News

Covenant Reformed News - October 2023

Covenant Reformed News
October 2023  •  Volume XIX, Issue 18


 

Nehemiah’s Covenant Prayer

After considering Nehemiah’s godly enquiry concerning Jerusalem (Neh. 1:1-3) in the last issue of the News, we now focus on his response to the bad news about the people of God, their capital and its perimeter wall (4-11).

Though deeply troubled, Nehemiah did not keel over, as some do when they hear terrible tidings. He did not need anyone to put a chair behind him lest he collapse but that godly man did realize that he needed to sit, so at once he lowered himself to the ground or into a chair for he was heartbroken: “it came to pass, when I heard these words, that I sat down and wept” (4).

Nehemiah’s reaction is all the more remarkable given that he was a grown man, not a child. He was not an emotional wreck or a fifth-century BC snowflake, in modern language. Nehemiah was a responsible person, even the emperor’s cupbearer.

Even though he was personally affluent and working in Shushan the palace (the citadel of Susa) some 1,000 miles from Jerusalem, her distress was his distress. Nehemiah’s tears were genuine, for God had put into his heart a love for the church and so he suffered with Israel’s suffering.

Nehemiah was not only deeply grieved immediately after hearing the sad report concerning Jerusalem. Afterwards, he continued to do three things: he “mourned … and fasted, and prayed before the God of heaven” (4). You could say that he prayed with lamentations and fasting.

For how long? Scripture says on “certain days” (4). During how long a period? For the four months from Chisleu (1), the ninth month of the year, to Nisan (2:1), the first month of the year. At what times? Nehemiah tells us: “day and night” (1:6).

Nehemiah is seeking the Lord for the welfare of His church deliberately, and with resolution and perseverance, for a period of about 120 days. These are the actions of a man who sought the welfare of Israel for a long time even before he oversaw the laying of a single stone on Jerusalem’s defensive walls. The genuine and deep distress that he manifests for the people of God over 2,400 years ago puts us to shame and stirs us up to pray for the body of Christ in our day!

Nehemiah 1:5-11 contains a summary of his covenantal praying for four months in Mesopotamia. It begins with the covenant address: “I beseech thee, O Lord God of heaven, the great and terrible God, that keepeth covenant and mercy for them that love him and observe his commandments” (5). Here, as elsewhere, the Lord’s “covenant and mercy” refer not to two separate things but to His one covenant mercy.

If we approach Jehovah as the God of the covenant in Jesus Christ, we have access to Him and confidence that He will answer our prayers for His people: “Let thine ear now be attentive, and thine eyes open, that thou mayest hear the prayer of thy servant, which I pray before thee now, day and night, for the children of Israel thy servants” (6).

Next Nehemiah laments Israel’s covenant breaking. I “confess the sins of the children of Israel, which we have sinned against thee: both I and my father’s house have sinned. We have dealt very corruptly against thee, and have not kept the commandments, nor the statutes, nor the judgments, which thou commandedst thy servant Moses” (6-7). Notice that Nehemiah includes in this confession of sin both himself and his family, and that he makes no excuses: “We have dealt very corruptly against thee” (7). This is the way that we too must confess our sins to God: with shame and without cover up.

Nehemiah acknowledges God’s covenant judgment upon Israel’s covenant breaking. This is the explanation for the Jews’ fall to, and exile by, the Babylonians, as God had warned repeatedly in the Pentateuch (e.g., Lev. 26:33; Deut. 4:27): “the word that thou commandedst thy servant Moses, saying, If ye transgress, I will scatter you abroad among the nations” (Neh. 1:8).

Then Nehemiah recalls God’s covenant promises (e.g., Lev. 26:40-45; Deut. 4:29-31; 30:1-5): “But if ye turn unto me, and keep my commandments, and do them; though there were of you cast out unto the uttermost part of the heaven, yet will I gather them from thence, and will bring them unto the place that I have chosen to set my name there [i.e., Jerusalem with its temple]” (Neh. 1:9).

Nehemiah reminds Jehovah of Israel’s identity and His deliverance of her from Egypt: “Now these are thy servants and thy people, whom thou hast redeemed by thy great power, and by thy strong hand” (10). Specifically, Nehemiah requests the answer to the prayers of two parties, not only himself but all of God’s covenant people: “O Lord, I beseech thee, let now thine ear be attentive to the prayer of thy servant, and to the prayer of thy servants, who desire to fear thy name” (11). Even more particularly, he asks, “prosper, I pray thee, thy servant this day, and grant him mercy in the sight of this man [i.e., Medo-Persian Emperor Artaxerxes]” (11).

Beloved, we live some 2 ½ millennia after this profound prayer in Nehemiah 1. Our hope is in our Lord Jesus Christ, whom Nehemiah’s contemporary, Malachi, called “the messenger of the covenant” (3:1). He bore our covenant judgment on the cross of Calvary because of our covenant breaking of the law of God. In Him, we have all the covenant promises: the forgiveness of sins and the righteousness of God, a new heart and a new life, and the new heavens and the new earth! Let us seek the welfare of Christ’s church—often troubled by false doctrine, worldly members, divisions and persecution—by seeking God’s face in covenant prayer for her! Rev. Stewart
 

The Covenant of Redemption (2)

We continue our discussion of the covenant of redemption. That covenant is sometimes seen as an agreement between the Persons of the Trinity, between the Father and the Son or between God and Christ. We have seen that the covenant in Scripture is not an agreement but a relationship. That is not to deny, however, that there is a covenant between the Persons of the Trinity, and between God and Christ.

The covenant in the highest and most important sense is not the relationship that God establishes with His people in Christ. It is first of all and most importantly the relationship between the Persons of the Trinity, a relationship hinted at in Proverbs 8:22-31: “The Lord possessed me in the beginning of his way, before his works of old. I was set up from everlasting, from the beginning, or ever the earth was. When there were no depths, I was brought forth; when there were no fountains abounding with water. Before the mountains were settled, before the hills was I brought forth: While as yet he had not made the earth, nor the fields, nor the highest part of the dust of the world. When he prepared the heavens, I was there: when he set a compass upon the face of the depth: When he established the clouds above: when he strengthened the fountains of the deep: When he gave to the sea his decree, that the waters should not pass his commandment: when he appointed the foundations of the earth: Then I was by him, as one brought up with him: and I was daily his delight, rejoicing always before him; Rejoicing in the habitable part of his earth; and my delights were with the sons of men.”

I Corinthians 2:9-11 is another passage that hints at this relationship, though that relationship must be blessed and wonderful beyond anything we can imagine: “But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him. But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God. For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God.”

That is the covenant as an eternal reality in the Trinity. There is no other covenant. For that reason God, more often than not, speaks of the covenant as one: “my covenant.” The covenant with Christ and the covenant in Christ with the elect are not different and separate covenants. Nor was the covenant with Adam in paradise.

When God establishes His covenant with us, He takes us into that blessed relationship, becoming our Father, taking us as His sons and daughters, and, having provided His own dwelling place as our home, taking us to live with Him forever. In other words, He establishes His covenant with us, so that we become part of that family in which He is Father and Christ is His only-begotten Son through the Holy Spirit. That relationship between the Persons of the Trinity is THE COVENANT and into it we are taken when God establishes His covenant with us.

In order to reveal and establish that covenant with us, God first establishes it with Christ, not by some kind of transaction or agreement but by making Christ His Son through the incarnation: “He shall cry unto me, Thou art my father, my God, and the rock of my salvation. Also I will make him my firstborn, higher than the kings of the earth. My mercy will I keep for him for evermore, and my covenant shall stand fast with him” (Ps. 89:26-28). Through the incarnation and human nature of Christ, He takes us to be His people, with Christ, as God and man, becoming the personal link that joins God and His people forever in the blessed relationship that we call the covenant. That relationship between God and Christ is the covenant of redemption, if we are to use such terminology.

In Christ, God sovereignly and powerfully redeems and sanctifies those whom He has chosen, that they, sinners in themselves, may be His people and may live with Him in eternal bliss to praise Him and glorify Him forever. That is what we call the covenant of grace. It too is not a different covenant, but the glorious revelation of the one everlasting covenant and of the great God of the covenant.

The eternal covenant, the covenant of redemption and the covenant of grace are not different covenants, but one covenant, revealed in Christ and through Him established with all the elect, who are brought into that covenant as God’s friends and children. That covenant God established with different people throughout the Old Testament: Adam, Noah, Abraham, David and Israel. Each covenant was not a new and separate relationship, but a new revelation of the wonders of God’s covenant.

With Noah, for example, Jehovah revealed the wideness of His covenant mercy by showing that His covenant includes not only men and women but all creatures. With Abraham, He showed Himself to be the faithful God of the covenant, who is pleased to be the Friend and Father not only of believers but of their children. With Israel at Sinai, God showed that the way of the covenant is obedience to Him and love for Him. The law was never meant to be the condition of the covenant but the way in which God’s covenant people show their thankfulness for His covenant mercies (Ps. 89:1-2).

With David, Jehovah showed the unbreakableness of His covenant—how He would keep covenant with a sinful people, maintaining that relationship through the suffering of Christ with a people who would forsake His law, refuse to walk in His judgments, break His statutes and fail a thousand times over to keep His commandments (30-34). He would find someone like David but much greater, whom He would make His “firstborn, higher than the kings of the earth” (19-28).

Through the suffering of that David-like Prince, God would see to it that His covenant was not broken by the sins of His chosen people (30-34), for He would cause the rod of His judgment and all His wrath to fall on the One whom He had chosen (38-45). What response is possible but that with which Psalm 89 concludes: “Blessed be the Lord for evermore. Amen, and Amen” (52)?

God fulfilled His covenant in Christ. That covenant, fulfilled, is the new covenant of Hebrews 8. Not a different covenant but the realization of all the covenant promises made for four thousand years previously, as the covenant formula in Hebrews 8:10 so clearly shows: “I will be to them a God, and they shall be to me a people.”  Rev. Ron Hanko

 
Covenant Protestant Reformed Church
83 Clarence Street, Ballymena, BT43 5DR • Lord’s Day services at 11 am & 6 pm
Website: https://cprc.co.uk/ • Live broadcast: cprc.co.uk/live-streaming/
Pastor: Angus Stewart, 7 Lislunnan Road, Kells, N. Ireland, BT42 3NR • (028) 25 891851  
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. • www.youtube.com/cprcni • www.facebook.com/CovenantPRC
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PRC and Sister-Church News Highlights for November 19, 2023 *Updated)

Ps100 4Today, November 19, is the forty-seventh Lord's Day of this year of our Lord 2023. Below you will find special highlights of PRC and sister-church news. It is our hope that these reports not only inform you but also give you opportunity to pray for the needs of these churches and mission fields throughout the world.

This Thursday, November 23, the PRC congregations in the U.S. will gather for worship in the morning for the annual Thanksgiving Day service. Those without a church home or visiting near one of these congregations are cordially invited to join them in praising and thanking the Lord for His goodness, and in expressing complete dependence on Him for all our material and spiritual gifts.  "Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name." ~ Psalm 100:4

If you are new to this website and the PRCA, we invite you to join us in worship today or on any of the Sunday's of this year at one of our local congregations near you, or listen online.

CONGREGATIONAL NEWS 

  • This evening Hudsonville PRC voted for a new pastor from the Council's new trio of Revs. J. Engelsma (Crete PRC), W. Langerak (Trinity PRC), and D. Noorman (SW PRC). UPDATE: Rev. Noorman  has received this call.

  • Last Sunday Rev. G. Eriks declined the call from Loveland PRC.
  • Last Sunday Hope PRC-Redlands, CA voted to call Rev. J. Smidstra (First PRC – Holland MI). He plans to answer by December 3.

  • Last Sunday Lynden (WA) PRC extended a call to Rev. J. Engelsma (Crete PRC). He plans to answer by December 3.

Classical appointments and pulpit supply for today in the vacant PRCs:  Prof. C. Griess (and Thanksgiving Day) and Rev. C. Haak in Georgetown PRC; Prof. B. Huizinga and Rev. M. McGeown in Hudsonville PRC; Rev. K. Koole (1st week) and Thanksgiving Day in Loveland PRC; Elders lead; Rev. R. Smit Thanksgiving Day and next Sunday (26th) in Lynden PRC; Rev. S. Regnerus (Rev. J. Laning Thanksgiving Day and next Sunday) in Randolph PRC; Prof. B. Gritters and Rev. D. Lee (and Rev. Koole, Thanksgiving Day) in Zion PRC.  May we count it a blessing of our church federation that we can help one another in these needs. Let us remember to pray for the men who supply these pulpits and for the vacant congregations. And may we continue to pray for men to hear the call to serve as pastors and missionaries!

Special Congregational Notices:

  • Upcoming - Faith PRC Evangelism Committee (Jenison, MI): Financial Stewardship Seminar: Saturday morning (9-11:30), January 27, 2024 at the church. Married couples, single members, young (teens and up!) and old, plan to attend Faith PRC Evangelism Committee's financial stewardship seminar! There will be keynote presentations as well as breakout sessions for various age groups on biblical money management and stewardship principles. Look for more information, including registration, soon!

PRC DENOMINATIONAL NEWS

    • As previously reported, the Ad Hoc Committee of Synod 2023 signed a contract with Guidepost Solutions for a denomination wide investigation of sexual abuse in the PRCA. The committee now reports that the first phase of the engagement has begun. A detailed letter containing links to a “hotline” and survey has been sent to all of the clerks in the denomination for distribution. This letter can also be accessed by the public via a link on the PRCA.org homepage [See the tab on far right above, "Guidepost 3rd Party Investigation" or use the link here]. The Ad Hoc Committee encourages all members of the PRCA to read the letter, to take part in the survey, and to share it with anyone who may be able to provide information for this investigation.

    • PRC 100th Anniversary: With gratitude to our faithful God, the PRCA look forward to our 100th anniversary. The celebration is planned for June 23-27, 2025, at Calvin University in Grand Rapids, MI. The various committees of the 100th anniversary steering commitee are busy preparing for this historic event, including a special commemorative book. Watch for further notices and updates!

Sign frost Nov 2023
A frosty sunrise greeted the seminary this past Monday morning and all week the "autumn glory" maples along the driveway were at their peak.

PRC Seminary Notices:

  • The PR Theological Seminary will enter its twelfth week of the first semester 2023-24 tomorrow. This Thursday and Friday will be our Thanksgiving break, as we pause to praise and thank our God for His manifold goodness and grace.  We also thank you for the ongoing prayer support and words of encouragement. Seminary will be open on Friday. "I will offer to thee the sacrifice of thanksgiving, and will call upon the name of the LORD." Psalm 116:17
  • The second round of practice preaching was held last Monday with Sems. B. Feenstra and A. Van Dyke delivering their new sermons.
  • Senior Arend Haveman is in the final weeks of his summer-fall internship (July-December) in Pittsburgh PRC under Rev. W. Bruinsma. He is busy with all aspects of the ministry, and is regularly preaching new sermons. After the internship is completed, he will return for this final semester next year, Lord willing.
  • The Fall 2023 issue of the PR Theological Journal was mailed out this week. The digital editions have been posted on the journal page (click on the link provided here). This latest issue features three articles related to the Reformed controversy with the Remonstrants (Arminians) and a reprint of a special Reformation feature from an early issue of the PRTJ. Plus, there is a good number of book reviews again, on a variety of subjects. If you want to be added to our mailing list (either print or digital) or wish to pick up a copy, contact Valerie Kleyn, the seminary secretary (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.). 
  • During normal school sessions the seminary is open daily from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. (holidays excepted), including the library and bookstore. PRC members and friends are welcome to visit and make use of these resources.
  • For the latest seminary news and information, visit the seminary's website - and don't forget the blog!

greatcommission1

SISTER-CHURCH/MISSION NEWS:

  • Hope PRC-Walker, MI re her work in Myanmar through Rev. Titus: "The Myanmar Committee reported that it held a video conference with Rev. Titus, Elder Naw Taung, and Deacon Joseph. The saints in Myanmar have been able to worship again because the military is presently distracted by fighting in other parts of the country. However, it appears that the war will be closing in on Yangon. ...Let us remember these beloved saints in prayer and ask the Lord to keep them strong in faith and safe under the shelter of his wings (Ps. 91:4)." (abbreviated report from her bulletin today; for more information, read the full report that was sent to the churches this week)

  • Covenant ERC, Singapore and her Kolkata, India mission work:
    • Pastors J. Tan and M. Wee are faithfully serving the CERC. Today Pastor Tan preached. In today's "pastoral voice" there is a timely report and response on the Israel-Hamas war in the Middle East by Rev. M. Wee.
    • A new issue of Salt Shakers is out! #70, "Time Is Running Out," concerns the Christian's use of time; find a variety of articles on timely subjetcs in this issue! Written especially for young people and young adults, SS is edifying for all adults!
  • PRC in the Philippines and her mission work in various places:
    • Berean PRC bulletin: Rev. V. Ibe led her services today. And, "The saints in All of Grace Protestant Reformed Fellowship (AGPRF), Gabaldon, NE will join us in our worship services via Livestreamed at our Facebook account."
    • Provident PRC bulletin: An elder led her services today.

REFORMED RESOURCES for EDUCATION, EDIFICATION, and EVANGELISM

RWH Logo 2019
Listen to the Reformed Witness Hour each Sunday - on a radio station near you, on Sermonaudio, or on your favorite podcast - wherever you are!

W Bruinsma RWH

  • This month (November 2023) the RWH is broadcasting four gospel messages by Rev. W. Bruinsma, including a special Thanksgiving message on Nov.26. Today's message is titled "Prayer for Restored Joy" and is based on Psalm 51:10-12. For the November RWH Newsletter, visit this page. 
  • The Reformed Witness Hour publishes each month's messages in an attractive booklet. These printed sermons are a great blessing to many and are distributed all over the world, including to many prisoners in the U.S. If you or your Evangelism Committee would like to receive these, let the RWHC know and they will add you to the mailing list (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.).

ChildreninChurch 1
Why do we want and take our children with us in worship? Read this resource to find out sound biblical reasons for this practice in the PRC. 

  • In need of sound biblical and Reformed catechism materials for children and young people? Check out the PRC's full curriculum of materials here. Call the PRC Seminary for help with any of these materials (616-531-1490).

  • For sound, distinctively Reformed literature on a variety of subjects and for all ages - including church history and Bible study materials - visit the Reformed Free Publishing Association website or stop in at their Jenison (Michigan) location.

RBO Aug 2023 2

  • The Reformed Book Outlet (downtown Hudsonville, MI) is now operating out of its new store in downtown Hudsonville! The new location is at 3472 Harvey St. in Hudsonville. Visit the store and browse the variety of resources for your Reformed-Christian faith and walk, including many children's titles. They are open Tuesday-Friday, 10-5, and Saturday 10-1. 
    *Special notice: The Reformed Book Outlet will be hosting their annual Holiday Open House again on Thursday, November 30, from 5-8pm. Most books, Bibles, Bible covers, and more will be 25% off, and we will have kids activities, snacks, cookie decorating, and a gift card giveaway! The Special Grounds coffee cart will also be open, with specialized coffee and hot chocolate available to purchase by donation. Make plans to join us anytime during the night!

This Week's Thought for Contemplation

 And here is the wonder of it all, that God, the all glorious, has purposed through the church; the body of Christ with its many members, in whom He has poured out of His abundant grace, that that church should be the mouthpiece through whom praise shall ascend to Him that enumerates His perfections and thus glorifies Him. O, indeed, also the wicked shall bend the knee and acknowledge that He is God, but they cannot thank Him. But unto us has this grace been given. 

Abundant grace makes the thanksgiving to abound! 

The one grace of God is multiplied in myriads of reflections in the church chosen in Christ! 

This grace overflows and comes out of many mouths through thanksgiving! 

To the praise of God's glory! 

Thus God glorifies Himself! 

What an unspeakably precious gift that He will glorify Himself through us, and that He through the wonder of grace will draw from us His own praise in such a way that we consciously extol His praises with thanksgiving to Him! 

This is true thanksgiving! 

May we remember this when on Thanksgiving Day we enter His courts! 

Now, of course, we realize this only with a small beginning of new obedience. 

Presently, however, we shall stand in that vast multitude of redeemed that shall see Him face to face. Then unto all eternity shall ascend as a sweet incense to the Most High the praise and thanksgiving which is His due in heavenly perfection.

~ Taken from the Standard Bearer article "Grace Abounding Through Thanksgiving" by Marinus Schipper

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PRC and Sister-Church News Highlights for November 12, 2023 *(Updated)

Psalm 119 176Today, November 12, is the forty-sixth Lord's Day of this year of our Lord 2023. Below you will find special highlights of PRC and sister-church news. It is our hope that these reports not only inform you but also give you opportunity to pray for the needs of these churches and mission fields throughout the world.

If you are new to this website and the PRCA, we invite you to join us in worship today or on any of the Sunday's of this year at one of our local congregations near you, or listen online.

My lips shall utter praise, when thou hast taught me thy statutes. My tongue shall speak of thy word: for all thy commandments are righteousness. Let thine hand help me; for I have chosen thy precepts I have longed for thy salvation, O LORD; and thy law is my delight. Let my soul live, and it shall praise thee; and let thy judgments help me. I have gone astray like a lost sheep; seek thy servant; for I do not forget thy commandments. ~ Psalm 119:171-176

CONGREGATIONAL NEWS 

  • Rev. M. Koerner was ordained and installed as a minister of the Word and sacraments in a special worship service held this past Thursday, Nov.9, and now begins serving as the pastor of Hosanna PRC in Edmonton, AB. For more on this, including photos from that special night, visit this page. May the Lord grant him grace to be a faithful minister of the gospel and to have a fruitful ministry in that congregation. 

  • Rev. M. Kortus, who has accepted the call to Zion PRC (Jenison, MI), preaches his farewell in Hope PRC (Redlands, CA) this evening.  This week he and his family plan to move to West Michigan.

  • Today Rev. G. Eriks declined the call from Loveland PRC.

  • Today Hope PRC-Redlands,CA voted to call a new pastor from the trio the Council adopted: Revs. N. Decker (Grandville PRC), J. Mahtani (Hope PRC – Walker, MI), and J. Smidstra (First PRC – Holland MI).  UPDATE: Rev. Smidstra has received this call.

  • Lynden (WA) PRC's Consistory has formed a new trio from which the congregation will chose today: Revs. A. Brummel (Calvary PRC), J. Engelsma (Crete PRC), and G. Eriks (Unity PRC). UPDATE: Rev. Engelsma has received this call.

  • Hudsonville PRC's Council has chosen a new trio from which the congregation will call on November 19 after the evening service: Revs. J. Engelsma (Crete PRC), W. Langerak (Trinity PRC), and D. Noorman (SW PRC). 

Classical appointments and pulpit supply for today in the vacant PRCs:  Prof. C. Griess and Rev. D. Noorman in Georgetown PRC; Rev. D. Holstege and Prof. B. Huizinga in Hudsonville PRC; Rev. R. Barnhill (2nd week) in Loveland PRC; Rev. J. Marcus (2nd week) in Lynden PRC; Prof. M. DeVries in Randolph PRC; Prof. B. Gritters and Rev. D. Holstege in Zion PRC.  May we count it a blessing of our church federation that we can help one another in these needs. Let us remember to pray for the men who supply these pulpits and for the vacant congregations. And may we continue to pray for men to hear the call to serve as pastors and missionaries!

Special Congregational Notices:

  • Byron Center (MI) PRC: "The community Bible study meets at church this week Thursday, November 16, at 7:30 PM. We plan to begin our discussion at John 21:10. We hope you can join us and bring a friend!"

  • Faith PRC Evangelism Committee (Jenison, MI): Financial Stewardship Seminar: Saturday morning (9-11:30), January 27, 2024 at the church. Married couples, single members, young (teens and up!) and old, plan to attend Faith PRC Evangelism Committee's financial stewardship seminar! There will be keynote presentations as well as breakout sessions for various age groups on biblical money management and stewardship principles. Look for more information, including registration, soon!

PRC DENOMINATIONAL NEWS

    • As previously reported the Ad Hoc Committee of Synod 2023 signed a contract with Guidepost Solutions for a denomination wide investigation of sexual abuse in the PRCA. The committee now reports that the first phase of the engagement has begun. A detailed letter containing links to a “hotline” and survey has been sent to all of the clerks in the denomination for distribution. This letter can also be accessed by the public via a link on the PRCA.org homepage [See the tab on far right above, "Guidepost 3rd Party Investigation" or use the link here]. The Ad Hoc Committee encourages all members of the PRCA to read the letter, to take part in the survey, and to share it with anyone who may be able to provide information for this investigation.

    • PRC 100th Anniversary: With gratitude to our faithful God, the PRCA look forward to our 100th anniversary. The celebration is planned for June 23-27, 2025, at Calvin University in Grand Rapids, MI. The various committees of the 100th anniversary steering commitee are busy preparing for this historic event, including a special commemorative book. Watch for further notices and updates!

Rev Noorman chapel Nov
Rev. D. Noorman (PRTS class of 2017, pastor of Southwest PRC) led the chapel on Nov.1 at the PRC Seminary.

PRC Seminary Notices:

  • The PR Theological Seminary will enter its eleventh week of the first semester 2023-24 tomorrow. We thank the Lord for providing for our needs each week. Continue to pray for the faculty, students, and staff as we begin the final third of the semester.
  • The second round of practice preaching will be held tomorrow morning at SW PRC, with Sems. B. Feekstra and A. Van Dyke delivering their new sermons.
  • This week Joe Ophoff will lead the daily devotions. There will no chapel on Wednesday due to practice preaching on Monday.
  • This past Tuesday, Nov.7, Prof. C. Griess successfully defend his ThM thesis ( "The Art Homily: A Neglected Homiletical Method?") at Puritan Reformed Theological Seminary.  We thank the Lord for His goodness in preparing him and enabling him for this last phase of his degree program. He plans to graduate in December. 
  • Senior Arend Haveman is in the final weeks of his summer-fall internship (July-December) in Pittsburgh PRC under Rev. W. Bruinsma. He is busy with all aspects of the ministry, and is regularly preaching new sermons. After the internship is completed, he will return for this final semester next year, Lord willing.
  • Prof. C. Griess gave a speech at the pre-Classis West Officebearers' Conference on sexual abuse on Sept.26 in Crete PRC (IL). Prof. Griess' speech may be found here and on the seminary's YouTube channel.
  • This Fall, in connection with a special conference held online for interested people in Mexico, Prof. R. Cammenga prepared three lectures on the errors of the well-meant offer of the gospel and the truth of the Reformed-biblical call of the gospel. You may find these lectures on the seminary's YouTube channel.
  • The Fall 2023 issue of the PR Theological Journal is back from the printer and will be mailed out this week. The digital editions have been posted on the journal page (click on the link provided here). This latest issue features three articles related to the Reformed controversy with the Remonstrants (Arminians) and a reprint of a special Reformation feature from an early issue of the PRTJ. To read the last one (Spring 2023), visit the link provided here. If you want to be added to our mailing list (either print or digital) or wish to pick up a copy, contact Valerie Kleyn, the seminary secretary (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.). 
  • During normal school sessions the seminary is open daily from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. (holidays excepted), including the library and bookstore. PRC members and friends are welcome to visit and make use of these resources.
  • For the latest seminary news and information, visit the seminary's website - and don't forget the blog!

john 17 22

SISTER-CHURCH/MISSION NEWS:

  • Covenant ERC, Singapore and her Kolkata, India mission work:
    • Pastors J. Tan and M. Wee are faithfully serving the CERC. Today Pastor Wee preached. This special note was in her bulletin today with regard to her recent visitors: "Thank God for granting our missionary pastor Rev Singh and church visitors Pastor Key and Elder Dave Kregel safe travels back home. Thank God for answering your prayers concerning the church visitation. Ordinarily, the church visitation takes place over one night. But thanks be to God that we had such in-depth and fruitful discussion that the formal discussions stretched over two nights."
    • A new issue of Salt Shakers is out! #70, "Time Is Running Out," concerns the Christian's use of time; find a variety of articles on timely subjetcs in this issue! Written especially for young people and young adults, SS is edifying for all adults!
  • Covenant PRC, N. Ireland:
    • Rev. A. Stewart continues to minister the Word faithfully in the CPRC. This past week Rev. Stewart spoke four times at a conference in Budapest, Hungary, the theme of which was “The Local Congregation: Seeking the Welfare of the Church.”
    • The September 2023 issue of Covenant Reformed News was published last month. Visit the link to read the articles on "Nehemiah's Godly Enquiry Concerning Jerusalem" and Rev. R. Hanko's answers to questions about the covenant of redemption.
    • The CPRC YouTube channel may be found here.
  • PRC in the Philippines and her mission work in various places:
    • Berean PRC bulletin: "We welcome in our midst Rev. Audred and Mrs. Alva Spriensma. May God bless them as we are blessed by God through their presence with us." The Spriensma's will be returning to the States on Tuesday. And, "The saints in All of Grace Protestant Reformed Fellowship (AGPRF), Gabaldon, NE will join us in our worship services via Livestreamed at our Facebook account."
    • Provident PRC bulletin: Rev. V. Ibe filled her pulpit today.

REFORMED RESOURCES for EDUCATION, EDIFICATION, and EVANGELISM

RWH Logo 2019
Listen to the Reformed Witness Hour each Sunday - on a radio station near you, on Sermonaudio, or on your favorite podcast - wherever you are!

W Bruinsma RWH

  • This month (November 2023) the RWH will broadcast four gospel messages by Rev. W. Bruinsma, including a special Thanksgiving message on Nov.26. Today's message is titled "Jehovah Does What Pleases Him" and is based on Psalm 135:5,6. For the November RWH Newsletter, visit this page. 
  • The Reformed Witness Hour publishes each month's messages in an attractive booklet. These printed sermons are a great blessing to many and are distributed all over the world, including to many prisoners in the U.S. If you or your Evangelism Committee would like to receive these, let the RWHC know and they will add you to the mailing list (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.).

 
 
 
For the month of November only, get your copies of Peace for the Troubled Heart for only $14—that's more than 50% off! Order by clicking the picture below or the "Monthly Sales" button on the RFPA website homepage!

Herman Hoeksema has been called one of the greatest devotional writers of the 20th century. This book, comprised of 37 meditations, addresses the theme of struggle and suffering in the life of every believer who lives as a pilgrim of this world. Hoeksema, in his warm, personal, often poetic style, masterfully exercises the spiritual gift of devotional writing in Peace.
Click to Order
  • In need of sound biblical and Reformed catechism materials for children and young people? Check out the PRC's full curriculum of materials here. Call the PRC Seminary for help with any of these materials (616-531-1490).

  • For sound, distinctively Reformed literature on a variety of subjects and for all ages - including church history and Bible study materials - visit the Reformed Free Publishing Association website or stop in at their Jenison (Michigan) location.

RBO Aug 2023 2

  • The Reformed Book Outlet (downtown Hudsonville, MI) is now operating out of its new store in downtown Hudsonville! The new location is at 3472 Harvey St. in Hudsonville. Visit the store and browse the variety of resources for your Reformed-Christian faith and walk, including many children's titles. They are open Tuesday-Friday, 10-5, and Saturday 10-1. 
    *Special notice: The Reformed Book Outlet will be open extra hours on Thursday, November 16 in coordination with the Hudsonville Holiday Parade. If you are in the area for the night, please stop in! We will be open until 6:30 PM, and we will have coffee and hot chocolate available!

This Week's Thought for Contemplation

 "I was in the Spirit on the Lord's day, and heard behind me a great voice, as of a trumpet,” Rev 1:10

The wicked world claims this day as their own to do as they please and for their own pleasures. But Rev 1:10 reminds us, this day, Sunday, belongs to the King of Kings, our Lord Jesus Christ. He is the Lord of the Sabbath (Mark 2:27)

This day, our Lord Jesus Christ gives us to, as it were, repair our spiritual armour. After a week of intense fighting against the Devil, the wicked world and our own sinful flesh, there are cracks forming on our helmets and shields. A miracle that they have held up through the relentless and pounding blows of temptations and Satan’s fiery darts of deception. This day, from sun up to sun down, God gives us to sit under the preaching, so that our faith is again strengthened. Our blunt swords sharpen.

It would be sheer foolishness to forget or forsake this true rest!

So come and frequent the Lord’s house. Drink deeply of the sweetness of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Shed tears of true heartfelt repentance. Stand in awe and the power of Jesus’s salvation of us. Then march out with hearts filled with joy and thankfulness. With hearts filled with comfort and confidence in the finished work of Christ at the cross.

Restless souls in a world of unrest, come let us rest in Christ.

~ Taken from today's Covenant ERC-Singapore bulletin, written by Pastor J. Tan in his "pastoral voice" note to the congregation

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Hosanna PRC - Ordination/Installation Service of Pastor-elect Matt Koerner - November 9, 2023

Ordination service M Koerner livestream 2

Last evening Hosanna PRC (Edmonton, AB) joyfully witnessed and celebrated the ordination and installation service of pastor-elect Matthew Koerner. Rev. M. Koerner is a 2023 graduate of the PR Theological Seminary and is married to Sharon (Kleyn). He becomes the sixth pastor in the congregation's history.

Ordination service M Koerner Rev H Bleyenberg

The service was held in St. Albert Evangelical Lutheran Church, with Rev. H. Bleyenberg of Immanuel PRC in Lacombe, AB, leading the service (photo above) and emeritus pastor Rev. T. Miersma also present and participating (see photo below). Rev. Bleyenberg preached from I Peter 5:5-6, under the theme, “The Humble Minister”. 

 Ordination service M Koerner laying on of hands

Part of the service of ordination involved the laying on of hands, pictured above, with Rev. Bleyenberg (r) and Rev. Miersma (l) participating. At the conclusion of the service, Rev. Koerner pronounced his first benediction as a minister of the gospel.

MKoerner benediction

Afterward, a special time of fellowship was enjoyed by the congregation with their new pastor and his wife along with family and friends.

Ordination service Matt Sharon Koerner
Rev. M. Koerner and Sharon

MKoerner ordination ministers group
Rev. Bleyenberg and his wife Deb; Rev. Koerner and his wife Sharon; Rev. Miersma and his wife Jan.

Thanks to Nick Kleyn for the photos!

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Guidepost Third-Party Investigation Updates

guidepostlogo

This page relates to the PRC's use of Guidepost to carry out a third party investigation of sexual abuse in the PRC.

UPDATE - March 31, 2024

The Ad Hoc Committee of Synod 2023 reports that it is deactivating the Guidepost hotline (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.) effective April 5, 2024.  The reasoning is that after this date Guidepost will be unable to investigate and report on information collected through the hotline in time to meet the deadline for the synodical report.  Instead of using funds for the hotline, the committee has directed Guidepost to focus on compiling and distributing reports to consistories.  The hotline may be reactivated in the future depending on the decisions of Synod 2024.

UPDATE - January 21, 2024:   

Guidepost Solutions has reported to the Ad Hoc Committee that there was an excellent response rate to the survey and hotline. There were almost 1,300 survey participants, of which 26% have agreed to follow-up interviews. Through the hotline, Guidepost has received reports from 29 individuals, of which 72% have agreed to follow-up interviews. Anyone who still desires to report on sexual abuse may use the hotline (mailto:This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.). This will be open throughout the duration of the investigation. Guidepost is presently busy with the interviewing process and prioritization of the cases.

 

UPDATE - December 10, 2023: 

The Ad Hoc Committee (PRC Synod 2023) reports that Guidepost is presently evaluating the survey results and estimates that it will take two weeks to compile data and report to the committee. The committee’s mandate is to discuss with Guidepost the priority of investigations going forward. The committee expresses its sincere gratitude for all who have submitted surveys and responded via the hotline. Although the survey has ended, the hotline (mailto:This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.) will be open throughout the duration of the investigation.

 

Original Notice - November 10, 2023

As we have previously communicated on October 8, 2023, the synodical Ad Hoc Committee has engaged Guidepost Solutions (“Guidepost”), a global leader in organizational compliance and monitoring to work with us to receive and investigate reports of all sexual abuse committed by current or former members (including officebearers) of the PRCA, uncover patterns of sexual abuse in our churches that can be identified to help PRCA consistories better understand the nature of sexual abuse, and uncover general patterns of how consistories have responded to reports of sexual abuse to assess and better understand how we identify and handle allegations of sexual misconduct including sexual abuse. Guidepost has several skilled and trauma-informed practitioners who work specifically with faith-based organizations to help in investigating sexual abuse, assessing systems and developing healthy faith communities regarding issues around sexual abuse.

For the first phase of the engagement (the second being an investigation phase), Guidepost will make available an anonymous reporting mechanism via email where allegations and reports of sexual misconduct relative to the PRCA can be made. These reports are not limited to those associated with PRCA churches. This reporting email may also be used to report allegations of sexual misconduct related to PRCA affiliated schools, events, young people’s conventions, young adult retreats and other organizations of the PRCA such as the Protestant Reformed Theological School. Any concerns or allegations of current or previous abuse relative to the PRCA can be reported to Guidepost at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Reporters who provide information to this hotline will not be identified to the PRCA without their specific permission. If a reporter chooses confidentiality by not disclosing their identity in this hotline, there may be limitations on any effective investigation by Guidepost. This hotline will be available throughout the duration of the investigation.

In addition to the above-mentioned email address, Guidepost will also be gathering feedback from both current and past congregants through an anonymous survey. This survey will ask questions relative to the existence and reporting of any abuse allegations. While the survey will be anonymous, there will be a section available where survey takers can identify themselves and request further contact with Guidepost. Any follow up discussions with Guidepost will be confidential. The survey will be open from Monday, November 13 through Friday, December 1. The link to the survey is: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/PRCA_Survey and is also available on the PRCA website. As with the survey and the hotline reports, interviews conducted as part of any investigation or logical follow-up will be done by Guidepost, and the identities of those interviewed will be confidential.

As Guidepost does its work, it will communicate general comments, questions, concerns, or requests back to the Ad Hoc Committee. The committee will provide you further updates as the efforts get underway and look forward to your participation and cooperation.

Some may be wondering: who may or should fill out the survey? Generally, any current or former member of the PRCA can and is encouraged to fill out the survey. Part of the work of Guidepost is to provide an assessment of the PRCA’s understanding and handling of sexual abuse, which is informed in part by the response of a sampling of members associated with the PRCA. Certain questions in the survey are geared generally toward understanding the culture of the PRCA concerning sexual abuse.

Specifically and especially, the survey and hotline are for anyone to report sexual abuse or the mishandling of allegations of sexual abuse. In the past several years, the Lord has brought to light the sin and evil of sexual abuse in the PRCA. This third-party investigation is to help the PRCA truly reckon with its past by providing a safe way for anyone to report sexual abuse that has taken place in the PRCAthroughout her history. Not only is this for current members of the PRCA, but we desire also to reach those who may no longer be members. Some have left the PRCA on account of being sexually abused by those whom they trusted or because of an improper response by the church to their abuse. We desire to show the compassion of Christ to you in your suffering and to address the sins perpetrated against you in a just manner. And so we strongly desire you to use this survey and Guidepost to accomplish those ends. Therefore, we urge current members of the PRCA to share this survey link with any family, friends, or acquaintances who were in the PRCA at one time. We pray that God will use this as a means to help purify and fight against this evil in our denomination.

The Ad Hoc Committee, Synod 2023

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PRC and Sister-Church News Highlights for November 5, 2023

Ps119 37Today, November 5, is the forty-fifth Lord's Day of this year of our Lord 2023. Below you will find special highlights of PRC and sister-church news. It is our hope that these reports not only inform you but also give you opportunity to pray for the needs of these churches and mission fields throughout the world.

If you are new to this website and the PRCA, we invite you to join us in worship today or on any of the Sunday's of this year at one of our local congregations near you, or listen online.

For ever, O LORD, thy word is settled in heaven. Thy faithfulness is unto all generations: thou hast established the earth, and it abideth. They continue this day according to thine ordinances: for all are thy servants. Unless thy law had been my delights, I should then have perished in mine affliction. I will never forget thy precepts: for with them thou hast quickened me. ~ Psalm 119:89-93

CONGREGATIONAL NEWS 

  • From Hosanna PRC's bulletin today (Edmonton, AB): "By the grace of God Pastor-Elect Matt Koerner will be ordained to the ministry on Thursday, November 9 at 7:30 PM at St. Albert Evangelical Lutheran Church (SELC). Rev. Bleyenberg will be preaching from I Peter 5:5-6, “The Humble Minister”. We are thankful to the Lord for the answer to our prayers. I Peter 5:6, 'Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time.'”

  • From Hudsonville PRC's bulletin today: "The Council has chosen a new trio of Rev. Engelsma [Crete PRC], Rev. Langerak [Trinity PRC], and Rev. Noorman [SW PRC]. We will choose from the trio on November 19 after the evening service."

  • From Lynden (WA) PRC's bulletin today: "The Consistory presents the following trio for which to call a minister: Rev. A. Brummel [Calvary PRC], Rev. J. Engelsma, and Rev. G. Eriks [Unity PRC]. A congregational meeting is scheduled for Sunday, November 12, after the morning service, to call a minister from this trio."

  • Last Sunday Rev. G. Eriks (Unity PRC-Byron Center, MI) declined the call from Georgetown PRC.

  • Rev. M. Kortus, who has accepted the call to Zion PRC (Jenison, MI), plans to preach his farewell in Hope PRC (Redlands, CA) on November 12.  That week he and his family plan to move to west Michigan.

  • The Council of Hope PRC-Redlands,CA formed a trio for the congregation following Rev. Kortus' acceptance of Zion PRC's call: Revs. N. Decker (Grandville PRC), J. Mahtani (Hope PRC – Walker, MI), and J. Smidstra (First PRC – Holland MI). A congregational meeting is planned for Nov.12 after the morning worship service.

  • On October 15 Rev. R. Smit accepted the call to Randolph PRC (WI). In her bulletin the Council noted the tentative plans: "All dates are subject to change but currently this is the plan. They plan to move here on December 22. This date works well for the children’s break from school, as well as the current employment of the older children. Reverend and Trisha Smit will be moving here with at least five children. Installation is set for January 7. Until then, Reverend Smit has agreed to fill our pulpit as needed as much as he is able. For this we are very thankful."

Classical appointments and pulpit supply for today in the vacant PRCs:  Prof. C. Griess and Sem. A. Van Dyke in Georgetown PRC; Rev. T. Miersma and pastor-elect M. Koerner in Hosanna PRC, Edmonton, AB; Prof. B. Huizinga and Rev. J. Mahtani in Hudsonville PRC; Rev. R. Barnhill (1st week) in Loveland PRC; Rev. J. Marcus (1st week) in Lynden PRC; Prof. D. Kleyn in Randolph PRC; Prof. B. Gritters and Rev. G. Eriks in Zion PRC.  May we count it a blessing of our church federation that we can help one another in these needs. Let us remember to pray for the men who supply these pulpits and for the vacant congregations. And may we continue to pray for men to hear the call to serve as pastors and missionaries!

Special Congregational Notices:

  • Unity PRC Evangelism Committee: "Please remember that we have another meeting of our Community Bible Study on Tuesday, Nov. 7. It will be held at the Byron Rec Center at 2120 76th St. in Byron Center. The topic this month is Politics and Authority and it will be led by Kyle Ten Broeke. All are invited. Pick up a flyer or two from the back table and hand it out to a friend, co-worker, or a neighbor and bring them along next Tuesday. Hope to see you there."

  • Faith PRC Evangelism Committee: Financial Stewardship Seminar: Saturday morning (9-11:30), January 27, 2024 - Married couples, single members, young (teens and up!) and old, plan to attend Faith PRC Evangelism Committee's financial stewardship seminar! There will be keynote presentations as well as breakout sessions for various age groups on biblical money management and stewardship principles. Look for more information, including registration, soon!

PRC DENOMINATIONAL NEWS

    • Synod 2023 appointed an Ad Hoc Committee to hire a third-party organization for a denomination-wide investigation of sexual abuse. The committee reports that it has been laboring since the meeting of Synod to come to a mutual understanding and agreement with Guidepost Solutions regarding the work. On October 5 the committee signed a contract with Guidepost Solutions and expects that the investigation will begin in the near future with the publishing of a survey.

    • Classis East: Classis East met on Wednesday, September 13, at Trinity PRC. The delegates reconvened on Wednesday, Oct.25. For a summary of the actions and decisions, visit this page. For the public minutes, click on this link.

    • PRC 100th Anniversary: With gratitude to our faithful God, the PRCA look forward to our 100th anniversary. The celebration is planned for June 23-27, 2025, at Calvin University in Grand Rapids, MI. The various committees of the 100th anniversary steering commitee are busy preparing for this historic event, including a special commemorative book. Watch for further notices and updates!

Sign snow sunrise Nov 1
After the first measurable snow in West Michigan this past Tuesday, we awakened to a fall wonderland on Wednesday morning.

PRC Seminary Notices:

  • The PR Theological Seminary will conclude its tenth week of the first semester 2023-24 tomorrow. We thank the Lord for providing for our needs each week. Continue to pray for the faculty, students, and staff as we enter the final third of the semester.
  • This week Isaac Van Baren will lead the daily devotions while Rev. M. DeVries leads the Wednesday chapel.
  • On Tuesday begining at 3:30 p.m. Prof. C. Griess will defend his ThM thesis ( "The Art Homily: A Neglected Homiletical Method?") at Puritan Reformed Theological Seminary.  We pray that the Lord will uphold and strengthen him for this last phase of his degree program. 
  • Senior Arend Haveman is doing his internship this summer and fall (July-December) in Pittsburgh PRC under Rev. W. Bruinsma. He is busy with all aspects of the ministry, and is regularly preaching new sermons. After the internship is completed, he will return for this final semester next year, Lord willing.
  • Prof. C. Griess gave a speech at the pre-Classis West Officebearers' Conference on sexual abuse on Sept.26 in Crete PRC (IL). Prof. Griess' speech may be found here and on the seminary's YouTube channel.
  • This Fall, in connection with a special conference held online for interested people in Mexico, Prof. R. Cammenga prepared three lectures on the errors of the well-meant offer of the gospel and the truth of the Reformed-biblical call of the gospel. You may find these lectures on the seminary's YouTube channel.
  • The Fall 2023 issue of the PR Theological Journal is at the printer and should be ready in another week. This latest issue features three articles related to the Reformed controversy with the Remonstrants (Arminians) and a reprint of a special Reformation feature from an early issue of the PRTJ. To read the last one (Spring 2023), visit the link provided here. If you want to be added to our mailing list (either print or digital) or wish to pick up a copy, contact Valerie Kleyn, the seminary secretary (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.). 
  • During normal school sessions the seminary is open daily from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. (holidays excepted), including the library and bookstore. PRC members and friends are welcome to visit and make use of these resources.
  • For the latest seminary news and information, visit the seminary's website - and don't forget the blog!

ephesians 4 3

SISTER-CHURCH/MISSION NEWS:

  • Covenant ERC, Singapore and her Kolkata, India mission work:
    • Pastors J. Tan and M. Wee are faithfully serving the CERC. Today Pastor Wee and Pastor S. Key preached. This past week Rev. Key and Elder D. Kregel conducted (sister) church visitation with the CERC's session. These men and their wives will leave Singapore this week. May the Lord bless their labors and grant them safe travels back to the U.S.
    • A new issue of Salt Shakers is out! #70, "Time Is Running Out," concerns the Christian's use of time; find a variety of articles on timely subjetcs in this issue! Written especially for young people and young adults, SS is edifying for all adults!
  • Covenant PRC, N. Ireland:
    • Rev. A. Stewart continues to minister the Word faithfully in the CPRC. And this week, "Rev. Stewart will be speaking at a conference in Budapest, Hungary. He and Mary will be in Hungary from Monday through Friday (6-10 November). The conference in Hungary on the theme “The Local Congregation: Seeking the Welfare of the Church” is to be held on Wednesday-Friday of this week. Rev. Stewart will be speaking on 1) The Importance of the Local Church, 2) The Universal Invisible Church and the Local Church, 3) The Autonomy of the Local Church, 4) Unity Between Individual Churches, 5) Membership in a Local Church."
    • The September 2023 issue of Covenant Reformed News was published last month. Visit the link to read the articles on "Nehemiah's Godly Enquiry Concerning Jerusalem" and Rev. R. Hanko's answers to questions about the covenant of redemption.
    • The CPRC YouTube channel may be found here.
  • PRC in the Philippines and her mission work in various places:
    • Berean PRC bulletin: Rev. V. Ibe led her worship services today. And, "The saints in All of Grace Protestant Reformed Fellowship (AGPRF), Gabaldon, NE will join us in our worship services via Livestreamed at our Facebook account."
    • Provident PRC bulletin: Rev. A. Spriensma (Cornerstone PRC) is filling her pupit for two Sundays.

REFORMED RESOURCES for EDUCATION, EDIFICATION, and EVANGELISM

RWH Logo 2019
Listen to the Reformed Witness Hour each Sunday - on a radio station near you, on Sermonaudio, or on your favorite podcast - wherever you are!

W Bruinsma RWH

  • This month (November 2023) the RWH will broadcast four gospel messages by Rev. W. Bruinsma, including a special Thanksgiving message on Nov.26. Today's message is titled "Israel Transgresses God's Covenant" and is based on Hosea 6:7. For the November RWH Newsletter, visit this page. 
  • The Reformed Witness Hour publishes each month's messages in an attractive booklet. These printed sermons are a great blessing to many and are distributed all over the world, including to many prisoners in the U.S. If you or your Evangelism Committee would like to receive these, let the RWHC know and they will add you to the mailing list (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.).

 
 
 
For the month of November only, get your copies of Peace for the Troubled Heart for only $14—that's more than 50% off! Order by clicking the picture below or the "Monthly Sales" button on the RFPA website homepage!

Herman Hoeksema has been called one of the greatest devotional writers of the 20th century. This book, comprised of 37 meditations, addresses the theme of struggle and suffering in the life of every believer who lives as a pilgrim of this world. Hoeksema, in his warm, personal, often poetic style, masterfully exercises the spiritual gift of devotional writing in Peace.
Click to Order
  • In need of sound biblical and Reformed catechism materials for children and young people? Check out the PRC's full curriculum of materials here. Call the PRC Seminary for help with any of these materials (616-531-1490).

  • For sound, distinctively Reformed literature on a variety of subjects and for all ages - including church history and Bible study materials - visit the Reformed Free Publishing Association website or stop in at their Jenison (Michigan) location.

RBO Aug 2023 2

  • The Reformed Book Outlet (downtown Hudsonville, MI) is now operating out of its new store in downtown Hudsonville! The new location is at 3472 Harvey St. in Hudsonville. Visit the store and browse the variety of resources for your Reformed-Christian faith and walk, including many children's titles. They are open Tuesday-Friday, 10-5, and Saturday 10-1.

This Week's Thought for Contemplation

 "The Dutch have called Sunday, 'God's dike.' In the Netherlands, the dike keeps back the threatening seas and, thus, preserves the Hollanders from watery destruction. So the Lord's Day holds back the raging waves of materialism, earthly-mindedness, and pleasure-madness that threaten to engulf the Church and the Christian.

"There are leaks in the dike. There are leaks in the dike among Reformed Christians, where once the Lord's Day was honored and the Sabbath remembered. It is necessary that we stop up these leaks; we certainly must not allow these leaks to be enlarged, much less co-operate in tearing the dike down.

"The matter of remembering the Lord's Day is one of urgency, as the figure of a dike and the angry waves indicates. First, remembering the Sabbath is one of the Ten Commandments, indeed, a commandment that belongs to the first table of the law—not a minor matter, therefore.

"Secondly, the day in question is the 'Lord's Day' according to Rev. 1:10, i.e., the day that belongs to the risen, glorious Lord Jesus Christ. In remembering, or forgetting, it, we have to do with Jesus Christ Himself.

"Thirdly, our remembering the Lord's Day results, by the Lord's grace, in the greatest benefit for us: rest - the pricelessly precious benefit of rest. The Sabbath was made for man (Mark 2:27). The good of man that God had in mind is rest. Is there anything that we need more? Everywhere, there is unrest. There is unrest in the church; there is unrest in the family; there is unrest in the soul of the believer. Apart from every other consideration, it is sheer folly to forfeit rest by forgetting, and even abandoning, the Lord's Day.

"The importance of the Church's remembering the Lord's Day was clearly seen, and stated, by one of the fiercest enemies that the Christian religion ever had, the Frenchman, Voltaire: 'If you want to kill Christianity,' he said, 'you must abolish Sunday'—advice that the French Revolution carried out."

~ Taken from the pamphlet, "Remembering the Lord's Day," by Prof. D. Engelsma

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