . .
"Finally, the discussion of her top 100 picks begins. The curriculum choices are introduced with a chart. The format helps you pick resources that are aligned with what you now know are your homeschooling preferences. Each curriculum is ranked for the following criteria: (1) Multi-sensory/hands-on (2) structure/rules-oriented (3) logical/analytical learners (4) social activity (5) amount of parent instruction (6) independent study vs. one-on-one (7) amount of writing (8) prep time (9) grade level specific vs. multi-level (10) ease of use for teacher (11) necessity for teacher's manual (12) supportive of Charlotte Mason's philosophy (13) supportive of classical education (14) religious affiliations. Using the chart, it was easy to look for a unit study or Charlotte Mason approach that would accommodate my Wiggly Willy and my Sociable Sue who work at different grade levels.
"Some critics of the book feel that the author leans too heavily on Christian resources so I actually did a count for those interested. Of her 100 picks, there were 15 Catholic choices, 41 Protestant choices, and 54 were religiously neutral. (They don't add up to 100 because some would work for both Protestants and Catholics, some neutrals could add religious supplements, etc.). If you consider that probably AT LEAST 50 percent of homeschoolers are keeping their children at home so they can offer religious instruction, I don't think those numbers are in any way out of balance.
"If you are looking for an umbrella curriculum (one that covers all the subjects), you should know that she really goes in depth into only two, Calvert School (neutral) and Sonlight (Protestant). However, some of the unit studies she discusses could be used as a full program with a few additional choices for neglected subjects. (Only one of the seven unit study programs, Five in a Row, is religiously neutral). If an umbrella curriculum is what you're looking for, you would be better off requesting catalogs and information from companies offering that service rather than buying this book. Otherwise, the curriculum choices included in this book fall under the following categories: (1) phonics/reading/literature (2) math (3) grammar and composition (4) spelling and vocabulary (5) history/social science (6) science (7) unit studies (8) foreign language (9) miscellaneous.
"Her picks definitely cover a wide range of methodology. Some will appeal to you and some won't. What I find is that in researching something that is appealing (usually on Amazon), I invariably follow link after link until I wind up reading so many reviews that I more fully understand the pros and cons of each curriculum choice I make. What a wonderful thing! I would rank this book with the top four homeschooling books I have read (Rebecca Rupp's HOME LEARNING YEAR BY YEAR, Charlotte Mason's ORIGINAL HOMESCHOOLING SERIES, and Karen Andreola's A CHARLOTTE MASON COMPANION). -- Kristina J. Ivey

Durant, Will, The Greatest Minds and Ideas of all Time, ISBN: 0743235533 9780743235532.
"I highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to more fully develop themselves through self-education. The book is not too heavy-handed with the various subject matter, nor is it written in the stale, esoteric language of an academic. It is a series of papers written by a man of the people for the people, and the passion that Durant has for the material (and the love of knowledge) shines through.
"This book is a wonderful and concise lesson in history, arts, and sciences, and will help start any one's pursuit of knowledge and wisdom." -- Reader's Comment
"This book is actually a summation of Durant's work . . . it presents a series of somewhat brief essays with titles ranging from 'The One Hundred Best Books for an Education' to 'The Ten Greatest Thinkers' and including 'The Ten Greatest Poets,' 'The Ten Peaks of Human Progress,' and 'Twelve Vital Dates in Human History'." -- Reader's Comment

Gorder, Cheryl, and Don Hubbs, Home Education Resource Guide, 4th edition, ISBN: 0933025483 9780933025486.
"A comprehensive resource guide for the parent-educator. 'If you can afford only one resource directory, this is the one to buy'." -- Library Journal
"This title has been used by homeschoolers since 1987 and is a comprehensive guide to resources for a home education." -- Publisher "Provides current information on hundreds of important resources for homeschoolers. Includes lists of correspondence schools, curricula, testing services, reading and math helps, support groups, educational toys and games, many more. Mary Pride says: "Those dedicated to home schooling, especially home school leaders, will get some mileage out of the Resource Guide." -- GCB

Greene, Joseph Nelson, The Gospel in Literature, 1910.

*Hatcher, Carolyn, Let the Authors Speak: A Guide to Worthy Books Based on Historical Setting, ISBN: 0964068125 9780964068124.
"This book is an unparalleled resource for classical, historical, and contemporary literature, as well as for classical and contemporary autobiographical, biographical, and historical works. Invaluable for those designing a history/literature curriculum or unit studies. Over 1200 books are briefly annotated and listed 1) chronologically by setting, reading/interest level, and type of work (i.e., biography, novel, myth/legend), 2) by author, and 3) by title. Newbery winners and books reviewed in BOOKS CHILDREN LOVE and HONEY FOR A CHILD'S HEART are highlighted. The author endorses Charlotte Mason's philosophy of reading 'whole books' and encourages the integration of such books into our children's curricula. Recommended by Cathy Duffy, Karen Andreola, Mary Pride, and others." -- GCB
"This book arranges both historical fiction and classics according to the era in which they are set, according to reading ability level, and according to author. It's a fast way to find something really good to supplement any history course -- or to just find something good to read." -- Reader's Comment

Howse, Ernest Marshall, Spiritual Values in Shakespeare.

Klicka, Christopher J., The Right Choice: The Incredible Failure of Public Education and the Rising Hope of Home Schooling, ISBN: 0805425853 9780805425857.
"If you have entertained doubts about the practicality of home schooling, this exhaustive treatment of the subject by an astute lawyer and dedicated scholar will overwhelm you with convincing evidence based on the most current as well as on historical developments. His exploration of parental rights, Biblical principles, tips for lobbying, and reasons to select Christian education and home schooling over humanistic indoctrination is thorough, unbiased, and enlightening. Dr. Klicka's book will leave you shockingly informed on what is wrong with the public school today." -- D. James Kennedy (1930-2007)

*Lloyd-Jones, David Martyn (1899-1981), Life in the Spirit in Marriage, Home and Work: An Exposition of Ephesians 5:18 -- 6:9 [Ephesians 5:18 -- Ephesians 6:9], ISBN: 080105799X 9780801057991.

*Lopez, Diane D., and Elizabeth Laraway Wilson, Teaching Children: A Curriculum Guide to What Children Need to Know at Each Level Through Grade Six, ISBN: 0891074899 9780891074892.
"Diane Lopez is principal of Bethany Christian School, Sierra Madre, California. This is a unique curriculum guide for grade levels K through 6. It is an excellent educational approach which naturally integrates a Christian worldview and scriptural principles. . . ." -- Jay P. Green, Sr. (1918-2008)
"If you have not read FOR THE CHILDREN'S SAKE or Karen Andreola's A CHARLOTTE MASON COMPANION, which cover the same ideas in more depth, they would be a good introduction to the educational principles of Charlotte Mason." -- Reader's Comment

Macaulay, Susan Schaeffer, For the Children's Sake: Foundations of Education for Home and School, ISBN: 089107290X 9780891072904.
"This simple, practical, easy-to-use resource book will help parents and teachers enrich childhood education by extending learning opportunities to all areas of life." -- GCB

Macaulay, Susan, and Diane Lopez, Home Education
http://www.soundword.com/ccon.html
Four audio cassettes [audio file].

McAuley, John (1807-1883), Secular Versus Christian Education
http://www.covenanter.org/JMcauley/secularversuschristianed.htm

McGuffey, William, McGuffey's Eclectic Readers, 1836-37, 7 volumes, ISBN: 0880620145 9780880620147.

McKnight, William John (1865-1951), A Study in Standards: Meant to be a Companion-piece to The Young people's Manual.

Morgan, John, Godly Learning: Puritan Attitudes Towards Reason, Learning, and Education, 1560-1640, ISBN: 0521235111 9780521235112.

*New Liberty Videos, The Forbidden Book: The History of the English Bible, DVD, new 2006 version, on-camera spokesman: Dr. Craig Lampe; Narrator: Jim Birdsall; Director: Brian Barkley; Run Time: 60 minutes.
" 'The Forbidden Book' is unlike anything you have ever seen before. Hosted by Dr. Craig Lampe, this one-hour documentary takes you on a fascinating journey through time. Follow our film crew across Europe as we SHOW YOU all the important places of Christian history.
"Learn how God's Word was originally scribed in Hebrew and Greek. Walk with Dr. Lampe among the ruins of the very first Christian Church ever built above ground -- not in Israel, but in England! Discover how the Word was preserved through the 1,000 year period of the Dark and Middle Ages, when possession of scripture in any language other than Latin meant certain death at the hands of the organized church. Uncover the truth about the misunderstood books called 'Apocrypha' that were printed in every Protestant Christian's Bible until 1885.
"Meet John Wycliffe, the first person to translate the Bible into English -- and see his church, which is still offering Sunday services today, as it has since the 1300's. Look at the door where Martin Luther, the first person to print the Bible in German, nailed his 95 Theses, starting the Protestant Reformation. See William Tyndale's illegal printing shop, which is a book store today, and find out why Tyndale was executed for being the first person to print the scriptures in English. Find out about the 1535 first complete printed English Bible of Myles Coverdale, the 1537 Matthews Bible, and King Henry the Eighth's 1539 'Great Bible' -- the first legal English Bible.
"Learn why the Bible of the Protestant Reformation, the 1560 English Geneva Bible, had to be printed in Switzerland due to the reign of Queen 'Bloody' Mary. See how the 1568 BISHOPS BIBLE was revised to become the 1611 KING JAMES BIBLE, and how the KING JAMES VERSION slowly replaced the much more popular GENEVA BIBLE among early American Colonists.
"The Forbidden Book is simply the most captivating and informative video ever produced on the subject of how we got the Bible, and how God has preserved His Word for thousands of years to countless generations." -- Publisher
"The Forbidden Book is DVD presentation examining the history of the Word of God in English. It is hosted by Dr. Craig Lampe, a Bible historian and International Director of the World Bible Society. Dr. Lampe owns the Rare Bible Showroom in Arizona and holds a virtual monopoly over rare and antique Bibles. His collection even includes a 1410 Wycliffe Manuscript valued at just under $3 million. It is one of the rarest Bibles in the world. He has a Coverdale Bible, Great Bibles, sells leaves of the Geneva Bible, and, amazingly enough, leaves from the Gutenberg Bible -- the first book ever published. If you happen to have one of these complete Bibles sitting in your attic, you should have it insured for about $100 million.
"This DVD is an hour-long presentation on the history of the English Bible. The viewer will meet most of the historical figures responsible for bringing us the Bible as we know and love it today: Wycliffe, Hus, Gutenberg, Colet, Erasmus, Tyndale, Luther and so on. He will see some of the locations important to the history of the Bible, such as the Wittenberg door and Martin Luther's study. He will learn about the earliest English translations, in the Old World and in the New.
"There are many amazing facts worked into the presentation. Lampe shows a scroll that is 1000 years old, and tells the viewer that it is word-for-word the same as the text of the Dead Sea Scrolls that were written a full millennium before. He describes how the Bible went from being available in 500 languages in 400 AD to being available in only 1 only 100 years later. He talks about a 110 year period in America during which 5000 editions of the Bible were produced. . . .
"Before I close, I will warn that the host is quite harsh towards the Roman Catholic Church and their role in the history of the English Bible. And well he should be, as the papacy worked tirelessly to eradicate any person who dared to present the Scriptures to the common man. Of course the fears of the Church were founded, for when Scripture became accessible, the light quickly broke forth and spread throughout the world. -- Viewer's Comments
"Did you know that during the period of AD 100 and AD 400 the Bible had been translated into nearly 500 languages? Did you know that from AD 400 to AD 500 it had been reduced to just one language? A language only know to the clergy and the educated. . . .
"John Wycliffe, the brilliant 14th century Oxford scholar, translated the Bible from Latin into English in order to enlighten the masses oppressed through ignorance. His work was so despised by the established church, that Pope Martin V ordered Wycliffe's bones to be dug up and burned. Martin Luther was one of the few who challenged church authority in the 16th century and lived to tell the tale. . . .
"William Tyndale was not spared like his friend Luther. Tyndale spent the last 500 days of his life in a cold castle dungeon. He was then tied to a stake, strangled and burned. His crime? . . . printing Bibles in the English language! Discover the fascinating story behind the preservation of the English Bible . . ." -- J.J. Calvin

Price, Greg L., Dating or Courtship: Which is Biblical? (1/2), [audio file]. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.

Pride, Bill, and Mary Pride, Prides' Guide to Educational Software, ISBN: 0891076654 9780891076650.

*Reimer, Kathie, 1001 Ways to Introduce Your Child to God, ISBN: 0842347577 9780842347570.
"Creative ideas to help children develop godly attitudes and healthy ways of thinking." -- Publisher

Smith, Gregory A., The Role of the Library in the Character Formation of the Christian College Student.

Sowell, Thomas, and Brian Emerson (reader), Basic Economics: A Citizen's Guide to the Economy, an audio-book, ISBN: 9781441733153 1441733159.
"Thomas Sowell has a different idea about how economics should be taught. With this groundbreaking introduction to economics, Sowell has thrown out the graphs, statistics, and jargon. Learning economics, he believes, should be relaxing, and even enjoyable.
"Listen to Basic Economics, narrated by Brian Emerson, on your smartphone, notebook or desktop computer.
"Thomas Sowell is the Rose and Milton Friedman Senior Fellow on Public Policy at the Hoover Institution, Stanford University. Among his published works are BASIC ECONOMICS, LATE TALKING CHILDREN, and RACE AND CULTURE. He has also published in both academic journals and the popular media including Newsweek, Forbes, The Wall Street Journal, and 150 newspapers that carry his nationally syndicated column." -- Publisher

Stewart, Bruce Cameron, and The Reformed Presbyterian Church of North America. Board of Education and Publication, Covenant Family Home Training Guide, 1960.

Trelease, Jim, and Cyndi Giorgis, Jim Trelease's Read-aloud Handbook: Eighth Edition, ISBN: 9780143133797 0143133799. Also available as e-book. Apparently secular authors.
"The classic million-copy bestselling handbook on reading aloud to children -- revised and updated for a new generation of readers. Recommended by Dear Abby upon its first publication in 1982, millions of parents and educators have turned to Jim Trelease's beloved classic for more than three decades to help countless children become avid readers through awakening their imaginations and improving their language skills. JIM TRELEASE'S READ-ALOUD HANDBOOK, updated and revised by education specialist Cyndi Giorgis, discusses the benefits, the rewards, and the importance of reading aloud to children of a new generation. Supported by delightful anecdotes as well as the latest research, an updated treasury of book recommendations curated with an eye for diversity, JIM TRELEASE'S READ-ALOUD HANDBOOK offers proven techniques and strategies for helping children of all backgrounds and abilities discover the pleasures of reading and setting them on the road to becoming lifelong readers." -- Publisher
"Reading aloud is a joyous experience for child and for parent. THE READ-ALOUD HANDBOOK offers useful hints as to why the experience is so mutually rewarding and how to make it work." -- Arthur Schlesinger

Van Dyken, Donald, Rediscovering Catechism: The art of Equipping Covenant Children, ISBN: 0875524648 9780875524641.

Venning, Ralph, Learning in Christ's School: Babes, Children, Youth, and Fathers, ISBN: 0851517641 9780851517643.

Vision Video, David Nunn (narrator), Journeying With Jesus in the Holy Land, DVD, 56 minutes.
"Watching this will make reading the gospels a whole new adventure. An inspiration and education for all ages. It enables one to 'walk with Jesus' in the company of His disciples. Viewers will explore places such as Nazareth, Jerusalem, and more. . . .
"David Nunn's enthusiastic presentation never tires as he features the latest archaeological discoveries and the insights they provide. This film is an inspiration and education for all ages. . . .
"Free Study Guide -- JOURNEYING WITH JESUS SCRIPTURE REFERENCES." -- Publisher
Journeying With Jesus In The Holy Land
http://www.christiancinema.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=2712

Wagner, Michael G., Private Versus Public Education: The Alberta Debate, 1995.

Webster, Noah, Noah Webster's Value of the Bible and Excellence of the Christian Religion: For the use of Families and Schools, 1834.

Whitehead, John W., and Wendell R. Bird, Home Education and Constitutional Liberties: The Historical and Constitutional Arguments in Support of Home Instruction, ISBN: 0891073027 9780891073024.
"The two attorneys writing this book offer advice on what the law says and extensive lists to help you get started." -- Publisher

Wilde, Gary (editor), Bible Promises to Treasure for Teachers: Inspiring Words for Every Occasion, ISBN: 0805493883 9780805493887.

Wilson, Elizabeth, Choosing Children's Books (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Two audio cassettes [audio file].

Wilson, Elizabeth, Living Books (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation). Two audio cassettes [audio file].

See also: Sharing christ with your children, Repentance the key to salvation and change, Justification, Justifying faith, Public schools, public education, Problem solving with children, Counseling children, Protecting children from dangers, Preparing children for the world, Absolute truth and relativism, The decline of american society, irrationality, the decline of western thought, Male role and responsibility, gender equality, suffrage, reproductive rights, and the decline of american society, Teaching/training children, Family worship, Christian scholarship, Epistemology, The autodidact, Happiness and holiness, Christian fiction, Classic christian fiction by martha finley, Christian biography, Christian fiction, Dvd, multimedia, Physiological problems, Public schools, public education, Education, The works of c. gregg singer, Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, The Westminster Standards and family of documents, The larger catechism, The shorter catechism, Home schooling (women), Mind control, intimidation, and coercion, Chapter 5, reference works, and so forth, and so on.
TCRB5: 1607, 1672, 1778-1782, 2092, 3555, 3556, 3558, 3559

Related Weblinks

The Autodidact (Self-taught)
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr9cha.html#atddct

Baker's Guide to Distance Christian Learning
http://www.gospelcom.net/bakersguide/

The Biblical Answer to the Education Crisis, an address on Deuteronomy 6:1-9, Peter Hammond
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=1231365421

Charlotte Mason Method
http://homeschooling.about.com/cs/methcmason/index.htm

Christian Education
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Christian Education, 24 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=12160372315

Christian Home Education: Christian Home Education and Homeschooling Resource in the UK, South Africa and Australia
http://www.homeschool.co.uk/

Christian Liberty Academy Satellite Schools
http://www.homeschools.org/

Christian Scholarship
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr9cha.html#cschol

ChristianCinema.com
"Faith Affirming and Family Approved Entertainment"
http://www.christiancinema.com/catalog/default.php?cPath=22

ClassicReader.com
"We offer a large collection of free classic books, plays, and short stories by authors such as Dickens, Austen, Shakespeare and many others. You can read, search and even add your own annotations to any of the classic books. A selection of author biographies and portraits are also made available. All functions of this site are free to use although some functions require free registration.
"Our collection of classic stories currently contains 3284 works of literature (including 1872 short stories) by 329 authors. New works are added to the collection on a regular basis, with 10 new titles added so far this month."
http://www.classicreader.com/

Covenant Home Curriculum
http://www.covenanthome.com/

Distance Learning Resources for Homeschoolers
http://homeschooling.about.com/cs/distancelearning/index.htm?terms=correspondence+courses

Over 60 percent of adults in the U.S. Prison System read at or below the fourth grade level

85 percent of U.S. juvenile inmates are functionally illiterate.

Adult inmates who received educational services while in prison had a 16 percent chance of returning to prison, as opposed to 70 percent for those who received no instruction. [this statistic not in citation given -- compiler]

43 percent of adults at the lowest level of literacy lived below the poverty line, as opposed to 4 percent of those with the highest levels of literacy.

"According to BeginToRead.com:

Two thirds of students who cannot read proficiently by the fourth grade will end up in jail or on welfare.

Three out of four individuals who receive food stamps read on the two lowest levels of literacy.

16 to 19 year old girls at the poverty level and below, with below average skills, are 6 times more likely to have out-of-wedlock children than their reading counterparts. . . .

Gutenberg, Project
http://www.gutenberg.org/

Home School World, Mary Pride
http://www.hshangout.com/wheeler.html

Home School World, Mary Pride
http://www.home-school.com/

Homeschooling Program -- Southern Baptist Convention Resolution
The resolution by the Southern Baptist Convention calling members to pull their childen out of government schools and either homeschool them or send them to Christian schools.
http://www.thesouthernbaptistacademy.org/convention_resolution.php

Homeschooling Sees Dramatic Rise in Popularity, Lindsey Burke, January 28, 2009
"The report shows that approximately 1.5 million children (2.9 percent of school-age children), were being homeschooled in the spring of 2007, representing a 36 percent relative increase since 2003 and a 74 percent relative increase since 1999.[1] One private researcher estimates that as many as 2.5 million school-age children were educated at home during the 2007-2008 school year.[2]"
http://www.heritage.org/research/education/wm2254.cfm

John McAuley's Article on Secular Versus Christian Education
http://www.covenanter.org/reformed/2015/7/14/john-mcauleys-article-on-secular-versus-christian-education

LibraryThing
"LibraryThing is a new site for book lovers.
"It's basically two sites in one.
"LibraryThing helps you create a library-quality catalog of your books. You can do all of them or just what you're reading now.
"And because everyone catalogs online, they also catalog together. LibraryThing connects people based on the books they share."
See the library of member "lettermen."
http://www.librarything.com/

Mr. Thomas Manton's Epistle to the Reader of the Westminster Confession of Faith (1646) and Larger and Shorter Catechisms
http://www.swrb.com/newslett/actualnls/famworship.htm
Westminster Shorter Catechism With Proof Texts
http://www.reformed.org/documents/WSC_frames.html

Public School is not for Christians
http://www.hshangout.com/wheeler.html

The Puritans' Home School Curriculum
http://www.puritans.net/curriculum/

Regulations at Yale College (1745)
Showing the centrality of Calvinism and the Westminster Confession in Colonial higher education.
http://www.constitution.org/primarysources/yale.html

A Resolution to Combat Mind Control With Truth
http://www.lettermen2.com/mindc.html

The Robinson Self-Teach Curriculum
http://www.robinsoncurriculum.com

S.G. Winchester's Book on the Importance of Family Religion
http://www.covenanter.org/reformed/2015/7/14/sg-winchesters-book-on-the-importance-of-family-religion

Speaking on Calvinism
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, 53 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=8110391415

The Theistic Basis for all Culture and Education, an address by C. Gregg Singer
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=12170365847

Travel Video Store
http://www.travelvideostore.com/index.php

The Trent Schools, Online Homeschooling
http://www.theschools.com/

The Trinity Foundation Lecture Series (MP3), [audio file]
There are 13 series of lectures here in MP3 format. They can be listened to online, or downloaded for use on a CD player, computer. Load them on an iPod and listen anytime, anywhere.
http://www.trinitylectures.org/MP3_downloads.php

The Vision Forum, Inc.
Working toward the restoration of the Biblical family.
http://www.visionforum.com/

Works of C. Gregg Singer
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr3ch.html#cgsinger

Public Schools, Public Education

My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge: because thou hast rejected knowledge, I will also reject thee, that thou shalt be no priest to me: seeing thou hast forgotten the law of thy God, I will also forget thy children. As they were increased, so they sinned against me: therefore will I change their glory into shame. (Hosea 4:6,7)
First, then, we ought to believe that Christ cannot be properly known in any other way than from the Scriptures; and if it be so, it follows that we ought to read the Scriptures with the express design of finding Christ in them. Whoever shall turn aside from this object, though he may weary himself throughout his whole life in learning, will never attain the knowledge of the truth; for what wisdom can we have without the wisdom of God? -- John Calvin commenting on John 5:39
I am much afraid that schools will prove to be wide gates to hell, unless they diligently labour and explain the Holy Scriptures, engraving them on the hearts of youth.
I advise no one to place their child where the Scriptures do not reign paramount.
Every institution in which men are not constantly occupied with the Word of God must become corrupt. -- Martin Luther
Knowledge puffeth up, but charity edifieth. (1 Corinthians 8:1b)
"Nothing is so arrogant as ignorance." -- An old proverb
"We must, therefore, lay it down as a settled principle, that knowledge is good in itself; but as piety is its only foundation, it becomes empty and useless in wicked men: as love is its true seasoning, where that is wanting it is tasteless. And truly, where there is not that thorough knowledge of God which humbles us, and teaches us to do good to the brethren, it is not so much knowledge, as an empty notion of it, even in those that are reckoned the most learned. At the same time, knowledge is not by any means to be blamed for this, any more than a sword, if it falls into the hands of a madman. Let this be considered as said with a view to certain fanatics, who furiously declaim against all the liberal arts and sciences, as if their only use were to puff men up, and were not of the greatest advantage as helps in common life. Now those very persons, who defame them in this style, are ready to burst with pride, to such an extent as to verify the old proverb -- "Nothing is so arrogant as ignorance." -- John Calvin commenting on 1 Corinthians 8:1b-3
The transformation of the academic curriculum into an indoctrination program for the political left has been made possiby by the steady purge of Republicans from academic faculties over the last 50 years. The Klein study of 7,243 professors in economics, law, psychology, history, and journalism/communications at the 40 top-rated universities found that 66 of 170 departments surveyd had no Republican faculty members all. Zero.(8)" [8. Mitchell Langbert, et al., "Faculty Voter Registration in Economics, History, Journalism, Law, and Psychology," Character Issues 13, no. 3 (September 2016): 422-51] -- David Horowitz, BIG AGENDA
A man can receive nothing, except it be given him from heaven. (John 3:27)
Right views of God's truth are not an intellectual attainment, but a blessing bestowed on us by God. -- Arthur Pink (1886-1952), He Instructed Him
Unhappy they who weary themselves, as the world generally does, in wandering through many winding paths, neglecting the gospel, and pleasing themselves with wild romances, ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth, (2 Timothy 3:7), or to find life! But happy they who have embraced the gospel, and whose attachment to it is steadfast; for this, beyond all doubt, is truth and life." -- John Calvin commenting on Ephesians 1:13
The orthodox churches believe also, and do willingly acknowledge, that every lawful magistrate, being by God himself constituted the keeper and defender of both tables of the law, may and ought first and chiefly to take care of God's glory, and (according to his place, or in his manner and way) to preserve religion when pure, and to restore it when decayed and corrupted: and also to provide a learned and godly ministry, schools also and synods, as likewise to restrain and punish as well atheists, blasphemers, heretics and schismatics, as the violators of justice and civil peace. -- George Gillespie (1613-1648), Works, 1:12
One other case must be mentioned for its importance in showing how far the Supreme Court has wandered from its original purpose as stated in the Constitution and has become the mouthpiece of the most radical elements in the country. This is the famous, or infamous, Keylishian Case, which declared unconstitutional a New York law which sought to prohibit communists from either teaching or holding administrative positions in the schools of the state. (72. Adler vs. the Borard of Regents, 1952. Curiously enough, the Supreme Court had upheld this very same act.) In speaking for the court in this decision, Justice Brennan gave as the excuse for the over-ruling of a previous decision of the Court that "pertinent constitutional doctrines have since 1952 rejected the premises upon which the conclusion rests." (73. Ibid.) Actually no new constitutional doctrine worthy of the name had been developed since 1952 which would justify such a reversal. The truth of the matter was that the Court was determined to drive God out of the classroom and replace teachers who believed in him with communists and give them permanent tenure. It is now clear that the whole course of decisions by the Supreme Court since the Vashti-McCollum case of 1948 has been to remove the God of the Scriptures from the government and educational system of this country. Thus, through this Court, even more than through the Congress or the Presidents who have served since 1948, humanism has been crowding our Christian heritage out of the picture. The Supreme Court, at one time the citadel of Christian orthodoxy and political conservatism, has now become the vehicle through which both our Christian and constitutional heritages are being destroyed. -- C. Gregg Singer (1910-1999), in A Theological Interpretation of American History pp. 322, 323
To control the future requires the control of education and of the child. Hence, for Christians to tolerate Statist education, or to allow their children to be trained thereby, means to renounce power in society, to renounce their children, and to deny Christ's Lordship over all of life. -- R.J. Rushdoony (1916-2001)
In 1983 The National Commission on Excellence in Education, in their report, A NATION AT RISK: THE IMPERATIVE FOR EDUCATIONAL REFORM, concluded that had public education been carried out by enemies of the United States, it could not be more harmful to the country. -- Mary de Young in The Ritual Abuse Controversy: An Annotated Bibliography,
In 2011, 87 percent of Americans were "below basic" levels of literacy in one or more of the following: prose literacy, document literacy, and/or quantitative literacy. -- Functional Illiteracy
We have now educated ourselves into a state of complete imbecility. -- Malcolm Muggeridge (1903-1990)
We are an illiterate nation incapable of understanding great truth. -- C. Gregg Singer (1910-1999)
The great enemy of the salvation of man in my opinion never intended a more effectual means of extirpating Christianity from the world than by persuading mankind that it was improper to read The Bible at schools (July 13, 1789). -- Dr. Benjamin Rush
Mortimer Adler, in GREAT BOOKS OF WESTERN CIVILIZATION, concluded that more problems are caused by the denial of God than by anything else -- it changes the whole tenure of life.
Cultural literacy is the ability to "read" or make sense of what is happening in our contemporary situation. -- Melvin Tinker, That Hideous Strength: How the West was Lost: The Cancer of Cultural Marxism in the Church and the World, and the Gospel of Change, p. 115
One hundred and six of the first 108 schools in America were founded on the Christian faith.
Since about 1840, men have been putting philosophy in the place of revelation, and ideas before what God himself has so graciously been pleased to reveal. -- D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones
In the midst of cross-referencing "approximately 5700 works . . . under 440 topic headings" it became evident that everything is interrelated, that there is an interconnection between "absolute truth, life (temporal and eternal), moral behavior (law and order, and justice), freedom (religious, political, economic, and individual," (the definition of true religion found in the Westminster Standards, the positive sanctions of God, and the Covenanted Reformation), "social stability (peace, security, prosperity, and happiness), Justifying faith, sanctification, personal spiritual growth, social transformation, education, the arts, scientific discovery, real progress, and the realization of the Kingdom of God upon earth."
This recognition of the interconnectedness (all truth is significant to all of life) lead to the establishment of universities (from "unity in diversity"), instituted for higher learning. It is a recognition of Christ as the center of all things: Where there is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcision nor uncircumcision, Barbarian, Scythian, bond nor free: but Christ is all, and in all. (Colossians 3:11b). For from Him and through Him and to Him are all things. To Him be the glory forever. Amen. (Romans 11:36) This interconnectedness adds to the understanding of the unity of believers.
Regulations at Yale College (1745)
Showing the centrality of Calvinism and the Westminster Confession in Colonial higher education.
http://www.constitution.org/primarysources/yale.html
Let every Student be plainly instructed, and earnestly pressed to consider well, the maine end of his life and studies is, to know God and Jesus Christ which is eternall life, John 17:3, and therefore to lay Christ in the bottome, as the only foundation of all sound knowledge and Learning. And seeing the Lord only giveth wisedome, Let every one seriously set himself by prayer in secret to seeke it of him Prov. 2 [Proverbs 2]. (September 26, 1642) -- Rules and Precepts That Are Observed in the College at Cambridge in Massachusetts Bay (now known as Harvard University)
Cornell University interim President, Hunter R. Rawlings, used the 2005 State of the University Speech to address the ongoing matter of the conflict between religion and science, "a matter I believe is of great significance to Cornell and to the country as a whole, a matter with fundamental educational, intellectual, and political implications. The issue in question is the challenge to science posed by religiously-based opposition to evolution, described, in its current form, as 'intelligent design. . . .' This controversy raises profound questions about the nature of public discourse and what we teach in universities, and it has a profound effect on public policy.
"I believe the time has come for universities like Cornell to contribute to the nation's cultural and intellectual discourse. [In keeping with "our founder's goal of assuring greatness through diversity" and the University motto "Freedom with responsibility." -- compiler]. We must be willing to take on a broader role as defenders of rational thought and framers of discourse about culture and society. In this spirit, I have asked our three academic task forces, on Life in the age of the Genome, Wisdom in the age of Digital Information, and Sustainability, to consider means of confronting the following questions: how to separate information from knowledge and knowledge from ideology; how to understand and address the ethical dilemmas and anxieties that scientific discovery has produced; and how to assess the influence of secular humanism on culture and society." [The complex dilemma of the aforementioned issues, is, in fact, the making of both contending parties, neither of whom, have distinguished between Truth and knowledge. -- compiler]
The speech can be found at the following website:
Hunter R. Rawlings' State of the University Speech, 2005
http://www.cornell.edu/president/announcement_2005_1021.cfm
Just some historical background. These controversies are often referred to as the Warfare Myth. Cornell University was the only Ivy League university founded without a Theology Department, a controversy at the time (1865). Andrew Dickson White, the first President of Cornell, and its cofounder, refused to give students at Cornell religious tests. He wrote A HISTORY OF THE WARFARE OF SCIENCE WITH RELIGION IN CHRISTENDOM, 2 volumes (1869) "in angry response" to critics. "As noble as his intentions may have been, the resulting book is a travesty and is largely responsible for creating the common Warfare Myth that has plagued the relationship between science and faith since the nineteenth century." [for the last 137 years -- compiler]
We respectfully submit to the learned and esteemed President Rawling, members of the three Academic Task Forces, faculty, and alumni of Cornell University, that the long-term, complex Warfare Myth controversy could be "brought down to size" and could best be resolved by establishing a Department of Epistemology, the "Queen of the Sciences." Epistemology is "the study or a theory of the nature and grounds of knowledge especially with reference to its limits and validity." To that end we offer a modest bibliography of some of Gordon Haddon Clark's works on Epistemology. Clark is considered by many to be the most important Philosopher of the 20th century.
We also offer the works of Christian Scholar and Church Historian, C. Gregg Singer.
Of course, one of the attributes of our Trinitarian God is Truth. He is Truth, absolute and unchanging, the only source of Truth and the source of All Truth.
A broad overview of literature shows an evident interconnection between "absolute truth, life (temporal and eternal), moral behavior (law and order, and justice), freedom (religious, political, economic, and individual (the definition of true religion found in the Westminster Standards and the Covenanted Reformation social stability (peace, security, prosperity, and happiness), Justifying faith, sanctification, personal spiritual growth, social transformation, education, the arts, scientific discovery, real progress, and the realization of the Kingdom of God upon earth"
Those questioning the impact of Theology on Society are referred to the following:
The Topical Listing "A Theological Interpretation of American History"
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr9chc.html#stiahis
Of course, when Theology and Society are viewed as a whole, then the responsibility for equitable judicial action becomes an imperative. This judicial imperative is the highest calling and, unfortunately, the calling that most seek to avoid. We must confront ourselves with the fact that, in some cases, the battle of science against the Truth is in reality a battle against the constraints of moral absolutes and ethics imposed by the truth of The Triune God. And we must own up to our male responsibility to exercise judicial equity in all spheres of society.
Logically any university, to be great, must teach both Truth from Theology and knowledge from science, because a society without Truth is self-destructive.
In these times we strongly urge Cornell, and her new president, Dr. David J. Skorton (July 2006), to establish a Department of Epistemology and to staff it with scholars of the caliber of Gordon H. Clark.
Furthermore, we strongly urge Cornell to add scholars of the Scottish Covenanted Reformation to their new [1990s] Department of Theology, because we believe that it is only through Covenanted Reformation that society can attain to corporate faithfulness and sanctification.
The Fourfold Treasure, a sermon by C.H. Spurgeon delivered on Thursday Evening, April 27th, 1871, at the Metropolitan Tabernacle, Newington, Sermon No. 991.
Sermon topic: 1 Corinthians 1:30,31, Christ is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption.
This is to be wise, to have Christ's teaching, Christ's example, and above all, Christ's presence; so may the poorest find the Lord Jesus made of God unto them wisdom.
Pause just a minute. Let none of us ever be so foolish as to suppose that when we have received Jesus and his gospel, we have occasion to blush when we are in the company of the very wisest of the present day. Carry a bold face when you confront the brazen faced philosophy which insults your Lord. The man who does not believe the Bible does not know so much as thou dost. Blush not, though with mimic wisdom the unbeliever tries to laugh or argue thee down. He who knows not Christ, though he propounds wonderful theories as to the creation of mankind and the formation of the world, and though he has a glib tongue, is only an educated fool, a learned idiot, who thinks his own rushlight brighter than God's own sun. "Ah! but he has been to college, and he has a degree, and he is esteemed by men; for he has written books that nobody can comprehend." The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God; and I do not care even if he be a Solon, if he has said that there is no God, he is a fool. Do not blush, then, if you find yourself in his company, do not make yourself the blushing one because the fool is there. Self-conceit were to be avoided and loathed; but this is not self-conceit, but a holy courage in a case which demands of you to be courageous. To know Christ is the best of all philosophy, the highest of all sciences. [emphasis added -- compiler]. Angels desire to look into this; but I do not know that they care a fig for half the sciences so valued among men. If you know Christ you never need be afraid of being ashamed and confounded whatever company you may be in. If you stood in a senate of emperors, or amidst a parliament of philosophers, and only told them of the God that came in human flesh, and loved, and lived, and died to redeem mankind, you would have told them a greater mystery and a profounder secret than reason could discover. Be not ashamed, then, amid the intellectual pride of this boastful age. -- C.H. Spurgeon in a sermon, The Fourfold Treasure
To the orthodox Christian, the shabby incarnations of the reigning historiographies are both absurd and offensive. They are idols, and he is forbidden to bow down to them and must indeed wage war against them. -- R.J. Rushdoony
THE INSTITUTES OF THE CHRISTIAN RELIGION by John Calvin is "still considered by many to be the finest explanation and defense of the Protestant Reformation available."
"The work is divided into four books: I. The Knowledge of God the Creator, II. The Knowledge of God the Redeemer in Christ, III. The Mode of Obtaining the Grace of Christ, IV. The External Means or Helps by Which God Allures us Into Fellowship With Christ and Keeps us in it. . . . THE INSTITUTES is praised by the secular philosopher, Will Durant, as one of the ten books that shook the world."
Will Durant and his wife, Ariel, spent their lifetimes writing THE STORY OF CIVILIZATION in 11 volumes.
Christians today are forced to support, with their tax money, the establishment of another religious faith that stands opposed to everything they believe. The new state church has taken the form of the public school, which is messianic in nature and preaches relentlessly the doctrine that the human intellect and will is the supreme moral authority. Meanwhile, the other major faith in America, Christianity, is outlawed from a major segment of American society, and is under heavy pressure even in the "private sphere," which is becoming less and less private. To tax Christians to support a doctrine that they believe false and evil was called tyranny in George Washington's day. -- Benjamin Hart
It is possible to make a fortune, literally, off of public ignorance and, at the same time, bask in the vainglory of being a respected professional: a theologian, a TV evangelist, a mega-church pastor, a doctor, a surgeon, a dentist, a pharmaceutical manufacturer, a chemist, a chemical manufacturer, an investment banker, a university president, a professor, a scientist, a historian, a politician, a software engineer, an automobile engineer, a CEO of a huge corporation, and so forth and so on.
Heart-knowledge, we must always remember, is the one thing needful. It is something which schools and universities cannot confer. It is the gift of God.
To find out the plague of our own hearts and hate sin -- to become familiar with the throne of grace and the fountain of Christ's blood -- to sit daily at the feet of Jesus, and humbly learn of Him -- this is the highest degree of knowledge to which mortal man can attain. Let any one thank God who knows anything of these things. One may be ignorant of Greek, Latin, Hebrew, and mathematics, but they shall be saved. -- J.C. Ryle (1816-1900)
But our deepest problem has to do with our Education system -- both upper and lower level. 'Multi-Culturalism' reigns there, and MUST BE REFORMED. It is utterly stupid, teaching that all ultimate truths are equal. If that's true then life and dead are the same -- and neither should be preferred! Philosophically, multi-culturalism equates to 'polytheism.' A complete dead-end, in terms of culture-building. And that's the foundation of Modern Education.
Hence today's 'great sin' amounts to any kind of exclusivist thinking -- like Christianity -- that insists we can determine good from evil on other than Big Government grounds! -- Dick Knodel
The death toll for legalized abortions in the U.S. since 1973 now [January 2015 -- compiler], stands at an estimated 57.2 million [56 million as of January 2014 plus an estimated 1.2 million in 2015 -- compiler].
But a biblical argument could be made that the education of the children of American citizens in secular public schools is an even more violent act than legalized abortion. (Hosea 4:6,7; 2 Corinthians 10:4,5; 2 Corinthians 10:5; Joshua 1:8, and so forth, and so on). Unless the Holy Spirit intervenes, the public education system is instrumental in suppressing the Gospel message of salvation, and of the life to come, the Means of Grace. It even incenses the child against it, therefore, dooming them to hopelessness, to the wrath of God, and to the Second Death.
So the final conclusion would surely be that whereas other civilizations have been brought down by attacks of barbarians from without, ours had the unique distinction of training its own destroyers at its own educational institutions, and then providing them with facilities for propagating their destructive ideology far and wide, all at the public expense. Thus did Western Man decide to abolish himself, creating his own boredom out of his own affluence, his own vulnerability out of his own strength, his own impotence out of his own erotomania, himself blowing the trumpet that brought the walls of his own city tumbling down, and having convinced himself that he was too numerous, labored with pill and scalpel and syringe to make himself fewer. Until at last, having educated himself into imbecility, and polluted and drugged himself into stupefaction, he keeled over -- a weary, battered old brontosaurus -- and became extinct. -- Malcolm Muggeridge (1903-1990), Vintage Muggeridge: Religion and Society
Disturbing patterns of unsustainable economic activity have emerged over the last decade. College and university budgets rely on inflated real estate investment, deny the short- and long-term effects of student loan defaults, accept the rise in tuition above the rate of inflation as normal, and expect a downsized part-time faculty to help subsidize inflated tenure track and endowed tenure budgetary lines. The insatiable upper administrative appetite for high salaries, job description absurdity, and low accountability adds endless layers of compulsive, prideful incompetence to an already unstable education business model that believes it simply cannot crash. -- Fortune Magazine, July 10, 2017

Barrow, Reg, Godless Education: Public Education and Sin. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.

Blumenfeld, Samuel L., The Whole Language/OBE Fraud: The Shocking Story of how America is Being Dumbed Down by its own Education System, ISBN: 0941995097 9780941995092.

Buchanan, James, and James McLagan, The College Question, 1850.

Buzzard, Lynn R. (editor), Schools: They Haven't got a Prayer, ISBN: 0891917136 9780891917137.

Clark, Gordon H. (1902-1985), The Relationship of Public Education to Christianity, Trinity Review #43.

Dabney, Robert L. (1820-1898), Secularized Education. Available (DISCUSSIONS OF ROBERT LEWIS DABNEY, VOL. 3) on the Puritan Hard Drive.
"Contains much that is thought-provoking, including some excellent points that can be used to defend faithful parents from unrighteous civil encroachment (in Christian home or private schools). However, this work falls far short of the whole truth because of its anti-establishmentarian stance. That the state honour and glorify God by keeping all of His commandments is a first principle, which if denied in any manner, leads to much error and eternal suffering. See Samuel B. Wylie's TWO SONS OF OIL: OR, THE FAITHFUL WITNESS FOR MAGISTRACY AND MINISTRY UPON A SCRIPTURAL BASIS or Willson's CIVIL GOVERNMENT for a the consistent Biblical view of the state." -- Publisher

Eakman, B.K., Cloning of the American Mind: Eradicating Morality Through Education, ISBN: 1563841479 9781563841477.
"Mrs. Eakman's book is an excellent overview of various psychological schools of thought that have done more than almost any other discipline to adversely effect the modern age. As Mrs. Eakman points out, it is no accident that psychology and politics have come together in order to discover ways to manipulate attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors on a mass scale. While her book is meant to describe the ways in which psychological based curriculum, coupled with electronic data retrieval systems on the part of the State have created psychological profiling and attitude readjustment programs for all school-aged children, her book really out to be read as an expos� of more sinister agendas and programs undertaken by governments in this century. The most interesting sections of the book are the ones that connect the development of 19th century materialist atheistic psychologies and 20th century totalitarian politics: the career paths of Nazi and Soviet psychologists crossing with that of such influential Foundations as the Ford and Carnegie Foundations, together with psychological programs emerging out of the Intelligence community after the War, is particularly disturbing. Mrs. Eakman connects the dots, pointing out how a particular person started off in Intelligence, made his way into academia, only to find his way to the corporate world or the media. The only draw back of her book is the absence in many places of detailed footnotes and citing of sources. However, for anyone who has actually read Kurt Lewin or Frankfurt School luminaries, it isn't hard to believe her claims. Additionally, Mrs. Eakman sometimes confuses personages and history: when referring to Dr. Albert Hoffman, the Swiss chemist who developed LSD, she claims he later became a counterculture icon known as Albert 'Abbie' Hoffman -- almost suggesting that Abbie Hoffman of the Sixties and Dr. Albert Hoffman are one and the same. She is also out of her element when discussing philosophers and leading intellectuals. At one point she claims that in Bertrand Russell in his writings about 'a certain educator, Johann Fichte' -- not realizing that Fichte was a Neo-Kantian German philosopher of the earlier 19th century. There are other snafus like these here and there but these can be easily forgiven in light of her insightful analyses and heroic overview of 20th century psychology. To some, Mrs. Eakman's book may sound like 'wacky' conspiracy theories. However, there are a number of so-called mainstream books and publications that have made the same accusations that Mrs. Eakman does and have provided histories of psychological warfare. For the skeptical, try reading Christopher Simpson's book -- published by Oxford Press." -- Reader's Comment

Gabler, Mel, and Norma Gabler, What are They Teaching our Children? ISBN: 0896933628 9780896933620.
"Students often graduate from high school lacking the educational and moral foundations needed to function in today's complex world. . . . these 'crusaders for better textbooks' show parents, teachers, and concerned citizens how to reverse this dangerous trend. In a rousing challenge, the Gablers claim it's not too late to restore sound educational and teaching materials to America's schools -- if we act now!" -- Publisher

Guthrie, John T., Responding to "A Nation at Risk": Appraisal and Policy Guidelines.
"Intended to assist educational leaders by identifying recommendations from the report, 'A Nation at Risk,' that are relevant to reading and literacy and by suggesting instructional guidelines consistent with both the report and current reading research, this booklet presents policy guidelines in the following areas: (1) literacy processes, (2) curriculum content, (3) teacher effectiveness, (4) textbook quality, and (5) parent involvement. The first section discusses instructional objectives for reading, writing, and study skills while the second briefly touches on methods of implementing English instruction, reading across the curriculum, and the United States' literary heritage. The third section examines the impact of time use, organization, and teacher preparation on teacher effectiveness, and the fourth considers the selection and use of textbooks. The final section discusses the importance of parental involvement in children's education." -- Publisher

*Howard-Browne, Rodney, and Paul L. Williams, The Killing of Uncle Sam: The Demise of the United States of America, ISBN: 1640070974 978-1640070974.
"Pride, greed, and power have driven men to do the unthinkable -- including selling out their nations and unsuspected citizens to the most corrupt and destructive 'invisible' global leaders on Earth. But how did this happen on American soil? How did the downfall begin and who were the predators that the 'land of the free and home of the brave' fell victim to? And is all hope lost?
"This book captures details of the last 200 years of American history that mainstream media does not want you to know. It dissects the 'legalized' system of the private central banks that has gone unchecked, and delivers gut-wrenching truths about the real domestic and foreign enemies of the United States. With over 1000 footnotes and quotes from former presidents, prime ministers, and state officials, it will equip you with the facts that the elites have covered up for centuries and empower you to stand up for the truth. -- Publisher
"This book is so well-documented that fact-checking proves an arduous and ultimately fruitless venture. Finally, someone has the courage to expose this corrupted government and financial system citing each wicked malpractice from America's inception to present day. The theme is simple yet highly logical . . . follow the money. We have been saying things like 'follow the money' to one another for years! In downtrodden conversations, we have attempted to identify the root of the injustice that has since thrived in America, and hurts each one of us to witness. But we typically fail to reach a verdict free of conjecture. With this book, we are armed with genuine facts that follow the timeline of our nation. Now we know exactly how our government and economy have been repeatedly perverted by tyrannical greed. On this knowledge, we citizens of America, all of us together, can finally build a viable solution." -- Reader's Comment
"What the book is about? The Money Trail. Money doesn't lie. People lie, but the money exposes their true intentions. And from what I've read so far in the pre-release, it's much worse than any of us could have imagined. The book shows that the 'select' few who actually control the money, these men and women are the ones who determine how we live, or who doesn't. They are the ones who make the laws and decide who will be in power. They control and own the media outlets. They control the information, the money and the military complex. They start wars in places like Iraq and Kosovo to control their natural resources. They puppeteer government agencies like the CIA, and even the Office of the President. . . ." -- Reader's Comment
"This book is a must-read for every American citizen. It is extremely eye-opening to what has gone on in our country for last 200 years. It walks you through how things were set in place many, many years ago by very powerful people and how it effects everything today in our current society. It is incredible the cabal of people that have planned and strategised for decades to pillage the American people of their wealth and to erode American Christian values and morality. The footnotes were also very helpful to be able to go and verify all of the information and see it for myself. -- Reader's Comment
"Lays out clearly what would require dozens of other books to connect all the dots. Outrageous, yet global-deep-state conspiracies we've heard about for years, that used to seem far-fetched, are finally laid out in logical progression and substantially supported. . . .
"The timing of this book [2018] cannot be overstated. . . . for the current U.S. political environment, and for what is happening on the world stage. . . . it really exposes what Trump is up against, and why the establishment hates him so. . . .
"Financial systems and banking are at the core of what is exposed. . . . America has been deceived for very long time, and many people have no idea what has happened. This book reveals the secret hidden agendas of the money system in our country. No other book explains it the way this does. . . . Line by line, Dr. Rodney Howard-Browne and Dr. Paul Williams unveil the corruption and wickedness that starts and ends with money. . . . See the history and the outright greed of individuals who have woven their influence and control over our country by controlling the money. . . .
"It amazed me to learn that the Federal Reserve is a PRIVATE Bank that is NOT answerable to Congress, the Judicial branch nor the White House. . . . There is no question left in my mind as to the utter and total corruption of our banking system. . . ." -- Excerpts from various readers comments
Chapter 38, "War Without End," in THE KILLING OF UNCLE SAM
https://revival.lpages.co/killingunclesambook/

Howse, Brannon, An Educational Abduction: Do you Know What Your Child is Being Taught? ISBN: 089221290X 9780892212903.

Howse, Brannon, Reclaiming a Nation at Risk: The Battle for Your Faith, Family and Freedoms, ISBN: 1563712369.
"RECLAIMING A NATION AT RISK makes a compelling case that America's cultural elite and government bureaucrats are sabotaging the faith, families, and freedoms of the American population. Indeed, 52 percent of Americans believe that government represents a threat to their basic, inalienable rights. RECLAIMING A NATION AT RISK directly engages the issues of who is really in control of America's schools, why we have such poor literacy and logic scores among our school age children, the preparation of American students to take their place in a socialized national workforce, how the National Education Association became so powerful and what their agenda (including Outcome Based Education), is for our children's future. Parental rights are under sag and the federal government is in the beginnings of creating a national database of the nation's children. RECLAIMING A NATION AT RISK discusses what will happen if the American economy collapses and the implications for religious freedom given today's alarming national trends. RECLAIMING A NATION AT RISK is 'must' reading for any concerned parent needing to reclaim a child from these 'agents of change.' Insightful, controversial, candid, RECLAIMING A NATION AT RISK deserves the widest readership possible in today's political, social, cultural, and economic climate." -- Midwest Book Review

Johnson, Paul M., Intellectuals: From Marx and Tolstoy to Sartre and Chomsky, ISBN: 0061253170 9780061253171.
"A fascinating portrait of the minds that have shaped the modern world. In an intriguing series of case studies, Rousseau, Shelley, Marx, Ibsen, Tolstoy, Hemingway, Bertrand Russell, Brecht, Sartre, Edmund Wilson, Victor Gollancz, Lillian Hellman, Cyril Connolly, Norman Mailer, James Baldwin, Kenneth Tynan, and Noam Chomsky, among others, are revealed as intellectuals both brilliant and contradictory, magnetic and dangerous.
"Paul Johnson has written many books, including Creators, George Washington, Modern Times, and Art: A New History. He contributes a weekly essay to the Spectator and a monthly column to Forbes. He lives in London, England, and lectures all over the world." -- Publisher
"Johnson's thesis is quite simple: the revolutionary thinkers whose ideas have shaped intellectual history over the past 250 years were, for the most part, lousy human beings. . . .
"For example, Jean-Jacques Rousseau is adored by educational theorists and his ideas and entrenched in the curricula of teachers' colleges, despite the fact that he serially abandoned every one of his children. Karl Marx was bourgeois to the core and seems to have exploited the only working-class woman he ever knew: paying her starvation wages, impregnating her and forcing her to abandon their child. Johnson lacerates the behaviour of these prominent figures, but more importantly shows how their shabby personal values foreshadow the social harm their works engendered." -- Reader's Comment
Johnson's conclusion, "Above all, we must at all times remember what intellectuals habitually forget: that people matter more than concepts and must come first. The worst of all despotisms is the heartless tyranny of ideas."
Unabomber and Harvard, Bill Steigerwald, Atlantic Monthly, 285, Part 6 (2000): 41-65.
"After a thorough study of Ted Kaczynski's college career and his writings, Chase makes a plausible case that the Unabomber was born and bred at Harvard University."
http://www.worldnetdaily.com/index.php?pageId=7368

Jones, Judy, and William Wilson, An Incomplete Education: 3,684 Things you Should Have Learned but Probably Didn't, ISBN: 0345468902 9780345468901.
"When it was originally published in 1987, AN INCOMPLETE EDUCATION became a surprise bestseller. Now this instant classic has been completely updated, outfitted with a whole new arsenal of indispensable knowledge. Here's your chance to fill in the gaps left by your school years, reacquire all the facts you once knew then promptly forgot, and become the Renaissance man or woman you always suspected you could be!
"What was so important about the Dred Scott decision? Why aren't all Shakespearean comedies necessarily thigh-slappers? What happened inside Plato's cave? What's the difference between a fade-out and a dissolve? Fission and fusion? Shi'ites and Sunnis? The apostles and the disciples? Is postmodernism dead or just having a bad hair day? And for extra credit, how do you tell deduction from induction?
"AN INCOMPLETE EDUCATION answers these and thousands of other questions with incomparable wit, style, clarity, and brevity. American Studies, Art History, Economics, Film, Literature, Music, Philosophy, Political Science, Psychology, Religion, Science, and World History: Here's the bottom line on each of these major disciplines, distilled to its essence and served up with consummate flair.
"In this new edition you'll find up-to-the-minute analyses of the geopolitical situation in Eastern Europe, Indochina, and the Horn of Africa; the latest breakthroughs in cloning and gene splicing; brand-new takes on the economy, from disinflation to global competition; a look at the recent upheavals surrounding abortion rights, free speech, and the death penalty; and much, much more.
"Ponder the legacies of eight American intellectuals (a couple of whom aren't even dead yet). Get a handle on 350 years of opera; the central ideas of Freud and five of his famous followers; the meanings of eighteen inscrutable-looking adjectives, from jejune to heuristic, numinous to otiose. Bone up on entropy and evolution. Take a whirlwind tour of English poetry from Chaucer to Yeats. Learn what to look for in Rubens or Rembrandt, The Birth of a Nation or Citizen Kane.
"As delightful as it is illuminating, AN INCOMPLETE EDUCATION packs ten thousand years of culture into a single superbly readable volume. This is a book to celebrate, to share, to give and receive, to pore over and browse through, and to return to again and again. . . .
"Judy Jones is a freelance writer who lives in Princeton, New Jersey. William Wilson was also a freelance writer. Wilson went to Yale and Jones to Smith, but both have maintained that they got their real educations in the process of writing this book." -- Publisher

*Kennedy, D. James (1930-2007), with Jerry Newcombe, What if the Bible had Never Been Written? ISBN: 0785271546 9780785271543.
"Following its predecessor, WHAT IF JESUS HAD NEVER BEEN BORN, WHAT IF THE BIBLE HAD NEVER BEEN WRITTEN is a veritable compendium of the major accomplishments of the western world. D. James Kennedy demonstrates quite capably that many of the most fundamental stages of advancement for mankind over the last 2000 years began with the impetus of people whose lives were influenced by the Holy Scriptures. The book reads easily and keeps the attention of the reader as the author moves from one aspect of human development to another. He also explodes some myths along the way with clear and concise excerpts from personal letters, writings and biographies of the individuals about whom he writes. All in all, I would recommend this book to those who question the validity and potency of the Bible and to those who need to bolster their faith and resolve in the Book of books." -- Reader's Comment

*Kennedy, D. James (1930-2007), with Jerry Newcombe, What if Jesus had Never Been Born? The Positive Impact of Christianity in History, ISBN: 0785271783 9780785271789.
Hospitals, universities, literacy and education, capitalism and free-enterprise, representative government, separation of political powers, justice and common law, civil liberties, abolition of slavery, modern science, and so forth, can all be attributed to Christianity.

Kilpatrick, William, Why Johnny Can't Tell Right From Wrong, ISBN: 0671870734 9780671870737.

Kjos, Berit, Brave New Schools, ISBN: 1565073886 9781565073883.
"With concrete examples from public school material, Berit Kjos demonstrates how myths, feelings, and imagination have replaced facts, logic, and history in our classrooms. You can make a positive difference in your children's education by educating yourself first." -- Publisher

Levin, Mark R., Plunder and Deceit, ISBN: 9781451606300 1451606303.
"Several decades ago I spent a considerable amount of time querying young people in regards to their understanding of the Declaration of Independence whose preamble defined and emphasized the natural rights that belong to every individual. Since I was able to recite the preamble from memory I was shocked that not one of these youth, even vaguely, understood that our God-given rights were clearly stipulated within this document. My parents were both patriots but it was not they who were responsible for my having committed the preamble of the Declaration to memory. It was my high school American History teacher who demanded that the entire class do so. What public school teacher would do so today? What public school teacher could do so today? Generations of Americans have been denied the education required to maintain our republic and many have, alternatively, been successfully indoctrinated to dislike core American values, culture, traditions, history and the very men who gave us the Constitution upon which our republic is founded.
"America, once a land of opportunity that people the world over sought to immigrate to, based upon the organic principles of individual liberty and free markets, has become a nation more akin to the places people have fled from. Opportunity has been stymied by regulations and taxes. Radical egalitarianism has changed the concept of opportunity to one of redistribution using a pseudo altruism and implemented by a powerful, omnipresent central federal authority which represents the worst possible scenario that the 9th and 10th Constitutional Amendments sought to prevent. All branches of government, in complete disregard for the separation of powers doctrine, have melded together so as to act uniformly, in concert, not only against the will of the people but, even more importantly, against the very Constitution designed to prevent such a central coalition of power. Federal agencies and bureaucracies have escaped the confines of the Constitutional bulwarks and firewalls and rule with an iron fist from which there is often no recourse to defy their tyranny. Career, professional politicians are bought and paid for by lobbyists looking to achieve advantages not afforded by free markets and capitalism but by exception from government implemented regulations designed to restrain their competition. Large swathes of our population has succumbed to a reliance and dependency on government for medical care, retirement, food, clothing and shelter which can only be afforded by heavy taxation and borrowing implemented by inefficient government bureaucrats at a cost which is predicted to outdistance and devour our entire GDP for decades in order to succeed. America is heading towards an unsustainable future and it is doing so more rapidly than was ever imagined.
"Americans have had enough from the masters of the universe, the elites, the Washington based insiders whose covetousness of power and control has gone beyond critical mass. The American people have hired republicans en masse to do what they campaigned upon and promised. These politicians have been deceitful. To address their failure Donald Trump has heralded their deceit which earned him an instantaneous advantage within the republican field of primary candidates. Democrats, such as Nancy Pelosi, Harry Reid and Barack Obama love the direction American is heading. It is a progressive direction whose ethos, when adopted by governments, has failed since Plato's pathos attempted to supplant Hellenic World democracy with his vision of utopia.
"Mark Levin is doing what American Education has failed to do for decades. He is a historian, a Constitutional scholar, a philosopher and through both his radio show and books a superb educator who delivers powerful incriminations against progressive liberal ideology and politics. He addresses our political crisis through the hindsight of history and reminds us of the applicable solutions offered by the Founders of our Constitution, a document from which we have drifted, which has been criticized by Justice Ginsberg as inadequate for modern times and hailed by Ayn Rand as the single greatest legislative achievement in the history of Western Civilization. He is my High School American History teacher who familiarized her classes with the Declaration of Independence. He is an oracle through which the vision of our founders and their mentors is transmitted to generations of Americans who have been stigmatized against our nation by a centrally controlled education system and a media which continues to do so post graduation. I believe that this will be the greatest educational book he has written. I'm sure, as always, it will challenge us to understand that our liberty is bequeathed by natural law which each individual is heir to and which no government has the authority to deny." -- Reader's Comment

Mall, Thomas (b. 1629 or 30), The Axe at the Root of Professors Miscarriages. In a Plain Detection of, and a Wholesome Caveat Against the Miscarriages Opposite to Faith in God. By Thomas Mall, Minister of the Gospel.

McAllister, David, The Moral Ends of the State, 1906.

McAuley, John (1807-1883), Secular Versus Christian Education
http://www.covenanter.org/JMcauley/secularversuschristianed.htm

Morgan, John, Godly Learning: Puritan Attitudes Towards Reason, Learning, and Education, 1560-1640, ISBN: 0521235111 9780521235112.

Nash, Ron, and R.C. Sproul (foreword), The Closing of the American Heart: What's Really Wrong With American Schools, ISBN: 0945241119 9780945241119.
Understand why America has closed her heart to godly principles in our public schools.

Noebel, David A., The Battle for Truth, ISBN: 0736907823 9780736907828.
"Are you prepared for the pressures, temptations and issues of university? If your son or daughter is in university or is soon to go to university -- they need this title." -- Publisher

Protsenko, V., Lenin's Decrees on Public Education, ISSN: 0038-5360.

*Robbins, Alexandra, Pledged: The Secret Life of Sororities, ISBN: 0786888598 9780786888597.
Read the second edition of 2005, with 384 pages.
"As someone who attended a university without a Greek system, I've always been a bit curious about what my college experience would have been like in a sorority. Well, this book satisfied a lot of my curiosity.
"Robbins writes in narrative style, similar to the way Alex Kotlowitz writes. Fans of this style of journalism will love PLEDGED, as will anyone interested in learning more about the culture of sororities.
"I appreciated the thorough research included in this book about the histories or sororities, the national organizations, and how traditionally Black sororities differ. One caution: I've talked about this book with several people I know who are in sororities themselves. They have consistently said that this book is more accurate of sororities at southern universities, but that a lot is still true of sororities throughout the U.S. Excellent read!" -- Reader's Comment
"As Alexandra noted in the end -- it's not a book merely about the sororities, it's a book about women treating women. Yes, there is hazing in other organizations, clubs and such, but since they're not exclusively female they wouldn't be so helpful in analyzing the group dynamics. I've been working with the Greek houses on a state school campus for a while, and the book is very true. I can see how someone who's Greek could be offended by it, -- maybe you don't see the bigger picture? I personally didn't even think the book was to criticize the Greeks -- just give an overview of a group often overlooked." -- Reader's Comment
"A look inside the world of sorority life offers an eye-opening view of the drugs, psychological abuse, promiscuity, racism, violence, and other problems that are rampant among young women in a typical sorority." -- Publisher

Rugh, Charles Edward, Thomas P. Stevenson, Edwin Diller Starbuck, Frank Cramer, and George Edmund Myers, Moral Training in the Public Schools; The California Prize Essays.

*Rushdoony, Rousas J. (1916-2001), The Messianic Character of American Education.
"Charts the growth of public education in America and its function as a government tool of indoctrination into the secular humanist worldview."

Sommerville, Charles William, Some Modern Educational Tendencies Hurtful to the Development of the Highest Ideal of Character. An Address Delivered Before the Literary Societies of Hampden-Sidney College at the Commencement of its 128th session, June 14, 1904.

*Sowell, Thomas, Inside American Education: The Decline, the Deception, the Dogmas, ISBN: 0029303303 9780029303306.
"An indictment of the American educational system criticizes the fact that the system has discarded the traditional goals of transmitting knowledge and fostering cognitive skills in favor of building self-esteem and promoting social harmony. Our educational establishment -- a vast tax-supported empire existing quasi-independently within American society -- is morally and intellectually bankrupt, charges distinguished economist and social critic Thomas Sowell. And in this top-to-bottom tour of the mismanaged institutions, cynical leadership, and tendentious programs of American education, Sowell exposes the numerous 'deceptions and dogmas' that have concealed or sought to justify the steep and very dangerous decline in our educational standards and practices across the board. Among the more serious ills of American education are the technically sophisticated brainwashing techniques now being applied to children and teenagers in so-called 'affective education' programs; the special 'peace' and 'nuclear' education programs that actively promote 'politically correct' attitudes; the 'values clarification' and sex education curricula that portray parental and religious authority figures as agents of a repressive and unjust social and political orthodoxy; and the racial 'mini-establishments' created on college campuses by minority demagogues and complaisant administrators that enshrine a self-serving ideological double standard, thus betraying the real interests of minority students. Sowell's exhaustively researched investigation draws particular attention to the wide array of textbooks and other instructional materials, promoted with astonishing success by a multi-million dollar industry styling itself a 'secular humanist' movement, which fosters these ideas -- ideas that are not just anti-American, Sowell maintains, but essentially totalitarian in character. These sinister curricular developments, combined with often cowardly and irresponsible management more concerned about institutional image and ranking than with fiscal integrity or a commitment to educate our youth, will breed disaster unless immediate steps are taken to reform the entire educational system." -- Publisher

Sproul, R.C., Ken Ham, Douglas W. Phillips, Charles Laverdiere (editor), and Colin Gunn (film-maker), Indoctrination: Public Schools and the Decline of Christianity, ISBN: 9780890516850 0890516855.
"The companion book to the award-winning documentary 'IndoctriNation,' this eye-opening book includes:

An unforgettable introduction by a father who lost his son in the Columbine school massacre -- 'I put him in a pagan school where they teach there is no God.'

12 common reasons people give not to homeschool -- and the manageable reality of this educational alternative

Revealing, first-hand accounts of Christian educators working in public schools -- sharing the struggles they face in a hostile system

The classroom anti-Christian ideologies from humanism, Marxism, utopianism, educational psychology, and more confronting students in public schools today.
"Look behind the comfortable myths of an educational system actively at work to alter your child's moral values, worldview, and religious beliefs. Learn the history and philosophy of public school education -- and discover it is based on neither Christian nor American values. Explore the biblical principles regarding education -- and who is ultimately responsible for our children's future." -- Publisher

Sutton, Antony C., How the Order Controls Education.

Tinker, Melvin, That Hideous Strength: How the West was Lost: The Cancer of Cultural Marxism in the Church and the World, and the Gospel of Change, ISBN: 9781783972401 1783972408.
"Tinker borrows from the story of Babel in Genesis 11 and C.S. Lewis' book THAT HIDEOUS STRENGTH to make the case that the church today is involved in a spiritual battle of monumental proportion. The culprit is what Tinker calls 'cultural Marxism,' which he says is seeking a 'redefining and reconfiguring of reality.' (p. 62)
"Many Christians today are dismissing the notion of a 'culture war,' apparently because they don't want the reputation of being people who are always looking for a fight, but through numerous examples, Tinker shows that a concentrated effort is afoot that is seeking to erect a new Babel through higher education, media, sitcoms, indoctrination of children, social media and advertising. Too many Christians, in a desire to 'shun controversy' and maintain an 'easy-going manner' (p. 109), are shirking their responsibility to stand for truth, and the results will be catastrophic.
"As Lewis says: 'Emphasize only the natural fit between the Gospel and the spirit of the age and we will have an easy, comfortable gospel that is closer to our age then to the Gospel.' (101). Tinker says, 'those in the past who have made the greatest impact for the cause of truth have also been those who have engaged with the culture, exposing and refuting it and being willing to pay the price in terms of attracting the culture's reproach.' (104)" -- Reader's Comment

If it comes to this, that you shall say you have nothing to do with religion, as rulers of the nation, God will quickly manifest that he has nothing to do with you as rulers of the nation. Certainly it is incumbent upon you to take care that the faith which was once delivered to the saints, in all necessary concernments of it, may be protected, preserved, and propagated to and among the people over whom God has set you.

"Tod also briefly exhorts Civil Rulers upon how they ought to preserve the Sabbath. He ends the whole on a positive (post-mill), note,

"There may yet be retrogressions in the progress of knowledge, religion, virtue, and liberty, among different nations of the earth, and England may be among the fated number; but every ebbing of the tide of religious and moral improvement, like the smaller retrocessions of the waves of the ocean, which accumulate larger billows that roll over the former limits, every retrocession of the waves of religious and moral advancement among mankind will be succeeded by a higher and a higher tide of religious and moral advancement from the fountain of eternal truth, till the knowledge of the Lord shall cover the earth as the waters cover the sea." -- Steve Worth

United States. Congress. Senate. Committee on the Judiciary, Prayers in Public Schools and Other Matters: Hearings Before the Committee on the Judiciary, Eighty-seventh Congress, Second Session, on S.J. Res. 205, Proposing an Amendment to the Constitution of the United States to Permit the Offering of Prayers in Public Schools; S.J. Res. 206, proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States to permit the use of prayer in public schools; S.J. Res. 207, proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States permitting the offering of prayers and the reading of the bible in public schools in the United States and relating to the right of a state to enact legislation on the basis of its own public policy on questions of decency and morality; S. Con. Res. 81, that it is the sense of congress that the designation by a public school authority of a nonsectarian prayer does not constitute an establishment of religion [and] S. Res. 356, providing any public school system may provide time during the school day for prayerful meditation, July 26 and August 2, 1962.

USA Research (editors/publishers), Meeting the Challenge of a Nation at Risk: The National Commission on Excellence in Education, ISBN: 0917191048 9780917191046 091719103X 9780917191039.

*USA Research (editors/publishers), A Nation at Risk: The Full Account: The National Commission on Excellence in Education, ISBN: 0917191021 9780917191022.

*United States. National Commission on Excellence in Education, A Nation at Risk: The Imperative for Educational Reform: A Report to the Nation and the Secretary of Education, United States Department of Education by the National Commission on Excellence in Education, 1983.

Wagner, Michael G., Private Versus Public Education: The Alberta Debate, 1995.

White, Andrew Dickson, A History of the Warfare of Science With Theology in Christendom, ISBN: 0585012024 9780585012025.
Andrew Dickson White, A secular author, was the first President of Cornell, and its cofounder. He refused to give students at Cornell religious tests. He wrote A HISTORY OF THE WARFARE OF SCIENCE WITH RELIGION IN CHRISTENDOM, 2 volumes (1869) "in angry response" to critics. "As noble as his intentions may have been, the resulting book is a travesty and is largely responsible for creating the common Warfare Myth that has plagued the relationship between science and faith since the nineteenth century."

Whitehead, John, The Rights of Religious Persons in Public Education, ISBN: 0891077375 9780891077374.

Willard, Samuel (1639-1707), The Character of a Good Ruler as it was Recommended in a Sermon Preached Before His Excellency the Governour, and the Honourable Counsellors, and Assembly of the Representatives of the Province of Massachusetts Bay in New-England, May 30, 1694: Which was the day for election of counsellors for that province, by Samuel Willard.
Samuel Willard was pastor of a Church of Christ in Boston and Vice-President of Harvard College. See his other works.

Wolterstorff, Nicholas P., Educating for Responsible Action, ISBN: 0802818579 9780802818577.
"Helpful theories and strategies for moral education." -- Mark Branson

Wylie, James A. (1808-1890), The Road to Rome via Oxford: or, Ritualism Identical With Romanism.

Wylie, Richard Cameron, National Religion in the Public Schools, 1915.

Young, Mary de, The Ritual Abuse Controversy: An Annotated Bibliography, ISBN: 0786412593 9780786412594, indexes.
"The ritual abuse of children is the most controversial issue in the child maltreatment field, but much of what has been written about ritual abuse over the past twenty years is in the form of unpublished and endlessly reproduced 'stuff' -- curious mixture of conjecture, folkloric and pop-culture representations of satanism, devil worship, occultism and witchcraft, and Christian Fundamentalist images of premillennarian evil. What remains after this 'stuff' is excluded is an intriguing body of international literature that seriously examines the controversy.
"This annotated bibliography dissects the literature, objectively and thoroughly annotates published articles, books and reports, legal opinions, and occasionally, thought-provoking newspaper and magazine articles.
"Chapters deal with the definition of ritual abuse, ritual abuse cases in the United States, cases in American families and neighborhoods, cases in Canada, Europe and Australasia, clinical features of ritual abuse in children and adults, the controversy's impact on professionals and systems, the controversy and American law, ritual abuse reports and narratives, and anthropological, folkloric and sociological perspectives.
"Mary de Young, a professor of sociology and chair of the Department of Sociology at Grand Valley State University, lives in Grand Rapids, Michigan. She is the author of THE DAY CARE RITUAL ABUSE MORAL PANIC, published by McFarland and Company." -- Publisher
There may be something of interest here. We have not seen this bibliography. However, we feel it is highly unlikely that a secular compiler could produce an unbiased bibliography on ritual child abuse considering: 1) the most dangerous place for a child in America today is in their mother's womb, 2) most parents have given up their children's education to the public education system, and in 1983 The National Commission on Excellence in Education, in their report, A NATION AT RISK: THE IMPERATIVE FOR EDUCATIONAL REFORM, concluded that had public education been carried out by enemies of the United States, it could not be more harmful to the country, 3) The court system refuses to acknowledge the Ten Commandments (the summation of which is to love God and neighbor) as an ethical basis for modern, relative, arbitrary law, and 4) "although heterosexuals outnumber homosexuals by a ratio of at least 20 to 1, homosexual pedophiles commit about one-third of the total number of child sex offenses," and the courts are recognizing homosexual marriages as of equal status as heterosexual marriages, and so forth, and so on. -- compiler

See also: The utter failure of the u.s. constitution as a social deed of covenant, Socialism, communism, marxism, Home schooling, Sharing christ with your children, Problem solving with children, Counseling children, Protecting children from dangers, Preparing children for the world, Education, Mind control, intimidation, and coersion, The media, Public schools, public education, Secular humanism, Church and state, Pseudo-christian movements: a selection of works, Theater, sports, and entertainment, Modern myths and fallacies, Politics, Healing of the mind, Appendix c: psychology and psychiatry, Spiritual discernment, The decline of american society, irrationality, the decline of western thought, Male role and responsibility, gender equality, suffrage, reproductive rights, and the decline of american society, Absolute truth and relativism, Epistemology, Covenant theology and covenanting, Idolatry, Power, Carnality and flesh pleasing: lust, desires, ambition, pleasure, Church and state, Covetousness, greed, and selfishness, Sexual relationship, Spiritual adultery (spiritual whoredom/harlotry), and so forth, and so on.

Related Weblinks

The Autodidact (Self-taught)
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr9cha.html#atddct

Can we Trust the Textbooks, [audio file], Peter Hammond
Education has become a battleground. Anyone who believes that education can be neutral is mistaken. Ideas have consequences. Actions flow from thought patterns. How reliable are the textbooks in most schools? Should government be controlling education. . . . What resources are available to help us to ensure that our children receive real education and not secular humanist indoctrination? (Colossians 2:8)
https://www.facebook.com/peter.hammond.1217/posts/3262347453863114

The Christian and Politics #09: The Place of Biblical Law in our Society #1
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, The Christian and Politics
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=12705183429

Christian Scholarship
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr9cha.html#cschol

Epistemology of Theology, The Theory of Knowledge
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr1cha.html#epist

Over 60 percent of adults in the U.S. Prison System read at or below the fourth grade level

85 percent of U.S. juvenile inmates are functionally illiterate.

Adult inmates who received educational services while in prison had a 16 percent chance of returning to prison, as opposed to 70 percent for those who received no instruction. [this statistic not in citation given -- compiler]

43 percent of adults at the lowest level of literacy lived below the poverty line, as opposed to 4 percent of those with the highest levels of literacy.

"According to BeginToRead.com:

Two thirds of students who cannot read proficiently by the fourth grade will end up in jail or on welfare.

Three out of four individuals who receive food stamps read on the two lowest levels of literacy.

16 to 19 year old girls at the poverty level and below, with below average skills, are 6 times more likely to have out-of-wedlock children than their reading counterparts. . . .

A Nation in Decay (Part 1 of 4), Ravi Zacharias
"I don't care how powerful your economy could end up being. All I know is that if the moral fiber has collapsed, there is not a nation in this world that can stand." -- Ravi Zacharias
"Have you neglected the inner core of Christianity? Do you feel like morality is disappearing in our nation? Ravi Zacharias explores the dangers of this gradual change and the similarities between ancient Israel and our society today."
https://www.rzim.org/listen/just-thinking/a-nation-in-decay-part- 1-of-4
https://www.rzim.org/listen/just-thinking/a-nation-in-decay-part- 2-of-4
https://www.rzim.org/listen/just-thinking/a-nation-in-decay-part- 3-of-4
https://www.rzim.org/listen/just-thinking/a-nation-in-decay-part- 4-of-4

National Council on Bible Curriculum in Public Schools
http://www.goshen.net/Ministries/ncbcps/

The New Age: The Foreign Bird With a Local Walk, Ravi Zacharias
"In essence, the New Age is clearly an attempt at mitigating the bankruptcy of secularism with the spurious glitter of Eastern mysticism. In its impact, it is worldwide. What does it say? Why is it gaining so much ground? What are its philosophical breaking points?"
https://www.rzim.org/listen/let-my-people-think/the-new-age-the-foreign-bird-with-a-local-walk-part-1

The OPE Campus Security Statistics Website
http://www.ope.ed.gov/security/

The Puritan Political Heritage
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Puritan Heritage, 47 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=922039503

Regulations at Yale College (1745)
Showing the centrality of Calvinism and the Westminster Confession in Colonial higher education.
http://www.constitution.org/primarysources/yale.html

Report Card Report: America's Best Websites for School Profiles
Would you like to see how your child's school compares with others? A new Heritage Foundation Website may be the answer. Www.heritage.org/reportcards provides access to school rating reports not only for parents seeking information on schools they might want to put their child into, but also for those seeking more information on the school their child already is in. Compiled by Heritage education analyst Thomas Dawson and researcher Mira Zawadzki, "Report Card Report: America's Best Websites for School Profiles," is a valuable resource not only for parents, but also educators and lawmakers. The Heritage report card Website provides links to scores of Websites that provide a range of information on schools in districts across the nation, including academic rankings, test scores, student-teacher ratios, enrollment totals, per-student expenditures, and percentages of special-education students.
http://www.heritage.org/reportcards

A Resolution to Combat Mind Control With Truth
http://www.lettermen2.com/mindc.html

Speaking on Calvinism
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, 53 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=8110391415

State Schooling, Benjamin Marks
"Government schools are non-market entities. The government enforces attendance, curriculum, and financing. Praxeologically (looking at the logical implications of human action), compulsory attendance is abduction, compulsory curriculum is indoctrination, and compulsory financing is theft.
http://www.lewrockwell.com/orig5/marks3.html

Works of C. Gregg Singer
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr3ch.html#cgsinger

DVD, Multimedia

Note: Video/VHF/DVD have been listed here as of June 23, 2015. An attempt has been made to label all a "DVD" assuming that most video/VHF tapes have been made available in DVD format. There are so many counseling audio cassette/VHF/videos/DVDs that only a few representative titles are listed here. For a more extensive listing search the websites for various biblical counseling ministries.
A description of the dissolute, and their irreverent language, does injure. Nor is it even necessary for literature to be specifically immoral to have this effect. Books that constantly convey a purely secular mindset, that treat the present world as though it were the only world, that studiously avoid truths revealed in Scripture (unless to scoff) -- such books impart a godless view of life, and teach their readers to regard this world as the only "reality." -- Iain Murray, in The Undercover Revolution: How Fiction Changed Britain, p. 69

2100 Productions and InterVarsity Press, Called to the Marketplace, 2 DVDs.
"Men and women in health care, business, law, the arts, banking, and education share principles they've discovered in the marketplace, and how to apply those principles daily. . . . What career is best for you? What does God expect from your work? How can you live out Jesus' call to service, witness, and righteousness? Find out -- from Christians in your own field -- how to serve God through your career. . ." -- Publisher

*Achbar, Mark, and Jennifer Abbott (directors), The Corporation (2004), DVD encoded Region 1 (U.S. and Canada only), Zeitgeist Video DVD; April 5, 2005. Run Time: 145.
"This is an extraordinary film about the creation of the American corporation, its legal organizational model, its global economic dominance and its psychopathic tendencies, and its incredible ambition to influence every aspect of culture in its unrelenting pursuit of profit.
"The Corporation" was spawned from Joel Bakan's in depth book, THE CORPORATION: A PATHOLOGICAL PURSUIT OF PROFIT AND POWER (See annotation above). The film and book begins in the 18th century, in the establishment of the 14th Amendment. Initially the 14th Amendment was designed after the Civil War to give ex-slaves' legal rights, like any other citizen of the United States, but through a maze of legal precedents, the business corporation organization model was now deemed a 'legal person' with all the civil rights accorded to a citizen. This highly absurd precedent has paved the way for corporations to literally get away with murder, because a 'corporation' is not an individual that you can put in jail. In effect, a corporation has no moral or social obligations; their only obligation is the pursuit of profit. This film offers numerous examples of unethical practices resulting in death for many people, and because of their [corporations] status under the 14th Amendment, and endless legal loopholes, [they] have gotten away with terrible crimes against humanity and the environment with no more than a fine, a mere slap on the wrist.
"As the law treats corporations as 'persons,' Bakan thought it appropriate to put the various behaviors of these companies under psychological examination. What this psychological study illustrated is that corporations, as 'persons' behave and display the symptoms of the clinical psychopath. A psychopath typically does not have a social conscience, is guilt free after committing heinous acts, and will destroy anything or anybody that prevents them from attaining the object of their particular obsession -- in this case, the relentless pursuit of profit.
"This documentary took several years to produce with over 650 hours of footage directors, Jennifer Abbot and Mark Achbar, had to chisel down this amazing amount of material into a comprehensible film. What is most astounding is the range of people interviewed for this film, that argue from all sides of the 'corporation issue:' Ira Jackson, Ray Anderson -- CEO of Interface, the world's largest carpet manufacturer; Noam Chomsky, Richard Grossman, Howard Zinn, Michael Moore, Milton Freidman, Noble Prize winning economist; Jeremy Rifkin, President, Foundation of Economic Trends; Dr. Robert Hare, Consultant to the FBI on psychopaths, and many more individuals from all sides of the debate.
"When Bakan wrote his book and then collaborated with Mark Achbar to produce this film, what they did not want was the film to appear as just some left-wing diatribe, attacking the corporations, but to illustrate to people how the corporation began, how they have evolved and what they could well turn into if the people do not become involved in the democratic process, ensuring our governments take back the reigns of power.
"After viewing this film, it becomes all too evident that these large corporations have too much power, whose mandate is not the common good of the people, and who will go to any lengths, legally and otherwise, in the pursuit of profit and the bottom line.
"I believe this is one of the best and most important documentary films to be made in many years. This work is an expos� of legal tyranny." -- C. Middleton
"An epic in length and breadth, this documentary aims at nothing less than a full-scale portrait of the most dominant institution on the planet Earth in our lifetime -- a phenomenon all the more remarkable, if not downright frightening, when you consider that the corporation as we know it has been around for only about 150 years. It used to be that corporations were, by definition, short-lived and finite in agenda. If a town needed a bridge built, a corporation was set up to finance and complete the project; when the bridge was an accomplished fact, the corporation ceased to be. Then came the 19th-century robber barons, and the courts were prevailed upon to define corporations not as get-the-job-done mechanisms but as persons under the 14th Amendment with full civil rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness (i.e., power and profit) -- ad infinitum.
"The Corporation defines this endlessly mutating life-form in exhaustive detail, measuring the many ways it has not only come to dominate but to deform our reality. The movie [Mark Achbar and Jennifer Abbott], performs a running psychoanalysis of this entity with the characteristics of a prototypical psychopath: a callous unconcern for the feelings and safety of others, an incapacity to experience guilt, an ingrained habit of lying for profit, etc. We are swept away on a demented odyssey through an altered cosmos, in which artificial chemicals are created for profit and incidentally contribute to a cancer epidemic; in which the folks who brought us Agent Orange devise a milk-increasing drug for a world in which there is already a glut of milk; in which an American computer company leased its systems to the Nazis -- and serviced them on a monthly basis -- so that the Holocaust could go forward as an orderly process. . . ." -- Richard T. Jameson
The Corporation
Website for the documentary movie and DVD, "The Corporation."
http://www.thecorporation.com/

*American Family Studios, Logic on Fire: The Life and Legacy of Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones, DVD.
"This is the official Martyn Lloyd-Jones documentary. When Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones (1899-1981) gave a series of lectures on the subject of preaching in 1969, he coined the phrase that became an emblematic description of his own ministry: 'What is preaching?' He asked. 'Logic on fire!' But what exactly does it mean, and how does it manifest? "Logic on Fire: The Life and Legacy of Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones" charts the story of this most remarkable man, widely considered to be one of the most influential preachers of the 20th century. Medically trained at St. Bartholomew's Hospital in London, Lloyd-Jones shocked many when he announced he would leave medicine to become the pastor of a small church in Aberavon, Wales. He was eventually called to Westminster Chapel in central London, where he gained considerable national influence and international renown for his dynamic expository preaching. More than simply a recounting of the man's life, 'Logic on Fire' examines Lloyd-Jones' home life, his spiritual influences, the emphasis he brought to his to pastorates, the way he sought a union of 'logic' and 'fire' in preaching, as well as his continued relevance and influence in conservative evangelicalism today. Featuring interviews with his family, official biographer, and many close friends, as well as international ministers who have been influenced by the Doctor's preaching, 'Logic on Fire' emphasizes not only the need for clarity in preaching, tenderness and pastoring, and carefulness in worship, but also a humble dependence upon God to make the work of the ministry effective." -- Publisher

American Portrait Films, Amazing Grace -- Calvinism (10 Pack).
American Portrait Films, Amazing Grace: The History and Theology of Calvinism With Study Guide.

*American Portrait Films, For Life: A Catalog of Pro-life Video Titles, DVD series (Cleveland, OH [American Portrait Films, Inc., P.O. Box 19266, Cleveland 44119]: American Portrait Films, Inc., 1992).
"This catalog represents pro-life titles we believe worthy of owning and sharing with others. You will find timely, related subjects here, from teenage sexuality, to the treatment of pro-life activists, to the advent of 'mercy killing' in our hospitals and nursing homes.
"In the near future American Portrait Films will be carrying a large number of instructional and wholesome entertainment videos. . . ." -- John A. Hocevar
Select titles produced by American Portrait Films: "Hard Truth," "Parents' Rights Denied," "The Silent Scream," "The Brutal Truth," "Tell the Truth: Rally for Life '90," "America Speaks Up For Life," "No Alibis," "Your Crisis Pregnancy," "The Massacre of Innocence," "The Hidden Holocaust," and many more.
American Portrait Films
We now offer (2002) over 30 Christian creation science videos, young earth creationism videos, creation science videos, and videos on other creationist topics as well as 100 other thought provoking pro life, pro family videos.
http://www.americanportraitfilms.com/

American Portrait Films, The Massacre of Innocence: The Occult Roots of Abortion, DVD.

*American Portrait Films, Gregg Cunningham, Kemper Crabb, Center for Bio-Ethical Reform, and Reel to Real Ministries, Hard Truth: The Pro-life Tool of the Decade (Cleveland, OH [American Portrait Films, Inc., P.O. Box 19266, Cleveland 44119]: American Portrait Films, Inc., 1992), DVD.
"I honestly have never seen anything quite so powerful -- or quite so anointed." -- George Grant
"The 'Hard Truth' shatters the myth of choice." -- Carol Everett.
Hard Truth: The Pro-life Tool of the Decade
http://www.americanportraitfilms.com/shop/item.aspx?itemid=308

American Portrait Films, Robert V. Gentry, David W. Gentry, Mike Lee Beesley, Glenn Aufderhar, E. Lonnie Melashenko, The Young Age of the Earth, DVD, ISBN: 0934837899 9780934837897.
"Provides revolutionary new scientific evidence which clearly shows that the Earth is actually quite young (i.e. less than 10,000 years old)."
American Portrait Films
We now offer (2002), over 30 Christian creation science videos, young earth creationism videos, creation science videos, and videos on other creationist topics as well as 100 other thought provoking pro life, pro family videos.
http://www.americanportraitfilms.com/

*Baehr, Ted, The Christian Family Guide to Movies and Videos: Volumes I and II, DVD. ISBN: 0943497612 9780943497617.
"This is a very helpful guide. . . ." -- GCB

Baehr, Ted, Hollywood's Reel of Fortune: A Winning Strategy to Redeem the Entertainment Industry.
"Explains the power and impact of the movie industry upon our society and analyzes the moral problems currently besetting our nation. He outlines specific remedial actions we can all take to correct a situation that has long been allowed to exist." -- CRM
"A critique that is both professionally informed and Biblically reasoned. . . ." -- George Grant

Barker, F., Jr., Conducting Spiritual Warfare (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Audio cassette FB101 [audio file], video V001, DVD.

Barna, George, Robert Lewis, and Dwight Gunter, Revolution, 2006, DVD. Alternate title: "Healthy Churches Respond to the Revolution."
Supplements Barna's book, REVOLUTION, 2005.

Bennett, Richard, The Accomplishments of Pope John Paul II, DVD. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.

Bennett, Richard, The Alignment of New Evangelicals With Apostasy (and A Rebuke to the Signers of Evangelicals and Catholics Together), a PDF, DVD, and MP3 [audio file]. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
"A clear call to biblical separation from Rome and 'Protestants' (the harlot daughters of Rome), who teach and practice Roman Catholic doctrine. Richard Bennett is an ex Romanist priest who has become a Calvinist and here demonstrates the advantage he has in rebuking wayward Protestants as they fall into Romish errors regarding salvation (e.g. justification), and worship (e.g. baptism). Focusing on the backsliding of men like Chuck Colson, J.I. Packer, John Stott, Pat Robertson, Bill Bright (Campus Crusade), and others (like the two Jesuits), who signed the Evangelicals and Catholics Together (ECT) documents, Bennett shows how these men are upholding Antichrist (the Papacy) and the teaching of the Council of Trent. This message will also help to refute the Romanist heresies (on justification, assurance, baptism, etc.), of the New Perspectives on Paul (NPP) movement as recently proclaimed through the Auburn Avenue Pastors Conference (AAPC), which included Doug Wilson, Steve Schlissel, Steve Wilkins, and John Barach." -- Publisher

Bennett, Richard, The Antichrist Unveiled, DVD. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.

Bennett, Richard, The Biblical Uncovering of the Pope and the Papacy (Is the Papacy the Antichrist?), DVD. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.

Bennett, Richard, Catholic Sacraments, DVD. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.

Bennett, Richard, Evangelicals Embark to Papal Rome, DVD107, DVD.
"An account of the drastic departure from true evangelicalism the Nottingham Conference 1977 to March 1994 and Evangelicals and Catholics Together and much more by Richard Bennett and Michael de Semlyen narrated by Brian Haskin. This presentation highlights all the major apostasies of modern times. It also clearly gives the Gospel of the Lord's grace to His glory and for the salvation of souls." -- Publisher
http://archive.org/details/EvangelicalsEmbarkToPapalRome

Bennett, Richard, The Papacy: Its History and Nature, DVD. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.

Bennett, Richard, Reformation and Papacy Compared (Inquisition), DVD. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.

Bennett, Richard, Thomas Aquinas's Influence, DVD. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.

Bennett, Richard, Who is Ratzinger Pope Benedict XVI? (With Proof From Scripture That the Papacy is the Antichrist), DVD. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.

Bennett, Richard, Who is the Vicar of Christ? DVD. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.

Bollinger, Ty, The Truth About Cancer: A Global Quest -- The True History of Chemo and the Pharmaceutical Monopoly,
This is the first of a series of 12 DVDs entitled "The Truth About Cancer."
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KqJAzQe7_0g

*Bowers, Curtis, Agenda 2: Masters of Deceit, DVD documenatry.
"This is an important documentary with an important message for all. If you're looking for a film that will tell the truth about the state of our country unashamedly, then you need to see AGENDA 2: MASTERS OF DECEIT. This film will wake you up and expose the truth about communism in our government. If this is a subject simply to blow off or make fun of, we are only allowing those in power to win and continue pushing their agenda. This is a critical film to watch and discuss. And more importantly, we must take action, fighting for what we believe in. If we watch this film and vow to help Curtis Bowers on his quest to help America again, we can turn our country back. AGENDA 2: MASTERS OF DECEIT is a must-see film for all American Christians." -- Publisher
https://www.fishflix.com/products/agenda-2-masters-of-deceit-dvd-christian-movies?variant=34362795473

*Bowers, Curtis, Agenda: Grinding America Down, DVD documentary (2010).
"When Idaho Legislator Curtis Bowers wrote a 'letter to the editor' about the drastic changes in America's culture, it became the feature story on the evening news, people protested at the Capitol, and for weeks the local newspapers were filled with responses. He realized then . . . he'd hit on something. Ask almost anyone and you'll hear, 'Communism is dead! The Berlin Wall came down.' Thought the word communism isn't used anymore, this film will show the ideas behind it are alive and well. Join Bowers for a fascinating look at the people and groups that have successfully targeted America's morality and freedom in their effort to grind America down. It's a well documented AGENDA." -- Publisher
https://www.imdb.com/title/tt2360880/?ref_=ttpl_pl_tt

British Broadcasting Corporation, BBC2, A History of Scotland, part 6, "God's Chosen People: The Covenanters," DVD series.
"The first five parts of 'A History of Scotland' cut a swathe through from Roman times to the Stewart ascension to the throne of England as well as Scotland.
"Now presenter Neil takes the story up from 1600s to the modern day in the remaining five parts of the series through times of international wealth and 20th-century industrial decline.
"In the sixth of this 10-part series, the focus is on the Covenanters and a time, 1638-1688, when the country was riven with religious tension.
"After Great Britain was founded, the Scots began to find themselves torn between their natural affinity to their ancient line of Stewart Kings and their intense religious conviction. Should they follow King Charles I or King Jesus? When Charles I tried to impose his form of religion on the Scots, they were forced to choose.
"Entitled 'God's Chosen People', tonight's episode is about the forging and impact of two of the most remarkable documents in Scottish history which broke the power of the Stewart kings: the Covenants (of 1638 and 1643) -- written contracts with God in which the Scottish Covenanters sought not only to redefine their own place in Britain, but also Britain itself."
http://www.flickr.com/photos/scotstom/sets/72157622638846841/

Brown, John, Citizens for Honest Government, and Jeremiah Films, Inc., The Clinton Chronicles: An Investigation Into the Alleged Criminal Activities of Bill Clinton, DVD, ISBN: 9781576181003 1576181006.
"For the first time on video, a documentary that puts together the whole story! -- The names and faces of the key players who Clinton used to build his Circle of Power as well as those who got in his way and lost their jobs, reputations, virtue and lives! From Whitewater to ADFA . . . From millions in drug smuggling in Mena, Arkansas, to money laundering with the BCCI . . . From Gennifer Flowers to Paula Jones . . . From Vince Foster's 'suicide' to the gangland slaying of private investigator Jerry Parks." -- Publisher

Buchman, Sidney, and Frank Capra, Frank Capra's Mr. Smith Goes to Washington, DVD, ISBN: 0767828011 9780767828017.

Buckley, William F., Alistair Cooke, Robert MacNeil, F. Clifton White (Hoover Institution Archives), The Influence of TV on American Politics, DVD.
"The question for this debate is whether or not television runs America. An example used is the attempted 1968 Republican nomination of California Governor Ronald Reagan. The guests talk about their feelings regarding the televised Reagan-Kennedy debate on Vietnam. Although Reagan failed to get the nomination, his exposure on television helped make him a national political figure." -- Publisher

Callahan, Daniel, and Mayo Video Communications, Rationed Health Care, 1991, DVD.
"This short book presents a critical analysis of existing institutional structures in the American health system, as well as an appraisal of theory in medical sociology. In the introductory section we consider medicine as a social institution and the sociopolitical context of illness. In Section 2, after discussing previous theoretical positions in medical sociology, we outline an alternative theoretical approach. Section 3 attempts to show that the sick role, by providing a controllable form of deviance, mitigates potential conflicts in such institutions as prisons, the armed forces, and the Selective Service System; by helping prevent conflicts, the sick role reduces the probability of basic institutional change. Stratification in medicine is the topic of Section 4; the control of information is studied as a major source of medical stratification. In Section 5 we analyze the problem of empire building in American medicine, with emphasis on the major proposed reforms in the health system-national health insurance and health maintenance organizations. The study concludes with a brief discussion of the relationships between improved health care and broad sociopolitical change." -- Publisher

Caouette, Jonathan, Tarnation, 2004, DVD.
We recommend this documentary to mature individuals who are concerned about Mental Health Policy in his country, but who have never had the experience of caring for persons who are emotionally disturbed, having them as neighbors, or working with them. It will educate the viewer on the nature of the problem of "mental illness." Part of the problem is their characteristic appeal for respectability and sympathy. I sense this was a subliminal motivation for the documentary. Caouette turned out a homosexual, and seems to be accepting it as an alternative life style.
Caouette videoed his life and edited his archives to tell the story of growing up with a schizophrenic mother. So this is a glimpse of the reality of growing up in an emotionally disturbed and dysfunctional family.
It also dramatizes the failure of psychiatry.
"A multitude of family snapshots, Super-8 home movies, old answering machine messages, video diaries, early short films, snippets of '80s pop culture, and dramatic reenactments are used to create an epic portrait of an American family travesty. Begins in 2003 when Jonathan learns that his schizophrenic mother, Renee, overdoses on her lithium medication. He is shot back into his real and horrifying family legacy of rape, abandonment, promiscuity, drug addiction, child abuse, and psychosis. He grows up on camera and finds his escape in musical theater and B-horror movies. A look into the future shows Jonathan as he confronts the almost unbearable love he shares with his tragically damaged mother." -- Publisher

Casey, George, Paul Novros, Mose Richards, Phillip Clarke, and Rosalind Ayres, The Great Barrier Reef, DVD, ISBN: 1584480351 9781584480358.
"Viewers will experience not only the beauty of the reef, but will learn of its complex ecosystem, symbiotic relationships and the extreme fragility of its environment." -- Publisher

Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation, San Diego, Advanced Course on Biblical Counseling, DVD, (Westminster Media).

Christian Faith Ministries, The Scottish Covenanters, DVD.
"They suffered fierce opposition that left them bereft of property and possessions. Hundreds died during these years as the state records show. They were counted as outlaws, rebels and fanatics in order to procure our freedom. This program presents a penetrating look at a movement in 17th-century Scotland that is little known today but whose courage and fortitude are woven into the fabric of the Scottish people. The Covenanters covenanted with God for the good of the people. This video covers the story of fifty years with a short prelude to help understand the reason why they acted as they did. Their conflict was basically spiritual, but, due to prevailing and constant persecution, they were drawn into deeper conflicts and complexities. They fought long and hard for the crown rights and prerogatives of Christ over his church with devastating results upon themselves." -- Publisher

Climpson, Roger, Lance Lambert, and Hugh Kitson, Jerusalem, the Covenant City, DVD, ISBN: 1563648199 9781563648199.
"Tells the story of Jerusalem from the Jewish perspective. Recounts the biblical history of the city and the modern day fulfillment of Old and New Testament prophecies. Provides a glimpse of what the future holds for one of the most hotly contested areas in the Middle East.
"See where Jesus of Nazareth lived and preached a message that reached out across eternity, radiating from the Sea of Galilee and its fertile mountains to parched southern deserts, from the rolling hills of Samaria to the sacred slopes of Jerusalem. Experience the wonder of a visit to the sites that to this day bear witness to Jesus' life and work. Learn how the entire sweep of biblical history points to the future of this glorious land, from the days of the Patriarchs and Matriarchs to the reign of Israel's Kings, the era of Roman and Byzantine rule, the Crusader Kingdom and right up to modern times." -- Publisher
"If you ever wanted to experience the Holy Land of Israel -- the land of Jesus Christ and the prophets, sitting at your home, you couldn't have asked for a better DVD. I have seen many DVDs on the Holy Land, but this one really ranks as the best. Capturing the essence of the Holy Land, this spectacular DVD makes the sights and sounds of the Holy Land come alive. Exciting and informative, it carries you on a journey back in time and retraces from the beginning to Jesus and up until today, many of the important places and events in the Bible. There are locations of Old Testament like Beer Sheba, Hebron, Egypt, Jericho, Mt. Carmel, Jaffa, Ashkelon -- to name a few. The tombs of Patriarchs and Matriarchs of Old Testament are also shown in the DVD. A major portion of the DVD has been devoted to the places of New Testament. The documentary exhibits many churches erected throughout the Holy Land marking special events described in the New Testament which attract millions of pilgrims all over the world. One can stand in faith to witness the star of Bethlehem (the traditional place where Jesus is said to have been born) in the holy cave beneath the Church of Nativity in Bethlehem. One can stand in awe and set his eyes on the streets of Via Dolorosa, the path Jesus followed carrying His cross and the Calvary where Jesus was crucified. One can stand up and praise the Lord while looking upon at the empty tomb of Jesus. There are many important places shown (like Lazarus's tomb, Garden of Gethsemane, Mount of Olives, the room of Lord Supper etc.), connected with the life of Jesus that I think every Christian must be a witness to. The documentary not only ends after Jesus but also goes further on to describe the important events happened in the history of Holy Land right up to the freedom of the state of Israel in 1948. At this time, I am reminded of the famous reply Philip gave to Nathanael in John 1:46 when the latter asked him whether any good thing could come out of Nazareth. Philip simply replied Come and see. Well friends, this DVD is definitely worth seeing. Buy this title and share it with everybody. I certainly hope that this DVD will prove to be as much a blessing to you as it has been to me!!!
"PS -- To experience the Holy Land of Israel with all its majestic landscape in a hardcover, I strongly recommend the beautiful book IMAGES OF THE HOLY LAND by the Israeli photographer Hanan Isachar (ISBN: 9652800856). Further, if you are genuinely interested to know about amazing discoveries on Noah's Ark, Real Mount Sinai, Red Sea Crossing Site, Sodom and Gomorrah and Ark of the Covenant, I strongly recommend that you go to the website of Wyatt Museum which has all these discoveries covered on DVDs." -- Reader's Comment

*Coral Ridge Ministries, Taking Liberties: The Betrayal of our Heritage, DVD (Fort Lauderdale, FL: Coral Ridge Ministries).
A one-hour television special available in the form of a transcript, audio cassette [audio file], video cassette [DVD] or CD.
"Perhaps there is no other concept more important than liberty in understanding America."
A brilliant presentation of the concepts of liberty by a wide range of authorities.

Crown Video, Final Solution, Special Edition DVD (Crown Video, November 25, 2008), ISBN: 1894300874 9781894300872, 106 Minutes.
"Based on a true story . . .
"This Special Edition set contains the award winning feature film Final Solution, the documentary From one Blood featuring Gerrit Wolfaardt, the man on which the feature film is based, behind the scenes footage, bonus features and a study guide in PDF form. Final Solution is an amazing testimony of the incredible power of God to transform lives. Gerrit Wolfaardt was radically changed from a life of hatred and violence -- not to simply to tolerance -- but to genuine love. Only God can cause so deep a transformation.
From One Blood invites viewers into the living room and lives of Gerrit and Celeste Wolfaardt. Gerrit relays his personal story and throughout the documentary, short clips from the movie are cut in to emphasize what he is telling us. Today, Gerrit travels the globe preaching biblical reconciliation. Formerly sold individually, this two-disc DVD set provides an excellent value.
"Awards that this film has received: | Crown Award Winner for Best Drama Over $250,000 (Gold) | Crown Award Winner for Best Picture (Gold) | Heartland Film Festival Winner (Crystal Heart Award) | Worldfest Houston International Film Festival Winner (GOLD) | Down Under Film Festival Winner (Best Soundtrack and Best Film) | Sabaoth International Film Festival (Best Director and Best Film).
"This film is not appropriate for children due to violence and thematic elements."
"Afrikaner Gerrit Wolfaardt was born into prejudice. Everything he had been taught since childhood -- from his family, his church and his culture -- told him that apartheid, or separateness, was right and natural. He became a self-proclaimed disciple of Hitler, and hatched a diabolical plan to rid South Africa of the 'Black Danger.' His ideology was challenged by Celeste, who later became his wife, and by the book CRY THE BELOVED COUNTRY. In this documentary, Gerrit shares the amazing journey that resulted in his radical transformation." -- Publisher

Drynan, Pamela, Concetta Russo, Ichthus Audio Video Ministries, Christian Faith Ministries (Fraserburgh, Scotland), and Gateway Films, Scottish Covenanters, 1998, DVD.
This video presents a penetrating look at a movement in 17th-century Scotland that is little known today. The Scottish Covenanters fought long and hard for the crown rights and prerogatives of Christ over His Church with devastating results upon themselves. They suffered fierce opposition that left them bereft of property and possessions. Hundreds died during these years as the State Records show. They were counted as outlaws, rebels and fanatics in order to procure our freedom." -- Publisher

Duncan, Dayton, Ken Burns, Peter Coyote, Florentine Films, WETA-TV (Washington, D.C.), The National Parks: America's Best Idea, DVD, ISBN: 1415749515 9781415749517 0793694876 9780793694877.
"Traces the birth of the national park idea in the mid-1800s and follows its evolution for nearly 150 years. Using archival photographs, first-person accounts of historical characters, personal memories and analysis from more than 40 interviews, and what Burns believes is the most stunning cinematography in Florentine Films' history, the series chronicles the steady addition of new parks through the stories of the people who helped create them and save them from destruction." -- Abstract

*Eternal Productions (firm), Jim Tetlow, John Clement Whitcomb, and Dan Sheedy, God of Wonders: Exploring the Wonders of Creation, Conscience, and the Glory of God, DVD, ISBN: 1573411566 9781573411561.
Contents: Introduction | God of power | Thunderstorms | Sun/Stars | Universe | E=mc2 | God of wisdom | Snow crystals | DNA | Seeds | Flowering plants | Sea creatures | Birds | Hummingbirds | Butterflies | Mankind | God of justice | God of love.
"Join us on a remarkable journey of discovery as we explore the Creator's handiwork and what His creation reveals about His character. Survey the unimaginable size of the universe and ponder the vast energy present in all matter. Examine the elegant water molecule essential to all life and discover how God combines these molecules to form beautiful and symmetrical snow crystals. Learn about the incredible complexity of DNA and the miraculous workings of the tiny seed. From the functional design of birds to the transformation of butterflies, these and many other features of creation are highlighted in this visually stunning presentation." -- Publisher

Federer, William J., Political Islam's war With the West, a DVD, ISBN: 9780982710128, 0982710127. Alternate title: ISLAMIC CONQUEST: PAST AND PRESENT.
"In spite of being involved in a war on terror, most Americans know little about Islam, the Quran and the life of Mohammed. Within just 100 years of Mohammed's death, his followers conquered the lands from the Indian Ocean to the Atlantic Ocean, including North Africa, the Holy Land, Persia and Spain.
"Now we ask: 'What will the political forces within Islam mean for the future of the world?'
"In 'Political Islam's War on the West,' William J. Federer leads a fascinating adventure through time as he recounts the events, personalities and conflicts that form a cohesive picture of the struggle between Islam and the West. (eight 30 minute episodes)" -- Publisher
"Disc 1: Mohammed the Religious Leader | Mohammed the Political/Military Leader | The Koran and Early Islam Inventions
Disc 2: The Way of Mohammed and the Way of Christ | The Spread of Islam | The 100 Year Expansion
Disc 3: The Crusades | The Barbary Pirates"

Ferguson, Charles, Inside Job, (2010) a DVD.
"Inside Job provides a comprehensive analysis of the global financial crisis of 2008, which at a cost over $20 trillion, caused millions of people to lose their jobs and homes in the worst recession since the Great Depression, and nearly resulted in a global financial collapse. Through exhaustive research and extensive interviews with key financial insiders, politicians, journalists, and academics, the film traces the rise of a rogue industry which has corrupted politics, regulation, and academia. It was made on location in the United States, Iceland, England, France, Singapore, and China." -- Anonymous
"Derivatives and credit swaps are ingenious, computer-driven schemes in which good money can be earned from bad debt, and Wall Street's Masters of the Universe pocket untold millions while they bankrupt their investors and their companies. This process is explained in Charles Ferguson's Inside Job, an angry, well-argued documentary about how the American financial industry set out deliberately to defraud the ordinary American investor. The crucial error was to allow financial institutions to trade on their own behalf. Today, many large trading banks are betting against their own customers.
"In the real estate market, banks aggressively promoted mortgages to people who could not afford them. These were assembled in packages. They were carried on the books as tangible assets when they were worthless. The institutions assembling them hedged their loans by betting against them. A Chicago group named Magnetar was particularly successful in creating such poisoned instruments for the sole purpose of hedging against them. Most of the big Wall Street players knew exactly what the 'Magnetar Trade' was and welcomed it. The more mortgages failed, the more money they made. They actually continued to sell the bad mortgages to their clients as good investments.
"Gene Siskel, who was a wise man, gave me the best investment advice I've ever received. 'You can never outsmart the market, if that's what you're trying to do,' he said. 'Find something you love, for reasons you understand, that not everyone agrees with you about, and put your money in it.' The stocks I thought of were Apple, Google and Steak 'n Shake. I bought some shares. That was a long time ago. Reader, if I had invested every penny I had on Gene's advice, today I would be a Master of the Universe." -- Reader's Comment
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1645089/

Ferguson, Niall, The Ascent of Money Boom and Bust (PBS Home Video), DVD, ISBN: 0793670519 9780793670512.
"Bestselling author, economist and historian Niall Ferguson takes a look at how money evolved, from the concept of credit and debt in the Renaissance to the emergence of a global economy and the subprime crisis we face today." -- Publisher

Films for the Humanities and Sciences, Genocide: The Horror Continues, a DVD, ISBN 9781421318202.
"State-sanctioned violence has always existed, but technological advances have facilitated its use as a viable means of exerting political power. This program continues the examination of the history of genocide, focusing on the 1921 Tulsa Race Riot, the 1923 Rosewood Massacre, Stalin's forced Ukrainian famine, the Japanese Rape of Nanking, and the Holocaust. A host of survivors, experts, and scholars include Martha Barnett, president of the American Bar Association; Eddie Faye Gates; Iris Chang, author of THE RAPE OF NANKING; Yehuda Bauer, director of the Yad Vashem International Institute for Holocaust Research; and Nobel laureate Elie Wiesel. Viewer discretion is advised." -- Publisher

Fredericks, Andrew (director), Money-Driven Medicine: What's Wrong With America's Healthcare and how to fix it, DVD, 86 minutes. Writers: Maggie Mahar; Producers: Peter Bull, Alex Gibney, Chris Matonti.
"MONEY-DRIVEN MEDICINE provides the essential introduction Americans need to become knowledgeable and vigorous participants in healthcare reform.
"Produced by Academy Award winner Alex Gibney (TAXI TO THE DARK SIDE, ENRON: THE SMARTEST GUYS IN THE ROOM), and based on Maggie Mahar's acclaimed book of the same title, MONEY DRIVEN MEDICINE offers an accessible, journalistically rigorous explanation of how the U.S. healthcare system went so terribly wrong and what it will take to fix it.
"Americans spend twice per capita for healthcare than the average rich country, one-sixth of our GDP. What do we get for that money? The U.S. ranks 29th in life expectancy and the World Health Organization ranks our health system 37th in the world, behind Slovenia and Costa Rica. MONEY-DRIVEN MEDICINE reveals how the profit-driven 'medical-industrial complex' has over-built the healthcare sector and produce a powerful, distorting incentive for billions of dollars of pointless, even risky, tests, prescriptions and procedures. This pay-per-service system drives doctors into lucrative specialities, while primary care physicians have become an endangered species; million dollar diagnostic machines stand idle while emergency rooms overflow.
"In MONEY-DRIVEN MEDICINE frustrated doctors and outraged patients testify to the often tragic consequences of fragmented, impersonal assembly-line medicine, designed more for churning out profits than life-long health management. Veteran physicians stress that change begins with the doctor-patient partnership: consistent family-centered primary care built on informed, shared decision-making. Dr. Donald Berwick of Harvard, Dr. James Weinstein of Dartmouth and other leading researchers explain the path-breaking studies (featured in Dr. Atul Gawande's recent New Yorker article), which prove that results-based rather than procedure-based medicine can pay-off in less extravagant yet more effective care.
"MONEY-DRIVEN MEDICINE alerts Americans that universal care is just the first shot in a hotly-contested, years-long battle for comprehensive healthcare reform. It will encourage the public to become savvy medical 'consumers' and empower health professionals to rescue their vocation from the corporate bottom line. It will teach students why a sound, sustainable medical infrastructure is crucial not just to their future but that of the economy and society as a whole. 'Money-Driven Medicine' makes clear that curing America's healthcare crisis is a matter of national life and death." -- Publisher

Gamble, R., Christian Involvement in the Political Process (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Audio cassette CS851 [audio file], and video cassette [DVD] V065.

Gelet, James, Eric Holmberg, Jerry Johnson, and the Apologetics Group, The Marks of a Cult: A Biblical Analysis, DVD (Draper, VA: The Apologetics Group, 2006), ISBN: 1573411507 9781573411509.
"Just why are Baptists properly considered Christians, but Mormons are not? Or why is the Jehovah's Witness religion classified as an anti-Christian cult, while Presbyterians, Wesleyans and Pentecostals are simply seen as denominations within the Christian faith? With the explosion of different sects that claim to honor and follow Jesus, how does one differentiate between true Biblical Christianity and an aberrant religious movement? Just what are the marks of a cult? . . . The video gives clear guidelines on how to distinguish truth from error in principle as well as carefully documented instructions on the particular errors of prominent cults." -- Publisher

Graham, Billy (1918-2018), and the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, A Gathering of Souls: the Billy Graham Crusades, a DVD.
"The history and impact of a spiritual phenomenon.
"During his long and distinguished ministry, Billy Graham has preached the gospel to well over 200 million people worldwide. The massive evangelistic gatherings that took place in sports arenas, concert halls, and outdoor venues became known as the Billy Graham Crusades. The outworking of a sophisticated organizational structure, each crusade represented years of planning and months of follow up. The crusades shaped the face of Evangelical Christianity in the 20th century, served as a catalyst for dozens of parachurch organizations, united a splintering Evangelical community, and altered the course of countless individual lives. With expert commentary from pastors, academics, Graham associates, and fellow evangelists such as Luis Palau, this documentary gives the history of the crusades from the first event in Los Angeles in 1949 to the groundbreaking 1957 New York City crusade and on to the remarkable gatherings behind the Iron Curtain and in the Far East." -- Publisher

Graham, Ruth Bell (1920-2007), Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, Celebrating Ruth Bell Graham: A Life Marked by the Faithfulness of God, DVD, ISBN: 9781593281700 1593281706.

Grand Theft America, an online video, DVD.
http://www.bushflash.com/gta.html

Grant, George, with Gary North, Planned Parenthood: Your Tax Dollars at Work, a video, DVD. ISBN: 1888306521 9781888306521.
"How and why are American taxpayers subsidizing genocide today through the insidious program of Planned Parenthood?" -- Publisher

Greenwald, Robert (director), Wal-Mart -- The High Cost of Low Price, DVD, a documentary.
"Plot Synopsis: This documentary takes the viewer on a deeply personal journey into the everyday lives of families struggling to fight Goliath. From a family business owner in the Midwest to a preacher in California, from workers in Florida to a poet in Mexico, dozens of film crews on three continents bring the intensely personal stories of an assault on families and American values.
"Everyone has seen Wal-Mart's lavish television commercials, but have you ever wondered why Wal-Mart spends so much money trying to convince you it cares about your family, your community, and even its own employees? What is it hiding?
" 'WAL-MART: The High Cost of Low Price' takes you behind the glitz and into the real lives of workers and their families, business owners and their communities, in an extraordinary journey that will challenge the way you think, feel . . . and shop." -- Publisher
"A powerful documentary that contrasts the public persona of Walmart with the human toll of their behind-the-scenes business practices. Deeply personal vignettes from small business owners, Walmart managers, workers, attorneys and environmentalists review the tragic consequences of one of the world's largest, most venal corporations running amok on rural America -- subsidized by our own tax dollars. This is a movie was Walmart does NOT want you to see -- so tell all your friends!" -- Viewer's review

Gregory, David, Dinner With a Perfect Stranger: An Invitation Worth Considering, DVD, fiction.
"The mysterious envelope arrives on Nick Cominsky's desk amid a stack of credit card applications and business-related junk mail. Although his seventy-hour workweek has already eaten into his limited family time, Nick can't pass up the opportunity to see what kind of plot his colleagues have hatched. The normally confident, cynical Nick soon finds himself thrown off-balance, drawn into an intriguing conversation with a baffling man who appears to be more than comfortable discussing everything from world religions to the existence of heaven and hell. And this man who calls himself Jesus also seems to know a disturbing amount about Nick's personal life." -- Publisher
Based on the novel by David Gregory Dinner With a Perfect Stranger, ISBN: 1578569052 9781578569052.

Griffin, G. Edward, More Deadly Than war -- The Communist Revolution in America, 1969, DVD.
"A lecture by G. Edward Griffin on the Communist theory and practice of revolution, particularly as applied to the United States." -- Publisher

Gunn, Colin, Chris Vaughn, and Gunn Productions (firm), Wait Till it's Free: If you Think Healthcare is Unaffordable Now, DVD.
"Exposes the true foundations of the American healthcare crisis . . . by exclusive interviews revealing the agenda behind ObamaCare, the history of America's seduction by socialized medicine . . . discover the disastrous consequences of government controlled medicine." -- Publisher

Gunn Productions, The Monstrous Regiment of Women, DVD (Gunn Productions, October 31, 2007), 54 minutes.
"Who is the monstrous regiment? Today, the feminists are our monstrous regiment!

To promote a woman to bear rule, superiority, dominion, or empire above any realm, nation, or city, is repugnant to nature . . . A thing most contrary to His revealed will and approved ordinance. -- John Knox

"The 16th century reformer John Knox wrote his famous tract THE FIRST BLAST OF THE TRUMPET AGAINST THE MONSTROUS REGIMENT OF WOMEN to oppose a notorious European female tyrant who sought to stamp out biblical Christianity in his beloved Scotland.
"When we approach the issues of our day we wish to borrow his biblical perspective to apply his blast against those who rule in the wake of his monstrous queen. This group, we shall see, far surpasses the queen's iniquities in both kind and degree.
"Feminists tell women not to submit to a husband, to avoid having children, and that they should listen to their inner voice and chase a career to find true fulfillment. This twisted and irrational teaching has led to disaster for American women, leading many into a frustrating, isolated existence. With this film, we call women back to a life filled with joy and beauty that can only be found by following God's Word.
"Due to the subject matter this film is not suitable for children.
"Subjects Covered: | Who was John Knox? | What did he think of women? | What is Feminism? | Feminism and Socialism | Daycare | Modesty | Women in the Military | Women in the Workplace | Margaret Sanger | Planned Parenthood | Abortion | Hillary | Birth Control | Betty Friedan | Rock for Choice | Plus 26 minutes of unique interview footage
"Featuring: | Sharon Adams -- Historian, Edinburgh University | Jennie Chancey -- Ladies Against Feminism | Jane Doe -- Military Cadet | Carol Everett -- Former Abortion Provider | Dana Feliciano -- Homemaker | Carmon Friedrich -- Writer, Buried Treasure Books | F. Carolyn Graglia -- Author, Domestic Tranquility | Rosalind Marshall -- Knox Biographer | Stacey McDonald -- Author, Raising Maidens of Virtue | Phyllis Schlafly -- Eagle Forum | Denise Sproul -- Homemaker | Kathleen Smith -- Homemaker" -- Publisher

Harrison, Cassain, Liam Neeson, Timothy West, Lee Pullbrook, and Nick Powell, Martin Luther, DVD, distributed by PBS Home Video, ISBN: 0793696283 9780793696284.
"Traces Luther's life. His attack on the all-powerful Catholic Church was a knife to the heart of an empire that had endured for over a thousand years. Luther became a monk and by the nailing of his treatise to the doors of the Wittenberg Cathedral, Martin Luther changed the world forever, unleashing forces that plunged Europe into war and chaos. Martin Luther not only revolutionize the Church, he offered the Christian world a new vision of man's relationship with God, and in turn redefined man's relationship with authority in general. This is a dramatic story of the collapse of the medieval world, of social, economic and political revolution, and of the birth of the modern age." -- Publisher

Hyde, Margaret O., The Silent Epidemic [suicide -- compiler], DVD, ISBN: 0070316376 9780070316379 0070316384 9780070316386.
Hyde, Margaret O., and Elizabeth Forsyth, Suicide: The Hidden Epidemic, ISBN: 0531102513 9780531102510.
"This third, updated edition explores the history, realities, and causes of suicide, and includes a list of prevention and intervention agencies. Thorough and useful. Bibliography." -- Publisher

Ichthus Ministries, The Scottish Covenanters, DVD.
"This program presents a penetrating look at a movement in 17th Century Scotland that is little known today. The Covenanters refused to subscribe to the idea that the King of England was the head of their church. They signed the National Covenant in 1638, and from then until 1688, were subjected to persecution in an attempt by their opponents to quell this rebellion." -- Publisher

IMP, The Evolution Conspiracy, DVD (Jeremiah Films)

IMP, Homosexuality: Understanding Homosexuality and the Reality of Change, DVD (Jeremiah Films), ISBN: 1882773004 9781882773008.

IMP, The Pagan Invasion Series, DVD (Jeremiah Films).
"Each stereo VHS tape is about 48 minutes long. Almost a video encyclopedia of information on the New Age cult strangeness of our day. The narrators of the tapes look into the history and current practices concerning the subject of each tape." -- GCB

IMP, Volume 1: Halloween: Trick or Treat
IMP, Volume 2: Invasion of the Godmen
"Look into the growing god-consciousness movement. Incredible film footage from mystical India highlights the shocking expos�." -- GCB
IMP, Volume 3: Meditation: Pathway to Deception?
IMP, Volume 4: The East Seduces the West
"God power within movement, oneness with nature, reincarnation, self-realization, past life regression, hypnosis, inner guides, visualization and more." -- GCB
IMP, Volume 5: Dawning of a New Age
"The New World Order and warning signs to watch out for."
IMP, Volume 6: Evolution: Hoax of the Century?
IMP, Volume 7: Evolution: From Physics to Metaphysics
IMP, Volume 8: Preview of the Antichrist
IMP, Volume 9: Secrets of Mind Control
"Many think they are beyond or above having their mind controlled by someone else. The massive social and political movements of our century suggest otherwise. Tape also shows actual footage of mind control therapies." -- GCB
IMP, Volume 10: The Latter Day EMPIRE
"Who was Joseph Smith? Who are the Latter Day Saints? Has this group, relatively small in numbers, infiltrated city, county, state and federal law enforcement agencies like the FBI and CIA? What kind of money is behind these groups? An eye opening look into the hidden secrets of the Mormons." -- GCB
IMP, Volume 11: Joseph Smith's Temple of Doom
"Takes us behind the closed doors of the Mormon Temple where we discover a host of bizarre and mysterious teachings involving magic clothing, baptism for the dead, multiple wives, blood oaths, blood atonement, spirit babies, celestial sex, secret rituals and occultic practices." -- GCB
IMP, Volume 12: Religions vs. Christianity
"A dramatic comparison of the living relationship found in the person of Jesus Christ, with the dead religions of dead men. Key world religions are analyzed in light of historical and archaeological evidence, claims of religious leaders and founders, and their ancient writings." -- GCB
IMP, Volume 13: Doorways to Satan
"We are almost in the 21st century yet modern man is increasingly involved in old religions. Obsessed with occult mysteries, sadistic violence, and evil. Its everywhere: Movies, books, music, video games and comics. Most disturbing of all is the unveiled rise of Satanism. Tape takes a close look at much of what is going on in this area." -- GCB

Institute of Biblical Counseling and Discipleship (formerly Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation West [CCEF West]), 3495 College Ave., San Diego, CA, 92115; 619-582-5554.
"Counseling. Videotaped courses taught at CCEF West by George Scipione and others. Video series available include Introduction to Biblical Counseling (by George Scipione), Marriage and Family (by George Scipione and Andy Peterson), Advanced Seminar in Biblical Counseling (by George Scipione and others), and Methods of Psychological Counseling (by Andy Peterson). Catalogue available." -- David Powlison (1949-2019)
Institute of Biblical Counseling and Discipleship (formerly CCEF West)
http://www.ibcd.org/

The Institute for Nouthetic Studies
Training in Biblical Counseling by extension with Dr. Jay E. Adams, DVD.
"We are the Institute for Nouthetic Studies (INS), a ministry that seeks to train the next generation of biblical counselors by making the teaching ministry of Dr. Jay E. Adams available to students by extension. . . .
"Several years ago Dr. Adams and I began teaching at the Redeemer Biblical Counseling Training Institute (RBCTI) under the direction of our pastor, Bill Slattery (Dr. Adams' son-in-law). In recent years Dr. Adams has had to limit his travels so RBCTI became the only place one could study under Dr. Adams personally. When word traveled that Dr. Adams was teaching we began to receive a number of requests for tapes and the church began to explore ways to allow others to benefit from the training that was being offered here locally. After much discussion, and with the blessing of the church, Dr. Adams and I formed INS and created a structured curriculum that Dr. Adams believed would include everything the competent biblical counselor would need to understand to be thoroughly trained.
"We began taping Dr. Adams' lectures and offered the training on video tape. As the technology became available, we switched to DVDs and slowly (and sometimes painfully), learned how to produce better and better quality from our recordings. We posted a website to advertise and were quickly overwhelmed by the response. We are now approaching the 300 student mark with students on every continent around the world! We are nearing the completion of our curriculum and hope to have it completed by early fall.
"Here is a list of the courses we have ready:

Introduction to Biblical Counseling/Counseling Principles and Practices
The Counselor Himself
Critical Stages in Biblical Counseling
Counseling Problems
Premarital Counseling
Marriage, Divorce, and Remarriage
Theology and Counseling
Church Discipline
Forgiveness
Medical Issues in Counseling I and II
Marriage and Family Counseling
We are currently working on the following:
Counseling Theories and Issues Abroad in the Church Today
Legal Issues in Counseling
Counseling Women
The Christian Counselor's Casebook Studies"

http://www.nouthetic.org/

Jacks, Bob, Betty Jacks, and Ron Wormser, Fill Your House With Newborns, 3 DVDs, ISBN: 8900730282 9788900730289. Alternate title: YOUR HOME A LIGHTHOUSE: HOW TO HOST AN EVANGELISTIC BIBLE STUDY.
"In this three-part video seminar Bob Jacks tells why they've done it (hosted evangelistic Bible studies in their home for 22 years), how they've done it, and what they've learned. His sage advice and enthusiasm will motivate and equip your group to open your homes for evangelistic home Bible studies -- the one place where your unchurched friends and neighbors will feel comfortable and 'at home' enough to hear the Good News." -- Publisher
This video package includes a book, viewer's guide, and three video cassettes. Also issued under the title "Our Home a Lighthouse (Video)."
Contents: Part 1. Why evangelistic home Bible studies work so well. -- Part 2. How to plan and prepare for your evangelistic home Bible study. -- Part 3. How to host and lead an evangelistic home Bible study.

Jacks, Bob, Betty Jacks, and Ron Wormser, Your Home a Lighthouse, ISBN: 0891091270 9780891091271.
"A practical guide on how you can impact your community by hosting a weekly evangelistic Bible study." -- Publisher

Jeremiah Films
Jeremiah Films. See: "IMP."
http://www.jeremiahfilms.com/products/Pagan-Invasion-Classic
Witness Inc. and Jeremiah Films Video Tapes, DVD
http://www.witnessiync.com/ordering_materials.html

Jeremiah Films, Sudan: The Hidden Holocaust, DVD.
"A comprehensive documentary on persecution, slavery, and genocide in Sudan; filmed on location in Southern Sudan and the remote Nuba mountains of central Sudan."
http://www.jeremiahfilms.com/products/SHHD

Kenner, Robert, Richard Pearce, Eric Schlosser, Magnolia Pictures (Firm), and et al., Food, Inc., DVD. Alternate title: FOOD INCORPORATED.
"Explores the U.S. commercial food industry, examining corporate control of supply and market. The film seeks to demonstrate how the incentive for corporate profit can overwhelm consumer health needs, as well as the livelihood of the American farmer, the safety of workers, and the environment. Reveals various details of food ingredients and additives, and how contemporary mass production methods of food affects U.S. culture." -- Publisher

Kent, Carol, When I lay my Isaac Down: Unshakable Faith in Unthinkable Circumstances, ISBN: 9781608144389 1608144380.
"Change the way you think about personal challenges. Sometimes we make sacrifices to help us get ahead, to allow us more time with family, or because we believe in the cause. And then there are sacrifices in which we have no say, Isaac experiences as in Genesis 22, thrust upon us without warning or survival instructions. This audiobook outlines eight transformational power principles that Gene and Carol Kent learned in the process of facing the news that forever changed their lives, Their twenty-five-year-old son, a graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy with an impeccable military record, shot and killed his wife's ex-husband. Jason Paul Kent, long recognized for his exemplary character, now walks a path no one could have predicted and his family lives in the aftermath of a devastation most cannot imagine. Carol's candid retelling of her emotional and spiritual agony will touch your heart. The principles the Kents learned in the process of surviving such unspeakable circumstances will bolster your faith, renew your hope, and challenge you to new levels of personal and spiritual commitment." -- Publisher
Kent, Carol, When I lay my Isaac Down: Unshakable Faith in Unthinkable Circumstances (Extraordinary Women Association), DVD.

Kinlaw, Dennis, A Revival Account: Asbury -- 1970, a video cassette, DVD.
"This 40-minute, eye-witness account by Dr. Dennis Kinlaw who was serving as president of Asbury College during a visitation in 1970, is helping multitudes of Christians understand the true nature of spiritual awakening and revival."

Langberg, Diane, Dignity of Women in Christ: Her Relationships (Westminster Media).
Audio cassette DWC03 [audio file], and video V023 [DVD].

Loose Change -- Voting Hanky-Panky. A video, DVD, moderated by Edward Griffin that may be viewed online.
"Governments are installing computerized voting systems with no paper record to verify accuracy. Elections will be controlled by companies . . . that do not allow voters to inspect their software. If vote counting becomes privatized, there may be no way to get it back. High-tech vote fraud is already a reality [for example, the South Dakota vote on the Judicial Accountability Initiative Law]. If you value your vote, you must get this information to your friends -- and fast!"
http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-1940566667864847724&q=Bev+Harris

*Lumen Productions, Catholicism: Crisis of Faith, DVD (San Leandro, CA [JCIL Services, 293 MacArthur Blvd., San Leandro 94577-2108]: Lumen Productions, 1991).
"At last there's a video that explores the true basis of Catholicism and compares it with Biblical Christianity. This contemporary documentary looks at Catholicism through the eyes of clergy, lay-ministers, and others who left the Catholic Church to follow Christ. It is a must for any church or ministering body wishing to witness to Catholics."

Luther, Martin, Martin Luther (50th Anniversary Edition), DVD, ISBN: 0780641469 9780780641464. (Format: U.S. and Canada only. This DVD will probably NOT be viewable in other countries.)
Directed by Irving Pichel. Written by Allan Sloane and Lothar Wolff. Staring Niall MacGinnis, Phillip Leaver, David Horne, Annette Carell.
"This films was nominated for two Oscars in 1953, picked by the New York Times as one of the 10 best films of the year, and generally acclaimed by most Christian groups. . . .
"This version [by Gateway Films (610-584-3500)], comes from the original negative material and is by far the finest you will see of this title.
"Though not a restoration of the original film this issue has . . . a number of little 'Extras' that give some insight into present-day sites of events in Martin Luther's life, an interesting biography of how the film came to be made, and the special way that it was brought to theaters, as well as bios and photos of the actors and production crew." -- Viewer Comment

*Maas, Peter, Serpico, ISBN: 0060738189 9780060738181.
"The 1960s was a time of social and generational upheaval felt with particular intensity in the melting pot of New York City. A culture of corruption pervaded the New York Police Department, where payoffs, protection, and shakedowns of gambling rackets and drug dealers were common practice. The so-called blue code of silence protected the minority of crooked cops from the sanction of the majority.
"Into this maelstrom came a working class, Brooklyn-born, Italian cop with long hair, a beard, and a taste for opera and ballet. Frank Serpico was a man who couldn't be silenced -- or bought -- and he refused to go along with the system. He had sworn an oath to uphold the law, even if the perpetrators happened to be other cops. For this unwavering commitment to justice, Serpico nearly paid with his life.
"Peter Maas's is the author of the number one New York Times bestseller UNDERBOSS. His other notable bestsellers include THE VALACHI PAPERS, SERPICO, MANHUNT, and IN A CHILD'S NAME. He lives in New York City." -- Publisher
One of Serpico's conclusions: Corruption can not exist unless it is permitted by authorities.
Serpico (1973), the movie, DVD.
Al Pacino plays Officer Frank Serpico
"Serpico is a cop in the early 1970s. Unlike all his colleagues, he refuses a share of the money that the cops routinely extort from local criminals. Nobody wants to work with Serpico, and he's in constant danger of being placed in life threatening positions by his 'partners.' Nothing seems to get done even when he goes to the highest of authorities. Despite the dangers he finds himself in, he still refuses to 'go with the flow', in the hope that one day, the truth will be known." -- Rob Hartill
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0070666/

Mack, Wayne A., and Strengthening Ministries International, Child Abuse, Marriage, Depression, Financial Problems, Depression, 2 DVDs.
Mack, Wayne A., and Strengthening Ministries International, Marital Relations, Conflict, Communications, Blended Family Issues: Session 1-2 of 6, DVD.
Mack, Wayne A., and Strengthening Ministries International, Drunkenness and Marriage, 2 DVDs.
Mack, Wayne A., and Strengthening Ministries International, Depression, anxiety, panic attacks, bad theology, 2 DVDs.
Wayne Mack conducts five counseling sessions focused on the following: depression, anxiety, panic attacks, and bad theology.

Magness, Jodi, and Teaching Company, The Holy Land Revealed, DVD, ISBN: 9781598036992 1598036998.
"Thirty-six lectures of thirty minutes each by Jodi Magness, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill." -- Publisher

Manson, DVD.
Charles Manson, the cult leader.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1489917/

McBurney, Charles, Improving our Praise: Four Studies in Congregational Singing Using the Book of Psalms for Singing, DVD.
A video seminar with Charles McBurney.

Merzenich, Michael, The Brain Fitness Program, DVD. A PBS documentary.
"This program presents a workout to help viewers get their brains in better shape. The Brain Fitness Program is based on neuro-plasticity, the ability of the brain to change and adapt -- even rewire itself. In the past two years, a team of scientists has developed computer-based stimulus sets that drive beneficial chemical, physical and functional changes in the brain. Dr. Michael Merzenich of the University of California San Francisco and his colleagues around the world have been leading this effort; he brings the research findings, along with a scientifically based set of brain exercises, to PBS viewers in this innovative and life-altering program. Peter Coyote narrates." -- Publisher
http://www.shoppbs.org/product/index.jsp?productId=2966842&siteID=m4l4q2SmprQ-NDN5uceDVUeJkLbMXBtqIA

Miller, C. John, Rose Marie Miller, Paul Miller, Rick Downs, David M. Desforge, et al., Sonship, a set of 16 sound cassettes (audiobook on tape [audio file]).
World Harvest Mission
http://www.whm.org/home.htm

Mooremann, Phillip, The Christian Home Study Handbook, 1986: A Guide to Christian Correspondence Schools, Cassette [audio file], and Video-taped [DVD] Instruction, Computer programs, and Christian Home Schools, ISBN: 0961432306 9780961432300.
"Ideal for those who want reliable guidance on correspondence courses. Also of value to pastors who are asked about continuing education. Includes information on video and cassette tapes [audio file], lending libraries, and available software. Well produced, reliable." -- Cyril J. Barber

Morris, Henry M., Creation-Life Publishers, and The Institute for Creation Research, Many Infallible Proofs, a video, DVD.
From a series of videos of Creation Knowledge: Christian Evidences.

Most (The Bridge), DVD, ISSN: 0351-0611.
Filmed in Czech with English subtitles.
"Discover the miracle of our Father's love.
"A powerful and moving film about a man who learns the true meaning of sacrifice. The 2003 Academy Award Nominated live action short Most. Discover the short film that is winning souls for Christ.
"Most tells the story of the close relationship between a bridge operator and his young son and the fateful day when they both try to head off an impending rail disaster. Hundreds of passengers on a steam train are unaware of the danger as they head towards an open drawbridge.
"Shot entirely on location in the Czech Republic and Poland, Most is a beautiful yet edgy film that draws you in and grabs your heart. In Czech, MOST means 'bridge.'
"Other Awards: Sundance Film Festival 2004: Official Selection | Palm Springs International 2003: Winner Best of Festival | Maui Film Festival 2003: Winner -- Best Short Film; Audience Award -- Best Newcomers | Heartland Film Festival 2003: Winner Crystal Heart Award | Starring Vladimir Javorsky, Linda Rybova, and introducing Lada Onorej.
"Music score by John Debney (The Passion of The Christ)." -- Publisher

National Geographic, Best of National Geographic on DVD.
"General revelation is God's witness to Himself toward all men through creation, history, and the conscience of man. It is set forth in such Scripture passages as Psalm 19; Acts 14:8-18; Acts 17:16-34; Romans 1:18-32; Romans 2:12-16; etc."
http://shop.nationalgeographic.com/jump.jsp?itemType=CATEGORY&itemID=242

Navasky, Miri, Karen O'Connor, Mead Street Films (firm), WGBH (television station: Boston, Mass.), and WGBH Educational Foundation, The Released, DVD, ISBN: 0793670713 9780793670710. Originally broadcast on the PBS program Frontline.
Our Mental Health Policy has been a complete failure since the release of patients from mental institutions in the early 70's. Those released quickly ended up in prisons.
"In this follow up to the groundbreaking film 'The New Asylums,' Frontline examines what happens to the mentally ill when they leave prison and why they return at such alarming rates. The intimate stories of the released-along with interviews with parole officers, social workers, and psychiatrists-provide a rare look at the lives of the mentally ill as they struggle to stay out of prison and reintegrate into society." -- Publisher
http://www.shoppbs.org/sm-pbs-frontline-the-released-dvd--pi-3544620.html

*Nelson, Stanley (director), Jonestown: The Life and Death of Peoples Temple (2006), a documentary DVD, ISBN: 1415731527 9781415731529.
"Stanley Nelson's [the director], riveting and often unsettling documentary on the history of the People's Temple from Jim Jones's roots as a rising preacher on the gospel rival circuit to the events that lead to that horrible day is a must see.
"There are a several strong factors that separate this documentary from any other dealing with Jonestown incident. Nelson has tracked down a large amount of amazing archival super 8 footage shot for promotional purposes by members of People's Temple themselves. This footage helps craft an understanding of the seduction behind the ideas and opportunities Jim Jones presented to his followers that would see them travel with him from Indiana to California and finally to Guyana.
"JONESTOWN: THE LIFE AND DEATH OF PEOPLE'S TEMPLE is a pitch perfect portrait of the Jonestown experience that sheds light on the much of the cult's mystery through interviews with survivors and former People's Temple members. By addressing Jones's early life and his surprisingly groundbreaking work in the African American communities in regards to race relations and equality you can't help connecting with the idealism behind the People's Temple's philosophy. Exploring the racial aspect of the People's Temple with it's staggering 80 percent black congregation Nelson brings into play issues of poverty and class key to understanding Jim Jones's messiah-like cult persona in reference to an often ignored and struggling community.
"Even weaving together an eerie soundtrack of songs sung by the People's Temple Choir and using heartbreaking never before seen letters and documentation made by the members right up until their deaths, Nelson never over dramatizes or relies on sentimentality in this documentary and in doing so paints a world that stays with you long after the lights go up." -- a blogger
Jonestown: The Life and Death of Peoples Temple (2006)
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0762111/

*New Liberty Videos, The Forbidden Book: The History of the English Bible, DVD, new 2006 version, on-camera spokesman: Dr. Craig Lampe; Narrator: Jim Birdsall; Director: Brian Barkley; Run Time: 60 minutes.
" 'The Forbidden Book' is unlike anything you have ever seen before. Hosted by Dr. Craig Lampe, this one-hour documentary takes you on a fascinating journey through time. Follow our film crew across Europe as we SHOW YOU all the important places of Christian history.
"Learn how God's Word was originally scribed in Hebrew and Greek. Walk with Dr. Lampe among the ruins of the very first Christian Church ever built above ground -- not in Israel, but in England! Discover how the Word was preserved through the 1,000 year period of the Dark and Middle Ages, when possession of scripture in any language other than Latin meant certain death at the hands of the organized church. Uncover the truth about the misunderstood books called 'Apocrypha' that were printed in every Protestant Christian's Bible until 1885.
"Meet John Wycliffe, the first person to translate the Bible into English -- and see his church, which is still offering Sunday services today, as it has since the 1300's. Look at the door where Martin Luther, the first person to print the Bible in German, nailed his 95 Theses, starting the Protestant Reformation. See William Tyndale's illegal printing shop, which is a book store today, and find out why Tyndale was executed for being the first person to print the scriptures in English. Find out about the 1535 first complete printed English Bible of Myles Coverdale, the 1537 Matthews Bible, and King Henry the Eighth's 1539 'Great Bible' -- the first legal English Bible.
"Learn why the Bible of the Protestant Reformation, the 1560 English Geneva Bible, had to be printed in Switzerland due to the reign of Queen 'Bloody' Mary. See how the 1568 BISHOPS BIBLE was revised to become the 1611 KING JAMES BIBLE, and how the KING JAMES VERSION slowly replaced the much more popular GENEVA BIBLE among early American Colonists.
"The Forbidden Book is simply the most captivating and informative video ever produced on the subject of how we got the Bible, and how God has preserved His Word for thousands of years to countless generations." -- Publisher
"The Forbidden Book is a DVD presentation examining the history of the Word of God in English. It is hosted by Dr. Craig Lampe, a Bible historian and International Director of the World Bible Society. Dr. Lampe owns the Rare Bible Showroom in Arizona and holds a virtual monopoly over rare and antique Bibles. His collection even includes a 1410 Wycliffe Manuscript valued at just under $3 million. It is one of the rarest Bibles in the world. He has a Coverdale Bible, Great Bibles, sells leaves of the Geneva Bible, and, amazingly enough, leaves from the Gutenberg Bible -- the first book ever published. If you happen to have one of these complete Bibles sitting in your attic, you should have it insured for about $100 million.
"This DVD is an hour-long presentation on the history of the English Bible. The viewer will meet most of the historical figures responsible for bringing us the Bible as we know and love it today: Wycliffe, Hus, Gutenberg, Colet, Erasmus, Tyndale, Luther and so on. He will see some of the locations important to the history of the Bible, such as the Wittenberg door and Martin Luther's study. He will learn about the earliest English translations, in the Old World and in the New.
"There are many amazing facts worked into the presentation. Lampe shows a scroll that is 1000 years old, and tells the viewer that it is word-for-word the same as the text of the Dead Sea Scrolls that were written a full millennium before. He describes how the Bible went from being available in 500 languages in 400 AD to being available in only 1 only 100 years later. He talks about a 110 year period in America during which 5000 editions of the Bible were produced. . . .
"Before I close, I will warn that the host is quite harsh towards the Roman Catholic Church and their role in the history of the English Bible. And well he should be, as the papacy worked tirelessly to eradicate any person who dared to present the Scriptures to the common man. Of course the fears of the Church were founded, for when Scripture became accessible, the light quickly broke forth and spread throughout the world. -- Viewer's Comments
"Did you know that during the period of AD 100 and AD 400 the Bible had been translated into nearly 500 languages? Did you know that from AD 400 to AD 500 it had been reduced to just one language? A language only know to the clergy and the educated. . . .
"John Wycliffe, the brilliant 14th century Oxford scholar, translated the Bible from Latin into English in order to enlighten the masses oppressed through ignorance. His work was so despised by the established church, that Pope Martin V ordered Wycliffe's bones to be dug up and burned. Martin Luther was one of the few who challenged church authority in the 16th century and lived to tell the tale. . . .
"William Tyndale was not spared like his friend Luther. Tyndale spent the last 500 days of his life in a cold castle dungeon. He was then tied to a stake, strangled and burned. His crime? . . . printing Bibles in the English language! Discover the fascinating story behind the preservation of the English Bible . . ." -- J.J. Calvin

New Liberty Videos, Mysteries of the Dead Sea Scrolls: Secrets of God Revealed, Joel Lampe, Craig Lampe, Frank Seekins, New Liberty Videos, DVD, ISBN: 0966321669 9780966321661.
"Learn the behind-the-scenes details of the 19,000 pieces of what has become known as the Dead Sea Scrolls.
"Hebrew word pictures: In ancient Hebrew, every word is formed by adding pictures together to illustrate its meaning. Biblical Hebrew is comprised of simple word pictures that illustrate the truths found in Scripture.
"During the dark ages, superstition and ignorance controlled the minds of the masses. A few brave men obeyed God and brought the Bible to the world."

Paul, Ron, Interview With Ron Paul 7/19/2007, Healthcare Part 2
"Republican Congressman Ron Paul has represented Texas' 14th Congressional District since 1997, and previously represented Texas's 22nd district in 1976 and from 1979 to 1985. The Congressman, who is also a physician, discusses health care issues with the Kaiser Family Foundation's Jackie Judd."
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=khJ6lS9utl8

PBS Frontline, Poisoned Waters, DVD.
"More than three decades after the Clean Water Act, two iconic waterways -- the great coastal estuaries Puget Sound and the Chesapeake Bay -- are in perilous condition. With polluted runoff still flowing in from industry, agriculture, and massive suburban development, scientists fear contamination to the food chain and drinking water for millions of people. A growing list of endangered species is also threatened in both estuaries. As a new president, Congress, and states set new agendas and spending priorities, Frontline correspondent Hedrick Smith examines the rising hazards to human health and the ecosystem, and why it's so hard to keep our waters clean."
http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/pages/frontline/poisonedwaters/

Powlison, David (1949-2019), Dr. David Powlison on Calvin's Influence for Biblical Counseling (part 1 of 2), an online video, DVD.
"Dr. David Powlison, Adjunct Professor of Practical Theology and CCEF Counselor and Faculty Member, explains how Calvin and his insights have influenced biblical counseling."
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2kgpqkX7IfI

Powlison, David (1949-2019), Dr. David Powlison on Calvin's Influence for Biblical Counseling, (part 2 of 2), an online video, DVD.
"Dr. David Powlison, Adjunct Professor of Practical Theology and CCEF Counselor and Faculty Member, explains how Calvin and his insights have influenced biblical counseling."
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VhgNEBmIadI

Reader's Digest Association, Scenic Walks of the World, DVD. Alternate title: "READER'S DIGEST SCENIC WALKS OF THE WORLD." Box set of 6 DVDs, February 12, 2008, run time: 570 minutes, ISBN: 9781594643330 1594643334.
Contents:

1. Our Dramatic Planet (c. 70 min.)
2. Romance With Nature (c. 67 min.)
3. Historic Pathways; The Great Wall of China (c. 120 min.)
4. Wonders Sacred and Mysterious; Wonders of Man's Creation (c. 140 min.)
5. Incredible Journeys, part I and II (c. 124 min.)
6. Incredible Journeys, part III (c. 64 min.).

"The awesome Grand Canyon. New Zealand's world-renowned National Park of Tongario. The Great Wall of China. The paths of the Incas. The rugged Appalachian Trail. Some sights are best captured on foot, and Reader's Digest takes you there. Gaze in wonder at glistening glaciers, ancient forests, pristine coasts and magnificent panoramic landscapes. Venture off the beaten path to witness sights tourists seldom see, sights you will never forget, and will want to revisit again and again." -- Publisher

Reader's Digest Association and Questar, Inc., America the Beautiful: A Tribute to God and Country, ISBN: 1568559119 9781568559117, a DVD.
"Presents video tours of various national parks, landmarks and other scenic wonders. Also presents musical tributes as America's most breathtaking scenery is accompanied by songs and inspirational hymns and melodies."

Reel to Real Ministries, Hell's Bells: The Dangers of Rock 'n' Roll, 2 DVD set (c. 183 min.).
"A shocking expos� of the message and medium that has mesmerized whole generations. This is an incredibly intense biblical look at one of the major forces in our culture today. 'When modes of music change, the fundamental laws of the state change with them,' stated Plato. The degenerate communist dictator Vladimir Lenin noted the potential power for evil in music, when he said, 'One quick way to destroy a society is through its music.' Moreover, for Christians, music is an extremely important expression of faith and worship, as we note that God has providentially positioned the Psalter (His divinely inspired song-book), right in the center of the Bible. But it is clear that music can be a sanctifying or seducing power. Satan has made full use of his musical prowess through rock and its promoters and this video unmasks the devil's spiritual power as the driving force behind rock and roll. Contrasting the message of rock with the Word of God, rock's seductive nature is laid bare in these instructive videos, thus providing a clear warning to those who are still entangled in its demonic clutches. First-hand experience coupled with several years of research has produced this exhaustive analysis and these videos have now been seen by millions. It is considered the definitive work on Rock music from a Christian perspective. One drawback that we should warn you about is that these videos contain some pictures of an effeminate, long-haired man (the Roman Catholic 'Jesus'), who is clearly supposed to be the Lord Jesus Christ. We note this violation of the second commandment so that you do not purchase these videos unaware of this fact. The videos are also quite explicit and are not suitable for younger children; parental discretion is strongly advised. We leave you with a telling quote from the study guide, 'A lot of people want to say' It's just music, I'm not paying attention to the words . . .' This is a total cop-out, the scriptures practically scream at us that we are to have NO fellowship with evil . . . Consider the following parable: A man is married to a woman named Mary and Mary has dedicated her life to fighting pollution. The man comes home one day and says, 'Mary, I've got the greatest new album; you won't believe how hot the guitarist is! One thing though, the words kind of stink so don't pay any attention to them.' As the CD plays Mary hears lyrics advocating the rape of the environment and even making fun of her by name for her anti-pollution efforts. She walks over and picks up the cover and it's got a picture of the group sticking her face into an oil slick! In Mary's mind (and really anybody else's), who does the man love more, Mary or his music? So Jesus must ask of a person who says he loves Him but listens to songs that mock him, tell lies, or extol the very sins that nailed Him to the cross." -- Publisher
American Portrait Films
We now offer (2002) over 30 Christian creation science videos, young earth creationism videos, creation science videos, and videos on other creationist topics as well as 100 other thought provoking pro life, pro family videos.
http://www.americanportraitfilms.com/

Reel to Real Ministries, Hell's Bells 2: The Power and Spirit of Popular Music, 2 DVD set (c. 370), (R2R Ministries, 2004).

Richter, Robert, For Export Only: Pesticides, The "Circle of Poison" Exposed, DVD. Alternate title: PESTICIDES AND PILLS: FOR EXPORT ONLY (series title), written, directed, and produced by Robert Richter, 57 minutes.
"Part One of two one-hour CDs on this global practice. Part Two is 'For Export Only: Pharmaceuticals'.
"Documents the 'circle of poison' of banned and restricted pesticides used on products we import, such as coffee, bananas and cotton. A fishing village in Ghana shines through as an example of both problem and solution.
"The first national PBS telecast created an international sensation. United Nations delegates who saw the program demanded an end to the practices documented; this led to an international monitoring system. It is a rare example of a documentary that truly made a difference.
"If you ever wanted to know how human beings behave in the absence of rules, in an open unregulated market, these films provide the answer." -- Washington Post
"A global horror story with ugly implications . . . Watch this . . . You may never want to eat again!" -- Indianapolis Times
"For students and other viewers facing a world of globalization, free markets and deregulation, 'For Export Only' documents shocking information about corporations that export products to developing countries that are prohibited or severely restricted in the countries where they are made.
"The products are banned or restricted because they cause cancer, liver disease, central nervous system diseases, sterility and death.
"Specific products and manufacturers are named as the two documentaries clearly depict their use and abuse in Mexico, Costa Rica, Colombia, Brazil, Kenya, Ghana, Bangladesh and Malaysia. The brand names may be changed, but the practices documented in these powerful reports have not.
"Students could be assigned to research and report about: What changes have occurred since the documentary's original release? What new products have come on the market with similar problems? What has happened with efforts to deal with this issue?
"An extraordinary report." -- London Observer
"After nearly three decades of legal struggle a Los Angeles jury awarded $3.2 million to Nicaraguan farm workers who argued they were made sterile by exposure to a specific pesticide. Dole Food Company was accused of exposing the workers to pesticides made by Dow Chemical Company that caused permanent sterility." -- Los Angeles Times, November 6, 2007
"More of a piece of investigative journalism than any other program honored. And what made it special was that it was produced not by a major station or network, but by Robert Richter, an independent producer. He beat the networks, with all their money, at their own game." -- New York Times report on DuPont Columbia award
"American Film Festival Red Ribbon
"Audubon International Environmental Film Festival
"International Consumer Film Competition"
http://www.richtervideos.com/ForExportOnlyPesticides/

Richter, Robert, WNET (Television station: New York, N.Y.). Television Laboratory, For Export Only: Pharmaceuticals, DVD. Alternate title: PESTICIDES AND PILLS: FOR EXPORT ONLY (series title), (New York, NY: Richter Productions), DVD video, Thesis/dissertation.
"Part Two of two one-hour CDs on this global practice. Part One is 'For Export Only: Pesticides, The "Circle of Poison" Exposed'."

Richter, Robert (writer, director), Pesticides and Pills: For Export Only, set of 2 DVDs, Pesticides, Part 1, and Pharmaceuticals, Part 2. Alternate title for part one: FOR EXPORT ONLY: PESTICIDES, THE "CIRCLE OF POISON" EXPOSED.
Annotation for Pesticides, Part 1 may be seen under "For Export Only: Pesticides, the 'Circle of Poison' Exposed" elsewhere.
"If you ever wanted to know how human beings behave in the absence of rules, in an open unregulated market, these films provide the answer." -- Washington Post

Richter, Robert, A Plague on our Children: Dioxins, PCBs and Public Health v. Profit, DVD in two parts by Robert Richter.
"Corporate defenders, scientists and victims appear, including U.S. veterans exposed to Agent Orange during the Vietnam war, factory workers exposed to PCBs, housewives exposed to toxic spray in logging areas, people exposed to the poisons at Love Canal and other waste disposal sites.
"Part One focuses on dioxin. 57 minutes.
"Part Two focuses on PCBs. 57 minutes.
http://www.richtervideos.com/APlagueonOurChildren/

Robbins, David, Council of Canadians, Polaris Institute, International Forum on Globalization, Operation 2000 (Organization), Beyond McWorld: Challenging Corporate Rule, DVD.
"This video is the first of many materials to come from Operation 2000, a program designed to equip student and youth activists with the tools necessary to tackle the issues of economic justice and environmental sustainability in this era of globalization and corporate rule."

Salatin, Joel, and Grass Menagerie (musical group), Polyface Farm DVD.
"A look at an environmentally friendly family farm. Farming entrepreneur Joel Salatin explains balance and interconnectedness in the landscape, community, plants and animals." -- Publisher

Scourby, Alexander (narrator), The Bible Complete Old and New Testaments; Authorized King James Version, 12 audio cassettes [audio file].
A recording of the Bible on audio cassette [audio file], tapes. Listen before sleep and in the car.

Scourby, Alexander (narrator), The Bible Complete Old and New Testaments; Authorized King James Version CD-ROM, MP3 [audio file], ISBN: 1930034598 9781930034594.
A recording of the Bible on compact disc (CD). Listen before sleep and in the car.

Scripture Union, Christianity Explained, ISBN: 0958990905 9780958990905.
This program "offers an effective, non-threatening tool to introduce Jesus to our neighbors, friends, and family. Everything is provided to help you reach others with the powerful love of God and the clear logic of His Word." -- David B. Jones
The workbook contains six evangelistic lessons, reproducible handouts, and information on follow-up material.
A companion videotape [DVD] is available.
A youth version of CHRISTIANITY EXPLAINED is available and listed below.

Serpico, the movie (1973), a DVD.
"Acting as a lone force of integrity against the tidal wave of corruption plaguing the NYPD of the 1960s and early 1970s, policeman (and later detective) Frank Serpico caused a national furor and placed his own life in jeopardy just for wanting to work as 'an honest cop'." -- Publisher
Based on the true story of Frank Serpico, SERPICO, a NYPD officer who crusaded against police corruption. One of Serpico's conclusions: Whenever corruption occurs, it is because leadership permits it to occur.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0070666/

Singer, C. Gregg (1910-1999), Lectures by Dr. C. Gregg Singer at the Mount Olive Tape Library of Reformed Theology and SermonAudio.com
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Mount Olive Tape Library lectures (MP3), [audio file], approximately 161 of 171
http://www.sermonaudio.com/search.asp?speakeronly=true&currsection=sermonsspeaker&keyword=Dr._C._Gregg_Singer
The Catalog of the Mount Olive Tape Library in PDF Format
http://www.lettermen2.com/olivecat.pdf
Mt. Olive Audio Library, Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary
http://gpts.edu/media/index.php?currpage=1&sa_action=
Greenville Seminary and Mt. Olive
http://www.sermonaudio.com/source_detail.asp?sourceid=gpts

Smith, Chuck, Caryl Matrisciana, Jeremiah Films, Inc., and Cutting Edge Films International, Evolution: Hoax of the Century? DVD, ISBN: 1878993100 9781878993106.

An unforgettable introduction by a father who lost his son in the Columbine school massacre -- 'I put him in a pagan school where they teach there is no God.'

12 common reasons people give not to homeschool -- and the manageable reality of this educational alternative

Revealing, first-hand accounts of Christian educators working in public schools -- sharing the struggles they face in a hostile system

Stone, Oliver, and Peter J. Kuznick, Oliver Stone's Untold History of the United States, a DVD series directed, co-written, and narrated by Oliver Stone.
"From Academy Award-winning writer/director, Oliver Stone, and co-written by historian Profesor Peter Kuznick, this ten-part documentary series looks back at human events that at the time went under reported, but that crucially shaped America's unique and complex history over the 20th century. From the atomic bombing of Japan to the Cold War and the fall of Communism, this in-depth, surprising, and totally riveting series demands to be watched again and again." -- Publisher
See also the companion book: The Untold History of the United States, ISBN: 9780091949310 0091949319 9781451613520 1451613520.

Think, In the Shadow of the Moon, DVD (THINK, February 22, 2008), 110 minutes.
"Remember when the whole world looked up. In the Shadow of the Moon is an intimate epic, which vividly communicates the daring and the danger, the pride and the passion, of this extraordinary era in American history. Between 1968 and 1972, the world watched in awe each time an American spacecraft voyaged to the Moon. Only 12 American men walked upon its surface and they remain the only human beings to have stood on another world. Now for the first time, and very possibly the last, In the Shadow of the Moon combines archival material from the original NASA film footage, much of it never before seen, with interviews with the surviving astronauts who emerge as eloquent, witty, emotional and very human.
"Bonus Features: | An Exclusive Message from Ron Howard | Composing Apollo: A Short Feature with Composer Philip Sheppard | Filmmaker Commentary with Director David Sington, Editor David Fairhead and Archive Producer Chris Riley | Deleted and Extended Scenes with over 60 minutes of stories from the Astronauts and never-before-seen footage from the Apollo missions | Theatrical Trailer | Trailer Gallery

Trifecta Series on the Scandal Unfolding at the Veterans Administration, a 3-part series, video.
"Join Trifecta for its three part series on the scandal unfolding at the Veterans Administration. Veterans died waiting for VA healthcare, and even more were stuck in waiting-list hell, sitting months hoping to see a doctor. Who is to blame for this VA mess? President Obama promised years ago to fix the Veterans Administration? Did he fulfill this promise? Find out."
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZyvLSJDW7yY

Various, The Holy Land Revealed, DVD. "If you ever wanted to experience the Holy Land of Israel -- the land of Jesus Christ and the prophets, sitting at your home, you couldn't have asked for a better DVD. I have seen many DVDs on the Holy Land, but this one really ranks as the best. Capturing the essence of the Holy Land, this spectacular DVD makes the sights and sounds of the Holy Land come alive. Exciting and informative, it carries you on a journey back in time and retraces from the beginning to Jesus and up until today, many of the important places and events in the Bible. . . .
"To experience the Holy Land of Israel with all its majestic landscape in a hardcover, I strongly recommend the beautiful book IMAGES OF THE HOLY LAND by the Israeli photographer Hanan Isachar (ISBN: 9652800856) available on Amazon. Further, if you are genuinely interested to know about amazing discoveries on Noah's Ark, Real Mount Sinai, Red Sea Crossing Site, Sodom and Gomorrah and Ark of the Covenant, I strongly recommend that you go to the website of Wyatt Museum which has all these discoveries covered on DVDs (just search it on any search engine like Yahoo or Google. Unable to mention it due to restrictions)." -- Reader's Comment

Vision Video, The Better Hour: The Legacy of William Wilberforce, DVD (Vision Video, March 18, 2008), ISBN: 0793694124 9780793694129, 60 minutes.
A new documentary about William Wilberforce, subject of the film "Amazing Grace."
" 'The Better Hour is the story of a man who, inspired by faith, used his political and social influence to change the world for the better. At the beginning of the 19th century, almost a third of the British economy depended on the trade of human beings. William Wilberforce was determined to end this horrific practice, by persuading both Parliament and British society to abolish slavery in the British Empire.
"Once, everyone knew the name William Wilberforce. Frederick Douglas said, 'Let no man forget the name of William Wilberforce.' A quarter century after Wilberforce's death, Abraham Lincoln said, 'Every school boy knows the name of William Wilberforce.' Yet 'few Americans today understand why, or even know Wilberforce's name,' explains 'The Better Hour' executive producer Cullen Schippe.
"Shot in high definition, 'The Better Hour: The Legacy Of William Wilberforce' is an engaging documentary, rich with content and commentary, that can inspire people with the remarkable story of William Wilberforce. He used his position as a British parliamentarian to launch 69 organizations for the betterment of society and end the trans-Atlantic slave trade -- a business that was key to the country's economic strength.
"The film focuses on a politician who, over time, developed strength of character in the service of high and seemingly unattainable goals. This film highlights William Wilberforce's drive and love for humanity and reveals how he and his colleagues worked tirelessly to end the slave trade, even as it represented a large portion of the British economy. In Wilberforce, we see character and a sense of justice for all join together to bring into the world what the English poet William Cowper described as 'the better hour'." -- Publisher

Vision Video, Rees, Roger, Ben Steed, and Tony Tew, God's Outlaw: The Story of William Tyndale, DVD.

Wait Till it's Free, DVD documentary
Have a pen and paper handy to take notes. A national firm that analyses medical bills and advocates for the patient is mentioned, as well as a private surgery hospital in Oklahoma that practices fair pricing, and posts all of their rates online, www.surgerycenterok.com. Some of their rates are only 10 percent of what the Cartels charge. Why we have the most expensive healthcare in the world is also explained, and much more.
http://www.wtifree.com/free
Surgery Center Oklahoma
http://www.surgerycenterok.com

Walden Media, Amazing Grace, DVD, 111 minutes.
"Every song has its story. Every generation has its hero.
"Amazing Grace, based on the life of antislavery pioneer William Wilberforce, is directed by Michael Apted (The World is Not Enough, Coal Miner's Daughter), from an original screenplay written by Academy Award nominee Steven Knight (Dirty Pretty Things).
"Ioan Gruffudd plays Wilberforce, who, as a Member of Parliament, navigated the world of 18th century back-room politics to end the slave trade in the British Empire. Albert Finney plays John Newton, a confidante of Wilberforce who inspires him to pursue a life of service to humanity. Benedict Cumberbatch is William Pitt the Younger, England's youngest ever Prime Minister at the age of 24, who encourages his friend Wilberforce to take up the fight to outlaw slavery and supports him in his struggles in Parliament.
"Elected to the House of Commons at the age of 21, and on his way to a successful political career, Wilberforce, over the course of two decades, took on the English establishment and persuaded those in power to end the inhumane trade of slavery.
"Romola Garai plays Barbara Spooner, a beautiful and headstrong young woman who shares Wilberforce's passion for reform, and who becomes his wife after a whirlwind courtship. Youssou N'Dour is Olaudah Equiano. Born in Africa and sent as a slave to the Colonies, Equiano bought his freedom and made his home in London, where he wrote a bestselling account of his life and became a leading figure in the fight to end the slavery of his fellow countrymen.
"Special Features: | Audio commentary with Director Michael Apted and Ioan Gruffudd | How Sweet the Sound: The Story of Amazing Grace -- this half-hour documentary provides an in-depth look at the making of the film and the story's relevance to today | Finding Freedom featurette -- A tour of the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center providing factual information about modern-day slavery practices. | Interactive Discussion Tools and Study Guides -- The discussion guides provide thought-provoking questions that can be printed out for use in classrooms or bible study groups. | Music video of Grammy Nominee Chris Tomlin's version of Amazing Grace.
"Read our exclusive interview with Producer Bob Beltz." -- Publisher

Weber, Karl, Food, Inc.: How Industrial Food is Making us Sicker, Fatter and Poorer -- And What you can do About it, DVD, ISBN: 9781586486945 1586486942.
"FOOD, INC. is guaranteed to shake up our perceptions of what we eat. This powerful documentary deconstructing the corporate food industry in America was hailed by Entertainment Weekly as 'more than a terrific movie -- it's an important movie.' Aided by expert commentators such as Michael Pollan and Eric Schlosser, the film poses questions such as: Where has my food come from, and who has processed it? What are the giant agribusinesses and what stake do they have in maintaining the status quo of food production and consumption? How can I feed my family healthy foods affordably? Expanding on the film's themes, the book FOOD, INC. will answer those questions through a series of challenging essays by leading experts and thinkers. This book will encourage those inspired by the film to learn more about the issues, and act to change the world." -- Publisher

Witness Inc. and Jeremiah Films Video Tapes, DVD.
See: Jeremiah Films and IMP.
http://www.witnessiync.com/ordering_materials.html
Jeremiah Films
http://www.jeremiahfilms.com/products/Pagan-Invasion-Classic

*Zacharias, Ravi (1946-2020), Apologetics and the Modern Mind. A video series, DVD.
Ravi Zacharias Ministries
http://www.rzim.org

Zacharias, Ravi K. (1946-2020), Is Tolerance Intolerant, DVD.
"We encounter an incredible diversity of cultures, lifestyles, and faiths. Unfortunately, our conflicting identities and beliefs often exclude others. Is there truth to real acceptance and inclusion? Join Ravi Zacharias and Michael Ramsden at a sold-out Royce Hall on the campus of UCLA. This two-disc set contains Ravi's presentation, followed by questions from the audience." -- Publisher

Zacharias, Ravi K. (1946-2020), One Week in October, DVD.
"Dr. Ravi Zacharias was invited by local churches to come to Littleton, Colorado during October 1999, six months after the Columbine High School tragedy, and spend a week in discussion and ministry. The tapes contain the six messages delivered by Zacharias to Littleton." -- Publisher

Zacharias, Ravi K. (1946-2020), Jeff Foxworthy, and Ravi Zacharias International Ministries, Is America Really Christian? DVD.
"What would a Christian society really look like? What happens when Christians are the majority? Should the church be political? Is there such a thing as a Christian economy? At what point should religious morality become law? Should religion have a place in the public arena? Does 'In God We Trust' define us?" -- Publisher

Zipporah Films, Titicut Follies, DVD, ISBN: 9781885918512 1885918518.
This documentary is often listed among the 100 Top Documentaries. Released in the early 70s, reviewers have suggested that it was influential in bringing about the radical change in Metal Health Policy at that time, the practical closing down of mental institutions and the release of patients into society. This policy has been a complete failure as documented in The Released also listed here.
The producer obviously plays on the emotions of the viewer. But this does not translate into artistic merit, as most reviewers seem to conclude. In fact, it seems that the objective was to elicit sympathy from a naive public for the plight of the "criminally insane," the "mentally ill," the demoniac. Only someone who has never been a psych nurse or lived with "mentally ill" neighbors could interpret their treatment in this documentary as harsh or cruel. In fact, the patient's incompetence in human relationships makes them impossible to deal with.
"The film is a stark and graphic portrayal of the conditions that existed at the State Prison for the Criminally Insane at Bridgewater, Massachusetts. Titicut Follies documents the various ways the inmates are treated by the guards, social workers and psychiatrists."

See also: Theater, sports, and entertainment, Basics of the christian life, Reference works, CD-ROM libraries, Virtual online digital libraries, Home schooling, Education, Dvd and multimedia, and so forth, and so on.

Related Weblinks

American Portrait Films DVD
"We now offer (2002) over 30 Christian creation science videos, young earth creationism videos, creation science videos, and videos on other creationist topics as well as 100 other thought provoking pro-life, pro-family videos."
http://www.americanportraitfilms.com/

Best of National Geographic on DVD
"General revelation is God's witness to Himself toward all men through creation, history, and the conscience of man. It is set forth in such Scripture passages as Psalm 19; Acts 14:8-18; Acts 17:16-34; Romans 1:18-32; Romans 2:12-16; etc."
http://shop.nationalgeographic.com/jump.jsp?itemType=CATEGORY&itemID=242

Christian Spotlight on the Movies
http://www.christiananswers.net/spotlight/

Christian Videos
http://www.inforamp.net/~jwhitley/video-a.htm

ChristianCinema.com
"Faith Affirming and Family Approved Entertainment"
http://www.christiancinema.com/catalog/default.php?cPath=22

Dove Family Approved Movies and Videos
http://www.dove.org/

Iconbusters, Title Index
http://www.iconbusters.com/iconbusters/witn/html/title-in.htm

Puritan Downloads, The Puritan Hard Drive
http://www.puritandownloads.com/swrb-puritan-hard-drive.html

Puritan Reformed Audiobooks
Tom Sullivan, narrator.
http://www.puritanaudiobooks.net/

Travel Video Store
http://www.travelvideostore.com/index.php

Vision Video
aol://4344:122.yyvismm.1250619.494111056

The Local Church

See the Theological Notes: "The Church," at Ephesians 2:19 in The Reformation Study Bible.
See the Theological Notes: "The Local Church," at Revelation 2:1 in The Reformation Study Bible.
See the Theological Notes: "The Mission of the Church in the World," at John 20:21 in The Reformation Study Bible.
Holding forth the word of life; that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither laboured in vain. (Philippians 2:16)
For I have not spoken of myself; but the Father which sent me, he gave me a commandment, what I should say, and what I should speak.
And I know that his commandment is life everlasting: whatsoever I speak therefore, even as the Father said unto me, so I speak. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (John 12:49,50)
That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son, Jesus Christ. (1 John 1:3)
See the Theological Notes: "God's Covenant of Grace" at Genesis 12:1 in The Reformation Study Bible.
I will build my Church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 16:18b)
Christ Will Build his Church
Forever let us thank God that the building of the one true Church is laid on the shoulders of One who is mighty. Let us bless God that it does not rest upon man. Let us bless God that it does not depend on missionaries, ministers, or committees.
Christ is the almighty Builder. He will carry on His work, though nations and visible Churches do not know their duty. Christ will never fail. That which He has undertaken He will certainly accomplish! -- J.C. Ryle (1816-1900)
The Treasury of David, Psalm 136, C.H. Spurgeon
O give thanks unto the Lord; for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever. (Psalm 136:1)
http://archive.spurgeon.org/treasury/ps136.php
So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it. (Isaiah 55:11)
Jesus Christ had spoken certain truths which were highly objectionable to the Pharisees. Some of His loving disciples were in great fright, and they came to Him and said, Knowest Thou not that the Pharisees are offended? Now our Saviour, instead of making any apology for having offended the Pharisees, took it as a matter of course, and replied in a sentence which is well worthy to be called a proverb, -- Every plant which my Heavenly Father hath not planted shall be rooted up. [Matthew 15:13]
Now we have oftentimes, as Matthew Henry very tritely remarks, a number of good and affectionate but very weak hearers. They are always afraid that we shall offend other hearers. Hence, if the truth be spoken in a plain and pointed manner, and seems to come close home to the conscience, they think that surely it ought not to have been spoken, because So-and-so, and So-and-so, and So-and-so took offense at it.
If we never offended, it would be proof positive that we did not preach the Gospel. They who can please man will find it quite another thing to have pleased God. Do you suppose that men will love those who faithfully rebuke them? If you make the sinner's heart to groan, and waken his conscience, do you think he will pay you court and thank you for it? Nay, not so; in fact, this ought to be one aim of our ministry, not to offend, but to test men and make them offended with themselves, so that their hearts may be exposed to their own inspection.
Their being offended will discover of what sort they are. A ministry that never uproots will never water; a ministry that does not pull down will never build up. He who knoweth not how to pluck up the plants which God hath not planted, scarcely understandeth how to be a worker of God in His vineyard.
Our ministry ought always to be a killing as well as a healing one, -- a ministry which kills all false hopes, blights all wrong confidences, and weeds out all foolish trusts, while at the same time it trains up the feeblest shoot of real hope, and tenders comfort and encouragement even to the weakest of the sincere followers of Christ. -- C.H. Spurgeon (1834-1892), "Killing and Healing" in The Teachings of Nature in the Kingdom of Grace, pp. 223-224
An honest and good heart (Luke 8:15b) will cause a servant of Christ to preach what he sees to be the most essential and profitable truths of the Word, however displeasing they may be unto many of his people. He will faithfully rebuke, exhort, admonish, correct, and instruct, whether his hearers like it or not." -- Arthur Pink (1886-1952), "Guarding Your Heart"
Faithful is he that calleth you, who also will do it. (1 Thessalonians 5:24)
Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves; but our sufficiency is of God; Who also hath made us able ministers of the new testament; not of the letter, but of the spirit: for the letter killeth, but the spirit giveth life. (2 Corinthians 3:5,6)
For as we have many members in one body, and all members have not the same office: So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another. (Romans 12:4,5)
The Treasury of David, Psalm 133, C.H. Spurgeon
Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity! (Psalm 133:1)
http://archive.spurgeon.org/treasury/ps133.php
How amiable are thy tabernacles, O Lord of hosts! (Psalm 84:1). More delightful than tongue can tell are the assemblies for divine worship. They are lovely in prospect, lovely at the time, and lovely to the memory afterwards. Under heaven, no place is so heavenly as the church of the living God. -- Spurgeon's Devotional Bible
Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. (Philippians 2:2)
That their hearts might be comforted, being knit together in love, and unto all riches of the full assurance of understanding, to the acknowledgement of the mystery of God, and of the Father, and of Christ; In whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. (Colossians 2:2,3)
Charity never faileth. (1 Corinthians 13:8a)
I believe that there is on earth, through the whole wide world, no more than one holy, common, Christian church, which is nothing else than the congregation, or the assembly of the saints, i.e., the pious, believing men on earth, which is gathered, preserved, and ruled by the Holy Ghost, and daily increased by means of the sacraments and the Word of God. -- Martin Luther (1483-1546)
The unity of the church, and the concord of believers, is necessary to its strength and safety; for Christ also strengtheneth as well as quickeneth them by suitable means. . . . But to see the churches of Christ with one heart and soul acknowledging their Maker and Redeemer, and singing his praise as with one voice, and living together in love and concord, as those that have one principle, on rule, one nature, one work, one interest, and one hope, and end, this is the truly beauteous symmetry, and delectable harmony. -- Richard Baxter (1615-1691)
And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works:
Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching." (Hebrews 10:24-25)
A stone was found in the Libyan desert with this inscription:
I, the Captain of a Legion of Rome, serving the desert of Libya, have learned and pondered this truth in life, there are two things to be sought, love and power, and nobody has both.
He is right, no human being ultimately has both in the absolute sense. But there is one who does, and that is God himself. Absolute power and absolute love coalescing in the Trinity in that Godhead where love, and truth and holiness coexist in their absolute sense. . . . -- Ravi Zacharias, in an address, Uncovering the new Spirituality (part 2)
We shall all do well to remember the charge: Forsake not the assembling of yourselves together, as the manner of some is. (Hebrews 10:25). Never to be absent from God's house on Sundays, without good reason -- never to miss the Lord's Supper when administered in our own congregation -- never to let our place be empty when means of grace are going on, this is one way to be a growing and prosperous Christian.
The very sermon that we needlessly miss, may contain a precious word in season for our souls. The very assembly for prayer and praise from which we stay away, may be the very gathering that would have cheered, established, and revived our hearts. We know very little how dependent our spiritual health is on little, regular, habitual helps, and how much we suffer if we miss our medicine. -- J.C. Ryle (1816-1900)
That they all may be one; as thou, Father, [art] in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me.
And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one:
I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (John 17:21-23)
But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, [and] easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy. And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace. (James 3:17,18)
It was John Calvin's case for church attendance, found in Institutes of the Christian Religion, (Battle's translation), Book IV, Chapter 1, 1-19 (and context), that finally helped the compiler over the hurdle of erroneously forsaking the assembly of ourselves together ostensibly because of hypocracy, faults, impurities, and minor scandals within the church.
Book Four. The External Means or Aids by Which God Invites us Into the Society of Christ and Holds us Therein Chapter I. The True Church With Which as Mother of all the Godly we Must Keep Unity
(The Holy Catholic Church, our mother, 1-4)
1. The necessity of the church
We need outward helps to beget and increase faith within us, and advance it to its goal.
2. What is the relationship of church and creed?
But because a small and contemptible number are hidden in a huge multitude and a few grains of wheat are covered by a pile of chaff, we must leave to God alone the knowledge of his church, whose foundation is his secret election.
3. The communion of saints
Finally, we feel that these promises apply to us: There will be salvation in Zion [Joel 2:32; Obadiah 17, cf. Vg.]; God will abide in the midst of Jerusalem forever, that it may never be moved. [Psalm 46:5]. So powerful is participation in the church that it keeps us in the society of God. In the very word "communion" there is a wealth of comfort because, while it is determined that whatever the Lord bestows upon his members and ours belongs to us, our hope is strengthened by all the benefits they receive.
4. The visible church as mother of believers
On the other hand, those who turn to the cultivation of true godliness are said to inscribe their names among the citizens of Jerusalem [cf. Isaiah 56:5; Psalm 87:6]. For this reason, it is said in another psalm: Remember me, O Jehovah, with favor toward thy people; visit me with salvation: that I may see the well-doing of thy chosen ones, that I may rejoice in the joy of thy nation, that I may be glad with thine inheritance. [Psalm 106:4-5; cf. Psalm 105:4, Vg., etc.]. By these words God's fatherly favor and the especial witness of spiritual life are limited to his flock, so that it is always disastrous to leave the church.
(Her ministers, speaking for God, not to be despised, 5-6)
5. Education through the church, its value and its obligation
We must observe that God always revealed himself thus to the holy patriarchs in the mirror of his teaching in order to be known spiritually. Accordingly, the Temple is called not only the face of God [cf. Psalm 42:2] but (to remove all cause for superstition) his footstool. [Psalm 132:7; Psalm 99:5; 1 Chronicles 28:2]. Happy indeed is that attainment of unity of faith [cf. Ephesians 4:13] when all -- from the highest to the lowest -- aspire toward the Head!
6. Meaning and limits of the ministry
Moreover, it is clear from other passages how he leaves nothing to ministers by themselves. Neither he who plants nor he who waters is anything, but it is God alone who gives the growth. [1 Corinthians 3:7]. Likewise: I worked more than all; not I, but the grace of God which was with me. [1 Corinthians 15:10]. Surely we ought to remember those statements in which God, ascribing to himself illumination of mind and renewal of heart, warns that it is sacrilege for man to claim any part of either for himself.
(The visible church: its membership and the marks by which it is recognized, 7-9)
7. Invisible and visible church
In this church are mingled many hypocrites who have nothing of Christ but the name and outward appearance. There are very many ambitious, greedy, envious persons, evil speakers, and some of quite unclean life. Such are tolerated for a time either because they cannot be convicted by a competent tribunal or because a vigorous discipline does not always nourish as it ought.
Just as we must believe, therefore, that the former church, invisible to us, is visible to the eyes of God alone, so we are commanded to revere and keep communion with the latter, which is called "church" in respect to men.
8. The limitation of our judgment
Therefore, according to God's secret predestination (as Augustine says), "many sheep are without, and many wolves are within." For he knows and has marked those who know neither him nor themselves. Of those who openly wear his badge, his eyes alone see the ones who are unfeignedly holy and will persevere to the very end [Matthew 24:13] -- the ultimate point of salvation.
9. The marks of the church and our application of them to judgment
Wherever we see the Word of God purely preached and heard, and the sacraments administered according to Christ's institution, there, it is not to be doubted, a church of God exists [cf. Ephesians 2:20]. For his promise cannot fail: Wherever two or three are gathered in my name, there I am in the midst of them. [Matthew 18:20].
(A church with these marks, however defective, is not to be forsaken: the sin of schism, 10-16)
10. Marks and authority of the church
For the Lord esteems the communion of his church so highly that he counts as a traitor and apostate from Christianity anyone who arrogantly leaves any Christian society, provided it cherishes the true ministry of Word and sacraments. He so esteems the authority of the church that when it is violated he believes his own diminished.
11. The inviolable validity of the marks
If in Word and sacraments it has the order approved by the Lord, it will not deceive; let us, then, confidently pay to it the honor due to churches. But again, if, devoid of Word and sacraments, it advertises the name of church, we must just as scrupulously beware such deceits, as we must avoid rashness and pride on the other side.
12. Heeding the marks guards against capricious separation
The pure ministry of the Word and pure mode of celebrating the sacraments are, as we say, sufficient pledge and guarantee that we may safely embrace as church any society in which both these marks exist. The principle extends to the point that we must not reject it so long as it retains them, even if it otherwise swarms with many faults.
13. Scandal in the church no occasion for leaving it
In bearing with imperfections of life we ought to be far more considerate. . . . For there have always been those who, imbued with a false conviction of their own perfect sanctity, as if they had already become a sort of airy spirits, spurned association with all men in whom they discern any remnant of human nature. . . .
There are others who sin more out of ill-advised zeal for righteousness than out of that insane pride. When they do not see a quality of life corresponding to the doctrine of the gospel among those to whom it is announced, they immediately judge that no church exists in that place. . . . But on their part those of whom we have spoken sin in that they do not know how to restrain their disfavor. For where the Lord requires kindness, they neglect it and give themselves over completely to immoderate severity. Indeed, because they think no church exists where there are not perfect purity and integrity of life, they depart out of hatred of wickedness from the lawful church, while they fancy themselves turning aside from the faction of the wicked.
14. Paul and the needs of his congregations
Yet the church abides among them [the Corinthians and Galatians] because the ministry of Word and sacraments remains unrepudiated there.
15. Fellowship with wicked persons
Indeed, I do not deny that it is the godly man's duty to abstain from all familiarity with the wicked, and not to enmesh himself with them in any voluntary relationship. But it is one thing to flee the boon companionship of the wicked; another, in hating them, to renounce the communion of the church.
For when Paul urges us to a holy and pure partaking of it [Communion], he does not require that one examine another, or every one the whole church, but that each individual prove himself [1 Corinthians 11:28]. If it were unlawful to partake of communion with an unworthy person, surely Paul would bid us investigate whether there is anyone in the multitude whose uncleanliness pollutes us.
16. The false claim of perfection comes from distorted opinion
Puffed up with pride, mad with obstinacy, deceitful in their slanders, troublesome in their seditions, these evil persons feign a rigid severity so they cannot be shown to lack the light of truth. Holy Scripture bids us correct our brothers' vices with more moderate care, while preserving sincerity of love and unity of peace.
Finally, let them realize that, in estimating the true church, divine judgment is of more weight than human.
(The imperfect holiness of the church does not justify schism, but affords occasion for the exercise within it of the forgiveness of sins, 17-22)
17. The holiness of the church
And although there are oftentimes few evidences of this sort of sanctification among men, still we must hold that from the creation of the world there was no time when the Lord did not have his church; and even until the consummation of the age, there will be no time when he will not have it. For even though the whole human race has from the very beginning been corrupted and vitiated by Adam's sin, from this polluted mass, as it were, He ever sanctifies certain vessels unto honor [cf. Romans 9:23 ff.] that there may be no age that does not experience his mercy.
18. The example of the prophets
But if the holy prophets had scruples against separating themselves from the church because of many great misdeeds, not of one man or another but of almost all the people, we claim too much for ourselves if we dare withdraw at once from the communion of the church just because the morals of all do not meet our standard or even square with the profession of Christian faith.
19. The example of Christ and of the apostles
Let the following two points, then, stand firm. First, he who voluntarily deserts the outward communion of the church (where the Word of God is preached and the sacraments are administered) is without excuse. Secondly, neither the vices of the few nor the vices of the many in any way prevent us from duly professing our faith there in ceremonies ordained by God. For a godly conscience is not wounded by the unworthiness of another, whether pastor or layman; nor are the sacraments less pure and salutary for a holy and upright man because they are handled by unclean persons. -- John Calvin's case for church attendance, found in Institutes of the Christian Religion, Battle's translation, Book IV, Chapter 1, 1-19 and context
He [David] mentions also as another qualification, that he shunned the wicked in such a manner as not on that account to forsake the congregation of God, or withdraw himself from the company of those with whom he was commanded by divine appointment to associate. Many err in this way grievously; imagining when they see the evil mingled with the good, that they will be infected with pollution, unless they immediately withdraw themselves from the whole congregation. . . . David, therefore, prudently moderates his zeal, and while separating himself from the ungodly, ceases not to frequent the temple, as the divine commandment and the order prescribed in the law required. When he denominates them the assembly of the ungodly, we may unquestionably conclude, that their number was not few; nay, it is probable that they flaunted about at that time, as if they alone were exalted above the people of God, and were lords over them: yet this did not prevent David from coming as usual to the sacrifices. Public care, indeed, is to be used that the Church be not defiled by such wickedness, and every man ought privately to endeavor, in his own place, that his remissness and forbearance do not cherish the disorders which these vices occasion. Although, however, this strictness should not be exercised with that care which is necessary, there is nothing in this to hinder any of the faithful from piously and holily remaining in the fellowship of the Church. It is to be observed, in the meantime, that what retained David, was his communion with God and with sacred things. -- John Calvin commenting on Psalm 26:5
The Church has never been perfect. Far from it. But the total record should be examined. In doing so, the good far, far outweighs the bad. Besides, Christian belief is in Christ, not in Christians. . . .
Genuine Christianity must be distinguished from nominal Christianity. Some people have called themselves "Christians" who have lived in total opposition to the principles and teachings of the Master from Nazareth. But when we distinguish between name and reality, we see that genuine Christianity has been an unmixed blessing on the world. . . .
Christianity is comprised of those who have repented of their sins and truly believe in Jesus Christ as their Savior and their Lord. In times past Christendom was comprised of those people living in "Christian" territories. Today, Christendom is comprised of true Christians and those professing Christians who have never experienced the saving grace of Christ. Many members of Christendom have lived lives that were totally unworthy of the name Christian.
When people are unregenerate -- that is, if their hearts are not changed by Christ -- they are prone to do all sorts of ungodly and inhuman things. It doesn't matter whether they're atheistic Communists or clerics in the Church. And in the case of unregenerate Church Leaders, their evil actions have brought the blame of history upon Christianity.
There is a Church visible (Christendom) and there is a Church invisible (true Christianity). . . . The Bible points out that the visible Church is not the real Church of Christ. The real Church of Christ is invisible, and it consists of all who truly belong to God as His elect -- all those who will ever be regenerated by the Holy Spirit. Judas Iscariot was a member of the visible Church of Christ, but not the invisible. . . .
The devil has been able to infiltrate the Church. [Matthew 13:24-30, 37-39]. Thus, as Jesus forewarned, the Church contains believers and nonbelievers alike. . . .
While Jesus told us to love our neighbor and even our enemies, He did predict that Christianity would prove divisive per se [Luke 12:51-53]. . . .
Now, the Scripture teaches we are to be at peace will all, inasmuch as it is up to us (Romans 12:18). But we are to put Christ first in our lives . . . True faith can elicit a hostile reaction, even when practiced with a gentle and humble spirit. The division that Christ talked about here is the natural outworking of unbelief reacting against godliness, or belief reacting against ungodliness. . . . -- D. James Kennedy (1930-2007) and Jerry Newcombe, What if Jesus had Never Been Born, pp. 205,206,209,210
Let us never set down men in a low place, as graceless and godless, because their faith is feeble and their love is cold. Let us remember the case of Thomas, and be very pitiful and of tender mercy. Our Lord has many weak children in His family, many dull pupils in His school, many raw soldiers in His army, many lame sheep in His school. Yet He bears with them all, and casts none away. Happy is that Christian who has learned to deal likewise with his brethren. There are many in the Church, who, like Thomas, are dull and slow, but for all that, like Thomas, are real and true believers. -- J.C. Ryle (1816-1900)
Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (2 Timothy 3:12)
And Jesus knew their thoughts, and said unto them, Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation; and every city or house divided against itself shall not stand. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 12:25)
This is a remarkable passage, showing that the Church is not always so preserved, as to continue to outward appearance to survive, but that when she seems to be dead, she is suddenly created anew, whenever it so pleases God. Let no desolation, therefore, which befalls the Church, deprive us of the hope, that as God once created the world out of nothing, so it is his proper work to bring forth the Church from the darkness of death. -- John Calvin commenting on Psalm 102:18 and context
Fear not for the Church of Christ when ministers die, and saints are taken away. Christ can ever maintain His own cause. He will raise up better servants and brighter stars. The stars are all in His right hand. Leave off all anxious thought about the future. Cease to be cast down by the measures of statesmen, or the plots of wolves in sheep's clothing. Christ will ever provide for His own Church. Christ will take care that the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. All is going well, though our eyes may not see it. The kingdoms of this world shall yet become the kingdoms of our God, and of His Christ. -- J.C. Ryle (1816-1900)
The church hath more professing than regenerate members, and will have to the end of the world, and none must expect that they be commensurate. -- Richard Baxter (1615-1691)
As Christ hath His saints in Nero's court so the devil has servants in the outer court of the visible church. -- William Gurnall (1617-1679)
Those that undertake great and public services must not think it strange if they be discountenanced and opposed by those from whom they had reason to expect support and assistance; but must humbly go on with their work, in the face not only of their enemies' threats, but of their friends' slights and suspicions. -- Matthew Henry (1662-1714)
In more than 40 years of ministry, it has been my experience that most of the time a believer's greatest persecution comes from others who identify themselves as believers. -- Ralph Drollinger in Nine Characteristics of Tares -- The Believer's Enemy
It is an evil which prevails everywhere among mankind, that every one sets himself above others, and especially that those who seem in anything to excel cannot well endure their inferiors to be on an equality with themselves. And then there is so much morosity almost in all, that individuals would gladly make churches for themselves if they could; for they find it so difficult to accommodate themselves to the ways and habits of others. The rich envy one another; and hardly one in a hundred can be found among the rich, who allows to the poor the name and rank of brethren. Unless similarity of habits or some allurements or advantages draw us together, it is very difficult even to maintain a continual concord among ourselves. Extremely needed, therefore, by us all is the admonition to be stimulated to love and not to envy, and not to separate from those whom God has joined to us, but to embrace with brotherly kindness all those who are united to us in faith. And surely it behoves us the more earnestly to cultivate unity, as the more eagerly watchful Satan is, either to tear us by any means from the Church, or stealthily to seduce us from it. And such would be the happy effect, were no one to please himself too much, and were all of us to preserve this one object, mutually to provoke one another to love, and to allow no emulation among ourselves, but that of doing "good works." For doubtless the contempt of the brethren, moroseness, envy, immoderate estimate of ourselves, and other sinful impulses, clearly show that our love is either very cold, or does not at all exist.
Having said, Not forsaking the assembling together, he adds, But exhorting one another; by which he intimates that all the godly ought by all means possible to exert themselves in the work of gathering together the Church on every side; for we are called by the Lord on this condition, that every one should afterwards strive to lead others to the truth, to restore the wandering to the right way, to extend a helping hand to the fallen, to win over those who are without. But if we ought to bestow so much labor on those who are yet aliens to the flock of Christ, how much more diligence is required in exhorting the brethren whom God has already joined to us?
As the manner of some is, etc. It hence appears that the origin of all schisms was, that proud men, despising others, pleased themselves too much. But when we hear that there were faithless men even in the age of the Apostles, who departed from the Church, we ought to be less shocked and disturbed by similar instances of defection which we may see in the present day. It is indeed no light offense when men who had given some evidence of piety and professed the same faith with us, fall away from the living God; but as it is no new thing, we ought, as I have already said, to be less disturbed by such an event. But the Apostle introduced this clause to show that he did not speak without a cause, but in order to apply a remedy to a disease that was making progress. -- John Calvin commenting on Hebrews 10:25
I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me. (Galatians 2:20)
The just Lord is in the midst thereof; he will not do iniquity: every morning doth he bring his judgment to light, he faileth not; but the unjust knoweth no shame. (Zephaniah 3:5)
Ah, were their souls fully assured that God had loved them freely, and received them graciously, and justified them perfectly, and pardoned them absolutely, and would glorify them everlastingly, they could not but love where God loves, and own where God owns, and embrace where God embraces, and be one with every one that is one with Jesus. -- Thomas Brooks (1608-1680)
The real value of an object is that which one who knows its worth will give for it. He who made the soul, knew its worth, and gave His life for it. -- Arthur Jackson
Now then my friends, I preach the gospel to sinners, not because I believe the sinner has any power at all in himself to respond to it: I do not believe that any sinner has any capacity in himself whatever. But Christ said, the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit and they are life, and by God's grace I go forth preaching this Word because it is a word of power, a word of spirit, a word of life. The power is not in the sinner, it is the Word when God the Holy Spirit is pleased to use it. -- Arthur Pink, Gospel Preaching Commanded
See the Theological Notes: "The Kingdom of God," at Luke 17:20 in The Reformation Study Bible.
See the Theological Notes: "Gifts and Ministries," at Ephesians 4:7 in The Reformation Study Bible.
See the Theological Notes: "The Christian Family," at Ephesians 5:22 in The Reformation Study Bible.
This is the day which the LORD hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it. (Psalm 118:24)
The Treasury of David, Psalm 118, C.H. Spurgeon
It is better to trust in the Lord than to put confidence in man.
It is better to trust in the Lord than to put confidence in princes. (Psalm 118:8,9)
http://archive.spurgeon.org/treasury/ps118.php
I see this tendency to lean on man everywhere. I know no branch of the Protestant Church of Christ which does not require to be cautioned upon the point. It is a snare, for example, to the English Episcopalian to make idols of Bishop Pearson and "the Judicious Hooker." It is a snare to the Scotch Presbyterian to pin his faith on John Knox, the Covenanters, and Dr. Chalmers. It is a snare to the Methodists in our day to worship the memory of John Wesley. It is a snare to the Independent to see no fault in any opinion of Owen and Dodderidge. It is a snare to the Baptist to exaggerate the wisdom of Gill and Fuller and Robert Hall. All these are snares, and into these snares how many fall! -- J.C. Ryle (1816-1900), "The Fallibility of Ministers" in Warnings to the Churches, pp. 93-121
"Things are not what they appear to be because of ungodly alliances."
But Jesus did not commit himself unto them, because he knew all men, and needed not that any should testify of man: for he knew what was in man. (John 2:24,25)
It is not possible to institutionalize Christianity.
The ministerial work must be carried on purely for God and the salvation of souls, not for any private ends of our own. -- Richard Baxter (1615-1691)
Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 7:13,14)
So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God. (Romans 14:12)
http://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/gills-exposition-of-the-bible/romans-14-12.html
http://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/matthew-henry-complete/romans/14.html
And now I say unto you, Refrain from these men, and let them alone: for if this counsel or this work be of men, it will come to nought: But if it be of God, ye cannot overthrow it; lest haply ye be found even to fight against God. (Acts 5:38,39)
And it came to pass, when the priests were come out of the holy place, that the cloud filled the house of the LORD, So that the priests could not stand to minister because of the cloud: for the glory of the LORD had filled the house of the LORD. (1 Kings 8:10,11), The cloudy pillar was the token of the presence of God, and its filling the sanctuary was a sign of his graciously accepting the temple. We cannot tell whether it was the dazzling brightness, or the deep, portentous darkness, which overwhelmed the minds of the priests, but assuredly it is a glorious thing to have the Lord so present in the midst of his people that all our works become as nothing, and we feel that no longer do we stand to minister, but the Lord himself is there. -- C.H. Spurgeon in Spurgeon's Devotional Bible
All that most people in the world see of Christ is what they see of Him in the lives of Christians. It is sobering to realize that we can destroy our Christian witness by a careless word or thoughtless action. If we do not honor Him in our relations with other, we fail at the point that really counts. These pitfalls abound.
One of them for the theologically conservative is spiritual pride. Convinced by the facts of our faith, we may forget that it is not orthodoxy that saves but Jesus Christ. We rightly believe the biblical revelation of Christ's person and work; but we may develop pride in our faith rather than in the saving grace of God.
"Another pitfall is the ever-present tendency to be pharisaical, to thank God that we are not like other men. We pat ourselves on the back because we are not guilty of some weakness we see in others or some habit we regard with distaste. Let us beware lest we sin against God and our brothers in this matter. To draw about us the cloak of self-righteousness smothers our witness. . . . -- L. Nelson Bell, in "Beware the Pitfalls," in Decision magazine, January 2015

The Stark Contrast of Believers and Unbelievers
There are two points in religion on which the teaching of the Bible is very plain and distinct. One of these points is the fearful danger of the ungodly; the other is the perfect safety of the righteous. One is the happiness of those who are converted; the other is the misery of those who are unconverted. One is the blessedness of being in the way to heaven; the other is the wretchedness of being in the way to hell.
I hold it to be of the utmost importance that these two points should be constantly impressed on the minds of professing Christians. I believe that the exceeding privileges of the children of God, and the deadly peril of the children of the world, should be continually set forth in the clearest colors before the Church of Christ. I believe that the difference between the person in Christ, and the person not in Christ, can never be stated too strongly and too fully. Reserve on this subject is a positive injury to the souls of people. Wherever such reserve is practiced, the careless will not be aroused, believers will not be established, and the cause of God will receive much damage. -- J.C. Ryle (1816-1900)
Those by the way side are they that hear; then cometh the devil, and taketh away the word out of their hearts, lest they should believe and be saved. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 8:12)
We do not wish to abolish teaching and to make every man his own master, but if the curates will not teach the gospel, the layman must have the Scripture, and read it for himself, taking God for his teacher. -- William Tyndale
Verily, verily, I say unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord; neither he that is sent greater than he that sent him. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (John 13:16)
For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and he is the saviour of the body. Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in every thing. Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it; that he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word, that he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish. (Ephesians 5:23-27)
See the Theological Notes: "Marriage and Divorce," at Malachi 2:16 in The Reformation Study Bible.
For the LORD, the God of Israel, saith that he hateth putting away: for one covereth violence with his garment, saith the LORD of hosts: therefore take heed to your spirit, that ye deal not treacherously. (Malachi 2:16).
There is no doubt that evangelicalism today is in a state of perplexity and unsettlement. In such matters as the practice of evangelism, the teaching of holiness, the building up of local church life, the pastor's dealing with souls and the exercise of discipline, there is evidence of widespread dissatisfaction with things as they are and or equally widespread uncertainty as to the road ahead. This is a complex phenomenon, to which many factors have contributed; but, if we go to the root of the matter, we shall find that these perplexities are all ultimately due to our having lost our grip on the biblical gospel. Without realizing it, we have during the past century bartered that gospel for a substitute product which, though it looks similar enough in points of detail, is as a whole a decidedly different thing. Hence our troubles; for the substitute product does not answer the ends for which the authentic gospel has in past days proved itself so mighty. Why?
We would suggest that the reason lies in its own character and content. It fails to make men God-centered in their thoughts and God-fearing in their hearts because this is not primarily what it is trying to do. One way of stating the difference between it and the old gospel is to say that it is too exclusively concerned to be 'helpful' to man -- to bring peace, comfort, happiness, satisfaction -- and too little concerned to glorify God. The old gospel was "helpful," too -- more so, indeed, than is the new -- but (so to speak), incidentally, for its first concern was always to give glory to God. It was always and essentially a proclamation of divine sovereignty in mercy and judgment, a summons to bow down and worship the mighty Lord on whom man depends for all good, both in nature and in grace. Its center of reference was unambiguously God. But in the new gospel the center of reference is man. This is just to say that the old gospel was religious in a way that the new gospel is not. Whereas the chief aim of the old was to teach people to worship God, the concern of the new seems limited to making them feel better. The subject of the old gospel was God and his ways with men; the subject of the new is man and the help God gives him. There is a world of difference. The whole perspective and emphasis of gospel preaching has changed.
From this change of interest has sprung a change of content, for the new gospel has in effect reformulated the biblical message in the supposed interests of 'helpfulness'. Accordingly, the themes of man's natural inability to believe, of God's free election being the ultimate cause of salvation, and of Christ dying specifically for his sheep are not preached. These doctrines, it would be said, are not 'helpful'; they would drive sinners to despair, by suggesting to them that it is not in their own power to be saved through Christ. (The possibility that such despair might be salutary is not considered: it is taken for granted that it cannot be, because it is so shattering to our self-esteem). However this may be (and we shall say more about it later), the result of these omissions is that part of the biblical gospel is now preached as if it were the whole of that gospel; and a half-truth masquerading as the whole truth becomes a complete untruth. Thus, we appeal to men as if they all had the ability to receive Christ at any time; we speak of his redeeming work as if he had make it possible for us to save ourselves by believing; we speak of God's love as if it were no more than a general willingness to receive any who will turn and trust; and we depict the Father and the Son, not as sovereignly active in drawing sinners to themselves, but as waiting in quiet impotence 'at the door of our hearts' for us to let them in.
It is undeniable that this is how we preach; perhaps this is what we really believe. But it needs to be said with emphasis that this set of twisted half-truths is something other than the biblical gospel. The Bible is against us when we preach in this way; and the fact that such preaching has become almost standard practice among us only shows how urgent it is that we should review this matter. To recover the old, authentic, biblical gospel, and to bring our preaching and practice back into line with it, is perhaps our most pressing present need. And it is at this point that Owen's treatise on redemption can give us help. -- J.I. Packer in the Introduction to The Death of Death in the Death of Christ by John Owen
True Gospel in the pulpit, true Gospel in every Religious Society we support, true Gospel in the books we read, true Gospel in the friends we keep company with -- let this be our aim, and never let us be ashamed to let men see that it is so.
Let the meekness of St. Peter in taking a reproof be as much our example as the boldness of St. Paul in reproving." -- J.C. Ryle (1816-1900), "The Fallibility of Ministers," in Warnings to the Churches, pp. 93-121.
Whenever leaders [fathers, pastors, businessmen, elected officials -- compiler] lose sight of the Gospel, then they lead us into hypocrisy, Pharisaism, and legalism. -- Phil Smuland
One of the most important concepts in the history of Western thought is the concept of the corporation. Although in Rome some aspects of the idea existed, what we know as the corporation is a Biblical doctrine. A corporation is an entity which exists apart from the life of its members, is a legal person, and has a continuing existence. The word corporation, comes from a Latin word meaning body. A corporation is thus a corpus, a body, with a life of its own. . . .
The early church thus saw itself as a body, a corporation. It was more than the sum total of its members, moreover, because the church was and is created by Jesus Christ, and its essential existence is in Christ, not apart from Him. A church separated from Christ is no longer a church but a parody of a church. The church thus is not only a corporation, it is a supernatural body or corporation, because its Head and Ruler is the King of all creation. The church thus has an existence which transcends this earth and transcends time and death. -- R.J. Rushdoony (1916-2001)
Brethren, if we are to win great victories we must have greater courage. Some of you hardly dare speak about the blood of Christ in any but the most godly company; and scarcely there. You are very retiring. You love yourselves too much to get into trouble through your religion. Surely you cannot be of that noble band that love not their own lives unto the death! Many dare not hold the old doctrine nowadays because they would be thought narrow and bigoted, and this would be too galling. They call us old fools. It is very likely we are; but we are not ashamed to be fools for Christ's sake, and the truth's sake. We believe in the blood of the Lamb, despite the discoveries of science. We shall never give up the doctrine of atoning sacrifice to please modern culture. What little reputation we have is as dear to us as another man's character is to him; but we will cheerfully let it go in this struggle for the central truth of revelation. It will be sweet to be forgotten and lost sight of, or to be vilified and abused, if the old faith in the substitutionary sacrifice can be kept alive. This much we are resolved on, we will be true to our convictions concerning the sacrifice of our Lord Jesus; for if we give up this, what is there left?
God will not do anything by us if we are false to the cross. He uses the men who spare not their reputations when these are called for in defence of truth. Oh to be at a white heat! Oh to flame with zeal for Jesus! O my brethren, hold you to the old faith, and say, "As for the respect of men, I can readily forfeit it; but as for the truth of God, that I can never give up." This is the day for men to be men; for, alas! the most are soft, molluscous creatures. Now we need backbones as well as heads. To believe the truth concerning the Lamb of God, and truly to believe it, this is the essential of an overcoming life. Oh for courage, constancy, fixedness, self-denial, willingness to be made nothing of for Christ! God give us to be faithful witnesses to the blood of the Lamb in the midst of this ungodly world! -- C.H. Spurgeon in a sermon, The Blood of the Lamb, the Conquering Weapon
Some would take Christ if they might even be allowed to choose the time when he should be their all, if they might do it in the church or in private, but not in the world. But if you are his, you will choose Christ tonight, Christ tomorrow, Christ forever; Christ in the private room, and in the family; Christ in the shop, and in the market; Christ in the church and in the world; Christ when you are with the godly; Christ when with the ungodly and the profane; Christ in the hour of prosperity, Christ in the hour of adversity; Christ when the world smiles, and says, as it sometimes seems to do, that Christ is good; and Christ when the world frowns, and says that Christians are mad, and that Christ has a devil. You will take Christ with you to the humble cottage and to the lordly mansion; Christ among your poor and despised fellow-sinners; Christ with the nobles of the land; Christ in the drawing room -- I do not say Christ in the ballroom, for if you go there, you must leave Christ behind; I do not say Christ in the theatre, for you must get Satan to go with you there; but Christ in life, Christ in death, Christ in the day of judgement, and then -- ineffably glorious hope -- Christ to all eternity. -- William C. Burns (1815-1868)
What Church Membership Used to Mean
"Last week it was reported that the churches of America increased their membership by 690,000. Are you encouraged by these figures? I for my part am not encouraged a bit. I have indeed my own grounds for encouragement, especially those which are found in the great and precious promises of God. But these figures have no place among them. How many of these 690,000 names do you think are really written in the Lamb's Book of Life? A small proportion, I fear.
"Church membership today often means nothing more, as has well been said, than a vague admiration for the moral character of Jesus; the church in countless communities is little more than a Rotary Club. One day, as I was walking through a neighboring city, I saw not an altar with an inscription to an unknown god, but something that filled me with far more sorrow than that could have done. I saw a church with a large sign on it, which read somewhat like this: 'Not a member? Come in and help us make this a better community.' Truly we have wandered far from the day when entrance into the Church involved confession of faith in Christ as the Savior from sin." -- J. Gresham Machen, from The Separateness of the Church, a sermon preached in the Chapel of Princeton Theological Seminary on Sunday, March 8, 1925, posted in the log of Eric T. Young on February 11, 2012
Covenant Reformed Presbyterian Church, Sheboygan, Wisconsin
The Presbyterian and Reformed News was edited by Robert Shapiro and Frank J. Smith. Both men were among the original founders of the Presbyterian Church in America (PCA).
Frank J. Smith announced in the final issue, Volume 10 Numbers 1-4 Jan -- Dec 2004 (link below), that he will be leaving the PCA. He has joined with the Covenant Reformed Presbyterian Church in Sheboygan, Wisconsin, part of the Covenant Reformed Presbyterian Church (CRPC), a Reformed and Presbyterian denomination organized in 1998. This new denomination established "The Society of Presbyteries and Reformed Churches" and is engaged in merger talks with other Reformed denominations.
Resolution to Establish the Society of Presbyteries and Reformed Churches
http://www.refcm.org/crpc%20web%20stuff/CRPC--SPARC%20documents.pdf
Presbyterian and Reformed News
"Recording the Story of the Presbyterian Church in America."
The final issue, Volume 10 Numbers 1-4 Jan -- Dec 2004
http://www.presbyteriannews.org/volumes/v10/1/pr38.pdf
Talks included the Reformed Presbyterian Church, Hanover Presbytery (Richard Bacon, Robert La May).
The Reformed Presbyterian Church Hanover Presbytery
http://www.rpchanover.org
Mr. Smith had been examined and approved by the Hanover Presbytery.
It was reported in December 18, 2004, http://www.americanpresbyterianchurch.org/minutes_12-18-04.htm, that the Covenant Reformed Presbyterian Church (CRPC) declined to pursue merger talks with the Reformed Presbyterian Church, Hanover Presbytery. The main issue was membership in Masonic Lodges, which is tolerated by the RPCUS, Hanover Presbytery.
Robert Shapiro wrote an article entitled "Whither the PCA?" In it he sums up the corruption in the PCA. Over six pages expose problems with Doug Wilson's ministry. With Frank J. Smith's departure for reasons cited in the publication the late 2004 issue of the Presbyterian and Reformed News was the final issue. It is no longer published.
http://www.refcm.org/crpc%20web%20stuff/crpcsheboygan/index.htm
And because I tell you the truth, ye believe me not. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (John 8:45)
The leading idea is, "Falsehood has laid such fast hold of, has taken such deep root in, your minds, -- you so firmly believe a lie, -- that truth, instead of being a recommendation to my statements, is the very thing which prevents you from receiving them." They had professed faith in him; but that was when they were in a mistake respecting his character. They had concluded that he was "the Messiah," understanding by that word a temporal deliverer. Viewing him in this false light, they were quite ready to be his followers; but no sooner had he told them the truth, that the liberty he came to bestow was a liberty of mind and heart, to be produced by the operation of his doctrine understood and believed, than they retracted their profession, -- they would not acknowledge him as the Messiah, -- they would not "continue in his word," -- they would not be "his disciples." Had he told them a lie, -- had he flattered their prejudices, -- had he promised to "restore the kingdom to Israel," in their sense of these terms, -- then they would have believed him, then they would have followed wherever he chose to lead. But because he told them the truth, that he was not a temporal deliverer, but a spiritual Saviour, -- "therefore," on that very ground, they disbelieved him, and were disposed not only to "go back, and walk no more with him," but even to wish and to plot his destruction. They thus showed that they not only had no appetite for truth, but a positive distaste for it, and proved their spiritual relationship to him who is a liar, who abides not in the truth, in whom there is no truth. So dangerous is it for the mind to get under the influence of error respecting the great fundamental principles of religion. It leads, in innumerable instances, to the mistaking of truth for falsehood, and falsehood for truth, -- and induces men to receive a doctrine for the very reason for which they out to reject it, and to reject a doctrine for the very reason for which they ought to receive it." -- John Brown (of Edinburgh, 1784-1858), (II:62)
Certainly when we take the world as a whole, we are obliged to see that the foundations of liberty and honesty are being destroyed, and the slow achievements of centuries are being thrown recklessly away.
In such a time of kaleidoscopic changes, is there anything that remains unchanged? When so many things have proved to be untrustworthy, is there anything that we can trust?
One point, at least, is clear -- we cannot trust the church. The visible church, the church as it now actually exists upon this earth, has fallen too often into error and sin.
No, we cannot appeal from the world to the church.
Well, then, is there anything at all to which we can appeal? Is there anything at all that remains constant when so many things change?
I have a very definite answer to give to that question. It is contained in a verse taken from the prophecy of Isaiah [Isaiah 40:8]: The grass withers, the flower fades: but the Word of our God shall stand forever. There are many things that change, but there is one thing that does not change. It is the Word of the living and true God. The world is in decadence, the visible church is to a considerable extent apostate; but when God speaks we can trust Him, and His Word stands forever sure. -- J. Gresham Machen, The Christian View of Man, pp. 13-14
One of the great twentieth century tragedies in the church is that so many, not lay members only, but ministers in particular, are satisfied to know so little. -- Gordon H. Clark
Here is the great evangelical disaster -- the failure of the evangelical world to stand for truth as truth. There is only one word for this -- namely accommodation: the evangelical church has accommodated to the world spirit of the age. -- Francis Schaeffer (1912-1984) in A Christian Manifesto
Overall, the current research [2009] revealed that only 9 percent of all American adults have a biblical worldview. Among the sixty subgroups of respondents that the survey explored was one defined by those who said they have made a personal commitment to Jesus Christ that is important in their life today, and that they are certain that they will go to Heaven after they die only because they confessed their sins and accepted Christ as their savior. Labeled 'born again Christians,' the study discovered that they were twice as likely as the average adult to possess a biblical worldview. However, that meant that even among born again Christians, less than one out of every five (19 percent), had such an outlook on life.
The same questions were asked of respondents in national surveys by Barna in 1995, 2000 and 2005. The results indicate that the percentage of adults with a biblical worldview, as defined above, has remained unchanged for more than a decade. The numbers show that 7 percent had such a worldview in 1995, compared to 10 percent in 2000, 11 percent in 2005, and 9 percent now [2009]. Even among born again adults, the statistics have remained flat: 18 percent in 1995, 22 percent in 2000, 21 percent in 2005, and 19 percent today. -- "Barna Survey Examines Changes in Worldview Among Christians Over the Past 13 Years," March 6, 2009.
That means, hypothetically, applying this statistic for purposes of general illustration, that if a born again individual with a Biblical worldview sits down in the middle of an Evangelical congregation, then the four persons seated around him, left, right, front, back, statistically do not have a Biblical worldview, which raises doubts that they really have a changed life, and are really true to Christ.
The truth hurts! But these facts need to be known, especially by the new believer, who can be so buffeted about initially by the Adversary, and who can be so susceptible to discouragement.
See also:

"Barna Lists the 12 Most Significant Religious Findings"

"A Biblical Worldview has a Radical Effect on a Person's Life," December 1, 2003

"What People Experience in Church," and

Jonathan Edwards, Religious Affection.

George Barna reviewed more than a dozen national surveys related to matters of faith conducted by the Barna Research Group during 2000 and devised three lists of faith-related survey results -- particularly noteworthy insights . . .
Surveys showed the following results:

Born again adults are more likely to experience a divorce than are non-born again adults (27 percent vs. 24 percent).
Large proportions of the lay leaders in Christian churches hold a range of unbiblical religious views regarding the holiness of Christ, the reality of Satan, the existence of the Holy Spirit, the reality of the resurrection, and the means to salvation.
Desiring to have a close, personal relationship with God ranks just sixth among the 21 life goals tested, trailing such desires as 'living a comfortable lifestyle.'
Born again Christians spend seven times as much time on entertainment as they do on spiritual activities.
Although two-thirds of all teenagers say they know all the basic teachings and principles of the Christian faith, two-thirds of them reject the existence of Satan, three-fifths reject the existence of the Holy Spirit, and half believe that Jesus sinned during His lifetime.
In a representative nationwide survey among born again adults, none of the individuals interviewed said that the single, most important goal in their life is to be a committed follower of Jesus Christ.
Barna is known for providing objective though not-always-flattering surveys regarding the Christian faith and the state of the church. Among his findings that have generated substantial interest or controversy in recent years are: children are the most important population segment to minister to because of their spiritual vulnerability; Protestant churches are generally ineffective vessels for evangelism and discipleship; most Protestant pastors are neither called to nor competent in leadership; less than one out of every ten born again adults possess a biblical worldview; every church engages in marketing, but few do it well; the mass media have the most dramatic effect on people's behavior and beliefs; house churches and other alternative forms of church life are growing rapidly; a growing group of spiritually devout people, known as Revolutionaries, is reshaping spiritual life in the U.S.; and most "church growth" is simply the recycling of church-goers from one congregation to another.
It matters not before God, whether we be few or many. (2 Chronicles 14:11; 1 Samuel 14:6.) For God can save his people by either a small force or a mighty one. -- John Calvin commenting on Daniel 10:13
One man of you shall chase a thousand: for the Lord your God, he it is that fighteth for you, as he hath promised you. (Joshua 23:10)
John Calvin (1509-1564) described creation as "the theatre of God's glory." Accordingly, Calvin writes, "There is not one blade of grass, there is no color in this world, that is not intended to make us rejoice." While Calvin made few references to the beauties of Lake Geneva and its surrounding mountains in his writings, he enticed his friend, Pierre Viret, to visit him with the prospect that "we'll take a visit to Monsier de Falais; then, crossing the lake, we'll enjoy the pleasures of the country together at the home of our friends Pommier and Delisle, and we shan't return until Thursday." Preaching on Job 39:22-25, Calvin said, "If a small portion of God's works [in nature] ought to ravish us and amaze us, what ought all his works to do when we come to the full numbering of them?" -- Matthew Miller in A Plea for Pastors to Get Outdoors

Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), A Call to Discernment: Distinguishing Truth from Error in Today's Church, ISBN: 0890815887 9780890815885, 139 pages.
"The contemporary church lacks discernment. Christians attempt to sort out life from a conglomerate of 'misinformation, disinformation, distortion, and truth.' The Bible calls you to develop discernment, as opposed to the mentality which views discernment as synonymous with self-righteous heresy-hunting. Presents a plan for readers to grow in discernment. 'Discernment thrives in an atmosphere of absolutes, among people whose minds have been molded to think antithetically.' How can you develop biblical discernment? Here's both the what-to and the how-to." -- David Powlison (1949-2019)

Alexander, Archibald (1772-1851), Thoughts on Religious Experience: To Which is Added an Appendix, Containing "Letters to the Aged," ISBN: 079050846X 9780790508467, 338 pages.
Contains counsel for widows and widowers (pp. 329-38).

*Ashe, Simeon (d. 1662), The Church Sinking, Saved by Christ: Set out in a Sermon Preached [Isaiah 63:5], Before the Right Honourable the House of Lords, in the Abby-Church at Westminster, on Wednesday, Febr. 26. 1644, Being the day of the Monthly Publike Fast [Isaiah 63:5]. Isaiah 63:5 at BibleGateway. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.

Bainton, Roland Herbert, The Church of our Fathers, ISBN: 0880192119 9780880192118.
"A popular presentation of the historic drama, intrigues, rivalry, persecution, suffering, courage, and heroism displayed by Christian leaders from Paul to the establishment of the church in the New World." -- Cyril J. Barber

Bainton, Roland H., The Travail of Religious Liberty.
"Biographical studies of Thomas R. Torquemada, John Calvin, Miquel Servetus, Sebastian Castellio, David Joris, Bernardino Ochino, John Milton, Roger Williams, and John Locke. First published in 1951." -- Cyril J. Barber

Baker, Don, Beyond Rejection: The Church, Homosexuality and Hope, ISBN: 0880701080 9780880701082.
"The book is about a man who was a practicing homosexual most of his life. Even in seminary and marriage this practice continued. The sin is finally overcome, but not without heart rending struggle. This man has helped many hundreds turn from homosexuality since he himself gave it up." -- GCB

Banks, Robert, Going to Church in the First Century: An Eyewitness Account, ISBN: 0940232375 9780940232372.
"Bankes does his research. He is not merely writing what he thinks the Church looked like in the first century but he dives into Church History itself to show you historically what it looked like. The book takes 1 Corinthians 14:26 and applies it to the house churches listed in the New Testament. In the end, Banks does a wonderful job of showing the reader how radically different our church 'services' are today compared to the first century. Banks then tells us how to apply the apostolic traditions (1 Corinthians 11:2; 2 Thessalonians 2:15; 3:6), to our current churches whether traditional or house churches." -- Reader's Comment

*Banks, Robert J., Paul's Idea of Community: The Early House Churches in Their Cultural Setting, ISBN: 1565630505 9781565630505.
"Robert Bank's widely read PAUL'S IDEA OF COMMUNITY: THE EARLY HOUSE CHURCHES IN THEIR CULTURAL SETTING is once again available to laypeople, pastors and scholars alike. In this extensively revised edition Banks has rewritten chapters for clarity, taken into account recent scholarship on Paul's writings, updated and expanded the bibliography, and added an index. This new edition retains, however, all the freshness and vitality of the original.
"The book draws fully upon the wealth of recent scholarly analysis of the New Testament churches, but in such a skilled way that the picture is not buried in learning, but brought to life for present-day readers. . . . People will be startled to find how much of modern church life has departed form the New Testament spirit. And yet the modern communities still possess in the New Testament, as illuminated through a book like this, the sources from which church life can be reawakened to the community consequences of accepting the Pauline gospel." -- Edwin A. Judge, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
"It is good news that Robert Banks's PAUL'S IDEA OF COMMUNITY is once more available, now in a thoroughly revised, expanded edition. Convinced that Paul's distinctive contribution to Christianity is his idea of community, Banks demonstrates how this notion informs Paul's instruction to his churches. . . . It is striking how naturally discussions of such topics as Paul's teaching on freedom and on eschatology fall within the purview of this stimulating book." -- Abraham J. Malherbe, Yale University
"Robert Banks is Professor of the Ministry of the Laity and Chair of the Ministry Division at Fuller Theological Seminary, Pasadena, California." -- Publisher

Banks, Robert J., and Julia Banks, The Church Comes Home, ISBN: 156563179X 9781565631793.
"In our modern dislocated society many are searching for a church experience that offers true Christian sharing, nurturing, and discipleship, in addition to teaching and worship. For many such people the answer is found in the home church: a small, committed group of often diverse people who meet together in homes to pray, eat, sing, study, and share their lives.
"THE CHURCH COMES HOME is a handbook for those interested in home churches. It is both visionary and practical. It describes how home churches can be formed, how they should grow, and how networks of home churches can develop. It examines issues-for example, how to make decisions; how to determine doctrine; how to include children, singles, elders; and how to reach out to the community at large-and offers practical suggestions for their resolution.
"Robert Banks is Professor of the Ministry of the Laity and Chair of the Ministry Division at Fuller Theological Seminary, Pasadena, California.
"Julia Banks and her husband Robert have been involved with home churches for over twenty-five years. Together they have led seminars and assisted congregations in developing this style of gather in many parts of the world. Julia coordinates the community house in which she and Rob live with a group of students. She is also active as a church planter and in building networks among house churches." -- Publisher

*Bannerman, James (1807-1868), The Church of Christ: A Treatise on the Nature, Powers, Ordinances, Discipline, and Government of the Christian Church, 1869, 2 volumes. A Christian classic. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #24.
"Two large volumes. A classic on the Church and worship! This is one of the most extensive studies of its kind ever compiled. Nothing compares to it on this subject. Regarding these gems, Iain Murray has stated, 'In our day, however greatly we need an evangelical revival, we need more than that. We need another Reformation, a movement which will go 'to the root of the mischief' and bring back the visible church to the pattern of God's Word in her government, ordinances and ministry. The republication of Bannerman is a step in that direction . . . For those who wish to study the doctrine of the Church in its several aspects as it was held by the majority of the Reformers, Puritans, Covenanters and leaders of 'The Third Reformation,' it will prove an invaluable textbook." -- Publisher

Barna, George, The Barna Report 1992-93: America Renews its Search for God.
"Barna's WHAT AMERICANS BELIEVE captures a snapshot of American Christianity in 1991. This totally-new election-year edition updates the picture! . . . Vital information is easy to grasp with key charts and graphs (more detailed tables appear in the appendix), and easy to apply practical action steps." -- CBD

Barna, George, The Frog in the Kettle: What Christians Need to Know About Life in the Year 2000, ISBN: 0830714499 9780830714490.
Subtitle: What the future will be like, how the "new values" will affect the church, how Christians need to respond to the changing environment.
"There isn't enough time to digest all the important information that flies your way. George Barna has captured critical trends shaping your world and boiled them down in his new book, THE FROG IN THE KETTLE -- a book for every concerned Christian to read." -- Publisher

Barna, George, Revolution, 2005, ISBN: 1414307586 9781414307589 1414310161 9781414310169.
We feel that Barna's polls and statistics are valuable in giving a picture of the current state of the local church. However, we see no evidence that separated and divided Christians will ever attain to the fullness of the true church united in one body. Our top priority should always be reform of the church. (See the chapters on "Corporate Faithfulness and Sanctification," The Westminster Confession of Faith [1646, The Westminster Standards], and Related Works: A Study Guide, and "Unity and Uniformity in the Visible Church: Unity in the Truth.")
"Somehow, the other day, I happened to pick up a copy of George Barna's new book called REVOLUTION. For those of you who are unfamiliar, George Barna is the founder of Barna Research Group (now called The Barna Group), which was created more than two decades ago with the intent to help ministries facilitate strategic decision-making. Much of this was accomplished through detailed statistical research provided by the Group. Over the course of that 20 years the Barna research team interviewed nearly a half million people in the course of hundreds of research studies, provided seminar-based training to leaders from more than 50,000 churches, produced more than 60 books and syndicated reports, and developed a website that provided free information to hundreds of thousands of people every month. Barna became one of the most (if not the most), trusted resource for church-related statistical research in the United States and has often been hailed as 'the most quoted person in the Christian Church today!'
"But, as I found out reading this book, a drastic change occurred in George Barna's life (about 2003), as a result of his countless hours of researching the effects of organized religion; he realized that very little actual life transformation appeared to be occurring in churched believers all over the country. Even worse, he realized that his own efforts in research were being used by pastors mostly for the purpose of seeking statistical evidence to support their teaching. To his surprise, however, the same research Barna had been conducting over the years led him to a discovery of the fact that God was moving in mighty ways OUTSIDE the four walls of the Institutional Church! In fact, Barna was so impacted by what he observed in the lives of 'churchless' Christians all over the U.S. that it convinced him to give up what he had done for 20 years and refocus his attentions. He changed the name of his organization from the Barna Research Group to simply the Barna Group, downsized his organization from 100 employees to eight, moved out of their large office space into a compact area, sought to become more partnership based, and chose to raise the level of risk they were willing to take in new ventures, determining that it would be better to go broke in the pursuit of true life transformation than to remain financially safe but without any gain for the kingdom. "All of that to say that George Barna no longer has interest to merely help grow the Institutional Church. His new passion is solely to see God's true Church, who are His very people (His body), walk into the fullness of what God intends for them without obstacles, without distractions, without religious strings attached -- and to see them live life to the fullest in Christ and minister truth to a lost and dying world who desperately need Him. George was humbled to find that this is already happening without the aid of churches and formal religious organizations or 'official' leadership. In fact, one of the most impacting things he notes in his new book is that so many of these groups of believers who serve the Lord outside the Institutional Church System, even though they often have poor organization, lack of great numbers, meager financial resources, often weak human leadership and are sometimes ridiculed and despised by those in larger church organizations, yet they are often more effective (in terms of actual life transformation, relationship building, devotion to truth, and sincere Christian devotion); proving that it is GOD -- not man -- that is leading these believers. Barna now calls these Christians who no longer center their lives around religious organizations (i.e. churches), 'Revolutionaries' and believes they (all 20 million of them and growing), are the real future of the manifested Body of Christ on earth; in other words they represent those who have moved beyond the established church and chosen to BE the Church instead. Barna also humbly and joyously admits that he is now one of them as well.
"While many traditionalists argue today that, in order to grow properly in the Lord, you must attend a local church, Barna refutes this notion strongly with both Scripture and statistical example of how literally millions of believers today are finding a vibrant relationship with God (and fellowship with their brothers and sisters in Christ), outside the walls of organized religion (and the same are effecting change around them by their Christ-like influence); However, Barna does not make the argument simply about those 'in' churches and those 'outside' (as a sort of 'us versus them' attitude), rather he directs his writing to every true believer in Jesus Christ and focuses on the importance of becoming full disciples of Jesus (whether inside or outside the walls of some organization), and not to become distracted with anything that may remove our full attention from Him. Barna states in the book: 'In fact, there is no verse in Scripture that links the concepts of worshiping God and a 'church meeting.' The Bible does not tell us that worship must happen in a church sanctuary and therefore we must be actively associated with a local church. It simply tells us that we must worship God regularly and purely, in spirit and truth. Take particular note of the fact that Jesus dismissed the organized worship of His day as 'a farce' and intimated that we ought not be so limited as to how and when we worship God (see Mark 7:7). When the Samaritan woman asked about worship practices and places, Jesus responded bluntly that, The time is coming when it will no longer matter whether you worship the Father on this mountain or in Jerusalem . . . But the time is coming -- indeed it is here now -- when true worshipers with worship the Father in spirit and in truth. (John 4:21-23). He was highlighting the same foolish irrelevancies that traditionalists argue about today.
"The book also highlights trademarks of true Revolutionaries as Barna has observed and attempts to give suggestions as to how all of us, even (and especially), those believers who are still associated with or who lead traditional congregations, can make way for this current revolution and move of God's Spirit. While some may find the content of this book uncomfortable or even controversial, Barna speaks with grace but also fervor and excitement, presenting a strong, biblically-sound argument for what he has observed transpiring over the last two decades and encourages the reader to make their own educated observations. Finally, he challenges the reader to boldly face this crossroad and decide whether or not they will become a part of the revolution themselves (risking all to follow Christ without reserve). He presses the reader with the question as to whether or not they will embrace what God is doing or outright fight it and reject it altogether. Whether or not a Christian chooses to agree with Barna's observations of what he considers to be a magnificent move of God and the very future of the Lord's Church on earth as we know it, Barna believes that every Christian needs to be aware of 'the revolution' and confront their reaction to it head on.
"Anyone who has been familiar with the Barna Group (a.k.a. Barna Research Group), over the years knows that they are a trustworthy voice in the Church and have a firm grasp on the nationwide picture of organized religion and its effects on society and the body of Christ. We would do well to listen to what this brother in Christ, George Barna, has to say about what he has observed.
"This is a remarkable book that will encourage and inspire believers (whether outside the institutional church program or even still within). It's a very easy read. The book also contains some statistics (as you'd expect from Barna Group), and proves to be a very informative, spiritually-motivating read. I highly recommend this book!
"In closing I would just like to say that this review is not necessarily intended to be a full on endorsement of everything George Barna may personally believe or engage in as it concerns every facet of his ministry. The truth is, I know very little at this point about all of that. Each person should exercise discernment and hold fast to the truth of God's Word as their gage in all things. I merely wish to encourage people to see that God is working in wonderful ways OUTSIDE the four walls, as He can in you . . . and if a man who spent more than 30 years of his life supporting the old system can humble himself, recognizing the hand of God in ways previously unfamiliar to him and risk everything to follow Christ, even if it costs him the success of his own well-established and financially-successful ministry, certainly so can we press on in Jesus without fear or worry for the things others may say about us and live to become Revolutionaries for the glory of our Lord. Ultimately, I hope all of us who know the Lord can agree that life as believers is ABOUT HIM and we ought never to allow ourselves to be distracted from a pure and true devotion to Jesus Christ.
"God bless you all!" -- Reader's Comment
Barna, George, Robert Lewis, and Dwight Gunter, Revolution, 2006, DVD. Alternate title: "Healthy Churches Respond to the Revolution."

Barna, George, The Second Coming of The Church, 2001, ISBN: 0849942705 9780849942709.
Barna considers this his most important work.
"In this 'blueprint for survival,' Christian sociologist George Barna evaluates the moral and spiritual decline of society and the corresponding stagnation within the Church. Using hard data, Barna unveils the status quo and argues convincingly that the Church must re-invent itself or face virtual oblivion by the mid-21st century." -- Publisher

Barna, George, The State of the Church: 2002, ISBN: 0967137268 9780967137261.
Lists Barna's complaints with today's local church.
"We're spending $50 to $60 billion a year on domestic ministry. Tell you what. You give the CEO of IBM $50 to $60 billion this year, and see what he can do.
"It bothers him deeply that the church is soft, and possesses no urgency to change. . . .
"Every day, the church is becoming more like the world it allegedly seeks to change ." -- George Barna in The State of the Church: 2002

*Barna, George, What Americans Believe: An Annual Survey of Values and Religious Views in the United States, ISBN: 0830715053 9780830715053.
"Our society is changing in ways that have dramatic implications for the future of morality, ethics, and the Christian church. Three quarters of young adults in this country believe there is no absolute truth -- a major change from older generations which tend to believe in absolute truth. WHAT AMERICANS BELIEVE gives a clear, up-to-the-minute picture of the mores, beliefs, and religious attitudes of Americans. It is based on an annual survey conducted by the Barna Research Group and covers 65 questions about values, life-style, and religious beliefs." -- Publisher
A tool to reshape ministerial strategies.

Barrow, Greg, Classical Protestant Doctrine of the Church (as read by Larry Birger for the The Covenanted Reformation Defended), audio cassette [audio file], series. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
"This tape, read by Larry Birger, is chapter 2 in Greg Barrow's THE COVENANTED REFORMATION DEFENDED. It covers some of the most important (and often forgotten, in our day), aspects of the Reformation doctrine of the church. Numerous citations are included, from many Reformation leaders and the confessional statements of the best Reformed churches. Without the distinctions made here you are likely to misunderstand not only the Reformation view of the church, but also related questions. (like why the Reformers accepted Roman Catholic baptism [it was the Anabaptists that rejected the baptism of Rome, because of errors related to these very questions]). Furthermore, as Barrow points out, the Reformed distinction regarding the 'being' and the 'well-being' of the church is absolutely indispensable. Without an understanding of this crucial Scriptural distinction concerning the church you will not be able to fully understand the best Reformers on any issues about or related to the church." -- Publisher

*Barrow, Gregory, The Covenanted Reformation Defended Against Contemporary Schismatics, 318 pages. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #1, #19, #23, #27.
"A primer for the Covenanted Reformation, this is the best starting point for the new reader. It organizes the hundreds of Covenanted Reformation reprints into a logical defense of the theological landmarks established by our forefathers, with copious bibliographic references, many to e-text. An extraordinary document.
"Unsurpassed on points related to the Lord's Supper and covenanting (as set forth by the best Reformers and best Reformed churches). Especially strong on citations from Calvin and the Westminster Assembly. Deals with many foundational aspects of the Covenanted Reformation (which gave us the Westminster Standards and the Solemn League and Covenant), from numerous original source documents (from the Westminster Assembly's advice to the English Parliament on the Lord's Supper to the official records of Calvin's Covenanting in Geneva). Comprehensive and compelling, this is a shocking (and sometimes advanced), look at what really took place during both the first and second Reformations -- with extensive quotations from the writings of the major Reformers (not just quotes from what others have written about them). It conclusively and irrefutably demonstrates that those churches which today call themselves Presbyterian (and even many which claim a more general Reformed heritage), have seriously departed from the Scriptural standards, principles and worship of these previous Spirit-led Reformations. It is written in an easy-to-read and easy-to-understand format and is an unsurpassed work that should not be missed by anyone interested in real Reformation in our day. This is without a doubt the best book to read if you want to understand what it means to be a Covenanter and to walk in the blood-stained footsteps of the witnessing church (Christ's Covenanted and Reformed flock), (Song of Solomon 1:8)!" -- Publisher
Publisher's Preface to The Covenanted Reformation Defended Against Contemporary Schismatics
http://www.swrb.com/newslett/actualnls/pub_pref.htm
Eschewing Ecclesiastical Tyranny (Protestant Biblical Separation)
"1 Corinthians 2:15. The classic Reformation position on biblical separation, Protestant private judgment, the visible church, etc. -- contra Antichrist (the Papacy) and wayward liberal Protestants. This is Appendix G from THE COVENANTED REFORMATION DEFENDED: 'A brief examination of Mr. Bacon's principles regarding the visible church and the use of private judgment. Also, some observations regarding his ignoble attack upon Mr. Kevin Reed in his book entitled THE VISIBLE CHURCH IN THE OUTER DARKNESS'." -- Publisher
The Covenanted Reformation Defended, e-text
http://www.swrb.com/newslett/actualnls/CovRefGB.htm
The Covenanted Reformation Defended, audio files
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?sermonID=7702201426
The Covenanted Reformation Defended Against Contemporary Schismatics: A Response and Antidote Primarily to the Neopresbyterian Malignancy and Misrepresentations and the Manufactured 'Steelite' Controversy, Found in Richard Bacon's "A Defense Departed . . ."
http://books.google.com/books?id=LG5EHQAACAAJ&ie=ISO-8859-1&output=html

Barrs, Jerram, and Howard A. Snyder (foreword), Shepherds and Sheep: A Biblical View of Leading and Following, ISBN: 0877843953 9780877843955.
Includes bibliographical references.

Black, David (1762-1806), The Deceitfulness of the Heart. Available in SERMONS ON IMPORTANT SUBJECTS.
"Black (1762-1806), was pastor of Lady Yester's, Edinburgh, Scotland, from 1794 until his death. With regard to his sermon delivery, it was said that 'His manner was solemn and affectionate, earnest and persuasive. When expostulating with sinners, or unfolding to Christians the consolations of the gospel, there was often an animation in his address -- a sacred fervour -- a divine unction, which powerfully impressed the auditory. He evidently felt the truths he was delivering, and spake as one standing in the presence of God, animated with a pure zeal for the glory of the Redeemer, and the salvation of immortal souls.' The following piece is from his SERMONS ON IMPORTANT SUBJECTS (Edinburgh 1808)."
http://www.westminsterconfession.org/the-doctrines-of-grace/the-deceitfulness-of-the-heart.php

Black, John (1768-1849), Church Fellowship. A Sermon Preached at the Opening of the Synod of the Reformed Presbyterian Church, Philadelphia, May 16, 1816.
Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. (Ephesians 4:3)
Be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men. (Ephesians 4:14)
Church Fellowship, John Black
http://www.covenanter.org/reformed/2015/8/18/john-blacks-sermon-on-church-fellowship

Boston, Thomas (1676-1732), The Nature of Church Communion Illustrated: or, The Unity of the Body of Christ, and the Duty the Members owe to one Another Opened. Being the substance of several sermons on 1 Cor. x. 17 [1 Corinthians 10:17]. Alternate title: ON CHURCH COMMUNION. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available (THE WORKS OF THOMAS BOSTON), on Reformation Bookshelf CD #5.

Bowles, Oliver (c. 1577-1646?), Zeale for God's House Quickened, or, A Sermon Preached Before the Assembly of Lords, Commons and Divines at Their Solemn Fast Iuly 7, 1643, John ii. 17 [John 2:17]: Gal. 4:18 [Galatians 4:18]. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.

*Brooks, Thomas (1608-1680), The Distinguishing Marks of False Teachers: An Extract From Precious Remedies Against Satan's Devices, ISBN: 1879737027 9781879737020. Available (PRECIOUS REMEDIES AGAINST SATAN'S DEVICES and THE WORKS OF THOMAS BROOKS), on the Puritan Hard Drive.
The Distinguishing Marks of False Teachers, Thomas Brooks
http://www.graceonlinelibrary.org/revival/full.asp?ID=397

Brooks, Thomas (1608-1680), and Alexander Balloch Grosart, What a Hypocrite Cannot do. Alternate title: HOW FAR AN HYPOCRITE CANNOT GO. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #20.

Brown, David, Samuel Chidley, Mr. Burton, and John Goodwin, Two Conferences Between Some of Those That are Called Separatists and Independents, Concerning Their Different Tenents: One Whereof, was appointed with Mr. Burton and a number of his church, and the other with Mr. John Goodwin and some of his church. Alternate title: TWO CONFERENCES BETWEEN SOME OF THOSE WHO ARE CALLED SEPARATISTS AND INDEPENDENTS.

Brown, John (of Haddington, 1722-1787), A Compend of the Letters of the Rev. John Brown, Late Minister of the Gospel in Haddington: On Authoritative Toleration of Gross Heresy, Blasphemy, Idolatry, Popery in Britain, and on National Covenanting; In Which the Doctrine of the Westminster Confession of Faith . . . and of the National Covenant and Solemn League are Candidly Represented and Defended, 1797. Alternate title: THE ABSURDITY AND PERFIDY OF ALL AUTHORITATIVE TOLERATION OF GROSS HERESY, BLASPHEMY, IDOLATRY, POPERY, IN BRITAIN. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #7, #25, #26.
The Absurdity and Perfidy of all Authoritative Toleration of Gross Heresy, Blasphemy, Idolatry, Popery, in Britain
http://archive.org/details/absurdityperfidy00brow

Brown, John (of Haddington, 1722-1787), The Gospel Ministry: An Address to Ministers and Students of Theology, 1864. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #7.

Brown, John (of Haddington, 1722-1787), Of the Nature, Formation, and Fellowship of the Christian Church, 1796. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #7.

Bruce, Michael (1559-1631), The Duty of Christians to Live Together in Religious-communion, Recommended. In a sermon preached at Belfast, January 5th. 1724-5 before the sub-synod. . . . By Michael Bruce, Belfast, 1725.

Bunyan, John (1628-1688), and George Offor, House of God. Alternate title: THE HOUSE OF GOD: A DISCOURSE OF THE BUILDING, NATURE, EXCELLENCY AND GOVERNMENT OF THE HOUSE OF GOD, WITH COUNSELS AND DIRECTIONS OF THE INHABITANTS THEREOF. Available (THE WORKS OF JOHN BUNYAN), on the Puritan Hard Drive.
Pilgrim's Page: A John Bunyan Archive
This is the complete set of THE WORKS OF JOHN BUNYAN, George Offor edition, reprinted by The Banner of Truth. It is free online, and is downloadable in the following formats: HTML, RTF, TEXT, and PDF.
http://www.chapellibrary.org/literature/bunyan/
THE COMPLETE WORKS OF JOHN BUNYAN is also available at Project Gutenberg.

*Bunyan, John (1628-1688), and Robert Philip (1791-1858), The Greatness of the Soul: and The Unspeakableness of the Loss Thereof; No way to Heaven but by Jesus Christ; The Strait Gate. Alternate title: THE GREATNESS OF THE SOUL, AND UNSPEAKABLENESS OF THE LOSS THEREOF: WITH THE CAUSES OF THE LOSING IT: FIRST PREACHED AT PINNERS HALL, AND NOW ENLARGED, AND PUBLISHED FOR GOOD. A Christian classic. Considered to be among the ten greatest books in the English language. Available (THE WORKS OF JOHN BUNYAN), on the Puritan Hard Drive.
"In the 1660s, Charles II, King of England, asked John Owen (1616-1683), why he went to hear the preaching of an uneducated tinker. [John Bunyan -- compiler]. Looking the King in the eye, Owen answered, 'May it please your Majesty, could I possess the tinker's ability for preaching, I would willingly relinquish all my learning'." -- Andrew Thomson, John Owen, Prince of Puritans
Owen would not have been surprised to learn that Bunyan's most influential work, PILGRIM'S PROGRESS, would be translated into more languages over the next 400 years than any book except the Bible.
The Greatness of the Soul: and The Unspeakableness of the Loss Thereof; No way to Heaven but by Jesus Christ; The Strait Gate
http://archive.org/details/greatnessofsoulu00bunyuoft
Pilgrim's Page: A John Bunyan Archive
This is the complete set of THE WORKS OF JOHN BUNYAN, George Offor edition, reprinted by The Banner of Truth. It is free online, and is downloadable in the following formats: HTML, RTF, TEXT, and PDF.
http://www.chapellibrary.org/literature/bunyan/
THE COMPLETE WORKS OF JOHN BUNYAN is also available at Project Gutenberg.

*Burgess, Anthony (d. 1664?), The Reformation of the Church, To be Endeavoured More Than That of the Commonwealth, 1645. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
"A 'Sermon preached before the Right Honourable House of Lords at the publicke Fast, August 27, 1645,' (notes the cover), during the days of the sitting of the Westminster Assembly. Can you image these words (which are just a small sample from the preface to the godly exhortation contained in this sermon), directed, by request of the civil magistrate, to the leaders of your nation? Burgess writes, 'It was my endeavour in this Sermon to excite your Lordships to a speedy and exact Reformation of the Church from all the corruptions that have defiled her, and herein to attend unto God's Word, as the only starre that will conduct unto Christ. None are too great to undertake so good a work. Gregory said of David dancing before the Ark, Magis miror Davidum saltantem, quam pugnantem, David is to be more admired in his religious worship of God, than in his courageous conquest and slaughter of the Philistines, or other enemies. Hence, Jer. 9:23,24 [Jeremiah 9:23,24], where glory in wisdome, riches and might is forbidden, there is a kinde of an holy pride allowed in the knowledge of the Lord. Let Heathens glory, that they are saluted by the Common-wealth, Patres Pariae; but let those Christians, whom God honoureth with dignity and place, delight to be nursing Fathers to the Church, by speaking comfortably unto those who teach the good knowledge of God; and by commanding the Levites to carry all the filthiness out of the Temple. Which that your Lordships may faithfully and zealously doe, is the prayer of Your Lordships humble Servant, Anthony Burgesse'." -- Publisher

Burroughs, Jeremiah (1599-1646), Gospel Reconciliation, or, Christ's Trumpet of Peace to the World Wherein is Shewed (Besides Many Other Gospel Truth) . . . That There was a Breach Made Between God and man . . . to which is added two sermons, 1657, ISBN: 1567690661 9781567690668.
"Notes: Published with a testimony by Thomas Goodwin, William Bridge, William Greenhil, Sydrach Sympson, Philip Nye, John Yates, William Adderley."
"Gods present mercies to his people are arguments of future mercies, preached at Saviors Southward, May 2, 1641; Old age is a crown of glory . . . preached before the Company of Mercers at their chappel, May 20, 1641."

Byfield, Richard, A Short Treatise Describing the True Church of Christ, and the Evils of Schism, Anabaptism and Libertinism, wherein is proved that: Society is the genus of a church, not congregations, A national church under the New Testament, The visible church is God's Temple, The infallible note of a true church, Learning is needful for the discharge of the ministry, Toleration of all religions is contrary to God's Word, No communion with the wicked in their sin, etc. Delivered in two sermons. 1653. Alternate title: TEMPLE-DEFILERS DEFILED: WHEREIN A TRUE VISIBLE CHURCH OF CHRIST IS DESCRIBED. THE EVILS AND PERNICIOUS ERROURS, ESPECIALLY APPERTAINING TO SCHISME, ANABAPTISME, AND LIBERTINISME, THAT INFEST OUR CHURCH, ARE DISCOVERED. AND DIRECTIONS TO PRESERVE FROM THE SIN AND PUNISHMENT OF TEMPLE-DEFILING, DELIVERED IN TWO SERMONS PREACHED AT THE LECTURE IN KINGSTON UPON THAMES, FEB. 20 AND 27, 1644. OUT OF I COR. 3.17 [1 Corinthians 3:17].

Calvin, John (1509-1564), 1 Timothy, 2 Timothy, and Titus, [1 Timothy; 2 Timothy; Titus] ISBN: 1581340214 9781581340211 1856841839 9781856841832.

*Calvin, John (1509-1564), Calvin's Ecclesiastical Advice.
"Forty-six (46) letters and writings of Calvin newly translated into English from CORPUS REFORMATORUM (volume 38, part I). Focusing on doctrine, the Reformation, worship, discipline, judicial questions, and marriage, this books clearly exhibits Calvin's pastoral style. It also shows the great influence which Calvin exerted over Second Reformation thought, because of his focus on doctrine, worship and church government." -- Publisher

Calvin, John (1509-1564), Come out From Among Them: The "Anti-Nicodemite" Writings of John Calvin. Available in LIBRARY OF PRESBYTERIAN HERITAGE PUBLICATIONS AND PROTESTANT HERITAGE PRESS CD-ROM LIBRARY.
"Some one will therefore ask me what counsel I would like to give to a believer who thus dwells in some Egypt or Babylon where he may not worship God purely, but is forced by the common practice to accommodate himself to bad things. The first advice would be to leave (i.e., relocate -- ed.), if he could . . . If someone has no way to depart, I would counsel him to consider whether it would be possible for him to abstain from all idolatry in order to preserve himself pure and spotless toward God in both body and soul. Then let him worship God in private (in his home -- ed.), praying him to restore his poor church to its right estate." -- John Calvin, Come out From Among Them, The Anti-Nicodemite Writings of John Calvin pp. 93-94

Calvin, John (1509-1564), Comparison Between the False Church and the True. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #23.
Comparison Between the False Church and the True in Institutes of the Christian Religion (translated by Henry Beveridge), Book Fourth, Of The Holy Catholic Church, Chapter 2
http://www.ccel.org/ccel/calvin/institutes.vi.iii.html

*Calvin, John (1509-1564), Letters of John Calvin, 2 volumes, ISBN: 9780548138700 0548138702. Available [CALVIN'S SELECTED WORKS, TRACTS AND LETTERS, 7 volumes], on the Puritan Hard Drive.

*Calvin, John (1509-1564), The Necessity of Reforming the Church (1544). Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Also found in CALVIN'S SELECTED WORKS, TRACTS AND LETTERS. Available in Library of Presbyterian Heritage Publications and Protestant Heritage Press CD-ROM Library. Available in THE CHURCH EFFEMINATE AND OTHER ESSAYS.
"It [THE NECESSITY OF REFORMING THE CHURCH (1544) -- compiler], has still been correctly acknowledged as one of the most important documents of the Reformation."
"C.H. Spurgeon once said, 'the longer I live the clearer does it appear that John Calvin's system is the nearest to perfection.' (cited in Christian History, Vol. 5, No. 4). . . . Like Calvin, some few believers today see 'the present condition of the Church . . . to be very miserable, and almost desperate.' Our context is different in one key respect however. The church needing reformation in Calvin's day was the tradition-encrusted church of Rome. Shortly after the Reformation, for those leaving Rome behind, two streams became apparent. One was the stream of classical Protestant orthodoxy, represented today by a handful of Gideons in their desktop publishing wine vats. The other was the left wing of the Reformation -- the anabaptist movement. In the early years, the anabaptists were suffering outsiders. But today the anabaptist church is the Establishment -- an establishment governed by a chaos of traditions instead of biblical worship. Everywhere we look we see Christians approaching God with observances in worship which Calvin calls 'the random offspring of their own brain.' Though this work is not an elaborate systematic presentation of the foundations of Christianity, such as CALVIN'S INSTITUTES, it has still been correctly acknowledged as one of the most important documents of the Reformation. Calvin here pleads the cause dearest to his heart before an assembly perhaps the most august that Europe could have furnished in that day. It has been said that the animated style used by Calvin in this work would not lose by comparison with any thing in the celebrated 'Dedication' prefixed to his INSTITUTES. To this day, THE NECESSITY OF REFORMING THE CHURCH remains a powerful weapon, both defensive and offensive, to fight the contemporary battle for Protestantism -- the everlasting gospel of truth. Here, in our modern setting, we find the answers to many of the vexing questions which continue to agitate the Church." -- Publisher
The Necessity of Reforming the Church (1543), by John Calvin
http://www.swrb.com/newslett/actualnls/NRC_ch00.htm

*Calvin, Jean (John, 1509-1564), and John H. Leith, The Christian Life, ISBN: 0060612983 9780060612986.
Calvin, On the Christian Life
http://www.ccel.org/calvin/christian_life/christian_life.html

Cawdrey, Daniel (1588-1664), The Inconsistencie of the Independent Way, With Scripture and it Self: Manifested in a Threefold Discourse, I. Vindicia vindiciarum, with M. Cotton. II. A review of M. Hookers Survey of church-discipline. The first part. III. A diatribe with the same M. Hooker concerning baptism of infants of non-confederate parents, chap. 2. Of his third part (Whether the Infants of Believers not in Covenant with a visible Church, may be baptized), 1651. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.

Cawdrey, Daniel (1588-1664), Independencie a Great Schism: Proved Against Dr. Owen, his Apology in his Tract of Schism: As Also an Appendix to the Former Discourse, Shewing the Inconstancy of the Dr. and the Inconsistency of his Former and Present Opinions. Alternate title: INDEPENDENCY FURTHER PROVED TO BE A SCHISM, OR, A SURVEY OF DR. OWEN'S REVIEW OF HIS TRACT OF SCHISM: WITH A VINDICATION OF THE AUTHOUR FROM HIS UNJUST CLAMOURS AND FALSE ASPERSIONS. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.

Clower, Joseph B., The Church in the Thought of Jesus.

Copeland, E. Clark, The Church a Covenant Community as Seen in the Jerusalem Council, 1967.

Cragg, Gerald Robertson, Puritanism in the Period of the Great Persecution, 1660-68.
"This worthy study focuses on Puritanism in England and is of interest to all students of church history. First published in 1957." -- Cyril J. Barber

Cunningham, William (1805-1861), Defence of the Rights of the Christian People in the Appointment of Ministers: From the Constitutional Standards and History of the Church of Scotland: With Continuation of Strictures on Mr. Robertson's Observations on the Veto Act, 1840.

Cunningham, William (1805-1861), and James Buchanan (1804-1870), Proposal for the Foundation and Formation of Libraries in the Manses of the Free Church of Scotland: With a Catalogue of Books.

Dabney, Robert Lewis (1820-1898), Broad Churchism, ISBN: 0851513506 9780851513508. Alternate title: DISCUSSIONS OF ROBERT LEWIS DABNEY. "Transcribed from a sermon preached before the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church in the United States, Huntsville, Alabama, 18 May 1871." Available in DISCUSSIONS: EVANGELICAL AND THEOLOGICAL, 2 volumes. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #23.
"Warfield called Dabney 'the most conspicuous figure and the leading theological guide of the Southern Presbyterian Church, the most prolific theological writer that Church has as yet produced.' These three volumes of articles and essays vindicate Warfield's statement. 'This is not a book to be read and returned to the library shelf,' states the well known Baptist minister Al Martin, 'rather, as I have found to my own profit, it ought to be read, digested, and kept close at hand as a guide, companion and constant prod to us.' Dr. Archibald Alexander called Dabney, 'the best teacher of theology in the United States, if not the world.' Freundt notes, 'Dabney championed the doctrines of Calvinism and applied them consistently and practically to the great issues of his times'." -- Publisher
Broad Churchism, R.L. Dabney
http://www.westminsterconfession.org/the-church/broad-churchism.php
Discussions of Robert Lewis Dabney Vol. 1: Evangelical and Theological.
http://archive.org/details/DiscussionsOfRobertLewisDabneyVol.1EvangelicalAndTheological

Dabney, Robert L. (1820-1898), The Public Preaching of Women. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #22.

Davis, D. Clair, The Church in the Modern Age: Kuyper and the Dutch Church (part 1), (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Audio cassette CD231 [audio file].

Davis, D. Clair, The Church in the Modern Age: Kuyper and the Dutch Church (part 2), (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Audio cassette CD232 [audio file].

Davis, D. Clair, The Church in the Modern Age: Kuyper and Educational Reformation, a series of 46 audio files, (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Audio cassette CD234 [audio file].
"The Church in the Modern Age" is a series including "The Church in the Modern Age: Kuyper and the Dutch Church," and "The Medieval Church: Authority," among many other lectures.

Davis, D. Clair, The Medieval Church: Authority (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Audio cassette CD317 [audio file].

Dorough, C. Dwight, The Bible Belt Mystique, ISBN: 066420709X 9780664207090.

Dutcher, Greg, Killing Calvinism: How to Destroy a Perfectly Good Theology From the Inside out, ISBN: 9781936760534 1936760533.
"Something wonderful is happening in Western Evangelicalism. A resurgence of Calvinism is changing lives, transforming churches, and spreading the gospel. The books are great, the sermons are life-changing, the music is inspirational, and the conferences are astonishing. Will this continue or will we, who are part of it all, end up destroying it?
"That depends on how we live the message.
"As 'insiders' of the Calvinist resurgence, there are at least eight ways we can mess everything up.

by loving Calvinism as an end in itself
by becoming theologians instead of disciples [wording seems problematic here -- compiler]
by loving God's sovereignty more than God himself
by losing an urgency in evangelism
by refusing to learn from non-Calvinists
by tidying up the Bible's 'loose ends' [seems problematic -- compiler]
by being a bunch of arrogant know-it-alls
by scoffing at the emotional hang-ups others have with Calvinism

"Greg Dutcher (M.Div., Biblical Theological Seminary) pastored an Evangelical Free Church in Catonsville, Maryland for six years before sensing a call to plant Christ Fellowship Church in Harford County, Maryland. He has served as Senior Minister of Christ Fellowship since its inception in 2003. He is the author of two recent books with Discovery House publishers, YOU ARE THE TREASURE THAT I SEEK: BUT THERE'S A LOT OF COOL STUFF OUT THERE, LORD (2009), and LIVING FREE IN ENEMY TERRITORY: CHRIST'S TRIUMPH OVER SATAN (2011). Greg and his wife, Lisa, have four children." -- Publisher
"This book blew me away! Greg Dutcher skillfully diagnosed how I kill the very truth I love by my hypocrisy, pride, anger, and judgmental attitude. This book will serve a young generation of Calvinists. But the older generation had better heed it, too. There's medicine here for all our hearts, and taking this medicine will make us more joyful and more humble when making our glorious God known." -- Reader's Comment
"Many Calvinists will find reading this book to be a painful experience. But medicine is like that. The good news is that a healthy dose of Dutcher's wisdom will go a long way in bringing spiritual health to the young, restless, and reformed." -- Reader's Comment

Edwards, Thomas (1599-1647), The Casting Down of the Last and Strongest Hold of Satan. Or, A Treatise Against Toleration and Pretended Liberty of Conscience: wherein by Scripture, sound reason, fathers, schoolmen, casuists, Protestant divines of all nations, confessions of faith of the Reformed Churches, ecclesiastical histories, and constant practice of the most pious and wisest emperours, princes, states, the best writers of politicks, the experience of all ages; yea, by divers principles, testimonies and proceedings of sectaries themselves, as Donatists, Anabaptists, Brownists, Independents, the unlawfulnesse and mischeif [sic] in Christian commonwealths and kingdoms both of a vniversal toleration of all religions and consciences, and of a limited and bounded of some sects only, are clearly proved and demonstrated, with all the materiall grounds and reasons brought for such tolerations fully answered. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.

Edwards, Thomas (1599-1647), Reasons Against the Independent Government of Particular Congregations: As Also Against the Toleration of Such Churches to be Erected in This Kingdom -- Together With an Answer to Such Reasons as are Commonly Alleged for Such a Toleration, 1641. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #24, #26.

*Foxe, John (1516-1587), and Thomas Freeman (prefatory material), John Foxe's Book of Martyrs. Actes and Monuments of Matters Most Speciall and Memorable (unabridged). Alternate title: THE UNABRIDGED ACTS AND MONUMENTS ONLINE or TAMO (HRI Online Publications, Sheffield, 2011). Available from: http://www.johnfoxe.org. Implemented by the Humanities Research Institute, University of Sheffield, England, and published by HRI Online Publications, Sheffield, 2011, Version 2.0, ISBN: 9780954260864.
"You can browse and compare the unabridged texts of the four editions of this massive work published in John Foxe's lifetime (1563, 1570, 1576, 1583). Each edition changed significantly as Foxe sought to incorporate new material, answer his critics, and adjust its polemical force to the needs of the moment. . . .
"TAMO is both an instrument of scholarship and a tool for anyone who wants to explore this remarkable work, a milestone in the history of the English printed book and a signal achievement of its printer, John Day."
John Foxe's Book of Martyrs. Actes and Monuments of Matters Most Speciall and Memorable, ISBN: 0197262252 9780197262252.
"This CD-ROM combines readable and printable images of 2,200 pages of text and woodcut engravings from the 1583 edition, the last for which Foxe was personally responsible."
Other editions: Acts and Monuments or Foxe's Book of Martyrs, 1554, 1843-49 edition, 8 volumes. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
" 'No book ever inflicted a wound so deep and incurable on the Romish system of superstition and bloody persecution . . . it was placed in . . . all churches and chapels throughout the kingdom, by order of Queen Elizabeth.' (Smith, Select Memoirs, p. 245). Contains much information not found in any of the liberally edited and severely shortened editions of this classic work which are in print today. Covering martyrs from the early church through to Foxe's day, it was one of the most influential books of the sixteenth century! It overflows with faith building testimony of the power of God to overcome the most cruel and barbarous acts of human depravity and demonic cruelty. 6890 pages. A very rare set, now back in print after 150 years!" -- Publisher
"After the Bible itself, no book so profoundly influenced early Protestant sentiment as the BOOK OF MARTYRS. Even in our time it is still a living force. It is more than a record of persecution. It is an arsenal of controversy, a storehouse of romance, as well as a source of edification." -- James Miller Dodds, English Prose
"When one recollects that until the appearance of the PILGRIM'S PROGRESS the common people had almost no other reading matter except the BIBLE and FOX'S BOOK OF MARTYRS, we can understand the deep impression that this book produced; and how it served to mold the national character. Those who could read for themselves learned the full details of all the atrocities performed on the Protestant reformers; the illiterate could see the rude illustrations of the various instruments of torture, the rack, the gridiron, the boiling oil, and then the holy ones breathing out their souls amid the flames. Take a people just awakening to a new intellectual and religious life; let several generations of them, from childhood to old age, pore over such a book, and its stories become traditions as individual and almost as potent as songs and customs on a nation's life." -- Douglas Campbell, The Puritan in Holland, England, and America
"If we divest the book of its accidental character of feud between churches, it yet stands, in the first years of Elizabeth's reign, a monument that marks the growing strength of a desire for spiritual freedom, defiance of those forms that seek to stifle conscience and fetter thought." -- Henry Morley, English Writers
"John Foxe was a prince among believers. He had his printing press on a cart, and had often to print at night, moving his press before dawn to escape capture and burning at the stake. He never faltered in his purpose to leave a voluminous written witness to the power of the Lord Jesus Christ to keep His saints in love and peace." -- Jay P. Green, Sr. (1918-2008)
Text Encoding Initiative (TEI), John Foxe's Book of Martyrs Variorum Edition Online
http://www.tei-c.org/Activities/Projects/jo01.xml

Gallup, George, Jr., and Jim Castelli, The People's Religion: American Faith in the 90's, ISBN: 0025423819 9780025423817.
Includes bibliography.

Gallup, George, Jr., and David Poling, The Search for America's Faith, ISBN: 0687370906 9780687370900.
"An epochal work that probes the attitudes and desires of youth, the family, different religious groups, the church; assesses the validity of religious experience; and explores prospects for the future. Points to the needs of the hour, and provides an analysis of the questions people are asking. Should be read by all in the ministry." -- Cyril J. Barber

Girardeau, John L., and George A. Blackburn, The Discretionary Power of the Church: Sermons. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #20, #23.
The Discretionary Power of the Church, a sermon
http://www.covenanter.org/reformed/2015/8/18/john-l-girardeaus-sermon-on-the-discretionary-power-of-the-church
Discretionary Power of the Church
http://www.naphtali.com/girard.htm

Guthrie, James (1612?-1661), A Treatise of Ruling Elders and Deacons, In Which These Things Which Belong to the Understanding of Their Office and Duty are Clearly and Shortly set Down.
A Treatise of Ruling Elders and Deacons, In Which, These Things Which Belong to the Understanding of Their Office and Duty, are Clearly and Shortly set Down, James Guthrie
Let the elders that rule well, be counted worthy of double honour. (1 Timothy 5:17)
They that have used the office of a deacon well, purchase to themselves a good degree and great boldness in the faith which is in Christ Jesus. (1 Timothy 3:13)
http://www.truecovenanter.com/guthrie/guthrie_james_treatise_elders_and_deacons.html

Hall, David W., Jus Divinum Regiminis Ecclesiastici, or, The Divine Right of Church-government, ISBN: 0941075214 9780941075213 0941075222 9780941075220.

Houston, Thomas (1803-1882), The Fellowship Prayer-meeting: The Institution, Nature, History, and Advantages of Select Christian Fellowship, With Directions for Conducting Social Religious Exercises. Also available in WORKS [of Thomas Houston], DOCTRINAL AND PRACTICAL, volume 2. Available (THE FELLOWSHIP PRAYER-MEETING), on the Puritan Hard Drive.

*Howe, John (1630-1705), Of Charity in Reference to Other Men's Sins, 1 Corinthians 13:5, 1681. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
"According to James Darling's CYCLOPAEDIA BIBLIOGRAPHICA, John Howe was one of the faithful English Puritan ministers who was ejected from his church in 1662. Darling adds that 'The late Robert Hall said that he had learned more from John Howe than from any other author he had ever read, and that there is an astonishing magnificence in his conceptions.' (p. 1560).
"This book is about Christians' attitudes towards the sins of other people. For example, Howe notes that some people are happy to see others sin because it makes them feel superior to those people. But it is itself sinful for a Christian to feel this way. 'What is it now to rejoice in another man's sin? Think what it is, and how impossible it is to be where the love of God hath any place. What to be glad that such a one is turning a man into a devil! A reasonable immortal soul, capable of Heaven, into a fiend of Hell! To be glad that such a soul is tearing itself off from God, is blasting its own eternal hopes, and destroying all its possibilities of a future well-being! Blessed God! How repugnant is this to Charity?' (p. 18)
" 'One would think them indeed but half men, and scarce any Christians, that can allow themselves so inhumane, and unhallowed a pleasure, as rejoicing in another's sin!
" 'Tis very unworthy of a man to take pleasure in seeing his fellowman turning beast. There is little in it of the ingenuity that belongs to humane nature, to delight in the harms of others; much less of the prudence, to make sport of a common mischief.' (p. 54)
"Rather than rejoicing over the sins of others, Christians should mourn over the sin and pray for the repentance of the offender.
"In some cases, however, charity and duty will require separation from the offender. 'We are to decline their society: i.e. when their heinous guilt appears, and while their repentance appears not. Scripture is so plain, and copious to this purpose, that it would suppose them very ignorant of the Bible, for whom it should be needful to quote texts. We must avoid them for our own sake, that we be not infected, nor be partakers in their sin, and guilt. For theirs (and so charity requires it), that they may be ashamed, which may be the means of their reduction and salvation: And (which is most considerable), for the honour of the Christian religion, that it may be vindicated, and rescued from reproach, as much as in us lies.' (pp. 41-42)
"In this respect Christians have an infallible example. 'The great God is our example, who refuses the fellowship of apostate persons, yea and churches: Departs, and withdraws his affronted Glory. It is pure, and declines all taint'." (p. 42) -- Publisher
The Whole Works of the Rev. John Howe, M.A., With a Memoir of the Author (1822), vol. 1 of 8.
http://archive.org/details/wholeworksofrevj01howeuoft

Kennedy, D. James (1930-2007), and Jerry Newcombe, The Gates of Hell Shall not Prevail, ISBN: 0785276866 9780785276869.

*Knowling, Richard J., The Testimony of St. Paul to Christ.
"Based upon the Boyle Lectures for 1903-1905. Deals with the Pauline epistles, Paul's conversion and testimony to the veracity of the Gospel records, and his teaching on the life and function of the church. A scholarly study." -- Cyril J. Barber

Knox, John (1505-1572), The Early Church and the Coming Great Church. Available (WORKS OF JOHN KNOX), on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #1.

*Knox, John (1505-1572), Letter of Wholesome Counsel, Addressed to His Brethren in Scotland, (1556). Alternate title: WHAT TO DO WHEN THERE IS NO FAITHFUL CHURCH IN YOUR AREA. Available (in THE WORKS OF JOHN KNOX and in a newsletter) on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #1.
"Presents a 1556 letter written by Scottish religious reformer John Knox (1513-1572), to the church of the English exiles in Geneva, Switzerland. Explains that the letter reflects the state of the Protestant church in Scotland before the Reformation. Notes that the letter is provided online by Kevin Reed.
Knox, John (1505-1572), A Letter of Wholesome Counsel, Addressed to His Brethren in Scotland (1556), 1556
http://www.swrb.com/newslett/actualnls/LtrWhole.htm
"Given the lack of truly Reformed churches in many areas, this letter, full of practical advice, should be a welcome addition to the libraries of those seeking to remain ecclesiastically faithful to the Lord. As God continues to pour out his Spirit (by revealing the doctrines of grace, purity of worship, Presbyterian polity and discipline, Christian education of youth, family worship, the principles of courtship, covenanting [personal, ecclesiastical and national], separation from corrupt and idolatrous communions, male headship, adherence to the WCF [1646] and other faithful confessions, etc.), this letter will provide a useful bridge for those separated geographically from faithful fellowship, until new, duly constituted churches can be formed." -- Publisher

Knox, John (1505-1572), and Abraham Fleming (1552?-1607), A Fort for the Afflicted. VVherin are Ministered Many Notable and Excellent Remedies Against the Stormes of Tribulation. Written chiefly for the comforte of Christes little flocke, which is the final number of the faithfull, by Iohn Knoxe, 1580. Available (THE WORKS OF JOHN KNOX), on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available (THE WORKS OF JOHN KNOX), on Reformation Bookshelf CD #1.
A commentary on Psalm VI [Psalm 6].

*Leith, John H., John Calvin's Doctrine of the Christian Life, ISBN: 0664213308 9780664213305.
"This work provides a thorough analysis of Calvinist doctrine, defining Christian life in relation to four aspect of Calvinist thought: justification by faith, providence and predestination, history and the transhistorical, and church and society. The relationship between God and man is seen as the most central." -- GCB

Lloyd-Jones, David Martyn (1899-1981), The Basis of Christian Unity: An Exposition of John 17 and Ephesians 4.

*Lusk, Robert (1781-1845), Characteristics of the Witnessing Church. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #23.
Reprinted from The Original Covenanter and Contending Witness, various issues, published by the Reformed Presbytery of North America "Steelite."
Lusk, Robert, Characteristics of the Witnessing Church
http://www.covenanter.org/reformed/2016/6/20/d2t1s9uxbnxaispskag80dis1k9keh

*Luther, Martin (1483-1546), Commentary on Galatians, English translation by Erasmus Middleton, B.D., edited by John Prince Fallowes, M.A., Pembroke College, Cambridge, ISBN: 0825431247. A Christian classic. Considered to be among the ten greatest books in the English language. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
"I prefer this book of Martin Luther's (except the Bible), before all the books I have ever seen, as most fit for a wounded soul." -- John Bunyan
"This is a great, historic work, and is beyond criticism on account of its great usefulness. As a comment its accuracy might be questioned; but for emphatic utterances and clear statements of the great doctrine of the Epistle it remains altogether by itself, and must be judged per se." -- C.H. Spurgeon (1834-1892)
"The reissue of a famous series of lectures delivered at Wittenberg University in 1553." -- Cyril J. Barber
Commentary on Galatians, Martin Luther
http://archive.org/details/cu31924029294133
Luther's Commentary on Galatians, That He might deliver us from the present evil world. (Galatians 1:4 excerpt), English translation by Erasmus Middleton, B.D., edited by John Prince Fallowes, M.A., Pembroke College, Cambridge
http://www.lettermen2.com/luther2.html
Luther's Commentary on Galatians, Who hath bewitched you, that you should not obey the truth. (Galatians 3:1 excerpt), English translation by Erasmus Middleton, B.D., edited by John Prince Fallowes, M.A., Pembroke College, Cambridge
http://www.lettermen2.com/luther1.html

*Luther, Martin (1483-1546), That a Christian Assembly or Congregation has the Right and Power to Judge all Teaching and to Call, Appoint, and Dismiss Teachers, Established and Proven by Scripture. Available in Martin Luther, Conrad John Immanuel Bergendoff, and Eric W. Gritsch, CHURCH AND MINISTRY, 3 volumes. Available in LUTHER'S WORKS, VOLUME 39, CHURCH AND MINISTRY, ISBN: 0800603397 9780800603397.
That a Christian Assembly or Congregation has the Right and Power to Judge all Teaching and to Call, Appoint, and Dismiss Teachers, Established and Proven by Scripture, Martin Luther (accessed 2/27/2016)
https://www.uni-due.de/collcart/es/sem/s6/txt06_1.htm
Luther, Martin, That a Christian Assembly or Congregation has the Right and Power to Judge all Teaching and to Call, Appoint, and Dismiss Teachers, Established and Proven by Scripture.
http://www.covenanter.org/reformed/2016/4/21/that-a-christian-assembly-or-congregation-has-the-right-and-power-to-judge-all-teaching-and-to-call-appoint-and-dismiss-teachers-established-and-proven-by-scripture

Lyon, David, The Steeple's Shadow: On the Myths and Realities of Secularization, ISBN: 0802802613 9780802802613.
"Lyon argues that there is a fundamental fault in the sociology which predicts an inevitable withering away of the Church's influence in people's lives. Although secularization is an interesting concept for understanding the apparent decline and isolation of churches, it is misleading to assume that religion is dying." -- GCB

Mack, Wayne A., Place of Women in the Church, an audio file.
Notes: Publication information from Mt. Olive Tape Library catalog.

Mack, Wayne A., The Role of Women in the Church: A Study of the Bible to Discover God's Directives for the Church in This Area of Modern day Confusion and Turmoil.
"After introductory comments, the book breaks into two major sections: what women may not do in the church and what women may do in the church. 'God said to the women, "You glorify me in doing these particular acts." He also said to the men, "You glorify me by doing other acts".' May God help men and women to cheerfully submit to the will of God, for God's way is perfect." -- David Powlison (1949-2019)

Mains, David, Healing The Dysfunctional Church Family: When Destructive Family Patterns Infiltrate the Body of Christ, ISBN: 1560431636 9781560431633.
"Wouldn't you like to be part of a perfect church family? Who wouldn't?! Unfortunately, no church is flawless. Mains discusses eight destructive family patterns (including blaming, competition and comparison, perfectionism, and conditional love), that can arise in the church family. He challenges you to confront dysfunctions and make your church a place where people are loved, forgiven, helped, and given hope for the future. Includes small-group discussion questions. . . ." -- CBD

McAuley, John (1807-1883), The Duty of the Church to be one, to be Undivided, Unseparated
http://www.covenanter.org/JMcauley/dutyofchurchtobeone.htm

McLeod (M'Leod), Alexander (1774-1833), The Pulpit in Relation to Social Life; or, Christus Consolator, 1870.

McLeod, John Niel (1806-1874), Paul's Estimate of the Pastoral Office: A Sermon Preached at the Ordination and Installation of Rev. Spencer L. Finney as Pastor of the Second Reformed Presbyterian Church, New York, 1852.

*M'Crie, Thomas (1772-1835), Brief View of the Evidence for the Exercise of Civil Authority About Religion. Available in STATEMENT OF THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE PROFESSION OF THE REFORMED CHURCH OF SCOTLAND, AS ADOPTED BY SECEDERS, AND THE PROFESSION CONTAINED IN THE NEW TESTIMONY AND OTHER ACTS, LATELY ADOPTED BY THE GENERAL ASSOCIATE SYNOD, Section VII. A Christian classic. Considered to be among the ten greatest books in the English language. Available (STATEMENT OF THE DIFFERENCE), on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available (STATEMENT OF THE DIFFERENCE), on Reformation Bookshelf CD #25.
"M'Crie published at Edinburgh in 1807 a helpful discussion of the biblical evidence for an obligation of nations and their civil rulers to give recognition to the true religion. His book is a protest against the church in which he was ordained, and which subsequently departed from the principles it had espoused: STATEMENT OF THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE PROFESSION OF THE REFORMED CHURCH OF SCOTLAND, AS ADOPTED BY SECEDERS, AND THE PROFESSION CONTAINED IN THE NEW TESTIMONY AND OTHER ACTS, LATELY ADOPTED BY THE GENERAL ASSOCIATE SYNOD. It has often been regarded as the best presentation of the confessional point of view respecting a national acknowledgment of religion. Churches formed after M'Crie's death found their conflicts over church principles defined in his literary output." -- Publisher
Brief View of the Evidence for the Exercise of Civil Authority About Religion
http://www.westminsterconfession.org/a-godly-society/the-exercise-of-civil-authority-about-religion.php

*M'Crie, Thomas (1772-1835), Statement of the Difference . . . Particularly on the Power of Civil Magistrates Respecting Religion, National Reformation, National Churches, and National Covenants, 1871. Alternate title: STATEMENT OF THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE PROFESSION OF THE REFORMED CHURCH OF SCOTLAND, AS ADOPTED BY SECEDERS, AND THE PROFESSION CONTAINED IN THE NEW TESTIMONY AND OTHER ACTS LATELY ADOPTED BY THE GENERAL ASSOCIATE SYNOD. A Christian classic. Considered to be among the ten greatest books in the English language. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #25.
" 'The ablest exposition in the English language of the Establishment Principle . . . Dr. (George) Smeaton describes the Statement as a masterly defense of the principles of establishments as Scripture truth: and the most complete vindication ever given to the world of the position occupied by the Reformed Church of Scotland, on the whole subject of national religion and the magistrates legitimate power in promoting it. 'The same thoroughness,' wrote the late Rev. D. Beaton, 'which gave such abiding value to his great biography of Knox, is shown in this, his less known work . . . Dr. McCrie in his STATEMENT shows that all the Confessions of the Protestant and Presbyterian Churches of the Reformation, both in Britain and on the Continent of Europe, held and maintained the Establishment Principle. 'These harmoniously agree,' he writes, 'in declaring as with one mouth that civil authority is not limited to the secular affairs of men, and that the public care and advancement of religion is a principle part of the official duty of magistrates.' He goes on to give extracts from THE CONFESSION OF HELVETIA; THE CONFESSION OF BOHEMIA; THE CONFESSION OF SAXONY; THE FRENCH CONFESSION; THE BELGIC OR DUTCH CONFESSION; THE CONFESSION OF THE ENGLISH CONGREGATION IN GENEVA; THE SCOTS CONFESSION AND THE WESTMINSTER CONFESSION OF FAITH (1646). 'Such is the harmony of doctrine in the Protestant churches on this head,' he remarks, 'expressed in their confessions and public formularies drawn from the Word of God; a harmony which deserves great attention, and from which none should rashly depart' (as cited in CHRIST'S KINGSHIP OVER THE NATIONS by C.J. Brown). Concerning the doctrine of national obedience to Christ, M'Crie demonstrates in the most convincing way that there are few doctrines 'of the practical kind, in which the best interests of mankind and the general state of religion in the world, are more deeply concerned, than in the right and wrong determination of this question.' Contains an excellent preface by George Smeaton. Considered one of the definitive works on Church/State relations, defending the historic Reformed position. An extremely rare and very expensive item if located as a rare book." -- Publisher
Brief View of the Evidence for the Exercise of Civil Authority About Religion
http://www.westminsterconfession.org/a-godly-society/the-exercise-of-civil-authority-about-religion.php

Miller, C. John (1928-1996), Allen Herbert Harris, George Smith, Rev., C. John Miller, Thomas E. Tyson, William Krispin, Wesley Pinnock, Drew Trotter, John F. Bettler, and Frank M. Barker, Body Life: Purpose of (Ephesians 4:1-16), 5 audio files, (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Audio cassette BL01 [audio file].

Miller, Samuel (1769-1850), The Duty of the Church to Take Measures for Providing an Able and Faithful Ministry.
An Able and Faithful Ministry
http://www.swrb.com/newslett/actualnls/AbleFait.htm

Miller, Samuel (1769-1850), Letters on Clerical Manners and Habits: Addressed to a Student in the Theological Seminary at Princeton, N.J.

Miller, Samuel (1769-1850), Thoughts on Public Prayer, 1849. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
"Deals with an important element of Reformed worship and was originally written because of the lack of material to be found on this specific subject. The history, liturgies, faults and characteristics of attaining excellence in public prayer are all covered." -- Publisher
"Excellent book which covers the whole subject rather well. A Presbyterian minister and Princeton professor of 150 years ago sheds light on the needs of our day concerning prayers and public prayer in particular." -- GCB

Mitchell, A.W., Letters to Church Members, 1855. Alternate title: MONITORY LETTERS TO CHURCH MEMBERS.
Letter to one who travels on the Sabbath
Letter to one of a censorious spirit
Letter to one of a self-confident and unyielding spirit
Letter to one of a managing and disingenuous spirit
Letter to one of an impatient and complaining spirit
Letter to one who is lacking in reverence for the truth as a moral virtue,
and so forth, and so on.
Letters to Church Members, 1855.
http://www.westminsterconfession.org/literature/godly-living.php
Monitory Letters to Church Members
http://archive.org/details/monitoryletterst00phil

*Mudge, Lewis S., In His Service: The Servant Lord and His Servant People.

Murren, Doug, and George Barna (introduction), Churches That Heal: Becoming a Church That Mends Broken Hearts and Restores Shattered Lives, ISBN: 1582290709 9781582290706.
"Many churches are struggling to find a way to reach the people of their community. This book reminds us that the focus should be on ministering to the broken. Doug provides practical advice on how to accomplish this. Our local church is in disarray and searching for a new pastor. I found this book to provide some practical insight as to the characteristics that we should strive for in rebuilding our church and selecting a pastor. It should be prayerfully read by every pastor and deacon. It describes the focus that the local church needs to be relevant to the 21st century." -- Reader's Comment

Nash, Ronald H., Social Justice and the Christian Church, ISBN: 0880620080 9780880620086.

Newcomen, Matthew (1610?-1669), The Craft and Cruelty of the Churches Adversaries, Discovered in a Sermon Preached at St. Margarets in Westminster, Before the Honourable House of Commons Assembled in Parliament, November 5, 1642. By Matthew Newcomen, minister of the Gospell at Dedham in Essex. Published by order of the House of Commons. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.

North, Gary, Tithing and the Church, ISBN: 0930464699 9780930464691 0930464702 9780930464707.

Olson, Richard P., and Carole Della Pia-Terry, Ministry With Remarried Persons, ISBN: 0817009906 9780817009908.
"An in-depth discussion of the church's ministry to the widowed and divorced who desire to remarry. Lays a Biblical foundation before discussing the process of remarriage counseling, the wedding, and integrating the new couple into the life of the church." -- Cyril J. Barber

*Owen, John (1616-1683), A Cluster of the Fruit of Canaan: Rules of Walking in Fellowship, With Reference to the Pastor or Minister That Watcheth for our Souls. Alternate title: ESHCOL: A CLUSTER OF THE FRUIT OF CANAAN; BROUGHT TO THE BORDERS, FOR THE ENCOURAGEMENT OF THE SAINTS, TRAVELLING THITHER-WARD, WITH THEIR FACES TOWARDS SYON. OR, RULES OF DIRECTION, FOR THE WALKING OF THE SAINTS IN FELLOWSHIP, ACCORDING TO THE ORDER OF THE GOSPEL. COLLECTED AND EXPLAINED FOR THE USE OF THE CHURCH AT COGGESHALL, BY JOHN OWEN THEIR PASTOR, 1648. In THE COMPLETE WORKS OF JOHN OWEN Vol. 13. (13:1-49).

*Owen, John (1616-1683), Discourses Conserning Evangelical Love, Church-peace and Unity: In Five Chapters. Chap. I. Complaints of want of love and unity among Christians; how to be managed; and where is the fault. Chap II. Commendations of love and unity; their proper objects, with general rules and measures of love towards all mankind in general: allows not salvation unto any without faith in Jesus Christ: of the differences in religion as to outward worship. Chap. III. The nature of the Catholick Church, the first and principal object of Christians love; differences among the members of this church, of what nature and how to be managed. Chap. IV. Want of love and unity among Christians justly complained of; causes of divisions and schisms, 1. misapprehensions of evangelical unity. 2. Neglect in churches to attend upon known gospel duties. 3. Trusting in worldly grandeir, remainders of corruptions, weakness and ignorance. 4. Remedies thereof. Chap. V. The grounds and reasons of nonconformity, &c. By the late Reverend John Owen, D.D., 1696. Available in various editions of THE COMPLETE WORKS OF JOHN OWEN

Owen, John (1616-1683), A Guide to Church-fellowship and Order According to the Gospel-institution: Wherein These Following Particulars are Distinctly Handled, I. The Necessity of Believers to Joyn Themselves in Church-order, II. The Subject Matter of the Church, III. The Continuation of a Church-state, and of the Administration of Evangelical Ordinances of Worship, Briefly Vindicated, IV. What Sort of Churches the Disciples of Christ may and Ought to Joyn Themselves Unto as Unto Entire Communion.

*Owen, John (1616-1683), Ministry and Fellowship, ISBN: 0851510639 9780851510637. A Christian classic.
"Contains: The duty of pastors and people distinguished, schism, the nature of schism, the authority of the magistrate in the church, consideration of indulgence and toleration, and much more."

*Owen, John (1616-1683), Sermons to the Church, ISBN: 0851510655 9780851510651. A Christian classic. Alternate title: THE COMPLETE WORKS OF JOHN OWEN VOLUME 9; THE WORKS OF JOHN OWEN, VOLUME 9,
"Contains 83 sermons: Fourteen which resolve practical cases of conscience, twenty-five intended as preparations to the Lord's Table, and others of various Gospel subjects."

Owen, John (1616-1683), A View of the Nature, Order, and Communion of the Churches of Christ, as Exhibited in the New Testament: Extracted From Dr. John Owen's Treatise on Evangelical Churches. With an appendix on scripture presbytery, Edinburgh, 1797.

Packer, J.I. (1926-2020), and Gary A. Parrett, Grounded in the Gospel: Building Believers the Old-fashioned way, ISBN: 9780801068386 080106838X.
"Historically, the church's ministry of grounding new believers in the essentials of the faith has been known as catechesis -- systematic instruction in faith foundations, including what we believe, how we pray and worship, and how we conduct our lives. For most evangelicals today, however, this very idea is an alien concept. Packer and Parrett, concerned for the state of the church, seek to inspire a much needed evangelical course correction. This new book makes the case for a recovery of significant catechesis as a nonnegotiable practice of churches, showing the practice to be complementary to, and of no less value than, Bible study, expository preaching, and other formational ministries, and urging evangelical churches to find room for this biblical ministry for the sake of their spiritual health and vitality. . . .
"J.I. Packer is Board of Governors' Professor of Theology at Regent College and an senior editor for Christianity Today. Best known for his bestselling classic KNOWING GOD, Packer is the author or editor of more than fifty books.
"Gary A. Parrett is professor of educational ministries and worship at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary and the coauthor of A MANY COLORED KINGDOM and TEACHING THE FAITH, FORMING THE FAITHFUL." -- Publisher

Paul, James L. (editor), The Exceptional Child: A Guidebook for Churches and Community Agencies.

Powlison, David (1949-2019), Demons and Deliverance in the Evangelical Church, 5 sound cassettes [audio file].

Pressly, John T., An Inquiry Into the Principles of Church Fellowship.
http://www.covenanter.org/reformed/2015/8/18/john-t-presslys-book-an-inquiry-into-the-principles-of-church-fellowship

Preston, John (1587-1628), The Mystical Match Between Christ and his Church, Containing the Treatises Entitled The Church's Marriage and The Church's Carriage, or Duty, 1648. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.

Preston, John (1587-1628), Thomas Ball (1589-1659), Thomas Goodwin, George Glover, The Churches Marriage; Or Dignitie and the Churches Carriage, or Duty.

Reed, Kevin, Christmas: An Historical Survey Regarding its Origins and Opposition to it.

Reed, Kevin, The Decline of American Presbyterianism, a book review of Gary North's CROSSED FINGERS: HOW THE LIBERALS CAPTURED THE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH.
http://www.swrb.com/newslett/actualnls/decline.htm
Crossed Fingers: How the Liberals Captured the Presbyterian Church, by Gary North
http://entrewave.com/freebooks/docs/html/gncf/table_of_contents.htm

Renwick, James (1662-1688), The Church's Choice or a Sermon on Canticles ch. 1, v. 7, by . . . Mr. James Renwick, [Song of Solomon 1:7], 1705.

Renwick, James (1662-1688), Form for the Admission of Elders
http://www.truecovenanter.com/renwick/renwick_elders.html

*Richards, Lawrence O., and Gib Martin, The Theology of Personal Ministry: Spiritual Giftedness in the Local Church, ISBN: 0310319706 9780310319702.
"In keeping with the title, the first part of this book develops a theological foundation for personal ministry. From this premise the authors expound the practical implications of the fact that the head of the church has called each believer to a personal ministry. All things considered, this is an excellent work." -- Cyril J. Barber

Robbins, John W. (1949-2008), Slavery Christianity: Paul's Letter to Philemon, an article (Unicoi, TN: The Trinity Foundation, November, 2005), ISBN: 1891777173 9781891777172.
"Slavery. Racism. Rebellion. Civil disobedience. The problems are as pressing today as they were 1900 years ago when the Apostle Paul wrote a letter to a slave-owner, Philemon, about his runaway slave -- and the runaway slave carried Paul's letter back to his legal owner.
"What did the letter say? Did Paul -- does Christianity -- approve of slavery? Does Christianity condone slavery? Or does the Gospel abolish slavery and establish freedom wherever it is believed? Jesus said, If you abide in my Word, you are my disciples indeed; and you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. (John 8:31,32)
"Paul's letter to Philemon is a masterpiece of divinely inspired political philosophy. It provides the basis for the non-violent abolition of slavery wherever the Gospel of Jesus Christ is preached and believed.
"Dr. John W. Robbins holds the Ph.D. in Political Philosophy from The Johns Hopkins University. His most recent book is FREEDOM AND CAPITALISM: ESSAYS ON CHRISTIAN POLITICS AND ECONOMICS." -- Publisher

*Robbins, John W. (1949-2008, editor), The Church Effeminate and Other Essays (Unicoi, TN: The Trinity Foundation), ISBN: 0940931540 9780940931541.
Contents: Robbins: The Church; Witherow: The Apostolic Church; Ryle: The True Church; Lloyd-Jones: The Primacy of Preaching; Adams: Preaching to the Heart; Ryle: The Fallibility of Ministers; Crampton: Exclusive Psalmody; The Geneva Service Book of 1556: Scripture and the Ordering of Worship; Miller: The Christian Education of the Children and Youth in the Presbyterian Church; Calvin: The Teachers of the Church; Clark: The Presbyterian Doctrine of Ordination; Warfield: Paul on Women Speaking in Church; Clark: The Ordination of Women; Robbins: The Church Effeminate; Luther: On the Councils and the Church; Hodge: The Relation of Church and State; Calvin: The Roman Church-State; Dostoyevsky: The Grand Inquisitor; Burroughs: Episcopacy; Witherspoon: Secrets of Church Polity; McFetridge: Calvinism and the Church; Chan: The New Babylonian Captivity of the Church; Robbins: The Reconstructionist Road to Rome; a Lasco: The Abolition of Vestments; Hanko: Ought the Church to Pray for Revival? Hodge: The Great Revival of Religion, 1740-1745; Luther: The Power of the Word; Clark: What Is Evangelism? Clark: Art and the Gospel; Calvin: The Necessity of Reforming the Church; Ryle: Idolatry; Ryle: Pharisees and Sadducees; Machen: The Good Fight of Faith; Ryle: Apostolic Fears; Machen: The Separateness of the Church; Robbins: The Sin of Signing Ecumenical Declarations; M'Crie: Fundamentalism and Ecumenism; Calvin: The Unity of the Church; Robbins: The Church Irrational; Index; Scripture Index.
The Necessity of Reforming the Church (1543), by John Calvin
http://www.swrb.com/newslett/actualnls/NRC_ch00.htm
Calvin's Commentary on Hosea
http://www.iclnet.org/pub/resources/text/m.sion/calvhose.htm

*Rutherford, Samuel (1600-1661), The due Right of Presbyteries or a Peaceable Plea for the Government of the Church of Scotland, 1644. Alternate title: THE DIVINE RIGHT OF CHURCH-GOVERNMENT AND EXCOMMUNICATION: OR A PEACABLE DISPUTE FOR THE PERFECTION OF THE HOLY SCRIPTURE IN POINT OF CEREMONIES AND CHURCH GOVERNMENT; IN WHICH THE REMOVAL OF THE SERVICE-BOOK IS JUSTIFI'D, THE SIX BOOKS OF THO: ERASTUS AGAINST EXCOMMUNICATION ARE BRIEFLY EXAMIN'D; WITH A VINDICATION OF THAT EMINENT DIVINE THEOD: BEZA AGAINST THE ASPERSIONS OF ERASTUS, THE ARGUMENTS OF MR. WILLIAM PRYN, RICH: HOOKER, DR. MORTON, DR. JACKSON, DR. JOHN FORBES, AND THE DOCTORS OF ABERDEEN; TOUCHING WILL-WORSHIP, CEREMONIES, IMAGERY, IDOLATRY, THINGS INDIFFERENT, AN AMBULATORY GOVERNMENT; THE DUE AND JUST POWERS OF THE MAGISTRATE IN MATTERS OF RELIGION, AND THE ARGUMENTS OF MR. PRYN, IN SO FAR AS THEY SIDE WITH ERASTUS, ARE MODESTLY DISCUSSED. TO WHICH IS ADDED, A BRIEF TRACTATE OF SCANDAL; . . . BY SAMUEL RUTHERFURD (sic), PROFESSOR OF DIVINITY IN THE UNIVERSITY OF ST. ANDREWS IN SCOTLAND. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #9 and #24.
"Almost 800 pages long, Rutherford here deals with church membership, separation from the visible church, the civil magistrate and religion, communion among churches, the errors of the independents (specifically in New England), and much more. This could be considered the LEX, REX of church government -- another exceedingly rare masterpiece of Presbyterianism! Characterized by Walker as sweeping 'over a wider field than most. Most essential points which Gillespie has barely touched, Rutherford carefully considers; as, for instance, the nature of the visible church as such, and its constituent elements. Even in the Erastian controversy he is a necessary supplement to his great contemporary. It is something to me altogether amazing, the mass of thinking about Church questions you have in those writings.' Bannerman, in his CHURCH OF CHRIST calls this a 'very learned and elaborate treatise.' Here is a sample of Mr. Rutherford's writing: 'A private subtraction and separation from the Ministry of a known wolf and seducer, . . . this the Law of nature will warrant . . . as Parker saith from Saravia, 'it is lawful to use that blameless and just defence, if the bad church-guide cannot be deposed.' So the son may save himself by a just defence in fleeing from his mad father, or his distracted friend coming to kill him. Now this defence is not an authoritative act, nor a judicial act of authority, but a natural act that is common to any private person, yea to all without the true Church as well as within to take that care in extreme necessity, for the safety of their souls, that they would do for the safety of their bodies' (1642), cited in The Original Covenanter and Contending Witness Magazine." -- Publisher
Brutus, Junius, The Covenant Between God and Kings, from A DEFENSE OF LIBERTY
http://www.constitution.org/vct/vindiciae1a.htm

*Rush, Myron D., Management: A Biblical Approach, ISBN: 0882076078 9780882076072.
"Help for the Christian leader from the president of Management Training Systems. The author combines sound management techniques and Biblical principles. The result is management that the Christian can live and work with." -- GCB

*Ryle, J.C. (1816-1900), The Fallibility of Ministers. Available in WARNINGS TO THE CHURCHES, ISBN: 0851510434 9780851510439. Available in KNOTS UNTIED: BEING PLAIN STATEMENTS ON DISPUTED POINTS IN RELIGION FROM THE STANDPOINT OF AN EVANGELICAL CHURCHMAN.
http://www.trinityfoundation.org/reviews/journal.asp?ID=113a.html

*Ryle, J.C. (1816-1900), Warnings to the Churches, ISBN: 0851510434 9780851510439.
"I see this tendency to lean on man everywhere. I know no branch of the Protestant Church of Christ which does not require to be cautioned upon the point. It is a snare, for example, to the English Episcopalian to make idols of Bishop Pearson and 'the Judicious Hooker.' It is a snare to the Scotch Presbyterian to pin his faith on John Knox, the Covenanters, and Dr. Chalmers. It is a snare to the Methodists in our day to worship the memory of John Wesley. It is a snare to the Independent to see no fault in any opinion of Owen and Dodderidge. It is a snare to the Baptist to exaggerate the wisdom of Gill and Fuller and Robert Hall. All these are snares, and into these snares how many fall!
"Infallibility is not to be found in the early fathers, but in the Bible.
"What are the best of ministers but men -- dust, ashes, and clay -- men of like passions with ourselves, men exposed to temptations, men liable to weaknesses and infirmities?
"It is amazing to observe how vast a man's intellectual attainments may be, and yet how little he may know of the grace of God.
"We have no right to expect anything but the pure Gospel of Christ, unmixed and unadulterated -- the same Gospel that was taught by the Apostles -- to do good to the souls of men.
"Peace without truth is a false peace; it is the very peace of the devil. Unity without the Gospel is a worthless unity; it is the very unity of Hell.
"False doctrine and heresy are even worse than schism.
"It was controversy that won the battle of Protestant Reformation.
"Three things there are which men never ought to trifle with -- a little poison, a little false doctrine, and a little sin.
"A church may have good forms and regularly ordained ministers, and the sacraments properly administered, but a church will not see conversion of souls going on under its pulpits when this doctrine [Justification by Faith], is not plainly preached.
"Once let a man get wrong about justification, and he will bid a long farewell to comfort, to peace, to lively hope, to anything like assurance in his Christianity. An error here is a worm at the root.
"An ignorant laity will always be the bane of a church.
"True Gospel in the pulpit, true Gospel in every Religious Society we support, true Gospel in the books we read, true Gospel in the friends we keep company with -- let this be our aim, and never let us be ashamed to let men see that it is so.
"Let the meekness of St. Peter in taking a reproof be as much our example as the boldness of St. Paul in reproving." -- J.C. Ryle (1816-1900), "The Fallibility of Ministers" in Warnings to the Churches, pp. 93-121
The Fallibility of Ministers, by J.C. Ryle
http://www.trinityfoundation.org/journal.php?id=182
Pharisees and Sadducees, J.C. Ryle
https://gracegems.org/23/Ryle_pharisees_and_sadducees.htm

Ryle, J.C. (1816-1900), and G.E. Duffield, Knots Untied: Being Plain Statements on Disputed Points in Religion From the Standpoint of an Evangelical Churchman.

Sanders, Oswald, Dynamic Spiritual Leadership: Leading Like Paul, ISBN: 1572930527 978157293 0520.

*Scheneman, Mark A., The Identification of Models of Ministry for Clergy and Congregations to Confront the Destructive Cults (The Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary, D.Min. thesis, 1983).
"This project undertook the task of identifying and suggesting models of ministry which clergy and congregations might find appropriate and helpful in dealing with destructive cults. . . . It was argued that destructive cults ought to be confronted on moral and procedural grounds, rather than for theological considerations." -- Dissertation Abstracts

*Sell, Charles M., Family Ministry: The Enrichment of Family Life Through the Church, ISBN: 0310429102 9780310429104.

Sheldon, Joseph K., Rediscovery of Creation: A Bibliographical Study of the Church's Response to the Environmental Crisis (ATLA Bibliography Series, No. 29. Metuchen, NJ: Scarecrow Press, Incorporated, 1992), ISBN: 0810825392 9780810825390.

Singer, C. Gregg (1910-1999), The Unholy Alliance: The Definitive History of the National Council of Churches and its Leftist Policies -- From 1908 to the Present, 384 pages, ISBN: 0870003275 9780870003271.
"This book is not calculated to win friends among adherents to the National Council of Churches. It provides convincing evidence of the tremendous gap that has developed between the NCC and its critics and demonstrates the NCC's inability to achieve its objectives." -- Cyril J. Barber
Unholy Alliance: The Definitive History of the National Council of Churches and Its Leftist Policies -- From 1908 to the Present
Freebooks online e-text.
http://freebooks.entrewave.com/freebooks/docs/39be_47e.htm

Smith, Ruth S., Getting the Books off the Shelves: Making the Most of Your Congregation's Library, ISBN: 0915324318 9780915324316.
"A most important publication that stresses the ways in which church libraries can extend their influence." -- Cyril J. Barber

Snyder, Howard A., Radical Renewal: The Problem of Wineskins Today, ISBN: 1880828979 9781880828977.
"This book is a revision of THE PROBLEM OF WINESKINS. THE PROBLEM OF WINESKINS: CHURCH STRUCTURE IN A TECHNOLOGICAL AGE was first published in 1975, and has been translated into eight languages. This current addition is an updating of the earlier book, with new material added. It shows how churches today can be as dynamic as the New Testament church. -- Howard A. Snyder, the author, hasnyder@uky.campuscwix.net
Howard Snyder was a directory of Light and Life Men International (Free Methodist), and was a speaker at Lausanne. Richard Halverson was impacted by this book.

*Spurgeon, C.H. (1834-1892), The Greatest Fight in the World: Spurgeon's Final Manifesto, ISBN: 9781848718029.
"By April 1891, when Spurgeon addressed the annual conference of the Pastors' College for the last time, he was an experienced and battle-worn soldier.
"Spurgeon considered it the life-work of a pastor to be engaged in a crusade against error and sin. He fully appreciated what it was to 'fight the good fight of faith.' In THE GREATEST FIGHT IN THE WORLD, this final annual address to his fellow pastors and Pastors' College students, Spurgeon offers practical advice on how to approach the battle. He does so under three martial metaphors: Our Armory (the Scriptures); Our Army (the church); and Our Strength (the Holy Spirit).
"THE GREATEST FIGHT IN THE WORLD is a book for every pastor. It will stimulate and inspire an approach to the pastoral task which is orderly and intelligent, and which above all recognizes and has confidence in the God from whom the strength to engage in battle comes." -- Publisher

*Spurgeon, C.H. (1834-1892), Jesus Only, a sermon. Delivered on Lord's Day morning, April 3, 1870, at the Metropolitan Tabernacle, Newington, Sermon no. 924.
Sermon text: And when they had lifted up their eyes, they saw no man, save Jesus only. (Matthew 17:8)
"We, on the other hand say, blessing the name of the Lord that we can say it, that there abides with us our Lord Jesus. At this day He is with us, and will be with us even to the end of the world! Christ's existence is not a fact confined to antiquity or to remote distance. By His Spirit He is actually in His Church. We have seen Him, though not with eyes. We have heard Him, though not with ears. We have grasped Him, though not with hands. And we feed upon His flesh, which is meat, indeed, and His blood, which is drink, indeed. We have with us at this very day Jesus our Friend, to Whom we make known our secrets, and who bears all our sorrows.
"We have Jesus our interpreting Instructor, who still reveals His secrets to us, and leads us into the mind and name of God. We have Jesus still with us to supply us with strength, and in His power we are still mighty. We confess His reigning Sovereignty in the Church, and we receive His all-sufficient succor. The Church is not decapitated, her Head abides in vital union with her -- Jesus is no myth to us -- whatever He may be to others. He is no departed shade, He is no heroic personification -- in very deed there is a Christ, and though others see Him not, and even we with these eyes see Him not, yet in Him believing we rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory.
"Oh, I trust it will never be so with us, that as we go about our life work our religion shall melt into fiction and become nothing but mere sentiment, nothing but thought, and dream, and vision. But may our religion be a matter of FACT, a walking with the living and abiding Savior. Though Moses may be gone, and Elijah may be gone, yet Jesus Christ abides with us and in us, and we in Him, and so shall it be forever more." -- C.H. Spurgeon, p. 641
http://www.spurgeongems.org/vols16-18/chs924.pdf

Steele, David (1803-1887), Causes of Infidelity
"A short article discussing the origin and occasions of infidelity, or unfaithfulness, particularly amongst ministers of the Gospel." -- Publisher
http://www.covenanter.org/reformed/2016/4/26/causes-of-infidelity

Thorowgood, Thomas (d. ca. 1669), Moderation Iustified, and the Lords Being at Hand Emproved, in a Sermon at VVestminster before the Honorable House of Commons assembled in Parliament: Preached at the late solemne fast, December 25. 1644. By Thomas Thorowgood B. of D. Rector of Grimston in the county of Norfolke: one of the Assembly of Divines. Published by order from that House, Matt. 10:16 [Matthew 10:16], 1644.

Towns, Elmer L., and Cyril J. Barber, Successful Church Libraries, ISBN: 0801087686 9780801087684.
Successful Church Libraries
http://www.elmertowns.com/books/online/sccss_ch_lib/Successful_Church_Libraries[ETowns].pdf

Tripp, Paul David, Dangerous Calling: Confronting the Unique Challenges of Pastoral Ministry, ISBN: 9781433535857 1433535858.
"Dr. Paul Tripp has personally experienced pastoral culture as a Pastor, as a pastoral counselor, seminary professor, and conference speaker. Having read most of Dr. Tripp's books one of the things I appreciate most about his style of writing is his goal to take Christians beneath the surface of our lives in order to point out indwelling sin and point out to the One in Jesus who longs for us to die to our sin, and turn from our sin to Him who can kill our sin and help us grow in the grace of God.
"Paul Tripp's diagnosis is not only spot on about pastoral culture in DANGEROUS CALLING but is confirmed by The Schaeffer Institute's [ . . . ] who did research on this issue. Their research pants a disturbing picture: 50 percent of the ministers starting out will not last 5 years. Over 1,700 pastors leave the ministry every month. 70 percent of pastors constantly fight depression. 80 percent of pastors believe that pastoral ministry has negatively affected their families.
"Pastors read many books that fill their minds but not many that challenge them to take an honest assessment of where they are spiritually. DANGEROUS CALLING was written to help diagnose your spiritual life and point you to the Lord Jesus. Dr. Tripp notes that with writing this book he has 'launched myself on a ministry career direction to get help for pastors who have lost their way' (12), I applaud Dr. Tripp for this and pray the Lord blesses him and increases his tribe as he ministers to hurting Pastors.
"At the heart of this book is the contention that 'you are constantly talking to yourself about your identity, your spirituality, your functionality, your emotionality, your mentality, your personality, your relationships, etc. You are constantly preaching to yourself some kind of gospel. You preach to yourself an anti-gospel of your own righteousness, power, and wisdom, or you preach to yourself the true gospel of deep spiritual need and sufficient grace. You preach to yourself an anti-gospel of aloneness and inability, or you preach to yourself the true gospel of the presence, provisions, and power of an ever-present Christ' (21). The main point that Tripp makes is that 'no one celebrates the presence and grace of the Lord Jesus more than the person who has embraced his desperate and daily need of it' (23)." -- Reader's Comment

*VanderKemp (Van der Kemp), Johannes, The Christian Entirely the Property of Christ, in Life and Death: Exhibited in Fifty-three Sermons on the Heidelberg Catechism, ISBN: 9781142354152 1142354156. See: "all editions" in WorldCat.org.
The Christian Entirely the Property of Christ in Life and Death (Free download, Kindle format)
http://archive.org/details/christianentire00kempgoog

VanderKemp, Johannes, A Sermon Entitled the Church of God, and her Benefits in This Life. Available in his SERMONS ON THE HEIDELBERG CATECHISM.
A Sermon Entitled the Church of God, and her Benefits in This Life.
http://www.truecovenanter.com/sermons/vanderkemp21.html

*Wallace, Ronald, Calvin's Doctrine of the Christian Life, ISBN: 1579100473 9781579100476.
"This renowned student of Calvin's theology says that the great Reformer did not hold that the doctrine of the priesthood of believers was an individualistic idea apart from the Church. Also sets forth Calvin's views on prayer, ethics, and other Christian disciplines. Always the idea of assurance, achievement, and hope was present because of our union with Christ." -- GCB

Warfield, B.B. (1851-1921), Christless Christianity.

Warfield, B.B. (1851-1921), Presbyterian Deaconesses.

Watson, Thomas (1620-1686), Paramuthion, or, A Word of Comfort for the Church of God by Thomas Watson, 1662.

*Willson (alt. Wilson), James McLeod (1809-1866), Some Reasons for Retaining the Westminster Confession as the Basis of Ecclesiastical Union. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #24.
"Explains why the use of the Westminster Confession is one of the best ways in which to obtain godly ecclesiastical union. This booklet pays special attention to the biblical teaching regarding civil government and shows why changes to the original WCF (regarding this matter), has resulted, not surprisingly, in much ecclesiastical disunity. It also contains some interesting notes on the millennial power and glory that will be exhibited in both church and state 'in the day of the Lord's power.' Excerpted from The Original Covenanter and Contending Witness Magazine, (volumes 1:1-4).

Willson, James Renwick (1780-1853), A Sermon on the Glory and Security of the Church of God, 1824. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #29.
A Sermon on the Glory and Security of the Church of God
http://www.covenanter.org/reformed/2016/4/24/a-sermon-on-the-glory-and-security-of-the-church-of-god

Willison, John, A Defence of National Churches: And Particularly of the National Constitution of the Church of Scotland, and the Conduct of our Reforming Ancestors, Against the Cavils of Independents. With a Confutation of Independency, and several new opinions vented in some late pamphlets, intituled, A narrative of the rise and progress, &c. An explication of a proposition, &c. A letter from a lover of zion, &c. By a Minister of the Church of Scotland.
" 'A narrative of the rise and progress of the controversy about the natural covenants' and 'A letter from a lover of Zion' are by John Glas; 'An explication of that proposition contain'd in Mr. Glass's answers to the Synod's queries' was published anonymously."

*Witherow, Thomas, The Apostolic Church: Which is it? Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #23.
"One of the best handbooks for church government that has been written. It packs an enormous amount of information into a small book." -- George Knight

Wilder-Smith, A.E., The Basis of True Fellowship, an audio file.

Wood, James (1608-1664), Sheperdy Spiritualiz'd or, The Improvement of a Shepherd's Life to Soul-advantage. By James Woode, an Unworthy Follower of the Great Shepherd of Souls, 1680.

See also: The sovereignty of god, The doctrine of man (human nature, total depravity), Prayer, Spiritual warfare, Christ our example, The commandments of christ, The teaching of our lord jesus christ, The free invitation from the lord christ, How to become a christian, The lord jesus christ, The incarnation of our lord (the deity of the lord jesus christ), The lordship of jesus christ, Soteriology, atonement, The cross of christ, The blood of christ, Affliction, adversity, trials, suffering, chastisement, The resurrection and ascension, The all-sufficiency of christ, Repentance the key to salvation and change, Justification, Justifying faith, The heart and the mind, the mind/body relationship, Evangelism, History, "his-story," The glory of the lord jesus christ, The mediatorial reign of christ: the crown rights of christ, Christ's kingdom, Pride, ambition, self-aggrandizement, arrogance, ego, Leadership, Authority, Power religion, Secret societies, ungodly alliances, voluntary associations, Oaths, ensnaring vows, promises, and covenants, bonds with the ungodly, Unity and uniformity in the visible church: unity in the truth, The westminster confession of faith (1646), (the westminster standards) and related works: a study guide,The covenanted reformation of scotland background and history, The works of david steele, Churches that abuse, Priestcraft, pharisaism, soul-stealing, Power, Glory in iniquity, the temptation of vainglory, The second coming, parousia, escatological coming of christ, Christ's influence on western civilization, Knowing christ, The commandments of christ, The promises of christ, The person and work of jesus christ the Lord (christology), The words of christ, Words of christ appearing in the web edition of biblical counsel: resources for renewal, The teaching of our lord jesus christ, The parables of christ, The sermon on the mount, Christ and counseling, Immanuel, christ's presence, christ in you, Eternal life, immortality, Heaven, The believer's position in christ and sonship, Christian fellowship, Christ and counseling, The parables of christ, The teaching of our lord jesus christ, Christ our example, Christ in you, Duties of the christian, The teachings of our lord jesus christ, Sharing christ with your children, Christian scholarship, The mediatorial reign of christ and the crown rights of christ, Christian biography, Appendix a, words of christ, The words of christ speaking about himself Promises of christ, The commandments of christ appearing in the web edition of biblical counsel: resources for renewal, Other words of christ appearing in the web edition of biblical counsel: resources for renewal, Antichrist, Corporate faithfulness and sanctification, Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, Servant leadership, Reform of the church, Women in the church, The christian life, Unfaithful reformed ministries, Church government, Church leadership, Covenant theology and covenanting, House churches, Justification, Believer's position in christ and sonship, Christian history, Church and state, Creeds, confessions, and catechisms, Toleration, liberty of conscience, pluralism, "religious freedom," and neutrality, Friendship, Chapter 4: women, Sexual relationship, Spiritual adultery (spiritual whoredom/harlotry), Education, Christian scholarship, Family worship, Local church and biblical counseling, Priesthood of believers, The pastor's wife (women), Protestant reformation, Small groups and the local church, Pseudo-christian movements: a selection of works, Heresy and apostasy, and so forth, and so on.
TCRB5: 275, 365, 367, 726-755, 1325, 2166, 2203, 3174, 3177-3179, 3523, 3925-3927

Related Weblinks

An Analysis of how to Destroy a Family, Church, or Country, Rick Thomas
https://rickthomas.net/an-analysis-of-how-to-destroy-a-family-church-or-country/

Barna Group, A Biblical Worldview has a Radical Effect on a Person's Life, December 1, 2003
"The research indicated that everyone has a worldview, but relatively few people have a biblical worldview -- even among devoutly religious people. The survey discovered that only 9 percent of born again Christians have such a perspective on life. The numbers were even lower among other religious classifications: Protestants (7 percent), adults who attend mainline Protestant churches (2 percent), and Catholics (less than one-half of 1 percent). The denominations that produced the highest proportions of adults with a biblical worldview were non-denominational Protestant churches (13 percent), Pentecostal churches (10 percent), and Baptist churches (8 percent)."
http://www.barna.org/barna-update/article/5-barna-update/131-a-biblical-worldview-has-a-radical-effect-on-a-persons-life

Barna Research
http://www.barna.org/

Covenant Reformed Presbyterian Church (CRPC)
This is the authorized website of the Covenant Reformed Presbyterian Church (CRPC), a Reformed and Presbyterian denomination organized in 1998.
They subscribe to the original Westminster Confession of Faith (1646).
https://www.covref.org/index.htm

CV Outreach
"CV Outreach exists to connect the community to the local church. Through our digital marketing campaigns and CV Outreach platform, we're able to reach non-Christians who use the internet every day to find answers to their difficult situations and questions. If you're passionate about sharing the gospel and want to help people become true followers of Jesus, connect with us at hello@cvoutreach.com or learn more through our website "
https://cvoutreach.com/

Deed of Constitution for the Reformed Presbytery in North America (RPNA)
http://www.swrb.com/Puritan/reformed-presbytery-RPNA.htm

The Departure From the Puritan Heritage
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Puritan Heritage, 52 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=92903104657

The Evangelical Reformed Presbyterian Church
The Evangelical Reformed Presbyterian Church is "a new association of congregations that stand unequivocally for justification by faith alone."
"The ERPC is spearheaded by former members of the Orthodox Presbyterian Church who believe that the testimony of that denomination has been compromised for the past 30 years by its toleration of the teaching of two different gospels, the Biblical Gospel of justification by faith alone, and the false gospel of justification by faith and works/faithfulness/obedience. [See Paul M. Elliott' book, CHRISTIANITY AND NEO-LIBERALISM]
"If you or your congregation are looking for an association that unambiguously proclaims the doctrines of salvation by belief alone, grace alone, and Christ alone, please visit their website." -- John Robbins
"The Doctrinal Standards of the Evangelical Reformed Presbyterian Church, consisting of the American version of the Westminster Confession of Faith . . . adopted by the first American Presbyterian Assembly of 1789, including their proof texts." -- "Doctrinal Distinctives" at the ERPC website
Unfortunately these revisions removed Christian Magistracy from the Confession (WCF 1649), essentially emasculated Christianity, and set aside Christ's Crown and Covenant. Conveniently this removed churchmen and laymen from the battlefront of standing for Christ's Crown and Covenant.
The Evangelical Reformed Presbyterian Church (ERPC)
http://www.erpchurch.org/news/pres_release_051705.html

The Faithful Elder, Archibald Alexander
http://www.westminsterconfession.org/the-church/the-faithful-elder.php

The Free Church of Scotland
http://www.freechurch.org/

Free Presbyterian Church
http://www.freepres.org/main.asp

An Inquiry Into the Signs Which Indicate the Church's Happy Condition to be at Hand, Archibald Mason, a sermon.
http://www.covenanter.org/reformed/2015/7/27/an-inquiry-into-the-signs-which-indicate-the-churchs-happy-condition-to-be-at-hand?rq=Question%20Answered

The Proper Time for the Admission of Recent Converts to the Full Communion of the Church, an article from The Princeton Review.
http://www.covenanter.org/reformed/2015/8/18/an-article-from-the-princeton-review-on-on-the-proper-time-for-the-admission-of-recent-converts-to-the-full-communion-of-the-church

Reformed Presbytery (Scotland), A Short Directory for Religious Societies, Drawn up by Appointment of the Reformed Presbytery for the particular use of the several societies of Christian people under their inspection; and now by order of the Reformed Presbytery, in America, 1881. Alternate title: RULES FOR FELLOWSHIP MEETINGS.
A Short Directory for Religious Societies
http://www.covenanter.org/reformed/2015/8/24/vuh52dogwp1ry74n5cnz4tu2jrbppz

The Shepherd Knows His Sheep by Name, John Hendryx
"Monergism: The view that the Holy Spirit is the only agent who effects regeneration of Christians. It is in contrast with synergism, the view that there is a cooperation between the divine and the human in the regeneration process." -- Westminster Dictionary of Theological Terms
http://www.monergism.com/thethreshold/articles/onsite/monergism_short.html

The Ronald W. Taber Memorial Lectures 2005, "The Justification Controversy" (Collection 13. The Trinity Foundation Lecture Series).
"The Justification Controversy" is a five lecture series by John W. Robbins, including:

The Doctrine of Revelation
The Doctrine of Justification
The Theology of N.T. Wright
The Theology of Richard Gaffin and Norman Shepherd
The Auburn Avenue Theology

http://www.trinitylectures.org/

Theology of John Calvin
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, 40 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=1060385424

Three Severe Tests for an Authentic Ministry, Ravi Zacharias
"We're shocked and saddened when a prominent Christian succumbs to sexual temptation. But another kind of temptation is much more common and more accepted. Ravi explores this other danger on today's broadcast as he explains the importance of measuring every ministry against the standard of God's Word."
https://www.christianbook.com/three-severe-tests-for-authentic-ministry/ravi-zacharias/pd/DA20840-CP?event=ESRCG

The Topical Listing "A Theological Interpretation of American History"
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr9chc.html#stiahis

The Trinity Foundation Church Registry and Clearinghouse
"By publishing this church registry we hope to offer some modest help to both individual Christians looking for an acceptable place to worship, and to congregations seeking Christians for mutual edification and to evangelize their communities. We do not guarantee that everyone will be satisfied with every church in this Registry; the user is always under the obligation to compare what is taught by these churches with Scripture."
http://www.trinityfoundation.org/churchregmain.php

The Westminster Confession of Faith (1646, The Westminster Standards), and Related Works: A Study Guide
http://www.lettermen2.com/suggest.html

What is Christian Ministry and why it can Suck the Life out of you
Prayer and the ministry of the Word (Acts 6:4)
Paul's ministry that he received from the Lord (Acts 20:24)
The ministry of the Spirit (2 Corinthians 3:8)
The ministry of condemnation (2 Corinthians 3:9)
The ministry of righteousness (2 Corinthians 3:9)
The ministry of reconciliation (2 Corinthians 5:18)
The ministry for the saints (2 Corinthians 9:1)
Equipping the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ (Ephesians 4:12)
Christ has obtained a ministry that is much more excellent than the old covenant. (Hebrews 8:6)
https://lifeovercoffee.com/what-is-christian-ministry-and-why-it-can-suck-the-life-out-of-you/

Church History and the History of Local Churches

Saint Augustine's final sentence of THE CITY OF GOD is "All things must be referred to the Glory of God."
When you see that, then you will see the key to the story, and you will see the key to history. . . . The classic exposition of history in terms of Scripture. -- C. Gregg Singer (1910-1999)
Grace and election are the essence and meaning of history. -- Augustine of Hippo (354-430 AD), quoted by C. Gregg Singer
Truth is the only merit that gives dignity and worth to history. -- Lord Acton (1834-1902)
See the Theological Notes: "The Church," at Ephesians 2:19 in The Reformation Study Bible.
See the Theological Notes: "The Local Church," at Revelation 2:1 in The Reformation Study Bible.
The Christ is the only One truly called. . . . The flesh has always struggled against Him, as we see when we survey the history of God's people. The struggle was especially acute at Golgotha. -- S.G. De Graaf in Promise and Deliverance
Be eternally grateful. The safety of the Church "depends solely upon the grace and power of God. . . . Be of good hope." The church is "defended by an invincible bulwark." -- John Calvin commenting on Psalm 124 and Psalm 125
So many times people in the pew and the pulpit say, well how did all this get started? How did psychology descend to its present level? . . . How did political science produce our political thought, produce the dictatorships which are engulfing the modern world? Why are we in the economic mess in which we are today? Why is sociology such a jumble of immorality? Why is education as it is today? Why is art so meaningless? . . . Why is modern music an affront to the modern ears as well as to the mind and ear of God? . . . Why are all these things!? . . .
I would suggest to you that if you will follow this course with thought and care, you will finally come to see the answer to the questions which haunt us today in Western society." -- Singer, C. Gregg (1910-1999), in the Apologetics series of 24 lectures using FROM RATIONALISM TO IRRATIONALITY: THE DECLINE OF THE WESTERN MIND FROM THE RENAISSANCE TO THE PRESENT (1979) as the text, and delivered in Decatur, Georgia, beginning November, 1979.
Apologetics: #01: Classical and Medieval Thought #1
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Apologetics, 56 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=2250511453

Allin, John, and Thomas Shepard, A Defence of the Answer Made Unto the Nine Questions or Positions Sent From New-England, Against the Reply Thereto by That Reverend Servant of Christ, Mr. John Ball, Entituled, A Tryall of the New Church-way in New-England and in old: wherin, beside a more full opening of sundry particulars concerning liturgies, power of the keys, matter of the visible church, &c., is more largely handled that controversie concerning the catholick, visible church: tending to cleare up the old-way of Christ in New-England churches. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.

Anonymous, The Book of Martyrs, With an Account of the Acts and Monuments of Church and State, From the Time of our Blessed Saviour, to the Year 1701. . . . Abstracted from the best authors and original papers. Illustrated with . . . plates. In two volumes. . . . Vol. 1. London, 1702. 2 vols.

Balfour, Alexander Hugh Bruce, An Historical Account of the Rise and Development of Presbyterianism in Scotland, 1911.

Ball, John, Roger Daniel, and Edward Brewster, A Friendly Triall of the Grounds Tending to Separation: In a Plain and Modest Dispute Touching the Lawfulnesse of a Stinted Liturgie and set Form of Prayer, Communion in Mixed Assemblies, and the Primitive Subject and First Receptacle of the Power of the Keyes: Tending to Satisfie the Doubtfull, Recall the Wandring, and to Strengthen the Weak. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.

Barrett, C.K., Freedom and Obligation: A Study of the Epistle to the Galatians, ISBN: 0664246621 9780664246624.
"Writing clearly and succinctly, Barrett argues that Galatians stands at the heart of the New Testament. He introduces Paul's method of theological reflection and analyzes the dispute about freedom within the early church. . . . ." -- CBD

Bickel, R. Bruce, Light and Heat: the Puritan View of the Pulpit and the Focus of the Gospel in Puritan Preaching, ISBN: 9780979857959 0979857953.

Brauer, Jerald C. (editor), Brian Gerrish (associate editor), and et al., The Westminster Dictionary of Church History, 887 pages, ISBN: 0664212859 9780664212858.

Bromiley, Geoffrey W. (translator), et al., Jaroslav Pelikan (foreword), Encyclopedia of Christianity, 5 volumes, ISBN: 0802824137 9780802824134 0802824145 9780802824141 9004126546 9789004126541 0802824161 9780802824165 9789004145962 9004145966 9004113169 9789004113169 9004116958 9789004116955 0802824153 9780802824158 9004145958 9789004145955 080282417X 9780802824172. Alternate title: EVANGELISCHES KIRCHENLEXIKON.
"The ENCYCLOPEDIA OF CHRISTIANITY is the first of a five-volume English translation of the third revised edition of EVANGELISCHES KIRCHENLEXIKON. Its German articles have been tailored to suit an English readership, and articles of special interest to English readers have been added. The encyclopedia describes Christianity through its 2000-year history within a global context, taking into account other religions and philosophies. A special feature is the statistical information dispersed throughout the articles on the continents and over 170 countries. Social and cultural coverage is given to such issues as racism, genocide, and armaments, while historical content shows the development of biblical and apostolic traditions. This comprehensive work, while scholarly, is intended for a wide audience and will set the standard for reference works on Christianity." -- Publisher
"Outstanding reference sources 2000," American Libraries, May 2000

Brown, John (of Haddington, 1722-1787), A Compendious History of the Church of England, and of the Protestant Churches in Ireland and America. With an introductory sketch of the history of the Waldenses, 8 volumes. Alternate title: A COMPENDIOUS HISTORY OF THE BRITISH CHURCHES IN ENGLAND, SCOTLAND, IRELAND, AND AMERICA: GIVING AN ACCOUNT OF THE MOST MATERIAL TRANSACTIONS SINCE THE INTRODUCTION OF CHRISTIANITY TO THE PRESENT TIME: WITH AN INTRODUCTORY SKETCH OF THE HISTORY OF THE WALDENSES. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #7.

Brown, John (of Haddington, 1722-1787), A Compendious History of the Church of Scotland, 1784. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. This would appear to be an excerpt from A COMPENDIOUS HISTORY OF THE BRITISH CHURCHES IN ENGLAND, SCOTLAND, IRELAND, AND AMERICA. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #7.

Brown, John (of Haddington, 1722-1787), General History of the Christian Church: From the Birth of our Saviour to the Present Time. . . . With an Appendix, Containing the History of Philosophers, Deists . . . in two volumes, 1771. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #7.

Brown, S.J., Thomas Chalmers and the Godly Commonwealth in Scotland, ISBN: 0192131141 9780192131140.

Buchanan, George (1506-1582), Buchanan's History of Scotland. In Twenty books. . . . The Third Edition, Revised and Corrected From the Latin Original. In two Volumes. Adorned With Curious Cuts Engraven From the Original Paintings, by Mr. White, Mr. Vertue, & c. Alternate title: RERUM SCOTICARUM HISTORIA.

*Burgess, Anthony (d. 1664?), Rome's Cruelty and Apostasy: Declared in a Sermon Preached on the Fifth of November, 1644, Before the Honourable House of Commons. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.

Butterfield, Herbert, and C.T. McIntire, Herbert Butterfield: Writings on Christianity and History, 273 pages, ISBN: 0195024540 9780195024548.

*Calderwood, David (1600-1666), The History of the Kirk of Scotland, 8 volumes. A Christian classic. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #11.
" 'The extensive learning and eminent talents of the Rev. David Calderwood, his matured experience in ecclesiastical affairs, and especially in those of his native country, the persecutions he had endured for his beloved Church, and the numerous works he had written in its defense, all qualified him, in the happiest manner, for becoming a Historian of the Kirk of Scotland. Above all, when the narrative was to be one of struggle and suffering, in which the principalities and powers of the earth, as well as those of darkness, were the antagonists, the record of such a conflict fell most aptly into the hands of a man whom a monarch had in vain attempted to brow-beat, and a whole hierarchy to silence. His own heart also appears to have affectionately inclined towards this his most congenial occupation, so that, after his return from exile, he spent many years in collecting and arranging the materials necessary for such an important task. At last, when he had reached his seventy-third year, the General Assembly, for the purpose of enabling him to perfect his work, granted him an annual pension of 800 pounds Scots. Calderwood died only two years afterwards; but he lived to accomplish his purpose of writing the History of our National Church from the commencement of the Reformation to the close of the reign of James the Sixth, in two, if not three successive and copious revisals' (Preface to volume one, pp. v-vi). More on the prominent role Calderwood played in the church of his day is supplied by Johnston, TREASURY OF THE SCOTTISH COVENANT, p. 47, when he writes that 'the Second Book of Discipline was sworn to in the National Covenant in 1581, and revised by the Assembly of 1638. The most important parts of the book were legalized in 1592, and again in 1690. Calderwood, the historian, edited 'The First and Second Book of Discipline,' printed in 1621.' Furthermore, the DICTIONARY OF SCOTTISH CHURCH HISTORY AND THEOLOGY (p. 118), tells us that Calderwood was 'excluded from the church courts when he opposed Bishop James Law of Orkney's (FES VII, 322), substitution of royal supporters in place of the Presbytery's duly elected representatives to the General Assembly. But when King James VI visited Scotland in 1617, Calderwood and 54 other ministers meeting in Edinburgh wrote a protest against the King's intention that the monarch and men of his preference should appoint forms of worship and discipline in the Church. Calderwood was required to appear with Archibald Simson before the King at St. Andrews, where from his knees he boldly opposed the King's will and asserted the freedom of the General Assembly to control the Church's ceremonies and government (emphasis added, and some today say these are points of little or no consequence -- how different from our Reformed forefathers -- RB). Calderwood was deprived of his charge, imprisoned and banished. In 1619 he went to Holland, whence he issued anonymously his monumental critique of English episcopacy, The Altar of Damascus (n.p., 1621), greatly enlarged in Latin . . . Calderwood's writings were erudite and widely persuasive, preparing the way for the restoration of Presbyterian practice at the 'Second Reformation' . . . With Alexander Henderson and David Dickson he was appointed by the General Assembly of 1643 to draft a directory for public worship, to fill a need for guidelines after the episcopal conventions had been removed (in keeping with the Solemn League and Covenant -- RB).' The same article, commenting on this eight volume history, relates, 'it is a major source for the history of the Church of Scotland from the Reformation until 1625.' This massive set (of over 6000 pages), was printed between 1842 and 1849. It contains a 171 page index and Thomson's 'Life of David Calderwood. The contents are listed and dealt with chronologically by year; beginning in the preamble with the descent of the Scots from the ancient Gauls, but formally covering the period (focusing to the church), from 1514 to 1625. Documents and information available no where else (that we know of), are also included in this set. Must reading for researchers and those interested in church history!" -- Publisher
The History of the Kirk of Scotland (1842), David Calderwood, Volume: 1
http://archive.org/details/historykirkscot05caldgoog

Campbell, Andrew J., Two Centuries of the Church of Scotland, 1707-1929.

Campbell, William McMaster, The Triumph of Presbyterianism.

Candlish, James S., The Kingdom of God, Biblically and Historically Considered, 1884. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.

Carlisle, Samuel, A Paper on the History of the Reformed Presbyterian or Covenanting Church in the Vicinity of Newburgh and on the Life of Rev. James R. Willson, D.D., 1885.

Carson, David M., A History of the Reformed Presbyterian Church in America to 1871.

Carson, David M., Pro Christo Et Patria: A History of Geneva College, ISBN: 1578640067 9781578640065.

Cheyne, A.C., The Transforming of the Kirk: Victorian Scotland's Religious Revolution, 1983, ISBN: 0715205455 9780715205457.

Clark, Gordon H. (1902-1985), John W. Robbins (1949-2008, editor), Historiography: Secular and Religious, ISBN: 0940931397 9780940931398 (Unicoi, TN: The Trinity Foundation).
"The Christian doctrine of the sovereignty of God transformed the world's view of history, investing it with a meaning, importance, and grandeur that pagan historiography could never achieve. History is the unfolding of God's purpose and plan. Because God is rational, because God is sovereign, history is not a tale told by an idiot.
"The Bible is not only the earliest history book, it is also the most reliable. Centuries before the famed historians of Greece and Rome, Moses had already written the definitive account of mankind's early history as revealed to him by God. The account was not exhaustive, for no history can be, but it contained all that God wished it to contain and nothing else. God, writing through Moses, has given us true history.
"HISTORIOGRAPHY SECULAR AND RELIGIOUS will introduce the reader to the principles and problems of historiography and, in so doing, begin to suggest what an enormous debt we owe to the Bible in the study of history." -- Publisher

Climpson, Roger, Lance Lambert, and Hugh Kitson, Jerusalem, the Covenant City, DVD-Video, ISBN: 1563648199 9781563648199.
"Tells the story of Jerusalem from the Jewish perspective. Recounts the biblical history of the city and the modern day fulfillment of Old and New Testament prophecies. Provides a glimpse of what the future holds for one of the most hotly contested areas in the Middle East.
"See where Jesus of Nazareth lived and preached a message that reached out across eternity, radiating from the Sea of Galilee and its fertile mountains to parched southern deserts, from the rolling hills of Samaria to the sacred slopes of Jerusalem. Experience the wonder of a visit to the sites that to this day bear witness to Jesus' life and work. Learn how the entire sweep of biblical history points to the future of this glorious land, from the days of the Patriarchs and Matriarchs to the reign of Israel's Kings, the era of Roman and Byzantine rule, the Crusader Kingdom and right up to modern times." -- Publisher
"If you ever wanted to experience the Holy Land of Israel -- the land of Jesus Christ and the prophets, sitting at your home, you couldn't have asked for a better DVD. I have seen many DVDs on the Holy Land, but this one really ranks as the best. Capturing the essence of the Holy Land, this spectacular DVD makes the sights and sounds of the Holy Land come alive. Exciting and informative, it carries you on a journey back in time and retraces from the beginning to Jesus and up until today, many of the important places and events in the Bible. There are locations of Old Testament like Beer Sheba, Hebron, Egypt, Jericho, Mt. Carmel, Jaffa, Ashkelon -- to name a few. The tombs of Patriarchs and Matriarchs of Old Testament are also shown in the DVD. A major portion of the DVD has been devoted to the places of New Testament. The documentary exhibits many churches erected throughout the Holy Land marking special events described in the New Testament which attract millions of pilgrims all over the world. One can stand in faith to witness the star of Bethlehem (the traditional place where Jesus is said to have been born), in the holy cave beneath the Church of Nativity in Bethlehem. One can stand in awe and set his eyes on the streets of Via Dolorosa, the path Jesus followed carrying His cross and the Calvary where Jesus was crucified. One can stand up and praise the Lord while looking upon at the empty tomb of Jesus. There are many important places shown (like Lazarus's tomb, Garden of Gethsemane, Mount of Olives, the room of Lord Supper etc.), connected with the life of Jesus that I think every Christian must be a witness to. The documentary not only ends after Jesus but also goes further on to describe the important events happened in the history of Holy Land right up to the freedom of the state of Israel in 1948. At this time, I am reminded of the famous reply Philip gave to Nathanael in John 1:46 when the latter asked him whether any good thing could come out of Nazareth. Philip simply replied Come and see. Well friends, this DVD is definitely worth seeing. Buy this title and share it with everybody. I certainly hope that this DVD will prove to be as much a blessing to you as it has been to me!!!
"PS -- To experience the Holy Land of Israel with all its majestic landscape in a hardcover, I strongly recommend the beautiful book IMAGES OF THE HOLY LAND by the Israeli photographer Hanan Isachar (ISBN: 9652800856). Further, if you are genuinely interested to know about amazing discoveries on Noah's Ark, Real Mount Sinai, Red Sea Crossing Site, Sodom and Gomorrah and Ark of the Covenant, I strongly recommend that you go to the website of Wyatt Museum which has all these discoveries covered on DVDs." -- Reader's Comment

Collins, G.N.M. (George Norman Macleod Collins), The Heritage of our Fathers: The Free Church of Scotland: Her Origin and Testimony, 1974.
The Free Church of Scotland: Her Origin and Testimony
http://www.freechurch.org/heritage.html

Cowan, Henry, The Influence of the Scottish Church in Christendom, 1896.

*Craighead, James Geddes (1832-1895), The Craighead Family: A Genealogical Memoir of the Descendants of Rev. Thomas and Margaret Craighead, 1658-1876, ISBN: 0916497704.
Relates "the life and times of hundreds of Craigheads and their friends. . . ." -- Reader's Comment

*Craighead, James Geddes (1832-1895), Scotch and Irish Seeds in American Soil: The Early History of the Scotch and Irish Churches, and Their Relations to the Presbyterian Church of America, ISBN: 9780548177631 0548177635 0790546221 (microfiche).
"These extraordinary resolves were sent by a messenger to the Congress in Philadelphia, and were printed in the Cape Fear Mercury, Adam Boyd, editor, and were widely distributed throughout the province. A copy of them was transmitted by Sir James Wright, then Governor of Georgia, to England, in a letter of June 20, 1775. And the paper containing these resolutions may still be seen in the British State-Paper Office. . . .
"Bancroft [the historian George Bancroft], stated 'The first voice publicly raised in America to dissolve all connection with Great Britain came from the Scotch-Irish Presbyterians'." -- James Geddes Craighead, pp. 329,330
Early history includes the history of the Covenanted Reformation. See: Chapter IX: "Emigration of Scotch and Scotch-Irish to America and Chapter X: "Foreign Ministers in America" which lists pastors, their time of arrival, and their place of ministry.

*Cunningham, John (1819-1893), The Church History of Scotland: From the Commencement of the Christian Era to the Present Time, 1882, 2nd edition, 2 volumes. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #30.
"Few people are as well qualified to write such a history as the author of these volumes. Provides a vivid recounting of the struggle for independence and religious freedom." -- Cyril J. Barber

*Cunningham, William (1805-1861), John Calvin. Available in THE REFORMERS AND THE THEOLOGY OF THE REFORMATION. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #17.
"As Cunningham states, 'John Calvin was by far the greatest of the Reformers with respect to the talents he possessed, the influence he exerted, and the services he rendered in the establishment and diffusion of important truth.' Here we have a succinct account of Calvin's works and the leading principles that he maintained. Calvin is without a doubt one of the great men in all of human history, and as he often pointed out, he owed everything to the Lord Jesus Christ -- all his talents, all his influence, his very salvation, etc. -- for that is the nature of 'Calvinism,' giving God all the glory!" -- Publisher

Cunningham, William (1805-1861), The Objects, Nature, and Standard of Ecclesiastical Authority.

Cunningham, William (1805-1861), and John Adams, A Letter to a Great Character.
An open letter to John Adams.

Curtis, William A., A History of Creeds and Confessions of Faith in Christendom and Beyond: With Historical Tables, 1911.

*Cuthbertson, John, Register of Marriages and Baptisms Performed by Rev. John Cuthbertson, Covenanter Minister 1751-1791.

D'Aubign�, J.H. Merle (1794-1872), Germany, England, and Scotland; or, Recollections of a Swiss Minister.

*D'Aubign�, J.H. Merle (1794-1872), The History of the Reformation in Europe in the Time of Calvin, ISBN: 1330547586 9781330547588. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #22.

*D'Aubign�, J.H. Merle (1794-1872), The Reformation in England, 2 volumes (Carlisle, PA: The Banner of Truth Trust, 1962-1963).
"Provides an indispensable guide to the place of the Bible in the Reformation of England. No one can read the writings of D'Aubign� and be the same afterward." -- Cyril J. Barber
"The author devoted his lifetime to the study of the Reformation. His ability to convey the importance of the history of this historical transformation of the world is easy-to-understand, even exciting . . ." -- Jay P. Green, Sr. (1918-2008)

*Dabney, Robert L. (1820-1898), A Discourse on the use and Results of Church History.
"Delivered by Robert L. Dabney, May 8, 1854, at his induction into the professorship of Ecclesiastical History and Polity in Union Theological Seminary, Virginia." -- Publisher

*Darling, James (1797-1862), Cyclopaedia Bibliographica: A Library Manual of Theological and General Literature, and Guide to Books for Authors, Preachers, Students, and Literary Men. Analytical, Bibliographical, and Biographical, 1854, 5245 pages. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #12.
"An indispensable set for authors, researchers, serious students of Scripture, librarians, ministers, collectors, rare book dealers, etc. Contains much information that is either unavailable elsewhere or would have to be gleaned from several scattered volumes. Its ten volumes total 5245 pages. A phenomenal, theological, bibliographical resource of staggering comprehensiveness. The first section of this extremely rare set is a huge bibliography, organized by authors alphabetically. Most known Biblical and theological publications, to the author's day, are listed. Includes not only English listings, but Latin, French, and German also. The second part is a topical bibliography categorizing items under the headings of Universal Knowledge, Theology (including the major commentaries, sermons, articles and studies for just about every verse in the Bible), a listing of Scripture texts (Hebrew, Greek, and Latin), and an extensive index. The Morning Post calls this massive work 'the most copious, accurate, and well-arranged catalogue of works in theological and general literature which has as yet been published.' Brownson's Review noted that 'for practical utility we know of none that surpasses or approaches it.' Finally Bell's Messenger states, 'No clergyman or antiquarian should think it needless to possess a copy of this work. It will smooth many a day's hard toil, by diminishing the labour of research, pointing as it does, in an instant to works which it might have taken weeks, if not months, or years, to search after.' Don't miss this darling of a help, which will ease and aid all your theological studies!" -- Publisher
Cyclopaedia Bibliographica, full view
https://catalog.hathitrust.org/Record/005772440

Davies, Samuel (1723-1761), An Account of a Remarkable Work of Grace, or the Great Success of the Gospel in Virginia. In a Letter From the Rev. Mr. Davis . . . to the Rev. Mr. Bellamy. . . . With an account of the state of religion in several parts of North-America, from 1743 to June 1751.

Davies, Samuel (1723-1761), Letters From the Rev. Samuel Davies, &c. Shewing the State of Religion in Virginia, Particularly Among the Negroes. Likewise an extract of a letter from a gentleman in London to his friend in the country, containing some observations on the same, 1757.

Davies, Samuel (1723-1761), The State of Religion Among the Protestant Dissenters in Virginia; In a Letter to the Rev. Mr. Joseph Bellamy, of Bethlem, in New-England: From the Reverend Mr. Samuel Davies, V.D.M. in Hanover County, Virginia. [Two lines from Proverbs], 1751.

Dick, James, The Hymnary Discussions in the General Assembly: Criticism of the Speeches of the Right Hon. Thomas Sinclair, and Revs. John Irwin, William Park, John M'Ilveen, John M'Dermott, and R.J. Lynd. Together With Letters on Hymns in Early Church History.

Dickinson, William Croft, A Source Book of Scottish History, 3 volumes, 1958.

Donaldson, Gordon, Scottish Church History, ISBN: 0707303613 9780707303611.

Donaldson, Gordon, and Robert S. Morpeth, A Dictionary of Scottish History, ISBN: 0859760189 9780859760188.

Drummond, Andrew Landale, and James Bulloch, The Church in Victorian Scotland, 1843-1874, ISBN: 071520243X 9780715202432.

Drummond, Andrew Landale, and James Bulloch, The Church in Late Victorian Scotland, 1874-1900, ISBN: 0715203711 9780715203712.

Drummond, Andrew Landale, and James Bulloch, The Scottish Church, 1688-1843: The Age of the Moderates, ISBN: 0715201867 9780715201862.

Dunn, Richard S., The Age of Religious Wars: 1559-1648, ISBN: 0393056945 9780393056945 0393090213 9780393090215.

Durant, Will, Caesar and Christ: A History of Roman Civilization and of Christianity From Their Beginnings to A.D. 325, ISBN: 1567310141 9781567310146.

Fitzgerald, Allan D. (editor), Augustine Through The Ages: An Encyclopedia, ISBN: 080283843X 9780802838438.
"AUGUSTINE THROUGH THE AGES is an enormously informative work on the life and thought of Augustine of Hippo. Every serious student of Augustine would benefit from having this volume. Allow me to enumerate three reasons why this encyclopedia is so valuable in helping people to understand Augustine and his extraordinary contribution both to the history of Christianity and to the intellectual development of the Western world:

1. This work contains hundreds of articles by the best Augustine scholars from both the Catholic and Protestant ranks. The result is that you can fairly evaluate Augustine's contribution to the history of Western Christianity. For example, this volume contains insightful articles on how Augustine's thought influenced the development of the Catholic, Lutheran, and Reformed theological traditions in particular.
2. Because Augustine wrote more than five million words, it is often difficult to pull together his various treatments of issues and to attempt to summarize his overall position. This encyclopedia is quite helpful in systematizing the various categories of Augustine's thought.
3. This work includes articles which address all areas of Augustine's thought, including biblical, theological, philosophical, ethical, historical, and his many literary works.

"AUGUSTINE THROUGH THE AGES contains more than 900 pages that attempt to capture the life, thought, controversies, and literary output of one of Christianity's greatest thinkers. This is indeed an extremely valuable volume." -- Reader's Comment
"Fitzgerald (patristics, Augustinian Patristic Institute, Rome, and editor of Augustinian Studies for Villanova U.), presents an encyclopedic treatment of the life, thought, and influence of arguably the most influential Western Christian thinker after the apostles, Augustine of Hippo (AD 354-430). Includes some 400 articles written by scholars whose academic backgrounds include classics, history, philosophy, political science, and theology, and which cover every aspect of Augustine's life and writings and trace his influence on the church and on the development of Western thought. Indexes, cross references, and current bibliographies should make this volume a useful research tool." -- Publisher

*Foote, William Henry (1794-1869), Sketches of Virginia, Historical and Biographical, 1850, 1st series, ISBN: 0524062463 9780524062463.

*Foote, William Henry (1794-1869), Sketches of Virginia, Historical and Biographical, 2nd series, ISBN: 9781594421556 1594421552.
"This volume contains much valuable information regarding early Presbyterian families in the State, biographical sketches of early Presbyterian ministers, and the founding of a number of churches and educational institutions in the State. It also includes a detailed treatment of the Presbyterian efforts toward a separation of church and state in the newly formed State of Virginia. The author, Dr. Foote, was a man of clear and strong convictions. His views of divine truth were early formed. The doctrines of Grace announced in the trial sermon before Presbytery, were repeated fifty years afterwards from the same text (Eph. 2:8 [Ephesians 2:8]), as his last sermon. As a missionary and pastor he was never deterred by difficulties or dangers from the discharge of duty. As a scholar, he was accurate and well informed; as a writer, easy and copious, delighting in the use of his pen. Dr. Morton Smith, Professor of Theology at Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary has written an introduction for the new reprint. A rather exhaustive index has also been appended and will be helpful to the average reader and researcher." -- Publisher
Sketches of Virginia, Historical and Biographical
https://archive.org/details/sketchesofvirgin00foot
Sketches of Virginia, historical and biographical. By the Rev. William Henry Foote . . . Second Series.
Full text, free online.
http://books.google.com/books?id=d6cq34x-JwcC&dq=Sketches+of+Virginia,+historical+and+biographical.+By+the+Rev.+William+Henry+Foote+...+&psp=1&ie=ISO-8859-1

Foster, Walter Roland, The Church Before the Covenants: the Church of Scotland, 1596-1638, 1975, ISBN: 0701121297 9780701121297.

Free Presbyterian Church of Scotland, Synod, History of the Free Presbyterian Church of Scotland (1893-1970), ISBN: 0902506099 9780902506091.

Gavin, Antonio, A History of Popery: Giving a Full Account of all the Customs of the Priests and Friars, and the Rites and Ceremonies of the Papal Church, 1848. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #16.

*Geneva Bible Notes
The GENEVA BIBLE NOTES are featured on the Online Bible CD-ROM. One keystroke brings the notes up in the second window alongside THE 1769 AUTHORIZED VERSION KING JAMES BIBLE, Cambridge: Printed by John Archdeacon; and sold by John Beecroft, John Rivington, Benjamin White, and Edward Dilly, in London; and T. & J. Merrill, in Cambridge, 1769. A Christian classic.
Therefore, the user can view both THE 1769 AUTHORIZED VERSION KING JAMES BIBLE and the GENEVA BIBLE NOTES at the same time in separate windows, possibly with a split screen.
THE ONLINE BIBLE CD-ROM is available from Larry Pierce and the Woodside Bible Fellowship, Winterbourne, Ontario, CANADA, 11 Holmwood Street, Ontario N0B 2V0, 1997. [Apparently is no longer compatible with current operating systems as of December 2016 -- compiler].
THE 1769 AUTHORIZED VERSION KING JAMES BIBLE (New York, NY: Cambridge University Press), was available at one time on CD-ROM from Thomas Nelson.

*Gilmour, Robert, Samuel Rutherford: A Biographical and Historical Study in the History of the Scottish Covenant. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #10.
"In CRITICAL REVIEWS RELATING CHIEFLY TO SCOTLAND (also in this bound photocopy section), compiled by Hay Fleming, we read, 'Mr. Gilmour has produced an excellent volume, which is worthy of being placed alongside any of its predecessors . . . Scattered throughout its pages there are numerous quotations from Rutherford's own works . . . Rutherford's admirers will relish it, because of its keen sympathy with and high appreciation of him.' Rutherfurd (sic) was a master scholar of Scripture, a great devotional writer (see his Letters), a devoted minister of Christ, one of the Scotch commissioners to the Westminster Assembly, and a world class political philosopher (whose LEX, REX forever changed the face of political thought). Gilmour writes, 'that, as regards religious fervour, scholastic subtlety of intellect, and intensity of ecclesiastical conviction, Samuel Rutherford is the most distinctively representative Scotsman in the first half of the seventeenth century.' Few saints in history were given the gifts this man possessed." -- Publisher

Glasgow, W. Melancthon, Ray B. Lanning, and Nathan P. Eshelman, History of the Reformed Presbyterian Church in America: With Sketches of all her Ministry, Congregations, Missions, Institutions, Publications, etc., and Embellished With Over Fifty Portraits and Engravings, ISBN: 9781601780195 1601780192.
"Gives the history of early covenanters in America. David Steele and others left the communion sometime prior to the synod of 1841 in Utica, Ohio (p. 108). Notice 'the alleged reason that the Synod had postponed its deliverance on "voluntary associations",' and they regarded the Synod as unfaithful to its duty." -- Publisher
"Students of Presbyterian church history will discover a whole family of churches whose history sparkles with remarkable personalities and noteworthy achievements, however much they may have been forgotten in the years that followed. Reformed Presbyterians, Associate Reformed Presbyterians, and the dwindling numbers of those who once belonged to the United Presbyterian Church of North America, will all give thanks for the history that is brought to light in these pages. We 'Scottish Dissenting Presbyterians' have a goodly heritage. We have much to discover about our forbears in the faith, and what they accomplished in their day; and much as well to consider with regard to how their distinctive principles and practices may have something vital to contribute to our churches and to our nation today." -- Ray B. Lanning and Nathan P. Eshelman, from the Introduction
http://www.reformedpresbyterian.org/conv_resources.html
Glasgow, W. Melancthon, History of the Reformed Presbyterian Church in America, full text.
http://www.archive.org/stream/historyofrefor00glas/historyofrefor00glas_djvu.txt

Gough, Henry (compiler), A General Index to the Publications of the Parker Society (1855), 811 pages. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
"An extensive general index to the works of the leading English Reformers of the sixteenth century, as they were published by the Parker Society. Some of these volumes have once again been republished in our day by Still Waters Revival Books. Works indexed here are mainly of a theological nature, but also 'include a considerable amount of historical and biographical information; they may also prove serviceable to the topographer and the antiquary; certainly they are not likely to be overlooked by any who may hereafter direct their attention to English lexicography'." -- Publisher

Graham, William, Review of Ecclesiastical Establishment in Europe, 1792.

Grub, George, An Ecclesiastical History of Scotland, 4 volumes, 1861.

Hamilton, Thomas, History of the Irish Presbyterian Church, 1887.

Harper, James, John Eadie, and William Lindsay, Lives of Ebenezer Erskine, William Wilson, and Thomas Gillespie: Fathers of the United Presbyterian Church, 1849. Alternate title: 'MEMOIR' IN LIVES OF EBENEZER ERSKINE.

Hart, D.G. (editor), and Mark A. Noll (editor), Dictionary of the Presbyterian and Reformed Tradition in America, ISBN: 0830814531 9780830814534.

Hawkins, Michael, Unpublished State Papers of the English Civil War and Interregnum, Parts I-V, ISBN: 0855279907 9780855279905.

Henry, William Wirt, Patrick Henry: Life, Correspondence, Speeches, 3 volumes, ISBN: 0873771656 9780873771658.
William Wirt Henry is the grandson of Patrick Henry and the author of PRESBYTERIANS IN VIRGINIA.

Hetherington, William (1803-1865), History of the Church of Scotland From the Introduction of Christianity to the Period of the Disruption in 1834, 2 volumes. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #17.

Hewitt, Rob, Where the River Flows: Finding Faith in Rockingham County, Virginia 1726-1876, ISBN: 0966891953 9780966891959.
"WHERE THE RIVER FLOWS, a project of the Margaret Grattan Weaver Foundation with help from the Virginia Foundation of the Humanities, tells the story of the people who came to the Shenandoah Valley -- from places like England, France, Germany and Pennsylvania -- for faith and freedom's sake.
"Beginning with the Valley's first settlers -- the Adam Mueller family, who settled near present-day Shenandoah -- WHERE THE RIVER FLOWS is the story of a people 'twice removed from the state Church,' says the back cover text. They were separated from the rest of the world by the Blue Ridge Mountains as well as by their diverse and deeply-rooted beliefs. . . .
"Though not academic in style or content, WHERE THE RIVER FLOWS is supplied with plenty of documentation. There are more than 50 pages of endnotes.
"A map that accompanies the book combines modern Rockingham County route numbers with old road alignments, and has about 120 locations and place names, mostly of old meetinghouses. Bob Kirchman of Staunton, an architectural renderer, drew the map using Hotchkiss's 1875 map and Lake's 1885 atlas, Hewitt says. . . .
"WHERE THE RIVER FLOWS is abundantly and creatively illustrated with color and black-and-white photos and drawings of Valley creeks and rivers, farms, churches and homes. Church and homestead photos include many that local readers will recognize: buildings still in use, no longer used but preserved, and long-abandoned and forgotten. . . .
"It is a 'must read' for anyone who is serious about understanding the spiritual roots and underpinnings of the Rockingham County area." -- Reader's Comment

Holifield, E. Brooks, A History of Pastoral Care in America: From Salvation to Self-Realization, ISBN: 0687172497 9780687172498.
Includes bibliographical references.

Howe, George, History of the Presbyterian Church in South Carolina, Vol. 1 of 2.
Howe, George, History of the Presbyterian Church in South Carolina, Vol. 2 of 2.

Howe, George, The Scotch-Irish and Their First Settlements on the Tyger River and Other Neighboring Precincts in South Carolina: A Centennial Discourse, Delivered at Nazareth Church, Spartanburg District, S.C., September 14, 1861.

*Howie, John (1735-1793), The Scots Worthies. Biographia Scoticana: or, A Brief Historical Account of the Lives, Characters, and Memorable Transactions of the Most Eminent Scots Worthies . . . Also, an Appendix, Containing a Short Historical Hint of the Wicked Lives . . . of the . . . Apostates and . . . Persecutors in Scotland . . . 2nd edition, corrected and enlarged, 1781. A Christian classic. Available (PDF and MP3 audio files) on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available (PDF file) on Reformation Bookshelf CD #1, #10. Available (22 MP3 audio files) on Reformation Bookshelf CD #1-30 and at AudioSermons.com.
"Most commonly known as SCOTS WORTHIES, this edition contains Howie's footnotes (defending the Covenanters), and Howie's appendix titled 'The Judgment and Justice of God' (which chronicles God's judgments upon Reformation apostates and those who persecuted the Covenanters). It is the only edition in print which contains both these sections intended for publication by the author (as later editors often removed either one or both of these parts of this book). BIOGRAPHIA SCOTICANA covers the history of 'noblemen, gentlemen, ministers and others from Mr. Patrick Hamilton, who was born about the year of our Lord 1503, and suffered martyrdom at St. Andrews, Feb., 1527, to Mr. James Renwick, who was executed in the Grass-market of Edinburgh, Feb. 17, 1688. Together with a succinct account of the lives of other seven eminent divines, and Sir Robert Hamilton of Preston, who died about, or shortly after the Revolution.' This is one of our best history books (over 700 pages), covering all of the major Scottish Reformers. Howie summarizes his book as follows: 'The design of the following was to collect, from the best authorities, a summary account of the lives, characters, and contendings, of a certain number of our most renowned SCOTS WORTHIES, who, for their faithful services, ardent zeal, constancy in sufferings, and other Christian graces and virtues, deserve honourable memorial in the Church of Christ; and for which their names have been, and will be savoury to all the true lovers of our Zion, while Reformation principles are regarded.' Furthermore, the momentous nature of the struggles chronicled in this book are succinctly noted when Howie writes: 'the primitive witnesses had the divinity of the Son of God, and an open confession of Him, for their testimony. Our reformers from Popery had Antichrist to struggle with, in asserting the doctrines of the Gospel, and the right way of salvation in and through Jesus Christ. Again, in the reigns of James VI. and Charles I., Christ's REGALIA, and the divine right of Presbytery, became the subject matter of their testimony. Then, in the beginning of the reign of Charles II. (until he got the whole of our ancient and laudable constitution effaced and overturned), our Worthies only saw it their duty to hold and contend for what they had already attained unto. But, in the end of this and the subsequent tyrant's reign, they found it their duty (a duty which they had too long neglected), to advance one step higher, by casting off their authority altogether, and that as well on account of their manifest usurpation of Christ's crown and dignity, as on account of their treachery, bloodshed, and tyranny . . . which may be summed up. The Primitive martyrs sealed the prophetic office of Christ in opposition to Pagan idolatry. The reforming martyrs sealed His priestly office with their blood, in opposition to Popish idolatry. And last of all, our late martyrs have sealed His kingly office with their best blood, in despite of supremacy and bold Erastianism. They indeed have cemented it upon His royal head, so that to the world's end it shall never drop off again.' Moreover, the importance of this book can be clearly seen when Johnston, in TREASURY OF THE SCOTTISH COVENANT, reports that, Walter Scott refers to Howie as 'the fine old chronicler of the Cameronians'. . . Howie's book has been for upwards of a century a household word, occupying a place on the shelf beside THE BIBLE and THE PILGRIM'S PROGRESS.' Written for God, country and the covenanted work of Reformation. Stirring history!" -- Publisher
An alternative edition that also contains the appendix, Biographia Scoticana: or, A Brief Historical Account of the Lives, Characters, and Memorable Transactions of the Most Eminent Scots Worthies, Noblemen, Gentlemen, Ministers and Others . . . With an Appendix, Containing a Short Historical Account of the Wicked Lives and Miserable Deaths of Some of the Most Bloody Persecutors in Scotland, 1836.
An Appendix, Containing a Short Historical Hint of the Wicked Lives and Miserable Deaths of Some of the Most Remarkable Apostates and Bloody Persecutors in Scotland From the Reformation to the Revolution
This is the Appendix to THE SCOTS WORTHIES. BIOGRAPHIA SCOTICANA, 2nd edition, corrected and enlarged, 1781.
http://archive.org/details/biographiascotic28272gut
See also: A CLOUD OF WITNESSES FOR THE ROYAL PREROGATIVES OF JESUS CHRIST BEING THE LAST SPEECHES AND TESTIMONIES OF THOSE WHO HAVE SUFFERED FOR THE TRUTH IN SCOTLAND SINCE . . . 1680 and JOHN FOXE'S BOOK OF MARTYRS. ACTES AND MONUMENTS OF MATTERS MOST SPECIALL AND MEMORABLE. Available from: http://www.johnfoxe.org. Implemented by the Humanities Research Institute, University of Sheffield, England, and published by HRI Online Publications, Sheffield, 2011, Version 2.0, ISBN: 9780954260864.

*Hughes, Philip E., The True Image: The Origin and Destiny of Man in Christ, ISBN: 0802803148 9780802803146.
"In this wide-ranging, Biblical, historical, and theological study, Hughes makes convincing use of the concept of the divine image to integrate the doctrines of man and Christ. His Biblical bases are solid, his expositions weighty and his historical interactions judicious and enlightening. A valuable piece of work." -- J.I. Packer

*Johnston, John C., Treasury of the Scottish Covenant. A Christian classic. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #27.
"A massive listing (over 671 pages), covering Covenanting literature from the period of the Reformation to its publication in 1887. Contains not only the principal literary productions of the Covenanters (in the course of the long-sustained and heroic resistance offered by them to the spiritual despotism thrust against them in both church and state), but all of the chief historical documents connected with this period of history. Inspiration and courage can be drawn from the memories and associations of these events and writings. Here is one example of what you will find (from page 349 in the book): '(Richard) Camerons' head and hands, cut from his body at Airsmoss, were taken to his father, then suffering in prison in Edinburgh for the Covenant. He was asked if he knew them. 'His words,' says Dr. Kerr, 'were surely the most touching of all the memories of that cruel time: 'I know, I know them! they are my son's, my dear son's! It is the Lord: good is the will of the Lord, who cannot wrong me nor mine, but has made goodness and mercy to follow us all our days.' After which, by order of the Council, his head was fixed upon the Netherbow Port, and his hands beside it, with the fingers upward, a kind of preaching 'at the entry of the city, at the coming in at the doors,' that told more for his cause and against the persecutors than all the words he could have spoken.' A must for every serious theological student, religious library, or rare book collector who has any interest in Reformation thought and/or literature. It is a veritable gold mine of information, facts, documents, book listings and more!" -- Publisher
Johnston, John C., Treasury of the Scottish Covenant
http://archive.org/details/treasuryofscotti00john

Keyes, Kenneth Scofield, C. Gregg Singer, George Aiken Taylor, E.C. Scott, and B. Hoyt Evans, A Manual for new Members [Presbyterian Church in America -- compiler], 33 pages. "Reprinted from The Presbyterian Journal."
Contents: I. The story of Presbyterianism / C. Gregg Singer -- II. What Presbyterians believe / G. Aiken Taylor -- III. Presbyterian government / E.C. Scott -- IV. Joining the Presbyterian Church / B. Hoyt Evans -- Appendix. The creed of Presbyterians -- The Westminster Assembly, 1643-1648 -- A brief history of the developments in the Presbyterian Church in the United States (Southern) which led to the formation of the Presbyterian Church in America / by Kenneth S. Keys [sic] -- PCA vision 2000 presented to the 1987 General Assembly.

Kleist, James A., The Didache; The Epistle of Barnabas; The Epistles and the Martyrdom of St. Polycarp; The Fragments of Papias; The Epistle to Diognetus, ISBN: 0809102471 9780809102471.
"THE TEACHING OF THE TWELVE APOSTLES, probably written before the end of the first century, purports to be an instruction based on sayings of the Lord and given by the Twelve Apostles to pagans who wished to become Christians. THE EPISTLE OF BARNABAS is a homily on the mistaken Judaistic conception of the Old Testament.
"The Epistles consist of a covering note and a letter, which is an exhortation to the Philippians on Christian life in general. THE MARTYRDOM OF ST. POLYCARP is the story of this bishop of Smyrna's death at the hand of the Roman authorities in Asia for the defense of the Christian faith.
"THE FRAGMENTS OF PAPIAS. Papias, bishop of Hierapolis in Asia Minor, was the author of five books, entitled EXEGESIS OF THE LORD'S GOSPEL.
"THE EPISTLE TO DIOGNETUS is an apology for Christianity, presented by an unknown writer to a pagan of high social or political rank." -- Publisher

Knox, John (1505-1572), The Early Church and the Coming Great Church. Available (WORKS OF JOHN KNOX), on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #1.

*Knox, John (1505-1572), Faithful Admonition to the Professors of God's Truth, 1554. Alternate title: A FAITHFUL ADMONITION TO THE PROFESSORS OF GOD'S TRUTH IN ENGLAND, and AGAINST ROMISH RITES AND POLITICAL AND ECCLESIASTICAL TYRANNY. Available (WORKS OF JOHN KNOX) on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #15, #26. Available in SELECTED WRITINGS OF JOHN KNOX.
"Formerly titled A FAITHFUL ADMONITION TO THE PROFESSORS OF GOD'S TRUTH IN ENGLAND, this letter is said to be 'undoubtedly the most important' of Knox's writings (up to that time), by W. Stanford Reid in TRUMPETER OF GOD (p. 114). Furthermore Reid notes that Knox's 'views on the magistrate expressed in the FAITHFUL ADMONITION, were to have an important influence upon much of his future conduct, and upon the development of the Reformation in both England and Scotland.' The editor of KNOX'S WORKS states, 'the object of the ADMONITION was twofold. The one was to animate those who had made a good profession to perseverance, and to avoid the sin of . . . appearing to conform to the 'abominable idolatry' re-established in England; the other, to point out the dangers to be apprehended in when the kingdom became subjected to the dominion of strangers.' Knox uses very strong language here, in the hopes of getting through to those who came to be termed Nicodemites (i.e. those who thought that they could 'keep faith secretly in the heart, and yet do as idolaters do,' in Knox's own words). Written at a time when the true church had been driven underground by Roman Catholic persecution, it was said concerning this letter that 'many other godly men besides have been exposed to the risk of their property, and even life itself, upon the sole ground of either having had this book in their possession, or having read it.' Kevin Reed gives an excellent summary of this letter in SELECTED WRITINGS OF JOHN KNOX, when, in part, he writes, 'while acknowledging the risk of persecution to the faithful, the reformer perceives a greater danger in compromising with idolatry. Government persecution may bring disfavour of men, loss of personal goods and, in some cases, physical death; but idolatry brings down the wrath of God, resulting in grievous punishments, now and through eternity. Idolatry also invites a curse upon the posterity of the nation. In an intense pastoral appeal, Knox strongly admonishes his readers to avoid conforming to the Romish rites of worship.' (p. 220). For those who would rather read many of these Knox items with contemporary spelling, punctuation, and grammar we highly recommend the SELECTED WRITINGS OF JOHN KNOX." -- Publisher
John Knox: Faithful Admonition (1554)
http://www.swrb.com/newslett/actualnls/FaithAdm.htm

*Knox, John (1505-1572), The History of the Reformation of Religion Within the Realm of Scotland. . . . Together with the life of the author, and several curious pieces wrote by him, . . . By the Reverend Mr. John Knox, . . . To which is added, I. An admonition to England and Scotland . . . by Antoni Gilby. II. The first and second books of discipline, Glasgow, 1761. Alternate title: THE HISTORIE OF THE REFORMATION OF THE CHURCH OF SCOTLAND CONTAINING FIVE BOOKS: TOGETHER WITH SOME TREATISES CONDUCING TO THE HISTORY. EDITED, WITH A LIFE OF KNOX AND A PREFACE, BY DAVID BUCHANAN. INCLUDES: "THE APPELLATION OF JOHN KNOX, FROM THE . . . SENTENCE PRONOUNCED AGAINST HIM (pp. 1-33); "THE ADMONITION OF JOHN KNOX TO HIS BELOVED BRETHREN THE COMMONALTY OF SCOTLAND" (pp. 34-42); "A FAITHFULL ADMONITION MADE BY JOHN KNOX TO THE TRUE PROFESSORS OF THE GOSPEL OF CHRIST WITHIN THE KINGDOM OF ENGLAND, 1554" (pp. 43-79); "THE COPIE OF A LETTER DELIVERED TO QUEEN MARY, REGENT OF SCOTLAND" (pp. 80-97); AND "A SERMON PREACHED BY JOHN KNOX [AUGUST 19, 1565]," ISBN: 0851513581 9780851513584. Available (WORKS OF JOHN KNOX), on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available (WORKS OF JOHN KNOX), on Reformation Bookshelf CD #1. A Christian classic.
"Containing, The Manner, and by what Persons, the Light of Christ's Gospel has been manifested unto this Realm, after that horrible and universal Defection from the Truth, which has come by the Means of that Roman Antichrist. Together with the life of the author, and several curious pieces wrote by him, viz. I. His Appellation from the cruel and most unjust Sentence pronounced against him, by the false Bishops and Clergy of Scotland; with his Supplication and Exhortation to the Nobility, States, and Commonality of the same Realm. II. His faithful Admonition to the true Professors of the Gospel of Christ within the Kingdom of England. III. His Letter to Queen Mary, Regent of Scotland. IV. His Exhortation to England for the speedy Embracing of Christ's Gospel. V. The first Blast of the Trumpet against the Monstrous Regiment of Women. VI. A Sermon on Isaiah xxvi. 13 [Isaiah 26:13], &c. By the Reverend Mr. John Knox, some time Minister of God's Word in Edinburgh. To which is added, I. An admonition to England and Scotland to call them to Repentance, written by Antoni Gilby. II. The first and second books of discipline; together with some Acts of the General Assemblies clearing and confirming the same; And an Act of Parliament. With a large Index to the whole." -- Contents
"It breaths with the spirit of excitement and expectation, being told by the author from his experience as an eyewitness and participant in the unfolding drama of the work of God in 16th century Scotland." -- Jay P. Green, Sr. (1918-2008)
"Knox portrayed the origins and development of a movement and not a mere chronology of events . . . Knox based his arguments on original sources and he often cited the documents in full. When Knox's History is compared to the contemporary vernacular narratives of Bishop Leslie and Sir James Melville, the superiority of Knox's work becomes evident. For the most part, these writers were preoccupied with petty details and had no conception of the momentous issues that hung on the events they recorded . . . Knox used history to demonstrate his single-track philosophy. And his philosophy said: 'The hearts of men, their thoughts, and their actions are but in the hands of God.' Lee said Knox's History was a sermon without an audience, a preaching book, one long inflammatory speech in behalf of God's truth as the reformer saw it.' (Kyle, The Mind of John Knox, p. 13). Our editions of volumes one and two of Knox's Works contain the only full, unedited version of Knox's massive History of the Reformation in Scotland available today." -- Publisher
The Works of John Knox (1846), vol. 1 of 6.
http://archive.org/details/worksofjohnkn01knox

Lawson, George (1749-1820), and Henry Belfrage, Discourses on the History of David and on the Introduction of Christianity Into Britain.

Macleod, John (1872-1948), Scottish Theology in Relation to Church History Since the Reformation, ISBN: 0851511937 9780851511931.
Scottish Theology in Relation to Church History, John Macleod
http://www.freechurch.org/st.html

Macleod, John (1872-1948), Calvin's Idea of the Church in its Bearing on our History.

Mall, Thomas (b. 1629 or 30), A Cloud of VVitnesses, or, The Sufferers Mirrour. Made up of the Swan-like-songs and Other Choice Passages of Several Martyrs and Confessors to the end of the Sixteenth Century, in their treatises, speeches, letters, prayers, &c. in their prisons, or exiles, at the bar or stake &c. / collected out of the ecclesiastical histories of Eusebius, Fox, Fuller, Clark, Petrie, Scotland, and Mr. Samuel Ward's Life of faith in death, &c. and alphabetically disposed by T.M., 1665.

Martin, Hugh (1822-1885), The Ten Years' Conflict Misread by its Historian.

Martin, Hugh (1822-1885), Where Will the Free Church be Found?

*Mather, Cotton (1663-1728), The Great Works of Christ in America (Magnalia Christi Americana), 2 volumes, ISBN: 0851512801 9780851512808 085151281X 9780851512815.
"Almost a Puritan Church history, covering much of the 17th century in the early colonies. Biographical information and facts not to be found elsewhere. Not chronological, instead built around the people of the time." -- GCB
A carefully documented history of God's work in New England. Includes bibliographical references and index.
Magnalia Christi Americana, Cotton Mather, 1702, Introduction
http://xroads.virginia.edu/~DRBR/cotton2.html

McGeachy, Neill Roderick, A History of the Sugaw Creek Presbyterian Church, Mecklenburg Presbytery, Charlotte, North Carolina
One of two churches, Sugaw Creek (later Sugar Creek) and Rocky River, pastored by Alexander Craighead in Mecklenburg County, North Carolina.
http://archive.org/details/historyofsugawcr00mcge

McKain, James D., Index to History of the Presbyterian Church in South Carolina by George Howe: Volumes I and II, ISBN: 0913363219 9780913363218.

*McKim, Donald K., and David F. Wright (consulting editor), Robert Benedetto, Carnegie Samuel Calian, Arthur C. Cochrane, Stephen D. Crocco, Richard C. Gamble, et al., Encyclopedia of the Reformed Faith, ISBN: 0664218822 9780664218829 0715206605 9780715206607.
"More than two hundred international scholars from a variety of denominations contribute to this outstanding, one-volume reference book. Comprehensive in scope, it stresses the importance of events, persons, and theological concepts that have been significant to the Reformed tradition.
"Includes the article 'Marian exiles.'
"The Reformed faith provides a basis for the lives of millions of people throughout the world. American and British academics pay particular attention to the historical development of this faith: the events, people and theological issues." -- Publisher

McLeod, John Niel (1806-1874), Scottish Theology in Relation to Church History Since the Reformation, ISBN: 1884416144 9781884416149.
Scottish Theology in Relation to Church History Since the Reformation
http://books.google.com/books/about/Scottish_theology_in_relation_to_church.html?id=87E8AAAAYAAJ

*McMaster (M'Master), Gilbert (1778-1854), The Ancient History of Psalmody, 1852. Alternate title: AN INQUIRY INTO THE PRIVILEGE AND DUTY OF THE CHRISTIAN CHURCH IN THE EXERCISE OF SACRED PRAISE: A CHRONOLOGY AND HISTORY OF SCRIPTURE SONGS FROM THE CREATION; AN ENLARGED REVIEW OF THE ANCIENT AND MODERN HISTORY OF THE PSALMODY OF THE CHRISTIAN CHURCH; AND AN EXAMINATION OF "AN APOLOGY FOR THE BOOK OF PSALMS." Available in 'Letter II' in M'Master's AN APOLOGY FOR THE BOOK OF PSALMS, IN FIVE LETTERS; ADDRESSED TO THE FRIENDS OF UNION IN THE CHURCH OF GOD. Available (under M'Master) on the Puritan Hard Drive.
"This resource covers the character of the age of the Church Fathers and the history of Psalmody in the early ages of the church after the Apostles.
"Statements related to this issue from Pliny, Tertullian, Jerome, Cyril, Augustine, Cassian, Chrysostom, the Apostolic Constitutions and others are all included, set in their context and commented on (from the Latin).
Interestingly, M'Master writes,

The truth is, fifty years after the death of the Apostles had not passed by, when the church they had planted with so much purity, and fostered with so much care, exhibited an aspect very different from what it did before. The historian Hegesippus, of the second century, pronounced the virgin purity of the church to have been confined to the Apostolic age. "Monstrous attempts were made, in that century, to reconcile falsehood with truth, light with darkness" (Mosheim, I. 174). In this age originated a bewildering mysticism, an idle monkish seclusion from the relations and duties of active life, and a multiplication of superstitious innovations, which cast a veil of darkness over the truth, substituting for the simplicity of the gospel an unseemly mixture of truth and error. Jerome, of the fourth century, testifies that the "primitive church was tainted with gross errors while the Saviour's blood was yet warm in Judea." In the following periods the depravity increased. God, indeed, had still his hidden ones, and in their hearts and hands his own cause was preserved; yet the picture of the times is drawn, on the page of history, in dark colours.
"There was no charity in works, no discipline in manners." The practice of such periods can go but a little way in the settlement of controversies respecting divine institutions. For satisfaction, as to the appointments of God, we must rest, not on the practice of the Fathers, but on the records of inspired truth. Keeping this in recollection, it may, nevertheless, be interesting to know their matter and modes of worship. And as a somewhat imposing display of research into the early practice of the church, on the subject of Psalmody, has by various writers been made, it may not be inexpedient to inquire, how far their representations of that practice and the inferences they drew from it, are entitled to our confidence.

McMaster (M'Master), Gilbert (1778-1854), An Apology for the Book of Psalms in Five Letters, 1852, ISBN: 0217165222 9780217165228. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
"An enlarged review of the ancient and modern history of the psalmody . . . and an examination of "An apology for the Book of Psalms" by G, M'Master.
"An inquiry into the privilege and duty of the Christian church in the exercise of sacred praise: a chronology and history of Scripture songs." -- Publisher
An Apology for the Book of Psalms in Five Letters
http://www.covenanter.org/reformed/2015/8/17/gilbert-mcmasters-book-an-apology-for-the-book-of-psalms-in-five-letters

McNeill, John T., A History of the Cure of Souls, ISBN: 0060655402 9780060655402.
"McNeill provides readers with a magisterial mapping of the landscape of two millennium of soul care and spiritual direction. In a brief but pointed section on Old Testament and New Testament spiritual care, McNeill documents that God's people have always been about the business of helping hurting and hardened people through shared conversations around the Word. He then transports readers through Church history both chronologically and denominationally. Groups both large and small receive ample documentation. McNeill leaves his readers with resources for further study. But more importantly, he leaves them armed with the awareness that the ministry of sustaining, healing, reconciling, and guiding stands in a great tradition under that great cloud of witnesses. For an introduction to the history of soul care, no one does it better." -- Reader's Comment Reviewer: Robert W. Kellemen, Ph.D., is the author of SOUL PHYSICIANS: A THEOLOGY OF SOUL CARE AND SPIRITUAL DIRECTION, SPIRITUAL FRIENDS: A METHODOLOGY OF SOUL CARE AND SPIRITUAL DIRECTION, BEYOND THE SUFFERING: EMBRACING THE LEGACY OF AFRICAN AMERICAN SOUL CARE, SPIRITUAL DIRECTION, BIBLICAL PSYCHOLOGY, and MARTIN LUTHER'S COUNSELING.

*McNeill, John T. (editor), The Library of Christian Classics.
"Long recognized for the quality of its translations, introductions, explanatory notes, and indexes, THE LIBRARY OF CHRISTIAN CLASSICS provides scholars and students with modern English translations of some of the most significant Christian theological texts in history. Through these works, each written prior to the end of the sixteenth century, contemporary readers are able to engage the ideas that have shaped Christian theology and the church through the centuries. THE LIBRARY OF CHRISTIAN CLASSICS ensures that this great literature of the Christian heritage is easily available and invites the ongoing development of theology." -- Publisher

*M'Crie, Thomas (the elder, 1772-1835), Life of Knox, 1831. A Christian classic. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #1.
"Iain Murray, in his stirring introduction to Cunningham's HISTORICAL THEOLOGY writes, 'The third event marking the commencement of this spiritual movement was the publication of a book in 1811. It was the biography of John Knox by Thomas M'Crie. All over Scotland this work was used to revive the memory of the great Reformer and nothing could have been a more telling protest against the stifling influence of Moderatism. It brought many a student and minister into the experience once described by James Fraser of Bera in his Memoirs: 'When I read Knox, I thought I saw another scheme of divinity, much more agreeable to the Scriptures and to my experience than the modern.' M'Crie followed this up in 1819 with a biography of Knox's great successor, Andrew Melville, and these two books became known as the 'Iliad and Odyssey of the Scottish Church.' Just as Homer's heroes fired the hearts of many imitators so M'Crie's biographies aroused a holy ambition in many to follow the noble example of these two spiritual giants.
"M'Crie's work is an undisputed classic regarding this fiery reformer. It exhibits information on Knox and the Scottish Reformation which has been hid in manuscripts and books which are now little known or consulted. Knox may be the most pertinent Reformer to study in our day of widespread idolatry, pluralism, anti-Christian government, humanistic law, relativism, and the revival of that 'masterpiece of Satan,' Roman Catholicism. Read everything that you can get your hands on -- either by or about Knox; you'll never be the same again!" -- Publisher
Life of John Knox: Containing Illustrations of the History of the Reformation in Scotland: with Biographical Notices of the Principal Reformers, and Sketches of the Progress of Literature in Scotland During the Sixteenth Century; and an Appendix, Consisting of Original Papers
https://archive.org/details/lifeofjohnkno00mcri

M'Crie, Thomas (the younger, 1797-1875), The Life of Thomas M'Crie, D.D.: Author of "Life of John Knox," "Life of Melville," etc.
The Life of Thomas M'Crie, D.D.: Author of "Life of John Knox," "Life of Melville," etc. (1842)
http://archive.org/details/lifeofthomasmcr00mcri

Melville, James, Sir (1535-1617), and George Scot (d. 1685), The Memoires of Sir James Melvil of Hal-hill Containing an Impartial Account of the Most Remarkable Affairs of State During the Last Age, not mention'd by other historians, more particularly relating to the kingdoms of England and Scotland, under the reigns of Queen Elizabeth, Mary Queen of Scots, and King James: in all which transactions the author was personally and publickly concern'd: now published from the original manuscript / by George Scott, Gent., 1683

Melville, James, and Wodrow Society, The Autobiography and Diary With a Continuation of the Diary, 1842.

Middleton, Erasmus, Biographia Evangelica: or, An Historical Account of the Lives and Deaths of the Most Eminent and Evangelical Authors or Preachers, Both British and Foreign, in the Several Denominations of Protestants, From the Beginning of the Reformation, to the Present Time: Wherein Are collected, From Authentic Historians, Their Most Remarkable Actions, Sufferings, and Writings; Exhibiting the Unity of their Faith and Experience in their several Ages, Countries, and Professions; and Illustrating the Power of Divine Grace in their holy Living and Dying. By the Rev. Erasmus Middleton, Lecturer of St. Bennet's, Grace-Church Street; and of St. Helen's, Bishopsgate Street. . . . 4 volumes.

*Mitchell, Alexander F. (1822-1899), Minutes of the Sessions of the Westminster Assembly of Divines While Engaged in Preparing Their Directory for Church Government, Confession of Faith, and Catechisms (November 1644 to March 1649), 1874, ISBN: 0921148291 9780921148296, 643 pages. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
"Warfield states, 'The fundamental authority for the study of the work of the Assembly for the period covered by it is, of course, the volume of its Minutes edited by Drs. A.F. Mitchell and John Struthers.' This work was also called the best book concerning the Assembly by Gregg Singer. It was compiled from transcripts originally procured by a committee of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland. An invaluable aid for all those who love creedal Christianity, as it is revealed in the Holy Scriptures. A very rare resource that should contribute much to the ongoing Reformation. Indexed." -- Publisher

*Mitchell, Alexander F. (1822-1899), The Scottish Reformation: Its Epochs, Episodes, Leaders, and Distinctive Characteristics. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #1.
"David Hay Fleming (editor) who states that 'the present volume is valuable in several ways, not the least of these being that it embodies, on many obscure and important points, the matured views of one of the most competent and cautious of historical students -- one who grudged no time and spared no labour in eliciting and elucidating the truth.' Contains a biographical sketch of the author by James Christie. Hits all the high points of Reformational development in Scotland, including Hamilton, Wishart, Knox, the 1560 Confession, the First and Second Books of Discipline, etc." -- Publisher

Murray, Iain H., Worldliness, excerpted from: EVANGELICALISM DIVIDED: A RECORD OF CRUCIAL CHANGE IN THE YEARS 1950-2000, ISBN: 0851517838 9780851517834.

*Neal, Daniel (1678-1743), and Joshua Toulmin, The History of the Puritans, or, Protestant Non-conformists: From the Reformation in 1517, to the Revolution in 1688; Comprising an Account of Their Principles; Their attempts for a farther reformation in the church, their sufferings, and the lives and characters of their most considerable divines, 3 volumes.
"Reprinted from the latest edition and containing critical notes, this outstanding presentation of Protestant nonconformity (from 1517 to 1688), delineates the course of action taken by those dubbed Puritan, describes the seeds of liberty and democracy that they spread and that lie latent in their history and teachings, and presents a vivid picture of the effect of their stand for truth. This is an excellent work and is well-deserving of careful study. The benefits of reading these volumes is too great to be tabulated here. We can only hope that a new generation of men and women who are loyal to the Lord and His Word will peruse these pages to their own great profit." -- Cyril J. Barber
The History of the Puritans, or, Protestant Non-conformists . . . (vol. 1 of 4)
https://archive.org/details/historyofp01neal
The History of the Puritans, or, Protestant Non-conformists . . . (vol. 2 of 4)
https://archive.org/details/historyo02neal
The History of the Puritans, or, Protestant Non-conformists . . . (vol. 3 of 4)
https://archive.org/details/historyofpurit03neal
The History of the Puritans, or, Protestant Non-conformists . . . (vol. 4 of 4)
https://archive.org/details/historyofpurit04neal

Ness, Christopher (1621-1705), A Compleat and Compendious Church-history Shewing how it Hath Been From the Beginning of the World to This Present Day: Being an Historical Narrative how the power and providence of God, according to his promise hath hitherto confounded all the damnable plots of the Devil: to which is annexed a Scripture-prophecy fore-shewing how it shall be hence to the end of the world: to whole containing the quintessence of sacred, civil and ecclesiastick writers and serving as a short comment upon all the books in the Bible, both historical and prophetical: with a poem against popery, November 17 / published for publick good by Christopher Ness, 1681.

Noll, Mark A. (editor), Eerdman's Handbook to Christianity in America, ISBN: 0802835821 9780802835826.
Includes bibliography and index.

North, Gary, Foundations of Christian Scholarship: Essays in the Van Til Perspective, ISBN: 1879998254, 372 pages.
Of particular interest in this collection of papers are the following:
"PART ONE -- EPISTEMOLOGICAL CRITICISM
Chapter 1 -- The Epistemological Crisis of American Universities -- by Gary North
Chapter 2 -- The Quest for Common Ground -- by Rousas Rushdoony
PART TWO -- ACADEMIC DISCIPLINES
Chapter 3 -- Psychology -- by Rousas Rushdoony
Chapter 4 -- History -- by C. Gregg Singer [Dr. Singer addresses "The Problem of Historical Interpretation" -- compiler]
Chapter 5 -- Economics -- by Gary North
Chapter 6 -- Education -- by William Blake
Chapter 7 -- Political Science -- by Lawrence Pratt
Chapter 8 -- Sociology -- by Gary North
Chapter 9 -- Mathematics -- by Vern Poythress"

Perks, Stephen C., Alfred, King of England, Christianity and Law: An Enquiry Into the Influence of Christianity on the Development of English Common Law: With an Appendix Containing a Translation of The laws of King Alfred the Great, ISBN: 0951889915 9780951889916.

Perrin, Jean Paul, Robert Baird, and Samuel Miller, History of the Ancient Christians Inhabiting the Valley of the Alps: I. The Waldenses. II. The Albigenses. III. The Vaudois, 1847. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #16.

Peterson, Robert A., Sean Michael Lucas, and Covenant Theological Seminary, All for Jesus: A Celebration of the 50th Anniversary of Covenant Theological Seminary, ISBN: 184550139X 9781845501396.

Pfeiffer, Charles F., Old Testament History, ISBN: 0801069459 9780801069451.
"This is an up-to-date history of Israel. It is illustrated by 260 pictures, and has a comprehensive index. It is suitable for class use. He upholds the historicity of the Scriptures from Genesis to Malachi. There is much use made of the findings of archaeological and other scientific discoveries. Yet he does not take the attitude that any of these are needed to authenticate the reliability of the Scriptures." -- Jay P. Green, Sr. (1918-2008)

Plumer, William S. (1802-1880), William W. Phillips, Samuel Beach Jones, William Henry Green, and Henry S. Foote, [Miscellaneous, vol. 5].
Contents: A brief history of the Theological Seminary of the Presbyterian Church at Princeton, New Jersey; together with its constitution, bye-laws, &c. / [Princeton Theological Seminary] -- Discourses at the inauguration of the Rev. James W. Alexander. / William S. Plumer . . . [et al.] -- Discourses at the inauguration of the Rev. William Henry Green. / Samuel Beach Jones and William Henry Green -- An address delivered at the annual meeting of the Missionary, Bible, Tract and Education Society; on nature and revelation. / William Blackwood -- Catalogue of the officers and students of the Theological Seminary of the Presbyterian Church, Princeton, New-Jersey. 1851-52. / [Princeton Theological Seminary] -- Catalogue of the officers and students of the Theological Seminary of the Presbyterian Church, Princeton, New-Jersey. 1852-53. / [Princeton Theological Seminary] -- Catalogue of the officers and students of the Theological Seminary of the Presbyterian Church, Princeton, New-Jersey. 1853-54. / [Princeton Theological Seminary] -- A lecture given by the late hon. James M'Dowell, of Lexington Va., and an address by the late Rev. A. Alexander, D.D. / James McDowell -- Lectures on popular subjects, delivered in the musical fund hall, to aid in rebuilding the Southwark church. / H.S. Foote [et al.] -- Theology of the Puritans. / Leonard Woods -- Extract from an address at the funeral of Mrs. Jane M. Dickey. / William Finney -- An address on the importance and advantage of classical study delivered before the Graham Philanthropic and Washington Literary Societies of Washington College. / B.M. Smith -- Education and literature in Virginia. / John R. Thompson, of Richmond -- The American union. / Henry A. Boardman -- The influence of the Bible upon the temporal interests of man. / J.C. Moffat -- Addresses at the inauguration of Rev. E.D. MacMaster as president of Miami University, Ohio. / E. Woodruff and E.D. MacMaster -- Catalogue of Washington College, Lexington, Virginia, for the collegiate year ending July 3, 1852, together with a list of alumni. / [Washington College].

Presbyterian Church in the U.S.A. Synod of New York and New Jersey, A History of the Division of the Presbyterian Church in the United States of America.

Prince, Harold B., A Presbyterian Bibliography: The Published Writings of Ministers who Served in the Presbyterian Church in the United States During its First Hundred years, 1861-1961, and Their Locations in Eight Significant Theological Collections in the U.S.A., ISBN: 0810816393 9780810816398.

Puffendorff, Samuel, The History of Popedom, Containing the Rise, Progress, and Decay Thereof, etc. Written in High Dutch, translated into English by J.C., 1691. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.

Rainy, Robert (1826-1906), and James Mackenzie, Life of William Cunningham, D.D: Principal and Professor of Theology and Church History, New College, Edinburgh, ISBN:0790557975 9780790557977. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
"Cunningham (1805-1861), was Principal and Professor of Theology and Church History at New College, Edinburgh, during the mid-1800's. His four volume WORKS include the magisterial two volume set HISTORICAL THEOLOGY, DISCUSSIONS ON CHURCH PRINCIPLES and THE REFORMERS AND THE THEOLOGY OF THE REFORMATION. A volume of his SERMONS is also in print. In Iain Murray's introduction to HISTORICAL THEOLOGY he points out that 'in the days of Cunningham and Bannerman, New College, Edinburgh, rose to be the finest theological college in Europe.' Furthermore, concerning Cunningham's work in the General Assembly of 1832, he writes, 'and once more a young man arose to deliver a historic speech. Like Begg he was a new-comer to the Assembly's debates, but his tall figure and mass of curly hair quickly identified him as "Cunningham of Greenock".'
"When he sat down two hours later there was no mistaking the feeling of the Moderates. 'That's Andrew come back,' exclaimed one! Others were forced to think of young George Gillespie of the 17th century, who, having just arrived in London, in riding boots and with whip still in hand, delivered such a speech in the Westminster Assembly that his opponent, the great Selden, declared: 'This young man, by a single speech, has swept away the learning and labour of my life! . . . Those who heard Cunningham's speech that day,' write his biographers, 'speak of it with wonder to this day. Such power, wealth, and precision of language they had never heard. . . . In his first six years at Edinburgh he read and carefully classified 530 distinct volumes, not to mention pamphlets or magazines.' Cunningham's works are still much sought after today." -- Publisher

The Reformed Presbyterian Church in America
www.pcahistory.org/findingaids/rpces/history/02.pdf

Reformed Presbyterian Church of Ireland, Historical Part of the Testimony of the Reformed Presbyterian Church in Britain and Ireland, Containing an Account of the Faithful Contendings of the Witnesses of Christ . . . (In overture), 1863. Available (REFORMED PRESBYTERIAN TESTIMONY) on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available in REFORMED PRESBYTERIAN TESTIMONY, 1842.

Reformed Presbyterian Church (Scotland), Historical Part of the Testimony of the Reformed Presbyterian Church in Scotland: Containing a Brief Sketch of the Contendings of the Witnesses, From the Earliest Period to the Present Time, 1841.

Reformed Presbyterian Church of Scotland, Records of the Scottish Church History Society, Vols., V-VI (1935-38), ISSN: 0264-5572.
Contains a bibliography for the Reformed Presbyterian Church of Scotland.

*Reformed Presbyterian Church (Scotland), Reformed Presbyterian Testimony, 1842. Alternate title: TESTIMONY OF THE REFORMED PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN SCOTLAND: HISTORICAL AND DOCTRINAL. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
"Keddie describes this as 'a doctrinal and historical statement, explaining and expanding upon the RPC's commitment to the Westminster Standards, the National Covenant, and the Solemn League and Covenant.' (Dictionary of Scottish Church History and Theology, p. 699). It contains the historical part of the testimony of the Reformed Presbyterian Church in Scotland including a brief sketch of the contending of the witnesses from the earliest period to the present time. The doctrinal section of the Church's testimony follows, covering everything from 'Divine Revelation' to 'Covenanting'." -- Publisher

Reid, H.M.B. (Henry Martyn Beckwith), The Kirk Above Dee Water, 1895. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
" 'This little book (128 pages) . . . embodies a few scattered notices of the Balmaghie Church since the year 1615 . . . The dominating figure in the following pages is, of course, the great Macmillan' (Preface). Here 'they went to hear the word of God properly preached' in the Kirk of the Hill Folk, which had never fyled its hands with 'an Erastian Establishment!' (Introduction). An interesting look at a Covenanter congregation." -- Publisher

Reid, James Seaton, and William Dool Killen, A History of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland, Comprising the Civil History of the Province of Ulster From the Accession of James the First, 1853, 3 volumes.

*Richardson, Cyril Charles, Early Christian Fathers, ISBN: 0684829517.
The Early Christian Fathers, 38 vols.
http://www.ccel.org/fathers2/

Ringenberg, William C., The Christian College: A History of Protestant Higher Education in America, ISBN: 0802819966 9780802819963

*Robbins, John W. (1949-2008), Ecclesiastical Megalomania: The Economic and Political Thought of the Roman Catholic Church (Unicoi, TN: The Trinity Foundation), ISBN: 0940931753 9780940931756.
"This book is a detailed examination of the official statements of the Vatican on economic and political matters. It demonstrates the collectivism and totalitarianism of the Roman Catholic Church-State. It is the only such book written by a Christian in the twentieth century.
"This book explores the conflict between Roman Catholic social thought and human freedom, relying on official pronouncements from the Vatican to show that the political and economic theory of the Roman Church-State justifies feudalism, corporativism [corporatism -- compiler], liberation theology, the welfare state, and fascism.
"Dr. John W. Robbins attended Grove City College (A.B. 1969), and The Johns Hopkins University (M.A. 1970, Ph.D. 1973). He has served as chief of staff for a Member of Congress [Ron Paul of Texas], editor of The Freeman magazine, Economist for The Heritage Foundation, and Professor of Political Philosophy in The Freedom School." -- Publisher

Robinson, Thomas A., et al., The Early Church: An Annotated Bibliography of Literature in English, ISBN: 0810827638 9780810827639.

*Robinson, William J., A History of Windy Cove Presbyterian Church, Millboro Springs, Virginia, 1749-1976.

Rosenberg, Charles, E., The Care of Strangers: The Rise of America's Hospital System, ISBN: 0801850827 9780801850820.

Rouse, J.K., Some Interesting Colonial Churches in North Carolina, 1961.

*Rushdoony, Rousas John (1916-2001), The Biblical Philosophy of History, Available through Exodus Books.
"For the orthodox Christian who grounds his philosophy of history on the doctrine of creation, the mainspring of history is God. Time rests on the foundation of eternity, on the eternal decree of God. Time and history therefore have meaning because they were created in terms of God's perfect and totally comprehensive plan. The humanist faces a meaningless world in which he must strive to create and establish meaning. The Christian accepts a world which is totally meaningful and in which every event moves in terms of God's purpose; he submits to God's meaning and finds his life therein. This is an excellent introduction to Rushdoony. Once the reader sees Rushdoony's emphasis on God's sovereignty over all of time and creation, he will understand his application of this presupposition in various spheres of life and thought." -- Publisher

Sage, Donald, Memorabilia Domestica: or, Parish Life in the North of Scotland, 1899, ISBN: 0284985724 9780284985729.

*Schaff, Philip (editor, 1819-1893), Church Fathers Series, 38 volumes.
*Schaff, Philip (editor), The Nicene and Post-Nicene Fathers, First Series.
*Schaff, Philip (editor), A Select Library of Nicene and Post-Nicene Fathers of the Christian Church, Second Series.
Christian Classics Ethereal Library CCEL CD-ROM 2000
http://www.ccel.org/cdrom/cdrom.html

*Schaff, Philip (1819-1893), History of the Christian Church.
http://www.ccel.org/ccel/schaff/hcc1.html

*Schaff, Philip (1819-1893), Schaff's History of Christianity, 8 volumes, ISBN: 0802880479 9780802880475.
"A brilliant, detailed account of the history of Christianity up to and including the continental Reformation. Well written, and easy to read. One of the most informative and valuable treatments available. Based on the edition published in 1910." -- Cyril J. Barber
The History of the Christian Church, Philip Schaff
http://www.reformedreader.org/history/schaff/

Scottish Church History Society, Records of the Scottish Church History Society, ISSN: 0264-5572.

Sharp, L.W. (editor), Early Letters of Robert Wodrow 1698-1709.

*Shepard, Thomas (1605-1649), John A. (John Adams), Albro (1799-1866), The Works of Thomas Shepard, First Pastor of the First Church, Cambridge, Mass: With a Memoir of his Life and Character. (1853), volume 1 of 3, ISBN: 0524001049 9780524001042. Available (THE WORKS OF THOMAS SHEPARD, vol. 3 of 3 THE DOCTRINE OF THE SABBATH only), on the Puritan Hard Drive.
"The author was founder of Harvard University, and a Puritan minister at Cambridge in the early 1600s."
The Works of Thomas Shepard, vol. 1
http://archive.org/details/worksofthomasshe01shep

Sime, William, History of the Covenanters in Scotland, 2 vols.

Simson, Patrick (1556-1618), The Historie of the Church, Since the Dayes of Our Saviour Jesus Christ, Untill This Present Age. Divided into foure bookes. 1. The first containeth the whole proceedings and practises of the emperours . . . 2. The second containeth a briefe catalogue of the beginnings, and proceedings of all the bishops, popes, patriarchs, doctors, pastors, and other learned men . . . 3. The third containeth a short summe of all the heretiques . . . 4. The fourth containeth a short compend of all the councels generall, nationall, and provinciall . . . Divided into 16. centuries. . . . Collected out of sundry authors both ancient and moderne; by the famous and worthy preacher of Gods Word, Master Patrick Symson, late minister at Striveling in Scotland. Alternate title: SHORT COMPEND OF THE HISTORIE OF THE FIRST TEN PERSECUTIONS MOVED AGAINST CHRISTIANS, 1634.
"Note: A second part had appeared in 1625; it is not reprinted here. Centuries 1-9 are rearranged extracts of part of the text of his: A Short Compend of the Historie of the First ten Persecutions Moved Against Christians."

Simson, Patrick (1556-1618), A Short Compend of the Historie of the First ten Persecutions Moued Against Christians, Divided Into III. Centuries. Whereunto are added in the end of euery centurie treatises arising vpon occasion offered in the historie, clearely declaring the noveltie of popish religion, and that it neither flowed from the mouthes of Christs holy Apostles, neither was it confirmed by the blood of the holy martyrs who died in these ten persecutions, 1613.
Vol. 2 (centuries 4-6), has title "A short compend, of the Arrian and Eutychian persecutions"; imprint is dated 1615. Vol. 3 (centuries 7-9), has title "A short compend, of the grouth of the Romane Antichrist"; imprint is dated 1616. With a final errata leaf.

*Singer, C. Gregg (1910-1999), Christian Approaches: to Philosophy; to History, ISBN: 0934532249.

*Singer, C. Gregg (1910-1999), From Rationalism to Irrationality: The Decline of the Western Mind From the Renaissance to the Present, ISBN: 0875524281 9780875524283 and a reprint of the P&R Publishing edition of 1979 (Wipf and Stock, 2006), 479 pp.
"Now, frankly students, this course is presented from obviously the Reformed Theology. I hold unabashedly, unashamedly to the whole of Reformed Theology as we find it specifically in the Westminster Confession of Faith (1646) and the Larger and Shorter Catechisms.
"At the same time I hold to a position in regard to Apologetics generally known as Presuppositionalism, and particularly that view held by Cornelius Van Til.
"This book is an attempt to enlarge and to broaden the scope of Van Til's own Apologetical system, and also his Epistemology. By that I mean, and I worked this book with him, so anything that I say is not to be construed as a criticism of Cornelius Van Til. I might add he wrote me a letter. He is delighted with this book. But what I did was to take his principles, both of Apologetics and of Epistemology, and apply them to all realms of modern thought.
"Dr. Van Til, for good and sufficient reason, sought to limit to the main stream of what we might call pure Philosophy, that is from Saint Thomas, well even before them, back to the Greeks, but particularly in the more modern period, from Saint Thomas Aquinas, William of Ockham (Occam), down through Descartes, the Rationalists, the Empiricists, down to Kant and Hegel, and of course Modern Philosophy and Modern Theology. Very seldom has he gone into what we might call the arena of Political Philosophy, or the arena of Social Thought, or the arena of Psychology and Psychiatry, the realm of Educational Philosophy, and into Art, Music, and so on, to the Fine Arts.
"This book is an attempt to apply his system, and show what happens when the Western mind has forsaken his principles, or the principles which he has espoused, and turned into its own way. And thus the book called FROM RATIONALISM TO IRRATIONALITY. The thesis being that the Rationalism inherent in Saint Thomas and the post-Thomists, and more particularly, and more openly, in the Philosophy of the Renaissance, and Descartes, and Spinosa, and Leibniz has, as it's gained momentum in the modern world, brought Western Culture to its knees. We are living, as I would think, in the death throws of the Western Cultures, the Western Civilization." -- Dr. C. Gregg Singer, in the introductory address to his course in Apologetics soon after FROM RATIONALISM TO IRRATIONALITY came off the press in 1979
Apologetics: #01: Classical and Medieval Thought #1 [audio file]
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Apologetics, 56 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=2250511453
"Locke endeavored to set forth a political philosophy which would anchor his democratic political thought on what he felt were the firm foundations of his empiricism. However, his insistence that nature has bestowed upon mankind certain basic and inalienable rights was an assumption quite contrary to his empiricism. His denial of conscience as an innate possession or quality makes it impossible for men to know that they possess the rights of life, liberty, and property. The very concept of a human right is moral in nature and has its basis of authority in the human conscience. It is thus impossible for men to know through the senses that they have these cherished human rights. Granted that it was far from Locke's intention to undermine or destroy the traditional English concept of personal rights, his empiricism removed from his political thought the necessary foundations on which a government could be built for the protection of these rights. His empiricism supported neither the idea that men have such rights nor that they are inalienable. (p. 61)
"Underlying the secular and naturalistic assumptions of the thought of the Enlightenment was a related and equally serious problem. In their political and economic thought the leaders of this era were passionately devoted to the pursuit of freedom, and yet they seemed to be completely unaware of this incompatibility between their quest for freedom on the one hand and their reliance upon natural law on the other. How can an impersonal and deterministic concept of law produce and sustain a meaningful concept of freedom? Blindly convinced that there was no problem involved in the contradiction, the leaders of the Enlightenment pushed boldly ahead in the quest for political and economic liberty. However, their failure to recognize the issues involved in this quest led not only to the disaster of the French Revolution but to the growth of the totalitarian political and economic philosophies which first appeared in Hegel and Marx during the nineteenth century and reached their culmination in the totalitarianism of the twentieth century." (p. 73) -- quoted at the blog, Imago Veritatis: Post-modern Reformed Paleo-orthodoxy
Singer used this as textbook for his course in Apologetics. Epistemology is a recurring theme throughout the textbook and the course. The series of 24 addresses on Apologetics is available free online. See: "Apologetics" under:
Works of C. Gregg Singer
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr3ch.html#cgsinger

*Singer, C. Gregg (1910-1999), John Calvin: His Roots and Fruits (A Press, 1989), 78 pages.
"What then is the role of the state in economic matters? Is it to stand idly by and take no steps or initiate no policies to defend the poor? The state, in the economic realm, is under a mandate to enforce the moral law and to punish those who break it for the sake of economic gain. It may prevent monopolistic and other business practices which are contrary to the Biblical ethic, as well as stealing and other forms of dishonesty and may pass laws for this purpose. It is certain that Calvin would support more statutes of this kind than some advocates of free enterprise would tolerate today. In general, however, Calvin agreed that the state had no right to undertake schemes of redistributing wealth in order to achieve economic equality. The legislative taking of wealth under the guise of legality is no less stealing than if it is done by robbers and thieves. Such schemes, rather than being an application of Christian principles, are actually a form of human rebellion against the will of God for the right ordering of society." -- C. Gregg Singer in "Calvinism and Economic Thought and Practice"
Notes: "Appeared in volume II of THE ENCYCLOPEDIA OF CHRISTIANITY . . . and was later printed by Presbyterian and Reformed Publishing Company . . . 1967, for their Philosophical and historical studies series."
Contents: The author; Preface; I. The patristic foundations of calvinism; II. Calvinism: the summit of reformation theology; III. The later history of calvinism; IV. Influence of calvinism on western history and culture; V. Calvinism and economic thought and practice; VI. Calvinism and Philosophy; VII. Calvinism and education; VIII. Calvinism and social thought and practice; Bibliography.

Singer, C. Gregg (1910-1999), The Story of Presbyterianism [audio file]
http://www.fpcjackson.org/resources/apologetics/story.htm

*Singer, C. Gregg (1910-1999), A Theological Interpretation of American History, 1994 edition, 354 pages (Greenville, SC: A Press, 1994, 1981, 1975, 1974, 1964), ISBN: 0875524265 9780875524269. A Christian classic.
This book portrays "the influence of theology and the changing doctrines in the life of the church on the pattern of American political, constitutional, social and economic development.
"The author shows that the decline of constitutional government in this country is the result of the departure from historical Christian faith and the resulting rise of alien political philosophies. Particularly does he emphasize the intimate relationship between theological liberalism on the one hand and political, social, and economic liberalism on the other. This theological liberalism has been a major agent in the decline of the Constitution in the political life of the people and in the appearance of a highly centralized government." -- Publisher
"There is between the democratic philosophy and theological liberalism a basic affinity which has placed them in the same camp in many major political struggles.
"This condition exists because theological liberalism shares the basic postulates of the democratic philosophy. . . .
"Theological liberalism at heart has been a continuing protest against Calvinism, particularly against its insistence on the Sovereignty of God and the Total Depravity of the race. These two Biblical doctrines have often proved to be a stumbling block to theologians within the church as well as to the unbelieving world.
"The result of theological liberalism has been the movement away from constitutionalism and away from liberty, and a movement toward collectivistic society and totalitarian regime." -- C. Gregg Singer, A Theological Interpretation of American History, p. 290
See also: John Knox, the Scottish Covenanters, and the Westminster Assembly (tape 3 of 5), in a series of addresses, History Notes on Presbyterianism, Reformation, and Theology by Dr. C. Gregg Singer on SermonAudio.com
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=12607114250
Dr. C. Gregg Singer at SermonAudio.com (161 messages)
http://www.sermonaudio.com/search.asp?SpeakerOnly=true&currSection=sermonsspeaker&Keyword=Dr.^C.^Gregg^Singer

Smith, Dean Richard (1943- ), The "Charismatic" Scottish Presbyterian and Covenanters Presented at ETS, Nov. 23, 1996 [and] revised June 6, 1997 by Dean R. Smith.

Smith, Morton H., David B. Calhoun, T. David Gordon, Douglas F. Kelly, C. Gregg Singer, Joseph A. Pipa, Jr., Inauguration Lecture Series the Southern Presbyterians and Old School Theology, six sound cassettes [audio file].
"Contents: Introduction to Old School Theology / Dr. Morton H. Smith -- A place for truth: The Columbia years / Dr. David B. Calhoun -- Old School Presbyterians and social issues / Dr. T. David Gordon -- Southern Presbyterian preaching / Dr. Douglas F. Kelly -- Impact of New School thought / Dr. C. Gregg Singer -- An uncommon school for uncommon times / Dr. Joseph A. Pipa, Jr."

Smith, Thomas (of Glasgow), Select Memoirs of the Lives, Labours, and Sufferings of Those Pious and Learned English and Scottish Divines: Who Greatly Distinguished Themselves in Promoting the Reformation From Popery, in Translating the Bible, and in Promulgating its Salutary Doctrines by Their Numerous Evangelical Writings, and who Ultimately Crowned the Venerable Edifice With the Celebrated Westminster Confession of Faith, 1828. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #2, and #16.

*Spence, Thomas Hugh, Jr., The Presbyterian Congregation on Rocky River, ISBN: 1334726019 9781334726019.
One of Alexander Craighead's churches in Mecklenburg County, North Carolina.

Steele, David (1803-1887), Circular No. 3. A Concise History of the Reformed Presbyterian Church from the Middle of the Sixteenth Century and of the Reformed Presbytery From 1840 Till the Present Time
"A sketch of Reformed Presbyterian Church history with special emphasis on the formation of the Reformed Presbytery (i.e., "Steelite"), in 1840, and its 19th century contendings."
http://www.covenanter.org/reformed/2016/4/25/circular-no3-a-concise-history-of-the-reformed-presbyterian-church-from-the-middle-of-the-sixteenth-century-and-of-the-reformed-presbytery-from-1840-till-the-present-time

Steele, David (1826-1906), and Robert Hunter, In Memory of the Rev. David Steele, D.D., LL.D. (1826-1906), 66 pages. Alternate title: IN MEMORY OF THE REV. DAVID STEELE, D.D., LL.D, FOR FORTY-FIVE YEARS PASTOR OF THE FOURTH REFORMED PRESBYTERIAN CONGREGATION OF PHILADELPHIA AND PROFESSOR IN THE REFORMED PRESBYTERIAN SEMINARY AT PHILADELPHIA FOR FORTY-THREE YEARS . . .
The author and subject is David Steele (1826-1906), who was a nephew of David Steele (1803-1887).
"In 1853 the Rev. Dr. David Steele, Sr., an uncle of Dr. Steele, then residing in Adams Co., Ohio, and one of the foremost exponents of the Covenanter faith in the United States, visited Ireland, the result of which was that there was deepened in the mind of the nephew an intense longing to enter the ministry.
"He spent his first Sabbath in Philadelphia, worshiping in the Second Reformed Presbyterian Church (O.S.) located on 17th Street below Race Street, of which the Rev. Dr. S.O. Wylie was pastor. Shortly afterwards, he went to Adams Co., Ohio, and made his home with his uncle, Rev. David Steele, Sr., who had been instrumental in bringing him to a final decision to study for the ministry. Under his uncle's tuition, who was a proficient classical scholar, he made his final preparation for college, entering the Junior class in Miami University, Oxford, Ohio, from which he graduated in 1857, taking the classical honors in a graduating class which numbered thirty-six. Chancellor Henry M. McCraken of the New York University, and Dr. John S. Billings, Librarian of the New York Public Library were among his classmates, and President Harrison and the Hon. Whitelaw Reid were students in the college at that time though not classmates.
"He entered upon the formal study of theology in 1859 in the Theological Seminary of the Reformed Presbyterian Church (General Synod) in Philadelphia, having for his preceptors the Rev. Dr. John Niel McLeod and the Rev. Dr. Theodore W. J. Wylie."
In Memory of the Rev. David Steele, D.D., LL.D.: For Forty-Five Years Pastor of the Fourth Reformed Presbyterian Congregation of Philadelphia and Professor in the Reformed Presbyterian Seminary at Philadelphia for Forty-three Years. (1907)
"For forty-five years pastor of the Fourth Reformed Presbyterian Congregation of Philadelphia and professor in the Reformed Presbyterian Seminary at Philadelphia for forty-three years . . ."
http://books.google.com/books?id=bcAEAAAAYAAJ&ie=ISO-8859-1&output=html
In Memory of the Rev. David Steele, D.D., LL.D. (1826-1906)
http://www.archive.org/details/inmemoryofrevdav00stee

Turretin, Francis (1623-1687), Proof That the Church is Often Obscured.
Proves from Scripture that, throughout much of history, the church [visible and constitutional], is often found only in a very small remnant. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #19.
http://www.swrb.ab.ca/newslett/actualnls/ChuObsc.htm

Van Devanter, J.N., History of the Augusta Church From 1737 to 1900.

Various, Political Sermons of the Founding Era -- 1730-1805, 2 volumes, ISBN: 0865970904 9780865970908 0865970912 9780865970915.
"The two volumes total 1,737 pages and include a 137 page subject index and a Biblical citation index referencing Scripture used in the sermons."

Walker, James, The Theology and Theologians of Scotland, 1560-1750

Watt, Hugh, and A. Mitchell Hunter, New College, Edinburgh, a Centenary History, 1946.

Wylie, James A. (1808-1890), History of the Waldenses, ISBN: 1572581859 9781572581852.
"The Waldenses were among the first of the people of Europe to obtain a translation of the Holy Scriptures. Hundreds of years before the Reformation they possessed the Bible in manuscript in their native tongue. Here the light of truth was kept burning amid the darkness of the Middle Ages. Here, for a thousand years, witnesses for the truth maintained the ancient faith." -- Publisher

Willson, James Renwick (1780-1853), et al., History of the Reformed Presbyterian Church: From the Year 1580 to 1643.
Gives the history of early covenanters in America. David Steele and others left the communion sometime prior to the synod of 1841 in Utica, Ohio (p. 108). Notice "the alleged reason that the Synod had postponed its deliverance on voluntary associations," and they regarded the Synod as unfaithful to its duty.
http://www.reformedpresbyterian.org/conv_resources.html

Wilson, Howard McKnight, The Lexington Presbytery Heritage: The Presbytery of Lexington and its Churches in the Synod of Virginia, Presbyterian Church in the United States.

Wilson, Howard McKnight, The Tinkling Spring: Headwater of Freedom. A Study of the Church and her People, 1732-1952,

Witherow, Thomas, Historical and Literary Memorials of Presbyterianism in Ireland, 2 volumes, 1879.

*Wodrow, Robert (1679-1734), and Robert Burns (contributor), The History of the Sufferings of the Church of Scotland, From the Restoration to the Revolution, 1830-5, 4 volumes. Alternate title: THE HISTORY OF THE SUFFERINGS OF THE CHURCH OF SCOTLAND FROM THE RESTORATION TO THE REVOLUTION. BY THE REV. ROBERT WODROW, MINISTER OF THE GOSPEL AT EASTWOOD. WITH AN ORIGINAL MEMOIR OF THE AUTHOR, EXTRACTS FROM HIS CORRESPONDENCE, A PRELIMINARY DISSERTATION, AND NOTES, BY THE REV. ROBERT BURNS, D.D., ISBN: 9781599251868 1599251868 9781599251820 1599251825 9781599251837 1599251833 9781599251844 1599251841 9781599251851 159925185X.
"Robert Wodrow (1679-1734), completed his Magnum Opus, THE HISTORY OF THE SUFFERINGS OF THE CHURCH OF SCOTLAND FROM THE RESTORATION TO THE REVOLUTION, in 1723-24. This work, for which his integrity, candor, liberality of sentiment, and talents, eminently qualified him, he contemplated from an early period of his life; but it was only in the year 1707, that he began seriously to labour on it. From this time, however, till its publication in 1721 and 1722, a period of between fourteen and fifteen years, he devoted all his leisure hours to its composition. On the appearance of Mr. Wodrow's History, which was published in three large folio volumes at separate times, in the years above named, its author was attacked by those whom his fidelity as an historian had offended, with the vilest scurrility and abuse. Anonymous and threatening letters were sent to him, and every description of indignity was attempted to be thrown on both his person and his work. The faithful, liberal, and impartial character of the history, nevertheless, procured its author many and powerful friends. Its merits were, by a large party, appreciated and acknowledged, and every man whose love of truth was stronger than his prejudices, awarded it the meed of his applause. Copies of the work were presented by Dr. Fraser to their majesties, and the prince and princess of Wales, and were received so graciously, and so much approved of, that the presentation was almost immediately followed by a royal order on the Scottish exchequer for one hundred guineas to be paid to the author, as a testimony of his majesty's favorable opinion of his merits. The warrant for the payment of this sum is dated the 26th April, 1725. In 1830, a second edition of the HISTORY was published, in 4 volumes 8vo, by Messrs Blackie and Fullarton of Glasgow, under the editorial care of the Rev. Dr. Burns of Paisley." -- Publisher
"Robert Wodrow (1679-1734), Presbyterian minister and historian. He was an energetic researcher and acquirer of documents, letters, and anecdotes, all of which he put to use in his histories and accounts of the Presbyterian church in Scotland . . . Recently republished as a print-on-demand item." -- Wurth Books
David Hackston of Rathillet's Account of Ayrs-moss.
Excerpted from WODROW'S HISTORY OF THE SUFFERINGS OF THE CHURCH OF SCOTLAND.
http://www.truecovenanter.com/history/hackston_ayrsmoss.html
The History of the Sufferings of the Church of Scotland
http://books.google.com/books?id=ykYRAAAAIAAJ&ie=ISO-8859-1&output=html

*Woodbridge, John D., Mark A. Noll, and Nathan O. Hatch, The Gospel in America: Themes in the Story of America's Evangelicals, ISBN: 0310372402 9780310372400.

Wylie, James Aiken (1808-1890), The Scottish Reformation. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #17.

Wylie, James A. (1808-1890), What the Sixteenth Century says to the Nineteenth.

*Zacharias, Ravi (1946-2020), Why Jesus? Rediscovering His Truth in an Age of Mass Marketed Spirituality, ISBN: 1455508608 9781455508600.
"Ravi Zacharias is a very gifted communicator. Whether he is discussing literature, philosophy, religion, or everything in between -- he makes it interesting, engaging, and thought provoking. In this book he tackles the search for meaning in the West and in the East and how that ultimately all searches are empty if they do not lead to truth. He gives a very solid case for how all truth is God's truth and that the ultimate truth that we all long for leads us to the person and work of the historical Jesus revealed in the Bible and the accounts of His life, death, resurrection, ascension and future return.
"In chapter one after a scintillating discussing of movie making agendas in the East and the West he writes, 'Why are we always beguiled by something foreign? In the West, Eastern mysticism is 'in' -- chants, sounds, and practices with foreign words have made an appeal of culture -- shifting proportions -- while in the East, where these very same techniques have been tried for centuries, many are disillusioned and seeking solace somewhere else. Before me the entertainment elite of the East gave their full attention to a talk on 'Why Jesus Is the Ultimate,' while in the West, entertainers are looking toward the East for their answers.'
"In the first half to about seventy percent of the way into the book Ravi tackles what he calls 'Western' thought -- a hybrid of western and eastern thought blended into one. He takes the time to demonstrate how eastern thought has penetrated the west, and how western thought has penetrated the east. He cogently and brilliantly synthesizes how this has taken place through the medium of television, philosophy, religion, and irreligion and highlights old and modern voices alike. Zacharias weaves the themes of induction, seduction, deduction, and reduction among these differing mediums of communication resulting in a 'New Spirituality.'
"Ravi makes so many excellent observations with reference to the 'New Spirituality' that it would make for a very long review were I to recount the excellencies of his presentation. On the postmodern influences of the likes of Michael Foucault and Jacques Derrida on 'Westernism' he writes about the authority of the 'New Spirituality' in this fashion by way of a modern tale:
" 'In the beginning, God. God spoke. But that was a long time ago. We wanted certainty -- now. For this, only Reason and Rationalism would do. But that was not enough. We wanted to 'test.' So we went into the senses and found the empirical. But that's not what we meant by testing. We really meant 'feeling.' So we found a way to generate feeling into the picture. Truth was framed into a scene. But the scene was left open to interpretation. Scenes are not absolute. So the story was told as an art form. But the reader still didn't like it, because he was not the author. So he read the story while he sat in a reconstructed and deconstructed cubicle to make of the story whatever he wished. But what does one do with the long reach of the empirical? The best way was to find a blend between the empirical and the satirical and end up with God again. The only difference was that God could not be the storyteller. We still needed God. So we became God.'
"Ravi talks about Hinduism, Islam, Buddhism, Taoism, and various other 'isms' and demonstrates how people in the East like Deepak Chopra, and people in the West like Oprah Winfrey have developed syncretistic systems of thought that have blended eastern and western thinking and religion. One interesting example of this mixing is when he quotes Elizabeth Lesser when she writes of the difference between the 'Old Spirituality' and the 'New Spirituality'.":
'AUTHORITY: In the 'old' spirituality authority is held by the church; in the 'new' spirituality the individual worshiper has authority to determine what is best for him or her.
'SPIRITUALITY: In the old spirituality God and the way to worship have already been defined and the worshiper just follows the rules; in the new spirituality the worshiper defines spirituality for him -- or herself.
'THE PATH TO GOD: In the old spirituality there is only one way to God, all else is wrong; in the new spirituality there are unlimited paths or combinations of paths one can follow . . . you can string a necklace all your own making.
'SACRED: In the old spirituality parts of yourself are considered evil (the body, ego, emotions), and must be denied, transcended, or sublimated; in the new spirituality anything goes.
'TRUTH: In the old spirituality truth is knowable and constant. Leading to the same answers at every stage of life; in the new spirituality you never quite arrive at the truth as it is constantly changing to accommodate your growth.'
"Zacharias responds to Lesser in this manner, 'With the safety net she has provided for determining truth, who can ever fall?' "The evangelist from the Old Spirituality pleaded with his audiences to 'invite Jesus into your heart;' the New Spirituality tell you to invite yourself into your heart.
"Ravi spends the rest of the book answering the following questions: Why Jesus? What difference does it make what you believe? Is truth really even knowable? Could it be that postmodern spirituality is really the expression of a universal hunger rather than an answer to anything? What are the deep-seated questions that drive the quest for spirituality? Why is it that in the West we seem to have discarded the message of Christ, while in the East they have begun to realize that he is the one they are looking for?
"Ultimately all worldviews and religions need to examine their beliefs and views and answer these three unavoidable questions: 1) How do they handle the question of exclusivity as it relates to their own belief? 2) What is the ultimate source of their authority for belief and behavior? And 3) How relevant is what they believe to the common experience and what difference does it make?
"According to Zacharias correspondence to facts and systematic coherence are the test for any worldview. In constructing a good worldview they must consist of the following eight components:
'A good worldview must have a strong basis in fact. This point alone has a two-edged reality: First, can the assertion being made be tested against reality? And second, is the assertion clearly false? If one assertion in the system is clearly false or cannot be tested against reality, there is a failure to meet the test of truth.
'A good worldview must have a high degree of coherence or internal consistency.
'A good worldview must give a reasonable and logical explanation for the various undeniable realities that we sense all around us.
'A good worldview will avoid the two extremes of either being too complex or too simplistic.
'A good worldview is not explained by just one line of evidence.
'A good worldview must explain contrary worldviews without compromising its own essential beliefs.
'A good worldview cannot argue just on the basis of private experience, but must have some objective standard of measurements.
'A good worldview must justifiably explain the essential nature of good and evil, since those two alternatives are principal characteristics differentiating human beings from all other entities or quantities.'
"Two thousand years ago when Jesus quoted the prophet Isaiah in Luke 4 on the Sabbath day in the Synagogue, and stood up and read, The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed be to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to set the oppressed free, to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor. Then he rolled back the scroll, gave it back to the attendant and sat down. The eyes of everyone in the synagogue were fastened on him. He began saying to them, Today this scripture is fulfilled in your hearing.
"Ravi comments on this passage and concludes in this manner, 'This is the message of freedom for those in bondage, a message that will open the eyes of our darkened spirituality to the bright light of his grace, that will convince a Church to live the love of God by taking care of the poor and taking up the cause of the oppressed, that assures us there is an end of time where eternity awaits, and that all who long for his presence will live in the fulfillment of their faith to the grand consummation of seeing the Ultimate One, face-to-face. . . . It is in him [Jesus] that we find it all.'
"Zacharias meticulously and clearly shows in this book the miserable failure of the 'New Spirituality' to deliver on any of these eight components that make up for a coherent and compelling worldview. On the other hand, in a very captivating manner he demonstrates how all of the best thinking of the west and east when brought together converge in the person and work of Jesus of Nazareth -- and the worldview known throughout the world as 'Christianity.'
"I highly recommend this book because it makes a compelling case for the cogency of Christianity, and helps you to understand where eastern and western thought have large 'holes' that can only be filled with the water of life by the same Jesus who said that in Him we will never thirst again -- spiritually." -- Reader's Comment
"For over thirty-five years, Ravi Zacharias has spoken all over the world in great halls and universities, notably Harvard, Princeton, and numerous universities internationally. He is listed as a Senior Research Fellow at Wycliffe Hall, Oxford university. He has appeared on CNN and other international broadcasts. The author of several books for adults and children, he powerfully mixes biblical teaching and Christian apologetics. His most recent works include WALKING FROM EAST TO WEST, a memoir; THE GRAND WEAVER, an exploration of God's intention in both the ordinary and the startling elements of life; and THE END OF REASON, a rebuttal of the claims of the so-called New Atheists. His weekly radio program, 'Let My People Think,' is broadcast on 1,692 stations worldwide, and his weekday program, 'Just Thinking,' is on 412. He is founder and chairman of the board of Ravi Zacharias International Ministries, headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, with additional offices in Canada, Hong Kong, India, Singapore, the United Kingdom, and the United Arab Emirates. Dr. Zacharias and his wife, Margie, have three grown children and reside in Atlanta." -- Publisher

See also: The sovereignty of god, The doctrine of man (human nature, total depravity), The sovereign grace of god: his everlasting mercy and lovingkindness, God's sovereign hand in history, History, "his-story," Church history and history of local churches, The protestant reformation, The covenanted reformation of scotland background and history, The covenanted reformation of scotland author/title listing, The scottish covenanting struggle, alexander craighead, and the mecklenburg declaration, The reformed presbytery of scotland, reformed presbyterian church of north america "steelite," the reformed presbytery in america (rpcna), and other smaller reformed associations, Repentance the key to salvation and change, Justification, Justifying faith, Popery, The counter-reformation, Christian biography, Biography of covenanters, The history of martyrs, Christian scholarship, Christ's influence on western civilization, The christian foundation of america, colonial history, Covenanting in america, Acts of faithful assemblies, The history of reformation of the church, A theological interpretation of american history, The providence of god, Church and state, Biography of bible characters, Background, foundation, and history of the covenanted reformation of scotland, The christian foundation of america, colonial history, The scottish covenanting struggle, alexander craighead, and the mecklenburg declaration, The application of scripture to the corporate bodies of church and state, The history of martyrs, Revisionist history, Modern myths and fallacies, Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, The decline of american society, irrationality, the decline of western thought, Male role and responsibility, gender equality, suffrage, reproductive rights, and the decline of american society, Meltdown: the depression of 2008, God's deliverance of nations, Secret societies, ungodly alliances, voluntary associations, and so forth, and so on.
TCRB5: 762, 4308j, 4309g

Related Weblinks

Christian History Magazine
https://www.christianhistoryinstitute.org/

Note: The following subheadings: Church history, Presbyterian history, Great movements in presbyterian history, History of the american presbyterian church, Evangelism in the early church, and History of revivalism, are a series of lectures by C. Gregg Singer. [audio file]

Church History

Church History #01: Introduction
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Church History, 67 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=41504162722
Church History #02: The Early Church #1
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Church History, 38 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=41504162840
Church History #03: The Early Church #2
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Church History, 62 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=41504163046
Church History #04: The Early Church #3
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Church History, 53 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=41504163142
Church History #05: The Early Church #4
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Church History, 69 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=41504163311
Church History #06: The Early Church #5
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Church History, 43 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=41504163442
Church History #07: Doctrinal Advances in the 4th Century #1
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Church History, 82 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=41504163559
Church History #08: Doctrinal Advances in the 4th Century #2
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Church History, 58 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=4150416374
Church History #09: Augustine #1
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Church History, 58 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=41504163949
Church History #10: Augustine #2
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Church History, 43 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=41504164048
Church History #11: Augustine #3
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Church History, 51 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=41504164152
Church History #12: Pelagius and his Theology
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Church History, 57 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=41504164318
Church History #13: Anselm of Canterbury
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Church History, 51 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=41504164440
Church History #14: Development of the Sacramental System #1
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Church History, 61 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=41504164541
Church History #15: Development of the Sacramental System #2
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Church History, 55 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=41504164645
Church History #16: Development of the Sacramental System #3
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Church History, 28 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=41504164921
Church History #17: Thomas Aquinas #1
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Church History, 60 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=41504165023
Church History #18: Thomas Aquinas #2
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Church History, 84 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=41504165114
Church History #19: Thomas Aquinas #3
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Church History
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=4150416526
Church History #20: The Renaissance #1
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Church History, 52 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=41504165259
Church History #21: The Renaissance #2
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Church History, 56 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=41504165351
Church History #22: Causes of the Reformation #1
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Church History, 77 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=41504165444
Church History #23: Causes of the Reformation #2
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Church History, 66 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=41504165545
Church History #24: Martin Luther's Early Days
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Church History, 75 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=41504165712
Church History #25: Martin Luther the Emerging Reformer
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Church History, 39 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=41504165818
Church History #26: Martin Luther the Reformer
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Church History, 77 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=4150416597
Church History #27: Martin Luther and Zwingli
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Church History, 34 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=4150417010
Church History #28: John Calvin
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Church History, 76 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=4150417057
Church History #29: John Calvin and the Church #1
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Church History, 43 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=415041727
Church History #30: John Calvin and the Church #2
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Church History, 67 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=4150417258
Church History #31: The Reformation in England
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Church History, 43 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=4150417415
Church History #32: The Reformation in England and America
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Church History, 87 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=4150417519
Results of the Reformation
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Church History, 46 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=12160372228
Applications of American History
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Church History, 49 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=1216037113

Presbyterian History

The Reformation in England 1 of 2 (The Providential Historical Preparation for the Westminster Assembly), Hebrews 11:2; Ephesians 4:11
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Presbyterian History, 44 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=12607144153
The Reformation in England 2 of 2 (and America)
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Presbyterian History, 76 min., Matthew 5:13-16; Luke 19:13
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=126071623510
John Knox, the Scottish Covenanters, and the Westminster Assembly 1/3 (History Notes on Presbyterianism, Reformation, and Theology)
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Presbyterian History, 52 min., Acts 1:11; Romans 13
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=124071413102
John Knox, the Scottish Covenanters, and the Westminster Assembly (tape 3 of 5), in a series of addresses, History Notes on Presbyterianism, Reformation, and Theology by Dr. C. Gregg Singer on SermonAudio.com
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=12607114250
The Westminster Assembly
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, 50 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=12160371617
The Story of Presbyterianism, C. Gregg Singer, Ph.D. [audio file]
http://www.fpcjackson.org/resources/apologetics/story.htm

Great Movements in Presbyterian History

Great Moments in Presbyterian History #1
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Great Movements in Presbyterian History
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?ID=12160371437
Great Moments in Presbyterian History #2
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Great Movements in Presbyterian History, 34 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=12160371538
Great Moments in Presbyterian History #3: The Westminster Assembly
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Great Movements in Presbyterian History
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?ID=12160371617
Great Moments in Presbyterian History #4: Colonial Presbyterianism and the Great Awakening
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Great Movements in Presbyterian History
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?ID=1216037179
Great Moments in Presbyterian History #5: Theological Tensions of the 19th Century: Old School -- New School
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Great Movements in Presbyterian History
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?ID=1216037188
Great Moments in Presbyterian History #6: Presbyterianism in the 20th Century
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Great Movements in Presbyterian History
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?ID=12160371916
Great Moments in Presbyterian History #7: The Presbyterian Church in the 20th Century: Emergence of the OPC
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Great Movements in Presbyterian History
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?ID=12160372014
Great Moments in Presbyterian History #8: What the Bible sas to say About the Nature of Government
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Great Movements in Presbyterian History
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?ID=12160372131

History of the American Presbyterian Church

History of the American Presbyterian Church #1
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, History of the AP Church, 40 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=1270518534
History of the American Presbyterian Church #2
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, History of the AP Church, 52 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=127051872
Colonial Presbyterianism and the Great Awakening
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, History of the American Presbyterian Church, 49 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=1216037179
The Religious and Theological Causes of Secession
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, 75 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=12705181136
Theological Tensions of the 19th Century: Old School -- New School
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, History of the American Presbyterian Church, 34 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=1216037188
Presbyterianism in the 20th Century
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, History of the American Presbyterian Church, 42 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=12160371916
The Presbyterian Church in the 20th Century: Emergence of the OPC
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, History of the American Presbyterian Church, 47 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=12160372014

Evangelism in the Early Church

Background of Evangelism and Revival in the Early Church
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, History of Evangelism/Revivals
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=8250375346
Evangelism in the First Four Centuries
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, History of Revivalism, 86 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=1217037169
Impact of the Ancient Church on the World and the World on the Church
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, History of Revivalism, 48 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=1217037177
Evangelism in the Early Church #1
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, History of Revivalism, 58 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=1217037244
Evangelism in the Early Church #2
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, History of Revivalism, 74 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=1217037348
Evangelism in the Early Church #3
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, History of Revivalism, 48 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=1217037438
Evangelism in the Early Church #4
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=1217037520
Evangelism in the Early Church #5
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, History of Revivalism, 50 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=1217037153
Summary of Evangelism in the Church From AD 500 to AD 1500 #1
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, History of Revivalism, 63 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=12170371946
Reformation as the Great Period of Revivalism and Evangelism
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, History of Evangelism/Revivals
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=910393243

History of Revivalism

The Biblical Basis for Revival in the Church
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, History of Revivalism, 65 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=1217037126
The Greatest Revival: The Reformation
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, History of Revivalism, 69 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=12170372251
Revivalism in the New World
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, History of Revivalism, 48 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=12170372351
Revivals in Colonial America -- Background -- Early 1800 Revivals
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, History of Evangelism/Revivals
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=91039346
Revivals in the 19th Century
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, History of Evangelism/Revivals
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=98039332
Presbyterian Revivals and Evangelism
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, History of Evangelism/Revivals
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=98039345
Colonial Presbyterianism and the Great Awakening
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, 49 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=1216037179
Revivalism in the New World: Edwards and Whitefield
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, History of Revivalism, 45 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=12160372911
Revivalism in the New World: Moving West
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, History of Revivalism, 51 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=12160373036

Early New World Covenanters
http://www.lettermen2.com/cradle.html

John Knox, the Scottish Covenanters, and the Westminster Assembly (tape 3 of 5), in a series of addresses, History Notes on Presbyterianism, Reformation, and Theology by Dr. C. Gregg Singer on SermonAudio.com
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=12607114250

Mary Moore's Captivity. Available in SKETCHES OF VIRGINIA, HISTORICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL, 1850, 1st series.

An Outline of Scottish 'Covenant History' in the 17th Century From Purves' Book FAIR SUNSHINE
http://www.ianpaisley.org/article.asp?cov_intro.htm

Pedigree of: Alexander Craighead, 1705/6-1766
http://www.concentric.net/~pvb/GEN/ac.html

Post-Reformation Digital Library
"The Post-Reformation Digital Library is a collection of resources relating to the development of theology during the Post-Reformation/Early Modern era (c. 16th-18th centuries), hosted by the H. Henry Meeter Center for Calvin Studies of Calvin College and Calvin Theological Seminary.
"The primary focus of this site is digital books available from Google Books as well as smaller digital libraries such as Internet Archive, which may have books not available on Google.
"All users are encouraged to contribute to this project by reporting new books with a note under 'Comments' at the bottom of the relevant page. Please also copy and paste any broken links in the relevant comments page so that the editorial board can investigate. (Nota bene: this site is limited insofar as it aims at only those works of the authors that have been digitized. In the vast majority of cases this will not be representative of the author's work as a whole and is no substitute for due bibliographic research.)"
http://libguides.calvin.edu/prdl

A Theological Interpretation of American History
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr9chc.html#stiahis

Winning the Vikings for Christ, an address by Peter Hammond
https://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=11131857153&fbclid=IwAR0FbdiDJJ-ytkYh4f5soqGQdA-KZbhA9JHBCzcdaHgoImlXDyZsN_MSc7E

Works of C. Gregg Singer
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr3ch.html#cgsinger

The Local Church and Counseling

A wealth of information about Biblical Counseling is found on audio CDs and MP3s. Sources for audio files are as follows:

Westminster Theological Seminary Resources
http://www.wts.edu/resources/wtsresources.html
Westminster Theological Seminary Bookstore
Find CCEF resources, Westminster Media resources, and CDs of audio files of former faculty members and guest speakers.
http://www.wtsbooks.com/
National Association of Nouthetic Counselors (NANC) Library
http://www.nanc.org/Resources/NANC-Library
Global Network for Biblical Counseling
http://www.nanc.org/Resources/Global-Network-for-Biblical-Counseling
Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation -- Resources
http://www.wts.edu/resources/login.html
Institute for Nouthetic Counseling
"Study Biblical Counseling with Dr. Jay Adams."
http://www.nouthetic.org
Sound Word Associates
http://www.soundword.com/
And so forth, and so on.

*Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), Shepherding God's Flock: A Handbook on Pastoral Ministry, Counseling and Leadership, ISBN: 0310510716 9780310510710.
"The book is divided into three parts: Pastoral Life deals with the pastor, his calling, and the general care he provides the flock. Pastoral Counseling provides an overview of the task and general approach for pastoral counselors. Pastoral Leadership offers a perspective on the ways the pastor can lead the church in its many tasks and responsibilities." -- Publisher
"An 'unparalleled handbook' on ministry for teaching and ruling elders." -- Publisher
"A handbook on pastoral ministry, counseling, and leadership. This book is one of the finest you can get and will help you in the real world. The contents come out of years of working directly with ministers, counselors, and work as a seminary professor." -- GCB
Includes bibliographical references and indexes.

Bobgan, Martin, and Deidre Bobgan, CONFRONTING the Biblical Counseling Foundation's Self-Confrontation Manual. A PsychoHeresy Awareness Position Paper (PsychoHeresy Awareness Ministries, 4137 Primavera Road, Santa Barbara, CA 93110).
"While we no longer recommend any manuals or training programs for biblical counseling, we would issue the following recommendations for changing the manual and for restraints if the BCF manual is to be used at all."
http://www.psychoheresy-aware.org/images/bcfpaper.pdf

Broger, John C., Self-confrontation Course Series

Two sets of material are listed alphabetically below, the original Self-confrontation Course Series, and the new course material updated by John Broger in retirement after The Biblical Counseling Foundation moved to Palm Desert, California (c. 1991). During this time the courses were being taught at Vanguard University of Southern California, a non-profit Christian university of liberal arts and professional studies in Costa Mesa, California. It seems that the original material was updated in following years and given new titles.
Broger, John C. (1915-2002), Biblical Principles for Discipleship/counseling, 1998, 47 pages.
John Broger compiled and edited this for Vanguard University of Southern California alumnus.
Biblical Counseling Foundation
http://bcfministries.org
Broger, John C. (1915-2002), Course I: Instructor's Guide for the 24-week Self-confrontation Course, 2000, 233 pages.
This his appears to be an update of the COURSE I: INSTRUCTOR'S GUIDE.
Broger, John C. (1915-2002), Course I: Self-confrontation Course. Handbook for the Ministry of Discipleship/Counseling, 2001, 264 pages.
This seems to be an update of the SELF-CONFRONTATION SYLLABUS (COURSE I)
*Broger, John C. (developer/editor, 1915-2002), Course I: The Self-Confrontation Syllabus for Biblical Counseling Training, 1994 (reprint of 1978 edition, various paging), and Course I: Self-Confrontation Tapes (10 cassette tapes), [audio file], (Rancho Mirage, CA: Biblical Counseling Foundation).
"Contains 24 weekly lessons intended to move a person through the change process personally as the foundation for working on becoming a counselor (Matthew 7:1-5). Intended for Sunday school and other classes or personal study. The first eight lessons lay the biblical foundation for change. The grace of the God in the gospel of Jesus Christ is spring of all true change, and it prompts a self-confrontation: 'Man's way is oriented to self: to please self, to comfort self, to rely on self, to fulfill self, to forgive self, to exalt self, and to love self. . . . [God's way], emphasizes that you are to live for Him.' The next thirteen lessons treat particular problem areas: selfishness, anger, interpersonal conflict, marriage and family, depression, fear, life-dominating sins. The final three lessons summarize and set the foundation for Course II, Biblical Counseling Training." -- David Powlison (1949-2019)
"Helps Christians solve their personal problems Biblically and equips laymen and women to counsel others Biblically within the church." Particularly valuable for its system of identifying root problems in counseling cases. Some of the material presented is from various writings by Jay E. Adams. The audio cassette tape [audio file], series by John Broger is designed to accompany the course and includes practical examples."
Broger, John C. (1915-2002), Course II, Instructor's Guide for Training in Biblical Discipleship/Counseling, 2001, 184 pages.
Biblical Counseling Foundation
http://bcfministries.org
*Broger, John C. (developer/editor, 1915-2002), Course II: Nouthetic Counseling Study Guide, 2001, 120 pages.
Also available: Course II: Self-confrontation Tapes (8 audio files), (Rancho Mirage, CA: Biblical Counseling Foundation).
Broger, John C. (1915-2002), Course III: Instructor's Guide for Training in Biblical Discipleship/Counseling, 2001, 138 pages.
This seems to be new course material in Biblical Counseling.
Broger, John C. (1915-2002), Course III: Syllabus for Training in Biblical Discipleship/Counseling, 2001, 166 pages.
Broger, John C. (1915-2002), Instructor's Guide for the Self-confrontation Course [Course I -- compiler]: Based on the Old and New Testaments as the Only Authoritative Rule of Faith and Conduct, 1992, 119 pages, ISBN: 1878114026 9781878114020.
Broger, John C. (1915-2002), Man's way vs. God's way, 1991, 22 pages.
Broger, John C. (1915-2002), Your Resources in Christ, 1991, 26 pages.
Broger, John C. (compiler and developer, 1915-2002), and Jay Edward Adams, Competent to Counsel: Study Guide for Christian Counseling Training Course, 2001, 1 volume (various pagings) in loose-leaf binder: illustrations; 28 cm. Alternate title: STUDY GUIDE FOR CHRISTIAN COUNSELING TRAINING COURSE.
Not to be confused with COMPETENT TO COUNSEL, 1998, 320 pages, by Jay Adams.

Buzzard, Lynn R., and Thomas Brandon, Jr., Church Discipline and the Courts, ISBN: 0842302727 9780842302722.
"Legal concepts are explained in laymen's terms as well as the Biblical perspective of church discipline. This book deals with the increasing problem of lawsuits against churches and includes a set of legal guidelines for churches. Also includes suggested sample forms for church discipline." -- GCB

Franklin, Godfrey, The Nature and Perceived Adequacy of the Preparation for Counseling of Selected Presbyterian and Reformed Church Ministers in the United States, 1991 (1983 Ph.D. dissertation, University of Alabama).

Kyle, William H. (editor), Healing Through Counseling: A Christian Counseling Center, 1964.
Consists largely of lectures originally given as part of the training program at the Counseling Center, Highgate Methodist Church. Includes bibliographical footnotes and bibliography.

Lee, Samuel (of Wadham College Oxford, 1627-1691), The Visibility of the True Church, sermon on Matt. xvi. 18 [Matthew 16:18]. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #23.

Logos Bible Software, Logos Bible Software Bundles That Include Works on Biblical Counseling
There are 15 such bundles in all.
http://www.logos.com/products/search?q=counseling+bundles

Richardson, W., Pastoral Counseling in the Urban Church (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Audio cassette WR101 [audio file].

Strom, Kay M., Helping Women in Crisis: A Handbook for People Helpers, ISBN: 0310336414 9780310336419.
"Covers all the bases -- alcohol and drug abuse, child abuse, sexual molestation, incest, infidelity, rape, suicide, teenage pregnancy, wife abuse. Each chapter summarizes the major issues involved. This is a very helpful book, and lay counselors will appreciate the author's candor and practical ideas. Here is a work pastors can use in their lay counseling program." -- Cyril J. Barber

Wray, Daniel, Biblical Church Discipline, ISBN: 0851512690 9780851512693.
Available in Spanish.

See also: The sovereignty of god, The doctrine of man (human nature, total depravity), For all counselors, Peer counseling, Church discipline, Repentance the key to salvation and change, Justification, Justifying faith, Small groups as healing agents, Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, Training in Biblical Counseling, Biblical Counseling by Subject, Family life, education, church, and work, Christian fiction, Classic christian fiction by martha finley, and so forth, and so on.
TCRB5: 844, 845, 847, 848, 2482

Related Weblinks

Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation (CCEF)
1803 East Willow Grove Avenue
Glenside, PA 19038
Telephone: 215.884.7676
http://www.ccef.org/

Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation Resources Audio Archives
http://www.wts.edu/resources/login.html/

Institute of Biblical Counseling and Discipleship (formerly CCEF West)
http://www.ibcd.org/

Institute for Nouthetic Counseling
"Study Biblical Counseling with Dr. Jay Adams."
"Here is a list of the courses we have ready:

Introduction to Biblical Counseling/Counseling Principles and Practices
The Counselor Himself
Critical Stages in Biblical Counseling
Counseling Problems
Premarital Counseling
Marriage, Divorce, and Remarriage
Theology and Counseling
Church Discipline
Forgiveness
Medical Issues in Counseling I and II
Marriage and Family Counseling
We are currently working on the following:
Counseling Theories and Issues Abroad in the Church Today
Legal Issues in Counseling
Counseling Women
The Christian Counselor's Casebook Studies"

http://www.nouthetic.org

Sound Word Associates Library of Biblical Counselors
http://www.soundword.com/ccon.html

Stephen Ministries
http://www.stephenministries.org/

Timeless Texts (Biblical Counseling books)
http://www.timelesstexts.com/

Westminster Theological Seminary Bookstore
http://www.wts.edu/bookstore/

Church Discipline

See the Theological Notes: "Church Discipline and Excommunication," at Matthew 18:15 in The Reformation Study Bible.
See the Theological Notes: "The Local Church," at Revelation 2:1 in The Reformation Study Bible.
Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted. (Galatians 6:1)
Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother. But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established. And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church: but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican. (Matthew 18:15-17)
Church discipline has three purposes: the glory of God, the purity of the church, and the restoration of the sinner (Institutes IV:12:1-7). . . . He [Calvin] was firmly convinced that where there is no discipline, there is no church. He writes, "The collapse of the church would surely follow unless the preaching of doctrine was supported by private admonitions, corrections, and other aids of the sort that sustain doctrine and do not let it remain idle" Institutes IV:12:1). -- W. Gary Crampton
You would count him unworthy the name of a friend who, knowing a thief or an incendiary to lurk in your family with a design to kill, or rob, or burn your house, would conceal it from you, and not acquaint you with it in his own accord. There is no such thief, murderer, incendiary, as sin. . . . Silence or concealment in this case is treachery. He is the most faithful friend, and worthy of most esteem and affection, that deals most plainly with us in reference to the discovery of our sin. He that is reserved in this case is but a false friend, a mere pretender to love, whereas, indeed, he hates his brother in his heart. (Leviticus 19:17) -- David Clarkson
We are all frail, unstable creatures and it is merely owing to the free grace and good providence of God that we run not into the same excess of riot with other men. Every offending brother, therefore, claims our pity rather than our resentment and each member should strive to be the most forward, as well as most gentle, in restoring him to his former state. -- George Whitefield (1714-1770)

Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), Counseling Workshop: Demon Possession; Divorce; Church Discipline (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Audio cassette JA503 [audio file].

Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), Fear of Death; Church Discipline; Being in the Hospital (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Audio cassette JA408 [audio file].

Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), Handbook of Church Discipline, ISBN: 0310511917 9780310511915.
"Presents clear description of church discipline, embedding the formal and remedial aspects in a context of informal, preventive, positive discipline. The five steps of discipline include three informal aspects (practice self-discipline; go one-on-one; take one or two others), and two formal aspects (take it to the church; hand over to the world). Lots of how-to and what-if to guide individuals and churches into the God-honoring practice of church discipline." -- David Powlison (1949-2019)
"This is a handbook for pastors, elders, and all Christians who want to see how Scripture presents the process of discipline that should operate in the Christian community . . . The author has developed the book around the five steps of corrective discipline found especially in Matthew 18:15-17." -- Publisher

*Durham, James (1622-1658), Concerning Scandal. A Christian classic. Alternate title: THE DYING MAN'S TESTAMENT TO THE CHURCH OF SCOTLAND: OR, A TREATISE CONCERNING SCANDAL. A Christian classic. Available (1659 edition), on the Puritan Hard Drive.
"The Rise of The Following Treatise
"Having had occasion to consider the Book of the Revelation, and being on the Epistle to the Church of Pergamos in the second chapter, ground was given to speak something of Scandal, by reason of several doctrines clearly arising from that place. Upon this occasion I did first essay the writing of something of the doctrine of scandal in general, intending only to have spent a sheet or two thereupon, as elsewhere on some other subjects. When this was brought to a close, I found the place to give ground to speak of public church offenses, as they are the object of church discipline and censures. And being convinced, that that subject was not impertinent to be spoken of, I yielded to spend some thoughts upon it also, which did draw to a greater length than at first was intended or was suitable for a digression. This being finished, as it is, and any more thoughts of this subject laid by, it occurred again to me to think of doctrinal scandals or of scandalous errors. And considering that the scandals mentioned in that place, are of such nature, and that such are very frequent in this time, I yielded also to put together what thoughts the Lord would furnish concerning the same, whereupon followed the third part of this treatise.
"When this was even at the closing, there was a fourth part of the same subject that did occur to me to be thought on, which before that had never been minded, and that was concerning scandalous church divisions. To this my mind and inclination was exceedingly averse at first, as knowing it not only to be difficult in itself to be meddled in, but also exceedingly above me, who am altogether unsuitable to hazard on such a subject. Yet considering the rise of the motion, and how the Lord had helped through the other parts, I did resolve to condescend to follow it, at least so far till it might appear what was his mind to me therein, and accordingly did follow it till it came to the period (whatever it be), that now it is at.
"This is the true rise and occasion of this treatise, and of the several parts thereof, and therefore I have continued its entry in the original mold thereof, to wit, in laying down some general doctrines from that place of Scripture, and if there is afterward any more particular relation to the second and third chapters of the Revelation than to other Scriptures, this simple narration of the rise thereof may satisfy any concerning the same. Whereof we shall say no more, but first lay down grounds of all from that text, and then proceed in the treatise, which is divided in four parts, upon the reasons formerly hinted."
"The Grounds of This Treatise
"Among other things that troubled the church in the primitive times, scandal, or offense, was a chief one. The many directions that are given concerning it, and the reproofs that are of it, show that it is a main piece of a Christian's conversation to walk rightly in reference thereto, and a great evidence of looseness where it is not heeded. On verse 6 [Rev. 2 (Revelation 2:6)], we show that this was a sole fault of the Nicolaitans to be careless of offending, or of giving of offense, and not to regard scandal; and here the Lord holds it forth to be so by comparing it with Balaam's practice (v. 14 [Revelation 5:14]), which is aggreged from this, that he taught Balak to lay a stumbling block before Israel. From which these doctrines may be gathered:

1. That there is such a fault incident to men in their carriage, even to lay stumbling-blocks before others and to offend them.
2. That men ought to walk so as not to offend others, or so as to lay no stumbling-block before them. So that it is not enough not to stumble themselves (if this could be separated from the other), but also they ought to be careful not to stumble others.
3. The Lord takes special notice how men do walk in reference to others in this, and is highly provoked where he sees any guilty of it.
4. The Devil has ever endeavored to have offenses abounding in the church, and to make some lay such stumbling-blocks before others.
5. It is most hurtful to the church, and destructive to souls where offenses abound, and men walk not tenderly in reference to these; so that the Lord expresses it with a twofold woe (Matt. 18 [Matthew 18]), as being a woe beyond sword and pestilence.
6. We may gather that corrupt doctrine never [lacks] offenses joined with it, and that ordinarily those who spread that, are untender in this.
7. That offenses often accompany the rise and beginning of any work of Christ's among a people; these tares of offenses are ordinarily then sown.
8. That some offenses are of a public nature, and that church officers should take notice of such, and that it is offensive to Christ when they are overlooked and not taken heed unto.
9. Church officers, even such as other ways are approved in their carriage and ministry, may fall in this fault, as by comparing the Epistles to Pergamos and Thyatira, is clear.
10. When officers fall in this fault, it is yet no reprovable thing in members that are pure in respect of their own personal carriage, to continue in communion with such a church, the ordinances other ways being pure." -- Author's Introduction

"In this work Mr. Durham, in opening and examining the different scandals which deface the visible church, causing both the professed people of God, and the heathen to stumble and fall in the snares of sin and the devil, shows carefully and clearly the various means of avoiding and remedying these offenses, and what the people of God in their various places and stations must do to maintain the beauty of Zion in godliness and holiness, in purity and in peace.
"James Durham's work on scandal and offense is the first of several books Naphtali Press plans to publish by 17th century Scottish Presbyterians. Many of the works of this group of writers are classic statements on the subjects they treat. This book of Durham's is such a work.
"John Macleod (SCOTTISH THEOLOGY), says, 'His book on the Scandal of Church divisions has long been looked upon as the Scottish classic on its topic.' John Macpherson (DOCTRINE OF THE CHURCH IN SCOTTISH THEOLOGY), says, 'Taken all in all it is the very best book we have on the subject.' According to James Walker (THE THEOLOGY AND THEOLOGIANS OF SCOTLAND): 'He is the author of a book which once was very famous. For a hundred years and more you find it constantly referred to. Unhappily, as in so many other instances, it has a forbidding, or at all events not an attractive name. Yet I am not sure that anywhere a better idea is to be obtained of our old ecclesiasticism, and of its freedom to a large extent from the severity and rancorousness which have been so often attributed to it, than from the book 'On Scandal,' by this judicious man, who, with his thorough, searching, cumbrous intellect, reminds you not seldom of John Owen.'
"The work is divided into four parts. The first deals with scandal and offense in general, where he defines these terms, and discusses private offenses between individuals, and how they are given and taken. In the second part he writes concerning public scandals, or such that need to be in some way taken notice of by the government of the church, and the various scriptural teachings on the order, implementation, and motive of church discipline. The third is about scandalous errors; the spreading of error, why it spreads, the Lord's design in it, Satan's devices in spreading error, and the duties of Christians in a time when error prevails. Of particular interest is a lengthy treatment of the minister's duty toward those seduced to error, where the four steps of discovery (or trial), conviction, admonition and rejection of an heretic are discussed. The last part concerns scandalous divisions in the church, how they arise, the evil of them, grounds for unity, things to overlook in order to unite, things to do in order to unite, and how to unify where the division concerns differences in church government.
"Excerpted from THE DYING MAN'S TESTAMENT TO THE CHURCH OF SCOTLAND, or, A TREATISE CONCERNING SCANDAL by James Durham. Copyright. Reprinted by permission. All rights reserved." Publisher
"This book ought to be required reading in seminaries and, indeed, for all who would serve as elders in Christ's church. It will repay careful study and breathe grace into our handling of the disciplinary problems that often confront us. Sessions will find real blessing if they study together Part Two [public scandals], especially." -- Gordon J. Keddie, Semper Reformanda, Vol. 2, No. 3
"The appearance of a new and handsomely reset edition of James Durham's classic and unique work on ecclesiastical discipline is a timely and welcome event in these days of laxity in doctrine and morality within the church. The author was a Covenanter who ministered in the Church of Scotland during the Cromwellian interregnum. Possessed of a fragrant saintliness and an irenic spirit, he completed this volume on his deathbed, at age 36, under the title, 'The Dying Man's Testament to the Church of Scotland.' Durham grieved over the divisions that racked the Christian community of his time and was concerned that church discipline not be abused either by flagrant neglect or excessive rigor. The weighty scriptural balance he brings to his subject is unequaled." -- Gordon J. Keddie, Semper Reformanda, Vol. 2, No. 3
"The book is divided into four parts -- Part One: Concerning Scandals in General -- dealing with offences between individual Christians. Part Two -- Concerning Public Scandals -- dealing with church discipline. Part Three: Concerning Doctrinal Scandals -- dealing with the spread of error in the church. Part Four: Concerning Scandalous Divisions -- dealing with divisions between godly men occasioned by such things as different outlooks and practices. The editor has spared no effort to make this old classic readable and useful." -- Austin R. Walker, Banner of Truth, Issue 337
"In this work Mr. Durham, in opening and examining the different scandals which deface the visible church, causing both the professed people of God, and the heathen to stumble and fall in the snares of sin and the devil, shows carefully and clearly the various means of avoiding and remedying these offenses, and what the people of God in their various places and stations must do to maintain the beauty of Zion in godliness and holiness, in purity and in peace. This edition is based on the text of the edition printed in 1680, with revisions to contemporize the spelling, punctuation, and usage. This book has long been looked upon as the Scottish classic on this topic." -- GCB
Concerning Scandal (extracts)
http://www.naphtali.com/scanextr.htm

Knox, John (1505-1572), The Order of Excommunication and of Public Repentance, 1567. Available in THE WORKS OF JOHN KNOX. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #25.
The Order of Excommunication and of Public Repentance
http://www.swrb.com/newslett/actualnls/Orde_ch0.htm

Lutz, Ron, Church Discipline, I (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Video V316.

Lutz, Ron, Church Discipline, II (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Video V317.

Lutz, Ron, Church Discipline, III (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Video V317.

Lutz, Ron, Marital Crisis and Church Discipline, MP3. Available on Earl Cook, Ronald E. Lutz, and the Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation, 1987 Alumni Conference, 2 MP3 files (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
"Notes: Features the professional counseling staff of the Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation."

Lutz, Ronald E., The Redemptive Power of Church Discipline, (Westminster Theological Seminary, D.Min. thesis).
Includes bibliography.

Miller, Samuel (1769-1850), Conduct in Church Judicatories.
"Notes: Photocopy of pp. 18-29 of Naphtali Press v. 2:4 1989.
Reprint of a chapter in: LETTERS ON CLERICAL MANNERS AND HABITS ADDRESSED TO A STUDENT IN THE THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY AT PRINCETON, N.J. PHILADELPHIA: PRESBYTERIAN BOARD OF PUBLIC., 1852.
Chapter heading title: Conduct in church judicatories.
Conduct in church courts.

Milwain, John, The Evil of Relaxed Discipline in the Church, 1841. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #24.

Palmer, Samuel (d. 1724), A Vindication of the Learning, Loyalty, Morals, and Most Christian Behaviour of the Dissenters Toward the Church of England. In answer to Mr. Wesley's defence of his letter concerning the Dissenters education in their private academies. And to Mr. Sacheverel's injurious reflections upon them, 1705.

Pierce, James, A Vindication of the Dissenters: In Answer to Dr. William Nichols's Defence of the Doctrine and Discipline of the Church of England, 1718, ISBN: 1331503663 9781331503668. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #23.

*Rutherford, Samuel (1600-1661), The Divine Right of Church Government and Excommunication: A Peaceable Dispute for the Perfection of the Holy Scripture in Point of Ceremonies and Church Government in Which the Removal of the Service Book is Justified, facsimile, 1646. Also contains: "SCANDAL AND CHRISTIAN LIBERTIE." Alternate title: JUS DIVINUM REGIMINIS ECCLESIASTICI. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #9 and #24.
"Over 750 pages which Walker says 'contains the amplest exposition and vindication of our old ecclesiastical principles.' Rutherford here gives a classic defense of Presbyterianism, touching on both church government and 'the due and just power of the Magistrate in matters of Religion.' Regarding worship, he touches on imagery, idolatry, things indifferent, ceremonies and will worship. Sherman Isbell describes this book as follows: 'Rutherford asserts that there is delineated in the NT a form of Church government by elders and Presbyteries which is of permanent obligation; more-over, that discipline and suspension from the sacraments are vested with church officers rather than with the Christian civil magistrate. The book also expounds the Westminster Assembly's principle that the mode of acceptable worship is regulated by the will of Christ as king speaking in the Scriptures; the Church is not at liberty to alter or invent anything in worship or government which goes beyond the pattern in God's Word. Rutherford's writings during the London years provide a significant commentary on the theology of the Westminster Confession and Catechisms.' (Nigel Cameron, editor, Dictionary of Scottish Church History and Theology, pp. 735-36). An exceedingly rare gem by this celebrated Presbyterian divine and Scottish commissioner to the famous Westminster Assembly." -- Publisher
http://www.naphtali.com/jusextrc.htm

Wray, Daniel, Biblical Church Discipline, ISBN: 0851512690 9780851512693.
Available in Spanish.

See also: The sovereignty of god, The doctrine of man (human nature, total depravity), Repentance the key to salvation and change, Justification, Justifying faith, Covetousness, greed, and selfishness, The inspiration and infallibility of scripture (the doctrine of revelation, the doctrine of plenary inspiration, the doctrine of divine inspiration, the doctrine of verbal inspiration, theopneustia, sufficiency of scripture), The ten commandments: the moral law, Church discipline, Trusting god, Idolatry, Theft, fraud, stealing: property rights and freedom, Church leadership, The local church and counseling, Sexual relationship, Spiritual adultery (spiritual whoredom/harlotry), Idolatry, syncretism, Sexual wholeness, Rebellion and lawlessness: wickedness, demonic possession, substance abuse, abnormal behavior, insanity, mental illness, mental retardation, Repentance the key to salvation and change, Justice, the theology of judgment, god's final judgment, the great white throne judgment, the day of the lord, The sovereign grace of god: his everlasting mercy and lovingkindness, Bible magistracy, Ethics, computer ethics, cyberethics, Sex ethics, sex education, Conscience, casuistry, cases of conscience, Justifying faith, Justification, Forgiveness, Unforgiveness, Sanctification, The covenant faithfulness of god, The all-sufficiency of christ, Lordship of jesus christ, Christ's kingdom, Covenant theology and the ordinance of covenanting, The covenanted reformation, The covenanted reformation of scotland background and history, Covenanted reformation short title listing, Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, The one and the many, Corporate faithfulness and sanctification, Individual responsibility for corporate faithfulness and sanctification, Unfaithful reformed ministries, Secret societies, ungodly alliances, voluntary associations, Conspiracy, corruption, organized crime, Pseudo-christian movements: a selection of works, Politics, and so forth, and so on.
TCRB5: 734, 750, 752

Related Weblinks

Small Groups and the Local Church

Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. (1 Thessalonians 5:16,17,18)
And the Lord turned the captivity of Job, when he prayed for his friends. (Job 42:10a)

Banks, Robert, Going to Church in the First Century: An Eyewitness Account, ISBN: 0940232375 9780940232372.
"Banks does his research. He is not merely writing what he thinks the Church looked like in the first century but he dives into Church History itself to show you historically what it looked like. The book takes 1 Corinthians 14:26 and applies it to the house churches listed in the New Testament. In the end, Banks does a wonderful job of showing the reader how radically different our church 'services' are today compared to the first century. Banks then tells us how to apply the apostolic traditions (1 Corinthians 11:2; 2 Thessalonians 2:15; 3:6), to our current churches whether traditional or house churches." -- Reader's Comment

Bridges, Jerry, True Community: The Biblical Practice of Koinonia, a revised edition of TRUE FELLOWSHIP, ISBN: 9781617471759 1617471755. Alternate title: THE CRISIS OF CARING: RECOVERING THE MEANING OF TRUE FELLOWSHIP.
"The word 'fellowship' has become so watered down in our Christian culture, it no longer carries anything near the weight of intimate meaning it conveyed to the 1st-century Christian. But there is no reason that, 2000 years after the book of Acts, the depth of relationship meant by koinonia can't be realized in our relationships. It is the inheritance of the body of Christ, from our Savior's work. When fellowship is understood as a ministry of caring shared between all of us, it can make your church a life-changing blessing. Jerry Bridges is author of many books, including THE PURSUIT OF HOLINESS, TRANSFORMING GRACE, TRUSTING GOD, and THE JOY OF FEARING GOD." -- Publisher

Bridges, Jerry, True Fellowship: A Bible Study on (Leader's Guide).
"First published in 1983, this book was written to help Christians not only accept the fact that God is in charge, but also to see and apply the implications of that fact. An honest book which gives straight, Biblical answers to the tough question we all ask." -- GCB

Davis, D. Clair, Christ and Community: Christian Community and/or the Church (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation). 30161
Audio cassette CD511 [audio file].

Davis, D. Clair, History of Small Groups in Reformed Churches, an audio file (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).

Dibbert, Michael T., and Frank B. Wichern, Growth Groups: A key to Christian Fellowship and Spiritual Maturity, ISBN: 0310231213 9780310231219.

Evans, Louis H., Jr., Covenant to Care, ISBN: 0882073559 9780882073552. A revised edition of CREATIVE LOVE.
See also: Weeden, Larry, LEADER'S GUIDE FOR GROUP STUDY OF COVENANT TO CARE.

*Miller, C. John "Jack" (1928-1996), and Rose Marie Miller, Sonship Course: World Harvest Mission Leadership Training Program, Nurture Training for Ministry, Equipping Others for Ministry. Alternate title: LEADERSHIP TRAINING PROGRAM: NURTURE, TRAINING FOR MINISTRY, EQUIPPING OTHERS FOR MINISTRY (Jenkintown, PA [World Harvest, Box 2175, Jenkintown 19046]: World Harvest, 1988).
This course was developed to prepare World Harvest missionaries to work in the field. The course includes small group participation and Biblical counseling.
"The first half of the SONSHIP track focuses on the doctrines of Justification, Sanctification, and Adoption. The last half lays the foundation for love. We look at how the Gospel affects the way we look at ourselves. Our goal was that increasingly your self-image should be rooted in God's view of you clothed in the perfect righteousness of Christ . . . What we aim at here is to encourage the trainee to learn from Christ how to build a holy life, a life of love to your neighbor. This is done self-consciously relying always on his or her free justification by faith. Sanctification by faith issues from knowing always that my standing as a son is assured by justification by Christ alone through faith alone. Thus the heart of our counseling on character development centers in affirmation of Christ's work for us, and Christ's work in us through the Spirit. But within that framework we attempt seriously to involve each trainee in ongoing repentance, putting off old habits and sins and putting on Christ-like love and faith. . . . Much focus is laid on teamwork. . . . The skill of evangelism . . . is the believer's primary emphasis in the course of training because the staff believes that evangelism is necessary for a healthy Christian life . . . Evangelism rightly understood affects both the faith and the Christian life of the one who shares Christ's message." -- C. John Miller and Rose Marie Miller
Miller, C. John (1928-1996), Rose Marie Miller, Paul Miller, Rick Downs, David M. Desforge, et al., Sonship, a set of 16 sound cassettes [audio file], (audiobook on tape).
World Harvest Mission
http://www.whm.org/home.htm

Weeden, Larry, and Louis H. Evans, Leader's Guide for Group Study of Covenant to Care, ISBN: 0882075373 9780882075372.

Wilder-Smith, A.E., The Basis of True Fellowship, an audio file.

See also: Prayer, Prayer Groups, Jesus on Prayer, Intercessory Prayer, Evangelistic Praying, Christian Fellowship, Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, Sexual relationship, Spiritual adultery (spiritual whoredom/harlotry), Small groups, House Churches, Small Group Evangelism, Small Groups as Healing Agents, Small Group Resources, Small Group Leadership Helps, and so forth, and so on.

The Laity

See the Theological Notes: "The Image of God," at Genesis 1:27 in The Reformation Study Bible.
So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them. (Genesis 1:27)
For in him we live, and move, and have our being; as certain also of your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring. (Acts 17:28)
Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 7:13,14)
Never let the work of the Lord cause you to neglect the Lord of the work.
laicity: the status or influence of the laity.
laicize: withdraw clerical character, control, or status from.

*Bucy, Ralph D. (editor), The New Laity Between Church and World, ISBN: 0849928338 9780849928338.

Lindgren, Alvin J., and Norman Shawchuk, Let my People go: Empowering Laity for Ministry, ISBN: 0687213770 9780687213771.
"Well reasoned and on target, this discussion of the potential of laypeople comes like a breath of fresh air to those engaged in ministry. . . ." -- Cyril J. Barber

Massie, Bob, and Frank R. Tillapaugh, Leader's Guide for Frank Tillapaugh's Unleashing the Church.

Ogden, Greg, The New Reformation: Returning the Ministry to the People of God, ISBN: 0310246199 9780310246190.
"Ministry is to be by the people and for the people, and this book explains why it is needed and how it can be done." -- Publisher
Includes bibliographical references and indexes.

Sine, Tom, The Mustard Seed Conspiracy, ISBN: 0849929393 9780849929397.
"Raises the church's collective vision to see that He wants to use 'insignificant people' to institute His righteousness through the world." -- Mark O. Hatfield

Tillapaugh, Frank R., Unleashing the Church: Getting People out of the Fortress and Into Ministry, ISBN: 0830710248 9780830710249.
See: Bob Massie, LEADER'S GUIDE FOR FRANK TILLAPAUGH'S UNLEASHING THE CHURCH.

See also: The sovereignty of god, The doctrine of man (human nature, total depravity), The Priesthood of believers, Believer's position in christ and sonship, Adoption into god's family, God's family, Christ our example, Immanuel, christ's presence, christ in you, Repentance the key to salvation and change, Justification, Justifying faith, Individual responsibility for corporate faithfulness and sanctification, Servant leadership, Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, Small groups, The one and the many, Sexual relationship, Spiritual adultery (spiritual whoredom/harlotry), Works considered to be among the ten greatest in the english language, Churches that abuse, Pseudo-christian movements: a selection of works, and so forth, and so on.
TCRB5: 2839, 3869, 3888-3908

Churches That Abuse

The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (John 10:10)
But he turned, and rebuked them, and said, Ye know not what manner of spirit ye are of. For the Son of man is not come to destroy men's lives, but to save them. And they went to another village. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 9:55,56)
The most tremendous judgment of God in this world is the hardening of the hearts of men. -- John Owen (1616-1683)
Martin Luther remarked that true religion was never more endangered than when it was in the company of "reverend" men. -- John W. Robbins in Beware of Men
Those that undertake great and public services must not think it strange if they be discountenanced and opposed by those from whom they had reason to expect support and assistance; but must humbly go on with their work, in the face not only of their enemies' threats, but of their friends' slights and suspicions. -- Matthew Henry (1662-1714)
In more than 40 years of ministry, it has been my experience that most of the time a believer's greatest persecution comes from others who identify themselves as believers. -- Ralph Drollinger in Nine Characteristics of Tares -- The Believer's Enemy
Pretend no truth against the power and practice of godliness. For this also is its proper end; if it be not truth that is according to godliness, it is no truth worthy our seeking or contending for. And if it be contrary to godliness in itself, it is no truth at all; therefore if it be used against godliness, it is used contrary to the ends of truth. Those men that suppress or hinder the means of knowledge, and holiness, and concord, and edification, under pretense of securing, defending, or propagating the orthodox belief, will find one day, that God will give them as little thanks for their blind, preposterous zeal for truth, as a tender father would do to a physician, that killed his children because they distasted or spit out his medicines. It is usually a pitiful defense of truth that is made by the enemies of godliness. -- Richard Baxter (1615-1691)
False doctrine and heresy are even worse than schism. -- J.C. Ryle (1816-1900)
To emphasize the Sovereignty of God without also maintaining the accountability of the creature tends to fatalism (hyper-Calvinism); to be so concerned in maintaining the responsibility of man as to lose sight of the Sovereignty of God is to exalt the creature and dishonor the Creator (Arminianism). . . . The Scriptures set forth both the Sovereignty of God and the responsibility of man. So, too, should every servant of God, and that, in their proper proportion. -- Arthur Pink, The Sovereignty of God
Power tends to corrupt and absolute power corrupts absolutely. Great men are almost always bad men, even when they exercise influence and not authority: still more when you superadd the tendency or the certainty of corruption by authority. -- John Emerich Edward Dalberg, Lord Acton (1834-1902), in a letter to Mandell Creighton, April 5, 1887, quoted by Gertrude Himmelfarb in Acton, Essays on Freedom and Power, pp. 335-36 (1972)

*Alderson, Richard, No Holiness, No Heaven! Antinomianism Today, ISBN: 0851514952 9780851514956.
"This book was written out of a concern at some trends in current Christian teaching and practice, especially the inroads of lawlessness into the life of the church. Written for every Christian, it also provides guidance for those who wish to study these issues in greater detail." -- GCB

Ankerberg, John, The Facts on False Teaching in the Church, ISBN: 0890817146 9780890817148.
"If you are concerned about the new philosophies and psychologies that are infiltrating today's churches, THE FACTS ON FALSE TEACHING IN THE CHURCH is an invaluable resource to help you judge which teachings are biblical and which are not." -- Publisher

*Ankerberg, John, and John Weldon, The Secret Teachings of the Masonic Lodge: A Christian Perspective, ISBN: 0802476953 9780802476951.
"The purpose of this volume is to discuss the influence, teachings, and consequences of Masonry . . . part 4 examines the connection between the Masonic Lodge and the world of the occult." -- GCB
The book documents the conflicts between Masonic ritual and fundamental Christian truths.
*Ankerberg, John, The Clash Between Christianity and the Lodge, 6-part video series, DVD.

Breese, Dave, Leader's Guide for Know the Marks of Cults.

Breese, Dave, The Marks of a Cult: the Warning Signs of False Teachings. Alternate title: KNOW THE MARKS OF CULTS. ISBN: 1565078187 9781565078185.

Brown, John (of Edinburgh, 1784-1858), Human Authority in Religion Condemned. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #7.
"A rebuke to all hypocrites who deny the Word and Law of God, only to substitute some man-made tradition or idea in its place. Argues against the Pharisaical and 'absurd rabbinical casuistry, by which' ignorant and blind souls 'confounded the plainest moral distinctions, and make sin duty and duty sin. . . teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.' Preached immediately after the disruption in the Established church of Scotland, this sermon lead to the formation of the Free Church in May 1843. It pinpoints an undue regard to human authority as a major cause of impurity in doctrine, worship, and discipline, and a principle cause of sectarianism, independency, and Popery." -- Publisher

Burks, Ron, and Vicki Burks, Damaged Disciples: Casualties of Authoritarian Churches and the Shepherding Movement, ISBN: 0310576113 9780310576112.
"Authors found themselves trapped in a branch of the charismatic movement (led by Derek Price, Bob Mumford, Charles Simpson, and Don Basham), that made them virtual prisoners. This book is the account of that time and the release from that view." -- GCB

Crampton, Gary, and Kenneth Talbot, Calvinism, Hyper-Calvinism and Arminianism, ISBN: 0977851605 9780977851607.
"The authors state, 'This monograph has been written to clarify in laymen's term, the major differences within the Christian church today: Calvinism, Hyper-Calvinism, and Arminianism.' Historically, the church has been predominantly Calvinistic. It is the theological system supported in this book and only one which can be shown to be faithful to the plain teaching of Scripture. Both authors teach at Whitefield Theological Seminary." -- GCB

*Enroth, Ronald M., Churches That Abuse: Help for Those Hurt by Legalism, Authoritarian Leadership, Manipulation, Excessive Discipline.
"What makes a church abusive? Usually it's not doctrinal deviation but intimidating behavior: legalism, authoritarian leadership, manipulation, and excessive discipline. Enroth names abusive groups, shows you how to recognize them, and lists 'red flags' that may indicate when a church is drifting into trouble. Most importantly, Enroth offers help to Christians who've been hurt by abusive churches." -- CBD
"Aggressive Christianity Missions Training Corps; The Assembly; Body of Christ Fellowship (Peacemakers); Boston Church of Christ; Christian Growth Ministries; Church of Bible Understanding; Church of Jesus Christ Forever; Church of Our First Love; Church of the Great Shepherd; Christian Growth Ministries; Community of Jesus; Emmaus Christian Fellowship; Faith Assembly; Faith Tabernacle; Fellowship of Christian Churches and Ministries; Great Commission International; Maranatha Christian Ministries; No-Name Fellowship/C-U (Champaign-Urbana), Ministries; River of Life/Truth Station; Set Free; Two-by-Two's; University Bible Fellowship; Victory Chapel (Potter's House); Vineyard; Word of God Community."

Enroth, Ronald M., Recovering From Churches That Abuse, ISBN: 0310398703 9780310398707 0310398770 9780310398776.
"The sequel to CHURCHES THAT ABUSE, this book deals more in-depth with the recovery process and its ups and downs. The author does not sugar-coat the toll that spiritual abuse takes on people. Instead, he gives accurate, compassionate, real-life stories which illustrate the recovery process. Anyone who has been harmed by a church or religious group would greatly benefit from this book. Mr. Enroth also shows that this type of abuse is not an easy, simple thing to recover from. Christians who have been given the pat answer 'forgive and forget' will find welcome relief and understanding here. This book will be helpful to Christians and non-Christians alike. Those who have suffered from similar experiences will find support in processing, expressing, and recovering from their ordeal. The author has provided an important service in courageously addressing this formerly forbidden subject." -- Reader's Comment

Gelet, James, Eric Holmberg, Jerry Johnson, and Apologetics Group, The Marks of a Cult: A Biblical Analysis, DVD, ISBN: 1573411507 9781573411509.
"In today's religiously diverse and relativistic culture, labelling a group a cult may seem extreme to many people, not to mention rude. Even people who believe in absolute Truth and further believe that Jesus is the only way to eternal life can get confused about just what constitutes real Christianity. Just why are Baptists properly considered Christians, but Mormons are not? Or why is the Jehovah's Witness religion classified as an anti-Christian cult while Presbyterians or Wesleyans or Pentecostals are simply seen as denominations within the Christian faith?
"With the explosion of different sects that claim to honor and follow Jesus, how does one differentiate between true Biblical Christianity and an aberrant religious movement? Just what are 'the marks of a cult?'
"Join us for a journey into the heart of Biblical revelation and the constant struggle of truth against lies, the apostolic faith against the 'doctrines of demons.'
"This documentary from ApologeticsGroup.com does more than simply point fingers. It explains in great detail the absolute essentials of the Faith, and just how and why Christians can properly and necessarily refer to certain sects as 'cults.' Not only a tool for recognizing and understanding false teaching -- and for reaching people held captive to it -- The Marks of a Cult is also a powerful apologetic on the need for Christians to become more rooted in the Biblical historic faith, with its creeds and confessions, and to be better prepared to give 'a defense to any one who calls you to account for the hope that is in you'." (1 Peter 3:15) -- Publisher

*Johnson, David, and Jeff VanVonderen, The Subtle Power of Spiritual Abuse: Recognizing and Escaping Spiritual Manipulation and False Spiritual Authority Within the Church, ISBN: 0764201379 9780764201370.
"Manipulation, shaming, 'using' other people -- that's in the church, too. Spiritual abuse happens when authority figures use spiritual means to gratify their desires for importance, power, or intimacy. Because abusers use spiritual-sounding language, their followers are trapped in legalism, guilt performance, and begrudging service. Johnson and VanVonderen explain how to identify spiritual abuse, break the cycle of abusive spiritual dynamics, and encourage both abusers and victims to repent and recover." -- CBD
"In a breakthrough book first published in 1991, the authors address the dynamics in churches that can ensnare people in legalism, guilt, and begrudging service, keeping them from the grace and joy of God's kingdom. Written for both those who feel abused and those who may be causing it, THE SUBTLE POWER OF SPIRITUAL ABUSE shows how people get hooked into abusive systems, the impact of controlling leadership on a congregation, and how the abused believer can find rest and recovery.
"David Johnson has been the senior pastor at Church of the Open Door in Maple Grove, Minnesota, since 1980. During this time, the church has grown from a congregation of 160 to 3,000 people. A much sought-after speaker, he is a graduate of Bethel College and received his theological training at Bethel Seminary and Trinity Evangelical Divinity School. His "Growing in Grace" radio broadcast is syndicated internationally. David and his family live in Minnesota.
"Jeff VanVonderen is an internationally known speaker on addictions and church and family wellness. He has worked as a counselor in both residential and outpatient treatment settings, as well as in the religious community, taught at the college level, and is the author of several books. He makes his home in California." -- Publisher
"The difference between churches that use manipulation and those that practice grace is like night and day. . . .
"VanVonderen and Johnson warn people who read the book not to use what they have learned as a weapon, but to take action only in the proper spirit. Of course, any time someone takes action in a church, real problems will become visible. My question in every case is: are those problems caused by those speaking out, or have they been there all along and are only now being exposed. . . ?
"It is fair, it is doctrinally solid, and it gives effective counsel. There is something beneficial for everyone. . . leader, wounded Christian, or loved ones of people in either group." -- Reader's Comment

*Knox, John (1505-1572), What to do When There is no Faithful Church in Your Area. Alternate title: A LETTER OF WHOLESOME COUNSEL, ADDRESSED TO HIS BRETHREN IN SCOTLAND, 1556. Available (THE WORKS OF JOHN KNOX), on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #1.
"Formerly titled A LETTER OF WHOLESOME COUNSEL, ADDRESSED TO HIS BRETHREN IN SCOTLAND, 1556. Given the lack of truly Reformed churches in many areas, this letter, full of practical advice, should be a welcome addition to the libraries of those seeking to remain ecclesiastically faithful to the Lord. As God continues to pour out his Spirit (by revealing the doctrines of grace, purity of worship, Presbyterian polity and discipline, Christian education of youth, family worship, the principles of courtship, covenanting [personal, ecclesiastical and national], separation from corrupt and idolatrous communions, male headship, adherence to the WCF [1646] and other faithful confessions, etc.), this letter will provide a useful bridge for those separated geographically from faithful fellowship, until new, duly constituted churches can be formed." -- Publisher

*Machen, J. Gresham, Christianity and Liberalism, ISBN: 0802811213.
"Machen's classic was written in the height of the battle for control over the Presbyterian Church USA (the most prominent of the "mainline denominations), and defines with brilliance the battle lines between liberal (so-called), Christianity and the orthodox faith. Moreover, it points out exactly what is at stake: the true faith, or a perverse shadow of that faith, a shadow based on subjectivism which elevates man's sovereignty over God's and ends in believing nothing at all.
"The one problem with this book (and it made good rhetorical sense at the time, but is somewhat misleading concerning the true nature of the struggle), is Machen's categories. Machen deals with theological conservatives and liberals (legitimate in terms of the Bible's own theological dichotomy between saved and lost), but misses the inescapable fact that there was a third faction at work (a fact which eventually resulted in his defrocking). That third faction was a great mushy evanjellyfish middle, a pietistic/mystical majority which was neither willing to accept the liberal position nor fight for the conservative one. As Machen rightly pointed out two years earlier in his address to incoming students at Princeton (and again, much later, in the last two years of the struggle), these were the Christians who said '"Peace, peace",' when there was no peace,' and elevated that 'peace' over truth. As in all other endeavors, 'peace at any price' resulted in defeat, and in the end, it was that great mushy middle which delivered the PCUSA to the left and off the cliff.
"But it wasn't them alone. To see the mistakes of the conservative side, I strongly recommend North's CROSSED FINGERS, the only definitive history of this fight.
"Yet at the end of the day, you must read Machen. This book is vital for Christians defending their churches and denominations against increasing liberal encroachment, and indeed more so by the day. A great read." -- Reader's Comment
"Still stands, after many years, as one of the strongest books ever written against liberalism. A complete and thorough critique." -- GCB

*Owen, John (1616-1683), True and False Religion, ISBN: 0851510620 9780851510620. A Christian classic.
"Contains many and detailed arguments against the Church of Rome during Owen's day, its teachings, and practices. Owen was answering those in his day who wanted to return to Rome. Still applicable for our day of ecumenism."

Power tends to corrupt and absolute power corrupts absolutely. Great men are almost always bad men, even when they exercise influence and not authority: still more when you superadd the tendency or the certainty of corruption by authority. -- John Emerich Edward Dalberg, Lord Acton (1834-1902), in a letter to Mandell Creighton, April 5, 1887, quoted by Gertrude Himmelfarb in Acton, Essays on Freedom and Power, pp. 335-36 (1972)

"As the world focuses it attention on the papacy, we ought to recall Lord Acton, the great Roman Catholic historian of the 19th century. Many have heard the aphorism, 'Power tends to corrupt; absolute power corrupts absolutely,' though it is usually misquoted as 'Power corrupts.' Few who have heard it, however, know who its author was: John Emerich Edward Dalberg, better known as Lord Acton. Fewer still realize that Acton used the aphorism in opposing the papacy, the absolute monarchy of the Roman Catholic Church.
"Acton's criticisms of the papacy and the Roman Church are some of most damning ever leveled against those institutions, and they are virtually unknown today. Yet to anyone seriously concerned about religious and political freedom, Acton's views on the Roman Church, his own church, in particular his condemnation of the papacy, ought to be of great interest. Unfortunately, contemporary theological correctness has a taboo against criticism of Catholicism.
"Acton kept a notebook on the Inquisition in which he wrote:

[The] object of the Inquisition [was] not to combat sin -- for the sin was not judged by it unless accompanied by [theological] error. Nor even to put down error. For it punished untimely and unseemly remarks the same as blasphemy. Only unity. This became an outward, fictitious, hypocritical unity. The gravest sin was pardoned, but it was death to deny the donation of Constantine. [The Donation of Constantine was a document forged in the eighth century in which the Roman Emperor Constantine willed the Western Roman Empire to the Pope. The Roman Church taught that the Donation was genuine, and the legal basis for the pope's civil authority, for centuries. -- JR]. So men learnt that outward submission must be given. All this [was] to promote authority more than faith. When ideas were punished more severely than actions -- for all this time the Church was softening the criminal law, and saving men from the consequences of crime: -- and the Donation was put on a level with God's own law -- men understood that authority went before sincerity.

"Acton believed that the Inquisition was the institution by which the medieval papacy had to be condemned or acquitted. Just as a man charged with murder is judged for a single act, though be may be kind to his mother and a great philanthropist, so the papacy must be judged for the Inquisition. To Mandell Creighton, an Anglican priest, Acton wrote:

I cannot accept your canon that we are to judge Pope and King unlike other men, with a favourable presumption that they did no wrong. If there is any presumption it is the other way, against holders of power, increasing as the power increases. Historic responsibility has to make up for the want of legal responsibility. Power tends to corrupt, and absolute power corrupts absolutely. Great men are almost always bad men, even when they exercise influence and not authority: still more when you superadd the tendency or the certainty of corruption by authority. There is no worse heresy than that the office sanctifies the holder of it. . . . For many years my view of Catholic controversy has been governed by the following chain of reasoning: 1. A crime does not become a good deed by being committed for the good of a church. 2. The theorist who approves the act is no better than the culprit who commits it. 3. The divine or historian who defends the theorist incurs the same blame. . . . To commit murder is the mark of a moment, exceptional. To defend it is constant, and shows a more perverted conscience.

"Acton turned his attention to other crimes of the Roman Church as well. Beginning on Sunday, August 24, 1572, tens of thousands of French Huguenots were massacred by the Catholics. Overnight, thousands were murdered, and the murders continued for several months. The massacre began in Paris. The sign of the cross was everywhere, and the murders took on the air of a crusade, a holy war against the infidels. The banks of the Seine became a slaughterhouse. Men, women, children, and infants were stabbed or dragged by a rope around the neck to be thrown into the river. The murder, looting, and rape went on for days in Paris.
"The Pope, Gregory XIII, reacted immediately to this Catholic Holocaust: He delivered a complimentary speech, and commended the King of France, Charles IX, who 'has also displayed before our Most Holy Master and this entire assembly the most splendid virtues which can shine in the exercise of power.' The Pope commissioned a mural in honor of the great occasion; he ordered salutes fired for Charles; he had a commemorative seal struck; and in a horrible blasphemy he ordered a special Te Deum sung. Less than two years later, at the age of 24, King Charles died in extreme pain with blood oozing from his pores. His last words were pleas to God for pardon for the murders.
"The massacre was a matter of controversy in 1868 when Acton wrote an essay in the North British Review. He concluded his long essay by saying that there was no evidence to absolve the Roman Church of premeditated murder. Acton argued that it was not only facts that condemned the papacy for this heinous crime, but the whole body of casuistry developed by the church that made it an act of Christian duty and mercy to kill a heretic so that he might be removed from sin. Acton pointed out that only when the Roman Church could no longer rely on force but had to make its case before public opinion did it seek to explain away its murders. 'The same motive which had justified the murder now promoted the lie,' he wrote. A bodyguard of lies was fabricated to protect the papacy from guilt for this monstrous sin. Acton wrote:

The story is much more abominable than we all believed. . . . S.B. [St. Bartholomew's], is the greatest crime of modern times. It was committed on principles professed by Rome. It was approved, sanctioned, and praised by the papacy. The Holy See went out of its way to signify to the world, by permanent and solemn acts, how entirely it admired a king who slaughtered his subjects treacherously, because they were Protestants. To proclaim forever that because a man is a Protestant it is a pious deed to cut his throat in the night. . . .

"For three centuries the Roman church's canon law had affirmed that the killing of an excommunicated person was not murder, and that allegiance need not be kept with heretical rulers. Murder and treason were part of the Roman church's official teachings. Charles IX was acting as a good Catholic, and he was highly praised by the pope for his murders.
"In 1867 Pope Pius IX summoned a general council of the Roman Church to be held in Rome in 1870. It was the first general council of the Roman Church since the sixteenth century Council of Trent, at which the schismatic Roman Church had condemned all the truths of the Reformation. This time the Pope was determined to establish himself as the infallible sovereign of the Roman Church.
"Acton thought that the time of the council would be better spent abolishing many of the 'reforms' made by the Council of Trent, reforms which had perpetuated in the Roman Church a spirit of intolerant absolutism and 'austere immorality.' He opposed the doctrine of papal infallibility, because, as an historian, he knew the popes were not infallible. Acton wrote:

A man is not honest who accepts all the Papal decisions in questions of morality, for they have often been distinctly immoral; or who approves the conduct of the Popes in engrossing power, for it was stained with perfidy and falsehood; or who is ready to alter his convictions at their command, for his conscience is guided by no principle.

"After studying the history of the popes, Acton wrote:

The papacy contrived murder and massacre on the largest and also on the most cruel and inhuman scale. They were not only wholesale assassins but they made the principle of assassination a law of the Christian Church and a condition of salvation. . . . [The Papacy], is the fiend skulking behind the Crucifix.

Martin Luther, John Calvin, John Knox, Samuel Rutherford, John Owen, Thomas Manton, The Westminster Assembly, James Renwick, Archibald Mason, Christopher Ness, Francis Turretin, The Reformed Presbytery, David Steel, James R. Willson, Alexander M'Leod, William L. Roberts, James Aiken Wylie, Andrew Wilet, Henry Wilkinson, James Wylie, Patrick Fairbairn, James Aiken, Andrew Wilet, Alexander Hislop, Francis Nigel Lee, Arthur W. Pink, and so forth, and so on, have all believed and argued in print that the seated Pope is the Antichrist of the Bible.
The Roman Church-State is "the world's oldest, largest, most powerful and most influential politico-ecclesiastical institution" and it "may also be the world's wealthiest." The Roman Catholic Institution is the ultimate "negative guide to the positive," the reformers ultimate "opposite guide to political and economic reform."

*Scott, Otto, R.J. Rushdoony, M.R. Rushdoony, Martin G. Selbrede, and John Lofton, Jr., The Great Christian Revolution: The Myths of Paganism and Arminianism, ISBN: 1879998025 9781879998025.
"Dr. Warfield noted that Calvinism represents the Christian religion in its highest and purest form, for Calvinism alone acknowledges the totality of God's kingly prerogatives over every square inch of our world. This volume supports these powerful truths from three different perspectives, with each author supplying cumulative weight to the proposition that God rules in the affairs of all men, from the least to the greatest. This book will help you sort out much of the current error in theology in our day." -- GCB
"Never has so broad a sweep of Christian history been so swiftly or dramatically told. From the savage tribes of Europe to the rise of the most wealthy and intellectual civilization in the world; from the Dark Ages to the Reformation; from the tyranny of English kings to the spirit of freedom in Philadelphia. Otto Scott takes you on a gripping journey through the rise and fall of men and empires, while the Christian faith has always shined through every generation. Get this book for your library." -- Publisher

*Turretin, Francis (1623-1687), Institutes of Elenctic Theology, Vols. 1, 2, and 3, ISBN: 0875524516 9780875524511 0875524524 9780875524528.
Turretin was the renowned teacher of the Academy in Geneva and successor to Calvin, Beza, and Diodati.
These three volumes "mark the arrival of the first complete edition of the INSTITUTES OF ELENCTIC THEOLOGY to be published in the English language. Heartily recommended by James Montgomery Boice, Sinclair B. Ferguson, John H. Gerstner, Leon Morris, and others. Theologians, pastors, and students will welcome this treatise, which first develops and then contrast Reformed doctrines with Roman Catholic, Arminian, and Socinian views. . . ." -- Publisher
Francis Turretin, excerpts
http://www.apuritansmind.com/FrancisTurretin/francisturretin.htm

*Van Pernis, G.M., Masonry, Antithesis of the Christ: A Study of Freemasonry in the Light of the Word of God: Also Tested by the Reformed Standards.

See also: The sovereignty of god, The doctrine of man (human nature, total depravity), The sovereign grace of god: his everlasting mercy and lovingkindness, Idolartry, Pride, ambition, self-aggrandizement, arrogance, ego, Soul-violence, Priestcraft, pharisaism, soul-stealing, Spiritual adultery (spiritual whoredom/harlotry), Pseudo-christian movements, Secret societies, ungodly alliances, voluntary alliances, The Occult, spiritism, witchcraft, Repentance the key to salvation and change, Justification, Justifying faith, Post-traumatic stress disorder (ptsd), Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, False gospels, Mind control, Abuse, Child abuse and pedophilia, Arminianism, Antinomianism, The counter-reformation, The teaching of our lord jesus christ, The theology of freedom, Christian liberty, Political and economic freedom, Heaven, Reform of the church, Interpersonal relations in the local church, Sharing christ with your children, and so forth, and so on.

Related Weblinks

Books About the International Churches of Christ (Formerly the Boston Church of Christ)
http://www.tolc.org

Brain, Mind and Body in Healing From Trauma, The People's Pharmacy Radio Program, show 980, February 7, 2015.
"To help people heal from trauma, the best approaches find ways to reconnect brain and body with a feeling of safety. . . .
"We often associate the term 'Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder' with military veterans. Indeed, war creates many traumatic experiences, but it is not the only source of reactions that may cause people to shut down or blow up. Car, train or plane crashes, a life-threatening illness episode, family violence, or other events can create a dysfunctional reaction that may be largely out of conscious awareness.
"Treating PTSD
"One of the world's leading experts on PTSD explains how such reactions are rooted in the body's response to threat, and how it can be successfully treated. . . .
"Dr. van der Kolk is co-director of the Complex Trauma Treatment Network of the National Child Traumatic Stress Network, established by Congress to raise the standard of care and improve access to services for traumatized children, their families and communities. His website is http://www.BesselvanderKolk.com
"His book is THE BODY KEEPS THE SCORE: BRAIN, MIND AND BODY IN THE HEALING OF TRAUMA (2014)."
http://www.peoplespharmacy.com/2015/02/04/show-980-brain-mind-and-body-in-healing-from-trauma/

Corporate Faithfulness and Sanctification (part 1)
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr9cha.html

Corporate Faithfulness and Sanctification (part 2)
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr9chb.html

Pseudo-Christian Movements: A Selection of Works
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrrappd.html

A Resolution to Combat Mind Control With Truth
http://www.lettermen2.com/mindc.html

Roman Catholicism: Is it a Cult?
http://www.rapidnet.com/~jbeard/bdm/Cults/Catholicism/isitcult.htm

Spiritual Abuse
Extensive resources.
http://www.apologeticsindex.org/8006-spiritual-abuse

Spiritual Abuse
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spiritual_abuse

Unfaithful Reformed Ministries
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrrappd.html#unfaith

Warning Signs of Destructive Cults and Satanism
http://www.lettermen2.com/warncult.html

What do the Churches and the Cults Have in Common: Spiritually Abusive Systems
http://www.believersweb.org/view.cfm?ID=681

Church Leadership

See the Theological Notes: "Pastors and Pastoral Care," at 1 Peter 5:2 in The Reformation Study Bible.
And Jesus said unto them, Verily I say unto you, That ye which have followed me, in the regeneration when the Son of man shall sit in the throne of his glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel.
And every one that hath forsaken houses, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my name's sake, shall receive an hundredfold, and shall inherit everlasting life.
But many [that are] first shall be last; and the last [shall be] first. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 19:28-30)
Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you.
Notwithstanding in this rejoice not, that the spirits are subject unto you; but rather rejoice, because your names are written in heaven. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 10:19)
The Treasury of David, Psalm 20, C.H. Spurgeon
Now know I that the Lord saveth his anointed, he will hear him from his holy heaven with the saving strength of his right hand. (Psalm 20:6)
http://archive.spurgeon.org/treasury/ps020.php
The Treasury of David, Psalm 21, C.H. Spurgeon
For the king trusteth in the LORD, and through the mercy of the most High he shall not be moved. (Psalm 21:7)
http://archive.spurgeon.org/treasury/ps021.php
http://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/gills-exposition-of-the-bible/psalms-21-7.html
http://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/matthew-henry-complete/psalms/21.html
http://www.biblestudyguide.org/comment/calvin/comm_vol08/htm/xxvii.htm
Not a novice, lest being lifted up with pride he fall into the condemnation of the devil. (1 Timothy 3:6)
He must not be a novice, not one newly brought to the Christian religion, or not one who is but meanly instructed in it, who knows no more of religion than the surface of it, for such a one is apt to be lifted up with pride: the more ignorant men are the more proud they are: Lest, being lifted up with pride, he fall into the condemnation of the devil. The devils fell through pride, which is a good reason why we should take heed of pride, because it is a sin that turned angels into devils. -- Matthew Henry commenting on 1 Timothy 3:6
If I had only three years to serve the Lord, I would spend two of them studying and preparing. -- Donald Grey Barnhouse
Never let the work of the Lord cause you to neglect the Lord of the work.

Anonymous, A Vindication of the Presbyteriall-government, and Ministry: Together, with an Exhortation, to all the ministers, elders, and people, within the bounds of the province of London, whether joyning with us, or separating from us. Published, by the ministers, and elders, met together in a provinciall assembly, Novemb. 2d. 1649. Wherein, amongst other things, these ensuing particulars are contained; 1. That there is a Church-government, by divine right. 2. That the magistrate, is not the fountain of Church-government. 3. That the presbyterial-government, is by divine right. 4. The inconveniencies of the congregationall-way. 5. That the ruling-elder is by divine right. 6. That it is the will of Jesus Christ, that all sorts of persons should give an account of their faith, to the minister, and elders, before admission to the Lords Supper; . . . 7. Directions to the elders, for the right managing of their office. 8. Directions to such as are admitted to the Lords Supper, . . . 9. Rules to preserve people, from the errours of these times. 10. That separation from our churches, is justly charged with schisme. 11. That ministers formerly ordained by bishops, need no new ordination. 12. The necessity and usefulness of catechizing. Licensed, entred, and printed according to order, 1649. Available (under Robert Baillie and Sundry Ministers of London) on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #23.

Baillie, Robert (1599-1662), The Unlawfulness and Danger of Limited Prelacy, or Perpetual Presidency in the Church, Briefly Discovered, 1641. Alternate title: THE UNLAVVFULNESSE AND DANGER OF LIMITED EPISCOPACIE. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #23.
"A defense of Alexander Henderson."

Baker, Don, Beyond Forgiveness: The Healing Touch of Church Discipline, ISBN: 0880700548 9780880700542.

Barrs, Jerram, and Howard A. Snyder (foreword), Shepherds and Sheep: A Biblical View of Leading and Following, ISBN: 0877843953 9780877843955.
Includes bibliographical references.

*Baxter, Richard (1615-1691), Reformed Pastor. A Christian classic.
"Dr. J.I. Packer describes him as 'the most outstanding pastor, evangelist, and writer on practical and devotional themes that Puritanism produced. . . .' in the words of his contemporary, Thomas Manton, he 'came nearer the apostolic writings than any man in the age. . . .' Today, Baxter's principles, drawn from Scripture, and re-applied in terms of modern circumstances, will provide both ministers and other Christians with challenge, direction, and help." -- Publisher
The Reformed Pastor (singly, e-text)
http://www.ccel.org/ccel/baxter/pastor.html
Richard Baxter, from Wikipedia
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Richard_Baxter
Compassionate Counsel to all Young men (1681), by Richard Baxter
http://www.lettermen2.com/ccaym.html

Beeke, Joel, The Utter Necessity of a Godly Life, a chapter appearing in Armstrong, John H. (editor, contributor), et al., Erwin W. Lutzer (foreword), Reforming Pastoral Ministry: Challenges for Ministry in Postmodern Times, ISBN: 1581341792 9781581341799.
"Joel Beeke's chapter, "The Utter Necessity of a Godly Life," gives a pointed reminder to pastors that their lives must be lived above reproach. Much of the chapter seems elementary at its best and patronizing at its worst; but it does serve as a not-so-subtle rebuke to the minister whose life reflects more of this world than of the next world. Beeke reminds pastors that their congregations can never rise above the depth of their own spirituality. Pastors must always be one step ahead in the never-ending quest for godliness. It is easy for the busy pastor to substitute the duties of the job for devotion to the Savior, such as using sermon preparation as a substitute for devotional meditation. I have fallen into this trap, especially while under the time pressures common to many bi-vocational pastors. Now as a 'fully supported,' pastor, I realize that the giftedness of my ministry must be authenticated by the fruitfulness of my character and conduct borne out of a passionate love relationship with Jesus. My people will never see Jesus reflected in my life if I neglect spending time in the Tent of Meeting." -- Reader's Comment

*Bonar, Horatius (1808-1889), Words to Winners of Souls, ISBN: 0875521649 9780875521640. A Christian classic.
"WORDS TO WINNERS OF SOULS, by Horatius Bonar, is addressed primarily to ministers of the Gospel. It is wondrously effective in its message to those called to preach the precious words of the Scriptures. However, the usefulness of the book is not confined to ministers, but has a message for all witnesses of Christ. The same spirit, sincerity, and fervency is needful for all witnesses, whatever their calling in life. There can be but one goal to winners of souls, to lead the lost sinners around them to that 'resting place where doubt and weariness, the stings of a pricking conscience, and the longings of an unsatisfied soul' may be satisfied, in Christ Jesus. In Him alone will all these be changed into holy joy, peace, and everlasting happiness." -- Jay P. Green, Sr. (1918-2008)
"Bonar opens the book with an appeal for ministers who are awake. That is, he laments the state of a church that has convention centers full of clergy, but barely a bathtub full of true shepherds. . . . From there he moves on to paint a portrait of a 'living ministry,' that is, a ministry that is alive with passion and awake to the realities of heaven and hell, sin and salvation, meaning and futility. . . . In chapter 3 Bonar begins to name, with great candor and force, what he calls 'ministerial defects.' That is, those areas of pastoral ministry which are most vital, but most neglected. . . . In chapter 4, one of the most moving and inspiring (and humiliating), chapters I have ever read, Bonar quotes the Scottish Ministerial Confession of 1651. This is, in short, a corporate confession of the varied (and detailed), sins of the ministers of the church of Scotland. This alone is worth the book. It is telling, convicting (in the truest sense of the word), and I think, exemplary. In the final chapter, Bonar ends on a more hopeful note (the hug after the beating), and points us to a vision of revival in the ministry. . . ." -- Reader's Comment

Briner, Bob, The Leadership Lessons of Jesus: A Timeless Model for Today's Leaders, ISBN: 0805463569 9780805463569.
"Bob Briner and Ray Pritchard bring an exciting and refreshing look at how the greatest leader in the world can provide the blueprint to become leaders in our own lives, our communities, our workplace, and especially in our own families. If you are a father, a brother, a coach, a teacher, or someone in a position of influencing another human being, this is a must read!" -- Reader's Comment
"There are too many leaders in the church and not enough followers of the only Leader, Jesus Christ. Bob Briner puts leadership in the proper context. A Leader is supposed to lead others, not to himself, but to Jesus." -- Cal Thomas

Briner, Bob, The Management Methods of Jesus: Ancient Wisdom for Modern Business, ISBN: 0785276815 9780785276814.
"THE MANAGEMENT METHODS OF JESUS is loaded with insights on real-life situations managers and business people face every day. This comprehensive book covers topics such as planning and preparation, recruitment and hiring, communication and conflict resolution, public relations and business ethics, employee satisfaction and family friendliness. All this, and more, based on principles of management practiced by the greatest manager the world has ever known." -- Publisher

*Brown, John (of Edinburgh, 1784-1858), Christian Pastor's Manual: A Selection of Tracts on the Duties, Difficulties, and Encouragements of the Christian Ministry, ISBN: 1573581364 9781573581363.

*Brown, John (of Edinburgh, 1784-1858), Plain Discourses on Important Subjects.

Brown, John (of Haddington, 1722-1787), The Gospel Ministry: An Address to Ministers and Students of Theology, 1864. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #7.

*Gillespie, Patrick (1617-1675), Rulers Sins: The Causes of National Judgments, or a Sermon Preached at the Fast, Upon the 26th Day of December, Prov. XIV. 34; 2 Kings XVII. 22,23; Ezek. XIX. 14, or a Sermon Preached at the Fast, Upon the 26th Day of December 1650. [Proverbs 14:34; 2 Kings 17:22,23; Ezekiel 19:14] Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
Notwithstanding the Lord turned not from the fierceness of his great wrath wherewith his anger was kindled against Judah, because of the provocations that Manasseh had provoked him withal. (2 Kings 23:26).
"For these in public places of trust and power, that should bear down sin, are they not rather ringleaders in sin?" -- Patrick Gillespie
Rulers Sins: The Causes of National Judgments
http://www.truecovenanter.com/gillespie/gillespie_patrick_rulers_sins_causes_of_judgment.html

Inrig, Gary, Life in His Body: Discovering Purpose, Form, and Freedom in His Church, ISBN: 0877885001 9780877885009.
"A capable, overall presentation of Biblical data on the leadership and organization of the local church. Commendable." -- Cyril J. Barber

*Luther, Martin (1483-1546), That a Christian Assembly or Congregation has the Right and Power to Judge all Teaching and to Call, Appoint, and Dismiss Teachers, Established and Proven by Scripture. Available in Martin Luther, Conrad John Immanuel Bergendoff, and Eric W. Gritsch, Church and Ministry, 3 volumes. Available in LUTHER'S WORKS, VOLUME 39, CHURCH AND MINISTRY, ISBN: 0800603397 9780800603397.
That a Christian Assembly or Congregation has the Right and Power to Judge all Teaching and to Call, Appoint, and Dismiss Teachers, Established and Proven by Scripture, Martin Luther (accessed 2/27/2016)
https://www.uni-due.de/collcart/es/sem/s6/txt06_1.htm
Luther, Martin, That a Christian Assembly or Congregation has the Right and Power to Judge all Teaching and to Call, Appoint, and Dismiss Teachers, Established and Proven by Scripture.
http://www.covenanter.org/reformed/2016/4/21/that-a-christian-assembly-or-congregation-has-the-right-and-power-to-judge-all-teaching-and-to-call-appoint-and-dismiss-teachers-established-and-proven-by-scripture

Mack, Wayne A., The Role of Women in the Church: A Study of the Bible to Discover God's Directives for the Church in This Area of Modern day Confusion and Turmoil, 84 pages.
"After introductory comments, the book breaks into two major sections: what women may not do in the church and what women may do in the church. 'God said to the women, "You glorify me in doing these particular acts." He also said to the men, "You glorify me by doing other acts".' May God help men and women to cheerfully submit to the will of God, for God's way is perfect." -- David Powlison (1949-2019)

Mauro, Philip, The Church, the Churches, the Kingdom.
"The purpose of this book is a plea for a return to the Biblical significance of 'Church' and 'Kingdom.' Mauro maintains that serious loss has taken place through confusion in usage of these words, and that much is to be gained through restoration of their Biblical meaning." -- GCB

*Miller, Samuel (1769-1850), The Ruling Elder: An Essay on the Warrant, Nature, and Duties of the Office (1832). Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #23. Available in HOLDING FAST THE FAITHFUL WORD: SERMONS AND ADDRESSES BY SAMUEL MILLER which is included in Library of Presbyterian Heritage Publications and Protestant Heritage Press CD-ROM Library. Available (LIBRARY OF PRESBYTERIAN HERITAGE PUBLICATIONS AND PROTESTANT HERITAGE PRESS CD-ROM LIBRARY), on the Puritan Hard Drive.
" 'One of the classics in the field,' notes Morton Smith. G.I. Williamson writes, 'We . . . heartily welcome the reprint of this excellent survey of the biblical data and warmly recommend it to those who are -- or desire to be -- elders in the church.' The most extensive study of its kind available. For ruling elders this is must reading! Over 300 pages of sound biblical guidance." -- Publisher
The Ruling Elder, Samuel Miller
http://www.swrb.com/newslett/actualnls/RulElder.htm

*Perkins, William (1558-1602), Sinclair B. Ferguson (editor), The Art of Prophesying, With, The Calling of the Ministry, modernized edition. Alternate title: (THE CALLING OF THE MINISTRY), OF THE CALLING OF THE MINISTERIE, TWO TREATISES, ISBN: 0851516890 9780851516899.
"Called 'the principal architect of Elizabethan Puritanism' and 'the most important Puritan writer,' Perkins was the first theologian of the Reformed English church to gain an international reputation. His preaching manual, THE ART OF PROPHESYING . . . is found on nearly every seventeenth century New England book list." (Encyclopedia of the Reformed Faith, p. 274). -- Publisher
"Part One, 'The Art of Prophesying,' is really a handbook on hermeneutics and homiletics from the Puritan perspective. Perkins explicates the several principles for interpreting and expounding the Scriptures and then gives detailed instruction on how to apply the same. The chapter on 'Use and Application' will give readers the background behind the familiar Puritan sermon structure of "Doctrine and Use.
"Parts Two and Three deal with 'The Calling of the Ministry.' They are really nothing more than the exposition of two Old Testament passages of Scripture, Job 33 and Isaiah 6. Many interesting and practical issues are handled here including how a minister might know his calling and what his responsibilities are to God's people. Perkins had a high view of the dignity and authority of the ministerial gift which is sadly lacking among evangelicals today. While some of his ideas will seem foreign and perhaps a little extreme to many, it is certain that his emphasis will help balance our opposite extremes. . . .
"For those who are checking out this title hoping to get a Puritan perspective on the charismatic understanding of the gift of prophesy, the following quote well summarizes Perkins' view: 'I am not here making any allowance for the claims people make that they have received "revelations." These have no substance; they are either dreams of their own, or illusions of the devil. They despise both human learning and the study of the Scriptures, and trust exclusively in "revelations of the Spirit." But God's Spirit does not work except on the foundation of the Word.' Such was the Puritan understanding of those who claimed extra-Biblical revelation. By 'prophesy' Perkins understood 'preaching.' And that is what this book is about." -- Reader's Comment

Rassieur, Charles L., Stress Management for Ministers, ISBN: 0664243975 9780664243975.

Richards, Lawrence O., and Clyde Hoeldtke, A Theology of Church Leadership, ISBN: 0310319609 9780310319603.
"This seminal assessment of the needs of the church denounces authoritarian and secular methods of managerial leadership and stresses, instead, the authority of the Word, submission to Christ as the true Head, and servant leadership, which is dynamically different from the usual methodologies practiced by many 'shepherds' today." -- Cyril J. Barber

Rollock, Robert (1555?-1599), Henry Holland; Theodore de Beze, A Treatise of Gods Effectual Calling: Written First in the Latine Tongue, by the Reuerend and Faithfull Seruant of Christ, Maister Robert Rollock, Preacher of Gods Word in Edenburgh. And now faithfully translated for the benefite of the vnlearned, into the English tongue, by Henry Holland, preacher in London, 1603.

Sanders, Oswald, Dynamic Spiritual Leadership: Leading Like Paul, ISBN: 1572930527 978157293 0520.

Sanders, Oswald, Spiritual Leadership, ISBN: 0802467997 9780802467997.
"Oswald Sanders begins his inspiring book by asking, 'Should it not be the office that seeks the man, rather than the man the office?' Personal ambition is the arch enemy of everyone with leadership potential.
"The great and yet simple golden nuggets of insight are shared to lead the servant of God, bent on serving Him, to realize that in our service . . . we lead others!" -- Reader's Comment

Scipione, George, Timothy, Titus and you: A Workbook for Church Leaders, ISBN: 0916034011 9780916034016.
"Reprint of Scipione's 1975 book. A tool for training elders that forces them to confront the Scriptures in personalized detail. Nine lessons work through the elder's calling, prayer life, relationship to women, qualifications for office, challenge to discernment, management of God's household, discipline of others, wisdom in biblical counseling, and charge to faithfulness." -- David Powlison (1949-2019)
Institute of Biblical Counseling and Discipleship (formerly CCEF West)
http://www.ibcd.org/

*Spurgeon, C.H. (1834-1892), Lectures to my Students, ISBN: 0310329116 9780310329114. A Christian classic. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
"One contemporary scholar and authority on Spurgeon says of this work: 'Next to Mr. Spurgeon's great literary work, THE TREASURY OF DAVID, we consider these LECTURES TO MY STUDENTS his greatest single contribution to the Christian world. There is more practical wisdom, common sense and sage advice packed within these pages than with any other book of similar size or content.' This complete and unabridged edition of Spurgeon's great work will make it possible for today's generation to appreciate Spurgeon's combination of discerning wit and refreshingly practical advice. Included in the 28 chapters of this classic volume on homiletics are such lectures as: -- The Call to Ministry -- The Preacher's Private Prayer -- On the Choice of a Text -- On the Voice -- The Holy Spirit in Connection with Our Ministry -- Posture, Action, Gesture, etc. -- The Blind Eye and the Deaf Ear -- On Conversion as Our Aim -- Illustrations in Preaching -- As were all of Spurgeon's' messages to his people, each of these lectures is Scripture-saturated and Christ-honoring. They move swiftly and are fascinating in their content and sage counsel. . . .
"Spurgeon realized that he could influence the church beyond his own lifetime if he could encourage future pastors to trust the Bible, love people, and preach the truth fearlessly. To achieve this he collected his lectures to his college students and published this book. It has been a classic of pastoral theology ever since and is still used to train ministers to this day (back cover)." -- Publisher
Lectures to my Students: Being Addresses Delivered to the Students of the Pastors' College, Metropolitan Tabernacle (1877)
http://archive.org/details/lecturestomystud1877spur

Swinnock, George, 1627-1673, The Pastors Farevvell, and VVish of VVelfare to his People, or, A Valedictory Sermon by George Swinnock, 1662.
The pastors recommendation of his people to God.

Willson, James Mcleod (1809-1866), The Deacon: An Inquiry Into the Nature, Duties and Exercise of the Office of Deacon, in the Christian Church; Bible Magistracy: or Christ's Dominion Over the Nations: With an Examination of the Civil Institutions of the United States; An Essay on Submission to the Powers that be; Civil Government: An Exposition of Romans XIII. 1-7 [Romans 13:1-7], Argumentative Testimony, Witnessing: or the Distinct Denomination Position of the Reformed Presbyterian Church Right and Necessary. Alternate title: PAMPHLET ON THE DEACON.
The Deacon: An Inquiry Into the Nature, Duties and Exercise of the Office of Deacon, in the Christian Church
http://www.covenanter.org/reformed/2016/6/1/the-deacon

Wilson, William, A Defence of the Reformation Principles of the Church of Scotland. With a Continuation of the Same. And a Letter From a Member of the Associate Presbytery . . . Wherein the Exceptions That are Laid Against the Conduct of the Associate Presbytery are examined, 1769. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #27.

See also: The sovereignty of god, The doctrine of man (human nature, total depravity), The sovereign grace of god: his everlasting mercy and lovingkindness, The inspiration and infallibility of scripture (the doctrine of revelation, the doctrine of plenary inspiration, the doctrine of divine inspiration, the doctrine of verbal inspiration, theopneustia, sufficiency of scripture), Repentance the key to salvation and change, Justification, Justifying faith, Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, The local church, Authority, Power, Power religion, Bible magistracy turns back the wrath of god, The doctrine of the lesser magistrates, Church government, The teaching of our lord jesus christ, Church and state, Christ our example, Servant leadership, Authority, Power, Power religion, Leadership, Covenanted Reformation: the application of scripture to the corporate bodies of church and state, ungodly alliance, Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, Sexual relationship, Spiritual adultery (spiritual whoredom/harlotry), and so forth, and so on.
TCRB5: 730, 732, 734, 735, 738, 746-748, 750, 753-755, 2839, 2086, 3177-3179, 4012

Related Weblinks

The Faithful Elder, Archibald Alexander
http://www.westminsterconfession.org/the-church/the-faithful-elder.php

Reform of the Church

Great and marvellous are thy works,
Lord God Almighty;
just and true are thy ways,
thou King of saints.
Who shall not fear thee, O Lord, and glorify thy name?
for though only art holy:
for all the nations shall come and worship before thee;
for thy judgments are made manifest. (Revelation 15:3b,4)
Calvin writing about 1557 (462 years ago [2020]) about David rejoicing in the sovereignty of God (about 1050 B.C., or 3,069 years ago, "that notwithstanding his enemies rage [Saul], yet God will continue his kingdom forever, and advance it even to the end of the word." [commentary on Psalm 2, 1599 Geneva Bible])
Let us break, etc. This is a prosopopoeia, in which the prophet introduces his enemies as speaking; and he employs this figure the better to express their ungodly and traitorous design. Not that they openly avowed themselves rebels against God, (for they rather covered their rebellion under every possible pretext, and presumptuously boasted of having God on their side;) but since they were fully determined, by all means, fair or foul, to drive David from the throne, whatever they professed with the mouth, the whole of their consultation amounted to this, how they might overthrow the kingdom which God himself had set up. When he describes his government under the metaphorical expressions of bonds, and a yoke, on the persons of his adversaries, he indirectly condemns their pride. For he represents them speaking scornfully of his government, as if to submit to it were a slavish and shameful subjection, just as we see it is with all the enemies of Christ who, when compelled to be subject to his authority reckon it not less degrading than if the utmost disgrace were put upon them. -- John Calvin commenting on Psalm 2:3
For the Lord is our Judge, the Lord is our Lawgiver, the Lord is our King; He will save us. (Isaiah 33:22)
Isaiah's Prophesy after the Angel of the Lord smote Sennacherib's army for good King Hezekiah.
My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge: because thou hast rejected knowledge, I will also reject thee, that thou shalt be no priest to me: seeing thou hast forgotten the law of thy God, I will also forget thy children. As they were increased, so they sinned against me: therefore will I change their glory into shame. (Hosea 4:6,7)
The greatest menace to the Christian Church to-day comes not from the enemies outside, but from the enemies within; it comes from the presence within the Church of a type of faith and practice that is anti-Christian to the core. -- J. Gresham Machen (1881-1937), Christianity and Liberalism
Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world. Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God: And every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God: and this is that spirit of antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the world. (1 John 4:1-3)
These are days wherein we have as sad and tremendous examples of apostasy, backsliding, and falling from high and glorious pitches in profession, as any age can parallel. As many washed swine returning to their mire, and as many Demases going after the present evil world [2 Timothy 4:10], and men going out from the church which were never truly and properly of it, as many sons of the morning and children of high illumination and gifts sitting in darkness, and that of all sorts; as ever in so short a space of time since the name of Christ was known upon the earth. What through the deviating of some to the ways of the world, and the lusts of the flesh; what of others, to spiritual wickedness and abominations; it is seldom that we see a professor to hold out in the glory of his profession to the end. -- John Owen (1616-1683)
Why do we, as a nation, continue to accept wicked leadership? Notice that an answer is given in the visions of Daniel, chapters 7 through 12 [Daniel 7:1].
John Calvin's commentary on Daniel is said to be one of his most remarkable writings. Readers who want to study Daniel in relation to this question might start with Calvin's remarks on Daniel 12:10. Many shall be purified, and made white, and tried; but the wicked shall do wickedly: and none of the wicked shall understand; but the wise shall understand. (Daniel 12:10)

Unless ye believe, ye shall not [come to] understand. (Isaiah 7:9, Greek Septuagint) became a motto for Augustine's intellectual quest.
Augustine quoted St. Ambrose's commentary on Isaiah in support of his own doctrine.
If ye will not believe, surely ye shall not be established. (Isaiah 7:9b)
They have not known nor understood: for he hath shut their eyes, that they cannot see; and their hearts, that they cannot understand. (Isaiah 44:18)
And I will give them an heart to know me, that I am the LORD: and they shall be my people, and I will be their God: for they shall return unto me with their whole heart. (Jeremiah 24:7)
The God of my rock; in him will I trust: he is my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my high tower, and my refuge, my saviour; thou savest me from violence. (2 Samuel 22:3)
The God of Israel said, the Rock of Israel spake to me, He that ruleth over men must be just, ruling in the fear of God. (2 Samuel 23:3)
See the Theological Notes: "The Kingdom of God," at Luke 17:20 in The Reformation Study Bible.
Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed;
And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (John 8:31,32)
Let no man beguile you of your reward in a voluntary humility and worshipping of angels, intruding into those things which he hath not seen, vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind,
And not holding the Head, from which all the body by joints and bands having nourishment ministered, and knit together, increaseth with the increase of God. (Colossians 2:18,19)
(For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;) Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ; And having in readiness to revenge all disobedience, when your obedience is fulfilled. (2 Corinthians 10:4-6)
Thus saith the Lord; Cursed be the man that trusteth in man, and maketh flesh his arm, and whose heart departeth from the Lord. For he shall be like the heath in the desert, and shall not see when good cometh; but shall inhabit the parched places in the wilderness, in a salt land and not inhabited. Blessed is the man that trusteth in the Lord, and whose hope the Lord is. For he shall be as a tree planted by the waters, and that spreadeth out her roots by the river, and shall not see when heat cometh, but her leaf shall be green; and shall not be careful in the year of drought, neither shall cease from yielding fruit. (Jeremiah 17:5-8)
We may depend upon it -- that knowledge of Christ, obedience to Christ, and the fruits of the Spirit -- are the only tests by which God weighs and measures any Church.
If these are absent, He cares nothing for beautiful buildings, fine singing, and a pompous ceremonial. These are 'leaves,' and He desires to see not leaves only, but 'fruit.' The tree of the Church of England perhaps never had so many leaves on it, as it has just now. I wish there was a corresponding quantity of fruit! -- J.C. Ryle (1816-1900)
This is a remarkable passage, showing that the Church is not always so preserved, as to continue to outward appearance to survive, but that when she seems to be dead, she is suddenly created anew, whenever it so pleases God. Let no desolation, therefore, which befalls the Church, deprive us of the hope, that as God once created the world out of nothing, so it is his proper work to bring forth the Church from the darkness of death. -- John Calvin commenting on Psalm 102:18 and context
Men are undoubtedly more in danger from prosperity than from adversity. For when matters go smoothly, they flatter themselves and are intoxicated by their success. -- John Calvin
It is an evil which prevails everywhere among mankind, that every one sets himself above others, and especially that those who seem in anything to excel cannot well endure their inferiors to be on an equality with themselves. And then there is so much morosity almost in all, that individuals would gladly make churches for themselves if they could; for they find it so difficult to accommodate themselves to the ways and habits of others. The rich envy one another; and hardly one in a hundred can be found among the rich, who allows to the poor the name and rank of brethren. Unless similarity of habits or some allurements or advantages draw us together, it is very difficult even to maintain a continual concord among ourselves. Extremely needed, therefore, by us all is the admonition to be stimulated to love and not to envy, and not to separate from those whom God has joined to us, but to embrace with brotherly kindness all those who are united to us in faith. And surely it behoves us the more earnestly to cultivate unity, as the more eagerly watchful Satan is, either to tear us by any means from the Church, or stealthily to seduce us from it. And such would be the happy effect, were no one to please himself too much, and were all of us to preserve this one object, mutually to provoke one another to love, and to allow no emulation among ourselves, but that of doing "good works." For doubtless the contempt of the brethren, moroseness, envy, immoderate estimate of ourselves, and other sinful impulses, clearly show that our love is either very cold, or does not at all exist.
Having said, Not forsaking the assembling together, he adds, But exhorting one another; by which he intimates that all the godly ought by all means possible to exert themselves in the work of gathering together the Church on every side; for we are called by the Lord on this condition, that every one should afterwards strive to lead others to the truth, to restore the wandering to the right way, to extend a helping hand to the fallen, to win over those who are without. But if we ought to bestow so much labor on those who are yet aliens to the flock of Christ, how much more diligence is required in exhorting the brethren whom God has already joined to us?
As the manner of some is, etc. It hence appears that the origin of all schisms was, that proud men, despising others, pleased themselves too much. But when we hear that there were faithless men even in the age of the Apostles, who departed from the Church, we ought to be less shocked and disturbed by similar instances of defection which we may see in the present day. It is indeed no light offense when men who had given some evidence of piety and professed the same faith with us, fall away from the living God; but as it is no new thing, we ought, as I have already said, to be less disturbed by such an event. But the Apostle introduced this clause to show that he did not speak without a cause, but in order to apply a remedy to a disease that was making progress. -- John Calvin commenting on Hebrews 10:25
Martin Luther remarked that true religion was never more endangered than when it was in the company of "reverend" men. -- John W. Robbins in Beware of Men
Here the Psalmist, informs us that sore and grievous as his temptation had been, he was restrained by the fear of God from desiring to attempt anything unworthy of the character of a godly man. We are prone to fall into despair when princes who are armed with power to overwhelm us are hostile to and molest us. The evil is also aggravated from the consideration that it is the very persons who ought to be as bucklers to defend us, who employ their strength in hurting us. Yea, when the afflicted are stricken by those in high places, they in a manner think that the hand of God is against them. There was also this peculiarity in the case of the Prophet, that he had to encounter the grandees of the chosen people -- men whom God had placed in such honor-able stations, to the end they might be the pillars of the Church." -- John Calvin commenting on Psalm 119:161 and context
Power tends to corrupt and absolute power corrupts absolutely. Great men are almost always bad men, even when they exercise influence and not authority: still more when you superadd the tendency or the certainty of corruption by authority. -- John Emerich Edward Dalberg, Lord Acton (1834-1902), in a letter to Mandell Creighton, April 5, 1887, quoted by Gertrude Himmelfarb in Acton, Essays on Freedom and Power, pp. 335-36 (1972)
And if this be your sin, to be moved away from it [Truth], then it must needs be your duty, to avoid the temptations, means and occasions of such unsettlement. And this is that which is intended in all those cautions given in the word, and but lately recited.
I am against the prophets, saith the Lord, that steal my words every one from his neighbour, Jeremiah 23:30. He means the false prophets that enticed the people from those truths, which the true prophets had taught them. There be spiritual cut purses abroad, pray look to yourselves: The old Chemarims are revived again in this generation: The word Zephaniah 1:4 is conceived to come from . . . incaluit [hot]; (i.e.) Men more zealous and hot than ordinary, for their superstitious traditions; inflamed with desires to draw you to it: Ut multitudine sequocium, sese efferant: Which the apostle englishes, Galatians 6:13 that they may glory in your flesh: And therefore beware of men." [Philippians 3:2; 2 Timothy 3:13] -- John Flavel (1627-1691)
On the contrary, he charges them with gross and voluntary ignorance, as if he had said that, by their madness, they brought down destruction on themselves. The meaning therefore is, that the people perished because they despised instruction . . . .
Hence we draw a useful doctrine; namely, that the source of all our calamities is, that we do not allow ourselves to be taught by the word of God, and this is what the Prophet chiefly intended that we should observe. . . .
So then it is a true statement, that the reason why the people endure such a variety of afflictions is, that they are ignorant of God, and will not allow themselves to be taught by him. -- John Calvin commenting on Isaiah 5:13
We are an illiterate nation incapable of understanding great truth. -- C. Gregg Singer (1910-1999)
So many times people in the pew and the pulpit say, well how did all this get started? How did psychology descend to its present level? . . . How did political science produce our political thought, produce the dictatorships which are engulfing the modern world? Why are we in the economic mess in which we are today? Why is sociology such a jumble of immorality? Why is education as it is today? Why is art so meaningless? . . . Why is modern music an affront to the modern ears as well as to the mind and ear of God? . . . Why are all these things!? . . .
I would suggest to you that if you will follow this course with thought and care, you will finally come to see the answer to the questions which haunt us today in Western society." -- Singer, C. Gregg (1910-1999), in the Apologetics series of 24 lectures using FROM RATIONALISM TO IRRATIONALITY: THE DECLINE OF THE WESTERN MIND FROM THE RENAISSANCE TO THE PRESENT (1979) as the text, and delivered in Decatur, Georgia, beginning November, 1979.
Apologetics: #01: Classical and Medieval Thought #1
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Apologetics, 56 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=2250511453
These things which I set before you are not those which I have meditated with myself in my shady nook, but those which the invincible martyrs of God realized amid gibbets, and flames, and ravenous beasts! Had not their courage been thus whetted, they would in an instant have perfidiously abjured the eternal truth, which they intrepidly sealed with their blood. They did not set us an example of constancy in asserting the truth that we should now desert it, when handed down to us so signed and sealed; but they taught us the art by which, trusting in the Divine protection, we stand invincible by all powers of death, hell, the world, and Satan! Farewell. -- John Calvin in "On Shunning the Unlawful Rites of the Ungodly" in Calvin's Selected Works
Charles Spurgeon on the apostasy in the Presbyterian Church in Scotland in 1870
In the same establishment may be found believers in nearly every dogma of the Popish creed, who nevertheless have declared their faith in articles which are distinctly Calvinistic; and now last, and, to our minds, most sorrowful of all, it comes out that there are men to be found among Caledonia's once sternly truthful sons who can occupy the pulpits and the manses of an orthodox Presbyterian church, and yet oppose her ancient confession of faith. Our complaint is in each case, not that the men changed their views, and threw up their former creeds, but that having done so they did not at once quit the office of minister to the community whose faith they could no longer uphold; their fault is not that they differed, but that, differing, they sought an office of which the prime necessity is agreement. All the elements of the lowest kind of knavery meet in the evil which we now denounce. Treachery is never more treacherous than when it leads a man to stab at a doctrine which he has solemnly engaged to uphold, and for the maintenance of which he receives a livelihood. The office of minister would never wittingly be entrusted by any community to a person who would use it for the overthrow of the principles upon which the community was founded. Such conduct would be suicidal. A sincere belief of the church's creed was avowedly or by implication a part of the qualification which helped the preacher to his stipend, and when that qualification ceases the most vital point of the compact between him and his church is infringed, and he is bound in honor to relinquish an office which he can no longer honestly fulfill. -- Charles Spurgeon, "Ministers Sailing Under False Colours," Sword and Trowel, February, 1870

Honesty should demand a change in name when an ecclesiastical body departs from its system of confession but there is a reason why it seldom happens: (John Sinclair)
Distinctive names are continued while the system is materially altered. Were names to be changed along with the system, it might excite suspicion and lead to inquiry; which might be productive of unfavorable consequences. -- James Douglas, Reformed Presbyterian (1817).
[At the end of the Puritan age], by some means or other, first the ministers, then the Churches, got on 'the down grade,' and in some cases, the descent was rapid, and in all, very disastrous. In proportion as the ministers seceded from the old Puritan godliness of life, and the old Calvinistic form of doctrine, they commonly became less earnest and less simple in their preaching, more speculative and less spiritual in the matter of their discourses, and dwelt more on the moral teachings of the New Testament, than on the great central truths of revelation. Natural theology frequently took the place which the great truths of the gospel ought to have held, and the sermons became more and more Christless. Corresponding results in the character and life, first of the preachers and then of the people, were only too plainly apparent. -- Robert Shindler, in "The Down Grade," The Sword and the Trowel (March 1887), p. 122
The Treasury of David, Psalm 78, C.H. Spurgeon
He established a testimony in Jacob, and appointed a law in Israel, which he commanded our fathers that they should make them known to their children. (Psalm 78:5)
http://archive.spurgeon.org/treasury/ps078.php
If I profess with the loudest voice and clearest exposition every portion of the Word of God except precisely that little point which the world and the devil are at that moment attacking, I am not confessing Christ, however boldly I may be professing Him. Where the battle rages, there the loyalty of the soldier is proven; and to be steady on all the battlefront besides is mere flight and disgrace if he flinches at that point. -- Martin Luther (1483-1546)
The whole of the prophecies of Isaiah are precious, and should be read by us constantly in private. -- C.H. Spurgeon, Spurgeon's Devotional Bible
The prophets are advocates for God in a covenantal lawsuit. For their arguments for the continued obligation of covenantal faithfulness and the hope of God's covenantal faithfulness see:

Isaiah, a covenant prosecutor,
Jeremiah's theme of judgment for covenant breaking,
The themes of the wrath, severity, covenant faithfulness, trustworthiness, and ultimate goodness of God in the book of Lamentations,
Ezekiel's message of judgment against Israel, then judgment against foreign nations, and then grace and mercy to Israel, and the themes of the holiness, transcendence, grace, mercy, and sovereignty of God along with individual responsibility,
Daniel, the covenant head, with his theme of the absolute sovereignty of God in the affairs of man,
Hosea's theme of covenant relationship,
Joel's themes of covenant, the day of the Lord, and repentance unfeigned,
Amos furthering the prosecution's case for the covenantal lawsuit with themes of idolatry and social injustice,
The emphasis on God's sovereign justice by Obadiah,
Jonah's themes of the sovereignty of God and the universality of God's goodness,
The themes of Micah, covenant relationship, salvation is of the Lord, the church rebellious and perverse, and judgment followed by restoration,
Nahum's theme of God's government of history according to his covenant,
Habakkuk, the forefather of the Reformation, and his themes of God is sovereign in history and persistence in prayer,
Zephaniah's themes of covenant, the day of the Lord, and the restorative nature of God's wrath,
Haggai's theme of covenant,
Zechariah's themes of the presence, kingship and deliverance of God and Christ, and Christ dwelling among his people, and
Malachi, another advocate of God in the covenant lawsuit, with his themes of the continued obligation of covenantal faithfulness, and hope.

In the final analysis, all modern ills, spiritual and temporal, are traceable to our continuing departure from the principles of the Second Reformation. . . . In particular, I am convinced that the Lord will not bless a church at peace with his enemies. Our departure from truth has led to our undernourished condition as a church; truth, as Thornwell argued, is the only food that the soul can digest.
It does no good to blame society or the church for our deficiencies before the Lord because Christ holds men, not churches and states, accountable. In the words of Hugh Miller, "Churches, however false and detestable, are never to be summoned to the bar of judgment. . . . To Christ, as his head and king, must every man render an account."
The great heresy of our times is that all men are children of God. Those within the church have lost their identity as a people of God, united in spirit and purpose. We have adopted the half-truths of our fathers for which Judah faced punishment: Because they have despised the law of the Lord, and have not kept his commandments, and their lies caused them to err, after which their fathers have walked. (Amos 2:4b). Nevertheless, Christ loves his church, and he will see to it that his bride is prepared (Ephesians 5:27), for the great banquet. Base on the history of God's people, the needed corrections will result from either prayer or persecution, leading the people to renew their covenant promises. Let us pray that God's kingdom come, and let us covenant to fulfill our obligations to be his people. When persecution comes, let us pray that we would stand as firm as did the Scottish Covenanters. When covenanting comes, let us praise the Lord, for only in him will we stand firm. Let us ever strive to make it possible for our children to utter one of James Nisbet's praises, "O my soul! Bless and praise the Lord that I was born in a land where the glad tidings of the everlasting gospel are published and pressed with so much purity and plainness." This should be our prayer, Turn us again, O God, and cause thy face to shine; and we shall be saved." (Psalm 80:3) -- Edwin Nisbet Moore from the conclusion to Our Covenant Heritage: The Covenanters' Struggle for Unity in Truth
The Erastian Revolution, anno 1689, was "utterly inconsistent with the covenanted constitution of the Reformed Church of Scotland, anno 1648."
In fact, the relationship between Church and State has been in decline since 1661. "In early 1661 . . . the Scottish Parliament passed the Act Rescissory, which established the king as supreme judge in all matters civil and ecclesiastical, and which made owning the covenants [National and Solemn League], unlawful. These acts undid all the works of Reformation from 1638 to 1650 and made it high treason to acknowledge Jesus Christ as head of the church. . . ." See: Act, Declaration, and Testimony, 1876, Part II.
It is this author's contention that the modern churches have let go of this important piece of the faith [Christ's Kingship over the nations -- compiler], once for all delivered to the saints. Thereby they have delivered the church, not to kings as nursing fathers, but to the cruel civil domination of the enemies of the true religion, their sheep being taught that they must submit passively to every pretended civil authority as the ordinance of God. By this defection, these leaders of the flock have also undermined the magistracy, allowing and even encouraging wicked men to remove this blessed ordinance from its foundation in God its creator, and from its subjection to Christ His King, thereby directly opposing God's benevolent ends in instituting civil government: Thus have [they] made the commandment of God of none effect by [their] tradition. . . . teaching for doctrines the commandments of men (Matthew 15:6,9). Furthermore, by their false teaching regarding civil government, they have made themselves guilty of the very sin of which we are often accused: opposing the ordinance of God. If this wasn't enough, however, consider that their sin is worse than that of the garden variety rebel, inasmuch as their opposition to God's institution is not so much practical as it is principle; and because of their position as teachers and guides of the flock of God. Be not many masters, knowing that we shall receive the greater condemnation. . . . For we can do nothing against the truth, but for the truth. (James 3:1; 2 Corinthians 13:8) -- Greg Price, Biblical Civil Government Verses the Beast, p. 64
A doctrine once held to be important by early Presbyterians and most Puritans that, today, is largely forgotten and even held in disrepute is social or national covenanting. The Presbyterians of the First and Second Reformation periods of Scotland were so dedicated to socio-religious covenanting as a biblical tool for reformation and solidifying national religious attainments that they came to be called Covenanters. They took seriously Jesus' command to disciple whole nations (cf. Matthew 28:18-20). They believed that this Commission is not fulfilled until every nation bows the knee to Christ and covenants with Him. The Puritans understood that the Bible presents Israel, including its covenant and covenant law code (excluding any laws that have been abrogated or set out of gear by the death of Christ), as a model for all nations (cf. Deuteronomy 4:5-8). The gospel of Jesus Christ is to transform individuals and even whole cultures and nations. It should result in progressive sanctification in society as people learn all that Christ has commanded. When the majority of people are committed to the Lord, they will formally recognize the Redeemer in their constitutions; will establish the true Christian religion on a national and local level; and will seek to base all their laws on the law of God revealed in Scripture.
In the book Rev. Schwertley not only sets forth the biblical case for social or national covenanting in a simple, organized and comprehensive manner, but also critiques the modern Presbyterian alternative to the original Presbyterian teaching on this and related topics. -- Publisher, National Covenanting and Christ's Victory Over the Nations
He loveth righteousness and judgment: the earth is full of the goodness of the Lord. (Psalm 33:5). See also: Psalm 45:7; Psalm 99:4; Jeremiah 9:24; Psalm 1:5; Psalm 7:6; Psalm 11:3; Psalm 119:142; Psalm 145:17; Psalm 36:6; Hebrews 1:9; Revelation 15:3,4; Genesis 18:25; 2 Chronicles 19:7; Job 8:3; Job 34:12; Job 37:23. Genuine love does not ignore injustice or evil, and particularly apostasy.
See the Theological Notes: "God's Pattern for Worship," at 1 Chronicles 16:29 in The Reformation Study Bible.
See the Theological Notes: "The Church," at Ephesians 2:19 in The Reformation Study Bible.
Thy throne, O God, is for ever and ever: the sceptre of thy kingdom is a right sceptre. Thou lovest righteousness, and hatest wickedness: therefore God, thy God, hath anointed thee with the oil of gladness above thy fellows. (Psalm 45:6,7)
The God of my rock; in him will I trust: he is my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my high tower, and my refuge, my saviour; thou savest me from violence. (2 Samuel 22:3)
Then stood up Phinehas, and executed judgment: and so the plague was stayed.
And that was counted unto him for righteousness unto all generations for evermore.
Were mingled among the heathen, and learned their works.
Yea, they sacrificed their sons and their daughters unto devils.
Thus were they defiled with their own works, and went a whoring with their own inventions.
Therefore was the wrath of the LORD kindled against his people, in so much that he abhorred his own inheritance.
And he gave them into the hands of the heathen; and they that hated them ruled over them. (Psalm 106:30,31,35,37,39,40,41)
Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity! (Psalm 133:1)
Then, when he had expatiated somewhat more fully, and had more copiously illustrated the benefits of its presence [harmony -- compiler], and the ruinous effects of its absence upon a state, Pilus, one of the company present at the discussion, struck in and demanded that the question should be more thoroughly sifted, and that the subject of justice should be freely discussed for the sake of ascertaining what truth there was in the maxim which was then becoming daily more current, that "the republic cannot be governed without injustice." Scipio expressed his willingness to have this maxim discussed and sifted, and gave it as his opinion that it was baseless, and that no progress could be made in discussing the republic unless it was established, not only that this maxim, that "the republic cannot be governed without injustice," was false, but also that the truth is, that it cannot be governed without the most absolute justice. And the discussion of this question, being deferred till the next day, is carried on in the third book with great animation. For Pilus himself undertook to defend the position that the republic cannot be governed without injustice, at the same time being at special pains to clear himself of any real participation in that opinion. He advocated with great keenness the cause of injustice against justice, and endeavored by plausible reasons and examples to demonstrate that the former is beneficial, the latter useless, to the republic. Then, at the request of the company, L�lius attempted to defend justice, and strained every nerve to prove that nothing is so hurtful to a state as injustice; and that without justice a republic can neither be governed, nor even continue to exist.
When this question has been handled to the satisfaction of the company, Scipio reverts to the original thread of discourse, and repeats with commendation his own brief definition of a republic, that it is the weal of the people. "The people" he defines as being not every assemblage or mob, but an assemblage associated by a common acknowledgment of law, and by a community of interests. Then he shows the use of definition in debate; and from these definitions of his own he gathers that a republic, or "weal of the people," then exists only when it is well and justly governed, whether by a monarch, or an aristocracy, or by the whole people. But when the monarch is unjust, or, as the Greeks say, a tyrant; or the aristocrats are unjust, and form a faction; or the people themselves are unjust, and become, as Scipio for want of a better name calls them, themselves the tyrant, then the republic is not only blemished (as had been proved the day before), but by legitimate deduction from those definitions, it altogether ceases to be.
Tully [Cicero -- compiler], himself, too, speaking not in the person of Scipio or any one else, but uttering his own sentiments, uses the following language in the beginning of the fifth book, after quoting a line from the poet Ennius, in which he said, "Rome's severe morality and her citizens are her safeguard." "This verse," says Cicero, "seems to me to have all the sententious truthfulness of an oracle. For neither would the citizens have availed without the morality of the community, nor would the morality of the commons without outstanding men have availed either to establish or so long to maintain in vigor so grand a republic with so wide and just an empire. Accordingly, before our day, the hereditary usages formed our foremost men, and they on their part retained the usages and institutions of their fathers. But our age, receiving the republic as a chef-d'oeuvre of another age which has already begun to grow old, has not merely neglected to restore the colors of the original, but has not even been at the pains to preserve so much as the general outline and most outstanding features. For what survives of that primitive morality which the poet called Rome's safeguard? It is so obsolete and forgotten, that, far from practicing it, one does not even know it. And of the citizens what shall I say? Morality has perished through poverty of great men; a poverty for which we must not only assign a reason, but for the guilt of which we must answer as criminals charged with a capital crime. For it is through our vices, and not by any mishap, that we retain only the name of a republic, and have long since lost the reality. . . ."
For I mean in its own place to show that -- according to the definitions in which Cicero himself, using Scipio as his mouthpiece, briefly propounded what a republic is, and what a people is, and according to many testimonies, both of his own lips and of those who took part in that same debate -- Rome never was a republic, because true justice had never a place in it. But accepting the more feasible definitions of a republic, I grant there was a republic of a certain kind, and certainly much better administered by the more ancient Romans than by their modern representatives. But the fact is, true justice has no existence save in that republic whose founder and ruler is Christ, if at least any choose to call this a republic; and indeed we cannot deny that it is the people's weal.
But if perchance this name, which has become familiar in other connections, be considered alien to our common parlance, we may at all events say that in this city is true justice; the city of which Holy Scripture says, "Glorious things are said of thee, O city of God." -- Augustine in The City of God, Book 2, Chapter 21, Cicero's Opinion of the Roman Republic
The four "Servant Songs" of Isaiah are Isaiah 42:1-9; Isaiah 49:1-7; Isaiah 50:4-11; and Isaiah 52:13 -- Isaiah 53:12. See the annotations in The Reformation Study Bible.
Our Triune God has ordained that the preeminent leader of the Church is the Lord Jesus Christ, the God Man, Our Righteousness. (John 1:1-18; Matthew 19:30; Matthew 28:18-20; Isaiah 49:7; Colossians 1:16-19; Colossians 2:9,10; Hebrews 12:1,2; Revelation 5:1-14; Revelation 19:11-15; Revelation 20:11-15; Revelation 22:12, and so forth, and so on). Human leadership is also divinely ordained and tends to devolve to those who are most perfectly at one with Christ, and to those who also know the most Truth (the Apostle Paul, Saint Augustine, Martin Luther, John Calvin, Puritan leaders, The Scots Worthies, and so forth, and so on).
And Jesus said unto them, Verily I say unto you, That ye which have followed me, in the regeneration when the Son of man shall sit in the throne of his glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 19:28). See: (Matthew 19:28, 1599 Geneva Bible)
Then his master said unto him, It is well done good servant and faithful, Thou hast been faithful in little, I will make thee ruler over much: enter into thy master's joy. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 25:21) (Matthew 25:21 1599 Geneva Bible)
Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 25:34). See: (Matthew 25:34, 1599 Geneva Bible)
And he said unto him, Well, good servant: because thou hast been faithful in a very little thing, take thou authority over ten cities. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 19:17) (Luke 19:17, 1599 Geneva Bible)
Therefore I appoint unto you a kingdom, as my Father hath appointed unto me. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 22:29) (Luke 22:29, 1599 Geneva Bible)
And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together. (Romans 8:17). See: (Romans 8:17, 1599 Geneva Bible)
Know ye not that we shall judge angels? how much more things that pertain to this life? (1 Corinthians 6:3). See: (1 Corinthians 6:3, 1599 Geneva Bible)
And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus. (Ephesians 2:6). See: (Ephesians 2:6, 1599 Geneva Bible)
To execute vengeance upon the heathen, and corrections among the people:
To bind their kings in chains, and their nobles with fetters of iron,
That they may execute upon them the judgment that is written: this honor shall be to all his Saints. Praise ye the Lord. (Psalm 149:7-9) (Psalm 149:7-9, 1599 Geneva Bible)
But I suffer not a woman to teach, nor to usurp authority over the man, but to be in silence. (1 Timothy 2:12), (1 Timothy 2:12, 1599 Geneva Bible)
And he that overcometh, and keepeth my works unto the end, to him will I give power over the nations. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Revelation 2:26). See: (Revelation 2:26, 1599 Geneva Bible)
To serve God is to reign. -- Seneca (4 BC -- 65 AD)
And Jesus said unto them, Verily I say unto you, That ye which have followed me, in the regeneration when the Son of man shall sit in the throne of his glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 19:28)
Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 25:34)
And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together. (Romans 8:17)
Know ye not that we shall judge angels? how much more things that pertain to this life? (1 Corinthians 6:3)
And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus. (Ephesians 2:6)
But I suffer not a woman to teach, nor to usurp authority over the man, but to be in silence. (1 Timothy 2:12)
And he that overcometh, and keepeth my works unto the end, to him will I give power over the nations. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Revelation 2:26)
To serve God is to reign. -- Seneca (4 BC -- 65 AD)
The Christ is the only One truly called. . . . The flesh has always struggled against Him, as we see when we survey the history of God's people. The struggle was especially acute at Golgotha. -- S.G. De Graaf in Promise and Deliverance
But we know that the law is good, if a man use it lawfully; Knowing this, that the law is not made for a righteous man, but for the lawless and disobedient, for the ungodly and for sinners, for unholy and profane, for murderers of fathers and murderers of mothers, for manslayers, For whoremongers, for them that defile themselves with mankind, for menstealers, for liars, for perjured persons, and if there be any other thing that is contrary to sound doctrine; According to the glorious gospel of the blessed God, which was committed to my trust. (1 Timothy 1:8-11)
One of the besetting sins of mankind is to use the law to oppress his fellowman. Frederic Bastiat unfolds this sin in, The Law.
Now upon this very comprehensive ground, we withdraw not only from gross heretics, and sectarians, and malignant prelatists. . . . But in this broken and declining state, even from many Presbyterian Ministers who have overturned a great part of our testimony . . . which has been signally sealed by the blood of many Martyrs who laying down their lives for this Testimony have been singularly countenanced of the Lord: yet we say, by many of our ministers this in a great measure has been deserted and perverted, by their condemning the Martyrs that died for it, as well as us who have desired to witness for it . . . -- James Renwick, An Informatory Vindication, 1687, pp. 75-76
Barna Group, A Biblical Worldview has a Radical Effect on a Person's Life, December 1, 2003
"The research indicated that everyone has a worldview, but relatively few people have a biblical worldview -- even among devoutly religious people. The survey discovered that only 9 percent of born again Christians have such a perspective on life. The numbers were even lower among other religious classifications: Protestants (7 percent), adults who attend mainline Protestant churches (2 percent), and Catholics (less than one-half of 1 percent). The denominations that produced the highest proportions of adults with a biblical worldview were non-denominational Protestant churches (13 percent), Pentecostal churches (10 percent), and Baptist churches (8 percent)."
http://www.barna.org/barna-update/article/5-barna-update/131-a-biblical-worldview-has-a-radical-effect-on-a-persons-life
Overall, the current research [2009] revealed that only 9 percent of all American adults have a biblical worldview. Among the sixty subgroups of respondents that the survey explored was one defined by those who said they have made a personal commitment to Jesus Christ that is important in their life today, and that they are certain that they will go to Heaven after they die only because they confessed their sins and accepted Christ as their savior. Labeled 'born again Christians,' the study discovered that they were twice as likely as the average adult to possess a biblical worldview. However, that meant that even among born again Christians, less than one out of every five (19 percent), had such an outlook on life.
The same questions were asked of respondents in national surveys by Barna in 1995, 2000 and 2005. The results indicate that the percentage of adults with a biblical worldview, as defined above, has remained unchanged for more than a decade. The numbers show that 7 percent had such a worldview in 1995, compared to 10 percent in 2000, 11 percent in 2005, and 9 percent now [2009]. Even among born again adults, the statistics have remained flat: 18 percent in 1995, 22 percent in 2000, 21 percent in 2005, and 19 percent today. -- "Barna Survey Examines Changes in Worldview Among Christians Over the Past 13 Years," March 6, 2009.
That means, hypothetically, applying this statistic for purposes of general illustration, that if a born again individual with a Biblical worldview sits down in the middle of an Evangelical congregation, then the four persons seated around him, left, right, front, back, statistically do not have a Biblical worldview, which raises doubts that they really have a changed life, and are really true to Christ.
The truth hurts! But these facts need to be known, especially by the new believer, who can be so buffeted about initially by the Adversary, and who can be so susceptible to discouragement.
See also:

"Barna Lists the 12 Most Significant Religious Findings"

"A Biblical Worldview has a Radical Effect on a Person's Life," December 1, 2003

"What People Experience in Church," and

Jonathan Edwards, Religious Affection.

We're spending $50 to $60 billion a year on domestic ministry. Tell you what. You give the CEO of IBM $50 to $60 billion this year, and see what he can do.
It bothers him deeply that the church is soft, and possesses no urgency to change. . . .
Every day, the church is becoming more like the world it allegedly seeks to change. -- George Barna in The State of the Church: 2002
Christian author and strategist George Barna has stated that the church in America spent over $250 billion in ministry in the 1980s without any change in the number of people who declare themselves to be followers of Christ.
There is no doubt that evangelicalism today is in a state of perplexity and unsettlement. In such matters as the practice of evangelism, the teaching of holiness, the building up of local church life, the pastor's dealing with souls and the exercise of discipline, there is evidence of widespread dissatisfaction with things as they are and or equally widespread uncertainty as to the road ahead. This is a complex phenomenon, to which many factors have contributed; but, if we go to the root of the matter, we shall find that these perplexities are all ultimately due to our having lost our grip on the biblical gospel. Without realizing it, we have during the past century bartered that gospel for a substitute product which, though it looks similar enough in points of detail, is as a whole a decidedly different thing. Hence our troubles; for the substitute product does not answer the ends for which the authentic gospel has in past days proved itself so mighty. Why?
We would suggest that the reason lies in its own character and content. It fails to make men God-centered in their thoughts and God-fearing in their hearts because this is not primarily what it is trying to do. One way of stating the difference between it and the old gospel is to say that it is too exclusively concerned to be 'helpful' to man -- to bring peace, comfort, happiness, satisfaction -- and too little concerned to glorify God. The old gospel was "helpful," too -- more so, indeed, than is the new -- but (so to speak), incidentally, for its first concern was always to give glory to God. It was always and essentially a proclamation of divine sovereignty in mercy and judgment, a summons to bow down and worship the mighty Lord on whom man depends for all good, both in nature and in grace. Its center of reference was unambiguously God. But in the new gospel the center of reference is man. This is just to say that the old gospel was religious in a way that the new gospel is not. Whereas the chief aim of the old was to teach people to worship God, the concern of the new seems limited to making them feel better. The subject of the old gospel was God and his ways with men; the subject of the new is man and the help God gives him. There is a world of difference. The whole perspective and emphasis of gospel preaching has changed.
From this change of interest has sprung a change of content, for the new gospel has in effect reformulated the biblical message in the supposed interests of 'helpfulness'. Accordingly, the themes of man's natural inability to believe, of God's free election being the ultimate cause of salvation, and of Christ dying specifically for his sheep are not preached. These doctrines, it would be said, are not 'helpful'; they would drive sinners to despair, by suggesting to them that it is not in their own power to be saved through Christ. (The possibility that such despair might be salutary is not considered: it is taken for granted that it cannot be, because it is so shattering to our self-esteem). However this may be (and we shall say more about it later), the result of these omissions is that part of the biblical gospel is now preached as if it were the whole of that gospel; and a half-truth masquerading as the whole truth becomes a complete untruth. Thus, we appeal to men as if they all had the ability to receive Christ at any time; we speak of his redeeming work as if he had make it possible for us to save ourselves by believing; we speak of God's love as if it were no more than a general willingness to receive any who will turn and trust; and we depict the Father and the Son, not as sovereignly active in drawing sinners to themselves, but as waiting in quiet impotence 'at the door of our hearts' for us to let them in.
It is undeniable that this is how we preach; perhaps this is what we really believe. But it needs to be said with emphasis that this set of twisted half-truths is something other than the biblical gospel. The Bible is against us when we preach in this way; and the fact that such preaching has become almost standard practice among us only shows how urgent it is that we should review this matter. To recover the old, authentic, biblical gospel, and to bring our preaching and practice back into line with it, is perhaps our most pressing present need. And it is at this point that Owen's treatise on redemption can give us help. -- J.I. Packer in Introduction to The Death of Death in the Death of Christ
True Gospel in the pulpit, true Gospel in every Religious Society we support, true Gospel in the books we read, true Gospel in the friends we keep company with -- let this be our aim, and never let us be ashamed to let men see that it is so.
Let the meekness of St. Peter in taking a reproof be as much our example as the boldness of St. Paul in reproving. -- J.C. Ryle (1816-1900), "The Fallibility of Ministers" in Warnings to the Churches, pp. 93-121
It is not possible to institutionalize Christianity.
Dr. Southey thought that By-Ends [a personification in PILGRIM'S PROGRESS -- compiler], was the picture of some particular individual; but Bunyan often depicts the whole generation of such gentry, with graphic accuracy. "I observe," he [Bunyan -- compiler], says, in his BARREN FIG-TREE, "that as there are trees wholly noble, so there are also their semblance; not right, but ignoble. There is the Grape, and the Wild-grape; the Rose, and the Cankerrose; the Apple, and the Crab. Now, fruit from these wild trees, however it may please children to play with, yet the prudent and grave count it of little or no value. There are also in the world a generation of Professors, that bring forth nothing but wild olive-berries; Saints only before men; Devils and Vipers at home. Saints in world; but sinners in heart and life. Well, saith God, this profession is but a cloak. I will loose the Reins of this man, and give him up to his own vile affections. I will answer him by myself! Ezek. xiv. 7 [Ezekiel 14:7]. Thou art too hard for the Church. She knows not how to deal with thee. Well, I will deal with that man myself!"
So also in his RIGHTEOUS MAN'S DESIRES, he [Bunyan -- compiler], says, "Some men's Hearts are narrow upwards, and wide downwards; narrow as for God, but wide as for the world. They gape for the one, but shut themselves up against the other. The heart of a wicked man is widest downward; but it is not so with the Righteous. His desires, like the temple Ezekiel saw in vision, are still widest upwards, and spread towards heaven. A full Purse, with a lean soul, is a great curse. Many, while lean in their Estates, had fat souls; but the fattening of their estates made their souls as lean as a rake, as to all good." In like manner, it is not in By-path Meadow, where Christian listened to Vain-Confidence; nor at Beelzebub's Orchard, where little Matthew ate grapes which gave him "the gripes," that Bunyan displayed his deepest acquaintance with the "bane and antidote" of Temptation. He says in his NOTES ON GENESIS, "In time of temptation, it is our wisdom and duty to keep close to the Word, which forbids the sin, and not to reason with Satan as Eve did. So long as we retain the simplicity of the Word, we have Satan at the end of the staff; for unless we give way to a doubt of it, he gets no ground on us. Eve went to the outside of her liberty, and set herself upon the brink of danger, when she said, 'We may eat of all, but one tree.' When people dally thus with the Devil, they fall by temptation." -- Robert Philip in A Chronological Critique on the Writings and Genius of Bunyan, 1845, pp. vi, vii
There are only two types of people in the world, those who say to God, Not my will, but thine be done, and those to whom God says "Not my will, but thine be done." -- Dr. Donald Ewing (1916-1997)
It is possible to speak of the studied irrelevance of much preaching and comment on Scripture. -- R.J. Rushdoony (1916-2001), in Institutes of Biblical Law, p. 468
National security is dependent upon covenant relationship with the Triune God.
The more people have studied different methods of bringing up children the more they have come to the conclusion that what good mothers and fathers instinctively feel like doing for their babies is the best after all. -- Benjamin McLane Spock (May 2, 1903 -- March 15, 1998), from his autobiography
Permissiveness did not work with our youth (see SPOCK ON SPOCK). What reasons do churchmen, judges, and Federal, State, and Local government officials have to expect that their permissiveness and lack of justice will work with adult society?
The depravity of man is at once the most empirically verifiable reality, but at the same time the most intellectually resisted fact. (Genesis 6:5; Genesis 8:21b; Ecclesiastes 9:3b; Jeremiah 17:9; Mark 7:21-23; Ephesians 2:1-3; Titus 3:3-5) -- Malcolm Muggeridge (1903-1990). See John Calvin's Commentary on Isaiah Chapter 33 [Isaiah 33:1-66].

Abrahams, Israel, Studies in Pharisaism and the Gospels, ISBN: 1592448240 9781592448241.
"First published in two volumes in 1917 and 1924. Now available in one volume. Long regarded as a pioneer work that revolutionized an understanding of the character and development of Pharisaism." -- Cyril J. Barber

*Amundsen, Darrel W., The Anguish and Agonies of Charles Haddon Spurgeon.
"Spurgeon's last years of physical suffering must be seen through the grid of the Down-Grade Controversy Down-Grade Controversy (begun in 1887). Early in this controversy he commented that he had
"suffered the loss of friendships and reputation, and the infliction of pecuniary withdrawments and bitter reproach. But the pain it has cost me none can measure."
To a friend in May 1891 he said, "Goodbye; you will never see me again. This fight is killing me."
The Anguish and Agonies of Charles Haddon Spurgeon
Free PDF file.
http://ebookbrowse.com/the-anguish-and-agonies-of-charles-spurgeon-pdf-d56778188

Anonymous, A Letter: Wherein the Scriptural Grounds and Warrants for the Reformation of Churches by way of Covenant, are Succinctly Considered and Cleared. In Opposition to Some, who, of late, have too boldly (and yet without Censure), vented their heterodox Notions against our solemn and sacred National Covenants. By a Welwisher to a Covenanted Reformation, 1727.

Anonymous, Protesters Vindicated: Or, A Just and Necessary Defence of Protesting Against, and Withdrawing from This National Church of Scotland on Account of her Many Gross and Continued Defections, 1716. Alternate title: PROTESTERS VINDICATED: OR, A JUST AND NECESSARY DEFENCE OF PROTESTING AGAINST, AND WITHDRAWING FROM THIS NATIONAL CHURCH OF SCOTLAND; ON ACCOUNT OF HER MANY GROSS AND CONTINUED DEFECTIONS, 1716. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #27.
"The title continues: 'More particularly, her approving of, and going into the legal establishment of the Prelatic constitutions of England. The generality of ministers swearing, in the Oath of Abjuration, to maintain Erastianism, Prelacy, and English Popish Ceremonies. Non-Jurants joining with Jurants, judicially approving that practice to be free of scandal. The Church's establishing tyranny in government, against all who will not join in communion with her, and approve her practices without redress of grievances. Wherein these and several other causes of withdrawing are proven to be justly chargeable on the Church, demonstrated to be contrary to the Word of God and Reformed principles of this Church, and just grounds of withdrawing, and setting up judicatures distinct from her; and the objections of Jurants and others fully answered.' This is a classic, detailed statement of the old covenanted principles and the biblical attainments of the Second Reformation (like the Solemn League and Covenant, the Westminster Standards, etc.). It is also an excellent defense against the modern malignants who counsel Christ's children to remain in the backsliding and covenant breaking denominations that abound in our day. Very Rare!" -- Publisher

Anonymous, Witnesses for the Truth in the Church of Scotland, 1843.
"The following pages illustrate a few of the chief incidents in the history of the Church of Scotland. From them it will be seen, that in all the periods of its history, The Lord has had a seed witnessing and wrestling through much trial and affliction for the truths of His word. The Church of Scotland is again cast into the furnace. The controversy in which she is at present engaged, is the very same as in the days of old, -- whether Christ or man shall reign in the Church, as head and governor thereof. It is indeed the cause of Christ. 'His enemies would pull the crown from off His head, and the sceptre out of His hand, and by this means, make Him no King in and over His Church, and consequently no Mediator.' Sufferings have been the lot of the Church of God in all ages, and no branch of it on earth has more exemplified this than our own. Times without number has she been assailed from without and within. Her worship has been attacked by the admirers of pomp and ceremony -- the hedges of her government and discipline have been torn down -- nay, her very doctrines have been impugned; yet, through the goodness of the Lord, she has maintained her ground. Our Jerusalem hath been a burdensome stone to all who have burdened themselves with it. It hath in the days of old crushed those who have sought to overwhelm it, and the same gracious Power which has sustained it hitherto, is still at work on its behalf. The Church of Christ, as was well said of old, is an anvil that has worn out many a hammer: and no anvil has worn out more hammers than our own! And all this through the good will of Him who dwelt in the bush. 'Arise, O Lord, and plead thine own cause: let not man prevail -- for thine is the Crown, Government, Kingdom, Power and Glory'." -- Preface to Witnesses for the Truth in the Church of Scotland, 1843
Witnesses for the Truth in the Church of Scotland (1843)
https://archive.org/details/witnessesfortru00unkngoog

Armstrong, John H. (editor, contributor), et al., Erwin W. Lutzer (foreword), Reforming Pastoral Ministry: Challenges for Ministry in Postmodern Times, ISBN: 1581341792 9781581341799.

Associated Reformed Presbytery (Reformed Presbytery in Scotland), The Constitution of the Associate-Reformed Synod in America Considered, Disowned, and Testifyed Against, as Inconsistent With the Reformation-constitution of Britain and Ireland.
The Constitution of the Associate Reformed Synod in America Considered, Disowned and Testifyed Against
http://www.truecovenanter.com/reformedpresbyterian/reformed_presbytery_testimony_against_ars_constitution.html?doc_banner_show=false

Baillie, Robert (1599-1662), Anabaptism, The True Fountain of Independency, Antinomy, Brownisme, Familisme, and the Most of the Other Errors, Which for the Time do Trouble the Church of England, Unsealed: Also the Questions of Paedobaptisme and Dipping Handled From Scripture: In a Second Part of the Disswasive From the Errors of the Time, 1647. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
"The title continues: 'Also the Questions of Paedobaptisme and Dipping Handled from Scripture. In a Second Part of the Dissuasive from the Errors of the Time.' Shows the origin, progress and changing character of the Anabaptist's heresies -- many which still afflict the body of Christ in our day (even in so-called 'Reformed' circles). A fine defense of the biblical view of baptism is also given, including many answers to Anabaptist (Baptist) objections on this point. A staggering array of 'testimonies' (i.e. quotations), are marshalled by Baillie -- both in refuting and setting forth the pernicious Anabaptist teachings. Baillie was one of the Scottish Commissioners sent to the Westminster Assembly. His international perspective and insight (concerning the ecclesiastical and civil battles for the Protestant cause of his day), makes for an interesting backdrop to this title -- not often encountered among most authors dealing with these topics." -- Publisher

Baillie, Robert (1599-1662), Errours and Induration are the Great Sins and the Great Judgements of the Time. Alternate title: ERROURS AND INDURATION ARE THE GREAT SINS AND THE GREAT JUDGEMENTS OF THE TIME: PREACHED IN A SERMON BEFORE THE RIGHT HONOURABLE HOUSE OF PEERS, IN THE ABBEY-CHURCH AT WESTMINSTER, JULY 30, 1645, THE DAY OF THE MONTHLY FAST. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.

Barna, George, Revolution, 2005, ISBN: 1414307586 9781414307589 1414310161 9781414310169.
We feel that Barna's polls and statistics are valuable in giving a picture of the current state of the local church. However, we see no evidence that separated and divided Christians will ever attain to the fullness of the true church united in one body. Our top priority should always be reform of the church. (See the chapters on "Corporate Faithfulness and Sanctification," The Westminster Confession of Faith [1646, The Westminster Standards], and Related Works: A Study Guide, and "Unity and Uniformity in the Visible Church: Unity in the Truth.")
"Somehow, the other day, I happened to pick up a copy of George Barna's new book called REVOLUTION. For those of you who are unfamiliar, George Barna is the founder of Barna Research Group (now called The Barna Group), which was created more than two decades ago with the intent to help ministries facilitate strategic decision-making. Much of this was accomplished through detailed statistical research provided by the Group. Over the course of that 20 years the Barna research team interviewed nearly a half million people in the course of hundreds of research studies, provided seminar-based training to leaders from more than 50,000 churches, produced more than 60 books and syndicated reports, and developed a website that provided free information to hundreds of thousands of people every month. Barna became one of the most (if not the most), trusted resource for church-related statistical research in the United States and has often been hailed as 'the most quoted person in the Christian Church today!'
"But, as I found out reading this book, a drastic change occurred in George Barna's life (about 2003), as a result of his countless hours of researching the effects of organized religion; he realized that very little actual life transformation appeared to be occurring in churched believers all over the country. Even worse, he realized that his own efforts in research were being used by pastors mostly for the purpose of seeking statistical evidence to support their teaching. To his surprise, however, the same research Barna had been conducting over the years led him to a discovery of the fact that God was moving in mighty ways OUTSIDE the four walls of the Institutional Church! In fact, Barna was so impacted by what he observed in the lives of 'churchless' Christians all over the U.S. that it convinced him to give up what he had done for 20 years and refocus his attentions. He changed the name of his organization from the Barna Research Group to simply the Barna Group, downsized his organization from 100 employees to eight, moved out of their large office space into a compact area, sought to become more partnership based, and chose to raise the level of risk they were willing to take in new ventures, determining that it would be better to go broke in the pursuit of true life transformation than to remain financially safe but without any gain for the kingdom.
"All of that to say that George Barna no longer has interest to merely help grow the Institutional Church. His new passion is solely to see God's true Church, who are His very people (His body), walk into the fullness of what God intends for them without obstacles, without distractions, without religious strings attached -- and to see them live life to the fullest in Christ and minister truth to a lost and dying world who desperately need Him. George was humbled to find that this is already happening without the aid of churches and formal religious organizations or 'official' leadership. In fact, one of the most impacting things he notes in his new book is that so many of these groups of believers who serve the Lord outside the Institutional Church System, even though they often have poor organization, lack of great numbers, meager financial resources, often weak human leadership and are sometimes ridiculed and despised by those in larger church organizations, yet they are often more effective (in terms of actual life transformation, relationship building, devotion to truth, and sincere Christian devotion); proving that it is GOD -- not man -- that is leading these believers. Barna now calls these Christians who no longer center their lives around religious organizations (i.e. churches), 'Revolutionaries' and believes they (all 20 million of them and growing), are the real future of the manifested Body of Christ on earth; in other words they represent those who have moved beyond the established church and chosen to BE the Church instead. Barna also humbly and joyously admits that he is now one of them as well.
"While many traditionalists argue today that, in order to grow properly in the Lord, you must attend a local church, Barna refutes this notion strongly with both Scripture and statistical example of how literally millions of believers today are finding a vibrant relationship with God (and fellowship with their brothers and sisters in Christ), outside the walls of organized religion (and the same are effecting change around them by their Christ-like influence); However, Barna does not make the argument simply about those 'in' churches and those 'outside' (as a sort of 'us versus them' attitude), rather he directs his writing to every true believer in Jesus Christ and focuses on the importance of becoming full disciples of Jesus (whether inside or outside the walls of some organization), and not to become distracted with anything that may remove our full attention from Him. Barna states in the book: 'In fact, there is no verse in Scripture that links the concepts of worshiping God and a 'church meeting.' The Bible does not tell us that worship must happen in a church sanctuary and therefore we must be actively associated with a local church. It simply tells us that we must worship God regularly and purely, in spirit and truth. Take particular note of the fact that Jesus dismissed the organized worship of His day as 'a farce' and intimated that we ought not be so limited as to how and when we worship God (see Mark 7:7). When the Samaritan woman asked about worship practices and places, Jesus responded bluntly that, The time is coming when it will no longer matter whether you worship the Father on this mountain or in Jerusalem . . . But the time is coming -- indeed it is here now -- when true worshipers with worship the Father in spirit and in truth (John 4:21-23). He was highlighting the same foolish irrelevancies that traditionalists argue about today.
"The book also highlights trademarks of true Revolutionaries as Barna has observed and attempts to give suggestions as to how all of us, even (and especially), those believers who are still associated with or who lead traditional congregations, can make way for this current revolution and move of God's Spirit. While some may find the content of this book uncomfortable or even controversial, Barna speaks with grace but also fervor and excitement, presenting a strong, biblically-sound argument for what he has observed transpiring over the last two decades and encourages the reader to make their own educated observations. Finally, he challenges the reader to boldly face this crossroad and decide whether or not they will become a part of the revolution themselves (risking all to follow Christ without reserve). He presses the reader with the question as to whether or not they will embrace what God is doing or outright fight it and reject it altogether. Whether or not a Christian chooses to agree with Barna's observations of what he considers to be a magnificent move of God and the very future of the Lord's Church on earth as we know it, Barna believes that every Christian needs to be aware of 'the revolution' and confront their reaction to it head on.
"Anyone who has been familiar with the Barna Group (a.k.a. Barna Research Group), over the years knows that they are a trustworthy voice in the Church and have a firm grasp on the nationwide picture of organized religion and its effects on society and the body of Christ. We would do well to listen to what this brother in Christ, George Barna, has to say about what he has observed.
"This is a remarkable book that will encourage and inspire believers (whether outside the institutional church program or even still within). It's a very easy read. The book also contains some statistics (as you'd expect from Barna Group), and proves to be a very informative, spiritually-motivating read. I highly recommend this book!
"In closing I would just like to say that this review is not necessarily intended to be a full on endorsement of everything George Barna may personally believe or engage in as it concerns every facet of his ministry. The truth is, I know very little at this point about all of that. Each person should exercise discernment and hold fast to the truth of God's Word as their gage in all things. I merely wish to encourage people to see that God is working in wonderful ways OUTSIDE the four walls, as He can in you . . . and if a man who spent more than 30 years of his life supporting the old system can humble himself, recognizing the hand of God in ways previously unfamiliar to him and risk everything to follow Christ, even if it costs him the success of his own well-established and financially-successful ministry, certainly so can we press on in Jesus without fear or worry for the things others may say about us and live to become Revolutionaries for the glory of our Lord. Ultimately, I hope all of us who know the Lord can agree that life as believers is ABOUT HIM and we ought never to allow ourselves to be distracted from a pure and true devotion to Jesus Christ.
"God bless you all!" -- Reader's Comment
Barna, George, Robert Lewis, and Dwight Gunter, Revolution, 2006, DVD. Alternate title: "HEALTHY CHURCHES RESPOND TO THE REVOLUTION."

Barrow, Greg, Protestant Antidote to Modern Disunity (1/5) (Debate with Richard Bacon), audio files. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #24.
"Defection from Reformation teaching on separation, unity, church membership, church government, terms of communion, creeds, confessions, covenants, etc., exposed (in modern Presbyterian and Reformed churches), and corrected in accordance with Scripture and the best teachers and preachers of the (first and second), Protestant Reformations. This is chapter four from the book THE COVENANTED REFORMATION DEFENDED: "Misrepresentation #4: The Puritan Reformed Church of Edmonton (PRCE) is guilty of imposing the traditions of men upon the conscience by requiring terms of communion that are unscriptural." -- Publisher
http://www.swrb.com/newslett/actualnls/misrep4.htm
Protestant Antidote to Modern Disunity (1/5) (free audio file)
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?sermonid=81202235217
Protestant Antidote to Modern Disunity (2/5) (free audio file)
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?sermonID=8130218525
Protestant Antidote to Modern Disunity (3/5) (free audio file)
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?sermonID=815022132

Bates, Stewart (1625-1699), The Sin and Danger of Union Between the Church of Christ and an Immoral or anti-Christian Civil Government, 1841. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #25.

Baxter, Richard (1615-1691), A Moral Prognostication I. What Shall Befall the Churches on Earth, till their concord, by the restitution of their primitive purity, simplicity, and charity, II. How That Restitution is Like to be Made, (if ever) and what shall befall them thence-forth unto the end, in that golden-age of love / written by Richard Baxter . . ,
A Moral Prognostication
http://www.digitalpuritan.net/Digital%20Puritan%20Resources/Baxter,%20Richard/The%20Practical%20Works%20of%20Richard%20Baxter%20(vol.15)/[RB]%20A%20Moral%20Prognostication.pdf
A Moral Prognostication
https://quod.lib.umich.edu/e/eebo/A26958.0001.001/1:3?rgn=div1;view=fulltext

Begg, James (1808-1883), A Violation of the Treaty of Union: The Main Origin of our Ecclesiastical Divisions and Other Evils: A Second Address to the People of Scotland, 1871.

Belcher, Richard P., A Journey in Purity: A Theological Novel, ISBN: 0925703397 9780925703392.
"This is the challenging story of a young pastor and his difficult and heart-breaking struggle to bring purity to the corrupt and impure church he pastors."

Bogue, Carl, Does the Regulative Principle Matter to the PCA? Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
See: Carl W. Bogue, and William Cunningham, THE SCRIPTURAL LAW OF WORSHIP.
"This message was delivered for Concerned Presbyterian Day (March 23, 1993). It deals with problems in the Presbyterian Church in America concerning differing views of worship as they relate to Scripture and the vows ministers take to the Westminster Confession. Bogue's reviews of A DEFENSE OF LIBERTY AGAINST TYRANTS by Junius Brutus and MESSIAH THE PRINCE OR, THE MEDIATORIAL DOMINION OF JESUS CHRIST, by William Symington, are both appended to this lecture." -- Publisher

Boston, Thomas (1676-1732), The Pleasure of Real Religion. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available in THE WORKS OF THOMAS BOSTON on Reformation Bookshelf CD #6.

*Bridges, Charles (1794-1869), The Christian Ministry, With an Inquiry Into the Causes of its Inefficiency, ISBN: 1428610979. A Christian classic.
"Bridges was a minister in England into the nineteenth century. . . . This book has been considered a classic book for ministers almost since it was written in 1829." -- Jay P. Green, Sr. (1918-2008)

Brown, John (of Haddington, 1722-1787), Reformation Attainments Versus Backsliding Religious Professors. Available (THE ABSURDITY AND PERFIDY OF ALL AUTHORITATIVE TOLERATION), on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #7, #25, #26.
"Here Brown deals with three major Reformation attainments (anti-tolerationism, establishmentarianism and the obligations of lawful covenants as they biblically bind posterity), that Satan has always been especially concerned to overthrow -- in every major demonic move to open the floodgates of lawlessness, anarchy and misrule. Fletcher, in the preface to the 1797 edition, relates this truth as it comes to bear on various religious professors, stating, 'Papists were enemies to our covenants because they were a standard lifted up against their system of abominable idolatries. Episcopalians were enemies to them, because they were a standard lifted up against their anti-scriptural church-officers and inventions of men in the worship of God. Some Presbyterians are enemies to them in our day through ignorance of their nature and ends; and others through fear of being too strictly bound to their duty'." (cited in Johnston, Treasury of the Scottish Covenant, p. 486) -- Publisher
The Absurdity and Perfidy of all Authoritative Toleration of Gross Heresy, Blasphemy, Idolatry, Popery, in Britain
http://archive.org/details/absurdityperfidy00brow

*Brown, John (of Haddington, 1722-1787), Westminster's View of the "Everlasting" Solemn League and Covenant. Available in THE ABSURDITY AND PERFIDY OF ALL AUTHORITATIVE TOLERATION OF GROSS HERESY, BLASPHEMY, IDOLATRY, POPERY, IN BRITAIN, 1797. Available (THE ABSURDITY AND PERFIDY OF ALL AUTHORITATIVE TOLERATION), on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available (THE ABSURDITY AND PERFIDY OF ALL AUTHORITATIVE TOLERATION), on Reformation Bookshelf CD #7, #25, #26.
The Absurdity and Perfidy of all Authoritative Toleration of Gross Heresy, Blasphemy, Idolatry, Popery, in Britain
http://archive.org/details/absurdityperfidy00brow
"Interestingly, in the section defending the continuing obligation of the National and Solemn League and Covenant, we also note that the Westminster Assembly considered the Solemn League and Covenant an 'everlasting covenant.' Brown cites the following as proof, 'That the body of the English nation also swore the Solemn League and Covenant, is manifest. The Westminster Assembly and English Parliament, affirm, 'The honourable house of Parliament, the Assembly of Divines, the renowned city of London, and multitudes of other persons of all ranks and quality in this nation, and the whole body of Scotland, have all sworn it, rejoicing at the oath so graciously seconded from heaven. God will, doubtless, stand by all those, who with singleness of heart shall now enter into an everlasting covenant with the Lord.' (p. 161, emphasis added). The footnote tells us that the words Brown was quoting were taken from 'Exhortation to take the Covenant, February, 1644'." -- Publisher

*Burgess, Anthony (d. 1664?), The Difficulty of, and the Encouragements to a Reformation: A Sermon Preached Before the Honourable House of Commons at the Publick Fast, Septem. 27, 1643, Mark i. 2-3, 1643. [Mark 1:2,3]. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
"Deals with the centrality of Scripture in Reformation and 'that it is a special duty upon all, to remove all impediments, and to make way for Christ when he is coming to us.' 'Dr. Wilkins,' writes Thomas Smith (of Burgess), 'enrolls him among the most eminent of the English divines for sermons and practical divinity . . . Dr. Cotton Mather says . . . 'Of A. Burgess, I may say, he has wrote for thee excellent things'." (Select Memoirs . . . of Pious and Learned English and Scottish Divines, p. 471) -- Publisher

Burges, Cornelius (1589?-1665), and Stephen Marshall (1594?-1655), The First Sermon, Preached to the Honourable House of Commons now Assembled in Parliament at Their Publique Fast. Novemb. 17. 1640. By Cornelius Burges Doctor of Divinitie. Published by order of that House
"A beautifully clear facsimile copy of this amazing sermon (published by order of the British House of Commons in 1641), exhorting this Parliament to 'stand to the covenant' of God; by, 'endeavouring of a further Sanction of, and stronger Guard about our true Palladium, the true Religion, already established among us; in the perfecting of the Reformation of it; in the erecting, maintaining, protecting, and encouraging of an able, godly, faithful, zealous, profitable, Preaching Ministry, in every Parish Church and Chapel throughout England and Wales; in interceding to the Kings sacred Majesty for the setting up of a Faithful, Judicious, and Zealous Magistracy, where yet the same is wanting, to be ever at hand to back such a Ministry: without either of which, not only the power of Godliness will sooner degenerate into formality, and zeal into lukewarmness; but Popery, Arminianism, Socinianism, Profaneness, Apostasy, and Atheism itself will more and more crowd in upon us, and prevail against us, do You all You can be all other means.' Points out that where a godly ministry and magistracy are lacking, society degenerates into a godless mob, headed by one of the above named heresies -- as we have seen in our day. Presses national covenant renewal, from Jer. 50:5 [Jeremiah 50:5], and explains from scripture how and why this should take place. Cites many biblical examples of the great Scriptural blessing that has followed previous national covenanting; while making practical application to the situation of the day. This sermon foreshadows chapter 23, of the celebrated Westminster Confession of Faith [1646], on 'the Civil Magistrate,' and gives much insight into this watershed period of Christian political development. It is highly recommended for anyone even remotely interested in seeing their nation prosper politically and ecclesiastically. Furthermore, it will be a great help for anyone seeking to formulate a biblical doctrine explaining the four way relationship between: loving God with all your heart, soul, strength and mind; Jesus Christ as mediator; the everlasting covenant (and covenanting); and the state, as set forth in Scripture. A very rare item. A Covenanter's delight!" -- Publisher

Burroughs, Jeremiah (1599-1646), The Excellency of Holy Courage in Evil Times, in Which (Besides Many Other Seasonable Truths), There is Shewed: 1. That Wicked Men in Power are Fierce in Their Wrath. 2. That Faith Will Keep a Gracious Heart From Immoderate Fear of men of Authority and Power. 3. Directions in our Fear of authority, etc., 1661. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.

Buzzard, Lynn R., and Paula Campbell, Holy Disobedience: When Christians Must Resist the State, ISBN: 0892831847 9780892831845.

Calamy, Edmund (1600-1666), The Great Danger of Covenant-refusing, and Covenant-breaking. Alternate title: THE GREAT DANGER OF COVENANT-REFUSING, AND COVENANT-BREAKING: PRESENTED IN A SERMON PREACHED BEFORE THE RIGHT HONORABLE THOMAS ADAMS, LORD MAYOR, AND THE RIGHT WORSHIPFULL THE SHERIFFES, AND THE ALDERMEN HIS BRETHREN, AND THE REST OF THE COMMON-COUNCELL OF THE FAMOUS CITY OF LONDON, JAN. 14, 1645. UPON WHICH DAY THE SOLEMNE LEAGUE AND COVENANT WAS RENUED BY THEM. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
Vow, and pay unto the Lord your God. (Psalm 76:11a)
When thou vowest a vow unto God, defer not to pay it: for he hath no pleasure in fools; pay that which thou hast vowed.
Better it is that thou shouldest not vow, than that thou shouldest vow and not pay. (Ecclesiastes 5:4,5)
http://www.truecovenanter.com/covenants/calamy_sermon_danger_of_covenant_refusing_and_breaking.html

Calvin, John (1509-1564), 1 Timothy, 2 Timothy, and Titus, [1 Timothy; 2 Timothy; Titus] ISBN: 1581340214 9781581340211 1856841839 9781856841832.

Calvin, John (1509-1564), Acts of the Council of Trent With the Antidote. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #16.

*Calvin, John (1509-1564), Calvin's Commentary on Isaiah, 4 books, published in 2 volumes in CALVIN'S COMMENTARIES (vols. 7, 8). Spine title: CALVIN'S COMMENTARIES, VOLUME VII: ISAIAH 1-32; CALVIN'S COMMENTARIES, VOLUME VIII: ISAIAH 33-66. A Christian classic.
Several factors combine to make CALVIN'S COMMENTARY ON ISAIAH particularly significant.

Isaiah's brilliant clarity, his timeless message for our day, the beautiful praise language, and his detailed prophesy of the coming Messiah, make the book inherently of special worth,
"Isaiah served God in the role of covenant prosecutor [along with numerous other Old Testament prophets -- compiler]. His message consists of charges, condemnation, and judgments as he declares God's curse on Israel, Judah, and the nations. . . ." -- Reformation Study Bible, p. 1021,
Augustine's comments on Isaiah are scattered through all his writings but, to our knowledge, he never commented on the entire book,
C. Gregg Singer mentions that Calvin knew Augustine's writing well and quoted Augustine frequently, therefore it could be expected that Calvin would include Augustine's thought on Isaiah,
There are relatively few commentaries on Chronicles (primarily a history of the kingship of David and his successors), from Reformed writers,
Calvin never lectured on Chronicles,
Therefore, CALVIN'S COMMENTARY ON ISAIAH covers not only Isaiah's prophesy, but also some of the best thought of Augustine on Isaiah, and the shared history of Chronicles, which all bear on corporate faithfulness and sanctification.

C. Gregg Singer states, in the Mt. Olive Tape Library series of lectures:

I have a study ready for public -- well, not ready for publication, but hopefully someday, on Calvin's use of Augustine [apparently never published -- compiler]. There are at least 400 references to Augustine in John Calvin. Anybody who says that Calvin got his theology of the top of his head knows no Calvin. Calvin knew Augustine probably better than anybody else, including Luther. Calvin went back to all the Early Western Fathers. I would say that next to Augustine, his theology is based upon Bernard of Clairvaux and Anselm, and he had a higher respect for Saint Thomas Aquinas than many people are willing to admit. But he is in the Western theological tradition.
Charles Hodge, in his SYSTEMATIC THEOLOGY of three volumes, very often refers to Calvinism as Augustinianism, and you can see why. [Charles Hodge], declares that you might as well call Calvinism revived and revitalized Augustinianism.

Calvin's work is in four books, with a Scripture Index and a General Index. The Baker publication prints the four books in two volumes.
Calvin, Jean (John, 1509-1564), Commentary on the Book of the Prophet Isaiah (1850), vol. 1 of 4.
http://archive.org/details/commentaryonboo01calv
Calvin, Commentary on the Book of the Prophet Isaiah (1850), vol. 2 of 4.
http://archive.org/details/9thcommentaryonbo02calv
Calvin, Commentary on the Book of the Prophet Isaiah (1850), vol. 3 of 4.
http://archive.org/details/commentaryonbook03calv
Calvin, Commentary on the Book of the Prophet Isaiah (1850), vol. 4 of 4.
http://archive.org/details/commentaryonboo04calv
Commentary on Isaiah -- Volume 1, John Calvin
http://www.ccel.org/ccel/calvin/calcom13.html

*Calvin, John (1509-1564), Calvin's Selected Works, Tracts and Letters, 7 Volumes, ISBN: 0801024935 9780801024931. A Christian classic. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
"These remarkable volumes contain Calvin's tracts and letters. They clearly exhibit why Calvin was one of the great saints (who defended the regulative principle of worship), and why his work was singularly blessed of God. Understanding these works will shed much light on our current situation; for many in the professed Christian community live in as great (or greater), darkness today than those who were contemporaries of Calvin. This set contains such classics as THE NECESSITY OF REFORMING THE CHURCH, THE CATECHISM OF THE CHURCH OF GENEVA, AN ANTIDOTE AGAINST TRENT, THE SINFULNESS OF OUTWARD CONFORMITY TO ROMISH RITES, and much more. Calvin's only letter to Luther, his letters to Knox, Bullinger, Beza and a host of other Reformers, along with Beza's 100 page LIFE OF CALVIN are also all included. Indexed, 3507 pages." -- Publisher
The Necessity of Reforming the Church (1543), by John Calvin
http://www.swrb.com/newslett/actualnls/NRC_ch00.htm

Calvin, John (1509-1564), Come out From Among Them: The "Anti-Nicodemite" Writings of John Calvin. Available in Library of Presbyterian Heritage Publications and Protestant Heritage Press CD-ROM Library.
"Some one will therefore ask me what counsel I would like to give to a believer who thus dwells in some Egypt or Babylon where he may not worship God purely, but is forced by the common practice to accommodate himself to bad things. The first advice would be to leave (i.e., relocate -- ed.), if he could. . . If someone has no way to depart, I would counsel him to consider whether it would be possible for him to abstain from all idolatry in order to preserve himself pure and spotless toward God in both body and soul. Then let him worship God in private (in his home -- ed.), praying him to restore his poor church to its right estate." -- John Calvin, Come out From Among Them, The Anti-Nicodemite Writings of John Calvin pp. 93-94

Calvin, John (1509-1564), Concerning Scandals, ISBN: 0802835112 9780802835116.

Calvin, John (1509-1564), Defending the Reformation: John Calvin Debates the Romanist Sadolet. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #17. Available in Calvin, Jean [John], Jacques Sadolet, and John C. Olin, A REFORMATION DEBATE: SADOLETO'S LETTER TO THE GENEVANS AND CALVIN'S REPLY, ISBN: 0823219917 9780823219919.

*Calvin, John (1509-1564), The Necessity of Reforming the Church (1544). Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Also found in CALVIN'S SELECTED WORKS, TRACTS AND LETTERS. Available in Library of Presbyterian Heritage Publications and Protestant Heritage Press CD-ROM Library. Available in THE CHURCH EFFEMINATE AND OTHER ESSAYS.
"It [THE NECESSITY OF REFORMING THE CHURCH (1544) -- compiler], has still been correctly acknowledged as one of the most important documents of the Reformation."
"C.H. Spurgeon once said, 'the longer I live the clearer does it appear that John Calvin's system is the nearest to perfection.' (cited in Christian History, Vol. 5, No. 4). Like Calvin, some few believers today see 'the present condition of the Church . . . to be very miserable, and almost desperate.' Our context is different in one key respect however. The church needing reformation in Calvin's day was the tradition-encrusted church of Rome. Shortly after the Reformation, for those leaving Rome behind, two streams became apparent. One was the stream of classical Protestant orthodoxy, represented today by a handful of Gideons in their desktop publishing wine vats. The other was the left wing of the Reformation -- the anabaptist movement. In the early years, the anabaptists were suffering outsiders. But today the anabaptist church is the Establishment -- an establishment governed by a chaos of traditions instead of biblical worship. Everywhere we look we see Christians approaching God with observances in worship which Calvin calls 'the random offspring of their own brain.' Though this work is not an elaborate systematic presentation of the foundations of Christianity, such as CALVIN'S INSTITUTES, it has still been correctly acknowledged as one of the most important documents of the Reformation. Calvin here pleads the cause dearest to his heart before an assembly perhaps the most august that Europe could have furnished in that day. It has been said that the animated style used by Calvin in this work would not lose by comparison with any thing in the celebrated 'Dedication' prefixed to his INSTITUTES. To this day, THE NECESSITY OF REFORMING THE CHURCH remains a powerful weapon, both defensive and offensive, to fight the contemporary battle for Protestantism -- the everlasting gospel of truth. Here, in our modern setting, we find the answers to many of the vexing questions which continue to agitate the Church." -- Publisher
The Necessity of Reforming the Church (1543), by John Calvin
http://www.swrb.com/newslett/actualnls/NRC_ch00.htm

Calvin, John (1509-1564), A Sermon of John Calvin, Upon the First Epistle of Paul to Timothy [1 Timothy], published for the benefit and edifying of the Church of God. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available in CALVIN'S COMMENTARIES, VOL. 21.
Calvin on the True Calling of Women
http://truecovenanter.com/calvin/calvin_19_on_Timothy.html

Calvin, John (1509-1564), The True Method of Giving Peace to Christendom and of Reforming the Church, 1548. Available in CALVIN'S SELECTED WORKS, TRACTS AND LETTERS. Available (CALVIN'S SELECTED WORKS, TRACTS AND LETTERS), on the Puritan Hard Drive.

Cameron, James K., and James Kirk (editor), Humanism and Reform: The Church in Europe, England, and Scotland, 1400-1643: Essays in Honour of James K. Cameron, ISBN: 0631179216 9780631179214.
See J. Kirk, THE RELIGION OF EARLY SCOTTISH PROTESTANTS.

Cameron, John (1579?-1625), An Examination of Those Plausible Appearances Which Seem Most to Commend the Romish Church and to Prejudice the Reformed. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
"Mr. Cameron successfully demonstrates that 'all those allegations 1) of the Magnificence, 2) Unity, 3) Antiquity, 4) Stability, 5) Continuation, 6) Succession, 7) The substance of truth, 8) The holiness pretended to be in the Church of Rome, are but frivolous pretenses, devised to hinder an exquisite and solid enquiry of the truth'." -- Publisher

Cameron, John (1579?-1625), and John Verneuil (translator), A Tract of the Sovereign Judge of Controversies in Matters of Religion. By John Cameron Minister of the Word of God, and Divinity Professour in the Academie of Montauban. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.

Cant, Andrew (1590?-1663), A Sermon Preached After the Renovation of the National Covenant, and Celebration of the Lord's Supper, at Glasgow, Anno. 1638. Alternate title: A SERMON PREACHED AT A GENERAL MEETING IN THE GRAY-FRIAR-CHURCH OF EDINBURGH, UPON THE 13 DAY OF JUNE, 1638, and THE NATIONAL COVENANT. SERMON AT GLASGOW (1638). Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
"Preaching of Matthew 22:2-6, immediately after the renovation of the National Covenant and the administration of the Lord's Supper, Andrew Cant pointed out that ministers are servants, not lords over the flock of God:
'We are servants and not lords. I see never a word in this text, nay, in all the scripture that the Master of the feast sent out lords to woo home his bride; He "sent out His servants," but not His lords. Read all the Bible from the beginning to the ending, you shall not find it. Daft men may dispute, and by respect may carry it away; but read all the Old and New Testament both, and let me see if ever this lord prelate, or that lord bishop, was sent to woo home his bride'." -- Andrew Cant, "The National Covenant. Sermon at Glasgow (1638)" in James Kerr (editor), The Covenants and the Covenanters: Covenants, Sermons, and Documents of the Covenanted Reformation, p. 94

Carl, Frank, and Joan H. Robie, Courting the King of Terrors: Is Satan Having the Last Laugh? ISBN: 0914984187 9780914984184.
"Why are so many people turning to mental, spiritual, and physical suicide? This book gives an answer. Its purpose is two-fold: to sound the trumpet of concern about sins creeping into the church, and to offer practical help and hope in working with those who have fallen prey to Satan's lies." -- GCB

Carson, Donald A., A Call to Spiritual Reformation: Priorities From Paul and his Prayers, ISBN: 0801025699 9780801025693.
"Using the letters of Paul, Carson makes a very important point: God doesn't require more frenetic programs or emotional stimulation; God wants his people to know him more intimately. Prayer and the Word are the answer." -- GCB

Carson, D.A., The Gagging of God: Christianity Confronts Pluralism, ISBN: 9780310242864 031024286X.
"In this book, D.A. Carson presents a persuasive example for Christ as the only way to God in spite of all different philosophies and theologies in the world today. Carson asks an important question: 'Is Jesus the only way to God?' Upon this question, Carson builds a strong assumption that the open, critically acclaimed, scholarly response to that question affirms the deep need for the Gospel's exclusive message in today's increasingly pluralistic global community. THE GAGGING OF GOD offers an in-depth look at the big picture, indicates how the various ramifications of pluralism are all parts of a whole, and then provides a systematic Christian response." -- Reader's Comment "According to Carson philosophical pluralism is the most dangerous menace to the Gospel since the rise of the gnostic heresy in the second century." -- Reader's Comment

Cawdrey, Daniel (1588-1664), Church Reformation Promoted, in a Sermon on Matt. 18:15-17, Preached at Northampton on the day of Humiliation Before the Association of Ministers. As also 1. Some animadversions upon Mr. Humphrey's Second Vindication for promiscuous admission to the sacrament. 2. Some animadversions upon Mr. Sanders his Antidiatribe, tending to the same end of Church-Reformation, 1657. [Matthew 18:15-17]

Cawdrey, Daniel (1588-1664), Family Reformation Promoted: In a Sermon on Joshua, chap. 24, ver. 15., and by Short Catechismes Fitted for the Three-fold Relations in a Family of 1. Children and Parents, 2. Servants and Masters, 3. Husband and Wife. [Joshua 24:15]

Cawdrey, Daniel (1588-1664), The Inconsistencie of the Independent way, With Scripture and it Self: Manifested in a Threefold Discourse, I. Vindicia vindiciarum, with M. Cotton. II. A review of M. Hookers Survey of church-discipline. The first part. III. A diatribe with the same M. Hooker concerning baptism of infants of non-confederate parents, chap. 2. Of his third part (Whether the Infants of Believers not in Covenant with a visible Church, may be baptized), 1651. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.

*Church of Scotland, Covenantal Lawsuits of the Church of Scotland.
"The consequences of disobeying the covenant of God was suffering the severity of God's judgment. If the persecutors of the Scottish Church refused to repent, they would suffer excommunication. Knox and his followers knew that God himself would give victory to the Church. The sovereign judgment of God would come on their oppressors in some manner. Armed uprising was not the first priority of the Church. They were first to dispense with all effective means of Church discipline. But armed resistance, as a last means of self-defense, was never ruled out." -- see John Knox, The Reformation in Scotland, pp. 168,169,171,172.

Cotton, John (1584-1652), Ministers of the Gospel Should Speak, not as Pleasing men, but God, who Tries Their Hearts. A sermon preach'd at the ordination of the Rev. Mr. Ward Cotton, at Hampton, in New-Hampshire, June 19th. 1734. When he was ordain'd a colleague-pastor with the Rev. Mr. Nathanael Gookin, Pastor of the First Church there. By John Cotton, A.M. Minister of the Gospel in Newtown. Boston, 1734.

Cunningham, William (1805-1861), The Objects, Nature, and Standard of Ecclesiastical Authority.

Cunningham, William (1805-1861), James Buchanan, and James Bannerman, Leaders of the Reformation, 1860. Available in THE WORKS OF WILLIAM CUNNINGHAM. Available in THE REFORMERS AND THE THEOLOGY OF THE REFORMATION. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #17.

*Cunningham, William (1805-1861), James Buchanan, and James Bannerman The Reformers and the Theology of the Reformation, 2 volumes.

Dabney, Robert L. (1820-1898), The Public Preaching of Women. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #22.

Danner, D.G., Christopher Goodman and the English Protestant Tradition of Civil Disobedience, Sixteenth Century Journal 8 (1977), 61-73, ISSN: 0361-0160.

Davis, John Jefferson, Evangelical Ethics: Issues Facing the Church Today, ISBN: 087552222X 9780875522227.

Dell, William (d. 1664), Right Reformation, or the Reformation of the Church of the New Testament, Represented in Gospel-light. In a Sermon Preached . . . November 25, 1646.

De Witt, John R., What is the Reformed Faith? ISBN: 0851513263 9780851513263.
"A professor of Systematic Theology, Reformed Seminary in Jackson provides a short, insightful look into the major truths of the Reformed Faith." -- GCB

*Dickson, David (1583-1663), Of God's Eternal Decree. Available in TRUTH'S VICTORY OVER ERROR: A COMMENTARY ON THE WESTMINSTER CONFESSION OF FAITH, ISBN: 0851519490 9780851519494. Available (PDF and MP3 files), on the Puritan Hard Drive.
"This book is not merely of historical interest; it is also of considerable value now because many of the errors refuted within its pages have surfaced again in the 21st century church under new guises. Christians today can learn a great deal from the faithful witness of former generations who experienced 'truth's victory over error.' TRUTH'S VICTORY OVER ERROR contains David Dickson's lectures on the WESTMINSTER CONFESSION OF FAITH, delivered to the divinity students of Edinburgh University in the early 1650s. Here then is a commentary written just a few brief years after the Westminster Divines drew up their famous Confession of 1647 [sic] by one of their senior contemporaries. Dickson's comments reveal the burning issues of the day and supply fascinating insight into the robust theology of the Scottish Puritans. In the Introduction to the book, Robert Wodrow writes that the author 'as it were, breaks the truths of our Confession small, and prepares them for the meanest capacities.' Here, then, is a useful aid for Christians who want to study and understand the doctrines of the Confession itself. Dickson was concerned to explain the truth and refute error. Not content merely to establish the Confession's articles from Scripture, he also 'guards against the gangrene and poison of contrary errors, with judgment and perspicuity' (Wodrow). Like all true evangelicals, Dickson saw the vital need of expressing the Bible's teaching in both negative and positive propositions." -- Publisher
Truth's Victory Over Error, Chapter III, "Of God's Eternal Decrees"
http://www.truecovenanter.com/dickson/truthsvictory03.html

*Dickson, David (1583-1663), and Robert Wodrow (1679-1734), Truth's Victory Over Error: A Commentary on the Westminster Confession of Faith. Alternate title: TRUTH'S VICTORY OVER ERROR: OR, THE TRUE PRINCIPLES OF THE CHRISTIAN RELIGION, STATED AND VINDICATED . . . BY THE LATE . . . DAVID DICKSON, . . . TO THIS EDITION IS PREFIXED, A SHORT ACCOUNT OF THE AUTHOR'S LIFE, BY . . . ROBERT WODROW . . . KILMARNOCK, 'THE TRUE PRINCIPLES OF THE CHRISTIAN RELIGION, STATED AND VINDICATED AGAINST THE FOLLOWING HERESIES, VIZ, ARIANS, ARMINIANS, ANABAPTISTS, ANTINOMIANS, BROWNISTS, DONATISTS, EPICURIANS, EUTYCHIANS, ERASTIANS, FAMILISTS, JESUITS, INDEPENDENTS, LIBERTINES, MANICHEANS, PELAGIANS, PAPISTS, QUAKERS, SOCINIANS, SABELLIANS, SCEPTICS, VANINIANS, ETC. THE WHOLE BEING A COMMENTARY ON ALL THE CHAPTERS OF THE (Westminster -- RB), CONFESSION OF FAITH, BY WAY OF QUESTION AND ANSWER: IN WHICH, THE SAVING TRUTHS OF OUR HOLY RELIGION ARE CONFIRMED AND ESTABLISHED; AND THE DANGEROUS ERRORS AND OPINIONS OF ITS ADVERSARIES DETECTED AND CONFUTED . . . TO THIS EDITION IS PREFIXED, A SHORT ACCOUNT OF THE AUTHOR'S LIFE, BY THE LATE MR. ROBERT WODROW'," ISBN: 0851519490 9780851519494. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
Dickson, David, Truth's Victory Over Error
http://www.truecovenanter.com/dickson/truthsvictory.html
Of Justification, from David Dickson's TRUTH'S VICTORY OVER ERROR
http://www.truecovenanter.com/dickson/truthsvictory11.html
Dickson, David (1583-1663), and Robert Wodrow (1679-1734, short account of the Reverend Mr. David Dickson), Truth's Victory Over Error, or, the True Principles of the Christian Religion, Stated and Vindicated Against the Following Heresies, viz. Arians . . . Vaninians, &c. The whole being a commentary on all the chapters of the Confession of Faith, by way of question and answer: in which, the saving truths of our holy religion are confirmed and established; and the dangerous errors and opinions of its adversaries detected and confuted. (1764)
Bound with the author's: TRUE CHRISTIAN LOVE.
https://archive.org/details/truthove00dick

Douma, Doug J., Presbyterian Philosopher: The Authorized Biography of Gordon H. Clark, ISBN: 9781532607257 1532607253.
"This is the story of Gordon Clark (1902-85), respected philosopher and prolific writer, who held that Christianity, as a logically coherent system, is superior to all other philosophies. Clark fought no wars and conquered no kingdoms. Yet he was a leading figure in many theological wars fought for the Kingdom of God. These battles for the minds and souls of men were every bit as crucial as physical wars between nations.
"In an age of increasing secularization, he put up an intellectual defense of the Christian faith. This faith, he believed, was a system. All of its parts link together, a luxury of no other philosophy. His stance shows a Christianity that is in fact intellectual, not relying on appeals to emotion or experience.
"In propounding this view, he encountered frequent opposition, not from the secular world, but from within his own denomination. This biography helps explain why his thought was so profound, why resistance mounted against him, and how his struggles impacted American Presbyterianism. Additionally, this book calls for a reappraisal of Clark's views, which have been maligned by controversy. Understanding and applying his views could significantly fortify Christians combating irrational and non-systematic ideas prevalent in today's churches." -- Publisher

*Durham, James (1622-1658), Concerning Scandal. Alternate title: THE DYING MAN'S TESTAMENT TO THE CHURCH OF SCOTLAND: OR, A TREATISE CONCERNING SCANDAL. A Christian classic. Available (1659 edition), on the Puritan Hard Drive.
"The Rise of The Following Treatise
"Having had occasion to consider the Book of the Revelation, and being on the Epistle to the Church of Pergamos in the second chapter, ground was given to speak something of Scandal, by reason of several doctrines clearly arising from that place. Upon this occasion I did first essay the writing of something of the doctrine of scandal in general, intending only to have spent a sheet or two thereupon, as elsewhere on some other subjects. When this was brought to a close, I found the place to give ground to speak of public church offenses, as they are the object of church discipline and censures. And being convinced, that that subject was not impertinent to be spoken of, I yielded to spend some thoughts upon it also, which did draw to a greater length than at first was intended or was suitable for a digression. This being finished, as it is, and any more thoughts of this subject laid by, it occurred again to me to think of doctrinal scandals or of scandalous errors. And considering that the scandals mentioned in that place, are of such nature, and that such are very frequent in this time, I yielded also to put together what thoughts the Lord would furnish concerning the same, whereupon followed the third part of this treatise.
"When this was even at the closing, there was a fourth part of the same subject that did occur to me to be thought on, which before that had never been minded, and that was concerning scandalous church divisions. To this my mind and inclination was exceedingly averse at first, as knowing it not only to be difficult in itself to be meddled in, but also exceedingly above me, who am altogether unsuitable to hazard on such a subject. Yet considering the rise of the motion, and how the Lord had helped through the other parts, I did resolve to condescend to follow it, at least so far till it might appear what was his mind to me therein, and accordingly did follow it till it came to the period (whatever it be), that now it is at.
"This is the true rise and occasion of this treatise, and of the several parts thereof, and therefore I have continued its entry in the original mold thereof, to wit, in laying down some general doctrines from that place of Scripture, and if there is afterward any more particular relation to the second and third chapters of the Revelation than to other Scriptures, this simple narration of the rise thereof may satisfy any concerning the same. Whereof we shall say no more, but first lay down grounds of all from that text, and then proceed in the treatise, which is divided in four parts, upon the reasons formerly hinted."
"The Grounds of This Treatise
"Among other things that troubled the church in the primitive times, scandal, or offense, was a chief one. The many directions that are given concerning it, and the reproofs that are of it, show that it is a main piece of a Christian's conversation to walk rightly in reference thereto, and a great evidence of looseness where it is not heeded. On verse 6 [Rev. 2 (Revelation 2:6)], we show that this was a sole fault of the Nicolaitans to be careless of offending, or of giving of offense, and not to regard scandal; and here the Lord holds it forth to be so by comparing it with Balaam's practice (v. 14 [Revelation 5:14]), which is aggreged from this, that he taught Balak to lay a stumbling block before Israel. From which these doctrines may be gathered:

1. That there is such a fault incident to men in their carriage, even to lay stumbling-blocks before others and to offend them.
2. That men ought to walk so as not to offend others, or so as to lay no stumbling-block before them. So that it is not enough not to stumble themselves (if this could be separated from the other), but also they ought to be careful not to stumble others.
3. The Lord takes special notice how men do walk in reference to others in this, and is highly provoked where he sees any guilty of it.
4. The Devil has ever endeavored to have offenses abounding in the church, and to make some lay such stumbling-blocks before others.
5. It is most hurtful to the church, and destructive to souls where offenses abound, and men walk not tenderly in reference to these; so that the Lord expresses it with a twofold woe (Matt. 18 [Matthew 18]), as being a woe beyond sword and pestilence.
6. We may gather that corrupt doctrine never [lacks] offenses joined with it, and that ordinarily those who spread that, are untender in this.
7. That offenses often accompany the rise and beginning of any work of Christ's among a people; these tares of offenses are ordinarily then sown.
8. That some offenses are of a public nature, and that church officers should take notice of such, and that it is offensive to Christ when they are overlooked and not taken heed unto.
9. Church officers, even such as other ways are approved in their carriage and ministry, may fall in this fault, as by comparing the Epistles to Pergamos and Thyatira, is clear.
10. When officers fall in this fault, it is yet no reprovable thing in members that are pure in respect of their own personal carriage, to continue in communion with such a church, the ordinances other ways being pure." -- Author's Introduction

Ellul, Jacques (1912-1994), The Subversion of Christianity, ISBN: 0802800491 9780802800497.
"What we today call Christianity, says Ellul, is actually far removed from the revelation of God. The church has perverted and reinterpreted Scripture over the years in order to mitigate the scandal of the Gospel. Yet Ellul remains hopeful, for the Holy Spirit continues to move in the world." -- Publisher

Erskine, Ebenezer (1680-1754), Ralph Erskine, William Wilson, and Others, A Publick Testimony; Being the Representation and Petition of a Considerable Number of Christian People . . . Presented . . . to the General Assembly . . . Anent Grievances, 1732. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.

*Fairbairn, Patrick (1805-1874), An Exposition of Ezekiel. Alternate title: EZEKIEL AND THE BOOK OF HIS PROPHECY. Available (WORKS OF PATRICK FAIRBAIRN), on the Puritan Hard Drive.
"This exposition . . . has gained for its author a high place among elucidators of difficult part of Scripture. Dr. Fairbairn has a cool judgment and a warm heart; he has cast much light on Ezekiel's wheels, and has evidently felt the touch of the live coal, which is better still." -- C.H. Spurgeon
Ezekiel and the Book of his Prophecy: An Exposition (1855)
http://archive.org/details/ezekielbookofhis00fairrich

*Fairly, John (1729-1806), An Humble Attempt in Defense of Reformation Principles; Particularly on the Head of the Civil Magistrate. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #25.
"The title continues: 'Wherein the gross falsehoods, calumnies, and imposed sense, palmed by Mr. John Goodlet, upon the Testimony emitted by the Reformed Presbytery, are exposed and confuted; and said Testimony vindicated. As also, the seceding scheme of political principles more fully detected;-- and discovered to be inconsistent with the law of nature, light of divine revelation, and covenanted testimony of the Church of Scotland.' Goold, in his THE REFORMED PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN SCOTLAND: ITS ORIGIN AND HISTORY 1680-1876, writes of Fairly and this book, 'He was very zealous and outspoken in his maintenance of Church principles, and unsparing in his condemnation and exposure of the shortcomings of other denominations. This caused him to be both feared and disliked by many outside of his own communion; yet by the ministers who were nearest his residence, and who came most frequently in contact with him, he was greatly esteemed. He was fearless of consequences in the discharging of his duties. On one occasion, when in Ireland, his scathing exposure of Popery so irritated the Catholics, that three of them resolved to disturb his next meeting by musical instruments (and remember no faithful Presbyterian used this 'badge of Popery' -- musical instruments -- in their public meetings -- RB). They came prepared to do this, but were so overcome by the grave dignity of the man, and by the truth he spoke, that they could do nothing but quietly listen. Two of them, it is said, became earnest Protestants. On another occasion he denounced 'unpreaching bishops,' and declared that his Lordship of Bangor was worse than Balaam's ass, which spoke once at least, and rebuke the madness of the prophet. Some were so highly offended that they resolved to waylay and stone the preacher. Mr. Fairly was aware of this, but refused to change his route. As he approached the ambuscade, a dispute arose as to his identity; some held that it was the object of their hate, others said, 'No, never a bit of him; who ever saw a mountain minister ride such a good horse?' and while they disputed he got beyond their reach. One who knew him writes thus: 'I had some knowledge of the elder Fairley; he fearlessly attacked the reigning follies of his age, and preached the Gospel in a familiar but forcible style of eloquence. In his great field days, and when contending for the Testimony of the Martyrs, he was unsparing in the use of arrows, oft broke a lance with the Pope, and drove rusty nails into our venerable Establishment, and lashed the Secession and Relief for their declensions.' so pointed was his dealing with the sins of the times, that many left his meetings when he came to the application of his discourse . . . He took part in the controversy with the Seceders, and published a pamphlet in reply to Goodlet, the Anti-burgher minister of Sanquhar, in which he gives a scathing exposure of the weakness and inconsistency of his opponent, and directs against him all his resources of humour and sarcasm, as well as the weightier weapons of solid argument. But it was in proclaiming the riches of the glorious Gospel to cast audiences under the open canopy of heaven, that the power of Fairley was fully disclosed. He was undoubtedly the preacher among the 'Four Johns.' He had a commanding presence, a well-furnished mind, and a fluent and forcible utterance; and when he warmed to his grand theme, his words moved the hearts of the crowds that had gathered around him, and many owned him as their spiritual father.' (pp. 221-222). This book (of 283 pages), is another Reformed Presbyterian classic!" -- Publisher

Forbes, Steve, A New Birth of Freedom: Vision for America, ISBN: 0895263203 9780895263209.
"America today has the potential for the greatest economic boom and spiritual renewal in our history. Presidential candidate and publishing magnate Steve Forbes shows how we can once again brighten economic prospects for everyone, reform our corrupt political institutions, and restore the severely weakened moral foundations of our country." -- Publisher

Forrester, Thomas, John Scott, and Alexander Monro, The Hierarchical Bishops Claim to a Divine Right, Tried at the Scripture-bar, or, A Consideration of the Pleadings for Prelacy: From Pretended Scriptural Arguments, presented and offered by Dr. Scott, in his book intituled, The Christian life, part II, A.M., D.D. in his Enquiry into the New Opinions, &c., and by the author of the second part of the Survey of Naphtali. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #24.

Foster, F.M., History of the Decline and Extinction of Psalm-singing in the Presbyterian Church.

Foye, Martin Wilson, Romish Rites, Offices and Legends, or Authorised Superstitions and Idolatries of the Church of Rome: Literally Translated and Compiled From the Authorised Editions, with the Latin text for the most part in opposite columns and with copious notes, 8 volumes.

Fraser, James (of Brea, 1639-1698), Sermon on Prelacy an Idol and Prelates Idolaters: All Prelatists, Maintainers of, and Complyers With Prelacy, Charg'd With Idolatry, and Proven Guilty. A Sermon [on Hosea ii. 2-5 (Hosea 2:2-5)], 1738.
http://www.covenanter.org/reformed/2015/8/18/james-frasers-of-brae-sermon-on-prelacy-an-idol-and-prelates-idolaters

Ganz, Richard, and William Edgar, Sold out: How the Evangelical Church is Abandoning God for Self-Fulfillment, a Warning, ISBN: 0969469004 9780969469001.
"Takes on the faulty world-views of Western culture, and the destructive influence of error on individuals, churches, and society. Sets out the hope of the Bible for rebuilding." -- David Powlison (1949-2019)

*Gillespie, George (1613-1648), Ezekiel's Vision of Millennial Glory, Preparation for Coming Reformation and a Remedy for Backsliding and Lukewarmness. Available (THE PURITAN FAST SERMONS, 1640-1652, THE WORKS OF GEORGE GILLESPIE, and as two MP3 files), on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available (two MP3 files), on Reformation Bookshelf CD #18.
"This sermon was originally preached to England's House of Commons 'At Their Late Solemn Fast, Wednesday, March 27, 1644.' It is taken from volume one of Gillespie's two volume WORKS. It gives great insight into the covenanted unity, uniformity and worldwide Reformation sought by the majority of the Westminster Divines and the best of the civil leaders of Gillespie's day. Gillespie searchingly deals with the individual, the church and the state, while painting a Scriptural picture of prophesied earthly victory (Isa. 2:2-5 [Isaiah 2:2-5], Ezek. 47:1-12 [Ezekiel 47:1-12], etc.) -- in classic historicist postmillennial style -- which is sure to stir even the coldest Christian heart. He shows how the worst disease the land can suffer is corruption in religion (particularly as exhibited in false worship), rebukes those opposing the Solemn League and Covenant and calls upon all to maintain (and even improve upon), the Reformation attainments whereunto we have already attained. (Phil. 3:16 [Philippians 3:16]). It is also interesting to note, especially since this sermon was preached before civil rulers, that though Gillespie points out the need for humility, repentance, prayer, tears, godly affections, sanctified minds and honorable actions, he does not forget to mention the importance of a covenanted army in this great cause of Christ's Covenanted Reformation. Also noted is the destruction of Antichrist, the calling and conversion of the Jews (Rom. 11 [Romans 11]), the two witnesses and the 1260 year apostasy. Gillespie closes with an appeal to the English House of Commons, with whom the Scots had 'joined in covenant and in arms,' to be faithful 'according to the word he (God -- RB), hath covenanted with you (i.e. in the Solemn League and Covenant -- RB), so his spirit remaineth among you' -- exhorting these magistrates to fear not but to be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. This is classic Covenanter preaching, among the best sermons you may ever hear!" -- Publisher

*Gillespie, George (1613-1648), Reformation's Refining Fire; or, Iconoclastic Zeal Necessary to World Reformation by George Gillespie, audio file. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Also found in volume one of GILLESPIE'S WORKS.
"This sermon, read by elder Lyndon Dohms, was originally preached to the House of Lords in the abbey church at Westminster during the days of the Westminster Assembly (on August 27, 1645). It deals with Malachi 3:2 and can also be found in volume one of GILLESPIE'S WORKS. The reading is approximately 80 minutes in length and for content this is likely the best sermon that we have ever carried. The glory of Christ is magnified in a soul stirring manner and at a level which is seldom (if ever), reached in our day. Though preaching before some of the most powerful men of his day, Gillespie does nothing to shave off the sharp edges of the whole counsel of God. He makes it abundantly clear that spiritual Reformation (individual, ecclesiastical and civil), is like a flaming fire which burns the dross of the flesh and is often hated and opposed by those that cry loudest for 'Reform.' On the other hand, the refining fire of Reformation which pleases God (and comes from His fatherly hands, filled with mercy, love and grace), not only turns his wrath from the nations (by granting the grace to remove the causes of His wrath), but invigorates the spirit with that iconoclastic zeal against sin (whether personal or corporate), that can only be produced by His sovereign power. Whole-hearted (covenanted) reformation is contrasted, throughout this sermon, with the half-hearted comfortable Christianity that has been common in most ages. Gillespie wields the sword of Scripture as few can in driving home a multitude of vitally important points. This sermon can be listened to over and over with increasing profit, as it contains a fullness which is almost impossible to absorb in just one sitting. Don't miss this one; it is a real gem!" -- Publisher
Reformation's Refining Fire; or, Iconoclastic Zeal Necessary to World Reformation. Preaching on Malachi 3:2 in 1645.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?currSection=sermonssource&sermonID=103006312

Gillespie, George (1613-1648), The Testimony of a Dying Minister of Jesus Christ Against the Sinful and Scandalous Associations With Men of Corrupt Religion and no Religion. Available [THE WORKS OF GEORGE GILLESPIE], on the Puritan Hard Drive.
Gillespie, George, Dying Testimony Against Unlawful Associations
http://www.truecovenanter.com/gillespie/ggilles-ua.html

*Grant, George, and Mark Horne, Unnatural Affections: The Impuritan Ethic of Homosexuality and the Modern Church, ISBN: 1880692007 9781880692004.
"This is a historical overview and Biblical response to the crisis within the Christian Church in regard to sexual behavior. In this brief summary, it expounds the scriptural teaching on sexual ethics and the historic Christian position. UNNATURAL AFFECTIONS offers advice on how Christians can combat this crisis, based firmly on the Bible." -- GCB

Greene, John, The Churches Duty, for Received Mercies. Discovered in a Sermon Preached Before the Honourable House of Commons: At Margarets Westminster, Feb. 24. 1646. being the day of the solemne monthly fast. By John Greene Minister of Gods Word, and a member of the Assembly of Divines . . . Deut. 4:7,10,12 [Deuteronomy 4:7,10,12]. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.

*Griffiths, Michael C., God's Forgetful Pilgrims: Recalling the Church to its Reason for Being, ISBN: 0802834639 9780802834638.

Guinness, H. Grattan, Romanism and the Reformation: From the Standpoint of Prophecy, 1891. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #13.
"Other titles in the series: National danger in romanism, Creed of pius iv, Roman catholic faith of the world today, Spanish romanism and english protestantism on the western continent."

Guthrie, James (1612?-1661), A Humble Acknowledgment of the Sins of the Ministery of Scotland, 1653.

Guthrie, James (1612?-1661), and Archibald Johnston (1793-1818), Causes of the Lords Wrath Against Scotland, Manifested in his sad Late Dispensations. Whereunto is Added a Paper, Particularly Holding Forth the Sins of the Ministery, 1653. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
http://www.truecovenanter.com/guthrie/guthrie_james_causes_of_wrath.html

Hall, David W., Jus Divinum Regiminis Ecclesiastici, or, The Divine Right of Church-government, ISBN: 0941075214 9780941075213 0941075222 9780941075220.

Hamilton, John (clerk of the borough of Irwin), Reasons why a Consent to Abolish the Penal Statutes, Against Papists, Could not be Given by any who Own'd the Then Government in Church and State. Written and Dispersed (by John Hamilton sometime writer in Edinburgh, now clerk of Irving), amongst the Honourable Estates of Parliament held at Edinburgh, anno 1686, at their earnest desire, and by their influence, when the said statutes were designed to be abolished, and no printing thereof could be allowed at the time, 1707.

Henderson, Alexander (1583-1646), Church of Scotland, General Assembly, Commission, Reformation of Church Government in Scotland, Cleared From Some Mistakes and Prejudices by the Commissioners of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland, now at London, 1644. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #23.

Herle, Charles (1598-1659), Detvr Sapienti: In a Treatise of the Excellency of Christian Wisdome, Above That of Worldly Policy and Morall Prvdence (sic), in two Former Treatises. Alternate title: WORLDLY POLICY AND MORAL PRUDENCE. THE VANITY AND FOLLY OF THE ONE, THE SOLIDITY AND USEFULNESS OF THE OTHER, IN A MORAL DISCOURSE. Available (WORLDLY POLICY AND MORAL PRUDENCE), on the Puritan Hard Drive.

*Hetherington, William H. (1803-1865), The Independent Controversy, the Westminster Assembly and Cromwell. Alternate titles: HISTORY OF THE WESTMINSTER ASSEMBLY OF DIVINES, and INDEPENDENT CONTROVERSY, THE WESTMINSTER ASSEMBLY, AND CROMWELL. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #23.
"Though Cromwell has been lauded by many in our day, faithful lovers of truth in his day rejected him and the attendant errors of his Independent abettors. Concerning Cromwell and company, the ACT, DECLARATION AND TESTIMONY . . . by the Reformed Presbytery (1876 ed.), witnesses to the truth that Presbyterians, 'both refused subjection unto, and testified against the usurpation of Oliver Cromwell and his accomplices (the Independents -- RB), his invading the land,' and 'his anti-christian toleration of all sectarian errors and heresies,' which were at that time 'threatening the ruin and destruction of the true religion, as well as liberty.' Cromwell's so-called 'tolerance' extended to the execution of one Presbyterian minister and the persecution of others. He played an instrumental part in scuttling the Christ honoring covenanted uniformity of the Reformed religion that was being fought for in the period covered by this book. The debates, especially between the Independents and the Presbyterians, in this eventful period, are still with us today and have changed very little, if at all. This is a good place to examine the historical context and the theological argumentation that is foundational to these two antagonistic systems." -- Publisher

*Hislop, Alexander (1807-1865), Christ's Crown and Covenant or National Covenanting Essentially Connected With National Revival, 1860.

*Hodge, Charles (1797-1878), The Relation of Church and State, by Charles Hodge, in the Trinity Review, July/August, 1988.
"Hodge was one of the greatest exponents and defenders of historical Calvinism in America during the 19th century." He was the principal of Princeton Theological Seminary between 1851 and 1878.
Charles Hodge "has been called the 'prince of American theologians.' Hodge was perhaps the most influential Presbyterian theologian of the nineteenth century, an instructor at Princeton Seminary for decades, and the author of many books, including his three volume SYSTEMATIC THEOLOGY." (John W. Robbins)
Read what Charles Hodge says in THE RELATION OF CHURCH AND STATE -- THE AMERICAN CHURCH, in support of the newly discovered "novel, yet sound, doctrine" of the relationship between Church and State in America. Then decide for yourself if he unscripturally conceded to delivering the Church into the hands of the State in the "American Version, 1789" of THE WESTMINSTER CONFESSION OF FAITH.
The Biblical doctrine of Christian Magistracy (Bible Magistracy Turns Back the Wrath of God) functions correctly only when State leadership is Christian, and when the State can be depended upon to wield their sword to protect true religion. The history of the human depravity in State leadership (secular leaders who destroy true religion instead of protecting it), should not cause theologians to abandon sound doctrine as stated in the original WESTMINSTER CONFESSION OF FAITH (1646). Treachery in State leadership would be far less of a problem if the writers of the U.S. Constitution had not removed the religious test clause of Colonial constitutions. This was done in America with the adoption of the "AMERICAN VERSION" OF THE WESTMINSTER CONFESSION OF FAITH and THE U.S. CONSTITUTION in 1789.
Besides arguing in support of the "AMERICAN VERSION" OF THE WESTMINSTER CONFESSION "he [Charles Hodge], repudiated the unhistorical position of those who denied the validity of Roman Catholic baptism . . . Hodge supported slavery in the 1830s, and while he condemned the mistreatment of slaves he did not condemn the institution of slavery itself. The background to this attitude, however, was not primarily his understanding of the Bible's teaching on the matter, but rather his churchmanship. . . .
"In 1846, however, he became convinced that slavery was wrong, reversing his earlier anti-abolitionist stance, and he then publicly denounced slavery and supported both the Abolitionist movement and President Lincoln (Adams, 2003)." -- New World Encyclopedia, February 15, 2014
American Covenanters decried the "American Version." See the Covenanter document:
Reformed Presbyterian Catechism, William L. Roberts D.D.
http://archive.org/details/ReformedPresbyterianCatechism
We love Gordon Clark, and we hold him in highest esteem, one of the great minds of the 20th century. However, astonishingly, he seems to have adopted Hodge's position on the "American Version." This relieves the State of judicial responsibilities to preserve true religion, and delivers the Church into the hands of the State. Hence, today we have the "church effeminate" and, consequently, a destabilization of every sphere of society, including that of the Reformed Church. Could this be one reason for the failure of Church courts today?
The Relation of Church and State -- The American Church, Charles Hodge
http://www.trinityfoundation.org/journal.php?id=92

*Hodgkin, Henry T., Lay Religion (The Swarthmore Press, 1919).
"Every great religious awakening has been a revolt against authority." -- Henry T. Hodgkin

Hoekstra, Harvey T., The World Council of Churches and the Demise of Evangelism, ISBN: 0842385258 9780842385251.

Hog, James, A Letter, Wherein the Scriptural Grounds and Warrants for the Reformation of Churches by way of Covenant, are Succinctly Considered and Cleared. . . . by a Welwisher to a Covenanted Reformation.

Hordern, William, Living by Grace, ISBN: 0664247636 9780664247638.
"A critical examination of Protestant churches that boldly announce their belief in the theology of grace but are so works oriented that their practice belies their profession." -- Cyril J. Barber

Howie, John (1735-1793), Reformation Principles, &c. Re-exhibited: A Collection; Containing, I. The National Covenant and Solemn League and Covenant, With the Acknowledgment of Sins, and Engagement to Duties, as They Were Renewed at Douglass, July 24, 1712, With Accommodations to the Present Times -- Together with a preface, containing a narrative of the manner of the action, &c. II. Plain Reasons for Presbyterians Dissenting From the Revolution-church in Scotland. As also, their principles concerning civil government, and the difference betwixt the reformation and revolution principles. Alternate title: PLAIN REASONS FOR PRESBYTERIANS DISSENTING FROM THE REVOLUTION-CHURCH IN SCOTLAND.

*Howie, John (1735-1793, collector and transcriber), Michael Shields, James Guthrie, John Kid, John King, et al., Faithful Contendings Displayed: Being an Historical Relation of the State and Actings of the Suffering Remnant in the Church of Scotland Subsisted in Select Societies, and Were United in General Correspondencies During the Hottest Time of the Late Persecution, viz. From the Year 1681 to 1691: Together with an account of the State of the land in general, and of the society people in particular, in the intervals betwixt each of their general meetings, with some pertinent remarks upon these historical occurrences, and many letters to and from the general correspondent meetings, 1780, ISBN: 1171237324 9781171237327 0548345945 9780548345948. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
The long title continues: "Collected and kept in record by Mr. Michael Shields, who was clerk unto these general societies, and personally present at most of their meetings. To which is added, ten considerations on the danger of apostacy and defection from a covenanted work of reformation. By Mr. James Guthrie, sometime minister of the Gospel at Stirling. As also, a collection of very valuable sermons, preached by these faithful and eminent servants of Jesus Christ, Messrs. John Kid, John King, John Welch, John Blackadder, John Dickson, and Gabriel Semple. Collected and transcribed by John Howie, and published at the desire of some of those who desire to own the same testimony that some of those authors owned and sealed with their blood." -- long title continued
"Howie is famous for his BIOGRAPHIA SCOTICANA: OR, A BRIEF HISTORICAL ACCOUNT OF THE LIVES, CHARACTERS, AND MEMORABLE TRANSACTIONS OF THE MOST EMINENT SCOTS WORTHIES (often just called SCOTS WORTHIES), but this work is just as valuable. A massive, rare classic, in which Howie aims at 'the gaining of friends unto, or confirming them in the covenanted interest, in a subserviency to God's glory and the good of His church' (preface, p. xxiv). Contains much information on the Reformation and the sufferings of the Covenanters which is found nowhere else (to our knowledge)." -- Publisher

*Hunt, Susan, Spiritual Mothering: The Titus 2 Model for Women Mentoring Women, ISBN: 0891077197 9780891077190.
"This is a fine treatment of a subject very close to my heart. May older women heed the call to mother the younger, and may the younger women be teachable." -- Elisabeth Elliot
"This is a jewel of a book. By sensitively examining Paul's instructions in Titus 2, Susan Hunt calls women to powerfully affect our nation and world with the love of God -- one person at a time." -- Beverly LaHaye
"Hunt has lots of experience in the area this book covers. She is very active in the PCA's W.I.C. program. The book comes with glowing recommendations by Elisabeth Elliot, Bev LaHaye, Charles Dunahoo, Connie Marshner, and Debra Evans. She believes that the church needs to restore the ministry of older women to younger women." -- GCB

Hutcheson, George, A Review and Examination of a Pamphlet . . . "Protestor no Subverters, etc." Alternate title: A REVIEW AND EXAMINATION OF A PAMPHLET LATELY PUBLISHED BEARING THE TITLE PROTESTERS NO SUBVERTERS, AND PRESBYTERIE NO PAPACY, &C. / BY SOME LOVERS OF THE INTEREST OF CHRIST IN THE CHURCH OF SCOTLAND, 1659.

Jameson, William, Cyprianus Isotimus: or, J.S.'s Vindication of his Principles of the Cyprianic age Confuted, in Which, Moreover, Divers Signal Differences Between the Cyprianic and Hierarchic Bishop are Assigned, some new Pleas and Arguments of the Prelatists Discussed, and Several Things of Considerable Consequence and use in the Present Controversie Advanced, by William Jameson, 1705. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #24.

Jameson, William, Nazianzeni Querela Et Votum Justum: The Fundamentals of the Hierarchy Examin'd and Disprov'd, 1697. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #24.

Jamieson, W.F., The Clergy a Source of Danger to the American Republic, 1873, ISBN: 0524009945 9780524009949.

Kennedy, D. James, Jerry Newcombe, Grover Gardner, What if America Were a Christian Nation Again, [audio file], ISBN: 9781511360883 1511360887.

Kerr, James (1847-1905), Lecture on The Scriptural Doctrines Violated by Ritualism
http://www.covenanter.org/reformed/2015/8/19/james-kerrs-lecture-on-the-scriptural-doctrines-violated-by-ritualism

Killen, W.D., William M'Clure, James Denham, A.P. Goudy, et al., Ministers of the General Synod of Ulster, The Plea of Presbytery in Behalf of the Ordination, Government, Discipline, and Worship of the Christian Church, as Opposed to the Unscriptural Character and Claims of Prelacy: in a Reply to the Rev. Archibald Boyd . . . on Episcopacy, 1843. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #24.

Kirk, James, Patterns of Reform, 1989, ISBN: 0567095053 9780567095053.

Knodel, R.E., Jr., LifeStyle: A Biblical/Philosophical Study of Christianity and the Culture it Produces, ISBN: 9781477122006 9781477122013 147712201X 9781477122020 1477122028 1477122001.
"With the publication of LIFESTYLE, culturologist/philosopher R.E. Knodel, Jr. makes a major contribution to this debate involving politicians, philosophers, foreign policy experts, and theologians. Drawing on philosophical analysis and studies of Christendom, Knodel defends the notion that God himself established this concept in creation; and that refusal to recognize this genius cuts us off from the culture of freedom, productivity and prosperity that people desire.
"Dr. Knodel uses the stencil of the creation in the Book of Genesis and finds an embedded philosophical principle that keys the cultural enterprise. It reveals a divine mandate for seeing unity in the often hostile dichotomy between the sacred and the secular. This both challenges and motivates as one sees the turmoil of both church and culture at the onset of the 21st century. Knodel begins with his definition and then argues the sense of it. Succeeding chapters analyze Christendom's past cultural failures, show how Christ is a key to world development and survey competing definitions -- even that of Islam.
"A well-crafted, cerebral literary masterpiece, LIFESTYLE is packed with wisdom and inspiration -- a unique work that propels readers to bring their gifts to every future human endeavor, for the glory of the God. It is a must read for those who are serious about life and the cultural enterprise." -- Publisher
"I deal with this issue under my discussion of 'pluralism,' distinguishing between Capital 'P' macro-pluralism (bad) and lower case 'p' micro-pluralism (often good). Pluralism of the 'Capital variety' involves major ideas of theological or philosophical variety; lower case pluralism involves other issues as discussed above. Liberalism and Progressivism love to equivocate over (confuse) these two categories, so that Satan has equal ultimacy with the God of the Bible. Once confusion has been achieved, then they overtly favor the satanic -- which is our lot today!" -- The author, R.E. Knodel, Jr., in Lifestyle, pp. 152-153, footnote 201

Knox, John (1505-1572), Answer to a Jesuit: The Marks of a True Church and Ministry. Alternate title: AN ANSWER TO A LETTER OF A IESUIT NAMED TYRIE, BE IOHNE KNOX and THE REFUTATION OF ANE ANSUER MADE BE SCHIR JOHNE KNOX, 1572. Available in SELECTED WRITINGS OF JOHN KNOX, VOLUME 2: LATER WRITINGS AND CORRESPONDENCE. Available (SELECTED WRITINGS OF JOHN KNOX, VOLUME 2), on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #18. Available on Library of Presbyterian Heritage Publications and Protestant Heritage Press CD-ROM Library,
Contains a letter written to his mother-in-law, Elizabeth Bowes, in 1554.
"The editor of Knox's writings in the series of British Reformers describes this work as 'among the most interesting of the writings of the Scottish Reformer. The sophistries of the Jesuit are completely exposed, and we have answers to many of those arguments which the Jesuits of the present day have brought forward dressed up in specious colours. The ardent desire of Knox to depart and to be with Christ is fully expressed; and the impartial reader of the letter to Tyrie, with its appendages, will be fully satisfied that Knox was not the turbulent ambitious character which his adversaries represent him to have been.' Knox, in his old age, remains steadfast and fearless, proclaiming that, 'the doctrine of the Papistical Church, now many years by past, hath been altogether corrupt; that their opinion, which they call their Catholic faith, has no sure ground within the work of God; and that the way, which they for the most part have followed, was the very way of perdition to all such as without true repentance departed this life in that blindness; and much more shall be to all persons and estates that now shall maintain those abominations, because the light is come, and has sufficiently declared the former darkness.' This piece should prove useful in our day, as Rome seems to have received a new infusion of power from that Satanic spirit that animates her spiritual fornication and adultery with the nations of the Earth. A number of so-called 'evangelicals,' even now, drink from her polluted cup, and others, having entered into the inner chambers of her brothel, lay within this harlot's bosom, having turned from the truth to serve Satan's lieutenant, the Pope of Rome." -- Publisher
Answer to a Jesuit: The Marks of a True Church and Ministry
http://www.truecovenanter.com/knox/knox_answer_to_a_jesuit_named_tyrie.html

*Knox, John (1505-1572), Appellation From the Sentence Pronounced by the Bishops and Clergy: Addressed to the Nobility and Estates of Scotland. Alternate title: THE APPELLATION OF JOHN KNOX FROM THE CRUELL . . . SENTENCE PRONOUNCED AGAINST HIM BY THE FALSE BISHOPPES AND CLERGEY OF SCOTLAND, WITH HIS SUPPLICATION AND EXHORTATION TO THE NOBILITIE, ESTATES, AND COMMUNALTIE OF THE SAME REALME, and THE APPELLATION . . . TO THE SCOTTISH NOBILITY, and REFORMATION, REVOLUTION AND ROMANISM: AN APPEAL TO THE SCOTTISH NOBILITY, and THE APPELLATION FROM THE SENTENCE PRONOUNCED BY THE BISHOPS AND CLERGY: ADDRESSED TO THE NOBILITY AND ESTATES OF SCOTLAND, and THE APPELLATION. Cover title: REFORMATION, REVOLUTION AND ROMANISM: APPEAL TO THE SCOTTISH NOBILITY (1558). Available (singly as REFORMATION, REVOLUTION AND ROMANISM, in which key text have been underlined by a previous reader), on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available (REFORMATION, REVOLUTION AND ROMANISM), on Reformation Bookshelf CD #1 (MP3), #26. Available (APPELLATION FROM THE SENTENCE PRONOUNCED BY THE BISHOPS AND CLERGY: ADDRESSED TO THE NOBILITY AND ESTATES OF SCOTLAND), on the Library of Presbyterian Heritage Publications and Protestant Heritage Press CD-ROM Library. Available (APPELLATION FROM THE SENTENCE PRONOUNCED BY THE BISHOPS AND CLERGY: ADDRESSED TO THE NOBILITY AND ESTATES OF SCOTLAND), in THE WORKS OF JOHN KNOX, Vol. 4. [John Knox; David Laing ((collector and editor)), THE WORKS OF JOHN KNOX, Vol. 4, reprint of the 1855 edition printed for Bannatyne Club, Edinburgh (New York: AMS Press, 1966)].
"David Chilton notes, 'Of all the sixteenth-century Reformers, John Knox remains the most ardently loved and fiercely hated. No other leader of his day saw so clearly the political issues in the light of Scripture. Nor has any of his contemporaries had so much direct influence upon the subsequent history of the world. He transformed a land of barbarians into one of the most hard-headly Calvinistic cultures ever to exist, and his doctrines lie at the core of all Protestant revolutionary activity. While he is often considered merely one of Calvin's lieutenants, he was actually a Reformer in his own right. In some respects he was the greatest of them all.' ("John Knox," in The Journal of Christian Reconstruction: Symposium on Puritanism and Law [Vallecito, CA: Chalcedon], Vol. V, No. 2, Winter, 1978-79, p. 194).
"Furthermore, R.L. Greaves has noted that 'it has even been suggested -- and not altogether without merit -- that Knox was a key link in the development of political ideology that culminated in the American Revolution.' (Theology and Revolution in the Scottish Reformation: Studies in the Thought of John Knox [Grand Rapids, MI: Christian University Press, 1980], p. 156).
"Moreover, Mason [Roger A. Mason -- compiler], states that this APPEAL [APPELLATION FROM THE SENTENCE PRONOUNCED BY THE BISHOPS AND CLERGY: ADDRESSED TO THE NOBILITY AND ESTATES OF SCOTLAND -- compiler], 'is the most important . . . of Knox's political writings.' (in the Introduction to his compilation of Knox's political writings entitled KNOX: ON REBELLION). [see annotation for KNOX: ON REBELLION elsewhere in this bibliography -- compiler]. It shows in a conclusive manner that Knox wanted a Theonomic Establishment which was careful to 'disapprove, detest, oppose and remove all false worship and all monuments of idolatry' (cf. Westminster Larger Catechism, #108). It also clearly demonstrates that Knox believed in and promoted the continuing binding validity of the Old Testament case laws and the penal sanctions attached to them, including the death penalty.
"Kevin Reed, in a editor's note, introducing this piece in his newly published SELECTED WRITING OF JOHN KNOX [available on the Puritan Hard Drive. -- compiler], also points out that 'the Westminster Confession provides a distinct echo of Knox, when it states that the magistrate ""hath authority, and it is his duty, to take order, that unity and peace be preserved in the church, that the truth of God be kept pure and entire, that all blasphemies and heresies be suppressed, all corruptions and abuses in worship and discipline prevented or reformed, and all the ordinances of God duly settled, administered, and observed"" (Ch. 23:3, original wording). One secular historian once described Knox as 'Calvin with a sword,' making one wonder if he had not just been reading this very book. For 'where Calvin merely permitted disobedience to an ungodly ruler or immoral law, Knox championed armed rebellion -- a type of Calvinism that made religious revolution in Scotland possible.' (Christian History, Issue 46, p. 35). This is the best of the best; don't miss it!" -- Publisher
Knox, John, Appellation From the Sentence Pronounced by the Bishops and Clergy: Addressed to the Nobility and Estates of Scotland
This is a character scan (OCR) of the modernized text published by Protestant Heritage Press. While text may be cut and pasted it is subject to copyright.
http://www.swrb.com/newslett/actualNLs/appellat.htm
The Works of John Knox (1846), Vol. 4.
http://archive.org/stream/worksjohnknox07laingoog#page/n4/mode/2up
Reformation, Revolution and Romanism (1558), John Knox, MP3 file.
"This has been called John Knox's most important political writing. It also deals with Romanism, God's law, and much more.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?currSection=sermonssource&sermonID=1030075041
See also:
Goodman, Christopher (1520-1603), How Superior Powers ought to be Obeyed of Their Subjects: And Wherein They may Lawfully by God's Word be Disobeyed and Resisted, 1558. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #26. Available (HOW SUPERIOR POWERS OUGHT TO BE OBEYED), on the Library of Presbyterian Heritage Publications and Protestant Heritage Press CD-ROM Library.
"From 1555 to 1558, Christopher Goodman served as co-pastor, with John Knox, of the congregation of English exiles in Geneva. During the course of his ministry, Goodman preached upon Acts 4:19 and 5:29: 'Whether it be right in the sight of God, to obey you rather than God, judge ye. We ought rather to obey God than men'. . . . In this book, Goodman contends against both ecclesiastical and political tyranny." -- Publisher
How Superior Powers Ought to be Obeyed of Their Subjects
http://www.constitution.org/cmt/goodman/obeyed.htm
See also annotation for:
Knox, John (1505-1572), The History of the Reformation of Religion Within the Realm of Scotland. . . . Together With the Life of the Author, and Several Curious Pieces Wrote by him, . . . By the Reverend Mr. John Knox, . . . To Which is Added, I. An Admonition to England and Scotland . . . BY Antoni Gilby. II. The First and Second Books of Discipline, Glasgow, 1761. Alternate title: THE HISTORIE OF THE REFORMATION OF THE CHURCH OF SCOTLAND CONTAINING FIVE BOOKS: TOGETHER WITH SOME TREATISES CONDUCING TO THE HISTORY. EDITED, WITH A LIFE OF KNOX AND A PREFACE, BY DAVID BUCHANAN. INCLUDES: "THE APPELLATION OF JOHN KNOX, FROM THE . . . SENTENCE PRONOUNCED AGAINST HIM (pp. 1-33); "THE ADMONITION OF JOHN KNOX TO HIS BELOVED BRETHREN THE COMMONALTY OF SCOTLAND" (pp. 34-42); "A FAITHFULL ADMONITION MADE BY JOHN KNOX TO THE TRUE PROFESSORS OF THE GOSPEL OF CHRIST WITHIN THE KINGDOM OF ENGLAND, 1554" (pp. 43-79); "THE COPIE OF A LETTER DELIVERED TO QUEEN MARY, REGENT OF SCOTLAND" (pp. 80-97); AND "A SERMON PREACHED BY JOHN KNOX [AUGUST 19, 1565]," ISBN: 0851513581 9780851513584. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #1.

Knox, John (1505-1572), Knox's Call to the Ministry and First Public Debate (1547) with an editor's note by Kevin Reed, 1547. Available (WORKS OF JOHN KNOX) on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #15, #26. Available in SELECTED WRITINGS OF JOHN KNOX.
Knox's Call to the Ministry and First Public Debate (1547)
http://www.swrb.com/newslett/actualnls/KnoxCall.htm

*Knox, John (1505-1572), National Repentance and Reformation. Alternate title: A BRIEF EXHORTATION TO ENGLAND FOR THE SPEEDY EMBRACING OF THE GOSPEL, 1559. Available in THE WORKS OF JOHN KNOX. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #25.
"Formerly titled A BRIEF EXHORTATION TO ENGLAND FOR THE SPEEDY EMBRACING OF THE GOSPEL, 1559. Mitchell in THE SCOTTISH REFORMATION (p. 80), cites Dr. Merle D'Aubign� on Knox: 'The blood of warriors ran in the veins of the man who was to become one of the most intrepid champions of Christ's army . . . He was active, bold, thoroughly upright and perfectly honest, diligent in his duties, and full of heartiness for his comrades.' The warrior in Knox was certainly roused for battle in this production. Kevin Reed SELECTED WRITINGS OF JOHN KNOX, p. 580 comments, 'Some historians have reflected negatively on the vehemence of Knox's remarks. Perhaps they should peruse the long list of the martyrs named in the appendix to this work. Critics may then find a clue for understanding the reformer's zeal. Knox is discussing serious matters of life and death -- spiritual issues which affect us deeply in this life, and for eternity.' Magistrates everywhere today need to hear this message again; God has not changed -- there are still corporate curses for disobedience at a national level and corporate blessings for those nations 'that kiss the Son' (cf. Psalm 2)." -- Publisher

*Knox, John (1505-1572), and Kevin Reed, True and False Ministries: Selections From the Writings. Available in THE WORKS OF JOHN KNOX, 6 volumes, David Laing (editor). THE WORKS OF JOHN KNOX available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #1.
Notes: "Based upon selections from volume 6 of the definitive ed. of 'The works of John Knox', edited by David Laing (Edinburgh, 1895)."

Lee, Francis Nigel, The Christian Manifesto of 1984: An Answer to the Communist Manifesto of 1848, ISBN: 0949762032 9780949762030.

Lee, Francis Nigel, The Westminster Confession and Modern Society: or, How may we Confess Christ in a Twentieth-century Expression of the Westminster Confession of Faith to a Changing Hostile Society?
"How may we confess Christ, to a changing and hostile society, in the twentieth century? Dr. Lee leads us to the teaching of the WCF [1646], showing how it addresses every area of life with its comprehensive and Biblically faithful testimony to the Truth!" -- Publisher

*Levitt, Steven, and Stephen J. Dubner, Freakonomics: A Rogue Economist Explores the Hidden Side of Everything, ISBN: 9780062132345 0062132342 9788466645775 8466645772.
"Nothing is more powerful than information, especially when its power is abused. . . .
"Though extraordinarily diverse, these crimes all have a common trait: they were sins of information. Most of them involved an expert, or a gang of experts, promoting false information or hiding true information; in each case the experts were trying to keep the information asymmetry as asymmetrical as possible.
"The practitioners of such acts, especially in the realm of high finance, inevitably offer this defense: 'Everybody else was doing it.' Which may be largely true. One characteristic of information crimes is that very few of them are detected." -- Levitt and Dubner
"More than 4 million copies sold worldwide. Published in 35 languages. . . . Steven D. Levitt is not a typical economist. He studies the riddles of everyday life 'from cheating and crime to parenting and sports' and reaches conclusions that turn conventional wisdom on its head. FREAKONOMICS is a groundbreaking collaboration between Levitt and Stephen J. Dubner, an award-winning author and journalist. They set out to explore the inner workings of a crack gang, the truth about real estate agents, the secrets of the Ku Klux Klan, and much more." -- Publisher

Lindsell, Harold, The New Paganism, ISBN: 0060652721 9780060652722. Alternate title: THE TRIUMPH OF THE NEW PAGAN WELTANSCHAUUNG.
"Cogently and urgently, Lindsell documents his belief that Christians must work from a clear understanding of the pagan nature of our culture and society. He argues for the restoration of Christian humanism and God-centered values." -- GCB

Lindsell, Harold, The World, the Flesh, and the Devil, ISBN: 0913686042 9780913686041.

Lindsey, Arthur J., Racism: The Goliath Within the Present-day Church, ISBN: 1451269072 9781451269079 1451269080 9781451269086.

Lloyd-Jones, David Martyn (1899-1981), Not Against Flesh and Blood: The Battle Against Spiritual Wickedness in High Places, ISBN: 1850491798 9781850491798.

Love, John (1757-1825), That ye Love one Another
http://www.westminsterconfession.org/godly-living/that-ye-love-one-another.php

*Luther, Martin (1483-1546), Commentary on Galatians, English translation by Erasmus Middleton, B.D., edited by John Prince Fallowes, M.A., Pembroke College, Cambridge, ISBN: 0825431247. A Christian classic. Considered to be among the ten greatest books in the English language. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
"I prefer this book of Martin Luther's (except the Bible), before all the books I have ever seen, as most fit for a wounded soul." -- John Bunyan
"This is a great, historic work, and is beyond criticism on account of its great usefulness. As a comment its accuracy might be questioned; but for emphatic utterances and clear statements of the great doctrine of the Epistle it remains altogether by itself, and must be judged per se." -- C.H. Spurgeon
"The reissue of a famous series of lectures delivered at Wittenberg University in 1553." -- Cyril J. Barber
Commentary on Galatians, Martin Luther
http://archive.org/details/cu31924029294133
Luther's Commentary on Galatians, who hath bewitched you, that you should not obey the truth. (Galatians 3:1 excerpt), English translation by Erasmus Middleton, B.D., edited by John Prince Fallowes, M.A., Pembroke College, Cambridge
http://www.lettermen2.com/luther1.html
Luther's Commentary on Galatians, That He might deliver us from the present evil world. (Galatians 1:4 excerpt), English translation by Erasmus Middleton, B.D., edited by John Prince Fallowes, M.A., Pembroke College, Cambridge
http://www.lettermen2.com/luther2.html

*Lyford, William (1598-1653), The Plain Mans Senses Exercised to Discern Both Good and Evill: Or, A Discovery of the Errors, Heresies and Blasphemies of These Times, and the Toleration of them as they are collected and testified against by the ministers of London, in their testimony to the truth of Jesus Christ, 1657. Alternate title: TESTIMONY TO THE TRUTH OF JESUS CHRIST AND OUR SOLEMN LEAGUE AND COVENANT
This is a detailed refutation of Anabaptist error.
Sundry Ministers of London, Testimony to the Truth of Jesus Christ and our Solemn League and Covenant
http://archive.org/details/plainmanssensese00lyfo
Sundry Ministers of London, Testimony to the Truth of Jesus Christ and our Solemn League and Covenant, 1647
http://www.truecovenanter.com/anti_toleration/testimony_truth.html

MacArthur, John F., Jr., Ashamed of the Gospel: When the Church Becomes Like the World, ISBN: 0891077294 9780891077299 1856840808 9781856840804.
Includes: Appendix 1: Spurgeon and the Down-grade Controversy.
"[At the end of the Puritan age], by some means or other, first the ministers, then the Churches, got on 'the down grade,' and in some cases, the descent was rapid, and in all, very disastrous. In proportion as the ministers seceded from the old Puritan godliness of life, and the old Calvinistic form of doctrine, they commonly became less earnest and less simple in their preaching, more speculative and less spiritual in the matter of their discourses, and dwelt more on the moral teachings of the New Testament, than on the great central truths of revelation. Natural theology frequently took the place which the great truths of the gospel ought to have held, and the sermons became more and more Christless. Corresponding results in the character and life, first of the preachers and then of the people, were only too plainly apparent." -- Robert Shindler, "The Down Grade," The Sword and the Trowel (March 1887), p. 122
http://archive.spurgeon.org/downgrd.php

MacGregor, Lori, Coping With Cults: Practical Insight for Concerned Christians, ISBN: 0890819408 9780890819401.
"The author was a Jehovah's Witness for 15 years, so she understands cults and the way they think." -- GCB

Machen, J. Gresham, The Separateness of the Church: A Sermon.

Machen, Gresham J., What Should True Presbyterians do at the 1936 General Assembly? The Trinity Review, Number 267, May 2007 (Unicoi, TN: The Trinity Foundation).
"Editor's note: This essay originally appeared in The Presbyterian Guardian in mid-1936 as advice from Dr. J. Gresham Machen to 'true Presbyterians' who were commissioners to the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church. We reprint the essay because it applies so well to today's situation in both the Orthodox Presbyterian Church and the Presbyterian Church in America, whose 2007 General Assemblies will be held in June. For details of this parallel, see Paul Elliott's massively documented book, Christianity and Neo-liberalism: The Spiritual Crisis in the Orthodox Presbyterian Church and Beyond."
http://www.trinityfoundation.org/PDF/Review_267_machen_true_presbyterians.pdf

Mack, Wayne A., Place of Women in the Church, an audio file.
Notes: Publication information from Mt. Olive Tape Library catalog.

Margarot, Maurice, Thomas Hardy, and the London Corresponding Society, Address of the London Corresponding Society to the Other Societies of Great Britain, United for Obtaining a Reform in Parliament, 1792.

*Marquart, Kurt E., Anatomy of an Explosion: A Theological Analysis of the Missouri Synod Conflict, ISBN: 0801060494 9780801060496.

Marshall, John Lewis, Natural Law and the Covenant: The Place of Natural Law in the Covenantal Framework of Samuel Rutherford's "Lex, Rex."
A dissertation. Philadelphia, PA: Westminster Theological Seminary, 1995.

Martin, Raymond Jones, The Transition From Psalmody to Hymnody in Southern Presbyterianism, 1753-1901, a dissertation, 1963.

McFeeters, James Calvin (1848-1928), Christian Citizenship, No. 1: The Reformer Endued With Power.

McGrath, Alister E, A Life of John Calvin: A Study in the Shaping of Western Culture, ISBN: 0631163980 9780631163985.
"Provides an exploration of Calvin's life and influence, his theology and his political thought, and his determining of the course of European history. This book traces Calvin's remarkable impact on the development of modern Western attitudes to work, wealth, civil rights, capitalism and the natural sciences." -- Publisher

McLeod (M'Leod), Alexander (1774-1833), Messiah: Governor of the Nations of the Earth: A Discourse. Available (MESSIAH: GOVERNOR OF THE NATIONS OF THE EARTH) on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available (MESSIAH: GOVERNOR OF THE NATIONS OF THE EARTH) on Reformation Bookshelf CD #25. Available (MESSIAH: GOVERNOR OF THE NATIONS OF THE EARTH and THE WRITTEN LAW, OR THE LAW OF GOD REVEALED IN THE SCRIPTURES, BY CHRIST AS MEDIATOR; THE RULE OF DUTY TO CHRISTIAN NATIONS TO CIVIL INSTITUTIONS) at Covenanter.org. Available (the pamphlet, MESSIAH: GOVERNOR OF THE NATIONS OF THE EARTH, which includes THE WRITTEN LAW, OR THE LAW OF GOD REVEALED IN THE SCRIPTURES, BY CHRIST AS MEDIATOR) at Covenanter and Reformed Presbyterian Pamphlets.
"The doctrine of the Mediatorial Reign of Christ has formed the subject of those principles accounted distinctive to the Reformed Presbyterian Church. Christ's kingship over the nations and the implications of this doctrine will not be popular amongst a people deeply compromised with the spirit of the age. The prescription may seem tough, but the results of centuries of ignoring this doctrine have left the church effete and gutted when it comes to addressing matters concerning church and state relations. In the various modern debates one viewpoint has been left out, and it is the only one which presents a serious and rigorous biblical vision -- the Covenanter position on civil government.
"In the first discourse, Alexander McLeod explains the biblical basis and the importance of professing that Christ is the head over all nations. McLeod moves from an explanation of what is meant by confessing that Christ rules as Mediator, to a discussion of his administrations as ruler over the nations. Afterward he addresses numerous objections that are raised against the doctrine, in which he explains many finer points respecting Christ's Mediatorial administration.
"The second discourse, THE WRITTEN LAW, by Dr. James Renwick Willson (1780-1853), takes up a number of matters of great practical concern and application of the doctrine of this Mediatorship over the nations. Willson is particularly concerned with the place of the written law of God in the constitution of civil governments. Willson often courts controversy, and does not shy away from consistency. It is a blueprint for how things ought to be, if we would submit to Christ as a nation." -- Publisher
M'Leod, Alexander, Messiah, Governor of the Nations of the Earth
http://www.covenanter.org/reformed/2015/8/18/alexander-mcleods-sermon-on-messiah-governor-of-the-nations-of-the-earth
Willson, James Renwick, The Written Law, or The Law of God Revealed in the Scriptures, by Christ as Mediator; The Rule of Duty to Christian Nations to Civil Institutions
http://www.covenanter.org/reformed/2015/8/18/james-r-willsons-sermon-on-the-written-law
Covenanter and Reformed Presbyterian Pamphlets
http://www.covenanter.org/pamphlets/

McLeod (M'Leod), Alexander (1774-1833), Popery in the United States, 1848.

McLeod, John Niel (1806-1874), The World Revolutionized by the True Religion, and its Ministry. An Ordination Sermon, 1843.

*McWard (M'Ward), Robert (1633-1687), A Covenanter's Response to Wicked Rulers in Church and State (and Unjust Taxation), Containing Some Comforting Words to Those who are Suffering at the Hand of These Beasts, for the Sake of Christ and Truth. A collection of tracts including: BANDERS DISBANDED; THE POOR MAN'S CUP OF COLD WATER; A TESTIMONY AGAINST PAYING OF CESS TO THE PERSECUTORS. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #26.

McWard (M'Ward), Robert (1633-1687), The Poor Man's cup of Cold-water: Ministered to the Saints and Sufferers for Christ in Scotland who are Amidst the Scorching Flames of the Fiery Trial, 1676. Available in A COVENANTER'S RESPONSE TO WICKED RULERS IN CHURCH AND STATE (AND UNJUST TAXATION), CONTAINING SOME COMFORTING WORDS TO THOSE WHO ARE SUFFERING AT THE HAND OF THESE BEASTS, FOR THE SAKE OF CHRIST AND TRUTH. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
McWard (M'Ward), Robert, A Poor Man's cup of Cold Water Ministered to the Saints and Sufferers for Christ in Scotland, who are Amidst the Scorching Flames of the Fiery Trial
http://www.covenanter.org/reformed/2015/8/18/robert-mwards-a-poor-mans-cup-of-cold-water-ministered-to-the-saints-and-sufferers-for-christ-in-scotland-who-are-amidst-the-scorching-flames-of-the-fiery-trial
Poor Man's cup of Cold Water
http://www.truecovenanter.com/covenants/coldwater.html

Miller, C. John (1928-1996), A Faith Worth Sharing: A Lifetime of Conversations About Christ, ISBN: 0875523919 9780875523910.
"This is not a book about clever techniques, or methodologies; it is a book of snapshots from one life given to impact others. If you too are someone who has been changed by the power of the gospel, then you need to pray for the opportunities to pass it on to others. This book will encourage you to do just that." -- Stephen Smallman
"C. John Miller taught practical theology at Westminster Theological Seminary, was Director of World Harvest Mission, and led mission trips to several countries. He was founding pastor of New Life Presbyterian Church, outside Philadelphia, from which grew several other congregations in the Philadelphia area. His other books include POWERFUL EVANGELISM FOR THE POWERLESS, and OUTGROWING THE INGROWN CHURCH." -- Publisher

Miller, C. John (1928-1996), Husband and Father as Spiritual Leader (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).

Miller, C. John (1928-1996), Outgrowing the Ingrown Church, ISBN: 0310284112 9780310284116.
"This is a book for pacesetters, church leaders who want to help their churches be outward-looking and outward-moving communities of Jesus Christ. Written to help change churches by changing individuals. Frank Tillapaugh writes the foreword." -- GCB

Miller, C. John (1928-1996), Powerful Evangelism for the Powerless, ISBN: 0875523838 9780875523835. A revised edition of EVANGELISM AND YOUR CHURCH, 1980.
"This Reformed pastor and seminary professor conveys an urgent message: We must be bold, use God's methods, be attentive to God's Word, and prayer. Practical insights to a powerful witness." -- GCB

Miller, C. John (1928-1996), Allen Herbert Harris, George Smith, Rev., C. John Miller, Thomas E. Tyson, William Krispin, Wesley Pinnock, Drew Trotter, John F. Bettler, and Frank M. Barker, Body Life: Purpose of (Ephesians 4:1-16), 5 sound cassettes [audio file], (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Audio cassette BL01 [audio file].

Milwain, John, The Evil of Relaxed Discipline in the Church, 1841. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #24.

*Moore, Joseph S., Founding Sins: How a Group of Antislavery Radicals Fought to put Christ Into the Constitution, ISBN: 9780190269241 0190269243. Alternate title: THE FAILURE TO FOUND A CHRISTIAN NATION: COVENANTERS AND THE AMERICAN REPUBLIC, TRACES THE COVENANTERS' POLITICAL ROOTS FROM SCOTLAND TO THE NEW WORLD.
"The Covenanters, now mostly forgotten, were America's first Christian nationalists. For two centuries they decried the fact that, in their view, the United States was not a Christian nation because slavery was in the Constitution but Jesus was not. Having once ruled Scotland as a part of a Presbyterian coalition, they longed to convert America to a holy Calvinist vision in which church and state united to form a godly body politic. Their unique story has largely been submerged beneath the histories of the events in which they participated and the famous figures with whom they interacted, making them the most important religious movement in American history that no one remembers.
"Despite being one of North America's smallest religious sects, the Covenanters found their way into every major revolt. They were God's rebels -- just as likely to be Patriots against Britain as they were to be Whiskey Rebels against the federal government. As the nation's earliest and most avowed abolitionists, they had a significant influence on the fight for emancipation. In Founding Sins, Joseph S. Moore examines this forgotten history, and explores how Covenanters profoundly shaped American's understandings of the separation of church and state.
"While modern arguments about America's Christian founding usually come from the right, the Covenanters have a more complicated legacy. They fought for an explicitly Christian America in the midst of what they saw as a secular state that failed the test of Christian nationhood. But they did so on behalf of a cause -- abolition -- that is traditionally associated with the left. Though their attempts to insert God into the Constitution ultimately failed, Covenanters set the acceptable limits for religion in politics for generations to come. . . .
"Joseph S. Moore is Assistant Professor of History at Gardner-Webb University in North Carolina. His work has appeared in The New York Times and various scholarly journals." -- Publisher
"The facts recorded in this book should have been common knowledge in our schools. The book helps complete the history of early colonial America, which has been censored in public education. Christians should be familiar with the names of Samuel Rutherford and George Gillespie. Their followers, Alexander McLeod and James R. Willson, though less known, did repeat the same Christian message, to wit: Jesus Christ is King of Kings, Lord of Lords, and, per Isaiah 60:12, For the nation and kingdom that will not serve Thee shall perish; yea, those nations shall be utterly wasted. So, it is imperative for any nation's survival to recognize Jesus Christ, as did many of the Colonial Charters and State Constitutions.
"This books traces that struggle and attempt by Christians to do just that. In a way, our current situation is a big 'I told you so' for the early colonial Christians. In the name of toleration, sin is tolerated. We are committing national suicide, slowly. The people discussed in this book point out a better alternative." -- Reader's Comment

*Morris, Leon, The Abolition of Religion: A Study in Religionless Christianity. A series of essay on "religionless Christianity."

Morrison, James, An Address to the Protestant Interest in Scotland. Being an Humble and Seasonable Warning, Wherein is Clearly Demonstrated, the Inexpediency and Danger of Repealing our Penal Laws Against Popery . . . The second edition with improvements Glasgow, 1778.

*Murray, Iain, The Reformation of the Church: A Collection of Reformed and Puritan Documents on Church Issues, ISBN: 085151118X 9780851511184.
"First published in 1965 and once again available. Documents are drawn largely from the 16th and 17th centuries and presents the finest thinking of the fathers on authority and freedom, the need for reformation, the nature of the government, unity, and membership of the Church of Jesus Christ." -- GCB

Murray, Iain H., Worldliness, excerpted from: EVANGELICALISM DIVIDED: A RECORD OF CRUCIAL CHANGE IN THE YEARS 1950-2000, ISBN: 0851517838 9780851517834.

Noll, Mark A., America's God: From Jonathan Edwards to Abraham Lincoln, ISBN: 0195151119 9780195151114 0195182995 9780195182996.
"Religious life in early America is often equated with the fire-and-brimstone Puritanism best embodied by the theology of Cotton Mather. Yet, by the nineteenth century, American theology had shifted dramatically away from the severe European traditions directly descended from the Protestant Reformation, of which Puritanism was in the United States the most influential. In its place arose a singularly American set of beliefs. In AMERICA'S GOD, Mark Noll has written a biography of this new American ethos. In the 125 years preceding the outbreak of the Civil War, theology played an extraordinarily important role in American public and private life. Its evolution had a profound impact on America's self-definition. The changes taking place in American theology during this period were marked by heightened spiritual inwardness, a new confidence in individual reason, and an attentiveness to the economic and market realities of Western life. Vividly set in the social and political events of the age, AMERICA'S GOD is replete with the figures who made up the early American intellectual landscape, from theologians such as Jonathan Edwards, Nathaniel W. Taylor, William Ellery Channing, and Charles Hodge and religiously inspired writers such as Harriet Beecher Stowe and Catherine Stowe to dominant political leaders of the day like Washington, Jefferson, and Lincoln." -- Publisher

*Nye, Philip (1596-1672), An Exhortation to the Taking of the Solemne League and Covenant for Reformation and Defence of Religion, the Honor and Happinesse of the King, and the Peace and Safety of the Three Kingdomes of England, Scotland, and Ireland.

*Owen, John (1616-1683), Discourses Concerning Evangelical Love, Church-peace and Unity: In Five Chapters. Chap. I. Complaints of want of love and unity among Christians; how to be managed; and where is the fault. Chap II. Commendations of love and unity; their proper objects, with general rules and measures of love towards all mankind in general: allows not salvation unto any without faith in Jesus Christ: of the differences in religion as to outward worship. Chap. III. The nature of the Catholick Church, the first and principal object of Christians love; differences among the members of this church, of what nature and how to be managed. Chap. IV. Want of love and unity among Christians justly complained of; causes of divisions and schisms, 1. misapprehensions of evangelical unity. 2. Neglect in churches to attend upon known gospel duties. 3. Trusting in worldly grandeir, remainders of corruptions, weakness and ignorance. 4. Remedies thereof. Chap. V. The grounds and reasons of nonconformity, &c. By the late Reverend John Owen, D.D., 1696. Available in various editions of THE COMPLETE WORKS OF JOHN OWEN

*Owen, John (1616-1683), Sermons to the Church, ISBN: 0851510655 9780851510651. A Christian classic. Alternate title: THE COMPLETE WORKS OF JOHN OWEN VOLUME 9; THE WORKS OF JOHN OWEN, VOLUME 9.
"Contains 83 sermons: fourteen which resolve practical cases of conscience, twenty-five intended as preparations to the Lord's Table, and others of various Gospel subjects."

Packer, J.I. (1926-2020), Theism for our Time.
Evangelical Theological Society papers, ETS-1191.

Palmer, B.M., Influence of Religious Belief Upon National Character: An Oration Delivered Before the Demosthenian and Phi Kappa Societies of the University of Georgia, August 7, 1845.

*Perkins, William (1558-1602), A Reformed Catholike, or, A Declaration Shewing how Neere we may Come to the Present Church of Rome in Sundrie Points of Religion and wherein we must for euer depart from them with an aduertisement to all fauourers of the Romane religion, shewing how the said religion is against the Catholike principles and grounds of the catechisme, 1611.

Plumer, William S. (1802-1880), How God's People may Make Great Attainments.
http://www.westminsterconfession.org/godly-living/how-gods-people-may-make-great-attainments.php

Powlison, David (1949-2019), Demons and Deliverance in the Evangelical Church, 5 audio cassettes [audio file].

Pride, Bill, Flirting With The Devil, ISBN: 0891074945 9780891074946.
"The author shows how Satan's message preached to Adam and Eve in the Garden has affected the church today. Chapters include: No Fault Sin; I'm in With the In-Crowd; Hot Crossed Roles, etc. He concludes by pointing Christians to the solutions, so that they can again become the most dynamic force in our culture. Pride is an M.I.T. grad with two degrees from Covenant Seminary in St. Louis." -- GCB

Reed, Kevin, Biblical Worship. Available in Library of Presbyterian Heritage Publications and Protestant Heritage Press CD-ROM Library and Library of Presbyterian Heritage Publications and Protestant Heritage Press CD-ROM Library (Dallas, TX [Presbyterian Heritage Publications, P.O. Box 180922, Dallas, 75218]: Presbyterian Heritage Publications, 1999). Available (LIBRARY OF PRESBYTERIAN HERITAGE PUBLICATIONS AND PROTESTANT HERITAGE PRESS CD-ROM LIBRARY), on the Puritan Hard Drive.
http://www.swrb.com/newslett/actualnls/BibW_ch0.htm

Reed, Kevin, Imperious Presbyterianism, ISBN: 1891777262 9781891777264.
"Authoritarianism is an expression of the sinful nature of fallen man. It finds expression in families and businesses, but most cruelly in churches and governments. It is lording it over one's fellow men -- hence the English House of Lords, for example -- but it is explicitly forbidden by Christ to his disciples. It is the Gentiles, not the Christians, who exercise dominion over their fellow men. Dominion Theology, influential in some Reformed and Charismatic churches, fails to understand Genesis 1:28, which does not even mention dominion over men.
"Today, authoritarianism pervades the professing churches, from the absolute monarchy of the Roman Catholic Church-State, with its nobility of bishops, to the local Charismatic church that teaches submission and the local Baptist church that has only one pastor and no elders -- all are in disobedience to Christ.
"This sinful authoritarianism has also entered the conservative Presbyterian churches, and it is based on the same doctrinal errors that led to the formation of the Roman Church-State 1500 years ago. In this essay, Kevin Reed traces the historical and doctrinal roots of Imperious Presbyterianism, and calls Bible-believing Presbyterians to correct the errors of their authoritarian elders." -- Publisher
Contents

The Nature of the Church The Essential Nature of the Church, The Errors of Cyprian and Imperious Presbyterians, The Church and the Ministry, The Being and the Well-Being of the Church, The Marks of the Church
The Nature of the Ministry The Biblical Emphasis for Church Officers, Authority and Service
Ecclesiastical Authority Authoritarian Presbyterianism, The Limits of Ecclesiastical Authority, Church Membership
Conclusion

Renwick, James (1662-1688), The Saint's Duty in Evil Times: In two Sermons Preached From Isaiah xxvi.20, 1745. [Isaiah 26:20] Available (in A CHOICE COLLECTION OF VERY VALUABLE PREFACES, LECTURES AND SERMONS) on the Puritan Hard Drive.

*Renwick, James (1662-1688), Alexander Shields, and Other "Society People," An Informatory Vindication of a Poor, Wasted, Misrepresented Remnant of the Suffering, Anti-prelatic, Anti-erastian . . . 1744. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #27.
"INFORMATORY VINDICATION (1687), a statement of principles issued by the Society People (see Societies, United), during James VII's reign. Prepared mainly by James Renwick, latterly in consultation with Alexander Shields, it was published in Utrecht. Its full title reflects something of the contents: AN INFORMATORY VINDICATION OF A POOR WASTED MISREPRESENTED REMNANT OF THE SUFFERING ANTI-POPISH ANTI-PRELATIC ANTI-ERASTIAN ANTI-SECTARIAN TRUE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF CHRIST IN SCOTLAND UNITED TOGETHER IN A GENERAL CORRESPONDENCE. BY WAY OF REPLY TO VARIOUS ACCUSATIONS IN LETTERS INFORMATIONS AND CONFERENCES GIVEN FORTH AGAINST THEM. It refuted charges brought against the 'Remnant' of schism (in their eyes a great evil) . . . The VINDICATION mourned the estrangement from other Presbyterians who had accepted the government's INDULGENCES OR EDICTS OF TOLERATION, and expressed love for them as fellow ministers 'with whom again we would desire to have communion in ordinances'. The separation had been forced upon the Society People by the tyranny and temper of the times, but it did not affect their position as being in the succession of the historic Kirk of Scotland. The document aimed to clear away the hostility and misunderstanding about them that had grown up in Scotland and Holland. (Cameron, editor, Dictionary of Scottish Church History and Theology, p. 429)
"In proof of the catholic, unsectarian, Christian spirit of Renwick and his followers, the clear statements of the INFORMATORY VINDICATION, the work which most fully and clearly defines their position, may be referred to . . . In these noble utterances, we have strikingly exemplified the true spirit of Christian brotherhood . . . This is the genuine import of the vow of the Solemn League and Covenant, which binds Covenanters to regard whatever is done to the least of them, as done to all and to every one in particular. While firmly holding fast all Scriptural attainments, and contending earnestly for the faith once delivered to the saints, we should cordially rejoice in the evidences of grace in Christ's servants wherever we find them. We should love them as brethren, fulfil the law of Christ by bearing their burdens, wish them God speed in all that they are doing for the advancement of His glory, and fervently labour and pray for the coming of the happy period when divisions and animosities shall cease, and when there shall be one King, and His name one in all the earth. The testimony of Renwick and his associates is of permanent value and of special importance in our day, as it was directed against systems of error and idolatry, which serve to corrupt the Church and enslave the State. Against Popery in every form Renwick was a heroic and uncompromising witness. At the peril of life, he publicly testified against the usurpation of the papist James, and rejected him as having no claim to be regarded as a constitutional sovereign, and as utterly disqualified to reign in a Protestant reformed land. This was the main ground of his objection against James' toleration, for which the Indulged ministers tendered obsequious thanks to the usurper. Yet this edict of toleration was issued for the purpose of opening the way for the practice of Rome's abominations, and for the advancement of papists to places of power and trust in the nation. None of the Cameronians would, for any earthly consideration, even to save their lives, for a moment admit that a papist had any right to exercise political power in a reformed land. Our martyred forefathers we regard as worthy of high respect and imitation, for their deeply cherished dread of the growing influence of Popery, and for their determined resistance to its exclusive and extravagant claims. The system of Popery is the abnegation of all precious gospel truth; and is a complete politico-religious confederacy against the best interests of a Protestant nation. The boast of its abettors is that it is semper eadem, ever the same. Rome cannot reform herself from within, and she is incapable of reformation from external influences and agencies. The Bible never speaks of Antichrist as to be reformed, but as waxing worse and worse till the time when he shall be completely subverted and irrecoverably destroyed. Whatever changes may be going on in some Popish countries, whereby the power of the Papacy is weakened, it is evident that the principles and spirit of the Romish priesthood, and of those who are under their influence, remain unchanged. The errors of the anti-Christian system, instead of being diminished, have of late years increased. Creature worship has become more marked and general. The Immaculate Conception has been proclaimed by Papal authority as the creed of Romanism. In these countries, and some other Protestant lands, the influence of Popery in government and education, and so on the whole social system, has been greatly on the increase. Among those who have most deeply studied inspired prophecy, there is a general expectation that the period of Babylon's downfall is hastening on, and is not far distant. There is a general presentiment too, that the Man of Sin, prior to his downfall, will make some dire and violent attempt through his infatuated followers against the truth, and against such as faithfully maintain it. The 'Slaying of the Witnesses,' which we are disposed to regard as yet future may take place, not so much by the actual shedding of blood, though it is plain that Jesuit policy and violence will not hesitate to re-enact former persecution and massacre, to accomplish a desired purpose. It may mainly be effected, as Scott, the expositor, suggests, by silencing the voice of a public testimony in behalf of fundamental truths throughout Christendom; and of this there are at present unmistakable signs not a few, throughout the churches in various countries. The Protestant church in all its sections should be thoroughly awake to its danger from the destructive errors, idolatry and power of its ancient irreconcilable enemy; and should, by all legitimate means, labour to counteract and nullify its political influence. The ministry and the rising youth of the church should study carefully the Popish controversy, and should be intimately acquainted with the history of the rise and progress of the Papacy its assumed blasphemous power its accumulated errors and delusions, and its plots, varied persecutions and cruel butcheries of Christ's faithful witnesses. Above all, they should set themselves earnestly, prayerfully and perseveringly to diffuse the Bible and Gospel light in the dark parts of their native country, and among Romanists in other lands. By embracing fully and holding fast, in their practical application, the principles of the British Covenants, and by imbibing the spirit of covenanted martyrs men like Renwick and the Cameronians, we will be prepared for the last conflict with Antichrist. The firm and faithful maintenance of a martyr-testimony will be a principle instrument of the victory of truth over the error and idolatry of Rome. They overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death. (Rev. 12:11 [Revelation 12:11]). Finally, the testimony of Renwick is valuable, as throwing light on great evils connected with systems of civil government, and with Protestant churches, and as pointing out clearly the duty of faithful witnesses in relation to them. Two great principles, the one doctrinal, and the other practical, were essential to it, or rather constituted its whole specialty. These were, first, that, according to the national vows, and the reformation attainments, the whole civil polity of the nation should be conformed to the Scriptures, and secondly, the positive duty of distinct separation from whatever systems in the state and church that are opposed to entire allegiance to Messiah the Prince. (Houston, The Life of James Renwick, pp. 52-55)
"Some of them, particularly in Scotland, loved not their lives unto death for the word of God, and for the testimony which they held. Rev. vi. 9 [Revelation 6:9]. These refused to have communion in public ordinances not only with prelatical ministers, but even with the acceptors of indulgences or licenses from the civil power, to exercise their ministry under certain limitations. The INFORMATORY VINDICATION, which certainly contains the genuine principles of church communion, held by the sufferers for the cause of Christ in that period, declares, that they could by no means own or countenance the administrations of the indulged ministers; because they considered the indulgence, in any of the forms in which it was granted by the civil power, as derived from the supremacy claimed by that power in ecclesiastical matters; as laying the office of the ministry under unwarrantable restriction; and as tending, in a great measure, to suppress and bury the covenanted reformation, cf. INFORMATORY VINDICATION, Head iv." (Anderson, Alexander and Rufus; or a Series of Dialogues on Church Communion [1862], p. 294)
"To the friends of evangelical truth, and the faithful witnesses for the redeemer's royal prerogatives, the services of Renwick, at the crisis in which he exercised his public ministry, were invaluable. He was eminently the man for the time. Through the influence of the unhappy Indulgence, the strict Covenanters were reduced to what they style themselves in the Informatory Vindication, a 'wasted, suffering, anti-popish, anti-prelatic, anti-erastian, anti-sectarian remnant.' By the death of Cargill and Cameron, they were left as 'sheep without a shepherd,' broken and scattered. Through the fierceness of persecution, and the machinations of enemies, they were in danger of falling into confusion, and of being entirely wasted and destroyed. We admire the gracious providence of God in preparing, at this particular crisis, an instrument of such rare and suitable endowments for feeding 'the flock in the wilderness,' and for unfurling and upholding so nobly the 'Banner of Truth' amidst hosts of infuriated enemies. James Renwick, though a very youth when he entered on his arduous work, and trained under great outward disadvantages, had a powerful and well-cultivated mind. He was endowed with singular administrative talent, and had great tact and skill in managing men. He was an acute and logical thinker, an eloquent and attractive public speaker, and was distinguished by fertility and force as a writer. The INFORMATORY VINDICATION his testimony against King James' 'toleration, with his 'Letters,' and 'Sermons and Lectures,' bear ample evidence of his sound judgment, comprehensive mind, and ability as an author. His prudence, meekness and loving disposition, combined with his sanctified zeal, and heroic courage, deservedly gave him great influence among those to whom he ministered. He was eminently fitted to be 'a first man among men.' The Lord held him in the hollow of his hand, and made him a 'polished shaft in his quiver.' The services which Renwick rendered to the Protestant cause were invaluable. He organized the scattered remnant, and imparted new life and ardour to their proceedings. He set forth clearly the principles of the 'Society people;' and in a number of able and logical papers, clearly defined their plans of action. He rendered it, in a great measure, impossible for enemies to misrepresent and accuse them falsely to the Government. He was their Secretary in their correspondence with foreign churches; and he did much to evoke the prayerful sympathy of Protestants in other lands in behalf of the victims of persecution in Scotland. The presence and influence of Renwick among the suffering Presbyterians were of the highest importance in his own day; and not to them alone, but also to the whole church of Christ in these lands, and to the constitutional liberties of the nation. So far as we can see, but for the singular power and devoted spirit of Renwick, and the firm and unyielding position which the Cameronians through him were led to assume, the cause of truth would have been completely borne down, and Erastianism, and Popery, and Despotism had triumphed. Renwick and his followers were the vanguard 'in the struggle for Britain's liberties, and for the Church's spiritual independence.' Though, like other patriots born before their time, they were doomed to fall, yet posterity owes to them a large part of the goodly heritage which they enjoy. (Houston, The Life of James Renwick [1865], pp. 36-37). Emphases added throughout the preceding quotations. This is a very rare and valuable specimen of Paleopresbyterian (Covenanter), thought don't miss it! 142 pages, plus new material added by the present publisher." -- Publisher
An Informatory Vindication, 1687, James, Renwick, Alexander Shields and Other "Society People"
http://www.truecovenanter.com/societies/informatory_vindication.html

Robbins, John W. (1949-2008, editor), Antichrist.
"An English theologian of the nineteenth century, Dr. H. Grattan Guinness, wrote:

From the first, and throughout, that movement [the Reformation], was energized and guided by the prophetic Word. Luther never felt strong and free to war against the papal apostasy till he recognized the pope as antichrist. It was then he burned the papal Bull. Knox's first mission as a Reformer, was on the prophecies concerning the Papacy. The Reformers embodied their interpretation of prophecy in their confessions of faith, and Calvin in his Institutes. All the Reformers were unanimous in the matter. . . . And their interpretation of these prophecies determined their reforming action. . . . It nerved them to resist the claims of that apostate church to the uttermost. It made them martyrs; it sustained them at the stake. And the views of the Reformers were shared by thousands, by hundreds of thousands. They were adopted by princes and peoples. (Romanism and the Reformation [S.R. Briggs], 250-260).

"In the last one hundred years the Protestant movement has largely abandoned the prophetic convictions of historic Protestantism and has opted for theories which have their origin with the Jesuits. The liberal and postmillennial wings of the Protestant movement, often denying the inspiration of the Bible or spiritualizing away its most pointed truths, have adopted the preterist view of prophecy, first espoused by the Spanish Jesuit Alcazar. The right wing of Protestantism, the dispensationalists and fundamentalists, have taken over the Spanish Jesuit Ribera's futurism, and have made it a part of orthodoxy. This represents a remarkable triumph of the theories of Rome's Counter-reformation.
The Presbyterian Church, at the turn of the twentieth century, revised the Westminster Confession of Faith and deleted the sentences identifying the papacy as Antichrist. The Reformational understanding of prophecy has been either deliberately rejected or forgotten. The two contending factions, the futurists and the preterists, can be traced directly to the Jesuits. Both agree on one thing: The Protestant view is wrong. . . ."

*Robbins, John W. (1949-2008), Can the Orthodox Presbyterian Church be Saved? ISBN: 0940931672 9780940931671.
"The Orthodox Presbyterian Church was founded in 1936 by about 135 people who were offended by the lack of discipline in and doctrinal errors of the Presbyterian Church in the USA. The purpose of the OPC was to be a spiritual successor to the PCUSA, which had abandoned the Westminster Confession of Faith [1646], even though it still affirmed the Confession as its official statement of faith. But early in its history the OPC fell under the influence of an agnostic view of propositional revelation emanating from Westminster Seminary -- a view that said that there is no identity of content between the 'Christian system' of theology, meaning Reformed confessions of faith, and the 'divine system' of theology, known only to God. This agnosticism has now brought the OPC to the point of falling. Like its predecessor, the PCUSA, the OPC has failed to discipline teachers who teach contrary to Scriptures and the Confession of Faith, and it has endorsed unbiblical teaching about Scripture and the Gospel. CAN THE OPC BE SAVED? is designed to inform members of the OPC of events and doctrines about which the OPC leadership has not been forthright." -- The Trinity Foundation
Contents: Can the Orthodox Presbyterian Church be Saved? | The 2004 General Assembly | The OPC Magazine, New Horizons | The Controversy Continues | "An Appeal to Fundamentalists" | Summary and Conclusion | Reformation Day Declaration
Can the Orthodox Presbyterian Church be Saved?
"This is the December 2004 -- January 2005 issues of The Trinity Review in booklet form. [It may be read online under Reviews at The Trinity Foundation website]. This 40-page booklet is intended to be an alarm to awaken slumbering members of the Orthodox Presbyterian Church, who have been both misled and uninformed by their current leadership.
"If you are a member of the OPC, you need to read this booklet. If you know OPC members, you will want to get this booklet into their hands as soon as possible."
http://www.trinitylectures.org/catalog/index.php?cPath=21

Power tends to corrupt and absolute power corrupts absolutely. Great men are almost always bad men, even when they exercise influence and not authority: still more when you superadd the tendency or the certainty of corruption by authority. -- John Emerich Edward Dalberg, Lord Acton (1834-1902), in a letter to Mandell Creighton, April 5, 1887, quoted by Gertrude Himmelfarb in Acton, Essays on Freedom and Power, pp. 335-36 (1972)

The object of the Inquisition [was] not to combat sin -- for the sin was not judged by it unless accompanied by [theological] error. Nor even to put down error. For it punished untimely and unseemly remarks the same as blasphemy. Only unity. This became an outward, fictitious, hypocritical unity. The gravest sin was pardoned, but it was death to deny the donation of Constantine. [The Donation of Constantine was a document forged in the eighth century in which the Roman Emperor Constantine willed the Western Roman Empire to the Pope. The Roman Church taught that the Donation was genuine, and the legal basis for the pope's civil authority, for centuries. -- JR]. So men learnt that outward submission must be given. All this [was] to promote authority more than faith. When ideas were punished more severely than actions -- for all this time the Church was softening the criminal law, and saving men from the consequences of crime: -- and the Donation was put on a level with God's own law -- men understood that authority went before sincerity.

I cannot accept your canon that we are to judge Pope and King unlike other men, with a favourable presumption that they did no wrong. If there is any presumption it is the other way, against holders of power, increasing as the power increases. Historic responsibility has to make up for the want of legal responsibility. Power tends to corrupt, and absolute power corrupts absolutely. Great men are almost always bad men, even when they exercise influence and not authority: still more when you superadd the tendency or the certainty of corruption by authority. There is no worse heresy than that the office sanctifies the holder of it. . . . For many years my view of Catholic controversy has been governed by the following chain of reasoning: 1. A crime does not become a good deed by being committed for the good of a church. 2. The theorist who approves the act is no better than the culprit who commits it. 3. The divine or historian who defends the theorist incurs the same blame. . . . To commit murder is the mark of a moment, exceptional. To defend it is constant, and shows a more perverted conscience.

The story is much more abominable than we all believed. . . . S.B. [St. Bartholomew's], is the greatest crime of modern times. It was committed on principles professed by Rome. It was approved, sanctioned, and praised by the papacy. The Holy See went out of its way to signify to the world, by permanent and solemn acts, how entirely it admired a king who slaughtered his subjects treacherously, because they were Protestants. To proclaim forever that because a man is a Protestant it is a pious deed to cut his throat in the night. . . .

A man is not honest who accepts all the Papal decisions in questions of morality, for they have often been distinctly immoral; or who approves the conduct of the Popes in engrossing power, for it was stained with perfidy and falsehood; or who is ready to alter his convictions at their command, for his conscience is guided by no principle.

"After studying the history of the popes, Acton wrote:

The papacy contrived murder and massacre on the largest and also on the most cruel and inhuman scale. They were not only wholesale assassins but they made the principle of assassination a law of the Christian Church and a condition of salvation. . . . [The Papacy], is the fiend skulking behind the Crucifix.

Massachusetts Attorney General, The Sexual Abuse of Children in the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Boston, Thomas F. Reilly, Massachusetts Attorney General.
"The mistreatment of children was so massive and so prolonged that it borders on the unbelievable," says the July 23 [2003] report of Massachusetts Attorney General Thomas F. Reilly. More than 1,000 minors were likely abused by priests over the past six decades."
This is the 79-page report in its entirety.
http://www.votf.org/ago/archdiocese.pdf
Martin Luther, John Calvin, John Knox, Samuel Rutherford, John Owen, Thomas Manton, The Westminster Assembly, James Renwick, Archibald Mason, Christopher Ness, Francis Turretin, The Reformed Presbytery, David Steel, James R. Willson, Alexander M'Leod, William L. Roberts, James Aiken Wylie, Andrew Wilet, Henry Wilkinson, James Wylie, Patrick Fairbairn, James Aiken, Andrew Wilet, Alexander Hislop, Francis Nigel Lee, Arthur W. Pink, and so forth, and so on, have all believed and argued in print that the seated Pope is the Antichrist of the Bible.
The Roman Church-State is "the world's oldest, largest, most powerful and most influential politico-ecclesiastical institution" and it "may also be the world's wealthiest." The Roman Catholic Institution is the ultimate "negative guide to the positive," the reformers ultimate "opposite guide to political and economic reform."
Pope's Visit Means 3 White House Firsts
President says 'man of faith' and conviction deserves the special treatment, Associated Press, April 13, 2008
"Washington -- The leader of the world's 1 billion Roman Catholics has been to the White House only once in history. That changes this week, and President Bush is pulling out all the stops: driving out to a suburban military base to meet Pope Benedict XVI's plane, bringing a giant audience to the South Lawn and hosting a fancy East Room dinner.
"These are all firsts.
"A crowd of up to 12,000 is due at the White House on Wednesday morning for the pope's official, pomp-filled arrival ceremony. It will feature the U.S. and Holy See anthems, a 21-gun salute, and the U.S. Army Old Guard Fife and Drum Corps. Both men will make remarks before their Oval Office meeting and a send-off for his Popemobile down Pennsylvania Avenue.
"The president explained the special treatment -- particularly the airport greeting.
" 'One, he speaks for millions. Two, he doesn't come as a politician; he comes as a man of faith,' Bush told the EWTN Global Catholic Network in an interview aired Friday. He added that he wanted to honor Benedict's conviction that 'there's right and wrong in life, that moral relativism has a danger of undermining the capacity to have more hopeful and free societies. . . .' "
"This week makes Bush the record-holder, with a total of five meetings with two popes. . . .
"The current pope's approach may be softer than that of John Paul, who turned from Bush's presentation to him of the Medal of Freedom in 2004 to read a statement about his 'grave concern' over events in Iraq."
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/24096388/
Bush Scandals
An extensive resource. Includes websites for the Savings and Loan Scandal of the 1980s, considered the largest theft in the history of the world, involving Neil Bush, a brother of George W., the Florida's Voting Scandal of 2001 in which Al Gore lost the presidential election. Jeb Bush, another brother of George W., was Governor of Florida and had promised to deliver the state for his brother. Other sites treat George W. Bush's suspected involvement in 911 [911 is, of course, analogous to Roosevelt's Pearl Harbor]. Note particularly "Bush Family Machinations, 1918-2000," a timeline of Bush Family crimes prior to Election 2000.
http://news4florida.tripod.com/index1.html
The Panic of '08. Lew Rockwell Interviews Ron Paul, September 18, 2008
A podcast.
http://www.lewrockwell.com/podcast/?p=episode&name=2008-09-18_029_ron_paul_talks_to_lew_rockwell.mp3

Robbins, John W. (1949-2008), Scripture Twisting in the Seminaries. Part one, Feminism.
"Thought by some to be a Reformed frontal attack on some current non-Reformed interpretations relating to the role of women in the church. Hard-hitting and direct in style. Dr. Robbins compares the historic Reformed interpretations to what Hulvey, Foh, and Knight are saying. A book that can not be ignored in serious study." -- GCB

Rueda, Enrique, The Homosexual Network: Private Lies and Public Policy, ISBN: 0815957149: 9780815957140.
Explains the relationship between organized religion and homosexuals. Includes bibliographical references and index.

Rushdoony, R.J. (1916-2001), The Atheism of the Early Church, ISBN: 1879998181 9781879998186. Available through Exodus Books.
"Early Christians were called 'heretics' and 'atheists' when they denied the gods of Rome, in particular the divinity of the emperor and the statism he embodied in his personality cult. These Christians knew that Jesus Christ, not the state, was their Lord and that this faith required a different kind of relationship to the state than it demanded. Because Jesus Christ was their acknowledged Sovereign, they consciously denied such esteem to all other claimants. Today the church must take a similar stand before the modern state." -- Publisher

*Rutherford, Samuel (1600-1661), The Divine Right of Church Government and Excommunication: A Peaceable Dispute for the Perfection of the Holy Scripture in Point of Ceremonies and Church Government in Which the Removal of the Service Book is Justified. . . facsimile, 1646, also contains: "SCANDAL AND CHRISTIAN LIBERTIE." Alternate title: JUS DIVINUM REGIMINIS ECCLESIASTICI. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #9 and #24.
"Over 750 pages which Walker says 'contains the amplest exposition and vindication of our old ecclesiastical principles.' Rutherford here gives a classic defense of Presbyterianism, touching on both church government and 'the due and just power of the Magistrate in matters of Religion.' Regarding worship, he touches on imagery, idolatry, things indifferent, ceremonies and will worship. Sherman Isbell describes this book as follows: 'Rutherford asserts that there is delineated in the NT a form of Church government by elders and Presbyteries which is of permanent obligation; more-over, that discipline and suspension from the sacraments are vested with church officers rather than with the Christian civil magistrate. The book also expounds the Westminster Assembly's principle that the mode of acceptable worship is regulated by the will of Christ as king speaking in the Scriptures; the Church is not at liberty to alter or invent anything in worship or government which goes beyond the pattern in God's Word. Rutherford's writings during the London years provide a significant commentary on the theology of the Westminster Confession and Catechisms.' (Nigel Cameron, editor, Dictionary of Scottish Church History and Theology, pp. 735-36). An exceedingly rare gem by this celebrated Presbyterian divine and Scottish commissioner to the famous Westminster Assembly." -- Publisher
http://www.naphtali.com/jusextrc.htm

*Rutherford, Samuel (1600-1661), A Free Disputation Against Pretended Liberty of Conscience: Tending to Resolve Doubts Moved by Mr. John Goodwin, John Baptist, Dr. Jer. Taylor, the Belgick Arminians, Socinians, and Other Authors, 1649. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #9, #25, and #26.
"Rutherford's FREE DISPUTATION, though scarce, is still one of his most important works with maybe only a few copies of the actual book left in existence. Though Rutherford is affectionately remembered in our day for his LETTERS, or for laying the foundations of constitutional government (against the divine right of kings), in his unsurpassed LEX, REX his FREE DISPUTATION should not be overlooked for it contains the same searing insights as LEX, REX. In fact, this book should probably be known as Rutherford's 'politically incorrect' companion volume to LEX, REX. A sort of sequel aimed at driving pluralists and antinomians insane. Written against 'the Belgick Arminians, Socinians, and other Authors contending for lawless liberty, or licentious Tolerations of Sects and Heresies,' Rutherford explains the undiluted Biblical solution to moral relativism, especially as it is expressed in ecclesiastical and civil pluralism! (Corporate pluralism being a violation of the first commandment and an affront to the holy God of Scripture). He also deals with conscience, toleration, penology (punishment), and the judicial laws, as related to both the civil and ecclesiastical realms. Excellent sections are also included which address questions related to determining the fundamentals of religion, how covenants bind us, the perpetual obligation of social covenants (with direct application to the Solemn League and Covenant and the covenant-breaking of Cromwell and his sectarian supporters), whether the punishing of seducing teachers be persecution of conscience, and much more. Walker adds these comments and context regarding Rutherford's FREE DISPUTATION, 'The principle of toleration was beginning to be broached in England, and in a modified shape to find acceptance there. Samuel Rutherford was alarmed, or rather, I should say, he was horrified, for he neither feared the face of man or argument. He rushed to the rescue of the good old view . . . It is not so easy to find a theoretical ground for toleration; and Rutherford has many plausible things to say against it. With the most perfect confidence, he argues that it is alike against Scripture and common sense that you should have two religions side by side. It is outrageous ecclesiastically, it is sinful civilly. He does not, however, take what I call the essentially persecuting ground. He does not hold that the magistrate is to punish religion as religion. Nay, he strongly maintains that the civil magistrate never aims at the conscience. The magistrate, he urges, does not send anyone, whether a heretic (who is a soul murderer -- RB), or a murderer, to the scaffold with the idea of producing conversion or other spiritual result, but to strengthen the foundations of civil order. But if he gives so much power to the king, he is no lover of despotism withal: the king himself must be under law. To vindicate this great doctrine is the object of another book, the celebrated LEX, REX; of which it has been said by one competent to judge, that it first clearly developed the constitutionalism which all men now accept.' (Theology and Theologians . . . pp. 11-12). In our day Francis Schaeffer, and numerous others, have critiqued many of the problems found in modern society, but most have spent little time developing explicitly Biblical solutions especially regarding the theoretical foundations that Rutherford addresses here. Rutherford's FREE DISPUTATION provides a detailed blueprint for laying the foundations that must be laid before any lasting, God-honoring solutions will be found. Furthermore, Rutherford and his writings were the enemies of all governments not covenanted with Christ. This book will give you a very clear picture as to why 'the beast' (civil and ecclesiastical), has reserved his special hatred for such teaching. As Samuel Wylie noted 'the dispute, then, will not turn upon the point whether religion should be civilly established . . . but it is concerning what religion ought to be civilly established and protected, -- whether the religion of Jesus alone should be countenanced by civil authority, or every blasphemous, heretical, and idolatrous abomination which the subtle malignity of the old serpent and a heart deceitful above all things and desperately wicked, can frame and devise, should be put on an equal footing therewith." -- The two Sons of oil; or, The Faithful Witness for Magistracy and Ministry Upon a Scriptural Basis. Can our generation swallow Rutherford's hard, anti-pluralistic, Covenanter medicine, poured forth from the bottle of the first commandment, without choking on their carnal dreams of a free and righteous society divorced from God (and His absolute claims upon everyone and everything)? Not without the enabling power of the Holy Spirit -- that is for sure! In summary, this book answers all the hardest questions theonomists (and their wisest and best opponents), have been asking for the last 20-30 years (and these answers are much more in depth than any we have seen in the last couple of millennia. [less about a century to account for the apostles]). As the reader will discover, Rutherford was a wealthy man when it came to wisdom (and much advanced theologically), and those who take the time to gaze into the King's treasure house, as exhibited in this book, will find that they are greatly rewarded. Furthermore, because of its uncompromising stand upon the Word of God, this book is sure to be unpopular among a wicked and adulterous generation. However, on the other hand, it is sure to be popular among the covenanted servants of King Jesus! This is one of the best books (in the top five anyway), for advanced study of the Christian faith. We have now obtained an easy-to-read, amazingly clear copy of this very rare, old treasure. Great price too, considering that a copy of the 1649 edition, containing this quality of print, would likely cost upwards of $1000 on the rare book market -- though it is unlikely you would ever see a copy for sale!" -- Publisher
A Brotherly and Free Epistle to the Patrons and Friends of Pretended Liberty of Conscience, Samuel Rutherford
http://www.truecovenanter.com/anti_toleration/rutherfurd_epistle_against_pretendedlibertyofconscience.html
Chapter 21 From Samuel Rutherford's 1649 Edition of A Free Disputation Against Pretended Liberty of Conscience being Rutherford, Samuel (1600-1661), Of the Samaritans, and of the Non Compelling of Heathens; How the Covenant Bindeth us
http://www.swrb.com/newslett/actualnls/FreeDis21.htm
Brutus, Junius, The Covenant Between God and Kings, from A DEFENSE OF LIBERTY
http://www.constitution.org/vct/vindiciae1a.htm

*Rutherford, Samuel (1600-1661), Lex, rex, or The law and the Prince, ISBN: 0873779517. Alternate title: A TREATISE OF CIVIL POLICY: BEING A RESOLUTION OF FORTY THREE QUESTIONS CONCERNING PREROGATIVE, RIGHT AND PRIVILEGE, IN REFERENCE TO THE SUPREME PRINCE AND THE PEOPLE. / BY SAMUEL RUTHERFORD PROFESSOR OF DIVINITY OF ST ANDREWS IN SCOTLAND. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #10, #25.
" 'Lex, rex' is Latin for 'law is king.'
"LEX, REX is 'the great political text of the Covenanters.' (Johnston citing Innes in Treasury of the Scottish Covenant, p. 305). 'Rutherford was the first to formulate the great constitutional principle Lex est Rex -- the law is King . . . much of the doctrine has become the constitutional inheritance of all countries in modern times.'
"Gilmour writes [in SAMUEL RUTHERFORD], 'that, as regards religious fervour, scholastic subtlety of intellect, and intensity of ecclesiastical conviction, Samuel Rutherford is the most distinctively representative Scotsman in the first half of the seventeenth century'." -- Publisher
"Without a doubt one of the greatest books on political philosophy ever written. Rutherford here has penned a great Christian charter of liberty against all forms of civil tyranny -- vindicating the Scriptural duty to resist tyrants as an act of loyalty to God." -- Publisher
"That resistance to lawful authority -- even when that authority so called has, in point of fact, set at nought 'all law' -- is in no instance to be vindicated, will be held by those only who are the devotees of arbitrary power and passive obedience. The principles of Mr. Rutherford's LEX, REX, however obnoxious they may be to such men, are substantially the principles on which all government is founded, and without which the civil magistrate would become a curse rather than a blessing to a country. They are the very principles which lie at the basis of the British Constitution, and by whose tenure the House of Brunswick does at this very moment hold possession of the throne of these realms." -- Rev. Robert Burns, D.D., in his "Preliminary Dissertation" to Wodrow's Church History
Additional sources of text related to LEX REX are as follows:
"Though Rutherford is affectionately remembered in our day for his LETTERS, or for laying the foundations of constitutional government (against the divine right of kings), in his unsurpassed LEX, REX, his FREE DISPUTATION should not be overlooked, for it contains the same searing insights as LEX, REX. In fact, this book [A FREE DISPUTATION AGAINST PRETENDED LIBERTY OF CONSCIENCE -- compiler] should probably be known as Rutherford's 'politically incorrect' companion volume to LEX, REX. It is a sort of sequel aimed at driving pluralists and antinomians insane. Written against 'the Belgick Arminians, Socinians, and other Authors contending for lawless liberty, or licentious Tolerations of Sects and Heresies,' Rutherford explains the undiluted Biblical solution to moral relativism, especially as it is expressed in ecclesiastical and civil pluralism! (Corporate pluralism being a violation of the first commandment, and an affront to the holy God of Scripture)." -- Publisher
A HIND LET LOOSE by Alexander Shields is sometimes referred to as 'Lex, Rex, Volume Two.'
A Hind let Loose; or An Historical Representation of the Testimonies of the Church of Scotland. . . . by Mr. Alexander Shields, Minister of the Gospel, in St. Andrews
http://www.truecovenanter.com/shields/
A Hind let Loose; or, An Historical Representation of the Testimonies of the Church of Scotland, for the Interest of Christ
"This book sets forth the Crown rights of King Jesus, against all usurpers in both church and state, giving a history of some of faithful sufferings endured by the elect, in maintaining this truth." -- Publisher
http://archive.org/details/hindletlooseorhi00shie
"This [THE DUE RIGHT OF PRESBYTERIES OR A PEACEABLE PLEA FOR THE GOVERNMENT OF THE CHURCH OF SCOTLAND -- compiler], could be considered the LEX, REX of church government -- another exceedingly rare masterpiece of Presbyterianism! Characterized by Walker as sweeping 'over a wider field than most'." -- Publisher
Rutherford, Samuel (1600-1661), Lex, rex: The law and the Prince, a Dispute for the Just Prerogative of King and People (1843)
http://archive.org/details/lexrexlawandpri00ruthgoog
Lex, rex, or The law and the Prince, Samuel Rutherford
"Rutherford is to be praised for his teaching that the king is subject to the law of God. The Bible has nothing but condemnation for those who frame mischief by a law and declares rhetorically, Shall the throne of iniquity have fellowship with thee? (Psalm 94:20). Deuteronomy 17 is the classic passage in defense of LEX, REX, wherein the king is charged to read therein all the days of his life: that he may learn to fear the Lord his God, to keep all the words of this law. (Deuteronomy 17:19)." -- Publisher
http://www.constitution.org/sr/lexrex.htm
Lex, rex: the law and the Prince, a Dispute for the Just Prerogative of King and People, containing the reasons and causes of the defensive wars of the kingdom of Scotland, and of their expedition for the ayd and help of their brethren of England. In which a full answer is given to a seditious pamphlet, intituled, Sacro-sancta regum majestas, penned by J. Maxwell. By S. Rutherford. [Followed by], De jure regni apud Scotos; a dialogue, tr. by R. Macfarlan (repr. from the ed. of 1799).
http://books.google.com/books?id=jtYDAAAAQAAJ&ie=ISO-8859-1&output=html
Brutus, Junius, The Covenant Between God and Kings, from A DEFENSE OF LIBERTY
http://www.constitution.org/vct/vindiciae1a.htm

*Sheldon, Charles M., In His Steps, didactic fiction, ISBN: 0800786084. A Christian classic.
"First published in 1897, this book has sold over 8,000,000 copies." -- GCB
"A man beaten down by life deeply touches a small town congregation when unexpectedly and poignantly he confronts them, asking, 'What do you Christians mean by following the steps of Jesus?' This classic work tells the story of congregational members who pledge to walk in Christ's step for one year, asking themselves what He would do at every turn in their daily lives." -- Publisher
On edition includes a study guide.

*Singer, C. Gregg (1910-1999), The Apologetics lecture series using FROM RATIONALISM TO IRRATIONALITY: THE DECLINE OF THE WESTERN MIND FROM THE RENAISSANCE TO THE PRESENT (1979) as the text, and delivered in Decatur, Georgia, beginning November, 1979, 17 MP3 files.
"So many times people in the pew and the pulpit say, well how did all this get started? How did psychology descend to its present level? . . . How did political science produce our political thought, produce the dictatorships which are engulfing the modern world? Why are we in the economic mess in which we are today? Why is sociology such a jumble of immorality? Why is education as it is today? Why is art so meaningless? . . . Why is modern music an affront to the modern ears as well as to the mind and ear of God? . . . Why are all these things!? . . .
"I would suggest to you that if you will follow this course with thought and care, you will finally come to see the answer to the questions which haunt us today in Western society." -- C. Gregg Singer, from this cited lecture series
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=2250511453

*Singer, C. Gregg (1910-1999), Christian Approaches: to Philosophy; to History, ISBN: 0934532249.

*Singer, C. Gregg (1910-1999), From Rationalism to Irrationality: The Decline of the Western Mind From the Renaissance to the Present, ISBN: 0875524281 9780875524283 and a reprint of the P&R Publishing edition of 1979 (Wipf and Stock, 2006), 479 pp.
"Now, frankly students, this course is presented from obviously the Reformed Theology. I hold unabashedly, unashamedly to the whole of Reformed Theology as we find it specifically in the Westminster Confession of Faith (1646) and the Larger and Shorter Catechisms.
"At the same time I hold to a position in regard to Apologetics generally known as Presuppositionalism, and particularly that view held by Cornelius Van Til.
"This book is an attempt to enlarge and to broaden the scope of Van Til's own Apologetical system, and also his Epistemology. By that I mean, and I worked this book with him, so anything that I say is not to be construed as a criticism of Cornelius Van Til. I might add he wrote me a letter. He is delighted with this book. But what I did was to take his principles, both of Apologetics and of Epistemology, and apply them to all realms of modern thought.
"Dr. Van Til, for good and sufficient reason, sought to limit to the main stream of what we might call pure Philosophy, that is from Saint Thomas, well even before them, back to the Greeks, but particularly in the more modern period, from Saint Thomas Aquinas, William of Ockham (Occam), down through Descartes, the Rationalists, the Empiricists, down to Kant and Hegel, and of course Modern Philosophy and Modern Theology. Very seldom has he gone into what we might call the arena of Political Philosophy, or the arena of Social Thought, or the arena of Psychology and Psychiatry, the realm of Educational Philosophy, and into Art, Music, and so on, to the Fine Arts.
"This book is an attempt to apply his system, and show what happens when the Western mind has forsaken his principles, or the principles which he has espoused, and turned into its own way. And thus the book called FROM RATIONALISM TO IRRATIONALITY. The thesis being that the Rationalism inherent in Saint Thomas and the post-Thomists, and more particularly, and more openly, in the Philosophy of the Renaissance, and Descartes, and Spinosa, and Leibniz has, as it's gained momentum in the modern world, brought Western Culture to its knees. We are living, as I would think, in the death throws of the Western Cultures, the Western Civilization." -- Dr. C. Gregg Singer, in the introductory address to his course in Apologetics soon after FROM RATIONALISM TO IRRATIONALITY came off the press in 1979
Apologetics: #01: Classical and Medieval Thought #1 [audio file]
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Apologetics, 56 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=2250511453
"Locke endeavored to set forth a political philosophy which would anchor his democratic political thought on what he felt were the firm foundations of his empiricism. However, his insistence that nature has bestowed upon mankind certain basic and inalienable rights was an assumption quite contrary to his empiricism. His denial of conscience as an innate possession or quality makes it impossible for men to know that they possess the rights of life, liberty, and property. The very concept of a human right is moral in nature and has its basis of authority in the human conscience. It is thus impossible for men to know through the senses that they have these cherished human rights. Granted that it was far from Locke's intention to undermine or destroy the traditional English concept of personal rights, his empiricism removed from his political thought the necessary foundations on which a government could be built for the protection of these rights. His empiricism supported neither the idea that men have such rights nor that they are inalienable. (p. 61)
"Underlying the secular and naturalistic assumptions of the thought of the Enlightenment was a related and equally serious problem. In their political and economic thought the leaders of this era were passionately devoted to the pursuit of freedom, and yet they seemed to be completely unaware of this incompatibility between their quest for freedom on the one hand and their reliance upon natural law on the other. How can an impersonal and deterministic concept of law produce and sustain a meaningful concept of freedom? Blindly convinced that there was no problem involved in the contradiction, the leaders of the Enlightenment pushed boldly ahead in the quest for political and economic liberty. However, their failure to recognize the issues involved in this quest led not only to the disaster of the French Revolution but to the growth of the totalitarian political and economic philosophies which first appeared in Hegel and Marx during the nineteenth century and reached their culmination in the totalitarianism of the twentieth century." (p. 73) -- quoted at the blog, Imago Veritatis: Post-modern Reformed Paleo-orthodoxy
Singer used this as textbook for his course in Apologetics. Epistemology is a recurring theme throughout the textbook and the course. The series of 24 addresses on Apologetics is available free online. See: "Apologetics" under:
Works of C. Gregg Singer
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr3ch.html#cgsinger

Singer, C. Gregg (1910-1999), The Story of Presbyterianism [audio file]
http://www.fpcjackson.org/resources/apologetics/story.htm

*Singer, C. Gregg (1910-1999), A Theological Interpretation of American History, 1994 edition, 354 pages (Greenville, SC: A Press, 1994, 1981, 1975, 1974, 1964), ISBN: 0875524265 9780875524269. A Christian classic.
This book portrays "the influence of theology and the changing doctrines in the life of the church on the pattern of American political, constitutional, social and economic development.
"The author shows that the decline of constitutional government in this country is the result of the departure from historical Christian faith and the resulting rise of alien political philosophies. Particularly does he emphasize the intimate relationship between theological liberalism on the one hand and political, social, and economic liberalism on the other. This theological liberalism has been a major agent in the decline of the Constitution in the political life of the people and in the appearance of a highly centralized government." -- Publisher
"There is between the democratic philosophy and theological liberalism a basic affinity which has placed them in the same camp in many major political struggles.
"This condition exists because theological liberalism shares the basic postulates of the democratic philosophy. . . .
"Theological liberalism at heart has been a continuing protest against Calvinism, particularly against its insistence on the Sovereignty of God and the Total Depravity of the race. These two Biblical doctrines have often proved to be a stumbling block to theologians within the church as well as to the unbelieving world.
"The result of theological liberalism has been the movement away from constitutionalism and away from liberty, and a movement toward collectivistic society and totalitarian regime." -- C. Gregg Singer, A Theological Interpretation of American History, p. 290
See also: John Knox, the Scottish Covenanters, and the Westminster Assembly (tape 3 of 5), in a series of addresses, History Notes on Presbyterianism, Reformation, and Theology by Dr. C. Gregg Singer on SermonAudio.com
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=12607114250
Dr. C. Gregg Singer at SermonAudio.com (161 messages)
http://www.sermonaudio.com/search.asp?SpeakerOnly=true&currSection=sermonsspeaker&Keyword=Dr.^C.^Gregg^Singer

Sire, James, Scripture Twisting: 20 Ways the Cults Misread the Bible, ISBN: 0877846111 9780877846116.
"James Sire has isolated twenty separate kinds of reading errors which are characteristically made by cultists as they interpret the Bible. He covers the full range from simple misquotation to complex argumentation. Sire also handles twisted translation, overspecification, virtue by association, ignoring the context, and others. It's a book to help us all become better readers of the Scriptures. . . ." -- Hank Hanegraaff

Skolfied, Ellis H., Sunset of the Western Church.
"Raw and unvarnished, this book is about bare-knuckled spiritual warfare. This book contains pointed examples of heresies and of demonic invasion of the church." -- GCB

Smith, Chuck, Caryl Matrisciana, and Cutting Edge Films International, Volume 12: Religions vs. Christianity, DVD.
"A dramatic comparison of the living relationship found in the person of Jesus Christ, with the dead religions of dead men. Key world religions are analyzed in light of historical and archaeological evidence, claims of religious leaders and founders, and their ancient writings." -- GCB
Jeremiah Films
http://www.jeremiahfilms.com/products/Pagan-Invasion-Classic

Spurgeon, C.H. (1834-1892), Broad Churchism. Rev. C.H. Spurgeon and "The Christian world." A letter from "one of the old school."

Spurgeon, C.H. (1834-1892), The "Down Grade" Controversy: Collected Materials Which Reveal the Viewpoint of the Late Charles Haddon Spurgeon . . . on one of the Most Significant Disputes of his Ministry.

Steele, David (1803-1887), Answering a Defector. Alternate title: CIRCULAR NO. 1. Available in CIRCULAR NO. 1. Available (CIRCULAR NO. 1) on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available (CIRCULAR NO. 1) on Reformation Bookshelf CD #24.
Contents of CIRCULAR, NO. 1: The law and the testimony; The testimony and the law; Permanence of covenant obligation; and Answering a defector.
"An article, "The Law and the Testimony," explaining why making a distinction between the law and the testimony is needful to avoid legalism, and how this distinction affects the witnessing church." -- Publisher
Circular, No. 1
http://www.covenanter.org/reformed/2016/4/25/circular-no-1
The Testimony and the Law
http://www.truecovenanter.com/steele/steele_the_testimony_and_the_law.html

*Steele, David (1803-1887), The Two Witnesses: Their Cause, Number, Character, Furniture and Special Work, 1859. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #14.
"This is a great companion volume to Steele's NOTES ON THE APOCALYPSE. Here Steele zeros in on and works primarily from the text of Revelation 11:13, I will give power unto my two witnesses, and they shall prophecy. Steele deals with Testimony-bearing, Antichrist, Popery, The beasts of revelation, The mark of the beast, 666, The image of the beast, Civil and ecclesiastical apostasy, Reformation, Covenanting, Heresy, Schism, Terms of communion, Slavery, Sectarianism, Mormonism, Independency, Freemasonry, History, Worship, Idolatry, Britain, The united states, Canada, Mystical babylon, The last days, The ultimate victory of the church, and a host of other subjects!
"As is usually the case with Steele, he makes the doctrines of Scripture eminently practical. For example, note how the faithful witnesses are continually called to testify against open opposition to the Lord's Covenanted Zion and the attainments of biblical Reformation in (the faith which was once delivered unto the saints); and against whom this testimony is directed:

'These witnesses are called and commissioned to testify especially against Antichrist -- a false christ, and therefore an opposing christ. But Christ is to be considered either personally or mystically; either abstractly in his personal rights and prerogatives, or in the concrete, in the rights and immunities of his church. There is this prejudice, too prevalent, against Christians testifying against Christians! This we are often told, is contrary to the law of charity. We have not so learned Christ. They are not all Israel which are of Israel. Much of the business of these two prophets is to oppose prophets -- to prophesy against the shepherds, Ezekiel 34:2. Moses with his miracles must confront the magicians with their enchantments, Exodus 8:19. Elijah must confront the prophets of Baal, 1 Kings 18:25. Paul must counteract false apostles, 2 Corinthians 11:13. In short, the direct object of these witnesses' testimony is apostate christendom -- those who depart from the faith, 1 Timothy 4:1 -- who have gone out from fellowship and renounced the doctrines of the apostolic church, 1 John 2:19. Their special work is to testify against error and its propagators and abettors, together with ungodliness, the natural fruit of error, rather than against pagans.' -- The Two Witnesses, p. 14
'These two witnesses have always testified -- not formally against pagans or infidels as such; but -- against apostate Christians, as comprising an organized and complex system of opposition to the Lord and his Anointed. And just here, the witnesses have detected the secret of Antichrist's successful enterprise among the human family . . .' Many false prophets are gone out into the world. . . this is a deceiver and an Antichrist, (2 John 7). The combination is ostensibly on the side and in the interest of Christ, and the elements of which Antichrist is composed were obviously professing Christians, They went out from us, but they were not of us, for if they had been of us, they would no doubt have continued with us: but they went out, that they might be made manifest that they were not all of us. (1 John 2:19). Here is the apostasy, and so the witnesses are fully borne out in asserting that Antichrist is a great Christian apostasy! To trace the origin and development, in the organization and modifications of this enemy of all righteousness, is the special work of Christ's witnesses.' -- (The Two Witnesses, pp. 17-18)

"Moreover, having taken his own place 'in the wilderness' (i.e. having separated himself from, and having been ostracized by the 'civilization' of the obstinately defecting RPCNA and other unfaithful denominations of his day [2 Thessalonians 3:6,14-15; Revelation 12:6, Revelation 17:3]), it was given to Steele to see and expound those grand old principles of our covenanted forefathers (who sat at Westminster and in the best Reformed churches during both the first and second Reformations -- the Scottish Presbyterians being granted the greatest measure of light as a settled body from 1638-1649).
"Thus, if you are interested in Reformation eschatology, with some of the strongest possible application, individually and corporately (in keeping with the body of Reformed truth), it is unlikely that you will find a better introduction to these topics than this!
"As an additional bonus we have added Steele's 19-page debate with James M. Willson (a prominent RPCNA minister), to this book (along with a number of other pertinent documents). Since Steele references this theological clash in his preface to the TWO WITNESSES this makes a fitting appendix to add to this work.
"We hope that you obtain and study this fine work -- and that you will find it edifying, as well as a useful weapon in your battle with the beasts of Revelation." -- Publisher
The Two Witnesses: Their Cause, Number, Character, Furniture, and Special Work, 1859, by Steele, David (1803-1887)
http://www.covenanter.org/reformed/2015/8/17/david-steeles-pamphlet-on-the-two-witnesses-their-cause-number-character-furniture-and-special-work
The Two Witnesses, Their Cause, Number, Character, Furniture and Special Work
http://www.truecovenanter.com/steele/steele_two_witnesses.html

Stevens, R. Paul, The Equipper's Guide to Every-Member Ministry: Eight Ways Ordinary People can do the Work of the Church, ISBN: 0830813373 9780830813377.

Stevenson, George, A Plea for the Covenanted Reformation in Britain and Ireland.
A Plea for the Covenanted Reformation in Britain and Ireland.
http://www.covenanter.org/reformed/2017/2/28/a-plea-for-the-covenanted-reformation-in-britain-and-ireland
Also available from:
Covenanter Pamphlets
http://www.covenanter.org/pamphlets/

*Stewart (Steuart), James (1635-1715), Jus Populi Vindicatum, or, The Peoples Right to Defend Themselves and Their Covenanted Religion Vindicated wherein the act of defence and vindication which was interprised anno 1666 is particularly justified . . . being a reply to the first part of Survey of Naphtaly &c. / by a friend to true Christian liberty, 1669. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #26.
Jus Populi Vindicatum, or, The Peoples Right to Defend Themselves and Their Covenanted Religion Vindicated.
http://archive.org/details/juspopulivindica00stew

Taylor, Harmon R., and Free the Masons Ministries, A Pastor and Freemasonry: What's a Pastor to do?

Thurston, Thomas, Homosexuality and Roman Catholic Ethics, ISBN: 1883255651 9781883255657 1883255643 9781883255640.

Thurston, Thomas, Slavery: Annual Bibliographical Supplement (2006), ISSN: 0144-039X.

Tisdall, William, A Seasonable Enquiry Into That Most Dangerous Political Principle of the Kirk in Power, viz. That the Right of Dominion in the Prince, and the Duty of Allegiance in his Presbyterian Subjects, are founded upon the prince's being a subject of what they call, Christ's Kingdom of Presbytery: or, Upon his Professing and Maintaining the Presbyterian Religion.

Tyree, Cornelius, The Living Epistle or the Moral Power of Religious Life.
"The subject of this book is putting godliness into practice in every area of life on every day of the week. First published in 1859 it seems as accurate today as it was then." -- GCB

Watson, Thomas (1620-1686), Light in Darkness, or, Deliverance Proclaimed Unto the Church in the Midst of all her Despondencies and Discouragements in a Sermon / Preached by Thomas Watson, Novemb. 17, 1678.

Watson, Thomas (1620-1686), Paramuthion, or, A Word of Comfort for the Church of God by Thomas Watson, 1662.

Watson, Thomas (1620-1686), Religion our True Interest, or, Practical Notes Upon the Third Chapter of Malachy the Sixteen, Seventeen and Eighteen Verses [Malachi 3:16,17,18]: Seasonable for the Times / by Thomas Watson . . . 1682.

Welch, John (1568?-1622), Fifty and two Directions, Written by That Famous, and Eminently Faithful Servant of Jesus Christ, Mr. John Welch, Whereunto is Annexed now, a Friendly Advice, &c. Proving the Unlawfulness of Prelacy, 1712.

Whitaker, Jeremiah, The Danger of Greatness, or Uzziah: His Exaltation and Destruction, in a sermon preached before the right honorable, the Lords and Commons assembled in parliament, and the reverend Assembly of Divines, in the church of Martins in the Fields, the 14th day of Jan, 1645, being a special day of humiliation set apart to seek God, for his direction in the settling of the great work of Church-government, preached from the text, 2 Chronicles 26:15-16, Hosea 5:15, 1646. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.

White, John (1570-1615), Mr. VVhites Speech in Parliament on Munday, the 17th of January. Concerning the Triall of the XII. Bishops An. Dom. 1641.

White, John (1570-1615), The Troubles of Jerusalem's Restoration, Dan. ix. 25 [Daniel 9:25], 1645. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available in FAST SERMONS TO PARLIAMENT. REPRODUCTIONS IN FACSIMILE WITH NOTES BY ROBIN JEFFS.

White, John (1570-1615), The Way to the True Church: Wherein the principall motiues perswading according to Romanisme and questions touching the nature and authoritie of the church and scriptures, are familiarly disputed, and driuen to their issues, where, this day they sticke betweene the Papists and vs: contriued into an answer to a popish discourse concerning the rule of faith and the marks of the church. And published to admonish such as decline to papistrie of the weake and vncertaine grounds, whereupon they haue ventured their soules. Directed to all that seeke for resolution: and especially to his louing countrimen of Lancashire. By Iohn White minister of Gods word at Eccles. For the finding out of the matter and questions handled, there are three tables: two in the beginning, and one in the end of the booke, 1608.

Wilkinson, Henry (1610-1675), Meditations Upon the Marks of the True Church of Christ: or, Motives of Credibility in Behalf of the True Religion: and, The Easiest way to Find it out, 1655.

*Williams, Daniel (1643?-1716), What Repentance of National Sins God Doth Require, as Ever we Expect National Mercies? [Sermon on Hosea x. 12. (Hosea 10:12)], 1690. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.

Willson, D.B., and Reformed Presbyterian Theological Seminary, Pittsburgh, PA, Was Jesus a Reformer? 1910.

*Willson, James McLeod (1809-1866), Social Religious Covenanting, 1856. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #27,
Social Religious Covenanting, 1856.
http://www.covenanter.org/reformed/2016/7/27/social-religious-covenanting

*Willson, James Renwick (1780-1853), Prince Messiah's Claims to Dominion Over all Governments: and the Disregard of His Authority by the United States in the Federal Constitution, 1832. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available (PRINCE MESSIAH'S CLAIMS TO DOMINION, PDF and MP3) on Reformation Bookshelf CD #12, #13, #25.
"Why treat thus all religion? Why disfranchise, by a solemn act the church of the living God? Is the benevolent, pure, holy, heaven born religion of Emmanuel, hostile to the happiness of the republic? Shall commerce, agriculture, the arts, literature -- all the other lawful pursuits, be countenanced, fostered, protected, and established on as permanent a basis, as possible and the true religion be put under the ban of the empire? But they say, let religion alone. Do they, however, adopt the laissez nous faire, in relation to manufactures and trade? No. We cherish all, but respecting the advancement of religion, Congress shall never do any thing. When the child is born, were the father and mother to say, laissez l'infant faire -- leave the babe to itself -- would that lie to act as a nursing father and mother? Surely no. There must be a far different kind of constitution among the nations, when the promise is fulfilled, that 'Kings shall be nursing fathers.' God Almighty says, in the text quoted above, that civil rulers shall nurse the church -- the Constitution says they shall not. Which is right? 'Ah! sinful nation, laden with iniquity.' God spares thee for the sake of his redeemed, that his moral subjects on earth may be, by the gospel of his Son, reclaimed from sin and rebellion -- that on the earth, through his own holy religion, he may expatiate the glories of redemption. The Constitution says religion shall be discountenanced by the Congress of the United States." -- James Renwick Willson
Kiss the Son, lest he be angry, and ye perish from the way, when his wrath be kindled but a little. (Psalm 2:12). This book will go a long way to exposing the fact, as Willson writes, that 'ungodly men have occupied, and do now occupy, many of the official stations, in the government,' and that 'Tyrants are yet on their thrones, and unholy republics refuse to acknowledge Him (Christ -- RB), as Lord of all'." -- Publisher
Willson, James Renwick, Prince Messiah's Claims to Dominion Over all Governments
http://www.covenanter.org/reformed/2016/4/24/prince-messiahs-claims-to-dominion-over-all-governments-and-the-disregard-of-his-authority-by-the-united-states-in-the-federal-constitution

Willson, Samuel McConnell, and Robert Gibson, Truth: A Sermon, on Steadfast Adherence to the Distinctive Doctrines of the Church: Preached on Monday, Dec. 3, 1832, After the Dispensation of the Lord's Supper, in Westerlo Street Church, Albany.
Whereto we have already attained, let us walk by the same rule, let us mind the same thing. (Philippians 3:16). Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
Truth: A Sermon, on Steadfast Adherence to the Distinctive Doctrines of the Church
http://www.truecovenanter.com/reformedpresbyterian/willson_samuel_truth_a_sermon_on_3_john_4.html

Wilson, David, A Modest Apology for the Conduct of Seceders: In Refusing to Join in Christian Communion With Sectarians, Latitudinarians, etc., who Have Departed From the Purity of the Reformation Once Attained to in These Kingdoms. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #27.
"An exceedingly rare work published in 1773. Sets forth a strong case for separation from all bodies that are backslidden from the work of covenanted reformation, as it was attained during the days of the Westminster Assembly, and as set forth in the Westminster Confession of Faith [1646] and its related documents (regarding the government, worship, doctrine and discipline of Christ's church). Denounces the 'detestable indifference or neutrality' of not maintaining covenant obligations, which bind all reformers, 'to endeavour the extirpation of all superstition, heresy, schism, and whatsoever should be found contrary to sound doctrine.' Also proves that there is no liberty or love that is contrary to God's Word. Maintains Christian charity throughout by distinguishing between loving the persons in error, and taking part with, or encouraging them in their sinful confederacies or actions. A great work on the subjects of purity, faithfulness and separation. It is in keeping with the sentiments expressed in the Reformed Presbytery's ACT, DECLARATION AND TESTIMONY which states: 'The first cry against the presbytery and its members was 'schism, schismatics.' This charge was promptly and publicly met and refuted, by showing from the Scriptures, that schism 'is in the body,' 1 Cor. 12:26 [1 Corinthians 12:26]; and from the approved writings of our covenanting fathers, that 'sometimes to avoid schism, we must separate.' Our worthy ancestors knew better than to adopt the vocabulary of papal Rome. Besides, 'the majority making defection are the real separatists.' -- Samuel Rutherford (1600-1661)" -- Publisher

Wilson, William, A Defence of the Reformation Principles of the Church of Scotland. With a Continuation of the Same. And a Letter From a Member of the Associate Presbytery . . . Wherein the Exceptions That are Laid Against the Conduct of the Associate Presbytery are examined, 1769. Alternate title: A LETTER FROM A MEMBER OF THE ASSOCIATE PRESBYTERY TO A MINISTER IN THE PRESBYTERY OF D- -- NE. (sic), 1769. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #27.

Wishart, George (1513-1546), The Distinguishing Characters of True Christianity: and The Great Causes of all Corruptions of it. A Sermon, Preached in the High Church of Edinburgh, Before His Majesty's High Commissioner to the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland, at the Opening of the Assembly the 11th Day of May 1749. By George Wishart, M.A. one of the Ministers of Edinburgh.

Wylie, James A. (1808-1890), The Road to Rome via Oxford: or, Ritualism Identical With Romanism.

Wylie, Richard Cameron, National Religion in the Public Schools, 1915.

Wylie, Richard Cameron, Social Covenanting, 1900.

Wylie, Samuel B. (1773-1852), The Obligation of Covenants: A Discourse, Delivered, Monday, June 27, 1803, After the Dispensation of the Lord's Supper, in the Reformed Presbyterian Congregation, Glasgow. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
The Obligation of Covenants
http://www.covenanter.org/reformed/2015/8/18/samuel-b-wylies-sermon-on-the-obligation-of-covenants

Young, Thomas (1587-1655), An Answer to an Humble Remonstrance by Joseph Hall, 1641. Alternate title: AN ANSWER TO A BOOK ENTITLED, AN HUMBLE REMONSTRANCE, IN WHICH THE ORIGINALL OF LITURGY [AND] EPISCOPACY IS DISCUSSES . . .
Hall, Joseph, and Abraham Scultetus, A Defence of the Humble Remonstrance, Against the Frivolous and False Exceptions of Smectymnvvs: Wherein the right of leiturgie and episcopacie is clearly vindicated from the vaine cavils, and challenges of the answerers.

Zwingli, Ulrich (1484-1531), Samuel Macauley Jackson, and Clarence Nevin Heller, Commentary on True and False Religion, ISBN: 0939464004 9780939464005.

See also: The sovereignty of god, The doctrine of man (human nature, total depravity), Church discipline, Repentance the key to salvation and change, Justification, Justifying faith, The free offer of the gospel message of salvation and the life to come: the means of grace, the covenant of eternal salvation, Book-length presentations of the free offer of the gospel message of salvation and the life to come: the means of grace, Evangelism, Follow-up, Tracts, Discipleship, Christian scholarship, Bible magistracy turns back the wrath of god, The doctrine of the lesser magistrates, Church and state, History, "his-story," Church history and the history of local churches, The history of reformation of the church, Socialism, communism, marxism, The protestant reformation, A theological interpretation of american history, Church and state, Background, foundation, and history of the covenanted reformation of scotland, Public covenanting, social covenanting, Covenant theology and the ordinance of covenanting, The covenanted reformation of scotland background and history, The covenanted reformation of scotland background and history, The mediatorial reign of christ: the crown rights of christ, The application of scripture to the corporate bodies of church and state, Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, Unity and uniformity in the visible church: unity in the truth, Revival, The sovereign grace of god: his everlasting mercy and lovingkindness, Spiritual discernment, Servant leadership, The one and the many, Individual responsibility for corporate faithfulness and sanctification, Corporate faithfulness and sanctification, Pride, ambition, self-aggrandizement, arrogance, ego, Hypocrisy, Priestcraft, pharisaism, soul-stealing, Unfaithful reformed ministries, Separation, The priesthood of all believers, Family worship, The autodidact, Christian character, Excellence, Christ's influence on western civilization, Corporate faithfulness and responsibility, Leadership, Church leadership, Humility, Courage, Reform of the church, The local church, Secret societies, ungodly alliances, voluntary associations, Oaths, ensnaring vows, promises, and covenants, bonds with the ungodly, Women in the church, The regulative principle of worship, public worship, Priestcraft, pharisaism, soul-stealing, Liberalism and neo-liberalism, Tyranny, Effeminacy, the effeminate, Justice, judgment, god's final judgment, the great white throne judgment, The local church, Church government, Church discipline, Isaiah, Jeremiah, Church and state, Secret societies, ungodly alliances, voluntary associations, Pride, ambition, self-aggrandizement, arrogance, ego, Lying and deceit, Pseudo-christian movements: a selection of works, The occult, spiritism, witchcraft, Toleration, liberty of conscience, pluralism, "religious freedom," and neutrality, Antichrist, Popery, The counter-reformation, Machiavellianism, The decline of western society, Heresy and apostasy, The decline of american society, irrationality, the decline of western thought, Male role and responsibility, gender equality, suffrage, reproductive rights, and the decline of american society, Meltdown: the depression of 2008, Modern myths and fallacies, Heaven, Hell, Tyranny, and so forth, and so on.
TCRB5: 738, 2380

Related Weblinks

1599 Geneva Bible, Tolle Lege Press Restoration, Fourth Printing, 2008, Probable Errata Listing
http://www.lettermen2.com/1599errata.html
A Resolution That Tolle Lege Press and White Hall Press of Chicago Complete the Limited Modernization of the 1599 GENEVA BIBLE Begun in 2004 and of all Spin-off Publications
http://www.lettermen2.com/1599resolve.html
The 1599 Geneva Bible, Tolle Lege edition, online
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=matthew%201&version=GNV
1599 Geneva Bible Notes
http://www.reformedreader.org/gbn/en.htm

Apologetics #05: Irrationalism and Theistic Rationalism #1
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Apologetics, 62 min.
Wherever and whenever liberalism gains a foothold there is a corresponding appearance of tyranny and despotism.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=310518186

An Article From The Covenanter (Ireland) on the Evil of Services at the Burial of the Dead
http://www.covenanter.org/reformed/2015/8/19/an-article-from-the-covenanter-ireland-on-the-evil-of-services-at-the-burial-of-the-dead

Beware of Men, Trinity Review, July 1999, John W. Robbins (1949-2008)
http://trinityfoundation.org/journal.php?id=136

Books Considered to be Among the ten Greatest in the English Language
http://www.lettermen2.com/tengreat.html

Coping With Conflict and Controversy, a sermon by Peter Hammond
"We are living in a time of character assassination. It is vital that we understand this tactic in history and from a Biblical perspective.
Woe unto you, when all men shall speak well of you! for so did their fathers to the false prophets. (Luke 6:26)
https://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=111191440146739

Corporate Faithfulness and Sanctification (part 1)
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr9cha.html

Corporate Faithfulness and Sanctification (part 2)
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr9chb.html

Covenant Reformed Presbyterian Church, Sheboygan, Wisconsin
The Presbyterian and Reformed News was edited by Robert Shapiro and Frank J. Smith. Both men were among the original founders of the Presbyterian Church in America (PCA).
Frank J. Smith announced in the final issue, Volume 10 Numbers 1-4 Jan -- Dec 2004 (link below), that he will be leaving the PCA. He has joined with the Covenant Reformed Presbyterian Church in Sheboygan, Wisconsin, part of the Covenant Reformed Presbyterian Church (CRPC), a Reformed and Presbyterian denomination organized in 1998. This new denomination established "The Society of Presbyteries and Reformed Churches" and is engaged in merger talks with other Reformed denominations.
Resolution to Establish the Society of Presbyteries and Reformed Churches
http://www.refcm.org/crpc%20web%20stuff/CRPC--SPARC%20documents.pdf
Presbyterian and Reformed News
"Recording the Story of the Presbyterian Church in America."
The final issue, Volume 10 Numbers 1-4 Jan -- Dec 2004
http://www.presbyteriannews.org/volumes/v10/1/pr38.pdf
Talks included the Reformed Presbyterian Church, Hanover Presbytery (Richard Bacon, Robert La May).
The Reformed Presbyterian Church Hanover Presbytery
http://www.rpchanover.org
Mr. Smith had been examined and approved by the Hanover Presbytery.
It was reported in December 18, 2004, http://www.americanpresbyterianchurch.org/minutes_12-18-04.htm, that the Covenant Reformed Presbyterian Church (CRPC) declined to pursue merger talks with the Reformed Presbyterian Church, Hanover Presbytery. The main issue was membership in Masonic Lodges, which is tolerated by the RPCUS, Hanover Presbytery.
The final issue included an article by Robert Shapiro entitled "Whither the PCA?" In it he sums up the corruption in the PCA. An additional six pages expose problems with the Doug Wilson ministry.
With Frank J. Smith's departure for reasons cited in the publication the late 2004 issue of the Presbyterian and Reformed News was the final issue. It is no longer published.
http://www.refcm.org/crpc%20web%20stuff/crpcsheboygan/index.htm

Deed of Constitution for the Reformed Presbytery in North America (RPNA)
http://www.swrb.com/Puritan/reformed-presbytery-RPNA.htm

A Deliverer is Born (part 1), a message by Ravi Zacharias
Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear. (Hebrews 11:3)
"The breaking of the ego is the first thing that God wants to do in you life and mine." -- Ravi Zacharias
Politicians | Indoctrination of Christians | Military anti-Christian indoctrination | The Witch is called philosophy | The fall of big Christians in the 70's | and so forth, and so on
https://www.rzim.org/listen/let-my-people-think/a-deliverer-is-born-part-1

The Departure From the Puritan Heritage
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Puritan Heritage, 52 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=92903104657

The more people have studied different methods of bringing up children the more they have come to the conclusion that what good mothers and fathers instinctively feel like doing for their babies is the best after all. -- Benjamin McLane Spock (May 2, 1903 -- March 15, 1998), from his autobiography

http://www.christian-parents.net/Children/C110_Disciplining_Children.htm

Functional Illiteracy
"Functional illiteracy is a term used to describe reading and writing skills that are inadequate 'to manage daily living and employment tasks that require reading skills beyond a basic level.'[1] Functional illiteracy is contrasted with illiteracy in the strict sense, meaning the inability to read or write simple sentences in any language. . . .
"Links with poverty and crime
"In developed countries, the level of functional literacy of an individual is proportional to his/her income level and risk of committing crime. For example, according to the National Center for Educational Statistics in the United States:

Over 60 percent of adults in the U.S. Prison System read at or below the fourth grade level

85 percent of U.S. juvenile inmates are functionally illiterate.

Adult inmates who received educational services while in prison had a 16 percent chance of returning to prison, as opposed to 70 percent for those who received no instruction. [this statistic not in citation given -- compiler]

43 percent of adults at the lowest level of literacy lived below the poverty line, as opposed to 4 percent of those with the highest levels of literacy.

"According to BeginToRead.com:

Two thirds of students who cannot read proficiently by the fourth grade will end up in jail or on welfare.

Three out of four individuals who receive food stamps read on the two lowest levels of literacy.

16 to 19 year old girls at the poverty level and below, with below average skills, are 6 times more likely to have out-of-wedlock children than their reading counterparts. . . .

Great Moments in Presbyterian History #4: Colonial Presbyterianism and the Great Awakening
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Great Movements in Presbyterian History
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?ID=1216037179

How Marxists Subvert Churches and Society, [audio file], Peter Hammond
"Freedom and property ownership; taxation is a form of confiscation; inflation is a hidden tax; graduated income tax; inheritance tax (death tax); centralization of the banking system; government control of the money supply; state ownership of production; state ownership of land; expropriation without compensation; compulsory public education; abolition of religion; violence and deception together, without violence nothing can be accomplished; Marx a true Satanist, comfortable in hating everyone; feminism traces its beginnings to Leninism; Trotsky came from the Bronx; hatred of god the principle tenet of Marxism;, socialism is the path to communism; truth is hate, truth is the new hate speech; propaganda, media controls the people; Edward Bernays; invisible government; Orwell; mind control, and so forth and so on."
https://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=2119745448080

How Marxists Subvert Churches and Society, video, Frontline Fellowship
"The Frankfurt School of Cultural Marxism utilized the Gramsci Strategy, otherwise known as the Termite Strategy of eating the heart out of every pillar of Western civilization until the entire edifice rots and collapses. Their goal is the secularization of society -- to side line Christianity and deal with all issues without reference to the Bible. . . .
" 'The simple truth of a courageous individual is not to take part in the lie. One word of truth outweighs the world. You can resolve to live your life with integrity. Let your Credo be this: let the lie come into the world, let it even triumph. But not through me.' -- Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn" -- Frontline Fellowship
https://vimeo.com/2911050453

If the Foundations be Destroyed, What can the Righteous do?
"The sociologist Daniel Bell reminds us that a cultural revolution is underway when there is a decisive break from the shared meanings from the past. Such is our present reality. God in his wisdom and grace, set four foundations on which our lives are to be built. All four are being shaken with a titanic force. This message deals with those pillars and responds to the dangers." -- Dr. Ravi Zacharias
https://www.rzim.org/listen/let-my-people-think/if-the-foundations-be-destroyed-ii-part-1

Inquisitions, Confessionals, or Courts? a review by John W. Robbins in The Trinity Review, May 2006.
"The essay analyzes the reasons many Christians have little or no respect for church courts. The chief reason is that church courts rarely act like courts, but almost always act like inquisitions or confessionals, the two perversions of church courts that characterize the Roman Catholic Church-State. The author provides illustrations using recent court actions in the PCA and OPC.
"Church courts, in turn, act like confessionals and inquisitions because churches have little or no respect for either rationality or justice. Their interests lie elsewhere: emotions (feelings, experience), and ecclesiastical power.
"If you are interested in the condition of the churches, please read "Inquisitions, Confessionals, or Courts?" -- John W. Robbins
http://www.trinityfoundation.org/journal.php?id=224

Presbyterianism in the 20th Century
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, History of the American Presbyterian Church, 42 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=12160371916

Puritan Downloads, The Puritan Hard Drive
http://www.puritandownloads.com/swrb-puritan-hard-drive.html

Reformation and Geneva Bibles
http://www.swrb.com/bibles/bibles.htm

Reformed Online Library
The work of Brian Schwertley.
"The WPCUS [Westminster Presbyterian Church in the United States -- compiler], fully subscribes to the Westminster Standards . . . as they were originally adopted by the Church of Scotland (1645-48), and the colonies of North America (1716)."
They are the only Reformed denomination that has not adopted the American Version of the Westminster Confession of Faith with its declensions.
http://www.reformedonline.com/view/reformedonline/s36p94.htm

Research on how God Transforms Lives Reveals a 10-Stop Journey
"The Maximum Faith research not only described the ten stops on the transformation journey, but also the percentage of adults parked at each stop. Less than two percent of the public has reached either of the final two stops on the journey."
http://www.barna.org/transformation-articles/480-research-on-how-god-transforms-lives-reveals-a-10-stop-journey

Ten Best Classics for Advanced Studies From Still Waters Revival Books
http://www.swrb.com/ten-best.htm

Theological Tensions of the 19th Century: Old School -- New School
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, History of the American Presbyterian Church, 34 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=1216037188

The Treasury of David, Psalm 45, C.H. Spurgeon
"Verse 6 [Psalm 45:6]. Thy throne, O God, is for ever and ever. To whom can this be spoken but our Lord? The psalmist cannot restrain his adoration. His enlightened eye sees in the royal Husband of the church, God, God to be adored, God reigning, God reigning everlastingly. Blessed sight! Blind are the eyes that cannot see God in Christ Jesus! We never appreciate the tender condescension of our King in becoming one flesh with his church, and placing her at his right hand, until we have fully rejoiced in his essential glory and deity. What a mercy for us that our Saviour is God, for who but a God could execute the work of salvation? What a glad thing it is that he reigns on a throne which will never pass away, for we need both sovereign grace and eternal love to secure our happiness. Could Jesus cease to reign we should cease to be blessed, and were he not God, and therefore eternal, this must be the case. No throne can endure for ever, but that on which God himself sitteth. The sceptre of thy kingdom is a right sceptre. He is the lawful monarch of all things that be. His rule is founded in right, its law is right, its result is right. Our King is no usurper and no oppressor. Even when he shall break his enemies with a rod of iron, he will do no man wrong; his vengeance and his grace are both in conformity with justice. Hence we trust him without suspicion; he cannot err; no affliction is too severe, for he sends it; no judgment too harsh, for he ordains it. O blessed hands of Jesus! the reigning power is safe with you. All the just rejoice in the government of the King who reigns in righteousness.
"Verse 7 [Psalm 45:7]. Thou lovest righteousness, and hatest wickedness. Christ Jesus is not neutral in the great contest between right and wrong: as warmly as he loves the one he abhors the other. What qualifications for a sovereign! what grounds of confidence for a people! The whole of our Lord's life on earth proved the truth of these words; his death to put away sin and bring in the reign of righteousness, sealed the fact beyond all question; his providence by which he rules from his mediatorial throne, when rightly understood, reveals the same; and his final assize will proclaim it before all worlds. We should imitate him both in his love and hate; they are both needful to complete a righteous character. Therefore God, thy God, hath anointed thee with the oil of gladness above thy fellows. Jesus as Mediator owned God as his God, to whom, being found in fashion as a man, he became obedient. On account of our Lord's perfect life he is now rewarded with superior joy. Others there are to whom grace has given a sacred fellowship with him, but by their universal consent and his own merit, he is prince among them, the gladdest of all because the cause of all their gladness. At Oriental feasts oil was poured on the heads of distinguished and very welcome guests; God himself anoints the man Christ Jesus, as he sits at the heavenly feasts, anoints him as a reward for his work, with higher and fuller joy than any else can know; thus is the Son of man honoured and rewarded for all his pains. Observe the indisputable testimony to Messiah's Deity in verse six, and to his manhood in the present verse. Of whom could this be written but of Jesus of Nazareth? Our Christ is our Elohim. Jesus is God with us. . . .
"Verse 16 [Psalm 45:16]. Instead of thy fathers shall be thy children. The ancient saints who stood as fathers in the service of the Great King have all passed away; but a spiritual seed is found to fill their places. The veterans depart, but volunteers fill up the vacant places. The line of grace never becomes extinct. As long as time shall last, the true apostolical succession will be maintained. Whom thou mayest make princes in all the earth. Servants of Christ are kings. Where a man has preached successfully, and evangelized a tribe or nation, he gets to himself more than regal honours, and his name is like the name of the great men that be upon the earth. Jesus is the king maker. Ambition of the noblest kind shall win her desire in the army of Christ; immortal crowns are distributed to his faithful soldiers. The whole earth shall yet be subdued for Christ, and honoured are they, who shall, through grace, have a share in the conquest -- these shall reign with Christ at his coming.
"Verse 17 [Psalm 45:17]. I will make thy name to be remembered in all generations. Jehovah by the prophet's mouth promises to the Prince of Peace eternal fame as well as a continuous progeny. His name is his fame, his character, his person; these are dear to his people now -- they never can forget them; and it shall be so as long as men exist. Names renowned in one generation have been unknown to the next era, but the laurels of Jesus shall ever be fresh, his renown ever new. God will see to this; his providence and his grace shall make it so. The fame of Messiah is not left to human guardianship; the Eternal guarantees it, and his promise never fails. All down the ages the memories of Gethsemane and Calvary shall glow with inextinguishable light; nor shall the lapse of time, the smoke of error, or the malice of hell be able to dim the glory of the Redeemer's fame. Therefore shall the people praise thee for ever and ever. They shall confess thee to be what thou art, and shall render to thee in perpetuity the homage due. Praise is due from every heart to him who loved us, and redeemed us by his blood; this praise will never be fully paid, but will be ever a standing and growing debt. His daily benefits enlarge our obligations, let them increase the number of our songs. Age to age reveals more of his love, let every year swell the volume of the music of earth and heaven, and let thunders of song roll up in full diapason to the throne of him that liveth, and was dead, and is alive for evermore, and hath the keys of hell and of death." [Revelation 1:18]

"Let him be crowned with majesty
Who bowed his head to death,
And be his honours sounded high
By all things that have breath." http://archive.spurgeon.org/treasury/ps045.php

The Treasury of David, Psalm 106, commentary by C.H. Spurgeon
Our fathers understood not thy wonders in Egypt. (v. 7)
Nevertheless he saved them for his name's sake, that he might make his mighty power to be known. (v. 8)
And he saved them from the hand of them that hated them. (v. 10)
They soon forgat his works. (v. 13)
And he gave them their request; but sent leanness into their soul. (v. 15)
They made a calf in Horeb, and worshipped the molten image. (v. 19)
Thus they changed their glory into the similitude of an ox that eateth grass. (v. 20)
They forgat God their saviour. (v. 21)
Thus they provoked him to anger with their inventions: and the plague brake in upon them. (v. 29)
Then stood up Phinehas, and executed judgment: and so the plague was stayed. (v. 30)
And that was counted unto him for righteousness unto all generations for evermore. (v. 31)
They did not destroy the nations, concerning whom the LORD commanded them. (v. 34)
But were mingled among the heathen, and learned their works. (v. 35)
Yea, they sacrificed their sons and their daughters unto devils. (v. 37)
Thus were they defiled with their own works, and went a whoring with their own inventions. (v. 39)
Therefore was the wrath of the LORD kindled against his people, in so much that he abhorred his own inheritance. (v. 40)
And he gave them into the hands of the heathen; and they that hated them ruled over them. (v. 41)
Their enemies also oppressed them, and they were brought into subjection under their hand. (v. 42)
Many times did he deliver them; but they provoked him with their counsel, and were brought low for their iniquity. (v. 43)
Nevertheless he regarded their affliction, when he heard their cry. (v. 44)
And he remembered for them his covenant. (v. 45)
Save us, O Lord our God, and gather us from among the heathen, to give thanks unto thy holy name, and to triumph in thy praise. (v. 47)
Blessed be the Lord God of Israel from everlasting to everlasting: and let all the people say, Amen. Praise ye the Lord. (v. 48)
http://archive.spurgeon.org/treasury/ps106.php

What Church Membership Used to Mean
"Last week it was reported that the churches of America increased their membership by 690,000. Are you encouraged by these figures? I for my part am not encouraged a bit. I have indeed my own grounds for encouragement, especially those which are found in the great and precious promises of God. But these figures have no place among them. How many of these 690,000 names do you think are really written in the Lamb's Book of Life? A small proportion, I fear.
"Church membership today often means nothing more, as has well been said, than a vague admiration for the moral character of Jesus; the church in countless communities is little more than a Rotary Club. One day, as I was walking through a neighboring city, I saw not an altar with an inscription to an unknown god, but something that filled me with far more sorrow than that could have done. I saw a church with a large sign on it, which read somewhat like this: 'Not a member? Come in and help us make this a better community.' Truly we have wandered far from the day when entrance into the Church involved confession of faith in Christ as the Savior from sin." -- J. Gresham Machen, from The Separateness of the Church, a sermon preached in the Chapel of Princeton Theological Seminary on Sunday, March 8, 1925, posted in the log of Eric T. Young on February 11, 2012

Interpersonal Relations in the Local Church

Prior to the Fall in the Garden of Eden man was in perfect relationship with God and with woman, a heavenly existence. After the Fall man's relationships with God and men were broken. The only way for man and wife, and family, and society to live together happily is to pursue holiness through Christ Jesus. See: The Everlasting Righteousness, or How Shall man be Just With God? Horatius Bonar.
And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren. (Romans 8:28,29)

Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), Conflict and Rivalry in the Church, a special set of eight audio files [audio file], (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
"Dr. Jay Adams teaches on how to be a peacemaker in the church and how to handle conflicts. Practical advice and examples are given as well as theological motivations." -- Westminster Media

Barrs, Jerram, and Howard A. Snyder (foreword), Shepherds and Sheep: A Biblical View of Leading and Following, ISBN: 0877843953 9780877843955.
Includes bibliographical references.

*Booher, Dianna D., Getting Along With People who Don't get Along, ISBN: 0805452095 9780805452099.
"A helpful book treating interpersonal relationships and interpersonal communication in the church." -- Cyril J. Barber

Bunyan, John (1628-1688), Exhortation to Unity and Peace. Available (THE WORKS OF JOHN BUNYAN), on the Puritan Hard Drive.
Pilgrim's Page: A John Bunyan Archive
This is the complete set of THE WORKS OF JOHN BUNYAN, George Offor edition, reprinted by The Banner of Truth. It is free online, and is downloadable in the following formats: HTML, RTF, TEXT, and PDF.
http://www.chapellibrary.org/literature/bunyan/
THE COMPLETE WORKS OF JOHN BUNYAN is also available at Project Gutenberg.

Shelley, Marshall, Well-Intentioned Dragons: Ministering to Problem People in the Church, ISBN: 1556615159 9781556615153.
"All pastors, elders, and deacons have met well-intentioned dragons. These people don't consider themselves malicious. Often they are well-meaning, deeply loyal to the church, and convinced they are serving God. Yet they undermine the church's ministry and breed discontent. This book is based on real-life stories." -- GCB

See also: The sovereignty of god, The doctrine of man (human nature, total depravity), The root cause of criminal acts of extreme depravity, Theodicy, Pride, ambition, self-aggrandizement, arrogance, ego, Church discipline, Repentance the key to salvation and change, Justification, Justifying faith, Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, Justification, Reconciling relationships, Reconciling marriage partners, The love and justice of God, Holiness, Church discipline, Forgiveness, Unforgiveness, Unity and uniformity in the visible church: unity in the truth, The local church and counseling, Peer counseling, personal evangelism, one-on-one evangelism, and so forth, and so on.
TCRB5: 726, 739-741, 1325, 3724-3727

Related Weblinks

Justifying Faith
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr1cha.html#justfaith

The Church Universal, The Church Invisible

See the Theological Notes: "The Church," at Ephesians 2:19 in The Reformation Study Bible.
See the Theological Notes: "The Local Church," at Revelation 2:1 in The Reformation Study Bible.
Arise, shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the LORD is risen upon thee. For, behold, the darkness shall cover the earth, and gross darkness the people: but the LORD shall arise upon thee, and his glory shall be seen upon thee. And the Gentiles shall come to thy light, and kings to the brightness of thy rising. Lift up thine eyes round about, and see: all they gather themselves together, they come to thee: thy sons shall come from far, and thy daughters shall be nursed at thy side. Then thou shalt see, and flow together, and thine heart shall fear, and be enlarged; because the abundance of the sea shall be converted unto thee, the forces of the Gentiles shall come unto thee. The multitude of camels shall cover thee, the dromedaries of Midian and Ephah; all they from Sheba shall come: they shall bring gold and incense; and they shall shew forth the praises of the LORD. All the flocks of Kedar shall be gathered together unto thee, the rams of Nebaioth shall minister unto thee: they shall come up with acceptance on mine altar, and I will glorify the house of my glory. Who are these that fly as a cloud, and as the doves to their windows?
Surely the isles shall wait for me, and the ships of Tarshish first, to bring thy sons from far, their silver and their gold with them, unto the name of the LORD thy God, and to the Holy One of Israel, because he hath glorified thee. And the sons of strangers shall build up thy walls, and their kings shall minister unto thee: for in my wrath I smote thee, but in my favour have I had mercy on thee. Therefore thy gates shall be open continually; they shall not be shut day nor night; that men may bring unto thee the forces of the Gentiles, and that their kings may be brought. For the nation and kingdom that will not serve thee shall perish; yea, those nations shall be utterly wasted. The glory of Lebanon shall come unto thee, the fir tree, the pine tree, and the box together, to beautify the place of my sanctuary; and I will make the place of my feet glorious. The sons also of them that afflicted thee shall come bending unto thee; and all they that despised thee shall bow themselves down at the soles of thy feet; and they shall call thee, The city of the LORD, The Zion of the Holy One of Israel.
Whereas thou hast been forsaken and hated, so that no man went through thee, I will make thee an eternal excellency, a joy of many generations. Thou shalt also suck the milk of the Gentiles, and shalt suck the breast of kings: and thou shalt know that I the LORD am thy Saviour and thy Redeemer, the mighty One of Jacob. For brass I will bring gold, and for iron I will bring silver, and for wood brass, and for stones iron: I will also make thy officers peace, and thine exactors righteousness. Violence shall no more be heard in thy land, wasting nor destruction within thy borders; but thou shalt call thy walls Salvation, and thy gates Praise. The sun shall be no more thy light by day; neither for brightness shall the moon give light unto thee: but the LORD shall be unto thee an everlasting light, and thy God thy glory. Thy sun shall no more go down; neither shall thy moon withdraw itself: for the LORD shall be thine everlasting light, and the days of thy mourning shall be ended. Thy people also shall be all righteous: they shall inherit the land for ever, the branch of my planting, the work of my hands, that I may be glorified. A little one shall become a thousand, and a small one a strong nation: I the LORD will hasten it in his time. (Isaiah 60:1-22)
The Christ is the only One truly called. . . . The flesh has always struggled against Him, as we see when we survey the history of God's people. The struggle was especially acute at Golgotha. -- S.G. De Graaf in Promise and Deliverance
That there is an universal Church, that there has been, from the beginning of the world, and will be even to the end, we all acknowledge. The appearance by which it may be recognised is the question. We place it in the word of God, or, (if any one would so put it), since Christ is her head, we maintain that, as a man is recognised by his face, so she is to be beheld in Christ: as it is written, Where the carcase is, there will the eagles be gathered together, (Matth. xxiv. 28. [Matthew 24:28]). Again, There will be one sheepfold, and one Shepherd, (John x. 16 [John 10:16]). But as the pure preaching of the gospel is not always exhibited, neither is the face of Christ always conspicuous, (1 Cor. xi. 19 [1 Corinthians 11:19]). Thence we infer that the Church is not always discernible by the eyes of men, as the example of many ages testify. For in the time of the prophets, the multitude of the wicked so prevailed, that the true Church was oppressed; so also in the time of Christ, we see that the little flock of God was hidden from men, while the ungodly usurped to themselves the name of Church. But what will those, who have eyes so clear that they boast the Church is always visible to them, make of Elijah, who thought the he alone remained of the Church? (1 Kings xix. 10 [1 Kings 19:10]). In this, indeed, he was mistaken, but it is a proof that the Church of God may be equally concealed from us, especially since we know, from the prophecy of Paul, that defection was predicted, (2 Thess. ii. 3 [2 Thessanonians 2:3]). Let us hold, then, that the Church is seen where Christ appears, and where his word is heard; as it is written, My sheep hear my voice, (John x. 27 [John 10:27]); but that at the instant when the true doctrine was buried, the Church vanished from the eyes of men. This Church, we acknowledge with Paul, to be the pillar and ground of the truth, (1 Tim. iii [1 Timothy 3]), because she is the guardian of sound doctrine, and by her ministry propagates it to posterity, that it may not perish from the world. For, seeing she is the spouse of Christ, it is meet that she be subject to him. And, as Paul declares, (Eph. v. 24 [Ephesians 5:24]; 2 Cor. xi. 2,3 [2 Corinthians 11:2,3]), her chastity consists in not being led away from the simplicity of Christ. She errs not, because she follows the truth of God for her rule; but if she recedes from this truth, she ceases to be a spouse, and becomes an adulteress. -- Articles Agreed Upon by The Faculty of Sacred Theology of Paris, in Reference to Matters of Faith at Present Controverted with The Antidote, Calvin's Selected Works, Vol. 1, Tracts Part 1, pp. 102-103
The truth is, the promise of a new heart is not made to the visible church, which is only visible: but to the elect and invisible church. And if the Anabaptists shall expound these words in Acts 2:39 as "the promise of a new heart is made to you and to your children, upon condition that you and your children believe," which they cannot do until first they have a new heart, its as good as if Peter had said, "God promises to you and to your children grace to believe, and a new heart to obey him, upon condition that you first believe, and that is God's promise to you to believe upon condition that you believe." -- Samuel Rutherford (1600-1661)
Q. 82. What is the communion in glory that members of the invisible church have with Christ?
A. The communion in glory that members of the invisible church have with Christ occurs in this life(1) as well as immediately after death,(2) and is finally completed at the resurrection and day of judgment.(3)
1. 2 Cor 3.18 [2 Corinthians 3:18].
2. Lk 23.43 [Luke 23:43].
3. 1 Thess 4.17 [1 Thessalonians 4:17], 1 Jn 3.2 [1 John 3:2], Rev. 22.3-5 [Revelation 22:3-5].
The four "Servant Songs" of Isaiah are Isaiah 42:1-9; Isaiah 49:1-7; Isaiah 50:4-11; and Isaiah 52:13 -- Isaiah 53:12. See the annotations in The Reformation Study Bible.
Our Triune God has ordained that the preeminent leader of the Church is the Lord Jesus Christ, the God Man, Our Righteousness. (John 1:1-18; Matthew 19:30; Matthew 28:18-20; Isaiah 49:7; Colossians 1:16-19; Colossians 2:9,10; Hebrews 12:1,2; Revelation 5:1-14; Revelation 19:11-15; Revelation 20:11-15; Revelation 22:12, and so forth, and so on). Human leadership is also divinely ordained and tends to devolve to those who are most perfectly at one with Christ, and to those who also know the most Truth (the Apostle Paul, Saint Augustine, Martin Luther, John Calvin, Puritan leaders, The Scots Worthies, and so forth, and so on).
And Jesus said unto them, Verily I say unto you, That ye which have followed me, in the regeneration when the Son of man shall sit in the throne of his glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 19:28). See: (Matthew 19:28, 1599 Geneva Bible)
Then his master said unto him, It is well done good servant and faithful, Thou hast been faithful in little, I will make thee ruler over much: enter into thy master's joy. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 25:21) (Matthew 25:21 1599 Geneva Bible)
Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 25:34). See: (Matthew 25:34, 1599 Geneva Bible)
And he said unto him, Well, good servant: because thou hast been faithful in a very little thing, take thou authority over ten cities. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 19:17) (Luke 19:17, 1599 Geneva Bible)
Therefore I appoint unto you a kingdom, as my Father hath appointed unto me. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 22:29) (Luke 22:29, 1599 Geneva Bible)
And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together. (Romans 8:17). See: (Romans 8:17, 1599 Geneva Bible)
Know ye not that we shall judge angels? how much more things that pertain to this life? (1 Corinthians 6:3). See: (1 Corinthians 6:3, 1599 Geneva Bible)
And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus. (Ephesians 2:6). See: (Ephesians 2:6, 1599 Geneva Bible)
To execute vengeance upon the heathen, and corrections among the people:
To bind their kings in chains, and their nobles with fetters of iron,
That they may execute upon them the judgment that is written: this honor shall be to all his Saints. Praise ye the Lord. (Psalm 149:7-9) (Psalm 149:7-9, 1599 Geneva Bible)
But I suffer not a woman to teach, nor to usurp authority over the man, but to be in silence. (1 Timothy 2:12), (1 Timothy 2:12, 1599 Geneva Bible)
And he that overcometh, and keepeth my works unto the end, to him will I give power over the nations. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Revelation 2:26). See: (Revelation 2:26, 1599 Geneva Bible)
To serve God is to reign. -- Seneca (4 BC -- 65 AD)

Church of Scotland, Alexander Peterkin, The Booke of the Universall Kirk of Scotland: Wherein the Head is and Conclusion is Devys it be the Ministers and Commissionar is of the particular kirks thereof, are specially expressed and contained (1839). Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
http://archive.org/details/bookeofuniversal00chur

*Kennedy, D. James (1930-2007), with Jerry Newcombe, What if Jesus had Never Been Born? The Positive Impact of Christianity in History, ISBN: 0785271783 9780785271789.
"Christian belief is in Christ, not in Christians. . . .
Genuine Christianity must be distinguished from nominal Christianity. Some people have called themselves "Christians" who have lived in total opposition to the principles and teachings of the Master from Nazareth. But when we distinguish between name and reality, we see that genuine Christianity has been an unmixed blessing on the world. . . .
Christianity is comprised of those who have repented of their sins and truly believe in Jesus Christ as their Savior and their Lord. In times past Christendom was comprised of those people living in "Christian" territories. Today, Christendom is comprised of true Christians and those professing Christians who have never experienced the saving grace of Christ. Many members of Christendom have lived lives that were totally unworthy of the name Christian.
"When people are unregenerate -- that is, if their hearts are not changed by Christ -- they are prone to do all sorts of ungodly and inhuman things. It doesn't matter whether they're atheistic Communists or clerics in the Church. And in the case of unregenerate Church Leaders, their evil actions have brought the blame of history upon Christianity.
"There is a Church visible (Christendom) and there is a Church invisible (true Christianity). . . . The Bible points out that the visible Church is not the real Church of Christ. The real Church of Christ is invisible, and it consists of all who truly belong to God as His elect -- all those who will ever be regenerated by the Holy Spirit. Judas Iscariot was a member of the visible Church of Christ, but not the invisible. . . .
"The devil has been able to infiltrate the Church. (Matthew 13:24-30,37-39). Thus, as Jesus forewarned, the Church contains believers and nonbelievers alike. . . .
"While Jesus told us to love our neighbor and even our enemies, He did predict that Christianity would prove divisive per se (Luke 12:51-53). . . .
"Now, the Scripture teaches we are to be at peace will all, inasmuch as it is up to us (Romans 12:18). But we are to put Christ first in our lives . . . True faith can elicit a hostile reaction, even when practiced with a gentle and humble spirit. The division that Christ talked about here is the natural outworking of unbelief reacting against godliness, or belief reacting against ungodliness. . . .
"Church of Christ is invisible, and it consists of all who truly belong to God as His elect -- all those who will ever be regenerated by the Holy Spirit. Judas Iscariot was a member of the visible Church of Christ, but not the invisible. . . ." -- D. James Kennedy (1930-2007) and Jerry Newcombe, What if Jesus had Never Been Born, pp. 205,206,209,210

Rogers, John, A Discourse of the Visible and Invisible Church of Christ: In Which it is Shewn, That the Powers Claim'd by the Officers of the Visible Church are not . . . Rights and Liberties of Christians, ISBN: 1151631167 9781151631169.

Schwertley, Brian, Visible and Invisible Church, Romans 9:6 and Romans 11:1-7, a sermon [audio file]. Available (MP3) on the Puritan Hard Drive.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=8903103934

See also: The sovereignty of god, The doctrine of man (human nature, total depravity), Immanuel, christ's presence, christ in you, The priesthood of believers, Adoption into god's family, God's family, Peer counseling, personal evangelism, one-on-one evangelism, The question of the one and the many, Christ our example House churches The church and small groups, Small groups as healing agents, Churches that abuse, Reform of the church, Church discipline, and so forth, and so on.
TCRB5: 726, 731, 735, 737

Resources for Students

The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge. (Proverbs 1:7a)
But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 6:33)
John Calvin begins his theological masterpiece, THE INSTITUTES OF THE CHRISTIAN RELIGION, with these sentences: "Nearly all the wisdom we possess, that is to say, true and sound wisdom, consists of two parts: the knowledge of God and of ourselves. But, while joined by many bonds, which one precedes and brings forth the other is not easy to discern" (I:1:1). Without a knowledge of one's self, there is no knowledge of God. But to know one's self (and the whole world in general), there must first be a knowledge of God. God is known both better, and before, oneself or anything else (I:1:1-3). -- W. Gary Crampton
This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success. (Joshua 1:8)
And deal not so foolishly as to waste many years in inferior arts and sciences, before you have studied how to please God and to be saved. I unfeignedly thank God, that, by sickness and his grace, he called me early to learn how to die, and therefore to learn what I must be and how to live, and thereby drew me to study the sacred Scriptures, and abundance of practical, spiritual English books, till I had somewhat settled the resolution and the peace of my own soul, before I had gone far in human learning. -- Richard Baxter (1615-1691)
The end of all learning is to know God, and out of that knowledge to love and imitate Him. -- John Milton

Anderson, Wayne J., How to Understand Sex: Guidelines for Students.

*[Bible] King James Bible With the Geneva Bible Notes, 1672.
This is considered to be a superior text to the 1599 GENEVA BIBLE, which is said to be about 80 percent Tyndale translation. A Christian classic. Considered to be among the ten greatest books in the English language. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive and in The Amazing Christian Library. [broken link]
"The best Reformation translation (King James Version), combined with the best Bible notes of the first Reformation, the GENEVA BIBLE notes. [The drawback of the 1672 is that it has never been restored with a modern typeface. -- compiler] A great tool for public, family, and private worship and study. Printed from a marvelously clean original copy, surpassing the quality of all other printings (of the GENEVA BIBLE NOTES in particular), we have seen. Contains almost 1000 (8.5 X 11 inch), pages with notes on the complete Bible (Old and New Testaments), making this a veritable library of study and classic Protestant commentary in just one book." -- Publisher
The following title is apparently an alternative edition of the 1672 AKJV with GENEVA NOTES:
James, King of England, Lancelot Andrewes, Theodore de Beze, Franciscus Junius, and John Canne, The Holy Bible: Containing the Old and New Testament; Newly translated out of the originall tongues and with the former translations diligently compared and revised by his Majesties speciall command; With most profitable Annotations [probably the GENEVA NOTES -- compiler] upon all the hard places, and other things of great importance; Which notes have never before been set forth with this new translation; but are now placed in due order with great care and industrie. "Publisher: [Amsterdam]: [Stephen Swart], Printed in the Year MDCLXXII."
The Authorized King James Version of 1611 (Pure Cambridge Edition), Digital Text
"The PURE CAMBRIDGE EDITION (first published circa 1900), is the product of the process of textual purification that has occurred since 1611 when the AUTHORIZED VERSION was completed, and has been used (often unwittingly), as the received text for many decades. Millions of copies conformed to this edition were issued by Bible and missionary societies in the twentieth century. This text stands in contrast to all other editions (especially newly edited and modernized ones). . . ." -- excerpt from Bible Protector homepage
https://archive.org/details/king-james-bible-pure-cambridge-edition-pdf

*[Bible] The Reformation Study Bible: The Word That Changes Lives -- the Faith That Changed The World, New King James Version (Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson Publishers, March 2001), ISBN: 0785258523 9780785258520. Previously published under the title New Geneva Study Bible: Bringing the Light of the Reformation to Scripture (Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson Publishers, 1995), ISBN: 0840710917 9780840710918.
"The NEW GENEVA STUDY BIBLE offers a restatement of Reformation truth for Christians today. The first Geneva Bible was a pivotal force in the Reformation. Using the everyday language of its time, it opened the pages of Scripture to readers and provided helpful notes to assist them in understanding its message. It became the family Bible of the English people, and was the Bible that the Pilgrims brought to the New World. Since that time a multitude of English translations and study Bibles have appeared, but none of these has incorporated a summary of Reformed theology." -- Thomas Nelson Publishers
Also available in digital format from Logos Bible Software.
Geneva Bible Notes: Reviews of the 1599 and the 1672 editions of the Notes, and of the Reformation Study Bible
http://www.lettermen2.com/geneva.html
Readers of THE REFORMATION STUDY BIBLE should also be familiar with the Geneva Bible Notes, The Westminster Family of Documents, the doctrine of the Mediatorial Dominion of Jesus Christ, and the literature of the Covenanted Reformation.
The Westminster Confession of Faith (1646, The Westminster Standards), and Related Works: A Study Guide
http://www.lettermen2.com/suggest.html
The Covenanted Reformation of Scotland Author/Title Listing
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr9chb.html#crsstl
Reformed Presbyterian Catechism, William L. Roberts D.D.
http://archive.org/details/ReformedPresbyterianCatechism

Bradley, John D., Christian Career Planning: Finding the Place God Has for You.

Buchanan, James, and James McLagan, The College Question, 1850.

Burns, R., How to Get Students Involved in Serving Others (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Audio cassette TT102 [audio file].

*Charnock, Stephen (1628-1680), The Existence and Attributes of God. A Christian classic. Available (THE WORKS OF STEPHEN CHARNOCK, VOL. 4: THE KNOWLEDGE OF GOD), on the Puritan Hard Drive.
"When the essence and attributes of God are called into question, to whom else can we better go than to Stephen Charnock? . . . the study of God's attributes is not dry-as-dust theology, but is practical; that is, it leads to righteousness." -- Gordon H. Clark
Discourses Upon the Existence and Attributes of God (1853), Charnock and Symington,
http://archive.org/details/discoursesupone00symigoog
The Works of the Late Rev. Stephen Charnock (1815), volume 1 of 9.
http://archive.org/details/worksoflaterevst01char

Clark, Martin, Choosing Your Career: The Christian's Decision Manual, ISBN: 087552205X 9780875522050.
"How should a Christian make career decisions? How should Christians set goals to honor the orderly and purposive God we serve? 'Goal-setting, of course, can be an act of rebellion. But it is not necessarily so. The real issue is this: How does the Lord direct? By a feeling? A special set of circumstances? A religious hunch?' Lays out numerous factors to consider in order to make wise decisions. Emphasizes godly planning and thinking: 'Career choice for Christians is a cognitive process. It is not primarily mystical or emotional'." -- David Powlison (1949-2019)

*Enroth, Ronald, The Lure of Cults and New Religions: Why They Attract and What we can do, ISBN: 0877849943 9780877849940.
"First published in 1979, this work probes the power and idiosyncrasies of cultic figures and exposes the inadequacies of their theologies. It also describes the methods of intimidation used by the different organizations and why they are able to enforce conformity on the part of their adherents. This important work should be placed in the hands of all college freshmen, while also being in every church library." -- Cyril J. Barber

Greene, Joseph Nelson, The Gospel in Literature, 1910.

Holmes, Arthur Frank, Biblical Justice.
"Wheaton College professor Arthur Holmes lectures on the concept of Biblical justice, urging the teaching of its principles to students to apply in the world of business." -- Publisher

Holmes, Arthur Frank, Shaping Character: Moral Education in the Christian College, ISBN: 0802804977 9780802804976.

Holmes, Arthur F. (editor), The Making of a Christian Mind: A Christian World View and the Academic Enterprise, ISBN: 0877845255 9780877845256.

Howse, Ernest Marshall, Spiritual Values in Shakespeare.

Janson, H.W., and Joseph Kerman, A History of Art and Music, ISBN: 0810934469.

Kachur, Robert M., The Complete Campus Companion: The Survival Guide Every Christian Student Needs, ISBN: 0830812121 9780830812127.
"Next to the dictionary, the most helpful book available for students . . . this handy survival guide addresses with common-sense advice and refreshing honesty the many concerns of new students and 'veterans' alike." -- Publisher

Kemp, Charles F., Counseling With College Students.

Malik, Charles Habib, A Christian Critique of the University, ISBN: 0877843848 9780877843849.

Martin, Walter, Seven Campus Curses, an audio file.
"The seven most common objections to the Christian Faith are dealt with in a hard-hitting, fast-moving expository on the existence of God, miracles, creation, Biblical inspiration, and other issues crucial to the faith." -- Publisher

Maus, Cynthia Pearl, Christ and the Fine Arts, an Anthology of Pictures, Poetry, Music, and Stories Centering in the Life of Christ, ISBN: 0060654724 9780060654726.

Morey, Robert, How to Keep Your Faith in College, ISBN: 0925703036 9780925703033.
For high school and college students.
"Dr. Morey's book will help every student to know God, know himself, grasp the essentials, gain a Christian worldview, discern cultural considerations, spot humanism, avoid deception, and stay away from cults and occult. . . . An easy to read study guide with discussion questions at the end of each chapter makes this book perfect for group study." -- Publisher

Morris, Henry M., Education for the Real World: "Education for Time and Eternity," ISBN: 0890510369 9780890510360.

Morris, Henry, Men of Science, men of God: Great Scientists who Believe the Bible, revised, ISBN: 0890510806 9780890510803.
"One of the most serious fallacies of modern thought is the widespread notion that genuine scientists cannot believe the Bible. This book dispels that myth." -- GCB

Morrison, George H., Christ in Shakespeare: Ten Addresses on Moral and Spiritual Elements in Some of the Greater Plays.

Muhlberger, Richard, The Bible in Art: The Old Testament, ISBN: 0517037467 9780517037461.

*Packer, J.I. (1926-2020), Knowing God, ISBN: 083081650X 9780830816507. A Christian classic.
A classic work by one of the foremost theologians of our day. Offsets erroneous ideas about God. A group study guide is also available.
A bestselling book. Contains material useful in counseling.

*Packer, J.I. (1926-2020), Knowing God (Study Guide), ISBN: 0830816496.
"Ideal for Bible Study Groups, Sunday School classes as well as personal study and reflection. Why not begin a fresh new quiet time each day with Dr. Packer as you open the pages of this wonderful and illuminating study on KNOWING GOD?" -- GCB

Palmer, B.M., Christianity, the Only Religion for man: A Discourse Delivered Before the Graduating Class of the University of North Carolina, June 4, 1855.

Ringenberg, William C., The Christian College: A History of Protestant Higher Education in America, ISBN: 0802819966 9780802819963

Sloane, J.R.W., What Should a College be?: Inaugural Address of James Renwick Willson Sloane: March 24, 1852.

Smith, Jane S., and Betty Carlson, The Gift of Music: Great Composers and Their Influence, ISBN: 089107869X 9780891078692.
"The purpose of this book is to encourage listening to the finest music with understanding and pleasure, and to stretch one's ear and imagination. It sets forth the lives of about three dozen of the greatest composers, many of whom enriched the Christian church with artistic compositions." -- GCB
Includes bibliography and index.

THE TREASURY OF DAVID, "the most important and practical work of the ages on the Psalter." -- Dr. Philip Schaff
A TREASURY OF SPURGEON ON THE LIFE AND WORK OF OUR LORD, 6 volumes, a compilation of sermons, and
FAITH'S CHECKBOOK, commenting on the promises of Scripture.

*Thompson, Frank Charles (editor), and Kirkbride Bible and Technology (other contributor), Thompson Chain Reference Bible, KJV, (KJV, Adult, Regular Size, Bonded Leather, Black, Indexed, Kirkbride Bible Company Item Number: 978-0-88707-527-8), 5th improved edition, leather bound (Kirkbride Bible Company, December 2005), some editions include a CD-ROM, language: English, French, and Spanish. Many editions and bindings are available. WorldCat Record for 5th Improved Edition, ISBN: 0887071228 9780887071225 9780887076091 0887076092.
"Dr. Frank C. Thompson, D.D., Ph.D., invested more than forty years in compiling and developing the remarkable Chain-Reference system that is the heart of the Bible that now bears his name." -- Publisher
This is a huge body of work: the fully cross-referenced Bible, 1619 pages, plus Bible helps, 788 pages, for a total of 2417 pages. It may be used profitably in combination with THE NEW TREASURY OF SCRIPTURE KNOWLEDGE (1680 pages), THE NEW GENEVA STUDY BIBLE (THE REFORMATION STUDY BIBLE), (2220 pages), THE GENEVA BIBLE (648 pages), THE THOMPSON EXHAUSTIVE TOPICAL BIBLE: KING JAMES VERSION (1631 pages), and THE NEW NAVE'S TOPICAL BIBLE (1114 pages).
"The topics from the TOPICAL BIBLE can easily be found in the General Index of the THOMPSON CHAIN-REFERENCE BIBLE. In the General Index are found the chain-reference numbers that will guide the user into the biblical context for many of the topics. The many additional resources in the THOMPSON CHAIN-REFERENCE BIBLE . . . will greatly supplement any topical study." -- Introduction to the TOPICAL BIBLE
We feel that both THE THOMPSON CHAIN-REFERENCE BIBLE, KING JAMES VERSION, 5TH EDITION, and the THOMPSON EXHAUSTIVE TOPICAL BIBLE: KING JAMES VERSION has a part in every reference library, particularly the libraries of Biblical Counselors.
Remember the Thompson Chain-Reference System was developed for the Authorized King James Version. It is also available in New American Standard, New King James, and the New International versions.
"A THOMPSON STUDY BIBLE will help you in ways other Bibles can't. It's the unique Chain-Reference System that allows you to follow any subject, person, place or idea, from the front of your Bible to the end. THOMPSON users say it's the best way to study your Bible. No other Bible has this superb, patented, Thompson Chain Reference System developed by Dr. Frank C. Thompson in 1890. Since that time, thousands of additional topics and links have been added. The AKJV 4th edition has been out-of-print since 1988. The 5th edition began printing in 1988. The only way to find a 4th edition would be in the secondary market." -- Publisher
"Some Thompson Bible Features [from among 75 additional study features]:

Thompson Chain Reference System
Thompson Bible Content
Archaeology
Full-Color Atlas Section
Portraits of Christ
Topical Treasury
Thompson Bible Helps Section
Biblical History Sample" -- Publisher

"The text is set in two columns for ease of reading. Cross references are to the left and right of the respective columns immediately adjacent to the related verse. TCR cross references are by subject. Each cross reference contains a TCR Index number, the TCR subject, and the next Bible verse in the 'chain' for that subject. For example, if you were studying the gospel of 'John' at John 1:9 the TCR cross reference reads '2168 Christ the Light, 8:12.' Thus the TCR index number is '2168,' the subject is 'Christ the Light,' and the next verse in the 'chain' is John 8:12. Going to John 8:12 you would find '2168 Christ the Light, 12:35' and so on to the end of the 'chain'. What makes this different than most other study Bibles is the 'TCR Numeric Index.' Looking up TCR Index number 2168 we find ALL references to subject 'Christ the Light' in order from Genesis to Revelation. You can also do a lookup using the subject. For example, say you are asked a question by an unbeliever, 'Why was Jesus Christ called 'the Light of the world' and what does it mean?' First you would look up the subject 'Christ' or 'Jesus' in the 'TCR Alphabetic Index.' For example, in section 'C,' we find 'Christ,' under the 'Christ' entry we find 'Light, the . . . 2168.' Now we can look in the 'TCR Numeric Index' for the '2168' entry. Here we find the 'chain' of all relevant verses for further study. Why is this better than a 'Strong's' search? Using the latest 'Strongest Strong's . . .' under word 'light' we find 288 entries. The 'Strong's' search is less efficient because many of the 288 entries are not relevant to the subject in question. The full compliment of TCR Bible helps consists of the cross references (100,000 entries), 'Alphabetic Index (8,000 entries)', 'Numerical Index (4,200 entries),' 'Outline Studies,' 'Bible Character Studies,' 'Bible Harmonies,' 'Archaeological Supplement,' 'Hebrew Calendar,' 'Concordance,' and 'Bible Maps.' At $36 you can not go wrong. If I could have only one study Bible, this would be it." -- Reader's Comment
Warning: Many editions and bindings are available, including CD-ROM software Bible research packages, and Palm or PocketPC devices. The website for Thompson Bibles is the best source of complete descriptions of the various editions.
"The 5th edition is the 4th edition expanded, and has everything the 4th had, plus more. While Kirkbride is always in production printing the Bibles with the current year's date, it is still the 1988 5th edition." [This 5th edition was the last edition of THE THOMPSON CHAIN-REFERENCE BIBLE. Anything published in 1988 or later is the 5th edition. -- compiler] -- Publisher
Both the buyer and the seller can become confused about various editions because Kirkbride Bible Company apparently has never printed the International Standard Book Number (ISBN) in the various editions and printings. Buyers will want to confirm the edition, version, and publisher with the seller.
There are numerous reader's comments about poor quality of paper, binding, and typography of TCR Bibles not printed by Kirkbride, so be sure to carefully inspect any non-Kirkbride edition before purchasing it.
Thompson apparently was a Methodist pastor. The first edition of 1908 was "published by Methodists Book Concern of Dobbs Ferry, New York." -- Publisher

*Thompson, Frank Charles (author), Paul M. Hillman (editor), John Stephen Jauchen (editor) The Thompson Exhaustive Topical Bible: King James Version (Indianapolis, IN: Kirkbride Bible Company, Inc., 1997). Hardcover, 1631 pages.
This is a topical Bible compiled from the Thompson Chain-Reference System.
"NAVE'S TOPICAL BIBLE was edited into a Study Bible format shortly after the appearance of the original THOMPSON CHAIN-REFERENCE BIBLE. It is fitting for Thompson's Study Bible to be reformatted into a reference book. And where there is room in the marketplace and on every serious student's bookshelf for more than one Bible translation, so there is room for more than one Topical Bible -- and great value in the use of both Nave's and Thompson's work. . . ." -- John R. Kohlenberger III, from the Foreword
"Now, the detailed and comprehensive topical and subject data that forms the heart of the unparalleled Thompson Chain-Reference system is offered in this -- the most exhaustive topical Bible currently available! Combining to make THE THOMPSON EXHAUSTIVE TOPICAL BIBLE unique are features which include:

Topical access to more than 100,000 Bible verses on,
More than 8,000 Subjects and Subtopics of biblical, theological, historical, and devotional significance,
Definitions of persons, places, objects and events important to Bible study,
Exhaustive cross references for extended study and clarification,
Key verses on each topic are printed in full,
Hundreds of outlines for preaching and teaching,
Character studies of biblical personalities,
A comprehensive guide to all the features and topics included.

"No other topical Bible can offer you the comprehensive collection of features or the exhaustive topical thoroughness of this exceptional Bible reference tool -- because there can only be one . . . THE THOMPSON EXHAUSTIVE TOPICAL BIBLE." -- Publisher
It may be used profitably in combination with THE NEW TREASURY OF SCRIPTURE KNOWLEDGE (1680 pages), THE NEW GENEVA STUDY BIBLE (THE REFORMATION STUDY BIBLE), (2220 pages), THE GENEVA BIBLE (648 pages), THE THOMPSON EXHAUSTIVE TOPICAL BIBLE: KING JAMES VERSION (1631 pages), and THE NEW NAVE'S TOPICAL BIBLE (1114 pages).
"The topics from the TOPICAL BIBLE can easily be found in the General Index of the THOMPSON CHAIN-REFERENCE BIBLE. In the General Index are found the chain-reference numbers that will guide the user into the biblical context for many of the topics. The many additional resources in the THOMPSON CHAIN-REFERENCE BIBLE . . . will greatly supplement any topical study." -- Introduction to the TOPICAL BIBLE

*Varghese, Roy Abraham (editor), The Intellectuals Speak out About God: A Handbook for the Christian Student in a Secular Society, ISBN: 0895268272 9780895268273.
"This book reaffirms the need for character, personal integrity, spiritual depth, and moral standards that are essential if education is to remain viable . . . The essays that make up this book are stimulating, and it is a work that can be heartily recommended." -- Cyril J. Barber

Wilde, Gary (editor), Bible Promises to Treasure for Graduates: Inspiring Words for Every Occasion, ISBN: 1558197141 9781558197145.

See also: The sovereignty of god, The doctrine of man (human nature, total depravity), The root cause of criminal acts of extreme depravity, Theodicy, The sovereign grace of god: his everlasting mercy and lovingkindness, Repentance the key to salvation and change, Justification, Justifying faith, The holy bible, Bible study, The free offer of the gospel message of salvation and the life to come: the means of grace, the covenant of eternal salvation, Book-length presentations of the free offer of the gospel message of salvation and the life to come: the means of grace, Evangelism, Follow-up, Tracts, Discipleship, Christian scholarship, The autodidact, Christian character, Excellence, Christ's influence on western civilization, The covenanted reformation, Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, Education, Public education, Home schooling, Sexual relationship, Spiritual adultery (spiritual whoredom/harlotry), Counsel for Young Men, Counsel for Young Women, Abstinence, Reference works, Christian fiction, Classic christian fiction by martha finley, and so forth, and so on.
TCRB5: 428, 2022, 2028, 4179

Related Weblinks

The Autodidact (Self-taught)
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr9cha.html#atddct

Biblical Counseling Library (29 Volumes), on CD-ROM, Libronix Digital Library System
"This 29 volume collection of Biblical Counseling titles is an amazing compilation of Christian counseling resources. THE BIBLICAL COUNSELING LIBRARY features some of Jay E. Adams' outstanding counseling titles, including THE CHRISTIAN COUNSELOR'S MANUAL, COMPETENT TO COUNSEL, and A THEOLOGY OF CHRISTIAN COUNSELING. It includes works from 20 different authors, including Steve Farrar, Elizabeth George, Jerry Bridges, and Lou Priolo.
"This collection includes informative studies on general Christian counseling, as well as very focused works on Women's and Men's counseling needs, counseling victims of sexual abuse, eating and diet issues, dating, working through struggles with sexual sin and anger, and developing a deeper walk with God. A fantastic resource for the library of a pastor or Christian counselor, the BIBLICAL COUNSELING LIBRARY adds a new dimension to your Logos Bible Software. These expert resources are combined with the tools of the Logos Bible Software system, including topical searching for studying specific areas of Biblical counseling, and linked references to other titles in your Libronix library." -- Publisher
http://www.logos.com/products/prepub/details/2482

Books Considered to be Among the ten Greatest in the English Language
http://www.lettermen2.com/tengreat.html

Center for Christian Study
http://majordomo.virginia.edu

Combined Interactive Contents for The Web Edition of Biblical Counsel: Resources for Renewal
http://www.lettermen2.com/combtoc.html

Girl Defined
https://www.girldefined.com/

More Than Gold Ministry 2000
http://www.gospelcom.net/rbc/ss/outreach/2000/index.html

The OPE Campus Security Statistics Website
http://www.ope.ed.gov/security/

Reformed University Fellowship at Clemson University
http://hubcap.clemson.edu/ruf/

Regulations at Yale College (1745)
Showing the centrality of Calvinism and the Westminster Confession in Colonial higher education.
http://www.constitution.org/primarysources/yale.html

Respect Incorporated (formerly Sex Respect)
http://www.sexrespect.com/main.html

Speaking on Calvinism
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True Love Waits
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The Westminster Confession of Faith (1646, The Westminster Standards), and Related Works: A Study Guide
http://www.lettermen2.com/suggest.html

Westminster Shorter Catechism With Proof Texts
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Christianity in the Workplace

See the Theological Notes: "Pleasing God," at 1 Thessalonians 2:6 in The Reformation Study Bible.
And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ. (Colossians 3:23,24)
Fret not thyself because of evildoers,
neither be thou envious against the workers of iniquity.
For they shall soon be cut down like the grass,
and wither as the green herb.
Trust in the LORD, and do good;
so shalt thou dwell in the land, and verily thou shalt be fed.
Delight thyself also in the LORD;
and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart. (Psalm 37:1-4)
Labour not for the meat which perisheth, but for that meat which endureth unto everlasting life, which the Son of man shall give unto you: for him hath God the Father sealed. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (John 6:27)
Whether therefore ye eat or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God. (1 Corinthians 10:31)
I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called, With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love; Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. (Ephesians 4:1-3)
The family, the workplace, and the church are God's laboratory for learning and molding stronger Christians, so never regret any experiences God provides, just trust in Him, and ask Him what he would have you learn from each situation.
A sparkling diamond is well showcased on black velvet. Likewise, biblical Truth is often showcased best when it is in contact with wickedness. The wicked man is a negative guide to the positive. He can sometimes be a nearly perfect teacher of Truth by his wicked example. Some have suggested this as a reason why negatives attract.
Therefore, the workplace can be a unique laboratory for the disciple to grow in understanding of biblical truths -- to see, first-hand, in real life, the incompetence and corruption of the godless.
See the Theological Notes: "The Fall" at Genesis 3:6 in The Reformation Study Bible.
But of the fruit of the tree which is in the midst of the garden, God hath said, Ye shall not eat of it, neither shall ye touch it, lest ye die.
And the serpent said unto the woman, Ye shall not surely die: For God doth know that in the day ye eat thereof, then your eyes shall be opened, and ye shall be as gods, knowing good and evil.
And when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree to be desired to make one wise, she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat, and gave also unto her husband with her; and he did eat. And the eyes of them both were opened, and they knew that they were naked; and they sewed fig leaves together, and made themselves aprons. (Genesis 3:3-7)
Matthew Henry commenting on Genesis 3:6-13
https://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/matthew-henry-complete/genesis/3.html
John Gill commenting on Genesis 3:7
https://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/gills-exposition-of-the-bible/genesis-3-7.html
See the Theological Notes: "Christians in the World," at Colossians 2:20 in The Reformation Study Bible.
If thou doest well, shalt thou not be accepted? And if thou doest not well, sin lieth at the door. (Genesis 4:7a)
Considering the message of the Book of Job, it seems no coincidence that the noun "job" is used to name our life in the workplace, where economic factors throw together the Cains and Abels of this world. That is, both those who can trust God and those who can not trust God, are thrown together by economic necessity. The wicked are innately incompetent, and must turn to the use of wicked devices against the "able," the capable, the competent, the worthy, to survive in the workplace.
Calvin commenting on 1 Corinthians 7:20-24, Paul's teaching on staying true to your calling. When is it right or wrong to leave a situation in which we are discontent? Is your current place the right place for you? When are you deserting your post?
If you would have good servants, see that you be good masters, and do your own duty, and then either your servants will do theirs, or else all their failings shall turn to your greater good.
Remember that in Christ they are your brethren and fellow-servants; and therefore rule them not tyrannically, but in tenderness and love; and command them nothing that is against the laws of God, or the good of their souls. Use not wrath or unmanlike fury with them; nor any over-severe or unnecessary rebukes or chastisements. Find fault in season, with prudence and sobriety, when your passions are down, and when it is most likely to do good. -- Richard Baxter (1615-1691)
Servants, be obedient to them that are your masters according to the flesh, with fear and trembling, in singleness of your heart, as unto Christ; not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but as the servants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart; with good will doing service, as to the Lord, and not to men: knowing that whatsoever good thing any man doeth, the same shall he receive of the Lord, whether he be bond or free. And, ye masters, do the same things unto them, forbearing threatening: knowing that your Master also is in heaven; neither is there respect of persons with him. (Ephesians 6:5-9)
You can delegate authority, but you can never delegate responsibility for delegating a task to someone else. If you picked the right man, fine, but if you picked the wrong man, the responsibility is yours -- not his. -- Richard E. Krafve, Vice President, Ford Motor Company
Go away from here and turn eastward, and hide yourself by the brook Cherith, which is east of the Jordan. You will drink from the brook, and I have directed the ravens to supply you with food there. So he did what the LORD had told him. He went to the Kerith Ravine, east of the Jordan, and stayed there. . . . Some time later the brook dried up because there had been no rain in the land. (1 Kings 17:3-5,7)
Before God's word came afresh to Elijah both his faith and his patience had been put to the proof. In going to Cherith the prophet had acted under Divine orders, and therefore was he under God's special care. . . . He must therefore remain where he is until God directs him to leave the place, no matter how unpleasant conditions may become.
So with us. When it is clear that God has placed us where we are, there we must, Abide, (1 Corinthians 7:20), even though our continuance in it be attended with hardships and apparent hazard.
If, on the other hand, Elijah, had left Cherith of his own accord, how could he count upon the Lord being with him both to provide for his wants and to deliver him from his enemies? The same applies to us with equal force today. -- Arthur Pink (1886-1952), The Life of Elijah
It is impossible to desire something we already possess, whether it be power, wealth, sexual fulfillment, or any other carnal fulfillment.
See the Theological Notes: "The Law of God," at Exodus 20:1 in The Reformation Study Bible.
Honour all men. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honour the king. (1 Peter 2:17)
Commit thy works unto the LORD, and thy thoughts shall be established. (Proverbs 16:3)
Beware that thou forget not the Lord thy God, in not keeping his commandments, and his judgments, and his statutes, which I command thee this day: Lest when thou hast eaten and art full, and hast built goodly houses, and dwelt therein; And when thy herds and thy flocks multiply, and thy silver and thy gold is multiplied; Then thine heart be lifted up, and thou forget the Lord thy God . . . (Deuteronomy 8:11-14)
But we know that the law is good, if a man use it lawfully; Knowing this, that the law is not made for a righteous man, but for the lawless and disobedient, for the ungodly and for sinners, for unholy and profane, for murderers of fathers and murderers of mothers, for manslayers, For whoremongers, for them that defile themselves with mankind, for menstealers, for liars, for perjured persons, and if there be any other thing that is contrary to sound doctrine; According to the glorious gospel of the blessed God, which was committed to my trust. (1 Timothy 1:8-11)
One of the besetting sins of mankind is to use the law to oppress and steal from his fellowman. Frederic Bastiat unfolds this sin in, The Law.
Ten Global Principles for Business and Professional Success from the booklet MEGAVALUES, by Colonel Nimrod McNair (modeled after the Ten Commandments).

The first principle is, "Show proper respect for authority." This is the invisible superstructure of productive enterprise. God clearly commands us to respect those in authority over us. God uses this command to bring order out of chaos. Authority is a necessary prerequisite to order.

The second rule is, "Have a singleness of purpose." Divided purposes dilute effectiveness when interests conflict. We cannot serve two masters effectively. We must evaluate our time, talent, and resources and make sure we are using these God-given elements in a way that ultimately brings Him the glory.

Precept number three is, "Use effective communication in word and deed." Complete communications and predictable follow-through are the basic expressions of personal integrity. It means doing what you say you'll do, even if it is uncomfortable or inconvenient. This commandment is honored when promises are kept and accurate recounting of transactions is given.

A fourth truth is, "Provide proper rest, recreation, and reflection." This ensures a quality of life that will be reflected in creativity, productivity, and motivation. Rest is a necessity for effectiveness. Recreation guards the mind against mental and emotional fatigue. Reflection promotes self-monitoring, allows for mid-course corrections, and ensures single-mindedness.

The fifth tenet is, "Show respect for the older and more experienced." Our parents, teachers, coaches, employers, pastors, and other elders in our lives have an investment in us. It is to our benefit to honor that investment and to draw fully from the wisdom and expertise of those more experienced than ourselves.

The sixth axiom is, "Show respect for human life, dignity, and rights." This encompasses product quality and service, the work environment, health and safety, personnel policies and responsibilities, and competitive practices. It is simply the Golden Rule -- treating others as you would want to be treated.

The seventh principle is, "Maintain a stability of sexes and the family." Wisdom and good business practice dictate equal regard for men and women as persons irrespective of gender or marital status. Respect for the family structure as the crucial foundation of our cultural system must be reflected in our decisions regarding the conflicts between business demands and the value of the family and personal life.

Precept number eight is, "Demonstrate the proper allocation of resources." Two fundamental responsibilities and privileges of business are optimal use of material resources and wise leadership of people. We must treat all our business assets, whether they be people, funds, or materials, as a gift from the Lord.

The ninth truth is, "Demonstrate honesty and integrity." Integrity is the cornerstone of any good relationship. Without demonstrating the willingness to give and the worthiness to receive trust, no business can survive or prosper. A reputation for honesty is a comprehensive statement of both a person's character and how he or she treats others. It is a fundamental mindset against stealing, lying, or deceiving.

The tenth and final business commandment is, "Maintain the right of ownership of property." Those who are disciplined, creative, prudent, and industrious are entitled to the fruits of their labor. We must not covet that which belongs to another. -- Colonel Nimrod McNair, Executive Leadership Foundation
Trusting in men instead of trusting in God results in incompetence and corruption
The unregenerate, the skeptic, regardless of their level in society, look to men for their livelihood and well-being, instead of trusting in God to prepare a table before me in the face of mine enemies, to care for them and to satisfy their needs throughout life, a lesson that King David learned and expressed in Psalm 23:5,6. They are blind to spiritual values and swallowed up by needs of the flesh.
The skeptic, who can not trust God, is more worried about loosing his job than he is worried about job duties, responsibilities, and performance. This inevitably leads to incompetence and corruption in the workplace.
This obsessive preoccupation with job security, whether conscious or sub-conscious, also applies to elected officials, from top to bottom, who make demands on subordinates to not "rock the boat," to not jeopardize their popularity with the electorate, leading to the observation that "all bureaucracies are incompetent and corrupt."
The "savvy" Washington bureaucrat is "hog-tied" because he is more interested in "covering his butt," not jeopardizing his easy, secure, well-paying, lifetime "career" with retirement and benefits, than in carrying out his responsibilities, especially regulatory or enforcement duties (i.e. the Securities and Exchange Commission). The net effect is paralysis in the workplace. Friday evening rush hour in Washington, DC is said to be the most sluggish of any city in the country.
Calvin unfolds Scripture on this fact of the incompetence and corruption of the unregenerate, the blind, in their fearful pursuit of fleshly needs. See: his commentary on Proverbs 1:7, Genesis 4:7, Genesis 25:29-34, Hebrews 2:14,15, and Matthew 16:26.
Q. What kind of submission may be rendered to immoral and tyrannical governments, the ordinance of Satan, such as now exist?
A. Christians, in the exercise of their Christian liberty, and in the performance of the duty of proving all things, and holding fast what is good, can submit to such governments for wrath's sake, ONLY, which kind of submission has no respect to the power as legitimate authority, but simply, from dread of the cruelty of the tyrant, who pours forth his fury upon all who oppose his misrule. To God's moral ordinance as described, is allegiance due for conscience sake. Submission to this, is submission to God.
Q. When Christians reside under an immoral government, is not conformity to the general order of society a duty, provided this can be done without violating the divine law?
A. If the constituted authorities of a nation are not in voluntary subserviency to the Mediator, but opposed to his authority, law, and religion, for the sake of peace and order, and for the sake of contributing as much as possible to the ease and happiness of society, and from a spirit of resignation to the Divine providence, and in order to make legitimate provision for themselves and relatives, so much conformity to the prevailing system as is consistent with their oath of allegiance to Messiah, is a duty conscientiously to be practiced, although very distinct from that obedience for conscience sake which they would render to the government of their choice, to the authority which has the sanction of the Divine approbation. Jer. xxix. 4-7 [Jeremiah 29:4-7], Seek the peace of the city whither I have caused you to be carried away captives, and pray unto the Lord for it: for in the peace thereof shall ye have peace.
Q. Whilst it is the duty of Christians thus to live a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty, in conformity to the laws of Christ, which are everywhere, and at all times, obligatory upon them -- is it not their duty publicly to declare their dissent from an immoral constitution of civil government, within the reach of whose power they may reside?
A. This is, indeed, their duty. Because, 1. They are bound to defend God's moral ordinance of civil government, in the purity of which, God's own honor as the Governor of the nations, is deeply involved. Rev. ii. 25,26 [Revelation 2:25,26], That which you have already hold fast till I come; and he that overcometh -- and keepeth my works unto the end -- to him will I give power in the nations, &c. Isa. viii. 16 [Isaiah 8:16], Bind up the testimony, seal the law among my disciples. 2. The purity of this holy ordinance cannot be preserved, if it is confounded with the existing immoral systems, and by an indiscriminate exercise of allegiance. 3. Christians are witnesses for God among men; and having in their possession the testimony of God, in the Holy Scriptures, respecting the true character of civil government, and the duty of national subjection to Christ and his law, and respect for his holy religion, it is their duty to apply the doctrines of inspiration upon this subject, in stating and defending the truth, and condemning the existing immoral systems, and in bearing public testimony against all who uphold them. Isa. xliii. 10 [Isaiah 43:10], Ye are my witnesses, saith the Lord. Rev. xi. 3 [Revelation 11:3], I will give power to my two witnesses, and they shall prophesy a thousand two hundred and three score days, clothed in sackcloth; xii. 17 [Revelation 12:17], And the dragon was wroth with the woman, and went to make war with the remnant of her seed, which keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ. See also: Rev. xvii. 14 [Revelation 17:14], Acts v. 32 [Acts 5:32], xxvi. 16 [Acts 26:16], Micah iv. 8-18 [Micah 4:8-18], Mark vi. 11 [Mark 6:11]. 4. The witnesses in Revelation are raised up not only to testify against the ecclesiastical apostasy, The scarlet woman, or Roman church -- and the image of the beast, -- the Papacy -- but also against the seven-headed and ten-horned beast -- or the civil powers -- upon which the woman rides. The nations which sustain Antichrist, and are equally, with the man of sin, Anti-christian, and are at war with the Lamb. See: passages last quoted, together with Rev. xiii. 1, 2 [Revelation 13:1,2], xvii. 3-14 [Revelation 17:3-14], and xii. 11 [Revelation 12:11], And they overcame him (the devil embodied in the Roman church papacy, and civil powers), by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony; xvii. 14 [Revelation 17:14], These, (the civil powers), shall make war with the Lamb-and the Lamb shall overcome them: for he is Lord of lords, and King of kings: and they that are with him are called, and chosen, and faithful.
Q. Are not virtuous persons, who, in their private capacity, are endeavoring to further the true end of civil government -- the maintenance of peace and quietness in all godliness and honesty, although they dissent from the constitution of civil government of the nation in which they reside, entitled to protection?
A. They certainly are entitled to protection in their lives, liberties, and property; "but they are not to act inconsistently with their declared dissent, and it would be tyranny to constrain them to such measures." Exod. xxii. 21 [Exodus 22:21], Thou shalt neither vex a stranger nor oppress him. See also: Rom. xiii. 3 [Romans 13:3], 1 Tim. ii. 2 [1 Timothy 2:2], Jer. xxi. 12 [Jeremiah 21:12], Esther iii. 8, 9 [Esther 3:8,9].
Q. Should not "Christians, testifying against national evils, and striving, in the use of moral means, to effect a reformation, relinquish temporal privileges, rather than do any thing which may appear to contradict their testimony, or lay a stumbling-block before their weaker brethren?"
A. This is unquestionably their duty. Because they cannot convince men of their own sincerity, and of the immorality of a principle or practice, whilst they themselves are found actually maintaining the immoral principle or practice (by oath of allegiance, voting, and holding offices, &c.), and enjoying the emoluments of iniquity decreed by law. Heb. xi. 24, 26, 36 [Hebrews 11:24,26,36], By faith, Moses, when he was come to years, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh's daughter. Esteeming the reproach of Christ to be greater riches than the treasures in Egypt. And others had trials of cruel mockings and scourgings, yea, moreover, of bonds and imprisonments. Numb. xxiii. 9 [Numbers 23:9], Lo, the people shall dwell alone, and shall not be reckoned among the nations. Rom. xiv. 21 [Romans 14:21], It is good neither to eat flesh, nor drink wine, nor anything whereby thy brother stumbleth, or is offended.
Q. Will not such a public dissent from immoral governments, and faithful testimony against them, ultimately prevail to their overthrow?
A. Yes. By these means the witnesses will prevail, however much they may suffer in the meantime, and will be the honored instruments of establishing the millennial kingdom of the Lamb. Rev. xii. 11 [Revelation 12:11], And they overcame him, by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death. Dan. vii. 22 [Daniel 7:22], The Ancient of days came, and judgment was given to the saints of the Most High; and the time came that the saints possessed the kingdom. Rev. xx. 4 [Revelation 20:4], And I saw thrones, and they sat upon them, and judgment was given unto them; and I saw the souls of them that were beheaded for the witness of Jesus, and for the word of God, and which had not worshipped the beast (the civil powers), neither his image (the Papacy), neither had received his mark (yielded allegiance), upon their foreheads, or in their hands; and they lived and reigned with Christ a thousand years." -- William L. Roberts, The Reformed Presbyterian Catechism, p. 130-133
Come unto me, all [ye] that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.
For my yoke [is] easy, and my burden is light. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 11:28-30)
Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 6:38)
When people become Christians, they often begin to prosper. Why?
First, we are not concerned about anxiety. Worry, which so frustrates and limits people's ability, is taken away. The Scripture tells us: Be anxious for nothing (Philippians 4:6). Christ is going to provide for us.
Second, we have the aid and help of God who gives us additional strength to perform our tasks.
Third, we have new wisdom and ideas that come from God. If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally. (James 1:5).
Fourth, the redeemed are given the power to persevere and continue on when others may fall to the side.
Fifth, we have a purpose for what we do. Our work, whatever that may be, is done to the glory of God. . . .
It is called the Puritan Work Ethic, the Protestant Work Ethic, or simply the Christian Work Ethic.
Because the redeemed have been given these enhanced abilities, they actually produce more. They produce more than they even want of this world's goods. Therefore, they are enabled to give far more. They are enabled to save far more. They are able to invest in tools. That is why, one hundred years after the founding of our country, Americans were saving more than any people in the world. We were investing more in tools. American workers in factories and on farms had more and better tools per capita, and used these tools more effectively, than the people of any other nation. Therefore, we enjoyed the world's highest standard of living. . . .
This same trend has been repeated throughout Church history. . . .
In fact, it can even become a problem clearly stated in Deuteronomy: As people become more prosperous, they tend to forget God as their source for wealth (see Deuteronomy 6:10-12). . . . -- D. James Kennedy (1930-2007) and Jerry Newcombe, What if Jesus had Never Been Born, pp. 215-216
Work can be hazardous to your health.
Job security and job performance in healthcare
"Working oneself out of a job," would be the equivalent, in healthcare, of developing a cure for, or preventing major diseases, addictions, or abnormal behaviors -- of fostering a society of healthy individuals who do not need doctors. It would be the equivalent of educating the patient so they know how to prevent disease and stay healthy.
Notice the fact of incurable is built into the business model of most recovery programs. (i.e., "once an alcoholic, always an alcoholic"). Yet there is ample documented evidence that this fact is not true.
Not being able to trust God to provide a table before us, to provide a lifetime of employment, leads to a whole array of unethical practices in healthcare, a few of the more egregious being: flip-flopping after taking the Hippocratic Oath and receiving a Medical License from the state (which is essentially a monopoly, and fosters lack of competition and price fixing), and then pursing the personal goal of becoming a "wealthy doctor," performing unnecessary surgery to "keep the mill running," deliberate misdiagnosis in order to perform expensive procedures, "stuffing" hospital bills with costs for "standby equipment" that is not used, recommending procedures or prescribing medicines that involve serious risks without informing the patient of the risks involved, "price fixing" through corporate monopolies and professional "trusts," the $1,000 crown and build-up, the $6,000 orthodontist treatment, the $6,000 hearing aid, $600 for 100 Prozac capsules when the generic version (though not identical and not as effective), is $4, $9,500 to $18,850 (January 2007), for prenatal care and delivery (bearing a child is a normal process), depending upon the type of delivery and the geographical location, performing unnecessary C-sections (Washington, DC has one of the highest rates of C-sections in the country) -- without insurance they can run from $14,000 to $25,000, failure to diagnose hypothyroidism which can lead to physiological depression and a constellation of symptoms, resulting in multiple doctor visits and wrong diagnose over a lifetime, and seriously degrading quality of life, public advertising of healthcare organizations, public advertising of prescription drugs, "paper-thin" health insurance, recent changes in bankruptcy laws excluding medical expenses from bankruptcy (medical bills are the leading cause of bankruptcy), and so forth, and so on, and on, and on, and on -- all because leaders and professionals can not trust in God to provide them with a livelihood throughout their lives.
It is not surprising that doctors have the highest suicide rate of any professional group.
This tendency to be fearful of losing one livelihood is seen in every sphere of the economy. Prime examples are the oil industry and the automotive industry. Similarly corrupted business models are found in oil, automotive, and healthcare businesses.
In the final analysis, of course, our livelihood and our competence in life depend upon trusting in God and in his commandments, laws, statutes, principles and practices -- in his word, which is the highest ethical standard known to mankind. It has been said "the only lesson we have to learn is to trust in God." Of course, this is a general statement, but it is broadly relevant.
A blue code of silence has protected police officers from being reported for misconduct. This unwritten rule keeps fellow officers from revealing errors or criminal activity. Now a new study in the Journal of the American Medical Association suggests that a similar code of silence prevents many doctors from reporting colleagues who are impaired or incompetent.
Even though the AMA has a code of ethics that states doctors have an ethical obligation to report such behavior, a survey of nearly 3,000 physicians found that many don't comply. In this research, about one third who knew of an incompetent colleague did not report the person to the relevant authorities. Reasons for not reporting included the belief that someone else would take action, the worry that nothing would happen as a result of a report and the fear of retribution. The authors conclude that the current atmosphere results in patients being exposed to unacceptable risks. -- JAMA, July 14, 2010
The new AMA study on Doctors silence regarding incompetence of fellow physicians is a joke. This code of silence has been going on for centuries. I almost died of viral pneumonia 35 years ago because of the incompetence of a physician. A friend who was a nurse told me secretly that I needed to find another doctor because the one I was going to had a very bad reputation among the hospital personnel. When I asked her why nobody ever did anything about him she told me not to ask, and never never mention what she had told me, or she'd be fired. And blacklisted every where in the city. I seriously doubt if this new study will change a thing. -- Reader's comment
The current "lack of moral vigor" in our society has resulted in an unwritten "code red." If a colleague in an organization reports incompetency or error, regardless of how tactful and respectful they are, leadership tends to unite, and to brand the "whistle-blower" as a "troublemaker."
"Code red," as practiced in the military, was dramatized in the movie A Few Good Men (1992).
In healthcare the victim of a "code red" might be either a practitioner or a patient. If practitioner who reports medical error, malpractice, misconduct, or price gouging, then he becomes the victim and may lose his job and have difficult finding another one.
Likewise a patient who reports medical error, malpractice, misconduct, or price gouging, may find that suddenly they are dropped as a patient or "given a hard time" by their previous local healthcare support group. They may be denied medical care in the future.
"Code red" may be thought of as a corollary to the "blue code of silence" that "has protected police officers [and doctors and healthcare workers], from being reported for misconduct. This unwritten rule keeps fellow officers from revealing errors or criminal activity."
The "code red" and "blue code of silence" in government, healthcare, and business are just several reasons why things have gone so horribly wrong and at the same time leadership does not seem to care.
In the Washington metropolitan area it is said that if an individual comes to town with the goal of changing what is not right, then within six months he either "bends his knee to the powers that be," or ends up leaving town.
Reader, ask yourself, what/who is your "primary obligation?"
Chaplains often make a positive impact on a company's bottom line, employers say. They help boost employee morale, retention rates, and productivity by reducing lost time, sick time, personal days off, absenteeism, and health insurance claims.
Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful.
But his delight is in the law of the Lord; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. (Psalm 1:1,2)
Personally I find it helpful to begin each day by silently committing that day into God's hands [Matthew 6:5-13; Psalm 37:5,6; Proverbs 16:3; Romans 12:1,2; 1 Peter 2:23b; 1 Peter 4:19; ]. I thank Him that I belong to Him [Galatians 3:26; Galatians 4:4,5; Ephesians 1:5; Romans 8:14,16,17,38,39; John 1:12], and I thank Him that He knows what the day holds for me [Providence, omniscience]. I ask Him to take my life that day and use it for His glory [John 15:16,8; Philippians 2:13; Philippians 1:6; John 15:7,8; John 15:10; John 15:4]. I ask Him to cleanse me from anything which would hinder His work [sanctification] in my life. And then I step out in faith [trust, Matthew 6:25-34], knowing that His Holy Spirit is filling me continually as I trust in Him and obey [John 14:15-21; John 14:23; John 15:10; Matthew 16:24; Romans 8:37-39] His Word [Isaiah 11:2; John 15:26-27; John 14:15-17; 2 Timothy 1:7; Romans 8:11] -- Billy Graham, from The Holy Spirit: Activating God's Power in Your Life

Banks, Robert J., Faith Goes to Work: Reflections From the Marketplace, ISBN: 1566991153 9781566991155.

Bradley, John D., Christian Career Planning: Finding the Place God has for You.

Bramlett, James, How to Get a Job, ISBN: 0310390516 9780310390510. Revised edition of FINDING WORK.
"How do you find God's will? What is a calling? What are your gifts and talents and how should you use them? HOW TO GET A JOB is the Christian's guide to securing the right occupation. It covers questions from analyzing the job market to planning for an interview."

Brandt, Henry, and William Krutza, You and Your Job, 32 pages.
"Colossians 3:23 focuses primarily on attitude as the essential ingredient to a godly work life. Diligence and other character traits related to how you get along with people are the crucial factors in the ability to keep a job and progress in it. Guidelines on learning how to please your boss and to set goals." -- David Powlison (1949-2019)

*Brown, John (of Edinburgh, 1784-1858), Parting Counsels: An Exposition of the First Chapter of the Second Epistle of the Apostle Peter [2 Peter 1], With Four Additional Discourses, ISBN: 0851513018 9780851513010. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
"We always think of Brown as a Puritan born out of due time. Everything he has left us is massive gold. He is both rich and clear, profound and perspicuous." -- C.H. Spurgeon
"The title is due to the fact that these were farewell addresses from the expositor. You will quickly see why the first chapter of 2 Peter is ideal for the purpose. And since Brown expounded these glorious directions from God for 344 pages, you may be sure that he left no jewel of truth unrevealed. He shone each gem until they reflect the brightness of the Gospel of the glory of Christ. Would that he had been enabled to finish the epistle!" -- Jay P. Green, Sr. (1918-2008)

Burkett, Larry, Business by the Book: The Complete Guide of Biblical Principles for the Workplace, ISBN: 0785287973 9780785287971.
"For business owners and managers who found Burkett's original BUSINESS BY THE BOOK helpful (and especially if you missed it!), here's a new expanded edition in paperback. Burkett uses Scripture to illustrate principles for sound financial planning, compensation, employer-employee relationships, bankruptcy, and hiring, and firing. Included in this expanded edition are the how-tos of debt-free business, fair pricing of products and services, and planning for retirement. Business people -- let's do it by the Book! . . ." -- CBD

Buzzard, Lynn R., and Christian Legal Society, Vocation, Work and Calling.

*Callahan, David, The Cheating Culture: Why More Americans are Doing Wrong to get Ahead, ISBN: 0156030055 9780156030052.
"While there have always been those who cut corners, the author shows that cheating on every level -- from the highly publicized corporate scandals to Little League fraud -- has risen dramatically in the last two decades. Why all the cheating? Why now? Callahan pins the blame on the dog-eat-dog economic climate of the past two decades. An unfettered market and unprecedented economic inequality have corroded our values, he argues -- and ultimately threaten the level playing field so central to American democracy itself. Through revealing interviews and extensive data, he takes us on a gripping tour of cheating in America and offers a powerful argument for why it matters.
"David Callahan is cofounder and director of research at the public policy center Demos. The author of five books, he has published articles in the New York Times, the Washington Post, and USA Today, and has been a frequent commentator on CNN, MSNBC, and NPR. He received a Ph.D. in politics from Princeton University and lives in New York City." -- Publisher
"I recommend that this book be read together with John Perkins, CONFESSIONS OF AN ECONOMIC HIT MAN and William Greider's, THE SOUL OF CAPITALISM: OPENING PATHS TO A MORAL ECONOMY. As a pre-amble, I would note that a Nobel Prize was given in the late 1990's to a man that demonstrates that trust lowers the cost of doing business. Morality matters -- immorality imposes a pervasive sustained, insidious, long-term, and ultimately fatal cost on any community, any Republic, and that is the core message of this book that most reviewers seem to be missing.
"Any student of national security can tell you that one of the most important sources of national power is the population, followed by the economy, natural resources, and then the more traditional sources of national power: diplomacy, military, law enforcement, and government policies generally.
"What this author makes clear is that our population has become a cheating population, one that cheats in school, cheats their employer, and cheats their clients (lawyers, accountants, doctors, all cheating). Such a population is literally undermining national security by creating false values, and undermining true values. Some simple examples: an estimated $250 Billion a year in individual tax avoidance; an estimated $600 Billion a year in theft from employers; an estimated $250 Billion a year in legalized corporate tax avoidance and investor fraud; and an additional $250 Billion a year in legalized theft form the individual taxpayers through Congressional support for unnecessary and ill-advised 'subsidies' for agriculture, fishing, and forestry, as well as waivers of environmental standards that ultimately result in long-term external diseconomies . . .
"At root, the author observes that pervasive cheating ensues from the perception by the majority that 'everyone does it' and that the rules are not being enforced -- that 'the system' lacks legitimacy. In other countries, illegitimacy might lead to revolution, a revolt of the masses. In the USA, still a very rich country, the poor are cheating on the margins while the rich are looting the country, and we are not yet at a 'tipping point' such as a new Great Depression might inspire. [This book was written before the Meltdown of 2008. -- compiler].
"Cheating diminishes trust and reduces value. America has become corrupt across all the professions, within Congress, within the media, within the political level of government (the civil service remains a bastion of propriety).
"What price freedom? What price the Republic? You may or may not choose to agree with this author's diagnosis and prescription, but in my view, he gets to the heart of the matter. It's about integrity. We've lost it. [Callahan's solutions come from a liberal, humanistic position, nevertheless the bulk of the book is an extensive analysis of cheating in society that is well documented -- 32 pages of endnotes -- and should be enlightening to most readers. -- compiler]
"See also, with reviews: THE BATTLE FOR THE SOUL OF CAPITALISM: HOW THE FINANCIAL SYSTEM UNDERMINED SOCIAL IDEALS, DAMAGED TRUST IN THE MARKETS, ROBBED INVESTORS OF TRILLIONS -- AND WHAT TO DO ABOUT IT; THE FIFTY-YEAR WOUND: HOW AMERICA'S COLD WAR VICTORY HAS SHAPED OUR WORLD; THE GLOBAL CLASS WAR: HOW AMERICA'S BIPARTISAN ELITE LOST OUR FUTURE -- AND WHAT IT WILL TAKE TO WIN IT BACK; WAR ON THE MIDDLE CLASS: HOW THE GOVERNMENT, BIG BUSINESS, AND SPECIAL INTEREST GROUPS ARE WAGING WAR ON THE AMERICAN DREAM AND HOW TO FIGHT BACK; THE WORKING POOR: INVISIBLE IN AMERICA; and OFF THE BOOKS: THE UNDERGROUND ECONOMY OF THE URBAN POOR." -- Reader's Comment

*Caryl, Joseph (1602-1673), An Exposition of Job, 367 pages.
"An abridgment of the author's famous 8-volume work. Retains sufficient seed thoughts to prod the thinking of any preacher." -- Cyril J. Barber
Joseph Caryl preached on Job for 20 years. Some have said his work is the only satisfactory commentary on the book of Job.

*Caryl, Joseph (1602-1673), Joel R. Beeke, and Randall J. Pederson, An Exposition With Practical Observations Upon the Book of Job, 12 volumes, ISBN: 1892777509 9781892777508 1892777541 9781892777546. A Christian classic. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
Caryl preached on Job for 20 years. Some have said his work is the only satisfactory commentary on the book of Job.
"The pinnacle of Puritan preaching and devotion, Joseph Caryl's 12 volume, 8600 plus page exposition of Job is now heading for a limited edition printing. . . . These are the full 12 volumes totally unabridged. . . .
"C.H. Spurgeon said, 'Caryl will not exhaust the patience of a student who is a lover of every letter of the Word . . . it would be a mistake to suppose that he is at all prolix or redundant; he is only full. In the course of expounding he has illustrated a very large portion of Bible with great clearness and power. He is deeply devotional and spiritual. His work can scarcely be superseded or surpassed'." -- Publisher
"Cotton Mather's assessment, that these sermons [Caryl on Job] belong alongside Greenhill on Ezekiel, Burroughs on Hosea, Owen on Hebrews, and Manton on James, can still be made." -- Dr. Derek W.H. Thomas, professor of Systematic and Practical Theology at Reformed Theological Seminary

Chalmers, Thomas (1780-1847), Application of Christianity to the Commercial and Ordinary Affairs of Life (1853). Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #21.

Chewning, Richard (editor), Biblical Principles and Business: The Foundation, ISBN: 089109556X 9780891095569.

Chewning, Richard C., Bibliography to aid in the Construction of a Christian World and Life View.

Chewning, Richard C., Business Ethics in a Changing Culture, ISBN: 0835905667 9780835905664.

Chewning, Richard C., Can we Maintain a Solid Christian Testimony and Succeed in the Marketplace? an audio file.

Chewning, Richard C., Discerning Biblical Principles That Affect Business: A Personal Reflection, an audio file.

Chewning, Richard C., John W. Eby, and Shirley J. Roels, Business Through the Eyes of Faith, ISBN: 0060613505 9780060613501.
An INSTRUCTOR'S GUIDE is available. See elsewhere in this listing.

Chewning, Richard C., John W. Eby, and Shirley J. Roels, Instructor's Guide Business Through the Eyes of Faith.

Chewning, Richard (editor), Carl F.H. Henry, et al., Biblical Principles and Business: The Practice, ISBN: 0891092994 9780891092995.

Chewning, Richard (editor), Carl F.H. Henry (contributor), Biblical Principles and Public Policy: The Practice, ISBN: 0891092994 9780891092995.

Defoe, Daniel, The Family-instructor. In Three Parts; I. Relating to Fathers and Children. II. To Masters and Servants. III. To Husbands and Wives. 4th edition, 1717, 2 volumes.

Dittes, James E., When Work Goes Sour, ISBN: 0664240453 9780664240455.
"This is an excellent treatise. Dittes take a long, hard look at the ways in which work permeates the lives of men and explores the myths that often rule a man's relationship with his career. . . . Then, using Biblical data as well as contemporary case studies, he discusses the pain of work, the problems that arise, and how to deal with the disappointment that inevitably occurs when work fails to bring the expected rewards. . . ." -- Cyril J. Barber

Eckerd, Jack, and Paul Con, Eckerd: Finding the Right Prescription, ISBN: 0800715322 9780800715328.
Jack Eckerd is "a living demonstration of the life-changing power of Christ. His inspiring testimony deserves the widest possible audience." -- Billy Graham
"This is the amazing, exciting story of one of the most remarkable men I've ever known. It is a gripping account; when you're finished, you will want to sing the doxology." -- Chuck Colson

Ellul, Jacques (1912-1994), Money and Power, ISBN: 0551013923 9780551013926.
"Discusses the ethics of wealth and incidentally elucidates the Biblical teaching on money and its use. . . ." -- Cyril J. Barber
"In this one of many brilliant books by Ellul, he exposes the folly of a purely collective, societal approach, such as that offered by communism, or capitalism. Instead, through a study of various Biblical references in the Old and New Testament, puts the responsibility on the individual. The new covenant of Jesus is compared to the Old Testament pattern of wealth as a sign of blessing. He examines the teaching of Jesus on God and Mammon. Contemporary models of stewardship are exposed as inadequate. Further, he clearly shows the underlying power money has over a person, despite any feelings of control we may think we have. The teachings of Jesus about giving and trusting provide the path to freedom -- every hair is numbered. Only by God's grace and transforming love are we able to overcome this subtle and insidious power. Highly recommended, especially at a time in our history when many have lost faith in the market." -- Reader's Comment

Hall, David W., and Marvin Padgett, Calvin and Culture: Exploring a Worldview, ISBN: 9781596380981 1596380985.
"John Calvin's worldview extends far beyond the scope of theology, inspiring a multitude of followers to apply his thought to every form of human endeavor. The fourteen authors explore the worldview of Calvin and his disciples. They demonstrate how Calvin has transformed many fields of human study and activity and how the power of his worldview continues to this day." -- Publisher

Harris, Gregg, The Home and Family Business Workshop: A Complete Workshop for Parents and Teens on how to Start a Successful Business for Your Family.
This series of seven audio cassette [audio file], tapes includes: The Biblical Basis for Your Family Business, How to Start Your Family Business, The Marks of Truly Christian Business People, Home Banking and Other Strategies to Avoid Debt, Proven Business Ideas You Can Start Immediately, How to Find and Keep Your Customers, and How to Manage Yourself and Your Time.

Heidebrecht, Paul H., God's Man in the Marketplace: The Story of Herbert J. Taylor, ISBN: 0830817336 9780830817337.
"Telling the story of Herbert J. Taylor, Paul H. Heidebrecht offers an inspiring practical model of how God can use people in the marketplace as well as on the mission field." -- Publisher

Ford, Roger Hayes Boardroom Basics: A Pocket Guide for Directors, ISBN: 0966037200 9780966037203.
"Answers the prayers of every director who has rifled through back issues of Director's Monthly in search of a past "Private Company Boards" column by this prominent consultant to family businesses. It can also benefit directors not yet acquainted with Ford, Showker Professor of Entrepreneurship and Professor of Management at James Madison University in Harrisonburg, Virginia." -- Reader's Comment

Ford, Roger H., Boards of Directors and the Privately Owned Firm: A Guide for Owners, Officers, and Directors, ISBN: 0899305679 9780899305677.

*Grant, George, Bringing in the Sheaves: Transforming Poverty Into Productivity, ISBN: 0915815036 9780915815036 0915815044 9780915815043. Alternate title: PRAYING IN THE SHEAVES: TRANSFORMING POVERTY INTO PRODUCTIVITY.
"The Biblical mandate is to care for the poor, the oppressed, and the disenfranchised -- to take the salve of Gospel love to the stranger, the hungry, and the misbegotten. Rev. Grant knows the dismal failures and the Biblical solutions. He believes the Bible and the blueprint it offers can transform poverty into productivity. Unlike most other books on poverty, it is not primarily theory; it is primarily practice, Biblical practice. This is the single most helpful book on the subject." -- Publisher

Hanks, Joyce Main, Jacques Ellul: An Annotated Bibliography, ISBN: 076230619X 9780762306190.
"Since his death in 1994, the understanding of Jacques Ellul's significance appears to have deepened considerably. A colloquium devoted to his work in Technique, held six months before his death, drew scholars from all over the world to Bordeaux, France. Four years later, in September 1997, the Penn State University conference on Education and Technology attracted over two hundred participants, most of whom gave evidence of interaction with Ellul's thought. His contribution to the study of the sociology and theology of technology has now been universally acknowledged and built upon. Few scholars seem to appreciate, however, the full scope of his work, especially in areas outside their expertise. One of the goals of this volume is to present the totality of his work, as thoroughly as it can now be established, so that interested persons can explore what he wrote in detail." -- Publisher

Hooker, Thomas (1586-1647), The Soules Vocation or Effectual Calling to Christ, 1638

Jones, Cliff C., Winning Through Integrity, ISBN: 0687456045 9780687456048.

Lange, Gerry, Cain and Abel at Work: How to Overcome Office Politics and the People who Stand Between you and Success, ISBN: 0767905237 9780767905237.
"Do you know a Cain at work?
"The back-stabbing liar who steals credit for your ideas . . .
"The a**-kissing co-worker who worries about 'face time' while you stay late working hard . . .
"The gossipy colleague who spreads rumors just to create drama in the office.
"If any of these people sound familiar, watch out: a Cain is lurking, ready to sabotage your job, your promotion, and even your reputation at work.
"Written by two veteran media and political strategists, CAIN AND ABEL AT WORK will help you survive the ultimate political arena the office and prepare you for the real-world interpersonal dynamics they don't teach you in business school.
"In the Old Testament story that serves as the beginning metaphor for this book, back stabbing Cain kills the honorable Abel out of jealousy, and despite being punished with banishment, he goes on to marry, have a son, and build a city around him. All of a sudden, Cain gets to be a father, real estate developer, and probably the first politician of his day, while Abel's life is over in a flash. Authors Gerry Lange and Todd Domke have discovered that this type of injustice is still alive and well in the modern competitive workplace. Together, they have decades of personal experience and first-hand encounters with scheming, calculating Cains, and now they're giving readers an invaluable guide for coping with and combating Cain at work.
"Using real-life case studies to illustrate how Cains operate, CAIN AND ABEL AT WORK will teach you how to:

Identify the Cains before they make you their victim
Recognize the tactics Cains use to gain status and power
Win out over Cains without stooping to their level

"With compelling new insight into human behavior and competition developed from the authors' experience in the political, media, and business arenas, CAIN AND ABEL AT WORK explains what motivates both Cains and Abels at work. Not only does this book explore and deplore the behavior of Cains, it also explains how the simple na�vet� of Abels allows Cains to get away with their shenanigans.
"If anyone has ever stolen an idea from you or grabbed credit for your work, if they've taken advantage of or walked all over you, you need this book. CAIN AND ABEL AT WORK is an office survival guide no well-intentioned Abel should be without." -- Publisher
"CAIN AND ABEL AT WORK is The Peter Principle of our time! It's both entertaining and informative. Every manager, aspiring manager, and anyone who works for a manager can profit from reading it." -- Stuart Varney, anchor, CNN
"A writer, producer, and director in all media for more than twenty years and an experienced business and political consultant, Gerry Lange has prepared many well-known public figures, including Ronald Reagan, Alan Greenspan, and William F. Buckley, Jr., for televised debates. Lange wrote and produced several PBS specials, and he has been a political adviser for such figures as Governor William Weld and Secretary of Health and Human Services Margaret Heckler. He and his wife, Caroline, live in Wellesley, Massachusetts, and have a son, Christopher.
"Todd Domke is president of a media consulting firm specializing in strategy, public relations, and advertising. As a strategist, he's been a consultant to the National Republican Senatorial and Congressional Committees, GOPAC, and numerous campaigns. He is also the co-author of THE CONSERVATIVE'S DICTIONARY, and the author of GROUNDED, a humorous novel for juveniles. He lives with his wife, Susan, and their daughter, Caitlin in Canton, Massachusetts; his son, Judah, is a writer and actor in New York City." -- Publisher

*Lloyd-Jones, David Martyn (1899-1981), Life in the Spirit in Marriage, Home and Work: An Exposition of Ephesians 5:18 -- 6:9 [Ephesians 5:18 -- Ephesians 6:9], ISBN: 080105799X 9780801057991.

Love, Christopher (1618-1651), Scripture Rules to be Observed in Buying and Selling. By Mr. Christopher Love, Late Minister at Laurence Jury, London. Rules Concerning Buying Commodities. Rules Concerning Selling Commodities, 1653.

McNair, Nimrod, MegaValues: 10 Global Principles for Business and Professional Success -- Written in Stone.
"This booklet is designed to help the conscientious person make wise decisions based on standards which are absolute. These principles are ancient and are the only known words written directly by god and recorded in Scripture. These are commonly known as the Ten Commandments and each of the ten applications is synopsized for your personal use in making ethical decisions in your personal and business life." -- Publisher
Ten Commandments Defense Fund
http://www.tencommandmentsdefense.org/
(Modeled after the Ten Commandments.)

The first principle is, "Show proper respect for authority." This is the invisible superstructure of productive enterprise. God clearly commands us to respect those in authority over us. God uses this command to bring order out of chaos. Authority is a necessary prerequisite to order.

The second rule is, "Have a singleness of purpose." Divided purposes dilute effectiveness when interests conflict. We cannot serve two masters effectively. We must evaluate our time, talent, and resources and make sure we are using these God-given elements in a way that ultimately brings Him the glory.

Precept number three is, "Use effective communication in word and deed." Complete communications and predictable follow-through are the basic expressions of personal integrity. It means doing what you say you'll do, even if it is uncomfortable or inconvenient. This commandment is honored when promises are kept and accurate recounting of transactions is given.

A fourth truth is, "Provide proper rest, recreation, and reflection." This ensures a quality of life that will be reflected in creativity, productivity, and motivation. Rest is a necessity for effectiveness. Recreation guards the mind against mental and emotional fatigue. Reflection promotes self-monitoring, allows for mid-course corrections, and ensures single-mindedness.

The fifth tenet is, "Show respect for the older and more experienced." Our parents, teachers, coaches, employers, pastors, and other elders in our lives have an investment in us. It is to our benefit to honor that investment and to draw fully from the wisdom and expertise of those more experienced than ourselves.

The sixth axiom is, "Show respect for human life, dignity, and rights." This encompasses product quality and service, the work environment, health and safety, personnel policies and responsibilities, and competitive practices. It is simply the Golden Rule -- treating others as you would want to be treated.

The seventh principle is, "Maintain a stability of sexes and the family." Wisdom and good business practice dictate equal regard for men and women as persons irrespective of gender or marital status. Respect for the family structure as the crucial foundation of our cultural system must be reflected in our decisions regarding the conflicts between business demands and the value of the family and personal life.

Precept number eight is, "Demonstrate the proper allocation of resources." Two fundamental responsibilities and privileges of business are optimal use of material resources and wise leadership of people. We must treat all our business assets, whether they be people, funds, or materials, as a gift from the Lord.

The ninth truth is, "Demonstrate honesty and integrity." Integrity is the cornerstone of any good relationship. Without demonstrating the willingness to give and the worthiness to receive trust, no business can survive or prosper. A reputation for honesty is a comprehensive statement of both a person's character and how he or she treats others. It is a fundamental mindset against stealing, lying, or deceiving.

The tenth and final business commandment is, "Maintain the right of ownership of property." Those who are disciplined, creative, prudent, and industrious are entitled to the fruits of their labor. We must not covet that which belongs to another. -- Colonel Nimrod McNair, Executive Leadership Foundation

Minirth, Frank B., The Workaholic and his Family, ISBN: 0801061113 9780801061110.

*Murray, John, Principles of Conduct, ISBN: 0802811442 9780802811448.
"This is a far-ranging book with a recurring emphasis on the majestic moral demands of Scripture and the relation of the Gospel to those demands. Scripture teaching is lucidly brought to bear on vital ethical issues such as marriage, work as a calling, capital punishment, the sanctity of truth, and the fear of God. Undoubtedly this is the foremost contemporary book in the field." -- William J. Grier

Neal, Connie W., Holding on to Heaven: While Your Husband Goes Through Hell, ISBN: 0849940656 9780849940651.
"This book made God's plan for marriage so clear. It provided a much needed contrast to what the world says marriage is." -- Reader's Comment

*Noe, John R., People Power, ISBN: 0425107558 9780425107553.
"It reinforces in the minds of managers the value of those who serve under them, and exposes the fallacies inherent in the lip-service management often pays to the importance of those who actually get the work done. In stressing the human factor, Noe asserts that 'all the psychological studies, sociological findings, and business administrative jargon may look good on paper, but they have little to do with the pragmatics of relating positively to people.' He then explains how those in positions of authority may develop the skills that help them develop healthy esprit de corps. . . . His illustrations readily reveal the amazing results that can occur when individuals learn to relate to others as people of worth rather than as objects (or things), to be used. Recommended." -- Cyril J. Barber

Patterson, Ben, Work, ISBN: 0877840873 9780877840879.
The author "provides a sound Biblical perspective on work and offers what may be a brand-new outlook for many Christians. For anyone who wants to make their work more satisfying and productive, this booklet offers help for getting started." -- Publisher

Penney, J.C., Christian Principles in Business,
"Wise men do not light a candle and place it under a bushel. Life's greatest benefactions -- intelligence, liberty, religion -- are for dissemination. There can be no moral justification for withholding the benefits that result from a wise distribution of knowledge.
"Liberty, that one priceless boon for which all men yearn, thrives only in the light. It must be proclaimed and practiced to be enjoyed and appreciated by all.
"Religion was never intended for self-gratification. It must be turned loose upon the world, and the more unconsciously that loosening process takes place, the more beneficial its results.
"Christ declared that He was the Light of the world. Religion must scatter that Light or fail in the accomplishment of its supreme mission." -- J.C. Penney

Petty, Jim, Christian Goals on the Job (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Audio cassette HFTF03 [audio file].

Petty, Jim, Five Reasons not to Take a Job (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Audio cassette HFTF32 [audio file].

Petty, Jim, How God Measures Vocational Success (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Audio cassette WW202 [audio file].

*Powlison, David (1949-2019, compiler and annotator), Contemporary Biblical Counseling: With 1995 Additions, an annotated bibliography.
David Powlison is editor of the Journal of Biblical Counseling, current director of the Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation, Glenside, Pennsylvania, and a graduate of Harvard University in 1972.
http://www.lettermen2.com/powlison.html

Rightor, Henry Haskell, Pastoral Counseling in Work Crises: An Introduction for Both Lay and Ordained Ministers, ISBN: 0817008144 9780817008147.
Includes bibliography and index.

Rose, Ben Lacy, Confirming Your Call in Church, Home and Vocation.

Rose, Tom, Economics: Principles and Policy From a Christian Perspective, ISBN: 0915134225 9780915134229.
"This book covers the nature of economics and the nature of man, the Bible and economics, basic economics, the distribution and market system, and more. Here is a good place to start for a proper understanding of money. Could easily be used as a textbook." -- GCB

Rush, Myron, Lord of the Marketplace, ISBN: 0896932788 9780896932784.
"Drawing on his years of experience as a corporate leader, Rush presents a practical and scriptural analysis of crucial subjects Christians face in the business world." -- Publisher

Shelly, Judith Allen, Not Just a Job: Serving Christ in Your Work, ISBN: 0877843325 9780877843320.

Sherman, Doug, Toward a Christian Theology of Work.
"Doug Sherman's master's thesis . . . the Bible's teaching on work; and the implications of this truth for the Christian's work ethic . . . Especially useful is the extensive bibliography." -- Publisher

*Spurgeon, C.H. (1834-1892), The Blood of the Lamb, the Conquering Weapon.
A sermon by C.H. Spurgeon delivered on Lord's-day morning, September 9, 1888, at the Metropolitan Tabernacle, Newington, Sermon no. 2043.
"This is the way in which you should use this plea. Say, 'My God, I am utterly unworthy, and I own it; but, I beseech thee, hear me for the honour of thy dear Son. By his agony and bloody sweat, by his cross and passion, by his precious death and burial, I beseech thee hear me! O Lord, let the blood of thine Only-begotten prevail with thee! Canst thou put aside his groans, his tears, his death, when they speak on my behalf?' If you can thus come to pleading terms with God upon this ground, you must and will prevail. Jesus must be heard in heaven. The voice of his blood is eloquent with God. If you plead the atoning sacrifice, you must overcome through the blood of the Lamb." -- C.H. Spurgeon in a sermon, The Blood of the Lamb, the Conquering Weapon

Steele, Richard (1629-1692), The Religious Tradesman: Plain and Serious Hints of Advice for the Tradesman's Prudent and Pious Conduct From his Entrance Into Business to his Leaving it Off.
"Work is considered as a calling of God." -- Publisher
"For the modern-day businessman this is not an easy read. First the style is that of the late 1600's. Second he is deeper and more spiritually focused than writers of today on the same subject. However, the benefits are greater here. Following the principles and ideas he discusses would revolutionize most business practice in America." -- GCB

*Stockwell, Clinton, E. (compiler), The Christian and the Workplace: A Select Bibliography (Chicago, IL: Urban Church Research Center and the Seminary Consortium for Urban Pastoral Education, 1980).

*United States Employment Service, Dictionary of Occupational Titles. Alternate title: DEPARTMENT OF LABOR BOOK ON OCCUPATION DESCRIPTIONS. ISBN: 0844241431 9780844241432 0844241458 9780844241456.
Career choices are often dictated by what job is available at the time we are searching for work. However, the BOOK ON OCCUPATION DESCRIPTIONS can sometimes warn the job seeker of unknown disadvantages or bad aspects of an occupation.

Various, Journal of Biblical Conflict Resolution (Billings, MT [Institute for Christian Conciliation (ICC), 1537 Avenue D, Suite 352, Billings, 59102]).
A serial published twice per year, commencing Summer, 1994. Editor, Ken Sande.
"Articles will address biblical negotiation, conflict counseling, mediation, arbitration and church discipline. Also will cover ethical, legal, and conciliator liability issues. Reviews will assess developments and books in the field of alternative dispute resolution." -- David Powlison (1949-2019)

Various, Work and Rest in Review (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
A 4-tape audio cassette [audio file], series including the following:

Historical/Biblical Perspective on Rest by Mike Bell, audio cassette WW201 [audio file],
How God Measures Vocational Success by James Petty, audio cassette WW202 [audio file], and
Biblical Principles of Rest by David Clowney, audio cassette WW203 [audio file].

Veith, Jr., Gene Edward, God at Work: Your Christian Vocation in all of Life, ISBN: 1433524473 9781433524479 9781581344035 1581344031.
"We Lutherans, I think we are often a bit ignorant of Luther's work on the Doctrine of Vocation. I know I was! In this book, Veith presents an engaging overview for 21st Century audiences (though he bases his book on the older work by Gustaf Wingren, LUTHER ON VOCATION). I think this is an excellent read for all Christians." -- Reader's Comment

Wakefield, Norman, Solving Problems Before They Become Conflicts, ISBN: 0310390915 9780310390916.
"This is a self-help book on problem solving. The author takes us from conflict, a destructive process, to problem solving, a constructive process, and he seeks to do so in a Biblical way." -- GCB

Watson, Robert A., The Most Effective Organization in the U.S.: Leadership Secrets of the Salvation Army, ISBN: 060960869X 9780609608692.
"Most of us know the Salvation Army from its fund raising efforts and philanthropic programs, but the $2 billion-a-year transcontinental institution, now serving more than 30 million people with a vastly underpaid and overworked staff, is also a model business structure. Under a title taken from the description applied to it by management guru Peter Drucker, THE MOST EFFECTIVE ORGANIZATION in the U.S. outlines the fundamental tenets that the group has prospered under since its founding in the mid- to late 1800s. Written by former National Commander Robert A. Watson and freelancer Ben Brown, the book details eight principles that allow the Army to do so much with so little: focus on 'a purpose that transcends quarterly earnings;' make 'what you do serve human needs;' stay publicly accountable to visible standards; encourage feedback and act upon it; 'invest real power and real responsibility' in top personnel; 'accept the inevitability of change;' take calculated risks; and motivate employees by ensuring their jobs are both valuable and enjoyable. Some readers may not be comfortable with the organization's overt ties to Christian teachings, but few can argue with the success it consistently enjoys." -- Howard Rothman
"According to Watson, the central tenet of The Salvation Army's leadership effectiveness is to, 'engage the spirit'." -- Reader's Comment

Wilde, Gary (editor), Bible Promises to Treasure for Business Professionals: Inspiring Words for Every Occasion, ISBN: 0805493336 9780805493337.

See also: The sovereignty of god, The doctrine of man (human nature, total depravity), The sovereign grace of god: his everlasting mercy and lovingkindness, Repentance the key to salvation and change, Justification, Justifying faith, Prayer, Intercessory prayer, The ten commandments: the moral law, Church and state, Personal and family finances, family business, Biblical economics, Political and economic freedom, Ethics, computer ethics, cyberethics, Sex ethics, sex education, Conscience, casuistry, cases of conscience, Medical ethics, The sermon on the mount, The commandments of christ, Trusting god, The promises of christ, Bible promises, Freedom with responsibility to god, Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, Sexual relationship, Spiritual adultery (spiritual whoredom/harlotry), Stress, Job (the book of), Sleep, Rest, Physical health, Summary and research index of key information in chapter 8: physical health and healthcare, Communication, Covetousness, greed, and selfishness, Theft, fraud, stealing: property rights and freedom, Cowardice, Justifying faith, Oaths, ensnaring vows, promises, and covenants, bonds with the ungodly, Secret societies, ungodly alliances, voluntary associations, Conspiracy, corruption, organized crime, Pseudo-christian movements: a selection of works, Individual responsibility for corporate faithfulness and sanctification, Corporate faithfulness and sanctification, Biblical counsel by subject, Secret societies and ungodly alliance, Sorcery, Adultery, Carnality and flesh pleasing: lust, desires, ambition, Menpleasing, Workaholics, Covenanted reformation, The application of scripture to the corporate bodies of church and state, and so forth, and so on.
TCRB5: 557-608, 598-608, 603, 1169, 2097, 2806, 2897, 2898, 2900, 3240, 3879, 3888-3908, 3914-3918

Related Weblinks

Business Reform Magazine
http://www.business-reform.com/

The Commandments of Jesus, J.S. McConnell (1925)
http://www.wowzone.com/commandm.htm

Fellowship of Companies for Christ International
http://www.fcci.org/

The Freeman Institute (Employee Code of Conduct)
http://www.freemaninstitute.com/indexA.htm

Intercristo Homepage
http://www.halcyon.com/ico/

Privatizing Social Security Could Give you Five Times as Much, by Tom Barrett, Editor@ConservativeTruth.org
http://conservativetruth.org/archives/08-04-01.html

Theft: Commentary and Cases of Conscience. A Listing Excerpted From The Institutes of Biblical Law by Rousas John Rushdoony, 1973 edition
http://www.lettermen2.com/theft.html

Words of Christ Appearing in The Web Edition of Biblical Counsel: Resources for Renewal
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrrappa.html

The Worker Rights Consortium
Supports and verifies licensee compliance with production codes of conduct.
http://www.workersrights.org/

Leadership

For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.
Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this. (Isaiah 9:6,7)
But Jesus called them unto him, and said, Ye know that the princes of the Gentiles exercise dominion over them, and they that are great exercise authority upon them.
But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister;
And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant:
Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 20:25-28)
For who maketh thee to differ from another? and what hast thou that thou didst not receive? now if thou didst receive it, why dost thou glory, as if thou hadst not received it? (1 Corinthians 4:7)
Power tends to corrupt and absolute power corrupts absolutely. Great men are almost always bad men, even when they exercise influence and not authority: still more when you superadd the tendency or the certainty of corruption by authority. -- John Emerich Edward Dalberg, Lord Acton (1834-1902), in a letter to Mandell Creighton, April 5, 1887, quoted by Gertrude Himmelfarb in Acton, Essays on Freedom and Power, pp. 335-36 (1972)
Not a novice, lest being lifted up with pride he fall into the condemnation of the devil. (1 Timothy 3:6)
For the leaders of this people cause them to err; and they that are led of them are destroyed.
Therefore the Lord shall have no joy in their young men, neither shall have mercy on their fatherless and widows: for every one is an hypocrite and an evildoer, and every mouth speaketh folly. For all this his anger is not turned away, but his hand is stretched out still. (Isaiah 9:16)
If you would have good servants, see that you be good masters, and do your own duty, and then either your servants will do theirs, or else all their failings shall turn to your greater good.
Remember that in Christ they are your brethren and fellow-servants; and therefore rule them not tyrannically, but in tenderness and love; and command them nothing that is against the laws of God, or the good of their souls. Use not wrath or unmanlike fury with them; nor any over-severe or unnecessary rebukes or chastisements. Find fault in season, with prudence and sobriety, when your passions are down, and when it is most likely to do good. -- Richard Baxter (1615-1691)
The skilful, holy, humble, faithful, laborious, patient ministers of Christ, have been and still are, the great blessings of the world; for saving souls, promoting knowledge, faith, holiness, love, and peace; opposing error, pride, oppression, wordliness, sensuality, and contention; diverting God's judgments by faith and prayer; forsaking all for Christ, and patiently suffering for well-doing; and by doctrine and example teaching men to difference the Creator from the creature, holiness from sin, heaven from earth, the soul from the body, the spirit from the flesh, and helping men to prepare, by a mortified, heavenly heart and life, for a comfortable death and endless happiness. Of such vast importance is it to the world whether the clergy be good or bad, skilful or unskilful, holy or worldly; and he is not a true Christian that is insensible of the difference, or thinks it small. -- Richard Baxter (1615-1691)
See the Theological Notes: "The Law of God," at Exodus 20:1 in The Reformation Study Bible.
In Deuteronomy 17 the king is charged to Read therein all the days of his life: that he may learn to fear the Lord his God, to keep all the words of this law. (Deuteronomy 17:19).
The Treasury of David, Psalm 72, C.H. Spurgeon
Give the king thy judgments, O God, and thy righteousness unto the king's son.
He shall judge thy people with righteousness, and thy poor with judgment.
Yea, all kings shall fall down before him: all nations shall serve him. (Psalm 72:1,2,11)
http://archive.spurgeon.org/treasury/ps072.php
The people that walked in darkness have seen a great light, and they that dwell in the land of the shadow of death, upon them hath the light shined. (Isaiah 9:2)
For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus' sake. For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. (2 Corinthians 4:5,6)
In that day the LORD with his sore and great and strong sword shall punish leviathan the piercing serpent, even leviathan that crooked serpent; and he shall slay the dragon that is in the sea. (Isaiah 27:1). See annotation in The Reformation Study Bible.
See Isaiah 41:21-24 and annotation in The Reformation Study Bible.
His watchmen are blind: they are all ignorant, they are all dumb dogs, they cannot bark; sleeping, lying down, loving to slumber.
Yea, they are greedy dogs which can never have enough, and they are shepherds that cannot understand: they all look to their own way, every one for his gain, from his quarter.
Come ye, say they, I will fetch wine, and we will fill ourselves with strong drink; and to morrow shall be as this day, and much more abundant. (Isaiah 56:10-12). See the annotation in The Reformation Study Bible.
But many that are first shall be last; and the last shall be first. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 19:30)
John Calvin commenting on Matthew 19:30
http://www.biblestudyguide.org/comment/calvin/comm_vol32/htm/lxxiii.htm
For I have not spoken of myself; but the Father which sent me, he gave me a commandment, what I should say, and what I should speak.
And I know that his commandment is life everlasting: whatsoever I speak therefore, even as the Father said unto me, so I speak. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (John 12:49,50)
The Christ is the only One truly called. . . . The flesh has always struggled against Him, as we see when we survey the history of God's people. The struggle was especially acute at Golgotha. -- S.G. De Graaf in Promise and Deliverance
Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and [that] your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you.
These things I command you, that ye love one another. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (John 15:16,17)
Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (John 15:13)
And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment:
Of sin, because they believe not on me;
Of righteousness, because I go to my Father, and ye see me no more;
Of judgment, because the prince of this world is judged.
I have yet many things to say unto you, but ye cannot bear them now.
Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, [that] shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come.
He shall glorify me: for he shall receive of mine, and shall shew [it] unto you.
All things that the Father hath are mine: therefore said I, that he shall take of mine, and shall shew [it] unto you. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (John 16:8-15)
So when they had dined, Jesus saith to Simon Peter, Simon, [son] of Jonas, lovest thou me more than these? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my lambs.
He saith to him again the second time, Simon, [son] of Jonas, lovest thou me? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my sheep.
He saith unto him the third time, Simon, [son] of Jonas, lovest thou me? Peter was grieved because he said unto him the third time, Lovest thou me? And he said unto him, Lord, thou knowest all things; thou knowest that I love thee. Jesus saith unto him, Feed my sheep. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (John 21:15-17)
With regard to the Christian Ministry as an order in Christ's church, they are represented under the figure of a set of servants, constituted by the master, stewards, and rulers over his household, during his absence.
They are servants, not lords. We preach, says the apostle, not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord, and ourselves your servants for Jesus's sake. (2 Corinthians 4:5). "We do not announce ourselves to you as your masters. We proclaim Christ Jesus to be the Master, and mindful of his words, One is your Master, even Christ, (Matthew 23:8), we announce ourselves to you not your masters, but your servants for his sake. We seek not to make you our property that we may rule over you, but dictating to your faith, and controlling your conduct; but considering you as his unalienable property, which he purchased with his won blood, (Acts 20:28), and which having so dearly bought he highly values, we wish to serve Him by ministering to your improvements." This is a view of the sacred office with which they who fill it cannot be too deeply impressed. They are Christ's servants. They have no authority, separate from his authority. To promulgate and administer his laws, not to make and execute laws of their own, is their legitimate province. . . .
It is of importance, however, to remark, that though called to office by the instrumentality of their brethren, their authority is derived, not from them, but from their Master: by him, not by them, are they to be directed in the performance of their duties, and to him, not to them, are they accountable for the manner in which they discharge them. It is his doctrine they are to teach -- his laws they are to administer. The steward or overseer, though chosen, if such be the appointment of the Master, by his fellow-servants, is to be guided in managing the household, not by their will, but by the will of their common Lord. The minister of Christ who forgets this, and seeks in his official proceedings primarily to please those who have been committed to his charge, has lost sight of his high character as a servant of Christ. A fitter object of mingled blame, contempt, and pity, does not exist, than a man, bearing the name of a Christian minister, who, instead of fearlessly proclaiming and impartially administering the laws of Christ, is the slave and the executioner of the prejudices of his people.
But though the Christian minister is not to be ruled by those whom he is appointed to rule -- is not to take laws from those to whom he is appointed to declare the law, he is never to forget -- what the very names of his office are all intended and fitted to keep constantly before his mind -- that he holds office in the church, not for his own aggrandizement and selfish interests, but for the benefit of his brethren -- not to gratify his own ambition or love of ease, but to promote their spiritual improvement, to secure their ultimate salvation; and under the influence of this conviction, like the steward who finds that in promoting his mater's interest, and the happiness of his fellow-servants, in the good order of the household, it is of great importance to be on good terms with those under his care, he will endeavour to please his brethren to edification; nay, he will seek to please all men in all things, not seeking his own profit, but the profit of many, that they may be saved. (1 Corinthians 10:33). Such is the view there given us of the general nature and design of the Christian ministry. -- John Brown (of Edinburgh, 1784-1858), Discourses and Sayings of Our Lord Jesus Christ, I:389-391
Remember that you have a charge of the souls in your family, and are as a priest and teacher in your own house; and therefore see that you keep them to the constant worshipping of God, especially on the Lord's day, in public and private; and that you teach them the things that concern their salvation (as in afterward directed). And pray for them daily, as well as for yourselves. -- Richard Baxter (1615-1691)
I see this tendency to lean on man everywhere. I know no branch of the Protestant Church of Christ which does not require to be cautioned upon the point. It is a snare, for example, to the English Episcopalian to make idols of Bishop Pearson and 'the Judicious Hooker.' It is a snare to the Scotch Presbyterian to pin his faith on John Knox, the Covenanters, and Dr. Chalmers. It is a snare to the Methodists in our day to worship the memory of John Wesley. It is a snare to the Independent to see no fault in any opinion of Owen and Dodderidge. It is a snare to the Baptist to exaggerate the wisdom of Gill and Fuller and Robert Hall. All these are snares, and into these snares how many fall! -- J.C. Ryle (1816-1900), "The Fallibility of Ministers" in Warnings to the Churches, pp. 93-121
Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (2 Timothy 3:12)
If ye will fear the LORD, and serve him, and obey his voice, and not rebel against the commandment of the LORD, then shall both ye and also the king that reigneth over you continue following the LORD your God: But if ye will not obey the voice of the LORD, but rebel against the commandment of the LORD, then shall the hand of the LORD be against you, as it was against your fathers. (1 Samuel 12:14,15)
We get the kind of leadership we deserve.
See the commentary in the Geneva Notes, and the commentary of John Gill, and Matthew Henry.
The first impression that one gets of a ruler and of his brains is from seeing the men he has about him. -- Niccol� Machiavelli (1469-1527)
When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice: but when the wicked beareth rule, the people mourn. (Proverbs 29:2)

Armerding, Hudson T., The Hand of God: A Testimony of the Lord's Provision and Protection.

Barrs, Jerram, and Howard A. Snyder (foreword), Shepherds and Sheep: A Biblical View of Leading and Following, ISBN: 0877843953 9780877843955.
Includes bibliographical references.

Bates, Stewart, Pastoral Admonitions and Warnings of the Reformed Presbyterian Church [together with some profitable ones from other Reformed churches].
Pastoral Admonitions and Warnings of the Reformed Presbyterian Church [together with some profitable ones from other Reformed churches].
http://www.covenanter.org/reformed/2015/8/17/the-reformed-presbyterian-churchs-of-scotland-address-to-the-reformed-presbyterians-and-other-christians-in-british-america
Pastoral Admonitions and Warnings of the Reformed Presbyterian Church [together with some profitable ones from other Reformed churches].
http://www.covenanter.org/reformed/2015/6/29/pastoral-admonitions-warnings-and-letters

*Calvin, John (1509-1564), Epistle Dedicatory [to Calvin's Commentary on Hebrews -- compiler], by John Calvin, to the Most Mighty and Most Serene Prince, Sigismund Augustus, by the Grace of God, the King of Poland, Great Duke of Lithuania, Russia, Prussia, and Lord and Heir of Muscovy, etc.
"You kingdom is extensive and renowned, and abounds in many excellencies, but its happiness will then only be solid, when it adopts Christ as its chief ruler and governor, so that it may be defended by his safeguard and protection; for to submit your sceptre to him, is not inconsistent with that elevation in which you are placed; but it would be far more glorious than all the triumphs of the world." -- John Calvin
Epistle Dedicatory [to Calvin's Commentary on Hebrews
http://www.biblestudyguide.org/comment/calvin/comm_vol44/htm/v.htm

Harrington, Arthur, What the Bible Says About Leadership, ISBN: 0899002501 9780899002507.
"Approaches the matter of leadership topically (e.g., evangelistic, missionary, pastoral, eldership, women in leadership, etc.). Relates the teaching of the Bible to each of these areas. Though far ranging and helpful, this work does not assess what leadership is, but concentrates instead on what leaders do." -- Cyril J. Barber

Pawson, J. David, Leadership is Male, ISBN: 0840790236 9780840790231.
Foreword by Elisabeth Elliot.

*Regent University Staff, The Word on Management: A Topical Index of Scriptures for Managers, Supervisors and Employees, ISBN: 1555741258 9781555741259.
"A topical index of Scriptures for managers and employees by the Regent University staff." -- GCB

Ryle, J.C. (1816-1900), and G.E. Duffield, Knots Untied: Being Plain Statements on Disputed Points in Religion From the Standpoint of an Evangelical Churchman.

*Stogdill, Ralph M., Leadership: Abstracts and Bibliography, 1904-1974.
"Up to the time of this death, Stogdill was one of the leading men in the country on the subject of leadership. This bibliography covers seventy years of publications in the areas allied with planning, organizing, controlling, and directing the activities of others. Containing only experimental research articles and papers (with 3700 entries in all), the material in this volume surveys virtually every facet of leadership. Not all entries are of equal value. Pastors pursuing D.Min. degree programs in leadership administration will find a wealth of usable material here. No college or seminary library can afford to be without this valuable bibliography." -- Cyril J. Barber

See also: The sovereignty of god, The doctrine of man (human nature, total depravity), Pride, ambition, self-aggrandizement, arrogance, ego, The sovereign grace of god: his everlasting mercy and lovingkindness, Church and state, Bible magistracy turns back the wrath of god, The doctrine of the lesser magistrates, The ten commandments: the moral law, The teaching of our lord jesus christ, Christ our example, The commandments of christ, Repentance the key to salvation and change, Justification, Justifying faith, Servant leadership, Family worship, Church government, Covenanted reformation, The application of scripture to the corporate bodies of church and state, Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, Unfaithful reformed ministries, Sexual relationship, Spiritual adultery (spiritual whoredom/harlotry), and so forth, and so on.
TCRB5: 1469-1471, 1611, 1790, 1982, 2005, 2075-2078, 2083-2102, 2542, 3901

Related Weblinks

The Autodidact (Self-taught)
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr9cha.html#atddct

The Commandments of Jesus, J.S. McConnell (1925)
http://www.wowzone.com/commandm.htm

The Teaching of our Lord Jesus Christ
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr2cha.html#teachljc

The Military

And he shall judge among the nations, and shall rebuke many people: and they shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruninghooks: nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war any more. (Isaiah 2:4)
On Memorial Day we remember the ultimate sacrifice of life, given by members of the military for the defense of liberty in America.
Notice, their sacrifice is comparable to the sacrifice of Christ, who, by his death and resurrection, sets believers free from bondage to sin and death.
For the wages of sin is death; [both the first death, and the second death or eternal separation from God after the Final Judgment] but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. (Romans 6:23)
Sin is a conflict of will that leads to death. It takes The Blood of Christ to set us free from the bondage to sin and death.
See: Freedom: A Gift of the Grace of God and ELSIE'S HOLIDAYS AT ROSELANDS. To be in conflict with the will of God is to be a causative agent of disease and death. Moreover, throughout history life itself has been the price of liberty from tyranny and bondage.
The Gospel is the good news of God's love and salvation for humanity through Jesus Christ. On Memorial Day, we remember and honor those who have sacrificed their lives for our freedom and security. How can we relate these two events? One way is to think of the "mechanism" of the Gospel, or how it works to bring us to God.
The Bible tells us that sin separates us from God and leads to death (Romans 3:23; Romans 6:23). But God, in his mercy and grace, sent his Son Jesus to die on the cross for our sins, taking our place and paying our penalty (Romans 5:8; 1 Peter 3:18). By his death, Jesus defeated sin and death, and by his resurrection, he opened the way for us to have eternal life with God (1 Corinthians 15:3-4; John 3:16). This is the "mechanism" of the Gospel: substitutionary atonement.
On Memorial Day, we can see a reflection of this "mechanism" in the lives of those who have died for our country. They gave their lives so that we can enjoy the benefits of freedom and peace. They took our place and paid our price. They substituted themselves for us. Of course, this is not a perfect analogy, because no human sacrifice can compare to the sacrifice of Jesus, who was sinless and divine. But it can help us appreciate the cost and the value of what Jesus did for us.
So on Memorial Day, as we remember and honor those who have died for our country, let us also remember and honor the one who died for our souls. Let us thank God for his love and grace, and let us respond with faith and obedience. Let us live in a way that honors both our earthly and heavenly heroes. And let us share the Gospel with others, so that they too can experience the "mechanism" of God's salvation. -- Microsoft Edge browser, Artificial Intelligence composition, unedited, "The 'mechanism' of The Gospel illustrated on Memorial Day"

Burlingame, Terry D., Biblical Counseling to the Military: The Book of Joshua as a Model (Philadelphia, PA: Westminster Theological Seminary, D.Div. thesis, 1990).

Dean, Chuck, NAM VET: Making Peace With Your Past, ISBN: 0967937108 9780967937106.
"Dean is executive director of Point Man International, a non-profit support organization dedicated to healing war wounds of Vietnam veterans. He was among the first combat troops to be sent to Vietnam.
"This book is a shocker. Listen to these statistics: More Vietnam veterans have committed suicide since 1975 than were killed in the war itself. The divorce rate of Nam vets is 90 percent. One out of four combat veterans make less than $7000 a year." -- Jay P. Green, Sr. (1918-2008)
"Veterans are entering the 21st century, and for many, Vietnam has never ended. Why do so many suffer from flashbacks, depression, rage, substance abuse, and nightmares? Author and Vietnam veteran Chuck Dean has helped thousands find peace and spiritual healing." -- Publisher
Point Man International Ministries (800) 877-VETS
http://www.pointmanintl.org/

Harris, Thomas Allen, Counseling the Serviceman and his Family.
"Provides the minister with the knowledge and techniques to prepare you to face the realities of military life." -- Cyril J. Barber

Kelly, William E. (editor), Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and the War Veteran Patient, ISBN: 0876303866 9780876303863.
"Provides counselors and therapists with a comprehensive blueprint for conceptualizing and treating war veterans' stress disorders. Concludes with the most comprehensive reading list on this subject yet assembled. Excellent coverage." -- Cyril J. Barber

Kuenning, Delores A., Life After Vietnam: How Veterans and Their Loved Ones Heal the Psychological Wounds of War, ISBN: 1569249423 9781569249420.

Sedgwick, Obadiah (1600?-1658), Military Discipline for the Christian Souldier. Drawne out in a Sermon preached to the captaines and souldiers exercising armes in the artillery garden, at their generall meeting in Saint Andrew's Vndershaft, in London, October 18. 1638. By Obadiah Sedgvvicke, Batchelor of Divinity, and preacher to the inhabitants of Saint Mildreds Breadstreete in London, 1639.

United States Army Chaplain School, Carlisle Barracks, PA, The Chaplain as Personal Counselor.
Includes references.

United States Department of the Army, The Chaplain as Counselor.

Vieira, Edwin, Constitutional Homeland Security: A Call for Americans to Revitalize the Militia of the Several States. Volume I, The Nation In Arms, ISBN: 9780967175928, 0967175925.
" 'Homeland security' is the most serious issue challenging Americans today. How they deal with this problem will determine whether the United States will preserve individual liberty and economic prosperity, or degenerate into a centralized bureaucratic police state. This book explains why 'the Militia of the several States' are the only establishments the Constitution explicitly empowers to provide the crucial elements of homeland security. And it describes the practical steps Americans should take to revitalize the constitutional Militia in each of the States." -- Publisher

See also: The sovereignty of god, The doctrine of man (human nature, total depravity), The root cause of criminal acts of extreme depravity, Theodicy, War, The sovereign grace of god: his everlasting mercy and lovingkindness, Repentance the key to salvation and change, Justification, Justifying faith, Disabled and Handicapped, Grief, Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, War, For all counselors, Counseling by subject, Sexual relationship, Spiritual adultery (spiritual whoredom/harlotry), and so forth, and so on.
TCRB5: 357, 359, 361, 364-373, 823, 3766, 3767, 3770, 3772

Related Weblinks

Cadence International
http://www.cadence.org/

Christian Military Fellowship
http://www.cmfhq.org/

Officers' Christian Fellowship
http://www.gospelcom.net/ocf/

Point Man International Ministries
P.O. Box 339
Sheridan, MI 48884-0339
(517) 831-5215, (517) 831-5216 -- FAX (800) 877-VETS - Hotline).
Counsel for military veterans.
Point Man International Ministries
http://www.pointmanintl.org/

Avoiding Divorce

Prior to the Fall in the Garden of Eden man was in perfect relationship with God and with woman, a heavenly existence. After the Fall man's relationships with God and men were broken. The only way for man and wife, and family, and society to live together happily is to pursue holiness through Christ Jesus. See: The Everlasting Righteousness, or How Shall man be Just With God? Horatius Bonar.
Many marriages have been healed by a commitment to Christ first and to each other second. -- D. James Kennedy (1930-2007) and Jerry Newcombe, What if Jesus had Never Been Born, p. 140
Paul's teaching on celibacy, virginity, singleness, marriage, and remarriage -- John Calvin commenting on 1 Corinthians 6:1-9 -- 1 Corinthians 7:40.

Cook, Earl, How to Prevent Divorce (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Audio cassette AC871 [audio file].

L'Abate, Luciano, and Bess L'Abate, How to Avoid Divorce, ISBN: 0804211183 9780804211185.

*Miller, Wendell E. Forgiveness: The Power and the Puzzles, ISBN: 0964144115 9780964144118.
"Defines God's forgiveness in four ways: (1) initial forgiveness releases us from the penalty of sin and (2) restores us to fellowship with God, and (3) repetitive forgiveness releases us from the day by day penalty for fresh sins, and (4) restores us day by day to fellowship. Defines our forgiveness of others in two ways: (1) vertical forgiveness between us and God (Mark 11:25) releases others from the penalty of our wrath, and (2) horizontal forgiveness (Luke 17:3), restores the relationship between us and others who repent. Discusses flaws in such ideas as 'forgiving God' and 'forgiving oneself'." -- David Powlison (1949-2019)
"It could have been called "The Anger Handbook" because it teaches how to overcome problems of hurt feelings, anger, and aggressive behavior. Overcoming problems of anger is crucial. Spouse abuse, failures in marriages, failures in child rearing, and even child abuse often erupt from anger. Parents who model angry behavior are likely to raise children with anger problems. And most importantly, God is not glorified by Christians who have anger problems.
"It teaches the kind of forgiveness that is nearly always an absolute necessity to becoming really free from the trauma of sexual abuse. . . .
"FORGIVENESS: THE POWER AND THE PUZZLES will add biblical power to the books that you already have on Christian living, discipleship, marriage, childrearing, anger, communications, forgiveness, and sexual abuse." -- Publisher

See also: The sovereignty of god, The doctrine of man (human nature, total depravity), Repentance the key to salvation and change, Justification, Justifying faith, Forgiveness, Covetousness, greed, and selfishness, The inspiration and infallibility of scripture (the doctrine of revelation, the doctrine of plenary inspiration, the doctrine of divine inspiration, the doctrine of verbal inspiration, theopneustia, sufficiency of scripture), The ten commandments: the moral law, Trusting god, Bible promises, Sanctification, Conscience, casuistry, cases of conscience, Ethics, Men and Women, Christian liberty, Men, women and god, Premarital counseling, Marital counseling, Problem solving in marriage, Reconciliation of marriage partners, Counseling the family, Biblical counsel by subject, Reconciliation of relationships, Sexual relationship, Spiritual adultery (spiritual whoredom/harlotry), Carnality and flesh pleasing: lust, desires, ambition, Adultery, Child abuse and pedophilia, Fatherlessness, Counsel for young men, Counsel for young women, Abstinence, Christian counseling and educational foundation, Westminster media, Works of Jay Adams, and Audio cassettes, CCEF speakers, Sexual wholeness, Marriage, Singleness, Feminism, Gratuitous sex, a cause of violence, Homosexuality, lesbianism, gay, bisexual, transvestite, queer (lgbtq), Cowardice, Pseudo-christian movements: a selection of works, Works by and for women, The new age and women, Self, Self-denial, The occult, Sorcery, Women and the new age, Pseudo-christian movements: a selection of works, Soul-violence, Churches that abuse, Divorce, Hostility, Incest, Rape, Sex ethics, sex education, Pornography, Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, Unforgiveness, The christian home, domestic duties, Duties of the Christian, and so forth, and so on.

Related Weblinks

Is Your Marriage in Crisis? Mitch Temple
https://www.focusonthefamily.com/marriage/divorce-and-infidelity/when-your-marriage-needs-help/is-your-marriage-in-crisis

The Church and Divorce

Paul's teaching on celibacy, virginity, singleness, marriage, and remarriage -- John Calvin commenting on 1 Corinthians 6:1-9 -- 1 Corinthians 7:40.

Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), Counseling Workshop: Demon Possession; Divorce; Church Discipline (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Audio cassette JA503 [audio file].

Cook, Earl, How a Church Prevents Divorce (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Audio cassette AC871 [audio file].

*Duty, Guy, Divorce and Remarriage, ISBN: 0764227262 9780764227264.
"Excellent coverage of the matter of divorce and remarriage from a Biblical standpoint." -- Robert B. Somerville

*Murray, John, Divorce. A Christian classic.
Said to be one of the best books written on divorce.
"Murray considers the question of divorce from several directions: The Old Testament, the teaching of our Lord, and the teaching of Paul. He also discusses practical cases." -- GCB
"Discusses the complications which arise within the church as a result of divorce. . . ." -- Cyril J. Barber

See also: The sovereignty of god, The doctrine of man (human nature, total depravity), Repentance the key to salvation and change, Justification, Justifying faith, Covetousness, greed, and selfishness, The inspiration and infallibility of scripture (the doctrine of revelation, the doctrine of plenary inspiration, the doctrine of divine inspiration, the doctrine of verbal inspiration, theopneustia, sufficiency of scripture), The ten commandments: the moral law, Trusting god, Repentance the key to salvation and change, Justification, Justifying faith, Forgiveness, Unforgiveness, Bible promises, Sanctification, Conscience, casuistry, cases of conscience, Ethics, Men and Women, Christian liberty, Men, women and god, Premarital counseling, Marital counseling, Problem solving in marriage, Reconciliation of marriage partners, Counseling the family, Biblical counsel by subject, Reconciliation of relationships, Sexual relationship, Spiritual adultery (spiritual whoredom/harlotry), Carnality and flesh pleasing: lust, desires, ambition, Adultery, Child abuse and pedophilia, Fatherlessness, Counsel for young men, Counsel for young women, Abstinence, Spouse an unbeliever, Abuse, Personal finances, Avoiding divorce, Small groups, Remarriage, Marriage counseling, Christian counseling and educational foundation, Westminster media, Works of Jay Adams, and Audio cassettes, CCEF speakers, Sexual wholeness, Marriage, Singleness, Feminism, Gratuitous sex, a cause of violence, Cowardice, Pseudo-christian movements: a selection of works, Works by and for women, The new age and women, Self, Self-denial, The occult, Sorcery, Women and the new age, Soul-violence, Churches that abuse, Divorce, Hostility, Incest, Rape, Sex ethics, sex education, Pornography, Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, Unforgiveness, The christian home, domestic duties, Duties of the Christian, and so forth, and so on.
TCRB5: 2971, 2972

Divorce

See the Theological Notes: "Marriage and Divorce," at Malachi 2:16 in The Reformation Study Bible.
For the LORD, the God of Israel, saith that he hateth putting away: for one covereth violence with his garment, saith the LORD of hosts: therefore take heed to your spirit, that ye deal not treacherously. (Malachi 2:16).
Paul's teaching on celibacy, virginity, singleness, marriage, and remarriage -- John Calvin commenting on 1 Corinthians 6:1-9 -- 1 Corinthians 7:40.
Likewise, ye husbands, dwell with them according to knowledge, giving honour unto the wife, as unto the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life; that your prayers be not hindered. (1 Peter 3:7)
Let nothing be done through strife or vain-glory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 2:3-5)
But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death. (Revelation 21:8)
Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits: who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases; who redeemeth thy life from destruction; who crowneth thee with lovingkindness and tender mercies; who satisfieth thy mouth with good things; so that thy youth is renewed like the eagle's. (Psalm 103:2-5)
Too much friendship makes way for hatred. Yea, in truth there is no enmity so dangerous as that which has its foundations upon the ruins of love. And as in nature, the purest substance is turned into the most loathsome corruption; so the hottest love, which has no other ground but carnal respect, degenerates oftentimes into the most deadly and hurtful enmity. For being privy to all their friends' secrets, counsels, and conditions, they are the more enabled thereby to do them the greater mischief when their love is turned to malice. Even as a traitor is much more dangerous than a professed enemy. -- George Downame
Many marriages have been healed by a commitment to Christ first and to each other second. -- D. James Kennedy (1930-2007) and Jerry Newcombe, What if Jesus had Never Been Born, p. 140
Fully understanding the Doctrine of Justification can redeem a relationship broken by sexual sin.
It is a clear understanding of the Doctrine of Justification that enables us to repair broken relationships, both with God and with man. Repentance and forgiveness bridges the gap between man and God. It enables man and wife to reconcile their broken relationships, and to live together in harmony. It enables individuals to repair relationships broken by sin and to live and work together in unity in society.

Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), Counseling Workshop: Demon Possession; Divorce; Church Discipline (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Audio cassette JA503 [audio file].

*Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), Marriage, Divorce, and Remarriage in the Bible, ISBN: 9780310511113 0310511119.
"A practical guide to both the exegetical and practical questions regarding marriage, divorce and remarriage. The church has had a rude awakening since the mid-1950s when divorce was virtually an unheard of problem among Christians. The situation 'opens opportunities to think biblically in a fresh way, unhampered by prejudicial views that really have no warrant for acceptance by people who wish to be biblical'." -- David Powlison (1949-2019)

Bettler, John F., God as Husband/Lover (Westminster Media).
Audio cassette POG06 [audio file].

Bouma, Mary LaGrand, Divorce in the Parsonage, ISBN: 0871231093 9780871231093.

*Duty, Guy, Divorce and Remarriage, ISBN: 0764227262 9780764227264.
"Excellent coverage of the matter of divorce and remarriage from a Biblical standpoint." -- Robert B. Somerville

Lotter, George A., Counseling Divorcees on Forgiveness (Philadelphia, PA: Westminster Theological Seminary, D.Min. thesis, 1987).
Includes bibliography.

*Murray, John, Divorce, ISBN: 0875523447. A Christian classic.
Said to be one of the best books written on divorce.
"Murray considers the question of divorce from several directions: The Old Testament, the teaching of our Lord, and the teaching of Paul. He also discusses practical cases." -- GCB
"Discusses the complications which arise within the church as a result of divorce. . . ." -- Cyril J. Barber

Palmer, B.M., Broken Home: Lessons in Sorrow.

Panel, Recovering From Divorce; Biblical Ethics of Divorce and Remarriage (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Audio cassette AC872 [audio file].

Thompson, David A., Counseling and Divorce, ISBN: 084990496X 9780849904967.
Includes bibliographical references.

See also: Repentance the key to salvation and change, Justification, Justifying faith, The sovereign grace of god: his everlasting mercy and lovingkindness, Sexual relationship, Spiritual adultery (spiritual whoredom/harlotry), Reconciliation of marriage partners, Avoiding divorce, The church and divorce, Children of divorce, Rebuilding, Remarriage, Stepfamilies, Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, Pseudo-christian movements: a selection of works, The occult, Covetousness, greed, and selfishness, The inspiration and infallibility of scripture (the doctrine of revelation, the doctrine of plenary inspiration, the doctrine of divine inspiration, the doctrine of verbal inspiration, theopneustia, sufficiency of scripture), The ten commandments: the moral law, Trusting god, Repentance the key to salvation and change, Justification, Justifying faith, Forgiveness, Unforgiveness, Prayer, Bible promises, Sanctification, Conscience, casuistry, cases of conscience, Ethics, Men and Women, Christian liberty, Men, women and god, Premarital counseling, Marital counseling, Problem solving in marriage, Reconciliation of marriage partners, Counseling the family, Biblical counsel by subject, Reconciliation of relationships, Sexual relationship, Spiritual adultery (spiritual whoredom/harlotry), Carnality and flesh pleasing: lust, desires, ambition, Adultery, Child abuse and pedophilia, Fatherlessness, Counsel for young men, Counsel for young women, Abstinence, Spouse an unbeliever, Abuse, Personal finances, Avoiding divorce, Small groups, Remarriage, Marriage counseling, Christian counseling and educational foundation, Westminster media, Works of Jay Adams, and Audio cassettes, CCEF speakers, Sexual wholeness, Marriage, Singleness, Feminism, Gratuitous sex, a cause of violence, Homosexuality, lesbianism, gay, bisexual, transvestite, queer (lgbtq), Cowardice, Works by and for women, The new age and women, Self, Self-denial, The occult, Sorcery, Women and the new age, Soul-violence, Churches that abuse, Divorce, Hostility, Incest, Rape, Sex ethics, sex education, Pornography, Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, Unforgiveness, The christian home, domestic duties, Duties of the Christian, and so forth, and so on.
TCRB5: 2971, 2972, 1666

Related Weblinks

More Than One-third Call it Quits
"Among all adults 18 and older, three out of four (73 percent), have been married and half (51 percent), are currently married. (That does not include the 3 percent who are presently separated from their marriage partner). Among those who have been married, more than one out of every three (35 percent), have also been divorced. One out of every five adults (18 percent), who has ever been divorced has been divorced multiple times. That represents 7 percent of all Americans who have been married." -- George Barna, 2004
http://www.barna.org/FlexPage.aspx?Page=BarnaUpdateNarrow&BarnaUpdateID=170

Reconciliation of Marriage Partners

Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity! (Psalm 133:1)
Prior to the Fall in the Garden of Eden man was in perfect relationship with God and with woman, a heavenly existence. After the Fall man's relationships with God and men were broken. The only way for man and wife, and family, and society to live together happily is to pursue holiness through Christ Jesus. See: The Everlasting Righteousness, or How Shall man be Just With God? Horatius Bonar.
Many marriages have been healed by a commitment to Christ first and to each other second. -- D. James Kennedy (1930-2007) and Jerry Newcombe, What if Jesus had Never Been Born, p. 140

Carroll, Anne, Kristin, Together Forever: How to Overcome Problems and Rekindle the Love in Your Marriage, ISBN: 0061043389 9780061043383.
"A guide for couples who are anticipating divorce explains the basic elements of a happy marriage, discussing the issues of poor self-esteem, acceptance, communication, power struggles, sex, and self-centered behavior." -- Publisher

Cook, Earl, How a Church Prevents Divorce (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Audio cassette AC871 [audio file].

Harvard, Allen, and Margaret Harvard, Death and Rebirth of a Marriage.
"A true-to-life story about a marriage on the rocks . . . until God stepped in." -- Cyril J. Barber

Horner, Bob, and Jan Horner, Resolving Conflict in Your Marriage, ISBN: 9781602003279 1602003270.

L'Abate, Luciano, and Bess L'Abate, How to Avoid Divorce, ISBN: 0804211183 9780804211185.

Palmer, B.M., Broken Home: Lessons in Sorrow.

*Sande, Ken, The Peacemaker: A Biblical Guide to Resolving Personal Conflict, ISBN: 0801064856 9780801064852. Five appendixes, indexes of topics and authors.
The indexes of topics and authors makes the book a good reference tool.
"Lays out four phases of the reconciliation process: [1] glorify God; [2] get the log out of your own eye; [3] go and show your brother his fault; [4] go and be reconciled. The motivation and foundation for peacemaking lies in who God is, not in pragmatic self-interest. Self-examination and repentance lay the foundation for dealing well with the sins of others. Constructive confrontation involves both speaking the truth in love and listening in order to pursue understanding of the situation. Reconciliation and forgiveness are the culminating phase of peace making." -- David Powlison (1949-2019)
"Treats conflict almost entirely from the context of believer against believer. Not much help surfaces for conflicts between believers and unbelievers. . . . In general the book rates as one of the best on the thorny subject of conflict. Professional church staff members and volunteer layperson can benefit immensely from this book." -- Samuel L. Canine

See also: The sovereignty of god, The doctrine of man (human nature, total depravity), Repentance the key to salvation and change, Justification, Justifying faith, Forgiveness, Prayer, Covetousness, greed, and selfishness, The inspiration and infallibility of scripture (the doctrine of revelation, the doctrine of plenary inspiration, the doctrine of divine inspiration, the doctrine of verbal inspiration, theopneustia, sufficiency of scripture), The ten commandments: the moral law, Trusting god, Unforgiveness, Bible promises, Sanctification, Conscience, casuistry, cases of conscience, Ethics, Men and Women, Christian liberty, Men, women and god, Premarital counseling, Marital counseling, Problem solving in marriage, Reconciliation of marriage partners, Counseling the family, Blended families, Biblical counsel by subject, Reconciliation of relationships, Sexual relationship, Spiritual adultery (spiritual whoredom/harlotry), Carnality and flesh pleasing: lust, desires, ambition, Adultery, Child abuse and pedophilia, Fatherlessness, Counsel for young men, Counsel for young women, Abstinence, Spouse an unbeliever, Abuse, dysfunctional families, Personal finances, Avoiding divorce, Small groups, Remarriage, Marriage counseling, Christian counseling and educational foundation, Westminster media, Works of Jay Adams, and Audio cassettes, CCEF speakers, Sexual wholeness, Marriage, Singleness, Feminism, Gratuitous sex, a cause of violence, Homosexuality, lesbianism, gay, bisexual, transvestite, queer (lgbtq), Cowardice, Pseudo-christian movements: a selection of works, Works by and for women, The new age and women, Self, Self-denial, The occult, Sorcery, Women and the new age, Soul-violence, Churches that abuse, Divorce, Hostility, Incest, Rape, Sex ethics, sex education, Pornography, Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, Unforgiveness, The christian home, domestic duties, Duties of the Christian, and so forth, and so on.
TCRB5: 2971, 2972

Related Weblinks

Journal of Biblical Conflict Resolution (Billings, MT [Institute for Christian Conciliation (ICC), 1537 Avenue D, Suite 352, Billings, 59102]).
A serial published twice per year, commencing Summer, 1994. Editor, Ken Sande.
"Articles will address biblical negotiation, conflict counseling, mediation, arbitration and church discipline. Also will cover ethical, legal, and conciliator liability issues. Reviews will assess developments and books in the field of alternative dispute resolution." -- David Powlison (1949-2019)

Children of Divorce

Barr, Debbie, Caught in the Crossfire: Children of Divorce, ISBN: 0310285615 9780310285618.

Johnson, Laurene, and Georglyn Rosenfeld, Divorced Kids: What you Need to Know to Help Kids Survive a Divorce, ISBN: 0449220761 9780449220764.
"Children are survivors. And parents have the potential not only to help their children survive but also to thrive -- despite the pain and upheaval of divorce. Written with honesty and sensitivity by two divorced mothers of happy, well-adjusted children, this inspiring and understanding sourcebook speaks to all of us who are divorced parents and all of us with children of any age who are learning to cope with a new way of family life. Inside, you'll find: Strategies for coping with loss, Practical solutions for visitation rights, Insightful advice on becoming a stepfamily, Methods for positive, consistent discipline over the course of the divorce, Ways to nurture and protect your child's self-esteem, and much more!" -- Publisher

Kehle, Mary, In the Middle: What to do When Your Parents Divorce, ISBN: 0877883750 9780877883753.
"A book, written for children 9-13 to help them in the midst of divorce situations. Drawing on her experience as a counseling psychologist and nurse, Kehle deals with the subject with sensitivity and a deep understanding of the needs of children." -- GCB
"Offers advice to preteens on how to cope with the emotions and other problems arising from the divorce of parents. Also discusses relationships with step-families." -- Publisher

Related Weblinks

The Consequences of Fatherlessness
http://www.fathers.com/statistics-and-research/the-consequences-of-fatherlessness/

Functional Illiteracy
"Functional illiteracy is a term used to describe reading and writing skills that are inadequate 'to manage daily living and employment tasks that require reading skills beyond a basic level.'[1] Functional illiteracy is contrasted with illiteracy in the strict sense, meaning the inability to read or write simple sentences in any language. . . .
"Links with poverty and crime
"In developed countries, the level of functional literacy of an individual is proportional to his/her income level and risk of committing crime. For example, according to the National Center for Educational Statistics in the United States:

Over 60 percent of adults in the U.S. Prison System read at or below the fourth grade level

85 percent of U.S. juvenile inmates are functionally illiterate.

Adult inmates who received educational services while in prison had a 16 percent chance of returning to prison, as opposed to 70 percent for those who received no instruction. [this statistic not in citation given -- compiler]

43 percent of adults at the lowest level of literacy lived below the poverty line, as opposed to 4 percent of those with the highest levels of literacy.

"According to BeginToRead.com:

Two thirds of students who cannot read proficiently by the fourth grade will end up in jail or on welfare.

Three out of four individuals who receive food stamps read on the two lowest levels of literacy.

16 to 19 year old girls at the poverty level and below, with below average skills, are 6 times more likely to have out-of-wedlock children than their reading counterparts. . . .

Rebuilding

*Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), Marriage, Divorce and Remarriage in the Bible, ISBN: 0310511119 9780310511113.
"You will not find better material on the Biblical teaching on divorce and remarriage. This resource is an easily understood exegetical treatment of the data available. It is a must for those who counsel people caught in this growing problem.
"A book for every pastor, elder, and counselor. Get this issue straight before you do anything else. The Bible speaks with the only real authority on this subject." -- GCB

Hershey, Terry, Beginning Again: Life After a Relationship Ends, ISBN: 0915929023 9780915929023.
"This is not just a book about the ending of marriages. It is a book for those who desire the fullness of life in the middle of failure, rejection, transition, change, missed opportunities, broken dreams, marital collapse, or death. The author provides healing from the Bible born out of his own experience." -- GCB

Hunter, Brenda, Beyond Divorce: A Personal Journey, ISBN: 0800709039 9780800709037.

Remarriage

Paul's teaching on celibacy, virginity, singleness, marriage, and remarriage -- John Calvin commenting on 1 Corinthians 6:1-9 -- 1 Corinthians 7:40.

*Duty, Guy, Divorce and Remarriage, ISBN: 0764227262 9780764227264.
"Excellent coverage of the matter of divorce and remarriage from a Biblical standpoint." -- Robert B. Somerville

See also: The sovereignty of god, The doctrine of man (human nature, total depravity), The sovereign grace of god: his everlasting mercy and lovingkindness, Repentance the key to salvation and change, Justification, Justifying faith, Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, Sexual relationship, Spiritual adultery (spiritual whoredom/harlotry), Problem solving in marriage, Marriage, Reconciling marriage partners, Fatherlessness, Singleness, Divorce, Avoiding divorce, and so forth, and so on.

Related Weblinks

The Consequences of Fatherlessness
http://www.fathers.com/statistics-and-research/the-consequences-of-fatherlessness/

Stepfamilies

Felker, Evelyn H., Raising Other People's Kids: Successful Child-Rearing in the Restructured Family, ISBN: 0802818684 9780802818683.

Hyde, Margaret O., Parents Divided, Parents Multiplied, ISBN: 0664327273 9780664327279. Revised edition of: MY FRIEND HAS FOUR PARENTS.
"Examines various situations that arise from divorce and remarriage, including one-parent families, stepfamilies, and living part-time with both parents. Also includes information on custody, parental kidnapping, and sources of outside help." -- Publisher

Palmer, Nancy, William D. Palmer, and Kay Marshall Strom (contributor), The Family Puzzle: Putting the Pieces Together: A Guide to Parenting the Blended Family, ISBN: 0891099492 9780891099499.
"Helping parents of blended families to avoid the common pitfalls in the blending process and recognize the unique benefits of their new situation, this book teaches the ins and outs of step-parenting, how to deal with ex-spouses, assorted relatives, friends, and ways to make the transition as smooth as possible for the children involved." -- Publisher

Smith-Broersma, Margaret Devotions for Couples in Blended Families: Living and Loving as a New Family, ISBN: 082543730X 9780825437304.

Somerville, Charles, Stepfathers: Struggles and Solutions, ISBN: 0664250580 9780664250584.

Visher, Emily B., Stepfamilies: Myths and Realities, ISBN: 0806507438 9780806507439.

Chapter 7 Related Weblinks

Books Considered to be Among the ten Greatest in the English Language
http://www.lettermen2.com/tengreat.html

The Catalog of the Mount Olive Tape Library in PDF Format
http://www.lettermen2.com/olivecat.pdf

The Google Advanced Search
This feature may be used to search one specific domain/website. For example, to search for "John 3:16" in "lettermen2.com," (THE WEB EDITION OF BIBLICAL COUNSEL: RESOURCES FOR RENEWAL), enter the search terms on the search screen in "this exact word or phrase:" and "site or domain:".
A link to Google Advanced Search may be added to the Internet Explorer toolbar, so that any favorite website may be conveniently searched.
https://www.google.com/advanced_search

Helps: Key, Acronyms, Permissions, Information for Librarians and Booksellers
http://www.lettermen2.com/help.html

How to Find a Book
http://www.lettermen2.com/findbook.html

Logos Bible Software Bundles That Include Works on Biblical Counseling
There are 15 bundles in all.
http://www.logos.com/products/search?q=counseling+bundles

*Luther, Martin, That a Christian Assembly or Congregation has the Right and Power to Judge all Teaching and to Call, Appoint, and Dismiss Teachers, Established and Proven by Scripture, Martin Luther (accessed 2/27/2016)
https://www.uni-due.de/collcart/es/sem/s6/txt06_1.htm
Luther, Martin, That a Christian Assembly or Congregation has the Right and Power to Judge all Teaching and to Call, Appoint, and Dismiss Teachers, Established and Proven by Scripture.
http://www.covenanter.org/reformed/2016/4/21/that-a-christian-assembly-or-congregation-has-the-right-and-power-to-judge-all-teaching-and-to-call-appoint-and-dismiss-teachers-established-and-proven-by-scripture

Mount Olive Tape Library of Reformed Theology
This collection has been in the custody of the Greenville Presbyterian Seminary since 2006. It appears (September 8, 2016) that the Media Center at the Seminary have digitized practically none of the audio cassette and video tape addresses.
"The following listing was developed by George Calhoun, the founder of Mt. Olive Tape Library, over the course of some thirty years. This catalog reflects the personal quest of Mr. Calhoun for a balanced education in Reformed Theology. The speakers herein have been scrutinized for their faithfulness to the Bible. These tapes will enable students to pursue the study of Reformed theology at a minimum of financial expense."
"FOR YOUR INFORMATION . . . [from the introduction to the Mount Olive Tape Catalog -- compiler]
"The tapes included in this catalog are recordings of sermons and lectures given by various pastors, theologians, Bible teachers, and conference speakers who confess adherence to the broad perspectives of historic Reformed theology. We have diligently tried to screen all the materials as to their basic commitment to the Biblical perspectives reflected in the Reformed creeds and confessions.
"Since, however, no human interpreter of God's Word is infallible, it is the prayer of those responsible for sending forth these tapes that all who listen to them will cultivate the spirit of the Bereans, who 'searched the Scriptures daily to see whether these things were so.'
"Also, it should be emphasized that the tapes included in this catalog have been evaluated in terms of their basic content as they were originally given, and the inclusion of them in this catalog should not be construed as an unreserved approval of the men who originally gave them. Christians grow in grace and knowledge with the passing of time, yet it must be recognized that some turn aside from the norms of Scripture. It is our hope, therefore, that no one will attach himself to any of the men whose tapes are included in this catalog on the basis of the tapes alone. We are all commanded to be discerning toward those who would instruct us in the faith.
"Finally, it would be a tragic abuse of the intent in providing these sermons and lectures should they in any way cultivate a party spirit so clearly condemned by the Apostle Paul in 1 Corinthians 3. Paul reminded the Corinthians that all things were theirs -- Paul, Cephas, and Apollos included. We, too, may recognize that the various servants of Christ whose voices are heard on these tapes are God's gifts to us and that we are to follow them only insofar as they follow Christ and the clear teachings of His holy and infallible Word! Since not all men have the same gifts, learn to drink from the gifts of many men -- not just one fountain."
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Mount Olive Tape Library lectures (MP3 audio files), approximately 161 of 171
http://www.sermonaudio.com/search.asp?speakeronly=true&currsection=sermonsspeaker&keyword=Dr._C._Gregg_Singer
The Catalog of the Mount Olive Tape Library in PDF Format
http://www.lettermen2.com/olivecat.pdf
Mt. Olive Audio Library, Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary
http://gpts.edu/media/index.php?currpage=1&sa_action=
Greenville Seminary and Mt. Olive
http://www.sermonaudio.com/source_detail.asp?sourceid=gpts

Reformed Publishers and Booksellers Online
http://www.lettermen2.com/refpub.html

SermonAudio.com
"SermonAudio.com is the largest library of audio sermons on the web from conservative Christian churches and ministries with over 438,500 FREE MP3 sermons which can be streamed online for immediate listening or downloaded to your computer or MP3 player for listening at a later time. You can easily search through the entire sermon library by broadcaster, Bible reference, topic, speaker, date preached, language, or any keyword.
"The mission of SermonAudio.com is to help faithful, local churches broadcast their audio sermons to the maximum amount of people with the least amount of cost. Our chief purpose is for the preservation and propagation of great Bible preaching and teaching in its audio form for this generation and the next.
"Additionally, through our Transcription and Translation service, any sermon that is available on SermonAudio.com can be professionally and accurately transcribed by a real human and then machine-translated into 20 plus foreign languages."
http://www.sermonaudio.com/

Works of C. Gregg Singer
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr3ch.html#cgsinger

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