The Protestant Reformed Theological Seminary (PRTS) is sponsoring a special conference THIS WEEKEND, October 31-November 2 at Grace PRC in Standale, MI (west of Grand Rapids). *

*[Videos of the conference are now available on the PRC Seminary's YouTube channel and on Grace PRC's Sermonaudio channel.]*

The theme is “By Grace I Am What I Am”: The PRCA’s Rejection of Common Grace, and the conference will mark the 100th anniversary of the controversy over common grace in the Christian Reformed Church that precipitated the founding of the PRCA (1924-2024).

The issue of common grace is still relevant a century later! Come to Grace PRC on October 31 (7:30pm), November 1 (7:00pm), and November 2 (9:00 am), to hear how.

On Thursday evening, Oct.31, Prof. D. Kuiper will speak on “The CRC Synod Kalamazoo 1924: Church History That Affected the Future.” This speech will set the decisions of Synod 1924 in their context culturally as well as historically and theologically. 

On Friday evening, Nov.1, Prof. B. Huizinga will address the error of the first point of common grace, and Prof. R. Cammenga will deal with the “little point of the first point,” the doctrine of the general offer of the gospel.

And on Saturday morning, Nov.2, Prof. B. Gritters will explain how the second point of common grace helped transform “missionary churches” (that bring people to Christ) into “missional churches” (that promote world renewal). Later that morning, Prof. C. Griess will examine what Abraham Kuyper really taught about the good works of the unregenerate, whether the 1924 Synod adopted Kuyper’s teaching, and what difference this makes for our worldview. 

See the schedule below for more details!

Plan to attend all the sessions or as many as you can! Join other PRC members and friends for instructive and edifying speeches and good fellowship. Refreshments will be available.

Book tables will be set up with resources from the RFPA and the PRTS, as well as historical items on display.

All speeches will be livestreamed on Grace PRC’s site.

Thursday evening session (Prof. D. Kuiper's lecture) in photos:

Friday Evening sessions - Prof. B. Huizinga and Prof. R. Cammenga speeches

Saturday's sessions - Prof. B. Gritters and Prof. C. Greiss' speeches

Today, October 27, is the forty-third Lord's Day of this year of our Lord 2024, and another rest stop on our pilgrim journey through this world. "Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest." Matthew 11:28

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.

Jesus saith unto her, Woman, believe me, the hour cometh, when ye shall neither in this mountain, nor yet at Jerusalem, worship the Father. Ye worship ye know not what: we know what we worship: for salvation is of the Jews. But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him. God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth. ~ John 4:21-24

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 you may listen online through one of the PRC's livestreams.

CONGREGATIONAL NEWS 

• The Council of Hudsonville PRC has formed a new trio from which to call her next pastor: Revs. A. Brummel, G. Eriks, and D. Holstege. The congregation will vote after the evening service today. * Rev. Brummel has received this call.
  
  
• Today Rev. A. Spriensma completed his ministry in Cornerstone PRC (Dyer, IN) and he and his wife planned to move to Hudsonville, MI this week. His emeritation takes effect Friday Nov.1. It is fitting to reference part of Classis East's decision at its Sept. 2024 meeting where his emeritation was approved: "That Classis express its deep appreciation and thanks to God for the 43 years of Rev. Spriensma’s dedicated service in the ministry and chaplaincy, and especially for his faithful work as both foreign and domestic missionary." The chair of Classis also expressed gratitude for his wife Alva, praying the Lord's blessing on them both as they continue to serve the Lord.
  
  
• On October 13 Cornerstone PRC (Dyer, IN) called Rev. M. DeBoer (Edgerton PRC-MN) from a trio that included Rev. N. Decker and Prof. B. Gritters. He plans to answer November 3.
  
  
• On October 13 Rev. N. Decker accepted the call to Hope PRC-Grand Rapids, MI. Rev. Decker's farewell sermon at Grandville PRC is planned for Nov.3. and his installation at Hope PRC is scheduled for the morning service on November 24.
  
  
• Southwest PRC's Council announced a new trio: Revs. M. DeBoer (Edgerton-MN PRC), J. Engelsma (Crete-IL PRC), and W. Langerak (Trinity PRC-Hudsonville, MI). The congregation will call for a new pastor from this trio on Nov.3.

Classical appointments and pulpit supply for today in the vacant PRCs: Sem. B. Feenstra and Elder led in Hope PRC-Walker; Rev. H. Bleyenberg (2nd week) in Hope PRC-Redlands; Prof. B. Huizinga and Prof. R. Cammenga in Hudsonville PRC; Rev. J. Engelsma (2nd week) in Lynden PRC; Prof. R. Cammenga and Rev. J. Slopsema in Southwest PRC; Prof. B. Gritters and Prof. B. Huizinga 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/Evangelism Notices:

• Calvary PRC (Hull, IA): "All are invited to Calvary PRC on Sunday, October 27, for a presentation on the Psalter revision by Prof. D. Kuiper and Mr. Josh Hoekstra. Calvary’s evening service will be held at 5 p.m. with the presentation following around 6:45 p.m. Children and Young People are encouraged to attend as the presentation will be geared toward them as well as adults."
• Wingham PRC (ON): "A SPECIAL EVENING to commemorate the Reformation has been planned for this Thursday, October 31, at 7:30 p.m.. Rev. Holstege plans to lead a discussion on the 95 theses which Martin Luther nailed to the church door in Wittenberg on October 31, 1517. Mr. Aaron VanDyke plans to lead a second discussion on John Calvin’s doctrine of union with Christ. In preparation, please read an article that Rev. Holstege wrote on the 95 theses in the October 15, 2016 issue of the Standard Bearer (you can access it here: https://sb.rfpa.org/the-ninety-five-theses/) and chapter nine of the book Union with Christ for Calvin’s doctrine.
• Zion PRC (Jenison, MI): "Jail Ministry: Howard and Dan Pastoor are representing our Evangelism Committee this afternoon at the Kent County Jail. Pray for Howard and Dan as they do this and that the Lord will use them to bring them comfort and hope to the inmates that they visit."
• Hudsonville (MI) PRC: "The deacons at Hudsonville PRC are planning a conference for Saturday morning, November 23 at 8:30 AM. Former deacons Caleb Kamps and Bryant VanOverloop will each give a short speech followed by breakout sessions. Potential, current, and former deacons are encouraged to attend! We would like a good turnout with various levels of experience. Please register for this event at https://bit.ly/deacon24 

PRC DENOMINATIONAL NEWS

• Seminary Conference, THIS WEEKEND, October 31-November 2: “By Grace I Am What I Am”: The PRCA’s Rejection of Common Grace. The issue of common grace is still relevant a century later! Come to Grace PRC on October 31 (7:30pm), November 1 (7:00pm), and November 2 (9:00 am), to hear how. On Thursday, Oct.31, Prof. Kuiper will speak about the decisions of the CRC Synod 1924. On November 1 Prof. Huizinga will address the error of the first point of common grace, and Prof. Cammenga will deal with the “little point of the first point,” the doctrine of the general offer of the gospel. And on Saturday morning, Nov.2, Prof. Gritters will speak on the restraint of sin in the unbeliever, followed by Prof. Griess on the good that the unregenerate do. Plan to attend all or as many as you can! All speeches will be livestreamed on Grace PRC’s site.
  
  
• The Foreign Mission Committee (FMC) sent Rev. A. Brummel and Rev. J. Marcus to Axtla de Terrazas (in San Luis Potosi, Mexico) from October 21-28. The first trip the FMC made to this area was in January of this year. This delegation will deliver speeches and preach, as well as become better acquainted with contacts in the area. The FMC asks that you pray for this delegation.
  
  
• Sister-church visits: From the Contact Committee (last week): "[On Oct.9] Prof. and Mrs. Dykstra and Mr. and Mrs. Mike Elzinga (Byron Center PRC) left for a four-week trip to our sister churches in the Philippines and Singapore [for church visitation, preaching, and lectures]. May God grant His blessing on the work, safety in travel, and return the delegation in His good time according to His will."
  
  
• Home mission news: "Zion’s Council and the DMC have decided to send our domestic missionary, Rev. Laning, to the Dallas/ Fort Worth area for six months, and to have his wife, Margaret, accompany him. They are scheduled to arrive there on October 19. For some time, Rev. Laning has been conducting weekly Zoom Bible studies with people in Texas, and has made a number of trips there. The plan is to have Rev. Laning continue to labor among those whom they have already come to know, while also witnessing to others in that area. Seeing as the preaching of the gospel is the chief means the Spirit uses to gather His people, it will be good to spend some time there meeting for worship and having Bible studies, in order, Lord willing, to gather a group together. We thank the Lord for opening this door, and pray that He may guide us in this work to the glory of His name. “And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature” (Mark 16:15). If you happen to know of anyone in that area who may be interested, please contact our domestic missionary at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.."
  
  
• Note the addition of a part-time option! The Domestic Mission Committee plans to hire a full-time or part-time website manager for the new PRCA website. The new website is being designed to improve our worldwide evangelism and to improve usability for all PRCA members and churches. Initially the work will be to maintain the current site and assist with the development of the new website. Besides day-to-day maintenance, the web manager’s future role will be to promote and feature a wide range of PRCA materials. Interested candidates should contact Mike Gritters (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.) to learn more about this new position. 

• PRC 100th Anniversary Celebration: NEW!! Online Registration is now open. All the members of the PRCA, our sister churches, and close contacts are encouraged to come together at Calvin University from June 2-6, 2025 to participate in this commemorative week. To attend visit https://prca100.org/register for registration instructions and the web link.
  
  

Rev. S. Key led the chapel this past Wednesday at PRTS.

PRC Seminary Notices:

• The PR Theological Seminary has now completed eight and a half weeks of this first semester of its 2024-25 school year, and is halfway through the semester. The seminary will had its annual Reading Recess this past Thursday and Friday. We thank the Lord for His goodness through the first half of the semester. Remember to pray for faculty, students, and staff as they continue in the semester's labors and activities. The first semester's schedule and calendar (2024-25) have been posted on this webpage.
• Coming up THIS weekend - Oct.31-Nov.2! 100th Anniversary Seminary Conference: “By Grace I Am What I Am”: The PRCA’s Rejection of Common Grace. The issue of common grace is still relevant a century later! Come to Grace PRC on October 31 (7:30 pm), November 1 (7:00 pm), and November 2 (9:00 am), to hear how. On Thursday, Oct.31, Prof. Kuiper will speak about the decisions of Synod 1924. On Friday night, Nov.1, Prof. Huizinga will address the error of the first point of common grace, and Prof. Cammenga will deal with the “little point of the first point,” the doctrine of the general offer of the gospel. And on Saturday morning, Nov.2, Prof. Gritters will speak on the restraint of sin in the unbeliever, followed by Prof. Griess on the good that the unregenerate do. Plan to attend all or as many as you can! All speeches will be livestreamed on Grace PRC’s site.
• This week Isaac Van Baren (2nd year) will lead the daily devotions and Rev. J. Holstege (pastor of First PRC in Grand Rapids) will do the chapel on Wednesday.
• Sem. Bruce Feenstra (junior) has been licensed to to speak a word of edification in the churches. All scheduling of Mr. Feenstra must be done through the seminary, either by sending a request to the seminary secretary (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.) or the rector, Prof. D. Kuiper (doug.kuiperThis email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.).
• Sem. Aaron Van Dyke (senior) is interning this summer and fall in our Wingham, Ontario congregation, under the supervision of Wingham’s Consistory and the mentoring of Rev. Daniel Holstege. The internship runs from July 1 through December 31. Continue to pray for Mr. Van Dyke and his family during his internship. Today he is leading the afternoon service.
• The Spring 2024 issue of the PR Theological Journal is currently available. The digital editions (pdf and epub) are posted on the journal page (visit the link here). This latest issue features three main articles, one dealing with the history of common grace at the 1924 Synod in the Christian Reformed Church (which led to the formation of the Protestant Reformed Churches), one involving another translation of H. Bouwman's work on the Reformed Church Order, and another chapter from Prof. D. Kuiper on the history of Classis West in the PRC. Plus, there is a good number of book reviews again, on a variety of subjects. The Fall 2024 issue is currently being worked on and should go to the printer this week. If you want to be added to our mailing list (either print or digital) or wish to pick up a copy, contact Bethany Engelsma, the seminary secretary (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.). 
• For the latest seminary news and information, visit the seminary's website - and don't forget the blog!
  
  

SISTER-CHURCH/MISSION NEWS:

• Covenant ERC, Singapore and her Kolkata, India mission work:
  • Pastors J. Tan and M. Wee are faithfully serving the CERC. Prof. R. Dykstra led both services today after speaking at CERC's special Reformation Day Conference this past weekend. In the "pastoral voice" Pastor Tan had these special words: "We are thankful to God for the church visitors that the contact committee of the PRCA has sent, Prof Dykstra and Elder Mike Elzinga. The mutual accountability and oversight is what we covet and cherish. Prof Dykstra and Elder Elzinga have been admonishing and encouraging us to be faithful to the gospel of Jesus Christ. But it is not just the Council that has been encouraged and edified, but I am very sure all of us have been, from the preaching of the glorious gospel from the pulpit. Prof Dykstra will be preaching for us this and next week. ...Prof Dykstra has been given by God a deep love for us here in Singapore. We thank him and his dear wife for their much sacrifice for us, that we may abound spiritually. Keep the church visitors and the Council in prayers, that in all our discussions of church members with them that we will grow together in the truth and in deeper spiritual unity. We very warmly welcome our own missionary-pastor Singh and his with Sonali. They are no strangers but family. Welcome back home Pastor Singh and Sonali! Please keep in your prayers Pastor Singh, his dear wife, and the saints there."
    
  • A new issue of Salt Shakers is available - August2024, #73, the third of this year!  Once again you will find a variety of articles on timely subjects 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 gospel of sovereign grace faithfully in the CPRC, Ballymena, N. Ireland - and beyond! After Rev. W. Bruinsma preached for Rev. Stewart for three Sundays while he was away, this special note was in this week's bulletin: "Everyone is welcome to stay for tea after the service this evening as we say farewell to Rev. and Mary Bruinsma who are returning to the US tomorrow."
  • The September 2024 issue of "Covenant Reformed News" was recently published. Read the articles by Rev. A. Stewart on the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls (Nehemiah) and part three of Rev. R. Hanko's response to questions about "The Civil and Ceremonial Laws" of the Old Testament.
    
  • The CPRC YouTube channel with all its edifying content may be found here.

• PRC in the Philippines and her mission work in various places:
  • Berean PRC bulletin: Prof. V. Ibe led her worship services today. 
    
  • Mission news: "The saints in All of Grace Protestant Reformed Fellowship in Gabaldon Nueva Ecija are set to join us in our worship services today via Livestream at our official Facebook page. We pray for God’s continued care and blessings upon them as they hear the Word of God.'
    
  • Provident PRC bulletin: Elder Mitch Suarez led both worship services today.
  • Classis meeting: "...a special Classis meeting will be held today at 1:30 PM at the Berean PRC. The Lord willing, pertinent matters affecting our churches will be discussed and decided upon."

REFORMED RESOURCES for EDUCATION, EDIFICATION, and EVANGELISM

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

• This month - October 2024 - the RWH continues broadcasting four gospel messages by Rev. W. Bruinsma on the subject of Christ's return and its signs. Today's message is titled "Straying Sheep" based on Isaiah 53:6.
  
  
• 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.).

Looking for reading materials on the great Reformation? Check out this resource from the RFPA!

• The Reformed Book Outlet (downtown Hudsonville, MI) is now operating out of its new store in downtown Hudsonville (3472 Harvey St.). 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! RBO Storytime: Join us Thursdays for Fall Storytime at 10:15 on October 31, November 7 and 14. Let your little ones enjoy a few stories and a craft, while you browse our books or enjoy a cup of coffee!

• 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.

This Week's Thought for Contemplation

Sola Fide

"Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law" (Rom. 3:28).

Salvation is by grace alone, through faith alone. Faith is the instrument, the “alone instrument,” to use the language of the Westminster Confession of Faith (WCF, 11.2). The righteousness on account of which we are righteous before God is not an innate righteousness. The righteousness on account of which we are righteous before God is not an acquired righteousness. But the righteousness on account of which we are righteous before God is the imputed righteousness of Jesus Christ. That righteousness is ours by faith and by faith alone.

Rome taught that we are righteous before God partly by faith. Righteousness is ours by faith and by the works of faith. Faith and the good works that faith produces together constitute our righteousness before God. The Reformers rejected Rome’s teaching about faith and insisted that we are righteous by faith alone. Well known is the controversy that Luther raised when his German translation of the Bible appeared in print. Luther translated Romans 3:28 by adding an “alone” that is not in the original text. His translation was: “Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith alone, without the deeds of the law.” Luther knew very well that “alone” was not found in the original and that his insertion could not be justified by an appeal to the text. At the same time, although he had transgressed the boundaries of a faithful Bible translator, there is good reason for Luther’s insertion because of the sense of the passage. As Luther pointed out, by contrasting as he does faith and the deeds of the law, and by insisting that we are righteous by faith and not by the deeds of the law, Paul is teaching justification by faith alone.

What underscores the truth that we are righteous by faith alone and not by our own works is the truth that even the faith by means of which we are justified is the gift of God. He gives and He works faith in the elect. That is grace!

You farther see how faith and the merits of works are contrasted, as things altogether contrary to each other. As then trust in works is the chief hindrance, by which our way to obtain righteousness is closed up, it is necessary that we should wholly renounce it, in order that we may depend on God’s goodness alone. (John Calvin, Commentary on the Epistle of Paul the Apostle to the Romans. Comments on Romans 9:32.)

Taken from "The Solas of the Reformation" by Prof. R. Cammenga

 This Reformation article first appeared in the November 1, 2023 issue of the Standard Bearer, a special issue on preaching.

Andreas Hyperius: Reformer of preaching

The Reformation’s return to faithful preaching

On the inside cover of my Bible is a short quotation that I penned there as a young man from a speech Prof. H. Hanko once gave. It reads, “Preaching is heavenly, that is why the Devil always tries to destroy it.” Besides instilling in me both wonder and fear as I contemplated the ministry, the statement succinctly captured the reality Prof. Hanko was expressing in the whole of his speech. From biblical times to today, there is an attempt to destroy faithful preaching, and behind the attempt is always the Devil himself. The Devil is no fool; he knows what faithful preaching is and how God uses it. Destroy faithful preaching, destroy the heavenly kingdom in this world.

There is a myriad of ways to attempt to cut off the golden tongue of heavenly preaching. In the medieval period the Devil’s tactic was to push the church down the road of trusting in herself above the Word of God. Sometimes we have the impression that there simply was no preaching in the medieval period, but that is a misconception. There was less preaching to be sure, especially as the mass became the center of worship. But more than that, the problem was that the preach­ing that was there was not founded upon the Word of God. A medieval preacher could make as the text of his ‘sermon’ an implication of a scripture passage (but not the passage itself), a quotation from one of the church fathers, an aspect of church tradition, or even a quote from a philosopher! Preaching was no longer heavenly.

The sixteenth-century Reformers understood that preaching into which God infuses heavenly power is preaching that is an explanation and application of the heavenly Word of God come down to us on the earth. Thus, the formal principle of the Reformation, sola scriptura, came to greatest expression in the preaching of the Reformers. Powerful sermons rang throughout Europe, expounding God’s Word, unleashing a pure gospel, and bringing heads, hearts, and hands into submission to God’s heavenly rule. As the Reformers marched through passage after passage of Scripture, unfolding rich truths phrase by phrase, the gates of hell were not allowed to prevail against the heavenly church.

Andreas Hyperius and his preaching book

Yet, surprisingly, none of the Reformers whose names you know ever wrote a book teaching preachers how to preach—not Luther, not Calvin, not Zwingli.1 The first man to do so was a Reformer whom you have probably never heard of, Andreas Hyperius (1511-1564). Hyperius produced a textbook titled, The Practice of Preaching,2 which was used of God (and still is being used of God) to ensure that the preaching of the church remained heavenly.

Andreas Hyperius was born in Dutch West Flanders in 1511, two years after the birth of John Calvin.3 The two reformers lived and worked contemporaneously, dy­ing only three months apart in 1564. Although he spent most of his working days in Lutheran lands, Hyperius loved the biblical doctrine of predestination that Calvin taught. Consequently, Hyperius himself taught Calvin­istic doctrine as professor of historical, systematic, and practical theology in Marburg. Like Calvin, Hyperius was constrained to stay in a place through which he had only intended to pass. After stopping in Marburg on his way to Strasburg (where he intended to visit Bucer), he was prevailed upon to stay and assist the Reformation movement in that city. Hyperius spent his entire career in Marburg. Though not as well known as he should be, Hyperius was a brilliant theologian. Calvin him­self highly commended him and his work. Beza praised him for his theological acumen and especially for his contributions to Reformation preaching. According to Achelis, Hyperius’s “efforts in…the homiletic depart­ment are almost epoch-making, and become the basis of Evangelical [Protestant] sermon formation.”4

Hyperius’s six important contributions

In the remainder of this article, let’s look at six important contributions Hyperius made that encouraged heavenly preaching then, and still encourages it now.

First, Hyperius codified in a textbook the Reforma­tion commitment to preaching and applying Scripture alone. For Hyperius, the Word of God alone has the heavenly power to “conduce to the salvation and rec­onciliation of man to God.”5 The minister must there­fore “produce out of the fountains of the Scriptures” the content of the sermon, and then apply it “to the present state of things and matters incident.”6 How important in our day that the ministry retain this conviction! In the evangelical world, movie clips, skits, and more take the place of the preaching of the Word, as though these things will be the power to save and preserve God’s people—another front of the Devil’s attack on heavenly preaching. May there never be such a lack of conviction regarding the power of the proclamation of heaven’s Word among us! The result would soon be a famine of the same.

Second, Hyperius taught future ministers that the Word of God must be preached with “plain and perspic­uous [clear] speech.”7 Preaching is heavenly when the sermon allows the Word of God to come through to the people of God clearly and powerfully. There is always a temptation for ministers to use the pulpit to show off their intelligence and ability to discuss complex matters. In fact, shortly after Calvin’s death in Geneva, there was a complaint there that ministers trained in Geneva were preaching above the people’s heads. They would make their text one word from the Bible so that they could show off how much they could say about it. The sermon would quote philosophers and poets, so that finally ser­mons “distanced themselves in every way from the solid simplicity of the Scriptures…turning the presentation of the Word of God into futile gibberish.”8 The solution for the masters in Geneva was to teach preaching by use of Hyperius’ textbook!

Third, Hyperius helpfully applied sola scriptura not only to the content of preaching, but also to the form of preaching. For preaching to be heavenly, Hyperius be­lieved the Bible ought to tell us not only what to preach, but also how to preach it. Hyperius observed that many of the sermons recorded in the Bible had a central theme to them so that one main point was made. Likewise, the parables of Jesus and the epistles of Paul. Based on this scriptural observation, Hyperius taught ministers to have a theme for their sermons. The theme should be “a brief sum of the whole matter, whereof a man pur­poseth to speak, and even the argument and fountain of the whole oration.”9 He then said, in order to make the whole sermon a unity around that theme, the preacher must divide his sermon into [normally three] divisions that logically explain the theme. I would imagine this sounds familiar! But this was quite revolutionary for Protestant churches at the time. Calvin and the other Reformers did not have a theme and divisions for their sermons. Consequently, their sermons often did not have a unity to them. They could often be a collection of diverse thoughts with no harmonizing point. The fact that PRC preachers and many other preachers use a theme and divisions, in contrast to Calvin in this sense, is a direct result of the influence of Hyperius.

Fourth, Hyperius called for blood, sweat, and tears from the preacher, as he prepared his sermons for preaching and prepared himself to preach his sermons. Hyperius said the minister must “with great industry apply himself” to sermon making, since it is the heav­en-sent food for the souls of God’s people. 10 Indeed, Hyperius noted, there “is nothing more unseemly” than a minister who did not do the work necessary to pro­duce faithful and edifying sermons.11 But even after the sermon manuscript is finished, Hyperius said the minister must not stop working. He is not yet ready to preach the sermon he made. The preacher must prepare his own heart and mind to bring the Word of God. He must do this, Hyperius taught, by applying the passage to himself, praying the text, imagining the situation of God’s people in his own mind, and offering “fervent prayers” that the Spirit use the word that would soon be preached to bind God’s people to their Savior. 12 These things will prepare the preacher to speak as though life and death are in the balance (which they are). How important, coming out of an age of lazy priests! Yet, still today, may Hyperius be used to spare us from idle ministers who do not seem to understand the import of what they are called to do.

Fifth, Hyperius reminded preachers of the necessity of good applications. Hyperius believed sermons should be doctrinal, but at the same time they should drive the people of God to where that doctrine would lead them. He saw in II Timothy 3:16 the main kinds of applica­tions that ought to be in sermons: calling people to hold to truth and reject what is false, calling God’s people to a godly life and warning them of an ungodly life, and granting comfort to the flock. In all these a minis­ter ought to use repetition, gestures, silence, raising the voice, questions, hyperbole, and more to move God’s people at the level of mind and heart (should the Spirit be working) toward faith and hope and love.13

Faith…in Christ. Hope…in Christ. Love…for Christ, first of all. Because, sixth, Hyperius called for sermons that preached Christ as the great treasure of God’s church. Preaching Christ, or failing to do so, was what made or broke a sermon for Hyperius. A preacher could be less gifted than another, but if he preached “doctrine that is sound,” and if he “preached Christ,” “all is well, and God is to be thanked.”14 Even if we think it could be better, such preaching is heavenly, and thus powerful in the hands of the Spirit of Christ.

Hyperius taught true and faithful Reformation preaching in his textbook—the kind of preaching that will come under attack in various ways in every age. May there be in our day such heavenly preaching that is worth the Devil’s time to attack! For such preaching alone is used of God now as then to build and preserve His eternal and heavenly kingdom in this earth.

1 They wrote about preaching and commented on aspects of how to preach in various places in their writings, but did not write a textbook for teaching preachers. Melanchthon wrote a number of books on rhetoric that were applied to preaching, but among these was no true homiletics textbook.
2 Andreas Hyperius, The Practise of Preaching, Otherwise Called the Pathway to the Pulpet Conteyning an Excellent Method how to Frame Divine Sermons, & to Interpret the Holy Scriptures According to the Capacitie of the Vulgar People. First written in Latin by the Learned Pastor of Christes Church, D. Andreas Hyperius: and Now Lately (to the profit of the same Church) En-glished by John Ludham, Vicar of Wethersfeld. 1577 (London: Thomas East, 1577).
3 Gerhard Rau, “Hyperius, Andreas,” The Oxford Encyclopedia of the Reformation, vol. 2 (New York: Oxford University Press, 1996) 299-300.
4 E.C. Achelis, “Hyperius (Gerhard), Andreas,” in Philip Schaff, Schaff-Herzog Encyclopedia, Christian Classics Ethereal Library. https://ccel.org/ccel/schaff/encyc05/encyc05/Page_432.html.
5 Hyperius, The Practice of Preaching, 9a.
6 The Practice of Preaching, 139b. I have modernized the English in the quotations.
7 The Practice of Preaching, 15b.
8 Quotation of the Genevan Company of Pastors found in Karin Maag, “Preaching Practice: Reformed Students’ Sermons,” in Ned¬erlandsch Archief Voor Kerkgeschiedenis 85, no. 1 (2005), 141.
9 The Practice of Preaching, 21a.
10 The Practice of Preaching, 41a.
11 The Practice of Preaching, 16b.
12 Hyperius, The Practice of Preaching, 43a.
13 The Practice of Preaching, 49a.
14 The Practice of Preaching, 5a.

Today, October 20, is the forty-second Lord's Day of this year of our Lord 2024, and another rest stop on our pilgrim journey through this world. "Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest." Matthew 11:28

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.

And it shall come to pass, that every one that is left of all the nations which came against Jerusalem shall even go up from year to year to worship the King, the LORD of hosts, and to keep the feast of tabernles. And it shall be, that whoso will not come up of all the families of the earth unto Jerusalem to worship the King, the LORD of hosts, even upon them shall be no rain. ...In that day shall there be upon the bells of the horses, HOLINESS UNTO THE LORD; and the pots in the LORD'S house shall be like the bowls before the altar. Yea, every pot in Jerusalem and in Judah shall be holiness unto the LORD of hosts: and all they that sacrifice shall come and take of them, and seethe therein: and in that day there shall be no more the Canaanite in the house of the LORD of hosts. ~ Zechariah 14:16,17,20,21

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 you may listen online through one of the PRC's livestreams.

CONGREGATIONAL NEWS 

• Rev. A. Haveman, who was ordained and installed by Rev. G. Eriks in Loveland PRC last week, preached his inaugural sermon in the congregation this morning.
  
  
• Last Sunday Rev. A. Brummel (Calvary PRC-Hull, IA) declined the calls from Lynden PRC (WA) and Hope PRC-Redlands, CA. 
  
  
• Last Sunday Rev. N. Decker (Grandville PRC) accepted the call from Hope PRC-Grand Rapids, MI and declined the call from Southwest PRC (Wyoming, MI). (From Hope's bulletin today): "Rev. Decker and family plan to move to the Hope Church parsonage in mid-November. Rev. Decker’s installation is scheduled for the morning service on November 24." According to Grandville's bulletin, Rev. Decker's farewell sermon is planned for Nov.3.

• Last Sunday Rev. C. Spronk (Faith PRC) declined the call from Zion PRC (Jenison, MI). 
  
  
• The Council of Hudsonville PRC has formed a new trio from which to call her next pastor: Revs. A. Brummel, G. Eriks, and D. Holstege. The congregation will vote after the evening service on October 27.
  
  
• Southwest PRC's Council announced a new trio this evening: Revs. M. DeBoer, J. Engelsma, and W. Langerak. The congregation will call for a new pastor from this trio on Nov.3.

Classical appointments and pulpit supply for today in the vacant PRCs: Prof. D. Kuiper and Rev. J. Smidstra in Hope PRC-Walker; Rev. H. Bleyenberg (1st week) in Hope PRC-Redlands; Prof. B. Huizinga and Rev. M. McGeown in Hudsonville PRC; Rev. J. Engelsma (1st week) in Lynden PRC; Prof. R. Cammenga and Rev. D. Noorman in Southwest PRC; Prof. B. Gritters and Rev. J. Maatman 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/Evangelism Notices:

• Calvary PRC (Hull, IA): "All are invited to Calvary PRC on Sunday, October 27, for a presentation on the Psalter revision by Prof. D. Kuiper and Mr. Josh Hoekstra. Calvary’s evening service will be held at 5 p.m. with the presentation following around 6:45 p.m. Children and Young People are encouraged to attend as the presentation will be geared toward them as well as adults."
• Hudsonville (MI) PRC: "The deacons at Hudsonville PRC are planning a conference for Saturday morning, November 23 at 8:30 AM. Former deacons Caleb Kamps and Bryant VanOverloop will each give a short speech followed by breakout sessions. Potential, current, and former deacons are encouraged to attend! We would like a good turnout with various levels of experience. Please register for this event at https://bit.ly/deacon24 

PRC DENOMINATIONAL NEWS

• "The Foreign Mission Committee (FMC) will be sending Rev. Brummel and Rev. Marcus to Axtla de Terrazas (in San Luis Potosi, Mexico) from October 21-28. The first trip the FMC made to this area was in January of this year. This delegation will deliver speeches and preach, as well as become better acquainted with contacts in the area, the Lord willing. The FMC asks that you pray for this delegation."
  
  
• Sister-church visits: From the Contact Committee (last week): "This past Wednesday [Oct.9], Prof. and Mrs. Dykstra and Mr. and Mrs. Mike Elzinga (Byron Center PRC) left for a four-week trip to our sister churches in the Philippines and Singapore [for church visitation, preaching, and lectures]. May God grant His blessing on the work, safety in travel, and return the delegation in His good time according to His will."
  
  
• Home mission news: "Zion’s Council and the DMC have decided to send our domestic missionary, Rev. Laning, to the Dallas/ Fort Worth area for six months, and to have his wife, Margaret, accompany him. They are scheduled to arrive there on October 19. For some time, Rev. Laning has been conducting weekly Zoom Bible studies with people in Texas, and has made a number of trips there. The plan is to have Rev. Laning continue to labor among those whom they have already come to know, while also witnessing to others in that area. Seeing as the preaching of the gospel is the chief means the Spirit uses to gather His people, it will be good to spend some time there meeting for worship and having Bible studies, in order, Lord willing, to gather a group together. We thank the Lord for opening this door, and pray that He may guide us in this work to the glory of His name. “And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature” (Mark 16:15). If you happen to know of anyone in that area who may be interested, please contact our domestic missionary at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.."
  
  
• Seminary Conference, October 31-November 2: “By Grace I Am What I Am”: The PRCA’s Rejection of Common Grace. The issue of common grace is still relevant a century later! Come to Grace PRC on October 31 (7:30pm), November 1 (7:00pm), and November 2 (9:00 am), to hear how. On Thursday, Oct.31, Prof. Kuiper will speak about the decisions of the CRC Synod 1924. On November 1 Prof. Huizinga will address the error of the first point of common grace, and Prof. Cammenga will deal with the “little point of the first point,” the doctrine of the general offer of the gospel. And on Saturday morning, Nov.2, Prof. Gritters will speak on the restraint of sin in the unbeliever, followed by Prof. Griess on the good that the unregenerate do. Plan to attend all or as many as you can!
  
  
• Note the addition of a part-time option! The Domestic Mission Committee plans to hire a full-time or part-time website manager for the new PRCA website. The new website is being designed to improve our worldwide evangelism and to improve usability for all PRCA members and churches. Initially the work will be to maintain the current site and assist with the development of the new website. Besides day-to-day maintenance, the web manager’s future role will be to promote and feature a wide range of PRCA materials. Interested candidates should contact Mike Gritters (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.) to learn more about this new position. And on Saturday morning, Nov.2, Prof. Gritters will speak on the restraint of sin in the unbeliever, followed by Prof. Griess on the good that the unregenerate do. Plan to attend all the speeches or as many as you can!

• PRC 100th Anniversary Celebration: NEW!! Online Registration is now open. All the members of the PRCA, our sister churches, and close contacts are encouraged to come together at Calvin University from June 2-6, 2025 to participate in this commemorative week. To attend visit https://prca100.org/register for registration instructions and the web link.
  
  

PRC Seminary Notices:

• The PR Theological Seminary has now completed eight weeks of this first semester of its 2024-25 school year, and is halfway through the semester. The seminary will have its Reading Recess this Thursday and Friday, as classes break and students are given "extra" time to work on their research and writing projects. We praise the Lord for His goodness through the first half of the semester. Remember to pray for faculty, students, and staff as they continue in the semester's labors and activities. The first semester's schedule and calendar (2024-25) have been posted on this webpage.
• Coming up next weekend - Oct.31-Nov.2! 100th Anniversary Seminary Conference: “By Grace I Am What I Am”: The PRCA’s Rejection of Common Grace. The issue of common grace is still relevant a century later! Come to Grace PRC on October 31 (7:30 pm), November 1 (7:00 pm), and November 2 (9:00 am), to hear how. On Thursday, Oct.31, Prof. Kuiper will speak about the decisions of Synod 1924. On Friday night, Nov.1, Prof. Huizinga will address the error of the first point of common grace, and Prof. Cammenga will deal with the “little point of the first point,” the doctrine of the general offer of the gospel. And on Saturday morning, Nov.2, Prof. Gritters will speak on the restraint of sin in the unbeliever, followed by Prof. Griess on the good that the unregenerate do. Plan to attend all or as many as you can!
• This week Bruce Feenstra (3rd year) will lead the daily devotions and Rev. S. Key will do the chapel on Wednesday.
• The annual Seminary Convocation was held in Byron Center PRC on September 4. Prof. C. Griess spoke on Colossians 2:8-10, "The Spoiled Pastor." Look for the video of the evening on the Seminary's YouTube channel soon. The audio of the speech may be heard here.
• Sem. Bruce Feenstra (junior) has been licensed to to speak a word of edification in the churches. All scheduling of Mr. Feenstra must be done through the seminary, either by sending a request to the seminary secretary (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.) or the rector, Prof. D. Kuiper (doug.kuiperThis email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.).
• Sem. Aaron Van Dyke (senior) is interning this summer and fall in our Wingham, Ontario congregation, under the supervision of Wingham’s Consistory and the mentoring of Rev. Daniel Holstege. The internship runs from July 1 through December 31. Continue to pray for Mr. Van Dyke and his family during his internship. Today he is leading the afternoon service and tomorow the Thanksgiving Day service.
• The Spring 2024 issue of the PR Theological Journal is currently available. The digital editions (pdf and epub) are posted on the journal page (visit the link here). This latest issue features three main articles, one dealing with the history of common grace at the 1924 Synod in the Christian Reformed Church (which led to the formation of the Protestant Reformed Churches), one involving another translation of H. Bouwman's work on the Reformed Church Order, and another chapter from Prof. D. Kuiper on the history of Classis West in the PRC. Plus, there is a good number of book reviews again, on a variety of subjects. The Fall 2024 issue is currently being worked on. If you want to be added to our mailing list (either print or digital) or wish to pick up a copy, contact Bethany Engelsma, the seminary secretary (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.). 
• For the latest seminary news and information, visit the seminary's website - and don't forget the blog!
  
  

SISTER-CHURCH/MISSION NEWS:

• Covenant ERC, Singapore and her Kolkata, India mission work:
  • Pastors J. Tan and M. Wee are faithfully serving the CERC. Rev. Tan led both services while Rev. Wee is in Kolkata, India on a visit to the CERC's mission field. In this week's pastoral note he said, "Greetings from Kolkata, India! Elder Lee and myself (Pastor Wee) have the privilege of worshiping amongst our fellow saints there this Lord's Day. Both of us are there for the first time, eager to meet and fellowship with the saints there, of whom we had previously heard reports, but now are able to meet face to face. We thank God for making this delegation visit possible. As we know, Pastor Tan was originally scheduled to go for the visit.... God in His providence opened up a way for me to go in place of him, and so we are able to keep this delegate visit. Such delegate visits are important means for us to maintain regular contact with the saints there, for fellowship and mutual encouragement. We plan to conduct COF interviews for 2 families and one individual, in addition to preaching and fellowship."
    
  • A new issue of Salt Shakers is available - August2024, #73, the third of this year!  Once again you will find a variety of articles on timely subjects 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 gospel of sovereign grace faithfully in the CPRC, Ballymena, N. Ireland - and beyond! These news items were in her bulletin last week: "Rev. & Mary Stewart will be away from 9-25 October for a tour with 30 saints from the PRC in Greece and Turkey to places on Paul’s missionary journeys and the seven churches of Revelation 2-3." And, "Rev. & Mary Bruinsma from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, arrive on Thursday, 10 October, and return to the US on Monday, 28 October. Pastor Bruinsma will preach for us on 13, 20 and 27 October."
  • The September 2024 issue of "Covenant Reformed News" was recently published. Read the articles by Rev. A. Stewart on the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls (Nehemiah) and part three of Rev. R. Hanko's response to questions about "The Civil and Ceremonial Laws" of the Old Testament.
    
  • The CPRC YouTube channel with all its edifying content may be found here.

• PRC in the Philippines and her mission work in various places:
  • Berean PRC bulletin: Prof. R. Dykstra led her worship services today. "We welcome Prof. and Mrs. Dysktra, Elder, and Mrs. Elzinga in our midst this morning and praise God for the fellowship we may share in and around His Word as one in the Lord Jesus Christ. God be praised." And, "Prof. Dykstra is also scheduled to lecture on “The Absolute Sovereignty of God” at 2 PM today at our church hall. D.V. Everyone is greatly encouraged to attend."
    
  • Special news: "The saints in All of Grace Protestant Reformed Fellowship in Gabaldon Nueva Ecija are set to join us in our worship services today via Livestream at our official Facebook page. We pray for God’s continued care and blessings upon them as they hear the Word of God.' And, "The visit with the pastors and saints in Bacolod and Sipalay City went very well by the grace of God. Prof. Dykstra gave two speeches on “The Absolute Sovereignty of God” and “Total Depravity of Man” at Bata Community Christian Church. The conference was well attended and greatly appreciated. God be praised. We pray for God’s continued spiritual strength and growth for the churches in these areas as they learn and receive the Reformed truth of God’s sovereign particular grace in Christ Jesus and for His sake only. Soli Deo Gloria!"
  • Provident PRC bulletin: Rev. V. Ibe led both worship services today. Special note: "Prof. Russell Dykstra and his wife Sis. Carol together with Elder Michael and Ruth Elzinga (Byron Center PRC, MI) are set to leave tomorrow at 7AM, the Lord willing. They will visit our sister church in Singapore (CERC). They will stay in Singapore for 2 Sundays, DV. We pray for God’s travelling mercies throughout their flights. We thank the Lord for their visit and time of fellowship with us."

REFORMED RESOURCES for EDUCATION, EDIFICATION, and EVANGELISM

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

• This month - October 2024 - the RWH continues broadcasting four gospel messages by Rev. W. Bruinsma on the subject of Christ's return and its signs. Today's message is titled "The Final Sign of Christ's Return" based on Luke 21:25-28.
  
  
• 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.).

Looking for reading materials on the great Reformation? Check out this resource from the RFPA!

• The Reformed Book Outlet (downtown Hudsonville, MI) is now operating out of its new store in downtown Hudsonville (3472 Harvey St.). 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! RBO Storytime: Join us Thursdays for Fall Storytime at 10:15 on October 31, November 7 and 14. Let your little ones enjoy a few stories and a craft, while you browse our books or enjoy a cup of coffee!

• 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.

This Week's Thought for Contemplation

Solus Christus

"'For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus' (I Tim. 2:5).

The Reformers insisted that Scripture proclaims Christ as the only Savior of sinners. As one with the Father, the very Son of God, He does everything that is necessary for our salvation. Jesus leaves nothing undone or partially done, so that we need other saviors and additional mediators alongside of Him. Christ’s saving work was complete and effectual. He accomplished everything on account of which He had been sent into the world by the Father.

Because Jesus is the only Savior, who has fully accomplished all of our salvation, the Reformers objected to the Roman Catholic doctrine of the mass as a perpetual re-sacrificing of Jesus, and the doctrine of transubstantiation, which was necessary for the re-sacrificing of the body and blood of Jesus. Such a sacrifice is not only unnecessary, but is a blasphemous denial of the finished work of Christ and an accursed idolatry. Thus the Reformers swept away not only the mass, but the whole Romish priesthood, which priesthood was necessary for the re-sacrificing of the body and blood of Jesus. The finished work of Christ, our great and only High Priest, fulfilled all the sacrifices of the Old Testament and eliminated any further need for a priesthood. Rome’s priesthood, with its sacrifice of the mass, is a perpetual and public denial that Christ alone is our Savior.

Jesus’ merits are the only propitiatory merits that take away both the guilt and the punishment of our sins. Rome taught that the merits of the saints, and especially the merits of the Virgin Mary—merits that had accumulated through their works of supererogation—are merits that are at the disposal of the church. The church distributes these merits through the purchase of indulgences. Or there were indulgences to be earned simply by paying to observe all kinds of relics of the saints, collections of which could be found in every major city throughout Europe in the sixteenth century. The Reformation demolished the whole system of indulgences on the basis of the truth that Jesus is the only Savior. His merits alone, no other merits, are the basis for our salvation.

In short, whoever wraps up two kinds of righteousness [Christ’s and our own] in order that miserable souls may not repose wholly in God’s mere mercy, crowns Christ in mockery with a wreath of thorns. (John Calvin, Institutes of the Christian Religion, ed. by John T. McNeill, 3.11.13; 1:743.)"

Taken from "The Solas of the Reformation" by Prof. R. Cammenga