The authority of the Holy Scripture, for which it ought to be believed, and obeyed, depends not upon the testimony of any man, or Church; but wholly upon God (who is truth itself) the author thereof: and therefore it is to be received, because it is the Word of God. . . .
The Whole counsel of God concerning all things necessary for His own glory, man's salvation, faith and life, is either expressly set down in Scripture, or by good and necessary consequence, may be deduced from Scripture: unto which nothing at any time is to be added, whether by new revelations of Spirit, or traditions of men. . . . -- The Westminster Confession (1646), Chapter 1, Articles IV and VI

O ye saints, how you should love the Word, for by this you have been converted. . . . Tie it about your neck, write it upon your hand, lay it in your bosom. When you go let it lead you, when you sleep let it keep you, when you wake let it talk with you. (Proverbs 6:21-22) You that are unconverted, read the Word with diligence; flock to where it is powerfully preached. Pray for the coming of the Spirit in the Word. Come from your knees to the sermon, and come from the sermon to your knees. -- Joseph Alleine

Contents: Chapter 2, "Biblical Counsel" (parts 1, and 2), interactive

• Job
• Ecclesiastes
• Psalms
• Proverbs

Part 2

For all Counselors
Peer Counseling
Questions and Answers
Audio Cassette Tapes on Counseling Subjects
Legal Aspects of Counseling
BIBLICAL COUNSEL BY SUBJECT

• Abstinence
• Abortion and the Sanctity of Life
• Post-abortion Counseling
• Abuse
• Affliction
• Adultery
• Alcoholism
• Anger
• Atheism
• Birth Control
• Bribery
• Blasphemy
• Carnality and Flesh Pleasing
• Casuistry and Conscience
• Child Abuse and Pedophilia
• Comfort
• Communication
• Crisis Counseling
• Lying and Deceit
• Depression
• The Difficult Child
• Drug Abuse and Addiction
• Envy
• Ethics
• Extortion
• Evil, The Problem of
• Fatalism
• Fatherlessness
• Fear
• Forgiveness of Sin
• Friendship
• Gambling
• Gratuitous Sex, a Cause of Violence
• Guilt
• Habits
• Happiness
• Heaven
• Hell
• Homelessness
• Homosexuality
• Hope
  
• Hostility and Violence
• Humility
• Hypocracy
• Idolatry
• Imprisonment
• Incest
• Individual Responsibility for Corporate Faithfulness and Sanctification
• Infatuation
• Jealousy
• Judgment
• Loneliness
• Love and Counseling Problems
• Loving Your Enemies
• Medical Ethics
• Menpleasing
• Mind Control, Intimidation, and Coercion
• Neighbors
• Ensnaring Oaths
• Persecution
• Pornography
• Pride
• Prodigals
• Prostitution
• Rape Rebellion and Lawlessness: Wickedness, Demonic Possession, Substance Abuse, Abnormal Behavior, Insanity, Mental Illness, Mental Retardation
• Reconciliation of Relationships
• Resentment and Bitterness
• Scapegoating and Blame Shifting
• Self
• Self-denial
• Selfishness, Greed and Covetousness
• Sin and Its Consequence: Physical and Spiritual Death
• Sleep
• Sorcery
• Soul-violence
• Spiritual Warfare
• Stress
• Submission
• Suicide
• Temptation
• Theft, Stealing and Fraud: Property Rights
• Unforgiveness
• Vengeance and Retaliation
• War
• Widowhood
• Will and Recalcitrance
• Workaholics
• Worry and Anxiety

Chapter 2 (part 2) Related WebLinks

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

Chapter 2 (part 1)
Biblical Counsel

To worship God, sing the Psalms. See The Scottish Prose Psalter.

To pray to God, pray the Psalms.

For wisdom in getting along with others, read Proverbs.

Turn to the Gospel of John, chapters 14 through 16, for comfort in time of crisis or distress.

If someone you are helping, or if you yourself are in a crisis situation, or have been through a traumatic experience, then, if you know Christ, immediately get alone with Him in prayer using Psalms as your guide, because ultimately Christ is our only source of help (Psalm 34:4, Psalm 56:9, Psalm 106:10, Romans 8:38,39, James 4:7, Hebrews 13:5). Pursue Him in prayer, call upon Him for help and deliverance, and seek Him "until there is a transaction." Then, trusting the Lord for deliverance, with your mind staid on Him, it may be helpful for the troubled person to be with others. If Christian fellowship is not available, then simply being in a public place may bring comfort.

Open Directory Project, Christian Counseling (some offer phone counseling)
http://dmoz.org/Society/Religion_and_Spirituality/Christianity/Christian_Living/Christian_Counseling/

Open Directory Project, Christian Counseling Online
http://dmoz.org/Society/Religion_and_Spirituality/Christianity/Christian_Living/Christian_Counseling/Online/

In all times of danger from men our wisest course is to fly to the Lord our helper. He has ways and means for delivering us which we know not of. He can either turn our enemies into friends, or else so check all their efforts that they shall do us no real injury. Blessed are those men whose trust in the Lord never wavers. -- C.H. Spurgeon, commenting on Psalm 124 and Genesus 31:36-44 in Spurgeon's Devotional Bible, p. 45

*The Holy Bible, Authorized King James Version (various publishers and various editions). 20000 [10081, 10083, 10085, 10089, 10091, 10092]
Turn to the book of Psalms for immediate guidance on worship and prayer. Turn to the book of Proverbs for immediate wisdom on how to get along with others. Turn to the THE NEW NAVE'S TOPICAL BIBLE, new and enlarged [20003, 10084] to find verses on specific counseling subjects. Turn to THE NEW TREASURY OF SCRIPTURE KNOWLEDGE to learn how the Bible comments on those verses. Turn to the Gospel of John, chapters 14 through 16, for comfort in time of crisis or distress.
Nave's Topical Bible
http://bible.crosswalk.com/Concordances/NavesTopicalBible/
Crosswalk Bible Study Tools
http://www.biblestudytools.net/

The Treasury of David
http://www.spurgeon.org/treasury/treasury.htm

*Smith, Jerome H. (editor), The New Treasury of Scripture Knowledge, revised and expanded (Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson Publishers, 1997, 1992, 1836).
"For over 150 years, the TREASURY OF SCRIPTURE KNOWLEDGE has given Bible students the most complete collection anywhere of cross references -- far more than any concordance or reference Bible. Now this updated classic is so much easier to use. The entries, arranged verse by verse, offer cross references to related verses, topics, themes, and important words, so you can discover just what the Bible says about itself. This new edition contains over 100,000 new references, hundreds of corrections, seven new indexes, a handy symbol system, and a helpful `how to use the book' section. And it's completely retypeset in modern type for readability! 1664 pages . . ." -- CBD
"The one book, aside from the Bible itself, that I value most in my studies. I am grateful to Thomas Nelson for publishing this expanded edition." -- John MacArthur
Includes bibliography, subject index, topic number index, Proverbs index, name index, figure of speech index, and other indexes. See the index to Proverbs.
Also available in digital format.
New Treasury of Scripture Knowledge, Logos Bible Software (LLS)
"Edited by Jerome H. Smith - An incredible 1-volume Bible reference library, this comprehensive update of the original TREASURY OF SCRIPTURE KNOWLEDGE is a unique resource for Bible study, teaching, or preaching. This edition contains nearly 100,000 new cross-references, additional key words, a new system of symbols, and many other improvements. This is the most comprehensive collection of time-saving and insightful cross-references ever published! Dozens of special study aids help you develop powerful lessons or sermons -- straight from the Bible itself! Dr. John MacArthur, Jr. says: 'The one book, apart from the Bible itself, that I value most in my studies'."
New Treasury of Scripture Knowledge -- Logos Bible Software
http://www.logos.com/ebooks/details/ntsk

Treasury of Scripture Knowledge
http://www.biblestudytools.net/Concordances/TreasuryofScriptureKnowledge/

*Thomas Nelson Publishers, Precious Bible Promises (Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson Publishers, 1983). 20002
Some of the 37,000 promises from the Word of God arranged by theme. Convenient for use in counseling. Good when you need help fast. Text is the New King James Version, pocket size, 367 pages.

*Lockyer, Herbert, All the Promises of the Bible
"A devotional expositional compilation of about 3,300 of the approximately 8,810 promises found in Scripture." -- Synopsis
"Dr. Herbert Lockyer was born in London in 1886, and held pastorates in Scotland and England for 25 years before coming to the United States in 1935. In 1937 he received the honorary Doctor of Divinity degree from Northwestern Evangelical Seminary. In 1955 he returned to England where he lived for many years. He then returned to the United States where he continued to devote time to the writing ministry until his death in November of 1984." -- Publisher's Annotation

*Nave, Orville, and Edward Viening (revised and compiled) The New Nave's Topical Bible, new and enlarged (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan Publishing House, 1986).
NAVE'S is a way of finding what the Bible teaches on any subject. Unlike a concordance it has the verses printed right within the book.
Formerly THE ZONDERVAN TOPICAL BIBLE. Edward Viening was responsible for the compilation and revision of this 1969 work. This revised edition has 21,000 subject-heads rather than 20,000, but does not have the extensive Scripture references which still appear only in the Hendrickson edition. Nearly 6500 listings with more than 100,000 Scripture references and 1114 pages. Very useful in counseling also. A Christian classic.
Dr. D. James Kennedy says he has used it for 30 years and considers it an indispensable aid. Billy Graham has said he uses it more than any other book except the Bible in the preparation of his sermons. A Christian classic.
Nave's Topical Bible
http://bible.crosswalk.com/Concordances/NavesTopicalBible/

*Westminster Assembly (1643-1652), The Westminster Confession of Faith (1646) (Glasgow, Scotland [Free Presbyterian Publications, 133 Woodlands Road, Glasgow G3 6LE]: Free Presbyterian Publication, 1994). ISBN 0902506080 (casebound) and ISBN 0902506358 (paperback), Still Waters Revival Books, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.
Also available from Crown and Covenant Publications:
http://www.crownandcovenant.com/product_p/ds115.htm
" 'The product of Puritan conflict,' stated Shedd, reaching 'a perfection of statement never elsewhere achieved.' All that learning the most profound and extensive, intellect the most acute and searching, and piety the most sincere and earnest, could accomplish, was thus concentrated in the Westminster Assembly's Confession of Faith, which may be safely termed the most perfect statement of Systematic Theology ever framed by the Christian Church,' writes Hetherington (The History of the Westminster Assembly of Divines), p. 345. Concerning the Shorter Catechism, which is one of the items also included in this book, Mitchell notes: 'it is a thoroughly Calvinistic and Puritan catechism, the ripest fruit of the Assembly's thought and experience, maturing and finally fixing the definitions of theological terms to which Puritanism for half a century had been leading up and gradually coming closer and closer to in its legion of catechisms' (Westminster Assembly: Its History and Standards, p. 431). The Westminster Confession of Faith (1646) is the greatest of all the creeds of the Christian church. The church of Christ cannot be creedless and live. Especially in an age of doubt and confusion, it is her duty to define and proclaim the one true faith. Nowhere has the Reformed church done this so effectively as in the Westminster Confession and family of documents. This book represents Reformed thinking at its purest and best. It was intended, as part of the Covenanted Reformation taking place during its compilation, to be adopted as the binding confessional standard for every individual, family, court, church, and legislature in the British Isles." -- SWRB
This is considered to be the definitive publication of the Westminster family of documents. It includes the following:

1. To the Christian Reader, Especially Heads of Families, Mr. Thomas Manton's Epistle to the Reader,
2. The Confession of Faith (1646), the full and original edition with Scripture proofs written out,
3. The Larger Catechism with Scripture proofs written out,
4. The Shorter Catechism with Scripture proofs written out,
5. The Sum of Saving Knowledge,
6. The National Covenant,
7. The Solemn League and Covenant,
8. A Solemn Acknowledgement of Publick Sins and Breaches of the Covenant; and a Solemn Engagement to all the Duties Contained Therein
   CD #1, Reformation Bookshelf 30 CD Set
   http://www.swrb.com/Puritan/reformation-bookshelf-CDs.htm
9. The Directory for the Public Worship of God,
10. The Form of Presbyterial Church Government, and
11. The Directory for Family Worship.

*Bordwine, James E., A Guide to the Westminster Standards: Confession of Faith and Larger Catechism (Unicoi, TN: The Trinity Foundation, 1991). 20005
One way to be strengthened and encouraged in times of trouble, discouragement, and depressions is to read pure doctrine to remind oneself of what is in fact true.
"In this volume are the complete texts of the Westminster Confession of Faith (1646) (both the original and American versions) and the Larger Catechism, together with Scripture proofs and a unique topical index to both the Confession and the Catechism. A GUIDE TO THE WESTMINSTER STANDARDS will be a great help in understanding the Bible and its most complete summaries, the Westminster Standards." -- Publisher's Annotation.
A Guide to the Westminster Standards: Confession of Faith and Larger Catechism, James Bordwine
Includes a unique, 100 page topical index to both the Confession and the Catechism.
http://www.thornwellhall.org/GuideFrame1Source1.htm

*Church of Scotland, General Assembly, The Scottish Prose Psalter Being The Authorized Version of the Psalms with Selected Passages of Scripture, and Ancient Hymns, Pointed for Chanting, With Accompanying Chants. For Use in Churches, by Authority of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland, 2nd edition (London: T. Nelson and Sons, Paternoster Row, Edinburgh and New York, 1906).
"Since Christ is the Second Person of the Trinity, the hymns and laments of the psalms are directed to Him as to the Father and the Spirit. Jesus is both a singer of the psalms (Heb. 2:12 [Psalm 22:22]) and the focus of their interest. We can sing to Him our praise, tell Him our complaints and petitions, and thank Him for His goodness. We extol Him as our King, rest our confidence in Him, and look to Him as the embodiment of God's wisdom." -- "The Book of Psalms," The Reformation Study Bible, pp. 754, 755
Have you ever planned to sing through The Book of Psalms with your spouse or with your family? Here is your psalter: The Scottish Prose Psalter.
The writer knows of no psalter truer to the literal translation of the Word of God, short of pointing The Book of Psalms from Young's Literal Translation of the Holy Bible, which preserves the Hebrew and Greek grammatical structure, or short of taking 15 years out of one's life to learn the original Hebrew and Greek, which, of course, is not necessary.
This is a split-page psalter. The top set of pages are the music, the bottom set of pages are the psalms. This format allows the worshiper to match any melody with any particular psalm.
The preface contains instruction on how to chant. Select chants are recommended for each psalm.
"Chanting is the singing of a prose text to a simple, repeated melody. Good chanting is essentially good reading aloud; it uses the rhythms and stresses of natural speech.
"The ancient Hebrews never used metrical `tunes' in the modern sense. In the synagogue, the Law, the Prophets, and the Writings (including the Psalms), were read in a sing-song recitation which was half speech, half song. Originally chanting involved only a single line (that is, no part-singing), and only two or three pitches. The early Christian church retained this practice, adapting it to the recitation of the Psalms in Latin translation. Our present system of chanting in four parts is called Anglican Chant, and dates from sixteenth-century England.
"Chanting has several advantages over metrical Psalmody, stemming from the fact that in chanting, the music completely serves the text. The music is not difficult or interesting in itself, but has character and meaning only in conjunction with words. The meaning of the text is thus more immediate, and the parallel structure of the Hebrew poetry is more apparent. The difficulties of translating ancient non-metrical poems into sensible English rhyme are rendered unnecessary. Chanting encourages the use of entire Psalms rather than selections." -- "An Introduction to Chanting," The Book of Psalms for Singing, Synod of the Reformed Presbyterian Church of North America, 1995, p. 440
A prose psalter was nothing new for The Church of Scotland. They published The Psalms of David in prose and metre: with the whole forme of Discipline, and prayers, according to the Church of Scotland; the Psalms in prose being of the last translation; translated by the speciall commandment of King James the sixt, 1610 (Aberdene: Printed by Edward Raban for David Melvill, 1633).
The Bible Psalter (London: J. Nisbet, 1880), 142 pp., Presbyterian Church of England, "the music arranged and partly composed by Sir Herbert S. Oakeley" (1830-1903) and The Psalter (T. Nelson and Sons, 1888), 303 pp., by Authority of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland, "pointed for chanting, and with chants adapted thereto or specially composed for this work by Sir Herbert Stanley Oakeley" preceded this work.
"The Musical portion of this work is identical with that in "The Psalter, and Selected Passages of Scripture," etc., published in 1888; but advantage has been taken of a new issue to revise and improve the pointing of the words. To mark the Revised Edition the title of the work has been changed to THE SCOTTISH PROSE PSALTER, etc.. . . ." -- Note to Preface, May, 1897.
Publication of The Psalter, under the new title, The Scottish Prose Psalter, could have been a consequence of the awakening of 1905, "part of a worldwide movement and apparently especially inspired by British revivals. . ."
Any concordance to the Authorized King James Version and any index to the Psalms of David (AKJV) may be used with this Psalter.
Psalms are an essential part of personal devotions. There is a sincerity and beautiful simplicity about The Scottish Prose Psalter. Everyone should own a copy, especially fathers who lead family worship.

*Smith, Jerome H. (editor), The New Treasury of Scripture Knowledge, revised and expanded (Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson Publishers, 1997, 1992, 1836).
"For over 150 years, the TREASURY OF SCRIPTURE KNOWLEDGE has given Bible students the most complete collection anywhere of cross references -- far more than any concordance or reference Bible. Now this updated classic is so much easier to use. The entries, arranged verse by verse, offer cross references to related verses, topics, themes, and important words, so you can discover just what the Bible says about itself. This new edition contains over 100,000 new references, hundreds of corrections, seven new indexes, a handy symbol system, and a helpful `how to use the book' section. And it's completely retypeset in modern type for readability! 1664 pages . . ." -- CBD
"The one book, aside from the Bible itself, that I value most in my studies. I am grateful to Thomas Nelson for publishing this expanded edition." -- John MacArthur
Includes bibliography, subject index, topic number index, Proverbs index, name index, figure of speech index, and other indexes. See the index to Proverbs.
Also available in digital format.
New Treasury of Scripture Knowledge, Logos Bible Software (LLS)
"Edited by Jerome H. Smith - An incredible 1-volume Bible reference library, this comprehensive update of the original TREASURY OF SCRIPTURE KNOWLEDGE is a unique resource for Bible study, teaching, or preaching. This edition contains nearly 100,000 new cross-references, additional key words, a new system of symbols, and many other improvements. This is the most comprehensive collection of time-saving and insightful cross-references ever published! Dozens of special study aids help you develop powerful lessons or sermons -- straight from the Bible itself! Dr. John MacArthur, Jr. says: 'The one book, apart from the Bible itself, that I value most in my studies'."
New Treasury of Scripture Knowledge -- Logos Bible Software
http://www.logos.com/ebooks/details/ntsk

*The Reformation Study Bible: The Word That Changes Lives -- the Faith That Changed The World, New King James Version (Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson Publishers, March 2001). Previous published under the title New Geneva Study Bible: Bringing the Light of the Reformation to Scripture (Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson Publishers, 1995).
"The NEW GENEVA STUDY BIBLE offers a restatement of Reformation truth for Christians today. The first Geneva Bible was a pivotal force in the Reformation. Using the everyday language of its time, it opened the pages of Scripture to readers and provided helpful notes to assist them in understanding its message. It became the family Bible of the English people, and was the Bible that the Pilgrims brought to the New World. Since that time a multitude of English translations and study Bibles have appeared, but none of these has incorporated a summary of Reformed theology." -- Thomas Nelson Publishers
Also available in digital format from Logos Bible Software.
The Reformation Study Bible in Logos Bible Software
http://www.logos.com/ebooks/details/NGSTBIB
A Review of The Reformation Study Bible
http://www.lettermen2.com/geneva.html
Readers of THE REFORMATION STUDY BIBLE should also be familiar with The Westminster Family of Documents, the doctrine of the Mediatorial Dominion of Jesus Christ, and the literature of the Covenanted Reformation.
"The Westminster Confession of Faith (1646, The Westminster Standards) and Related Works: A Study Guide"
http://www.lettermen2.com/suggest.html
The Covenanted Reformation of Scotland Short Title Listing
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr9chb.html#crsstl
Reformed Presbyterian Catechism, William L. Roberts D.D.
http://www.covenantedreformation.com/EssaysCR/RP%20Catechism/RP%20Index.html

*Spurgeon, C.H. (1834-1892), Spurgeon's Devotional Bible (Grand Rapids: Baker Books, 1975, 1974, 1964) and Spurgeon's Devotional Bible: Selected Passages From the Word of God With Running Comments (paperback), (Evangelical Press, February 1996). Other title: The Interpreter: Spurgeon's morning and evening devotions from the Bible.
"For anyone who wants to restore daily devotions on an individual or family basis, SPURGEON'S DEVOTIONAL BIBLE is the perfect answer. One can read through this book in a year when morning and evening devotions are maintained. . . .
"The gist of the entire Bible is found between the covers of this book. . . . some verses [and chapters] were omitted in whole or in part, but they are always summarized in such a way that the narrative or teaching remains clear. The emphasis is always on Scripture . . ." -- Publisher's Annotation
This is the C.H. Spurgeon who wrote, among other things:

• The Treasury of David, "the most important and practical work of the ages on the Psalter." -- Dr. Philip Schaff
• A Treasury of Spurgeon on the Life and Work of Our Lord, 6 volumes, and
• Faith's Checkbook, A Daily Devotional by C.H. Spurgeon commenting on the promises of Scripture.

See also: The promises of Christ, Appendix a: the words of Christ appearing in the web edition of biblical counsel: resources for renewal, The teaching and example of Christ, Christ in you, Bible promises, Crisis counseling, The local church and counseling, Topical listings of scripture

Related WebLinks

Biblical Counseling Manual: A Self Help Counseling Program Guide, Adam Pulaski
http://www.ecoin.net/bcbook/

Biblical Counseling On-line Workshop
http://www.immanuels.org/bc/bc_home.htmy

Biblical Counseling Manual: A Self Help Counseling Program Guide, Adam Pulaski
http://www.ecoin.net/bcbook/

THE TEN COMMANDMENTS

---

GOD spake all these words, saying, I am the Lord thy God, which have brought thee out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage.

I. Thou shalt have no other gods before me.
II. Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of any thing that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth: thou shalt not bow down thyself to them, nor serve them: for I the Lord thy God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me; and showing mercy unto thousands of them that love me, and keep my commandments.
III. Thou shalt not take the Name of the Lord thy God in vain; for the Lord will not hold him guiltless that taketh his Name in vain.
IV. Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy. Six days shalt thou labor, and do all thy work: but the seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord thy God; in it thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, thy man-servant, nor thy maid-servant, nor thy cattle, nor thy stranger that is within thy gates; for in the six days the Lord made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day: wherefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day, and hallowed it.
V. Honor thy father and thy mother: that they days may be long upon the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee.
VI. Thou shalt not kill.
VII. Thou shalt not commit adultery.
VIII. Thou shalt not steal.
IX. Thou shalt not bear false witness against they neighbor.
X. Thou shalt not covet thy neighbor's house, thou shalt not covet thy neighbor's wife, nor his man-servant, nor his maid-servant, nor his ox, nor his ass, nor any thing that is thy neighbor's. (Exodus 20:3-17) -- Lord God Almighty (Revelation 15:3), The Truth (John 14:6), The Word of Life (1 John 1:1), Governor (Matthew 2:6), The Alpha and Omega (Revelation 1:8)

Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it: Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself. On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets. -- Jesus Christ (Matthew 22:38-40)

Great and marvellous are thy works,
Lord God Almighty;
just and true are thy ways,
thou King of saints.
Who shall not fear thee, O Lord, and glorify thy name?
for though only art holy:
for all the nations shall come and worship before thee;
for thy judgments are made manifest. (Revelations 15:3b,4)

"At Sinai the Lord gave his people a religious and national constitution that would provide permanent guidelines for the moral, physical, and spiritual well-being of his people. The directives given pointed to the uniqueness and transparency of their divine Author." -- John Reid, commenting on Psalm 111

Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight: for by the law is the knowledge of sin.
But now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets;
Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference:
For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;
Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus:
Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God;
To declare, I say, at this time his righteousness: that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus.
Where is boasting then? It is excluded. By what law? of works? Nay: but by the law of faith.
Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law. (Romans 3:20-28)

Jesus will describe these people as "you who practice lawlessness." . . . . He has already told us why. All of these extraordinary and wonderful works done in the name of Jesus are lawlessness, because they are done for the purpose of obtaining salvation. These works are lawlessness because they involve an illegal use of the law. The law, Paul tells us, is given for the knowledge of sin. It is not given that we sinners might use it to gain entrance into Heaven. Conviction of sin, not salvation, is the purpose of the law. Legalism, because it is an illegal use of the law, is lawlessness. "But we know that the law is good if one uses it lawfully," Paul told Timothy. But using the law in an effort to obtain Heaven is not lawful; it is an illegal use of the law; it is lawlessness. -- John W. Robbins in a sermon on Matthew 7:21-23, "Justification and Judgment"

"You can not break the Law of God, you can only be broken by it." -- Anonymous

The difference between God's law and man's laws? God enforces his law. Man is unable to enforce his laws.

"Modern civil law foresees only civil enforcement. Biblical law requires civil enforcement and declares the certainty of ultimate divine judgment in history for failure to enforce His Laws [Isaiah 17:14; Jeremiah 17:11]. Biblical criminal law is thus essentially religious law, and it has in mind two courts, the God-ordained courts of the social order, and the Supreme Court of Almighty God.
"Ehrlich's comment is to the point:

It is difficult to compare Biblical sins with statutory crimes since in the former all are based on moral and spiritual values whereas in the latter only that is a crime which fits into the structure of the statute sought to be enforced. (J.W. Ehrlich, The Holy Bible and The Law, p. 92.)

"Precisely. Biblical law is the word of God; it therefore represents an ultimate order which is written into the texture of all creation and into the heart of man. Hence, a jury system is valid in terms of Biblical law, since the decision is in terms of a fundamental law which all men know, whether they acknowledge it or not. Civil statutes represent only the will of the state, not an objective and absolute moral order. Statutory law creates lawlessness, because society is then no longer governed by an absolute standard of justice but rather by the fiat will of the state. Like fiat money, fiat law lacks substance, and it quickly destroys itself, and all who rely on it. It is a form of fraud, and a major form." -- Rousas John Rushdoony, The Institutes of Biblical Law, pp. 498-499.

Thus, what is clearly condemned by the Tenth Commandment is every attempt to gain by fraud, coercion, or deceit that which belongs to our neighbor. On this principle, alienation of affection suits [akin to marrying for money] were once a part of the law of the land. Their abuse by a lawless age led to their abolition, but the principle is sound. A person who works systematically to alienate the affections of a husband or wife in order to gain him or her for himself, sometimes together with his monetary assets, is guilty of violating this law.
This law thus forbids the expropriation by fraud or deceit of that which belongs to our neighbor. The Tenth Commandment therefore does sum up commandments six through nine and gives them an additional perspective. [emphasis added. Notice that one through four prohibit taking from God the glory, honor, and praise that is his due, yet very few attain to this type of obedience.] The other commandments deal with obviously illegal acts, i.e., clear-cut violations of law. The Tenth Commandment can be broken within these laws. To cite a Biblical example. David committed adultery with Bathsheba, a clearly illegal act. His subsequent acts were technically within the law: Uriah was put in the forefront of the battle and orders were so issued as to insure Uriah's death in battle. It was not technically murder, but it was clearly a conspiracy to kill, with David and Joab both guilty of murder.
Thus, a variety of laws in Western civilization are based on this principle of the fraudulent use of the law to defraud or to harm. Many of these laws legislate against the conspiracy aspect of fraud. They legislate against the covetous seizure of our neighbor's possessions by evil through sometimes legal means. The law against dishonest gain is thus a very important one, and the Tenth Commandment, instead of being a vague appendage to the law, is basic to it.
This law against dishonest gain is directed by God, not merely to the individual, but to the state and all institutions [including corporations, foundations, organizations, secret societies, churches, para-church organizations, and etc.]. The state can be and often is as guilty as are any individuals, and the state is often used as the legal means whereby others are defrauded of their possessions. The law against evil covetousness is thus an especially needed one in the 20th century. -- Rousas John Rushdoony, The Institutes of Biblical Law, pp. 634-635

Bonar, Horatius, The Saint and the Law

*Calvin, John, The Institutes of the Christian Religion, 2 volumes (Philadelphia, PA: Westminster Press, 1960). A Christian classic.
"Edited by John McNeill and translated by Ford Lewis Battles, this is the definitive English language edition of one of the monumental works of the Christian church -- Calvin's INSTITUTES.
"Still considered by many to be the finest explanation and defense of the Protestant Reformation available.
"The work is divided into four books: I. The Knowledge of God the Creator, II. The Knowledge of God the Redeemer in Christ, III. The Mode of Obtaining the Grace of Christ, IV. The External Means or Helps by Which God Allures Us Into Fellowship With Christ and Keeps Us in It. . . . THE INSTITUTES is praised by the secular philosopher, Will Durant, as one of the ten books that shook the world." -- GCB
Calvin spent a lifetime writing and perfecting INSTITUTES OF CHRISTIAN RELIGION. His Prefatory Address makes it clear that he intended the work to be a defense of Christianity to the King of France.
Therefore, plainly stated, one of the most influential works ever published in the English language is a defense of Christianity to leaders of State.
Prefatory Address to His Most Christian Majesty, The Most Mighty and Illustrious Monarch, Francis, King of the French, His Sovereign, John Calvin
"Indeed, this consideration makes a true king: to recognize himself a minister of God in governing his kingdom. Now, that king, who in ruling over his realm does not serve God's glory, exercises not kingly rule but brigandage. [Footnote: 'Nec iam regnum ille sed latrocinium exercet.' An echo of Augustine's famous phrase: 'When justice is taken away, what are kingdoms [[regna]] but a vast banditry [[magna latocinia]]?' City of God IV. iv (MPL [[Migne, J.P., Patrologiae cursus completus, series Latina]] 41. 115; tr. NPNF [[A Select Library of the Nicene and Post-Nicene Fathers, second series]] II. 66).] Furthermore, he is deceived who looks for enduring prosperity in his kingdom when it is not ruled by God's scepter, that is, his Holy Word; for the heavenly oracle that proclaims that 'where prophecy fails the people are scattered' [Prov. 29:18] cannot lie." (Battles translation)
"The characteristic of a true sovereign is, to acknowledge that, in the administration of his kingdom, he is a minister of God. He who does not make his reign subservient to the divine glory, acts the part not of a king, but a robber. He, moreover, deceives himself who anticipates long prosperity to any kingdom which is not ruled by the sceptre of God, that is, by his divine word. For the heavenly oracle is infallible which has declared, that where there is no vision the people perish (Prov. 29:18). (Beveridge translation)"
See the entire Prefatory Address, Beveridge translation:
http://www.ccel.org/ccel/calvin/institutes.ii.viii.html
"The doctrines of covenant liberty were rediscovered in the Reformation. John Calvin went further than anyone else in defining liberty and what Christians need to do to maintain it. Includes bibliographies."
It is recommended that INSTITUTES OF CHRISTIAN RELIGION be used for daily devotions and may be used in combination with Ford Lewis Battles and John Walchenbach, AN ANALYSIS OF THE INSTITUTES OF THE CHRISTIAN RELIGION OF JOHN CALVIN (Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Book House) and with CALVIN'S COMMENTARIES.
Nelson's Ultimate Bible Reference Library, Logos Library System format (LLS) (CD-ROM)
This library systems includes CALVIN'S INSTITUTES OF THE CHRISTIAN RELIGION, THE HOLY BIBLE KING JAMES VERSION, THE NEW TREASURY OF SCRIPTURE KNOWLEDGE, AUGUSTINE'S CONFESSIONS, WESTMINSTER CONFESSION OF FAITH (1646), WESTMINSTER LARGER CATECHISM, WESTMINSTER SHORTER CATECHISM, MATTHEW HENRY'S COMMENTARY, NEW NAVE'S TOPICAL BIBLE, PILGRIM'S PROGRESS, and other classic Bible study aids. THE REFORMATION STUDY BIBLE (Other title: THE NEW GENEVA STUDY BIBLE,) in LLS format, may be added to this library. Therefore, all the above works may be used in combination with each other in Bible study.
http://www.logos.com/products/details/3247
Calvin, Spurgeon and International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE) (LLS)
Contains Calvin's Commentaries.
http://www.logos.com/products/details/889
Calvin's Commentaries (22 Volumes) (LLS)
http://www.logos.com/products/details/887
The Comprehensive John Calvin Collection CD-ROM in Logos Library System (LLS) format
http://www.logosbiblesoftware.com/logosbiblesoftware/calcom.html
Calvin's Commentaries (online)
http://www.ccel.org/ccel/calvin/calcom
One Hundred Aphorisms, Containing, Within a Narrow Compass, the Substance and Order of the Four Books of THE INSTITUTES OF THE CHRISTIAN RELIGION
http://www.lettermen2.com/pringle.html
The Comprehensive John Calvin Collection
From Ages Software. Includes both the Battles and the Beveridge translation of THE INSTITUTES OF THE CHRISTIAN RELIGION, CALVIN'S COMMENTARIES, and other works by Calvin.
http://www.ageslibrary.com/ages_calvin_collection_1.html
Institutes of the Christian Religion (Beveridge translation online)
http://www.ccel.org/ccel/calvin/institutes.i.html

Jenkyn, William (1613-1685), The law unsealed, or, A practical exposition of the Ten Commandments with a resolution of several momentous questions and cases of conscience (Edinburgh: Printed by the heir of Andrew Anderson, 1676), EEBO.

Harmar, John (1555?-1613), Sermons of M. Iohn Caluin, vpon the x. Commandements of the Lawe, giuen of God by Moses, otherwise called the Decalogue (Imprinted at London: By Thomas Dawson for Iohn Harison, 1581), EEBO.

*DURHAM, JAMES, The Law Unsealed; or, a Practical Exposition of the Ten Commandments. With a Resolution of Several Momentous Questions and Cases of Conscience (Cerlox Bound Photocopy Series. Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books, 1802 edition, 1675), EEBO.
"Durham, a Scottish Covenanter, was known as a 'very candid and searching preacher,' who in an instant was 'in the inmost corners of your bosom,' though with the utmost 'caution and meekness, without giving any of his hearers the smallest ground to fret and repine at his freedom in dealing with them'" (Carstairs cited in the Dictionary of Scottish Church History, p. 266). John Owen, in his letter introducing the reader to this volume, writes, 'In the whole a full testimony is given, not only against the profligate lives of many, called Christians, but that barren careless profession also, which too many satisfy themselves withal, who pretend more unto the truth and power of religion. And as those who are sincere in their obedience may, in the examination of themselves, by the rules here laid down, discern the decays which possibly they have fallen under in this hour of temptation, which is come on the face of the earth, to try them that dwell therein, so also may they be directed in their Christian course unto the glory of God, and the comfort of their own souls.' Durham's lectures deal with each commandment in order and the volume contains 'An Alphabetical Table of the Principal Matters Handled in the Whole Book;' making it eminently practical, and a very useful aid to the study of God's holy, just, good and spiritual law (Rom. 7:12). 422 pages." -- SWRB

Durham, James. The law unsealed, or, a practical exposition of the Ten Commandments. With a resolution of several momentous questions and cases of conscience. By ... Mr. James Durham, ... Seventh edition Glasgow, 1777. (ECCO) Gale Document Number CW3323558656

*Hopkins, Ezekiel, An Exposition of the Ten Commandments, revised edition (New York, NY: American Tract Society). 20361
"A brilliantly written treatise by a leading Puritan writer. Long out of print, it should be purchased if found."

McNair, Mac. and Amy McNair, Ten Principles for a Successful Marriage: Practical Lessons from the Ten Commandments
"Nearly everyone has heard of the Ten Commandments, and most people can even name a few of them. Through fifty-five years of marriage Mac and Amy McNair have drawn from them the following guidelines for living together:
Respect each other's position of authority
Have singleness of purpose in your marriage
Practice effective communication
Maintain a proper balance between work and rest
Show respect for your elders and seek counsel from those who are older and wiser
Show respect for one another and love one another
Maintain a proper physical relationship
Face financial issues together
Demonstrate honesty and integrity to one another
Be content with yourself and your marriage
A simply written, deeply personal look at marriage, Ten Principles for a Successful Marriage is a recounting of the principles that have guided the authors in their own marriage. While at first these insights may seem like simple common courtesy and common sense, the McNairs have found a great deal of profundity in this very simplicity. Inspired by the Ten Commandments, TEN PRINCIPLES FOR A SUCCESSFUL MARRIAGE is an intensely practical, time-tested guide to happy, successful living that could be applied to other areas of life as well." -- Publisher's Annotation "Mac McNair is a former career Air Force officer, professor at North Carolina State University, and director of aerospace programs at the Pentagon. Currently president of McNair Associates, a management consulting firm, he also is chairman of the Executive Leadership Foundation, which seeks to apply Judeo-Christian ethics in business and society. He also is co-author of the leadership development program for the U.S. Attorney General's office. Amy McNair, a homemaker, teaches classes with Mac on the principles of successful marriage. They live near Atlanta, Georgia." -- Publisher's Annotation
Executive Leadership Foundation
http://www.commandmentsonline.com/

Price, Greg, The Extent of God's Law, Antichrist, Beastly Civil Governments, the Family, Christian Education, Contentment and the Eight Commandment (Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books), 1 audio cassette.
"An amazing unfolding of the eighth commandment, as well as the rest of the decalogue, which includes numerous specific applications to various areas of thought and life (most relevant to the contemporary Christian). Price explains how to avoid the extremes of legalism and antinomianism, while expounding the classic Reformed view of the law as it applies to the individual, family, church and state." -- SWRB

Rushdoony, Rousas J., Institutes of Biblical Law, 3 volumes (Vallecito, CA: Ross House Books)
Volume 1, INSTITUTES OF BIBLICAL LAW
"A monumental volume . . . Deeply explores the meaning and application of the Ten Commandments for today in civil government, social ethics, and personal conduct." -- GCB
"Many consider this to be the author's most important work. With indices. -- Publisher's Annotation
Volume 2, LAW AND SOCIETY
"The relationship of Biblical Law to communion and community, the sociology of the Sabbath, the family and inheritance, and much more are covered in the second volume. Contains an appendix by Herbert Titus. With indices." -- Publisher's Annotation
Volume 3, THE INTENT OF THE LAW
" 'God's law is much more than a legal code; it is a covenantal law. It establishes a personal relationship between God and man.' The first section summarizes the case laws. The author tenderly illustrates how the law is for our good, and makes clear the difference between the sacrificial laws and those that apply today. The second section vividly shows the practical implications of the law. The examples catch the reader's attention; the author clearly has had much experience discussing God's law. The third section shows that would-be challengers to God's law produce only poison and death. Only God's law can claim to express God's 'covenant grace in helping us'. With indices." -- Publisher's Annotation
Theft: Commentary and Cases of Conscience. A Listing Excerpted From THE INSTITUTES OF BIBLICAL LAW by Rousas John Rushdoony, 1973 edition
http://www.lettermen2.com/theft.html

*Watson, Thomas, The Ten Commandments (Carlisle, PA: The Banner of Truth Trust, 1962).
"In this book Watson (c. 1620-1686) continues his exposition of the Shorter Catechism drawn up by the Westminster Assembly. Watson was one of the most popular preachers in London during the Puritan era . . . The series of three volumes, of which this is the second (the Body of Divinity is first and The Lord's Prayer third), makes an ideal introduction to Puritan literature. There are few matters about which the Puritans differ more from present-day Christians than in their assessment of the importance of the ten commandments. The commandments, they held, are the first thing in Christianity which the natural man needs to be taught and they should be the daily concern of the Christian to the last. In this book Watson examines the moral law as a whole as well as bringing out the meaning and force of each particular commandment. In view of the important function of the law in Christian life and evangelism, this is a most valuable volume." -- SWRB
"Excellent study. Highly recommended for personal and group study. The need for understanding the Law of God is always of great importance for the Christian. Watson is an excellent expositor of it." -- GCB
"The most famous commentary on the Ten Commandments was by Lancelot Andrews (1555-1626), a huge folio. . . ." -- Jay P. Green, Sr.
The Ten Commandments, Thomas Watson
http://www.iclnet.org/pub/resources/text/ipb-e/epl-watson-10cm.html
Westminster Shorter Catechism With Proof Texts
http://www.reformed.org/documents/WSC_frames.html
Westminster Shorter Catechism Project
"Click on any of the individual questions below to get the answer and Biblical references, as well as links to works by John Flavel, Thomas Watson, Thomas Boston, James Fisher, and John Whitecross, and others."
http://www.shortercatechism.com/

Davidman, Joy, Smoke on the Mountain (Philadelphia, PA: Westminster Press, 1971). 20365
"The wife of C.S. Lewis interprets the Ten Commandments and passes on observations she has made concerning those who have attempted to order their lives according to the Decalogue." -- Cyril J. Barber

Fisher, Edward, Marrow of Modern Divinity [10940]

Huffman, John A., Jr., Liberating Limits: A Fresh Look at the Ten Commandments (Dallas, TX: Word Publishing, 1980). 20366
"Not since Joy Davidman's SMOKE ON THE MOUNTAIN has a work as interesting and relevant as this one been published. Huffman treats the Decalogue as the sage counsel of God the Father to His children to protect them from their own destructive tendencies." -- Cyril J. Barber

Klaus, Sandra, Ten to Grow On: Teaching the Ten Commandments to Today's Children [40160]

Miller, C. John, Christ and the 10 Commandments; Harmony in Home Through the 5th Commandment [30291]

Packer, J.I., The Ten Commandments [31674A]

Perkins, William, 1558-1602, The whole duty of man, containing a practical table of the Ten commandments wherein the sins forbidden, and the duties commanded, or implied are clearly discovered / by famous Mr. Will. Perkins, 1674, EEBO.

*Pink, Arthur W., The Law and the Saint (Swengel, PA: Reiner Publications). 20369
"This 37-page booklet takes the position that the Ten Commandments are an expression of the unchanging character and will of God and are binding upon every Christian." -- CBD
The Law and the Saint by Arthur Pink
http://www.ccel.org/p/pink/law/law.htm

Plumer, William S., The Law of God as Contained in the Ten Commandments, Explained and Enforced (Grace Abounding Ministries).

*Watson, Thomas, 1620-1686 Body of Divinity (Carlisle, PA: The Banner of Truth Trust, 1965, 1890), EEBO.
"The first book published by the Trust, this has been one of the best sellers and consistently the most useful and influential of our publications . . . It deals with the foremost doctrinal and experimental truths of the Christian faith . . . It is based on the Westminster Assembly's Shorter Catechism, in which the main principles of Christianity that lie scattered in the Scriptures are brought together and set forth in the form of question and answer. This catechism is unsurpassed for its `terse exactitutde of definition' and `logical elaboration' of the fundamentals. . . . Watson conveys his thorough doctrinal and experimental knowledge of the truth in such an original, concise, pithy, pungent, racy, rich, and illustrative style that he is rightly regarded as the most readable of the Puritans." -- Publisher's Annotation
"As an introduction to Puritan theology, as a short and sweet course in Christian doctrine, as devotional reading, and as a preacher's gold-mine, Watson's work can hardly be praised too highly." -- J.I. Packer.
"Contains Watson's exposition of the Westminster Shorter Catechism, excluding the Lord's Prayer and the Ten Commandments." -- GCB
Westminster Shorter Catechism Project: Body of Divinity Contained in Sermons upon the Assembly's Catechism by the Rev. Thomas Watson
http://www.bpc.org/resources/vincent/wsc_vi_001.html
Westminster Shorter Catechism With Proof Texts
http://www.reformed.org/documents/WSC_frames.html
Scripture Index to the Westminster Standards (The complete Scripture index to the Westminster Confession (1646), Larger and Shorter Catechisms.)
http://www.swrb.com/newslett/actualnls/index01.htm
Westminster Shorter Catechism Project
"Click on any of the individual questions below to get the answer and Biblical references, as well as links to works by John Flavel, Thomas Watson, Thomas Boston, James Fisher, and John Whitecross, and others."
http://www.shortercatechism.com/
A Guide to the Westminster Standards: Confession of Faith and Larger Catechism
(Unicoi, TN: The Trinity Foundation, 1996).
Includes a unique, 100-page topical index to both the Confession and the Catechism.
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0940931303/webedbiblicalcou

*Watson, Thomas, The Ten Commandments (Carlisle, PA: The Banner of Truth Trust, 1962).
"Excellent study. Highly recommended for personal and group study. The need for understanding the Law of God is always of great importance for the Christian. Watson is an excellent expositor of it." -- GCB
"The most famous commentary on the Ten Commandments was by Lancelot Andrews (1555-1626), a huge folio. . . ." -- Jay P. Green, Sr.
The Ten Commandments, Thomas Watson
http://www.iclnet.org/pub/resources/text/ipb-e/epl-watson-10cm.html

See also: The sermon on the mount, Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, Sexual relationship, The westminster standards and family of documents, The larger catechism, Creeds, catechisms, and confessions, The short catechism, Ethics, casuistry, and conscience, Covenant theology, Secret societies and ungodly alliance, Courts and the law base, Ten Commandments (women)

Related WebLinks

Westminster Shorter Catechism Project: Body of Divinity Contained in Sermons Upon the Assembly's Catechism by the Rev. Thomas Watson
http://www.bpc.org/resources/vincent/wsc_vi_001.html

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

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

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

Scripture Index to the Westminster Standards (The complete Scripture index to the Westminster Confession (1646), Larger and Shorter Catechisms.)
http://www.swrb.com/newslett/actualnls/index01.htm
A Guide to the Westminster Standards: Confession of Faith and Larger Catechism, James Bordwine, (Unicoi, TN: The Trinity Foundation, 1996).
Includes a unique, 100-page topical index to both the Confession and the Catechism.

A Table Illustrating God's Eternal Moral Law
http://www.dr-fnlee.org/docs/toc/toc.html

Theft: Commentary and Cases of Conscience. A Listing Excerpted From THE INSTITUTES OF BIBLICAL LAW by Rousas John Rushdoony, 1973 edition
http://www.lettermen2.com/theft.html

Nave's Topical Bible: Commandments
http://bible.crosswalk.com/Concordances/NavesTopicalBible/ntb.cgi?number=T1189

The Laws of Virginia (1610-1611)
http://longman.awl.com/history/primarysource_2_2.htm

The Truth About the Ten Commandments in American Law; An Historical Perspective
http://www.alliancedefensefund.org/issues/booklets/10commandmentsbooklet.php

The Foundation for Moral Law, Inc.
This is the official website and organization of former Alabama Chief Justice Roy S. Moore.
Contains: Resources and Articles (including briefs, opinions, and articles), Downloads, Archives, Government Links, How to Help, A page with images of the monument itself, and so forth.
Foundation for Moral Law, Inc.
P.O. Box 231264
Montgomery, AL 36123
United States of America
Phone/Fax: (334) 262-1245/(334) 262-1708
http://www.morallaw.org/index.htm

The Ten Commandments monument removed from the Rotunda of the Alabama Judicial Building on August 27, 2003.
http://www.morallaw.org/monument.htm

Ten Commandments Defense Fund
http://www.tencommandmentsdefense.org/

Bible Promises

---

*Brown, John (of Edinburgh, 1784-1858) Discourses and Sayings of Our Lord Jesus Christ, 3 volumes (London, England: Banner of Truth Trust, 1990, 1967, 1852). A Christian classic.
"Spurgeon says of this great commentary: `Of the noblest order of exposition. Procure it.' Elsewhere in COMMENTING AND COMMENTARIES, he wrote, `Dr. Brown's work must be placed among the first of the first-class. He is a great expositor.' Again, `Brown is a modern Puritan. All his expositions are of the utmost value.'
"These volumes cover much of the Gospel of John, plus many portions of the other three Gospels. In them he reveals his encyclopedic mind, and a profound regard for the Bible and the very Word of God. In addition, it is seen why it was said that he had the best clerical library in the whole nation of Scotland.
"There is little doubt in the mind of this reviewer that any reader of these volumes will become possessor of myriads of new insights into the Scriptures, and what they reveal of our God and Saviour, Jesus Christ. It is indispensable to the student of the Gospels." -- Jay P. Green, Sr.
"Based upon the revised and enlarged edition of 1852. Rich in thought. Pastors will appreciate the writer's application of spiritual truths to the needs of men and women." -- Cyril J. Barber.
Recommended for daily devotions, as are all the books in the listing of "Books Considered To Be Among the Ten Greatest in the English Language."
Also available in Google Books, full view, Discourses and Sayings of Our Lord Jesus Christ, Illustrated in a Series of Expositions. ... by John Brown, published 1856 [Complete in 2 volumes. New York: Robert Carter and Brothers] original from the University of Michigan, digitized Feb. 17, 2006.
http://books.google.com/books?id=SZl9u8v0Yi8C&dq=Discourses+and+Sayings+of+Our+Lord+Jesus+Christ&ie=ISO-8859-1&source=gbs_summary_s&cad=0
This University of Michigan digitized edition, that appears in Google Books, is available in paper from two publishers: (Scholarly Publishing Office, University of Michigan Library, November 30, 2006 [Gardners Books, 2006]), 652 pages.
"This volume is produced from digital images created through the University of Michigan University Library's preservation reformatting program." -- Publisher's Annotation
And (Hard Press, November 26, 2007), 652 pages.

*Brown, John (of Edinburgh, 1784-1858), Parting counsels: an exposition of the first chapter of the Second Epistle of the Apostle Peter, with four additional discourses (Geneva Commentaries. Carlisle, PA: The Banner of Truth Trust, 1980). 30847
"We always think of Brown as a Puritan born out of due time. Everything he has left us is massive gold. He is both rich and clear, profound and perspicuous." -- C.H. Spurgeon
"The title is due to the fact that these were farewell addresses from the expositor. You will quickly see why the first chapter of 2 Peter is ideal for the purpose. And since Brown expounded these glorious directions from God for 344 pages, you may be sure that he left no jewel of truth unrevealed. He shone each gem until they reflect the brightness of the Gospel of the glory of Christ. Would that he had been enabled to finish the epistle!" -- Jay P. Green, Sr.

Commandments and Promises of Jesus Christ

*Thomas Nelson Publishers, Precious Bible Promises (Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson Publishers, 1983). 20025
Some of the approximate 8,810 promises from the Word of God arranged by theme. Convenient for use in counseling. Good when you need help fast. Text is the New King James Version, pocket size, 367 pages.

Thomas Nelson Publishers, Promises of Jesus (Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson, 1984, 1980).
Selections from the Bible with full-color photographs.

New Testament King James Version, The Precious Promises Edition (Lake Wylie, SC: Christian Heritage Publishing Co. Inc., 1991).
A pocket New Testament with the words of Christ in red and the promises screened in red. This edition is out-of-print.

Clarke, Samuel (1684-1750) A Collection of the promises of Scripture, under their proper heads: in two parts . . . (London: Printed for J. Murgatroyd, 1790).

Clarke, Samuel (1684-1750) (compiler), Precious Bible Promises revised edition (Chappaqua, NY: Christian Herald Books, c1976, 1906, 1790).

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

Erskine, Ebenezer. A serious address to the Christian world: or, the precious promises of the most high God, to repenting sinners. Found in the manuscripts of ... Mr. Ebenezer Erskine, ... Glasgow, 1789. (ECCO) Gale Document Number CW3317942430

God's Promises for the Golden Years (Fort Lauderdale, FL: Coral Ridge Ministries). 20026
"It is a collection of verses from God's inspired Word, organized into topics that address the issues faced by those in mid-life and beyond. This superbly organized, thoughtful collection responds to many areas of interest and concern. . . ." -- CRM

Hocking, David L., The promises of Jesus (La Mirada, CA: Biola Hour Ministries, Biola University, 1990).

*Lockyer, Herbert, All the Promises of the Bible
"A devotional expositional compilation of all the promises [about 3,300 of the approximate 8,810 promises - SK] that are found in Scripture." -- Synopsis
"Dr. Herbert Lockyer was born in London in 1886, and held pastorates in Scotland and England for 25 years before coming to the United States in 1935. In 1937 he received the honorary Doctor of Divinity degree from Northwestern Evangelical Seminary. In 1955 he returned to England where he lived for many years. He then returned to the United States where he continued to devote time to the writing ministry until his death in November of 1984." -- Publisher's Annotation

May, William J., The Promises of Jesus

Owen, John, 1616-1683, The stedfastness of promises, and the sinfulness of staggering: opened in a sermon preached at Margarets in Westminster before the Parliament Febr. 28. 1649. Being a day set apart for solemn humiliation throughout the nation. By John Owen minister of the Gospel, 1650, EEBO.

Power, P.B., The "I Wills" of Christ (Carlisle, PA: The Banner of Truth Trust). 20028
"Power (1822-1899) first did this work in 1862. It has 382 pages. Not many other books have ever taken this approach. These wonderful `I wills' of the Savior contain the very promises of God to secure salvation for us." -- GCB

Ryan, James, Bible Promises for Growing Christians (Nashville, TN: Broadman Press, 1985). 20029

Sibbes, Richard, 1577-1635, Goodwin, Thomas, 1600-1680, and Nye, Philip, 1596?-1672, Yea and amen: or, pretious promises, and priviledges. Spiritually unfolded in their nature and vse. Driving at the assurance and establishing of weak beleevers. By R. Sibbs D.D. master of Katherine Hall in Cambridge, and preacher of Grayes Inne London. Reviewed by himselfe in his life time, and since perused by T.G. and P.N., 1638, EEBO.

*Spurstowe, William, The Wells of Salvation Opened: Or, A Treatise Discovering the Nature, Preciousness, Usefulness of Gospel Promises, and Rules for the Right Application of Them (Edmonton, AB Canada: Still Waters Revival Books, 2001, 1655), EEBO.
"THE WELLS OF SALVATION . . . may well we the best book ever written on God's promises. The book contains the main content of several sermons which are introduced by Spurstowe in a preface. He writes, `The promises are a large field in which the wise Merchant may find more pearls hidden, than are yet espied: A rich mine in which the diligent laborer may dig forth more fine gold, than any yet have taken from them'." -- Joel Beeke, from the foreword.

*Spurgeon, C.H., Faith's Checkbook (Chicago, IL: Moody Press). 31728
"A promise from God may very instructively be compared to a check payable to order. It is given to the believer with the view of bestowing upon him some good thing. It is not meant that he should read it over comfortably and then have done with it. No, he is to treat the promises as a reality, as a man treats a check. He is to take the promise and endorse it with his own name by personally receiving it as true." -- C.H. Spurgeon
"In the Preface of his devotional volume containing 365 brief, experimental comments on the promises which Spurgeon has chosen, the renowned preacher tells us that so many of these promises are true because the were fulfilled in his own experience during a time of `wading in the surf of controversy,' and also when `sharp bodily pain succeeded mental depression, accompanied both by bereavement, and affliction in the person of one dear as life. Never were the promises of Jehovah so precious to me as at this hour.' Thus it was to help other sufferers that Spurgeon prepared this comforting book."
Faith's Checkbook, A Daily Devotional by C. H. Spurgeon
http://bible.christiansunite.com/faitharchive.shtmly

*WESTMINSTER ASSEMBLY OF DIVINES, Scripture Index to the Westminster Standards (The complete Scripture index to the Westminster Confession (1646), Larger and Shorter Catechisms.)
http://www.swrb.com/newslett/actualnls/index01.htm
A Guide to the Westminster Standards: Confession of Faith and Larger Catechism, James Bordwine, (Unicoi, TN: The Trinity Foundation, 1996).
Includes a unique, 100-page topical index to both the Confession and the Catechism.

Wilde, Gary (editor), Amazing Grace: God's Promises of Freedom from Guilt and Shame

Wilde, Gary (editor), Bible Promises to Treasure for Business Professionals: Inspiring Words for Every Occasion

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

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

Wilde, Gary (editor), Bible Promises to Treasure for Graduates: Inspiring Words for Every Occasion

Wilde, Gary (editor), Bible Promises to Treasure for Grandparents: Inspiring Words for Every Occasion

Wilde, Gary (editor), Bible Promises to Treasure for Men: Inspiring Words for Every Occasion

Wilde, Gary (editor), Bible Promises to Treasure for the New Millennium: Inspiring Words for Every Occasion: Blue Leather

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

Wilde, Gary (editor), Bible Promises to Treasure for New Believers: Inspiring Words for Every Occasion

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

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

Wilde, Gary (editor), Bible Promises to Treasure for Parents

Wilde, Gary (editor), Bible Promises to Treasure for People in Recovery: Inspiring Words for Every Occasion: Green Leather

Wilde, Gary (editor), Bible Promises to Treasure for Teachers: Inspiring Words for Every Occasion

Wilde, Gary (editor), Bible Promises to Treasure for Teenagers: Inspiring Words for Every Occasion

Wilde, Gary (editor), Bible Promises to Treasure for Tough Times: Inspiring Words for Every Occasion

Wilde, Gary (editor), Bible Promises to Treasure for Victorious Living: Inspiring Words for Every Occasion

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

Wilde, Gary (editor), Free from the Past: Bible Promises for Adult Children of Alcoholics

Wilde, Gary (editor), Healing for Today Hope for Tomorrow/God's Promises for Overcoming Codependency

Wilde, Gary (editor), Hope for the Hungry Heart: God's Promises for Overeaters

Wilde, Gary (editor), Renewed Each Day: Bible Promises for Overcoming Chemical Dependecies

Wilde, Gary (editor), A Very Present Help: God's Promises for Those Who Are Grieving a Loss

Wilkerson, David R., Commandments and Promises of Jesus Christ (Glendale, CA: G/L Regal Reflections, 1974 1973).

See also: The promises of Christ, Prayer, Topical listings of scripture useful in counseling, Proverbs, Psalms

Related WebLinks

Scripture Index to the Westminster Standards (The complete Scripture index to the Westminster Confession (1646), Larger and Shorter Catechisms.)
http://www.swrb.com/newslett/actualnls/index01.htm
A Guide to the Westminster Standards: Confession of Faith and Larger Catechism, James Bordwine, (Unicoi, TN: The Trinity Foundation, 1996).
Includes a unique, 100-page topical index to both the Confession and the Catechism.

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

Nave's Topical Bible: Promises
http://bible.crosswalk.com/Concordances/NavesTopicalBible/ntb.cgi?number=T3997

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

TOPICAL LISTINGS OF SCRIPTURE USEFUL IN COUNSELING

---

Anderson, Ken, Where to Find It in the Bible
"This A to Z listing of topics puts key Scriptures at your fingertips without a lot of fancy theological language. There are 3700 different subjects, circumstances, and situations! Bible versions: NKJV, KJV, NRSV, NIV, CEV, and others." -- Publisher's Annotation
"This book is alive! It covers topics right out of my daily life (like leadership, politics, and management) that I've never been able to find so easily in a traditional concordance. Then, as the title says, it shows me where to find them in the Bible. I'm using it as one of my key organizational development tools." -- Dr. John Rivera, consultant, researcher, and educator This work could be used in combination with THE NEW TREASURY OF SCRIPTURE KNOWLEDGE for deeper and broader studies.

Open Bible, Classic Edition (KJV) (Thomas Nelson, April 11, 2006), 1856 pages.
Both the THOMPSON CHAIN REFERENCE BIBLE and THE OPEN BIBLE were originally prepared using the KJV, so there would be advantage to not mixing KJV and NKJVs when using both Bibles for topical studies. THE NKJV OPEN BIBLE, CLASSIC (EXPANDED) EDITION is listed below.
"Are you ready for an intense and contemplative study of the Word? The KJV OPEN BIBLE, CLASSIC EDITION is designed for the hungry reader. This Bible is filled with amazing study aids including comprehensive book introductions and outlines, 64-page concordance, Read-Along references and translation notes, and the Classic Biblical Cyclopedic Index covering over 8,000 textual entries. The KJV OPEN BIBLE, CLASSIC EDITION also features a Seven-step Method on How To Study the Bible, a Visual Survey of the Bible, The Christian's Guide to New Life, and The Greatest Archeological Discoveries of the Bible. This outstanding Bible is available in hardcover, bonded leather and genuine leather with color choices of black, burgundy and tan." -- Publisher's Annotation "While this bible clearly reflects a general Evangelical Protestant perspective on Christianity, it is not so narrowly focused that non-evangelicals could not benefit from it. Moreover, while the OPEN BIBLE had been available in other transaltions in the past (i.e., NASB, NKJV, NLT), it was originally designed around the KJV, so one could argue that this is the grand-daddy of all KJV Study Bibles. Also, this Bible has all the essential helps and aids of many other decent Study Bibles, but without the overly-intrusive notes and annotations which render some so-called 'study bibles' as little more than running commentaries.
"No, it does not have the annotations of the NKJV Open Bible, as one disappointed reviewer noted below. If you want a great study bible in that translation with great notes, check out the NELSON STUDY BIBLE (NKJV) -- perhaps the best annotated evangelical Study Bible in any translation on the market [see also the 1599 GENEVA BIBLE [ENHANCED] and THE REFORMATION STUDY BIBLE: THE WORD THAT CHANGES LIVES -- THE FAITH THAT CHANGED THE WORLD, NEW KING JAMES VERSION -- sk]. However, if you want a KJV study edition of the Scriptures with all the helps but few intrusive study notes, than this is it.
"Not only does this bible have cross-references, extensive book introductions and outlines, numerous articles on Bible topics, the now famous Cyclopedic Index, the Visual Survey of the Bible, Concordance, the words of Christ in red, and full color maps with an index, it also has the Christian's Guide to the New Life Study Outlines. "The fact that the notes to this study are 'chained' thru-out the Bible provides no small convenience for the reader. Keyed to the Christian's Guide to the New Life Study Outlines, these notes are bound by a common theme (the New Life Study itself) without being too intrusive or verbose. . . ." -- Reader's Comment

The NKJV Open Bible, Classic (Expanded) Edition (Thomas Nelson).
"Are you ready for an intense and contemplative study of the Word? THE NKJV OPEN BIBLE, CLASSIC EDITION is designed for the hungry reader. This Bible is filled with amazing study aids including comprehensive book introductions and outlines, 64-page concordance, Read-along references and translation notes, and the Classic Biblical Cyclopedic Index covering over 8,000 textual entries. THE NKJV OPEN BIBLE, CLASSIC EDITION also features a Seven-step Method on How To Study the Bible, a Visual Survey of the Bible, The Christian's Guide to New Life and The Greatest Archeological Discoveries of the Bible. This outstanding bible is available in hardcover, bonded leather and genuine leather with color choices of black, burgundy and tan." -- Publisher's Annotation
"This study Bible uses scripture to reinforce other scripture . . . There are no lengthy notes for each individual verse, but rather cross references for how the verse is amplified and supported by other verses of scripture. . .
"THE NKJV OPEN BIBLE is well written with theologically conservative study aids that include How to Study the Bible, A Readers Guide to Understanding the Bible, a Biblical Cyclopedic Index, Harmony of the Gospels, Teachings and Illustrations of Christ, Prophecies of the Messiah fulfilled in Jesus Christ, the Parables of Christ, the Miracles of Christ, the Scarlet Thread of Redemption, a Guide to Christian Workers (suggested Evangelizing discussions and scriptural outlines to support them), and a Concordance.
"The Reader's Guide to Understanding the Bible section is an impressive series of studies that outline important Biblical truths with commentary notes and scripture. They cover the following discussions about God's Word: How God's Word Came To Us; What God's Word Does; How We Benefit from God's Word; What God's Word Tells Us About God's Program; What God's Word Tells Us About God's Covenants; God The Father; The Son Of God; The Holy Spirit; Need for the New Life; Way to the New Life; Results of the New Life; Assurance of the New Life; Bible Study; Prayer; Stewardship; Worship; Participation in the Local Church; Sharing Our Faith; Walking in The Spirit; Sin; Temptation; Suffering; Knowing the Will of God; Doubt; The Family; Human Government; Israel; The Church. "THE OPEN BIBLE-CLASSIC (EXPANDED) EDITION is my favorite of all study bibles. It does not have in-text study notes, but in the long run, Scripture usually speaks for itself. Also, revisions of the Classic edition have removed what I believe are vital parts of the Classic or Expanded Edition. It is also conservative in theology from a Protestant perspective of many denominations. I recommend this to any one who wants to grow spiritually and/or to learn more about God and our faith and our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ." -- Reader's Comments

*Bordwine, James E., A Guide to the Westminster Standards: Confession of Faith and Larger Catechism (Unicoi, TN: The Trinity Foundation, 1991). 20005
One way to be strengthened and encouraged in times of trouble, discouragement, and depressions is to read pure doctrine to remind oneself of what is in fact true.
"In this volume are the complete texts of the Westminster Confession of Faith (1646) (both the original and American versions) and the Larger Catechism, together with Scripture proofs and a unique topical index to both the Confession and the Catechism. A GUIDE TO THE WESTMINSTER STANDARDS will be a great help in understanding the Bible and its most complete summaries, the Westminster Standards." -- Publisher's Annotation.
A Guide to the Westminster Standards: Confession of Faith and Larger Catechism, James Bordwine
Includes a unique, 100 page topical index to both the Confession and the Catechism.
http://www.thornwellhall.org/GuideFrame1Source1.htm

Broger, John C. (developer/editor), Course I: The Self-Confrontation Syllabus for Biblical Counseling Training and Course I: Self-Confrontation Tapes [20036]
Biblical Counseling Foundation
http://www.bcfministries.org/About%20BCF/about%20bcf.html

Bobgan, Martin, and Deidre Bobgan, CONFRONTING the Biblical Counseling Foundation's Self-Confrontation Manual. A PsychoHeresy Awareness Position Paper (PsychoHeresy Awareness Ministries 4137 Primavera Road, Santa Barbara, CA 93110).
"While we no longer recommend any manuals or training programs for biblical counseling, we would issue the following recommendations for changing the manual and for restraints if the BCF manual is to be used at all."
http://www.psychoheresy-aware.org/images/bcfpaper.pdf

*Calvin, John, et.al., Gary DeMar (foreword), Marshall Foster (preface) 1599 Geneva Bible [enhanced] , hardcover (Tolle Lege Press; 1st edition (2006).
"When the Pilgrims arrived in America in 1620, they brought along supplies, a consuming passion to advance the Kingdom of Christ, a bright hope for the future, and the Word of God. Clearly, their most precious cargo was the Bible. The GENEVA BIBLE, printed over 200 times between 1560 and 1644, was the most widely read and influential English Bible of the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries. This superb translation was the product of the best Protestant scholars of the day and became the Bible of choice for many of the greatest writers, thinkers, and historical figures of that time. The GENEVA BIBLE is unique among all other Bibles. It was the first Bible to use chapters and numbered verses and became the most popular version of its time because of the extensive marginal notes. These notes, written by Reformation leaders such as John Calvin, John Knox, Miles Coverdale, William Whittingham, Anthony Gilby, and others, were included to explain and interpret the scriptures for the common people. For nearly half a century these notes helped the people of England, Scotland, and Ireland understand the Bible and true liberty. King James despised the GENEVA BIBLE because he considered the notes on key political texts to be seditious and a threat to his authority. Unlike the KING JAMES VERSION, the GENEVA BIBLE was not authorized by the government. It was truly a Bible by the people and for the people. You can see why this remarkable version with its profound marginal notes played a key role in the formation of the American Republic. Until now, the only complete version available was a large, cumbersome, and difficult-to-read facsimile edition. But this new edition contains all the original words and notes, but the type set has been enlarged and the font style change for today's reader." -- Publisher's Annotation
"This is the Bible that eventually put an end to Feudalism in Europe, strengthened Puritans, Quakers, and came to America on the Mayflower. This was the first Bible published in the language of the common people, the first Bible to contain commentary and verse numbers, and the first Bible written in English from Greek and Hebrew texts available from Constantinople, not from the Latin Vulgate. The dynamite in this Bible, is" the commentary accounting for about one third of its length. "The Church of England and King James were so upset they determined to create a new translation. They called it the King James version. They choose to use language so formal and grand, even by the standards of those days, that the common people would find difficult to understand. The GENEVA BIBLE was found seditious by it's insertions of commentary that spoke directly about the priesthood of lay believers, the church as naturally anti-oligarchy, and setting forth some other ideas considered anarchy by the King, but meaning freedom to the masses who read it. . . .
"Important facts to remember about this Bible. The Reformation was strong in England and the Lollards were a lay group of huge influence that had to go underground. English Christian theologians, not Catholics and not Anglicans, fled in huge numbers to Geneva for freedom. Geneva was not part of Switzerland at that time, because Geneva was its own city-state. . . . The GENEVA BIBLE was printed 1560-1644. THE KING JAMES VERSION was published in 1611. The GENEVA BIBLE was against the law to own. . . ." -- M. Baker, Reader's Comment
"The GENEVA BIBLE has a unique place in history. It is some times called the "BREECHES BIBLE." That term comes from the reference in Genesis 3:7 where it says that Adam and Eve clothed themselves in 'breeches' made from fig leaves. It is the product of Protestant scholars who had taken refuge in Geneva, Switzerland during the reign of Queen 'Bloody Mary' of England (1553-1558). It is also known as the Bible that the Pilgrims brought to America. It is older than the KING JAMES VERSION and is considered by some to be more 'Protestant' than the KING JAMES VERSION." -- Reader's Comment
"I've seen the facsimile versions of the Geneva Bible and they don't even come close to this edition. The legibility and readability of this edition is" far superior to other editions. "There have also been concerns about textual errors, but Toll Lege Press has acknowledged and fixed them in the printings following the first." -- Reader's Comment
Tolle Lege Press edition of the 1599 Geneva Bible
http://www.GenevaBible.com

*Calvin, John, Calvin's Wisdom: An Anthology Arranged Alphabetically [10916]

King James Bible With the Geneva Bible Notes, 1672 (Cerlox Bound Photocopy Series. Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books, 1998, 1672).
"The best Reformation translation (King James Version) combined with the best Bible notes of the first Reformation, the GENEVA BIBLE notes. A great tool for public, family and private worship and study. Printed from a marvelously clean original copy, surpassing the quality of all other printings (of the GENEVA BIBLE NOTES in particular) we have seen. Contains almost 1000 (8.5 X 11 inch) pages with notes on the complete Bible (Old and New Testaments) making this a veritable library of study and classic Protestant commentary in just one book." -- SWRB
Geneva Bible, 1599, Additional Title: (Bible. English. Geneva. 1599.) The Bible, that is, the Holy Scriptures conteined in the Olde and Newe Testament: translated according to the Ebrew and Greeke, and conferred with the best translations in diuers languages; with most profitable annotations upon all the hard places, and other things of great importance ... (London: Imprinted by the Deputies of C. Barker, 1599),
EEBO.
http://bible.crosswalk.com/Commentaries/GenevaStudyBible/,
Geneva Bible Notes, 1599
http://www.poconos.net/~reformed/documents/geneva/
The Geneva Bible Notes are also featured in the Online Bible CD-ROM. One keystroke brings the notes up in the second window.
Online Bible Homepage
http://www.onlinebible.org/

*Nave, Orville, and Edward Viening (revised and compiled) The New Nave's Topical Bible, new and enlarged (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan Publishing House, 1986).
NAVE'S is a way of finding what the Bible teaches on any subject. Unlike a concordance it has the verses printed right within the book.
Formerly THE ZONDERVAN TOPICAL BIBLE. Edward Viening was responsible for the compilation and revision of this 1969 work. This revised edition has 21,000 subject-heads rather than 20,000, but does not have the extensive Scripture references which still appear only in the Hendrickson edition. Nearly 6500 listings with more than 100,000 Scripture references and 1114 pages. Very useful in counseling also. A Christian classic.
Dr. D. James Kennedy says he has used it for 30 years and considers it an indispensable aid. Billy Graham has said he uses it more than any other book except the Bible in the preparation of his sermons. A Christian classic.
Nave's Topical Bible
http://bible.crosswalk.com/Concordances/NavesTopicalBible/

*Owen, John, Biblical Theologyy or: The Nature, Origin, Development, and Study of Theological Truth, in 6 books (Soli Deo Gloria Pubns). A Christian classic.
"Owen wrote 24 volumes, and only 23 have been available in reprint. BIBLICAL THEOLOGY, has been in Latin, and this is the first-ever English edition of this important work. It was translated into English by Dr. Stephen Westcott. It contains six sections, tracing theology from Adam to the present. Appendixed is Owen's Defense of Scripture against Fanaticism, which has much to say in the current discussions with Charismatics. J.I. Packer says, "All the qualities we expect of Owen-the focus on God, the passion for Christ, the honoring of the Holy Spirit, the shattering depth of insight into human sinfulness and perversity, the concern for holiness, the radical view of regeneration, the vision of the church as a spiritual fellowship that worships, the distrust of philosophical schemes and styles for dealing with divine things, the celebration of God's wisdom in giving the Scriptures in the form in which we have them-all are seen here." -- Publisher's Annotation "The present treatise is vintage Owen, searching and spiritual, devotional and doxological, the product of a masterful mind and a humble heart." -- J.I. Packer from the Foreword
"Biblical Theology is that which starts with Genesis and builds teachings based *only* on what the particular writers have to say about a topic, building the theme together as one progresses through Scripture. "Systematic Theology" is that which takes a topic (i.e., the atonement) and finds all applicable texts from all over Scripture to form a concise teaching of that doctrine." -- Reader Comment

*Owen, John, (1616-1683) The Complete Works of John Owen, 16 volumes, Alternate title: THE WORKS OF JOHN OWEN (Carlisle, PA: The Banner of Truth Trust). ISBN-10: 0851513921 ISBN-13: 9780851513928. A Christian classic. See Chapter 1 for annotation on all 16 volumes. Available on The Amazing Christian Library, THE COMPLETE WORKS OF JOHN OWEN including HEBREWS (OCR digital text), DVD One, CD #1. Many separate works by Owen may be found in the Reformation Bookshelf 30 CD Set, the forthcoming Calvinism Bookshelf 30 CD Set (as of August 2008), and the forthcoming forthcoming Protestant Bookshelf 30 CD Set (as of August 2008)
John Owen (1616-1683) "is by common consent not the most versatile, but the greatest among Puritan theologians. For solidity, profundity, massiveness and majesty in exhibing from Scripture God's ways with sinful mankind there is no one to touch him. . . ." -- J.I. Packer in A Quest for Godliness, p. 81
"To master his works is to be a profound theologian." -- C.H. Spurgeon
"The Banner of Truth Trust completed in May, 1968, the re-issue of the complete English works of Owen, his seven volumes on the Epistle of Hebrews excepted. All of these volumes `are of the greatest value' (Dr. Lloyd-Jones) but for newcomers to Owen we especially recommend the four volumes in the Practical Division (vols. 6-9.) . . ." -- William J. Grier
"His works on communion, Christian life, and the person and glory of Christ, the work of the Holy Spirit, etc. are of the utmost value to any serious-minded Christian." -- Jay P. Green, Sr.
John Owen is an example of a great theologian who prescribed to independency, and was unable to attain to covenanted reformation. He was not a member of the Westminster Assembly of Divines.

*Pink, Arthur W., Profiting From The Word (Carlisle, PA: The Banner of Truth Trust, 1990). 20008
"Pink is recognized as one of the finest Christian writers of the twentieth century. Includes: The Scriptures and Sin, God, Christ, Prayer, Good Works, Obedience, the World, the Promises, Joy, and Love. Composed of excerpts from the author's magazine, Studies in the Scriptures." -- GCB

*Pink, Michael, Tough Questions, Straight Answers (Chicago, IL: Moody Press). 20009
"A great topical arrangement of Scriptures on modern subjects that our children bump up against everyday. Just Bible passages. Highly recommended." -- GCB

*The Reformation Study Bible: The Word That Changes Lives -- the Faith That Changed The World, New King James Version (Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson Publishers, March 2001). Previous published under the title New Geneva Study Bible: Bringing the Light of the Reformation to Scripture (Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson Publishers, 1995).
"The NEW GENEVA STUDY BIBLE offers a restatement of Reformation truth for Christians today. The first Geneva Bible was a pivotal force in the Reformation. Using the everyday language of its time, it opened the pages of Scripture to readers and provided helpful notes to assist them in understanding its message. It became the family Bible of the English people, and was the Bible that the Pilgrims brought to the New World. Since that time a multitude of English translations and study Bibles have appeared, but none of these has incorporated a summary of Reformed theology." -- Thomas Nelson Publishers
Also available in digital format from Logos Bible Software.
The Reformation Study Bible in Logos Bible Software
http://www.logos.com/ebooks/details/NGSTBIB
A Review of The Reformation Study Bible
http://www.lettermen2.com/geneva.html
Readers of THE REFORMATION STUDY BIBLE should also be familiar with The Westminster Family of Documents, the doctrine of the Mediatorial Dominion of Jesus Christ, and the literature of the Covenanted Reformation.
"The Westminster Confession of Faith (1646, The Westminster Standards) and Related Works: A Study Guide"
http://www.lettermen2.com/suggest.html
The Covenanted Reformation of Scotland Short Title Listing
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr9chb.html#crsstl
Reformed Presbyterian Catechism, William L. Roberts D.D.
http://www.covenantedreformation.com/EssaysCR/RP%20Catechism/RP%20Index.html

*Regent University Staff, The Word on Management (Ventura, CA: Regal Books). 70545
"A topical index of Scriptures for managers and employees by the Regent University staff." -- GCB

*Smith, Jerome H. (editor), The New Treasury of Scripture Knowledge, revised and expanded (Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson Publishers, 1997, 1992, 1836).
"For over 150 years, the TREASURY OF SCRIPTURE KNOWLEDGE has given Bible students the most complete collection anywhere of cross references -- far more than any concordance or reference Bible. Now this updated classic is so much easier to use. The entries, arranged verse by verse, offer cross references to related verses, topics, themes, and important words, so you can discover just what the Bible says about itself. This new edition contains over 100,000 new references, hundreds of corrections, seven new indexes, a handy symbol system, and a helpful `how to use the book' section. And it's completely retypeset in modern type for readability! 1664 pages . . ." -- CBD
"The one book, aside from the Bible itself, that I value most in my studies. I am grateful to Thomas Nelson for publishing this expanded edition." -- John MacArthur
Includes bibliography, subject index, topic number index, Proverbs index, name index, figure of speech index, and other indexes. See the index to Proverbs.
Also available in digital format.
New Treasury of Scripture Knowledge, Logos Bible Software (LLS)
"Edited by Jerome H. Smith - An incredible 1-volume Bible reference library, this comprehensive update of the original TREASURY OF SCRIPTURE KNOWLEDGE is a unique resource for Bible study, teaching, or preaching. This edition contains nearly 100,000 new cross-references, additional key words, a new system of symbols, and many other improvements. This is the most comprehensive collection of time-saving and insightful cross-references ever published! Dozens of special study aids help you develop powerful lessons or sermons -- straight from the Bible itself! Dr. John MacArthur, Jr. says: 'The one book, apart from the Bible itself, that I value most in my studies'."
New Treasury of Scripture Knowledge -- Logos Bible Software
http://www.logos.com/ebooks/details/ntsk

*Spurgeon, C.H., Spurgeon's Sermons, 10 volumes (Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Book House). [31733]
"Charles Haddon Spurgeon's style was rich, racy, powerful saxon, ever clear and strong, and often eloquent. The glory of God in saving men was his ruling motif." -- E. Dargan
"This collection of SPURGEON'S SERMONS contains 250 sermons. . . The final volume includes indexes of texts and subjects, so you can easily find what Spurgeon had to say on a particular verse or topic. . . ." -- CBD
Spurgeon's Sermons, the AGES Software CD-ROM in Logos Library format
"This CD is the most complete collection of Charles Spurgeon's Sermons, available in print or electronically! On this CD are over 3550 sermons from one of the most gifted speakers and blessed Christian leaders of our era.
"This CD is an invaluable tool in both sermon preparation and understanding. Additionally, The Complete Spurgeon Collection, also can serve as a full Bible commentary as there are sermons and expositions from Genesis 1:1 to Revelation 22:21.
"AGES Software is excited to bring to you over 62 and a third consecutive years of pulpit gems. Over 3,241 consecutive weeks of sermons, a feat that will probably never be surpassed. Enjoy the writings and wisdom of the English preacher that perhaps influenced more Christians on either coast of the Atlantic Ocean than any man of our era."
Spurgeon's Sermons, the AGES Software CD-ROM in Logos Library format
http://www.logosbiblesoftware.com/logosbiblesoftware/spurser.html
Spurgeon's Sermons (CD-ROM) from AGES Software
http://www.ageslibrary.com
A Collection of Sermons, C.H. Spurgeon from The Ephesians Four Group
http://www.e4.net

*Summers, William T. (compiler), A Topical Index to Matthew Henry's A Commentary on the Whole Bible (Old Tappan, NJ: Fleming H. Revell, 1982). 20010

*Thompson, Frank Charles (editor) and Kirkbride Bible and Technology (other contributor), Thompson Chain Reference Bible, KJV, 5th edition, improved, leather bound (Kirkbride Bible Company, December 2005), some editions include a CD-ROM. Language: English, French, and Spanish. Many editions and bindings are available.
"Dr. Frank C. Thompson, D.D., Ph.D., invested more than forty years in compiling and developing the remarkable Chain-Reference system that is the heart of the Bible that now bears his name." -- Publisher's Annotation
This is a huge body of work: the fully cross-referenced Bible, 1619 pages, plus Bible helps, 788 pages, for a total of 2417 pages. It may be used profitably in combination with THE NEW TREASURY OF SCRIPTURE KNOWLEDGE (1680 pages), THE NEW GENEVA STUDY BIBLE (THE REFORMATION STUDY BIBLE) (2220 pages), THE GENEVA BIBLE (648 pages), THE THOMPSON EXHAUSTIVE TOPICAL BIBLE: KING JAMES VERSION (1631 pages), and THE NEW NAVE'S TOPICAL BIBLE (1114 pages). "The topics from the TOPICAL BIBLE can easily be found in the General Index of the THOMSPON CHAIN-REFERENCE BIBLE. In the General Index are found the chain-reference numbers that will guide the user into the biblical context for many of the topics. The many additional resources in the THOMSON CHAIN-REFERENCE BIBLE . . . will greatly supplement any topical study." -- Introduction to the TOPICAL BIBLE
We feel that both THE THOMPSON CHAIN-REFERENCE BIBLE, KING JAMES VERSION, 5TH EDITION, and the THOMPSON EXHAUSTIVE TOPICAL BIBLE: KING JAMES VERSION has a part in every reference library, particularly the libraries of Biblical Counselors.
Remember the Thompson Chain-Reference System was developed for the Authorized King James Version. It is also available in New American Standard, New King James, and the New International versions.
"A THOMPSON STUDY BIBLE will help you in ways other Bibles can't. It's the unique Chain-Reference System that allows you to follow any subject, person, place or idea, from the front of your Bible to the end. THOMPSON users say it's the best way to study your Bible. No other Bible has this superb, patented, Thompson Chain Reference System developed by Dr. Frank C. Thompson in 1890. Since that time, thousands of additional topics and links have been added. The AKJV 4th edition has been out-of-print since 1988. The 5th edition began printing in 1988. The only way to find a 4th edition would be in the secondary market. . . ' -- Publisher's Annotation
"Some Thompson Bible Features [from among 75 additional study features]:

• Thompson Chain Reference System
• Thompson Bible Content
• Archaeology
• Full-Color Atlas Section
• Portraits of Christ
• Topical Treasury
• Thompson Bible Helps Section
• Biblical History Sample" -- Publisher's Annotation

*Thompson, Frank Charles (author), Paul M. Hillman (editor), John Stephen Jauchen (editor) The Thompson Exhaustive Topical Bible: King James Version (Indianapolis, IN: Kirkbride Bible Company, Inc., 1997). Hardcover, 1631 pages.
This is a topical Bible compiled from the Thompson Chain-Reference System.
"NAVE'S TOPICAL BIBLE was edited into a Study Bible format shortly after the appearance of the original THOMPSON CHAIN-REFERENCE BIBLE. It is fitting for Thompson's Study Bible to be reformatted into a reference book. And where there is room in the marketplace and on every serious student's bookshelf for more than one Bible translation, so there is room for more than one Topical Bible -- and great value in the use of both Nave's and Thompson's work. . . ." -- John R. Kohlenbertger III, from the Foreword
"Now, the detailed and comprehensive topical and subject data that forms the heart of the unparalleled Thompson Chain-Reference system is offered in this -- the most exhaustive topical Bible currently available! Combining to make THE THOMPSON EXHAUSTIVE TOPICAL BIBLE unique are features which include:

• Topical access to more than 100,000 Bible verses on,
• More than 8,000 Subjects and Subtopics of biblical, theological, historical, and devotional significance,
• Definitions of persons, places, objects and events important to Bible study,
• Exhaustive cross-references for extended study and clarification,
• Key verses on each topic are printed in full,
• Hundreds of outlines for preaching and teaching,
• Character studies of biblical personalities,
• A comprehensive guide to all the features and topics included.

Torrey's New Topical Textbook
http://www.ccel.org/t/torrey/ttt/

*WESTMINSTER ASSEMBLY OF DIVINES, Scripture Index to the Westminster Standards (The complete Scripture index to the Westminster Confession (1646), Larger and Shorter Catechisms), Still Waters Revival Books
http://www.swrb.com/newslett/actualnls/index01.htm
A Guide to the Westminster Standards: Confession of Faith and Larger Catechism, James Bordwine, (Unicoi, TN: The Trinity Foundation, 1996).
Includes a unique, 100-page topical index to both the Confession and the Catechism.

*Voorwinde, Steven, Wisdom for Today's Issues: A Topical Arrangement of the Proverbs [30621]

Adams, Jay E., What to Do on Thursday (Phillipsburg, NJ: Presbyterian Reformed Publishing Co.). 30104
"Making the Bible practical is the author's gift. Sunday is not the Christians only day. This book is designed to bridge the gap in personal application of scriptural principles learned. This method of using the Scriptures will excite you all over again."

Asquith, Glenn H., Jr., Family Passages (The Bible and Personal Crisis Collection Series, Book 8. Nashville, TN: Broadman Press, 1990). 20011

Bible Index Pocketbook (Pocketpac Books. Wheaton, IL: Harold Shaw Publishers, 1981). 20012

Burkett, Larry, What the Bible Says About Money: A Topical Concordance Containing Every Verse in the Bible Related to Money and Personal Financial Matters [60327]

Butler, Paul, What the Bible Says About Civil Government [90268]

Kruis, John G., Quick Scripture Reference for Counseling (Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Book House). 20014
"Scripture references for 87 subjects which makes this an ideal tool for Christian counselors plus more than 15 blank addenda pages. Quotations are from the NIV. Spiral bound."-- GCB

Norris, Bill, What the Bible Says About Growing Old (What the Bible Says Series. Joplin, MO: College Press Publishing Company, Incorporated, 1988). 20015

Regent University Staff, The Word on Management [70545]

Richards, Lawrence O., Personal Ministry Handbook [10599]

Shewan, Edward (editor), Great Bible Passages: Treasures From the Word (Elgin, IL: David C. Cook Publishing Co., 1988). 20017

Tell, Bill, and Sue Tell, Well-Versed Kids [20033]

Willison, John A.M., The Christian's Scripture directory: together with resolutions by the Rev. Jonathan Edwards (Philadelphia: Presbyterian Board of Publication, 18--?).

See also: The holy bible, The promises of christ, Bible promises, Wisdom books, Questions and answers, Biblical counsel by subject, Training in Biblical counseling, Scripture memory systems, Proverbs, topical listings of, Ready references: immediate counsel on many subjects, Bible reference works, Manuals and handbooks, Cruden's, young's, and strong's concordances

Related WebLinks

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

Words of Christ Appearing in The Web Edition of Biblical Counsel: Resources for Renewal
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrrappa.html

Scripture Index to the Westminster Standards (The complete Scripture index to the Westminster Confession (1646), Larger and Shorter Catechisms.)
http://www.swrb.com/newslett/actualnls/index01.htm
A Guide to the Westminster Standards: Confession of Faith and Larger Catechism, James Bordwine, (Unicoi, TN: The Trinity Foundation, 1996).
Includes a unique, 100-page topical index to both the Confession and the Catechism.

Nave's Topical Bible: Commandments
http://bible.crosswalk.com/Concordances/NavesTopicalBible/ntb.cgi?number=T1189


The Gideons International, Bible Helps
Includes: "Where to Find Help When," "Teachings About Some of Life's Problems," "Christian Virtues and Character," and so forth.
http://www.gideons.org/

Christian Financial Concepts
http://www.cfcministry.org/

Proverbs, Topical Listings

---

*Decker, Barbara Proverbs for Parenting: A Topical Guide for Child Raising from the Book of Proverbs, King James Version.
"An indispensible tool for parenting, this book arranges the proverbs into over 70 realistic, helpful topics. A sampling of topics covered include: trust in God, obedience, honesty, anger, self-control, temper, arguing, boasting, complaining, love, friendship, happiness, discretion, faithfulness, stewardship, work and many more." -- Publisher's Annotation

*Voorwinde, Steven, Wisdom for Today's Issues: A Topical Arrangement of the Proverbs (Philadelphia, PA: The Presbyterian and Reformed Publishing Co.). [30621]
"The Proverbs are arranged under 55 different subjects so that they may speak to us today on many modern problems." -- GCB

Goldberg, Louis, Savoring the Wisdom of Proverbs [30623]

Hubbard, David A., Proverbs [30624]

Souza, Francisco F. de, The Use of Proverbs in Biblical Counseling (Philadelphia, PA: Westminster Theological Seminary, D.Min. thesis, 1990). 20030
Includes bibliography.

Scripture Memory Systems

---

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

Masters, Lavonne, Memorize and Meditate [40054]

Tell, Bill, and Sue Tell, Well-Versed Kids (Colorado Springs, CO: NavPress). 20033
"WELL-VERSED KIDS contains 108 verses on the doctrinal and practical areas children need to be grounded in. And it comes with a parent/teacher manual to help you explain the verses to your children and guide them through the learning process. Includes everything pictured." -- Publisher's Annotation

Topical Memory System (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan Publishing House). 20034

See also: Appendix a: words of christ appearing in the web edition of biblical counsel: resources for renewal, topical listings of scripture, Biblical counsel by subject

Related WebLinks

TRAINING IN BIBLICAL COUNSELING

---

*Broger, John C. (developer/editor), Course I: The Self-Confrontation Syllabus for Biblical Counseling Training, and Course I: Self-Confrontation Tapes (10 cassette tapes) (Rancho Mirage, CA: Biblical Counseling Foundation). 20036
"Helps Christians solve their personal problems Biblically and equips laymen and women to counsel others Biblically within the church." Particularly valuable for its system of identifying root problems in counseling cases. Some of the material presented is from various writings by Jay E. Adams. The audio cassette tape series by John Broger is designed to accompany the course and includes practical examples.
Biblical Counseling Foundation
http://www.bcfministries.org/About%20BCF/about%20bcf.html

*Broger, John C. (developer/editor), Course II: Nouthetic Counseling Study Guide and Course II: Self-Confrontation Tapes (8 cassette tapes) (Rancho Mirage, CA: Biblical Counseling Foundation). 20037

Bobgan, Martin, and Deidre Bobgan, CONFRONTING the Biblical Counseling Foundation's Self-Confrontation Manual. A PsychoHeresy Awareness Position Paper (PsychoHeresy Awareness Ministries 4137 Primavera Road, Santa Barbara, CA 93110).
"While we no longer recommend any manuals or training programs for biblical counseling, we would issue the following recommendations for changing the manual and for restraints if the BCF manual is to be used at all."
http://www.psychoheresy-aware.org/images/bcfpaper.pdf

Kellemen, Robert W., Soul Physicians.
"SOUL PHYSICIANS provides a relevant, in-depth theology of biblical counseling. Just as medical students examine the anatomy of the human body, so soul physicians need to understand the anatomy of the human soul. SOUL PHYSICIANS offers a theological foundation for the ministry of biblical counseling, soul care, and spiritual direction, equipping the counselor to make Christian counseling truly Christian.
"Dr. Robert W. Kellemen is chairman of the Master of Arts in Christian Counseling and Discipleship Department at Capital Bible Seminary in Lanham, MD. He also works as a consultant for the 50,000-member American Association of Christian Counselors (AACC). He is the Director of the AACC's Religious Leaders' Division and also the AACC's Theology and Pastoral Counseling Director.
"As part of these roles, Bob writes a quarterly column (Soul Physicians) in the AACC's Christian Counseling Connection Newsletter. He also writes a quarterly column (Truth for Life) in the AACC's Christian Counseling Today magazine.
"In his three pastoral ministries, Bob has trained hundreds of lay people in the art of spiritual friendship. As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, Bob brings a practitioner's sensitivity to his writing and seminar ministry.
"He earned his B.A. in Pastoral Ministry from Baptist Bible College, his Th.M. in Theology and Biblical Counseling from Grace Theological Seminary, and his Ph.D. in Counselor Education from Kent State University." -- Publisher's Annotation

Pulaski, Adam, Biblical Counseling Manual: A Self Help Counseling Program Guide, Adam Pulaski
http://www.ecoin.net/bcbook/
Biblical Counseling On-line Workshop
http://www.immanuels.org/bc/bc_home.htmy

*Westminster Assembly (1643-1652), The Westminster Confession of Faith (1646) (Glasgow, Scotland [Free Presbyterian Publications, 133 Woodlands Road, Glasgow G3 6LE]: Free Presbyterian Publication, 1994). ISBN 0902506080 (casebound) and ISBN 0902506358 (paperback), Still Waters Revival Books, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.
Also available from Crown and Covenant Publications:
http://www.crownandcovenant.com/product_p/ds115.htm
" 'The product of Puritan conflict,' stated Shedd, reaching 'a perfection of statement never elsewhere achieved.' All that learning the most profound and extensive, intellect the most acute and searching, and piety the most sincere and earnest, could accomplish, was thus concentrated in the Westminster Assembly's Confession of Faith, which may be safely termed the most perfect statement of Systematic Theology ever framed by the Christian Church,' writes Hetherington (The History of the Westminster Assembly of Divines), p. 345. Concerning the Shorter Catechism, which is one of the items also included in this book, Mitchell notes: 'it is a thoroughly Calvinistic and Puritan catechism, the ripest fruit of the Assembly's thought and experience, maturing and finally fixing the definitions of theological terms to which Puritanism for half a century had been leading up and gradually coming closer and closer to in its legion of catechisms' (Westminster Assembly: Its History and Standards, p. 431). The Westminster Confession of Faith (1646) is the greatest of all the creeds of the Christian church. The church of Christ cannot be creedless and live. Especially in an age of doubt and confusion, it is her duty to define and proclaim the one true faith. Nowhere has the Reformed church done this so effectively as in the Westminster Confession and family of documents. This book represents Reformed thinking at its purest and best. It was intended, as part of the Covenanted Reformation taking place during its compilation, to be adopted as the binding confessional standard for every individual, family, court, church, and legislature in the British Isles." -- SWRB
This is considered to be the definitive publication of the Westminster family of documents. It includes the following:

1. To the Christian Reader, Especially Heads of Families, Mr. Thomas Manton's Epistle to the Reader,
2. The Confession of Faith (1646), the full and original edition with Scripture proofs written out,
3. The Larger Catechism with Scripture proofs written out,
4. The Shorter Catechism with Scripture proofs written out,
5. The Sum of Saving Knowledge,
6. The National Covenant,
7. The Solemn League and Covenant,
8. A Solemn Acknowledgement of Publick Sins and Breaches of the Covenant; and a Solemn Engagement to all the Duties Contained Therein
   CD #1, Reformation Bookshelf 30 CD Set
   http://www.swrb.com/Puritan/reformation-bookshelf-CDs.htm
9. The Directory for the Public Worship of God,
10. The Form of Presbyterial Church Government, and
11. The Directory for Family Worship.

*Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation, Certificate Program [30466]

*Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation, Diploma Program: Counselor Training Modules [30467]

*Dowdy, Augustus W., Jr., Phone Power [20545A]

*Foster, Timothy, Called to Counsel [20546]

Institute of Biblical Counseling and Discipleship
http://www.ibcd.org/

*Miller, C. John "Jack," and Rose Marie Miller, Sonship Course: World Harvest Mission Leadership Training Program, Nurture Training for Ministry, Equipping Others for Ministry [10548]
World Harvest Mission
http://www.whm.org/home.htm

*National Association of Nouthetic Counselors [E1028]
Nouthetic Counseling Home Page -- Competent to Counsel
http://www.nanc.org
The National Association of Nouthetic Counselors Tape Library
http://www.kyrios.com/soundword/nanc.html
National Association of Nouthetic Counselors (NANC)
5526 State Road 26 East
Lafayette, IN 47905

Davis, Billie, Teaching to Meet Crisis Needs [20041]

Gray, Edward P., Counseling to the Heart: A Training Program to Equip Women to Counsel Women (Covenant Theological Seminary, D.Min. thesis, 1990). 20038
"This thesis describes a women-counseling-women program in the context of a local congregation. The program uses a counseling methodology based on a Biblical understanding of the heart. . . . Practical and theological implications of the program are presented. The thesis develops a Biblical foundation for counseling in the areas of marriage and divorce and presents case studies to show how the concept of heart counseling can be applied. . . ." -- RIM

Mooremann, Phillip, The Christian Home Study Handbook, 1986 [70330]

*Powlison, David (editor), Contemporary Biblical Counseling: An Annotated Bibliography Compiled and Annotated by David Powlison, editor of Journal of Biblical Counseling With 1995 Additions
http://www.lettermen2.com/powlison.html

*Powlison, David A.C., The History of Biblical Counseling [20514]

Sturkie, Joan, and Siang-Yang Tan, Peer Counseling in Youth Groups: Equipping Your Kids to Help Each Other [40222]

Welch, E., Philosophy of Counseling [30460]

*Westminster Theological Seminary, Westminster Media Cassette Catalog [30111]
Sound Word Associates Library of Biblical Counselors
http://www.soundword.com/ccon.html

Westminster Theological Seminary Bookstore
http://www.wts.edu/bookstore/

See also: Christ and counseling, Appendix a: the words of christ, Biblical counsel by subject, Casuistry, Love and counseling problems, Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, Sexual relationship, Manuals and handbooks, Pastoral counseling, Peer counseling

Related WebLinks

Crosswalk Bible Study Tools
http://www.biblestudytools.net/

Creeds and Confessions
http://www.biblestudytools.net/History/AD/CreedsandConfessions/

The Institute for Nouthetic Studies: Training in Biblical Counseling by Extension With Dr. Jay E. Adams
"We are the Institute for Nouthetic Studies (INS), a ministry that seeks to train the next generation of biblical counselors by making the teaching ministry of Dr. Jay E. Adams available to students by extension. . . .
"Several years ago Dr. Adams and I began teaching at the Redeemer Biblical Counseling Training Institute (RBCTI) under the direction of our pastor, Bill Slattery (Dr. Adams' son-in-law). In recent years Dr. Adams has had to limit his travels so RBCTI became the only place one could study under Dr. Adams personally. When word traveled that Dr. Adams was teaching we began to receive a number of requests for tapes and the church began to explore ways to allow others to benefit from the training that was being offered here locally. After much discussion, and with the blessing of the church, Dr. Adams and I formed INS and created a structured curriculum that Dr. Adams believed would include everything the competent biblical counselor would need to understand to be thoroughly trained.
"We began taping Dr. Adams' lectures and offered the training on video tape. As the technology became available, we switched to DVDs and slowly (and sometimes painfully) learned how to produce better and better quality from our recordings. We posted a website to advertise and were quickly overwhelmed by the response. We are now approaching the 300 student mark with students on every continent around the world! We are nearing the completion of our curriculum and hope to have it completed by early fall.
"Here is a list of the courses we have ready:
Introduction to Biblical Counseling/Counseling Principles and Practices
The Counselor Himself
Critical Stages in Biblical Counseling
Counseling Problems
Premarital Counseling
Marriage, Divorce, and Remarriage
Theology and Counseling
Church Discipline
Forgiveness
Medical Issues in Counseling I & II
Marriage and Family Counseling
We are currently working on the following:
Counseling Theories and Issues Abroad in the Church Today
Legal Issues in Counseling
Counseling Women
The Christian Counselor's Casebook Studies
http://www.nouthetic.org/

Biblical Counseling On-line Workshop
http://www.immanuels.org/biblical_counseling/

Treasury of Scripture Knowledge
http://www.biblestudytools.net/Concordances/TreasuryofScriptureKnowledge/

Geneva Bible, 1599, Additional Title: (Bible. English. Geneva. 1599.) The Bible, that is, the Holy Scriptures conteined in the Olde and Newe Testament: translated according to the Ebrew and Greeke, and conferred with the best translations in diuers languages; with most profitable annotations upon all the hard places, and other things of great importance ... (London: Imprinted by the Deputies of C. Barker, 1599), EEBO.
http://bible.crosswalk.com/Commentaries/GenevaStudyBible/,

Matthew Henry Complete Commentary on the Whole Bible
http://www.biblestudytools.net/Commentaries/MatthewHenryComplete/

Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible (Jamieson, Fausset, Brown)
http://www.biblestudytools.net/Commentaries/JamiesonFaussetBrown/

John Gill's Exposition of the Bible
http://www.biblestudytools.net/Commentaries/GillsExpositionoftheBible/

Easton's Bible Dictionary
http://www.biblestudytools.net/Commentaries/MatthewHenryComplete/

Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary
http://www.biblestudytools.net/Dictionaries/HitchcockBibleNames/

Smith's Bible Dictionary
http://www.biblestudytools.net/Dictionaries/SmithsBibleDictionary/

King James Dictionary
http://www.biblestudytools.net/Dictionaries/KingJamesDictionary/

Foxe's Book of Martyrs Edited by William Byron Forbush
http://www.biblestudytools.net/History/AD/FoxsBookofMartyrs/
John Foxe's Book of Martyrs
http://www.hrionline.ac.uk/foxe/index.html

The Works of Josephus
http://www.biblestudytools.net/History/BC/FlaviusJosephus/

The Interlinear Bible
http://www.biblestudytools.net/InterlinearBible/

BST Fonts for Windows and Machintosh
http://www.biblestudytools.net/OtherResources/BSTFonts/

Nouthetic Counseling Home Page -- Competent to Counsel
http://www.lifeisworship.com/nanc/index.htm

The National Association of Nouthetic Counselors Tape Library
http://www.kyrios.com/soundword/nanc.html

National Association of Nouthetic Counselors (NANC)
5526 State Road 26 East
Lafayette, IN 47905

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

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

The Institute for Nouthetic Studies: Training in Biblical Counseling by Extension With Dr. Jay E. Adams
"We are the Institute for Nouthetic Studies (INS), a ministry that seeks to train the next generation of biblical counselors by making the teaching ministry of Dr. Jay E. Adams available to students by extension. . . .
"Several years ago Dr. Adams and I began teaching at the Redeemer Biblical Counseling Training Institute (RBCTI) under the direction of our pastor, Bill Slattery (Dr. Adams' son-in-law). In recent years Dr. Adams has had to limit his travels so RBCTI became the only place one could study under Dr. Adams personally. When word traveled that Dr. Adams was teaching we began to receive a number of requests for tapes and the church began to explore ways to allow others to benefit from the training that was being offered here locally. After much discussion, and with the blessing of the church, Dr. Adams and I formed INS and created a structured curriculum that Dr. Adams believed would include everything the competent biblical counselor would need to understand to be thoroughly trained.
"We began taping Dr. Adams' lectures and offered the training on video tape. As the technology became available, we switched to DVDs and slowly (and sometimes painfully) learned how to produce better and better quality from our recordings. We posted a website to advertise and were quickly overwhelmed by the response. We are now approaching the 300 student mark with students on every continent around the world! We are nearing the completion of our curriculum and hope to have it completed by early fall.
"Here is a list of the courses we have ready:
Introduction to Biblical Counseling/Counseling Principles and Practices
The Counselor Himself
Critical Stages in Biblical Counseling
Counseling Problems
Premarital Counseling
Marriage, Divorce, and Remarriage
Theology and Counseling
Church Discipline
Forgiveness
Medical Issues in Counseling I & II
Marriage and Family Counseling
We are currently working on the following:
Counseling Theories and Issues Abroad in the Church Today
Legal Issues in Counseling
Counseling Women
The Christian Counselor's Casebook Studies
http://www.nouthetic.org/

Biblical Counseling On-line Workshop
http://www.immanuels.org/bc/bc_home.htmy

Sound Word Associates Library of Biblical Counselors
http://www.soundword.com/ccon.html

Westminster Theological Seminary Bookstore
http://www.wts.edu/bookstore/

Timeless Texts (Biblical Counseling books)
http://www.timelesstexts.com/booklist.htm

Biblical Counseling Library (29 Volumes), on CD-ROM
"This 29 volume collection of Biblical Counseling titles is an amazing compilation of Christian counseling resources. The Biblical Counseling Library features some of Jay E. Adams' outstanding counseling titles, including The Christian Counselor's Manual, Competent to Counsel, and A Theology of Christian Counseling. It includes works from 20 different authors, including Steve Farrar, Elizabeth George, Jerry Bridges, and Lou Priolo.
"This collection includes informative studies on general Christian counseling, as well as very focused works on Women's and Men's counseling needs, counseling victims of sexual abuse, eating and diet issues, dating, working through struggles with sexual sin and anger, and developing a deeper walk with God. A fantastic resource for the library of a pastor or Christian counselor, the Biblical Counseling Library adds a new dimension to your Logos Bible Software. These expert resources are combined with the tools of the Logos Bible Software system, including topical searching for studying specific areas of Biblical counseling, and linked references to other titles in your Libronix library."
http://www.logos.com/products/prepub/details/2482

Stephen Ministries
http://www.stephenministries.org/

Christ and Counseling

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*Brown, John (of Edinburgh, 1784-1858) Discourses and Sayings of Our Lord Jesus Christ, 3 volumes (London, England: Banner of Truth Trust, 1990, 1967, 1852). A Christian classic.
"Spurgeon says of this great commentary: `Of the noblest order of exposition. Procure it.' Elsewhere in COMMENTING AND COMMENTARIES, he wrote, `Dr. Brown's work must be placed among the first of the first-class. He is a great expositor.' Again, `Brown is a modern Puritan. All his expositions are of the utmost value.'
"These volumes cover much of the Gospel of John, plus many portions of the other three Gospels. In them he reveals his encyclopedic mind, and a profound regard for the Bible and the very Word of God. In addition, it is seen why it was said that he had the best clerical library in the whole nation of Scotland.
"There is little doubt in the mind of this reviewer that any reader of these volumes will become possessor of myriads of new insights into the Scriptures, and what they reveal of our God and Saviour, Jesus Christ. It is indispensable to the student of the Gospels." -- Jay P. Green, Sr.
"Based upon the revised and enlarged edition of 1852. Rich in thought. Pastors will appreciate the writer's application of spiritual truths to the needs of men and women." -- Cyril J. Barber.
Recommended for daily devotions, as are all the books in the listing of "Books Considered To Be Among the Ten Greatest in the English Language."
Also available in Google Books, full view, Discourses and Sayings of Our Lord Jesus Christ, Illustrated in a Series of Expositions. ... by John Brown, published 1856 [Complete in 2 volumes. New York: Robert Carter and Brothers] original from the University of Michigan, digitized Feb. 17, 2006.
http://books.google.com/books?id=SZl9u8v0Yi8C&dq=Discourses+and+Sayings+of+Our+Lord+Jesus+Christ&ie=ISO-8859-1&source=gbs_summary_s&cad=0
This University of Michigan digitized edition, that appears in Google Books, is available in paper from two publishers: (Scholarly Publishing Office, University of Michigan Library, November 30, 2006 [Gardners Books, 2006]), 652 pages.
"This volume is produced from digital images created through the University of Michigan University Library's preservation reformatting program." -- Publisher's Annotation
And (Hard Press, November 26, 2007), 652 pages.

*Brown, John, (of Edinburgh, 1784-1858) Exposition of Our Lord's Intercessory Prayer (Limited Classic Reprint Library. Minneapolis, MN: Klock and Klock Christian Publishers, 1979). A Christian classic.
"The concluding prayer of our Lord's in the garden here receives sensitive treatment. Brown was a pastor as well as an exegete. His handling of the text is excellent. His exposition serves as a model. . . ." -- Cyril J. Barber
Includes an Appendix 1, "Connection Between the Visible Union of Christians, and the Conversion of the World," by Hugh Heugh, D.D.
Nave's Topical Bible: Christ, Prayers of
http://bible.crosswalk.com/Concordances/NavesTopicalBible/ntb.cgi?number=T2807

*Hodgkin, A.M., Christ in All the Scriptures (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan Publishing House). [10305]
"First published in 1907, this classic work is a clear testimony of Christ to the Scriptures and their affirmation of Him as the Son of God. The love and reverence with which the author approaches these glorious truths ensure it a place among the finest devotional writings." -- GCB

*Poythress, Vern, The Shadow of Christ in the Law of Moses (Brentwood, TN: Wolgemuth and Hyatt Publishers). [10318]
"Dr. Poythress demonstrates how the sacrifices and traditions of the Hebrew people foreshadow the relationship of Christ to His people. With crisp insight, Poythress explains that the punishments and penalties of the Law prefigure the destruction of sin and guilt through Christ. With remarkable clarity, Poythress opens the door to understanding the Old Testament and its relationship to the New Testament." -- GCB

*Rainford, Marcus, Our Lord's Prayer for His Own [10319]

*Whyte, Alexander, The Walk, Conversation and Character of Jesus Christ Our Lord (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan Publishing House). [10328]
"A classic. First published in 1905." -- Cyril J. Barber.

Buchanan, Duncan, The Counseling of Jesus (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 1985). [20372]
Includes bibliographical references.

Various, The 1989 Alumni Conference of the Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation (Michigan City, IN: Sound Word Associates, 1991). [20378]
A special set of audio cassettes featuring Drs. Tripp and Bettler on the topics "Christ Our Model for Counseling," "Getting to the Heart of Sexual Problems," as well as a Q&A time with the CCEF counselors.

See also: The teaching of the lord jesus christ, Christ our example, Appenix a, the words of christ, The promises of Christ, The sermon on the mount, Christ in you, The teaching of the lord jesus christ, The believer's position in christ and sonship, Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, Sexual relationship, The cross of christ, Manhood, Marriage, The priesthood of believers, The sufficiency of christ, Christ's kingdom

Related WebLinks

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

Words of Christ Appearing in The Web Edition of Biblical Counsel: Resources for Renewal
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrrappa.html

"This is my beloved Son . . . hear ye him.
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/listmania/list-browse/-/1IXKHKTPLXJ80/ref=cm_aya_av.lm_more/103-4633486-2726237

Nave's Topical Bible: Commandments
http://bible.crosswalk.com/Concordances/NavesTopicalBible/ntb.cgi?number=T1189


The Teachings of The Lord Jesus Christ
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr2cha.html#teachljc

Nave's Topical Bible: Precepts of Jesus, Explicitly Stated, or Implied in Didactic Discourse
http://bible.crosswalk.com/Concordances/NavesTopicalBible/ntb.cgi?number=T1189


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

The Sermon on the Mount

---

*Boice, James Montgomery, The Sermon on the Mount (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan Publishing House, 1972). [30690]
"An exposition unfolding the dimensions of the sermon and relating its message to modern living." -- GCB

Calvin, John, Sermons on the Beatitudes (Banner of Truth, November 2006).

*Lloyd-Jones, D. Martyn, Studies in the Sermon on the Mount, 2 volumes (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press). [30692]
"Undoubtedly the finest devotional commentary on the Sermon on the Mount. Filled with suggestive material for the preacher." -- GCB
"The most heart-searching of all expositions of the Sermon on the Mount." -- Wilbur M. Smith

*Perkins, William, 1558-1602, and Pierson, Thomas, ca. 1570-1633, A godly and learned exposition of Christ's Sermon in the Mount preached in Cambridge by that reuerend and iudicious diuine M. William Perkins; published at the request of his exequutors [sic] by Th. Pierson, preacher of Gods word; whereunto is adioyned a twofold table, one, of speciall points here handled, the other of choise places [in? scr]ipture here quoted. Author: Perkins, William, 1558-1602, 1611, EEBO. Still Waters Revival Books Puritan Bookshelf CD-ROM Series, Volume 9. WorldCat: 52539330.
http://www.swrb.com/Puritan/puritan-bookshelf-CDs.htm

*Pink, Arthur W., The Sermon on the Mount (Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Book House, 1951). [30693]
"Important book by modern-day Puritan, Arthur W. Pink (1886-1952), is now available in paperback." -- GCB
"A thorough exposition containing an abundance of practical material." -- Cyril J. Barber
"There are things in this book which are in no other, so it is important to anyone's understanding of the Sermon on the Mount." -- Jay P. Green, Sr.

Hindson, Edward E., Nouthetic Counseling and Character Development: An Applied Study of the Sermon on the Mount, Including the Christian Character Evaluation Test, 1978 (Philadelphia, PA: Westminster Theological Seminary, thesis, 1978). [20412]
Includes bibliography.

Kissinger, Warren S., Sermon on the Mount: A History of Interpretation and Bibliography [50045A]

Watson, Thomas, d. 1686, The beatitudes or a discourse upon part of Christs famous Sermon on the Mount. Wherunto is added Christs various fulnesse. The preciousnesse of the soul. The souls malady and cure. The beauty of grace. The spiritual watch. The heavenly race. The sacred anchor. The trees of righteousnesse. The perfume of love. The good practitioner. By Thomas Watson, minister of the word at Stephens Walbrook in the city of London, 1660, EEBO.
The Beatitudes, Thomas Watson. An exposition of Matthew 5:1-12
http://www.peacemakers.net/unity/twbeatitudes.htm

Welch, Ed, Counseling Thoughts on the Sermon on the Mount [30458]

See also: The promises of christ, Sexual relationship

Related WebLinks

The Parables of Christ

---

*Hunter, Archibald M., Interpreting the Parables (Philadelphia, PA: Westminster Press, 1960). [20414]
"A valuable contribution." -- Cyril J. Barber

*Spurgeon, C.H., Miracles and Parables of Our Lord (Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Book House). [20415]
"This set contains 108 of Spurgeon's sermons on the miracles of Christ, and 65 of his sermons on the parables (from the four Gospels). The excellencies of Spurgeon shine forth in these expository sermons. . . . Unsurpassed for their evangelical thrust." -- GCB

Kissinger, Warren S., The Parables of Jesus: A History of Interpretation and Bibliography (American Theological Library Association Bibliography Series, No. 4. Metuchen, NJ: Scarecrow Press, Incorporated, 1979). [20416]

Kistemaker, Simon J., The Parables of Jesus (Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Book House). [20417]
"Briefly out of print, this fine book on the parables is now available in paperback. Kistemaker is currently involved as Professor and Chairman of New Testament at Reformed Seminary Jackson. He is also writing commentaries that will finish up the work begun by William Hendriksen." -- GCB

Shepard, Thomas, Parable of the Ten Virgins (Morgan, PA: Soli Deo Gloria Publications). [20418]

See also: Appendix a: the words of christ

The Teaching of The Lord Jesus Christ

---

This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased: hear ye him. -- God The Father (Matthew 17:5)

For I have not spoken of myself; but the Father which sent me, he gave me a commandment, what I should say, and what I should speak.
And I know that his commandment is life everlasting: whatsoever I speak therefore, even as the Father said unto me, so I speak. -- Jesus Christ (John 12:49,50)

This is the work of God, that ye believe on him whom he hath sent. -- Jesus Christ (John 6:29b)

Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him. -- Jesus Christ (John 14:23)

I have glorified thee on the earth: I have finished the work which thou gavest me to do. -- Jesus Christ (John 17:4)

But many [that are] first shall be last; and the last [shall be] first. -- Jesus Christ (Matthew 19:28-30)

Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth. -- Jesus Christ (John 17:17)

It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life. -- Jesus Christ (John 6:63)

The light of the body is the eye: if therefore thine eye be single, thy whole body shall be full of light.
But if thine eye be evil, thy whole body shall be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in thee be darkness, how great is that darkness! -- Jesus Christ (Matthew 6:22,23)

Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; and ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. -- Jesus Christ (John 8:31b,32)

These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world. -- Jesus Christ (John 16:33)

Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you. -- Jesus Christ (Luke 10:19)

For unto every one that hath shall be given, and he shall have abundance: but from him that hath not shall be taken away even that which he hath. -- Jesus Christ (Matthew 25:29)

Labour not for the meat which perisheth, but for that meat which endureth unto everlasting life, which the Son of man shall give unto you: for him hath God the Father sealed. -- Jesus Christ (John 6:27)

Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and [that] your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you.
These things I command you, that ye love one another. -- Jesus Christ (John 15:16,17)

And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent. -- Jesus Christ (John 17:3)

And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent. -- Jesus Christ (John 17:3)
This is Christ's definition of salvation.

So when they had dined, Jesus saith to Simon Peter, Simon, [son] of Jonas, lovest thou me more than these? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my lambs.
He saith to him again the second time, Simon, [son] of Jonas, lovest thou me? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my sheep.
He saith unto him the third time, Simon, [son] of Jonas, lovest thou me? Peter was grieved because he said unto him the third time, Lovest thou me? And he said unto him, Lord, thou knowest all things; thou knowest that I love thee. Jesus saith unto him, Feed my sheep. -- Jesus Christ (John 21:15-17)

And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. -- Paul quoting Jesus Christ (2 Corinthians 12:9)

In whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. (Colossians 2:3)

That their hearts might be comforted, being knit together in love, and unto all riches of the full assurance of understanding, to the acknowledgement of the mystery of God, and of the Father, and of Christ; In whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. And this I say, lest any man should beguile you with enticing words. For though I be absent in the flesh, yet am I with you in the spirit, joying and beholding your order, and the stedfastness of your faith in Christ. As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him: Rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving. Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ. For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily. And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power. (Colossians 2:2-10)

I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, saith the Lord, which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty.
I am he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death." -- Jesus Christ (Revelation 1:8,18)

And then shall appear the sign of the Son of man in heaven: and then shall all the tribes of the earth mourn, and they shall see the Son of man coming in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. -- Jesus Christ (Matthew 24:30)

See the Theological Notes, "The Teaching of Jesus," at Matthew 7:28, page 1517, in The Reformation Study Bible

"Jesus Christ Himself," a sermon by C.H. Spurgeon
Preaching on the text "Jesus Christ himself" (Ephesians 2:20)
Metropolitan Tabernacle Pulpit, December 9, 1877, Sermon 1388.
"Now, because of this, the Lord Jesus Christ Himself is the Object of our faith. Is He not always so described in Scripture? “Look unto Me and be you saved, all you ends of the earth”—not, “Look to My Cross,” nor, “Look to My life,” nor, “to My death,” much less, “to My sacraments or to My servants,” but, “Look to ME.” From His own lips the words sound forth, “Come unto Me all you that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” In fact, it is the Christian’s life motto, “Looking unto Jesus, the Author and Finisher of our faith.” May I not go farther and say how very simple and how very easy and natural ought faith to be from now on? I might be puzzled with various theories of the Atonement, but I can believe in Jesus Himself! I might be staggered by the many different mysteries which concern theology and overpower even masterminds, but I can confide in Jesus Himself! He is one whom it is difficult to distrust—His goodness, gentleness and truth command our confidence. We can and do trust in Jesus Himself! If He is proposed to me as my Savior, and if faith in Him is that which saves me, then at His dear feet I cast myself unreservedly and feel myself secure while He looks down on me. He who bled that sinners might be saved cannot be doubted any more! “Lord, I believe; help You my unbelief.” Now you who have been looking to your faith, I want you to look to Jesus Himself rather than at your poor feeble faith. Now you who have been studying the results of faith in yourselves and are dissatisfied, I beseech you turn your eyes away from yourselves and look to Jesus Himself. Now you who cannot understand this and cannot understand that, give up wanting to understand, for a while, and come and look at Jesus Christ Himself, “that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of Glory, may give unto you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him.” The Lord grant us Grace to view Jesus Christ Himself in the matter of our salvation as All in All, so that we may have personal dealings with Him and no longer think of Him as a mere idea, or as an historical personage, but as a personal Savior standing in the midst of us and bidding us enter into peace through Him!" -- C.H. Spurgeon
http://www.spurgeongems.org/vols22-24/chs1388.pdf

If I have observed anything by experience, it is this: a man may take the measure of his growth and decay in grace according to his thoughts and meditations upon the person of Christ, and the glory of Christ's Kingdom, and His love. -- John Owen

Serve Christ; back Him; let His cause be your cause, give not an hairbreadth of truth away, for it is not yours but God's. -- Samuel Rutherford

"The Fourfold Treasure"
A sermon by C.H. Spurgeon delivered on Thursday Evening, April 27th, 1871, at the Metropolitan Tabernacle, Newington, Sermon No. 991.
A sermon on 1 Corinthians 1:30, 31, Christ is "made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption."
"This is to be wise, to have Christ's teaching, Christ's example, and above all, Christ's presence; so may the poorest find the Lord Jesus made of God unto them wisdom.
"Pause just a minute. Let none of us ever be so foolish as to suppose that when we have received Jesus and his gospel, we have occasion to blush when we are in the company of the very wisest of the present day. Carry a bold face when you confront the brazen faced philosophy which insults your Lord. The man who does not believe the Bible does not know so much as thou dost. Blush not, though with mimic wisdom the unbeliever tries to laugh or argue thee down. He who knows not Christ, though he propounds wonderful theories as to the creation of mankind and the formation of the world, and though he has a glib tongue, is only an educated fool, a learned idiot, who thinks his own rushlight brighter than God's own sun. "Ah! but he has been to college, and he has a degree, and he is esteemed by men; for he has written books that nobody can comprehend." "The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God;" and I do not care even if he be a Solon, if he has said that there is no God, he is a fool. Do not blush, then, if you find yourself in his company, do not make yourself the blushing one because the fool is there. Self-conceit were to be avoided and loathed; but this is not self-conceit, but a holy courage in a case which demands of you to be courageous. To know Christ is the best of all philosophy, the highest of all sciences. [emphasis added -- sk] Angels desire to look into this; but I do not know that they care a fig for half the sciences so valued among men. If you know Christ you never need be afraid of being ashamed and confounded whatever company you may be in. If you stood in a senate of emperors, or amidst a parliament of philosophers, and only told them of the God that came in human flesh, and loved, and lived, and died to redeem mankind, you would have told them a greater mystery and a profounder secret than reason could discover. Be not ashamed, then, amid the intellectual pride of this boastful age."
http://www.spurgeon.org/sermons/0991.htm

As from ill we are stopped by the consideration of Christ's death, so when we are moved to grace, consider the virtue of Christ's resurrection. Why is Christ now in heaven in our nature? Is it not to fill his church with his Spirit? Why doth he make intercession in heaven? Is it not that we should not be discouraged notwithstanding our daily infirmities? Shall we not make use of it? He is glorious for us, not for himself, but for his mystical body. As he hath made his natural body glorious, so he will make his mystical body glorious by little and little. He being, therefore, in heaven making intercession, go to him in the want of grace. And so for infirmities. The Spirit of God raised him at the lowest, and shall not the Spirit of God raise me from this and that. Yes, the Spirit of God will raise me from the baseness and misery of sin to be better and better. The same Spirit will enable me that raised his body. And so fetch virtue and strength from Christ, make use of Christ for every turn. Oh that we could learn these things! Then we should be able to go through all conditions: and we should be able to live, able to do. I beseach you, therefore, consider what hath been spoken. Let us study Christ every day more and more, not for redemption and reconciliation only, though that in the first place, but study Christ to be all in all to us, to be our sanctification to fit us for heaven. Study the promises of Christ, lose no privilege. God would not have left them in his word but for good. . . . -- Richard Sibbes

Serve Christ; back Him; let His cause be your cause, give not an hairbreadth of truth away, for it is not yours but God's. -- Samuel Rutherford

If I have observed anything by experience, it is this: a man may take the measure of his growth and decay in grace according to his thoughts and meditations upon the person of Christ, and the glory of Christ's Kingdom, and His love. -- John Owen

All the problems we face in life as individuals or in society prove the same thing -- they prove the Lordship of Jesus Christ. He is indeed all-sufficient. -- Edward Hindson

Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away. -- Jesus Christ (Matthew 24:35)

*Brown, John (of Edinburgh, 1784-1858) Discourses and Sayings of Our Lord Jesus Christ, 3 volumes (London, England: Banner of Truth Trust, 1990, 1967, 1852). A Christian classic.
"Spurgeon says of this great commentary: `Of the noblest order of exposition. Procure it.' Elsewhere in COMMENTING AND COMMENTARIES, he wrote, `Dr. Brown's work must be placed among the first of the first-class. He is a great expositor.' Again, `Brown is a modern Puritan. All his expositions are of the utmost value.'
"These volumes cover much of the Gospel of John, plus many portions of the other three Gospels. In them he reveals his encyclopedic mind, and a profound regard for the Bible and the very Word of God. In addition, it is seen why it was said that he had the best clerical library in the whole nation of Scotland.
"There is little doubt in the mind of this reviewer that any reader of these volumes will become possessor of myriads of new insights into the Scriptures, and what they reveal of our God and Saviour, Jesus Christ. It is indispensable to the student of the Gospels." -- Jay P. Green, Sr.
"Based upon the revised and enlarged edition of 1852. Rich in thought. Pastors will appreciate the writer's application of spiritual truths to the needs of men and women." -- Cyril J. Barber.
Recommended for daily devotions, as are all the books in the listing of "Books Considered To Be Among the Ten Greatest in the English Language."
Also available in Google Books, full view, Discourses and Sayings of Our Lord Jesus Christ, Illustrated in a Series of Expositions. ... by John Brown, published 1856 [Complete in 2 volumes. New York: Robert Carter and Brothers] original from the University of Michigan, digitized Feb. 17, 2006.
http://books.google.com/books?id=SZl9u8v0Yi8C&dq=Discourses+and+Sayings+of+Our+Lord+Jesus+Christ&ie=ISO-8859-1&source=gbs_summary_s&cad=0
This University of Michigan digitized edition, that appears in Google Books, is available in paper from two publishers: (Scholarly Publishing Office, University of Michigan Library, November 30, 2006 [Gardners Books, 2006]), 652 pages.
"This volume is produced from digital images created through the University of Michigan University Library's preservation reformatting program." -- Publisher's Annotation
And (Hard Press, November 26, 2007), 652 pages.

*Brown, John, (of Edinburgh, 1784-1858) Exposition of Our Lord's Intercessory Prayer (Limited Classic Reprint Library. Minneapolis, MN: Klock and Klock Christian Publishers, 1979). A Christian classic.
"The concluding prayer of our Lord's in the garden here receives sensitive treatment. Brown was a pastor as well as an exegete. His handling of the text is excellent. His exposition serves as a model. . . ." -- Cyril J. Barber
Includes an Appendix 1, "Connection Between the Visible Union of Christians, and the Conversion of the World," by Hugh Heugh, D.D.
Nave's Topical Bible: Christ, Prayers of
http://bible.crosswalk.com/Concordances/NavesTopicalBible/ntb.cgi?number=T2807

*Harris, John, The Teaching Methods of Christ (Minneapolis, MN: Klock and Klock Christian Publishers, 1984). [20381]
"Formerly appearing under the title THE GREAT TEACHER, this work can only be described as indispensable. The pedagogical truths that Harris draws from the pages of the New Testament are deserving of careful study and close emulation. All pastors and teachers should be thoroughly familiar with this book." -- Cyril J. Barber

*Horne, Herman Harrell, Jesus: The Master Teacher (Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel Publications, 1964, 1920). [20382]
"Pastors today need to learn from the teaching techniques of Jesus Christ. This book is designed to stimulate such a study and deserves a place on every pastor's desk. First published in 1920." -- Cyril J. Barber

*Lightner, Robert P., The Savior and the Scripture (Phillipsburg, NJ: Presbyterian Reformed Publishing Co., 1966). [20383]
"Presents Christ's view of the Scripture and stresses His absolute reliance upon the irrevocable authority of the Word." -- Cyril J. Barber

*Macartney, Clarence E.N., Great Interviews of Jesus (New York, NY: Abingdon Press, 1944). [20384]
"While Jesus preached to the multitudes, He dealt with individuals ranging in social status from the thief on the cross to Pontius Pilate. These interviews are studied in depth." -- Cyril J. Barber

*Smeaton, George, The Doctrine of the Atonement as Taught by Christ Himself (Winona Lake, IN: Alpha Publications, 1979, 1871). [20385]
"First published in 1871. This exegetical work by a British Reformed scholar contains a substantive treatment of Christ's own teaching on His death, the application of the benefits of His atonement to the church, and the effects of the atonement on the saved and unsaved." -- Cyril J. Barber

*Stalker, James, Christ Our Example (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan Publishing House, 1960, 1908). [20386]
"First published in 1908 under the title IMAGO CHRISTI, this work provides a thought-provoking treatise on the teaching of Christ." -- Cyril J. Barber

Chilton, Bruce, Jesus and the Ethics of the Kingdom (Grand Rapids, MI: Wm.B. Eerdmans Publishing Co.). [20389]

Clower, Joseph B., The Church in the Thought of Jesus (Atlanta, GA: John Knox Press, 1959). [20390]

Coniaris, A.M., Christ's Comfort for Those Who Sorrow (Minneapolis, MN: Light and Life Publishing Company, 1978). [20391]

Coniaris, A.M., No Man Ever Spoke as This Man (Minneapolis, MN: Light and Life Publishing Company, 1969). [20392]

Good, Kenneth, H., Lost and Found: Christ's Teaching on the Theology of Evangelism (Philadelphia, PA: The Presbyterian and Reformed Publishing Co., 1990). [20393]
"In Luke 15 our Lord sets forth the viewpoint of each Person of the Trinity in the winning of souls. Here the warmth of personal involvement is combined with the absolute certainty of the Divine Sovereignty. A commitment to the Doctrine of Grace is not incompatible with dedication to the work of evangelism." -- GCB

Ladd, George E., Jesus and the Kingdom (Waco, TX: Word Books, 1969). [20395A]
"A comprehensive, scholarly study of the preaching of Jesus concerning the kingdom of God." -- Cyril J. Barber

Sibbes, Richard, 1577-1635, Goodwin, Thomas, 1600-1680, Nye, Philip, 1596?-1672, The excellencie of the Gospell above the law. Wherein the liberty of the sonnes of God is shewed. With the image of their graces here, and glory hereafter. Which affords much comfort and great incouragement, to all such as begin timely, and continue constantly in the wayes of God. By R. Sibbs, D.D. Mr. of Katherin Hall Cambridge, and preacher of Grayes-Inne, London. Begun in his life time, and published by T.G. and P.N., 1639, EEBO.

Thomas, James G.S.S., The Praying Christ: A Study of Jesus' Doctrine and Practice of Prayer (Grand Rapids, MI: Wm.B. Eerdmans Publishing Co., 1959). [20405]

Thompson, Michael B., Clothed With Christ: The Example and Teaching of Jesus in Romans 12:1-15:13 (Ithaca, NY: Cornell University Press). [20407]

Thornton, James G., The Praying Christ: A Study of Jesus Doctrine and Practice of Prayer (Grand Rapids, MI: Wm.B. Eerdmans Publishing Co., 1959). [20408]
Includes bibliography.

Tripp, Paul, Christ Our Model (part 1) (Michigan City, IN: Sound Word Associates, 1991). [20409]
Cassette AC891.

Tripp, Paul, Christ Our Model (part 2) (Michigan City, IN: Sound Word Associates, 1991). [20410]
Cassette AC892.

Venning, Ralph, Learning in Christ's School (Puritan Paperback Series. Carlisle, PA: The Banner of Truth Trust).

See also: THE LORD JESUS CHRIST

• Soteriology
• The Incarnation of Our Lord
• The Glory of The Lord Jesus Christ
• Christ's Kingdom
• The Mediatorial Reign of Christ: The Crown Rights of Christ
• Knowing Christ
• The Lordship of Jesus Christ
• The Person and Work of Jesus Christ the Lord
• The Cross of Christ
• The Blood of Christ
• The Resurrection
• The Sufficiency of Christ
• The Teachings of The Lord Jesus Christ
• Christ Our Example
• History, "His-Story"
• The Promises of Christ
• The Commandments of Christ
• Christ's Influence on Western Civilization
• The Words of Christ Speaking About Himself Appearing in The Web Edition of Biblical Counsel: Resources for Renewal
• The Words of Christ Appearing in The Web Edition of Biblical Counsel: Resources for Renewal
• The Sermon on the Mount
• Book Length Presentations of the Free Offer of The Gospel Message of Salvation and the Life to Come: The Means of Grace
• Jesus on Prayer
• Christ and Counseling
• Christ in You
• Basics of the Christian Life
• Sexual Relationship
• The Believer's Position in Christ and Sonship
• Christian Character

Related WebLinks

Book Length Presentations of the Free Offer of The Gospel Message of Salvation and the Life to Come: The Means of Grace
Book length presentations of the free offer of Gospel message of salvation and the life to come: the means of grace
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr1cha.html

Words of Christ Appearing in The Web Edition of Biblical Counsel: Resources for Renewal
http://www.lettermen2.com/appa.html

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

Nave's Topical Bible: Precepts of Jesus, Explicitly Stated, or Implied in Didactic Discourse
http://bible.crosswalk.com/Concordances/NavesTopicalBible/ntb.cgi?number=T1189

"This is my beloved Son . . . hear ye him.
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/listmania/list-browse/-/1IXKHKTPLXJ80/ref=cm_aya_av.lm_more/103-4633486-2726237

Books Considered to be Among the Ten Greatest in the English Language
http://www.lettermen2.com/tengreat.html

Christ Our Example

---

See the Theological Notes, "The Humble Obedience of Christ," at John 5:19, page 1670, in The Reformation Study Bible

"Jesus Only"
A sermon by C.H. Spurgeon delivered on Lord's-day morning, April 3, 1870, at the Metropolitan Tabernacle, Newington, Sermon no. 924.
A sermon on the text "And when they had lifted up their eyes, they saw no man, save Jesus only." (Matthew 17:8)
"Depend on it, Brethren -- ravishing and exciting experiences and transporting enjoyments, though they may be useful as occasional refreshments -- would not be so good as that quiet but delightful ordinary fellowship with 'Jesus only. ' This it is which ought to be the distinguishing mark of all Christian life. . . . p.639
"It is enough incentive to a man to be allowed to live for such a One as Christ. Only let the thought of Christ fill the enlightened intellect, and it must conquer the sanctified affections! Let but Jesus be well understood as the everlasting God who bowed the heavens and came down and suffered shame, and ignominy, that He might redeem us from the wrath to come. . . ." pp. 647-648
http://www.spurgeongems.org/vols16-18/chs924.pdf

Mark here to whom God giveth wisdom: all the godly are taught of God; but mark here how it is that he teacheth them. Not while they scorn at studies and universities, and look that their knowledge should cost them nothing, or that the Spirit should be instead of serious studies, or that their understandings should discern what is true or false at the first appearance; but while they think no pains or patience too great to learn the truth in the school of Christ. -- Richard Baxter

But instead of all virtues he commendeth the example of Christ for every virtue, and opposeth it to every vice; as if he should say, He which thinketh only to follow Christ, needeth not to be led by the hand from virtue to virtue, but His example will teach him what he shall follow, and what he shall fly, better than all the precepts in the world. -- Henry Smith

Real men love The Lord Jesus Christ.

Jesus alone gives true freedom.

Bunyan, John, All Loves Excelling (Puritan Paperback Series. Carlisle, PA: Banner of Truth).

*Edersheim, Alfred, The Life and Times of Jesus the Messiah (Grand Rapids, MI: Wm.B. Eerdmans Publishing Co., 1990, 1883). A Christian classic.
"The most important general work on the life of Christ in our language." -- Wilbur M. Smith
"From his prodigious study he produced an unrivaled picture of the life of Christ and of the whole Jewish background -- not merely of the archaeological details, but of the essential characteristics of Jewish thought and feeling. It is today the most extensively used life of Christ in the English language." -- Publisher's Annotation
The Life and Times of Jesus the Messiah, by Alfred Edersheim
http://www.ccel.org/e/edersheim/lifetimes/

*Sibbes, Richard, 1577-1635, The Christians end. Or, The sweet soveraignty of Christ, over his members in life and death. VVherein is contained the whole scope of the godly mans life, with divers rules, motives and incouragements, to live and die to Iesus Christ. Being the substance of five sermons preached to the honorable society of Grayes Inne, by that learned and faithfull minister of Gods Word, Richard Sibbes, D.D. and sometimes preacher to that honorable societie, 1639, EEBO.

*Stalker, James, Christ Our Example (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan Publishing House, 1960, 1908). [60285]
"First published in 1908 under the title IMAGO CHRISTI, this work provides a thought-provoking treatise on the teaching of Christ." -- Cyril J. Barber

Foster, R.C., Studies in the Life of Christ [10298]

Griffiths, Michael, The Example of Jesus (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press). [60286]
"Griffiths, the principle of London Bible College, guides us in exploring following Christ. He covers the basis for imitating Jesus. He delves into the ways of Jesus. Finally he covers just how it is that we can be more like Jesus." -- GCB

Preston, John, 1587-1628, The onely love of the chiefest of ten thousand: or An heavenly treatise of the divine love of Christ: shewing 1. The motives 2. The meanes 3. The markes 4. The kinds, &c. of our love towards him. Delivered in five sermons by Master John Preston, Dr. in D. late chaplaine to his majestie, Mr. of Emmanuel Colledge in Cambridge, and sometimes preacher of Lincolnes Inne, 1640, EEBO.

Tinsley, Ernest John, The Imitation of God in Christ: An Essay in the Biblical Basis of Christian Spirituality [10228]

Tripp, Paul, Christ Our Model (part 1) [30432]

Tripp, Paul, Christ Our Model (part 2) [30433]

See also: Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, Sexual relationship

Related WebLinks

The Teaching of The Lord Jesus Christ
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr2cha.html#teachljc

Chapter 6: "Discipleship"
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr6ch.html

"Eyes Right," a sermon by C.H. Spurgeon
Preaching on the text Proverbs 4:25, Metropolitan Tabernacle Pulpit, 1888, Sermon 2058. On principles of discipleship.
http://www.spurgeongems.org/vols34-36/chs2058.pdf

What Would Jesus Do?
http://www.wwjd.com/

The Commandments of Christ

---

EVANGELISM

---

Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. -- Jesus Christ (Mark 16:15)

"Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world." -- Jesus Christ (Matthew 28:18-20)

But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth. -- Jesus Christ (Acts 1:8) Martin Luther's life verse.

All that the Father giveth me shall come to me; and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out. -- Jesus Christ (John 6:37)

Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word;
That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. -- Jesus Christ (John 17:20,21)
Jesus prays for those we evangelize.

For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus' sake.
For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. (2 Corinthians 4:4,5)

No man can come to me, except the Father which hath sent me draw him: and I will raise him up at the last day. -- Jesus Christ (John 6:44)

And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted.
But woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye shut up the kingdom of heaven against men: for ye neither go in [yourselves], neither suffer ye them that are entering to go in. -- Jesus Christ (Matthew 23:12, 13)

The fool hath said in his heart,
There is no God.
They are corrupt,
they have done abominable works,
there is none that doeth good. (Psalm 14:1)
See the Theological Notes, "Mankind's Guilty Knowledge of God" at Romans 1:29, page 1767, and at Psalm 14:1, page 766 in The Reformation Study Bible

For this people's heart is waxed gross, and [their] ears are dull of hearing, and their eyes they have closed; lest at any time they should see with [their] eyes, and hear with [their] ears, and should understand with [their] heart, and should be converted, and I should heal them. -- Jesus Christ (Matthew 13:15)

Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. -- Jesus Christ (John 5:3)

Therefore said I unto you, that no man can come unto me, except it were given unto him of my Father. -- Jesus Christ (John 6:65b)

My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me:
And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any [man] pluck them out of my hand.
My Father, which gave [them] me, is greater than all; and no [man] is able to pluck [them] out of my Father's hand.I and [my] Father are one. -- Jesus Christ (John 10:27-30)

I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life. -- Jesus Christ (John 8:12b)

And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil.
For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved.
But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God. -- Jesus Christ (John 3:19-21)

But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the Father, [even] the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father, he shall testify of me. -- Jesus Christ (John 15:26)

And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment:
Of sin, because they believe not on me;
Of righteousness, because I go to my Father, and ye see me no more;
Of judgment, because the prince of this world is judged.
I have yet many things to say unto you, but ye cannot bear them now.
Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, [that] shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come.
He shall glorify me: for he shall receive of mine, and shall shew [it] unto you.
All things that the Father hath are mine: therefore said I, that he shall take of mine, and shall shew [it] unto you. -- Jesus Christ (John 16:8-15)

I pray for them: I pray not for the world, but for them which thou hast given me; for they are thine. -- Jesus Christ (John 17:9)

Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.
As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world. -- Jesus Christ (John 17:17,18)

And Jesus said unto them, Verily I say unto you, That ye which have followed me, in the regeneration when the Son of man shall sit in the throne of his glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel.
And every one that hath forsaken houses, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my name's sake, shall receive an hundredfold, and shall inherit everlasting life.
But many [that are] first shall be last; and the last [shall be] first. -- Jesus Christ (Matthew 19:28-30)

By this shall all [men] know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another. -- Jesus Christ (John 13:35)

"And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come." -- Jesus Christ (Matthew 24:14)

"The souls of man bears the image of God; so nothing can satisfy it but He whose image it bears. Our soul, says Augustine, was created as by God, so for God, and is therefore never quiet till it rest in God." -- Thomas Gataker

"They lose nothing who gain Christ." -- Samuel Rutherford

"A soul under assurance is unwilling to go to heaven without company." -- Thomas Brooks

He who is the father of a host of spiritual children is unquestionably happy. He can answer all opponents by pointing to souls who have been saved by his means. Converts are emphatically the heritage of the Lord, and the reward of the preacher's soul travail. By these, under the power of the Holy Ghost, the city of the church is both built up and watched, and the Lord has the glory of it. -- C.H. Spurgeon commenting on verse 5 of Psalm 127 in The Treasury of David

Faith grows as you give it away. Share the Gospel and your faith will grow.

WORLD'S TOP 10 LANGUAGES

Rank Language Number of Worldwide Speakers
10. French 129 million
9. Malay-Indonesian 159 million
8. Portuguese 191 million
7. Bengali 211 million
6. Arabic 246 million
5. Russian 277 million
4. Spanish 392 million
3. Hindustani 497 million
2. English 508 million
1. Mandarin Chinese 1 billion+

*Bolton, Robert, Vincent, and Watson, The Puritans on Conversion [30944]

*Bonar, Horatius, Words to Winners of Souls
A Christian classic.

*Bonar, Horatius, The Everlasting Righteousness or How Shall Man Be Just With God? (Carlisle, PA: The Banner of Truth Trust, 1993). A Christian classic.
"First published in 1874, THE EVERLASTING RIGHTEOUSNESS, may be the best book on the doctrine of justification by faith alone ever written.
"Since the seventeenth century, the church's adherence to the central doctrine of the Christian faith has been weakening; in the twentieth century it has all but disappeared. But to those who remain faithful -- to those who are called of God --justification by faith alone is the best news there could ever be: that Christ died for our sins, and we shall live forever because of Christ's righteousness.
"Justification by faith alone -- the `principal hinge of religion,' according to John Calvin, the `doctrine by which the church stands or falls,' according to Martin Luther -- is salvation. Without it, all hope is lost; with it, Heaven gained. Bonar's discussion is without equal in the English language." -- John W. Robbins
The Banner of Truth edition is available free as e-text.
The Everlasting Righteousness, Horatius Bonar
http://www.jude3.net/bertoc.htm

*Boston, Thomas, The Art of Manfishing [30947]

*Bunyan, John, The Jerusalem Sinner Saved, or, Good news for the vilest of men being a help for despairing souls, shewing that Jesus Christ would have mercy in the first place offered to the biggest sinners (Sterling, VA: GAM Publications). A Christian classic.

*Carey, William, An Enquiry Into the Obligations of Christians to Use Means for the Conversion of the Heathen (London, England: Hodder and Stoughton, 1891). A Christian classic.

*Fuller, David Otis, A Treasury of Evangelical Writings (Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel Publications). 20095

*Larsen, David L., The Evangelism Mandate (Wheaton, IL: Good News Publishers [Crossway Books]). 20102
"As people search for answers, not knowing where to look, David Larsen proposes a strategy for all-out evangelism, citing five classic sermons by Spurgeon, Lloyd-Jones, Stewart, Truett, and Graham. A challenge to preachers to recapture their commitment to Gospel preaching today." -- GCB. A Christian classic.

*Lumen Productions, "Catholicism: Crisis of Faith" (San Leandro, CA [JCIL Services, 293 MacArthur Blvd., San Leandro 94577-2108]: Lumen Productions, 1991). 20104
"At last there's a video that explores the true basis of Catholicism and compares it with Biblical Christianity. This contemporary documentary looks at Catholicism through the eyes of clergy, lay-ministers, and others who left the Catholic Church to follow Christ. It is a must for any church or ministering body wishing to witness to Catholics."
Lumen Productions
http://www.lumenprod.com/

*Metzger, Will, The Greatest Test: Can You Pass It? (Will Metzger). 20105
"A two-color, handy-sized booklet presenting God's plan of salvation from a God-centered viewpoint. Not only valuable for the unsaved, but effective as a training tool for Christians who desire to be more effective in witnessing for the Saviour. Highly recommended by GCB!" -- GCB

*Packer, J.I., Evangelism and the Sovereignty of God [10193]

*Peace, Richard, Small Group Evangelism: A Training Program for Reaching Out With the Gospel (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 1985). 20106
"Peace says that we don't need to choose between mass or personal evangelism. He says that for our day the best way is that of small group evangelism. In this book he combines theory and practice. He also provides guidelines, plans, training and discussion of the ins and out of group dynamics." -- GCB

*Richardson, Donald, Eternity in Their Hearts (Ventura, CA: Regal Books, 1981). 20107

*Richardson, Donald, Lords of the Earth (Ventura, CA: Regal Books, 1977). 20108
The sequel to PEACE CHILD.

*Richardson, Donald, Peace Child (Ventura, CA: Regal Books). [10402]
The only thing that will bring peace between two waring tribes is for one tribal chief to give his son to the other chief. A wonderful real day archetype of God's redemptive act toward mankind.

*Schoolland, Marian M., Leading Little Ones to God, revised 2nd edition (Grand Rapids, MI: Wm.B. Eerdmans Publishing Co., 1981). 70133
Contains material useful in counseling.

*Southard, Samuel, Pastoral Evangelism, revised edition (Atlanta, GA: John Knox Press, 1981). 20110

*Spurgeon, C.H., Soul-Winning Classics [31731A]

*Spurgeon, C.H., The Soul-Winner [31731A]

Barker, F., Jr., Evangelism Through Small Groups (part 1) [30117]

Barker, F., Jr., Evangelism Through Small Groups (part 2) [30118]

Miller, C. John, Prayer and Evangelism [30305]

Miller, C. John, Reformed Evangelism [30308]

Packer, J.I., The Holy Spirit in Evangelical Life [30350]

Reimer, Kathie, 1001 Ways to Introduce Your Child to God (Wheaton, IL: Tyndale House Publishers, 1992). 20127
"Creative ideas to help children develop godly attitudes and healthy ways of thinking."-- Publisher's Annotation

Sharrett, M., 1990 Evangelism Conference: Sovereignty of God and Evangelistic Response [30376]

*Sprague, William B., Lectures to Young People (Harrisonburg, VA [Sprinkle Publications, P.O. Box 1094, Harrisonburg, 22803]: Sprinkle Publications).
"This great evangelistic tool provides parents a faithful means of presenting Gospel truth to their young people." -- Lloyd T. Sprinkle

Welch, E., Using the Gospel in Your Home [30461]

Well, David F., God the Evangelist: How the Holy Spirit Works to Bring Men and Women to Faith [10078]

See also: The glory of the Lord Jesus Christ, Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, Sexual relationship, Book length presentation of the free offer of the message of salvation and the life to come, Other works on the Gospel, Blasphemy, Witnessing to cultists, Apologetics, Follow-up, Gospel tracts and witnessing tools, Pseudo-Christian movements, False gospels
TCRB5 (Thompson Chain Reference Bible, 5th edition, 1988 and later), 414, 421, 3116--3132

Related WebLinks

The Golden Chain. The chart which explains Perkins' theology concerning salvation and damnation.
http://www.apuritansmind.com/WilliamPerkins/PerkinsGoldenChainChart.htm

Apologetics #24: The Recovery of Christian Theism
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Apologetics, 58 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/play.asp?ID=3205142039

Evangelism in the Early Church

#01: Background of Evangelism and Revival in the Early Church
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, History of Evangelism/Revivals
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=8250375346

#02: Reformation as the Great Period of Revivalism and Evangelism
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, History of Evangelism/Revivals
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=910393243

#03: Revivals in Colonial America - Background - Early 1800 Revivals
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, History of Evangelism/Revivals
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=91039346

#04: Revivals in the 19th Century
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, History of Evangelism/Revivals
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=98039332

#05: Presbyterian Revivals and Evangelism
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, History of Evangelism/Revivals
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=98039345

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

The Doctrine of Man (Human Nature, Total Depravity)

---

But many [that are] first shall be last; and the last [shall be] first. -- Jesus Christ (Matthew 19:28-30)

But whoso keepeth his word, in him verily is the love of God perfected: hereby know we that we are in him. (1 John 2:5)

Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. (1 John 4:7)

For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous. (1 John 5:3)

Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me. -- Jesus Christ (John 15:4)

If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned.
If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you. -- Jesus Christ (John 15:6,7)

The fool hath said in his heart,
There is no God.
They are corrupt,
they have done abominable works,
there is none that doeth good. (Psalm 14:1)
See the Theological Notes, "Mankind's Guilty Knowledge of God" at Romans 1:29, page 1767, and at Psalm 14:1, page 766 in The Reformation Study Bible

"Cornelius Van Til makes the theologically valid point that `irrationality in the mind of man, that is, insanity, must be the result of a deflection of man from the source of absolute rationality,' God, and consequently `all men have merited insanity because of their departure from God.' [Or, not until man repents is he truly sane.-- sk] Eternal punishment is `the abyss of irrationalism,' and what we call rational or normative experience is a gift of God's common grace. No man is worthy of it'." -- Frederick Leahy

And Adam knew Eve his wife; and she conceived, and bare Cain, and said, I have gotten a man from the LORD. (She probably hoped that this was the Messiah. Alas! how often are parents' hopes deceived. It was not "a man--the Lord" who had come to Eve's bosom, but a man of sin, a child of the wicked one.) And she again bare his brother Abel. And Abel was a keeper of sheep, but Cain was a tiller of the ground. (Her second child she called "Vanity," and yet he was precious in the sight of the Lord. What mistakes we make about our children.) And in process of time it came to pass, that Cain brought of the fruit of the ground an offering unto the LORD. And Abel, he also brought of the firstlings of his flock and of the fat thereof. And the LORD had respect unto Abel and to his offering: But unto Cain and to his offering he had not respect. (Can had no faith, and he had no eye to the blood of atonement: Abel had both. These should be main points in all our religious duties.) And Cain was very wroth, and his countenance fell. (Wroth not with himself as he ought to have been, but with his brother and with God.)
And the LORD said unto Cain, Why art thou wroth? and why is thy countenance fallen? If thou doest well, shalt thou not be accepted? and if thou doest not well, sin lieth at the door. (It is sin which blocks the way.) And unto thee shall be his desire, and thou shalt rule over him.
And Cain talked with Abel his brother: and it came to pass, when they were in the field, that Cain rose up against Abel his brother, and slew him.
And the LORD said unto Cain, Where is Abel thy brother?
And he said, I know not: Am I my brother's keeper? (We shall either be our brother's keeper or our brother's murderer. If we do not labour to save others, we shall be guilty of their blood.)
And he said, What hast thou done? the voice of thy brother's blood crieth unto me from the ground. And now art thou cursed from the earth, which hath opened her mouth to receive thy brother's blood from thy hand; When thou tillest the ground, it shall not henceforth yield unto thee her strength; a fugitive and a vagabond shalt thou be in the earth.
And Cain said unto the LORD, My punishment is greater than I can bear. (He makes no confession of his sin, but only murmurs at his punishment. We know many whose minds are in a similar state. They cavil at hell, but they persevere in sin.) Behold, thou hast driven me out this day from the face of the earth; and from thy face shall I be hid; and I shall be a fugitive and a vagabond in the earth; and it shall come to pass, that every one that findeth me shall slay me.
And the LORD said unto him, Therefore whosoever slayeth Cain, vengeance shall be taken on him sevenfold. And the LORD set a mark upon Cain, lest any finding him should kill him.
This ancient record of the first murder is used by John as a picture of the action of the unregenerate in all time. Love marks the children of God, and hate is the sure ensign of the heirs of wrath. Thus writes the beloved apostle. (Genesis 4:1-15) -- Spurgeon's Devotional Bible, p. 10

In this the children of God are manifest, and the children of the devil: whosoever doeth not righteousness is not of God, neither he that loveth not his brother. For this is the message that ye heard from the beginning, that we should love one another. Not as Cain, who was of that wicked one, and slew his brother. And wherefore slew he him? Because his own works were evil, and his brother's righteous.
Marvel not, my brethren, if the world hate you. We know that we have passed from death unto life, because we love the brethren. He that loveth not his brother abideth in death. Whosoever hateth his brother is a murderer: and ye know that no murderer hath eternal life abiding in him.
O for grace to purge our hearts of all anger, envy, malice, and bitterness of every kind, that like Jesus we may be full of love and gentleness. (1 John 3:10-15)

Lord, from anger purge my heart,
Bid all enmity depart: New-created from above,
Let my very life be love.

Quench in me each evil fire,
Envious thought or fierce desire.
Flame from heaven upon me fall!
Love of God be all in all. -- Spurgeon's Devotional Bible, p. 10. Poem not credited.

Our reading leads us to think upon that eminent saint of the antediluvian church, Enoch, the seventh from Adam.
And Enoch lived sixty and five years, and begat Methuselah: And Enoch walked with God after he begat Methuselah three hundred years, and begat sons and daughters: And all the days of Enoch were three hundred sixty and five years: And Enoch walked with God: and he was not; for God took him.
Here it is worthy of notice that the sacred writer says once that Enoch "lived;" but he chnages the word and writes Enoch "walked with God;" thus teaching us that communion with God was Enoch's life, and truly so it ought to be ours. He was not a mere talker about God, but a walker with God. This holy patriarch lived in unbroken intercourse with the Lord for three hundred years, not now and then visiting with God, but habitually walking with him. This is a point of great difficulty. To draw near to God is comparatively easy; but to remain in undivided fellowship, "this is the work, this is the labour." Yet the Holy Spirit can enable us to accomplish even this. Continued communion is what we should aim at, and we should not be content with anything short of it.
Some excuse themselves from seeking after unbroken fellowship with God because of their calling, their circumstances, and their numerous engagements. Enoch had the cares of a family upon him, and he was also a public preacher, and yet he kept up his walk with God: no business or household cares should make us forget our God. Society with God is the safety of saints, it is their solace and delight, it is their honour and crown. More to be desired is it than gold, yea, than much fine gold. Happy was Enoch to enjoy it so sweetly, and so continuously. The long intercourse of this good man with his God ended in his being borne away from earth without death to that place where faith is lost in sight. He did not live like others, and therefore he did not die like others.
Paul tells us a little more concerning this holy man, and we will gather up the fragments of his history which remains on record, that nothing may be lost. (Genesis 5:21-24) -- Spurgeon's Devotional Bible, p. 11

By faith Enoch was translated that he should not see death; and was not found, because God had translated him: for before his translation he had this testimony, that he pleased God. But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.
Faith was the spring from which his communion was derived. Works do not make us walk with God; but faith brings us into his presence, and keeps us there. It is very likely that Enoch's pious conversation did not please men, but that little mattered since it pleased God. (Hebrews 11:5,6) -- Spurgeon's Devotional Bible, p. 11

From Jude we learn that Enoch had an eye to the coming of Christ. The pure in heart who see God are the seers of their age, and look far ahead of others. What Enoch saw he told forth for the warning of others, and it is our duty to do the same, that sinners may be lead to flee from the wrath to come.

And Enoch also, the seventh from Adam, prophesied of these, saying, Behold, the Lord cometh with ten thousands of his saints, To execute judgment upon all, and to convince all that are ungodly among them of all their ungodly deeds which they have ungodly committed, and of all their hard speeches which ungodly sinners have spoken against him.
How important is the doctrine of the advent of the Lord from heaven, since so early in the world's history one of the holiest of prophets proclaimed it. There must surely be some very powerful influence in this truth, since the greatest teachers of it mentioned in Scripture were also among the most eminent for close fellowship with heaven. Enoch "walked with God," Daniel was a "man greatly beloved," and John was "that disciple whom Jesus loved." O Lord, if the expectation of the coming will make us walk with thee, be pleased to fill us with it. (Jude 1:14,15)

Sun of my soul, thou Saviour dear,
It is not night if thou be near,
Oh! may no earth-born cloud arise
To hide thee from thy servant's eyes.

Abide with me from morn till eve,
For without thee I cannot live;
Abide with me when night is nigh,
For without thee I dare not die. -- Spurgeon's Devotional Bible, p. 11. Poem not credited.

Then said I, Woe is me! for I am undone; because I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips: for mine eyes have seen the King, the LORD of hosts. (Isaiah 6:5)

For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders,
Thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lasciviousness, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness. (Mark 7:21,22)

The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world. (John 1:29)

(For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;)
Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ. (2 Corinthians 10:4,5)

See the Theological Notes, "Body and Soul, Male and Female," at Genesis 2:7, page 10, in The Reformation Study Bible

Here Paul calleth the whole world, which hath been, is, and shall be, the present world, to put a difference between this and the everlasting world to come. Moreover he calleth it evil, because whatsoever is in this world, is subject to the malice of the devil reigning over the whole world. For this cause the world is the devil's kingdom. For there is in it nothing but ignorance, contempt, blasphemy, hatred of God, and disobedience against all the words and works of God. In and under this kingdom of the world are we.
Again, you see that no man is able to put away sin, by his own works, or his own power, because this present world is evil, and is set upon mischief.
As many then as are in the world are the bond-slaves of the devil, constrained to serve him and to do at his pleasure.
What availeth it then to set up so many orders of religion, for the abolishing of sin: to devise so many and painful works, as to wear shirts of hair, to beat the body with whips till the blood flowed, to go on pilgrimage, and such like? Be it so that thou doest all these things, yet notwithstanding this is true, that thou art in this present evil world, and not in the Kingdom of Christ. And if thou be not in the Kingdom of Christ, it is certain thou belongest to the kingdom of Satan, which is this evil world. Therefore all the gifts, either of the body, or of the mind, which thou enjoyest, as wisdom, righteousness, holiness, eloquence, power, beauty, and riches, are but the slavish instruments of the devil, and with all these thou art compelled to serve him, and to advance his kingdom.
First with thy wisdom thou darkenest the wisdom and the knowledge of Christ, and by thy wicked doctrine, leadest men out of the way, that they cannot come to the grace and knowledge of Christ. Thou settest out and praiseth thin own righteousness and holiness: but the righteousness of Christ, by which only we are justified, and quickened, thou doest hate and condemn. To be brief, by thy power thou destroyest the Kingdom of Christ, and abusest the same to root out the gospel, to persecute and kill the ministers of Christ, and so many as hear them.
Therefore Paul doth rightly call it the present evil world: for when it is at the best, then is it worst. In the religious, wise, and learned men, the world is at the best, and yet, in very deed in them it is double evil. I overpass those gross vices which are agansit the second table, as disobedience to parents, to magistrates, adulteries, whoredoms, covetousness, thefts, murders, and maliciousness, wherein the world is altogether drowned, which notwithstanding are light faults if we compare them with the wisdom and righteousness of the wicked, whereby they fight against the first table. This white devil, which forceth men to commit spiritual sins that they may sell them for righteousness, is far more dangerous than the black devil which only enforceth them to commit fleshly sins, which the world acknowledgeth to be sins.
By these words then, "That He might deliver us from this present world," Paul showeth what is the argument of this epistle; to wit that we have need of grace and of Christ, and that no creature, neither man nor angel, can deliver man out of the present evil world. For these works are only belonging to the Divine Majesty, and are not in the power of any either angel or man. That Christ hath put away sin and hath delivered us from the tyranny and kingdom of the devil; that is to say, from this wicked world, which is an obedient servant, and a willing follower of the devil his god. The world is full of the ignorance of God, of hatred, lying, blasphemy, and of contempt of God. Moreover of gross sins, as murders, adulteries, fornication, thefts, and such-like, because he knoweth his father the devil, who is a murderer and a liar. And the more wise, righteous, and holy that men are without Christ, so much the more hurt they do the gospel. So we also, that were religious men, were doubly wicked in the papacy, before God did lighten us with the knowledge of His gospel.
Let these words then of Paul remain, true and effectual, as indeed they are, namely, "that this present world is evil." Let it nothing at all move thee, that in a great number of men, there be many excellent virtues, and there is so great a show of holiness in hypocrites. But mark thou rather what Paul saith: out of whose words thou mayest boldly and freely pronounce this sentence against the world, that with all its wisdom, power, and righteousness, it is the kingdom of the devil: out of which God alone is able to deliver us by His only-begotten Son.
Therefore let us praise God the Father, and give Him hearty thanks for this His immeasurable mercy, that hath delivered us out of the kingdom of the devil (in which we were holden captives) by His own Son, when it is impossible to be done by our own strength. And let us acknowledge together with Paul that "all our works and righteousness," are but "loss and dross."
Also let us cast under our feet and utterly abhor all the power of free-will, all pharisaical wisdom and righteousness, all religious orders, all masses, ceremonies, vows, fastings, and such like (Phil. iii. 8) as a most filthy rotten rag, or as dung, and as the most dangerous poison of the devil. Contrariwise, let us extol and magnify the glory of Christ, who hath delivered us by His death, not from this world only, but from "this present evil world."
Paul then, by this word, evil, showeth that the Kingdom of the world, or the devil's kingdom, is the kingdom of iniquity, ignorance, error, sin, death, blasphemy, desperation, and everlasting damnation.
On the other side, the Kingdom of Christ, is the kingdom of equity, light, grace, remission of sins, peace, consolation, saving health, and everlasting life, into the which we are translated by our Lord Jesus Christ, to whom be glory, world without end. Amen. -- Martin Luther from Luther's Commentary on Galatians, "That He might deliver us from the present evil world." (Galatians 1:4 excerpt), English translation by Erasmus Middleton, B.D., edited by John Prince Fallowes, M.A., Pembroke College, Cambridge (Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel Publications, 1979, 1553).

"What is man? . . . Ask the prophet Isaiah . . . and he answers, man is `grass.. . . ." Ask David, he answers, man is a `lie,' not a liar only, or a deceiver, but a `lie' and a deceit. All the answers the Holy Ghost gives concerning man, are to humble man . . . The sinful nature of man is an enemy to the nature of God, and would pull God out of heaven; yet God even at that time is raising man to heaven; sin would lessen the great God, and yet God greatens sinful man." -- Joseph Caryl

The fool has said in his heart, There is no God. Corrupt are they, and have done abominable iniquity: there is none that doeth good. (Psalm 53:11)
Being a fool, he reflects his nature, saying, "There is no God." Being a great fool, he meddles with a great subject and comes to wild conclusions. Morally, as well as mentally, the atheist is a fool. He is a fool in the heart as well as in the head, a fool in morals as well as in philosophy. With the denial of God as a starting point, we may conclude that the fool's progress is raid, riotous, raving, and ruinous. One beginning at impiety is ready for anything. "No God" properly interpreted means no law, no order, no restraint to lust, no limit to evil passion. Who but a fool would be of this mind? What would the world become if such lawless principles came to be universal? One who heartily entertains an irreligious spirit, and follows it out to its legitimate issues, is dangerous to the common welfare; he is not rational. By nature every man is more or less a denier of God. Practical atheism is the religion of humanity. It is idle to compliment them as sincere doubters and amiable thinkers; they are in fact rotten. There is too much dainty dealing nowadays with atheism. It is not a harmless error; it is an offensive, rotten sin. Righteous men should look on it in that light. All men being by nature atheistic, they are also in the same degree corrupt. Their heart is foul; their moral nature is decayed.
"Corrupt are they, and have done abominable iniquity" -- bad principles soon lead to bad lives. One does not find virtue promoted by your Voltaires and Tom Paines. Those who talk so abominable as to deny their Maker will act abominable when it serves their turn. It is the denial and forgetfulness of God abounding among men which is the source of the unrighteousness and crime which we see around us. It all men are not outwardly vicious, it is to be accounted for by the power of other and better principles. Left to itself, the "No God" spirit would produce nothing but evil acts. -- C.H. Spurgeon commenting on Psalm 53:11 in Devotional Classics of C.H. Spurgeon, p. 270

Revival breaks out when individuals in the church repent. We can change our own lives and start personal revival by repentance and weeping for our sin.

The cause of the hatred which the world entertains against those who are not of it, is deeply rooted in the universal principles of human nature, -- in the unchangeable relations and oppositions of things; and however it may seen to slumber, it never dies. "In proportion to the degeneracy of society at large, and to the faithfulness and holiness of Christians in the midst of that society, will the hatred of the world to Christianity be manifested, in all countries and ages." (Brown Patterson)
In what a striking light does the subject we have been considering place the depravity of human nature! Men, unchanged by divine influence, hate Christians, and hate them because they are Christians. God loves them, and loves them for the very reasons that men hate them. He has "set them apart for himself" -- they are His peculiar people -- He "looks to" them -- He "dwells with" them. Christ loves them, and blesses them with all heavenly and spiritual blessings. The Holy Ghost loves them, and takes up his permanent abode in them. Angels love them, and gladly act the part of ministering spirits to them as heirs of salvation. But men, unchanged men, do not love them -- they hate them. It has been said, "If virtue were to become incarnate, all mankind would fall down and worship her." The author of this admired statement neither knew human nature, nor virtue, well. Virtue did become incarnate in the person of Jesus Christ; and was he universally worshipped? "He was despised and rejected of men;" and instead of raising him to the throne, they nailed him to the cross. . . ." -- John Brown (of Edinburgh, 1784-1858), Discourses and Sayings of Our Lord Jesus Christ, III:352-353

But [this cometh to pass], that the word might be fulfilled that is written in their law, They hated me without a cause. -- Jesus Christ (John 15:25)

The Wicked Man
A man of worthlessness, a man of iniquity, Walking [with] perverseness of mouth,
Winking with his eyes, speaking with his feet, Directing with his fingers,
Frowardness [is] in his heart, devising evil at all times, Contentions he sendeth forth.
Therefore suddenly cometh his calamity, Instantly he is broken -- and no healing.
These six hath Jehovah hated, Yea, seven [are] abominations to His soul.
Eyes high -- tongues false -- And hands shedding innocent blood --
A heart devising thoughts of vanity -- Feet hasting to run to evil --
A false witness [who] doth breathe out lies -- And one sending forth contentions between brethren. (Proverbs 6:12-19, Young's Literal Translation of the Holy Bible)

See the Theological Notes, "Original Sin and Total Depravity," at Psalms 51:5, page 809, in The Reformation Study Bible

See the Theological Notes, "Election and Reprobation," at Romans 9:18, page 1784, in The Reformation Study Bible

See the Theological Notes, "Definite Redemption," at John 10:15, page 1682, in The Reformation Study Bible

See the Theological Notes, "Effectual Calling and Conversion," at 2 Thessalonians 2:14, page 1904, in The Reformation Study Bible

See the Theological Notes, "Perseverance of the Saints," at Romans 8:30, page 1781, in The Reformation Study Bible

August, Eugene R., Men's Studies: A Selected and Annotated Interdisciplinary Bibliography [60255]

*BOSTON, THOMAS, Human Nature in Its Fourfold State (Carlisle, PA: The Banner of Truth Trust). A Christian classic.
"This is THE classic on human nature. It was immediately acclaimed as such, and went through several printings during the author's lifetime. The book deals with four states of human existence: the state of innocence; the state of nature; the state of grace; and, the eternal state. . . ." -- Jay P. Green, Sr. A Christian classic.
"When those who are devoid of the Spirit of God and reject revealed religion meet up with the Scriptural doctrine of original sin, their comments expose their hostility towards God and help exhibit the very principle they deny. For example, Smellie comments on one reaction to this work of Edwards as follows: 'Mr. Lechy has condemned the treatise on Original Sin as 'one of the most revolting books that have ever proceeded from the pen of man.' Edwards summarizes this book as 'a general defense of that great important doctrine,' and has skillfully answered those who would assail the revealed truth of God's Word at this point. If our doctrine is weak on man's nature and (in)ability, all manner of false 'help yourself' religion (e.g. Arminianism, Romanism, the cults, the occult, etc.), and secular seduction (e.g. psychology, socialism, etc.), based on man' inherent 'goodness' or ability to 'save himself,' will be given a wide open door to run rampant." -- SWRB

*Edwards, Jonathan, Total Depravity, Obtaining Salvation and Miscellaneous Discourses (Cerlox Bound Photocopy Series. Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books).
"Includes a warning to professors concerning the great guilt of those who take part in the ordinances of divine worship and yet allow themselves to be snared in any known wickedness. A work on temptation and deliverance and numerous other topics of great value." -- SWRB

Edwards, Jonathan. SERMON XVIII.* Wicked Men useful in their Destruction only. EZEK. xv. 2. 3. 4. Son of man, What is the vine-tree more than any tree? or than a branch which is among the trees of the forest? Shall wood ... [in the following collection of sermons by Jonathan Edwards -- contains other sermons on the useless wicked]
Edwards, Jonathan. Practical sermons, never before published. By the late Reverend Mr. Jonathan Edwards, ... Edinburgh, 1788. (ECCO) Gale Document Number CW3320857764

Girardeau, John L., Calvinism and Evangelical Arminianism Compared as to Election, Reprobation, Justification and Related Doctrines (Harrisonburg, VA [Sprinkle Publications, P.O. Box 1094, Harrisonburg, 22803]: Sprinkle Publications).
"A thorough but graceful refutation of Wesley's arminianism." -- Lloyd T. Sprinkle
"This powerful and penetrating book has been called the best on the subject . . . ." -- GCB Hoekema, Anthony A., Created in God's Image [60266]

*Laidlaw, John, The Bible Doctrine of Man, 3rd edition (Edinburgh, Scotland: T. and T. Clark, 1895). 60289
"The Cunningham Lectures, New College, Edinburgh, 1880. Provides one of the ablest introductions to Biblical anthropology ever written. Excellent." -- Cyril J. Barber

*Lee, Francis Nigel, The Origin and Destiny of Man (Nutley, NJ: Presbyterian and Reformed Publishing Co., 1975). 60290
"Five brief, Biblical lectures delivered at the inauguration of the Christian Studies Center, Memphis. Reformed." -- Cyril J. Barber

*Luther, Martin, Commentary on Galatians, English translation by Erasmus Middleton, B.D., edited by John Prince Fallowes, M.A., Pembroke College, Cambridge (Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel Publications, 1979, 1553).
"I prefer this book of Martin Luther's (except the Bible) before all the books I have ever seen, as most fit for a wounded soul." -- John Bunyan
"This is a great, historic work, and is beyond criticism on account of its great usefulness. As a comment its accuracy might be questioned; but for emphatic utterances and clear statements of the great doctrine of the Epistle it remains altogether by itself, and must be judged per se." -- C.H. Spurgeon
"The reissue of a famous series of lectures delivered at Wittenberg University in 1553." -- Cyril J. Barber
Luther's Commentary on Galatians, "who hath bewitched you, that you should not obey the truth." (Galatians 3:1 excerpt), English translation by Erasmus Middleton, B.D., edited by John Prince Fallowes, M.A., Pembroke College, Cambridge
http://www.lettermen2.com/luther1.html
Luther's Commentary on Galatians, "That He might deliver us from the present evil world." (Galatians 1:4 excerpt), English translation by Erasmus Middleton, B.D., edited by John Prince Fallowes, M.A., Pembroke College, Cambridge
http://www.lettermen2.com/luther2.html

*Machen, J. Gresham, The Christian View of Man (London, England: Banner of Truth Trust, 1965, 1937). 90211
"This book by one of the founders of Westminster Theological Seminary and the Orthodox Presbyterian Church is undoubtedly one of the best guides, from a Reformed perspective, to be found anywhere. If you want a sound guide to the basic teachings of the Bible, you will find it in this book. Highly recommended!" -- GCB
"Provides an excellent introduction to Christian anthropology. First published in 1937." -- Cyril J. Barber. Deals with predestination and human freedom.

*Murray, John, The Imputation of Adam's Sin [20901]

*Orr, James, God's Image in Man and Its Defacement in the Light of Modern Denials (Grand Rapids, MI: Wm.B. Eerdmans Publishing Co., 1948). 60292
Based on the Stone Lectures at Princeton Theological Seminary, 1903, this valuable apologetic carefully distinguishes between the Biblical teaching, the theories of men, and movements throughout church history." -- Cyril J. Barber

*Owen, John, Sin and Grace (Carlisle, PA: The Banner of Truth Trust), ISBN: 9780851511276 0851511279. A Christian classic.
"Contains: Nature and causes of apostasy from the Gospel, duty of being spiritually minded, treatise on the dominion of Sin, and Grace."
Owen, John. A treatise of the dominion of sin and grace. ... By the late pious and learned minister of the gospel, John Owen, D.D. Edinburgh, 1739. (ECCO) Gale Document Number CW3321215242

*Owen, John, Temptation and Sin (Carlisle, PA: The Banner of Truth Trust), ISBN: 9780851511269 0851511260. A Christian classic.
"Contains sections on: Mortification of sin, temptation, indwelling sin, and an exposition of Psalm 130."
Owen, John. The mortification of sin in believers: containing the necessity, nature, and means of it. With a resolution of sundry cases of conscience thereunto belonging. By John Owen, D.D. ... A new edition London, 1783. (ECCO) Gale Document Number CW3318906334

*Owen, Samuel A., Letting God Plan Your Family [70067]

*Romaine, William, The Life, Walk and Triumph of Faith [10220]

*Rushdoony, Rousas J., Christianity and the State (Vallecito, CA: Ross House Books)
"The need to return to a Biblical doctrine of civil government is evidenced by our century's worldwide drift into tyranny. Humanism invariably rushes in to fill the world's theological vacuums: the need of the hour is to restore a full-orbed, Biblical, theology of the state. This work sets forth that theology." -- GCB

*Shedd, W.G.T., Sermons to the Natural Man (Carlisle, PA: The Banner of Truth Trust). 60294
"Dr. Shedd's SERMONS TO THE NATURAL MAN are, if not absolutely the best, yet of the very best doctrinal and spiritual sermons produced in this generation. We have known much of their power in convincing sinners, and in deepening, and widening, and exalting the experiences of true Christians. Doctrinal preaching, though not in fashion, is the preaching that we need, and the preaching which always best vindicates itself when put to the test of practice . . ." -- A.A. Hodge

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

Synod of Dort, The Canon Ratified in the National Synod of the Reformed Church Held at Dordrecht (1618-1619), (Cerlox Bound Photocopy Series. Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books).
"This classic Dutch Reformed standard, proclaiming the five points of Calvinism [the 'T-U-L-I-P' decrees on the five main points of doctrine in dispute in the Netherlands: Total Depravity, Unconditional Election, Limited Atonement, Irresistible Grace, and Perseverence of the Saints], refuted and condemned the Remonstrance (protest) found in the five Arminian articles of 1610, written by Johanness Uytenbogaert. Includes, for comparison, the five Arminian articles also." -- SWRB
"As far as I am able to judge by the information in all history of that kind, the Christian world, since the day of the Apostles, had never a synod of more excellent divines (take one thing with another) than this Synod [The Westminster Assembly] and the Synod of Dort were." -- Richard Baxter
"Theological liberalism at heart has been a continuing protest against Calvinism, particularly against its insistence on the Sovereignty of God and the Total Depravity of the race. These two Biblical doctrines have often proved to be a stumbling block to theologians within the church as well as to the unbelieving world." -- C. Gregg Singer, Theological Interpretation of American History, p. 290

Verduin, Leonard, Somewhat Less Than God: The Biblical View of Man (Grand Rapids, MI: Wm.B. Eerdmans Publishing Co., 1970). 60283
"A systematic approach to Christian anthropology." -- Cyril J. Barber

Venning, Ralph , Sinfulness of Sin

See also: Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, Sexual relationship, Rebellion and lawlessness: wickedness, demonic possession, substance abuse, abnormal behavior, insanity, mental illness, mental retardation, The lord jesus christ, The cross of christ, Calvinism, Sin, Judges, Repentance, the key to salvation and change, Reconcililiation of relationships, The theology of freedom, Conspiracy and corruption, Covenant theology and covenanting, Manhood, Islam (muslim/moslim, muhammadanism/mohammadanism)
TCRB5, 3853

Related WebLinks

Luther's Commentary on Galatians, "who hath bewitched you, that you should not obey the truth." (Galatians 3:1 excerpt), English translation by Erasmus Middleton, B.D., edited by John Prince Fallowes, M.A., Pembroke College, Cambridge
http://www.lettermen2.com/luther1.html

Luther's Commentary on Galatians, "That He might deliver us from the present evil world." (Galatians 1:4 excerpt), English translation by Erasmus Middleton, B.D., edited by John Prince Fallowes, M.A., Pembroke College, Cambridge
http://www.lettermen2.com/luther2.html

God's Testimony Concerning Man, Horatius Bonar
http://www.wwd.net/user/ront/169.htm

The Doctrine of Human Depravity, Arthur Pink
http://www.geocities.com/Heartland/Pointe/4495/depravity_index.html

See also:

The Synod of Dordt (1619)
http://www.eskimo.com/think/apologia/creeds/dort.htm Calvinism
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr1chb.html#calvinism A Comparison of the Five Points of Calvinism with the Five Points of Arminianism
http://www.the-highway.com/compare.html Arminianism
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrrappd.html#arminianism Arminianism/Pelagianism Refutations
http://www.geocities.com/Athens/Forum/3505/arminianism_refuted.html Arminianism: The heresy plaguing the modern church of the 21st century. What is it and where did it come from?
http://www.apuritansmind.com/Arminianism/Arminianism.htm Arminianism: The Road to Rome, by Augustus Toplady
http://www.swrb.com/newslett/actualnls/RHNarmin.htm

Repentance the Key to Salvation and Change

---

From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. -- Jesus Christ (Matthew 4:17)

Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord. (Acts 3:19)

If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (1 John 1:8-9)

See the Theological Notes, "Repentance," at Acts 26:20, page 1756, in The Reformation Study Bible

"The Spirit," says our Lord, "Shall convince the world of sin, that they believe not in me," -- i.e., `He will convince men that they are sinners -- especially that they are sinners in not believing in me.' The doctrine and the law of Christ cannot be received, except by those who are persuaded that they are sinners -- guilty and depraved creatures -- exposed to God's righteous displeasure -- unfit for God's holy fellowship. The Gospel is throughout a restorative economy, and, therefore, can be understood, valued, accepted, only by those who are aware that the lost condition, for which such an economy is required and intended, is theirs. It is because men are, to so limited an extent, convinced of sin, of what sin in -- how heinous in its nature, how fearful in its consequences, -- and that they are sinners, that Christianity cannot obtain even a fair hearing. Convince a man that he is a sinner, and then, and not till then, will he have much curiosity to listen to what is said about a Saviour -- much disposition to inquire into the truth of what is said about him -- to ponder at once the meaning and the evidence of the testimony.
This is the radical part of the Spirit's convincing process; but he not only convinces of sin generally, but he convinces of sin in not believing in Christ. He fixes the mind so on the meaning and evidence of the truth respecting Christ, as to produce faith; and, in producing it, to lodge in the mind the conviction that, in not believing that truth, from the moment it was presented to it, there was sin, great sin; not mere intellectual mistake, but sin -- deep, aggravated sin -- the greatest sin man is capable of committing, -- indeed, a sin which, if persisted in, must end in hopeless perdition. . . . -- John Brown (of Edinburgh, 1784-1858), Discourses and Sayings of Our Lord Jesus Christ, III:415, 416

I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance.
Likewise, I say unto you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth. -- Jesus Christ (Luke 15:7,10)

As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent. -- Jesus Christ (Revelation 3:19)

The fool hath said in his heart,
There is no God.
They are corrupt,
they have done abominable works,
there is none that doeth good. (Psalm 14:1)
See the Theological Notes, "Mankind's Guilty Knowledge of God" at Romans 1:29, page 1767, and at Psalm 14:1, page 766 in The Reformation Study Bible

"Cornelius Van Til makes the theologically valid point that `irrationality in the mind of man, that is, insanity, must be the result of a deflection of man from the source of absolute rationality,' God, and consequently `all men have merited insanity because of their departure from God.' [Or, not until man repents is he truly sane.] Eternal punishment is `the abyss of irrationalism,' and what we call rational or normative experience is a gift of God's common grace. No man is worthy of it'." -- Frederick Leahy

"To find out your sinful, miserable state, and to be truly humbled for it, and to discern the remedy which you have in Christ, and penitently and believingly to enter into his covenant, and to see that your happiness is wholly in the love and fruition of God, and to believe the glory prepared for the saints, and to prefer it before all the prosperity of the world, and love it, and set your hearts upon it, and to resolve on a holy life . . , forsaking this deceitful world and flesh; all this is a work that is not so easily done as mentioned, and requireth your more serious, fixed thoughts. . . ." -- Richard Baxter

Revival breaks out when individuals in the church repent. We can change our own lives and start personal revival by repentance and weeping for our sin.

"God puts away many in anger for their supposed goodness, but not any at all for their confessed badness." -- John Trapp

"To this we must say that He who promised forgiveness to them that repent has not promised repentance to them that sin." -- Ralph Venning

Remember, I pray you . . . that to have a sense of sin is not the same thing as being pardoned. Your repentance, unless you also believe in Jesus, is a repentance that needs to be repented of. -- C.H. Spurgeon in a sermon entitled http://www.spurgeongems.org/vols16-18/chs924.pdf p. 644

"There cannot be a true sorrow of heart for a sin that is past, but presently there doth arise a purpose not to sin for the future." -- Thomas Goodwin

"Amendment of life is the best repentance." -- John Trapp

As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent. -- Jesus Christ (Revelation 3:19)

Grant, Almighty God, since thou declarest to us by so many proofs the formidable nature of thine anger, especially against the obstinate and rebellious, who reject thy word familiarly spoken to them: Grant, I say, that we may embrace what is proposed to us in thy name with the humility and reverence becoming to thy children, so that we may repent of our sins, and obtain their pardon, until at length we are freed from all corruptions of the flesh, and become partakers of that eternal and celestial glory which thy only-begotten Son has purchased for us by his blood. Amen. -- John Calvin, prayer at the end of 32nd Lecture on Ezekiel

Erskine, Ebenezer. A serious address to the Christian world: or, the precious promises of the most high God, to repenting sinners. Found in the manuscripts of ... Mr. Ebenezer Erskine, ... Glasgow, 1789. (ECCO) Gale Document Number CW3317942430

Knox, John, National Repentance and Reformation (Cerlox Bound Photocopy Series. Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books).
"Formerly titled 'A Brief Exhortation to England for the Speedy Embracing of the Gospel, 1559.' Mitchell in The Scottish Reformation (p. 80) cites Dr. Merle D'Aubigne on Knox: 'The blood of warriors ran in the veins of the man who was to become one of the most intrepid champions of Christ's army . . . He was active, bold, thoroughly upright and perfectly honest, diligent in his duties, and full of heartiness for his comrades.' The warrior in Knox was certainly roused for battle in this production. Kevin Reed (Selected Writings of John Knox, p. 580) comments, 'Some historians have reflected negatively on the vehemence of Knox's remarks. Perhaps they should peruse the long list of the martyrs named in the appendix to this work. Critics may then find a clue for understanding the reformer's zeal. Knox is discussing serious matters of life and death -- spiritual issues which affect us deeply in this life, and for eternity.' Magistrates everywhere today need to hear this message again; God has not changed -- there are still corporate curses for disobedience at a national level and corporate blessings for those nations 'that kiss the Son' (cf. Psalm 2)." -- SWRB

*Luther, Martin, Commentary on Galatians, English translation by Erasmus Middleton, B.D., edited by John Prince Fallowes, M.A., Pembroke College, Cambridge (Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel Publications, 1979, 1553).
"I prefer this book of Martin Luther's (except the Bible) before all the books I have ever seen, as most fit for a wounded soul." -- John Bunyan
"This is a great, historic work, and is beyond criticism on account of its great usefulness. As a comment its accuracy might be questioned; but for emphatic utterances and clear statements of the great doctrine of the Epistle it remains altogether by itself, and must be judged per se." -- C.H. Spurgeon
"The reissue of a famous series of lectures delivered at Wittenberg University in 1553." -- Cyril J. Barber
Luther's Commentary on Galatians, "who hath bewitched you, that you should not obey the truth." (Galatians 3:1 excerpt), English translation by Erasmus Middleton, B.D., edited by John Prince Fallowes, M.A., Pembroke College, Cambridge
http://www.lettermen2.com/luther1.html
Luther's Commentary on Galatians, "That He might deliver us from the present evil world." (Galatians 1:4 excerpt), English translation by Erasmus Middleton, B.D., edited by John Prince Fallowes, M.A., Pembroke College, Cambridge
http://www.lettermen2.com/luther2.html

Perkins, William, 1558-1602, [M. Perkins his exhortation to repentance, out of Zephaniah, preached in 2 sermons together with two treatises of the duties and dignitie of the ministrie ...], 1605, Additional title: An exhortation to repentance, EEBO.

Perkins, William, 1558-1602, A faithfull and plaine exposition vpon the 2. chapter of Zephaniah: by that reuerend and iudicious diuine, M.W. Perkins. Containing a powerful exhortation to repentance: as also the manner hovve men in repentance are to search themselues. Published by a preacher of the vvord. With a preface prefixed, touching the publishing of M. Perkins his vvorks. And a catalogue of all such particulars thereof, as are to be expected, 1609, EEBO.

Perkins, William, 1558-1602, Tvvo treatises I. Of the nature and practise of repentance. II. Of the combat of the flesh and spirit, 1593, EEBO.

*Pink, Arthur W., Gleanings From the Scriptures: Man's Total Depravity (Chicago, IL: Moody Press, 1969). 20133
"Pink again shows his thorough knowledge of the Scriptures. He refers to something like 500 verses of the Bible to demonstrate that God teaches that mankind is totally depraved since the Fall. . . ." -- Jay P. Green, Sr. A strongly Calvinistic treatment.
The Doctrine of Human Depravity, Arthur Pink
http://www.geocities.com/Heartland/Pointe/4495/depravity_index.html

*Shedd, W.G.T., The Doctrine of Endless Punishment [20358]

*Sibbes, Richard, The Bruised Reed (Puritan Paperback Series. Carlisle, PA: The Banner of Truth Trust).
"Richard Sibbes (1577-1635), one of the most influential figures in the Puritan movement during the earlier years of the seventeenth century, was renowned for the rich quality of his ministry. THE BRUISED REED shows why he was known among his contemporaries as `the sweet dropper'." -- Publisher's Annotation
"Sibbes never wastes the student's time, he scatters pearls and diamonds with both hands." -- C.H. Spurgeon
"A poor pedlar came to the door . . . and my father bought of him Sibb's Bruised Reed . . . It suited my state . . . and gave me a livelier apprehension of the mystery of redemption and how much I was beholden to Jesus Christ . . . Without any means but books was God pleased to resolve me to himself." -- Richard Baxter

*Watson, Thomas, The Doctrine of Repentance (Puritan Paperback Series. Carlisle, PA: The Banner of Truth Trust) A Christian classic.
"Knowing what repentance is, and actually repenting are essentials to true Christianity. Jesus Christ himself said that if we do not repent, we will perish! It is vital, therefore, to read and study what Scripture has to say about this theme.
"Few better guides have existed in this or any other language. . . . He was a master of both Scripture and the human heart, and wrote with a simplicity and directness that keeps his work fresh and powerful for the twentieth century." -- Publisher's Annotation
The Doctrine of Repentance, excerpts
Online etext.
http://www.fivesolas.com/watson/drepenti.htm

Brandt, Henry, When You're Tired of Treating the Symptoms and You're Ready for a Cure, Give Me a Call (Brentwood, TN: Wolgemuth and Hyatt Publishers). 20134
"Our society is good at finding relief and temporary help for problems such as anger, fear, and frustration. But finding a cure is something else! REPENTANCE is the cure that heals our sin. Repentance consists of confession of our sin and submission to the Lordship of Christ. Dr. Brandt focuses on 30 common questions and problems." -- GCB

Chamberlain, W.D., The Meaning of Repentance (Philadelphia, PA: Westminster Press, 1943). 20135
"A Biblically oriented, theologically conservative study of a greatly neglected doctrine."-- Cyril J. Barber

Colquhoun, John, Repentance (London, England: Banner of Truth Trust, 1965, 1826). 20136
First published in 1826, this Reformed treatment deals with the sources of true repentance, their nature and import, how to distinguish between true and counterfeit repentance, and the fruit and evidences of true repentance." -- Cyril J. Barber

Miller, C. John, Repentance and 20th Century Man (Fort Washington, PA: Christian Literature Crusade, 1980). 20139
"What is true Biblical repentance? How does it manifest itself? Is there a relationship between humility and repentance." -- GCB

See also: Words of Christ appearing in The Web Edition of Biblical Counsel: Resources for Renewal, Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, Sexual relationship, Sin, Doctrine of Man, Book length presentations of the free offer of Gospel message of salvation and the life to come, Reconcilation of relationships, Forgiveness of sin, Justification, Sanctification, The history of reformation of the church, Corporate faithfulness, Revival

Related WebLinks

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

Adoption Into God's Family

---

See the Theological Notes, "Adoption," at Galatians 4:5, page 1854, in The Reformation Study Bible

*Packer, J.I., Knowing God, 25th anniversary edition (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 1997, 1973). 10018

*Haldane, Robert, Commentary on Romans (Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel Publications). 30735
Commentary on Romans, Robert Haldane
http://www.e4.net

*Candlish, Robert S., Life in a Risen Saviour (Minneapolis, MN: James and Klock Publishing Co., 1977). [30756]

Candlish, Robert S., The Sonship and Brotherhood of Believers (1872)

Ridderbos, Herman N., The Coming of the Kingdom (Philadelphia, PA: The Presbyterian and Reformed Publishing Co., 1962). 10252

See also: The Fatherhood of God, Election, Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, Sexual relationship, The Gospel Message of Salvation and the Life to Come, Justification, Sonship, Finding the Perfect Parent in God

Recovery of the True, God-centered Gospel

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*Bonar, Horatius, The Everlasting Righteousness or How Shall Man Be Just With God? (Carlisle, PA: The Banner of Truth Trust, 1993). A Christian classic.
"First published in 1874, THE EVERLASTING RIGHTEOUSNESS, may be the best book on the doctrine of justification by faith alone ever written.
"Since the seventeenth century, the church's adherence to the central doctrine of the Christian faith has been weakening; in the twentieth century it has all but disappeared. But to those who remain faithful -- to those who are called of God --justification by faith alone is the best news there could ever be: that Christ died for our sins, and we shall live forever because of Christ's righteousness.
"Justification by faith alone -- the `principal hinge of religion,' according to John Calvin, the `doctrine by which the church stands or falls,' according to Martin Luther -- is salvation. Without it, all hope is lost; with it, Heaven gained. Bonar's discussion is without equal in the English language." -- John W. Robbins
The Banner of Truth edition is available free as e-text.
The Everlasting Righteousness, Horatius Bonar
http://www.jude3.net/bertoc.htm

*Chantry, Walter J., Today's Gospel: Authentic or Synthetic? (Carlisle, PA: The Banner of Truth Trust). 10061

Ellul, Jacques, The Subversion of Christianity (Grand Rapids, MI: Wm.B. Eerdmans Publishing Co., 1986). 90468
"What we today call Christianity, says Ellul, is actually far removed from the revelation of God. The church has perverted and reinterpreted Scripture over the years in order to mitigate the scandal of the Gospel. Yet Ellul remains hopeful, for the Holy Spirit continues to move in the world." -- Publisher's Annotation

Gurnall, William, The Christian in Complete Armor: A Treatise of the Saint's War Against the Devil, complete and unabridged (Carlisle, PA: The Banner of Truth Trust, 1979), EEBO; Translations: Welsh, OCLC 28128434.
"An amazing example of the depth, sincerity, helpfulness, and humanness of the fully developed Puritan mind. Spurgeon said Gurnall's book is `peerless and priceless; every line full of wisdom.' John Newton said that if he had to choose only one book beside the Bible this would be the one." -- GCB
Said to be one of the 10 greatest Christian books ever written. Also praised by John Flavel and Richard Baxter.
The Christian In Complete Armour, William Gurnall
http://www.ccel.org/g/gurnall/armour/home.htm

Luther, Martin, Commentary on Galatians, English translation by Erasmus Middleton, B.D., edited by John Prince Fallowes, M.A., Pembroke College, Cambridge (Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel Publications, 1979, 1553).
"I prefer this book of Martin Luther's (except the Bible) before all the books I have ever seen, as most fit for a wounded soul." -- John Bunyan
"This is a great, historic work, and is beyond criticism on account of its great usefulness. As a comment its accuracy might be questioned; but for emphatic utterances and clear statements of the great doctrine of the Epistle it remains altogether by itself, and must be judged per se." -- C.H. Spurgeon
"The reissue of a famous series of lectures delivered at Wittenberg University in 1553." -- Cyril J. Barber
Luther's Commentary on Galatians, "who hath bewitched you, that you should not obey the truth." (Galatians 3:1 excerpt), English translation by Erasmus Middleton, B.D., edited by John Prince Fallowes, M.A., Pembroke College, Cambridge
http://www.lettermen2.com/luther1.html
Luther's Commentary on Galatians, "That He might deliver us from the present evil world." (Galatians 1:4 excerpt), English translation by Erasmus Middleton, B.D., edited by John Prince Fallowes, M.A., Pembroke College, Cambridge
http://www.lettermen2.com/luther2.html

McConnell, R., A Different Gospel (Peabody, MA: Hendrickson Publishers, c1988). D1079
"A comprehensive analysis of the historical background and doctrinal errors of the Word-Faith teachers including Kenneth Hagin, Kenneth Copeland, Fred Price, and others. McConnell also gives conclusive evidence of the doctrinal and literal connection between Hagin and E.W. Kenyon."

Miller, Samuel, The Gospel in HOLDING FAST THE FAITHFUL WORD: SERMONS AND ADDRESSES BY SAMUEL MILLER (Presbyterian Heritage Publishing).
"The book opens with strong declarations about the first principles of Christianity. Miller explains the substitutionary atonement in "Christ Our Righteousness." He shows the necessity of "Being on the Lord's Side." Perceptive readers will note the depth of these statements, respecting the nature of the gospel, in contrast to the shallow evangelistic messages of the present day. In two missionary sermons, Miller illustrates how Christ, through the gospel, will conquer the world. There are additional sermons on "The Difficulties and Temptations which Attend the Preaching of the Gospel in Great Cities" and "The Importance of Gospel Truth." SWRB

Owen, John. The Advantage of the Kingdom of Christ, In the Shaking of the Kingdoms of the World: … By John Owen, Minister of the Gospel. Vol. II. Vol. 2. London, [1720]. 2 vols. (ECCO) Gale Document Number CW3318659085

*Owen, John, Apostasy From the Gospel (Puritan Paperback Series. Carlisle, PA: The Banner of Truth Trust). A Christian classic.

*Owen, John, Sin and Grace (Carlisle, PA: The Banner of Truth Trust), ISBN: 9780851511276 0851511279. A Christian classic.
"Contains: Nature and causes of apostasy from the Gospel, duty of being spiritually minded, treatise on the dominion of Sin, and Grace."
Owen, John. A treatise of the dominion of sin and grace. ... By the late pious and learned minister of the gospel, John Owen, D.D. Edinburgh, 1739. (ECCO) Gale Document Number CW3321215242

*Owen, John, The Gospel Defended (Carlisle, PA: The Banner of Truth Trust), ISBN: 9780851511290 0851511295. A Christian classic.
"Contains chapters on: the mystery of the Gospel, the death of Christ, Justification, and examination of Socinianism."

Robbins, John W., "What Is the Gospel?" Trinity Review, No. 60 (Unicoi, TN: The Trinity Foundation). 10073
"Today, however, there is a great deal of confusion about what the Gospel is, and what an evangelical is, just as there is confusion about what a Christian is. Because of this confusion, many people are called evangelicals who do not believe the Gospel. It might be best to begin to sort out this confusion by spelling out some of the popular religious ideas that are not the Gospel." -- Jay P. Green, Sr. Counterfeit gospels are enumerated. Translations: German.
"Counterfeit Gospels," a tract by John W. Robbins
http://trinityfoundation.org/ammo/tract_view.asp?ID=tract03.html

Schlabach, Theron F., Gospel Versus Gospel (Studies in Anabaptist and Mennonite History, No. 21. Scottdale, PA: Herald Press, 1980).

Scott, C. Anderson, Romanism and the Gospel (Philadelphia, PA: Westminster Press, c1946). D1047A
"Scott is highly critical of Catholicism." -- GCB

Walker, Andrew (editor), Betraying the Gospel (Lexington, KY: Bristol House, Limited, 1988). 10075
Introduction by Billy Graham.

WESTMINSTER ASSEMBLY OF DIVINES, Scripture Index to the Westminster Standards (The complete Scripture index to the Westminster Confession (1646), Larger and Shorter Catechisms.)
http://www.swrb.com/newslett/actualnls/index01.htm
A Guide to the Westminster Standards: Confession of Faith and Larger Catechism, James Bordwine, (Unicoi, TN: The Trinity Foundation, 1996).
Includes a unique, 100-page topical index to both the Confession and the Catechism.

See also: Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, Sexual relationship, Book length presentations of the free offer of gospel message of salvation and the life to come, False gospels, Justification, Justifying faith, Pseudo-christian movements, Repentance the key to salvation and change, Creeds, confessions, and catechisms, Persecution, Gospel tracts and witnessing tools

Related WebLinks

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

Scripture Index to the Westminster Standards (The complete Scripture index to the Westminster Confession (1646), Larger and Shorter Catechisms.)
http://www.swrb.com/newslett/actualnls/index01.htm
A Guide to the Westminster Standards: Confession of Faith and Larger Catechism, James Bordwine, (Unicoi, TN: The Trinity Foundation, 1996).
Includes a unique, 100-page topical index to both the Confession and the Catechism.

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

Appendix D: A Selection of Works on Pseudo-Christian Movements
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrrappd.html

A Collection of Tracts by John W. Robbins
Translations: German.
http://trinityfoundation.org/ammo/tracts.asp

"Counterfeit Gospels," a tract by John W. Robbins
http://trinityfoundation.org/ammo/tract_view.asp?ID=tract03.html
"Are You Catholic?" a tract by John W. Robbins
http://trinityfoundation.org/ammo/tract_view.asp?ID=tract01.html

Stephen Downes Guide to the Logical Fallacies
http://www.fallacies.ca/

Fallacy Files
http://www.fallacyfiles.org/

Biblical Applications in Evangelism

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*Calvin, John, The Institutes of the Christian Religion, 2 volumes (Philadelphia, PA: Westminster Press, 1960). A Christian classic.
"Edited by John McNeill and translated by Ford Lewis Battles, this is the definitive English language edition of one of the monumental works of the Christian church -- Calvin's INSTITUTES.
"Still considered by many to be the finest explanation and defense of the Protestant Reformation available.
"The work is divided into four books: I. The Knowledge of God the Creator, II. The Knowledge of God the Redeemer in Christ, III. The Mode of Obtaining the Grace of Christ, IV. The External Means or Helps by Which God Allures Us Into Fellowship With Christ and Keeps Us in It. . . . THE INSTITUTES is praised by the secular philosopher, Will Durant, as one of the ten books that shook the world." -- GCB
Calvin spent a lifetime writing and perfecting INSTITUTES OF CHRISTIAN RELIGION. His Prefatory Address makes it clear that he intended the work to be a defense of Christianity to the King of France.
Therefore, plainly stated, one of the most influential works ever published in the English language is a defense of Christianity to leaders of State.
Prefatory Address to His Most Christian Majesty, The Most Mighty and Illustrious Monarch, Francis, King of the French, His Sovereign, John Calvin
"Indeed, this consideration makes a true king: to recognize himself a minister of God in governing his kingdom. Now, that king, who in ruling over his realm does not serve God's glory, exercises not kingly rule but brigandage. [Footnote: 'Nec iam regnum ille sed latrocinium exercet.' An echo of Augustine's famous phrase: 'When justice is taken away, what are kingdoms [[regna]] but a vast banditry [[magna latocinia]]?' City of God IV. iv (MPL [[Migne, J.P., Patrologiae cursus completus, series Latina]] 41. 115; tr. NPNF [[A Select Library of the Nicene and Post-Nicene Fathers, second series]] II. 66).] Furthermore, he is deceived who looks for enduring prosperity in his kingdom when it is not ruled by God's scepter, that is, his Holy Word; for the heavenly oracle that proclaims that 'where prophecy fails the people are scattered' [Prov. 29:18] cannot lie." (Battles translation)
"The characteristic of a true sovereign is, to acknowledge that, in the administration of his kingdom, he is a minister of God. He who does not make his reign subservient to the divine glory, acts the part not of a king, but a robber. He, moreover, deceives himself who anticipates long prosperity to any kingdom which is not ruled by the sceptre of God, that is, by his divine word. For the heavenly oracle is infallible which has declared, that where there is no vision the people perish (Prov. 29:18). (Beveridge translation)"
See the entire Prefatory Address, Beveridge translation:
http://www.ccel.org/ccel/calvin/institutes.ii.viii.html
"The doctrines of covenant liberty were rediscovered in the Reformation. John Calvin went further than anyone else in defining liberty and what Christians need to do to maintain it. Includes bibliographies."
It is recommended that INSTITUTES OF CHRISTIAN RELIGION be used for daily devotions and may be used in combination with Ford Lewis Battles and John Walchenbach, AN ANALYSIS OF THE INSTITUTES OF THE CHRISTIAN RELIGION OF JOHN CALVIN (Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Book House) and with CALVIN'S COMMENTARIES.
Nelson's Ultimate Bible Reference Library, Logos Library System format (LLS) (CD-ROM)
This library systems includes CALVIN'S INSTITUTES OF THE CHRISTIAN RELIGION, THE HOLY BIBLE KING JAMES VERSION, THE NEW TREASURY OF SCRIPTURE KNOWLEDGE, AUGUSTINE'S CONFESSIONS, WESTMINSTER CONFESSION OF FAITH (1646), WESTMINSTER LARGER CATECHISM, WESTMINSTER SHORTER CATECHISM, MATTHEW HENRY'S COMMENTARY, NEW NAVE'S TOPICAL BIBLE, PILGRIM'S PROGRESS, and other classic Bible study aids. THE REFORMATION STUDY BIBLE (Other title: THE NEW GENEVA STUDY BIBLE,) in LLS format, may be added to this library. Therefore, all the above works may be used in combination with each other in Bible study.
http://www.logos.com/products/details/3247
Calvin, Spurgeon and International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE) (LLS)
Contains Calvin's Commentaries.
http://www.logos.com/products/details/889
Calvin's Commentaries (22 Volumes) (LLS)
http://www.logos.com/products/details/887
The Comprehensive John Calvin Collection CD-ROM in Logos Library System (LLS) format
http://www.logosbiblesoftware.com/logosbiblesoftware/calcom.html
Calvin's Commentaries (online)
http://www.ccel.org/ccel/calvin/calcom
One Hundred Aphorisms, Containing, Within a Narrow Compass, the Substance and Order of the Four Books of THE INSTITUTES OF THE CHRISTIAN RELIGION
http://www.lettermen2.com/pringle.html
The Comprehensive John Calvin Collection
From Ages Software. Includes both the Battles and the Beveridge translation of THE INSTITUTES OF THE CHRISTIAN RELIGION, CALVIN'S COMMENTARIES, and other works by Calvin.
http://www.ageslibrary.com/ages_calvin_collection_1.html
Institutes of the Christian Religion (Beveridge translation online)
http://www.ccel.org/ccel/calvin/institutes.i.html

*Cocoris, G. Michael, Evangelism: A Biblical Approach (Chicago, IL: Moody Press, 1984). 20142
"A different approach to evangelism in that the author, both a pastor and an evangelist, is also a Biblicist. He seeks, therefore, to ground his rationale for evangelism squarely in the Scriptures and bypasses many discussions and/or techniques used by others because they have little or no foundation in God's Word. . . ." -- Cyril J. Barber

*Packer, J.I., A Quest for Godliness: The Puritan Vision of the Christian Life (Wheaton, IL: Good News Publishers [Crossway Books]). [31655]
J.I. Packer's Introduction to The Death of Death in the Death of Christ by John Owen
http://www.monergism.com/thethreshold/articles/onsite/packer_intro.html
Logos Research Systems
http://www.logos.com
Owen, John. Salus electorum, sanguis Jesu: or the death of death in the death of Christ. Being a treatise of the redemption and reconciliation that is in the blood of Christ; wherein the whole controversy about universal redemption is fully discussed: in four parts; ... By John Owen, D.D. Carefully revised and corrected. Edinburgh, 1755. (ECCO) Gale Document Number CW3321796584

*Packer, J.I., Evangelism and the Sovereignty of God [31656]

*Tripp, Paul David, Contextualization of the Gospel in Counseling: A Biblical Rational for Person-Centered Ministry (Philadelphia, PA: Westminster Theological Seminary, D.Min. thesis, 1988). 20144
Available on microfiche from University Microfilms International, Ann Arbor, MI. Includes bibliography.

Good, Kenneth, H., Lost and Found: Christ's Teaching on the Theology of Evangelism [20393]

Stebbins, Tom, Evangelism by the Book: 13 Biblical Methods (Camp Hill, PA: Christian Publications, 1991). 20147
Tom Stebbins is a board member of Evangelism Explosion III International.
"Unflaggingly practical, focusing on you -- your personal needs and aspirations . . . tells you about it [training witnesses to train witnesses] in a way that can change your life." -- D. James Kennedy

See also: The gospel message of salvation, Sharing christ with your children, Other works on the Gospel, Gospel tracts and witnessing tools, Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, Sexual relationship, Pseudo-christian movements

Gospel Tracts and Witnessing Tools

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The Shorter Catechism With Scripture Proofs (Carlisle, PA [P.O. Box 621, Carlisle 17013, USA]: The Banner of Truth Trust).
Arguably the greatest tract ever created, all factors considered.
http://www.reformed.org/documents/WSC_frames.html
Westminster Shorter Catechism Project
"Click on any of the individual questions below to get the answer and Biblical references, as well as links to works by John Flavel, Thomas Watson, Thomas Boston, James Fisher, and John Whitecross, and others."
http://www.shortercatechism.com/
See also: "The Westminster Confession of Faith (1646) (The Westminster Standards) and Related Works: A Study Guide"
http://www.lettermen2.com/suggest.html

*Adams, Jay E., Christ and Your Problems (Phillipsburg, NJ: Presbyterian and Reformed Publishing Co., 1973). 30012
"A Biblical exegesis of I Corinthians 10:13, showing that a Christian's problems are not unique, and that God will not allow a Christian to be tested beyond his strength, and will always make a way of escape. Should be given to all counselees who need hope." -- Robert B. Somerville. A booklet.

"A Guide for studying the Westminster Confession of Faith (1646) in suggested order of reading"
http://www.lettermen2.com/suggest.html

*Edwards, Jonathan, Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God (Phillipsburg, NJ: Presbyterian Reformed Publishing Co.). A Christian classic.
"Delivered 250 years ago, this is the most famous sermon ever preached in the history of America. Far more than a depiction of the punishments of hell, it is a call to personal salvation through Christ and spiritual revival in our time." -- Publisher's Annotation
"First preached in 1741 this sermon had people in the congregation calling out for salvation." -- CBD.
Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God by Jonathan Edwards
http://www.reformed.org/documents/sinners.html

Kelly, Douglas F., Philip B. Rollinson, and Frederick T. Marsh, The Westminster Shorter Catechism in Modern English (Presbyterian & Reformed Publishing Company).
"Since its completion in 1647 the Westminster Shorter Catechism has been unsurpassed as a concise tool for teaching the Reformed understanding of Scripture. Though the truths of the catechism are unchanging, the English language has undergone many changes, which have made using the catechism in its original form increasingly difficult." -- Synopsis

M'Cheyne, Robert Murray, Christ the Way, the Truth, and the Life from Andrew Bonar, Memoir and Remains of Robert Murray McCheyne (Carlisle, PA: The Banner of Truth Trust). 100002

http://members.aol.com/RSISBELL/church.html Memoir and Remains of Robert Murray McCheyne Andrew Bonar
http://www.e4.net

*Miller, C. John "Jack," "Finding Healthy Self-Esteem Through Being Completely Forgiven" (Quality Living Series. Jenkintown, PA [World Harvest, Box 2175, Jenkintown, 19046]: World Harvest, 1987). 20320
"Do you feel inadequate? That you need to do more or be better in order to be happy and fulfilled? You may not realize it, but your biggest problem is . . . you don't feel completely forgiven."
World Harvest Mission
http://www.whm.org/home.htm

Pacific Gardens Mission, "Unshackled" (Chicago, IL: Pacific Gardens Mission). 10071
A radio program heard weekdays. Dramatizations of real life stories of conversions to Jesus Christ. If you are outside the broadcast area of this program, then cassette or printed copies of messages may be available.

Powlison, David, God's Love: Better Than Unconditional (Resources For Changing Lives Series. P&R Publishing, April 2001).
"Has anyone tried to comfort you with God's 'unconditional' love for you? Sounds kinda bland and remote doesn't it? It even sounds permissive. Well, there is a reason for your lackluster response to God's love being 'unconditional.' The truth is that God's love is radically more active and passionate.
"David Powlison demolishes the milktoast mindset of mere 'unconditional love,' and presents God's love in all of its splendor and vibrancy. He gives many descriptive examples from the Bible of how God's love is dynamic, active, sacrificial, redeeming, thrilling . . .
"If you aren't enraptured and absorbed by the love of God, then do yourself a favor and get this booklet. It's powerpacked. It's dynamite." -- Reader's Comment

Robbins, John W., (editor) "Christ and Civilization" (Unicoi, TN: The Trinity Foundation, 2003).
Reprinted from The Trinity Review, Numbers 214-217, December 2002 -- March 2003.
"A new 48-page booklet. Includes a complete listing (in an additional 16 pages) of the books currently available from The Trinity Foundation."
"Christ and Civilization"
http://www.trinityfoundation.org/PDF/200a-ChristandCivilization.pdf

*Robbins, John W., "What Is the Gospel?" Trinity Review, No. 60 (Unicoi, TN: The Trinity Foundation). 10073
"Today, however, there is a great deal of confusion about what the Gospel is, and what an evangelical is, just as there is confusion about what a Christian is. Because of this confusion, many people are called evangelicals who do not believe the Gospel. It might be best to begin to sort out this confusion by spelling out some of the popular religious ideas that are not the Gospel." -- Jay P. Green, Sr. Counterfeit gospels are enumerated. Translations: German.
"Counterfeit Gospels," a tract by John W. Robbins
http://trinityfoundation.org/ammo/tract_view.asp?ID=tract03.html

Scripture Union, Christianity Explained (Wayne, PA: Scripture Union U.S.A.).
This program "offers an effective, non-threatening tool to introduce Jesus to our neighbors, friends, and family. Everything is provided to help you reach others with the powerful love of God and the clear logic of His Word." -- David B. Jones
The workbook contains six evangelistic lessons, reproducible handouts, and information on follow-up material. A companion videotape is available.

Westminster Divines, The Shorter Catechism With Scripture Proofs (Carlisle, PA [P.O. Box 621, Carlisle 17013, USA]: The Banner of Truth Trust).
Arguably the greatest tract ever created, all factors considered.
http://www.reformed.org/documents/WSC_frames.html
Westminster Shorter Catechism Project
"Click on any of the individual questions below to get the answer and Biblical references, as well as links to works by John Flavel, Thomas Watson, Thomas Boston, James Fisher, and John Whitecross, and others."
http://www.shortercatechism.com/
See also: "The Westminster Confession of Faith (1646) (The Westminster Standards) and Related Works: A Study Guide"
http://www.lettermen2.com/suggest.html

See also: Book length presentations of the free offer of Gospel message of salvation and the life to come, Witnessing to Cultists, Hard-case Witnessing, Evangelism, Follow-up, Biblical counseling tracts, Knowing Christ, Small group evangelismSelection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, Sexual relationship

Related WebLinks

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

The Golden Chain. The chart which explains Perkins' theology concerning salvation and damnation.
http://www.apuritansmind.com/WilliamPerkins/PerkinsGoldenChainChart.htm

Another Gospel, Arthur Pink
http://www.geocities.com/Heartland/Pointe/4495/another_gospel.html

Experimental Salvation, Arthur Pink
http://www.geocities.com/Heartland/Pointe/4495/experimental.html

Have You Truly Come to Christ?, Arthur Pink
http://www.geocities.com/Heartland/Pointe/4495/have_you_truly.html

Select Sermons by Stephen Charnock, Jonathan Edwards, C.H. Spurgeon, and George Whitefield
http://www.straitgate.com/sermons.htm
Sermons of the Reverend George Whitefield
http://www.ccel.org/whitefield/sermons/sermons.html

A Call to the Unconverted by C.H. Spurgeon
http://www.spurgeon.org/sermons/0174.htm

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

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

*WESTMINSTER ASSEMBLY OF DIVINES, Scripture Index to the Westminster Standards (The complete Scripture index to the Westminster Confession (1646), Larger and Shorter Catechisms.)
http://www.swrb.com/newslett/actualnls/index01.htm
A Guide to the Westminster Standards: Confession of Faith and Larger Catechism, James Bordwine, (Unicoi, TN: The Trinity Foundation, 1996).
Includes a unique, 100-page topical index to both the Confession and the Catechism.

What Do You Do When Tracts by Jay Adams
http://www.lifeisworship.com/hbrpc/pfltmen.htm

Christ Died for the Ungodly Genesis 6:5, Horatius Bonar
http://www.wwd.net/user/ront/179.htm

God's Testimony Concerning Man, Horatius Bonar
http://www.wwd.net/user/ront/169.htm

Christ the Way, the Truth, and the Life, Robert Murray M'Cheyne's
http://members.aol.com/RSISBELL/way.html

A Collection of Tracts by John W. Robbins

"Counterfeit Gospels," a tract by John W. Robbins
http://trinityfoundation.org/ammo/tract_view.asp?ID=tract03.html

"Are You Catholic?" a tract by John W. Robbins
http://trinityfoundation.org/ammo/tract_view.asp?ID=tract01.html

Four Great Certainties
http://trinityfoundation.org/ammo/tract_view.asp?ID=tract02.html

God's Plan to Save His People
http://trinityfoundation.org/ammo/tract_view.asp?ID=tract04.html

What Is Christian Philosophy?
http://trinityfoundation.org/ammo/tract_view.asp?ID=tract06.html

Civilization and the Protestant Reformation
http://trinityfoundation.org/ammo/tract_view.asp?ID=tract05.html

Flavel, John, The Fountain of Life Opened Up
http://www.ccel.org/flavel/fountain/flavfoun.txt

Flavel, John, The Method of Grace
"In THE METHOD OF GRACE, Flavel thoroughly outlines the work of God's Spirit in applying the redemptive work of Christ to the believer. Readers will search their hearts and find their faith challenged and enriched. In the true Puritan tradition, a clearly defined theology is delivered with evangelic fervor, by an author urgently concerned about the eternal destiny of the human soul.

Mt. Zion Bible Church -- Online Library
http://www.mountzion.org/see.html

Comfort for Christians, Arthur W. Pink
http://www.ccel.org/p/pink/comfort/comfort.html

The Law and the Saint by Authur Pink
http://www.ccel.org/p/pink/law/law.htm

The Doctrine of Justification by Authur W. Pink
http://www.ccel.org/p/pink/justification/justification.htm

The Godhood of God by Arthur W. Pink
http://www.ccel.org/p/pink/godhood/godhood.htm

Profession Tested, A.W. Pink
http://members.wbs.net/homepages/j/o/h/johnowen/matt721.htm

Why Four Gospels? by Arthur W. Pink
http://www.ccel.org/p/pink/gospels/gospels.htm

Repentance the Key to Salvation and Change
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr2cha.html#rtktsac

Mission to Catholics International
http://mtc.org/~bart/

Pacific Garden Mission, "Unshackled," (listen online)
http://www.unshackled.org/

More Than Gold Ministry 2000
http://www.gospelcom.net/rbc/ss/outreach/2000/index.html

See also: Book length presentations of the free offer of Gospel message of salvation and the life to come, and Justification, Follow-up, Biblical counseling tracts, Knowing Christ, Sharing Christ with your children, Small group evangelism, Basics of the Christian faith, Pseudo-Christian movements.

Testimonies

---

*Augustine, Saint (Augustine of Hippo), The Confessions of Saint Augustine (Oxford, England: Oxford University Press). A Christian classic.
Augustine is said to be the greatest Christian thinker next to the Apostle Paul. Luther set the Bible and the CONFESSIONS OF SAINT AUGUSTINE above all other books.
"The story of his sinful pursuits before conversion, and of his conversion, then of his confession to God, and his discoveries of the greatness of God after his conversion." -- Publisher's Annotation.
The Confessions of Saint Augustine
http://www.ccel.org/a/augustine/confessions/confessions.html
The Works of Saint Augustine
http://ccat.sas.upenn.edu/jod/augustine.html

*Bainton, Roland H., Here I Stand: A Life of Martin Luther. A Christian classic.
"Available for the first time in trade paperback, this authoritative biography of the great religious leader was hailed by Time magazine as "the most readable Luther biography in English." This edition showcases the intricate woodcuts and engravings that enhance the text and give the flavor of the era in which Martin Luther lived. More than 100 woodcuts and engravings." -- Ingram
A scholarly presentation of Luther's part in the Protestant Reformation which changed the course of Western civilization. Highly recommended, especially for those seeking a deeper understanding of the theology of the Reformation. A scholarly work in which the Gospel is articulately presented. The story of Luther's conversion is, of course, presented in detail. Numerous editions of this book are available. Includes extensive bibliography.
Martin Luther
http://www.covenanter.org/Luther/martinluther.htm

*Bonar, Andrew, Memoir and Remains of Robert Murray McCheyne (Carlisle, PA: The Banner of Truth Trust). 100002
Memoir and Remains of Robert Murray McCheyne Andrew Bonar
http://www.e4.net
Christ the Way, the Truth, and the Life from Andrew Bonar, http://members.aol.com/RSISBELL/church.html

*Brainerd, David, The Life and Diary of David Brainerd [100004]

*Bunyan, John, Grace Abounding to the Chief of Sinners (Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Book House, 1966, 1666). A Christian classic.
"Similar to Augustine's CONFESSIONS. Traces Bunyan's spiritual pilgrimage from his youth, through several crises, to his conversion, and through many trials and difficulties, temptations and sorrows, until he came to rely solely on Christ for his every need. Originally published in 1666." -- Cyril J. Barber
"This is the personal testimony of the famous author of PILGRIM'S PROGRESS, THE HOLY WAR, and 60 other edifying books." -- Jay P. Green, Sr.
Grace Abounding to the Chief of Sinners, John Bunyan
http://www.ccel.org/b/bunyan/grace_abounding/grace.htm

*Dallimore, Arnold, George Whitefield: The Life and Times of the Great Evangelist of the 18th Century Revival [90064]

*Edman, V. Raymond, They Found the Secret: Twenty Transformed Lives That Reveal a Touch of Eternity (A Clarion classic. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan Publishing House, c1984). 20154
Includes bibliography.

Foxe, John, John Foxe's Book of Martyrs. Actes and Monuments of Matters Most Speciall and Memorable, the second edition of Foxe's Book of Martyrs Variorum Edition Online (version 1.1 - summer 2006).
This is "the revised version (v.1.1) of Foxe's Book of Martyrs Variorum Edition Online. This [free online] edition contains the full text of three of the four editions (1563, 1570, 1583). The 1570 edition is missing books 3 and 4. These will be added in subsequent versions."
http://www.hrionline.ac.uk/johnfoxe/index.html
Other editions: Acts and Monuments or Foxe's Book of Martyrs, 1554, 8 volumes (Cerlox Bound Photocopy Series and Hardback Bound. Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books, 1843-49 edition).
And the Early English Books Online (EEOB) digital copy of the eight volume work.
" 'No book ever inflicted a wound so deep and incurable on the Romish system of superstition and bloody persecution . . . (it) was placed in . . . all churches and chapels throughout the kingdom, by order of Queen Elizabeth.' (Smith, Select Memoirs, p. 245). Contains much information not found in any of the liberally edited and severely shortened editions of this classic work which are in print today. Covering martyrs from the early church through to Foxe's day, it was one of the most influential books of the sixteenth century! It overflows with faith building testimony of the power of God to overcome the most cruel and barbarous acts of human depravity and demonic cruelty. 6890 pages. A very rare set, now back in print after 150 years!" -- SWRB
"After the Bible itself, no book so profoundly influenced early Protestant sentiment as the BOOK OF MARTYRS. Even in our time it is still a living force. It is more than a record of persecution. It is an arsenal of controversy, a storehouse of romance, as well as a source of edification." -- James Miller Dodds, English Prose
"When one recollects that until the appearance of the PILGRIM'S PROGRESSuc the common people had almost no other reading matter except the BIBLE and FOX'S BOOK OF MARTYRS, we can understand the deep impression that this book produced; and how it served to mold the national character. Those who could read for themselves learned the full details of all the atrocities performed on the Protestant reformers; the illiterate could see the rude illustrations of the various instruments of torture, the rack, the gridiron, the boiling oil, and then the holy ones breathing out their souls amid the flames. Take a people just awakening to a new intellectual and religious life; let several generations of them, from childhood to old age, pore over such a book, and its stories become traditions as individual and almost as potent as songs and customs on a nation's life." -- Douglas Campbell, The Puritan in Holland, England, and America
"If we divest the book of its accidental character of feud between churches, it yet stands, in the first years of Elizabeth's reign, a monument that marks the growing strength of a desire for spiritual freedom, defiance of those forms that seek to stifle conscience and fetter thought." -- Henry Morley, English Writers
"John Foxe was a prince among believers. He had his printing press on a cart, and had often to print at night, moving his press before dawn to escape capture and burning at the stake. He never faltered in his purpose to leave a voluminous written witness to the power of the Lord Jesus Christ to keep His saints in love and peace." -- Jay P. Green, Sr.
A Christian classic.

*Graham, Billy, and Corrie Ten Boom, To God Be the Glory: A Testimony of Living Faith From two Famous Christian Personalities, Corrie Ten Boom and Billy Graham (New York, NY: Walker and Co., 1984, c1977). 20155
Roger Elmood, editor.

*Hefley, James, and Marti Hefley, By Their Blood: Christian Martyrs of the 20th Century [20872]

*McGrath, Alister E., A Cloud of Witnesses: Ten Great Christian Thinkers (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan Publishing House, c1990). 20157
Includes bibliographical references.

*Morris, Henry M., Men of Science, Men of God: Great Scientists Who Believe the Bible, revised (San Diego, CA: Creation Life Publishers, 1988). 20158
"One of the most serious fallacies of modern thought is the widespread notion that genuine scientists cannot believe the Bible. This book dispels that myth." -- GCB

*Varghese, Roy Abraham (editor), The Intellectuals Speak Out About God: A Handbook for the Christian Student in a Secular Society (Chicago, IL: Regnery Gateway, 1984). 20161
"This book reaffirms the need for character, personal integrity, spiritual depth, and moral standards that are essential if education is to remain viable and democracy is to survive. The essays that make up this book are stimulating, and it is a work that can be heartily recommended." -- Cyril J. Barber

Bunyan, John, How They Found Christ: In Their Own Words [100023A]

Eckerd, Jack, and Paul Con, Eckerd: Finding the Right Prescription (Clearwater, FL: JME Inc.). 20162
Jack Eckerd is "a living demonstration of the life-changing power of Christ. His inspiring testimony deserves the widest possible audience." -- Billy Graham
"This is the amazing, exciting story of one of the most remarkable men I've ever known. It is a gripping account; when you're finished, you will want to sing the doxology." -- Chuck Colson

Ganz, Richard, How I Became a Christian Counselor (Michigan City, IN: Sound Word Associates).
Also includes "Dr. Adams, Questions and Answers; Is Masturbation for Christians?"

Hefley, James, and Marti Hefley, By Their Blood: Christian Martyrs of the Twentieth Century [20872]

Kavanaugh, Patrick, The Spiritual Lives of Great Composers (New York, NY: Springer Publishing Company, Inc.). 20164
"With an introduction by Christopher Parkening, this book opens up an area about which most of us know little. A brisk walk through the innermost thoughts of 12 masters of western music (Handel, Bach, Haydn, Mozart, Beethoven, Schubert, Liszt, Mendelssohn, Wagner, Dvorak, Ives, and Stravinsky)." -- Publisher's Annotation

Morris, Harold, Twice Pardoned: An Ex-Con Talks to Parents and Teens (Dallas, TX: Word Publishing). 20165
"A true story in which a number of names have been changed to protect certain people. Morris had been convicted and sentenced to serve two life terms in jail. Today he is free and pardoned of his crimes and free in Christ. A truly amazing story of new birth and God's providential workings." -- GCB

Newton, John, John Newton (Chicago, IL: Moody Press, 1980). 20166

Richardson, Donald, Eternity in Their Hearts, revised edition (Ventura, CA: Gospel Light [Regal]). 20167
"Twenty-four exciting stories of how God has prepared people for the Word of the Gospel long before it came to them. Truly God is sovereign and accomplishes His purposes in His own good time. Now available only in paperback." -- GCB

Steer, Roger, J. Hudson Taylor: Lesson in Discipleship (London, England: Evangelical Library, 1990). 20168

Tallach, John, They Shall Be Mine (Carlisle, PA: The Banner of Truth Trust). 20169
"A book for young people. He tells about men and women from all over the world who have proved themselves to be faithful followers of the Lord." -- GCB

See also: Christian biography, Christian fiction, Apologetics, Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, Sexual relationship, Biography of Women,

Related WebLinks

Jorge Valdez, Cocain Drug Lord
http://www.comingclean.net/

Hard-case Witnessing

---

Lumen Productions, "Catholicism: Crisis of Faith" [20104]
Lumen Productions
http://www.lumenprod.com/

Martin, Walter, "The Do's and Don'ts of Witnessing to the Cults" [D1135]

Miller, C. John, Youth Evangelism: Dealing With Depression and Suicide [30313]

Passantino, Robert, and Gretchen Passantino, Answers to the Cultist at Your Door (Eugene, OR: Harvest House Publishers, 1981). [D1136]
"A clear, concise, and practical introduction to the beliefs of Jehovah's Witnesses, Mormons, Moonies, the Hare Krishnas, and The Way International, with sample dialogues."

Saal, William J., Reaching Muslims for Christ (Chicago, IL: Moody Press, 1993). D1137

Spencer, James R., Hard-Case Witnessing (Issaquah, WA: Saints Alive). 20172A

See also: Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, Sexual relationship, Pseudo-Christian movements, The Occult, Witnessing to Cults, Gospel tracts and witnessing tools

Related WebLinks

Follow-up of Inquirers

---

Erskine, Ralph. The comer's conflict: or, the beginner's battle with the devil, when essaying to come to Christ by faith. In some discourses upon Luke ix.42. ... July 20. 1735. By ... Mr. Ralph Erskine, ... Edinburgh, 1736. (ECCO) Gale Document Number CW3319375186

*Murray, John, Redemption: Accomplished and Applied [10401]

Barna, George, How to Find Your Church (Minneapolis, MN: World Wide Publications, 1989). 20176

*Bonar, Horatius, God's Way of Peace [60033]
God's Way of Peace: A Book for the Anxious, Horatius Bonar
http://www.ccel.org/b/bonar/way_of_peace/way_of_peace.htm

*Bonar, Horatius, The Everlasting Righteousness or How Shall Man Be Just With God? (Carlisle, PA: The Banner of Truth Trust, 1993). A Christian classic.
"First published in 1874, THE EVERLASTING RIGHTEOUSNESS, may be the best book on the doctrine of justification by faith alone ever written.
"Since the seventeenth century, the church's adherence to the central doctrine of the Christian faith has been weakening; in the twentieth century it has all but disappeared. But to those who remain faithful -- to those who are called of God --justification by faith alone is the best news there could ever be: that Christ died for our sins, and we shall live forever because of Christ's righteousness.
"Justification by faith alone -- the `principal hinge of religion,' according to John Calvin, the `doctrine by which the church stands or falls,' according to Martin Luther -- is salvation. Without it, all hope is lost; with it, Heaven gained. Bonar's discussion is without equal in the English language." -- John W. Robbins
The Banner of Truth edition is available free as e-text.
The Everlasting Righteousness, Horatius Bonar
http://www.jude3.net/bertoc.htm

Engstrom, Ted W., with Norman B. Rohrer, The Fine Art of Mentoring: Passing on to Others What God Has Given to You [60067]

Kelly, Douglas F., Philip B. Rollinson, and Frederick T. Marsh, The Westminster Shorter Catechism in Modern English (Presbyterian & Reformed Publishing Company).
"Since its completion in 1647 the Westminster Shorter Catechism has been unsurpassed as a concise tool for teaching the Reformed understanding of Scripture. Though the truths of the catechism are unchanging, the English language has undergone many changes, which have made using the catechism in its original form increasingly difficult." -- Synopsis

Martin, Albert N., Living the Christian Life (Carlisle, PA: The Banner of Truth Trust). [60016]
"This 30-page pamphlet by pastor Martin has been a great help to thousands over the years." -- GCB

Machen, J. Gresham, The Christian View of Man [90211]

*Miller, C. John "Jack," and Rose Marie Miller, Sonship Course: World Harvest Mission Leadership Training Program, Nurture Training for Ministry, Equipping Others for Ministry [10548]
World Harvest Mission
http://www.whm.org/home.htm

Packer, J.I., God's Words (Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Book House). 20186
"Seventeen terms, doctrines, all the main ingredients of any sound confession of faith, are discussed by Packer." -- Jay P. Green, Sr.

*Packer, J.I., Knowing God, 25th anniversary edition (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 1997, 1973). 10018
A classic work by one of the foremost theologians of our day. Offsets erroneous ideas about God. A group study guide is also available. A best-selling book. Contains material useful in counseling. A Christian classic.

Packer, J.I., Meeting God (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press). 20187
"Twelve studies for individuals or groups. Designed to enlarge our view of God, who He is, and who we are in relation to Him. Many passages to look up and fill-in-the blanks. Leader's notes in the back." -- GCB

Perkins, William, 1558-1602, The foundation of Christian religion gathered into sixe principles. As it is to be learned of ignorant people, that they may be fit to heare sermons with profit, and to receiue the Lords Supper with comfort, 1601, EEBO.

Spurgeon, C.H., The Saint and His Saviour (Pasadena, TX: Pilgrim Publications). [31758]
"In this practical book, Spurgeon deals with all aspects of the relationship Christ has with His people." -- GCB

Shepard, Thomas, The Sincere Convert and the Sound Believer [31073]

Wells, Tom, Christian: Take Heart! [10161]

*Westminster Assembly (1643-1652), The Westminster Confession of Faith (1646) (Glasgow, Scotland [Free Presbyterian Publications, 133 Woodlands Road, Glasgow G3 6LE]: Free Presbyterian Publication, 1994). ISBN 0902506080 (casebound) and ISBN 0902506358 (paperback), Still Waters Revival Books, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.
Also available from Crown and Covenant Publications:
http://www.crownandcovenant.com/product_p/ds115.htm
" 'The product of Puritan conflict,' stated Shedd, reaching 'a perfection of statement never elsewhere achieved.' All that learning the most profound and extensive, intellect the most acute and searching, and piety the most sincere and earnest, could accomplish, was thus concentrated in the Westminster Assembly's Confession of Faith, which may be safely termed the most perfect statement of Systematic Theology ever framed by the Christian Church,' writes Hetherington (The History of the Westminster Assembly of Divines), p. 345. Concerning the Shorter Catechism, which is one of the items also included in this book, Mitchell notes: 'it is a thoroughly Calvinistic and Puritan catechism, the ripest fruit of the Assembly's thought and experience, maturing and finally fixing the definitions of theological terms to which Puritanism for half a century had been leading up and gradually coming closer and closer to in its legion of catechisms' (Westminster Assembly: Its History and Standards, p. 431). The Westminster Confession of Faith (1646) is the greatest of all the creeds of the Christian church. The church of Christ cannot be creedless and live. Especially in an age of doubt and confusion, it is her duty to define and proclaim the one true faith. Nowhere has the Reformed church done this so effectively as in the Westminster Confession and family of documents. This book represents Reformed thinking at its purest and best. It was intended, as part of the Covenanted Reformation taking place during its compilation, to be adopted as the binding confessional standard for every individual, family, court, church, and legislature in the British Isles." -- SWRB
This is considered to be the definitive publication of the Westminster family of documents. It includes the following:

1. To the Christian Reader, Especially Heads of Families, Mr. Thomas Manton's Epistle to the Reader,
2. The Confession of Faith (1646), the full and original edition with Scripture proofs written out,
3. The Larger Catechism with Scripture proofs written out,
4. The Shorter Catechism with Scripture proofs written out,
5. The Sum of Saving Knowledge,
6. The National Covenant,
7. The Solemn League and Covenant,
8. A Solemn Acknowledgement of Publick Sins and Breaches of the Covenant; and a Solemn Engagement to all the Duties Contained Therein
   CD #1, Reformation Bookshelf 30 CD Set
   http://www.swrb.com/Puritan/reformation-bookshelf-CDs.htm
9. The Directory for the Public Worship of God,
10. The Form of Presbyterial Church Government, and
11. The Directory for Family Worship.

See also: The promises of Christ, Appendix a: the words of Christ appearing in the web edition of biblical counsel: resources for renewal, Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, Sexual relationship, The Shorter Catechism, The providence of god, Bible promises, Hypocracy, Apologetics, False gosepls, Pseudo-christian movements, Gospel tracts and witnessing tools, Spiritual warfare, The covenanted reformation, Sharing christ with your children, Basics of the christian faith, Discipleship

Related WebLinks

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

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

"A Guide for studying the Westminster Confession of Faith (1646) in suggested order of reading"
http://www.lettermen2.com/suggest.html

Scripture Index to the Westminster Standards (The complete Scripture index to the Westminster Confession (1646), Larger and Shorter Catechisms.)
http://www.swrb.com/newslett/actualnls/index01.htm
A Guide to the Westminster Standards: Confession of Faith and Larger Catechism, James Bordwine, (Unicoi, TN: The Trinity Foundation, 1996).
Includes a unique, 100-page topical index to both the Confession and the Catechism.

The Richard Baxter Page
Includes articles on the duties and obligations of parents and children.
http://members.aol.com/augusteen/Baxter.html

Assurance and Perseverance of the Saints

---

Beeke, Joel R., The Quest for Full Assurance: The Legacy of Calvin and His Successors, 1999.
"Joel Beeke's classic and in-depth studies and comparisons of William Perkins, Willem Teellinck, the Westminster Confession, John Owen, Alexander Comrie, Thomas Goodwin, John Calvin, and English/Dutch Calvinism on assurance. Full summary on page 10." -- SWRB

*Berdouwer, Gerrit C., Faith and Perseverance (Grand Rapids, MI: Wm.B. Eerdmans Publishing Co., 1958). 20191
Translated by Robert D. Knudsen. "Provides a penetrating study of the Biblical teaching on perseverance from the perspective of the historical Reformed tradition. Does not confine itself to statements about the doctrine drawn from the early era of the Christian church, but ably evaluates the teaching of Ritschl, Schleiermacher, Schlink, and Barth. Gives helpful assurance to believers in the midst of a world caught up in the tides of change and transition." -- Cyril J. Barber

*Brooks, Thomas, Heaven on Earth: A Treatise on Christian Assurance (Puritan Paperback Series. Carlisle, PA: The Banner of Truth Trust). A Christian classic.
"All saints shall enjoy a heaven when they leave this earth; some saints enjoy a heaven while they are here on earth. That saints might enjoy two heavens is the project of this book." -- Joseph Caryl.

Brooks, Thomas. A treatise on assurance. By the late Reverend Thomas Brooks, ... A new edition, considerably amended and abridged Edinburgh, 1777. Eighteenth Century Collections Online. Gale Group. (ECCO) Gale Document Number CW3320780550

Hooker, Thomas, Poor Doubting Christian Drawn to Christ [31218]

*Owen, John, Continuing in the Faith (Carlisle, PA: The Banner of Truth Trust), ISBN: 9780851511283 0851511287. A Christian classic.
"Contains detailed Biblical arguments for the perseverance of the saints. Also has chapters which answer arguments against the doctrine of perseverance of the saints. Very detailed and complete work on the subject."

*Owen, John, Continuing in the Faith (Carlisle, PA: The Banner of Truth Trust), ISBN: 9780851511283 0851511287. A Christian classic.
"Contains detailed Biblical arguments for the perseverance of the saints. Also has chapters which answer arguments against the doctrine of perseverance of the saints. Very detailed and complete work on the subject."

Owen, John, 1616-1683, The doctrine of the saints perseverance, explained and confirmed, or, The certain permanency of their 1. acceptation with God & 2. sanctification from God manifested & proved from the 1. eternal principles 2. effectuall causes 3. externall meanes thereof ... vindicated in a full answer to the discourse of Mr. John Goodwin against it, in his book entituled Redemption redeemed: with some digressions concerning 1. the immediate effects of the death of Christ ...: with a discourse touching the epistles of Ignatius, the Episcopacy in them asserted, and some animadversions on Dr. H.H. his dissertations on that subject / by John Owen ..., 1654, EEBO.

*Lloyd-Jones, D. Martyn, Growing in the Spirit: Assurance of Our Salvation (John 17:20-26) [31561]

*Lloyd-Jones, D. Martyn, Romans: Assurance [31582]

Price, Greg, "Assurance: How To Be Certain of Your Salvation," (I John 5:10-13), (Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books, 1998).
An audio cassette.
"This is the best sermon we have ever heard on the doctrine of assurance. It contrasts Papist blasphemy and Arminian heresy on this point (from some of their official documents) with the biblical position of the Reformation (citing the classic landmark statements on assurance from the Westminster Confession of Faith, [1646]. It lays out the clear Scriptural provisions that God has made for every Christian to enjoy the full assurance of faith, and thus enjoy close communion with Christ throughout their earthly sojourn. Besides being a great encouragement to believers, this tape can also be used as a helpful evangelistic tool. Finally, if you, or anyone you know, has ever struggled with assurance (and there are few Christians that haven't) then this is a sermon that you should not pass by." -- SWRB

*Spurgeon, C.H., Assurance [31743]

See also: Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, Sexual relationship, Calvinism, Antinomianism, The Counter Reformation, False Gospels, Pseudo-christian movements

APOLOGETICS

---

Brown, John. A compendious view of natural and revealed religion. In seven books. ... By the Rev. John Brown, ... The second edition, carefully revised, and improved with the author's last additions and corrections Edinburgh, 1796. (ECCO) Gale Document Number CW3323223667

*Brown, John (of Edinburgh, 1784-1858, editor), Philological tracts (Edinburgh: Thomas Clark, 1833-1835).
Princeton Theological Seminary Libraries, Location: Microfiche (Non-circulating) Call Number: Microfiche 1987-1440.

*Bruce, Alexander B., Apologetics: or Christianity Defensively Stated, 3rd edition (International Theological Library. Edinburgh, Scotland: T. and T. Clark, 1927). 20200
"A standard defense of Biblical Christianity. Makes stimulating reading." -- Cyril J. Barber

*Calvin, John, The Institutes of the Christian Religion, 2 volumes (Philadelphia, PA: Westminster Press, 1960). A Christian classic.
"Edited by John McNeill and translated by Ford Lewis Battles, this is the definitive English language edition of one of the monumental works of the Christian church -- Calvin's INSTITUTES.
"Still considered by many to be the finest explanation and defense of the Protestant Reformation available.
"The work is divided into four books: I. The Knowledge of God the Creator, II. The Knowledge of God the Redeemer in Christ, III. The Mode of Obtaining the Grace of Christ, IV. The External Means or Helps by Which God Allures Us Into Fellowship With Christ and Keeps Us in It. . . . THE INSTITUTES is praised by the secular philosopher, Will Durant, as one of the ten books that shook the world." -- GCB
Calvin spent a lifetime writing and perfecting INSTITUTES OF CHRISTIAN RELIGION. His Prefatory Address makes it clear that he intended the work to be a defense of Christianity to the King of France.
Therefore, plainly stated, one of the most influential works ever published in the English language is a defense of Christianity to leaders of State.
Prefatory Address to His Most Christian Majesty, The Most Mighty and Illustrious Monarch, Francis, King of the French, His Sovereign, John Calvin
"Indeed, this consideration makes a true king: to recognize himself a minister of God in governing his kingdom. Now, that king, who in ruling over his realm does not serve God's glory, exercises not kingly rule but brigandage. [Footnote: 'Nec iam regnum ille sed latrocinium exercet.' An echo of Augustine's famous phrase: 'When justice is taken away, what are kingdoms [[regna]] but a vast banditry [[magna latocinia]]?' City of God IV. iv (MPL [[Migne, J.P., Patrologiae cursus completus, series Latina]] 41. 115; tr. NPNF [[A Select Library of the Nicene and Post-Nicene Fathers, second series]] II. 66).] Furthermore, he is deceived who looks for enduring prosperity in his kingdom when it is not ruled by God's scepter, that is, his Holy Word; for the heavenly oracle that proclaims that 'where prophecy fails the people are scattered' [Prov. 29:18] cannot lie." (Battles translation)
"The characteristic of a true sovereign is, to acknowledge that, in the administration of his kingdom, he is a minister of God. He who does not make his reign subservient to the divine glory, acts the part not of a king, but a robber. He, moreover, deceives himself who anticipates long prosperity to any kingdom which is not ruled by the sceptre of God, that is, by his divine word. For the heavenly oracle is infallible which has declared, that where there is no vision the people perish (Prov. 29:18). (Beveridge translation)"
See the entire Prefatory Address, Beveridge translation:
http://www.ccel.org/ccel/calvin/institutes.ii.viii.html
"The doctrines of covenant liberty were rediscovered in the Reformation. John Calvin went further than anyone else in defining liberty and what Christians need to do to maintain it. Includes bibliographies."
It is recommended that INSTITUTES OF CHRISTIAN RELIGION be used for daily devotions and may be used in combination with Ford Lewis Battles and John Walchenbach, AN ANALYSIS OF THE INSTITUTES OF THE CHRISTIAN RELIGION OF JOHN CALVIN (Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Book House) and with CALVIN'S COMMENTARIES.
Nelson's Ultimate Bible Reference Library, Logos Library System format (LLS) (CD-ROM)
This library systems includes CALVIN'S INSTITUTES OF THE CHRISTIAN RELIGION, THE HOLY BIBLE KING JAMES VERSION, THE NEW TREASURY OF SCRIPTURE KNOWLEDGE, AUGUSTINE'S CONFESSIONS, WESTMINSTER CONFESSION OF FAITH (1646), WESTMINSTER LARGER CATECHISM, WESTMINSTER SHORTER CATECHISM, MATTHEW HENRY'S COMMENTARY, NEW NAVE'S TOPICAL BIBLE, PILGRIM'S PROGRESS, and other classic Bible study aids. THE REFORMATION STUDY BIBLE (Other title: THE NEW GENEVA STUDY BIBLE,) in LLS format, may be added to this library. Therefore, all the above works may be used in combination with each other in Bible study.
http://www.logos.com/products/details/3247
Calvin, Spurgeon and International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE) (LLS)
Contains Calvin's Commentaries.
http://www.logos.com/products/details/889
Calvin's Commentaries (22 Volumes) (LLS)
http://www.logos.com/products/details/887
The Comprehensive John Calvin Collection CD-ROM in Logos Library System (LLS) format
http://www.logosbiblesoftware.com/logosbiblesoftware/calcom.html
Calvin's Commentaries (online)
http://www.ccel.org/ccel/calvin/calcom
One Hundred Aphorisms, Containing, Within a Narrow Compass, the Substance and Order of the Four Books of THE INSTITUTES OF THE CHRISTIAN RELIGION
http://www.lettermen2.com/pringle.html
The Comprehensive John Calvin Collection
From Ages Software. Includes both the Battles and the Beveridge translation of THE INSTITUTES OF THE CHRISTIAN RELIGION, CALVIN'S COMMENTARIES, and other works by Calvin.
http://www.ageslibrary.com/ages_calvin_collection_1.html
Institutes of the Christian Religion (Beveridge translation online)
http://www.ccel.org/ccel/calvin/institutes.i.html

*Charnock, Stephen, The Existence and Attributes of God (Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Book House, 1797). A Christian classic.
"When the essence and attributes of God are called into question, to whom else can we better go than to Stephen Charnock? . . . the study of God's attributes is not dry-as-dust theology, but is practical; that is, it leads to righteousness." -- Gordon H. Clark

*Charnock, Stephen, The Knowledge of God [30979]

Clark, Gordon H., What Do Presbyterians Believe? (Phillipsburg, NJ: Presbyterian Reformed Publishing Co.).
We highly recommend the work of Gordon H. Clark. He was one of the greatest minds of the 20th Century. However, this is not a commentary on The Westminster Confession of Faith (1646).
In "The Reformed Faith and the Westminster Confession," an address given at Weaverville, NC, August 17, 1955, found in the Appendix to this work, Clark eloquently extols the virtues of the Westminster Confession of Faith (1646) and condemns neo-orthodoxy for departing from the Word of God found in the Bible.
Yet, incredibly, one year later, in 1956, he published this work, WHAT DO PRESBYTERIANS BELIEVE? which is a commentary on the "American Version (1789)." To more fully understand Clark's error here and the consequences of such an error see:
"A Theological Interpretation of American History" http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr9chc.html#stiahis

*CUNNINGHAM, WILLIAM, Historical Theology: A Review of the Principal Doctrinal Discussions in the Christian Church (Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books). Included on the Reformation Bookshelf CD #16 (Still Waters Revival Books). A Christian classic.
"Since the Apostolic Age Two large volumes totalling just under 1300 pages. The definitive work on doctrinal history. Compares the truth to the three major heretical system: Romanism, Socinianism (an old form of liberalism) and Arminianism. Covers the most important disputes, focusing in on significant points of controversy in each. The value of this set should not be underestimated, for it is an antidote against much of the innovative folly so prevalent in our day. As Iain Murray, concerning human pride and scriptural interpretation, succinctly points out, 'Instead of beginning with a realization that God in His providence had already caused His Church to investigate and settle at least the great majority of Biblical doctrines, the Church, flattered by the supposed possession of superior light, began to despise the old doctrinal standards and to construct a 'creed' anew, as though the faith of the previous eighteen centuries counted for nothing. Nor were the evangelicals free from this plague; even they took up the slogans that 'Christianity is not a doctrine but a life' and that to express the truth systematically is an abuse of logic -- as though to think illogically was a mark of true spirituality!' J.J. Bonar stated that Cunningham's 'grasp and vantage of the field of theological discussion' was 'of inestimable value.' This set is certainly one of the most useful items we carry and is much needed in our day." -- SWRB

Dickson, David. Truth's victory over error: or, the true principles of the Christian religion, stated and vindicated ... by the late ... David Dickson, ... To this edition is prefixed, A short account of the author's life, by ... Robert Wodrow, ... Kilmarnock, 1787. (ECCO) Gale Document Number CW3320906721

Edwards, Thomas. The argument in favor of Christianity drawn from the character and discourses of Christ. A sermon preached at St. Peter's in Thanet, on Sunday, September 25, 1796. By Thomas Edwards, L.L.D. Margate, 1796. (ECCO) Gale Document Number CW3322205928

*Eusebius Pamphil, Preparation for the Gospel, 2 volumes (Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Book House, 1981). 20201
"Historically, this is one of the finest of the apologetic works of antiquity. . . ." -- Cyril J. Barber. A Christian classic.

*Greenleaf, Simon, Evidence of the Evangelist: The Four Gospels Examined by the Rules of Evidence
"Bonus attachment is Dupin's TRIAL OF JESUS BEFORE CAIAPHAS AND PILATE. Interested parties might also check out Paul Maier's PONTIUS PILATE and FLAMES OF ROME.

*Houston, James M. (editor), The Mind on Fire: An Anthology of the Writings of Blaise Pascal (Portland, OR: Multnomah Press, 1989).

*Keith, Alexander, Christian Evidences: Fulfilled Bible Prophecy (Minneapolis, MN: Klock and Klock Christian Publishers, 1984, 1831). 20203
"This unique volume was first published in 1831. Thomas Chalmers said of it, `It is recognized in our halls of theology as holding a high place in sacred literature, and it is found in almost every home and known as a household word thoroughout the land'."-- Cyril J. Barber

*Kennedy, D. James with Jerry Newcombe, What if Jesus Had Never Been Born? (Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson Publishers, c1994).
Hospitals, universities, literacy and education, capitalism and free-enterprise, representative government, separation of political powers, justice and common law, civil liberties, abolition of slavery, modern science, and so forth can all be attributed to Christianity.

*Kennedy, D. James, Why I Believe (Dallas, TX: Word Publishing, 1982). 31353
A book after the "Why I Believe" sermon series. Some have said it is the greatest sermon series he ever preached.

*Kettler, Steven C. (compiler), Biblical Counsel: Resources for Renewal. An Annotated Topical Bibliography of Works Containing Biblical Counsel for Persons Seeking Lasting Solutions to Life's Problems (Keezletown, VA: Lettermen Associates, c1994), WorldCat: 29928892.
A book length annotated bibliography containing over 5700 citations by 2550 authors cross referenced under 440 topic headings. Includes author and title, Scripture, and subject indexes.
An edited version of the first edition of Biblical Counsel: Resources for Renewal is available on CD-ROM in Logos Library System (LLS) format.
Logos Research Systems
http://www.logos.com
E4's Bible Study Library, Volume 1 and 2
http://www.e4.net The Web Edition of Biblical Counsel: Resources for Renewal
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrrhome.html
Some Complementary Works
http://www.lettermen2.com/somecomp.html

*Machen, J. Gresham, Christian Faith in the Modern World (Grand Rapids, MI: Wm.B. Eerdmans Publishing Co., 1967). 20206
"A masterful Christian apologetic that seeks to answer such questions as `How May God Be Known?' `Has God Spoken?' and `Is the Bible the Word of God?' " -- Cyril J. Barber

*Machen, J. Gresham, What Is Faith [90212]

*Machen, J. Gresham, Virgin Birth of Christ [10219]

*Mead, Matthew, The Almost Christian Discovered [31031]

*Morison, Frank (pseudonym for Albert Henry Ross), Who Moved the Stone? new edition (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan Publishing House, 1987). A Christian classic.
"Combines Moule's inimitable exposition of John 20-21 with Orr's theological treatise. Together these works provide pastors and students with a rare combination of excellence in exposition coupled with a clear enunciation of theological truth." -- Cyril J. Barber
"The strangeness of the Resurrection story had captured Frank Morison's attention, and, influenced by skeptic thinkers at the turn of the century, he set out to prove that the story of Christ's Resurrection was only a myth. His probings, however, led him to discover the validity of the biblical record in a moving, personal way. WHO MOVED THE STONE? is considered by many to be a classic apologetic on the subject of the Resurrection. Morison includes a vivid and poignant account of Christ's betrayal, trial, and death as a backdrop to his retelling of the climactic Resurrection itself. . . . WHO MOVED THE STONE? is a well-researched book that is as fascinating in its appeal to reason as it is accurate to the truthfulness of the Resurrection.
Frank Morison was an English journalist." -- Ingram

*Morris, Henry M., Many Infallible Proofs (San Diego, CA: Creation-Life Publishers, 1974). 20213
"Building on Christianity's historic reliability, the author develops a strong case for super-naturalism. He combines his mastery of scientific data with a careful evaluation of the Biblical material. An important work on Christian evidences." -- Cyril J. Barber

*Morris, Henry, M., The Long War Against God (Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Book House). 20214
"Morris sets forth 1) the dominance of evolution in all modern disciplines of study; 2) the influence of evolution in the affairs of nations and societies; 3) the deleterious effect of evolution on religion, ethics, and morals; 4) the peculiar circumstances surrounding the ascendancy of modern Darwinism; and more." -- GCB

*Scott, Otto, R.J. Rushdoony, M.R. Rushdoony, Martin G. Selbrede, and John Lofton, Jr., The Great Christian Revolution: The Myths of Paganism and Arminianism (Vallecito, CA: Ross House Books). 10937 [90233]
"Dr. Warfield noted that Calvinism represents the Christian religion in its highest and purest form, for Calvinism alone acknowledges the totality of God's kingly prerogatives over every square inch of our world. This volume supports these powerful truths from three different perspectives, with each author supplying cumulative weight to the proposition that God rules in the affairs of all men, from the least to the greatest. This book will help you sort out much of the current error in theology in our day." -- GCB

*Watson, Thomas, 1620-1686 Body of Divinity (Carlisle, PA: The Banner of Truth Trust, 1965, 1890), EEBO.
"The first book published by the Trust, this has been one of the best sellers and consistently the most useful and influential of our publications . . . It deals with the foremost doctrinal and experimental truths of the Christian faith . . . It is based on the Westminster Assembly's Shorter Catechism, in which the main principles of Christianity that lie scattered in the Scriptures are brought together and set forth in the form of question and answer. This catechism is unsurpassed for its `terse exactitutde of definition' and `logical elaboration' of the fundamentals. . . . Watson conveys his thorough doctrinal and experimental knowledge of the truth in such an original, concise, pithy, pungent, racy, rich, and illustrative style that he is rightly regarded as the most readable of the Puritans." -- Publisher's Annotation
"As an introduction to Puritan theology, as a short and sweet course in Christian doctrine, as devotional reading, and as a preacher's gold-mine, Watson's work can hardly be praised too highly." -- J.I. Packer.
"Contains Watson's exposition of the Westminster Shorter Catechism, excluding the Lord's Prayer and the Ten Commandments." -- GCB
Westminster Shorter Catechism Project: Body of Divinity Contained in Sermons upon the Assembly's Catechism by the Rev. Thomas Watson
http://www.bpc.org/resources/vincent/wsc_vi_001.html
Westminster Shorter Catechism With Proof Texts
http://www.reformed.org/documents/WSC_frames.html
Scripture Index to the Westminster Standards (The complete Scripture index to the Westminster Confession (1646), Larger and Shorter Catechisms.)
http://www.swrb.com/newslett/actualnls/index01.htm
Westminster Shorter Catechism Project
"Click on any of the individual questions below to get the answer and Biblical references, as well as links to works by John Flavel, Thomas Watson, Thomas Boston, James Fisher, and John Whitecross, and others."
http://www.shortercatechism.com/
A Guide to the Westminster Standards: Confession of Faith and Larger Catechism
(Unicoi, TN: The Trinity Foundation, 1996).
Includes a unique, 100-page topical index to both the Confession and the Catechism.
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0940931303/webedbiblicalcou

Scripture Index to the Westminster Standards (The complete Scripture index to the Westminster Confession (1646), Larger and Shorter Catechisms.)
http://www.swrb.com/newslett/actualnls/index01.htm
A Guide to the Westminster Standards: Confession of Faith and Larger Catechism, James Bordwine, (Unicoi, TN: The Trinity Foundation, 1996).
Includes a unique, 100-page topical index to both the Confession and the Catechism.

*Watson, Thomas, The Lord's Prayer (Carlisle, PA: The Banner of Truth Trust, 1960, 1890).
"A full and powerful Puritan exposition of the Lord's Prayer. So excellent that it may be without equal." -- GCB
"A part of the writer's famous BODY OF DIVINITY. An excellent exposition combining sound doctrine with practical application." -- Cyril J. Barber.
The Lord's Prayer, Thomas Watson
http://www.iclnet.org/pub/resources/text/ipb-e/epl-watson-lprayer.html

*Watson, Thomas, The Ten Commandments (Carlisle, PA: The Banner of Truth Trust, 1962).
"Excellent study. Highly recommended for personal and group study. The need for understanding the Law of God is always of great importance for the Christian. Watson is an excellent expositor of it." -- GCB
"The most famous commentary on the Ten Commandments was by Lancelot Andrews (1555-1626), a huge folio. . . ." -- Jay P. Green, Sr.
The Ten Commandments, Thomas Watson
http://www.iclnet.org/pub/resources/text/ipb-e/epl-watson-10cm.html

*Watson, Thomas, The Doctrine of Repentance (Puritan Paperback Series. Carlisle, PA: The Banner of Truth Trust) A Christian classic.
"Knowing what repentance is, and actually repenting are essentials to true Christianity. Jesus Christ himself said that if we do not repent, we will perish! It is vital, therefore, to read and study what Scripture has to say about this theme.
"Few better guides have existed in this or any other language. . . . He was a master of both Scripture and the human heart, and wrote with a simplicity and directness that keeps his work fresh and powerful for the twentieth century." -- Publisher's Annotation
The Doctrine of Repentance, excerpts
Online etext.
http://www.fivesolas.com/watson/drepenti.htm

*Westminster Assembly (1643-1652), The Westminster Confession of Faith (1646) (Glasgow, Scotland [Free Presbyterian Publications, 133 Woodlands Road, Glasgow G3 6LE]: Free Presbyterian Publication, 1994). ISBN 0902506080 (casebound) and ISBN 0902506358 (paperback), Still Waters Revival Books, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.
Also available from Crown and Covenant Publications:
http://www.crownandcovenant.com/product_p/ds115.htm
" 'The product of Puritan conflict,' stated Shedd, reaching 'a perfection of statement never elsewhere achieved.' All that learning the most profound and extensive, intellect the most acute and searching, and piety the most sincere and earnest, could accomplish, was thus concentrated in the Westminster Assembly's Confession of Faith, which may be safely termed the most perfect statement of Systematic Theology ever framed by the Christian Church,' writes Hetherington (The History of the Westminster Assembly of Divines), p. 345. Concerning the Shorter Catechism, which is one of the items also included in this book, Mitchell notes: 'it is a thoroughly Calvinistic and Puritan catechism, the ripest fruit of the Assembly's thought and experience, maturing and finally fixing the definitions of theological terms to which Puritanism for half a century had been leading up and gradually coming closer and closer to in its legion of catechisms' (Westminster Assembly: Its History and Standards, p. 431). The Westminster Confession of Faith (1646) is the greatest of all the creeds of the Christian church. The church of Christ cannot be creedless and live. Especially in an age of doubt and confusion, it is her duty to define and proclaim the one true faith. Nowhere has the Reformed church done this so effectively as in the Westminster Confession and family of documents. This book represents Reformed thinking at its purest and best. It was intended, as part of the Covenanted Reformation taking place during its compilation, to be adopted as the binding confessional standard for every individual, family, court, church, and legislature in the British Isles." -- SWRB
This is considered to be the definitive publication of the Westminster family of documents. It includes the following:

1. To the Christian Reader, Especially Heads of Families, Mr. Thomas Manton's Epistle to the Reader,
2. The Confession of Faith (1646), the full and original edition with Scripture proofs written out,
3. The Larger Catechism with Scripture proofs written out,
4. The Shorter Catechism with Scripture proofs written out,
5. The Sum of Saving Knowledge,
6. The National Covenant,
7. The Solemn League and Covenant,
8. A Solemn Acknowledgement of Publick Sins and Breaches of the Covenant; and a Solemn Engagement to all the Duties Contained Therein
   CD #1, Reformation Bookshelf 30 CD Set
   http://www.swrb.com/Puritan/reformation-bookshelf-CDs.htm
9. The Directory for the Public Worship of God,
10. The Form of Presbyterial Church Government, and
11. The Directory for Family Worship.

*Alexander, Archibald, Practical Truths [20423]

*Augustine, St. (author), Philip Schaff (editor), Marcus Dods (translator), St. Augustine's City of God and Christian Doctrine [A Select Library of the Nicene and Post-Nicene Fathers of the Christian Church - Volume 2], new edition (Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Company, September 2002), hardcover, 624 pages, English.
Augustine is said to be the greatest Christian thinker next to the Apostle Paul. Luther set the BIBLE and the CONFESSIONS OF SAINT AUGUSTINE above all other books.
"One of the classic texts of Western civilization [originally 22 volumes it explains the fall of Roman in terms of Scripture-- sk]. . . . DE CIVITATE DEI is an important contribution of interest to students of theology, philosophy, ecclesiastical history, the history of political thought, and late antiquity." -- Publisher's Annotation (from the Cambridge University Press edition)
"Augustine began writing THE CITY OF GOD at age 59 [shortly after the city of Rome had been sacked by the Goths in 410 A.D., much to the surprise, it is said, of both the Romans and the Goths.-- sk] and worked on it, off and on, for much of the next 14 years. The impetus for the beginning of this vast work (and its recurring focus) was the charge of Pagans (polytheists) that Christianity was responsible for the decay and demise of the Roman Empire. The charge put forward the claim that the prosperity and social stability of the state was dependent upon polytheistic worship. In response, Augustine arrays several lines of argument, rebutting the assumed 'goodness' of the Pagan state, as such, and detailing the ethical/moral and logical failings of Paganism. Augustine displays tremendous scholarship, employing the writings of Paganism's greatest historians and philosophers in his case against their religious claims. The result is a giant literary, philosophical, historical, theological and exegetical work. . . .
"Against the 'city', i.e., society, of many gods, there is but one alternate society, this Augustine calls The City of God, adopting the expression found in several of King David's psalms. Not only is the society of many gods the society of polytheists, it is also the 'city' of pantheists, atheistic materialists and philosophical Cynics. In the case of the Cynics and atheists, these false gods are the myriad gods of self, indeed, at least as many gods (selves) as there are believers in them. Thus there are two 'cities,' two loves, two ways to understand the big questions of existence, two destinations. Says Augustine:

"The one City began with the love of God; the other had its beginnings in the love of self." XIV:13.
"The city of man seeks the praise of men, whereas the height of glory for the other is to hear God in the witness of conscience. The one lifts up its head in its own boasting; the other says to God: 'Thou art my glory, thou liftest up my head.' (Psalm 3.4) In the city of the world both the rulers themselves and the people they dominate are dominated by the lust for domination; whereas in the City of God all citizens serve one another in charity. . ." XIV:28-- Wesley L. Janssen, Reader's Comment

*Bush, L. Russ (editor), Classical Readings in Christian Apologetics, A.D. 100-1800 (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan Publishing House). 20225
"Contains selected writings from 12 different apologists. Under each is an introduction, references to source of selection, and a brief bibliography. Includes selections from: Martyr, Irenaeus, Tertullian, Origen, Athanasius, Augustine, Anselum, Aquinas, Calvin, Butler, and Paley." -- GCB

Chinn, Douglas S., and Robert C. Newman, Research Report No. 3: Demystifying the Controversy Over the Textus Receptus and the King James Version of the Bible (Hatfield, PA: Interdisciplinary Bible Research Institute). 20226

Downing, David C. (compiler), What You Know Might Not Be So (Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Book House). 20229
"Nontechnical terms are used to correct 220 common misunderstandings concerning the Bible. The entries focus on matters of simple miscomprehension." -- GCB

Ellul, Jacques, Reason for Being: A Meditation on Ecclesiastes (Grand Rapids, MI: Wm.B. Eerdmans Publishing Co., 1990). 20232

Ellul, Jacques, What I Believe [60014]

Green, Michael, Ten Myths About Christianity (Pocketbooks Series. Batavia, IL: Lion Publishing, 1988). 20232A

Haley, John W., Alleged Discrepancies of the Bible [10113]

Hamermas, Gary, The Verdict of History: Evidence for the Resurrection of Christ [10446]

Henry, Carl F.H., Toward a Recovery of Christian Belief (Wheaton, IL: Good News Publishers [Crossway Books]). 20233
"Learned, lucid, wise, and powerful; this is Henry at his best." -- J.I. Packer

Hodge, A.A., The Confession of Faith [20279]

Krabbendam, H., Some Essential Elements in Biblical Apologetics [30241]

Kraemer, Hendrik, Religion and the Christian Faith (Philadelphia, PA: Westminster Press, 1957). 20236
Includes bibliographic footnotes.

Morris, Henry, Science and the Bible (Chicago, IL: Moody Press). 20242

Poythress, V., What Do You Say When You Are Asked About the Rapture [30368]

Prime, Derek, Questions on the Christian Faith Answered From the Bible (Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans, 1968). 20247

Richards, Lawrence O., It Couldn't Just Happen: Faith Building Evidences for Young People (Fort Worth, TX: Sweet Publishing, 1987). 20249
"An incredible book. Makes the study of astronomy and biology fascinating. Uses information from these disciplines to present the awesome wonder of creation in terms that will captivate teens (as well as those who teach them). Highly recommended." -- Cyril J. Barber

*Singer, C. Gregg, A Theological Interpretation of American History 1994 edition, 354 pages (Greenville, SC: A Press, 1994, 1981, 1975, 1974, 1964), ISBN: 0875524265 9780875524269. A Christian classic.
This book portrays "the influence of theology and the changing doctrines in the life of the church on the pattern of American political, constitutional, social and economic development.
"The author shows that the decline of constitutional government in this country is the result of the departure from historical Christian faith and the resulting rise of alien political philosophies. Particularly does he emphasize the intimate relationship between theological liberalism on the one hand and political, social, and economic liberalism on the other. This theological liberalism has been a major agent in the decline of the Constitution in the political life of the people and in the appearance of a highly centralized government." -- Publisher's Annotation
"There is between the democratic philosophy and theological liberalism a basic affinity which has placed them in the same camp in many major political struggles.
"This condition exists because theological liberalism shares the basic postulates of the democratic philosophy. . . .
"Theological liberalism at heart has been a continuing protest against Calvinism, particularly against its insistence on the Sovereignty of God and the Total Depravity of the race. These two Biblical doctrines have often proved to be a stumbling block to theologians within the church as well as to the unbelieving world.
"The result of theological liberalism has been the movement away from constitutionalism and away from liberty, and a movement toward collectivistic society and totalitarian regime." -- C. Gregg Singer, Theological Interpretation of American History, p. 290
See also: "John Knox, the Scottish Covenanters, and the Westminster Assembly" (tape 3 of 5 in a series of addresses "History Notes on Presbyterianism, Reformation, and Theology") by Dr. C. Gregg Singer on SermonAudion.com
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=12607114250
See also:
Dr. C. Gregg Singer at SermonAudio.com (161 messages)
http://www.sermonaudio.com/search.asp?SpeakerOnly=true&currSection=sermonsspeaker&Keyword=Dr.^C.^Gregg^Singer

Stein, Robert H., Difficult Passages in the Gospels (Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Book House).20256
"Stein explores problematic passages under four categories: Difficult parallel passages; teachings of Jesus; actions of Jesus; and predictions of Jesus." -- GCB

Stewart, Don, 101 Questions People Ask About Jesus (Wheaton, IL: Tyndale House Publishers). 20257
"Provides 101 brief, practical, Bible-based answers to difficult questions people ask about Jesus. Answers deal with Jesus' existence, nature, deeds, and His importance to you and me." -- GCB

Stewart, Don, 103 Questions People Ask Most About God (Wheaton, IL: Tyndale House Publishers). 20258
"This book provides brief, Bible-based responses and easy-to-remember summaries to many difficult questions people ask about God. Four basic areas are dealt with: His Existence, Nature, Acts, and His Meaning to the Individual. A book that provides solid answers to dealing with others." -- GCB

Taylor, Daniel, The Myth of Certainty: Trusting God, Asking Questions, Taking Risks (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan Publishing House, 1992). 20259
"Your mind is awakening, you are awash in many strange thoughts, you have doubts, you can't explain it all, you definitely don't believe anything without testing it first. Author says don't abandon your intellect. You can grow, doubt, question, and profit during your journey through life." -- GCB

Ursinus, Zacharias, Pareus, David, 1548-1622, and Junius, Franciscus, 1545-1602, Certaine learned and excellent discourses: treating and discussing diuers hard and difficult points of Christian religion: collected, and published in Latine, by D. Dauid Parreus, out of the writings of that late famous and worthie light of Gods Church, D. Zachary Vrsine. Faithfully translated, 1613, EEBO.
Notes: First issued as "A collection of certaine learned discourses", and reissued with cancelled titlepage as above. Bookseller's name from STC.
Includes: A funerall oration of D. Francis Junius, .. on the death of D. Zachary Vrsine, ..

WESTMINSTER ASSEMBLY OF DIVINES, Scripture Index to the Westminster Standards (The complete Scripture index to the Westminster Confession (1646), Larger and Shorter Catechisms.)
http://www.swrb.com/newslett/actualnls/index01.htm
A Guide to the Westminster Standards: Confession of Faith and Larger Catechism, James Bordwine, (Unicoi, TN: The Trinity Foundation, 1996).
Includes a unique, 100-page topical index to both the Confession and the Catechism.

White, James, The Fatal Flaw [D1048]

Wolfe, David L., Epistemology: The Justification of Belief (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press). 20263
"The author is Professor of Philosophy at Gordon College. J.I Packer says that `No student of philosophy, apologetics or systematic theology should miss it'." -- GCB

*Zacharias, Ravi, "Apologetics and the Modern Mind" (Norcross, GA: Ravi Zacharias Ministries). 20264
A video series.
Ravi Zacharias Ministries
http://www.gocin.com/rzim/rzim.htm

See also: Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, Sexual relationship, Book length presentations of the free offer of Gospel message of salvation and the life to come, Basics of the christian faith, Repentance, the key to salvation and change, Reconcililiation of relationships, Soteriology, Knowing christ, Aabsolute truth and relativism, The attributes of god, Authority, Follow-up, Ethics, Casuistry and Conscience, Christian Character, Gospel tracts and witnessing tools, Creeds, confessions, and catechisms, The Westminster Standards, Pseudo-christian movements, Evangelism, Follow-up, Prayer, Resources for students, Revival, Sharing Christ with your children, Small group evangelism, Spiritual warfare

Related WebLinks

Apologetics #02: Classical and Medieval Thought #2
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Apologetics, 48 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=2250511558

Apologetics #03: Classical and Medieval Thought #3
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Apologetics, 81 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=2250511637

Apologetics #04: The Renaissance and the Reformation
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Apologetics, 47 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=3105181649

Apologetics #05: Irrationalism and Theistic Rationalism #1
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Apologetics, 62 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=310518186

Apologetics #06: Irrationalism and Theistic Rationalism #2
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Apologetics, 58 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=3105181856

Apologetics #07: Irrationalism and Theistic Rationalism
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Apologetics, 86 min
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=3105182032

Apologetics #08: The Enlightenment in Western Thought #1
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Apologetics, 76 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=3105182137

Apologetics #09: The Enlightenment in Western Thought #2
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Apologetics, 69 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=3105182230

Apologetics #10: Kant and German Idealism #1
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Apologetics, 78 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=3105182311

Apologetics #11: Kant and German Idealism #2
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Apologetics, 40 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=310520144

Apologetics #12: The Impact of Darwin and Social Darwinism #1
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Apologetics, 57 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=3105182414

Apologetics #13: The Impact of Darwin and Social Darwinism #2
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Apologetics, 59 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=320514177

#14 and #15 missing

Apologetics #16: Transitional Thinkers #1
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Apologetics, 87 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=3205141752

Apologetics #17: Transitional Thinkers #2
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Apologetics, 71 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=3205141846

Apologetics #18: Transitional Thinkers #3
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Apologetics, 42 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=3205141954

#19, 20, 21, 22, 23 missing

Apologetics #24: The Recovery of Christian Theism
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Apologetics, 58 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/play.asp?ID=3205142039

Books Considered to be Among the Ten Greatest in the English Language
http://www.lettermen2.com/tengreat.html

The Sum of Saving Knowledge, David Dickson and James Durham
http://www.covenanter.org/Westminster/sumofsavingknowledge.htm

"The Uniqueness of Christ in World Religions" (part 1 of 2), Dr. Ravi Zacharias
"Is it really possible to talk about Christ being the only way to God without implying at the same time that any ideas that contradict Christ then become false? In this lecture, Dr. Zacharias examines the philosophical idea of truth, points of tension between Christianity and Eastern religions, and how Christ's teachings are distinct from other religions. These messages were part of a forum on the uniqueness of Christ held in several major cities in the Republic of South Africa."
http://www.rzim.org/radio/archives.php?v=current

The Truth About Da Vinci.com
"This website is a response to Dan Brown's novel THE DA VINCI CODE" (released March 18, 2003), a work of fiction that has been read by more than 30 million, and has now been made into a movie starring Tom Hanks (released May 2006).
http://www.thetruthaboutdavinci.com/
For a broad overview of literature showing an evident interconnection between absolute truth, sovereign authority, loving obedience, justification, sanctification, personal spiritual growth, life (temporal and eternal), moral behavior (law and order, and justice), freedom (religious, political, economic, and individual) (true religion defined in the Westminster Standards and the Covenanted Reformation), social stability (peace, security, prosperity, and happiness), social transformation, education, the arts, scientific discovery, real progress, and the realization of the Kingdom of God upon earth, and for literature on the following:

1. The Inspiration and Infallibility of Scripture (The Doctrine of Revelation, the Doctrine of Plenary Inspiration, the Doctrine of Divine Inspiration, the Doctrine of Verbal Inspiration, Theopneustia, Sufficiency of Scripture)
2. THE LORD JESUS CHRIST
3. Soteriology
4. The Incarnation of Our Lord
5. The Glory of The Lord Jesus Christ
6. Christ's Kingdom
7. The Mediatorial Reign of Christ: The Crown Rights of Christ
8. Knowing Christ
9. The Lordship of Jesus Christ
10. The Person and Work of Jesus Christ the Lord
11. The Cross of Christ
12. The Blood of Christ
13. The Resurrection
14. The Sufficiency of Christ
15. The Teachings of The Lord Jesus Christ
16. Christ Our Example
17. History, "His-Story"
18. The Promises of Christ
19. Christ's Influence on Western Civilization
20. A Theological Interpretation of American History
21. The Westminster Assembly, SHORTER CATECHISM WITH SCRIPTURE PROOFS
22. Books Considered To Be Among the Ten Greatest in the English Language
23. Sola Scriptura
24. Epistemology
25. Logic
26. Canonicity
27. Textual Criticism
28. Justifying Faith
29. Book Length Presentations of the Free Offer of The Gospel Message of Salvation and the Life to Come: The Means of Grace
30. and so forth, and so on, see:

Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever. (Hebrews 13:8)

CREEDS, CONFESSIONS and CATECHISMS

---

*Baxter, Richard, The Mother's Catechism, and The Catechizing of Families in The Reformed Pastor: Baxter's Practical Works, Vol. 4 (Morgan, PA: Soli Deo Gloria Publications, 1992). 30937
"This is the fourth and final volume in this great set. Includes, `The Reformed Pastor' and 25 other sermons, treatises, and catechisms. Dr. J.I. Packer says, `For me, the great joy of this year is that it see the completion of Soli Deo Gloria's reprint of Baxter's incomparable PRACTICAL WORKS'." -- GCB
Includes: POOR MAN'S FAMILY BOOK, THE CATECHIZING OF FAMILIES, and THE MOTHER'S CATECHISM.
The Reformed Pastor, Richard Baxter
http://www.e4.net
The Richard Baxter Page
http://members.aol.com/augusteen/Baxter.html
Compassionate Counsel to all Young Men (1681), by Richard Baxter
http://www.lettermen2.com/ccaym.html

*Baxter, Richard, Reformed Pastor (Puritan Paperback Series. Carlisle, PA: The Banner of Truth Trust). A Christian classic.
"Today, Baxter's principles, drawn from Scripture, and re-applied in terms of modern circumstances, will provide both ministers and other Christians with challenge, direction, and help." -- Publisher's Annotation
The Reformed Pastor, Richard Baxter
http://www.e4.net
The Richard Baxter Page
http://members.aol.com/augusteen/Baxter.html
Compassionate Counsel to all Young Men (1681), by Richard Baxter
http://www.lettermen2.com/ccaym.html

*Beeke, Joel R. (editor) and Sinclair B. Ferguson (editor), Reformed Confessions Harmonized
"A helpful tool for ministers, scholars, church leaders, and all who love the Reformed faith." -- R.C. Sproul
"Despite the acknowledged importance of confessional statements throughout church history, the most significant of these documents have never before been published in a single volume. Now Drs. Beeke and Ferguson have harmonized seven important Reformed confessions into a convenient parallel arrangement.
"Joel R. Beeke is pastor of Heritage Netherlands Reformed Congregation in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and professor of systematic theology and homiletics at Puritan Reformed Theological Seminary. Sinclair B. Ferguson, former professor at Westminster Theological Seminary, is now the minister of St. Georges-Tron parish in Glasgow, Scotland, and the author of numerous books on Reformed theology." -- Publisher's Annotation

*BEZA, THEODORE (revised and enlarged by Peter Hall), The Harmony of Protestant Confessions Exhibiting the Faith of the Churches of Christ, Reformed After the Pure and Holy Doctrine of the Gospel, Throughout Europe (Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books). A Christian classic.
"After 1579 (and some failed attempts at writing a common Protestant Confession), it was decided that it would be a safer plan to compile a Harmony, in which the Protestant Confessions already extant could be distributed under certain heads, and by which all parties involved might be called back to agreement and any appearance of variation that existed might be discussed and explained. The design was accordingly entrusted to Theodore Beza (Calvin's student and successor in Geneva), Daneau, and Salnar. Twelve major Confessions, beginning with Augsburg (1530) through to The Confession of Scotland (1560), are catalogued according to topics (loosely ordered along the general lines of the headings found in the Westminster Confession [1646]) in this unique and massive volume. The Westminster Confession (1647), The Synod of Dort (1619), The Thirty-nine Articles of the Church of England (1571), and the Irish Articles of 1615, have all been appended to this work, increasing its value and making it the most comprehensive compilation and topically indexed reference tool available to creedal Christians today! Over 700 pages." -- SWRB

*BOSTON, THOMAS, Commentary on the Shorter Catechism, 2 volumes (Cerlox Bound Photocopy Series. Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books, 1993, 1853). A Christian classic.
" `Two large volumes of over 1300 pages! Boston's work is the most comprehensive reference set ever penned on THE WESTMINSTER SHORTER CATECHISM. Concerning THE SHORTER CATECHISM, A.F. Mitchell states '...it is a thoroughly Calvinistic and Puritan catechism, the ripest fruit of the Assembly's thought and experience, maturing and finally fixing the definitions of theological terms to which Puritanism for half a century had been leading up and gradually coming closer and closer to in its legion of catechisms' (The Westminster Assembly...). THE SHORTER CATECHISM is the `king of the catechisms' for shear power of expression, combining logical cogency with succinctness. Boston's exposition is unrivalled; there is nothing else like it. Here you have the cream of Puritan catechisms married to the cream of clear Puritan exposition! This is likely Boston's most important work. A set that will meet numerous needs, ranging from use in family worship, Christian education and personal study, to sermon preparation - and for help in settling debated questions on the Presbytery floor. A one-of-a-kind set of books that will serve your family for generations to come!" -- SWRB
Boston's Commentary on the Westminster Confession [1646]
http://www.best.com/~covenant/
Westminster Shorter Catechism With Proof Texts
http://www.reformed.org/documents/WSC_frames.html
Westminster Shorter Catechism Project
"Click on any of the individual questions below to get the answer and Biblical references, as well as links to works by John Flavel, Thomas Watson, Thomas Boston, James Fisher, and John Whitecross, and others."
http://www.shortercatechism.com/

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

Hall, David W. (editor) The Practice of Confessional Subscription
"David W. Hall is the author or editor of SAVIOR OR SERVANT? PUTTING GOVERNMENT IN ITS PLACE, THE ARROGANCE OF THE MODERN, PARADIGMS IN POLITY, ELECTION DAY SERMONS, and 10 other volumes." -- Publisher's Annotation
Table of Contents
http://capo.org/opeds/PCSTOC.html

Henry, Matthew, The Catechising of Youth and Christ's Favour to Little Children Displayed (1713), (Cerlox Bound Photocopy Series. Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books).
"The two sermons noted above form foundational teaching that every family should be aware of and practice. A faithful ministry and faithful parents, who catechize their children daily, will do more for true Reformation and godliness than just about any other means to this end. Here Henry also adds simple questions to each question of the Westminster Shorter Catechism to help explain it to beginners. Very practical!" -- SWRB

*Hodge, Archibald A., The Confession of Faith (London, England: Banner of Truth Trust, 1961). 20269
"A detailed discussion of the Westminster Confession of Faith (1646) by one of the best systematic theologians of the late 1800's." -- GCB. A Christian classic.

Hurst, Henry, Whether Well-Composed Religious Vows Do Not Exceedingly Promote Religion (1661, reprinted 1844), (Bound Photocopy Series. Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books, 1997).
"A Puritan sermon on a much neglected means to spiritual victory, ecclesiastical revival and national reformation." -- SWRB

Kelly, Douglas F., Philip B. Rollinson, and Frederick T. Marsh, The Westminster Shorter Catechism in Modern English (Presbyterian & Reformed Publishing Company).
"Since its completion in 1647 the Westminster Shorter Catechism has been unsurpassed as a concise tool for teaching the Reformed understanding of Scripture. Though the truths of the catechism are unchanging, the English language has undergone many changes, which have made using the catechism in its original form increasingly difficult." -- Synopsis

Mitchell, Alexander F., Catechisms of the Second Reformation (1886), (Bound Photocopy Series. Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books, 1997).

Perkins, William, 1558-1602, An exposition of the Lords prayer, in the way of catechising seruing for ignorant people. By W. Perkins, 1592, EEBO.

*Reid, James, Memoirs of the Westminster Divines (Carlisle, PA: The Banner of Truth Trust, 1983). 20270
"The Assembly was called into being by the English Parliament, and convened on July 1, 1643. The result of their deliberations was a CONFESSION OF FAITH and the famous SHORTER CATECHISM. The synod met over a period of several years and comprised the finest church historians, Hebraists, Greek scholars, theologians, and pastors of their time. This book records their activities. It is a fine work and should be read for its intrinsic worth." -- Cyril J. Barber
Westminster Shorter Catechism With Proof Texts
http://www.reformed.org/documents/WSC_frames.html

*ROBERTS, WILLIAM L., Reformed Presbyterian Catechism (Cerlox bound photocopy. Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books) and (New York, NY: R. Craighead, 1853), ATLA 1991-2638.
A magnificent catechism that sets forth the Crown Rights of The King of Glory and Lord of Lords. It also presents incontrovertible evidence that the United States Constitution is not a Christian document, and that it is, in fact, a slavery document.
See also: The Scottish Covenanting Struggle, Alexander Craighead, and the Mecklenburg Declaration, SECRET PROCEEDINGS AND DEBATES OF THE CONSTITUTIONAL CONVENTION, CONSPIRACY IN PHILADELPHIA, and THEOLOGICAL INTERPRETATION OF AMERICAN HISTORY.
"A manual of instruction, drawing from such notable authors as William Symington and J.R. Willson, presenting 'arguments and facts confirming and illustrating the 'Distinctive Principles' of the Reformed Presbyterian Church. Chapters deal with: 'Christ's Mediatorial Dominion in general;' Christ's exclusive Headship over the Church;' 'The Supreme and Ultimate Authority of the Word of God in the Church;' Civil Government, the Moral Ordinance of God;' Christ's Headship over the Nations;' 'The Subjection of the Nations to God and to Christ;' The Word, or Revealed Will of God, the Supreme Law in the State;' 'The Duty of Nations, in their National Capacity, to acknowledge and support the True Religion:' 'The Spiritual Independence of the Church of Christ:' 'The Right and Duty of Dissent from an immoral Constitution of Civil Government;' 'The Duty of Covenanting, and the Permanent Obligations of Religious Covenants;' 'The Application of these Principles to the Governments, where Reformed Presbyterians reside, in the form of a Practical Testimony;' and finally 'Application of the Testimony to the British Empire.' A most important book, as we approach (possibly) the end of the great apostasy and will be in need of preparing for the dawning of the glorious millennial blessings to come; the days prophesied in which the church 'shalt also suck the milk of the Gentiles, and shalt suck the breast of kings' (Isaiah 60:16)." -- SWRB
Reformed Presbyterian Catechism, William L. Roberts D.D.
http://www.covenantedreformation.com/EssaysCR/RP%20Catechism/RP%20Index.html

*Rushdoony, Rousas J., The Foundations of Social Order: Studies in the Creeds and Councils of the Early Church (Vallecito, CA: Ross House Books)

*Schaff, Philip, The Creeds of Christendom, 3 volumes (Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Book House). 20272
"First published in 1877, and later reprinted in 1919. Describes the history of the creeds, and provides a critical appraisal of them. Includes the intrigue surrounding the framing of the creeds, the insights contained in the creeds, and their influence on church history. Volume 1 traces the origin of the creeds from the earliest times to the Wesleyan revival. Volume 2 deals with the creeds in their original form, and Volume 3 contains the evangelical Protestant creeds, with a translation of each." -- Cyril J. Barber

Schaff, Philip, The harmony of the Reformed Confessions, 1877, ATLA 1986-2786

Shaw, Robert, An Exposition of the Confession of Faith of the Westminster Assembly of Divines, 1845 (Cerlox Bound Photocopy Series. Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books).
" 'All that learning the most profound and extensive, intellect the most acute and searching, and piety the most sincere and earnest, could accomplish, was thus concentrated in the Westminster Assembly's Confession of Faith, which may be safely termed the most perfect statement of Systematic Theology ever framed by the Christian Church,' writes William Hetherington in THE HISTORY OF THE WESTMINSTER ASSEMBLY OF DIVINES. The WCF [1646] is without a doubt the greatest human confession ever written, 'being the chiefest part of that uniformity in religion, which by the Solemn League and Covenant' the British Isles are bound, even to this day, to uphold and defend -- in both church and state! Shaw's Exposition is the standard work on the WCF [1646], for he admittedly states 'that he has not found it necessary to differ from the compilers of the Confession in any one point of doctrine.' This edition includes an introductory essay by Hetherington defending the use of Confessions in general and the WCF [1646] in particular. Hetherington also gives a brief outline of the historical context of the period in which the WCF [1646] was composed while demonstrating the harmonious nature of the Reformational Creeds and Confessions." -- SWRB
The Reformed Faith: An Exposition Of The Westminster Confession Of Faith (1646), by Robert Shaw With An Introductory Essay By WM. M. Hetherington
http://www.reformed.org/documents/shaw/index.html
Scripture Index to the Westminster Standards (The complete Scripture index to the Westminster Confession, Larger and Shorter Catechisms.)
http://www.swrb.com/newslett/actualnls/index01.htm
A Guide to the Westminster Standards: Confession of Faith and Larger Catechism, James Bordwine, (Unicoi, TN: The Trinity Foundation, 1996).
Includes a unique, 100-page topical index to both the Confession and the Catechism.

*Vincent, Thomas, Shorter Catechism Explained From Scripture (Puritan Paperback Series. Carlisle, PA: The Banner of Truth Trust), 1634, EEBO. [31078]
"Forty Puritans including John Owen, Thomas Manton, Thomas Brooks and Thomas Watson recommended this useful volume as a very worth aid for family instruction. This volume gives parents very simple explanations to take their children through the Westminster Shorter Catechism."
Vincent, Thomas. An explicatory catechism: or an explanation of the Assembly's shorter catechism. ... By Thomas Vincent, ... Glasgow, 1777. (ECCO) Gale Document Number CW3319412765
A Commentary on the Shorter Catechism, Thomas Vincent, Alternate title: A Commentary on the Shorter Catechism
http://www.e4.net
Westminster Shorter Catechism With Proof Texts
http://www.reformed.org/documents/WSC_frames.html
Westminster Shorter Catechism Project
"Click on any of the individual questions below to get the answer and Biblical references, as well as links to works by John Flavel, Thomas Watson, Thomas Boston, James Fisher, and John Whitecross, and others."
http://www.shortercatechism.com/

*Warfield, B.B., The Westminster Assembly and Its Work (Edmonton, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books). "Much excellent and amazing information is contained in this volume defending the greatest of Reformed standards concerning many of its most important points. Extremely pertinent for today are the chapters dealing with inspira tion, God's decree (absolute sovereignty), and the Holy Spirit." -- CBD

*Watson, Thomas, 1620-1686 Body of Divinity (Carlisle, PA: The Banner of Truth Trust, 1965, 1890), EEBO.
"The first book published by the Trust, this has been one of the best sellers and consistently the most useful and influential of our publications . . . It deals with the foremost doctrinal and experimental truths of the Christian faith . . . It is based on the Westminster Assembly's Shorter Catechism, in which the main principles of Christianity that lie scattered in the Scriptures are brought together and set forth in the form of question and answer. This catechism is unsurpassed for its `terse exactitutde of definition' and `logical elaboration' of the fundamentals. . . . Watson conveys his thorough doctrinal and experimental knowledge of the truth in such an original, concise, pithy, pungent, racy, rich, and illustrative style that he is rightly regarded as the most readable of the Puritans." -- Publisher's Annotation
"As an introduction to Puritan theology, as a short and sweet