Chapter 2 (part 2)

Biblical Counsel


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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 (1634-1668)


Contents: Chapter 2, "Biblical Counsel" (part 2)

For all Counselors
Peer Counseling, Peer Evangelism, One-on-one Evangelism
Questions and Answers
Audio Files (CDs and MP3s) on Counseling Subjects
Legal Aspects of Counseling
Biblical Counsel by Subject
Homework for Counselees
Biblical Counseling Tracts
Case Studies
Correspondence Containing Biblical Counsel

Contents: Chapter 2, "Biblical Counsel" (parts 1 and 2), interactive
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr2cha.html#index2

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



Chapter 2 (part 2)
Biblical Counsel



For all Counselors

Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path. (Psalm 119:105)

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

Who is a wise man and endued with knowledge among you? let him shew out of a good conversation his works with meekness of wisdom. But if ye have bitter envying and strife in your hearts, glory not, and lie not against the truth. This wisdom descendeth not from above, but is earthly, sensual, devilish. For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work. But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy. And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace. (James 3:13-18)

And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient, in meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth; And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will. (2 Timothy 2:24-26)

His [Calvin's] "readiness in bringing Scripture passages to bear upon each point of argument is astonishing, and has perhaps never been surpassed." -- Introduction to The Institutes of the Christian Religion, p. liv

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 4:6)
The life verse of David Powlison (1949-2019).

But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of that bread, and drink of that cup. (1 Corinthians 11:28)
Put on: Examine yourself and restructure your life.

Thy testimonies also are my delight and my counsellors. (Psalm 119:24)

And these things write we unto you, that your joy may be full. (1 John 1:4)

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

There is documented research proving the thesis that child abuse (emotional, physical, sexual, or spiritual, etc.) results in disturbances in learning, and disturbances in adjusting emotionally and socially, regardless of "differences in age, sex, race, gender, IQ, or socioeconomic status."
In other words, the implications are that abuse has the effect of making it difficult for a child to learn (grow in knowledge of the truth and understanding, have an open mind, be teachable), and of making it difficult to relate to the world (relationships, spouses, family, church, workplace, government), regardless of the child's innate capabilities and gifts. So, even the gifted child, if abused, will in later life suffer, however subtle, learning disabilities, blocks, blind spots, or abnormal behaviour. "If a parent and child love each other, then the parent can teach the child anything." But emotional scars can be as hard to heal as chronic disease.
"Physically abused and nonabused children were compared on child-completed measures of depression, hopelessness, self-esteem, and locus of control. Results indicated that, in comparison with nonabused controls, abused children evidenced more depressive symptoms, heightened externality, lower self-esteem, and greater hopelessness about the future. Group differences in depressive symptomatology were not accounted for on the basis of differences in age, sex, race, gender, IQ, or socioeconomic status."
Depressive Characteristics of Physically Abused Children, Denise M. Allen and Kenneth J. Tarnowski
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/2926018
The Effects of Violence in the Home on Children's Emotional, Behavioral, and Social Functioning. A Review of the Literature
http://ebx.sagepub.com/content/6/2/94.abstract

O what efforts Satan puts forth to keep people from this vitally important and all-necessary work of self-examination. He knows full well that if many of his deceived victims set about the task in earnest, they would soon discover that no miracle of Divine grace has been wrought in them, and that this would cause them to seek the Lord with all their hearts. -- Arthur Pink (1886-1952), Studies on Saving Faith

Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother. But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established. And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church: but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican. (Matthew 18:15-17)

He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God? (Micah 6:8)

Nothing perhaps affects man's character more than the company he keeps. We catch the ways and tone of those we live and talk with, and unhappily get harm far more easily than good. Disease is infectious, but health is not.
Now if a professing Christian deliberately chooses to be intimate with those who are not friends of God and who cling to the world, his soul is sure to take harm. It is hard enough to serve Christ under any circumstances in such a world as this. But it is doubly hard to do it if we are friends of the thoughtless and ungodly. Mistakes in friendship or marriage engagements are the whole reason why some have entirely ceased to grow. Evil communications corrupt good manners. . . . The friendship of the world is enmity with God. (1 Corinthians 15:33; James 4:4) -- J.C. Ryle (1816-1900)

All three flawed expressions of spirituality [Traditionalism, Legalism, and Superstition -- compiler], have similar results: they enslave people to an unproductive and unsatisfying way of living; they cause them to live in fear a great deal of the time; and they focus attention on their own ability to provide for their safety and well-being rather than nurturing trust in the living God, in whom alone human beings can find life. -- Ravi Zacharias, from The Grand Weaver: How God Shapes us Through the Events of our Lives, p. 190

See the Theological Notes: "The Fall" at Genesis 3:6 in The Reformation Study Bible.
But of the fruit of the tree which is in the midst of the garden, God hath said, Ye shall not eat of it, neither shall ye touch it, lest ye die.
And the serpent said unto the woman, Ye shall not surely die: For God doth know that in the day ye eat thereof, then your eyes shall be opened, and ye shall be as gods, knowing good and evil.
And when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree to be desired to make one wise, she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat, and gave also unto her husband with her; and he did eat. And the eyes of them both were opened, and they knew that they were naked; and they sewed fig leaves together, and made themselves aprons. (Genesis 3:3-7)
Matthew Henry commenting on Genesis 3:6-13
https://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/matthew-henry-complete/genesis/3.html
John Gill commenting on Genesis 3:7
https://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/gills-exposition-of-the-bible/genesis-3-7.html

See the Theological Notes: "God's Covenant of Grace" at Genesis 12:1 in The Reformation Study Bible.

See the Theological Notes: "The Holy Spirit," at John 14:26 in The Reformation Study Bible.

See the Theological Notes: "The Authentication of Scripture," at 2 Corinthians 4:6 in The Reformation Study Bible.
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 4:6)

See the Theological Notes: "The Law of God," at Exodus 20:1 in The Reformation Study Bible.

See the Theological Notes: "Legalism," at Matthew 23:4 in The Reformation Study Bible.

See the Theological Notes: "Satan," at Job 1:6 in The Reformation Study Bible.

See the Theological Notes: "Demons" at Deuteronomy 32:17 in The Reformation Study Bible.

See the Theological Notes: "God is Love: Divine Goodness and Faithfulness," at Psalm 136:1 in The Reformation Study Bible.

And the spirit of the Lord shall rest upon him, the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and might, the spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the Lord. (Isaiah 11:2)

Someone has found 684 commands in the New Testament. Accurate or not, the number must be somewhere nearly so.
And, yet, there are those who believe that any command given to another believer is merely law or works, or something equally as reprehensible to them.
It is neither wrong for God to command us (as Christ in the Great Commission did), nor preachers today to do so. God doesn't wrong us by doing so; He commands His children as any good Father would -- for our benefit. Why is it, then, that this strange idea is abroad today that all commands are wrong?
Is the problem, then, that we ought not need commands, and that the idea of issuing commands indicates those who need them are living at a lower level than they should? Or is it simply that the objectors just don't like to be told what to so?
Whatever the reason, commands there are in the Bible -- and we'd better heed all of those directed to us. Don't let anyone tell you otherwise!" -- Jay Adams, in a blog at nouthetic.org, August 3, 2012

It is the duty of God's servants to warn men of their danger, to point out that the way of rebellion against God leads to certain destruction and to call upon them to throw down the weapons of their revolt and flee from the wrath to come.
It is their duty to teach men that they must turn from their idols and serve the living God, otherwise they will eternally perish.
It is their duty to rebuke wickedness wherever it be found and to declare that the wages of sin is death.
This will not make for their popularity, for it will condemn and irritate the wicked, and such plain speaking will seriously annoy them. Those who expose hypocrites, resist tyrants, oppose the wicked, are ever viewed by them as troublemakers. But as Christ declared, Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for My sake. Rejoice, and be exceedingly glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you. (Matthew 5:11,12) -- Arthur Pink (1886-1952), The Life of Elijah

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

These things speak, and exhort, and rebuke with all authority. Let no man despise thee. (Titus 2:15)

The Christian has a distinct advantage over the non-Christian when it comes to studying the soul (psychology) because he has God's inspired Word -- the psychology book. Any person who spends their life studying the soul book can grow in their understanding and practice of the purest psychology known to humanity.
Non-Christians grope in the dark when it comes to understanding psychology because the Bible is a mystery to them, if not downright foolish (Deuteronomy 29:29; 1 Corinthians 1:18-25, 2:14).
The Christian has the illuminating power of the Spirit of God to guide him into all the truth contained in the Word of God (John 16:13; John 17:17). The Christian also has the providential guidance of a sovereign Lord, who orchestrates life events on behalf of His children (Genesis 50:20).
Additionally, the Christian has a community of psychologists (God's children) who are constantly pursuing a better understanding of the psychology book while seeking to make practical applications for God's glory and each other's mutual benefit. (Hebrews 10:24-25) -- Rick Thomas, The Perfect Self-Help Book That Will Change Your Life, rickthomas.net/

Counseling is a theological matter
Why is this so? Because everything about people is actually happening in reference to God. The troubles of life. Health or financial problems. Inner struggles. The conscious, willful sins. The unconscious lights-out experiences of forgetfulness, drift and unbelief. Life and death. The meaning of it all. Counseling always expresses theological commitments.
Hold onto this core principle. Your integrity as a Christian who counsels hangs on grasping this. Counseling programs may or may not arise from or live up to this core principle. You have to keep your head no matter where you train. God is always involved when you counsel. Consider several key questions. . . .
Every counselor brings a message: an interpretation of problems, a theory that weighs causalities and context, a proposal for cure, a goal that defines thriving humanness. How does the message of biblical counseling compare with their messages? Simply consider what our culture's other counselors do not say.

In other words, other messengers always counsel true to their core convictions. They counsel the same message that they live. Christians can't help but mention these things, and long to live within these realities. Even more, a Christian is never content merely to mention such realities to another, as if a troubled person simply needs the bare bones of didactic instruction. Like a skilled musician, you develop a trained ear. In every detail of every person's story, you learn to hear the music of these often unmentioned realities. You help others hear what is actually playing. A relevant, honest pastoral conversation teaches another person how to listen, and then how to join the song. Need I say more? No one else is listening to what you hear. No one else is saying what you have to say. No one else is singing what you believe. No one else is giving to others what you have been given that you might freely give. Every person who needs counseling actually needs Christ's unique message.
May God make all our words (and the thoughts within our silences), ring true to our convictions. Do get training that helps your convictions come to life. Whether you are a pastor or a mom, a friend or a teacher, a small group leader or someone with counselor in your job title, CCEF training can help you. CCEF exists to come alongside you in hands-on ministry, to equip you to help people through the struggles of life." -- David Powlison, from "CCEF Training: Counsel True to Your Convictions," in CCEF NOW, vol. 2, July 2012, p. 4

Read the Gospel of John, chapters 14 through 16, [John 14; John 15; John 16] for comfort in time of crisis or distress.

A wealth of information about Biblical Counseling is found on audio files (CDs and MP3s). Sources for audio files are as follows:

Draw forth the treasure of wisdom and experience, which you have been so long in laying up, to instruct the ignorant, and warn the inexperienced and ungodly that are about you. Job 32:7, Days should speak, and multitude of years should teach wisdom. Titus 2:3-5, The aged women must teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands and children, to be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed. It is supposed that time and experience hath taught you more than is known to raw and ignorant youth. Tell them what you have suffered by the deceits of sin: tell them the method and danger of temptations: tell them what you lost by delaying your repentance: and how God recovered you: and how the Spirit wrought upon your souls: tell them what comforts you have found in God; what safety and sweetness in a holy life; how sweet the holy Scriptures have been to you; how prayers have prevailed, how the promises of God have been fulfilled; and what mercies and great deliverances you have had. Tell them how good you have found God; and how bad you have found sin; and how vain you have found the world. Warn them to resist their fleshly lusts, and to take heed of the ensnaring flatteries of sin: acquaint them truly with the history of public sins, and judgments, and mercies in the times which you have lived in. God hath made this the duty of the aged, that the fathers should tell the wonders of his works and mercies to their children, that the ages to come may praise the Lord, Deuteronomy 4:10; Psalm 78:4-6. -- Richard Baxter (1615-1691)

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

Word: "disease"; Meaning; "disturb"; Sample location: "Luke 8:49" -- from the "Glossary," 1599 Geneva Bible, Tolle Lege edition

DISEASE, n. Dizeze. [dis and ease].
1. In its primary sense, pain, uneasiness, distress, and so used by Spenser; but in this sense, obsolete.
2. The cause of pain or uneasiness . . . disorder; any state of a living body in which the natural functions of the organs are interrupted or disturbed . . . The first effect of disease is uneasiness or pain, and the ultimate effect is death. . . .
3. A disordered state of the mind or intellect, by which the reason is impaired.
4. In society, vice; corrupt state of morals. Vices are called moral diseases. A wise man converses with the wicked, as a physician with the sick, not to catch the disease, but to cure it.
5. Political or civil disorder, or vices in a state; any practice which tends to disturb the peace of society, or impede or prevent the regular administration of government.
The instability, injustice and confusion introduced into the public councils have, in truth, been the mortal diseases under which popular governments have every where perished. -- 1846 edition of An American Dictionary of the English Language
DISEASE, v.t. dizeze.
1. To interrupt or impair any or all the natural and regular functions of the several organs of a living body [i.e. robbing a neighbor of sleep -- compiler]; to afflict with pain or sickness to make morbid . . .
2. To interrupt or render imperfect the regular functions of the brain, or of the intellect; to disorder; to derange.
3. To infect; to communicate disease to, by contagion.
4. To pain; to make uneasy. -- 1828 edition of Webster's American Dictionary of the English Language

Personally I find it helpful to begin each day by silently committing that day into God's hands [Matthew 6:5-13; Psalm 37:5,6; Proverbs 16:3; Romans 12:1,2; 1 Peter 2:23b; 1 Peter 4:19; ]. I thank Him that I belong to Him [Galatians 3:26; Galatians 4:4,5; Ephesians 1:5; Romans 8:14,16,17,38,39; John 1:12], and I thank Him that He knows what the day holds for me [Providence, omniscience]. I ask Him to take my life that day and use it for His glory [John 15:16,8; Philippians 2:13; Philippians 1:6; John 15:7,8; John 15:10; John 15:4]. I ask Him to cleanse me from anything which would hinder His work [sanctification] in my life. And then I step out in faith [trust Matthew 6:25-34], knowing that His Holy Spirit is filling me continually as I trust in Him and obey [John 14:15-21; John 14:23; John 15:10; Matthew 16:24; Romans 8:37-39] His Word [Isaiah 11:2; John 15:26-27; John 14:15-17; 2 Timothy 1:7; Romans 8:11] -- Billy Graham, from The Holy Spirit: Activating God's Power in Your Life

The depravity of man is at once the most empirically verifiable reality, but at the same time the most intellectually resisted fact. (Genesis 6:5; Genesis 8:21b; Ecclesiastes 9:3b; Jeremiah 17:9; Mark 7:21-23; Ephesians 2:1-3; Titus 3:3-5) -- Malcolm Muggeridge (1903-1990). See John Calvin's Commentary on Isaiah Chapter 33 [Isaiah 33:1-66].

So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God. (Romans 14:12)
http://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/gills-exposition-of-the-bible/romans-14-12.html
http://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/matthew-henry-complete/romans/14.html

The real value of an object is that which one who knows its worth will give for it. He who made the soul, knew its worth, and gave His life for it. -- Arthur Jackson

Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy, to the only wise God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen. (Jude 24,25)

*Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), The Big Umbrella and Other Essays and Addresses on Christian Counseling, 265 pages, ISBN: 0801000580 9780801000584. Alternate title: ESSAYS ON COUNSELING.
"A dozen lectures meant to orient people to the basic ideas of Christian counseling. The 'Big Umbrella' is the notion that mental illness explains any and every difficulty in life. Organic mental malfunction is a much smaller -- and legitimate -- umbrella, but it must not be confused with the vast turf of problems in living. Psychiatrists and others who illegitimately counsel are squatters on the pastor's turf. 'What I wrote [in COMPETENT TO COUNSEL], is only a frail beginning. It is going to take dozens and dozens of us years and years to develop counseling that is fully Christian, clearly defined and articulated.' Treats evangelism in counseling, grief counseling, demon possession, marital and familial communication, abuses of small groups, drugs, masturbation, and homosexuality. 'The kind of counseling that we have been discussing may be structured, but it also is an informal pervasive force among the people of God'." -- David Powlison

Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), Change Them? . . . Into What?: Counseling in America Today, 18 pages.
"Reprint of an address at the University Psychiatric Clinic in Vienna, Austria. 'You are planning to help people; fine. But that means changing them. The question is not only how, but (most basically) -- into what? The Christian replies, "Into the likeness of Jesus Christ".' Discusses the 'general failure of the psychotherapeutic community to succeed in doing anything significant for people and their problems.' Pastors in the 1950s either referred to psychotherapists or sought to incorporate psychotherapy into their practice. Since the mid-60s, however, distinctively biblical counseling has developed. 'This counseling draws upon the wisdom of God in the Scriptures and the power of God in the Holy Spirit.' This is what such counseling looks like: speak the truth in love to responsible people who need to change in order to grow up into the image of Christ." -- David Powlison

*Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), The Christian Counselor's Casebook, ISBN: 0310511615 9780310511618.
"This is 'a workbook designed for individual or class use in conjunction with COMPETENT TO COUNSEL and THE CHRISTIAN COUNSELOR'S MANUAL.' Contains snapshots of 60 opening sessions and 45 cases in process. There are three major purposes: [1] to learn how to identify various sorts of problems according to biblical norms; [2] to lay out biblical plans of action for dealing with problems; [3] to provide familiarity with a wide variety of representative types of problems that counselors encounter." -- David Powlison

*Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), The Christian Counselor's Manual: The Practice of Nouthetic Counseling. Includes bibliographical references and indexes. ISBN: 031051150X 9780310511502.
An in-depth study of counseling problems and their Biblical solutions. The sequel and companion volume to COMPETENT TO COUNSEL.

Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), The Christian Counselor's New Testament: A New Translation in Everyday English, With Notations, Marginal References, and Supplemental Helps, revised and amplified.
"Adams has added numerous counseling-oriented footnotes to his translation of the New Testament, and has made many minor revisions to the text itself in order to enhance readability. The last 70 pages contain the original 'supplemental helps,' a primer on counseling. . . . Marginal notations and footnotes address dozens of topics of practical use to counselors. The Supplemental Helps provide a 60 page summary of nouthetic counseling -- both methodological and conceptual -- and a ready reference. 'Supplemental Helps' reprinted as HELPS FOR COUNSELORS." -- David Powlison

Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), Christian Counselors Wordbook: A Primer in Nouthetic Counseling, ISBN: 0875520693 9780875520698.
"A glossary of frequently encountered counseling terms, defined and discussed in harmony with Biblical directives."

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

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

*Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), Counseling and the Sovereignty of God, 14 pages. Reprint of a chapter from WHAT ABOUT NOUTHETIC COUNSELING? Reprinted in LECTURES ON COUNSELING.
"For people in tough life circumstances there is only one hope: 'Knowing that God knows, that God cares, that God hears their prayers, and that God can and will act in His time and way to work even in this for good to His own. . . a confident assurance that God is sovereign.' Addresses the 'question on the lips of nearly every counselee -- Why? Why did this have to happen? Why did it have to happen to me? Why did it have to happen now?' Lucid summary of Adams's attitudes toward psychology and psychiatry." -- David Powlison

Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), Counseling Workshop: Approaches to Discipleship; Women in Biblical Counseling (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
Audio cassette JA502 [audio file].

Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), Critical Issues #1: A 12-tape Album Briefly Covering Critical Issues Faced in Counseling (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
"This series is not meant to be an exhaustive study of each issue but to define it. Problems of worry and depression -- Group therapy and transactional analysis -- Masturbation, talking about problems -- Nervous breakdowns and marriage problems -- Conscience and self approval -- Drunkenness and suicide -- The disabled and the retarded child -- Inferiority and handling problems -- Devil made me do it/God pleasing work -- Communicating and fear of death -- Too old to change/Restoring brother -- Breaking old habits, why me?"

Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), Effective Communication; Disabled people; Inferiority complex; Unsaved wife; Be prepared! (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).

Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), Essays on Counseling, ISBN: 0310511712 9780310511717. Includes bibliographical references.
"Collected essays on various counseling topics including: 'Is Society Sick?' 'Grief as a Counseling Opportunity,' 'Drugs and Your Child,' and many more." Previously published as THE BIG UMBRELLA AND OTHER ESSAYS ON CHRISTIAN COUNSELING. . . .
"A dozen lectures meant to orient people to the basic ideas of Christian counseling. The 'Big Umbrella' is the notion that mental illness explains any and every difficulty in life. Organic mental malfunction is a much smaller -- and legitimate -- umbrella, but it must not be confused with the vast turf of problems in living. Psychiatrists and others who illegitimately counsel are squatters on the pastor's turf. 'What I wrote [in Competent to Counsel], is only a frail beginning. It is going to take dozens and dozens of us years and years to develop counseling that is fully Christian, clearly defined and articulated.' Treats evangelism in counseling, grief counseling, demon possession, marital and familial communication, abuses of small groups, drugs, masturbation and homosexuality. 'The kind of counseling that we have been discussing may be structured, but it also is an informal pervasive force among the people of God'." -- David Powlison

Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), Giving Hope in Counseling: And Preaching Workshop

Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), God's Standard and Program for Change; God's Methodology for Change (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).

Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), Grist From Adams Mill, ISBN: 0875520790 9780875520797.
"Contains 27 two to four page essays on a wide range of topics: 'tracts for the times.' How does God guide? Where do you get peace? How do you handle interruptions? Dealing with church hoppers? Think: does God hate the sin but love the sinner? Are you clear about the Gospel? How do you handle the influence -- for bad or good -- that people have on one another? How do you deal with differences on biblically debatable matters? What is good music? How can you be professional in your ministry, in the best sense of the word? How do you judge success and failure?" -- David Powlison

Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), Helps for Counselors: A Mini-Manual for Christian Counseling, 63 pages. Reprint of the helps from the back of THE CHRISTIAN COUNSELOR'S NEW TESTAMENT.
Contains: Counselor's quick check list, Fifty failure factors, Remarks and responses, Counseling outlines (for various problems), The counselor's topical worklist, and so forth.

Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), Jay Adams Counseling Series at Sound Word Associates, 23 audio files.
http://www.soundword.com/jay-adams-library-.html

Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), Jay Adams Tape Library at Sound Word Associates
http://www.soundword.com/jay-adams-library-.html
Adams, Jay, Jay Adams Tape Library at Sound Word Associates.
http://www.worldcat.org/search?q=se%3A%22Jay+Adams+Tape+Library.%22&fq=&dblist=638&start=1&qt=page_number_link

*Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), The Jay Adams Set of Commentaries, a series of 10 volumes (Timeless Texts). Alternate title: THE CHRISTIAN COUNSELOR'S COMMENTARY SERIES and TEN VOLUME CHRISTIAN COUNSELOR'S COMMENTARY SERIES.
"This 10-volume series of commentaries is written in everyday English -- a must for laymen as well as the Pastor/Counselor. Jay Adams explains and applies biblical truths in the clear, understandable way that typifies his writing. He does not try to duplicate the standard technical commentaries, but supplements them with the implications of the text for God-honoring counseling and Christian living." -- Publisher

Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), Lectures on Counseling. Includes bibliographical references and index. ISBN: 0801001226 9780801001222.
"This volume brings together three previous title: YOUR PLACE IN THE COUNSELING REVOLUTION, THE USE OF SCRIPTURES IN COUNSELING, and COPING WITH COUNSELING CRISIS. New lectures are: THE STUDENT-PASTOR COUNSELOR TODAY, and COUNSELING AND THE SOVEREIGNTY OF GOD."

Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), Ministering Series.
Contents: The ministry of the church | God is!! Stability we can count on | The environment of God | The balanced Christian | The disciplined life | Setting priorities | Making plans Biblically | Am I a winner? Its joys and responsibilities | The pastor's wife and depression | Christian forgiveness | Pain, does it belong? | Decisions, make them or they make you | Worry, trouble, how to combat it | The Biblical view of divorce | Homosexuality, how to deal with it | Overcoming depression | Grading and degrading, Christian education | Poles apart, who's a Christian? | Baptism for infants.

*Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), The Practical Encyclopedia of Christian Counseling, 202 pages, ISBN: 1889032468 9781889032467.
"THE PRACTICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA OF CHRISTIAN COUNSELING is designed to afford Christian counselors quick reference as well as comprehensive access to the chief principles and practices of biblical counseling. It is called an 'encyclopedia' because a counselor interested in surveying the gamut of those principles and practices will find in this volume a wider variety of subjects than may be located in any other book of biblical counseling. The counseling described here is truly 'Christian' with method and content firmly rooted in careful biblical exegesis. At the same time it is 'practical' because articles consist not merely of definitions and descriptions, but also of application of the material useful to Christian counselors. Although not necessarily the only way these biblical principles can be applied, they are the fruit of years of study and experience in biblical counseling. In short, the book is designed as an aid to the working counselor who needs a quick reference guide. We trust that God will use it to His glory and to the blessing of His people." -- Preface
Some subject include: Abortion | Abuse | Admonition | Adultery | Adversity | Affliction | Aggravation | Anger | Answers | Apology | Assurance | Attitude | Authority | Balance | Behavior | Bizarre behaviour | Breakdown | Christ | Church | Commandments | Confession | Confidentiality | Contentment | Correction | Corruption | Counseling | Crises | Data gathering | Deceit | Dependence | Discipling | Divorce | Doctrine | Drugs | Education | Empathy | Evangelism | Example | Foolishness | Forgetfulness | Forgiveness | Godliness | Gospel | Gossip | Habit | Heresy | Hope | Hostility | How-to | Idolatry | Jesus | Joy | Justification | Legal matters | Legalism | Lying | Marriage | Promises of god | Put on/put off dynamic | Quickening | Radical amputation | Rage | Reconciliation | Referral | Rejuvenation | Repentance | Sanctification | Scripture | Sex | Sin | Teaching | Temptation | Testing | Think list | Thought | Training.

*Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), Shepherding God's Flock: A Handbook on Pastoral Ministry, Counseling and Leadership. Includes bibliographical references and indexes, ISBN: 0310510716 9780310510710.
"The book is divided into three parts: Pastoral Life deals with the pastor, his calling, and the general care he provides the flock. Pastoral Counseling provides an overview of the task and general approach for pastoral counselors. Pastoral Leadership offers a perspective on the ways the pastor can lead the church in its many tasks and responsibilities." -- Publisher
"An 'unparalleled handbook' on ministry for teaching and ruling elders." -- Publisher
"A handbook on pastoral ministry, counseling, and leadership. This book is one of the finest you can get and will help you in the real world. The contents come out of years of working directly with ministers, counselors, and work as a seminary professor." -- GCB

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

*Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), Sovereignty of God in Counseling (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
"Dr. Adams' lecture upon his inauguration as full professor at Westminster Theological Seminary."

*Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), Update on Christian Counseling, volumes 1 and 2, includes MATTERS OF CONCERN TO CHRISTIAN COUNSELORS, ISBN: 0801001536 9780801001536.
"Volume I surveys Biblical teaching on current counseling concerns, e.g. Failure in Counseling, Drugs and Counseling, Getting Organized, etc. . . . Volume II . . . is an evaluation of the latest developments, problems, ideas, and concerns in the field of Christian counseling. This book contains a reviewing of an old article 'Does the Behaviorist Have a Mind?' This series is a must for those who want to be ready. MATTERS OF CONCERN TO CHRISTIAN COUNSELORS is a 'potpourri of principles and practices of Biblical counseling'." Includes bibliographical references.
Essays, on: how counseling affects the counselor; counseling failure; a biblical approach to stress; prescription medications; the Sermon on the Mount as an example of how-to given along with what-to; the problem with apologies; 25 key presuppositions of biblical counseling; structuring counseling; using a Personal Data Inventory; the flexibility of nouthetic counseling; the adaptability of a nouthetic counselor; reminding counselees; definitions of about 115 terms of basic Christian vocabulary, from "Adoption" and "Advent" to "Worship" and "Wrath," do people really get their idea of God from their own fathers?; Christian liberty and questionable practices; counseling disabled people; evaluating transactional analysis; winning an unsaved wife to Christ; using I Corinthians 13 [1 Corinthians 13], in counseling; guidance through "checks" and "promptings"; "Does the Behaviorist Have a Mind?" (reprint of a 1927 article by William Hallock Johnson); eclecticism in counseling; "complicating problems" of various sorts (difficulties growing out of a counselee's primary problem that must be addressed in order to solve the primary problem).

Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), What About Nouthetic Counseling? A Question and Answer Book With History, Help and Hope for the Christian Counselor, ISBN: 0801001145 9780801001147.
" 'A question and answer book with history, help and hope for the Christian counselor.' Discusses the first ten years of the movement, both the gains that have occurred and the opposition and misunderstandings that have arisen. 25 questions and answers engage common misunderstandings and criticisms. For example, Q: 'Do you think that feelings are unimportant?' A: 'Of course not! They play a vital role in the human makeup.' For example, Q: 'Don't you think that we can learn something from psychologists?' A: 'Yes, we can learn a lot; I certainly have. That answer surprised you, didn't it? If it did, you have been led to believe, no doubt that nouthetic counselors are obscurantists who see no good in psychology.' For example, Q: 'Why can't you use the methods of other counseling systems?' A: 'Well-thought-through systems are self-contained packages. . . . Distinguish between methods and means.' Also contains COUNSELING AND THE SOVEREIGNTY OF GOD." -- David Powlison

Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), What do You do When Series.
A pamphlets series including the follow:

  • Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), What do You do When Anger Gets the Upper Hand? Alternate title: YOU CAN DEFEAT ANGER, 8 pages.
    " 'Anger, like a good horse, must be bridled.' Uncontrolled temper is a sin. You can learn to release the energies of anger productively and under control to solve problems." -- David Powlison
  • Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), What do You do When You Become Depressed? Alternate title: YOU CAN CONQUER DEPRESSION.
    "You must know God personally before you can expect Him to give you the help that you need. You must not put the alleviation of depression first as your goal, but rather the desire to please God by doing what He says. You must do exactly as He says regardless of how you feel." -- David Powlison
  • Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), What do You do When Fear Overcomes You? ISBN: 0875520464 9780875520469. Alternate title: YOU CAN OVERCOME FEAR.
    "You must learn to commit yourself prayerfully to doing what God requires of you whether or not you will have a fear experience by doing so. That is the key that will unlock your prison."
  • Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), What do You do When Your Marriage Goes Sour? ISBN: 0875520480 9780875520483. Alternate title: YOU CAN SWEETEN A SOUR MARRIAGE.
    "Love is not first a feeling, because God commands love: to wife, to neighbor, even to enemy. You must learn how to give. You must forgive: a promise not to use it against the person, not to talk to others, not to dwell on it yourself. The husband is responsible to take initiative in love." -- David Powlison
  • Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), What do You do When You Worry all the Time? ISBN: 0875520499 9780875520490. Alternate title: YOU CAN STOP WORRYING.
    A tract by Jay Adams. "Worry is concern about something that one can do nothing about. That is why it tears us apart. 'Christ does not ask you to cease being concerned; instead He tells you to redirect your concern.' Asks three questions: What is my problem?; What does God want me to do about it?; When, where and how should I begin?
  • Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), What to do About Worry, ISBN: 0801000483 9780801000485.
    "Worry is a sin that Christians can learn to overcome. Pray with thanksgiving; find God's solutions; then work on the problem God's way. When you find yourself worrying rather than working, sit down and answer the following three questions: [1] What is my problem?; [2] What does God want me to do about it?; [3] When, where and how should I begin?" -- David Powlison
  • Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), What to do on Thursday: A Layman's Guide to the Practical use of the Scriptures, 135 pages, ISBN: 087552074X 9780875520742.
    "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.
    "This book contains a 'method that, if faithfully followed, will make your Bible a practical Book that you can use, not only on Sunday but on Thursday, and every other day in the week, to solve the problems that you encounter in daily living.' The Bible was written to be used in daily life, but few Christians have ever been taught how to use it. How do you locate (Bible information, pp. 19-49), understand (Bible interpretation, pp. 53-98), and apply (Bible implementation, pp. 101-134), relevant Scripture? Bible information includes a basic orientation to Scripture. Bible interpretation teaches principles of accurate interpretation, how to use Bible study tools, and how to pursue the intent (telos) of a passage. Bible implementation teaches you how to adapt truth to varying life situations. 'Christians must become actors, not reactors. They must learn to choose and develop goals, structure their lives and become actors who consciously do whatever they do in order to attain biblical goals'." -- David Powlison
  • Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), You can Kick the Drug Habit, a tract.
    "If you are hooked on alcohol or other drugs you must learn to put off the old behavior and attitudes and put on the new. Repent of your sin. List ways you are failing God and others. Work with someone who practices biblical counseling to restructure your entire life. Cut off all connections with people who are negative influences. Restructure your life concretely." -- David Powlison
  • Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), What do You do When You Know That You're Hooked?
    • Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), Your Place in the Counseling Revolution, ISBN: 0801001005 9780801001000.
    "The confusion in the counseling world exists because 'they have rejected the one and only perfect and lasting textbook on counseling': the Bible. Christians have all too often accommodated the faith wrongly to secular psychology. God refuses to be brought in as an additive to a pagan system or to be 'discovered' in a pagan theory. Christians have unresolved personal problems; Bible-believers largely neglected matters of practical Christian living during the battles with liberalism. What is your place in the counseling revolution?: [1] the ministry of everyday Christians is described where 'many of the 'one another' verses refer to exhortation, encouragement, restoration, admonition, rebuke and the giving of other sorts of counsel'; [2] if God has called you to full-time counseling, go to seminary to get training in the Bible and go into the pastorate. Reprinted in Lectures on Counseling." -- David Powlison

    Aden, LeRoy (editor), and David G. Benner (editor), Counseling and the Human Predicament: A Study of Sin, Guilt and Forgiveness, ISBN: 0801002184 9780801002182.

    Alchin, R., Randall Patten, Steve Viars, David A. Powlison, John Bettler, et al., Biblical Counseling Workshops, 43 audio files.

  • Dealing with mysticism / J. Adams
  • Handling evangelistic opportunities in counseling / S. Viars
  • On to maturity / John Bettler
  • Executive director's address / Wm. Goode
  • Guidance in counseling / J. Adams
  • Evaluating Christian [sic] in hospital programs / S. Galloway
  • From Freud to Jesus / Richard Ganz
  • Q and A Biblical counseling / Adams, Viars
  • ADHD and Christian parent / Rita Jamison
  • What to know about AIDS / Ed Payne
  • Counseling and nature of righteousness #1 / David Powlison
  • Counseling and nature of righteousness #2 / David Powlison
  • Counseling those who lust for approval / L. Priolo
  • "All truth," a critique / G. Scipione
  • Chronic fatigue syndrome / R. Smith
  • Helping men overcome life dominating lust / John Street
  • Basic track #1 / L. Quinn
  • Basic track #2 / L. Jonas
  • Basic track #3 / John Street
  • Basic track #4 / W. Mack
  • Sexual intimacy in marriage / S. Galloway
  • Ministering to divorced parents / A. Knicely
  • Church discipline for positive benefit / Bill Hill
  • Today's women's problems / M. Peace
  • Counseling in a local church / L. Quinn
  • Biblical answers, psychological explanations / R. Smith
  • Counseling "victims" / R. Somerville
  • Questions of medical ethics / Hilton Terrell
  • Male/female differences / J. McConaughy
  • Premarital counseling for the church /Wm (sic) Mack
  • Dealing with deception / L. Priolo
  • How to become a NANC member / Goode, Scipione
  • Issues in marriage counseling / Bill Slattery
  • Counseling those who are depressed / Dan Wickert
  • Being who God called you to be / Richard Ganz
  • Counseling teens from Proverbs / R. Allchin
  • Marks of male maturity / John Bettler
  • Parents, get to their minds / Tim Turner
  • Ministering to children of divorced / A. Knicely
  • Session one, getting started / R. Patten
  • Psychotropic drugs in laymen's terms / W. Wendling
  • Contemporary medical issues / Dan Wickert
  • Biblical response to suffering / Wilkerson."
    • Alexander, Archibald (1772-1851), Counsels of the Aged to the Young.

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

    *Alexander, Archibald (1772-1851), Practical Truths, 1857.
    "This 400-page reprint by one of the Old Princeton 'greats' will be welcome indeed. The book is in three sections: short articles on practical Christian living subjects; a series of longer articles on doctrinal and theological subjects; and finally a series of dialogues in defense of the faith, etc." -- GCB

    Alleine, Richard, Samuel Annesley (preface), and Don Kistler (editor), Instructions About Heartwork, ISBN: 1573581348 9781573581349.

    Almy, Gary, and Carol Tharp Almy, with Jerry Jenkins, Addicted to Recovery: Exposing the False Gospel of Psychotherapy: Escaping the Trap of Victim Mentality, ISBN: 1565071859 9781565071858, 251 pages.
    "The Almys are medical doctors who have written a polemic against the pop psychologies that have recently swept into the church. Through a series of detailed case studies, they portray the dynamics operative in therapeutically-induced false memories, the healing of memories, multiple personality disorder, unmet love needs, and codependency." -- David Powlison

    Baker, Don, Beyond Forgiveness: The Healing Touch of Church Discipline, ISBN: 0880700548 9780880700542.

    Baxter, Richard (1615-1691), The Certainty of the Worlds of Spirits. Fully Evinced by the Unquestionable Histories of Apparitions, Operations, Witchcrafts, Voices, etc. Proving the Immortality of Souls, the Malice and Misery of the Devils and the Damned, and the Blessedness of the Justified. Written for the conviction of Sadduces and Infidels. By Richard Baxter, 1691, ISBN: 9781150756948 1150756942.
    "This, as it is among the quaintest and most curious, is also the rarest of Baxter's writings." -- Alexander B. Grosart
    Baxter, The Certainty of the Worlds of Spirits, and Consequently, of the Immortality of Souls . . . of the Malice and Misery of the Devils, and the Damned. And of the Blessedness of the Justified: Fully Evinced by Unquestionable Histories of Apparitions, Operations, Witchcrafts, Voices, &c., 1691
    http://archive.org/details/certaintyofworld00baxt
    See also: Baxter, Richard (1615-1691), and Cotton Mather (1663-1728), The Certainty of the World of Spirits Fully Evinced, 3rd edition, to which was added Cotton Mather, THE WONDERS OF THE INVISIBLE WORLD.
    Mather, Cotton (1663-1728), The Wonders of the Invisible World, (singly).
    Mather, Cotton, and Increase Mather, The Wonders of the Invisible World: Being an Account of the Tryals of Several Witches Lately (1862)
    http://archive.org/details/wondersinvisibl01mathgoog

    *Baxter, Richard (1615-1691), The Practical Works of Richard Baxter: With a Preface, Giving Some Account of the Author, and of This Edition of his Practical Works, 4 volumes (Soli Deo Gloria Publications, 2000), originally published: London: G. Virtue, 1846, ISBN: 1877611379 9781877611377 (4 vol. set), ISBN: 1877611131 9781877611131 (A CHRISTIAN DIRECTORY, vol. 1). A Christian classic.
    "THE PRACTICAL WORKS OF RICHARD BAXTER (4 large volumes), are a rare find indeed. This set includes the unabridged edition of A CHRISTIAN DIRECTORY: BAXTER'S PRACTICAL WORKS (VOLUME 1), A CALL TO THE UNCONVERTED (VOLUME 2), THE SAINT'S EVERLASTING REST: BAXTER'S PRACTICAL WORKS (VOLUME 3), THE REFORMED PASTOR: BAXTER'S PRACTICAL WORKS (VOLUME 4), TREATISE OF SELF-DENIAL, AND THE ONE THING NECESSARY, and much, much more." -- Publisher

    *Baxter, Richard (1615-1691), A Christian Directory: Baxter's Practical Works, Vol. 1. Full title: A Christian Directory: or A Sum of Practical Theology, and Cases of Conscience. Directing Christians how to use Their Knowledge and Faith; How to Improve all Helps and Means, and to Perform all Duties; How to Overcome Temptations, and to Escape or Mortify Every Sin. In Four Parts.
    I. Christian Ethics (or Private Duties)
    II. Christian Economics (or Family Duties)
    III. Christian Ecclesiastics (or Church Duties)
    IV. Christian Politics (or Duties to Our Rulers and Neighbours)     (Morgan, PA: Soli Deo Gloria Publications, 1997, 1990, 1838, 1707, 1678, 1673), ISBN: 1877611131 9781877611131. Foreword by J.I. Packer (Soli Deo Gloria edition only). The Soli Deo Gloria publication is a facsimile reprint of the 19th century reprint by George Virtue, London, 1846. The original 1673 edition and the 1678 edition, both printed by Robert White for Nevill Simmons. Bibliographic and scriptural footnotes. A Christian classic. Considered to be among the ten greatest books in the English language. Available (less the J.I. Packer's Foreword, but searchable with an OCR-based index), on the Puritan Hard Drive.
    This work is available in many editions, and in many formats.
    Reformation Heritage Books has new copies of the Soli Deo Gloria edition (including the J.I. Packer Introduction), as of March 2008, even though it is generally thought to be out of print. They acquired Soli Deo Gloria from Ligonier Ministries in late 2007.
    The best digital format of the reprint by George Virtue is included on the Puritan Hard Drive. It has an OCR scan in the background, meaning one can search the entire volume and copy text into another document. It also has a computer generated indexed from the OCR scan which is, of course, in Baxter's vocabulary.
    A PDF image scan only of the same edition is available on the Reformation Bookshelf CD #21.
    The reprint by George Virtue is available online and may be downloaded in PDF format at Christian Classics Ethereal Library.
    The reprint by George Virtue appears in full preview in Google Books but may not be downloaded. So it is useful if the reader wants to become acquainted with the book. Text can be searched, but can not be copied into another document. This particular Google Books scan includes the contents in detail on pages iii-xix which is not included in the Christian Classics Ethereal Library PDF files. About five other editions from libraries are available in Google Books, and may be downloaded (August 2008).
    Notice that the e-text in Google Books has the advantage of being searchable. Searching an image-based PDF file (without an OCR scan in the background), is not possible, unless the user owns software such as Abode Acrobat Pro or Kirtas BookScan Editor. They both have an OCR (optical character recognition), feature that will search an image-based PDFs (bit-map scans). Searches appear to be perfect in this work, although one must know Baxter's vocabulary. Text can be cut and pasted from image-based PDF format to OCR (character) format. This particular Google Books scan can not be cut and pasted or downloaded.
    One of the older, multi-volume editions of THE WORKS OF RICHARD BAXTER is available at Monergism.com in the "Puritan Library," "Richard Baxter." A CHRISTIAN DIRECTORY, volume 23. It can be downloaded.
    http://www.puritanlibrary.com/
    Another older edition is available on microfilm (Ann Arbor, MI: University Microfilms, 1970), 1 microfilm reel, 35 mm (Early English books, 1641-1700; 343:11).
    "The complete practical works of Richard Baxter are in print in four volumes entitled BAXTER'S PRACTICAL WORKS. This volume (about 1 1/4 million words, 1028 pages), is volume one of the set. The editor's preface (1707), p. xiii, stated that the works of Richard Baxter are 'perhaps the best body of practical divinity that is extent in our own or any other tongue.' Richard Baxter lived from 1615-1691. The DIRECTORY was completed in 1665. Its scope was intended to cover all of practical theology, a summa of casuistry . . ." -- Don Kistler
    "Baxter's series, which grew in range and scope as it proceeded . . . is a peak point in Puritan devotional writing, and remains a precious resource for all, in this or any age, who want to know what is involved in Biblical godliness. . . . A CHRISTIAN DIRECTORY may justly be described as a landmark. It is the fullest, most thorough, and in this writer's judgment, most profound treatment of Christian spirituality and standards that has ever been attempted by an English-speaking Evangelical author. The fact that it embraces both spirituality and standards (the principles of communion with God plus the specifics of obedience to God), merits approving comment in itself; nowadays spirituality and ethics have become two distinct disciplines in the schools, and books written on either say virtually nothing about the other . . ." -- J.I. Packer (1926-2020)
    Timothy Keller calls it the greatest manual on Biblical counseling ever produced.
    "There are many Puritan classics on this subject. Thomas Brooks' PRECIOUS REMEDIES FOR SATAN'S DEVICES, Thomas Goodwin's A CHILD OF LIGHT WALKING IN DARKNESS, William Bridge's A LIFTING UP FOR THE DOWNCAST, and many other similar works give evidence that the Puritans were. . . . masters at applying Biblical answers and principles to problems that can only be solved by spiritual means. No Puritan work, however, has ever approached the popularity, the scope, or the depth of Baxter's classic treatise. With the widespread interest in counseling in today's church, this reprint of Baxter's work should be a welcome addition to every pastor's library, or to anyone else who wishes to give solid Biblical answers to man's questions." -- Don Kistler
    "We have long waited for a purely Biblical treatment of the spiritual ills and cures of men which is untainted by the views of psychology. Since Baxter lived about 200 years before psychology arrived, his deep work is completely void of its encroachment -- thankfully!" -- John MacArthur
    "The kings men sought to arrest Richard Baxter, but he traveled ceaselessly from place to place, writing his sermons and his books even on horseback (he had an inkwell in his saddle), and preached over a wide area." -- Brian H. Edwards
    "Baxter was a wonder of his age. His writings total 72 large volumes, much of it written on horseback as he traveled in his widespread preaching efforts. He seldom, if ever, edited anything he wrote. Knowing this any reader will be amazed at how well he communicated his deep love for his Savior. For 26 years he was public enemy No. 1 to the king, yet he lived to see the flight of the king in 1688." -- Jay P. Green, Sr. (1918-2008)
    POOR MAN'S FAMILY BOOK (1674) and THE CATECHIZING OF FAMILIES (1683), are less detailed works and are found in THE REFORMED PASTOR: BAXTER'S PRACTICAL WORKS, VOL. 4. They are more suitable for family instruction than are the detailed presentation in A CHRISTIAN DIRECTORY.
    "Ptacek in FAMILY WORSHIP: BIBLICAL BASIS, HISTORICAL REALITY, CURRENT NEED (pp. 51-52), supplies the following information in regard to Baxter and this book. He notes that after the Episcopalians ejected numerous 'nonconformists,' in what is know as the 'great ejection,' in 1662, 'Baxter pastored from house to house, visiting families of his parish in their homes. These visits contributed to Baxter's A CHRISTIAN DIRECTORY, a large and still very relevant manual of pastoral care.' Focusing on just one area of great importance, Ptacek demonstrates how this book's relevance is not limited by time or culture, though sometimes the use of specific words are. 'Published in 1673, but written 1664-65, a large book-length part of Baxter's CHRISTIAN DIRECTORY is devoted to the family. It is entitled 'Christian Economics' based on the archaic usage of the word, which reflects the proper sense of the Greek root oikonomos as the manager of a household, in the Christian case, the spiritual leader of the family. The family head is essential to Baxter's view of family worship and instruction. Baxter asserts that it is God's will that this instruction be carried out by the rulers of the families.' For a male head of the household to fail to do so, or to have another instruct in the family, is contrary to his position of authority.' This is the kind of book that can be passed on from generation to generation and still find much use in the service of the kingdom of God.
    "Though relatively weak on corporate sanctification, corporate faithfulness and some important areas of doctrine (such as justification), Baxter's work on subjects related to personal piety can be of good practical use to the Christian -- if one is careful to separate out his aberrant doctrinal views and any practical errors they may lead to." -- Publisher
    The following three excerpts are included as bonus free books on Reformation Bookshelf CD #28.
    1. "The Duties of Parents for Their Children" from BAXTER'S PRACTICAL WORKS, VOL. 1, A CHRISTIAN DIRECTORY, on Christian Economics, Chap. X., pp. 449-454.
    2. "The Special Duties of Children Towards Their Parents" from BAXTER'S PRACTICAL WORKS, VOL. 1, A CHRISTIAN DIRECTORY, on Christian Economics, Chap. XI., pp. 454-457.
    3. "The Special Duties of Children and Youth Towards God" from BAXTER'S PRACTICAL WORKS, VOL. 1, A CHRISTIAN DIRECTORY, on Christian Economics, Chap. XII., pp. 457-458).
    A summary of currently (2012) available publications.
    http://www.lettermen2.com/pwrbcd.html
    Richard Baxter, from Wikipedia
    http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Richard_Baxter

    *Baxter, Richard (1615-1691), A Call to the Unconverted: Baxter's Practical Works, Vol. 2, ISBN: 1877611158 9781877611155. A Christian classic.
    "This is the second of four volumes constituting the complete works of this giant of the faith. This huge volume, over 1000 pages, gathers together such penetrating topics as THE UNPARDONABLE SIN, THE SPIRIT'S WITNESS TO THE TRUTH OF CHRISTIANITY, THE ARROGANCY OF REASON AGAINST DIVINE REVELATION, A CALL TO THE UNCONVERTED, NOW OR NEVER, A SAINT OR A BRUTE, GOD'S GOODNESS VINDICATED, THE CHARACTER OF A SOUND, CONFIRMED CHRISTIAN, and others." -- GCB
    This volume also contains A CALL TO THE UNCONVERTED, THE REASONABLENESS OF THE CHRISTIAN RELIGION, THE UNREASONABLENESS OF INFIDELITY, A TREATISE OF CONVERSION, AND CHARACTER OF A SOUND CONFIRMED CHRISTIANS.
    Translations: A Call to the Unconverted (singly), Dutch; French; Danish; Polish.

    *Baxter, Richard (1615-1691), The Saint's Everlasting Rest: Baxter's Practical Works, Vol. 3, ISBN: 187761128X 9781877611285. A Christian classic.
    "Third in the four-volume set. Includes The Saint's Everlasting Rest; Treatise of Self-Denial; The Life of Faith; Obedient Patience, and many more. Over 1000 pages." -- GCB
    "This is the greatest treatment on Heaven ever to appear! . . ." -- Wilbur M. Smith.
    The Saints' Everlasting Rest, (singly) Richard Baxter, edited by Benjamin Fawcett
    "Discusses the nature, excellencies, design, rejection, necessity, of the Saints' rest. Calls us to live the heavenly life now." -- GCB
    http://www.ccel.org/b/baxter/everlasting_rest/saints_rest.html

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

    *Baxter, Richard (1615-1691), A Treatise of Knowledge and Love Compared in THE REFORMED PASTOR: BAXTER'S PRACTICAL WORKS, VOL. 4, ISBN: 1877611360. A Christian classic.
    Long title: A Treatise of Knowledge and Love Compared. In two Parts: 1. Of Falsely Pretended Knowledge. II. Of True Saving Knowledge and Love. I. Against Hasty Judging, and False Conceits of Knowledge; and for Necessary Suspension. II. The Excellency of Divine Love, and the Happiness of Being Known and Loved of God. Written as greatly necessary to the safety and peace of every Christian, and of the Church: the only certain way to escape false religions, heresies, sects, and malignant prejudices, persecutions, and sinful wars; all caused by falsely pretended knowledge, and hasty judging, by proud, ignorant men, who know not their ignorance.

    Beechick, Ruth, A Biblical Psychology of Learning: How Your Mind Works, ISBN: 0896360830.
    "May be the finest book on the contemporary scene that explains the learning process, while allowing the Scriptures to judge the vast array of learning theories. The mode of learning the author presents and her discussion of creativity, higher thinking, and the spiritual developmental tasks are provocative. But her use of the Biblical concept of the heart marks the book with its uniqueness. It pries open a variety of areas with a new touch." -- Warren S. Benson

    Beeke, Joel R., and Randall J. Pederson, Meet the Puritans: With a Guide to Modern Reprints, ISBN: 1601780001.
    "It's endorsed by Packer, Piper, MacArthur, Sproul, Duncan, Mohler, Ferguson -- and the recommendations go on and on.
    "It's packed with terse information, illustrations, great biographies on more than 140 individual Puritan authors, overviews of over 700 individual Puritan volumes, a list of all the known reprints published between 1956 and 2005, excellent articles, and a glossary of terms used. At 900 pages, its a deep well of information. As cloth bound, it's made to endure years of use.
    "Important helps include chapters on who the Puritans are, why we should read them, and short histories of the English, Scottish and Dutch Puritans. I found the short history of the resurgence of Puritan literature in the 20th century especially interesting.
    "Here is just one quote, taken from the section explaining why we should read the Puritans today:

    With the Spirit's blessing, Puritan writings can enrich your life as a Christian in many ways as they open the Scriptures and apply them practically, probing your conscience, indicting your sins, leading you to repentance, shaping your faith, guiding your conduct, comforting you in Christ and conforming you to Him, and bringing you into full assurance of salvation and a lifestyle of gratitude to the triune God for His great salvation (xix).
    "Perfect for the beginner and the more advanced reader, MEET THE PURITANS will help guide and direct your way through the forest of Puritan authors.
    "In summary, I cannot say it better than our friend, Dr. Ligon Duncan:
    Joel Beeke and Randall Pederson have produced a tremendous gift to and resource for all who want an entryway into the study of the Puritans. They not only provide accurate biographical and theological introduction to every Puritan whose works have been reprinted in the last fifty years, but also combine with their helpful summaries an insightful analysis. If this were not enough, they've added major appendices that include the so-called Scottish Puritans (that is, the great Scottish theologians who were contemporaries of and like-minded brethren in doctrine and piety with the English Puritans), as well as the Dutch Further Reformation divines. MEET THE PURITANS, WITH A GUIDE TO MODERN REPRINTS is a must have. I know of nothing like it. If you are looking for a reliable window into the life, theology, piety and ministry of the Puritans -- this is it.
    The format of the book is simple. After a Preface explaining how to profit from reading the Puritans, a brief word about where to begin and a brief history of English Puritanism, there comes a long list of authors. Each author has his own chapter containing a short biography and a list of his books that have been reprinted. There is a review of each book along with publishing information and the number of pages. And that is the heart of the book and continues for some 800 pages. Five appendices deal with collections of Puritan writings, Scottish divines, Dutch further Reformation divines, secondary sources on the Puritans and a final word on Puritanism courtesy of J.I. Packer. In short, this is a one-stop-shop for all you could want to know as a beginner to the Puritans. And if you are already a fan of their writing, this book will lead you further and deeper, guiding you to the best books available." -- Reader's Comment

    Belgum, David Rudolph, When it's Your Turn to Decide: A Hospital Chaplain Helps you Make Medical Decisions, ISBN: 0806616164 9780806616162.

    *Bennett, Arthur (editor), The Valley of Vision: A Collection of Puritan Prayers and Devotions, ISBN: 0851518214 9780851518213.
    "The prayers are taken from the works of Thomas Shepard, Thomas Watson, Richard Baxter, John Bunyan, Isaac Watts, William Williams, Philip Doddridge, William Romaine, David Brainerd, Augustus Toplady, Christmas Evans, William Jay, Henry Law, and Charles Haddon Spurgeon" -- Arthur Bennett
    "Contains a wealth of insight into the practical application of Puritan theology to the Christian life. Challenging." -- Cyril J. Barber

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

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

    *Bridges, Charles (1794-1869), The Christian Ministry, With an Inquiry Into the Causes of its Inefficiency, ISBN: 1428610979. A Christian classic.
    "Bridges was a minister in England into the nineteenth century. . . . This book has been considered a classic book for ministers almost since it was written in 1829. . . ." -- Jay P. Green, Sr. (1918-2008)


    Broger, John C., Self-confrontation Course Series

    Two sets of material are listed alphabetically below, the original Self-confrontation Course Series, and the new course material updated by John Broger in retirement after The Biblical Counseling Foundation moved to Palm Desert, California (c. 1991). During this time the courses were being taught at Vanguard University of Southern California, a non-profit Christian university of liberal arts and professional studies in Costa Mesa, California. It seems that the original material was updated in following years and given new titles.

    Broger, John C. (1915-2002), Biblical Principles for Discipleship/counseling, 1998, 47 pages.
    John Broger compiled and edited this for Vanguard University of Southern California alumnus.
    Biblical Counseling Foundation
    http://bcfministries.org

    Broger, John C. (1915-2002), Course I: Instructor's Guide for the 24-week Self-confrontation Course, 2000, 233 pages.
    This his appears to be an update of the COURSE I: INSTRUCTOR'S GUIDE.

    Broger, John C. (1915-2002), Course I: Self-confrontation Course. Handbook for the Ministry of Discipleship/Counseling, 2001, 264 pages.
    This seems to be an update of the SELF-CONFRONTATION SYLLABUS (COURSE I)

    *Broger, John C. (developer/editor, 1915-2002), Course I: The Self-Confrontation Syllabus for Biblical Counseling Training, 1994 (reprint of 1978 edition, various paging), and Course I: Self-Confrontation Tapes (10 cassette tapes), [audio file], (Rancho Mirage, CA: Biblical Counseling Foundation).
    "Contains 24 weekly lessons intended to move a person through the change process personally as the foundation for working on becoming a counselor (Matthew 7:1-5). Intended for Sunday school and other classes or personal study. The first eight lessons lay the biblical foundation for change. The grace of the God in the gospel of Jesus Christ is spring of all true change, and it prompts a self-confrontation: 'Man's way is oriented to self: to please self, to comfort self, to rely on self, to fulfill self, to forgive self, to exalt self, and to love self. . . . [God's way], emphasizes that you are to live for Him.' The next thirteen lessons treat particular problem areas: selfishness, anger, interpersonal conflict, marriage and family, depression, fear, life-dominating sins. The final three lessons summarize and set the foundation for Course II, Biblical Counseling Training." -- David Powlison
    "Helps Christians solve their personal problems Biblically and equips laymen and women to counsel others Biblically within the church." Particularly valuable for its system of identifying root problems in counseling cases. Some of the material presented is from various writings by Jay E. Adams. The audio cassette tape [audio file], series by John Broger is designed to accompany the course and includes practical examples."

    Broger, John C. (1915-2002), Course II, Instructor's Guide for Training in Biblical Discipleship/Counseling, 2001, 184 pages.
    Biblical Counseling Foundation
    http://bcfministries.org

    *Broger, John C. (developer/editor, 1915-2002), Course II: Nouthetic Counseling Study Guide, 2001, 120 pages.
    Also available: Course II: Self-confrontation Tapes (8 audio files), (Rancho Mirage, CA: Biblical Counseling Foundation).

    Broger, John C. (1915-2002), Course III: Instructor's Guide for Training in Biblical Discipleship/Counseling, 2001, 138 pages.
    This seems to be new course material in Biblical Counseling.

    Broger, John C. (1915-2002), Course III: Syllabus for Training in Biblical Discipleship/Counseling, 2001, 166 pages.

    Broger, John C. (1915-2002), Instructor's Guide for the Self-confrontation Course [Course I -- compiler]: Based on the Old and New Testaments as the Only Authoritative Rule of Faith and Conduct, 1992, 119 pages, ISBN: 1878114026 9781878114020.

    Broger, John C. (1915-2002), Man's way vs. God's way, 1991, 22 pages.

    Broger, John C. (1915-2002), Your Resources in Christ, 1991, 26 pages.

    Broger, John C. (compiler and developer, 1915-2002), and Jay Edward Adams, Competent to Counsel: Study Guide for Christian Counseling Training Course, 2001, 1 volume (various pagings) in loose-leaf binder: illustrations; 28 cm. Alternate title: STUDY GUIDE FOR CHRISTIAN COUNSELING TRAINING COURSE.
    Not to be confused with COMPETENT TO COUNSEL, 1998, 320 pages, by Jay Adams.

    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

    *Brooks, Thomas (1608-1680), Precious Remedies Against Satan's Devices, ISBN: 0851510027 9780851510026. A Christian classic.
    "The best Christian authors of former times treated the seductive influence and terrible power of Satan in a way 'greatly more full and suggestive than in the literature of the present day'." -- William Grimshaw
    " 'The strange opposition that I met with from Satan, in the study of the following discourse, hath put an edge upon my spirit, knowing that Satan strives mightily to keep these things from seeing the light that tend eminently to shake and break his kingdom of darkness, and to lift up the kingdom and glory of the Lord Jesus Christ, in the souls and lives of the children of men . . .' This is one of the seven reasons for writing his book which the author, Thomas Brooks, gives in his preface." -- Publisher

    *Brown, John (of Edinburgh, 1784-1858), Discourses and Sayings of our Lord Jesus Christ, 3 volumes, ISBN: 0851515819 (one ISBN for the set of 3 volumes). A Christian classic. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
    "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. (1918-2008)
    "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."
    Discourses and Sayings of our Lord Jesus Christ: Illustrated in a Series of Expositions, 1854, vol. 1 of 2.
    http://archive.org/details/discoursessaying01brow
    Discourses and Sayings of our Lord Jesus Christ, vol. 2 of 2.
    http://archive.org/details/discoursessaying02brow
    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: (Gardners Books, 2006), and (Hard Press, November 26, 2007).
    Both volume are "produced from digital images created through the University of Michigan University Library's preservation reformatting program." -- Publisher

    Brown, John (of Haddington, 1722-1787), The Christian Journal: or, Common Incidents, Spiritual Instructors: Being a Series of Meditations on a Spring, Summer, Harvest, Winter, and Sabbath-day, 1795. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #7.

    *Brown, John (of Wamphray, 1610-1679), The Life of Justification Opened, or, A Treatise Grounded Upon Gal. 3.11 [Galatians 3:11]: Wherein the Orthodox Doctrine of Justification by Faith, and Imputation of Christ's Righteousness, is clearly expounded, solidly confirmed, and learnedly vindicated from the various Objections of its Adversaries. Whereunto are subjoined some Arguments against Universal Redemption, 1695. A Christian classic. Considered to be among the ten greatest books in the English language. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive (a single copy may be downloaded). Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #20.
    "In 1828 Dr. Burns wrote, 'Mr. John Brown was unquestionably one of the most eminent divines Scotland has yet produced, as his numerous writings, still carefully sought after by solid and judicious Christians, fully evince.' (Johnston, Treasury of the Scottish Covenant, p. 339). Regarding this book Dr. Walker noted, 'By far our most thorough exposition and discussion of the doctrine it handles; and all the more to be prized because of the particular bearing it has on the new views which Baxter and others had begun to propagate, and which in some shape are ever returning upon ourselves.' (Ibid., p. 341). Interestingly, Brown, in the preface, after warning against Arminianism 'as the immediate way to introduce Popery' states, 'Yea even those who were purer in appearance, pressing the moral duties and practical doctrine of piety (I mean the followers of that famous Minister Mr. Richard Baxter), did corrupt the true doctrine of justification, because they adopted universal grace and redemption.' One of the best, if not the best, books ever written on the topic of justification!" -- Publisher
    The Life of Justification Opened, John Brown (of Wamphray, 1610-1679)
    http://reformedlayman.com/LifeofJustification_by_Brown/Cover.htm

    Bufford, Rodger, K., Counseling and the Demonic, ISBN: 0849905990 9780849905995. Includes bibliography.
    "This work reflects careful thought, detailed examination of the Scriptures, a familiarity with the increasing professional literature in the field, and personal counseling experience." -- GCB
    "Throughout human history, the question of demonic influence has been a controversial one. It continues to be so now, when there are two widely held views. According to the first view, demons are everywhere. Those who believe this are preoccupied with demons and with efforts to appease, avoid, or escape them. The second view discounts demons, looking on them as irrelevant, at best, or even nonexistent. Both these views are mistaken. Unfortunately, reality is both less comfortable and more complex than either outlook permits." -- Reader's Comment
    "This book on counseling and the demonic by Dr. Rodger Bufford is part of the notable Resources for Christian Counseling series, a series which seeks to combine the best insights from psychology with strict adherence to biblical truth." -- Publisher

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

    *Calvin, John (1509-1564), Calvin's Ecclesiastical Advice.
    "Forty-six (46) letters and writings of Calvin newly translated into English from CORPUS REFORMATORUM (volume 38, part I). Focusing on doctrine, the Reformation, worship, discipline, judicial questions, and marriage, this books clearly exhibits Calvin's pastoral style. It also shows the great influence which Calvin exerted over Second Reformation thought, because of his focus on doctrine, worship and church government." -- Publisher

    *Calvin, John (1509-1564), and John Graham Miller (contributor), Calvin's Wisdom: An Anthology Arranged Alphabetically by a Grateful Reader, ISBN: 0851516246 9780851516240.
    "This anthology (arranged alphabetically by topic), also becomes a dictionary of his thought and almost an encyclopedia of his theology." -- GCB
    Calvin's Wisdom: An Anthology Arranged Alphabetically by a Grateful Reader, Jean Calvin, John Graham Miller
    http://books.google.com/books?id=_VsuAAAACAAJ&ie=ISO-8859-1&output=html

    *Calvin, Jean (John, 1509-1564), and John H. Leith, The Christian Life, ISBN: 0060612983 9780060612986.
    Calvin, On the Christian Life
    http://www.ccel.org/calvin/christian_life/christian_life.html

    *Calvin, Jean (John, 1509-1564), and John Owen (Vicar of Thrussington, Leicestershire, translator and editor), Commentaries on the Epistle of Paul the Apostle to the Romans. Alternate title: COMMENTARY ON ROMANS, BY JOHN CALVIN, and THE EPISTLE OF THE APOSTLE PAUL TO THE ROMANS.
    Romans is Paul's most comprehensive statement of the Gospel. It unites the various themes of the Bible, and therefore is the key to understanding all Scripture.
    Commentary on Romans, by John Calvin (1509-1564)
    http://www.biblestudyguide.org/comment/calvin/comm_vol38/htm/TOC.htm

    *Calvin, John (1509-1564), Letters of John Calvin, 2 volumes, ISBN: 9780548138700 0548138702. Available [CALVIN'S SELECTED WORKS, TRACTS AND LETTERS, 7 volumes], on the Puritan Hard Drive.

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

    Christian Legal Society, and the Christian Conciliation Services, Peacemaker's Handbook (Annandale, VA: Christian Legal Society, 1978).
    C. Ken Sande, editor.

    Cook, Earl, Counseling Children (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).

    Curro, Ellen, Caring Enough to Help: Counseling at a Crisis Pregnancy Center, ISBN: 0801025516 9780801025518.
    "Much valuable information for training volunteers to serve at a crisis pregnancy center is included here. The entire Christian community will see how it can make a difference by touching hurting lives." -- GCB

    Davis, D. Clair, Resolving Conflict (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).

    *Delitzsch, Franz, A System of Biblical Psychology, 2nd edition (Edinburg, Scotland: 1869).
    "The greatest single work on Biblical psychology ever written."

    Dineen, Tana, Manufacturing Victims, ISBN: 189585458X 9781895854589.
    "Dr. Tana Dineen clearly demonstrates that providers of psychological therapy do manufacture victims.
    "Dineen knows the profession from her experience of twenty years on the inside. Contrary to most practicing therapists, Dineen knows the research regarding the efficacy of psychotherapy. Through the years she saw more and more problems with the profession and finally closed her practice. In her book she provides enough scientific research to discourage anyone from ever wanting to combine psychology with Christianity. She also reveals the many ways in which therapists do create victims. We believe every Christian leader should read MANUFACTURING VICTIMS.
    "Another eye-opening book is HOUSE OF CARDS: PSYCHOLOGY AND PSYCHOTHERAPY BUILT ON MYTH by Dr. Robyn M. Dawes, who is a widely recognized researcher and a professor at Carnegie-Mellon University. His book demolishes all pretensions of psychological counseling theories and therapies and relegates clinical psychology to the realm of pseudoscience.
    "In his book THE CRISIS IN PSYCHIATRY AND RELIGION, O. Hobart Mowrer poses this question: 'Has evangelical religion sold its birthright for a mess of psychological pottage?' Yes, that is exactly what evangelical Christianity has done! Isn't it time to confess that horrible sin, throw out the psychological stew and cleave to the Lord and all He has given through the New Birth?" -- Reader's Comment

    *Dowdy, Augustus W., Jr., Phone Power, ISBN: 0817006524 9780817006525.
    "Brief but very helpful, with practical ideas on communication by phone and many practical ways to use the phone within the local ministry of the church. Has a helpful appendix on where to go for information on hotlines and telephone ministries." -- Robert B. Somerville

    Durham, James, The Scandal of Stumbling Blocks: Avoiding Spiritual Harm, ISBN: 1601788010 9781601788016.
    "Christians are runners in the race to glory. The last thing a believer wants to do is cause another runner to trip and fall. Yet, as James Durham powerfully proves, Christians can become stumbling blocks -- often without considering how their words or actions impact others. Carefully edited for modern consumption, this much-needed classic work helps us to be encouragers rather than obstacles. Every Christian should read this book!" -- Joel R. Beeke
    "A new book helps you avoid causing spiritual harm through the application of biblical counsel. In THE SCANDAL OF STUMBLING BLOCKS, James Durham helps us to consider the matter deeply by defining the nature of stumbling as well as showing its serious consequences. He looks in considerable detail at different kinds of stumbling and identifies the ways that people can stumble and be stumbled. Durham provides practical advice for avoiding and preventing offense.
    "Now edited in modern English, Durham's classic treatment on considerate Christianity can be used to edify a new generation." -- Publisher

    *Enroth, Ronald M., Churches That Abuse: Help for Those Hurt by Legalism, Authoritarian Leadership, Manipulation, Excessive Discipline, ISBN: 0804220328 9780804220323.
    Includes bibliographical references.

    Falkowski, Carol, Dangerous Drugs: An Easy to use Reference for Parents and Professionals, ISBN: 1568389817 9781568389813.
    "In a world where the drug abuse scene is more confusing and dangerous than ever, the second edition of DANGEROUS DRUGS: AN EASY TO USE REFERENCE FOR PARENTS AND PROFESSIONALS is the answer. Now with color photos of drugs and paraphernalia, DANGEROUS DRUGS is a concise, comprehensive, clear, and handy reference that answers your questions at a glance, with: -- Up-to-date information on drugs of abuse -- Demographics of users. -- Explanations of how a drug is used; where it's found and how it affects the mind and body -- The names and forms under which drugs are sold -- Their addictive, lethal, and overdose potential -- Signs of drug abuse and where/how to seek help, and more. Written in clear language, Dangerous Drugs provides straightforward, authoritative, comprehensive, and up-to-the-minute information. It covers the full range of drugs of abuse, whether illegal (marijuana, heroin, cocaine, LSD, methamphetamine, etc.), or legal (alcohol, prescription, tobacco, or Internet-marketed, herbal remedies). Dangerous Drugs is written for professionals and non-professionals alike, and is a book that no one concerned about drug use can afford to be without.
    "Carol Falkowski, Director of Research Communications at the Hazelden Foundation, is author of the new reference book, DANGEROUS DRUGS: AN EASY-TO-USE REFERENCE FOR PARENTS AND PROFESSIONALS. For nearly 20 years she has monitored drug abuse trends at the national level, as one of 20 researchers in the country who participates in a drug abuse monitoring network of the National Institute of Drug Abuse. Falkowski advised the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (1995-1999), regarding the safety, efficacy, and abuse potential of certain drugs, and has provided consultation to the National Institute of Justice, the National Drug Intelligence Center, Join Together, and numerous states. Before coming to Hazelden in 1997, she was research coordinator at the Minnesota state alcohol and drug abuse authority for 15 years. Falkowski was featured in the 1999 Showtime documentary by Robert Zemeckis, "Smoking, Drinking, and Drugging in the Twentieth Century." -- Publisher

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

    *Foster, Timothy, Called to Counsel.
    "Designed for the training of laypersons in our churches, this book is practical and specific and focuses on 'what to do,' and 'what to say' in different situations. Foster gives easily accessible answers on how to handle uncomfortable situations and when to refer those beings counseled to professional therapists. Most importantly, he discusses what is appropriate to do (and not to do), in hundreds of cases readers can easily relate to in their own counseling. Recommended." -- Cyril J. Barber

    *Foster, Timothy, The Handbook of Christian Counseling, ISBN: 0785279393 9780785279396.
    A revised edition of CALLED TO COUNSEL, 1986. Includes index.

    Ganz, Richard, How I Became a Christian Counselor (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
    Also includes "Dr. Adams, Questions and Answers: Is Masturbation for Christians?"

    *Ganz, Richard, You Shall be Free Indeed! The Statutes of Liberty for Godly Living, 150 pages, ISBN: 1895019001 9781895019001.
    "Shows how to have the freedom Christ gives. Rings the changes on 'freedom:' true vs. false, internal and external, from the expectations of others, to fail or succeed, to change, from self-love, to love, from legalistic holiness, for gospel holiness." -- David Powlison
    "Drawing from his experience as a nouthetic counselor and pastor, Ganz shows how Christians can have the freedom that Christ gives his people. Jay Adams says: 'This is one of the most encouraging and helpful books I have read in a long time'." -- GCB

    *Geneva Bible Notes
    The GENEVA BIBLE NOTES are featured on the Online Bible CD-ROM. One keystroke brings the notes up in the second window alongside THE 1769 AUTHORIZED VERSION KING JAMES BIBLE, Cambridge: Printed by John Archdeacon; and sold by John Beecroft, John Rivington, Benjamin White, and Edward Dilly, in London; and T. & J. Merrill, in Cambridge, 1769. A Christian classic.
    Therefore, the user can view both THE 1769 AUTHORIZED VERSION KING JAMES BIBLE and the GENEVA BIBLE NOTES at the same time in separate windows, possibly with a split screen.
    THE ONLINE BIBLE CD-ROM is available from Larry Pierce and the Woodside Bible Fellowship, Winterbourne, Ontario, CANADA, 11 Holmwood Street, Ontario N0B 2V0, 1997. [Apparently is no longer compatible with current operating systems as of December 2016 -- compiler].
    THE 1769 AUTHORIZED VERSION KING JAMES BIBLE (New York, NY: Cambridge University Press), was available at one time on CD-ROM from Thomas Nelson.

    *Gordon, Burgess L., Understanding and Promoting the Resources of Aging People: A Guide to Care, Proper Environment, and Well Being.
    "Describes the conditions that affect the health of the aged. Written more for those who work extensively with senior citizens, this work nevertheless brings into sharp focus the unique needs of the elderly." -- Cyril J. Barber
    The Caregiver's Handbook
    http://www.seniormag.com/caregiver-handbook.pdf

    Grunlan, Stephen A., and Daniel H. Lambrides, Healing Relationships: A Christian's Manual for Lay Counseling, ISBN: 087509354X 9780875093543.

    Harris, Thomas Allen, Counseling the Serviceman and his Family.
    "Provides the minister with the knowledge and techniques to prepare you to face the realities of military life." -- Cyril J. Barber

    *Harrison, Roland Kenneth (editor), Encyclopedia of Biblical and Christian Ethics, revised and updated (Testament, March 4, 2003), 480 pages, ISBN: 0517222280.
    "A comprehensive reference work for everyone concerned with the complicated moral issues of this world, this unique volume clearly communicates what Scripture teaches about the ethical dilemmas facing our society. Biological warfare, corporate responsibility, human rights, computer ethics, and much more are discussed by over fifty scholars who explain the moral guidelines in the Bible and historic Christian teachings.
    "R.K. Harrison, author and editor of over thirty books on biblical studies, has brought together a valuable A to B treasury of thought for every believer searching for guidance." -- Publisher
    "A compendium of reliable information. Arranged in dictionary format, 550 entries and 61 contributors. Goes beyond descriptive data to the practical application of truth to a variety of situations . . . . The book is well-indexed. . . . Treats ethical areas like apartheid and surrogate motherhood. Probably the best available evangelical treatment of this type." -- GCB

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

    Hindson, Ed (author, 1948-2002), Howard Eyrich (author), Totally Sufficient, ISBN: 1857929608 9781857929607.
    "Contributors Gary L. Almy, W. Wilson Benton Jr., Edward G. Dobson, Howard Eyrich, Ronald E. Hawkins, Ed Hindson, Arnold Hyndman, Wayne A. Mack, Paul Madtes Jr., David Powlison, C. Dwayne Shafer, Chris Thurman, Edward T. Welch. Christian counselors agree that the Bible's message of salvation can radically change lives. Scripture can lead even the most unlikely people to faith but when it comes to everyday problems is the Bible really enough? Here we have more than a dozen highly trained counselors, medical experts and pastors who are highly respected in their fields. Every one has at least one doctorate relevant to the area they examine in this book. Their answers to the question stated above are enlightening, thought provoking and surprising." -- Publisher

    Hughes, Selwyn, The Christian Counselor's Pocket Guide.

    *Johnson, David, and Jeff VanVonderen, The Subtle Power of Spiritual Abuse: Recognizing and Escaping Spiritual Manipulation and False Spiritual Authority Within the Church, ISBN: 0764201379 9780764201370.
    "Manipulation, shaming, 'using' other people -- that's in the church, too. Spiritual abuse happens when authority figures use spiritual means to gratify their desires for importance, power, or intimacy. Because abusers use spiritual-sounding language, their followers are trapped in legalism, guilt performance, and begrudging service. Johnson and VanVonderen explain how to identify spiritual abuse, break the cycle of abusive spiritual dynamics, and encourage both abusers and victims to repent and recover." -- CBD
    "In a breakthrough book first published in 1991, the authors address the dynamics in churches that can ensnare people in legalism, guilt, and begrudging service, keeping them from the grace and joy of God's kingdom. Written for both those who feel abused and those who may be causing it, THE SUBTLE POWER OF SPIRITUAL ABUSE shows how people get hooked into abusive systems, the impact of controlling leadership on a congregation, and how the abused believer can find rest and recovery.
    "David Johnson has been the senior pastor at Church of the Open Door in Maple Grove, Minnesota, since 1980. During this time, the church has grown from a congregation of 160 to 3,000 people. A much sought-after speaker, he is a graduate of Bethel College and received his theological training at Bethel Seminary and Trinity Evangelical Divinity School. His "Growing in Grace" radio broadcast is syndicated internationally. David and his family live in Minnesota.
    "Jeff VanVonderen is an internationally known speaker on addictions and church and family wellness. He has worked as a counselor in both residential and outpatient treatment settings, as well as in the religious community, taught at the college level, and is the author of several books. He makes his home in California." -- Publisher
    "The difference between churches that use manipulation and those that practice grace is like night and day. . . .
    "VanVonderen and Johnson warn people who read the book not to use what they have learned as a weapon, but to take action only in the proper spirit. Of course, any time someone takes action in a church, real problems will become visible. My question in every case is: are those problems caused by those speaking out, or have they been there all along and are only now being exposed. . . ?
    "It is fair, it is doctrinally solid, and it gives effective counsel. There is something beneficial for everyone. . . leader, wounded Christian, or loved ones of people in either group." -- Reader's Comment

    Kandle, George C., and Henry H. Cassler, Ministering to Prisoners and Their Families.
    Includes bibliography.

    *Kantzer, Kenneth S. (editor), Applying the Scriptures: Papers From ICBI Summit III.
    "This book includes 17 papers and the responses given at the International Council on Biblical Inerrancy [infallibility], in December 1986. The debate is heated at times and offers a good representation from the evangelical community. The thrust of the book is the application of God's Word to all of life." -- GCB

    Kemp, Charles F., Counseling With College Students.

    *Knox, John (1505-1572), and Kevin Reed (editor), The First Blast of the Trumpet Against the Monstrous Regiment [Government], of Women, with the "Summary of the Second Blast" appended (Dallas, TX [Presbyterian Heritage Publications, P.O. Box 180922, 75218-0922]: Presbyterian Heritage Publications, 1993), trade paperback, 96 pages, marginal notes, scripture index, and subject index. This edition appears in three additional formats: SELECTED WRITINGS OF JOHN KNOX: PUBLIC EPISTLES, TREATISES, AND EXPOSITIONS TO THE YEAR 1559, pp. 370-436, the LIBRARY OF PRESBYTERIAN HERITAGE PUBLICATIONS AND PROTESTANT HERITAGE PRESS CD-ROM LIBRARY, and e-text that includes the marginal notes as endnotes, but does not include the scripture index, and subject index. Citations for these three additional formats are listed below.
    "The text of this edition is based on the definitive edition of THE WORKS OF JOHN KNOX, edited by David Laing (Edinburgh, 1895).
    "In this controversial work, John Knox contends that 'to promote a woman to bear rule, superiority, dominion, or empire above any realm, nation, or city, is repugnant to nature, contumely [insult], to God, a thing most contrary to his revealed will and approved ordinance; and finally, it is the subversion of good order, of all equity and justice'." -- Publisher
    Subheading used in this edition:

    "The SUMMARY OF THE SECOND BLAST was originally appended to the APPELLATION FROM THE SENTENCE PRONOUNCED BY THE BISHOPS AND CLERGY: ADDRESSED TO THE NOBILITY AND ESTATES OF SCOTLAND (1558), published in KNOX'S WORKS, VOL. IV, pp. 539-40." (see citation below) -- Publisher
    Knox, The First Blast of the Trumpet
    http://archive.org/details/firstblasttrump00knoxgoog
    The First Blast of the Trumpet. Available (in KNOX'S WORKS, VOL. 4) on the Puritan Hard Drive.
    http://archive.org/stream/worksjohnknox07laingoog#page/n4/mode/2up
    Other publications of THE FIRST BLAST OF THE TRUMPET follow: Gunn Productions, The Monstrous Regiment of Women, DVD (Gunn Productions, October 31, 2007), 54 minutes.
    "Who is the monstrous regiment? Today, the feminists are our monstrous regiment!
    To promote a woman to bear rule, superiority, dominion, or empire above any realm, nation, or city, is repugnant to nature . . . A thing most contrary to His revealed will and approved ordinance. -- John Knox
    "The 16th century reformer John Knox wrote his famous tract THE FIRST BLAST OF THE TRUMPET AGAINST THE MONSTROUS REGIMENT OF WOMEN to oppose a notorious European female tyrant who sought to stamp out biblical Christianity in his beloved Scotland.
    "When we approach the issues of our day we wish to borrow his biblical perspective to apply his blast against those who rule in the wake of his monstrous queen. This group, we shall see, far surpasses the queen's iniquities in both kind and degree.
    "Feminists tell women not to submit to a husband, to avoid having children, and that they should listen to their inner voice and chase a career to find true fulfillment. This twisted and irrational teaching has led to disaster for American women, leading many into a frustrating, isolated existence. With this film, we call women back to a life filled with joy and beauty that can only be found by following God's Word.
    "Due to the subject matter this film is not suitable for children.
    "Subjects Covered: | Who was John Knox? | What did he think of women? | What is Feminism? | Feminism and Socialism | Daycare | Modesty | Women in the Military | Women in the Workplace | Margaret Sanger | Planned Parenthood | Abortion | Hillary | Birth Control | Betty Friedan | Rock for Choice | Plus 26 minutes of unique interview footage
    "Featuring: | Sharon Adams -- Historian, Edinburgh University | Jennie Chancey -- Ladies Against Feminism | Jane Doe -- Military Cadet | Carol Everett -- Former Abortion Provider | Dana Feliciano -- Homemaker | Carmon Friedrich -- Writer, Buried Treasure Books | F. Carolyn Graglia -- Author, Domestic Tranquility | Rosalind Marshall -- Knox Biographer | Stacey McDonald -- Author, Raising Maidens of Virtue | Phyllis Schlafly -- Eagle Forum | Denise Sproul -- Homemaker | Kathleen Smith -- Homemaker" -- Publisher

    *Knox, John (1505-1572), Select Practical Writings of John Knox. Alternate title: SELECTED WRITINGS OF JOHN KNOX: PUBLIC EPISTLES, TREATISES AND EXPOSITIONS TO THE YEAR 1559. Available (WORKS OF JOHN KNOX) on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available (WORKS OF JOHN KNOX) on Reformation Bookshelf CD #1.
    "In this 1845 edition, we find some of Knox's writings addressed to individuals. Deep, experimental dealing with souls and consciences, high toned, manly and practical, all describe this work." -- Publisher
    See also the following political writings of John Knox single on both the Puritan Hard Drive and in The Reformation Bookshelf: CD #1, John Knox Debates God's Law, Idolatry and Civil Resistance in the General Assembly of 1564 | CD #1, Select Practical Writings of John Knox | CD #15, Against Romish Rites and Political and Ecclesiastical Tyranny (1554) | CD #26, Against Romish Rites and Political and Ecclesiastical Tyranny (1554) | CD #17, An Admonition to Flee Idolatry, Romanism and All False Worship (1554) | CD #25, The First Blast of the Trumpet Against the Monstrous Regiment of Women (This book is on the first CD in this set). | CD #26, Reformation, Revolution and Romanism: An Appeal to the Scottish Nobility (1558).

    Kopp, Ruth L., and Stephen Sorenson, When Someone you Love is Dying: A Handbook for Counselors and Those who Care.
    "This remarkable book was first published in 1980 under the title ENCOUNTER WITH TERMINAL ILLNESS. As Haddon W. Robinson pointed out, 'All life is terminal. Some arrive at the terminal before they know it. Others hear an announcement and anticipate death's coming. For such men and women going to death themselves, or traveling with others, Dr. Kopp provides practical counsel about how to make the journey'." -- Cyril J. Barber

    *Kuhne, Gary W., The Dynamics of Personal Follow-up, ISBN: 0310269512 9780310269519.
    A scholarly work that is one of the foundational books for the nouthetic method of counseling.
    Includes bibliography.

    Lane, Timothy S., and Paul David Tripp, How People Change, ISBN: 0977080722 9780977080724.
    "A changed heart is the bright promise of the Gospel. When the Bible talks about the gift of a new heart, it doesn't mean a heart that is immediately perfected, but a heart that is capable of being changed. Jesus' work on the cross targets our hearts -- our core desires and motivations -- and when our hearts change, our behavior changes. It's amazing to watch people who once seemed stuck in a pattern of words, choices, and behaviors start living in a new way as Christ changes their hearts." -- Publisher

    Lehmann, Joseph P., Paul David Tripp, David Powlison, Michael R. Emlet, and Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation, On Suffering: Must Reads From the Journal of Biblical Counseling.

    Lester, Andrew D., Hope in Pastoral Care and Counseling, ISBN: 0664255884 9780664255886.

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

    Levicoff, Steve, Christian Counseling and the Law. Includes bibliographical references and index. ISBN: 0802412394 9780802412393.

    Lloyd-Jones, D. Martyn (1899-1981), Healing and the Scriptures, ISBN: 0840790112 9780840790118.
    "The ten chapters in this book are excerpts from messages given by the Doctor to medical students and practicing M.D.'s. The subjects covered are many, among which are: The Supernatural in medicine, On treating the whole man, The doctor as counselor, Fullest care, Medicine in modern society, Body, mind, and spirit, How to combat the demonic, Identifying psychosomatic illnesses, and The moral law. . . ." -- Jay P. Green, Sr. (1918-2008)

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

    Logos Bible Software Bundles That Include Works on Biblical Counseling
    There are 15 bundles in all.
    http://www.logos.com/products/search?q=counseling+bundles

    *Luther, Martin (1483-1546), Tischreden (Aurifaber), [English Selections], The Table Talk or Familiar Discourse of Martin Luther. Alternate title: DR. MARTIN LUTHER'S DIVINE DISCOURSES AT HIS TABLE, &C. WHICH IN HIS LIFE TIME HE HELD WITH DIVERS LEARNED MEN (SUCH AS WERE PHILIP MELANCHTHON, CASPARUS CRUCIGER, JUSTUS JONAS, PAULUS EBERUS, VITUS DIETERICUS, JOANNES BUGONHAGEN, JOANNES FORSTERUS, AND OTHERS), CONTAINING QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS TOUCHING RELIGION, AND OTHER MAIN POINTS OF DOCTRINE, ALSO MANY NOTABLE HISTORIES, AND ALL SORTS OF LEARNING, COMFORTS, ADVISES, PROPHESIES, ADMONITIONS, DIRECTIONS AND INSTRUCTIONS. COLLECTED FIRST TOGETHER BY DR. ANTONIUS LAUTHERBACH, AND AFTERWARD DISPOSED INTO CERTAIN COMMON PLACES BY JOHN AURIFABER DR. IN DIVINITY. TRANSLATED OUT OF THE HIGH GERMAN INTO THE ENGLISH TONGUE BY CAPT. HENRY BELL, 1848.
    "In 1525 Luther married and settled down to family life in Wittenberg. Among his visitors were many poor students, and these fervent disciples wrote down all they remembered of their master's conversation. This TABLE TALK has always enjoyed great popularity for its refreshing unreserve and frequent brilliance. It shows Luther to have been a true child of his age. He must be judged by the mind of his times. We give some of his strong opinions that have not borne the wear and tear of later ages; but they are more than balanced by teaching that is beautiful as well as true." -- J.A. Hammerton, Outline of Great Books
    Luther, Hazlitt, Chalmers, The Table Talk of Martin Luther (1872)
    http://archive.org/details/tabletalkofmarti1872luth
    The Table-talk of Martin Luther translated by William Hazlitt, Esq.
    This is e-text of The Lutheran Publication Society printing.
    http://www.reformed.org/documents/
    The Table-talk of Martin Luther translated by William Hazlitt, Esq.
    http://www.ccel.org/ccel/luther/tabletalk.i.html

    *Luther, Martin (1483-1546), Watchwords for the Warfare of Life, ISBN: 9781432547387 1432547380. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
    "Classic quotes on a wide variety of subjects from the pen of Martin Luther. Some of the many subjects which Luther touches upon in this book include: the Lord Jesus Christ, the creation, the law and the gospel, the weapons of our warfare, prayer, the Word of God, preaching, patience, the Church, the holy angels, the devil, sin, temptation and depression of spirit, love, joy, peace, fear, humility, forbearance, hope, forgiveness, thankfulness, giving, nature, wine, music, people in the Scriptures, books of the Bible, eminent men, women, children, spiritual miracles perpetual, printing, trials, good works, hermeneutics, sorrow, sickness, bereavement, death, martyrdom, employments in heaven, immortality, the second coming, the resurrection, the joys of heaven and much more!" -- Publisher

    Mack, Wayne, Biblical Solutions to Life's Problems (Westminster Media).
    This book is accompanied by an audio cassette series of 24 tapes [audio file].

    Mack, Wayne A., and Joshua Mack, God's Solutions to Life's Problems, ISBN: 1563220792 9781563220791.

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

    Mack, Wayne A., and the Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation, Introduction to Pastoral Counseling.

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

    Martin, Grant, Counseling in Cases of Family Violence and Abuse, ISBN: 0849905877 9780849905872.

    *Martin, Robert P., A Guide to the Puritans: A Topical and Textual Index to the Writings of the Puritans and Some of Their Successors Recently in Print, ISBN: 0851517137 9780851517131.
    "I owe an enormous debt to the Puritans, the most prolific and accurate expounders of the biblical principles upon which the Reformation was built. Their concern for vital godliness in every area of the Christian's experience has rightly earned for them the title 'theologians of the Christian life.' Their writings are a rich banquet table loaded with solid nourishment for God's people. . . .
    "There are many more qualified to index the Puritans than I. Had someone more acquainted with the Puritans' works and more schooled in their history and theology undertaken this project, the end product would have been vastly superior. My primary qualification is that I have been willing to undertake the task. I will not be surprised if those who use this volume find many things which could be done better, especially in the topical index. My hope, however, is that those who find flaws will favor me with their suggestions for improvement, so that if future editions come from the press, the people of God will be served better than at present.
    "In determining which writers and works to index, I have been guided and restrained by several principles. First, I have deliberately chosen a broad definition of the term Puritan. Instead of the narrow ecclesiastical sense, i.e., of referring only to those in the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries who desired reformation in the national church of England, I am using the term Puritan in the broader religious sense of those advocating the experimental, Calvinistic religion which the Puritans exemplified. Moreover, I have cast my net even farther to take in those who have looked to the Puritans as their nearest theological kin; thus including such men as Archibald Alexander, Charles Hodge, B.B. Warfield, W.G.T. Shedd, John Murray, and many other modern Puritans.
    "Second, with reference to older writers, I have limited my efforts to recently republished works. Many valuable works, of course, have not reappeared in our day, but are available only in libraries and private collections. I have not tried to include any such items. A comprehensive index of the entire body of Puritan writings would be a wonderful resource, but it is quite beyond my ability to undertake such a project.
    "Third, though I have tried to include all the older works currently available, I have indexed only a sampling of works from living writers. Some may question my choices or judge that I have overlooked important new works and authors in the Puritan mold. I sincerely regret overlooking any volume worthy of notice. My only defense is that my knowledge of living authors is much less than my awareness of the proven guides of the past. For the most part I have limited new works to those published by the Banner of Truth Trust, confident that these works have passed through a fine grid of review, and would not bear the Banner label if they were not clearly in the Puritan tradition.
    "Fourth, doubtless some users of this index will be disappointed that several important precursors to the Puritans are missing. For example, except for the notice of a few well-known works, Calvin and Luther are not indexed. The same is true of Augustine. The contribution of these men to reformed and Puritan thinking cannot be overestimated. Including their works, however, was not possible, given my present constraints. I regret this greatly.
    "Among nineteenth-century figures, the most prominent absence is that of C.H. Spurgeon. Spurgeon certainly is worthy of a place in this work; however, since a textual and topical index of his sermons already exists, I chose not to duplicate that work here.
    "In our own century, the ministry of D.M. Lloyd-Jones has produced a large body of useful material in the Puritan tradition; however, unlike his contemporary, John Murray, no collection of Dr. Lloyd-Jones's writings is yet available. Much that Dr. Lloyd-Jones preached is now published in commentary form (e.g., his expositions of the Sermon on the Mount, Romans, Ephesians, etc.), and is not included in this index because of my decision not to index commentaries. I have indexed the Doctor's topical works that were available to me. Those wanting more information on Dr. Lloyd-Jones's writings should consult the bibliography found at the end of volume two of Iain Murray's biography [LLOYD-JONES, D. MARTYN: THE FIGHT OF FAITH, 1939-1981 -- compiler].
    "The Scripture Index was easy to produce. Where a specific text (or texts), of scripture served as the basis for a sermon or treatise, it is included in the Scripture Index at the appropriate place. This does not mean, however, that every work listed in the Scripture Index contains a detailed exegesis of the text to which it is attached. Often the Puritans used texts as the starting points for topical sermons or series. What follows is not so much an exposition of the text but an exposition of a theme which the text epitomizes. Such sermons do not always answer to the needs of the technical exegete, but they often serve as catalysts for doctrinal and practical observations on the text.
    "A few whole commentaries are found in the Scripture Index. These are present only because they are included in an author's collected writings. Many more commentaries could have been included; however, those appearing before 1870 are catalogued already in Spurgeon's COMMENTING AND COMMENTARIES. Many fine commentaries in the Puritan tradition also have appeared since 1870; but I have made no effort to produce what would in fact have been an update of Spurgeon's work.
    "The Topical Index was extremely difficult to construct. Two problems constantly intruded themselves into the process. First, when I began, no list of topics was ready at hand. My method therefore was to compile the list of topics as I went along. The end product doubtless is less accurate than if the topics had been set from the beginning. Second, Puritan sermons are not always capable of being reduced to one or two key ideas. Frequently the Puritans ranged across a wide field of related themes in a single sermon. Where this occurred, properly placing the sermon in the Topical Index was difficult. In most cases I was guided by either the author's title or his doctrine summary, i.e., a statement expressing the theme of the sermon. I have tried to exercise as much care as possible in indexing topically; however, those more familiar with individual sermons or treatises perhaps will question my decisions. Again, I hope that observations which may improve this work will be communicated to me. . . . I have included comments with some entries. It was not possible to do this for every entry. For the most part, I did this where I felt that a word was needed to clarify the emphasis of a given work. . . ." -- Robert P. Martin in the Preface, August 1996, Seattle, Washington

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

    McKnight, William John (1865-1951), The Scriptures the Supreme Guide in the Affairs of Men.

    Miller, C. John (1928-1996), A Faith Worth Sharing: A Lifetime of Conversations About Christ, ISBN: 0875523919 9780875523910.
    "This is not a book about clever techniques, or methodologies; it is a book of snapshots from one life given to impact others. If you too are someone who has been changed by the power of the gospel, then you need to pray for the opportunities to pass it on to others. This book will encourage you to do just that." -- Stephen Smallman
    "C. John Miller taught practical theology at Westminster Theological Seminary, was Director of World Harvest Mission, and led mission trips to several countries. He was founding pastor of New Life Presbyterian Church, outside Philadelphia, from which grew several other congregations in the Philadelphia area. His other books include POWERFUL EVANGELISM FOR THE POWERLESS, and OUTGROWING THE INGROWN CHURCH." -- Publisher

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

    *Miller, C. John "Jack" (1928-1996), and Rose Marie Miller, Sonship Course: World Harvest Mission Leadership Training Program, Nurture Training for Ministry, Equipping Others for Ministry. Alternate title: LEADERSHIP TRAINING PROGRAM: NURTURE, TRAINING FOR MINISTRY, EQUIPPING OTHERS FOR MINISTRY (Jenkintown, PA [World Harvest, Box 2175, Jenkintown 19046]: World Harvest, 1988).
    This course was developed to prepare World Harvest missionaries to work in the field. The course includes small group participation and Biblical counseling.
    "The first half of the SONSHIP track focuses on the doctrines of Justification, Sanctification, and Adoption. The last half lays the foundation for love. We look at how the Gospel affects the way we look at ourselves. Our goal was that increasingly your self-image should be rooted in God's view of you clothed in the perfect righteousness of Christ . . . What we aim at here is to encourage the trainee to learn from Christ how to build a holy life, a life of love to your neighbor. This is done self-consciously relying always on his or her free justification by faith. Sanctification by faith issues from knowing always that my standing as a son is assured by justification by Christ alone through faith alone. Thus the heart of our counseling on character development centers in affirmation of Christ's work for us, and Christ's work in us through the Spirit. But within that framework we attempt seriously to involve each trainee in ongoing repentance, putting off old habits and sins and putting on Christ-like love and faith. . . . Much focus is laid on teamwork. . . . The skill of evangelism . . . is the believer's primary emphasis in the course of training because the staff believes that evangelism is necessary for a healthy Christian life . . . Evangelism rightly understood affects both the faith and the Christian life of the one who shares Christ's message." -- C. John Miller and Rose Marie Miller
    Miller, C. John (1928-1996), Rose Marie Miller, Paul Miller, Rick Downs, David M. Desforge, et al., Sonship, a set of 16 sound cassettes, [audio file].
    World Harvest Mission
    http://www.whm.org/home.htm

    Miller, David R., Breaking Free: Rescuing Families From the Clutches of Legalism.

    Mitchell, A.W., Letters to Church Members, 1855. Alternate title: MONITORY LETTERS TO CHURCH MEMBERS.
    Letter to one who travels on the Sabbath
    Letter to one of a censorious spirit
    Letter to one of a self-confident and unyielding spirit
    Letter to one of a managing and disingenuous spirit
    Letter to one of an impatient and complaining spirit
    Letter to one who is lacking in reverence for the truth as a moral virtue,
    and so forth, and so on.
    Letters to Church Members, 1855.
    http://www.westminsterconfession.org/literature/godly-living.php
    Monitory Letters to Church Members
    http://archive.org/details/monitoryletterst00phil

    Mitton, C. Leslie (editor), First Aid in Counseling.
    Includes bibliography.

    Needham, David C., Birthright: Christian do you Know who you are?
    "One of the finest books on the subject. Discover from the Bible who you are, and what your destiny is. This book could change your entire outlook on life." -- GCB

    *Nelson (Thomas Nelson editors), Nelson's Topical Bible Index, ISBN: 0785211241 9780785211242.
    "Offers pastors, Bible scholars, and laypeople ready-to-use information and quick answers to Bible questions. It organizes key Scripture references with context summaries under 8,000 topics and sub-topics, including names, places, things, concepts, events and doctrines. Includes brief definitions that are useful for personal study or lesson preparation." -- Publisher

    *Nichols, James, Samuel Annesley, Thomas Case, and Nathanael Vincent, et al., Puritan Sermons, 1659-1689: Being the Morning Exercises at Cripplegate, St. Giles in the Fields, and in Southwark, 6 volumes. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
    "On cover: THE MORNING EXERCISES. Reprint. Originally published under title: THE MORNING EXERCISES AT CRIPPLEGATE, ST. GILES IN THE FIELDS, AND IN SOUTHWARK: BEING DIVERS SERMONS PREACHED A.D. MDCLIX-MDCLXXXIX BY SEVERAL MINISTERS OF THE GOSPEL IN OR NEAR LONDON. 5TH ED. / CAREFULLY COLLATED AND CORRECTED, WITH NOTES AND TRANSLATIONS, BY JAMES NICHOLS. London: T. Tegg, 1844-1845. Vol. 1, editions one (London: J. Kirton & N. Webb, 1661), to four (London: A. Maxwell and R. Roberts for T. Cockerell, 1677), published under title: THE MORNING EXERCISE AT CRIPPLEGATE, OR, SEVERAL CASES OF CONSCIENCE PRACTICALLY RESOLVED / BY SUNDRY MINISTERS, September MDCLXI. Vols. 2-6 (divided differently), published separately under different titles by various publishers, 1660-1690. v. 5-6. THE MORNING EXERCISE METHODIZED, OR, THE CHIEF HEADS AND POINTS OF THE CHRISTIAN RELIGION OPENED AND IMPROVED IN DIVERS SERMONS / BY SEVERAL MINISTERS OF THE CITY OF LONDON, IN THE MONTHLY COURSE OF THE MORNING EXERCISE AT GILES IN THE FIELDS, May, MDCLIX; [edited by Thomas Case]. THE MORNING EXERCISE AGAINST POPERY, OR, THE PRINCIPAL ERRORS OF THE CHURCH OF ROME DETECTED AND CONFUTED, IN A MORNING LECTURE, PREACHED LATELY IN SOUTHWARK / BY SEVERAL MINISTERS OF THE GOSPEL, IN OR NEAR LONDON, MDCLXXV; [edited by Nathaniel Vincent].
    "By 75 Ministers of the Gospel in or near London with notes and translations by James Nichol." -- Publisher
    "Volume five 'is the best compilation of Puritan systematic theology ever written, but unfortunately is often overlooked in Puritan studies.' This six volume set represents Puritan preaching at its best 'Puritan pastors treasured the full scope of God's counsel.' They strove for excellence. They also made their sermons practical enough to answer the questions of listeners in a thoroughly scriptural manner." -- Dr. Joel Beeke and Randall Pederson, Meet the Puritans: With a Guide To Modern Reprints, pp. 637-639

    *Owen, John (1616-1683), Sin and Temptation: The Challenge to Personal Godliness. ISBN: 1556618301 9781556618307. A Christian classic.
    "The concept of sin and personal responsibility has all but disappeared from our world. John Owen deals with the nature of sinful humanity as no writer since has done as keenly or thoroughly, arguing that sin is always a self-deceiving, blinding folly. Owen was a leading English statesman in the late 17th century and is considered 'the John Calvin of England'." -- Publisher

    *Owen, John (1616-1683), Kelly M. Kapic (editor), Justin Taylor (editor), Overcoming Sin and Temptation, ISBN: 1581346492 9781581346497.
    "The writings of John Owen are a challenge to any reader, to say the least. His intricacy and complexity are intimidating and his language is downright befuddling at times. However, the depth of thought and the immense value of Owen's works cannot be quantified. His three classic works on sin and temptation are profoundly helpful to any believer who seeks to become more like Jesus Christ.
    "In this volume, the editors have made updates to the language, translated the Latin, Greek, and Hebrew and footnoted difficult or unknown phrases, all without sacrificing any of the wonderful content of Owen's work. It is a uniquely accessible edition of John Owen's previously daunting work." -- Publisher
    "The editors of this volume have worked hard to make Owen's unrivalled insight into the Christian's inner war with sin accessible to all, and the result is truly a godsend." -- J.I. Packer (1926-2020), Professor of Theology, Regent College
    "John Owen understood how the gospel makes us well. Three cheers for Kapic and Taylor for introducing a new generation to Owen's peerless works." -- Sinclair B. Ferguson, Senior Minister, First Presbyterian Church, Columbia, S.C.
    The Works of John Owen at Archive.org
    https://archive.org/search.php?query=the+works+of+john+owen&page=2

    Packer, J.I. (1926-2020), Lecture on the Practical Writings of the English Puritans, 28 pages.

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

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

    *Playfair, William L., The Useful lie: How the Recovery Industry has Entrapped America in a Disease Model of Addiction, ISBN: 1889032379 9780891076377.
    "Challenges the disease concept of alcoholism, the 'useful lie' of the recovery movement. This lie underlies the widespread mistreatment of alcoholism and of other fundamentally moral problems, e.g., 'codependency.' Posits biblically based intervention that treats such problems as sins to be repented of. Opposes sending a person to the recovery industry because 'He will be told his sin is a sickness; he will never be confronted with his real and most basic moral and spiritual problem. And he will more than likely be introduced to the any god of Twelve Stepdom, who is, by Biblical criteria, a false god'." -- David Powlison
    "Dr. Playfair is a medical consultant to the Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation/West in San Diego. He also is a board member of Family Research Institute. The theme and purpose of this book is to debunk the claims that alcoholism is a disease. This claim, says the doctor, contradicts science and medicine; it contradicts the Bible, which is more important; and it simply does not work in breaking the addiction of alcohol. . . ." -- Jay P. Green, Sr. (1918-2008)
    "This book provided all the necessary evidence to blow the whistle on the recovery industry and also points toward genuine freedom from addiction." -- GCB

    Porter, Jack Nusan, Conflict and Conflict Resolution: A Historical Bibliography, ISBN: 0824092872 9780824092870.
    "As an introduction to the field of social conflict, this bibliography uses classical and contemporary sources to trace conflict theories from ancient times to the present. Though selective in its inclusion of more recent works, this book is comprehensive in its historical dimension, making it unique among sociological studies. With its categorizing of books, articles, and dissertations, it is a valuable handbook or text for research. It should prove invaluable to D.Min. students doing dissertation research in the area of interpersonal communication." -- Cyril J. Barber

    Powell, Paul W., Basic Bible Sermons on Handling Conflict.

    Powlison, David (1949-2019), Demons and Deliverance in the Evangelical Church, 5 audio files.

    *Powlison, David (1949-2019), Competent to Counsel? The History of Biblical Counseling, new edition. Alternate title: COMPETENT TO COUNSEL? THE HISTORY OF A CONSERVATIVE PROTESTANT ANTI-PSYCHIATRY MOVEMENT, ISBN: 0978556763 9780978556761 (College Park, PA: University of Pennsylvania, Ph.D. thesis, 1996).
    David Powlison is editor of Journal of Biblical Counseling, a staff member of the Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation, Glenside, Pennsylvania, and a graduate of Harvard University in 1972.
    Through the years I have often asked our students and alumni about the pivotal moments of their studies at Westminster Theological Seminary. High on the list of frequent answers was Dr. Powlison's class on "The Dynamics of Biblical Change." Students have told me repeatedly, "That course changed my life." We thank God for the gift of Dr. Powlison (1949-2019) who has left such a permanent impact on so many, including Westminster Theological Seminary. -- Peter Lillback

    Powlison, David (1949-2019), Seeing With new Eyes: Counseling and the Human Condition Through the Lens of Scripture, ISBN: 087552608X 9780875526089.
    "This book consists of essays by a highly regarded biblical counselor written over almost twenty years. Some of these pieces exegete Scripture with a counseling perspective, while others recast specific psychological problems. This book explores two main topics. Scripture: Gods voice speaks into real life to reveal the gaze and intentions of the Christ who pursues us. How do we embrace, probe, and unravel Scripture? Understanding people amid their real life struggles: How do we embrace, probe, and unravel the problems of daily life?" -- Publisher

    *Powlison, David (1949-2019), Speaking Truth in Love: Counsel in Community, ISBN: 0977080714 9780977080717.
    "SPEAKING TRUTH IN LOVE is the latest book by David Powlison, a faculty member at Westminster Theological Seminary and The Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation. In his own words, it is, 'a book on how we are to live together.' Although primarily directed at pastors and counselors, there is much here to be savored by every child of God. Indeed, an emphasis of the book is that speaking truth in love, wisdom, and grace into another person's life is both the privilege and responsibility for every Christian, not just the 'professionals' or the 'trained.'
    "There are seventeen chapters, which are really separate essays all looking at differing facets of counseling, or 'loving another person well' as Powlison puts it.
    "Chapter 1 is an extended reflection of Psalm 119, beautifully portraying it as the cry of a faithful heart toward God. It is worth the price of the book for anyone struggling through a trial or helping another.
    "Chapter 2 talks about the need to face the truth of our rebellious flesh, while chapter 3 talks of hearing the music of the gospel. Chapter 4-8 deal with various practical steps of preparation, listening, and questioning, while chapter 9 specifically deals with gently handling people who have already been immersed in the false psychologies of the world.
    "Chapter 10 starts looking at a more global emphasis, challenging pastors (and all) to consider that most of the 'ministry of the Word' that Christ actually did was what we would now term private and small-group counseling, and not preaching sermons. Chapter 11 looks at how counseling should fit into the ministry of the church, and chapter 12 looks specifically at how the nature of prayer fits into counseling in the church.
    "The last chapters look at pastoral counseling, women in counseling, when to refer, where to train, and lastly a guiding doctrinal statement for Biblical counseling.
    "This is a rewarding book written by a wise servant of God, giving insight and direction on both the nature and the challenges the church faces in fulfilling our mandate on speaking truth in love to each other." -- Reader's Comment

    Powlison, David (1949-2019), William P. Smith, and The Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation, Counsel the Word: A Selection of Readings,

    Powlison, David (1949-2019), Mike Bobick, John Bettler, Ed Welch, and Bill Smith, Theology and Secular Psychology, 20 sound cassettes [audio file].

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

    *Powlison, David (1949-2019, compiler and annotator), Contemporary Biblical Counseling: With 1995 Additions, an annotated bibliography.
    David Powlison is editor of the Journal of Biblical Counseling, current director of the Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation, Glenside, Pennsylvania, and a graduate of Harvard University in 1972.
    http://www.lettermen2.com/powlison.html

    Preston, John (1587-1628), Thomas Goodwin, and Thomas Ball, The Doctrine of the Saints Infirmities.

    Pulaski, Adam, Biblical Counseling Manual: A Self Help Counseling Program Guide, ISBN: 1412038790 9781412038799.
    Biblical Counseling Manual: A Self Help Counseling Program
    http://ntslibrary.com/PDF%20Books/Biblical%20Counseling%20Manual.pdf

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

    Rushdoony, Rousas John (1916-2001), The Necessity for Systematic Theology.

    *Ryle, J.C. (John Charles, 1816-1900), Home Truths, Volume 1. A Christian classic.
    "This reprint of a classic is much needed in our day." -- CVBBS
    Home Truths, Miscellaneous Addresses and Tracts, 1854
    http://archive.org/details/hometruthsmisce01rylegoog

    *Ryle, J.C. (John Charles, 1816-1900), Home Truths, Volume 2, ISBN: 1583391738. Alternate title: HOME TRUTHS: SECOND SERIES.
    There is some confusion over the various editions of HOME TRUTHS. Apparently one edition included 8 volumes.
    Home Truths, Miscellaneous Addresses and Tracts (1857)
    http://archive.org/details/hometruthsmisce02rylegoog

    *Ryle, J.C. (1816-1900), and J.I. Packer (foreword), Practical Religion: Being Plain Papers on the Daily Duties, Experience, Dangers and Privileges of Professing Christians, ISBN: 085234449X 9780852344491. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. A Christian classic.
    "PRACTICAL RELIGION is classic as a manual on the practice of Christianity -- a concise guide to the daily duties, experiences, dangers, privileges, and responsibilities faced by professing Christians. It is an excellent companion volume to J.C. Ryle's other classic, HOLINESS.
    "In PRACTICAL RELIGION, Ryle expounds the great central themes of the Christian life with realism, power, and depth. This volume, along with his other works such as EXPOSITORY THOUGHTS ON THE GOSPELS, has been treasured by generations of evangelical Christians all over the world." -- Publisher
    "Discusses: self-iniquity, self-exertion, reality, prayer, Bible reading, charity, zeal, happiness, formality, the world, riches and poverty, sickness, family of God, heirs of God, eternity, and others." -- GCB
    Practical Religion: Being Plain Papers on the Daily Duties, Experience, Dangers, and Privileges of Professing Christians (1883)
    http://archive.org/details/practicalreligio00ryle

    *Ryle, J.C. (1816-1900), The Upper Room: Being a few Truths for the Times, ISBN: 0851510175 9780851510170.
    "This work is a treasure chest of insights and teaching on a wide variety of subjects and passages." -- GCB

    *Sande, Ken, The Peacemaker: A Biblical Guide to Resolving Personal Conflict, ISBN: 0801064856 9780801064852. Five appendixes, indexes of topics and authors.
    The indexes of topics and authors makes the book a good reference tool.
    "Lays out four phases of the reconciliation process: [1] glorify God; [2] get the log out of your own eye; [3] go and show your brother his fault; [4] go and be reconciled. The motivation and foundation for peacemaking lies in who God is, not in pragmatic self-interest. Self-examination and repentance lay the foundation for dealing well with the sins of others. Constructive confrontation involves both speaking the truth in love and listening in order to pursue understanding of the situation. Reconciliation and forgiveness are the culminating phase of peace making." -- David Powlison
    "Treats conflict almost entirely from the context of believer against believer. Not much help surfaces for conflicts between believers and unbelievers. . . . In general the book rates as one of the best on the thorny subject of conflict. Professional church staff members and volunteer layperson can benefit immensely from this book." -- Samuel L. Canine

    *Sanderson, John W., The Fruit of the Spirit.
    "A Biblical study of genuine character growth in the life of the Christian, as set forth in Galatians 5." -- Publisher

    Scott, Stuart, Heath Lambert, John MacArthur (foreword), Counseling the Hard Cases: True Stories Illustrating the Sufficiency of God's Resources in Scripture, ISBN: 9781433672224 1433672227.
    "This book illustrates the effectiveness of Biblical Counseling. In chapter one Stuart gives us a short history of the Biblical Counseling movement and explains the differences between secular, Christian and Biblical Counseling. The following chapters are examples of extremely difficult counseling cases that were resolved through the caring, compassionate, effective application of God's Word and Biblical counseling technique.
    "As a Biblical Counselor myself, I found it refreshing and encouraging. I highly recommend this book if you are thinking about entering the field of counseling or are already involved in counseling. In my opinion it ranks among the top 'must read' books for Biblical Counselors. It should be on the shelf of every Biblical Counselor along with COMPETENT TO COUNSEL by Jay Adams and INSTRUMENTS IN THE REDEEMER'S HANDS By Paul Tripp.
    "I have found that Biblical counseling is more effective and provides more hope and healing than any other form of counseling, period. This book explains the reasons I can make such an audacious claim." -- Reader's Comment

    Second Opinion, Dangerous Drugs (Atlanta, GA [Second Opinion, P.O. Box 467939, Atlanta 30346-9989]: Second Opinion, 1992).
    "If you or anyone you love is taking medications, of any kind . . . even over-the-counter remedies . . . you must read this report!" -- William Campbell Douglass, MD
    "Vital facts on 215 drugs in 15 different categories . . . many are household names, Harmful side effects -- headaches, heart spasms, senility, even sudden death, Important drug interaction information, Questions to ask your doctor about any new drug, Extra bonus: 12 safeguards you can use to protect against heart attack."
    Subscriptions to Second Opinion, a ground-breaking alternative-medicine newsletter, are also available.

    *Sell, Charles M., Family Ministry: The Enrichment of Family Life Through the Church, ISBN: 0310429102 9780310429104.

    *Shedd, W.G.T., Sermons to the Natural man, ISBN: 0851512607 9780851512600. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
    "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
    Contents: Religious meditation (Psalm 104:34) -- Christian moderation (Proverbs 16:32) -- The supreme excellence of God (Matthew 19:16-17) -- The fatherhood of God (Luke 16:25) -- The future vision of God (2nd Corinthians 4:18) -- God the strength of man (Psalm 84:5) -- The glorification of God (Isaiah 42:8) -- The duty of reference to the divine will (James 4:13-15) -- The creature has no absolute merit (Luke 17:10) -- Faith with and without sight (John 20:29) -- The reality of heaven (John 14:2) -- Pure motives the light of the soul (Matthew 6:22) -- The law is light (Proverbs 6:23) -- The law is the strength of sin ( 1st Corinthians 15:56) -- The sense of sin leads to holiness, and the conceit of holiness leads to sin (John 9:41) -- The impression made by Christ's holiness (Luke 5:8) -- Christian humility (1st Peter 5:5) -- Pride vitiates religious knowledge (1st Corinthians 8:2) -- Connection between faith and works (James 2:24) -- The Christian imperfect, yet a saint (Colossians 3:12) -- Sanctification completed at death (1st Corinthians 2:9) -- Watchfulness and prayerfulness (1st Peter 4:7) -- Unceasing prayer (1 Thessalonians 5:17) -- The folly of ambition (Jeremiah 45:5) -- Every Christian a debtor to the pagan (Romans 1:14) -- The certain success of evangelistic labor (Isaiah 55:10-11).

    Shelly, Judith A., Caring in Crisis: Bible Studies for Helping People, ISBN: 0877845638: 9780877845638.

    Shelley, Marshall, Helping Those who Don't Want Help.
    Includes bibliography.

    Smick, Timothy S., et al., Eldercare for the Christian Family: What to do When a Loved one Becomes Dependent, ISBN: 0849907195 9780849907197.
    "This book explores all the dynamics of caregiving -- planning, financing, burnout, and blessing -- and enables grown children to select the most comprehensive care plan for their loved ones. It is full of practical advice and spiritual insights." -- GCB

    Smith, Robert D., The Christian Counselor's Medical Desk Reference, ISBN: 1889032263 9781889032269.

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

    *Spurgeon, C.H. (1834-1892), Lectures to my Students, ISBN: 0310329116 9780310329114. A Christian classic. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
    "One contemporary scholar and authority on Spurgeon says of this work: 'Next to Mr. Spurgeon's great literary work, THE TREASURY OF DAVID, we consider these LECTURES TO MY STUDENTS his greatest single contribution to the Christian world. There is more practical wisdom, common sense and sage advice packed within these pages than with any other book of similar size or content.' This complete and unabridged edition of Spurgeon's great work will make it possible for today's generation to appreciate Spurgeon's combination of discerning wit and refreshingly practical advice. Included in the 28 chapters of this classic volume on homiletics are such lectures as: -- The Call to Ministry -- The Preacher's Private Prayer -- On the Choice of a Text -- On the Voice -- The Holy Spirit in Connection with Our Ministry -- Posture, Action, Gesture, etc. -- The Blind Eye and the Deaf Ear -- On Conversion as Our Aim -- Illustrations in Preaching -- As were all of Spurgeon's' messages to his people, each of these lectures is Scripture-saturated and Christ-honoring. They move swiftly and are fascinating in their content and sage counsel. . . .
    "Spurgeon realized that he could influence the church beyond his own lifetime if he could encourage future pastors to trust the Bible, love people, and preach the truth fearlessly. To achieve this he collected his lectures to his college students and published this book. It has been a classic of pastoral theology ever since and is still used to train ministers to this day (back cover)." -- Publisher
    Lectures to my Students: Being Addresses Delivered to the Students of the Pastors' College, Metropolitan Tabernacle (1877)
    http://archive.org/details/lecturestomystud1877spur

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

    Teellinck, William (1579-1629), The Resting Place of the Mind, That is a Propounding of the Wonderful Providence of God Whereupon a Christian man Ought to Rest and Repose Himself Even When all our Outward Means of Helps are cut off From him, 1622, 48 pages. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
    "According to Joel Beeke in THE QUEST FOR FULL ASSURANCE: THE LEGACY OF CALVIN AND HIS SUCCESSORS, 'What William Perkins was to English Puritanism, William Teellinck was to the Dutch Second Reformation.' (p. 98)
    "Furthermore, Beeke notes that 'Teellinck's lifelong goal was to bring English-style, pietistic Puritanism to the Dutch. He succeeded in doing that. More than any other divine of his day, he contributed to the Dutch Second Reformation. That movement was so like English Puritanism that it is often called Dutch Puritanism.' (p. 99)
    "This little book was written to encourage Christians to trust in the Lord in the midst of their trials. Even when the ordinary outward means that we need to solve our problems are unavailable, God can still easily rescue us from our predicament. Indeed, sometimes He removes those means so that He will receive all the glory:
    The means which commonly God doth use, in giving us His blessing, are indeed but as curtains, and drawing clothes, after, or under the which, God so doth hide Himself, that His working cannot be seen, but by the eye of faith: wherefore also the Lord God, when he hath been pleased sometimes to manifest Himself, in some work which he intended to do, hath taken express order, that the ordinary means should be removed, that so all the world might see the finger of God therein, and acknowledge that it was He that had done it. (p. 18)
    Loe [Scottish for love], thus doth the Lord strip His people often times of all outward means, when His purpose is to help them, to the end that His finger might the better be seen in giving them victory. . . . (p. 19)
    No child of God then ought to be faint-hearted, though he be stripped of all outward means, for the Lord who is with him, is not bound to any means, His hand is not shortened that He should not be able to help, though the means be shortened, yea quite cut off. (p. 24)
    "Too often people trust in the outward means rather than God. But this is foolish because 'tis most certain, that all our well-being is not shut up in the outward means, it lieth not wound up in the bread we eat, but in the hand of God, and the word of His blessing'." (p. 29) -- Publisher

    Terkelsen, Helen E., Counseling the Unwed Mother.

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

    Terrell, Hilton P. (editor), and Franklin E. Payne (editor), Journal of Biblical Ethics in Medicine, Volumes 1-4: 1987-1990 (Augusta, GA: Covenant Books), 350 pages, ISSN: 1050-3404. Available from Covenant Enterprises, P.O. Box 14488, Augusta, GA 30919-0488.
    "The JBEM was founded to bring biblical thinking to bear on medical issues. This book collects the first four years worth of articles, and includes a general index and an index of Scripture references. (A second volume, containing the next 4 years, is forthcoming). Many articles are relevant to matters that come up in counseling ministry, matters about which counselors will want to offer informed advice." -- David Powlison
    Journal of Biblical Ethics in Medicine
    http://capo.org/jbem/intro_pa.htm

    *Thompson, Frank Charles (editor), and Kirkbride Bible and Technology (other contributor), Thompson Chain Reference Bible, KJV, (KJV, Adult, Regular Size, Bonded Leather, Black, Indexed, Kirkbride Bible Company Item Number: 978-0-88707-527-8), 5th improved edition, leather bound (Kirkbride Bible Company, December 2005), some editions include a CD-ROM, language: English, French, and Spanish. Many editions and bindings are available. WorldCat Record for 5th Improved Edition, ISBN: 0887071228 9780887071225 9780887076091 0887076092.
    "Dr. Frank C. Thompson, D.D., Ph.D., invested more than forty years in compiling and developing the remarkable Chain-Reference system that is the heart of the Bible that now bears his name." -- Publisher
    This is a huge body of work: the fully cross-referenced Bible, 1619 pages, plus Bible helps, 788 pages, for a total of 2417 pages. It may be used profitably in combination with THE NEW TREASURY OF SCRIPTURE KNOWLEDGE (1680 pages), THE NEW GENEVA STUDY BIBLE (THE REFORMATION STUDY BIBLE), (2220 pages), THE GENEVA BIBLE (648 pages), THE THOMPSON EXHAUSTIVE TOPICAL BIBLE: KING JAMES VERSION (1631 pages), and THE NEW NAVE'S TOPICAL BIBLE (1114 pages).
    "The topics from the TOPICAL BIBLE can easily be found in the General Index of the THOMPSON CHAIN-REFERENCE BIBLE. In the General Index are found the chain-reference numbers that will guide the user into the biblical context for many of the topics. The many additional resources in the THOMPSON CHAIN-REFERENCE BIBLE . . . will greatly supplement any topical study." -- Introduction to the TOPICAL BIBLE
    We feel that both THE THOMPSON CHAIN-REFERENCE BIBLE, KING JAMES VERSION, 5TH EDITION, and the THOMPSON EXHAUSTIVE TOPICAL BIBLE: KING JAMES VERSION has a part in every reference library, particularly the libraries of Biblical Counselors.
    Remember the Thompson Chain-Reference System was developed for the Authorized King James Version. It is also available in New American Standard, New King James, and the New International versions.
    "A THOMPSON STUDY BIBLE will help you in ways other Bibles can't. It's the unique Chain-Reference System that allows you to follow any subject, person, place or idea, from the front of your Bible to the end. THOMPSON users say it's the best way to study your Bible. No other Bible has this superb, patented, Thompson Chain Reference System developed by Dr. Frank C. Thompson in 1890. Since that time, thousands of additional topics and links have been added. The AKJV 4th edition has been out of print since 1988. The 5th edition began printing in 1988. The only way to find a 4th edition would be in the secondary market . . .' -- Publisher
    "Some Thompson Bible Features [from among 75 additional study features]:

    "The text is set in two columns for ease of reading. Cross references are to the left and right of the respective columns immediately adjacent to the related verse. TCR cross references are by subject. Each cross reference contains a TCR Index number, the TCR subject, and the next Bible verse in the 'chain' for that subject. For example, if you were studying the gospel of 'John' at John 1:9 the TCR cross reference reads '2168 Christ the Light, 8:12.' Thus the TCR index number is '2168,' the subject is 'Christ the Light,' and the next verse in the 'chain' is John 8:12. Going to John 8:12 you would find '2168 Christ the Light, 12:35' and so on to the end of the 'chain'. What makes this different than most other study Bibles is the 'TCR Numeric Index.' Looking up TCR Index number 2168 we find ALL references to subject 'Christ the Light' in order from Genesis to Revelation. You can also do a lookup using the subject. For example, say you are asked a question by an unbeliever, 'Why was Jesus Christ called 'the Light of the world' and what does it mean?' First you would look up the subject 'Christ' or 'Jesus' in the 'TCR Alphabetic Index.' For example, in section 'C,' we find 'Christ,' under the 'Christ' entry we find 'Light, the . . . 2168.' Now we can look in the 'TCR Numeric Index' for the '2168' entry. Here we find the 'chain' of all relevant verses for further study. Why is this better than a 'Strong's' search? Using the latest 'Strongest Strong's . . .' under word 'light' we find 288 entries. The 'Strong's' search is less efficient because many of the 288 entries are not relevant to the subject in question. The full compliment of TCR Bible helps consists of the cross references (100,000 entries), 'Alphabetic Index (8,000 entries)', 'Numerical Index (4,200 entries),' 'Outline Studies,' 'Bible Character Studies,' 'Bible Harmonies,' 'Archaeological Supplement,' 'Hebrew Calendar,' 'Concordance,' and 'Bible Maps.' At $36 you can not go wrong. If I could have only one study Bible, this would be it." -- Reader's Comment
    Warning: Many editions and bindings are available, including CD-ROM software Bible research packages, and Palm or PocketPC devices. The website for Thompson Bibles is the best source of complete descriptions of the various editions.
    "The 5th edition is the 4th edition expanded, and has everything the 4th had, plus more. While Kirkbride is always in production printing the Bibles with the current year's date, it is still the 1988 5th edition." [This 5th edition was the last edition of THE THOMPSON CHAIN-REFERENCE BIBLE. Anything published in 1988 or later is the 5th edition. -- compiler] -- Publisher
    Both the buyer and the seller can become confused about various editions because Kirkbride Bible Company apparently has never printed the International Standard Book Number (ISBN) in the various editions and printings. Buyers will want to confirm the edition, version, and publisher with the seller.
    There are numerous reader's comments about poor quality of paper, binding, and typography of TCR Bibles not printed by Kirkbride, so be sure to carefully inspect any non-Kirkbride edition before purchasing it.
    Thompson apparently was a Methodist pastor. The first edition of 1908 was "published by Methodists Book Concern of Dobbs Ferry, New York." -- Publisher

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

    "No other topical Bible can offer you the comprehensive collection of features or the exhaustive topical thoroughness of this exceptional Bible reference tool -- because there can only be one . . . THE THOMPSON EXHAUSTIVE TOPICAL BIBLE." -- Publisher
    It may be used profitably in combination with THE NEW TREASURY OF SCRIPTURE KNOWLEDGE (1680 pages), THE NEW GENEVA STUDY BIBLE (THE REFORMATION STUDY BIBLE), (2220 pages), THE GENEVA BIBLE (648 pages), THE THOMPSON EXHAUSTIVE TOPICAL BIBLE: KING JAMES VERSION (1631 pages), and THE NEW NAVE'S TOPICAL BIBLE (1114 pages).
    "The topics from the TOPICAL BIBLE can easily be found in the General Index of the THOMPSON CHAIN-REFERENCE BIBLE. In the General Index are found the chain-reference numbers that will guide the user into the biblical context for many of the topics. The many additional resources in the THOMPSON CHAIN-REFERENCE BIBLE . . . will greatly supplement any topical study." -- Introduction to the Topical Bible

    Thompson, Murray Stewart, Grace and Forgiveness in Ministry, ISBN: 0687156807 9780687156801.
    Includes bibliography and references.

    *Thornwell, James Henley (1812-1862), Whatsoever Things are True: Classic Discourses on Truth. Alternate title: CLASSIC DISCOURSES ON TRUTH; DISCOURSES ON TRUTH, 166 pages, ISBN: 1932474781 9781932474787. Available (COLLECTED WRITINGS OF JAMES HENLEY THORNWELL) on the Puritan Hard Drive.
    "These seven DISCOURSES ON TRUTH were written and preached in the Spring of 1851 from the text, Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, think on these things. Philippians 4:8. They were delivered at the Chapel of the College at Columbia, South Carolina, by James Henley Thornwell, who was serving as both President and Chaplain." -- Publisher
    "First published 1855 by Messrs. Carter, New York, NY."
    Contents: Discourse 1: The ethical system of the Bible -- Discourse 2: The love of truth -- Discourse 3: The love of truth -- Discourse 4: Sincerity -- Discourse 5: Faithfulness -- Discourse 6: Vows -- Discourse 7: Consistency.

    *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).
    Available on microfiche from University Microfilms International, Ann Arbor, MI.
    Includes bibliography.

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

    Umbreit, Mark, Crime and Reconciliation: Creative Options for Victims and Offenders, ISBN: 0687098858 9780687098859.

    Usdin, Earl, and Irene S. Forrest, Psychotherapeutic Drugs.

    Vandeusen, Dayton, Redemptive Counseling: Relating Psychotherapy to the Personal Meanings in Redemption.
    Includes bibliography.

    Vila, Samuel, Handbook for Christian Counseling: Manual de Visitacion Pastoral, ISBN: 8472286002 9788472286009.

    Wakefield, Norman, Solving Problems Before They Become Conflicts, ISBN: 0310390915 9780310390916.
    "This is a self-help book on problem solving. The author takes us from conflict, a destructive process, to problem solving, a constructive process, and he seeks to do so in a Biblical way." -- GCB

    *Weeks, Noel, The Sufficiency of Scripture.
    "Weeks is currently a Lecturer in History at the University of Sydney. He has a B.S. (Zoology), B.D., Th.M., and Ph.D. To be guilty of understatement, the man is highly and broadly educated.
    "Weeks believes firmly that Scripture is sufficient for faith and practice. And he affirms that all disciplines of life are governed by the Lord Jesus Christ, and that His providential actions impact on every individual, and every area of knowledge. This rule is not only declared by the Scripture, but the Scriptures themselves enunciate the response due from each person. Whether it may be culture, or science, or nation, all are subject to the Scripture; that is, all will be judged by the Scriptures in the end. Therefore, it follows that we are daily to judge all things by the Scriptures.
    "Weeks makes application of all this. And in doing so he again and again points out that the more we dilute the influence of the Scriptures, the further we go into doubt and confusion. The many apostasies which are today in evidence are the result of the diluting of, or the abandoning of, the authority of the Scriptures. . . .
    "In the matter of translations, Weeks shows that there is no solid scriptural reason for the dynamic equivalence form of translation. Rather there is a great disservice to believers. He also shows that making the 'receptor language' the governing language in translation is to subvert the original God-breathed words.
    "His conclusion is excellent, in which he notes that we are acquiescing in a limitation of inspiration throughout our Christian practice. And this leaves a Christian without power; yea, and also without excuse before God. God's words are absolute, just as His power is absolute. To seek to accommodate the Christian message to what the world is willing to hear, is to doom it to failure, even ridicule. Paul and Barnabas confronted the Greeks with God's commands. And they turned the world upside down. We must return to this practice of announcing to the world what God has said, and present it as authoritative. . . ." -- Jay P. Green, Sr. (1918-2008)

    Welch, Ed, Philosophy of Counseling (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).

    Wood, Stephen D., Christ and Civil Government: An Exposition of Psalm 2, an article.
    "The author answers questions concerning authority. Rather than go to the Constitution, The Declaration of Independence, rulings of the Supreme Court, the laws of the land, or the President he goes to the second Psalm [Psalm 2]. Here is where true authority resides; in the Word of God and the Christ He has placed on His throne!" -- GCB

    Yarbrough, Tom, Call to Comfort: A Counseling Manual for Every Christian, ISBN: 0893901199 9780893901196.
    Includes bibliography.

    See also: Christ and counseling, Appendix a: words of Christ, Christ our example, The teaching of our lord jesus christ, Sermon on the mount, Parables of christ, Topical bible indexes, Covenant theology and the ordinance of covenanting, The covenant faithfulness of god, Believer's position in christ and sonship, Affliction, adversity, trials, suffering, chastisement, Puritanism: works by and about puritans, The priesthood of believers, Holiness, Holy spirit and counseling, Institute for nouthetic counseling, The sovereignty of god, The doctrine of man (human nature, total depravity), Spiritual discernment, Prayer, Peer counseling, peer evangelism, one-on-one evangelism, Conscience, casuistry, cases of conscience, Justice, god's final judgment, the great white throne judgment, the day of the lord, Church discipline, Counseling and the local church, The free offer of the gospel message of salvation and the life to come: the means of grace, The free offer of the gospel message of salvation and the life to come: the means of grace, the covenant of eternal salvation, Book-length presentations of the gospel message of salvation and the life to come: the means of grace, Submission, surrender, Sharing christ with your children,
    Christian counseling and educational foundation, Westminster media, The national association of nouthetic counselors, Appendix c: psychology and psychiatry, For all counselors, Ready reference: immediate counsel on many subjects, Topical listings of scripture useful in counseling, Training in biblical counseling, Biblical counseling, General works on biblical counseling, Pastoral counseling, Preaching and pastoral counseling, Medical aspects of pastoral counseling, Referral in pastoral counseling, Audio files (cds and mp3s) on counseling subjects, Legal aspects of counseling, Biblical counsel by subject, Post-abortion counseling, Crisis counseling, The military, Love and counseling problems, charitableness, Homework for counselees, Biblical counseling tracts, Case studies, Correspondence containing biblical counsel, Follow-up, Discipleship, The inspiration and infallibility of scripture (the doctrine of revelation, the doctrine of plenary inspiration, the doctrine of divine inspiration, the doctrine of verbal inspiration, theopneustia, sufficiency of scripture), The ten commandments: the moral law, The commandments of christ, Idolatry, Trusting god, Covetousness, greed, and selfishness, Theft, fraud, stealing: property rights and freedom,
    Finding the perfect parent in god, Counseling the family, Training children, Home schooling, Incest, Sex ethics, sex education, Sexual relationship, Spiritual adultery (spiritual whoredom/harlotry), Child abuse (pedophilia), Problem solving with children, Counseling children, The difficult child, Protecting children from dangers, Preparing children for the world, Teens and parents, Counseling teens, Teens coping with the world, Public schools, public education,
    The westminster confession of faith (1646, the westminster standards) and related works: a study guide, Manuals and handbooks, Conscience, casuistry, cases of conscience, Ethics, computer ethics, cyberethics, Sex ethics, sex education, Bible study, Bible magistracy turns back the wrath of god, The doctrine of the lesser magistrates, Christ's kingdom, Lordship of jesus christ, The all-sufficiency of christ, Love and counseling problems, Preaching and pastoral counseling, Healing of the mind, Biblical counseling reference works, Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, Sexual relationship, Spiritual adultery (spiritual whoredom/harlotry), Counseling for Sex Related Problems, Illegitimacy, Justifying faith, The sovereign grace of god: his everlasting mercy and lovingkindness, Hope, Wisdom, Proverbs, topical listings, Questions and answers, Compiled quotations, Pastoral counseling, Referral in pastoral counseling, Works by jay adams, Contemporary biblical counseling: an annotated bibliography compiled and annotated by david powlison, Biblical counseling reference works, Resources in christian counseling series, Biblical counsel by subject, Topical listings of Scripture, Commentaries containing biblical counsel, Practical expository sermons, General works on biblical counseling, Biblical counsel for women, Premarital counsel, Marital counseling, Counseling the family, Counseling the sick, Crisis counseling,
    Medical aspects of pastoral counseling, Physiological problems, Parenting, Counseling children, Counseling teens, Sound word associates, Audio cassettes of ccef speakers, The national association of nouthetic counselors tape library, General audio files (cds and mp3s) from ccef speakers, Pseudo-christian movements: a selection of works, Toleration, liberty of conscience, pluralism, "religious freedom," and neutrality, Will and recalcitrance, Rebellion and lawlessness: wickedness, demonic possession, abnormal behavior, insanity, mental illness, mental retardation,
    Repentance the key to salvation and change, Justification, Justifying faith, and so forth, and so on.
    TCRB5: 791-799, 844, 845, 847, 848, 2356, 2482

    Related Weblinks

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

    Book-length Presentations of the Free Offer of The Gospel Message of Salvation and the Life to Come: The Means of Grace
    http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr1cha.html#blpoftf

    Brain, Mind and Body in Healing From Trauma, The People's Pharmacy Radio Program, show 980, February 7, 2015.
    "To help people heal from trauma, the best approaches find ways to reconnect brain and body with a feeling of safety. . . .
    "We often associate the term 'Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder' with military veterans. Indeed, war creates many traumatic experiences, but it is not the only source of reactions that may cause people to shut down or blow up. Car, train or plane crashes, a life-threatening illness episode, family violence, or other events can create a dysfunctional reaction that may be largely out of conscious awareness.
    "Treating PTSD
    "One of the world's leading experts on PTSD explains how such reactions are rooted in the body's response to threat, and how it can be successfully treated. . . .
    "Dr. van der Kolk is co-director of the Complex Trauma Treatment Network of the National Child Traumatic Stress Network, established by Congress to raise the standard of care and improve access to services for traumatized children, their families and communities. His website is http://www.BesselvanderKolk.com
    "His book is THE BODY KEEPS THE SCORE: BRAIN, MIND AND BODY IN THE HEALING OF TRAUMA (2014)."
    http://www.peoplespharmacy.com/2015/02/04/show-980-brain-mind-and-body-in-healing-from-trauma/

    Childhood Sexual Abuse, Gender, and Depression Among Incarcerated Youth, Angela R. Gover, University of Florida Center for Studies in Criminology and Law
    http://ijo.sagepub.com/content/48/6/683.abstract

    Contents and Chapter Sections for Calvin's Institutes of the Christian Religion, 1559 (Battles translation)
    http://www.lettermen2.com/icrcont.html

    Depressive Characteristics of Physically Abused Children, Denise M. Allen, Kenneth J. Tarnowski
    http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/2926018

    Dr. David Powlison on Calvin's Influence for Biblical Counseling (part 1 of 2), an online video, DVD.
    "Dr. David Powlison, Adjunct Professor of Practical Theology and CCEF Counselor and Faculty Member, explains how Calvin and his insights have influenced biblical counseling."
    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2kgpqkX7IfI

    Dr. David Powlison on Calvin's Influence for Biblical Counseling, (part 2 of 2), an online video, DVD.
    "Dr. David Powlison, Adjunct Professor of Practical Theology and CCEF Counselor and Faculty Member, explains how Calvin and his insights have influenced biblical counseling."
    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VhgNEBmIadI

    The Effects of Violence in the Home on Children's Emotional, Behavioral, and Social Functioning: A Review of the Literature
    "I find this very interesting and think it has application to myself and most everyone I have known over the years. There is documented research proving the thesis that child abuse (emotional, physical, sexual, or spiritual, etc.) results in disturbances in learning, and disturbances in adjusting emotionally and socially, regardless of 'differences in age, sex, race, gender, IQ, or socioeconomic status.'
    "In other words, the implications are that child abuse has the effect of making it difficult for a child to learn (grow in knowledge of the truth and understanding, have an open mind, be teachable), and of making it difficult to relate to the world (relationships, spouses, family, church, workplace, government), regardless of the child's innate capabilities and gifts. So, even the gifted child, if abused, will in later life suffer, however subtle, learning disabilities/blocks/blind spots or abnormal behavior. 'If a parent and child love each other, then the parent can teach the child anything.' But emotional scars can be as hard to heal as chronic disease.
    " 'Physically abused and non-abused children were compared on child-completed measures of depression, hopelessness, self-esteem, and locus of control. Results indicated that, in comparison with non-abused controls, abused children evidenced more depressive symptoms, heightened externality, lower self-esteem, and greater hopelessness about the future. Group differences in depressive symptomatology were not accounted for on the basis of differences in age, sex, race, gender, IQ, or socioeconomic status.'
    "This thesis certainly is connected with the question of who we associate with and the impact of good and evil on our lives.
    "So, it could be of interest, directly or indirectly, to practically every person I know, or have known."
    http://ebx.sagepub.com/content/6/2/94.abstract

    A few Integrationists Affirm my Point About BC's Decline, Rick Thomas
    "Part of my critique of the BC [Biblical Counseling] movement was that there is little innovation within the BC movement and most books/resources are a rehash of the 'same old concepts,' lacking sophistication and complexity." -- Rick Thomas
    https://rickthomas.net/podcast/ep-424-a-few-integrationists-affirm-my-point-about-bcs-decline/3

    Four Reasons the BC (Biblical Counseling) Movement has Passed its Prime
    "1. The ascendancy of the BC movement began circa 1970 with Jay Adams and his book, COMPETENT TO COUNSEL.
    "2. The movement continued to ascend through the establishment of CCEF, mainly David Powlison, the de facto most extraordinary mind from the BC movement era.
    "3. ACBC, formerly NANC, came out of CCEF, and the BC movement continued to spread (and ascend). By 2010 the movement had hit its peak and has been declining ever since in its relevancy.
    "4. Again, you want to distinguish between the movement and the practice of biblical counseling, or what the New Testament calls discipleship." -- Rick Thomas
    https://rickthomas.net/podcast/ep-423-four-reasons-the-bc-movement-has-passed-its-prime/

    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/

    He That Dwelleth in Love, John Love (1757-1825)
    http://www.westminsterconfession.org/godly-living/he-that-dwelleth-in-love.php

    How Abuse Changes a Child's Brain, Brandon Keim
    "The brains of children raised in violent families resemble the brains of soldiers exposed to combat, say psychologists."
    http://www.wired.com/2011/12/neurology-of-abuse/

    International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies
    "The International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies (ISTSS) is the world's premier trauma organization dedicated to trauma treatment, education, research and prevention. Through this organization, professionals share information about the effects of trauma, seeking to reduce traumatic stressors and their immediate and long-term consequences."
    http://www.istss.org/

    The Journal of Biblical Counseling
    http://www.ccef.org/jbc

    *Love not the World (FGB #163)
    The World Passeth Away | The Scriptures and the World | The Christian and the World | Love not the World | What art Thou? | Which World am I a Citizen of? | The Saint and the World
    https://www.chapellibrary.org/book/lntwfg/love-not-the-world

    LibraryThing member "lettermen," tag "topical"
    http://www.librarything.com/catalog/lettermen&tag=topical&collection=-1

    Life Change Presents Dr. Henry Brandt Biblical Counseling Series
    http://www.aamedia.com/life/home2.htm

    Logos Bible Software Bundles That Include Works on Biblical Counseling
    There are 15 bundles in all.
    http://www.logos.com/products/search?q=counseling+bundles

    National Center for Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
    "The National Center for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) was created within the Department of Veterans Affairs in 1989, in response to a Congressional mandate to address the needs of veterans with military-related PTSD. Its mission was, and remains: To advance the clinical care and social welfare of America's veterans through research, education, and training in the science, diagnosis, and treatment of PTSD and stress-related disorders. This website is provided as an educational resource concerning PTSD and other enduring consequences of traumatic stress."
    http://www.ptsd.va.gov/

    Point Man International Ministries
    P.O. Box 339
    Sheridan, MI 48884-0339
    (517) 831-5215, (517) 831-5216 -- FAX (800) 877-VETS - Hotline).
    Counsel for military veterans.
    Point Man International Ministries
    http://www.pointmanintl.org/

    Practical Expository Sermons
    http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr3ch.html#pexsrm

    The Practical Works of Richard Baxter, Vol. 1: A Christian Directory
    http://www.lettermen2.com/pwrbcd.html

    Psychoheresy: The Church Weds the World
    http://www.psychoheresy-aware.org/chweds52.html

    Psychology and Psychiatry
    http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrrappc.html

    Rick Thomas Podcasts
    "And other resources -- transcripts, videos, books."
    https://rickthomas.net/enjoy-awesome-podcasts/
    Topic Index, Rick Thomas Articles
    https://rickthomas.net/topic-index/

    Self-examination (FGB #250)
    "For the good of our immortal souls, we offer the latest FGB, Self-examination. Puritan Thomas Watson helpfully introduces the subject to us. Charles Spurgeon then exhorts us to examine ourselves and gives a useful analysis of the word examine. Wilhemus à Brakel urges us to go even further and examine our faith. With great wisdom and insight, J.C. Ryle warns about his (and our) age of spiritual danger. Arthur Pink shows us that the Scriptures call us to this holy exercise, and Octavius Winslow asks us to dig deep, as we answer his question, 'Are you alive or dead?' The Lord's Supper is always a crucial time to examine our hearts, and Jonathan Edwards helps us to understand who should come to the Table and who should not. Thomas Wilcox gives us some penetrating questions by which we may examine our profession of Christ, and Charles Spurgeon asks yet another pointed question: 'Does Christ dwell in you?' Finally, Ryle closes with brief but powerful applications of where to begin and how to proceed with self-examination. Hear those men: they are skilled physicians of the soul."
    https://www.chapellibrary.org/book/sexafg/selfexamination

    The Sum of Saving Knowledge, David Dickson and James Durham
    http://www.covenanter.org/reformed/the-sum-of-saving-knowledge

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

    Testimony for all Counselors: Meet Rick Thomas
    https://rickthomas.net/meet-rick/

    Works of J.C. Ryle (1816-1900)
    http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr3ch.html#wojcr



    Peer Counseling, Peer Evangelism, One-on-one Evangelism

    Now then my friends, I preach the gospel to sinners, not because I believe the sinner has any power at all in himself to respond to it: I do not believe that any sinner has any capacity in himself whatever. But Christ said, the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit and they are life, and by God's grace I go forth preaching this Word because it is a word of power, a word of spirit, a word of life. The power is not in the sinner, it is the Word when God the Holy Spirit is pleased to use it. -- Arthur Pink, Gospel Preaching Commanded

    And I myself also am persuaded of you, my brethren, that ye also are full of goodness, filled with all knowledge, able also to admonish one another. (Romans 15:14)

    Read the Gospel of John, chapters 14 through 16, [John 14; John 15; John 16] for comfort in time of crisis or distress.

    Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), How to Help People Change: The Four-step Biblical Process, 203 pages.
    "Unfolds the counseling process through an exposition of II Timothy 3:14-17 [2 Timothy 3:14-17]. Bases all on the centrality of God and the vertical dimension for counseling: The Holy Spirit and the Word work in concert. Change unfolds through teaching, conviction, correction and training. 'Learn both how to launder your mind of pagan psychological and psychiatric theories and how to use the Bible cogently and effectively in its full strength.' Contains reprint of Adams's 1982 journal article on 'Integration'." -- David Powlison

    *Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), Ready to Restore: The Layman's Guide to Christian Counseling, 111 pages.
    "An introductory textbook in nouthetic counseling: accessible, compact, covering both conceptual and methodological matters. 'God calls every Christian to counsel some people, somewhere, at some time about something.' Galatians 6:1 provides the banner verse: the character of the counselor, the problems in view, the methods. Meant for individual study or for a class or Bible study group." -- David Powlison

    Adams Jay E., Should a Christian be Able to Counsel? Instilling Hope in the Counselee (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).

    Baldwin, Carol Lesser, Friendship Counseling: Biblical Foundations for Helping Others, ISBN: 0310390419 9780310390411.
    "This book is unique in that it derives practical counseling skills from a study of who God is and how He has dealt with his people." -- GCB

    Bryant, Marcus D., The Art of Christian Caring, ISBN: 0827200153 9780827200159.
    "Then Bryant turns to specific target groups for ministry, such as nursing home residents, the retarded, prisoners, and mental patients, examining guidelines and background information. The final chapter discusses how to gather one's own resources for the helping process through worship, meditation, and spirituality, stressing as a general guideline that Christian caring is sustained by God's love and by our personal responses to that love as we experience it in our own lives. Underscoring the importance of commitment and self-discipline in relations with others, this is a good introductory guide that should be helpful to general readers."

    Burchett, Harold E., People Helping People, ISBN: 0802464572 9780802464576.
    How every Christian can counsel.

    Durham, James, The Scandal of Stumbling Blocks: Avoiding Spiritual Harm, ISBN: 1601788010 9781601788016.
    "Christians are runners in the race to glory. The last thing a believer wants to do is cause another runner to trip and fall. Yet, as James Durham powerfully proves, Christians can become stumbling blocks -- often without considering how their words or actions impact others. Carefully edited for modern consumption, this much-needed classic work helps us to be encouragers rather than obstacles. Every Christian should read this book!" -- Joel R. Beeke
    "A new book helps you avoid causing spiritual harm through the application of biblical counsel. In THE SCANDAL OF STUMBLING BLOCKS, James Durham helps us to consider the matter deeply by defining the nature of stumbling as well as showing its serious consequences. He looks in considerable detail at different kinds of stumbling and identifies the ways that people can stumble and be stumbled. Durham provides practical advice for avoiding and preventing offense.
    "Now edited in modern English, Durham's classic treatment on considerate Christianity can be used to edify a new generation." -- Publisher

    Egan, Gerard, The Skilled Helper: A Model for Systematic Helping and Interpersonal Relating, 8th edition, ISBN: 0495127957 9780495127956.
    Also available, TRAINING THE SKILLED HELPER: AN INSTRUCTOR'S MANUAL TO ACCOMPANY THE SKILLED HELPER, A MODEL FOR SYSTEMATIC HELPING AND INTERPERSONAL RELATING by James W. Bryer. This training manual also has a companion book, EXERCISE MANUAL.

    Grantham, Rudolph E., Lay Shepherding: A Guide for Visiting the Sick, the Aged, the Troubled and the Bereaved.
    "Beginning with a look at authority issues and the context for lay ministry, Grantham explores ways the Biblical, humanistic, and broadly spiritual perspectives relate to each other and looks at specific ministries lay people can engage in: crisis intervention, bereavement counseling, hospital/nursing home visiting, etc. Considers, too, the dynamics of healing, how to be an effective listener and to pray with the sick and personal lay evangelism of beneficial and destructive kinds. Appendix includes discussion questions and additional study resources." -- Publisher

    Kuenning, Delores, Helping People Through Grief, ISBN: 0871239213 9780871239211.
    "A remarkable textbook to recommend for teaching caring people how to be helpful. It is an . . . encyclopedia of information on every conceivable form of grief. But more than that, it describes simply and directly how to respond to these griefs." -- Reader's Comment
    "Illness as well as misfortune or even tragedy are a part of life. At such times people turn to their families or friends. Sometimes the counsel given is helpful, sometimes not. Kuenning believes the lay person can develop skills to help people face these vicissitudes, and in this book she shows how." -- Cyril J. Barber

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

    Logos Bible Software, Logos Bible Software Bundles That Include Works on Biblical Counseling
    There are 15 bundles in all.
    http://www.logos.com/products/search?q=counseling+bundles

    Miller, C. John (1928-1996), A Faith Worth Sharing: A Lifetime of Conversations About Christ, ISBN: 0875523919 9780875523910.
    "This is not a book about clever techniques, or methodologies; it is a book of snapshots from one life given to impact others. If you too are someone who has been changed by the power of the gospel, then you need to pray for the opportunities to pass it on to others. This book will encourage you to do just that." -- Stephen Smallman
    "C. John Miller taught practical theology at Westminster Theological Seminary, was Director of World Harvest Mission, and led mission trips to several countries. He was founding pastor of New Life Presbyterian Church, outside Philadelphia, from which grew several other congregations in the Philadelphia area. His other books include POWERFUL EVANGELISM FOR THE POWERLESS, and OUTGROWING THE INGROWN CHURCH." -- Publisher

    *Powlison, David (1949-2019), Speaking Truth in Love: Counsel in Community, ISBN: 0977080714 9780977080717.
    "SPEAKING TRUTH IN LOVE is the latest book by David Powlison, a faculty member at Westminster Theological Seminary and The Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation. In his own words, it is, 'a book on how we are to live together.' Although primarily directed at pastors and counselors, there is much here to be savored by every child of God. Indeed, an emphasis of the book is that speaking truth in love, wisdom, and grace into another person's life is both the privilege and responsibility for every Christian, not just the 'professionals' or the 'trained.'
    "There are seventeen chapters, which are really separate essays all looking at differing facets of counseling, or 'loving another person well' as Powlison puts it.
    "Chapter 1 is an extended reflection of Psalm 119, beautifully portraying it as the cry of a faithful heart toward God. It is worth the price of the book for anyone struggling through a trial or helping another.
    "Chapter 2 talks about the need to face the truth of our rebellious flesh, while chapter 3 talks of hearing the music of the gospel. Chapter 4-8 deal with various practical steps of preparation, listening, and questioning, while chapter 9 specifically deals with gently handling people who have already been immersed in the false psychologies of the world.
    "Chapter 10 starts looking at a more global emphasis, challenging pastors (and all) to consider that most of the 'ministry of the Word' that Christ actually did was what we would now term private and small-group counseling, and not preaching sermons. Chapter 11 looks at how counseling should fit into the ministry of the church, and chapter 12 looks specifically at how the nature of prayer fits into counseling in the church.
    "The last chapters look at pastoral counseling, women in counseling, when to refer, where to train, and lastly a guiding doctrinal statement for Biblical counseling.
    "This is a rewarding book written by a wise servant of God, giving insight and direction on both the nature and the challenges the church faces in fulfilling our mandate on speaking truth in love to each other." -- Reader's Comment

    Sala, Harold J., Coffee cup Counseling.
    Includes bibliographical references.

    Shelley, Marshall, Helping Those who Don't Want Help.
    Includes bibliography.

    Southard, Samuel, Theology and Therapy: The Wisdom of God in the Context of Friendship.
    Includes bibliographical references and index.

    Sturkie, Joan, Listening With Love: True Stories From Peer Counseling, ISBN: 0893901512 9780893901516.
    "LWL's stories are true stories from Joan Sturkie's peer counseling classes. Topics covered are suicide, incest, pregnancy, consequences of using drugs, etc. The stories present wonderful discussion topics for your group or class. Read it for yourself and make your own assessment." -- Reader's Comment

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

    See also: For all counselors, The sovereignty of god, The doctrine of man (human nature, total depravity), Spiritual discernment, The sovereign grace of god: his everlasting mercy and lovingkindness, The ten commandments: the moral law, The commandments of christ, Conscience, casuistry, cases of conscience, Sexual relationship, Spiritual adultery (spiritual whoredom/harlotry), Casuistry, cases of conscience, Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, The teaching of our lord jesus christ, Appendix a: words of christ, For all counselors, Pastoral counseling, Mentoring (women), Manuals and handbooks, Topical listings of scripture useful in counseling, Trusting god, Christ our example, Affliction, adversity, trials, suffering, chastisement, Biblical counsel by subject, Counseling and the local church, Counseling children, Biblical counseling training, The westminster confession of faith (1646, the westminster standards) and related works: a study guide, and so forth, and so on.
    TCRB5: 1077, 2888, 3425, 3907, 3908

    Related Weblinks

    The Art and Care of Correction Among Friends, Rick Thomas
    https://rickthomas.net/the-art-and-care-of-correction/

    Jesus Net
    Internet Evangelism.
    https://jesus.net/

    My Hope America With Billy Graham
    My Hope guidelines emphasize personal friendship evangelism.
    In the last decade there have been 10 million responses to BGEA My Hope projects in foreign countries.
    Approximately 25,000 local churches cooperated in the My Hope America, 2013 initiative. As of mid-December 2013, there were over 100,000 recorded responses of faith in Christ.
    http://www.myhopewithbillygraham.org

    Peace With God
    "Approximately 10.5 million people worldwide experienced the Good News of Jesus Christ in 2013 by visiting the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association's (BGEA) PeaceWithGod.net website [Jan. 29, 2014]. Of those, more than 2 million indicated making a commitment to Christ after viewing the message."
    Peace With God
    "Every day, on average (based on October-December 2020) over 19,000 people explore the Gospel on PeaceWithGod.net. More than 4,000 people indicate making spiritual decisions for Christ.
    The Top 10 Countries for 2020 (PeaceWithGod.net): 1. United States, 2. Canada, 3. Syria, 4. Sudan, 5. Azerbaijan, 6. Libya, 7. Lebanon, 8. Tanzania, 9. Bolivia, and 10. Kyrgyzstan." -- Internet Evangelism Update letter, February, 2021
    http://www.PeaceWithGod.net
    Paz Con Dios
    http://www.PazConDios

    Pray for "Search for Jesus" contacts
    https://pray.searchforjesus.net/

    Responding to Friends who do Things That Make you Uncomfortable, Rick Thomas
    https://rickthomas.net/responding-to-friends-who-do-things-that-make-you-uncomfortable/

    Rick Thomas Podcasts
    "And other resources -- transcripts, videos, books."
    https://rickthomas.net/enjoy-awesome-podcasts/
    Topic Index, Rick Thomas Articles
    https://rickthomas.net/topic-index/

    Search for Jesus
    http://www.SearchforJesus.net

    Seven Tips to Help Your Friends who are Suffering, Rick Thomas
    https://rickthomas.net/seven-tips-to-help-your-friends-who-are-going-through-suffering/

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



    Questions and Answers

    Ask and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: for every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened. Or what man is there of you, whom if his son ask bread, will he give him a stone? Or if he ask a fish, will he give him a serpent? If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask him? -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 7:7-11)

    Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man. For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil. (Ecclesiastes 12:13-14)

    Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), The Practical Encyclopedia of Christian Counseling.
    See the subject "Answers," and so forth, and so on.

    *Baxter, Richard (1615-1691), A Christian Directory: Baxter's Practical Works, Vol. 1. Full title: A Christian Directory: or A Sum of Practical Theology, and Cases of Conscience. Directing Christians how to use Their Knowledge and Faith; How to Improve all Helps and Means, and to Perform all Duties; How to Overcome Temptations, and to Escape or Mortify Every Sin. In Four Parts.
    I. Christian Ethics (or Private Duties)
    II. Christian Economics (or Family Duties)
    III. Christian Ecclesiastics (or Church Duties)
    IV. Christian Politics (or Duties to Our Rulers and Neighbours)     (Morgan, PA: Soli Deo Gloria Publications, 1997, 1990, 1838, 1707, 1678, 1673), ISBN: 1877611131 9781877611131. Foreword by J.I. Packer (Soli Deo Gloria edition only). The Soli Deo Gloria publication is a facsimile reprint of the 19th century reprint by George Virtue, London, 1846. The original 1673 edition and the 1678 edition, both printed by Robert White for Nevill Simmons. Bibliographic and scriptural footnotes. A Christian classic. Considered to be among the ten greatest books in the English language. Available (less the J.I. Packer's Foreword, but searchable with an OCR-based index), on the Puritan Hard Drive.
    This work is available in many editions, and in many formats.
    Reformation Heritage Books has new copies of the Soli Deo Gloria edition (including the J.I. Packer Introduction), as of March 2008, even though it is generally thought to be out of print. They acquired Soli Deo Gloria from Ligonier Ministries in late 2007.
    The best digital format of the reprint by George Virtue is included on the Puritan Hard Drive. It has an OCR scan in the background, meaning one can search the entire volume and copy text into another document. It also has a computer generated indexed from the OCR scan which is, of course, in Baxter's vocabulary.
    A PDF image scan only of the same edition is available on the Reformation Bookshelf CD #21.
    The reprint by George Virtue is available online and may be downloaded in PDF format at Christian Classics Ethereal Library.
    The reprint by George Virtue appears in full preview in Google Books but may not be downloaded. So it is useful if the reader wants to become acquainted with the book. Text can be searched, but can not be copied into another document. This particular Google Books scan includes the contents in detail on pages iii-xix which is not included in the Christian Classics Ethereal Library PDF files. About five other editions from libraries are available in Google Books, and may be downloaded (August 2008).
    Notice that the e-text in Google Books has the advantage of being searchable. Searching an image-based PDF file (without an OCR scan in the background), is not possible, unless the user owns software such as Abode Acrobat Pro or Kirtas BookScan Editor. They both have an OCR (optical character recognition), feature that will search an image-based PDFs (bit-map scans). Searches appear to be perfect in this work, although one must know Baxter's vocabulary. Text can be cut and pasted from image-based PDF format to OCR (character) format. This particular Google Books scan can not be cut and pasted or downloaded.
    One of the older, multi-volume editions of THE WORKS OF RICHARD BAXTER is available at Monergism.com in the "Puritan Library," "Richard Baxter." A CHRISTIAN DIRECTORY, volume 23. It can be downloaded.
    http://www.puritanlibrary.com/
    Another older edition is available on microfilm (Ann Arbor, MI: University Microfilms, 1970), 1 microfilm reel, 35 mm (Early English books, 1641-1700; 343:11).
    "The complete practical works of Richard Baxter are in print in four volumes entitled BAXTER'S PRACTICAL WORKS. This volume (about 1 1/4 million words, 1028 pages), is volume one of the set. The editor's preface (1707), p. xiii, stated that the works of Richard Baxter are 'perhaps the best body of practical divinity that is extent in our own or any other tongue.' Richard Baxter lived from 1615-1691. The DIRECTORY was completed in 1665. Its scope was intended to cover all of practical theology, a summa of casuistry . . ." -- Don Kistler
    "Baxter's series, which grew in range and scope as it proceeded . . . is a peak point in Puritan devotional writing, and remains a precious resource for all, in this or any age, who want to know what is involved in Biblical godliness. . . . A CHRISTIAN DIRECTORY may justly be described as a landmark. It is the fullest, most thorough, and in this writer's judgment, most profound treatment of Christian spirituality and standards that has ever been attempted by an English-speaking Evangelical author. The fact that it embraces both spirituality and standards (the principles of communion with God plus the specifics of obedience to God), merits approving comment in itself; nowadays spirituality and ethics have become two distinct disciplines in the schools, and books written on either say virtually nothing about the other . . ." -- J.I. Packer (1926-2020)
    Timothy Keller calls it the greatest manual on Biblical counseling ever produced.
    "There are many Puritan classics on this subject. Thomas Brooks' PRECIOUS REMEDIES FOR SATAN'S DEVICES, Thomas Goodwin's A CHILD OF LIGHT WALKING IN DARKNESS, William Bridge's A LIFTING UP FOR THE DOWNCAST, and many other similar works give evidence that the Puritans were. . . . masters at applying Biblical answers and principles to problems that can only be solved by spiritual means. No Puritan work, however, has ever approached the popularity, the scope, or the depth of Baxter's classic treatise. With the widespread interest in counseling in today's church, this reprint of Baxter's work should be a welcome addition to every pastor's library, or to anyone else who wishes to give solid Biblical answers to man's questions." -- Don Kistler
    "We have long waited for a purely Biblical treatment of the spiritual ills and cures of men which is untainted by the views of psychology. Since Baxter lived about 200 years before psychology arrived, his deep work is completely void of its encroachment -- thankfully!" -- John MacArthur
    "The kings men sought to arrest Richard Baxter, but he traveled ceaselessly from place to place, writing his sermons and his books even on horseback (he had an inkwell in his saddle), and preached over a wide area." -- Brian H. Edwards
    "Baxter was a wonder of his age. His writings total 72 large volumes, much of it written on horseback as he traveled in his widespread preaching efforts. He seldom, if ever, edited anything he wrote. Knowing this any reader will be amazed at how well he communicated his deep love for his Savior. For 26 years he was public enemy No. 1 to the king, yet he lived to see the flight of the king in 1688." -- Jay P. Green, Sr. (1918-2008)
    POOR MAN'S FAMILY BOOK (1674) and THE CATECHIZING OF FAMILIES (1683), are less detailed works and are found in THE REFORMED PASTOR: BAXTER'S PRACTICAL WORKS, VOL. 4. They are more suitable for family instruction than are the detailed presentation in A CHRISTIAN DIRECTORY.
    "Ptacek in FAMILY WORSHIP: BIBLICAL BASIS, HISTORICAL REALITY, CURRENT NEED (pp. 51-52), supplies the following information in regard to Baxter and this book. He notes that after the Episcopalians ejected numerous 'nonconformists,' in what is know as the 'great ejection,' in 1662, 'Baxter pastored from house to house, visiting families of his parish in their homes. These visits contributed to Baxter's A CHRISTIAN DIRECTORY, a large and still very relevant manual of pastoral care.' Focusing on just one area of great importance, Ptacek demonstrates how this book's relevance is not limited by time or culture, though sometimes the use of specific words are. 'Published in 1673, but written 1664-65, a large book-length part of Baxter's CHRISTIAN DIRECTORY is devoted to the family. It is entitled 'Christian Economics' based on the archaic usage of the word, which reflects the proper sense of the Greek root oikonomos as the manager of a household, in the Christian case, the spiritual leader of the family. The family head is essential to Baxter's view of family worship and instruction. Baxter asserts that it is God's will that this instruction be carried out by the rulers of the families.' For a male head of the household to fail to do so, or to have another instruct in the family, is contrary to his position of authority.' This is the kind of book that can be passed on from generation to generation and still find much use in the service of the kingdom of God.
    "Though relatively weak on corporate sanctification, corporate faithfulness and some important areas of doctrine (such as justification), Baxter's work on subjects related to personal piety can be of good practical use to the Christian -- if one is careful to separate out his aberrant doctrinal views and any practical errors they may lead to." -- Publisher
    The following three excerpts are included as bonus free books on Reformation Bookshelf CD #28.
    1. "The Duties of Parents for Their Children" from BAXTER'S PRACTICAL WORKS, VOL. 1, A CHRISTIAN DIRECTORY, on Christian Economics, Chap. X., pp. 449-454.
    2. "The Special Duties of Children Towards Their Parents" from BAXTER'S PRACTICAL WORKS, VOL. 1, A CHRISTIAN DIRECTORY, on Christian Economics, Chap. XI., pp. 454-457.
    3. "The Special Duties of Children and Youth Towards God" from BAXTER'S PRACTICAL WORKS, VOL. 1, A CHRISTIAN DIRECTORY, on Christian Economics, Chap. XII., pp. 457-458).
    A summary of currently (2012) available publications.
    http://www.lettermen2.com/pwrbcd.html
    Richard Baxter, from Wikipedia
    http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Richard_Baxter

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

    Beers, V. Gilbert, The Discovery Bible Handbook: Finding God's Answers to Life's Questions.

    Blanchard, John, Truth for Life.
    "A good-sized work of over 400 pages. A very practical commentary filled with just the kind of advice we all need for living the Christian life." -- GCB

    *Boston, Thomas (1676-1732), Commentary on the Shorter Catechism, 1853, 2 volumes. A Christian classic. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
    " 'Two large volumes of over 1300 pages! Boston's work is the most comprehensive reference set ever penned on The Westminster Shorter Catechism. Concerning The Shorter Catechism, A.F. Mitchell states' it is a thoroughly Calvinistic and Puritan catechism, the ripest fruit of the Assembly's thought and experience, maturing and finally fixing the definitions of theological terms to which Puritanism for half a century had been leading up and gradually coming closer and closer to in its legion of catechisms' (The Westminster Assembly). The Shorter Catechism is the 'king of the catechisms' for shear power of expression, combining logical cogency with succinctness. Boston's exposition is unrivalled; there is nothing else like it. Here you have the cream of Puritan catechisms married to the cream of clear Puritan exposition! This is likely Boston's most important work. A set that will meet numerous needs, ranging from use in family worship, Christian education and personal study, to sermon preparation -- and for help in settling debated questions on the Presbytery floor. A one-of-a-kind set of books that will serve your family for generations to come!" -- Publisher
    "It is worth while to be a Shorter Catechism boy. They grow to be men. And better than that, the are exceedingly apt to grow to be men of God." -- B.B. Warfield
    *Westminster Shorter Catechism
    "The Shorter Catechism, With the Assembly's Proof Texts."
    Free downloadable PDF file.
    http://www.greenvillepresbyterian.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/shorter-catechism.pdf
    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/

    *Calvin, John (1509-1564), The Institutes of the Christian Religion, 2 volumes, ISBN: 0664220207 9780664220204. Considered to be among the ten greatest books in the English language. A Christian classic.
    "Edited by John McNeill and translated by Ford Lewis Battles, this is the definitive English language edition of one of the monumental works of the Christian church -- Calvin's INSTITUTES.
    "Still considered by many to be the finest explanation and defense of the Protestant Reformation available.
    "The work is divided into four books: I. The Knowledge of God the Creator, II. The Knowledge of God the Redeemer in Christ, III. The Mode of Obtaining the Grace of Christ, IV. The External Means or Helps by Which God Allures us Into Fellowship With Christ and Keeps us in it. . . . THE INSTITUTES is praised by the secular philosopher, Will Durant, as one of the ten books that shook the world." -- GCB
    Calvin spent a lifetime writing and perfecting INSTITUTES OF CHRISTIAN RELIGION. His Prefatory Address makes it clear that he intended the work to be a defense of Christianity to the King of France.
    Therefore, plainly stated, one of the most influential works ever published in the English language is a defense of Christianity to leaders of State.
    Prefatory Address to His Most Christian Majesty, The Most Mighty and Illustrious Monarch, Francis, King of the French, His Sovereign, John Calvin. Available in THE INSTITUTES OF THE CHRISTIAN RELIGION.
    "Indeed, this consideration makes a true king: to recognize himself a minister of God in governing his kingdom. Now, that king, who in ruling over his realm does not serve God's glory, exercises not kingly rule but brigandage. [Footnote: 'Nec iam regnum ille sed latrocinium exercet.' An echo of Augustine's famous phrase: 'When justice is taken away, what are kingdoms [[regna]] but a vast banditry [[magna latocinia]]?' City of God, IV. iv (MPL [[Migne, J.P., Patrologiae cursus completus, series Latina]], 41. 115; tr. NPNF [[A Select Library of the Nicene and Post-Nicene Fathers, second series]], II. 66)]. Furthermore, he is deceived who looks for enduring prosperity in his kingdom when it is not ruled by God's scepter, that is, his Holy Word; for the heavenly oracle that proclaims that where prophecy fails the people are scattered [Prov. 29:18 (Proverbs 29:18)], cannot lie." (Battles translation)
    "The characteristic of a true sovereign is, to acknowledge that, in the administration of his kingdom, he is a minister of God. He who does not make his reign subservient to the divine glory, acts the part not of a king, but a robber. He, moreover, deceives himself who anticipates long prosperity to any kingdom which is not ruled by the sceptre of God, that is, by his divine word. For the heavenly oracle is infallible which has declared, that where there is no vision the people perish (Proverbs 29:18), (Beveridge translation)."
    See the entire Prefatory Address, Beveridge translation. Considered to be one of the greatest prefaces ever written.
    http://www.ccel.org/ccel/calvin/institutes.ii.viii.html
    "The doctrines of covenant liberty were rediscovered in the Reformation. John Calvin went further than anyone else in defining liberty and what Christians need to do to maintain it. Includes bibliographies."
    It is recommended that INSTITUTES OF CHRISTIAN RELIGION be used for daily devotions and may be used in combination with Ford Lewis Battles and John Walchenbach, AN ANALYSIS OF THE INSTITUTES OF THE CHRISTIAN RELIGION OF JOHN CALVIN and with CALVIN'S COMMENTARIES.
    Calvin's Commentaries at BibleStudyGuide.org
    http://www.biblestudyguide.org/comment/calvin/comm_index.htm
    Calvin's Commentaries, complete
    From the Calvin Translation Society edition.
    http://www.ccel.org/ccel/calvin/commentaries.i.html
    One Hundred Aphorisms, Containing, Within a Narrow Compass, the Substance and Order of the Four Books of The Institutes of the Christian Religion
    http://www.lettermen2.com/pringle.html
    Contents and Chapter Sections for Calvin's Institutes of the Christian Religion, 1559 (McNeill/Battles)
    http://www.lettermen2.com/icrcont.html
    Contents and Chapter Sections for Calvin's Institutes of the Christian Religion, 1559 (McNeill/Battles)
    http://www.lettermen2.com/icrcont.html
    Calvin, Institutes of the Christian Religion; A New Translation by Henry Beveridge (1845), Volume: 1
    http://archive.org/details/instituteschrist01calvuoft
    Calvin, Institutes of the Christian Religion; A New Translation by Henry Beveridge (1845), Volume: 2
    http://archive.org/details/institutesofreli02calvuoft
    Calvin, Institutes of the Christian Religion, Beveridge translation
    http://www.ccel.org/ccel/calvin/institutes.iii.vii.html
    Monergism: Commentaries
    From Mongergism.com search "commentaries."
    http://www.monergism.com

    *Dean, Hershel B., The Golden Treasury of Bible Wisdom (King James Version).

    Fitzgerald, Lawrence P., Questions That Bother me.

    Geisler, Norman L., Ravi K. Zacharias, and Zondervan Corporation, Who Made God?: And Answers to Over 100 Other Tough Questions of Faith, ISBN: 9780310305477 0310305470.
    "In the quest for the truth, you need to know what you believe and why you believe it. WHO MADE GOD? offers accessible answers to over 100 commonly asked apologetic questions. Bringing together the best in evangelical apologists, this guide is standard equipment for Christians who want to understand and talk about their faith intelligently." -- Publisher

    Grant, Dave, Heavy Questions.
    Answers for youth.

    Ham, Ken, The Answer Book: Over 25 Questions on Creation/evolution and the Bible, ISBN: 0890515093 9780890515099.

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

    Kennedy, Larry, God's Answers to Human Dilemmas.
    Includes bibliographical references.

    *Morris, Henry, and Martin E. Clark, The Bible has the Answer.
    "One of the best works of its kind. Discusses hundreds of problems asked by inquiring minds. Provides candid, factual answers. Highly recommended." -- Cyril J. Barber

    Myers, Bill, Hot Topics, Tough Questions.
    "This book on Biblical answers to teen questions breaks into a twelve-session study. It deals with such topics as God's will, sex and dating, the media, cults, and emotion. A leader's guide is available."

    Newport, John P., Life's Ultimate Questions.
    "This Baptist scholar answers the truly hard questions of life from the Bible with precision and competence. J.I. Packer wrote: 'Cool, clear, comprehensive, and full of thoughtful wisdom, this book is a rich resource for exploring the responses of Christian faith to the knowledge, ignorance, and confusions of the modern world'." -- GCB

    Packer, J.I. (1926-2020), and Wendy Murray, J.I. Packer Answers Questions for Today, ISBN: 084233615X 9780842336154.

    Palau, Luis, My Response.
    "Dr. Palau shares his clear, direct answers to a wide variety of questions on work, marriage, divorce, parenting, illness, alcoholism, suicide, dating, and morality." -- Publisher

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

    Pruitt, Carl W., What the Bible Says About God's Answers to Personal Problems.
    "In thirteen chapters the author covers the teaching of the Bible on the major topics of interest to pastoral counselors. A valuable distillation of the Biblical teaching." -- Cyril J. Barber

    Shibley, David (compiler), Answers, Compiled by David Shibley.
    Bible selections that answer life's questions.

    *Torrey, R.A., One Hundred Eighty-two Bible Questions Answered: Scriptural Solutions to Practical and Perplexing Questions.

    Zacharias, Ravi K. (1946-2020), The Logic of God: 52 Christian Essentials for the Heart and Mind, ISBN: 9780310454038 0310454034.
    "Jesus Christ alone answers our deepest questions. We all have doubts that challenge our faith. We wonder whether the Bible still matters, or whether God is truly as loving and personal as we hope. In his first ever devotional, THE LOGIC OF GOD, apologist Ravi Zacharias offers 52 readings that explain how and why Christianity, the Bible, and God are still relevant, vital, and life-changing for us today. To all our dilemmas Ravi says, 'I am convinced that Jesus Christ alone uniquely answers the deepest questions of our hearts and minds.' With a remarkable grasp of biblical facts and a deep understanding of the questions that trouble our hearts, Ravi tackles the most difficult topics with ease and understanding. But THE LOGIC OF GOD is more than intellectual; it is also personal, offering thoughtful wisdom on: -- when Jesus draws especially near you. -- the deep ray of hope found in God's Word. -- how God transforms disappointments. -- why prayer matters. -- how genuine peace is possible. -- making sense of suffering. Ravi makes profound biblical truth easy to understand. And if your life is busy, this book is designed for you! It addresses 52 topics that you can read over the course of one year or slowly digest at your own pace. Each entry includes a Scripture, questions for reflection, and some practical application steps. When you're struggling with questions and doubts, confused, curious, or just want a clearer way to express your faith THE LOGIC OF GOD has answers that satisfy the heart and the mind." -- Publisher

    See also: The free offer of the gospel message of salvation and the life to come: the means of grace, the covenant of eternal salvation, How to become a Christian, Book-length presentations of the gospel message of salvation and the life to come: the means of grace, Absolute truth and relativism, Epistemology of theology, the theory of knowledge, The teaching of our lord jesus christ, Christ our example, Topical listing of scripture helpful in counseling, Conscience, casuistry, cases of conscience, An introduction to the covenanted reformation, Christian scholarship, Books considered to be among the ten greatest in the english language, The autodidact, Christian classics, A short title listing, Ready reference, Biblical counsel by subject, Works of jay adams, Chapter 5: reference works, Modern myths and fallacies, The combined contents for the web edition of biblical counsel: resources for renewal, For all counselors, Training in biblical counseling, and so forth, and so on.

    Related Weblinks

    ChristianAnswers.Net
    http://www.christiananswers.net/

    Contents and Chapter Sections for Calvin's Institutes of the Christian Religion, 1559 (McNeill/Battles)
    http://www.lettermen2.com/icrcont.html

    The Sum of Saving Knowledge, David Dickson and James Durham
    http://www.covenanter.org/reformed/the-sum-of-saving-knowledge

    Ravi Zacharias International Ministries (RZIM) Podcasts
    "Ravi Zacharias and the RZIM team provide a variety of podcasts online and on iTunes that challenge and answer your toughest questions on culture, faith, suffering, science, and more."
    https://www.rzim.org/listen



    Audio Files (CDs and MP3s) on Counseling Subjects

    A wealth of information about Biblical Counseling is found on audio files. Sources for audio files are as follows:

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

    Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), Am I too old to Change? (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).

    Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), The Bible in Counseling (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
    Audio cassette NP119 [audio file].

    Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), Christian Forgiveness: Responsibility or Blameshifting? (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).

    Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), Conflict and Rivalry in the Church, a special set of eight audio files [audio file], (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
    "Dr. Jay Adams teaches on how to be a peacemaker in the church and how to handle conflicts. Practical advice and examples are given as well as theological motivations." -- Westminster Media

    Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), Counseling Workshop: An Alcoholic Partner; Long-Term Counseling; Suicide; Forgiveness; Larry Crabb's Approach (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).

    Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), Counseling Workshop: Approaches to Discipleship; Women in Biblical Counseling (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
    Audio cassette JA502 [audio file].

    Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), Counseling Workshop: Demon Possession; Divorce; Church Discipline (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).

    Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), Counseling Workshop: Introduction; Counseling Principles; Counseling Non-Christians (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
    Audio cassette JA501 [audio file].

    Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), Counseling Workshop: Multiple Persons; Unbeliever Doesn't Leave; Discipling Children; Obesity and Fatness, 6 audio cassettes or MP3s [audio file], (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
    Audio cassette JA505 [audio file].

    Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), Crisis Counseling: Aid (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).

    Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), Crisis Counseling: Analysis (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).

    Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), Crisis Counseling: Direction (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
    Audio cassette JA204 [audio file].

    Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), Crisis Counseling: Inventory (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
    Audio cassette JA203 [audio file]

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

    Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), Fear of Death; Church Discipline; Being in the Hospital (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
    Audio cassette JA408 [audio file].

    Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), God's Standard and Program for Change; God's Methodology for Change (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
    Audio cassette JA102 [audio file].

    Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), Managing the Time God Gives us; Schizophrenia; Role-Play Cases and Critiques (part 1), (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
    Audio cassette JA106 [audio file].

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

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

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

    Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), Ministering Series.
    Contents: The ministry of the church | God is!! Stability we can count on | The environment of God | The balanced Christian | The disciplined life | Setting priorities | Making plans Biblically | Am I a winner? Its joys and responsibilities | The pastor's wife and depression | Christian forgiveness | Pain, does it belong? | Decisions, make them or they make you | Worry, trouble, how to combat it | The Biblical view of divorce | Homosexuality, how to deal with it | Overcoming depression | Grading and degrading, Christian education | Poles apart, who's a Christian? | Baptism for infants.

    Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), Proper Submission to the Proper Authorities (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
    Audio cassette JA405 [audio file].

    Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), Q&A: Counseling Woman Whose Husband Abuses her and Children (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
    "How would you counsel a woman whose husband is physically abusive to his wife and children? How does inter-church discipline work?"
    Audio cassette JA209 [audio file].

    Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), Q&A: What Certain Gifts are Required for Counseling? What if a Person Ignores his Problem? (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
    "Are certain gifts specifically suited for counseling? What if a person has a problem and is not aware of it?"
    Audio cassette JA205 [audio file].

    Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), Question-asking Techniques; The Need for Homework in Counseling (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
    Audio cassette JA103 [audio file].

    Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), Questions and Answers: How do you Counsel Deep Depression? (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
    Audio cassette [audio file].

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

    Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), Role-play Cases and Critiques (part 2) (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
    Audio cassette JA107 [audio file].

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

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

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

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

    Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), Seminar on Counselor Training Sponsored by Pentagon Christian Fellowship Delivered at Fort Belvoir Chapel, Fort Belvoir, Virginia.
    Role playing cases and critiques. Cases based on those in the CHRISTIAN COUNSELOR'S CASEBOOK.

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

    Adams Jay E., Should a Christian be Able to Counsel? Instilling Hope in the Counselee (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
    Audio cassette JA101 [audio file].

    Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), Sovereignty of God in Counseling (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
    "Dr. Adams' lecture upon his inauguration as full professor at Westminster Theological Seminary."
    Audio cassette JA301 [audio file].

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

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

    Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), The use of Talk in Counseling (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
    Audio cassette JA207 [audio file].

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

    Books-by-Ear, Books-by-Ear Catalog (Seattle, WA [Books-by-Ear, P.O. Box 75628, Seattle 98125]: Books-by-Ear).
    Features audio cassettes [audio file], of conservative, Reformed publications. "Discover the freedom of full-length and condensed books on audio cassettes [audio file]." Includes index.

    Brandt, Adams, et al., Howard Eyrich (editor), What to do When: Addresses, Workshops; Brandt, Adams, et al. Available from Association of Certified Biblical Counselors (ACBC, formerly NANC).
    Proceeding of the annual meeting, 1977.

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

    Broger, John C. (1915-2002), Course II, Instructor's Guide for Training in Biblical Discipleship/Counseling, 184 pages.
    Series title: Self-confrontation Course.

    *Broger, John C. (developer/editor, 1915-2002), Course II: Nouthetic Counseling Study Guide. Alternate title: COURSE II: SYLLABUS FOR TRAINING IN BIBLICAL DISCIPLESHIP/COUNSELING. Series Title: Self-confrontation Course.
    Also available: Course II: Self-confrontation Tapes (8 audio files), (Rancho Mirage, CA: Biblical Counseling Foundation).
    Biblical Counseling Foundation
    http://bcfministries.org

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

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

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

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

    Julien, John, Diane Langberg, C. John Miller, and Rosemarie Miller, Conference on the Pastor's Wife.

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

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

    Mack, Wayne, Biblical Solutions to Life's Problems (Westminster Media).
    This book is accompanied by an audio cassette [audio file], series of 24 tapes.

    Mack, Wayne A., What do you do With Incest? audio file.

    Miller, C. John (1928-1996), Becoming a Full-time Woman: Prayer and Christian Womanhood (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).

    Miller, C. John (1928-1996), God's Plan of Faith vs. The American Confidence man (part 1 and 2) (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).

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

    Miller, C. John (1928-1996), Isaiah and a Theology of Prayer, (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).

    Miller, C. John (1928-1996), Jonathan Edward's View of the Greatness of God (parts 1 and 2), audio file (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).

    Miller, C. John (1928-1996), Meditation vs. Meditation in Early New England.

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

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

    Miller, C. John (1928-1996), Root Causes of Depression and Suicide Among Young People; Communicating Effectively With the 'Suicidal' Person.

    Miller, C. John (1928-1996), Witnessing to Roman Catholics.

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

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

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

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

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

    Scourby, Alexander (narrator), The Bible Complete Old and New Testaments; Authorized King James Version, 12 sound cassette [audio file].
    A recording of the Bible on audio cassette tapes [audio file]. Listen before sleep and in the car.

    Scourby, Alexander (narrator), The Bible Complete Old and New Testaments; Authorized King James Version CD-ROM, MP3 files, ISBN: 1930034598 9781930034594.
    A recording of the Bible on compact disc (CD). Listen before sleep and in the car.

    Tripp, Paul, Christ our Model (part 1) (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation, 1991).
    Audio cassette AC891.

    Tripp, Paul, Christ our Model (part 2) (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation, 1991).
    Audio cassette AC892.

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Various, Biblical Counseling Workshops, 10 sound cassettes [audio file].
    Speakers: William Henderson; David Powlison; Robert D Smith; John McConaughy; Robert Somerville; Randall Patten; and Lloyd Jonas.
    "Notes: Title from container, N8912, N8923-N8928, N8930-N8932."

    Various, Biblical Counseling Workshops, 33 sound cassettes [audio file].
    Speakers: Stuart W Scott; Randall Patten; Steve Viars; David Powlison; John Edward Babler; Kevin Backus; Dan Wickert; Marc Graham; Robert D Jones; John McConaughy; Cindy Patten; Ed Bulkey; Carolyn Carlson; Howard A Eyrich; Sid Galloway; Robert Somerville; Mary Somerville; David Edgington; Timothy A Pasma; Craig Richard Rowe; Robert D Smith; John D Street; Jay Edward Adams; and James Thomas.
    "Notes: Title from container. N9803-N9808, N9814-N9815, N9818, N9820-N9824, N9827-N9828, N9830-N9831, N9843-N9847, N9849, N9851, N9853, N9855. Description: 33 sound cassettes [audio file]."

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

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

    See also: The teaching of our lord jesus christ, Christ our example, Conscience, casuistry, cases of conscience, Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, Christian counseling and educational foundation, sound word associates, General audio files (cds and mp3s), from ccef speakers, Audio cds and mp3s on counseling subjects, Christian counseling and educational foundation, Works of jay adams, Audio cassettes of CCEF speakers, Westminster media, Biblical counsel by subject, Training in Biblical counseling, and so forth, and so on.

    Related Weblinks

    Association of Certified Biblical Counselors (ACBC, formerly NANC)
    https://biblicalcounseling.com/

    Biblical Counseling Foundation
    http://bcfministries.org

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

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

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

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

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

    Puritan Downloads, The Puritan Hard Drive
    http://www.puritandownloads.com/swrb-puritan-hard-drive.html

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

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

    Rick Thomas Podcasts
    "And other resources -- transcripts, videos, books."
    https://rickthomas.net/enjoy-awesome-podcasts/
    Topic Index, Rick Thomas Articles
    https://rickthomas.net/topic-index/

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



    Legal Aspects of Counseling

    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. -- R.J. Rushdoony (1916-2001), The Institutes of Biblical Law, pp. 498-499

    Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), The Practical Encyclopedia of Christian Counseling.
    See the subject "Legal Matters," and so forth, and so on.

    Clark, Homer H., Jr., The Law of Domestic Relations in the United States.
    "Focuses on marital problems and provides a comprehensive, nontechnical discussion of breach of promise suits, annulments, obligations to support the family, the legal status of women, tort liability, protection for rights of consortium, divorce, alimony, and custody, etc. Wherever the laws of a state differ from the general norm these variations appear in the footnotes. Pastors and counselors will find this an invaluable treatment." -- Cyril J. Barber

    Eidsmoe, John, The Christian Legal Advisor, ISBN: 0880621184 9780880621182.
    Includes bibliography.

    Farris, Michael P., Where do I Draw the Line? When Your Legal Rights are Ignored or Violated, ISBN: 155661229X 9781556612299.
    What do I do "when my boss wants me to attend a New Age seminar? When my teen is required to view explicit materials in class? When home schooling my children is denied? And other situations where Christians' rights are ignored.
    "Michael Farris is a constitutional lawyer who is on the cutting edge of what is happening to Christians in society today. He has represented Christians in many of the best-known religious freedom cases of the 1980's and early '90s.
    "Farris alerts readers as to what they can expect to face in our society and provides practical suggestions and solid spiritual guidance on how to respond effectively." -- Publisher

    Joslin, G. Stanley, The Minister's law Handbook.
    "Alerts the pastor or counselor about possible legal complications." -- Cyril J. Barber

    Levicoff, Steve, Christian Counseling and the Law. Includes bibliographical references and index.

    Malony, A. Newton, Thomas L. Needham, and Samuel Southard, Clergy Malpractice, ISBN: 0664245919 9780664245917.
    "Faces the dilemma of clergy malpractice suits realistically. Assesses the complexities arising from Nally vs. Grace Community Church of Sun Valley. Deals informatively with the law, offering encouragement as well as certain cautions to those involved in a counseling ministry." -- Cyril J. Barber



    Biblical Counsel by Subject

    Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path. (Psalm 119:105)

    Wherefore the law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good. Was then that which is good made death unto me? God forbid. But sin, that it might appear sin, working death in me by that which is good; that sin by the commandment might become exceeding sinful.
    For we know that the law is spiritual: but I am carnal, sold under sin.     (Romans 7:12-14)

    See, I have set before thee this day life and good, and death and evil. (Deuteronomy 30:15)

    All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: that the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works. (2 Timothy 3:16,17)

    It has been true from the beginning of the world, that obedience is better than any sacrifice (1 Samuel 15:22), and is the parent of all virtues. -- John Calvin commenting on Genesis 4:2, Calvin's Commentary on Genesis, p. 118

    Therefore, behold, I add to do. He threatens that he will punish by blinding not only the ignorant or the ordinary ranks, but those wise men who were held in admiration by the people. From this vengeance we may easily learn how hateful a vice hypocrisy is, and how greatly it is abhorred by God, as the Prophet spoke a little before about human inventions; for what kind of punishment is more dreadful than blindness of mind and stupidity? This indeed is not commonly perceived by men, nor are they aware of the greatness of this evil; but it is the greatest and most wretched of all. -- Calvin commenting on Isaiah 29:1-24

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

    The Treasury of David, Psalm 119, C.H. Spurgeon
    O that my ways were directed to keep thy statutes! Then shall I not be ashamed, when I have respect unto all thy commandments. I will praise thee with uprightness of heart, when I shall have learned thy righteous judgments. (Psalm 119:5-7)
    http://archive.spurgeon.org/treasury/ps119.php

    A wealth of information about Biblical Counseling is found on audio files (CDs and MP3s). Sources for audio files are as follows:

    Logos Bible Software Bundles That Include Works on Biblical Counseling
    There are 15 bundles in all.
    http://www.logos.com/products/search?q=counseling+bundles

    It is extremely important to our nation, in a political as well as a religious view, that all possible authority and influence should be given to the Scriptures. . . . -- Noah Webster

    None of the wicked shall understand; but the wise shall understand. (Daniel 12:10)

    See also: Christ and counseling, Ready reference: immediate counsel on many subjects, Teachings of our lord jesus christ, The sermon on the mount, Parables of christ, Wisdom books, For all counselors, Holy spirit and counseling, Love and counseling problems, Manuals and handbooks, Premarital counseling, Marital counseling, Counseling the family, Pastoral counseling, Medical aspects of pastoral counseling, Parenting, Peer counseling, Proverbs, topical listings, Reconciliation of relationships, Absolute truth and relativism, Epistemology of theology, the theory of knowledge, Preaching and pastoral counseling, General works on biblical counseling, Biblical counsel by subject, Audio cds and mp3s on counseling subjects, DVD and multimedia, Westminster media, Training in biblical counseling, Conscience, casuistry, cases of conscience, Ethics, Works of jay adams, Church discipline, Women and counseling, Christian classics containing biblical counsel, Christian counseling and educational foundation, Questions and answers, Referral in pastoral counseling, Counseling and the local church, Counseling children, Counseling for sex related problems, Counseling teens, Counseling the family, Counseling the sick, Crisis counseling, Topical listings of Scripture, Will and recalcitrance, Rebellion and lawlessness: wickedness, demonic possession, abnormal behavior, insanity, mental illness, mental retardation, Discipleship, Holiness, Believer's position in christ and sonship, The priesthood of believers, Bible reference works, Index to authors and titles, Legal aspects of counseling, Physiological problems, Commentaries containing biblical counsel, Resources in christian counseling series, Sermons containing Biblical counsel, Training in biblical counseling, Works by and about Puritans, and so forth, and so on.
    TCRB5: 844, 845, 847, 848, 1182, 1467, 1778, 2022, 3842

    Related Weblinks

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

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

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

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



    Abstinence, Chastity

    There is none greater in this house than I; neither hath he kept back any thing from me but thee, because thou art his wife: how then can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God? (Genesis 39:9)

    Ultimately the Seventh Commandment (Exodus 20:14), is about our fidelity to Christ. (Hosea 2:19-20; 1 Corinthians 6:15-20; James 4:4)
    To fracture the Seventh Commandment is to break covenant with the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.
    The sexual revolution is really a revolution against God. (Numbers 25:1-3, 29; Joshua 22:17; Psalm 106:30,31)
    See: Engelsma, Marriage, the Mystery of Christ and the Church.

    Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), The Practical Encyclopedia of Christian Counseling.
    See the subject "Sex," "Abortion," and so forth, and so on.

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

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

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

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

    Jenks, Benjamin, The Glorious Victory of Chastity: In Joseph's Hard Conflict, and his Happy Escape [from Potiphar's Wife]. By B. Jenks, rector of Harley in Shropshire, and chaplain to the Right Honble the Earl of Bradford, Genesis 39:9. How then can I do this great wickedness, and sin against god? e-book.

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

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

    See also: Sexual relationship, Sexual wholeness, Spiritual adultery (spiritual whoredom/harlotry), Home schooling, Sex ethics, sex education, Evil, the problem of avoiding, eschewing, shunning, Sexually transmitted diseases, Counseling for sex related problems, Protecting children from dangers, The wisdom books, Singleness, Counsel for young men, Counsel for young women, Abuse, Child abuse and pedophilia, Gratuitous sex, a cause of violence, Abuse, Rape, Incest, Carnality and flesh pleasing: lust, desires, ambition, Adultery, Abortion, Homosexuality, lesbianism, gay, bisexual, transvestite, queer (lgbtq), Single parenting, Fatherlessness, Suffrage, and so forth, and so on.
    TCRB5: 3208, 3210, 3569, 3570

    Related Weblinks

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

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

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

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



    Abortion and the Sanctity of Life

    See the Theological Notes: "The Image of God," at Genesis 1:27 in The Reformation Study Bible.
    So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them. (Genesis 1:27)

    I call heaven and earth to record this day against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore choose life, that both thou and thy seed may live:
    That thou mayest love the LORD thy God, and that thou mayest obey his voice, and that thou mayest cleave unto him: for he is thy life, and the length of thy days: that thou mayest dwell in the land which the LORD sware unto thy fathers, to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob, to give them.     (Deuteronomy 30:19-20)

    Yea, they sacrificed their sons and their daughters unto devils,
    And shed innocent blood, even the blood of their sons and of their daughters, whom they sacrificed unto the idols of Canaan: and the land was polluted with blood.
    Thus were they defiled with their own works, and went a whoring with their own inventions.
    Therefore was the wrath of the LORD kindled against his people, insomuch that he abhorred his own inheritance.
    And he gave them into the hand of the heathen; and they that hated them ruled over them.     (Psalm 106:37-41)

    For whoso findeth me findeth life,
    and shall obtain favour of the Lord.
    But he that sinneth against me wrongeth his own soul:
    all they that hate me love death.     (Proverbs 8:35,36)

    He now says, God is eternal truth . . . Jehovah is God the truth; that is, God borrows nothing from anything else, but is satisfied with himself, and his power possesses of itself sufficient authority. God then is truth, and God, he says, is life. After having said that God has real and solid glory in himself, he adds another proof, taken from what is known to men, even that God is life; for though God is in himself incomprehensible, yet he not only sets before our eyes evidences of his glow, but he also renders himself in a manner the object of feeling, as Paul says in Acts 14:17 . . . There is no need, says Paul, for us to depart from ourselves; for whosoever will examine himself will find God within; for in him we live and move and have our being. (Acts 17:28) Were we then to object and say, that God is incomprehensible, and that we cannot ascend to the height of his glory, doubtless there is life in us, and as we have life, we have an evidence of his divinity; for who is so devoid of reason as to say that he lives through himself? Since then men live not of themselves, but obtain life as a favor from another, it follows that God dwells in them. . . .
    We exist not of ourselves, but in and through another, and that is, through the one true God. It hence follows that human life is a clear proof of one supreme God. God then is life and the King of ages. For as the world has also been made, as years succeed years, and as there is in this revolution variety and yet such perfect order, who does not see in all this the glory of God? Now, then, we also perceive why the Prophet calls God the King of ages. -- John Calvin commenting on Jeremiah 10:10 and context

    God curses whole countries for the suffering of murders . . . God sets great store by men's lives. He takes [murder] as an assault on Himself in His own Person, and in His own majesty. -- John Calvin

    Is there any moral catastrophe in history, that more loudly calls for a unilateral response by the people of God, than abortion on our watch? Is there any other crime of man and further of our nation, that represents so much the antithesis of the son of God's own rescue of the helpless, of His coming first in the womb of a woman? Is there any national sin, that so blatantly displays the works of darkness which we in Christ are called to destroy, and so demonstrates our own distraction and apathy to the pitiful plight of our neighbor, calls into question our Christian testimony, or so directly invites the judgment of God to destroy this nation and its people? If so, tell me what it is. -- A Social Media Comment

    At last estimate (2007), 50 million children have been aborted in American since Roe vs. Wade in 1973 [56 million American babies from 1973 to 2014, annual rate continues at 1.2 million babies a year. -- compiler]. This is approximately the population of Canada.
    Interestingly the number of illegal immigrants in this country has approximated the number of abortions, as if God's justice is at work right before our eyes -- we murder our children in the womb, and he gives our nation into the hands of foreigners.

    Abortion was the 20th century's biggest single killer of mankind worldwide, far surpassing any other cause: disease, war, governments, natural disasters, and so forth. See: "Biggest Killers of the 20th Century." Notice that abortion is not included in this diagram. The absence of information says something about the depravity of mankind (Jeremiah 17:9,10), and about the suppression and repression of truth. (Hosea 4:6,7)
    The number of abortions performed worldwide in the last 50 years is estimated to be 1 to 2 billion. But try to document this fact elsewhere online.
    The total abortions worldwide for the 20th century may be interpolation from available data. The calculation does not factor in incremental increases in world population since 1900. Worldwide there are an estimated 43.8 million abortions annually (2008 figures, Guttmacher Institute) X 100 years = 4.38 billion killings worldwide in the 20th century. This is compared to 1.97 billion estimated deaths worldwide for non-communicable diseases the reported biggest killer worldwide of the 20th century. Comparison may also be made with figures for genocide.
    Number of Abortions -- Abortion Counters
    "The most accurate set of abortion counters on the web. Number of abortions in U.S. and worldwide; Number of abortions since 1973; Number of abortions this year; U.S. abortion clock; Worldwide abortion clock; Number of abortions due to rape or incest; Planned Parenthood abortion count."
    http://www.numberofabortions.com/

    The death toll for legalized abortions in the U.S. since 1973 now [January 2015 -- compiler], stands at an estimated 57.2 million [56 million as of January 2014 plus an estimated 1.2 million in 2014 -- compiler]. But a biblical argument (Hosea 4:6,7; 2 Corinthians 10:4,5; 2 Corinthians 10:5; Joshua 1:8, and so forth, and so on), could be made that the education of the children of American citizens in secular public schools is an even more violent act than legalized abortion. Unless the Holy Spirit intervenes, the public education system is instrumental in suppressing the Gospel message of salvation, and of the life to come, the Means of Grace. It is ever incensing the child against the Gospel, therefore, dooming them to hopelessness, the wrath of God, and to the Second Death.

    It is shocking how often sexual immorality leads to death.

    But the midwives feared God. Moses does not mean that they were then first affected with the fear of God; but he assigns this reason why they did not obey his unjust command, viz., because reverence towards God had greater influence with them. And certainly, as all our affections are best directed by this rein, so also it is the surest shield for resisting all temptations, and a firm support to uphold our minds from wavering in seasons of danger. Now, they not only dreaded this crime as being cruel and inhuman; but because purer religion and piety flourished in their hearts; for they knew that the seed of Abraham was chosen of God, and had themselves experienced that it was blessed; and hence it was natural to feel, that it would be an act of very gross impiety to extinguish in it the grace of God. We must also observe the antithesis between the fear of God and the dread of punishment, which might have deterred them from doing right. Although tyrants do not easily allow their commands to be despised, and death was before their eyes, they still keep their hands pure from evil. Thus, sustained and supported by reverential fear of God, they boldly despised the command and the threatenings of Pharaoh. Wherefore those, whom the fear of men withdraws from the right course, betray by their cowardice an inexcusable contempt of God, in preferring the favor of men to his solemn commands. But this doctrine extends still more widely; for many would be more than preposterously wise, whilst, under pretext of due submission, they obey the wicked will of kings in opposition to justice and right, being in some cases the ministers of avarice and rapacity, in others of cruelty; yea, to gratify the transitory kings of earth, they take no account of God; and thus, which is worst of all, they designedly oppose pure religion with fire and sword. It only makes their effrontery more detestable, that whilst they knowingly and willingly crucify Christ in his members, they plead the frivolous excuse, that they obey their princes according to the word of God; as if he, in ordaining princes, had resigned his rights to them; and as if every earthly power, which exalts itself against heaven, ought not rather most justly to be made to give way. But since they only seek to escape the reprobation of men for their criminal obedience, let them not be argued with by long discussions, but rather referred to the judgment of women; for the example of these midwives is abundantly sufficient for their condemnation; especially when the Holy Spirit himself commends them, as not having obeyed the king, because they feared God. -- John Calvin commenting on Exodus 1:17

    For Thou -- Thou hast possessed my reins,
    Thou dost cover me in my mother's belly.
    I confess Thee, because that with wonders I have been distinguished.
    Wonderful are Thy works,
    And my soul is knowing it well.
    My substance was not hid from Thee,
    When I was made in secret,
    Curiously wrought in the lower part of earth.     (Psalm 139:13-15, YLTHB)

    A fetus was the first to rejoice at the news of Jesus. (Luke 1:41)

    For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them. (Ephesians 2:10)

    And we are aware that when the wicked perceive that we have no protection, they wax the more bold against us, as if God took no notice either of our life or death. In opposition to their erroneous doctrine, David introduces this sentiment, that God does not hold his servants in so little estimation as to expose them to death casually. We may indeed for a time be subjected to all the vicissitudes of fortune and of the world; we will nevertheless always have this consolation, that God will, eventually, openly manifest how dear our souls are to him. In these times, when innocent blood is shed, and the wicked contemners of God furiously exalt themselves, as if exulting over a vanquished God, let us hold fast by this doctrine, that the death of the faithful, which is so worthless, nay, even ignominious in the sight of men, is so valuable in God's sight, that, even after their death, he stretches out his hand towards them, and by dreadful examples demonstrates how he holds in abhorrence the cruelty of those who unjustly persecute the good and simple. . . . At his own time he will accomplish the prediction of Isaiah, that the earth shall disclose her blood, Isaiah 26:21." -- John Calvin commenting on Psalm 116:15

    "Calvin seems to see the Seventh as interrelated to, as summing up, all Ten Commandments of the Law."*
    Although one kind of impurity is alone referred to, it is sufficiently plain, from the principle laid down, that believers are generally exhorted to chastity; for, if the Law be a perfect rule of holy living, it would be more than absurd to give a license for fornication, adultery alone being excepted. Furthermore, it is incontrovertible that God will by no means approve or excuse before this tribunal, what the common sense of mankind declares to be obscene; for, although lewdness has everywhere been rampant in every age, still the opinion could never be utterly extinguished, that fornication is a scandal and a sin. . . . [Titus 2:12; Isaiah 30:21; Matthew 19:17; Romans 13:8]
    Now, if Christ and the Apostles, who are the best interpreters of the Law, declare that God's Law is violated no less by fornication than by theft, we assuredly infer, *that in this Commandment the whole genus is comprehended under a single species. . . . [Hebrews 13:4; Leviticus 21:14; Deuteronomy 23:17; Hosea 4:11; Hosea 1:2; Numbers 25:9; 1 Corinthians 10:8; Acts 15:20; 1 Corinthians 6:18; 2 Corinthians 7:1; 1 Thessalonians 4:4,5] -- John Calvin commenting on Exodus 20:14 and Deuteronomy 5:18 and context

    The depravity of man is at once the most empirically verifiable reality, but at the same time the most intellectually resisted fact. (Genesis 6:5; Genesis 8:21b; Ecclesiastes 9:3b; Jeremiah 17:9; Mark 7:21-23; Ephesians 2:1-3; Titus 3:3-5) -- Malcolm Muggeridge (1903-1990). See John Calvin's Commentary on Isaiah Chapter 33 [Isaiah 33:1-66].

    Sanctity of Life is the basis of Western Civilization. In the Abortion Holocaust we are witnessing the destruction of Western Civilization. -- D. James Kennedy

    According to the Guttmacher Institute, slightly less than half (45 percent) of U.S. pregnancies in 2011 were unintended, approximately 2.8 million pregnancies per year.[4]. . . .
    Over 92 percent of abortions are the result of unintended pregnancy,[13] and unintended pregnancies result in about 800,000 abortions/year.[14] -- Wikipedia, Unintended Pregnancy

    This life in us; however low it flickers or fiercely burns, is still a divine flame which no man dare presume to put out, be his motives never so humane and enlightened; To suppose otherwise is to countenance a death-wish; Either life is always and in all circumstances sacred, or intrinsically of no account; it is inconceivable that it should be in some cases the one, and in some the other. -- Malcolm Muggeridge (1903-1990)

    Everything Tolstoy wrote is precious, but I found this final statement of the truth about life as he had come to understand it particularly beautiful and moving. 'That is what I have wanted to say to you, my brothers. Before I died.' So he concludes, giving one a vivid sense of the old man, pen in hand and bent over the paper, his forehead wrinkled into a look of puzzlement very characteristic of him, as though he were perpetually wondering how others could fail to see what was to him so clear -- that the law of love explained all mysteries and invalidated all other laws. -- Malcolm Muggeridge (1903-1990)

    What will finally destroy us is not communism or fascism, but man acting like God. -- Malcolm Muggeridge (1903-1990)

    It is difficult to resist the conclusion that twentieth century man has decided to abolish himself. Tired of the struggle to be himself, he has created boredom out of his own affluence, impotence out of his own detromania, and vulnerability out of his own strength. He himself blows the trumpet that brings the walls of his own cities crashing down, until at last, having educated himself into imbecility, having drugged and polluted himself into stupefaction, he keels over, a weary, battered old brontosaurus, and becomes extinct. -- Malcolm Muggeridge (1903-1990)

    So the final conclusion would surely be that whereas other civilizations have been brought down by attacks of barbarians from without, ours had the unique distinction of training its own destroyers at its own educational institutions, and then providing them with facilities for propagating their destructive ideology far and wide, all at the public expense. Thus did Western Man decide to abolish himself, creating his own boredom out of his own affluence, his own vulnerability out of his own strength, his own impotence out of his own erotomania, himself blowing the trumpet that brought the walls of his own city tumbling down, and having convinced himself that he was too numerous, labored with pill and scalpel and syringe to make himself fewer. Until at last, having educated himself into imbecility, and polluted and drugged himself into stupefaction, he keeled over -- a weary, battered old brontosaurus -- and became extinct. -- Malcolm Muggeridge (1903-1990), in Vintage Muggeridge: Religion and Society

    Nevertheless the people refused to obey the voice of Samuel; and they said, Nay; but we will have a king over us. (1 Samuel 8:19) Men have little integrity and will imitate peers, good or bad. Even more tragic is man's tendency to imitate leaders in power. Witness the dramatic change in opinion polls when an administration changes. For example, in the case of abortion, polls will indicate a majority of the population in favor of abortion when a pro-abortion president is in office. When the administration changes, and an anti-abortion president takes office, then the national opinion polls immediately shift.

    The Treasury of David, Psalm 106, commentary by C.H. Spurgeon
    Our fathers understood not thy wonders in Egypt. (v. 7)
    Nevertheless he saved them for his name's sake, that he might make his mighty power to be known. (v. 8)
    And he saved them from the hand of them that hated them. (v. 10)
    They soon forgat his works. (v. 13)
    And he gave them their request; but sent leanness into their soul. (v. 15)
    They made a calf in Horeb, and worshipped the molten image. (v. 19)
    Thus they changed their glory into the similitude of an ox that eateth grass. (v. 20)
    They forgat God their saviour. (v. 21)
    Thus they provoked him to anger with their inventions: and the plague brake in upon them. (v. 29)
    Then stood up Phinehas, and executed judgment: and so the plague was stayed. (v. 30)
    And that was counted unto him for righteousness unto all generations for evermore. (v. 31)
    They did not destroy the nations, concerning whom the LORD commanded them. (v. 34)
    But were mingled among the heathen, and learned their works. (v. 35)
    Yea, they sacrificed their sons and their daughters unto devils. (v. 37)
    Thus were they defiled with their own works, and went a whoring with their own inventions. (v. 39)
    Therefore was the wrath of the LORD kindled against his people, in so much that he abhorred his own inheritance. (v. 40)
    And he gave them into the hands of the heathen; and they that hated them ruled over them. (v. 41)
    Their enemies also oppressed them, and they were brought into subjection under their hand. (v. 42)
    Many times did he deliver them; but they provoked him with their counsel, and were brought low for their iniquity. (v. 43)
    Nevertheless he regarded their affliction, when he heard their cry. (v. 44)
    And he remembered for them his covenant. (v. 45)
    Save us, O Lord our God, and gather us from among the heathen, to give thanks unto thy holy name, and to triumph in thy praise. (v. 47)
    Blessed be the Lord God of Israel from everlasting to everlasting: and let all the people say, Amen. Praise ye the Lord. (v. 48)
    http://archive.spurgeon.org/treasury/ps106.php

    Lo, children are an heritage of the Lord: and the fruit of the womb is his reward. (Psalm 127:3)

    If men strive, and hurt a woman with child, so that her fruit depart from her, and yet no mischief follow: he shall be surely punished, according as the woman's husband will lay upon him; and he shall pay as the judges determine. And if any mischief follow, then thou shalt give life for life, Eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot, Burning for burning, wound for wound, stripe for stripe. (Exodus 21:22-25)

    For the fetus, though enclosed in the womb of its mother, is already a human being, and it is a monstrous crime to rob it of the life which it has not yet begun to enjoy. If it seems more horrible to kill a man in his own house than in a field, because a man's house is his place of most secure refuge, it ought surely to be deemed more atrocious to destroy a fetus in the womb before it has come to light. -- John Calvin commenting on Exodus 21:22, from the third volume of the Harmony of the Law, under the Sixth Commandment, Political Supplements, referencing Exodus 21:22, Baker edition of Calvin's Commentaries, Vol. III, pp. 41-42

    Jesus saith unto them, Did ye never read in the scriptures, The stone which the builders rejected, the same is become the head of the corner: this is the Lord's doing, and it is marvelous in our eyes? Therefore say I unto you, The kingdom of God shall be taken from you, and given to a nation bringing forth the fruits thereof.
    And whosoever shall fall on this stone shall be broken: but on whomsovever it shall fall, it will grind him to powder.     (Matthew 21:42-44)

    If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (1 John 1:9)

    Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered. Blessed is the man unto whom the Lord imputeth not iniquity, and in whose spirit there is no guile. When I kept silence, my bones waxed old through my roaring all the day long. For day and night thy hand was heavy upon me: my moisture is turned into the drought of summer. Selah. I acknowledged my sin unto thee, and mine iniquity have I not hid. I said, I will confess my transgressions unto the Lord; and thou forgavest the iniquity of my sin. Selah. (Psalm 32:1-5)

    For the Christian, the acknowledgment of God as the Creator of life, brings to bear one very significant life-transforming truth. The Bible makes it specific that God, in his love, created man. Thus, it is not life that precedes love, but love that precedes life. It is the love of God that gave us life in creation, just as it is the love of a mother that enables a child to live, in procreation. Any attempt to thwart the love of God, thwarts His design and brings discord in life because it rejects the very motivation in the creation of life.
    "One can readily see how the failure to implement the role of love has resulted in modern man becoming the most abortive of life in all of history. The opposite of love is selfishness, and the rights of the one bearing the baby have now eradicated the love needed to give life. From 'live and let live,' we have moved to 'live and let die.' Love is creation's first law, and if love has preceded life, then for life to succeed, it must live within the boundaries of this love. -- Ravi Zacharias, A Shattered Visage: The Real Face of Atheism

    The real value of an object is that which one who knows its worth will give for it. He who made the soul, knew its worth, and gave His life for it. -- Arthur Jackson

    Horror hath taken hold upon me because of the wicked that forsake thy law. (Psalm 119:53)

    The Journal of the American Medical Association reported (early 2001), a study of 247 women who died in pregnancy in the state of Maryland. The leading cause of death during pregnancy was murder. Twenty-one percent of the women studied were murdered.

    Open thy mouth for the dumb in the cause of all such as are appointed to destruction. (Proverbs 31:8)

    A "modest proposal:" if the State would recognize abortion as murder, and those receiving, performing, or funding abortions be declared felons, without the right to vote, then the face of politics in American would be dramatically changed, and simplified.

    Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), The Practical Encyclopedia of Christian Counseling.
    See the subject "Abortion," and so forth, and so on.

    *American Portrait Films, Gregg Cunningham, Kemper Crabb, Center for Bio-Ethical Reform, and Reel to Real Ministries, Hard Truth: The Pro-life Tool of the Decade (Cleveland, OH [American Portrait Films, Inc., P.O. Box 19266, Cleveland 44119]: American Portrait Films, Inc., 1992), DVD.
    "I honestly have never seen anything quite so powerful -- or quite so anointed." -- George Grant
    "The 'Hard Truth' shatters the myth of choice." -- Carol Everett.
    Hard Truth: The Pro-life Tool of the Decade
    http://www.americanportraitfilms.com/shop/item.aspx?itemid=308

    *American Portrait Films, For Life: A Catalog of Pro-life Video Titles (Cleveland, OH [American Portrait Films, Inc., P.O. Box 19266, Cleveland 44119]: American Portrait Films, Inc., 1992).
    "This catalog represents pro-life titles we believe worthy of owning and sharing with others. You will find timely, related subjects here, from teenage sexuality, to the treatment of pro-life activists, to the advent of 'mercy killing' in our hospitals and nursing homes.
    "In the near future American Portrait Films will be carrying a large number of instructional and wholesome entertainment videos. . . ." -- John A. Hocevar
    Select titles produced by American Portrait Films: "Hard Truth," "Parents' Rights Denied," "The Silent Scream," "The Brutal Truth," "Tell the Truth: Rally for Life '90," "America Speaks Up For Life," "No Alibis," "Your Crisis Pregnancy," "The Massacre of Innocence," "The Hidden Holocaust," and many more.
    American Portrait Films
    "We now (2002) offer over 30 Christian creation science videos, young earth creationism videos, creation science videos, and videos on other creationist topics as well as 100 other thought provoking pro life, pro family videos."
    http://www.americanportraitfilms.com/

    American Portrait Films, The Massacre of Innocence: The Occult Roots of Abortion, DVD.

    *Anderson, James N.D., Issues of Life and Death, ISBN: 0340231513 9780340231517.
    "In this work Sir Norman presents his 'Lectures on Contemporary Christianity,' University of London, 1975. He establishes his thesis for the development of ethical principles squarely on the sacredness of human life as presented in the Bible. While on the one hand this treatise is a valuable corrective for Ward's THE DIVINE IMAGE, on the other it is a bold attempt to provide a rational defense for a viable system of ethics. In this we believe Anderson has been most successful." -- Cyril J. Barber

    Baker, Don, Beyond Choice: The Abortion Story no one is Telling, ISBN: 0880701277 9780880701273.
    "True and heart-breaking story of a young woman, her three abortions, her failed marriage, her depression and despair, the loss of her only child through the courts to grandparents, and her present infertility." -- GCB

    *Beckwith, Francis J., Defending Life: A Moral and Legal Case Against Abortion Choice, ISBN: 9780521870849 0521870844.
    "DEFENDING LIFE is the most comprehensive defense of the prolife position on abortion ever published. It is sophisticated, but still accessible to the ordinary citizen. Without high-pitched rhetoric or appeals to religion, the author offers a careful and respectful case for why the prolife view of human life is correct. He responds to the strongest prochoice arguments found in law, science, philosophy, politics, and the media. He explains and critiques Roe v. Wade, and he explains why virtually all the popular prochoice arguments fail. There is simply nothing like this book.
    "Francis J. Beckwith is Associate Professor of Church-State Studies, Baylor University, where he teaches in the departments of philosophy and political science and the J.M. Dawson Institute of Church-State Studies. A 2002-2003 Madison Research Fellow in the Politics Department at Princeton University, he is a graduate of Fordham University (Ph.D., philosophy), and the Washington University School of Law, St. Louis (M.J.S.), where he won the CALI Award for academic excellence in the Reproductive Control Seminar. His more than a dozen books include IS STATECRAFT SOULCRAFT? CHRISTIANITY AND POLITICS; TO EVERYONE AN ANSWER: A CASE FOR THE CHRISTIAN WORLDVIEW (2004); LAW, DARWINISM, AND PUBLIC EDUCATION: THE ESTABLISHMENT AND THE CHALLENGE OF INTELLIGENT DESIGN (2003); DO THE RIGHT THING: READINGS IN APPLIED ETHICS AND SOCIAL PHILOSOPHY, Second Edition (2002); and THE NEW MORMON CHALLENGE: RESPONDING TO THE LATEST DEFENSES OF A FAST-GROWING MOVEMENT (2002), which was a finalist for the Gold Medallion Award in theology and doctrine. With interests in jurisprudence, politics, philosophy of religion, and public policy, Professor Beckwith has published in a wide variety of academic journals including the Harvard Journal of Law and Public Policy, Journal of Social Philosophy, International Philosophical Quarterly, Hastings Constitutional Law Quarterly, Journal of Medicine and Philosophy, American Journal of Jurisprudence, Journal of Medical Ethics, Public Affairs Quarterly, Notre Dame Journal of Law, Ethics and Public Policy, Social Theory and Practice, Southern Baptist Journal of Theology, Christian Bioethics, Nevada Law Journal, Journal of Law and Religion, and Philosophia Christi. His website is http://www.francisbeckwith.com." -- Publisher

    Beckwith, Francis, Politically Correct Death: Answering the Arguments for Abortion Rights, ISBN: 0801010500 9780801010507.

    *Brand, Paul, and Philip Yancey, Fearfully and Wonderfully Made, ISBN: 0802727654 9780802727657.
    "The human body is an endlessly fascinating repository of secrets. The miracle of the skin, the strength and structure of the bones, the dynamic balance of the muscles . . . your physical being is knit according to a pattern of incredible purpose. In Fearfully and Wonderfully Made, renowned surgeon Dr. Paul Brand and bestselling writer Philip Yancey explore the human body. Join them in a remarkable journey through inner space -- a spellbinding world of cells, systems, and chemistry that bears the impress of a still deeper, unseen reality. This Gold medallion Award-winning book uncovers eternal statements that God has made in the very structure of our bodies, presenting captivating insights into the Body of Christ."
    Dr. Paul Brand was a world-renowned hand surgeon and leprosy specialist. Co-author with Philip Yancey of THE GIFT OF PAIN and FEARFULLY AND WONDERFULLY MADE. Philip Yancey serves as editor-at-large for Christianity Today magazine, has written twelve Gold Medallion Award-winning books, and two Kip Jordon ECPA Books of the Year, and lives with his wife in Colorado." -- Publisher

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

    Burtchaell, James T., Rachel Weeping: The Case Against Abortion, ISBN: 0919225349 9780919225343.
    "Searing and impeccable documentation, five essays presenting a strong and consistent case against abortion. This book would not be classified as a Biblical presentation, but nevertheless his arguments are strong. What a storehouse of ammunition against abortionists." -- GCB

    Cali, C.R., The Doctrine of Balaam: A Polemic Against the Secular Pro-life Establishment, and an exhortation with encouragement to the persecuted bride of Christ to resist the temptation of fellowship with darkness; nor yoke themselves with the course of this world; nor whore themselves out to the prince of the power of the air, who is full of the accusation Did God really say?; and to flee seeking carnal goals and pragmatic means of compromise towards them rather than obedience to the word of God and trust in His sovereign control and care through providence, responding rightly with our Lord as He rebuked the enemy of God with, Thus, says the Lord, as it relates in particular to the Christian response to the murder of preborn children, ISBN: 9781732233225 1732233225.

    Carlson, Allan C., Godly Seed: American Evangelicals Confront Birth Control, 1873-1973, ISBN: 9781412842617 1412842611.
    "In an ironic twist, American evangelical leaders are joining mainstream acceptance of contraception. GODLY SEED: AMERICAN EVANGELICALS CONFRONT BIRTH CONTROL, 1873-1973, examines how mid-twentieth-century evangelical leaders eventually followed the mainstream into a quiet embrace of contraception, complemented by a brief acceptance of abortion. It places this change within the context of historic Christian teaching regarding birth control, including its origins in the early church and the shift in arguments made by the Reformers of the sixteenth century. The book explores the demographic effects of this transition and asks: did the delay by American evangelicals leaders in accepting birth control have consequences?
    At the same time, many American evangelicals are rethinking their acceptance of birth control even as a majority of the nation's Roman Catholics are rejecting their church's teaching on the practice. Raised within a religious movement that has almost uniformly condemned abortion, many young evangelicals have begun to ask whether abortion can be neatly isolated from the issue of contraception. A significant number of evangelical families have, over the last several decades, rejected the use of birth control and returned decisions regarding family size to God. Given the growth of the evangelical movement, this pioneering work will have a large-scale impact." -- Publisher

    *Chambers, Claire, The SIECUS Circle: A Humanist Revolution, ISBN: 0882791192 9780882791197.
    THE SIECUS CIRCLE: A HUMANIST REVOLUTION established a clear connection between the socialist agenda and sexual immorality of the general population.
    "THE SIECUS CIRCLE said, in the 1960s, that the population control crowd targeted the RCC [Roman Catholic Church], the LCMS [Lutheran Church Missouri Synod], and the SBC [Southern Baptist Church], as they all had leaders in charge of major publishing operations who could easily be 'bought off.' I remember as a child, my father coming home one day from Rotary Club livid that the local LCMS pastor had spoken on the need for classroom sex talk (sex ed) in the local schools. It worked. . . . setting up the foundations for abortion." -- Reader's Comment
    "This book was an eye opener, written years ago, and relevant and prophetic for today. I am glad I re-read it again. If you want to know where the culture is headed, read this . . ." -- Reader's Comment

    Curro, Ellen, Caring Enough to Help: Counseling at a Crisis Pregnancy Center, ISBN: 0801025516 9780801025518.
    "Much valuable information for training volunteers to serve at a crisis pregnancy center is included here. The entire Christian community will see how it can make a difference by touching hurting lives." -- GCB

    *Everett, Carol, with Jack Shaw, The Scarlet Lady: The Confessions of a Successful Abortionist, ISBN: 1561210730 9781561210732. Alternate title: BLOOD MONEY: GETTING RICH OFF A WOMAN'S RIGHT TO CHOOSE.
    "Carol Everett's SCARLET LADY: CONFESSIONS OF A SUCCESSFUL ABORTIONIST convicted my wife and I that the abortion industry is the immoral and money hungry, multi-million dollar monster that we always believed it to be. Mrs. Everett puts her own reputation on the line by showing what she did during her tenure as an abortionist. Yes, she calls herself this, even though she never picked up the knife or suction tube. She explains how low this profession can go by falsifying pregnancy reports, using pressure tactics like how much more money it will cost for an abortion the longer they wait, and even participates in the illegal transportation and the cover-up of an abortion patient's death. She even brought her daughter into this life she led. Anyone interested in how the abortion industry lies and winds its way into every ones lives should consider this a must read! " -- Reader's Comment
    Post-abortion syndrome affects abortion workers as well as mothers.

    *Foreman, Joseph L., Shattering the Darkness: The Crisis of the Cross in the Church Today, ISBN: 0935883037 9780935883039.
    "Don't read this book if you are not willing to be heart-wrenchingly challenged. Foreman effectively makes the distinction between committing to a social cause and picking up one's cross. They are not necessarily one and the same thing. It will not be rallies or political strategies or demonstrations alone that will deliver the death blow to abortion. The call is to the church to embrace the cross. It is the power of the cross that revolutionizes the culture and transforms every facet of life from marriage to business to politics and so on, rescuing those areas from darkness. . . ." -- Reader's Comment

    Fowler, Paul B., Abortion: Toward an Evangelical Consensus, ISBN: 0880701730 9780880701730.
    "It fills a critical gap by clarifying the scriptural, logical, and biological assumptions upon which the pro-life and pro-choice movements are based. Fowler insists that 'not one can be neutral on this issue' and concludes that Christians can reach a consensus against abortion." -- Charles Swindoll

    Ganz, Richard (editor), Thou Shalt not Kill: The Christian Case Against Abortion, ISBN: 0870004069 9780870004063.
    "Collected essays dealing with various facets of the struggle against abortion." -- David Powlison

    Garton, Jean, Who Broke the Baby, ISBN: 0764220500 9780764220500.
    "What you would want your daughter to know about abortion . . . intelligent, Biblical. . . . This is the book that Senator Hyde purchased and distributed to all the members of the legislature of the United States."

    Grant, George, Grand Illusions: The Legacy of Planned Parenthood, ISBN: 1581820577 9781581820577.
    Exposes the hidden agenda of Planned Parenthood.
    "In the course of my research, I have found that the abortion industry's very existence depends on secrecy, deception, and distortion of information. For this very reason, I strongly recommend George Grant's book, GRAND ILLUSIONS, because it provides much needed information that I'm sure Planned Parenthood would rather no one knew!" -- Frank E. Peretti

    *Grant, George, The Quick and the Dead: RU-486 and the New Chemical Warfare Against Your Family, ISBN: 0891076646 9780891076643.
    "Will Christians be asleep as the abortion pill RU-486 threatens human life as they were when Roe vs. Wade first appeared? We must become informed about the danger lurking before us as the pro-death forces spend millions to being the French abortion pill to America!" -- GCB
    "It is must reading for the concerned Christians who want to stay informed about RU-486, the abortion pill. RU-486 proponents claim it to be a 'safe and effective post-coital contraceptive method.' However, it is not safe, or effective; and it does not prevent conception. But it does destroy unborn babies." -- CRM

    *Grant, George, Third Time Around: A History of the Pro-Life Movement From the First Century to the Present, ISBN: 0943497655 9780943497655.
    "You will be enriched and enlightened as you read about the pro-life successes of people from the past like J. Hudson Taylor, Theodore Roosevelt, Mother Theresa, Alexander Solzhenitsyn, and others." -- Publisher

    Grant, George, with Gary North, Planned Parenthood: Your Tax Dollars at Work, a video, DVD. ISBN: 1888306521 9781888306521.
    "How and why are American taxpayers subsidizing genocide today through the insidious program of Planned Parenthood?" -- Publisher

    Hoffmeier, James K. (editor), Abortion: A Christian Understanding and Response, ISBN: 0801043174 9780801043178.
    "This book contains an extensive study of relevant Biblical teaching on the subject of abortion as well as an extended list of practical guidelines for Christians wrestling with this moral issue." -- GCB

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

    *Johnston, George F. (compiler), Abortion From the Religious and Moral Perspective: An Annotated Bibliography, ISBN: 0313314020 9780313314025.
    "Johnston begins by claiming this is not just another bibliography on the subject of abortion. What makes his different? It is narrow in scope, addressing only the religious and moral perspectives without attempting to cover legal, sociological, political, and medical aspects. It contains more entries and has greater depth, is ambitiously comprehensive and includes many important publications, and has citations from all points of view. . . .
    "George F. Johnston is Cataloger at the Langsam Library at the University of Cincinnati. He formerly served as Assistant Librarian at Covenant Theological Seminary in St. Louis." -- Publisher

    *Jones, E. Michael, Libido Dominandi: Sexual Liberation and Political Control, ISBN: 189031837X 9781890318376.
    "Thus, a good man, though a slave, is free; but a wicked man, though a king, is a slave. For he serves, not one man alone, but, what is worse, as many masters as he has vices." -- St. Augustine, City of God
    "Writing at the time of the collapse of the Roman Empire, St. Augustine both revolutionized and brought to a close antiquity's idea of freedom. A man was not a slave by nature or by law, as Aristotle claimed. His freedom was a function of his moral state. A man had as many masters as he had vices. This insight would provide the basis for the most sophisticated form of social control known to man.
    "Fourteen hundred years later, a decadent French aristocrat turned that tradition on its head when he wrote that 'the freest of people are they who are most friendly to murder.' Like St. Augustine, the Marquis de Sade would agree that freedom was a function of morals. Unlike St. Augustine, Sade proposed a revolution in sexual morals to accompany the political revolution then taking place in France. LIBIDO DOMINANDI -- the term is taken from Book I of Augustine's CITY OF GOD -- is the definitive history of that sexual revolution, from 1773 to the present.
    "Unlike the standard version of the sexual revolution, LIBIDO DOMINANDI shows how sexual liberation was from its inception a form of control. Those who wished to liberate man from the moral order needed to impose social controls as soon as they succeeded because liberated libido led inevitably to anarchy. Aldous Huxley wrote in his preface to the 1946 edition of BRAVE NEW WORLD that 'as political and economic freedom diminishes, sexual freedom tends compensatingly to increase.' This book is about the converse of that statement. It explains how the rhetoric of sexual freedom was used to engineer a system of covert political and social control. Over the course of the two-hundred-year span covered by this book, the development of technologies of communication, reproduction, and psychic control -- including psychotherapy, behaviorism, advertising, sensitivity training, pornography, and plain old blackmail -- allowed the Enlightenment and its heirs to turn Augustine's insight on its head and create masters out of men's vices. LIBIDO DOMINANDI is the story of how that happened." -- Publisher
    "E. Michael Jones ['a Roman Catholic polemicist of the old-fashioned type, for whom no Roman prelate (at least before Vatican II) ever did wrong, and no Protestant ever did right. He writes with the vehemence of a pamphleteer in the time of the sixteenth-century French wars of religion.' -- Reader's Comment], is editor of Culture Wars Magazine, and author of many books, including THE SLAUGHTER OF CITIES: URBAN RENEWAL AS ETHNIC CLEANSING." -- Publisher

    McAleer, Phelim, Gosnell: The Untold Story of America's Most Prolific Serial Killer, 2017, ISBN: 1621578585 9781621578581. Also available as an e-book. Currently showing as a movie (October, 2018). Forthcoming as a DVD.
    This is based upon a true story.
    "He is America's most prolific serial killer. And yet Kermit Gosnell was no obvious criminal. The abortion doctor was a pillar of his community, an advocate for women's 'reproductive health,' and a respected member of Philadelphia's professional elite. His Women's Medical Society Clinic looked like admirable community outreach by a brave doctor committed to upholding women's rights. Meanwhile, inside the filthy building, Gosnell was casually murdering born-alive infants, butchering women, and making a macabre collection of severed babies' feet. His accomplices in crime were a staff of dropouts, drug addicts, and unlicensed medical professionals posing as doctors. But even more important to his decades-long crime spree were his enablers in the outside world -- from the state bureaucrats who had copious evidence that Gosnell was breaking the law but did nothing, to the politicians whose fervent support for abortion rights kept health inspectors away. The 'pro-choice' political, bureaucratic, and media establishment smiled on Gosnell -- and gave him carte blanche to kill. Even law enforcement seemed to not care. Philadelphia Police Homicide Unit received a complaint about Gosnell years before he was caught, gave it a cursory look, and ignored the evidence. Two women and hundreds of babies died after they closed the case. Luckily, Detective Jim Wood -- a narcotics detective -- opened a drug case against Gosnell. What he found when he served his warrant left even the most grizzled members of the police force stunned. Now Ann McElhinney and Phelim McAleer, the veteran investigative journalists and filmmakers behind 'FrackNation,' dig into Gosnell's crimes. A record-breaking crowdfunding campaign financed their Gosnell movie starring young Superman Dean Cain, but in the research for the film, McElhinney and McAleer uncovered fascinating and previously unreported revelations that couldn't be included in the film. GOSNELL: THE UNTOLD STORY OF AMERICA'S MOST PROLIFIC SERIAL KILLER contains the full results of their investigation." -- Publisher
    "The pinnacle of the movie is not the verdict. It is when the defense attorney gets the expert-witness abortionist, who has done 30,000 'safe' abortions, to describe just how she insures that a pre-aborted baby is not born alive. This is one way: A long needle is inserted into the baby's back in order to access the beating heart, then the baby's heart is injected with potassium chloride which stops the heart.
    "She also admits that if, despite their attempts to end its life the baby is born alive, they provide it 'comfort care.' The defense attorney asks clarification. He says, 'You mean, you just let it die.' 'Yes,' she replied.
    "That's the important contribution of this movie, not the guilty verdict for murder of Gosnell which is a given. This small segment of this movie describes what has been happening since the Roe vs. Wade decision in 1973 for an estimated 60 million babies. . . .(Jeremiah 32:31-32,35)" -- Reader's Comment on the movie

    McDonagh, Josephine, Child Murder and British Culture, 1720-1900, ISBN: 0521781930 9780521781930.
    "Josephine McDonagh examines the concept of child murder in British culture in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries by analyzing texts drawn from economics, philosophy, law, and medicine, as well as literature. McDonagh highlights the ways in which child murder echoes and reverberates in a variety of cultural debates and social practices. She traces a trajectory from Swift's a MODEST PROPOSAL through the debates on the New Woman at the turn of the twentieth century by way of Burke, Wordsworth, Wollstonecraft, George Eliot, George Egerton, and Thomas Hardy, among others.
    "Josephine McDonagh is Reader in Romantic and Victorian Culture in the School of English and Humanities at Birkbeck College, University of London. She is the author of DE QUINCEY'S DISCIPLINES (1994) and GEORGE ELIOT (1997) and co-editor of TRANSACTIONS AND ENCOUNTERS: SCIENCE AND CULTURE IN NINETEENTH-CENTURY BRITAIN (2001)." -- Publisher

    Michels, Nancy, Helping Women Recover From Abortion, ISBN: 0871236214 9780871236210.
    "A poignant documentary of the pain-filled lives of many aborted women. It is essential reading for those who think that abortion is a solution to unplanned pregnancy and for those who would counsel the growing sisterhood of permanently scarred women -- reveals the hidden horror of abortion and the healing help that is available." -- Reader's Comment
    Includes bibliography.

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

    Morecraft III, Joe, With Liberty and Justice for All, 2nd edition.
    "Joe Morecraft III was the pastor of the late Senator Larry McDonald, who was killed when the Russians shot down his plane. This is Christian politics made simple. A very readable book that will help you to think through the place of the government in our lives, namely, the government's authority and limitations. All this is done with many passages quoted from Scripture. There is a chapter on the life of Larry McDonald. . . ." -- Footstool Publications
    "What are Christians to do when the civil government is evil? Must they always obey the authorities? What are the origins of civil government? Does the Bible authorize the government to execute criminals? Is abortion murder if it is legal? Shouldn't Christians stay out of politics? This book answers these questions and many more. Dr. Morecraft, pastor of Chalcedon Presbyterian Church of Atlanta, seeks Biblical answers to these questions. An instructive book for today." -- GCB

    *Nathansen, Bernard N., The Hand of God, ISBN: 0895264633 9780895264633.
    "Here is a man who was responsible for the legalization of abortion in the United States, coming to terms with the dreadful consequences of his actions, publicly sharing an obviously painful part of his life, and seeking forgiveness. . . .
    "Especially chilling are Nathanson's predictions for the future. He predicts that just as we now have abortuaries one day we will have 'death with dignity centers' -- legalized places where we can bring our elderly to have them put to death. . . .
    "Not long after the book was published, Dr. Nathanson [raised Jewish -- compiler], entered the Catholic Church." -- Reader's Comment

    *Nathansen, Bernard N., and Richard N. Ostling, Aborting America, ISBN: 0523415389 9780523415383.
    "Re-examines the abortion controversy, the abortion law, the theories behind the proabortionist lobby, and exposes the flagrant abuses being practiced in America today. Highlights the fact that socially this indicates a diminished respect for human life. Challenging." -- Cyril J. Barber

    *Piper, John, Justin Taylor, Ben Patterson, David Powlison (1949-2019), and Albert Mohler, et al., Sex and the Supremacy of Christ, ISBN: 9781433512278 1433512270.
    Amazon reviews are 79 percent five stars as of 4/27/2022.
    "Really impressed by the wealth of writers in this book. I have quoted from it and bought it both in Kindle and paperback versions. The five parts cover a wide range of subjects: 'God and Sex,' 'Sin and Sex,' 'Men and Sex,' 'Women and Sex,' and 'History and Sex.' That final part changed my thinking both on Luther and on the Puritans, as they really restored good biblical understanding on sex. The fact that God created sex is often lost in today's society, and this book helps focus on its positive view of a subject often spoiled by the world today." -- Reader's Comment
    "The second section deals with 'Sin and Sex.' The highlight of the entire book is David Powlison's chapter on 'Restoring Pure Joy to the Sexually Broken.' He provides biblical wisdom and encouragement for people who have abused sex, or who have been sexually abused. His counsel is loving and pastoral, and will surely bring a glimpse of light to many for whom sex has become darkness." -- Reader's Comment

    *Reagan, Ronald, Abortion and the Conscience of the Nation.
    "During the decade immediately following the Roe v. Wade Supreme Court decision in 1973, more than fifteen million unborn children were legally aborted. When one considers that this figure is ten times greater than the loss of all Americans in all of the nation's wars, some understanding of the enormity of the problem becomes apparent. In an unprecedented effort to make the public aware of the importance of the situation President Reagan addressed the volatile subject of abortion. 'Afterwords' were supplied by the Surgeon General, C. Everett Koop, and Malcolm Muggeridgge." -- Cyril J. Barber

    Scott, Douglas, Bad Choices: A Look Inside Planned Parenthood, ISBN: 1880692023 9781880692028.
    "Doug, who is a pro-life veteran from the Christian Action Council and the Free Congress Federation, has really done his homework and has thus made an indispensable contribution to this important area of sociopolitical scholarship. He covers vastly different material in a profoundly different fashion than I do in my book. There can be no competition when it comes to stopping the hideous juggernaut of Planned Parenthood." -- George Grant

    Sider, Ronald J., and Diane Knippers, Toward an Evangelical Public Policy: Political Strategies for the Health of the Nation, ISBN: 0801065380 9780801065385.
    "Contents: Foreword / Ted Haggard | Introduction / Ronald J. Sider and Diane Knippers
    Part I. Learning from the past. Seeking a place / John C. Green | A history of the public policy resolutions of the National Association of Evangelicals / Richard Cizik | Evangelical denominations at the foundations of modern American and British social-political structures and policies / Paul de Vries | The mainline protestant tradition in the twentieth century / Max L. Stackhouse and Raymond R. Roberts | Insights from Catholic social ethics and political participation / Kristen E. Heyer
    Part II. Toward an evangelical methodology. Toward an evangelical ethical methodology / David P. Gushee and Dennis P. Hollinger -- Foundations for an evangelical political philosophy / Nicholas Wolterstorff | Justice, human rights, and government / Ronald J. Sider | Citizenship, civil society, and the church / Joseph Loconte
    Part III. Central themes for an evangelical framework. The sanctity of life in the twenty-first century / Nigel M. de S. Cameron | Caring for the vulnerable / Clive Calver and Galen Carey | Family integrity / Tom Minnery and Glenn T. Stanton | Stewardship / R. Scott Rodin | The ethics of war and peacemaking / Glen H. Stassen | Human rights / Paul Marshall | pt. IV. Implementation. In the arena / Stephen Monsma and Mark Rodgers."

    Singer, C. Gregg (1910-1999), On the Doctrine of Human Rights, a series of messages [digital files].
    "Every futile attempt to create rights which do not exist results in the lose of rights which do exist. The modern theory of political rights has no philosophic or theological foundation. It rests upon human democratic assumptions concerning the nature of man, which conception has absolutely no foundation in the political, or the social, or the religious philosophy which produced it." -- C. Gregg Singer commenting on "human rights" in general, and the right to abortion in particular, in his lecture Apologetics: #01: Classical and Medieval Thought #1, the first in a series of 24 lectures entitled "Apologetics" delivered in November 1979 in Decatur, Georgia, which follow his book FROM RATIONALISM TO IRRATIONALITY: THE DECLINE OF THE WESTERN MIND FROM THE RENAISSANCE TO THE PRESENT (1979).
    For more from Singer on the doctrine of human rights see also:

  • Apologetics #06: Irrationalism and Theistic Rationalism #2
  • Apologetics #07: Irrationalism and Theistic Rationalism
  • Apologetics #12: The Impact of Darwin and Social Darwinism #1
  • Church History #05: The Early Church #4
  • Great Moments in Presbyterian History #8: What the Bible has to say About the Nature of Government
    "Human rights emerge from human duty and from no other place. And beginning with Locke and Jefferson they removed them from their Biblical foundation. . . .
    "What are our real rights? We have the right to life because God created us in his image. . . .
    "Our duties to God are the source of our rights. And any other concept of human rights will inevitably, by their very nature, destroy that which they seek to protect. Man was created to glorify God, and in his glorification of God he receives his rights because they are the product, they spring from his duty."
  • Decline of American Culture #06: Decline in the 1830's: Philosophical Revolution in Political Thought
    • Smith, F. Legard, When Choice Becomes God, ISBN: 0890818282 9780890818282.
    Exposes the falsehood in the arguments of the Pro-Choice movement.

    *Terry, Randall A., Accessory to Murder: The Enemies, Allies, and Accomplices to the Death of our Culture, ISBN: 0943497787 9780943497785.
    "Randall Terry exposes the purposes and tactics of the ACLU, NOW, and Planned Parenthood from a perfect vantage point -- prison . . . . It draws the battle lines between life and death more clearly than you have ever seen them drawn before."

    *Terry, Randall, Operation Rescue, ISBN: 0883682095 9780883682098.
    Randall Terry is the recognized leader in this expanding movement.
    "I consider Operation Rescue a legitimate front-line force in the pro-life movement. Please prayerfully consider joining with me in supporting this organization to save the lives of the unborn and to stop the killing permanently." -- D. James Kennedy

    Tobin, Kathleen A., The American Religious Debate Over Birth Control 1907-1937, ISBN: 9780786410811 0786410817.
    "The ongoing debates on the morality of artificial birth control sparked a heated public debate in the early twentieth century in an already religiously fragmented United States. Many denominations took part in the deliberations both publicly and privately. In examining the ideas about contraception and birth control at that time, this book considers the cultural environment, religion and its connection to the roots of birth control, the questioning of religious doctrine, the Protestants' view of birth control, the Lambeth Conferences of 1930, the influence of conservatives, and the influence of Catholics." -- Publisher

    *Trewhella, Matthew J., The Doctrine of the Lesser Magistrates: A Proper Resistance to Tyranny and a Repudiation of Unlimited Obedience to Civil Government, ISBN: 1482327686 9781482327687.
    "America has entered troubling times. The rule of law is crumbling. The massive expansion of Federal government power with its destructive laws and policies is of grave concern to many. But what can be done to quell the abuse of power by civil authority? Are unjust or immoral actions by the government simply to be accepted and their lawless commands obeyed? How do we know when the government has acted tyrannically? Which actions constitute proper and legitimate resistance? This book places in your hands a hopeful blueprint for freedom. Appealing to history and the Word of God, Pastor Matthew Trewhella answers these questions and shows how Americans can successfully resist the Federal government's attempts to trample our Constitution, assault our liberty, and impugn the law of God. The doctrine of the lesser magistrates declares that when the superior or higher civil authority makes an unjust/immoral law or decree, the lesser or lower ranking civil authority has both the right and duty to refuse obedience to that superior authority. If necessary, the lower authority may even actively resist the superior authority. Historically, this doctrine was practiced before the time of Christ and Christianity. It was Christian men, however, who formalized and embedded it into their political institutions throughout Western Civilization. The doctrine of the lesser magistrates is a historic tool that provides proven guidelines for proper and legitimate resistance to tyranny, often without causing any major upheaval in society. The doctrine teaches us how to rein in lawless acts by government and restore justice in our nation. 'Use this sword against my enemies, if I give righteous commands; but if I give unrighteous commands, use it against me.' -- Roman Emperor Trajan, speaking to one of his subordinates. This is the first book published solely addressing the doctrine of the lesser magistrates in over 400 years. Matthew Trewhella is the pastor of Mercy Seat Christian Church. He is a graduate of Valley Forge Christian College. He and his wife, Clara, have eleven children and nine grandchildren, and reside in the Milwaukee, Wisconsin area. His research and teaching on the lesser magistrate doctrine is reshaping the thinking of Americans. He was instrumental in publishing The Magdeburg Confession: 13th of April 1550 AD, in 2012 -- the first English translation of the document since it was written in 1550." -- Publisher
    "Wow! Please get this book and read it. And then read it again! And then send it to your lesser magistrates (specifically your local sheriffs, county judges, and State governors).
    "The subtitle says it all: A PROPER RESISTANCE TO TYRANNY AND A REPUDIATION OF UNLIMITED OBEDIENCE TO CIVIL GOVERNMENT.
    "Romans 13:1-7 has caused a great deal of confusion to modern Christian evangelicals. On the whole it tends to get interpreted as 'we must obey the government [with an implied unlimited obedience].' Of course that doesn't feel right, and we know of the passage that says 'we must obey God rather than men.' But how do we reconcile these?
    "THE DOCTRINE OF THE LESSER MAGISTRATES helps us figure that out. Government has been instituted by God as His instrument to do His work. But when government ceases to do God's work in carrying out just laws, there needs to be a way to hold back the tyranny. Will revolt and riot work, or is that what Christians are called to do? No.
    "Enter the lesser magistrate -- also known as the government office holder who is inferior to the one giving the orders but has a legitimate role in government nonetheless. He has the ability and the duty to resist carrying out unjust laws or orders. And he has the ability and duty to interpose on behalf of the citizens against whom the tyrannical governing authority is trying to carry out his power.
    "Trewhella shows historical examples of how the application of this doctrine has worked and provides compelling Biblical exegesis of how this doctrine is clearly taught in Scripture.
    "I highly recommend reading this book! It's short enough to be read in one sitting, but powerful enough to transform your understanding of how to properly resist tyranny -- in God's power and by God's prescription." -- Reader's Comment
    Doctrine of the Lesser Magistrate
    http://www.LesserMagistrate.com
    Defy Tyrants
    http://www.DefyTyrants.com

    Vredevelt, Pam W., Empty Arms: Emotional Support for Those who Have Suffered Miscarriage or Stillbirth, ISBN: 0880708107.
    "This book was a great help to my wife and myself after the stillbirth of our son. When we started our own ministry to help those suffering from the loss of a baby, we looked at dozens of potential books to use in the ministry, and we kept coming back to this book as the most complete, compassionate work on the subject. This book stands far above most others by helping grieving parents come to terms with their loss intellectually, emotionally, and spiritually. I can't say enough about this book and the impact it has had on the lives of the people that we have given it to in our ministry." -- Reader's Comment

    White, Margaret, Two Million Silent Killings: The Truth About Abortion, ISBN: 0551014024 9780551014022.
    "An outspoken, moving and compelling work exposing the scandal of abortion and laying bare the ethical, scientific, and social impoverishment which abortion has brought in its train." -- GCB

    *Young, Curt, The Least of These: What Everyone Should Know About Abortion, ISBN: 0802446248 9780802446244.
    "This book is being called a battle hymn for the unborn. It may be the most comprehensive handbook on abortion currently available." -- GCB

    Young, Mary de, The Ritual Abuse Controversy: An Annotated Bibliography, ISBN: 0786412593 9780786412594, indexes.
    "The ritual abuse of children is the most controversial issue in the child maltreatment field, but much of what has been written about ritual abuse over the past twenty years is in the form of unpublished and endlessly reproduced 'stuff' -- curious mixture of conjecture, folkloric and pop-culture representations of satanism, devil worship, occultism and witchcraft, and Christian Fundamentalist images of premillennarian evil. What remains after this 'stuff' is excluded is an intriguing body of international literature that seriously examines the controversy.
    "This annotated bibliography dissects the literature, objectively and thoroughly annotates published articles, books and reports, legal opinions, and occasionally, thought-provoking newspaper and magazine articles.
    "Chapters deal with the definition of ritual abuse, ritual abuse cases in the United States, cases in American families and neighborhoods, cases in Canada, Europe and Australasia, clinical features of ritual abuse in children and adults, the controversy's impact on professionals and systems, the controversy and American law, ritual abuse reports and narratives, and anthropological, folkloric and sociological perspectives.
    "Mary de Young, a professor of sociology and chair of the Department of Sociology at Grand Valley State University, lives in Grand Rapids, Michigan. She is the author of THE DAY CARE RITUAL ABUSE MORAL PANIC, published by McFarland and Company." -- Publisher
    There may be something of interest here. We have not seen this bibliography. However, we feel it is highly unlikely that a secular compiler could produce an unbiased bibliography on ritual child abuse considering: 1) the most dangerous place for a child in America today is in their mother's womb, 2) most parents have given up their children's education to the public education system, and in 1983 The National Commission on Excellence in Education, in their report, A NATION AT RISK: THE IMPERATIVE FOR EDUCATIONAL REFORM, concluded that had public education been carried out by enemies of the United States, it could not be more harmful to the country, 3) The court system refuses to acknowledge the Ten Commandments (the summation of which is to love God and neighbor) as an ethical basis for modern, relative, arbitrary law, and 4) "although heterosexuals outnumber homosexuals by a ratio of at least 20 to 1, homosexual pedophiles commit about one-third of the total number of child sex offenses," and the courts are recognizing homosexual marriages as of equal status as heterosexual marriages, and so forth, and so on. -- compiler

    See also: The sovereignty of god, The doctrine of man (human nature, total depravity), The root cause of criminal acts of extreme depravity, Spiritual discernment, The sovereign grace of god: his everlasting mercy and lovingkindness, Repentance the key to salvation and change, Justification, Justifying faith, Justice, god's final judgment, the great white throne judgment, the day of the lord, Human rights, Post-abortion counseling, Miscarriage and stillbirth (women), Covetousness, greed, and selfishness, The ten commandments: the moral law, Sexual relationship, Spiritual adultery (spiritual whoredom/harlotry), Gratuitous sex, a cause of violence, Abuse, Rape, Incest, Abuse, dysfunctional families. Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, Suffrage and reproductive rights, Sexual wholeness, Abstinence, chastity, Ethics, computer ethics, cyberethics, Sex ethics, sex education, Conscience, casuistry, cases of conscience, Medical ethics, Carnality and flesh pleasing: lust, desires, ambition, Decline of American society, Modern myths and fallacies, Self-denial, Rebellion and lawlessness: wickedness, demonic possession, abnormal behavior, insanity, mental illness, mental retardation, Dvd and multimedia, and so forth, and so on.
    TCRB5: 2449, 2452

    Related Weblinks

    Abolish Human Abortion
    http://www.AbolishHumanAbortion.com

    Abortion (FGB #220)
    Answers to Abortion Arguments | Proclamations of God's Word | Great Forgiveness for Great Sin | The Silent Holocaust | Mankind and the Death Factor | Thou Shalt not Kill | Molech is Alive and Well | When Does Life Begin? | The Bible and Sanctity of Life
    https://www.chapellibrary.org/book/aborfg/abortion

    After Roe: What's our job now? George Grant, June 24, 2022
    "So after Roe, what's our job now? It is the same as always: we must be gospel advocates of all that is right and good and true. We must care for the poor, the hurting, and the marginalized. We must speak the truth in love. We must remind our magistrates of their responsibilities. We must disciple. We must be unflinching in the proclamation of the good news, which changes everything. Our intercessions and labors must be unceasing.
    "Our local crisis pregnancy centers need our support like never before. Our pulpits need to ring out with practical, pastoral, and prophetic urgency like never before. And we need to remember God's glorious promise like never before: Behold, I will do a new thing; now it springs forth; shall ye not know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert. (Isaiah 43:19)."
    https://www.ligonier.org/learn/articles/after-roe

    American Portrait Films
    We now offer (2002) over 30 Christian creation science videos, young earth creationism videos, creation science videos, and videos on other creationist topics as well as 100 other thought provoking pro life, pro family videos.
    http://www.americanportraitfilms.com/

    The Doctrine of the Lesser Magistrates
    https://lessermagistrate.com

    Earth Day: Abortion has Killed 1-2 Billion Worldwide in 50 Years, Colin Mason and Steven Mosher, Apr 21, 2011
    "Think about it. Over the past half-century, quietly and without fanfare, in ordinary towns and cities, in dozens of countries around the world, perhaps two billion children have been killed. They have died unknown, often unmourned, and acknowledged only from time to time.
    "The 20th century was violent by any measure. Thirty-seven million people were killed in World War I. Over 60 million perished in World War II. Six million Jews and another six million Catholics died in Hitler's death camps. Twenty million died at the hands of the Soviet authorities. Sixty-five million Chinese were killed by the Communist Party, while forty-two million more starved to death during Mao's Great Leap Forward. And so on.
    "But these numbers are dwarfed by the sheer volume of children who have been killed this past half-century."
    http://www.lifenews.com/2011/04/21/earth-day-abortion-has-killed-1-2-billion-worldwide-in-50-years/

    Facts on Induced Abortion in the United States (05/2006)
    Comprehensive documented statistics on legal abortions performed in the Unites States compiled by the Guttmacher Institute. [56 million American babies from 1973 to 2014, annual rate continues at 1.2 million babies a year].
    http://www.guttmacher.org/pubs/fb_induced_abortion.html

    Feminism and the Abortion Holocast, a sermon by Brian Schwertley
    http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=4807163739

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

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

    LifeDynamics.com
    Pro-life resource center
    http://www.ldi.org/

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

    Number of Abortions -- Abortion Counters
    "The most accurate set of abortion counters on the web. Number of abortions in U.S. and worldwide; Number of abortions since 1973; Number of abortions this year; U.S. abortion clock; Worldwide abortion clock; Number of abortions due to rape or incest; Planned Parenthood abortion count."
    http://www.numberofabortions.com/

    Pro-life.org
    http://www.prolife.org/

    Should Women be Punished for Murdering Their own son or Daughter by Abortion? [audio file], Matt Trewhella
    "This sermon responds to 'pro-life' statements, and makes the case that the assertion that the woman is a 'victim' is absurd."
    http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=67161959403

    Sighing and Crying for the Abominations in the Land, a sermon on Ezekiel 9:4 by William Greenhill
    https://www.sermonaudio.com/source_detail.asp?sourceid=soluschristus

    Suicide: Why Abortion and Teen Suicide are Inexorably Linked, Ardee Coolidge, July 13, 2017
    "Teen suicide has risen over 25 percent in the last six years. A study of depression among teenagers published in The Journal Pediatrics last November found that the number of teens reporting a Major Depressive Episode (MDE) increased 37 percent, from 8.7 percent in 2005 to 11.5 percent in 2014. (MDEs are defined as 'a period of at least two weeks of low mood that is present in most situations. Symptoms include low self-esteem, loss of interest in normally enjoyable activities, and problems with sleep, energy and concentration.'). "Time Magazine reported that the Los Angeles Unified school district had 5,000 reported incidents of suicidal behavior in students last year, compared to 235 incidents in the 2010-2011 school year."
    https://www.care-net.org/abundant-life-blog/why-abortion-and-teen-suicide-are-inexorably-linked

    U.S. Abortion Statistics
    "In 2011, approximately 1.06 million abortions took place in the U.S." [56 million American babies from 1973 to 2014, annual rate continues at 1.2 million babies a year].
    http://www.abort73.com/abortion_facts/us_abortion_statistics/

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

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



    Abuse, Dysfunctional Families

    See the Theological Notes: "The Image of God," at Genesis 1:27 in The Reformation Study Bible.
    So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them. (Genesis 1:27)

    For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus. (Galatians 3:26)

    Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven.
    And whoso shall receive one such little child in my name receiveth me.
    But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and [that] he were drowned in the depth of the sea.     -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 18:4-6)

    Woe to the world because of offences! for it must needs be that offences come; but woe to that man by whom the offence cometh! . . . .
    Take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones; for I say unto you, that in heaven their angels do always behold the face of my Father which is in heaven.     -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 18:7,10)

    Lo, children are an heritage of the LORD: and the fruit of the womb is his reward. (Psalm 127:3)

    Whosoever hateth [abuses -- compiler] his brother is a murderer, and ye know that no murderer hath eternal life abiding in him. (1 John 3:15)

    But he that hateth [abuses -- compiler] his brother is in darkness, and walketh in darkness, and knoweth not whither he goeth, because that darkness hath blinded his eyes. (1 John 4:11) See also: John Calvin commenting on 1 John 4:11 and context

    For whosoever shall do the will of my Father which is in heaven, the same is my brother, and sister, and mother. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 12:50)

    The most tremendous judgment of God in this world is the hardening of the hearts of men. -- John Owen (1616-1683)

    Abuse of all types (emotional, psychological, educational, physical, sexual, spiritual, etc.) results in spiritual blindness, and the wicked are self-destructive. The victim of abuse is rendered, in many cases, unable to love his fellowman, socially awkward, emotionally maladjusted, unable to attain to his full potential -- out of touch with reality. Abuse is the "evangel" of the Adversary, the Liar and the Deceiver. The answer? The Gospel.

    Is this not one of the magnificent promises?
    As the mountains are round about Jerusalem, so the Lord is round about his people from henceforth even for ever.
    For the rod of the wicked shall not rest upon the lot of the righteous; lest the righteous put forth their hands unto iniquity.     (Psalm 125:3,4)
    "Their heavenly Father, it is true, loves them most tenderly, but he will have them awakened by the cross . . . . The reason is added why God will not suffer the wicked always to triumph over the righteous -- namely, lest the just, overcome by temptation, abandon themselves wholly to sinning, a reason which ought to be carefully marked. Hence we gather that God, from his willingness to bear with our weakness, moderates our adversities. Although, then, we may not possess in ourselves a sufficient amount of fortitude and constancy to enable us to persevere in our duty for a single moment, yet let this sentiment be present to our minds, That God will take care that, broken as we may be by afflictions, we shall not forsake his service. -- John Calvin commenting on Psalm 125:3 and context

    I sought the Lord, and he heard me, and delivered me from all my fears. They looked unto him, and were lightened: and their faces were not ashamed. (Psalm 34:4,5)

    Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted within me? hope thou in God: for I shall yet praise him, who is the health of my countenance, and my God. (Psalm 42:11)

    In David's family unresolved sins led suddenly to devastating consequences. David failed to have the courage to uncover and acknowledge the sins of his children. This shows us how passivity on the part of a father can lead to the destruction of his family.
    Extreme dysfunction often begins with a seemingly insignificant transgression or habit that remains unaddressed. On the surface, it's no big deal. Everything appears unaffected by the sin. But unresolved evil ultimately leads to consequences that fester, causing more and more complications. Let me give you three never-to-be-forgotten principles.
    The first principle is that passive, permissive parents produce angry, frustrated children. Absalom needed David to be the protector, but David wasn't. Instead, he was passive in response to Amnon's sin. So Absalom's anger grew to the point of driving him to plan the murder of Amnon. My friend, if you find yourself living with angry and frustrated children, I urge you to look at yourself first. You need to parent proactively rather than passively. I wish David had simply faced what went wrong and dealt with it. He could have done so with wisdom, justice, and even grace.
    Take a moment, parents, and be honest. Are you cultivating a home that honors God with joy? Or are you too busy? Are you losing yourself in your business, ministry, or social events? No success in the world makes up for failure at home. Refuse to let your children slip through your hands like quicksilver. Soon they'll be gone! The time to act is now. Passivity is your enemy.
    The second principle is that disconnected and damaged relationships at home result in dysfunctional family members. Let me speak to you who have adult children. They have left the nest, and they are on their own now. If you sense dysfunction in their lives, maybe some of it is due to a sense of disconnect with you. I simply urge you to talk with them about the roots of the relational disconnect. I know it takes work. It can be humiliating. But you may need to say some things you have never said before. You may also need to hear some things that will be hard for your son or daughter to tell you. But do it anyway. Don't just think more time will make it all right. Silence won't fix it. (separated quote within the sidebar: 'Don't just think more time will make it all right. Silence won't fix it.')
    The third principle is that unresolved conflicts and unreconciled relationships lead to wounds that never heal themselves. As long as you are still living, it's never too late to ask forgiveness for strained relationships with your children. It's never too late to do what's right. But unhealed wounds never heal themselves. It fact, they tend to spread the same disease to the next generation (see 2 Samuel 12:10).
    Maybe David's story has rung a bell in your heart and you're haunted by things of the past. Those unsettling feelings are from God. You'll keep returning to this place until you deal with those issues. The good news? You don't need to live the rest of your life haunted by thoughts of shame and failure! The way to truly deal with the past and get a clean slate is through the power of Jesus Christ. His blood cleanses us from all sin, and His Spirit can help you "do all that you can to live in peace with everyone." (Romans 12:18) -- Chuck Swindoll, edited from his radio broadcasts and writings and included as a sidebar in The Swindoll Study Bible: New Living Translation, page 393

    Word: "disease"; Meaning; "disturb"; Sample location: "Luke 8:49" -- from the "Glossary," 1599 Geneva Bible, Tolle Lege edition

    DISEASE, n. Dizeze. [dis and ease].
    1. In its primary sense, pain, uneasiness, distress, and so used by Spenser; but in this sense, obsolete.
    2. The cause of pain or uneasiness . . . disorder; any state of a living body in which the natural functions of the organs are interrupted or disturbed . . . The first effect of disease is uneasiness or pain, and the ultimate effect is death. . . .
    3. A disordered state of the mind or intellect, by which the reason is impaired.
    4. In society, vice; corrupt state of morals. Vices are called moral diseases. A wise man converses with the wicked, as a physician with the sick, not to catch the disease, but to cure it.
    5. Political or civil disorder, or vices in a state; any practice which tends to disturb the peace of society, or impede or prevent the regular administration of government.
    The instability, injustice and confusion introduced into the public councils have, in truth, been the mortal diseases under which popular governments have every where perished. -- 1846 edition of An American Dictionary of the English Language
    DISEASE, v.t. dizeze.
    1. To interrupt or impair any or all the natural and regular functions of the several organs of a living body [i.e. robbing a neighbor of sleep -- compiler]; to afflict with pain or sickness to make morbid . . .
    2. To interrupt or render imperfect the regular functions of the brain, or of the intellect; to disorder; to derange.
    3. To infect; to communicate disease to, by contagion.
    4. To pain; to make uneasy. -- 1828 edition of Webster's American Dictionary of the English Language

    When my father and my mother forsake me, then the LORD will take me up. (Psalm 27:10)

    Trust ye not in a friend, put ye not confidence in a guide: keep the doors of thy mouth from her that lieth in thy bosom.
    For the son dishonoureth the father, the daughter riseth up against her mother, the daughter in law against her mother in law; a man's enemies are the men of his own house.
    Therefore I will look unto the LORD; I will wait for the God of my salvation: my God will hear me.     (Micah 7:5-7)

    Whatever we become familiar with (John 3:19), that we begin to love, even unholy spirits, whoredom, and abuse in a dysfunctional family (Proverbs 6:32), and the vicious cycle of repeated behavior in the next generation. (2 Peter 2:22),

    The U.S. Justice Department reports that women who live together with men are 76 times more likely to be physically abused, that is 7,600 percent more likely (2001 data).

    It is said that the best thing a husband and wife can do for their children is to set an example for them by modelling a loving relationship with their spouse.

    Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), The Practical Encyclopedia of Christian Counseling.
    See the subject "Abuse," "Sex," and so forth, and so on.

    Bailey-Rug, Cynthia, In Sheep's Clothing: All About Covert Narcissists, ISBN: 1387374230 9781387374236.
    "Do you know someone others think is very kind, caring and maybe even a bit naive, yet possesses a vicious side that only you have seen? You may be in the presence of a covert narcissist.
    "These evil people abuse in devious, sneaky ways while hiding behind a mask of kindness, martyrdom and innocence. They are among the most dangerous people in society, yet they often go unnoticed.
    "IN SHEEP'S CLOTHING: ALL ABOUT COVERT NARCISSISTS will help you to learn to identify and cope with these dangerous people, as well as show you ways to heal from their abuse.
    "As a Christian author, Cynthia Bailey-Rug has published books in various genres with topics including surviving narcissistic abuse, Narcissistic Personality Disorder, Christian living, mystery/thrillers, and her greatest love, animals.
    "Her goal as a writer is to help people as God leads her to do so, either through educating them on understanding the results of surviving abuse and healing, educating people on true, Godly Christian living, creating a new appreciation and love of animals in them, or simply helping them to relax and enjoy a good read.
    "Cynthia Bailey-Rug enjoys animals, classic cars, some motorsports, knitting, crocheting, and spending time with her friends and family.
    "Visit her website at www.CynthiaBaileyRug.com for updates on her latest projects and inspiration." -- Publisher

    Bailey-Rug, Cynthia, Emerging From The Chrysalis, ISBN: 130035089X 9781300350897.
    "EMERGING FROM THE CHRYSALIS is a story of surviving abuse and how to conquer its pain.
    "In this inspiring book, the author describes her own painful experiences with the various forms of psychological abuse (verbal, mental, and emotional abuse), as well as how she moved from the role of victim to survivor." -- Publisher

    Bailey-Rug, Cynthia, It's all About me! The Facts About Maternal Narcissism, ISBN: 1312484624 9781312484627.
    "Narcissistic Personality Disorder is an unashamed disregard for other people, except for how they can be used. This entitled behavior is devastating, but especially for a narcissist's child. Drawing on her experiences with her narcissistic mother, the author explains Narcissistic Personality Disorder and the problems it causes, as well as ways to heal, and to manage a relationship with narcissistic parent or sever ties with them, all from a Christian perspective. Although this book is written from the perspective of a daughter with a narcissistic mother, the information is also pertinent to sons of narcissistic mothers or those with narcissistic fathers." -- Publisher

    Bailey-Rug, Cynthia, The Truth About Elderly Narcissists, ISBN: 1365722961 9781365722967.
    "Contrary to popular belief, narcissists often do change. As they age, they frequently become even more difficult and abusive. THE TRUTH ABOUT ELDERLY NARCISSISTS was created to help those who are faced with the unique challenges of dealing with or caring for elderly narcissists." -- Publisher

    Caouette, Jonathan, Tarnation, DVD.
    We recommend this documentary to mature individuals who are concerned about Mental Health Policy in his country, but who have never had the experience of caring for persons who are emotionally disturbed, having them as neighbors, or working with them. It will educate the viewer on the nature of the problem of "mental illness." Part of the problem is their characteristic appeal for respectability and sympathy. I sense this was a subliminal motivation for the documentary. Caouette turned out a homosexual, and seems to be accepting it as an alternative life style.
    Caouette videoed his life and edited his archives to tell the story of growing up with a schizophrenic mother. So this is a glimpse of the reality of growing up in an emotionally disturbed and dysfunctional family.
    It also dramatizes the failure of psychiatry.
    "A multitude of family snapshots, Super-8 home movies, old answering machine messages, video diaries, early short films, snippets of '80s pop culture, and dramatic reenactments are used to create an epic portrait of an American family travesty. Begins in 2003 when Jonathan learns that his schizophrenic mother, Renee, overdoses on her lithium medication. He is shot back into his real and horrifying family legacy of rape, abandonment, promiscuity, drug addiction, child abuse, and psychosis. He grows up on camera and finds his escape in musical theater and B-horror movies. A look into the future shows Jonathan as he confronts the almost unbearable love he shares with his tragically damaged mother." -- Publisher

    *Enroth, Ronald M., Churches That Abuse: Help for Those Hurt by Legalism, Authoritarian Leadership, Manipulation, Excessive Discipline.
    "What makes a church abusive? Usually it's not doctrinal deviation but intimidating behavior: legalism, authoritarian leadership, manipulation, and excessive discipline. Enroth names abusive groups, shows you how to recognize them, and lists 'red flags' that may indicate when a church is drifting into trouble. Most importantly, Enroth offers help to Christians who've been hurt by abusive churches." -- CBD
    "Aggressive Christianity Missions Training Corps; The Assembly; Body of Christ Fellowship (Peacemakers); Boston Church of Christ; Christian Growth Ministries; Church of Bible Understanding; Church of Jesus Christ Forever; Church of Our First Love; Church of the Great Shepherd; Christian Growth Ministries; Community of Jesus; Emmaus Christian Fellowship; Faith Assembly; Faith Tabernacle; Fellowship of Christian Churches and Ministries; Great Commission International; Maranatha Christian Ministries; No-Name Fellowship/C-U (Champaign-Urbana) Ministries; River of Life/Truth Station; Set Free; Two-by-Two's; University Bible Fellowship; Victory Chapel (Potter's House); Vineyard; Word of God Community."

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

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

    Friesen, James G., Uncovering the Mysteries of MPD, ISBN: 1579100627 9781579100629, 300 pages.
    Includes bibliographical references.

    Gelet, James, Eric Holmberg, Jerry Johnson, and the Apologetics Group, The Marks of a Cult: A Biblical Analysis, DVD, ISBN: 1573411507 9781573411509.
    "Just why are Baptists properly considered Christians, but Mormons are not? Or why is the Jehovah's Witness religion classified as an anti-Christian cult, while Presbyterians, Wesleyans and Pentecostals are simply seen as denominations within the Christian faith? With the explosion of different sects that claim to honor and follow Jesus, how does one differentiate between true Biblical Christianity and an aberrant religious movement? Just what are the marks of a cult? . . . The video gives clear guidelines on how to distinguish truth from error in principle as well as carefully documented instructions on the particular errors of prominent cults." -- Publisher

    Gosson, Stephen, and John Payne Collier, The School of Abuse, Containing a Pleasant Invective Against Poets, 1579. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #22.

    Heitritter, Lynn, and Jeanette Vought, Helping Victims of Sexual Abuse, ISBN: 0764202286 9780764202285.
    "Sexual abuse is making headlines around America. . . . Many people secretly bear the scars of childhood abuse and desperately struggle with the hidden trauma that interferes with spiritual growth and normal human relationships. The church needs to understand genuine sexual abuse and what can be done about it under present civil constraints." -- Susan Alder
    "What women should know about sexual assault.
    "Heitritter and Vought have done an enormous service in demonstrating the extent of the problem in the local church. They give practical, tested advice about ministry to survivors of sexual abuse. Required reading for pastors, lay leaders and others who work everyday with victims of sexual abuse." -- Dale S. Ryan, Executive Director of The Recovery Partnership Foundation, Whittier, California

    Hudson, Pamela S., Ritual Child Abuse: Discovery, Diagnosis and Treatment, ISBN: 0882478672 9780882478678.
    Includes bibliographical references.
    "I am a psychotherapist who works with trauma. I used to believe that ritual abuse was an urban legend; now I know better. I've worked with enough survivors and specialists who treat Dissociative Identity Disorder, previously called Multiple Personality Disorder, that I know Satanic Ritual Abuse and many other forms of ritual abuse are very real. It is very real and survivors are typically afraid to seek out help from mental health professionals for it and are severely dis-served by the denial of mental health practitioners.
    "This book is a little simplistic but is a good introduction to working with Ritual Abuse Survivors. I recommend reading this to help wrap your mind around ritual abuse, then, if you are a professional read Dee Brown's book on SATANIC RITUAL ABUSE. That is an excellent resource." -- Reader's Comment

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

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

    *Johnson, David, and Jeff VanVonderen, The Subtle Power of Spiritual Abuse: Recognizing and Escaping Spiritual Manipulation and False Spiritual Authority Within the Church, ISBN: 0764201379 9780764201370.
    "Manipulation, shaming, 'using' other people -- that's in the church, too. Spiritual abuse happens when authority figures use spiritual means to gratify their desires for importance, power, or intimacy. Because abusers use spiritual-sounding language, their followers are trapped in legalism, guilt performance, and begrudging service. Johnson and VanVonderen explain how to identify spiritual abuse, break the cycle of abusive spiritual dynamics, and encourage both abusers and victims to repent and recover." -- CBD
    "In a breakthrough book first published in 1991, the authors address the dynamics in churches that can ensnare people in legalism, guilt, and begrudging service, keeping them from the grace and joy of God's kingdom. Written for both those who feel abused and those who may be causing it, THE SUBTLE POWER OF SPIRITUAL ABUSE shows how people get hooked into abusive systems, the impact of controlling leadership on a congregation, and how the abused believer can find rest and recovery.
    "David Johnson has been the senior pastor at Church of the Open Door in Maple Grove, Minnesota, since 1980. During this time, the church has grown from a congregation of 160 to 3,000 people. A much sought-after speaker, he is a graduate of Bethel College and received his theological training at Bethel Seminary and Trinity Evangelical Divinity School. His "Growing in Grace" radio broadcast is syndicated internationally. David and his family live in Minnesota.
    "Jeff VanVonderen is an internationally known speaker on addictions and church and family wellness. He has worked as a counselor in both residential and outpatient treatment settings, as well as in the religious community, taught at the college level, and is the author of several books. He makes his home in California." -- Publisher
    "The difference between churches that use manipulation and those that practice grace is like night and day. . . .
    "VanVonderen and Johnson warn people who read the book not to use what they have learned as a weapon, but to take action only in the proper spirit. Of course, any time someone takes action in a church, real problems will become visible. My question in every case is: are those problems caused by those speaking out, or have they been there all along and are only now being exposed. . . ?
    "It is fair, it is doctrinally solid, and it gives effective counsel. There is something beneficial for everyone. . . leader, wounded Christian, or loved ones of people in either group." -- Reader's Comment

    Kennedy, William H., Lucifer's Lodge: Satanic Ritual Abuse in the Catholic Church, ISBN: 0900588063 9780900588068.

    "Malachi Martin was correct in his assertion that Lucifer's Lodge exists within the Church of Rome. Unfortunately, there are no quick answers as to how to deal with this horrible state of affairs. Lucifer's Lodge is an ongoing problem. It is still in operation and should be of major concern to people of goodwill everywhere."
    "With that statement, William H. Kennedy closes his investigation into the sexual abuse crisis in the Roman Catholic Church.
    "One searches for the words . . . 'shocking?' If only I were shocked. Things I was not prepared to believe of priests have turned out to be true. The time to be shocked passed with the reading of GOODBYE, GOOD MEN; AMCHURCH COMES OUT: THE U.S. BISHOPS, PEDOPHILE SCANDALS, AND THE HOMOSEXUAL AGENDA; LEAD US NOT INTO TEMPTATION.
    " 'Inaccurate?' But I don't think that it is inaccurate. Some of the material in the book had already surfaced in research I had done over the last several years. Kennedy uses quotes from newspapers like the Boston Globe. The accounts of priestly sexual abuse that he uses to tell his story are familiar. Half way through reading the book I checked some of the unfamiliar sources and found them credible. He does use a few marginal sources which I would like to check further.
    " 'An exaggeration' then? I've read too many of the press releases to even think it for a moment. Much of this has already appeared in the Boston Globe and elsewhere. Kennedy merely connects the dots.
    "In trying to sum up Kennedy's book, only one word comes to mind . . . 'diabolical.' And just maybe that is the only word that needs to be said.
    "A trio of priests -- Fr. Malachi Martin, Fr. Al Kunz, and Fr. Charles Fiore -- became aware that something was seriously wrong in the Catholic priesthood and began collecting data. William Kennedy came a bit later to join in the investigation, making it a foursome. Today all but Kennedy are dead. Fr. Kunz's death in 1998 was sudden and bloody; and the crime has not been solved. Fr. Fiore's health as well as Fr. Martin's declined immediately after the murder. Within 16 months Fr. Martin was dead, and Fr. Fiore was not well enough to continue the investigation. He died in March 2003. Kennedy states that a mutilated calf also found the morning that Fr. Kunz's body was discovered is the calling card or signature of Satanists.
    "Kennedy discusses the OTO and Aleister Crowley, along with Jack Parsons, AMORC, Rose Croix. He also mentions a cult called The Process Church, Scientology, Charles Manson, and Fr. Paul Shanley, and so much more. The Processians were active in the Harvard Square area in the 1960's, which means they were active in Paul Shanley's stomping grounds. Later they moved to California near the headquarters of Charles Manson. There is some controversy over how much contact Manson and Shanley had with these cultists. What Kennedy does point out is similarities in rituals and some evidence of exchanges between them.
    "In fact similarities are the basis of what he presents. Essentially he offers information about which the reader is asked to draw his own conclusion. He shows, for example the similarity between the Alpha Omega House, a retreat house for wayward and displaced youth, and the Devil's Room at Loftus Hall. Both rooms, he believes, were used for ceremonies which included sex magick; and he explains how sexual rituals are intended to make the practitioner a god, and in some cases Jesus Christ come again.
    "He talks about the abuse of nuns which has not come out in the press, and a priest who concentrated on abusing young women who were studying to enter the religious life. He paints a rather different picture of Magdalene laundries than the one recently released in the press.
    "He speaks of ceremonies that took place in Catholic convents which are reminiscent of Rosicrucian ceremonies; and tells stories of prostitution within convents, lurking in the history of the Catholic Church. I have not yet had time to verify this.
    "He develops a very interesting line of reasoning centered on cults from the early days of the Church which preached a married Christ who had children, attempts to show how this heresy remained alive down through the centuries, and where it surfaces today, including in The Da Vinci Code.
    "There is a great deal in this book that will prompt further investigation. If he is correct in all of his assertions, it will explain a lot of what we are seeing develop in the culture. It will not exonerate the Vatican, however. Once again it appears that Rome knew. Rome did nothing.
    "I was surprised that he did not touch on Eugene Vintras and on the Mariavites. Perhaps he had to keep the book to a certain length and decided to leave them out. Neither did he discuss the Paris occult revival. Possibly for the same reason.
    "What he has done is link the details of news reports to historical information and in that way tells his story. The bulk of the book is quoted material from a great variety of sources. It's a hard book to put down.
    "I wonder if anyone who had not done some investigating into the occult would take Kennedy seriously. It helps to already know about Crowley and Parsons and their relationship with Scientology, and a little about Masonic obediences, and the Mormon Church before picking up the book. Otherwise this seems just too fantastic to be true. I would expect those bloggers who poke fun at conspiracy theories to poke fun at this book. They would be wrong. Had the abuse scandal not been broken by the Boston Globe there is little chance this story would have been told, because no one would believe it." -- Reader's Comment

    Klassen, Margreta, Soul Stealing, Abuse of Intimate Power: A Narrative Memoir, ISBN: 1439262365 9781439262368.
    "Dr. Margreta Klassen, a nationally known psychotherapist with expertise in sexual trauma, has written a vitally important book that is both informative and healing as well as soul stirring and thought provoking. Survivors of sexual, physical, or emotional abuse will find hope and a path to recovery in reading this comprehensive work. Highly recommended." -- Dr. Larry Lachman, Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Monterey, California
    "The author has captured the child's point of view." -- Ralph Potter, Ph.D. Professor Emeritus, Harvard Divinity School

    Klempel, Richard, Lois Klempel, and Jay Adams (foreword), Abused? How you can Find God's Help.
    " 'Directs readers to biblical answers to questions and biblical solutions to problems' enabling people 'to avoid the all-too-frequently-encountered trap of building a lifestyle around the tragedy.' Workbook deals with reactions to abuse, God as Father, and practical steps to work through in order to change one's reactions to abuse." -- David Powlison

    Martin, Grant, Counseling in Cases of Family Violence and Abuse, ISBN: 0849905877 9780849905872.

    Martin, Grant L., Please Don't Hurt me: A Sensitive Look at the Growing Problem of Abuse in Christian Homes, ISBN: 0896937437 9780896937437.
    "This adult 'Bible study' elective focuses on the physical abuse of both children and adults. In each case Martin explores the origins of violence as well as how it may be stopped. This is a very commendable work for laypersons, and it is hoped that many will acquire it and read it carefully." -- Cyril J. Barber

    Massachusetts Attorney General, The Sexual Abuse of Children in the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Boston, Thomas F. Reilly, Massachusetts Attorney General.
    "The mistreatment of children was so massive and so prolonged that it borders on the unbelievable," says the July 23 [2003] report of Massachusetts Attorney General Thomas F. Reilly. More than 1,000 minors were likely abused by priests over the past six decades."
    This is the 79-page report in its entirety.
    http://www.votf.org/ago/archdiocese.pdf

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

    *Miller, Wendell E. Forgiveness: The Power and the Puzzles, ISBN: 0964144115 9780964144118.
    "Defines God's forgiveness in four ways: (1) initial forgiveness releases us from the penalty of sin and (2) restores us to fellowship with God, and (3) repetitive forgiveness releases us from the day by day penalty for fresh sins, and (4) restores us day by day to fellowship. Defines our forgiveness of others in two ways: (1) vertical forgiveness between us and God (Mark 11:25) releases others from the penalty of our wrath, and (2) horizontal forgiveness (Luke 17:3) restores the relationship between us and others who repent. Discusses flaws in such ideas as 'forgiving God' and 'forgiving oneself'." -- David Powlison
    "It could have been called "The Anger Handbook" because it teaches how to overcome problems of hurt feelings, anger, and aggressive behavior. Overcoming problems of anger is crucial. Spouse abuse, failures in marriages, failures in child rearing, and even child abuse often erupt from anger. Parents who model angry behavior are likely to raise children with anger problems. And most importantly, God is not glorified by Christians who have anger problems.
    "It teaches the kind of forgiveness that is nearly always an absolute necessity to becoming really free from the trauma of sexual abuse. . . .
    "FORGIVENESS: THE POWER AND THE PUZZLES will add biblical power to the books that you already have on Christian living, discipleship, marriage, child rearing, anger, communications, forgiveness, and sexual abuse." -- Publisher

    Mirza, Debbie, The Covert Passive-Aggressive Narcissist: Recognizing the Traits and Finding Healing After Hidden Emotional and Psychological Abuse, ISBN: 9780998621340 099862134X.
    "THE COVERT PASSIVE AGGRESSIVE NARCISSIST: FINDING HEALING AFTER HIDDEN EMOTIONAL AND PSYCHOLOGICAL ABUSE is the most comprehensive and helpful book on the topic of covert narcissism. This type of narcissism is one of the most damaging forms because the abuse is so hidden and so insidious. You can be in a relationship that can last for decades and not realize you are being psychologically and emotionally controlled, manipulated, and abused. These people are well liked, they are often the pillars of the community. Parents, spouses, bosses, and friends who are covert narcissists come across as the nicest people. They can be spiritual leaders, they are moms who bring over casseroles to needy people, they are the bosses that everyone loves and feels so lucky to work for. These relationships are incredibly confusing and damaging. They leave you questioning your own sanity and reality. Even though they are treating you terribly, you wonder if you are the problem, if you are the one to blame. You are filled with constant self-doubt when it comes to these people in your life. When you are around them you feel confused and muddled inside. You have a hard time seeing clearly. These relationships can bring you to a state of deep depression and complete depletion of energy. You may wonder if you will ever see clearly and heal from these destructive and debilitating relationships. This book will give you hope that you can heal and feel alive again, or maybe for the first time. You will learn what the traits of a covert narcissist are as well as how they control and manipulate. Your eyes will open and your experience will be validated. You will also learn ways to heal and actually enjoy life again. Debbie Mirza uses decades of her own experience with covert narcissists as well as her years of practice as a life coach who specializes in helping people recover and heal from these types of relationships." -- Publisher
    "As a mental health professional, I have been looking for a book to offer my clients who have a narcissist in their life. Many of the books I have explored are essentially someone venting their own story and offering little depth and research. This book is different. It sheds light on one of the most complicated and misunderstood types of narcissistic personality disorder - covert narcissism. The author presents well-researched information in a readable and easy-to-understand format, while offering compassion and hope to those struggling to understand their own relationship with a narcissist. The many personal stories from people in different types of relationships with a covert narcissist provide insight into the confusion and pain that many of my clients have experienced. I highly recommend this book for those dealing with the aftermath of a relationship with a narcissist and for mental health professionals who wish to expand their knowledge of this personality disorder." -- Reader's Comment

    Palmer, B.M., Broken Home: Lessons in Sorrow.

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

    Powlison, David (1949-2019), Why me? Comfort for the Victimized, ISBN: 0875526950 9780875526959.

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

    Powlison, David (1949-2019), and Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation, What is a Dysfunctional Family? 5 MP3 files [audio file].

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

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

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

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

    Schlesinger, Benjamin, Sexual Abuse of Children: A Resource Guide and Annotated Bibliography, ISBN: 0802064817 9780802064813.
    "An informative guide to the literature covering all aspects of sexual molestation -- including profiles of parents and siblings." -- Cyril J. Barber

    Shogren, Gary, and Edward Welch, Running in Circles: How to Find Freedom From Addictive Behavior, ISBN: 0801083877 9780801083877, 96 pages.
    "Companion volume to Welch's and Shogren's ADDICTIVE BEHAVIOR. Intended as a practical guide to help those who struggle with 'addictive behavior:' drugs, alcohol, food, immorality, and so forth. Especially useful as a first introduction to biblical thinking for such people." -- David Powlison

    Stratford, Lauren, and Johanna Michaelsen (foreword), Satan's Underground: The Extraordinary Story of one Woman's Escape, ISBN: 0882898760 9780882898766.
    "Readers from coast to coast will be shocked and disturbed by the story told here. But most of all, they will come to care deeply for the many thousands of innocent children who are faced with unspeakable horrors at the hands of modern day satanists." -- Reader's Comment

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

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

    Welch, Edward T., Self-injury: When Pain Feels Good, a booklet, ISBN: 0875526977 9780875526973.

    Welch, Edward, and Gary Shogren, Addictive Behavior, ISBN: 0801097371 9780801097379, 176 pages.
    "Guides pastors and other counselors in understanding 'addictions' biblically, and takes them through five typical sessions of counseling. The prominent case study focuses on alcohol abuse in a church context, but the principles apply to other enslaving behaviors." -- David Powlison

    Young, Mary de, The Ritual Abuse Controversy: An Annotated Bibliography, ISBN: 0786412593 9780786412594, indexes.
    "The ritual abuse of children is the most controversial issue in the child maltreatment field, but much of what has been written about ritual abuse over the past twenty years is in the form of unpublished and endlessly reproduced 'stuff' -- curious mixture of conjecture, folkloric and pop-culture representations of satanism, devil worship, occultism and witchcraft, and Christian Fundamentalist images of premillennarian evil. What remains after this 'stuff' is excluded is an intriguing body of international literature that seriously examines the controversy.
    "This annotated bibliography dissects the literature, objectively and thoroughly annotates published articles, books and reports, legal opinions, and occasionally, thought-provoking newspaper and magazine articles.
    "Chapters deal with the definition of ritual abuse, ritual abuse cases in the United States, cases in American families and neighborhoods, cases in Canada, Europe and Australasia, clinical features of ritual abuse in children and adults, the controversy's impact on professionals and systems, the controversy and American law, ritual abuse reports and narratives, and anthropological, folkloric and sociological perspectives.
    "Mary de Young, a professor of sociology and chair of the Department of Sociology at Grand Valley State University, lives in Grand Rapids, Michigan. She is the author of THE DAY CARE RITUAL ABUSE MORAL PANIC, published by McFarland and Company." -- Publisher
    There may be something of interest here. We have not seen this bibliography. However, we feel it is highly unlikely that a secular compiler could produce an unbiased bibliography on ritual child abuse considering: 1) the most dangerous place for a child in America today is in their mother's womb, 2) most parents have given up their children's education to the public education system, and in 1983 The National Commission on Excellence in Education, in their report, A NATION AT RISK: THE IMPERATIVE FOR EDUCATIONAL REFORM, concluded that had public education been carried out by enemies of the United States, it could not be more harmful to the country, 3) The court system refuses to acknowledge the Ten Commandments (the summation of which is to love God and neighbor) as an ethical basis for modern, relative, arbitrary law, and 4) "although heterosexuals outnumber homosexuals by a ratio of at least 20 to 1, homosexual pedophiles commit about one-third of the total number of child sex offenses," and the courts are recognizing homosexual marriages as of equal status as heterosexual marriages, and so forth, and so on. -- compiler

    *Zacharias, Ravi K. (1946-2020), and Vince Vitale, Why Suffering?: Finding Meaning and Comfort When Life Doesn't Make Sense, ISBN: 9781455549702 1455549703.
    "Why would a loving and powerful God allow so much pain and suffering? In WHY SUFFERING? Ravi Zacharias and Vince Vitale carefully walk you through a variety of responses that considered together provide a clear, comprehensive, and convincing answer. Responses like: Where there is the possibility of love, there has to be the reality of freedom, and therefore the possibility of pain. Wishing God had made a different world is to wish yourself out of existence. The cross is the key to a compelling and rational explanation for trusting in God in the face of suffering. In comparison with other world religions, the Christian response is highly distinctive. The reality of evil only makes sense in light of the reality of divine goodness. Relational knowledge about God takes the argument beyond reason to the presence of God amidst suffering. God's decision to allow temporal suffering is understandable when viewed from an eternal perspective. Divine goodness shows how to conquer not in spite of, but even through suffering. Here is a book written with great respect for the complexity of the issue, recognizing that some who read it will be in the trenches of deep suffering themselves and others questioning the very existence of a loving God. WHY SUFFERING? provides an answer to the problem of pain and suffering with emotional sensitivity and intellectual integrity." -- Publisher
    Ravi Talks About his Book: Why Suffering?
    "The Captain of our Salvation, made perfect, made complete, through suffering -- if our Lord himself had to go through that, as he endured the cross, despising the shame, and is now set down at the right hand of God -- that's why I think there is a key word which James Stewart uses, which I expand upon here, 'He conquered not in spite of the Darkness, fear of evil, he conquered through it' and I believe it is the same in your life and mine. We may not like it, but we conquer through the pain and through the suffering." -- Ravi Zacharias
    http://www.rzim.org/let-my-people-think-broadcasts/ravi-talks-about-his-book-why-suffering/

    See also: The sovereignty of god, The doctrine of man (human nature, total depravity), The root cause of criminal acts of extreme depravity, Repentance the key to salvation and change, Marital counseling, Biblical counsel by subject, Counseling the family, Justice, god's final judgment, the great white throne judgment, the day of the lord, Church discipline, The covenant faithfulness of god, Conscience, casuistry, cases of conscience, Ethics, computer ethics, cyberethics, Sex ethics, sex education, Pseudo-christian movements: a selection of works, Soul-violence, Churches that abuse, Divorce, Hostility, Sexual relationship, Spiritual adultery (spiritual whoredom/harlotry), Slavery, our systems of enslavement, economic enslavement,
    Finding the perfect parent in god, Counseling the family, Training children, Home schooling, Incest, Child abuse (pedophilia), Problem solving with children, Counseling children, The difficult child, Protecting children from dangers, Preparing children for the world, Teens and parents, Counseling teens, Teens coping with the world, Public schools, public education, Homosexuality, lesbianism, gay, bisexual, transvestite, queer (lgbtq), Child abuse and pedophilia, Incest, Prostitution, harlotry, Rape, Counseling for Sex Related Problems, Illegitimacy, Pornography, Addiction, alcoholism, substance abuse, drug abuse, Habits,
    The occult, Sorcery, Abuse (women), Gratuitous sex, a cause of violence, Hostility and violence, Handbooks on the cults, Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, The sovereign grace of god: his everlasting mercy and lovingkindness, Churches that abuse, Reform of the church, Justifying faith, Bitterness and resentment, Fatherlessness, Premarital counseling, and so forth, and so on.
    TCRB5: 385, 598, 599, 601, 1983, 2211, 2281, 2377, 3480

    Related Weblinks

    The Carefulness and Competence Needed When Helping the Abused
    https://rickthomas.net/listening-to-sexual-abuse-part-1/

    Domestic Violence: An Epidemic in American Society
    "National Statistics

    Elder Abuse, AgePage, National Institute of Aging
    "Learn about elder abuse, including physical, emotional, and financial abuse. Identify signs of abuse, neglect, and healthcare." Includes "For More Information About Elder Abuse and Where to Get Help."
    https://order.nia.nih.gov/sites/default/files/2018-09/elder-abuse.pdf

    The Elsie Books
    http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr11ch.html#cfiction
    The Elsie Books 28-book series, in its original unabridged text, probably models the Christian family better than any other fiction. Likewise, the example of Elsie's life is one of the best models for Christian girls.
    Notice the original text of this series is becoming available free in Project Gutenberg e-text. We have added links to the e-text as of May 2007.

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

    1. sexual offenders who have not been caught, tried, and convicted (the arrest/conviction ratio for all offenses was approximately 100/25 in the mid 90s);
    2. sexual offenders who have violated parole;
    3. sexual offenders who have failed to report their address or address change;
    4. sexual offenders using an alias (The FBI "believes 1 in 6 persons with a criminal record may be using alias names and identification." -- U.S. Congress, Office of Technology Assessment, OTA-TCT-497);
    5. sexual offenders who have been convicted on some other charge;
    6. ex-convicts and inmates who have committed sodomy in prison;
    7. offenders guilty of raping their spouse and the offense has gone unreported;
    8. wives who deliberately commit adultery as part of a "pre-planned divorce," that is, who married with plans to divorce for financial gain;
    9. offenders guilty of unreported incest;
    10. offenders guilty of unreported date rape;
    11. offenders who have committed unreported sexual offenses when drunk or under the influence of drugs;
    12. offenders who have committed unreported sexual offenses with mutual consent;
    13. individual members of Alcoholics Anonymous (who are frequently ex-convicts, mentally ill, and/or mentally retarded, and prefer to be identified as alcoholics to avoid the social stigma of the other categories), or other related 10-Step addiction treatment programs who have committed unreported sexual offenses with other members, or while being a sponsor of another member;
    14. individual members of Alcoholics Anonymous and related 10 Step codependent treatment programs who use the programs as vehicles to find new sexual partners;
    15. offenders who have committed unreported sexual offenses with other members of Alcoholics Anonymous or other related 10-Step addiction treatment programs while in a codependent relationship with another member;
    16. members of Sex Addicts Anonymous who have committed unreported sexual offenses;
    17. prostitutes still at-large in society;
    18. offenders who frequent prostitutes;
    19. men and women who are self-employed in the "sex industry" (professionals deliberately practicing prostitution within the business community);
    20. individuals employed in the pornography industry, including child pornography;
    21. individuals addicted to pornography or child pornography;
    22. individuals guilty of unreported sodomy and homosexuality;
    23. unreported homosexual pedophiles ("Homosexuals are over-represented in child sex offenses: Individuals from the 1 to 3 percent of the population that is sexually attracted to the same sex are committing up to one-third of the sex crimes against children." -- Timothy J. Dailey, Ph.D. in "Homosexuality and Child Sexual Abuse");
    24. offenders guilty of unreported rape;
    25. offenders guilty of unreported fornication;
    26. offenders guilty of unreported adultery;
    27. offenders living in licentious cohabitation;
    28. offenders who are mentally retarded and promiscuous;
    29. offenders who have sever mental illness and are promiscuous;
    30. offenders with AIDS disease;
    31. offenders with any of the 30 other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), in the United States;
    32. individuals who dabble in, or actively participate in satanic cults, or related destructive cults that practice sexual rituals;
    33. offenders who are licensed mental health care professionals (Psychiatrists, Clinical Psychologists, Psych Nurses, Medical Doctors, Counselors, Priests, Pastors, and Churchmen, and so forth), who become sexually involved with their patients, clients, counselees, or church members;
    34. individuals in the legal profession who judged in favor of legalized abortion or who aided in the legal process;
    35. individuals participating in organized crime who run and profit from most of the abortion clinics in the United States;
    36. medical professionals who perform abortions;
    37. men who have paid for abortions performed on their daughters;
    38. men who have paid for abortions performed on their sexual partners;
    39. mothers who have aborted children from their wombs (any of the 43 million abortions performed in the United States since Roe vs. Wade in 1973), [56 million American babies from 1973 to 2014, annual rate continues at 1.2 million babies a year.];
    40. individuals in the drug industry who developed "the morning after pill";
    41. druggists who sell "the morning after pill";
    42. women who have used "the morning after pill";
    43. and so forth, and so on.
    http://www12.familywatchdog.us/

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

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

    National Sexual Violence Resource Center: Info and Statistics for Journalists
    "Only 12 percent of child sexual abuse is reported to the authorities. (Hanson, R. F., Resnick, H. S., Saunders, B. E., Kilpatrick, D. G., & Best, C. (1999). Factors related to the reporting of childhood rape. Child Abuse and Neglect, 23, 559-569. doi:10.1016/S0145-2134(99)00028-9)"
    https://www.nsvrc.org/sites/default/files/publications_nsvrc_factsheet_media-packet_statistics-about-sexual-violence_0.pdf

    The Reason I Stopped Hating my dad was Life-changing
    https://rickthomas.net/the-reason-i-stopped-hating-my-dad-2/

    Spiritual Abuse
    http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spiritual_abuse



    Affliction, Adversity, Trials, Suffering, Chastisement

    He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief: and we hid as it were our faces from him; he was despised, and we esteemed him not. Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted. But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed. All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the LORD hath laid on him the iniquity of us all. He was oppressed, and he was afflicted, yet he opened not his mouth: he is brought as a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers is dumb, so he openeth not his mouth. (Isaiah 53:3-7)

    God had one Son on earth without sin -- but never one without affliction. -- St. Augustine (Bishop of Hippo, 354-430 AD)

    I now see that godliness is more than the outside and the ornaments and the deckings of this world. Who knoweth the truth of grace without a trial? Not one! O, how little Christ getteth of us but that which He winneth with much toil and pains! And how soon faith would freeze without a cross! -- 31 Days With Samuel Rutherford

    Trials, we must distinctly understand, are a part of the diet which all true Christians must expect. It is one of the means by which their grace is proved, and by which they find out what there is in themselves.
    Winter as well as summer -- cold as well as heat -- clouds as well as sunshine -- are all necessary to bring the fruit of the Spirit to ripeness and maturity. We do not naturally like this. We would rather cross the lake with calm weather and favorable winds, with Christ always by our side, and the sun shining down on our faces. But it may not be. It is not in this way that God's children are made partakers of His holiness. (Hebrews 12:10) Abraham, and Jacob, and Moses, and David, and Job were all men of many trials. Let us be content to walk in their footsteps, and to drink of their cup. In our darkest hours we may seem to be left -- but we are never really alone. -- J.C. Ryle (1816-1900)

    No faith is so precious as that which lives and triumphs through adversity. Tested faith brings experience. You would never have believed your own weakness had you not needed to pass through trials. And you would never have known God's strength had His strength not been needed to carry you through. -- Billy Graham (1918-2018)

    When the servant has been used by his Master he must expect to encounter the opposition of the enemy. The minister of Christ does well to take to heart if he would be in some measure prepared for and fortified against bitter disappointment. After a period of blessing and success, he must expect sore trials. After he has witnessed the power of God attending his efforts he may count upon experiencing something of the rage and power of Satan; for nothing infuriates the devil so much as beholding his victims delivered from spiritual death and set free. The servant of Christ is informed that the smile of heaven upon his labors will arouse the enmity of his great adversary, yet how often is he taken quite unaware when the storm of opposition bursts upon him! It ought not to be so. Think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you. (1 Peter 4:12) -- Arthur Pink (1886-1952), Gleanings from Elisha

    For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God. (1 Peter 3:18a)

    And whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it; or one member be honoured, all the members rejoice with it. (1 Corinthians 12:26)

    My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations;
    Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience.
    But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.     (James 1:2-4)

    What does it cost to be a true Christian?
    Bold indeed must that man be who would dare to say that we may keep our self-righteousness, our sins, our laziness, and our love of the world, and yet be saved? I grant it costs much to be a true Christian.
    But who in his sound senses can doubt that it is worth any cost to have the soul saved? When the ship is in danger of sinking, the crew think nothing of casting overboard the precious cargo. When a limb is mortified, a man will submit to any severe operation, and even to amputation, to save life. Surely a Christian should be willing to give up anything which stands between him and heaven. A religion that costs nothing is worth nothing! A cheap Christianity, without a cross, will prove in the end a useless Christianity, without a crown. -- J.C. Ryle (1816-1900)

    It is true, then, that they are scarcely saved; even they who endeavor to walk uprightly in the ways of God, that is, the righteous, they are scarcely saved. This imports not any uncertainty or hazard in the thing itself as to the end, in respect of the purpose and performance of God, but only, the great difficulties and hard encounters in the way; that they go through so many temptations and tribulations, so many fightings without and fears within. The Christian is so simple and weak, and his enemies are so crafty and powerful, the oppositions of the wicked world, their hatreds, and scorns, and molestation, the slights and violence of Satan, and, worst of all, the strength of his own corruptions; and by reason of abounding; corruption, there is such frequent, almost continual, need of purifying by afflictions and trials, that he has need to be still under physic, and is of necessity at some times drained and brought so low, that there is scarcely strength or life remaining in him.
    And, truly, all outward difficulties would be but matter of ease, would be as nothing, were it not for the encumbrance of lusts, and corruption within. Were a man to meet disgraces and sufferings for Christ, how easily would he go through them, yea, and rejoice in them, were he rid of the fretting impatience, the pride, and self-love, of his own carnal heart! These clog and trouble him most, and he cannot shake them off, nor prevail against them without much pains, many prayers and tears; and many times, after much wrestling, he scarcely finds that he hath gained any ground: yea, sometimes he is foiled and cast down by them.
    And so, in all other duties, such a fighting and continual combat, with a revolting, backsliding heart, the flesh still pulling and dragging downwards! When he would mount up, he finds himself as a bird with a stone tied to its foot; he having wings that flutter to be upwards, but is pressed down with the weight fastened to him. What struggling with wanderings and deadness in hearing, and reading, and prayer! And what is most grievous is, that, by their unwary walking, and the prevailing of some corruption, they grieve the Spirit of God, and provoke Him to hide His face, and withdraw His comforts. How much pain to attain any thing, any particular grace of humility, or meekness, or self-denial; and if any thing be attained, how hard to keep and maintain it against the contrary party! How often are they driven back to their old point. If they do but cease from striving a little, they are carried back by the stream. And what returns of doubting and unbelief, after they thought they were got somewhat above them, in-so-much that sometimes they are at the point of giving over, and thinking it will never be for them. And yet through all these they are brought safe home. There is Another strength than theirs, which bears them up, and brings them through. But these things, and many more of this nature, argue the difficulty of their course, and that it is not so easy a thing to come to Heaven as most imagine it. -- Robert Leighton (1611-1684), commenting on 1 Peter 4:18 in A Practical Commentary Upon the two First Chapters of the First Epistle General of St. Peter

    We ought not to be staggered if we meet with sharp afflictions while we are treading the path of duty. Did not Joseph do so again and again? Did not Daniel? Above all, did not the Redeemer Himself? -- so too with His apostles. Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you (1 Pet. 4:12). . . . patience, hope, meekness and the other spiritual graces, can only be developed in the fire." -- Arthur Pink, The Life of Elijah

    Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: but rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy. If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part he is glorified. (1 Peter 4:12-14)

    We must through much tribulation enter the Kingdom of God. (Acts 14:22)

    If ye endure chastening, God dealth with you as with sons: for what son is he whom the father chasteneth not? (Hebrews 12:7)

    We know that from the very first bloom of youth, during almost his whole life, he [David] was so tried by a multiplied accumulation of afflictions, that he might have been accounted miserable and wretched above all other men; yet in celebrating the goodness of God, he acknowledges that he had been lightly afflicted only for a short period, and as it were in passing. . . . For a small moment have I afflicted thee, but with everlasting mercies will I gather thee, (Isaiah 54:7). . . .
    2 Corinthians 4:17, For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory, while we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen. . . .
    The amount of David's instruction is, that were we not too headstrong, we would acknowledge that the Lord, even when he appears to overwhelm us for a time with the darkness of affliction, always seasonably ministers matter of joy, just as the morning arises after the night. -- John Calvin commenting on Psalm 30:5 and context

    Through sufferings God teaches us to prize our outward mercies and comforts more, and yet to dote upon them less. We need to be more thankful for them, and yet less ensnared by them. We can undervalue our mercies even while we glut ourselves with them. Behold, while men fill themselves with the mercies of God, they can neglect the God who gave them. When God is most generous in remembering us, we are often most ungrateful in forgetting Him. To enable us to put a true value on the mercies that our foolish, unthankful hearts delight in, God often takes them away, that we may learn to prize them by having to do without them. . . . --Thomas Case (1598-1682)

    After Moses has threatened the despisers of God, and the apostates, who desire to be accounted members of His household the Church, he now turns to the strangers and denounces against them that the cruelty which they have exercised towards the Israelites shall not be unpunished, because God will at length be mindful of His covenant, and will pardon His elect people. . . . Doubtless the object of Moses is to encourage the hopes of the pious, who have profited by God's chastisement, by showing that He will mitigate His severity towards His elect people, and in His wrath will remember mercy. (Habakkuk 3:2.) Thus, then, Moses here teaches the same thing which God afterwards more clearly unfolded to David: If thy children forsake my law... I will visit their transgressions with the rod of man... nevertheless my loving-kindness will I not take away from them, etc. (Psalm 89:30, 33; 2 Samuel 7:14, 15.)
    "For nothing is more fitted to sustain us in afflictions than when God promises that there shall be some limit to them, so that He will not utterly destroy those whom He has chosen. Whenever, therefore, the ills which we suffer tempt us to despair, let this lesson recur to our minds, that the punishments, wherewith God chastises His children, are temporary, since His promise will never fail that his anger endureth but a moment, (Psalm 30:5,) whilst the flow of His mercy is continual. Hence, too, that lesson which is especially directed to the Church: For a moment I afflicted thee, but I will pursue my mercies towards thee for ever. (Isaiah 54:8.) . . . At the same time we must observe that, whenever God declares that He will be merciful to His servants, he only refers to those who heartily seek for reconciliation, and not to the reprobate, who are carried away to destruction by their desperate obstinacy. In short, to the end that God should repent of His severity, repentance is required on the part of sinners; as he teaches elsewhere: Turn ye unto me... and I will turn unto you. (Zechariah 1:3.) . . .
    This circumstance is well worthy of notice, so our hopes may not fail us even in the most severe afflictions of the Church; but that we may be assured that although all may be in the worst state possible, still the due season of reparation will come even yet. . . . -- John Calvin commenting on Deuteronomy 32:36 and context

    Let us count it no strange thing, if we have sufferings in this present time. It is a season of probation; we are yet at school.
    We are learning patience, gentleness, and meekness, which we could hardly learn if we had our good things now. But there is an eternal holiday yet to begin. For this let us wait quietly. It will make amends for all. Our light affliction which is for the moment, works for us more and more exceedingly an eternal weight of glory. (2 Corinthians 4:17) -- J.C. Ryle (1816-1900)

    If your graces are weaker, your temptations also shall be fewer, and your afflictions lighter. This is evident in Scripture: the strongest in grace have been the most tempted, afflicted, and distressed. Abraham excelled in faith, and God tried the strength of his faith to the uttermost. Moses excelled others in meekness and had to deal with a murmuring generation. Job carried the day with patience, and he was exercised with great afflictions. So God, in much wisdom and love, will suit your burdens to your backs. He will fit all your afflictions to your strength. -- Thomas Brooks (1608-1680), Works, III:67-68

    I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me. (Galatians 2:20)

    For as the sufferings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation also aboundeth by Christ. (2 Corinthians 1:5)

    Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.
    For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it.
    For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?     (Matthew 16:24-26)
    Matthew Gill's Commentary
    http://www.biblestudytools.com/my-bible/#/left:passage/kjv/matthew/16:24/&right:reference/commentaries/gills-exposition-of-the-bible/matthew-16-24.html

    I can say as to myself, that I have been assailed on all sides, and have scarcely been able to enjoy repose for a single moment, but have always had to sustain some conflict either from enemies without or within the church. -- John Calvin, Preface to his Commentary on the Psalms, 1557

    Though he slay me, yet will I trust in him: but I will maintain mine own ways before him. (Job 13:15)

    It would be easy to lose heart and become cynical. But No! There is One who sees all things, knows all things, and will ultimately triumph over all things. There is only one message that addresses the truth as the truth. The Lord of glory, Jesus Christ, came to this earth and was also the victim of hate. Lies sent him to the cross. Power overruled reality, as politics and religious demagogues once again made the lie seem noble. But the Lord who sees the beginning from the end amazingly conquered not in spite of the dark mystery of evil, rather, "He conquered through it." James Stewart of Scotland, pointing to the cross, said it in the most powerful terms I have read. Commenting on the verse from Psalm 68:18, He led captivity captive, he said:

    It is a glorious phrase -- He led captivity captive. The very triumphs of his foes, it means, he used for their defeat. He compelled their dark achievements to subserve his ends not theirs. They nailed him to a tree, not knowing that by that very act they were bringing the world to his feet. They gave him a cross, not guessing that he would make it a throne. They flung him outside the city gates to die, not knowing that in that very moment they were lifting up the gates of the universe, to let the king come in. They thought to root out his doctrines, not understanding that they were implanting imperishably in the hearts of men the very name they intended to destroy. They thought they had God with his back to the wall, pinned helpless and defeated: they did not know that it was God himself who had tracked them down. "He did not conquer in spite of the dark mystery of evil. He conquered through it." -- James Stewart (1635-1713) in a message by Ravi Zacharias, Is Paris Burning? November 18, 2015
    The Captain of our Salvation, made perfect, made complete, through suffering -- if our Lord himself had to go through that, as he endured the cross, despising the shame, and is now set down at the right hand of God -- that's why I think there is a key word which James Stewart uses, which I expand upon here, "He conquered not in spite of the Darkness, fear of evil, he conquered through it" and I believe it is the same in your life and mine. We may not like it, but we conquer through the pain and through the suffering. -- Ravi Zacharias in "Ravi Talks About his Book Why Suffering"

    theodicy: the vindication of divine providence in view of the existence of evil. -- Oxford Dictionary of English

    Observe here: The faith of the apostles, when Christ was taken, gets a crack; the back of it is near broken, and they are at the point of giving up with Christ, taking Him not to be the Redeemer of the children of Israel. O, but God's children, in their way to heaven, get many sore backsets [thrusts back]! Many sore trials have the people of God to encounter with. They are many times at that of it, that they know not what to do. What might the disciples now think, but Christ and they were separated never to meet again? "Wherefore hidest thou thy face, and holdest me for thine enemy?" (Job 13:24). Christ, the true heir, was put to this, What shall I do? "Now is," says He, "My soul troubled, and what shall I say?" Howbeit He never doubted, though He was put to tears and strong cries. I think the saints, in their way to heaven, are like rash children, who get many a fall, and break their face twice a day. God will give them such a backset and fall under temptations, that their eyes will reel again, their hands grow weak, and their hearts faint; so that there is but as a hair-breadth, betwixt them and their giving up with God. Faith, as it were, goes through fire and water to heaven: or like a soldier going through an enemy's camp, this one runs at him with a spear, another discharges a musket at him, one runs him through the arm or thigh, with a sword; another has well nigh put him off his horse, and he is very near surrendering; yet he spurs through, and at last gets away with his life. So the Christian warrior, however many hazards he may meet with, shall come off victorious at last. This may be a comfort for all under temptations and down-castings for their grievous sins. Ye sometimes cry, "No, but God loves me not; I am often doubting if the dead rise, if there be a heaven," &c. These are backsets, but take ye no fear, give not over, all shall be well. Faith must not be like foolish people, to seek law-burrows [a pledge that no injury shall be done] of temptations. True faith is an herb that grows best in winter weather. -- Samuel Rutherford (1600-1661)

    I find it to be most true, that the greatest temptation out of hell is to live without temptations. If my waters should stand, they would rot. Faith is the better of the free air, and of the sharp winter storms in its face. Grace withereth without adversity. The devil is but God's master fencer, to teach us to handle our weapons. -- Samuel Rutherford (1600-1661), The Loveliness of Christ
    Martha Finley uses part of this quote in ELSIE'S WIDOWHOOD, Book 7, Chapter 4, p. 41. Elsie's father consoling her on the sudden, unexpected death of her husband whom had been his lifelong friend.

    Contrary to what might be expected, I look back on experiences that at the time seemed especially desolating and painful, with particular satisfaction. Indeed, I can say with complete truthfulness that everything I have learned in my seventy-five years in this world, everything that has truly enhanced and enlightened my existence, has been through affliction and not through happiness, whether pursued or attained. In other words, if it ever were to be possible to eliminate affliction from our earthly existence by means of some drug or other medical mumbo jumbo . . . the result would not be to make life delectable, but to make it too banal or trivial to be endurable. This of course is what the cross [of Christ] signifies, and it is the cross more than anything else, that has called me inexorably to Christ. -- Malcolm Muggeridge (1903-1990)

    Therefore seeing we have this ministry, as we have received mercy, we faint not;
    But have renounced the hidden things of dishonesty, not walking in craftiness, nor handling the word of God deceitfully; but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man's conscience in the sight of God.
    But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost:
    In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.
    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.
    But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us.
    We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair;
    Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed;
    Always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body.
    For we which live are alway delivered unto death for Jesus' sake, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our mortal flesh.
    So then death worketh in us, but life in you.
    We having the same spirit of faith, according as it is written, I believed, and therefore have I spoken; we also believe, and therefore speak;
    Knowing that he which raised up the Lord Jesus shall raise up us also by Jesus, and shall present us with you.
    For all things are for your sakes, that the abundant grace might through the thanksgiving of many redound to the glory of God.
    For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day.
    For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory;
    While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.     (2 Corinthians 4:1-18). See the annotation in The Reformation Study Bible.

    Lest we forget the hardships of Paul.
    Are they ministers of Christ? (I speak as a fool) I [am] more; in labours more abundant, in stripes above measure, in prisons more frequent, in deaths oft.
    Of the Jews five times received I forty [stripes] save one.
    Thrice was I beaten with rods, once was I stoned, thrice I suffered shipwreck, a night and a day I have been in the deep;
    [In] journeyings often, [in] perils of waters, [in] perils of robbers, [in] perils by [mine own] countrymen, [in] perils by the heathen, [in] perils in the city, [in] perils in the wilderness, [in] perils in the sea, [in] perils among false brethren;
    In weariness and painfulness, in watchings often, in hunger and thirst, in fastings often, in cold and nakedness.
    Beside those things that are without, that which cometh upon me daily, the care of all the churches.
    Who is weak, and I am not weak? who is offended, and I burn not?
    If I must needs glory, I will glory of the things which concern mine infirmities.
    The God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which is blessed for evermore, knoweth that I lie not.
    In Damascus the governor under Aretas the king kept the city of the Damascenes with a garrison, desirous to apprehend me:
    And through a window in a basket was I let down by the wall, and escaped his hands.     (2 Corinthians 11:23-33)

    For as the sufferings of Christ abound. (2 Corinthians 1:5a) -- This statement may be explained in two ways -- actively and passively. If you take it actively, the meaning will be this: "The more I am tried with various afflictions, so much the more resources have I for comforting others." I am, however, more inclined to take it in a passive sense, as meaning that God multiplied his consolations according to the measure of his tribulations. David also acknowledges that it had been thus with him: According to the multitude, says he, of my anxieties within me, thy consolations have delighted my soul (Psalm 94:19).
    In Paul's words, however, there is a fuller statement of doctrine; for the afflictions of the pious he calls the sufferings of Christ, as he says elsewhere, that he fills up in his body what is wanting in the sufferings of Christ (Colossians 1:24).
    The miseries and vexations, it is true, of the present life are common to good and bad alike, but when they befall the wicked, they are tokens of the curse of God, because they arise from sin, and nothing appears in them except the anger of God and participation with Adam, which cannot but depress the mind. But in the mean time believers are conformed to Christ, and "bear about with them in their body his dying, that the life of Christ may one day be manifested in them" (2 Corinthians 4:10).
    I speak of the afflictions which they endure for the testimony of Christ, (Revelation 1:9), for although the Lord's chastisements, with which he chastises their sins, are beneficial to them, they are, nevertheless, not partakers, properly speaking, of Christ's sufferings, except in those cases in which they suffer on his account, as we find in 1 Peter 4:13. Paul's meaning then is, that God is always present with him in his tribulations, and that his infirmity is sustained by the consolations of Christ, so as to prevent him from being overwhelmed with calamities. -- John Calvin commenting on 2 Corinthians 1:5

    I am afflicted very much.
    According to the last verse he had been sworn in as a soldier of the Lord, and in this next verse he is called to suffer hardness in that capacity. Our service of the Lord does not screen us from trial, but rather secures it for us. The Psalmist was a consecrated man, and yet a chastened man; nor were his chastisements light; for it seemed as if the more he was obedient the more he was afflicted. He evidently felt the rod to be cutting deep, and this he pleads before the Lord. He speaks not by way of murmuring, but by way of pleading; from the very much affliction he argues for very much quickening.
    Quicken me, O Lord, according unto thy word.
    This is the best remedy for tribulation; the soul is raised above the thought of present distress, and is filled with that holy joy which attends all vigorous spiritual life, and so the affliction grows light. Jehovah alone can quicken: he has life in himself, and therefore can communicate it readily; he can give us life at any moment, yea, at this present instant; for it is of the nature of quickening to be quick in its operation. The Lord has promised, prepared, and provided this blessing of renewed life for all his waiting servants: it is a covenant blessing, and it is as obtainable as it is needful. Frequently the affliction is made the means of the quickening, even as the stirring of a fire promotes the heat of the flame. In their affliction some desire death, let us pray for life. Our foreboding under trial are often very gloomy, let us entreat the Lord to deal with us, not according to our fears, but according to his own word. David had but few promises to quote, and probably these were in his own psalms, yet he pleads the word of the Lord; how much more should we do so, since to us so many holy men have spoken by the Spirit of the Lord in that wonderful library which is now our Bible. Seeing we have more promises, let us offer more prayers. -- C.H. Spurgeon commenting on Psalm 119:107

    But we had the sentence of death in ourselves, that we should not trust in ourselves, but in God which raiseth the dead:
    Who delivered us from so great a death, and doth deliver: in whom we trust that he will yet deliver us.     (2 Corinthians 1:9,10)

    The devil desires to winnow Peter, not Judas. The more faithful servants of God we be, the more doth Satan bruise us with the flail, or grate us with the fan. The thief does not break into an empty cottage, but into some furnished house or full granary, where the fatness of the booty is a fitness to his desires. The unclean spirit finds no rest in an atheist, usurer, drunkard, swearer, etc. He knows a canker has overrun their consciences already; and that they are as sure as temptation can make them. What need he tempt them that tempt themselves? -- Thomas Adams

    Look, as our greatest good comes through the sufferings of Christ, so God's greatest glory that He hath from His saints comes through their sufferings. -- Thomas Brooks (1608-1680)

    Remember that Jesus Christ of the seed of David was raised from the dead according to my gospel: Wherein I suffer trouble, as an evil doer, even unto bonds; but the word of God is not bound. Therefore I endure all things for the elect's sakes, that they may also obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory.
    It is a faithful saying:

    For if we be dead with him,
    we shall also live with him:
    If we suffer,
    we shall also reign with him:
    if we deny him,
    he also will deny us:
    If we believe not,
    yet he abideth faithful:
    he cannot deny himself.     (2 Timothy 2:8-13,19)

    Choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season;
    Esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt: for he had respect unto the recompence of the reward.     (Hebrews 11:25-26)
    This clause ought to be carefully noticed; for we here learn that we ought to shun as a deadly poison whatever cannot be enjoyed without offending God; for the pleasures of sin he calls all the allurements of the world which draw us away from God and our calling. But the comforts of our earthly life, which we are allowed by pure conscience, and God's permission to enjoy, are not included here. Let us then ever remember that we ought to know and understand what God allows us. There are indeed some things in themselves lawful, but the use of which is prohibited to us, owing to circumstances as to time, place, or other things. Hence as to all the blessings connected with the present life, what is ever to be regarded is, that they should be to us helps and aids to follow God and not hindrances. And he calls these pleasures of sin temporary or for a time, because they soon vanish away together with life itself.
    "In opposition to these he sets the reproach of Christ, which all the godly ought willingly to undergo. For those whom God has chosen, he has also foreordained to be conformed to the image of his own son; not that he exercises them all by the same kind of reproaches or by the same cross, but that they are all to be so minded as not to decline to undertake the cross in common with Christ. Let every one then bear in mind, that as he is called to this fellowship he is to throw off all hindrances. Nor must we omit to say, that he reckons among the reproaches of Christ all the ignominious trials which the faithful have had to endure from the beginning of the world; for as they were the member of the same body, so they had nothing different from what we have. As all sorrows are indeed the rewards of sin, so they are also the fruits of the curse pronounced on the first man: but whatever wrongs we endure from the ungodly on account of Christ, these he regards as his own. Hence Paul gloried that he made up what was wanting as to the sufferings of Christ. Were we rightly to consider this, it would not be so grievous and bitter for us to suffer for Christ.
    "He also explains more fully what he means in this clause by the reproach of Christ, by what he has previously declared when he said, that Moses chose to suffer affliction with the people of God. He could not have otherwise avowed himself as one of God's people, except he had made himself a companion to his own nation in their miseries. Since, then, this is the end, let us not separate ourselves from the body of the Church: whatever we suffer, let us know that it is consecrated on account of the head. So on the other hand he calls those things the treasures of Egypt, which no one can otherwise possess than by renouncing and forsaking the Church. For he had respect unto the recompense of the reward, or for he looked to the remuneration. He proves by the description he gives, that the magnanimity of Moses' mind was owing to faith; for he had his eyes fixed on the promise of God. For he could not have hoped that it would be better for him to be with the people of Israel than with the Egyptians, had he not trusted in the promise and in nothing else.
    By faith he forsook Egypt, etc.
    This may be said of his first as well as of his second departure, that is, when he brought out the people with him. He then indeed left Egypt when he fled from the house of Pharaoh. Add to this, that his going out is recorded by the Apostle before he mentions the celebration of the Passover. He seems then to speak of the flight of Moses; nor is what he adds, that he feared not the wrath of the king, any objection to this, though Moses himself relates that he was constrained to do so by fear. For if we look at the beginning of his course he did not fear, that is, when he avowed himself to be the avenger of his people. However, when I consider all the circumstances, I am inclined to regard this as his second departure; for it was then that he bravely disregarded the fierce wrath of the king, being armed with such power by God's Spirit, that he often of his own accord defied the fury of that wild beast. It was doubtless an instance of the wonderful strength of faith, that he brought out a multitude untrained for war and burdened with many encumbrances, and yet hoped that a way would be opened to him by God's hand through innumerable difficulties. He saw a most powerful king in a furious rage, and he knew that he would not cease till he had tried his utmost. But as he knew that God had commanded him to depart, he committed the event to him, nor did he doubt but that he would in dug time restrain all the assaults of the Egyptians.
    As seeing him who is invisible. Nay, but he had seen God in the midst of the burning bush: this then seems to have been said improperly, and not very suitable to the present subject. I indeed allow, that Moses was strengthened in his faith by that vision, before he took in hand the glorious work of delivering the people; but I do not admit that it was such a view of God, as divested him of his bodily senses, and transferred him beyond the trials of this world. God at that time only showed him a certain symbol of his presence; but he was far from seeing God as he is. Now, the Apostle means, that Moses so endured, as though he was taken up to heaven, and had God only before his eyes; and as though he had nothing to do with men, was not exposed to the perils of this world and had no contests with Pharaoh. And yet, it is certain, that he was surrounded with so many difficulties, that he could not but think sometimes that God was far away from him, or at least, that the obstinacy of the king, furnished as it was with so many means of resistance, would at length overcome him. In short, God appeared to Moses in such a way, as still to leave room for faith; and Moses, when beset by terrors on every side, turned all his thoughts to God. He was indeed assisted to do this, by the vision which we have mentioned; but yet he saw more in God than what that symbol intimated: for he understood his power, and that absorbed all his fears and dangers. Relying on God's promise, he felt assured that the people, though then oppressed by the tyranny of the Egyptians, were already, as it were, the lords of the promised land.
    We hence learn, that the true character of faith is to set God always before our eyes; secondly, that faith beholds higher and more hidden things in God than what our senses can perceive; and thirdly, that a view of God alone is sufficient to strengthen our weakness, so that we may become firmer than rocks to withstand all the assaults of Satan. It hence follows, that the weaker and the less resolute any one is, the less faith he has. -- John Calvin commenting on Hebrew 11:25-27

    The LORD [is] my shepherd;
    I shall not want.
    He maketh me to lie down in green pastures:
    he leadeth me beside the still waters.
    He restoreth my soul:
    he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.
    Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
    I will fear no evil:
    for thou [art] with me;
    thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
    Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies:
    thou anointest my head with oil;
    my cup runneth over.
    Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life:
    and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.     (Psalm 23)

    Suffering is the Diet of the Lord's Family (Psalm 46:1-3)
    All the sons of God take part in suffering with Christ. What says the Scripture? If children, then heirs, heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, if so be that we suffer with Him. (Romans 8:17.) All the children of God have a cross to carry.
    They have trials, troubles, and afflictions to go through for the Gospel's sake. They have trials from the world, -- trials from the flesh, -- and trials from the devil. They have trials of feeling from relations and friends, -- hard words, hard treatment, and hard judgment.
    They have trials in the matter of character; -- slander, misrepresentation, mockery, insinuation of false motives, -- all these often rain thick upon them. They have trials in the matter of worldly interests.
    They have often to choose whether they will please man and lose glory, or gain glory and offend man. They have trials from their own hearts. They have each generally their own thorn in the flesh, -- their own home-devil, who is their worst foe. This is the experience of the sons of God.
    Some of them suffer more, and some less. Some of them suffer in one way, and some in another. God measures out their portions like a wise physician, and cannot err. But never, I believe, was there one child of God who reached paradise without a cross.
    Suffering is the diet of the Lord's family. Whom the Lord loveth He chasteneth. If ye are left without discipline, in which all have participated, then ye are illegitimate children and not sons. Through much tribulation we must enter the kingdom of God. . . . All that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution. (Hebrews 12:6-8; Acts 14:22; 2 Timothy 3:12.)
    Suffering is a part of the process by which the sons of God are sanctified. They are chastened to wean them from the world, and make them partakers of God's holiness. The Captain of their salvation was made perfect through suffering, and so are they. (Hebrews 2:10; Hebrews 12:10.)
    Let us try to settle this down into our hearts also. The sons of God have all to bear a cross. A suffering Saviour generally has suffering disciples.
    The Bridegroom was a man of sorrows. The Bride must not be a woman of pleasures and unacquainted with grief. Blessed are they that mourn. Let us not murmur at the cross. This also is a sign of sonship. -- J.C. Ryle (1816-1900) Practical Religion: Being Plain Papers on the Daily Duties, Experience, Dangers, and Privileges of Professing Christians, "Suffering is the Diet of the Lord's Family" (Psalm 46:1-3), (London: Charles Murray, 1900), pp. 418-419.
    http://www.jcryle.info/2016/09/suffering-is-diet-of-lords-family.html

    By affliction God teaches us many precious lessons, which without it, we would never learn. By affliction He shows us our emptiness and weakness, draws us to the throne of grace, purifies our affections, weans us from the world, and makes us long for heaven. -- J.C. Ryle (1816-1900)
    As one grows older it becomes more apparent that the worst affliction we have gone through has had the net effect of causing the Truth of the Gospel to shine forth even more brightly in our understanding, as a diamond shines more brightly on black velvet.

    Many are the afflictions of the righteous: but the LORD delivereth him out of them all. (Psalm 34:19)

    The just Lord is in the midst thereof; he will not do iniquity: every morning doth he bring his judgment to light, he faileth not; but the unjust knoweth no shame. (Zephaniah 3:5)

    And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren. (Romans 8:28,29)

    Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?
    As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter.
    Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.
    For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come,
    Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.     (Romans 8:35-39)

    But the salvation of the righteous is of the LORD: he is their strength in the time of trouble. And the Lord shall help them, and deliver them: he shall deliver them from the wicked, and save them, because they trust in him. (Psalm 37:39,40)

    The Treasury of David, Psalm 62
    From him cometh my salvation. The good man will, therefore, in patience possess his soul till deliverance comes: faith can hear the footsteps of coming salvation, because she has learned to be silent. Our salvation in no measure or degree comes to us from any inferior source; let us, therefore, look alone to the true fountain, and avoid the detestable crime of ascribing to the creature what belongs alone to the Creator. If to wait on God be worship, to wait on the creature is idolatry; if to wait on God alone be true faith, to associate an arm of the flesh with him is audacious unbelief." -- C.H. Spurgeon commenting on Psalm 62:1 in The Treasury of David
    http://archive.spurgeon.org/treasury/ps062.php

    Truly my soul waiteth upon God: from him cometh my salvation. (Psalm 62:1)
    He only is my rock and my salvation: he is my defence; I shall not be moved. (Psalm 62:6) http://www.biblestudytools.com/my-bible/#/left:passage/kjv/psalms/62:6/&right:reference/commentaries/gills-exposition-of-the-bible/psalms-62-6.html
    Trust in him at all times; ye people, pour out your heart before him: God is a refuge for us. Selah. (Psalm 62:8)
    God hath spoken once; twice have I heard this; that power belongeth unto God. (Psalm 62:11)
    C.S. Spurgeon Commenting on Psalm 62
    http://archive.spurgeon.org/treasury/ps062.php

    This is my comfort in my affliction: for thy word hath quickened me. (Psalm 119:50)

    The Treasury of David, Psalm 116, C.H. Spurgeon
    The Lord preserveth the simple: I was brought low, and he helped me. (Psalm 116:6)
    http://archive.spurgeon.org/treasury/ps116.php

    Most of the grand truths of God have to be learned by trouble; they must be burned into us with the hot iron of affliction, otherwise we shall not truly receive them. No man is competent to judge in matters of the kingdom, until first he has been tried; since there are many things to be learned in the depths which we can never know in the heights. We discover many secrets in the caverns of the ocean, which, though we had soared to heaven, we never could have known. He shall best meet the wants of God's people as a preacher who has had those wants himself; he shall best comfort God's Israel who has needed comfort; and he shall best preach salvation who has felt his own need of it. -- C.H. Spurgeon (1834-1892), "Salvation of the Lord," sermon No. 131, delivered May 10, 1857, at the Music Hall, Royal Surrey Gardens

    God makes our adversity our University -- Thomas Watson (1620-1686)

    Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. (1 Thessalonians 5:16,17,18)

    And he humbled thee, and suffered thee to hunger, and fed thee with manna, which thou knewest not, neither did thy fathers know; that he might make thee know that man doth not live by bread only, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of the LORD doth man live. (Deuteronomy 8:3)

    Cast thy burden upon the LORD, and he shall sustain thee: he shall never suffer the righteous to be moved. (Psalm 55:22)

    One blessed way of casting our burden upon the Lord (Psalm 55:22) is to tell the Lord all about it. It is a high privilege to get away, alone, and talk to God as a man talks with his friend. But I know what you often do, my Brothers and Sisters, when you get into a predicament and cannot tell what to do -- then you begin to pray. Why do you not, every morning, tell the Lord about all your difficulties before they come? What? Will you only run to Him when you get into trouble? No, go to Him before you get into trouble. Half our burdens come from what we have not prayed over! If a man would take the ordinary concerns of life distinctly to God, one by one, it is marvelous how easily the chariot of life would roll along! Things over which we have not prayed are like undigested food that breeds mischief in the body -- they breed mischief in the soul. Digest your daily bread by first praying, "God give it to me and then God bless me in the use of it. And then God bless me afterwards in the spending of the strength derived from it to Your praise and Glory." Salt all your life with prayer, lest corruption should come to that part of your life which you have not thus salted. Tell the Lord, then, your griefs, just as, when a child, you told your troubles to your mother!
    "I cannot find words," says one. Oh, they will come! They come fast enough when you complain to man and they will sweetly come if you get into the blessed habit of talking to God about everything. A friend said to me, not long ago, "I was on the Exchange and I saw that I had made a mistake in a certain transaction. I had lost money by it and if I had gone on dealing in the same fashion, I would have been ruined. I just stepped aside for a minute or two into a quiet corner of my office. I stood still and breathed a prayer to God for guidance. Then I went back, and felt, 'Now I am ready for anyone of you.' "So I was," he said, "I was not confused and worried, as I would otherwise have been, and so liable to make mistakes, but I had waited upon God and I was therefore calm and collected." There is much wisdom in thus praying about everything, although, possibly, some of you may think it trivial. I believe that the very soul of Christianity lies in the sanctifying of what is called secular -- the bringing of all things under the cognizance of our God by intense, constant, importunate, believing prayer.
    When you have told the Lord everything, the next thing for you to do, in order to cast your burden upon Him, is to believe that all will work together for your good. Swallow the bitter as readily as you do the sweet and believe that, somehow, the strange mixture will do you great good. Do not look out your window, judging this, and that, and the other, in detail, but, if God sent it to you, open the door and take it all in, for all that has come from Him will be to His Glory and to your profit. Believe that if you shall lose certain things, you will really be a gainer by your losses. Even if your dearest one is taken from you, all shall be well if you have but faith to trust God in it all. If you are stricken with mortal sickness, it will still be well with you and if you do steadfastly trust in the Lord, you shall know that it is so. We know, says the Apostle Paul -- he does not say, "We think, we suppose, we judge," but -- We know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to His purpose. (Romans 8:28) If you know this, my Brother, or my Sister, it shall help you to cast your burden upon the Lord. (Psalm 55:22)
    When you have done this, then leave your burden with the Lord. In the process of trusting God with your burden, get to the point that you have done with it. If I cast my burden upon the Lord, what business have I to carry it myself? How can I truthfully say that I have cast it upon Him if I am still burdened with it? Throughout my life, which has not been free from many grave cares, there have been many things which I have been able to see my own way through and, using my best judgment, they have passed off well. But in so large a church as this, there sometimes occur things that altogether stagger me. I do not know what to do in such a case as that, and I have been in the habit, after doing all I can, of putting such things up on the shelf and saying, "There, I will never take them down again, come what may. I have done with them, for I have left them wholly with God." And I wish to bear my testimony that somehow or other the thing which I could not unravel, has unraveled itself! When Peter and the angel came unto the iron gate, it opened to them of its own accord. (Acts 12:10) And the same thing has happened to me many a time. Who shall roll away the stone for us from the door of the sepulcher? (Mark 16:3) asked the holy women when they came to the tomb of their Lord? And when they looked, they saw that the stone was rolled away. (Mark 16:4) Learn to say, "My God has made this difficulty and there is some good result to come of it. I have done the little I can do, so now I will leave it all with Him." -- C.H. Spurgeon, from the sermon Fear not, no. 2830, at The Metropolitan Tabernacle, Newington, on Thursday Evening, August 19, 1886.

    Who did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth: Who, when he was reviled, reviled not again; when he suffered, he threatened not; but committed himself to him that judgeth righteously. (1 Peter 2:19-23)

    Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves: be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 10:16)

    And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (John 14:16)

    And he said unto me, My Grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. [1]Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may [2]rest upon me.
    Therefore I take     [1]pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong. -- Paul quoting The Lord Jesus Christ (2 Corinthians 12:9,10)
    12:9 [1] He concludeth, that he will only see his miseries against the vain brags of the false apostles, and therewith also excuseth himself, for that by their importunity, he was constrained to speak so much of these things as he did: to wit, because that if his Apostleship were subverted his doctrine must needs fall.
    12:9 [2] That I might feel the virtue of Christ more and more: For the weaker that our tabernacles are, the more doth Christ's virtue appear in them.
    12:10 [1] I do not only take them patiently and with a good heart, but also I take great pleasure in them.-- 1599 Geneva Bible Notes

    When I am in the cellar of affliction, I look for the Lord's choicest wines. -- Samuel Rutherford (1600-1661)

    As the wicked are hurt by the best things, so the godly are bettered by the worst. -- William Jenkyn

    No hypocrite can bear the cross. -- Henry Smith (1550-1591)

    The godly may sometimes be so overclouded with calumnies and reproaches as not to be able to find a way to clear themselves before men, but must content and comfort themselves with the testimony of a good conscience and with God's approbation of their integrity. -- David Dickson

    They have the earth in their hands (Job 9:24), who have nothing of heaven in their hearts; they bear sway in the world who are slaves to the world; they govern and order others at their will who are led captive by Satan at his will. Be not offended and troubled to see the reins of government in their hands who know not how to govern themselves, or to see them rule in the world who are unworthy to live in the world. -- Joseph Caryl

    Lord, high and holy, meek and lowly,
    Thou hast brought me to the valley of vision,
    where I live in the depths but see thee in the heights;
    Hemmed in by mountains of sin I behold thy glory.
    Let me learn by paradox
    that the way down is the way up,
    that to be low is to be high,
    that the broken heart is the healed heart,
    that the contrite spirit is the rejoicing spirit,
    that the repenting soul is the victorious soul,
    that to have nothing is to possess all,
    that to bear the cross is to wear the crown,
    that to give is to receive,
    that the valley is the place of vision.
    Lord, in the daytime stars can be seen from deepest wells,
    and the deeper the wells the brighter thy stars shine: Let me find thy light in my darkness, thy life in my death,
    thy joy in my sorrow,
    thy grace in my sin,
    thy riches in my poverty,
    thy glory in my valley. -- A Puritan Prayer

    The Treasury of David, Psalm 120, C.H. Spurgeon
    Deliver my soul, O Lord, from lying lips, and from a deceitful tongue. (Psalm 120:2)
    http://archive.spurgeon.org/treasury/ps120.php

    All affliction tends to make the individual more fit to serve the Lord.

    For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us. (Romans 8:18)
    Said to be one of John Calin's favorite verses.

    Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy, to the only wise God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen. (Jude 24,25)

    Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), Accepting Retarded Children; Handling Troubles; and etc. (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
    Audio cassette JA409 [audio file].

    Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), How to Handle Trouble, ISBN: 0875520766 9780875520766.
    "Focuses on Philippians 1:12-26, where Paul views his hardships as opportunities to glorify Christ.
    " 'A practical handbook that gives biblical directions to follow in times of trouble.' Where The Grand Demonstration works out the implications of God's decretive will, this book works out the implications of God's directive will by which he pastorally guides His people. Based on Philippians 1, it lays out six steps for handling trouble: recognize God is in the problem; remember God is up to something; believe that He is up to something good; discover where and how God is at work; get involved in what He is doing; expect good effects." -- David Powlison

    Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), The Practical Encyclopedia of Christian Counseling.
    See the subject "Affliction," "Adversity," "Temptation," "Testing," and so forth, and so on.

    *Alexander, James W. (1804-1859), Consolation: Addresses to the Suffering People of God, ISBN: 1877611530 9781877611537.
    "Eighteen chapters and 448 pages on select topics by the eldest son of prominent theologian, Archibald Alexander. Charles Hodge said he was not the first of orators to hear on rare occasions, but the first of preachers to sit under, month after month, and year after year.
    "The author stresses that it is the attributes of God -- His mercy, His providence, His omnipotence, His power, His goodness, His compassion, and many others -- which give consolation to those saints in need of it. This is a book for the weary soul who has been fighting the good fight and feeling the bruises of the conflict." -- GCB

    *Bolton, Robert (1572-1631), A Treatise on Comforting Afflicted Consciences. A Christian classic. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
    "I do not know of a single book published in the past twenty years that explains in depth how to respond Biblically to a grieved or wounded conscience. Here's an ideal volume to fill that gap. Few books in history have treated the subject as completely or as clearly as Robert Bolton's classic work. . . . The book remains a definitive study on the issue of dealing with guilt. Practical, Biblical, meticulously precise, carefully reasoned, it maintains a straightforward simplicity that cannot fail to touch the sensitive reader's heart." -- John MacArthur

    *Bonar, Horatius (1808-1889), When God's Children Suffer, ISBN: 0879832452 9780879832452. Alternate title: NIGHT OF WEEPING: WHEN GOD'S CHILDREN SUFFER.
    "Horatius Bonar excels in his ability to communicate the teachings of God in Christ. His language is so simple, so plain and to the point, that some will say to themselves, 'he can't know much, if those are the biggest words he can use.' Be not deceived, for here is a brain energized by the Scriptures, and so he is able to communicate why God's children suffer, and what the suffering will bring, and where the suffering will lead them. It is a message of hope, a prayerful exploration of the reasons God brings suffering on His loved ones. If you do not know Bonar, be assured you will love him." -- Jay P. Green, Sr. (1918-2008)

    *Bordwine, James E., A Guide to the Westminster Standards: Confession of Faith and Larger Catechism (Unicoi, TN: The Trinity Foundation, 1991), ISBN: 0940931303 9780940931305.
    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

    *Boston, Thomas (1676-1732), The Crook in the Lot: The Sovereignty of God in the Trials, Tribulations, and Troubles of This Life. Alternate title: THE SOVEREIGNTY AND WISDOM OF GOD DISPLAYED IN THE AFFLICTIONS OF MEN, TOGETHER WITH A CHRISTIAN DEPORTMENT UNDER THEM. BEING THE SUBSTANCE OF SEVERAL SERMONS ON ECCLES. VII. 13. [Ecclesiastes 7:13], PROV. XVI. 19. [Proverbs 16:19], and I PET. V. 6 [1 Peter 5:6]. TO WHICH ARE ADDED SOME SERMONS ON THE NATURE OF CHURCH-COMMUNION, FROM I COR. X. 17 [1 Corinthians 10:17], 195 pages, ISBN: 1573581372. A Christian classic. Considered to be among the ten greatest books in the English language. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
    "In this book, Thomas Boston explains how the sovereignty and wisdom of God is displayed in the afflictions of men. In his approach to this difficult subject, he is both theologically precise and pastorally tender. Boston does not commit the error of needlessly trying to protect God's reputation, nor does he go to the opposite extreme of making God a compassionate but helpless bystander. Rather, Boston brings God right into the mix of even the most disastrous events, and shows how He is actively involved in both the events and their resolution. Let the wisdom of the ages be a salve during this time of crisis and bewilderment. May the God of all comfort be your comfort in troubled times.
    "When calamity and disaster strike as it did on September 11th, many people begin to ask, "Where is God?" and "Why did God allow this to happen?" These are the very questions Thomas Boston addresses in this timeless book. This book includes an introduction and a study guide to maximize the impact of this classic work.
    "Thomas Boston (1676-1732), was a Scottish Presbyterian minister. He studied at the University of Edinburgh and was a recognized Hebrew scholar. His main pastorate was at Ettrick, Selkirkshire, where he was installed in 1707. His most noted works are THE CROOK IN THE LOT and HUMAN NATURE IN ITS FOURFOLD STATE." -- Publisher
    "At Monergism Books we view this as one of the top five Christian books ever written . . . What captures our attention first and foremost of this book is how it is so saturated in Scripture. After reading this, no one will be able to deny God meticulously ordaining everything that comes to pass nor fail to see the great comfort there is in this truth . . . THE CROOK IN THE LOT is introduced to us by J.I. Packer." -- Publisher, describing the Monergism edition
    Boston, The Crook in the Lot: or, The Sovereignty and Wisdom of God in the Afflictions of men
    http://archive.org/details/christiantreasur00memeuoft

    Bridges, Jerry, Trusting God: Even When Life Hurts, ISBN: 0891096175 9780891096177.
    "Do you find it easy to trust God -- until adversity strikes? When life clouds over, do you suddenly begin to second-guess your faith and suspect that you only imagined His care for you? Three truths we must believe if we are to trust Him in adversity: (1) God is completely sovereign (2) God is infinite in wisdom, and (3) God is perfect in love. This is sure to be another bestseller . . ." -- GCB
    A study guide is available.

    Bridges, Jerry, Trusting God: Even When Life Hurts (Study Guide), ISBN: 9781600063060 1600063063.

    *Brooks, Thomas (1608-1680), The Mute Christian Under the Smarting Rod. Alternate title: THE MUTE CHRISTIAN UNDER THE SMARTING ROD WITH SOVERAIGN ANTIDOTES AGAINST THE MOST MISERABLE EXIGENTS, OR, A CHRISTIAN WITH AN OLIVE LEAF IN HIS MOUTH. A Christian classic. Available (THE WORKS OF THOMAS BROOKS), on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #21. A Christian classic.
    The Mute Christian Under the Smarting Rod. by Thomas Brooks
    http://www.iclnet.org/pub/resources/text/ipb-e/epl-10/web/brooks-mute-christian-00.html

    *Bunyan, John (1628-1688), Advice to Sufferers. A Christian classic. Available (WORKS OF JOHN BUNYAN), on the Puritan Hard Drive.
    Pilgrim's Page: A John Bunyan Archive
    This is the complete set of THE WORKS OF JOHN BUNYAN, George Offor edition, reprinted by The Banner of Truth. It is free online, and is downloadable in the following formats: HTML, RTF, TEXT, and PDF.
    http://www.chapellibrary.org/literature/bunyan/
    THE COMPLETE WORKS OF JOHN BUNYAN is also available at Project Gutenberg.

    Brown, John (of Wamphray, 1610-1679), The Life of Faith in Time of Trial and Affliction: Cleared up and Explained, From Heb. X. xviii [Hebrews 10:18]. Now the just shall live by faith [Hebrews 10:38]. By Mr. John Brown, minister of the Gospel.

    *Burroughs, Jeremiah (1599-1646), Evil of Evils: The Exceeding Sinfulness of Sin, ISBN: 1877611484 9781877611483. A Christian classic.
    "This treatise has one recurring theme: it is better to choose affliction than sin. In expounding Scripture, Burroughs shows that nothing is to be more avoided than sin, and nothing is to be more hated than sin. . . . Classic work by Burroughs (1599-1646), is a collection of his sermons on the subject of sin. This is a very rare book bringing well over a hundred dollars." -- GCB

    Burroughs, Jeremiah (1599-1646), and Don Kistler (editor), Moses' Choice: With his eye Fixed Upon Heaven: Discovering the Happy Condition of a Self-denying Heart With his eye Fixed Upon Heaven: Delivered in a Treatise Upon Hebrews 11:25,26, ISBN: 9780982615591 0982615590.
    "This work by the English Puritan Jeremiah Burroughs is based on Hebrews 11:25: choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season. It is a masterful treatise on suffering and self-denial. This is the first modern edition of this rare work since its initial printing in 1641." -- Publisher
    The companion volume, MOSES' SELF-DENIAL, edited by Don Kistler is also in print as of 2016.
    Moses his Choice, Burroughs
    https://archive.org/details/moseshischoicewi00burr

    *Calvin, John (1509-1564), Commentary on Hebrews, by John Calvin, Chapters 10 -- 13 [Hebrews 10 -- Hebrews 13]
    Hebrews chapters 10 through 13 contain encouragement for the Christian life: exhortation to persevere, to faith and patience, to encounter trials and afflictions, to peace and holiness, and various directions and cautions.
    http://www.biblestudyguide.org/comment/calvin/comm_vol44/htm/xvi.htm

    Conant, John, The Woe and Weale of God's People . . . Lament. 3:31,32 [Lamentations 3:31,32], 1643. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.

    Davis, Ron Lee, Courage to Begin Again, ISBN: 0890816077 9780890816073.
    Includes bibliography.

    Edwards, Brian H., Not by Chance: Making Sense out of Suffering, ISBN: 0875529178 9780875529172.

    Erskine, Ebenezer (1680-1754), The Annals of Redeeming Love, With the Redeemer's Vengeance Upon the Grand Enemy of the Redeem'd. Being Several Sermons . . . by . . . Ebenezer Erskine, Edinburgh, 1738. In The Works of Ebenezer Erskine. Available (THE WORKS OF EBENEZER ERSKINE), on the Puritan Hard Drive.

    *Fitch, William, God and Evil: Studies in the Mystery of Suffering and Pain, ISBN: 0720800404.
    "A contemporary presentation of theodicy." -- Cyril J. Barber

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

    *Goodwin, Thomas (1600-1680), The Return of Prayers, ISBN: 9780548039441 0548039445. In THE WORKS OF THOMAS GOODWIN. A Christian classic.

    *Gouge, William (1578-1653), The Saints Sacrifice: or, A Commentarie on the CXVI Psalme. Which is, a Gratulatory Psalme, for Deliverance From Deadly Distresse, 1632, 144 pages [Psalm 116]. Available (THE WORKS OF WILLIAM GOUGE) on the Puritan Hard Drive.
    " 'Sir, the last year, when the heavy hand of the righteous Lord lay upon this land and other parts of the Christian world, manifested by the three arrows of his anger, plague, famine, and sword, just cause was given to inquire after such means as might cure the wounds that were made by them, and move the Lord to withhold his hand from shooting abroad any more of them. Upon inquiry there was found in God's word (the treasury wherein all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge are hid), fit remedies for all those maladies,' writes Gouge in his preface to the Earl of Warwick. In this book Gouge opens the Lord's treasure house (of Psalm 116), for deliverance from deadly distress and spiritual dilapidation." -- Publisher

    Guthrie, James (1612?-1661), and Lyndon Dohms (narrator), Why God Sends Trials Upon His People, 1660, [audio file]. Available (SERMONS IN TIMES OF PERSECUTION and MP3) on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available (SERMONS IN TIMES OF PERSECUTION) on Reformation Bookshelf CD #12.

    Knox, John (1505-1572), and Abraham Fleming (1552?-1607), A Fort for the Afflicted. VVherin are Ministered Many Notable and Excellent Remedies Against the Stormes of Tribulation. Written chiefly for the comforte of Christes little flocke, which is the final number of the faithfull, by Iohn Knoxe, 1580. Available (THE WORKS OF JOHN KNOX), on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available (THE WORKS OF JOHN KNOX), on Reformation Bookshelf CD #1.
    A commentary on Psalm VI [Psalm 6].

    Lehmann, Joseph P., Paul David Tripp, David Powlison, Michael R. Emlet, and Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation, On Suffering: Must Reads From the Journal of Biblical Counseling.

    Lloyd-Jones, D. Martyn (1899-1981), The Miracle of Grace and Other Messages, ISBN: 0801056365 9780801056369.
    "Fourteen (14) sermons published together for the first time as a book. These sermons originally appeared in the periodical The Christian World Pulpit. They cover a wide variety of topics such as hope, discipleship, suffering, sin, the Cross, the Resurrection, and more." -- GCB

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

    *Luther, Martin (1483-1546), Commentary on Galatians, English translation by Erasmus Middleton, B.D., edited by John Prince Fallowes, M.A., Pembroke College, Cambridge, ISBN: 0825431247. A Christian classic. Considered to be among the ten greatest books in the English language. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
    "I prefer this book of Martin Luther's (except the Bible), before all the books I have ever seen, as most fit for a wounded soul." -- John Bunyan
    "This is a great, historic work, and is beyond criticism on account of its great usefulness. As a comment its accuracy might be questioned; but for emphatic utterances and clear statements of the great doctrine of the Epistle it remains altogether by itself, and must be judged per se." -- C.H. Spurgeon (1834-1892)
    "The reissue of a famous series of lectures delivered at Wittenberg University in 1553." -- Cyril J. Barber
    Commentary on Galatians, Martin Luther
    http://archive.org/details/cu31924029294133
    Luther's Commentary on Galatians, That He might deliver us from the present evil world. (Galatians 1:4 excerpt), English translation by Erasmus Middleton, B.D., edited by John Prince Fallowes, M.A., Pembroke College, Cambridge
    http://www.lettermen2.com/luther2.html
    Luther's Commentary on Galatians, Who hath bewitched you, that you should not obey the truth. (Galatians 3:1 excerpt), English translation by Erasmus Middleton, B.D., edited by John Prince Fallowes, M.A., Pembroke College, Cambridge
    http://www.lettermen2.com/luther1.html

    *Macartney, Clarence E.N., Trials of Great Men of the Bible, ISBN: 1430474920.
    "Covers material from Job to Paul. Shows the place and purpose of trials in the development of Christian character." -- Cyril J. Barber

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

    Meyer, F.B., The Gift of Suffering, ISBN: 0825432758 9780825432750.
    "With deep spiritual insight, the author handles the subject of 'why Christians suffer'." -- GCB

    Peden, Alexander (1626-1686), The Fellowship of Christ's Sufferings. Available (PDF and MP3) on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #29. Available in SERMONS IN TIMES OF PERSECUTION. Available (SERMONS IN TIMES OF PERSECUTION) on the Puritan Hard Drive.

    *Perkins, William (1558-1602), How to Liue, and That Well in all Estates and Times, Specially When Helps and Comforts Faile.

    *Perkins, William (1558-1602), and Richard Rogers (1550?-1618), A Garden of Spirituall Flowers. Alternate title: TREATISE TENDING UNTO A DECLARATION. PART 7; CONSOLATIONS FOR THE TROUBLED CONSCIENCES, and CONSOLATIONS FOR THE TROUBLED CONSCIENCES, and HOW TO LIVE WELL, AND TO DIE WELL.
    An anthology. Perkins's "How to live well, and to die well," is part seven of his "A Treatise Tending Unto a Declaration," where it bears the title "Consolations for the Troubled Consciences."

    Powlison, David (1949-2019), Why me? Comfort for the Victimized, ISBN: 0875526950 9780875526959.

    *Preston, John (1587-1628), The Golden Sceptre Held Forth to the Humble, ISBN: 1877611174 9781877611179. A Christian classic.
    This book is comprised of six sermons on 2 Chronicles 7:14: If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land, just one verse that succinctly gives the Biblical solution to terrorism. Sermons are on Affliction, Humiliation, Seeking god's face, Turning from evil, Forgiveness to those who forsake sin, and Sin as the cause of all calamities.

    Ryle, J.C. (1816-1900), Suffering is the Diet of the Lord's Family (Psalm 46:1-3)
    "All the sons of God take part in suffering with Christ. What says the Scripture? If children, then heirs, heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, if so be that we suffer with Him. (Romans 8:17.) All the children of God have a cross to carry.
    "They have trials, troubles, and afflictions to go through for the Gospel's sake. They have trials from the world, -- trials from the flesh, -- and trials from the devil. They have trials of feeling from relations and friends, -- hard words, hard treatment, and hard judgment.
    "They have trials in the matter of character; -- slander, misrepresentation, mockery, insinuation of false motives, -- all these often rain thick upon them. They have trials in the matter of worldly interests.
    "They have often to choose whether they will please man and lose glory, or gain glory and offend man. They have trials from their own hearts. They have each generally their own thorn in the flesh, -- their own home-devil, who is their worst foe. This is the experience of the sons of God.
    "Some of them suffer more, and some less. Some of them suffer in one way, and some in another. God measures out their portions like a wise physician, and cannot err. But never, I believe, was there one child of God who reached paradise without a cross.
    "Suffering is the diet of the Lord's family. Whom the Lord loveth He chasteneth. If ye are left without discipline, in which all have participated, then ye are illegitimate children and not sons. Through much tribulation we must enter the kingdom of God. . . . All that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution. (Hebrews 12:6-8; Acts 14:22; 2 Timothy 3:12.)
    "Suffering is a part of the process by which the sons of God are sanctified. They are chastened to wean them from the world, and make them partakers of God's holiness. The Captain of their salvation was made perfect through suffering, and so are they. (Hebrews 2:10; Hebrews 12:10.)
    "Let us try to settle this down into our hearts also. The sons of God have all to bear a cross. A suffering Saviour generally has suffering disciples.
    "The Bridegroom was a man of sorrows. The Bride must not be a woman of pleasures and unacquainted with grief. Blessed are they that mourn. Let us not murmur at the cross. This also is a sign of sonship." -- J.C. Ryle (1816-1900) Practical Religion: Being Plain Papers on the Daily Duties, Experience, Dangers, and Privileges of Professing Christians (London: Charles Murray, 1900), pp. 418-419.
    http://www.jcryle.info/2016/09/suffering-is-diet-of-lords-family.html

    Sibbes, Richard (1577-1635), The Soul's Conflict With Itself, and Victory Over Itself by Faith. Being a Treatise of the Inward Disquietments of Distressed Spirits . . . To Which is Subjoined, The Bruised Reed and Smoking Flax. By Richard Sibbs . . . The fifth edition. To which is prefixed, an account of the author's life. Alternate title: THE SOULES CONFLICT WITH IT SELFE, AND VICTORY OVER IT SELF BY FAITH A TREATISE OF THE INWARD DISQUIETMENTS OF DISTRESSED SPIRITS, WITH COMFORTABLE REMEDIES TO ESTABLISH THEM. Found in THE WORKS OF RICHARD SIBBES. Available (THE WORKS OF RICHARD SIBBES), on the Puritan Hard Drive.

    *Sibbes, Richard (1577-1635), Goodwin, Thomas (1600-1680), and Nye, Philip (1596-1672), Christs Exaltation Purchast by Humiliation. Wherein you may see Mercy and Misery Meete Together. Very vsefull I. For instructing the ignorant. II. For comforting the weake. III. For confirming the strong. By R. Sibbs D.D. and preacher of Grayes-Inne, London. Published by T.G. and P.N., 1639, Available (THE WORKS OF RICHARD SIBBES), on the Puritan Hard Drive.
    "Notes: T.G. and P.N. = Thomas Goodwin and Philip Nye.
    "Three sermons on Romans XIV, 9 [Romans 14:9]."

    Sibbes, Richard (1577-1635), Goodwin, Thomas (1600-1680), Nye, Philip (1596-1672), Tvvo Sermons Vpon the First Words of Christs Last Sermon Iohn XIIII [John 14]. I. Being also the last sermons of Richard Sibbs D.D. Preached to the honourable society of Grayes Inne, Iune the 21. and 28. 1635. Who the next Lords day following, died, and rested from all his labours, 1636. Available (THE WORKS OF RICHARD SIBBES), on the Puritan Hard Drive.

    *Spurgeon, C.H. (1834-1892), Faith's Checkbook. Alternate title: THE CHEQUE BOOK OF THE BANK OF FAITH: BEING PRECIOUS PROMISES ARRANGED FOR DAILY USE (1893), ISBN: 0938453025.
    "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 they 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." -- Publisher
    Faith's Checkbook, a daily devotional by C.H. Spurgeon
    http://archive.org/details/thechequebookoft00purguoft

    Spurgeon, C.H. (1834-1892), Our Suffering Substitute
    For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that He might bring us to God. (1 Peter 3:18) From C.H. Spurgeon's FORGOTTEN EARLY SERMONS: TWENTY-EIGHT SERMONS COMPILED FROM THE SWORD AND THE TROWEL
    https://www.monergism.com/our-suffering-substitute-c-h-spurgeon

    *Spurgeon, C.H. (1834-1892), The Suffering of Man and the Sovereignty of God: 25 Selected Sermons on the Book of Job, ISBN: 0971143404 9780971143401.
    Twenty-five of Charles Spurgeon's best sermons from the book of Job "explaining how God's sovereignty and man's suffering intersect."

    Tada, Joni Eareckson, and Steve Estes, A Step Further: Growing Closer to God Through Hurt and Hardship, ISBN: 0310239710 9780310239710.
    "Joni has written candidly and simply about one of the knottiest questions of human existence, that of the meaning of suffering. Her own trust illuminates every page." -- Elisabeth Elliot

    Teellinck, William (1579-1629), The Resting Place of the Mind, That is a Propounding of the Wonderful Providence of God Whereupon a Christian man Ought to Rest and Repose Himself Even When all our Outward Means of Helps are cut off From him, 1622, 48 pages. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
    "According to Joel Beeke in THE QUEST FOR FULL ASSURANCE: THE LEGACY OF CALVIN AND HIS SUCCESSORS, 'What William Perkins was to English Puritanism, William Teellinck was to the Dutch Second Reformation.' (p. 98)
    "Furthermore, Beeke notes that 'Teellinck's lifelong goal was to bring English-style, pietistic Puritanism to the Dutch. He succeeded in doing that. More than any other divine of his day, he contributed to the Dutch Second Reformation. That movement was so like English Puritanism that it is often called Dutch Puritanism.' (p. 99)
    "This little book was written to encourage Christians to trust in the Lord in the midst of their trials. Even when the ordinary outward means that we need to solve our problems are unavailable, God can still easily rescue us from our predicament. Indeed, sometimes He removes those means so that He will receive all the glory:

    The means which commonly God doth use, in giving us His blessing, are indeed but as curtains, and drawing clothes, after, or under the which, God so doth hide Himself, that His working cannot be seen, but by the eye of faith: wherefore also the Lord God, when he hath been pleased sometimes to manifest Himself, in some work which he intended to do, hath taken express order, that the ordinary means should be removed, that so all the world might see the finger of God therein, and acknowledge that it was He that had done it. (p. 18)
    Loe [Scottish for love], thus doth the Lord strip His people often times of all outward means, when His purpose is to help them, to the end that His finger might the better be seen in giving them victory. . . . (p. 19)
    No child of God then ought to be faint-hearted, though he be stripped of all outward means, for the Lord who is with him, is not bound to any means, His hand is not shortened that He should not be able to help, though the means be shortened, yea quite cut off. (p. 24)
    "Too often people trust in the outward means rather than God. But this is foolish because 'tis most certain, that all our well-being is not shut up in the outward means, it lieth not wound up in the bread we eat, but in the hand of God, and the word of His blessing'." (p. 29) -- Publisher

    Traill, Robert (1642-1716), The Throne of Grace Discoursed of From Heb. IV, 16 [Hebrews 4:16] / by Robert Trail, 1696, ISBN: 085151393X. Available (THE WORKS OF ROBERT TRAILL), on Puritan Hard Drive. Available (SELECT PRACTICAL WRITINGS OF ROBERT TRAILL), on Reformation Bookshelf CD #19.

    Traill, Robert (1642-1716), Twenty Nine Sermons, viz. XIII. On the Throne of Grace, . . . and XVI. On the Lord's Prayer, . . . Together with the Protestant Doctrine of Justification Vindicated. All by the Late Revd. and Learned Mr. Robert Trail . . . 1731. Available (THE WORKS OF ROBERT TRAILL), on the Puritan Hard Drive.

    *Watson, Thomas (1620-1686), All Things for Good: Romans 8:28, A Divine Cordial, ISBN: 0851514782 9780851514789. Alternate title, A DIVINE CORDIAL in 1663. A Christian classic. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
    "I would prescribe them to take, now and then, a little of this Cordial: all things work together for good to them that love God. To know that nothing hurts the godly, is a matter of comfort; but to be assured that all things which fall out shall cooperate for their good, that their crosses shall be turned into blessings, that showers of affliction water the withering root of their grace and make it flourish more; this may fill their hearts with joy till they run over." -- Thomas Watson (1620-1686), from the Preface
    "Thomas Watson of St. Stephen's, Walbrook believed he faced two great difficulties in his pastoral ministry. The first was making the unbeliever sad, in the recognition of his need of God's grace. The second was making the believer joyful in response to God's grace. He believed the answer to the second difficulty could be found in Paul's teaching in Romans 8:28, God works all things together for good for his people.
    "Watson's exposition is always simple, illuminating and rich in practical application. He explains that both the best and the worst experiences work for the good of God's people. He carefully analyses what it means to be someone who 'loves God' and is 'called according to his purpose.' ALL THINGS FOR GOOD provides the biblical answer to the contemporary question: 'Why do bad things happen to good people'?" -- Publisher

    *Whitney, Donald S., Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life, ISBN: 0891096582 9780891096580.
    Foreword by J.I. Packer. "Far from being legalistic, restrictive or binding, as they are often perceived, the spiritual disciplines are actually the means to unparalleled spiritual liberty. Drawing from the rich heritage left to us by the early church fathers, the Puritans, and Jesus Christ Himself, this book will guide you through such disciplines as worship, prayer, Scripture reading, evangelism, serving, stewardship, fasting, silence and solitude, journaling, learning, and etc. A VERY, VERY GOOD BOOK!" -- CBD

    Wilde, Gary (editor), Bible Promises to Treasure for Tough Times: Inspiring Words for Every Occasion, ISBN: 155819715X 9781558197152.

    *Wilder-Smith, A.E., The Paradox of Pain, ISBN: 0877886679 9780877886679.
    "A detailed consideration of the problem of suffering, good and evil, and the Providence of God." -- Cyril J. Barber

    *Zacharias, Ravi K. (1946-2020), and Vince Vitale, Why Suffering?: Finding Meaning and Comfort When Life Doesn't Make Sense, ISBN: 9781455549702 1455549703.
    "Why would a loving and powerful God allow so much pain and suffering? In WHY SUFFERING? Ravi Zacharias and Vince Vitale carefully walk you through a variety of responses that considered together provide a clear, comprehensive, and convincing answer. Responses like: Where there is the possibility of love, there has to be the reality of freedom, and therefore the possibility of pain. Wishing God had made a different world is to wish yourself out of existence. The cross is the key to a compelling and rational explanation for trusting in God in the face of suffering. In comparison with other world religions, the Christian response is highly distinctive. The reality of evil only makes sense in light of the reality of divine goodness. Relational knowledge about God takes the argument beyond reason to the presence of God amidst suffering. God's decision to allow temporal suffering is understandable when viewed from an eternal perspective. Divine goodness shows how to conquer not in spite of, but even through suffering. Here is a book written with great respect for the complexity of the issue, recognizing that some who read it will be in the trenches of deep suffering themselves and others questioning the very existence of a loving God. WHY SUFFERING? provides an answer to the problem of pain and suffering with emotional sensitivity and intellectual integrity." -- Publisher
    Ravi Talks About his Book: Why Suffering?
    "The Captain of our Salvation, made perfect, made complete, through suffering -- if our Lord himself had to go through that, as he endured the cross, despising the shame, and is now set down at the right hand of God -- that's why I think there is a key word which James Stewart uses, which I expand upon here, 'He conquered not in spite of the Darkness, fear of evil, he conquered through it' and I believe it is the same in your life and mine. We may not like it, but we conquer through the pain and through the suffering." -- Ravi Zacharias
    http://www.rzim.org/let-my-people-think-broadcasts/ravi-talks-about-his-book-why-suffering/

    Zacharias, Ravi K. (1946-2020), William Lane Craig, Bernard Leikind, J.N. Mohanty; and The Faith and Science Lecture Forum, Is There Meaning in Evil and Suffering? A Christian Response to the Problem of Pain, a CD. Alternate title: MEANING IN EVIL AND SUFFERING.
    "The Faith and Science Lecture Forum hosted an engagement to discuss the question, 'Is There Meaning in Evil and Suffering?' Ravi Zacharias was the featured lecturer and he presented a 45-minute address offering the Christian perspective to this concern. His message was followed by rebuttals from three panelists: Dr. Bernard Leikind, a plasma physicist and senior editor of Skeptic magazine; Dr. Jitendra Mohanty, one of India's most distinguished Hindu philosophers and professor at Emory University; and William Lane Craig, a well-known Christian philosopher and apologist. Each of the forum's participants then posed questions to one another, and the interaction was a lively exchange of ideas and worldviews. The dialogue was direct and challenging, yet handled with respect, cordiality (and sometimes humor!). The panelists also responded to several questions from the audience -- attendees in the auditorium as well as listeners at universities and through the Internet. At the close of the evening, Dr. Zacharias tied everything together with a five-minute presentation of the gospel, the Cross and God's love and forgiveness. In addition to the 1800 attendees to the forum, a satellite link to 100 colleges and universities in the U.S. and Canada allowed approximately 30,000 students to view it along with thousands around the world via a live link over the Internet." -- Publisher

    See also: The sovereignty of god, The doctrine of man (human nature, total depravity), The attributes of god, Soteriology, atonement, Job, Theodicy, The proximity of good and evil, The promises of Christ, Bible promises, Comfort, encouragement, Prayer, Persecution, Temptation, Bad relationships a cause of disease and death, Prayer, The covenant faithfulness of god, Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, Affliction (women), Justice, judgment, god's final judgment, the great white throne judgment, the day of the lord, Temptation, Worry, Conscience, casuistry, cases of conscience, Christian history, Comfort, Death, The free offer of the gospel message of salvation and the life to come: the means of grace, the covenant of eternal salvation, Book-length presentations of the Gospel message of salvation and of the life to come, the means of grace, Grief, Hope, Persecution, Pseudo-christian movements: a selection of works, Sickness, Aged, Affliction (women), Christian history, Comfort, Death, How to become a christian, Resentment and bitterness, Anger, Emotions and health, Forgiveness of sin, Marriage, Stress, Fear, anxiety, Reconciliation of relationships, Resentment, Worry, and so forth, and so on.
    TCRB5: 489-499, 669, 970, 787, 1071, 1934, 1938, 1948, 2149, 2714, 2879, 2902, 3506, 3872, 3873, 4179
    MGTP: Trials

    Related Weblinks

    Comfort for Afflicted (FGB)
    Beloved, and yet Afflicted | Cheer up, my Comrades! | The Great Giver | Tried by Fire | On Consolation and the Bible
    https://www.chapellibrary.org/book/cftafg/comfort-for-afflicted

    Comfort for Suffering Saints! Jerome Zanchius, (1516-1590)
    And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose. For those whom He foreknew, He also predestined to become conformed to the image of His Son! (Romans 8:28-29)
    "The sovereignty of God is a comfort for suffering saints, acting to remove anxiety. How sweet must the following considerations be to a distressed believer!

    1. There most certainly exists an almighty, all-wise and infinitely gracious God (Hebrews 11:6).
    2. His love for His elect people is immutable; He never repents of it nor withdraws it (Jeremiah 31:3).
    3. Whatever comes to pass in time, is the result of His sovereign will from everlasting (1 Corinthians 8:6).
    4. Consequently my afflictions are a part of His sovereign will, and are all ordered in number, weight, and measure (Psalm 22:24).
    5. The very hairs of my head (every one) are counted by Him; nor can a single hair fall to the ground but in consequence of His wise determination (Luke 12:7).
    6. Hence my afflictions and distresses are not the result of chance, accident, or a fortuitous combination of circumstances (Psalm 56:8).
    7. They are the providential accomplishment of God's eternal purpose (Romans 8:28), and are designed to answer some wise and gracious ends (James 5:10-11).
    8. Nor shall my affliction continue a moment longer than God sees fit (2 Corinthians 7:6-7).
    9. He who brought the affliction to me has promised to support me under it and to carry me through it (Psalm 34:15-17).
    10. All shall, most assuredly, work together for His glory and my good.
    11. Therefore, "Shall I not drink from the cup of suffering the Father has given me?" (John 18:11).
    "However keenly afflictions might wound us on their first access -- yet, under the impression of such animating views, we should quickly come to ourselves again, and the arrows of affliction, would, in great measure lose their sharpness.
    "Christians need nothing but absolute resignation to God's wise and gracious Providence, to render them perfectly happy in every possible circumstance. And absolute resignation can only flow from an absolute belief of, and an absolute acquiescence in, God's absolute Providence, founded on His absolute predestination (1 Thessalonians 1:2-4).
    https://www.monergism.com/comfort-suffering-saints

    Comfort in Affliction (FGB #217)
    Beloved, and yet Afflicted | Cheer up, my Dear Friends | The Great Giver | Tried by Fire | Good Comes Through Affliction | Christ, the Fountain of Comfort | Comfort for Suffering Saints | Thoughts on Affliction | The Bible and Consolation
    https://www.chapellibrary.org/book/ciaffg/comfort-in-affliction

    The Consolation of the Sick
    http://www.iclnet.org/pub/resources/text/ipb-e/epl-05/consolat.txt

    Eternal God is the Beginning and the end at Once
    "Did you know that, as you face struggles today, not only does God have a glorious outcome in mind, but He is currently present at what is to you the future resolution of your problems? Your life comes to you moment by moment, and it slips away from you similarly. But God's being is entirely different from ours so that He is immutably and entirely present everywhere and at every moment of human eternity at once."
    https://rickthomas.net/eternal-god-is-the-beginning-and-the-end-at-once/

    Is There Meaning in Evil and Suffering? Ravi Zacharias
    "Ravi debates the difficult question, 'Is There Meaning in Evil and Suffering' at the Faith and Science Lecture Forum. Ravi's address is followed by a rebuttal from three panelists: Dr. Bernard Leikind, a plasma physicist, senior editor at Skeptic Magazine and a renowned atheist; Dr. Jitendra Mohanty, one of India's most noted Hindu philosophers and a distinguished professor at Emory University in Atlanta; and William Lane Craig, a noted author, Christian philosopher and apologist. After the rebuttals and Ravi's response, the audience asks questions."
    https://www.christianbook.com/is-there-meaning-in-evil-suffering/ravi-zacharias/pd/DA20808-CP?event=ESRCG

    The Mirror of Evil, an essay by Eleonore Stump
    "Eleonore Stump is The Robert J. Henle Professor of Philosophy at Saint Louis University, where she has taught since 1992. She received a Ph.D. in medieval studies and medieval philosophy from Cornell University in 1975." Caveat: Saint Louis University is a Jesuit school. See her curriculum vitae.
    The essay comes from WANDERING IN DARKNESS: NARRATIVE AND THE PROBLEM OF SUFFERING.
    http://www2.sunysuffolk.edu/fellenm/Handouts_files/215/Stump.pdf

    Seven Tips to Help Your Friends who are Suffering, Rick Thomas
    https://rickthomas.net/seven-tips-to-help-your-friends-who-are-going-through-suffering/

    Suffering (FGB #158)
    Suffering and Consolation | The Sweet Uses of Adversity | Sufferings Compensated | The Problem of a Suffering Christian | Glorifying God in the Fire | The Road to True Health, Wealth and Prosperity | Affliction Sanctified | Sufferings Compensated, Pink, A.W. | Suffering Glorifying God in the Fire, Whitefield, George
    https://www.chapellibrary.org/book/sufffg/suffering



    Adultery

    See the Theological Notes: "The Image of God," at Genesis 1:27 in The Reformation Study Bible.
    So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them. (Genesis 1:27)

    Marriage is honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge. (Hebrews 13:4)

    Ultimately the Seventh Commandment (Exodus 20:14), is about our fidelity to Christ. (Hosea 2:19-20; 1 Corinthians 6:15-20; James 4:4)
    To fracture the Seventh Commandment is to break covenant with the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.
    The sexual revolution is really a revolution against God. (Numbers 25:1-3, 29; Joshua 22:17; Psalm 106:30,31)
    See: Engelsma, Marriage, the Mystery of Christ and the Church.

    For this cause shall a man leave father and mother, and shall cleave to his wife: and they twain shall be one flesh? Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 19:5-6)
    John Gill commenting on Matthew 19:6
    http://www.biblestudytools.com/my-bible/#/left:passage/kjv/matthew/19:6/&right:reference/commentaries/gills-exposition-of-the-bible/matthew-19-6.html

    Q. 137. Which is the seventh commandment?
    A. The seventh commandment is, Thou shalt not commit adultery.[766]
    Q. 138. What are the duties required in the seventh commandment?
    A. The duties required in the seventh commandment are, chastity in body, mind, affections,[767] words,[768] and behavior;[769] and the preservation of it in ourselves and others;[770] watchfulness over the eyes and all the senses;[771] temperance,[772] keeping of chaste company,[773] modesty in apparel;[774] marriage by those that have not the gift of continency,[775] conjugal love,[776] and cohabitation;[777] diligent labor in our callings;[778] shunning all occasions of uncleanness, and resisting temptations thereunto.[779]
    Q. 139. What are the sins forbidden in the seventh commandment?
    A. The sins forbidden in the seventh commandment, besides the neglect of the duties required,[780] are, adultery, fornication,[781] rape, incest,[782] sodomy, and all unnatural lusts;[783] all unclean imaginations, thoughts, purposes, and affections;[784] all corrupt or filthy communications, or listening thereunto;[785] wanton looks,[786] impudent or light behaviour, immodest apparel;[787] prohibiting of lawful,[788] and dispensing with unlawful marriages;[789] allowing, tolerating, keeping of stews, and resorting to them;[790] entangling vows of single life,[791] undue delay of marriage,[792] having more wives or husbands than one at the same time;[793] unjust divorce,[794] or desertion;[795] idleness, gluttony, drunkenness,[796] unchaste company;[797] lascivious songs, books, pictures, dancings, stage plays;[798] and all other provocations to, or acts of uncleanness, either in ourselves or others.[799] -- The Larger Catechism

    Know ye not that your bodies are the members of Christ? shall I then take the members of Christ, and make them the members of an harlot? God forbid. What? know ye not that he which is joined to an harlot is one body? for two, saith he, shall be one flesh. But he that is joined unto the Lord is one spirit. Flee fornication. Every sin that a man doeth is without the body; but he that committeth fornication sinneth against his own body. What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's. (1 Corinthians 6:15-20)

    The sexual revolution that began in earnest five decades ago with promises of new and liberating sexual freedoms has instead left behind a shattered moral landscape that has undermined the fabric and foundation of our nation. Casting off what was perceived as the puritanical restraints of previous generations, the '60s and '70s launched a new era of sexual experimentation. The revolution, publicly inaugurated by 1967's Summer of Love in San Francisco's Haight-Ashbury district, promised an enlightened age of sexual morality. . . .
    Fifty years later, we can see that the results have been catastrophic.
    In many respects the American family is completely unrecognizable, courtesy of a failed sexual revolution that has left a devastating wake of destruction.
    In certain segments of American culture, more than 70 percent of children are born to single parents and remain in single-parent households. Nationally, more than one in four children today live in households with only one parent. Demographers predict that by age 18, nearly 50 percent of all children will have lived with just a mom or dad.
    Nearly half of all marriages end in divorce, and couples who cohabitate before marriage are even more likely to split. . . .
    The freedoms promised by the sexual revolution have instead given way to ever-increasing slavery and captivity to sin. The attempt to cast off moral restraint has only opened wide the devil's destructive, deadly toolbox. For whatever overcomes a person, to that he is enslaved (2 Peter 2:19). . . .
    The Scripture is clear: But sexual immorality and all impurity or covetousness must not even be named among you. . . . For you may be sure of this, that everyone who is sexually immoral or impure, or who is covetous . . . has no inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God (Ephesians 5:3,5). . . .
    Our culture, like ancient cultures that ultimately were destroyed in large part due to their own moral depravity, has been severely weakened. A stable family unit committed to the truth and precepts of the Bible was once the foundation and backbone of our nation. That model is now the exception, not the rule. . . .
    The only answer I know for any society in any era is the strong word of the Lord to the church in Thyatira who, though faithful in some ways, apparently tolerated sexual permissiveness that spread through the church: I gave her time to repent, but she refuses to repent of her sexual immorality (Revelation 2:21).
    There is still time to repent. That is why Jesus is delaying His return, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance (2 Peter 3:9). . . . -- Franklin Graham in Franklin Graham on the Plague of Immorality

    I made a covenant with mine eyes; why then should I think upon a maid? (Job 31:1)

    All the great fundamentals of Christian truth centre in this of justification. The trinity of persons in the Godhead; the incarnation of the only begotten of the Father; the satisfaction aid to the law and justice of God, for the sins of the world, by his obedience and sacrifice of himself in that flesh he assumed; and the divine authority of the Scriptures which reveal all this: these are all straight lines of truth that centre in this doctrine of justification of a sinner by the imputation and application of that satisfaction. There can be no justification without a righteousness; no righteousness can suffice but that which answers fully and perfectly the holy law of God; no such righteousness can be performed, but by a divine person; no benefit can accrue to a sinner unless it is in some way his, and applied to him; no application can be made of this but by faith in Jesus Christ. -- Robert Traill, from Justification Vindicated, first quoted by Puritanical

    See the Theological Notes: "Justification and Merit," at Galatians 3:11 in The Reformation Study Bible.

    Westminster Confession of Faith (1646), With Scripture Proofs
    See specifically Chapter XI: Of Justification.
    http://www.reformed.org/documents/wcf_with_proofs/

    Fully understanding the Doctrine of Justification can redeem a relationship broken by sexual sin.
    It is a clear understanding of the Doctrine of Justification that enables us to repair broken relationships, both with God and with man. Repentance and forgiveness bridges the gap between man and God. It enables man and wife to reconcile their broken relationships, and to live together in harmony. It enables individuals to repair relationships broken by sin and to live and work together in unity in society.

    She said, No man, Lord. And Jesus said unto her, Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (John 8:11)

    There is none greater in this house than I; neither hath he kept back any thing from me but thee, because thou art his wife: how then can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God? (Genesis 39:9)

    Then stood up Phinehas, and executed judgment: and so the plague was stayed.
    And that was counted unto him for righteousness unto all generations for evermore.     (Psalm 106:30,31)

    Therefore was the wrath of the LORD kindled against his people, in so much that he abhorred his own inheritance.
    And he gave them into the hands of the heathen; and they that hated them ruled over them.
    Their enemies also oppressed them, and they were brought into subjection under their hand.     (Psalm 106:40-42)

    Saul, by casting an amorous eye upon Agag, lost his crown and kingdom; Samson, by dallying with his Delilah, lost his strength, sight, light, liberty, and life. But what are the losses of spiritual strength, to thy loss of communion with God, to the loss of the Spirit of light, life, liberty, and glory; to thy loss of joy unspeakable, and peace that passeth understanding? -- Thomas Brooks (1608-1680)

    Adultery is a sin against the human spirit and spiritual life which produces traumatic results. It is also a sin against the family, which is the basic unit of society. It is the breaking of our conjugal vows, "Forsaking all others, I choose thee." It is a sin against our children. One of the most flagrant causes of divorce, adultery has produced millions of children who have grown up without a father and a mother in the home, and has created enormous problems in the lives of these children. Adultery and its consequent evils are sins against the nation and society. . . . -- D. James Kennedy and Jerry Newcombe, What if Jesus had Never Been Born, p. 135

    It is shocking how often sexual immorality leads to death.

    "In the Mosaic Law, adultery is a capital offense; but, as Derek Kidner has reminded us, 'death' in Proverbs also means missing true life even before physical death catches up with us. It is a realm with many victims on both sides of the grave."

    Scripture associates whoredom with spiritual adultery, the entertaining of unholy spirits. Law enforcement often see a connection between drugs, the occult, and sexual sin. Cults often practice sexual sins.

    Redbook magazine conducted a survey concerning sex in modern "liberated" America [Susan Sadd and Carol Tavris, The Redbook Report on Female Sexuality (New York, NY: Delacorte, 1977), pp. 97-106]. . . .
    What did the survey reveal? Even more astounding than the number of women that replied [100,000] were the results. They discovered that women who were sexually liberated -- the feminists, the free modern women -- were the most dissatisfied kind of person sexually. The only person less satisfied was the nymphomaniac (who most men think is just the most sexual kind of woman), who is so sexually frustrated that she runs from here to there and back and forth everywhere trying to find some satisfaction, which, alas, she never finds.
    But the more religious women indicated that they had more sexual satisfaction in their lives. The most religious category (women were to judge how much a part religion played in their lives -- i.e., whether they were most religious, more religious, least religious), whom the average enlightened American male has been told by the devil are sexually repressed, were the most orgasmic women in the country. And that turns the whole lot right on its head. -- D. James Kennedy and Jerry Newcombe, What if Jesus had Never Been Born, p. 139

    See the Theological Notes: "Marriage and Divorce," at Malachi 2:16 in The Reformation Study Bible.
    For the LORD, the God of Israel, saith that he hateth putting away: for one covereth violence with his garment, saith the LORD of hosts: therefore take heed to your spirit, that ye deal not treacherously. (Malachi 2:16).

    The Treasury of David, Psalm 106, commentary by C.H. Spurgeon
    Our fathers understood not thy wonders in Egypt. (v. 7)
    Nevertheless he saved them for his name's sake, that he might make his mighty power to be known. (v. 8)
    And he saved them from the hand of them that hated them. (v. 10)
    They soon forgat his works. (v. 13)
    And he gave them their request; but sent leanness into their soul. (v. 15)
    They made a calf in Horeb, and worshipped the molten image. (v. 19)
    Thus they changed their glory into the similitude of an ox that eateth grass. (v. 20)
    They forgat God their saviour. (v. 21)
    Thus they provoked him to anger with their inventions: and the plague brake in upon them. (v. 29)
    Then stood up Phinehas, and executed judgment: and so the plague was stayed. (v. 30)
    And that was counted unto him for righteousness unto all generations for evermore. (v. 31)
    They did not destroy the nations, concerning whom the LORD commanded them. (v. 34)
    But were mingled among the heathen, and learned their works. (v. 35)
    Yea, they sacrificed their sons and their daughters unto devils. (v. 37)
    Thus were they defiled with their own works, and went a whoring with their own inventions. (v. 39)
    Therefore was the wrath of the LORD kindled against his people, in so much that he abhorred his own inheritance. (v. 40)
    And he gave them into the hands of the heathen; and they that hated them ruled over them. (v. 41)
    Their enemies also oppressed them, and they were brought into subjection under their hand. (v. 42)
    Many times did he deliver them; but they provoked him with their counsel, and were brought low for their iniquity. (v. 43)
    Nevertheless he regarded their affliction, when he heard their cry. (v. 44)
    And he remembered for them his covenant. (v. 45)
    Save us, O Lord our God, and gather us from among the heathen, to give thanks unto thy holy name, and to triumph in thy praise. (v. 47)
    Blessed be the Lord God of Israel from everlasting to everlasting: and let all the people say, Amen. Praise ye the Lord. (v. 48)
    http://archive.spurgeon.org/treasury/ps106.php

    Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), The Practical Encyclopedia of Christian Counseling.
    See the subject "Adultery," "Marriage," "Justification," "Forgiveness," "Reconciliation," "Divorce," and so forth, and so on.

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

    Bobgan, Martin, and Deidre Bobgan, 12 Steps to Destruction: Codependency Recovery Heresies, ISBN: 0941717054 9780941717052, 247 pages.
    "The people labeled 'codependent' have serious problems and need help. 'However, we question the diagnoses, answers, formulas and systems that are being offered in the name of help, in the name of love, and even in the name of Christ. Beneath many programs that purport to be Christian lurk ideas, philosophies, psychologies, and religious notions that are antithetical to biblical Christianity.' Extensive criticism of 12 Step programs." -- David Powlison

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

    Johnson, Vernon E., I'll Quit Tomorrow: A Practical Guide to Alcoholism Treatment, ISBN: 0062504339 9780062504333.
    "Johnson has provided a manual for the understanding, intervention, and treatment of alcoholism and other mood-changing chemical dependencies in a clear, logical, and readable format; yet he has somehow managed to convey considerable psychological sophistication and scope. Accordingly, this is probably the best book of its kind for layman, paraprofessional, and professional alike." -- Addictions
    Johnson is founder and president emeritus of the Johnson Institute in Minneapolis that offers one of the country's most successful training programs for treatment of alcoholism.

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

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

    Petersen, J. Allan, The Myth of the Greener Grass, ISBN: 1565071859 9781565071858, 251 pages.
    "The Almys are medical doctors who have written a polemic against the pop psychologies that have recently swept into the church. Through a series of detailed case studies, they portray the dynamics operative in therapeutically-induced false memories, the healing of memories, multiple personality disorder, unmet love needs, and codependency." -- David Powlison

    See also: The sovereignty of god, The doctrine of man (human nature, total depravity), The inspiration and infallibility of scripture (the doctrine of revelation, the doctrine of plenary inspiration, the doctrine of divine inspiration, the doctrine of verbal inspiration, theopneustia, sufficiency of scripture), Repentance the key to salvation and change, Justice, the theology of judgment, god's final judgment, the great white throne judgment, the day of the lord, Sexual relationship, Gratuitous sex, a cause of violence, Spiritual adultery (spiritual whoredom/harlotry), Rebellion and lawlessness: wickedness, demonic possession, abnormal behavior, insanity, mental illness, mental retardation, Conscience, casuistry, cases of conscience, Physiological problems, Case studies, Abuse, Child abuse and pedophilia, Pornography, Gratuitous sex, a cause of violence, Hostility and violence, Prostitution, Adultery, Incest, Homosexuality, lesbianism, gay, bisexual, transvestite, queer (lgbtq), Rape, Crisis counseling, Pride, ambition, self-aggrandizement, arrogance, ego, Jealousy, Envy, Pseudo-christian movements: a selection of works, Alcoholics Anonymous and Other 12 Step Recovery Programs, Appendix c: psychology and psychiatry, Case studies, and so forth, and so on.
    TCRB5: 3571-3573

    Related Weblinks

    Brain, Mind and Body in Healing From Trauma, The People's Pharmacy Radio Program, show 980, February 7, 2015.
    "To help people heal from trauma, the best approaches find ways to reconnect brain and body with a feeling of safety. . . .
    "We often associate the term 'Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder' with military veterans. Indeed, war creates many traumatic experiences, but it is not the only source of reactions that may cause people to shut down or blow up. Car, train or plane crashes, a life-threatening illness episode, family violence, or other events can create a dysfunctional reaction that may be largely out of conscious awareness.
    "Treating PTSD
    "One of the world's leading experts on PTSD explains how such reactions are rooted in the body's response to threat, and how it can be successfully treated. . . .
    "Dr. van der Kolk is co-director of the Complex Trauma Treatment Network of the National Child Traumatic Stress Network, established by Congress to raise the standard of care and improve access to services for traumatized children, their families and communities. His website is http://www.BesselvanderKolk.com
    "His book is THE BODY KEEPS THE SCORE: BRAIN, MIND AND BODY IN THE HEALING OF TRAUMA (2014)."
    http://www.peoplespharmacy.com/2015/02/04/show-980-brain-mind-and-body-in-healing-from-trauma/

    Reconciliation of Relationships
    http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr2chb.html#reconorel
    The most important relationship is, of course, vertical, between the individual and God.
    The second most important relationship is horizontal, between the individual and society.
    How the individual handles these relationships determines the outcome of their life, both temporal and eternal, and is interrelated with all other spheres of life. Learn more about these interrelationships at the following website.
    Repentance the key to Salvation and Change
    http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr2cha.html#rtktsac
    Justification
    http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr6ch.html#jstfctn
    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: Body of Divinity Contained in Sermons Upon the Assembly's Catechism by the Rev. Thomas Watson (1620-1686)
    http://www.shortercatechism.com/resources/vincent/wsc_vi_001.html?page_id=205
    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



    Anger

    He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city. (Proverbs 16:32)

    A fool's wrath is presently known: but a prudent man covereth shame. (Proverbs 12:16)

    A wrathful man stirreth up strife: but he that is slow to anger appeaseth strife. (Proverbs 15:18)

    Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath: neither give place to the devil. (Ephesians 4:26,37)

    Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath. (James 1:19,20)

    Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, sayeth the Lord. (Romans 12:19)

    And the LORD said unto Satan, The LORD rebuke thee, O Satan; even the LORD that hath chosen Jerusalem rebuke thee: is not this a brand plucked out of the fire? (Zechariah 3:2)
    The correct response then, to those who provoke us to anger by their brazen, arrogant, impudent, wicked acts, is to immediately remember that the Lord will deal with them (Jude 9, Nahum [God governs all of history according to his covenant], Calvin's commentary on Isaiah 33 and 34, and so forth and so on -- compiler), and we must not be overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good. (Romans 12:21)

    Yet Michael the archangel, when contending with the devil he disputed about the body of Moses, durst not bring against him a railing accusation, but said The Lord rebuke thee. (Jude 9)

    Bless them which persecute you: bless, and curse not. Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep. Be of the same mind one toward another. Mind not high things, but condescend to men of low estate. Be not wise in your own conceits. Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men. If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men. Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord. Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head. Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good. (Romans 12:14-21)

    It is the great duty of all Christians to put off anger. It unfits for duty . . . a man cannot wrestle with God and wrangle with his neighbour at the same time. Short sins often cost us long and sad sorrows. -- Philip Henry

    When you are prompted to revenge, when hot anger starts, bridle the steed at once, and let it not dash forward with you headlong. Remember, anger is temporary insanity. Forgive as you hope to be forgiven. Heap coals of fire on the head of your foe by your kindness to him. Good for evil. -- C.H. Spurgeon (1834-1892)

    Let us never forget that our chief danger is from WITHIN. The world and the devil combined, cannot do as much harm as our OWN hearts can, if we do not watch and pray. -- J.C. Ryle (1816-1900)

    Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), Handling Anger God's Way; Dealing With Depression (Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation).
    Audio cassette JA105 [audio file].

    Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), The Practical Encyclopedia of Christian Counseling.
    See the subjects "Anger," "Rage," "Aggravation," and so forth, and so on.

    Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), What do You do When Anger Gets the Upper Hand? Alternate title: YOU CAN DEFEAT ANGER, 8 pages.
    " 'Anger, like a good horse, must be bridled.' Uncontrolled temper is a sin. You can learn to release the energies of anger productively and under control to solve problems." -- David Powlison

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

    Mack, Wayne A., Anger and Stress Management God's way: A Biblical Perspective on how to Overcome Anger and Stress Before They Destroy you and Others, ISBN: 1879737566 9781879737563.
    "Dr. Wayne Mack, one of the most well-known and trusted Christian counselors, puts his years of experience and Bible knowledge to work for you in this book. He tells you not just how to handle anger, but the root causes of anger. By doing this, Dr. Mack helps you to better understand why your reactions to stress, and its accompanying anger, are usually the result of not getting what we think we need. He then goes on to explain how to restructure your thinking to make your reaction more Christlike." -- Publisher

    *Miller, Wendell E. Forgiveness: The Power and the Puzzles, ISBN: 0964144115 9780964144118.
    "Defines God's forgiveness in four ways: (1) initial forgiveness releases us from the penalty of sin and (2) restores us to fellowship with God, and (3) repetitive forgiveness releases us from the day by day penalty for fresh sins, and (4) restores us day by day to fellowship. Defines our forgiveness of others in two ways: (1) vertical forgiveness between us and God (Mark 11:25) releases others from the penalty of our wrath, and (2) horizontal forgiveness (Luke 17:3), restores the relationship between us and others who repent. Discusses flaws in such ideas as 'forgiving God' and 'forgiving oneself'." -- David Powlison
    "It could have been called "The Anger Handbook" because it teaches how to overcome problems of hurt feelings, anger, and aggressive behavior. Overcoming problems of anger is crucial. Spouse abuse, failures in marriages, failures in child rearing, and even child abuse often erupt from anger. Parents who model angry behavior are likely to raise children with anger problems. And most importantly, God is not glorified by Christians who have anger problems.
    "It teaches the kind of forgiveness that is nearly always an absolute necessity to becoming really free from the trauma of sexual abuse. . . .
    "FORGIVENESS: THE POWER AND THE PUZZLES will add biblical power to the books that you already have on Christian living, discipleship, marriage, child rearing, anger, communications, forgiveness, and sexual abuse." -- Publisher

    Powlison, David (1949-2019), Anger: Escaping the Maze, ISBN: 0875526810 9780875526812, 28 pages.

    Webster, William, A Casuistical Essay on Anger and Forgiveness; Wherein the practice of duelling, and some defects in our laws, with regard to the punishment of crimes, are consider'd; . . . In three dialogues between a gentleman and a clergyman. London, 1750.

    See also: The sovereign grace of god: his everlasting mercy and lovingkindness, The doctrine of man (human nature, total depravity), Bad relationships a cause of disease and death, Covetousness, greed, and selfishness, Prayer, Repentance the key to salvation and change, Justice, judgment, god's final judgment, the great white throne judgment, Bitterness and resentment, Hostility and violence, Forgiveness of sin, Reconciliation of relationships, Unforgiveness, Conscience, casuistry, cases of conscience, Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, Sexual relationship, Spiritual adultery (spiritual whoredom/harlotry), Jealousy, The promises of Christ, Bible promises, Emotions and health, Hypocrisy, Pseudo-christian movements: a selection of works, Protecting children from dangers, Works by and for women, trials, Divorce, Emotions and health, Marriage, Parenting, Child abuse and pedophilia, and so forth, and so on.
    TCRB5: 2539, 2914, 3131, 3132, 3953, 3955-3959, 4133
    MGTP: Anger, Self-Control

    Related Weblinks

    12 Tips to Help a Person who is Angry With Someone, Rick Thomas
    "Anger is one of our most common temptations. You cannot put two imperfect people together for an extended period and expect them not to have conflict. Anger will always be a recurring feature of their relationship. Knowing how to navigate the conflict while removing the anger is essential. These twelve tips will help anyone work through their relational dust-up. Hopefully, these ideas will be part of their sin plan, assisting in anger removal."
    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1A8-1NBF4no

    Angry Outbursts Harm the Heart, May 16, 2013
    "Research has suggested that hostility and anger increase the risk for heart disease. A new study published in the American Journal of Cardiology confirms that losing your temper could trigger a heart attack."
    http://www.peoplespharmacy.com/2013/05/16/angry-outbursts-harm-the-heart/

    Angry People 'Risking Heart Attacks,' Michelle Roberts
    "In the two hours immediately after an angry outburst, risk of a heart attack increased nearly five-fold, and risk of stroke increased more than three-fold, the data from nine studies and involving thousands of people suggests."
    http://www.bbc.com/news/health-26416153

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

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

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

    Self-pity a Window Into the Soul, Rick Thomas
    "Whenever the self-pitying person goes into 'self-pity mode,' where they do not experience joy and contentment, they are communicating a sense of entitlement. 'I deserve something; I am angry and will not be satisfied until I get the thing I crave.' It is not the trial that is robbing them of joy. Idolatry has chased their happiness away. They cannot be joy-filled and angry at the same time. Self-pity is a form of anger. The raw truth that their soul is expressing is, 'I am mad because I am not getting what I deserve'."
    https://rickthomas.net/self-pity-a-window-into-the-soul/

    Stressful Relationships may Raise Risk of Death, Shereen Jegtvig, May 26, 2014
    "Conflicts, especially, were associated with higher mortality risk regardless of whom was the source of the conflict," the authors write. 'Worries and demands were only associated with mortality risk if they were related to partner or children. . . .'
    "People who always or often experienced worries or demands because of their partners had double the risk of dying compared to those who seldom had those experiences."
    http://www.reuters.com/article/2014/05/26/us-relationships-stress-death-idUSKBN0E61PD20140526



    Apathy, Indifference

    First, you will arouse them out of apathy. This age is more indifferent to true religion than almost any other. It is alive enough to error, but to the old faith it turns a deaf ear. Yet I have noticed persons captivated by the truth of substitution who would not listen to anything else. If any discourse can hold men, as the ancient mariner detained the wedding guest, it is the story of divine love, incarnate in the person of Jesus, bleeding and dying for guilty men. Try that story when attention flags. It has a fascination about it. The marvellous history of the Son of God, who loved his enemies, and died for them-this will arrest them. The history of the Holy One who stood in the sinners' place, and was in consequence put to shame, and agony, and death-this will touch them. The sight of the bleeding Saviour overcomes obduracy and carelessness. -- C.H. Spurgeon in a sermon, The Blood of the Lamb, the Conquering Weapon

    Before temporizers can justify themselves, in their silence, they must shew, that neither sin nor misery is concerned with civil things -- that those sacred instructions, tendered to nations and their rulers, belong not to them to expound -- that they may be erased, from the pages where they are inscribed -- that those pages which contain them, may be torn from the volume of God's book, and be consigned to oblivion, and finally -- that men in their national capacity are unconnected with the moral empire of Jehovah. Unless these things be established, the silence of those who occupy the place of ministers of Jesus, when they see his laws violated, and his authority despised, must be accounted a base shrinking from duty and a betraying of the Redeemer's cause." -- Gilbert McMaster (1778-1854), Duty of Nations

    This blood overcomes the natural lethargy of men towards obedience; it stimulates them to holiness. If anything can make a man holy, it is a firm faith in the atoning sacrifice. When a man knows that Jesus died for him, he feels that he is not his own, but bought with a price, and therefore he must live unto him that died for him and rose again. In the atonement I see a motive equal to the greatest heroism; yes, a motive which will stimulate to perfect holiness. What manner of persons ought we to be for whom such a sacrifice has been presented! Now are we quickened into intensity of zeal and devotion. See, dear brothers, how to use the blood of the Lamb in this lower sphere while contending with evil among men. -- C.H. Spurgeon in a sermon, The Blood of the Lamb, the Conquering Weapon

    Baxter, Richard (1615-1691), Making Light of Christ and Salvation, Too oft the Issue of Gospel Invitations. In THE PRACTICAL WORKS OF RICHARD BAXTER: WITH A PREFACE, GIVING SOME ACCOUNT OF THE AUTHOR, AND OF THIS EDITION OF HIS PRACTICAL WORKS, 4 volumes (4:808-818). Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.

    Knox, John (1505-1572), Against Apostasy and Indifference. Alternate title: AN EPISTLE TO THE INHABITANTS OF NEW CASTLE AND BERWICK, 1558. In John Knox and David Laing, WORKS OF JOHN KNOX. Available (WORKS OF JOHN KNOX), on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #19.
    "Formerly titled AN EPISTLE TO THE INHABITANTS OF NEW CASTLE AND BERWICK, 1558, one subheading reads; 'John Knox to the Inhabitants of Newcastle and Berwick, and Unto All Others, Who Sometime in the Realm of England Professed Christ Jesus, and Now Be Returned to the Bondage of Idolatry, Wishes True and Earnest Repentance By the Power and Operation of That Same Spirit Who Called From Death Jesus, the Only Pastor of Our Souls.' Written to stem the tide of backsliding and compromise during the dark days of Mary's reign in England, Knox sends a pastoral exhortation of repentance to those who had reverted to idolatrous worship. Grieving, he says that he was 'wounded almost to death' over these developments. Nevertheless he remained faithful to his readers, directing them to consider the great reward awaiting those who persevere and noting 'how horrible are the torments which the slaves of Satan (I mean idolaters, and such as for fear refuse the known truth), shall suffer with the Devil, and with his angels, without end.' Herein we see the serious nature of idolatry and of turning away from truth once attained." -- Publisher

    Payson, Edward, The Guilt of Indifference to Divine Threatenings. In THE COMPLETE WORKS OF EDWARD PAYSON, 3 volumes (2:444-55).

    See also: The free offer of the gospel message of salvation and the life to come: the means of grace, the covenant of eternal salvation, How to become a christian, Book-length presentations of the free offer of the gospel message of salvation and the life to come: the means of grace, The covenant faithfulness of god, Laziness, slothfulness, idleness, indolence, slackness, sluggishness/sluggard, Justifying faith, Sanctification, Hope, The sovereign grace of god: his everlasting mercy and lovingkindness, Soteriology, The Blood of Christ, The covenant faithfulness of god, Apologetics, Covenant theology and the ordinance of covenanting, The doctrine of man (human nature, total depravity), Fatalism, Deceit, self-deception, lying, false witness, Depression, A theological interpretation of american history, and so forth, and so on.
    TCRB5: 1083

    Related Weblinks

    The Westminster Confession of Faith (1646), (The Westminster Standards), and Related Works: A Study Guide
    http://www.lettermen2.com/suggest.html



    Assurance and Perseverance of the Saints

    Assurance and Perseverance of the Saints
    http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr2cha.html#aapots



    Atheism

    Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation; and a house divided against a house falleth. If Satan also be divided against himself, how shall his kingdom stand? -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 11:17b,18a)

    See the Theological Notes: "Mankind's Guilty Knowledge of God" at Romans 1:29, and the note at Psalm 14:1 in The Reformation Study Bible.

    And ye will not come to me, that ye might have life. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (John 5:40)

    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)

    The atheist lacks identity, meaning, and purpose in life. (Ecclesiastes 2:14-26)

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

    For the Lord is our Judge, the Lord is our Lawgiver, the Lord is our King; He will save us. (Isaiah 33:22)
    Isaiah's Prophesy after the Angel of the Lord smote Sennacherib's army for good King Hezekiah.

    The God of my rock; in him will I trust: he is my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my high tower, and my refuge, my saviour; thou savest me from violence. (2 Samuel 22:3)

    The God of Israel said, the Rock of Israel spake to me, He that ruleth over men must be just, ruling in the fear of God. (2 Samuel 23:3)

    And they overcame by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death. (Revelation 12:11)

    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

    The doctrine of the blood of the Lamb prevents or scatters error. I do not think that by reasoning we often confute error to any practical purpose. We may confute it rhetorically and doctrinally, but men still stick to it. But the doctrine of the precious blood, when it once gets into the heart, drives error out of it, and sets up the throne of truth. You cannot be clinging to an atoning sacrifice, and still delight in modern heresies. Those who deny inspiration are sure to get rid of the vicarious atonement, because it will not allow their errors. Let us go on proclaiming the doctrine of the great sacrifice, and this will kill the vipers of heresy. Let us uplift the cross, and never mind what other people say. Perhaps we have taken too much notice of them already. Let the dogs bark, it is their nature to. Go on preaching Christ crucified. God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of the Lord Jesus Christ! -- C.H. Spurgeon in a sermon, The Blood of the Lamb, the Conquering Weapon.

    Much zeal is shown for the freedom of man's will; little jealousy seems to be left for the freedom of God's will. Men insist that it is unjust and tyrannical in God to control their wills, yet see nothing unjust, nothing proud, nothing Satanic in attempting to fetter and direct the will of God. Man, it seems, cannot have his own foolish will gratified, unless the all-wise God will consent to relinquish His! Such are some of the steps in the march of Atheism. Such are the preparations making in these last days by the wily usurper for dethroning the Eternal Jehovah. -- Horatius Bonar (1808-1889), The Reign of Grace, Preface

    If God does not exist, everything is permitted. -- Fyodor Dostoevski (1821-1881)

    One of the peculiar sins of the twentieth century which we've developed to a very high level is the sin of credulity. It has been said that when human beings stop believing in God they believe in nothing. The truth is much worse: they believe in anything. -- Malcolm Muggeridge (1903-1990)

    Sin is a species of atheism, for it is the virtual repudiation of God -- to make of God no God, to set up our wills against His. Who is the LORD, that I should obey His voice? (Exodus 5:2). It is a malignant spirit of independence. . . . it lies at the root of all evil and human depravity. -- Arthur Pink (1886-1952), The Doctrine of Human Depravity

    Selfishness and pride will blind even the gifted and learned to the truth. Lust for power and the will to play God will blind us to the truth. Intense nationalistic pride, political bent, alienation during secular schooling, or personal ambitions blind us to the "evident connection between Absolute Truth, sovereign authority, holiness, life, loving obedience, moral behavior, sanctification, justice, freedom (political, economic, and individual), social stability, and real progress. . . ." -- Preface to Biblical Counsel: Resources for Renewal

    Beisner, E. Calvin, Answers for Atheists: A Dialogue Between a Christian and a Skeptical Inquirer, revised edition, ISBN: 0891077006 9780891077008.
    "In this unusual book, frank dialogues between a non-Christian and his Christian friend move intriguingly from topic to topic, covering such pertinent questions as: Is there a God? How do we know? So, why does evil exist? Why should modern man believe in the Bible rather than evolution or in miracles rather than scientific law? What are the evidences for Christianity? If Christianity is true, why has so much evil been done in its name? Can God really forgive me for what I've done?
    "Calvin Beisner is associate professor of interdisciplinary studies at Covenant College, Lookout Mountain, Georgia, and a ruling elder in the Presbyterian Church in America. -- Publisher

    Berlinski, David, The Devil's Delusion: Atheism and its Scientific Pretensions, ISBN: 9780307396266 0307396266.

    Downes, Stephen, Stephen Downes Guide to the Logical Fallacies.
    "Stephen Downes, an information architect with a background in philosophy, created this site with the aim of identifying, indexing, and describing 'all known logical fallacies.' A logical fallacy can be defined as an error in reasoning in which a conclusion appears to follow from a set of premises but in reality does not. Downes groups the fallacies into thirteen categories, such as Fallacies of Distraction, Inductive Fallacies, and Syllogistic Errors. Each fallacy (over 50 in all), is described with its name, definition, examples of how it might be used in an argument, and how the argument can be proven fallacious. The How to Use this Guide section of the site provides a helpful introduction, and a robust bibliography offers possibilities for further study of logic. In addition, users may register at the site (no fee), to gain access to discussion boards on the topic. The author notes that his Guide "is intended to help you in your own thinking, not to help you demolish someone else's argument." Regardless of how a reader uses the information, however, the site remains an interesting and fun investigation of how logical arguments are constructed." "Lists all known logical fallacies, with definitions, examples, and the steps needed to prove that the fallacy is committed. Site also includes links to logic references and resources."
    Stephen's Guide to Logical Fallacies
    http://www.fallacies.ca/welcome.htm

    Hart, David Bentley, Atheist Delusions: The Christian Revolution and its Fashionable Enemies, ISBN: 9780300111903 0300111908 9780300164299 0300164297.
    "Offers an antidote to the atheists' misrepresentations of the Christian past, bringing into focus the truth about the most radical revolution in Western history. This book outlines how Christianity transformed the ancient world in ways we may have forgotten: bringing liberation from fatalism, and conferring great dignity on human beings." -- Publisher
    "Not only is it a very entertaining and informative read, but a death blow struck against the 'New Atheists' like Richard Dawkins, Bart Ehrmann, Christopher Hitchens, Elaine Pagels, etc. Hart exposes the logical and historical errors pervasive to modern atheism and modernism in general, and reaffirms the heart of Christianity and the new humanity it created." -- Reader's Comment

    Koster, John P., Jr., The Atheist Syndrome, ISBN: 0943497337 9780943497334.
    "Many of the people who founded the modern faith of faithlessness all shared certain common experiences: Nietzsche, Darwin, Hitler, Stalin, Freud, Sartre, Rullell, et al. Koster defines this 'atheist syndrome' and then provides a means of recognizing it in our society today." -- GCB
    "This hard-to-find book is an excellent introduction to social etiology of clinical psychosis and nuerocognitive behavior as they relate to atheism. It is the first work I've seen which convincingly demonstrates a direct causative bridge between an absence of faith in God to recognized symptoms of mental illness such as paranoia, loss of appetite, and bed-wetting. . . .
    "The Atheist Syndrome" is definitely a useful first-year graduate text covering the inherent pitfalls of evolutionary theory and atheistic moral decomposition. Some of the more unique (and interesting), features of the book include a discussion of the impact of modern computer animation on atheism; a handy directory of atheists' homes and phone numbers; and a discussion of prominent modern atheists, ranging from Jacobi to Klismann and even De Llundum. . . ." -- Reader's Comment

    Martin, Walter, "Evil and Human Suffering" (San Juan Capistrano, CA: Christian Research Institute International).
    "Aimed at the atheist or agnostic, discusses the question of suffering and why God permits it."

    *Morey, Robert, The new Atheism and the Erosion of Freedom, ISBN: 0875523625 9780875523620.
    "Exposes the godless suppression of religious freedom today and presents effective ways to convert atheists to Christ. In case you have not noticed atheism/secular humanism is gaining ground. Are you grounded in what these philosophies teach? Can you refute them? Dr. Morey will show you how." -- GCB
    The American Atheist Union has said this is the most dangerous book ever written about religion.
    Includes bibliography.

    Nietzsche, Friedrich Wilhelm (1844-1900), Walter Kaufmann (translator), Beyond Good and Evil: Prelude to a Philosophy of the Future, ISBN: 0585110875 9780585110875.
    "Represents Nietzsche's attempt to sum up his philosophy. In nine parts the book is designed to give the reader a comprehensive idea of Nietzche's thought and style. With an inclusive index of subjects and persons." -- Publisher
    Non-dualism was a basic tenet of the philosophy of Nietzsche. See: The Non-duality of Sri Aurobindo and The Mother: A Profile.

    Rushdoony, R.J. (1916-2001), The Atheism of the Early Church, ISBN: 1879998181 9781879998186. Available through Exodus Books.
    "Early Christians were called 'heretics' and 'atheists' when they denied the gods of Rome, in particular the divinity of the emperor and the statism he embodied in his personality cult. These Christians knew that Jesus Christ, not the state, was their Lord and that this faith required a different kind of relationship to the state than it demanded. Because Jesus Christ was their acknowledged Sovereign, they consciously denied such esteem to all other claimants. Today the church must take a similar stand before the modern state." -- Publisher

    *Spurgeon, C.H. (1834-1892), The Blood of the Lamb, the Conquering Weapon.
    A sermon by C.H. Spurgeon delivered on Lord's-day morning, September 9, 1888, at the Metropolitan Tabernacle, Newington, Sermon no. 2043.
    "This is the way in which you should use this plea. Say, 'My God, I am utterly unworthy, and I own it; but, I beseech thee, hear me for the honour of thy dear Son. By his agony and bloody sweat, by his cross and passion, by his precious death and burial, I beseech thee hear me! O Lord, let the blood of thine Only-begotten prevail with thee! Canst thou put aside his groans, his tears, his death, when they speak on my behalf?' If you can thus come to pleading terms with God upon this ground, you must and will prevail. Jesus must be heard in heaven. The voice of his blood is eloquent with God. If you plead the atoning sacrifice, you must overcome through the blood of the Lamb." -- C.H. Spurgeon in a sermon, The Blood of the Lamb, the Conquering Weapon

    Warfield, Benjamin B. (1851-1921), Calvin's Doctrine of the Knowledge of God. In THE WORKS OF B.B. WARFIELD (5:29-130). Also in CALVIN AND AUGUSTINE. (29-130)

    *Zacharias, Ravi K. (1946-2020), Can man Live Without God? ISBN: 0849911737 9780849911736.
    " 'Apart from God, chaos is the norm; with God, the hungers of the mind and heart find their fulfillment.' So writes Ravi Zacharias in this brilliant and compelling apologetic defense of the Christian faith -- the likes of which we haven't seen since C.S. Lewis. With forceful logic, insightful illustrations, and passionate conviction, he shows how affirming the reality of God' existence matters urgently in our everyday lives.
    "According to Zacharias, who has debated the issue of God's existence in such settings a Harvard and Princeton Universities, how you answer the question of God' existence will have a profound effect on the way you live your life. It can impact your relationship with others, your commitment to integrity, your attitude toward morality, your perception of truth, and your sense of meaning in life -- it can mean the difference between living a life filled with hope or despair. . . ." -- Publisher
    CAN MAN LIVE WITHOUT GOD has sold more copies than any other book by Ravi Zacharias. He has said that it is the book "which touched my life more than anything else." His other works include A SHATTERED VISAGE: THE REAL FACE OF ATHEISM, JESUS AMONG OTHER GODS: THE ABSOLUTE CLAIMS OF THE CHRISTIAN MESSAGE, Martin, Walter R. and Ravi K. Zacharias, THE KINGDOM OF THE CULTS: AN ANALYSIS OF THE MAJOR CULT SYSTEMS IN THE PRESENT CHRISTIAN ERA, CRIES OF THE HEART, and DELIVER US FROM EVIL.
    "In summary, this is a book to read, whether you are a Christian, Moslem, Jew, or atheist, or any other adherent to a belief system. Ravi is a masterful philosopher, an unmatched apologist, a sympathetic and easy-to-understand author, and a humble man. This is definitely one of the classics in its field." -- Reader's Comment

    Zacharias, Ravi K. (1946-2020), The end of Reason: A Response to the new Atheists, ISBN: 9780310295365 031029536X 9780310295372 0310295378 9780310295396 0310295394.
    "Taking on the challenge of the New Atheism head-on, Dr. Ravi Zacharias exposes the utter bankruptcy of the worldview of atheism's newest champion, author Sam Harris. Harris claims God is just an imaginary friend in his bestselling book, LETTER TO A CHRISTIAN NATION. THE END OF REASON is a powerful and passionate reply not only to those who have read the writings of Harris, but to all Christians who have had the foundations of their beliefs decimated. This book dismantles the main arguments by Harris for atheism and answers his call to denounce Christian values. The author focuses on the goodness of God, the real nature of evil, and the foundation of true morality." -- Publisher

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

    *Zacharias, Ravi (1946-2020), The Real Face of Atheism. Alternate title: A SHATTERED VISAGE, THE REAL FACE OF ATHEISM, 0801099382 9780801099380.
    "The author presents a concise apologetic showing the glaring contradictions in this bankrupt worldview. He contrasts the emptiness of atheism with the hope and fulfillment of Christianity, illustrating that atheism is a house divided against itself, destined for collapse. He has lectured in over 40 countries." -- GCB
    "With a new introduction and revisions throughout, THE REAL FACE OF ATHEISM is the perfect text for pastors, students, and thinking laypeople who want to improve their apologetic skill and reach out to non-believers." -- Publisher

    See also: The sovereignty of god, The doctrine of man (human nature, total depravity), The inspiration and infallibility of scripture (the doctrine of revelation, the doctrine of plenary inspiration, the doctrine of divine inspiration, the doctrine of verbal inspiration, theopneustia, sufficiency of scripture), Christian scholarship, The works of john w. robbins, The works of gordon haddon clark, The works of c. gregg singer, Logic based on god's truth, The works of Justice, the theology of judgment, god's final judgment, the great white throne judgment, the day of the lord, Apologetics, Conscience, casuistry, cases of conscience, Christ's kingdom, Lordship of jesus christ, The all-sufficiency of christ, Trusting god, Idolatry, Covenant theology and the ordinance of covenanting, The covenanted reformation of scotland background and history, The covenanted reformation, Covenanted reformation short title listing, Corporate faithfulness and sanctification, The covenant faithfulness of god, Sexual relationship, Spiritual adultery (spiritual whoredom/harlotry), Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, The sovereign grace of god: his everlasting mercy and lovingkindness, Repentance the key to salvation and change, Justifying faith, Evil, the problem of avoiding, eschewing, shunning, Secret societies, ungodly alliances, voluntary associations, Pseudo-christian movements: a selection of works, Unfaithful reformed ministries, Politics, Conspiracy, corruption, organized crime, Individual responsibility for corporate faithfulness and sanctification, The foundation of biblical counsel, Corporate faithfulness and sanctification, and so forth, and so on.
    TCRB5: 1225

    Related Weblinks

    *Is Atheism Dead? Is God Alive? a lecture by Ravi Zacharias at Harvard University (1 of 4)
    "On April 8th, 1966, Time Magazine bore a cover with the question 'Is God Dead?' in bold red text on a black background. Forty years later, many are asking that same question -- and a lot of those aren't just asking if God's dead, they're living like God's dead! Find out why as Ravi Zacharias examines the philosophy of Atheism in today's program.
    http://rzim.org/let-my-people-think-broadcasts/is-atheism-dead-is-god-alive-part-1-of-3/

    Is Atheism Dead? Is God Alive? a lecture by Ravi Zacharias at Harvard University (2 of 4)
    "Do you wonder whether God really exists? Atheists would say that God is dead, but is that true? What does the atheistic train of thought lead to? To answer these questions Ravi Zacharias looks at one of atheism's greatest evangelists: Friedrich Nietzsche as he examines the effects atheism has had on America."
    http://rzim.org/let-my-people-think-broadcasts/is-atheism-dead-is-god-alive-part-2-of-2/

    Is Atheism Dead? Is God Alive? a lecture by Ravi Zacharias at Harvard University (3 of 4)
    "Friedrich Nietzsche has been dead for a long time -- yet his philosophy is still with us. Yesterday Ravi pointed out the influence Nietzsche's work had on leaders such as Hitler, Mussolini, and Stalin. Unfortunately, his rabid atheism has also affected American culture as well. Find out how in part three of Ravi's message." http://rzim.org/let-my-people-think-broadcasts/is-atheism-dead-is-god-alive-part-3-of-4/

    Is Atheism Dead? Is God Alive? a lecture by Ravi Zacharias at Harvard University (4 of 4)
    "Throughout this week we've heard Ravi Zacharias share insights into the destruction and confusion caused by the philosophy of Atheism. Today he's going to wrap up his message with a look at what ultimately brings meaning to our lives."
    http://rzim.org/let-my-people-think-broadcasts/is-atheism-dead-is-god-alive-part-4-of-4/

    Is Christianity Arrogant? [audio file], Michael Ramsden
    "Christianity claims absolute truth. It claims that a relationship with Christ is the only way to God. Is it arrogant to proclaim your truth as real and all others as false?
    https://www.rzim.org/listen/let-my-people-think/is-christianity-arrogant

    *Is Faith Delusional? (part 2 of 2), an address by Ravi Zacharias
    "The attacks on Christianity from atheists have reached a new peak. In the past few months books have been written with titles like THE GOD DELUSION. Are Christians truly deluded? Ravi Zacharias answers the charge this week on "Let My People Think" (part 2 of 2). http://htod.cdncon.com/o2/rzimht/MP3/LMPT/LMP20100213.mp3

    *Living in Critical Times (part 1), Ravi Zacharias
    "We live in a society that wants nothing to do with God however once you do away with the existence of God, where do you turn for your absolutes? . . . Where do we find our moral framework?"
    https://www.rzim.org/listen/let-my-people-think/living-in-critical-times-part-1
    Living in Critical Times (part 2), Ravi Zacharias
    https://www.rzim.org/listen/let-my-people-think/living-in-critical-times-part-2

    Man vs. God, Ravi Zacharias
    "A recent article in the Wall Street Journal asked 'Where does evolution leave God?' The people the paper arranged to answer the question suggest God is an afterthought for the editors. Hear what Ravi Zacharias has to say about their thoughts."
    https://www.christianbook.com/man-vs-god-ravi-zacharias/pd/DA24348-CP?event=ESRCG

    The Non-duality of Sri Aurobindo and The Mother: A Profile
    http://www.lettermen2.com/syncret.html

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

    Questionable Answers, a message by Ravi Zacharias at the Ezekiel Forum
    "If someone asked you to define evil, what would you say? Where do you go to find an answer for a question like this? Ravi Zacharias looks at the answers skeptics provide to deny the existence of God at Ezekiel Forum, an outreach event of Way Truth Life Radio, a ministry of Central Pennsylvania Christian Institute, Inc.
    Some of Ravi Zacharias' messages are still available on Youtub.
    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4_vr70r2pZs

    Ravi Answers Atheists
    "Today's new atheists are making a bigger push than ever before to win others over to their unbelief. Ravi Zacharias takes on their claims and answers their charges."
    https://www.rzim.org/listen/just-thinking/ravi-answers-atheists-part-1

    The Real Story of Demonic Possession and its Role in the Revolutionary Movement, Frontline Fellowship
    "The world has never before known a godlessness as organized, militarized and tenaciously malevolent as that preached by Marxism. Within the philosophical system of Marx and Lenin, and at the heart of their psychology, Hatred of God is the principle driving force, more fundamental than all their political and economic pretensions. Militant atheism is not merely incidental, or marginal, to Communist policy; it is not a side effect, but the central pivot. To achieve its diabolical ends, Communism needs to control a population devoid of religious and national feeling, and this entails a destruction of faith and nationhood. Communists proclaim both of these objectives openly, and just as openly put them into practice." -- Alexander Solzhenitsyn (1918-2008)
    https://soundcloud.com/user-779428885/the-real-story-of-demonic-possession-and-its-role-in-the-revolutionary-movement



    Betrayal

    A Holy man knows that all sin strikes at the holiness of God, the glory of God, the nature of God, the being of God, and the law of God: and therefore his heart rises against all; he looks upon every sin as the Scribes and Pharisees that accused Christ; and as the Judas that betrayed Christ; and as the Pilate that condemned Christ; and as those soldiers that scourged Christ; and as those spears that pierced Christ. -- Thomas Brooks (1608-1680)

    No reasonably informed person can now believe that Japan made a villainous unexpected attack on the United States. An attack was not only fully expected, but was actually desired. It is beyond doubt that President Roosevelt wanted to get his country into the war, but for political reasons, was most anxious to ensure that the first act of hostility came from the other side; for which reason he caused increasing pressure to be put on the Japanese, to a point that no self-respecting nation could endure without resort to arms. Japan was meant, by the American President, to attack the United States. As Mr Oliver Lyttelton, then British Minister of Production, said in 1944: "Japan was provoked into attacking America's Pearl Harbor. It is a travesty of history to say that America was forced into the war." -- British Historian, Captain Russell Grenfell, Main Fleet to Singapore, as quoted by President Herbert Hoover in Freedom Betrayed

    There is some danger of falling into a soft and effeminate Christianity, under the plea of a lofty and ethereal theology. Christianity was born for endurance; not an exotic, but hardy plant, braced by the keen wind; not languid, nor childish, nor cowardly. It walks with strong step and erect frame; it is kindly, but firm; it is gentle, but honest; it is calm, but not facile; obliging, but not imbecile; decided, but not churlish. It does not fear to speak the firm word of condemnation against error, nor to raise it's voice against surrounding evils, under the pretext it is not of this world; it does not shrink from giving honest reproof, lest it come under the charge of displaying an unchristian spirit. It calls sin sin, in whomsoever it is found, and would rather risk the accusation of being actuated by a bad spirit than not to discharge an explicit duty. Let us not misjudge strong words used in honest controversy. Out of the heat a viper may come forth; but we shake it off and feel no harm. The religion of both the Old and New Testaments is marked by fervent testimonies against evil. To speak smooth things in such a case may be sentimentalism, but it is not Christianity. . . . It is a betrayal of truth and righteousness. I know that charity covers a multitude of sins; but it does not call evil good, because a good man has done it; it does not excuse inconsistencies, because the inconsistent brother has a high name and a fervent spirit; crookedness and worldliness are still crookedness, though exhibited in one who seems to have reached no common height of attainment. -- Horatius Bonar (1818-1889

    Barnes, Harry Elmer, et al., Perpetual war for Perpetual Peace: A Critical Examination of the Foreign Policy of Franklin Delano Roosevelt and its Aftermath, 724 pages, ISBN: 0837121442 9780837121444.
    "Classic revisionist study of how FDR maneuvered America, against the wishes of most of its citizens, into war against Germany and Japan, and how FDR's war policy ended in betrayal, disillusion and endless conflict. Establishes convincingly that U.S. participation in World War II was neither necessary, nor desirable, nor just. Edited by one of this century's most influential American scholars, this is a work in the front rank of American historical scholarship. Eleven concise, scintillating essays on every aspect of FDR's secret diplomatic and military warpath, by eight giants of revisionist scholarship, including H.E. Barnes, Charles C. Tansill, F.R. Sanborn, W.L. Neumann, G. Morgenstern, Percy L. Graves, Wm.H. Chamberlin, and G.A. Lundberg. A measured and relentless exposé of the calculated deceit by which FDR overturned America's traditional neutrality policy, provoked Pearl Harbor, and waged a brutal, pointless war that culminated in mass slaughter at Dresden and Hiroshima, and betrayal -- of America and the West -- at Yalta and Potsdam. These are incisive, unmistakably American perspectives on how the U.S. made a mockery of its own professed ideals during the 'Good War.' A virtual encyclopedia -- authoritative and comprehensive -- on the real causes and the actual results of America's entry into the Second World War. Indispensable as a history and a reference. Highly relevant for an understanding of how the United States came to its present-day policy of "New World Order" global military adventurism." -- Publisher
    "If you complain about and want to know why GWB lied us into war, you'd better prepare yourself for the fact that this has been going on for 100 and perhaps over 140 years.
    "For the real story on WWII (and beyond), you can't do better than this classic revisionist tome. I would also recommend THE REAL LINCOLN, and WILSON'S WAR if you want to get a more balanced view of some of our 'great' presidents and the unnecessary wars they embroiled us in -- all of which caused millions of deaths, huge federal deficits, aggrandized the central government and brought us into the Orwellian police state." -- Reader's Comment
    "Harry Elmer Barnes was one of the most productive historians and social scientists of the 20th century. A bibliography of his books and monographs is about 50 pages and includes long tomes on various topics such as sociology, history, criminology, etc. His editing of PERPETUAL WAR FOR PERPETUAL PEACE shows Barnes' ability as both a historian and an editor of other men whose contributions to this book are well written and poignant.
    "Barnes begins this book with an essay on the background of World War II by giving the reader a good summary of World War I and its aftermath. Barnes is clear that events before World War I were radically different than events during and after this war. He traces American policy from the end of World War I to World War II and beyond.
    "Barnes' use of Percy Greaves' background to the attack on Pearl Harbor is effective. Greaves was an expert on what actually happened when the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor. Greaves' account is no sanitized textbook report, but a carefully documented assessment that is basically unanswerable.
    "The same could be said of Morgenstern's work mentioned in PERPETUAL WAR FOR PERPETUAL PEACE. Morgenstern's book PEARL HARBOR:THE STORY OF THE SECRET WAR is by far the best book written on the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, and when the 'experts' could not refute him, they resorted to smearing him.
    "Charles Tansill's essay is well worth reading. In fact, Tansill's contribution to this book should be followed by a careful reading of his BACK DOOR TO WAR. Tansill had to resort to trickery to get the documents and sources for his BACK DOOR TO WAR.
    "The essays in PERPETUAL WAR FOR PERPETUAL PEACE not only deal with the government's lying and manipulation to get Americans involved in a useless war, but the essays also indicate that the Americans got nothing out of the war. In fact, the only actual winners were the political leaders of Big Communism which expanded well into Eastern Europe and Asia. In fact, the phony "Cold War" was essentially the attempt to settle the accounts from World War II.
    "Of particular interest is the essay on Orwellian trends. The government's use of war as a means to absorb unemployment by going to war and employing large numbers of people in war materials industries is instructive and should be read carefully. This essay makes clear that domestic problems and unemployment issues can resolved by long protracted wars with no clear winners or losers except for those who hold political power on both sides. This essay also shows how enemies and allies can change almost overnight.
    "PERPETUAL WAR FOR PERPETUAL peace is a good start to learning a more comprehensive view on both the truth of the origins of World War II and the political and diplomatic trends thereafter. This book should be read by serious historians to correct the distortions in badly written textbooks and the phony presentations of politically correct teachers who are too timid to do any serious reading or thinking." -- Reader's Comment

    *Beard, Charles (1874-1948, author), and Campbell Craig (introduction), President Roosevelt and the Coming of the War, 1941: Appearances and Realities, new edition, ISBN: 0765809982 9780765809988, 614 pages.
    "This is a great and important book. It was not Beard's last book, but one that subjected him to a veritable witch hunt and his removal from his position in historical societies and organization. A progressive of the old LaFollette type, Beard simply sought to tell the truth about how Roosevelt plunged the USA into World War II before any declaration of war or attacks on the USA by Germany, Italy, or Japan.
    "Most of the material here comes from hearings in the U.S. Congress, some during World War II, and other shortly afterward.
    "It is unfortunate that Beard did not have access to the materials that have been available in the last 10 or 20 years as war time records has become declassified. His concentration is on Pearl Harbor and the naval war against Italy and Germany (most who write about submarine warfare in the Atlantic neglect the fact that there was a substantial force of Italian submarines as well as German submarines), that Roosevelt launched in 1940. Yet, this is but the tip of the iceberg in Roosevelt's illegal war against Germany and Italy and Japan in 1940 and in 1941.
    "Roosevelt ran the 1940 election under the slogan 'I hate war' and on his many pledges not to send Americans to fight in the Second World War. [the same scenario of Woodrow Wilson and the First World War -- compiler]. As soon as Roosevelt won the 1940 election he secretly began to send American sailors, marines, and soldiers into the war.
    "In November 1940, Roosevelt sent the U.S. Navy into the Atlantic to attack and sink German and Italian submarines in complete cooperation with the British. This was despite the fact that the German and Italian submariners were ordered to stay out of the Western Atlantic and to avoid American ports and ships so they would not provoke U.S. public opinion. What the Axis submariners could have done if they targeted American shipping was shown in 1941 and 1942 after Pearl Harbor. Hundreds of ships were sunk within sight of the East Coast. Britain was seriously threatened with strangulation.
    "The evidence that Beard prints in this book chiefly from Congressional hearings explains major incidents like the sinking of the Reuben James and the Kearny that were used to claim Germany was sinking American ships without provocation. Congressional hearings reported on in this book show both incidents were provoked by aggressive U.S. Navy attacks on German submarines either separate from or in direct cooperation with the British and Canadian navies.
    "Roosevelt had the U.S. in a worldwide naval war with Germany and Italy by 1941. American Navy pilots worked directly with the British. In fact it was an U.S. Navy pilot, not a British pilot who flew the plane that torpedoed the Bismark and left it unable to steer. The destroyer for bases deal not only supplied the British with destroyers, but sent U.S. troops to the bases that protected British colonies in the Americas and Africa so British troops there could be sent to the war in the Arab East.
    "The U.S. Navy began to build a major base in Northern Ireland. By 1941 U.S. Navy ships would attack, sink, or seize any German vessel they encountered on the high seas, not just in the Atlantic, but in the Pacific and Indian Ocean as well. The U.S. fleet and 'neutral' American shipping were used to convoy Australian, New Zealand, and British colonial troops from the Pacific to the U.S. and Canada to be shipped to the British war in North Africa.
    "American Marines relieved the British troops who had essentially invaded and occupied Iceland, an action not really favored by the Icelandic government which had tried to stay neutral. Those same Marines were originally to have invaded Vichy-controlled Martinique and Guadeloupe, but the Vichy governor of the islands agreed to allow U.S. Navy officers to control passage of naval vessels to those islands, keeping French warships in port on these islands until the end of the War.
    "In Asia, Roosevelt launched the Flying Tigers. Rather than being a mercenary program paid for by the Chaing Kai Shek government as the public was told until the relevant documents were released in the 1980s, the Flying Tigers were totally financed by the United States Army Air Force. All of the Tigers were serving Navy or Army pilots who were ordered to leave the Navy and the Army to accept positions with the Tigers. Generally, Army and Navy officers are not usually allowed to simply quit and take other positions before the end of their service, let alone in a period of coming war. Plans for the Tigers included building a huge American-staffed and paid for air force that would possess long range bombers to attack Japan. They barely had begun functioning in China before WWII began.
    "In late 1940 joint commissions of the U.S. military and naval general staffs and their British counterparts were set up in both Washington and London to plan a US-British war against both Germany and Japan. Similar arrangements were worked out with Britain, Canada, and the Dutch colonial government of what is now knows as Indonesia for naval and military action against Japan.
    "Those who do not know the information Beard provides and the rest that has come out since his times, wonder why Germany declared war on the USA. They picture the German declaration of war as an erroneous and gratuitous act of solidarity with Japan. They miss the real question. The real question is why did Germany wait so long to declare war on the USA when the USA had been carrying on what American and international law clearly defined as illegal warfare against Germany since the fall of 1940.
    "Beard's courage on this issue was symptomatic of his rigor and independence, his relentless desire to find the truth. Just as we are ignorant of the real origins of U.S. involvement in WWII without this pioneering work, we are ignorant of who the founders of the U.S. government were, and what they were afraid of unless we read his ECONOMIC INTERPRETATION OF THE CONSTITUTION. Beard was not just a learned man, a diligent scholar, and pretty good writer, he was a brave man who demanded to tell the truth no matter how unpopular it was. We should all be more like Beard!" -- Reader's Comment
    Apologetics #09: The Enlightenment in Western Thought #2
    Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Apologetics, 69 min.
    Dr. Singer on Roosevelt's maneuvering of the U.S. into World War II. An extraordinary lecture.
    http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=3105182230

    Bovard, James, The Bush Betrayal, ISBN: 140396727X 9781403967275.
    "In January 2001, George W. Bush assumed the Presidency of the United States promising peace, prosperity, and a renewed sense of integrity. In THE BUSH BETRAYAL, James Bovard vividly illustrates how Bush abandoned both his campaign promises an his oath to uphold the Constitution, leaving instead a nation at war, in massive debt, and in service to the special interests of big business. THE BUSH BETRAYAL is a seething indictment of a presidency far removed from the will of the people and is destined to be another classic from Washington's most outspoken critic." -- Publisher
    "Jim Bovard is a one-man policy think tank, or, rather, a one-man version of what a policy think tank ought to be. Instead of cozying up to the state, the Beltwayites ought to be trying to copy Bovard: doing meticulous and meticulously documented analysis of the crimes of government. Who ever looks, really looks, with the right attitude, at the budget and programs of a federal agency? Or records, with great wit, all the felonies against freedom of the Clinton and Bush administrations? Not that they could copy Bovard, but they ought to try. THE BUSH BETRAYAL is the handbook of our revolution." -- Lew Rockwell, www.lewrockwell.com
    Review of THE BUSH BETRAYAL by former Congressman Bob Barr (R-Ga., 1995-2003)
    http://www.amconmag.com/2004_09_13/review.html

    *Coral Ridge Ministries, Taking Liberties: The Betrayal of our Heritage (Fort Lauderdale, FL: Coral Ridge Ministries).
    A one-hour television special available in the form of a transcript, audio cassette [audio file], video cassette, or CD.
    "Perhaps there is no other concept more important than liberty in understanding America."
    A brilliant presentation of the concepts of liberty by a wide range of authorities.

    Fransway, Rebecca (compiler), 12-Step Horror Stories: True Tales of Misery, Betrayal and Abuse in AA, NA and 12-Step Treatment, ISBN: 1884365248 9781884365249.
    "I read 12-STEP HORROR STORIES because 12-Stepping is used by the co-dependent Shadow Priest to 'treat' the made-up co-dependent disorder. I was not prepared for the tales of misery that lie with in these pages. The mistreatment received by the unsuspecting victims of the 12-Steppers, as told by real people, who lived it, is unforgivable.
    "To think that our courts and employers are forcing people into this 12-Stepping cult scares the hell out of me, and should you as well. For as shown in these pages anyone, even a non-user, and yes even you can be mandated to this nightmare. This book can help to open your eyes so you will know that there are other options to the 12-Stepping cult.
    "This fine book talk mostly about AA and NA 12-Step groups where attendance is many times compulsory, nevertheless please understand that the made-up disorder they are calling co-dependency is, as well, under the control of the 12-Stepping cultist. No one is forced into the co-dependency 12-Step cult, thus I find it mind boggling that anyone would enthusiastically put on this coat of powerlessness, victimhood, and disease. Why would anyone willingly place their mind under a cult's mind control is beyond my ability to understand. All the same, they do by the millions.
    "Read this book and armor yourself, for the 12-Step cult is waiting to consume your humanity." -- Rick Goodner, author of Co-dependent . . . What a Bore and Other Clinical Observations
    "This book is going to cause a lot of controversy in AA and make a lot of AA members mad, because it's full of the truth about what really happens to a whole lot of people who unsuspectingly go to AA thinking they are going to get help. Yes, many do get help, but a lot of doctors who have lost their licenses have helped people too; that doesn't mean they can commit malpractice on some of them. The same rules we apply to other health care organizations need to be applied to AA and NA and the treatment centers that push AA and NA, as long as they call addiction a 'disease' they need to treat it like one and not like something hopeless that requires faith healing. This book points out the ridiculous stuff that goes on at treatment centers. People being forced to say they are powerless or they will lose their jobs. Verbal abuse, 13 stepping, suicides. None of these things are rare -- they happen in ever treatment center and group. Thank goodness someone is finally saying something about it. My father committed suicide after being harangued and harassed in a treatment center, then told by his employer since he did not cooperate with treatment (did not say he was powerless and work the steps), he lost his job. I wish he had been able to bring a book like this to his employer. I wish he had been able to read a book like this and get the help he really needed, not a bunch of people who can't even solve their own problems. As far as I'm concerned, his death is AA's fault. I'll bet there are thousands of stories just like his." -- Donna Ling
    "This review is not meant to denounce the 12-Step AA program, I have seen many helped by it. I am writing this review to applaud this book for exposing the kinds of absolute power that have emerged from the 12-Step program and have formed a kind of hidden, frightening dictatorship that operates freely within our democratic society. This book also exposes our society's tacit assumption that the 12-Step program is the only one that works for addictions (the recent film Traffic is just one more example of this assumption). And, this book exposes the absolute power given by many treatment programs to untrained laypeople to diagnose and control others. The stories in this book are frightening and dramatic. Everyone who has ever taken a drink of alcohol for any reason will should read it and anyone who works as any kind of counselor should read it. But then, every parent of a child old enough to drink alcohol should read it and every volunteer or paid worker for an organized religion should read it. It's clear from their urgent tone that the people whose stories are told in this book have been desperate for someone to tell their shocking experiences to. Fransway has clearly provided them and the readers a great service by listening to presenting those stories here." -- Reader's Comment
    "The official bedtime story book for 12-Step members. A collection of true tales of suffering endured by step group participants at the hands of sponsors, stepper gurus, fellow members and treatment providers. Makes a great gift for hardliners who insist: 'It works if you work it' by cleverly responding . . .' unless of course your program, group, sponsor or treatment provider is sicker than you are'!" -- AA Deprogramming

    *Garrett, Laurie, Betrayal of Trust: The Collapse of Global Public Health, ISBN: 0786884401 9780786884407.
    "This is a study of global public health. Plague, pollution and prostitution are all examined in turn. The author shows how basic trust in public health systems has collapsed and how our global public health system has been systematically destroyed." -- Publisher
    "This is the book that shifted my political views from anarchy into the recognition that centralized forms of governance are essential for such services as public health. This book is somewhat of a frightening read in that it suddenly makes you realize that mankind is not only being threatened environmentally and by terrorism and warfare, but much more imminently through disease and the surge of new antibiotic resistant microbes. An eye-opener, for sure, and definitely worth working through this giant tome." -- Reader's Comment

    *Greider, William, Who Will Tell the People? The Betrayal of American Democracy, ISBN: 0671867407 9780671867409.
    "WHO WILL TELL THE PEOPLE is a passionate, eye-opening challenge to American democracy. Here is a tough-minded exploration of why we're in trouble, starting with the basic issues of who gets heard, who gets ignored, and why. Greider shows us the realities of power in Washington today, uncovering the hidden relationships that link politicians with corporations and the rich, and that subvert the needs of ordinary citizens.
    "How do we put meaning back into public life? Greider shares the stories of some citizens who have managed to crack Washington's 'Grand Bazaar' of influence peddling as he reveals the structures designed to thwart them. Without naivete or cynicism, Greider shows us how the system can still be made to work for the people, and delineates the lines of battle in the struggle to save democracy. By showing us the reality of how the political decisions that shape our lives are made, William Greider explains how we can begin to take control once more." -- Publisher
    "Written in the era of Ross Perot and Jerry Brown and focused on the Savings and Loan scandal that cost taxpayers at least $200 billion dollars, this insightful book identifies many factors behind the growing power of transnational corporations to set the national agenda. Villains include an expanding executive branch, the collusion of both major parties with Wall Street interests, the increasing use of technical jargon in the halls of power, and a press that seems more focused on selling celebrities than examining policies.
    "Greider's prophetic book, written in 1992, anticipates how NAFTA, GATT, and the most favored trade status with China all passed - could be pushed through by a Democratic president (Clinton) and a Republican Congress in a bipartisan effort. Polls, by the way, showed the vast majority of Americans opposed to all three pieces of legislation. A populist political critic, Greider suspects what is good for Wall Street might not be good for Main Street. (Of course, many people living on Main Street owe some stock too.)
    "I first read this book in 1992, and wondered if Greider was exaggerating to make more compelling copy. Re-reading parts today and knowing the disaster caused by NAFTA, Greider emerges as one of the few political analysts aware of the significance of trade to Wall Street and the negative influence on corporate money on both parties.
    " 'We're perilously close to not having a democracy,' warms Greider, noting that while many elements are involved in disenfranchising the American public, none are buried secrets and all are familiar features. Campaign finance reform, of course, remains the preferred euphemism for legalized bribery used to win Congressional votes and manipulate regulatory decisions. Incumbents like the system (shock, shock) and reformers seem to lose in primaries (McCain, Bradley). Greider makes a few common sense suggestions: more press coverage of how government actually works, campaign finance reform, and elections on the weekends.
    "Unfortunately, this witty tirade, written with outrage and fury, seems more relevant today than ever. Both moderate Republicans and conservative Democrats support unrestricted trade leaving true outsiders like Nader and Buchanan to articulate the fair trade argument. Greider suggests that the possibilities for renewing American democracy are dwindling despite technological advances that could revitalize citizen activism.
    "A fascinating, sobering book for the 2000 election season." -- Reader's Comment

    Hammond, Peter, Judas the Apostle who Became an Apostate, a sermon
    https://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=218191145284120

    Hoover, Herbert, and George H. Nash, Freedom Betrayed: Herbert Hoover's Secret History of the Second World War and its Aftermath, ISBN: 9780817912345 0817912347 9780817912369 0817912363.
    "The culmination of an extraordinary literary project that Herbert Hoover launched during World War II, his magnum opus -- at last published nearly fifty years after its completion -- offers a revisionist reexamination of the war and its cold war aftermath and a sweeping indictment of the 'lost statesmanship' of Franklin Roosevelt." -- Publisher
    "Historian George H. Nash, the dean of Herbert Hoover studies, has brought forth a very rare manuscript in FREEDOM BETRAYED. Here is Hoover unplugged, delineating on everything from the lost statesmanship of FDR to the Korean War. A truly invaluable work of presidential history. Highly recommended." -- Douglas Brinkley, professor of history at Rice University and editor of THE REAGAN DIARIES

    Newfield, Jack, and Wayne Barrett, City for Sale: Ed Koch and the Betrayal of New York, ISBN: 0060160608, ISBN: 0060160608 9780060160609.
    "Investigative reporters Newfield (NY Daily News) and Barrett (Village Voice) attempt to expose the Koch administration's descent into corruption and criminality. No bibliography.

    Peters, David B., A Betrayal of Innocence: What Everyone Should Know About Child Sexual Abuse, ISBN: 0849905028 9780849905025.
    "Covers what abuse is, the signs and effects it can have, what to do once abuse is discovered, how to question a child, precautionary measures every parent should take, whom to trust, whom not to trust, and how to overcome emotional trauma and live a happy life."

    *Stinnett, Robert B., Day of Deceit: The Truth About FDR and Pearl Harbor, ISBN: 0684853396 9780684853390.
    Contents: The biggest story of my life -- FDR's back door to war -- The White House decides -- We are alert for an attack on Hawaii -- The splendid arrangement -- The outside man -- All clear for a surprise attack -- An unmistakable pattern -- Watch the wide sea -- A night with a princess -- War may come quicker than anyone dreams -- The Japs are blasting away on the frequencies -- A pretty cheap price -- This means war -- The escape was north -- Epilogue: Destroy anything in writing.
    "Historians have long debated whether President Roosevelt had advance knowledge of Japan's December 7, 1941, attack on Pearl Harbor. Using documents pried loose through the Freedom of Information Act during 17 years of research, Stinnett provides overwhelming evidence that FDR and his top advisers knew that Japanese warships were heading toward Hawaii. The heart of his argument is even more inflammatory: Stinnett argues that FDR, who desired to sway public opinion in support of U.S. entry into WWII, instigated a policy intended to provoke a Japanese attack. The plan was outlined in a U.S. Naval Intelligence secret strategy memo of October 1940; Roosevelt immediately began implementing its eight steps (which included deploying U.S. warships in Japanese territorial waters and imposing a total embargo intended to strangle Japan's economy), all of which, according to Stinnett, climaxed in the Japanese attack. Stinnett, a decorated naval veteran of WWII who served under then Lt. George Bush, substantiates his charges with a wealth of persuasive documents, including many government and military memos and transcripts. Demolishing the myth that the Japanese fleet maintained strict radio silence, he shows that several Japanese naval broadcasts, intercepted by American cryptographers in the 10 days before December 7, confirmed that Japan intended to start the war at Pearl Harbor. Stinnett convincingly demonstrates that the U.S. top brass in Hawaii -- Pacific Fleet commander Adm. Husband Kimmel and Lt. Gen. Walter Short -- were kept out of the intelligence loop on orders from Washington and were then scapegoated for allegedly failing to anticipate the Japanese attack (in May 1999, the U.S. Senate cleared their names). Kimmel moved his fleet into the North Pacific, actively searching for the suspected Japanese staging area, but naval headquarters ordered him to turn back. Stinnett's meticulously researched book raises deeply troubling ethical issues. While he believes the deceit built into FDR's strategy was heinous, he nevertheless writes: "I sympathize with the agonizing dilemma faced by President Roosevelt. He was forced to find circuitous means to persuade an isolationist America to join in a fight for freedom." This, however, is an expression of understanding, not of absolution. If Stinnett is right, FDR has a lot to answer for -- namely, the lives of those Americans who perished at Pearl Harbor. Stinnett establishes almost beyond question that the U.S. Navy could have at least anticipated the attack. The evidence that FDR himself deliberately provoked the attack is circumstantial, but convincing enough to make Stinnett's bombshell of a book the subject of impassioned debate in the months to come." -- Publishers Weekly, subject copyright

    Toland, John, Infamy: Pearl Harbor and its Aftermath, ISBN: 042509040X 9780425090404.
    "John Toland has been fearless in his pursuit of truth . . . INFAMY is not only readable and suspenseful; it is probably his most controversial book to date." -- John S.D. Eisenhower
    "Pearl Harbor and its cover-up ranks right up there with President Johnson's escalation in Vietnam and Nixon's Watergate. A fascinating account." -- Richmond Times-Dispatch
    "In meticulous detail, Toland shows that Navy and Army commanders were not adequately informed by Washington of the likelihood of a Pear Harbor attack." -- Booklist

    See also: The sovereignty of god, The doctrine of man (human nature, total depravity), The root cause of criminal acts of extreme depravity, The inspiration and infallibility of scripture (the doctrine of revelation, the doctrine of plenary inspiration, the doctrine of divine inspiration, the doctrine of verbal inspiration, theopneustia, sufficiency of scripture), Repentance the key to salvation and change, Justice, the theology of judgment, god's final judgment, the great white throne judgment, the day of the lord, Hypocrisy, Covetousness, greed, and selfishness, The covenant faithfulness of god, Covenant theology and the ordinance of covenanting, The covenanted reformation of scotland background and history, The covenanted reformation, Covenanted reformation short title listing, Corporate faithfulness and sanctification, Sexual relationship, Spiritual adultery (spiritual whoredom/harlotry), Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, Toleration, liberty of conscience, pluralism, "religious freedom," and neutrality, Treason and impeachment, The sovereign grace of god: his everlasting mercy and lovingkindness, Adultery, Incest, Child abuse and pedophilia, Repentance the key to salvation and change, Justifying faith, Christ's kingdom, Lordship of jesus christ, The all-sufficiency of christ, Trusting god, Idolatry, Secret societies, ungodly alliances, voluntary associations, Pseudo-christian movements: a selection of works, Unfaithful reformed ministries, Politics, Conspiracy, corruption, organized crime, Antichrist, Popery, The counter-reformation, Machiavellianism, Secret societies, ungodly alliances, voluntary associations, Individual responsibility for corporate faithfulness and sanctification, Divorce, Unfaithful reformed ministries, Bad relationships a cause of disease and death, Bible promises, False gospels, Modern myths, Deceit, self-deception, lying, false witness, Ethics, computer ethics, cyberethics, Sex ethics, sex education, Conscience, casuistry, cases of conscience, Medical ethics, Foolishness, Security, Spiritual warfare, Vengeance and retaliation, The decline of american society, irrationality, the decline of western thought, Male role and responsibility, gender equality, suffrage, reproductive rights, and the decline of american society, and so forth, and so on.
    TCRB5: 412

    Related Weblinks

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

    Was the Attack on Pearl Harbor Really an Unprecedented Surprise? Reformation Society
    http://reformationsa.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=416&catid=75



    Birth Control

    I will content myself with briefly mentioning this, as far as the sense of shame allows to discuss it. It is a horrible thing to pour out seed besides the intercourse of man and woman. Deliberately avoiding the intercourse, so that the seed drops on the ground, is doubly horrible. For this means that one quenches the hope of his family, and kills the son, which could be expected, before he is born. This wickedness is now as severely as is possible condemned by the Spirit, through Moses, that Onan, as it were, through a violent and untimely birth, tore away the seed of his brother out the womb, and as cruel as shamefully was thrown on the earth. Moreover he thus has, as much as was in his power, tried to destroy a part of the human race. When a woman in some way drives away the seed out the womb, through aids, then this is rightly seen as an unforgivable crime. Onan was guilty of a similar crime, by defiling the earth with his seed, so that Tamar would not receive a future inheritor. -- John Calvin commenting on Genesis 38:9 (You won't find this in the Victorian edition of Calvin, they refused to translate certain things offensive to the sensibilities of the people of that time. -- John Sinclair

    Onan must have been a malicious and incorrigible scoundrel. This is a most disgraceful sin. It is far more atrocious than incest and adultery. We call it unchastity, yes, a Sodomitic sin. For Onan goes in to her; that is, he lies with her and copulates, and when it comes to the point of insemination, spills the semen, lest the woman conceive. Surely at such a time the order of nature established by God in procreation should be followed. Accordingly, it was a most disgraceful crime to produce semen and excite the woman, and to frustrate her at that very moment. He was inflamed with the basest spite and hatred. Therefore he did not allow himself to be compelled to bear that intolerable slavery. Consequently, he deserved to be killed by God. He committed an evil deed. Therefore God punished him. -- Martin Luther, Lectures on Genesis Genesis 38:9

    *Anderson, James N.D., Issues of Life and Death, ISBN: 0340231513 9780340231517.
    "In this work Sir Norman presents his 'Lectures on Contemporary Christianity,' University of London, 1975. He establishes his thesis for the development of ethical principles squarely on the sacredness of human life as presented in the Bible. While on the one hand this treatise is a valuable corrective for Ward's THE DIVINE IMAGE, on the other it is a bold attempt to provide a rational defense for a viable system of ethics. In this we believe Anderson has been most successful." -- Cyril J. Barber

    Barrow, Reg, Birth Control, Christian Education and the Victory of Christ's Kingdom in two parts: 1. "Godless Public Education and Sin" and 2. "Why Satan Loves Birth Control." Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
    "The first section shows from Scripture how it is a mark of apostasy to send young children, especially during their formative years, to schools that do not make Christ the Lord of education. It also encourages family worship and outlines the elements of this sacred task; giving a helpful list of resources related to both family worship and Christian education. The second essay deals with the practical effects of the pagan practice of birth control upon the church and the growth of the kingdom of Christ." -- Publisher

    Critchlow, Donald T. (editor), The Politics of Abortion and Birth Control in Historical Perspective, ISBN: 0271015705 9780271015705.

    Heine, Max, Children: Blessing or Burden?
    "This author ably seeks to explore seven myths of the small family that Christians have swallowed from the culture of the world. Since the Bible says children are a blessing, why do we feel that they are such a burden? Here is a clarion call for Christians to rethink the current trends toward small families and childlessness and, instead, begin to gain a Biblical perspective. Heine raises some searching questions about birth control and whether such practices are truly honoring to God." -- GCB

    Hess, Rick, and Jan Hess, A Full Quiver: Family Planning and The Lordship of Christ, ISBN: 0943497833 9780943497839.
    "I promise you, this is NOT just another Christian book! 'Life-changing' and 'exciting' about sum it up -- as do 'Biblical,' 'refreshing,' and even 'entertaining.' I don't endorse this book lightly. For one thing, I have been living it for the past thirteen years, before Rick and Jan even wrote it. From our experience and the experience of thousands of families that have written to us, my husband Bill and I can confidently assert that the fruit of this teaching is GOOD. Those who don't try it may knock it, but those who are willing to work at being good stewards of those blessings know better! What an effect this book could have on our churches, communities, social institutions, and families!" -- Mary Pride

    Knudsen, Robert D., Ethics and Birth Control.
    Typescript (mimeographed) "The slightly revised form of a paper presented before the 16th annual convention of the American Scientific Affiliation in Houghton, New York, Aug. 22-25, 1961." Article published originally in The Journal of the American Scientific Affiliation; 14, no. 1. Description: 9 leaves; 28 cm."

    Montgomery, John Warwick, Slaughter of the Innocents: Abortion, Birth Control, and Divorce, ISBN: 0891072160 9780891072164.

    *Owen, Samuel A., Letting God Plan Your Family, ISBN: 0891075852 9780891075851.

    Payne, Franklin E., Biblical Healing for Modern Medicine: Choosing Life and Health or. . . Disease and Death, ISBN: 0962987611 9780962987618, 236 pp.
    "Seeks to offer a comprehensive biblical philosophy of medicine. 'Christians continue to consider that medicine and faith are separate moral categories. This book aims to correct that false conception.' Initial chapters lay out biblical perspectives on life, death, illness, and healing. Subsequent chapters discuss the modern medical profession, financing of medical care, psychology, death and dying, abortion, infertility, birth control, the role of the state and the church in medical issues, and self-help medicine. 'I am convinced that everything that physicians do must be subjected to close scrutiny'." -- David Powlison
    Contents: True wholistic medicine: a sound mind and a sound body -- The Bible and the practice of medicine -- Physician, heal thyself? (the goals of medicine) -- Why does medical care cost so much? -- The Trojan horse of Christianity: psychology and psychiatry -- "It is appointed for men to die once" -- Abortion: the killing fields -- Who are my mother and father? -- "World overpopulation" and birth control -- "No admittance, healing in progress" -- Medicine and the civil government -- The church and the practice of medicine -- Health starts with the individual and family -- A Bible study: health, healing, and medicine -- A special message to physicians and medical students.

    *Payne, Franklin E., Making Biblical Decisions, ISBN: 0962320404 9780962320408.
    "Dr. Payne's book should be found on the shelf of every Christian home . . . it is bound to become a practical classic." -- Jay Adams
    "Biblical perspective to inform a range of ethical decisions: birth control, artificial insemination, in vitro fertilization, genetic engineering, and death. 'We frequently overlook the fact that we live in a universe where the primary reality is supernatural.' 'My intent is to help all Christians know what is darkness and what is light within the practice of medicine'." -- David Powlison

    Provan, Charles D., The Bible and Birth Control, ISBN: 9991799834. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
    "Martin Luther once proclaimed that 'the purpose of marriage is not pleasure and ease but the procreation and education of children and the support of a family. . . . People who do not like children are swine, dunces, and blockheads, not worthy to be called men and women, because they despise the blessing of God, the Creator and Author of marriage.' (Christian History, Issue 39, p. 24)
    "Luther also said that birth control was the equivalent of sodomy (probably because of the likeness between homosexual wickedness and impotent sex). John Calvin declared that birth control was the murder of future persons and the Synod of Dort [Dordt], issued a Bible commentary which stated that contraception was the same as abortion. If you are shocked, by the strong statements from these Godly men, that really is not too surprising, because Protestant opposition to birth control has largely been forgotten in our decadent 21th century. If you want to know about Biblical principles which oppose contraception, or wish to know what the Reformers and their heirs thought about this important subject, we certainly hope that you will get this book!" -- Publisher
    "Provan's task is to show that both the Scriptures and the Christian tradition are on the side of openness to children. . . .
    "Provan walks the reader through a careful re-examination of the traditional 'prooftexts' against contraception (Be fruitful and multiply, . . . Children are an heritage from the Lord, the example of Onan), and finds modern exegesis falling woefully short of the standards set by Luther, Calvin, Chemnitz, et al. As Melanchthon argued in the APOLOGY FOR THE AUGSBURG CONFESSION, a confessional document, that God's command, Be fruitful and multiply, applies only to Adam and Eve is akin to saying Let the land produce vegetation applies only to the plants in Paradise. The command holds for all who share the nature of Adam and Eve, i.e., all mankind.
    "And far from making the case for Roman Catholicism, Provan shows that Protestants have historically been more faithful to God's Word on the issue of openness to children than Roman Catholicism -- a point which the Roman Catholic historian and jurist John Noonan concedes in his monumental study, CONTRACEPTION. Indeed, as John Noonan argues, there is not a little to the conjecture that the pope would have gone the way of Margaret Sanger back in the sixteenth century had it not been for those stalwart Reformers (Jerome had already given the Church the argument that Be fruitful and multiply was no longer relevant)." -- Reader's Comment
    The Bible and Birth Control
    http://www.swrb.com/Puritan/bible-birth-control.htm
    The Bible and Birth Control, Charles Provan, five MP3 files at SermonAudio

    The Bible and Birth Control (1 of 5)
    http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?sermonid=121303195832
    The Bible and Birth Control (2 of 5),
    http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?sermonid=121303224152
    The Bible and Birth Control (3 of 5)
    http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?sermonid=1214030509
    The Bible and Birth Control (4 of 5)
    http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?sermonid=121403155426
    The Bible and Birth Control (5 of 5)
    http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?sermonid=121403173550
    Sutherland, Halliday G., Birth Control a Statement of Christian Doctrine Against the Neo-Malthusians, ISBN: 1406935913.

    See also: Abstinence, chastity, Men, women, and god, Marriage, Individual responsibility for corporate faithfulness and sanctification, Suffrage and reproductive rights, A theological interpretation of american history (timeline), Gratuitous sex, a cause of violence, Abortion and the sanctity of life, Post-abortion counseling, Child abuse and pedophilia, Justice, god's final judgment, the great white throne judgment, the day of the lord, Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, Sexual relationship, Spiritual adultery (spiritual whoredom/harlotry), Authority, Ethics, computer ethics, cyberethics, Sex ethics, sex education, Conscience, casuistry, cases of conscience, Medical ethics, Homosexuality, lesbianism, gay, bisexual, transvestite, queer (lgbtq), Repentance the key to salvation and change, and so forth, and so on.



    Blasphemy

    BLAS'PHEMY, n. An indignity offered to God by words or writing; reproachful, contemptuous or irreverent words uttered impiously against Jehovah.
    Blasphemy is an injury offered to God, by denying that which is due and belonging to him, or attributing to him that which is not agreeable to his nature.
    In the middle ages, blasphemy was used to denote simply the blaming or condemning of a person or thing. Among the Greeks, to blaspheme was to use words of ill omen, which they were careful to avoid.
    1. That which derogates from the prerogatives of God. Mark 2. -- Webster's 1828 Dictionary

    Blasphemy against the Almighty is denying his being or providence, or uttering contumelious reproaches on our Savior Christ. It is punished, at common law by fine and imprisonment, for Christianity is part of the laws of the land. -- William Blackstone

    See the Theological Notes: "The Unpardonable Sin," at Mark 3:29 in The Reformation Study Bible.

    Profanity continues to be one of the crying sins of the land. Not only the openly profane and irreligious, but even members of the church, are guilty of this heaven-daring sin, a sin to which God, that cannot he, has annexed the threatening, that He will not hold them guiltless that take his name in vain. Parents by example teach their children to use profane language. It is wonderful to see what progress even small children make in this unprofitable and heaven-daring sin. Every curse and oath shows how deeply the sense of a holy and righteous God is engraven on the hearts of men, and that there is a place to which he will consign the wicked. Men do not swear by anything that does not, in their own or others' conceptions, possess the attributes of Divinity: If there were no other sin to bring desolating judgments on the land, this would be sufficient. Jeremiah 23:10: Because of swearing the land mourneth. Zechariah 5:3,4: Then said he unto me, This is the curse that goeth forth over all the earth; for everyone that stealeth shall be cut off as on this side according to it; and everyone that sweareth shall be cut off as on that side according to it. And I will bring it forth, saith the Lord of hosts: and it shall enter into the house of the thief, and into the house of him that sweareth falsely by my name; and it shall remain in the midst of his house, and shall consume it with the timber thereof, and with the stones thereof. -- Reformed Presbyterian Church, General Meeting, Causes of Fasting (1898)

    Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil; that put darkness for light, and light for darkness; that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter! (Isaiah 5:20)

    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!     -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 6:22,23)

    Wherefore I say unto you, All manner of sin and blasphemy shall be forgiven unto men: but the blasphemy [against] the [Holy] Ghost shall not be forgiven unto men.
    And whosoever speaketh a word against the Son of man, it shall be forgiven him: but whosoever speaketh against the Holy Ghost, it shall not be forgiven him, neither in this world, neither in the [world] to come.
    Either make the tree good, and his fruit good; or else make the tree corrupt, and his fruit corrupt: for the tree is known by [his] fruit.
    O generation of vipers, how can ye, being evil, speak good things? for out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh.
    A good man out of the good treasure of the heart bringeth forth good things: and an evil man out of the evil treasure bringeth forth evil things.
    But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment.
    For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned.     -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 12:31-37)

    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)

    What shall be said of that vast throng of profane swearers who pollute our language and wound our ears, by a vile mixture of blasphemies in their common conversation!
    Their throat is an open sepulcher -- the poison of asps is under their lips: whose mouth is full of cursing and bitterness. (Romans 3:13, 14)
    It has become almost impossible to walk the streets or to enter mixed company without hearing the sacred Name of God treated with blasphemous contempt. The novels of the day, the stage, and even radio (and more lately television, the cinema, and the press) are terrible offenders, and without doubt this is one of the fearful sins against Himself for which God is now pouring out His judgments upon us. . . . And He is still the same: The Lord will not hold him guiltless that taketh His Name in vain. Sore punishment shall be his portion, if not in this life, then most assuredly so, eternally so, in the life to come. -- Arthur Pink, The Ten Commandments

    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.     -- The Lord Jesus Christ (John 3:19-21)

    To forsake Christ for the world is to leave a treasure for a trifle. . . . eternity for a moment, reality for a shadow. -- William Jenkyn

    To make men or women our primary obligation (menpleasing) is worshipping man, a violation of the First Commandment, and breaks man's covenant relationship with God.

    *Brown, John (of Haddington, 1722-1787), The Absurdity and Perfidy of all Authoritative Toleration of Gross Heresy, Blasphemy, Idolatry, Popery, in Britain. In two letters to a friend in which the doctrine of the Westminster Confession of Faith [1646] relative to Toleration of a False Religion, and the power of the civil magistrate about sacred matters; and the nature, origin, ends and obligation of the National Covenant and Solemn League are candidly represented and defended, 1797. Alternate title: A COMPEND OF THE LETTERS OF THE REV. JOHN BROWN, LATE MINISTER OF THE GOSPEL IN HADDINGTON: ON AUTHORITATIVE TOLERATION OF GROSS HERESY, BLASPHEMY, IDOLATRY, POPERY IN BRITAIN, AND ON NATIONAL COVENANTING; IN WHICH THE DOCTRINE OF THE WESTMINSTER CONFESSION OF FAITH . . . AND OF THE NATIONAL COVENANT AND SOLEMN LEAGUE ARE CANDIDLY REPRESENTED AND DEFENDED, 1797, and "REFORMATION ATTAINMENTS VERSUS BACKSLIDING RELIGIOUS PROFESSORS," appears to be an excerpt. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #7, #25, #26.
    The Absurdity and Perfidy of all Authoritative Toleration of Gross Heresy, Blasphemy, Idolatry, Popery, in Britain
    http://archive.org/details/absurdityperfidy00brow
    "Reformation Attainments Versus Backsliding Religious Professors (excerpt from THE ABSURDITY AND PERFIDY OF ALL AUTHORITATIVE TOLERATION . . .
    "Here Brown deals with three major Reformation attainments (anti-tolerationism, establishmentarianism and the obligations of lawful covenants as they biblically bind posterity), that Satan has always been especially concerned to overthrow -- in every major demonic move to open the floodgates of lawlessness, anarchy and misrule. Fletcher, in the preface to the 1797 edition, relates this truth as it comes to bear on various religious professors, stating, 'Papists were enemies to our covenants because they were a standard lifted up against their system of abominable idolatries. Episcopalians were enemies to them, because they were a standard lifted up against their anti-scriptural church-officers and inventions of men in the worship of God. Some Presbyterians are enemies to them in our day through ignorance of their nature and ends; and others through fear of being too strictly bound to their duty.' (cited in Johnston, Treasury of the Scottish Covenant, p. 486)
    "A History of Heresy
    "It is also interesting to note the long list of backsliders and heretics that often oppose one or more of these points. 'The ancient Donatists, a sect of Arian separatists, who appeared about the beginning of the 4th century, seem to have been among the first who held out these opinions to the Christian world. Feeling the weight of the arm of power for their schismatical practices, by way of reprisal, they stripped the magistrate of all power in religion; -- maintaining that he had no more power about religious matters than any private person, and refusing him the right of suppressing the propagators of doctrines different from those professed by the Church, or the observers of a different form of worship. From them the German Anabaptists adopted the same views. Then the Socinians (i.e. an early form of Scripture-denying liberals -- RB), and remonstrant Arminians, whenever the magistrate ceased to patronize their cause. The English Independents during the time of the Long Parliament were the zealous supporters of the same opinions. In their rage for liberty of conscience, they formed the strongest opposition in the Westminster Assembly which the Presbyterians had to encounter. Through their influence that venerable body was much embarrassed (hindered -- RB), in their proceeding; and by their means (in collusion with that "Judas of the Covenant," Cromwell -- RB), certain passages of the Confession of Faith never obtained the ratification of the English Parliament. The English Dissenters of the present age are generally in the same views, especially the Socinians, the Arians, and the Quakers, who have most to dread from the Laws of the Land against their blasphemies. And who knows not that the high reputation of Mr. Locke as a Philosopher . . . has given these opinions such an air of respectability, that many youth in the Universities have been thereby inclined to embrace them?' (Preface, pp. vi-vii).
    "The Covenantal Hammer Smashing the Idols of our day
    "In our day the tree of toleration (and the anti-Scriptural principles which logically grow out of it), has spread its branches in ways that could have never been envisioned by those that took the first steps away from biblical and covenanted uniformity. What Brown is fighting against here is an error so foundational that when left unchecked it permeates all of society, cutting out the foundational roots that are necessary for all national Reformations. And if the foundations be destroyed, what can the righteous do? (Ps. 11:3 [Psalm 11:3]). Furthermore, as the preface notes 'liberty of conscience and of opinion' are 'the great idols of the day.' Here Brown takes out his covenantal hammer and smashes these idols with an inconoclastic zeal worthy of our earlier Reformed forefathers. This book is especially useful in answering the persistent fear and questions that always arise when these old Reformed views are discussed: that is, the questions dealing with religious persecution. Brown spends much time in clearing the Westminster Divines of such false charges, while also setting these controversial Reformed teachings on a thoroughly biblical foundation.
    "Westminster's View of the 'Everlasting' Solemn League and Covenant
    "Interestingly, in the section defending the continuing obligation of the National and Solemn League and Covenant, we also note that the Westminster Assembly considered the Solemn League and Covenant an 'everlasting covenant.' Brown cites the following as proof, 'That the body of the English nation also swore the Solemn League and Covenant, is manifest. The Westminster Assembly and English Parliament, affirm, 'The honourable house of Parliament, the Assembly of Divines, the renowned city of London, and multitudes of other persons of all ranks and quality in this nation, and the whole body of Scotland, have all sworn it, rejoicing at the oath so graciously seconded from heaven. God will, doubtless, stand by all those, who with singleness of heart shall now enter into an everlasting covenant with the Lord.' (p. 161, emphasis added). The footnote tells us that the words Brown was quoting were taken from 'Exhortation to take the Covenant, February, 1644.'
    "Our Modern Day Malignants
    "Brown also includes a helpful section on a point some modern day malignants are once again attempting to use to overthrow the biblical attainments of the Covenanted Reformation. This section shows that 'the intrinsic obligation of promises, oaths, vows, and covenants which constitutes their very essence or essential form, is totally and manifestly distinct from the obligation of the law of God in many respects.' (p. 120)
    "Brown's Dying Testimony to his Children
    "Finally, we cite a portion of Brown's dying testimony to his children given in the introduction (p. xix). Such testimonies, from notable Christian leaders, often contain singularly pertinent charges to their hearers. (For another notable example of this see James Renwick's dying testimony, as he was about to be martyred for his adherence to the Solemn League and Covenant, when he recounts what was later to become most of the terms of communion in Covenanted Presbyterian churches. This testimony can be found in Thompson's A CLOUD OF WITNESSES FOR THE ROYAL PREROGATIVES OF JESUS CHRIST BEING THE LAST SPEECHES AND TESTIMONIES OF THOSE WHO HAVE SUFFERED FOR THE TRUTH IN SCOTLAND SINCE . . . 1680. Here are Brown's dying words to his children: 'Adhere constantly, cordially and honestly to the Covenanted Principles of the Church of Scotland, and to that Testimony which hath been lifted up for them. I fear a generation is rising up which will endeavour silently,' (O how prophetic!), 'to let slip these matters, as if they were ashamed to hold them fast, or even to speak of them' (as with many "reformed" publishers and preachers today, who dare not touch the topics Brown deals with in this book -- eb). 'May the Lord forbid that any of you should ever enter into this confederacy against Jesus Christ and his cause! This from a dying father and minister, and a witness for Christ' (Signed) 'John Brown'."
    "Do you Have What it Takes?
    "If you have the courage to compare the original Reformed faith with that which is often promoted under its name today (and in many ways the old Reformed faith bears little resemblance to the 'new light' Reformers and innovators of our day), then this is an ideal book to obtain and study." -- Reg Barrow
    Following are three works related to THE ABSURDITY AND PERFIDY OF ALL AUTHORITATIVE TOLERATION OF GROSS HERESY, BLASPHEMY, IDOLATRY, POPERY, IN BRITAIN by John Brown of Wamphray.
    1. Barrow, Reg, Calvin, Covenanting, Close Communion and the Coming Reformation, 1996, a book review of ALEXANDER AND RUFUS . . . by John Anderson, 1862. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
    "Shows how Calvin practiced covenanting and close communion and how the biblical view of these ordinances is intended to purify the individual, church and nation. Refutes the Popish, Independent and paedocommunion heresies -- as well as all views of open communion (so common in our day). Also argues that Arminians, anti-paedobaptists, anti-regulativists, and all those who openly violate the law of God (and are unrepentant), should be barred from the Lord's table -- as a corrective measure ordained of God for their recovery. Also demonstrates that those that would not swear to uphold the Geneva Confession (or 'human constitution,' as it was agreeable to the Word of God), of 1536 in Calvin's day were to be excommunicated and exiled from Geneva. This is Reformation History Notes number two." -- Reg Barrow
    Calvin, Covenanting and Close Communion
    http://www.swrb.com/newslett/actualnls/CalvinCC.htm
    2. Price, Greg L., Terms of Communion: Covenants and Covenanting, a series of 7 audio cassettes [audio file]. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
    "Explains and defends the fourth term of communion, which is 'That public, social covenanting is an ordinance of God, obligatory on churches and nations under the New Testament; that the National Covenant and the Solemn League are an exemplification of this divine institution; and that these Deeds are of continued obligation upon the moral person; and in consistency with this, that the Renovation of these Covenants at Auchensaugh, Scotland, 1712 was agreeable to the word of God.' Includes the studies offered separately on the National Covenant (2 tapes), the Solemn League and Covenant (1 tape), the Auchensaugh Renovation (2 tapes), as well as two introductory lectures (only available in this set), on the biblical principles related to the ordinance of covenanting, the descending obligation of lawful covenants, objections against covenanting, etc. Roberts, in his REFORMED PRESBYTERIAN CATECHISM, catches the spirit of this tape set in the following question and answer:
    "Q. May we not indulge the hope, that, in the goodness of our covenant God, and by the promised outpouring of his Holy Spirit, 'the kingdoms of the world' at large, and the British empire in particular, will dedicate themselves to God in a covenant not to be forgotten -- animated by the example of our covenant fathers exhibited in these memorable deeds?
    "A. Yes. We have the most cheering grounds for this blessed hope; for it is written, that the nations at large in the spirit of devoted loyalty, shall cry -- 'Come and let us join ourselves to the Lord in a perpetual covenant that shall not be forgotten': and it cannot be well doubted, that the death-cry of the martyred Guthrie has been heard on high, and shall be verified -- 'The covenants, the covenants, shall yet be Scotland's (and the world's -- RB), reviving.' (p. 151)
    "A thoroughly amazing set of tapes -- among our best!" -- Publisher
    3. Cunningham, John (1819-1893), The Ordinance of Covenanting, 1843. A Christian classic. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #3, #27.
    "This book is considered by many as the classic work on covenanting. 'The theology of Covenanting is here unfolded with a richness of scriptural research and a maturity of intellectual strength which would have made the grey eye of Peden glisten with delight. The treatise is a valuable addition to that solid theological literature of which the Reformed Presbyterian Church has produced repeated and enduring specimens, and stamps Mr. Cunningham as a distinguished disciple of the thoughtful and scriptural school of Mason and the Symingtons' (Presbyterian Review (1844), as cited by Johnston, Treasury of the Scottish Covenant).
    "The author himself notes that 'prayer and the offering of praise are universally admitted to be duties of religion. The Scriptures announce a place among these for the exercise of solemn Covenanting . . . What the word of God unfolds concerning it, is addressed to the most resolute consideration of all, and is capable of engaging the most extensive and prolonged investigation. And yet, though none have found this subject, like all God's judgments, else than a great deep, still in meditating upon it, the ignorant have been brought to true knowledge, and the wise have increased in wisdom. The secret of the Lord is with them that fear him; and he will shew them his covenant. (Psalm 25:14). Mutual federal engagements, concerning things religious and civil, whether entered into merely by simple promise, or confirmed by the solemn oath, have been made from the highest antiquity to the present. The hostility to some such engagements, and also the proud disregard for their obligation, which have been evinced by some in all ages, demand a most careful examination into their nature and design . . . Furnished with the key of Scripture, approaching the subject, we are enabled to open the mysteries in which ignorance and prejudice had shut it up; and equipped with the armour of light shooting forth its heavenly radiance, in safety to ourselves we assail the darkness thrown around it, and behold the instant flight of the spirits of error which that darkness contains. Standing alone in beauteous attractions descended from heaven upon it, this service beckons us to approach it, and engages to connect extensive good with a proper attention to its claims. The observance, under various phases, is described in Scripture as an undisputed and indisputable reality.'
    "In this book Cunningham exhaustively covers the subject of covenanting in over 400 pages. He deals with the manner, duty and nature of covenanting (including personal and social covenanting), the obligation covenanting confers, how covenanting is provided for in the everlasting covenant, how it is adapted to the moral constitution of man and how it is according to the purposes of God. Numerous Divine examples are cited from Scripture and covenanting is shown to be one of the great privileges of the Christian life.
    "An interesting chapter covers 'Covenanting Enforced By the Grant of Covenant Signs and Seals;' which touches on circumcision, baptism, the Sabbath, the Priesthood, the new heart and the person and work of the Lord Jesus Christ. Furthermore, this book demonstrates how God's approbation rested upon Covenanters in former ages, how covenanting is predicted in prophecy, how it is recommended by the practice of the New Testament Church and at what seasons it is appropriate. The appendices touch on the relationship of covenanting to immoral and unscriptural civil governments, the Free Presbyterian Church of Scotland, the British constitution and the apostasy of the Revolution settlement.
    "Additionally, Cunningham acknowledges that the true church is 'bound by the obligations of the Church of God is past times' and is still obligated to pay what it has vowed to the Lord in those magnificent attainments of the Second Reformation (the epitome of these attainments being embodied in the Solemn League and Covenant and the Westminster Standards).
    "If you are interested in the ordinance of covenanting this is the most extensive treatment you will find in one book. It is a gold mine of Scriptural references and should be read at least once by everyone who calls upon the name of Christ." -- Publisher
    "David Steele dedicated this work [NOTES ON THE APOCALYPSE -- compiler], to John Cunningham (1819-1893), author of THE ORDINANCE OF COVENANTING." -- Publisher
    The Ordinance of Covenanting
    http://www.covenanter.org/reformed/2015/6/29/ordinance-of-covenanting

    *Knox, John (1505-1572), Appellation From the Sentence Pronounced by the Bishops and Clergy: Addressed to the Nobility and Estates of Scotland. Alternate title: THE APPELLATION OF JOHN KNOX FROM THE CRUELL . . . SENTENCE PRONOUNCED AGAINST HIM BY THE FALSE BISHOPPES AND CLERGEY OF SCOTLAND, WITH HIS SUPPLICATION AND EXHORTATION TO THE NOBILITIE, ESTATES, AND COMMUNALTIE OF THE SAME REALME, and THE APPELLATION . . . TO THE SCOTTISH NOBILITY, and REFORMATION, REVOLUTION AND ROMANISM: AN APPEAL TO THE SCOTTISH NOBILITY, and THE APPELLATION FROM THE SENTENCE PRONOUNCED BY THE BISHOPS AND CLERGY: ADDRESSED TO THE NOBILITY AND ESTATES OF SCOTLAND, and THE APPELLATION. Cover title: REFORMATION, REVOLUTION AND ROMANISM: APPEAL TO THE SCOTTISH NOBILITY (1558). Available (singly as REFORMATION, REVOLUTION AND ROMANISM, in which key text have been underlined by a previous reader), on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available (REFORMATION, REVOLUTION AND ROMANISM), on Reformation Bookshelf CD #1 (MP3), #26. Available (APPELLATION FROM THE SENTENCE PRONOUNCED BY THE BISHOPS AND CLERGY: ADDRESSED TO THE NOBILITY AND ESTATES OF SCOTLAND), on the Library of Presbyterian Heritage Publications and Protestant Heritage Press CD-ROM Library. Available (APPELLATION FROM THE SENTENCE PRONOUNCED BY THE BISHOPS AND CLERGY: ADDRESSED TO THE NOBILITY AND ESTATES OF SCOTLAND), in THE WORKS OF JOHN KNOX, Vol. 4. [John Knox; David Laing ((collector and editor)), THE WORKS OF JOHN KNOX, Vol. 4, reprint of the 1855 edition printed for Bannatyne Club, Edinburgh (New York: AMS Press, 1966)].
    "David Chilton notes, 'Of all the sixteenth-century Reformers, John Knox remains the most ardently loved and fiercely hated. No other leader of his day saw so clearly the political issues in the light of Scripture. Nor has any of his contemporaries had so much direct influence upon the subsequent history of the world. He transformed a land of barbarians into one of the most hard-headly Calvinistic cultures ever to exist, and his doctrines lie at the core of all Protestant revolutionary activity. While he is often considered merely one of Calvin's lieutenants, he was actually a Reformer in his own right. In some respects he was the greatest of them all.' ("John Knox," in The Journal of Christian Reconstruction: Symposium on Puritanism and Law [Vallecito, CA: Chalcedon], Vol. V, No. 2, Winter, 1978-79, p. 194).
    "Furthermore, R.L. Greaves has noted that 'it has even been suggested -- and not altogether without merit -- that Knox was a key link in the development of political ideology that culminated in the American Revolution.' (Theology and Revolution in the Scottish Reformation: Studies in the Thought of John Knox [Grand Rapids, MI: Christian University Press, 1980], p. 156).
    "Moreover, Mason [Roger A. Mason -- compiler], states that this APPEAL [APPELLATION FROM THE SENTENCE PRONOUNCED BY THE BISHOPS AND CLERGY: ADDRESSED TO THE NOBILITY AND ESTATES OF SCOTLAND -- compiler], 'is the most important . . . of Knox's political writings.' (in the Introduction to his compilation of Knox's political writings entitled KNOX: ON REBELLION). [see annotation for KNOX: ON REBELLION elsewhere in this bibliography -- compiler]. It shows in a conclusive manner that Knox wanted a Theonomic Establishment which was careful to 'disapprove, detest, oppose and remove all false worship and all monuments of idolatry' (cf. Westminster Larger Catechism, #108). It also clearly demonstrates that Knox believed in and promoted the continuing binding validity of the Old Testament case laws and the penal sanctions attached to them, including the death penalty.
    "Kevin Reed, in a editor's note, introducing this piece in his newly published SELECTED WRITING OF JOHN KNOX [available on the Puritan Hard Drive. -- compiler], also points out that 'the Westminster Confession provides a distinct echo of Knox, when it states that the magistrate ""hath authority, and it is his duty, to take order, that unity and peace be preserved in the church, that the truth of God be kept pure and entire, that all blasphemies and heresies be suppressed, all corruptions and abuses in worship and discipline prevented or reformed, and all the ordinances of God duly settled, administered, and observed"" (Ch. 23:3, original wording). One secular historian once described Knox as 'Calvin with a sword,' making one wonder if he had not just been reading this very book. For 'where Calvin merely permitted disobedience to an ungodly ruler or immoral law, Knox championed armed rebellion -- a type of Calvinism that made religious revolution in Scotland possible.' (Christian History, Issue 46, p. 35). This is the best of the best; don't miss it!" -- Publisher
    Knox, John, Appellation From the Sentence Pronounced by the Bishops and Clergy: Addressed to the Nobility and Estates of Scotland
    This is a character scan (OCR) of the modernized text published by Protestant Heritage Press. While text may be cut and pasted it is subject to copyright.
    http://www.swrb.com/newslett/actualNLs/appellat.htm
    The Works of John Knox (1846), Vol. 4.
    http://archive.org/stream/worksjohnknox07laingoog#page/n4/mode/2up
    Reformation, Revolution and Romanism (1558), John Knox, MP3 file.
    "This has been called John Knox's most important political writing. It also deals with Romanism, God's law, and much more.
    http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?currSection=sermonssource&sermonID=1030075041
    See also:
    Goodman, Christopher (1520-1603), How Superior Powers ought to be Obeyed of Their Subjects: And Wherein They may Lawfully by God's Word be Disobeyed and Resisted, 1558. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #26. Available (HOW SUPERIOR POWERS OUGHT TO BE OBEYED), on the Library of Presbyterian Heritage Publications and Protestant Heritage Press CD-ROM Library.
    "From 1555 to 1558, Christopher Goodman served as co-pastor, with John Knox, of the congregation of English exiles in Geneva. During the course of his ministry, Goodman preached upon Acts 4:19 and 5:29: 'Whether it be right in the sight of God, to obey you rather than God, judge ye. We ought rather to obey God than men'. . . . In this book, Goodman contends against both ecclesiastical and political tyranny." -- Publisher
    How Superior Powers Ought to be Obeyed of Their Subjects
    http://www.constitution.org/cmt/goodman/obeyed.htm
    See also annotation for:
    Knox, John (1505-1572), The History of the Reformation of Religion Within the Realm of Scotland. . . . Together With the Life of the Author, and Several Curious Pieces Wrote by him, . . . By the Reverend Mr. John Knox, . . . To Which is Added, I. An Admonition to England and Scotland . . . BY Antoni Gilby. II. The First and Second Books of Discipline, Glasgow, 1761. Alternate title: THE HISTORIE OF THE REFORMATION OF THE CHURCH OF SCOTLAND CONTAINING FIVE BOOKS: TOGETHER WITH SOME TREATISES CONDUCING TO THE HISTORY. EDITED, WITH A LIFE OF KNOX AND A PREFACE, BY DAVID BUCHANAN. INCLUDES: "THE APPELLATION OF JOHN KNOX, FROM THE . . . SENTENCE PRONOUNCED AGAINST HIM (pp. 1-33); "THE ADMONITION OF JOHN KNOX TO HIS BELOVED BRETHREN THE COMMONALTY OF SCOTLAND" (pp. 34-42); "A FAITHFULL ADMONITION MADE BY JOHN KNOX TO THE TRUE PROFESSORS OF THE GOSPEL OF CHRIST WITHIN THE KINGDOM OF ENGLAND, 1554" (pp. 43-79); "THE COPIE OF A LETTER DELIVERED TO QUEEN MARY, REGENT OF SCOTLAND" (pp. 80-97); AND "A SERMON PREACHED BY JOHN KNOX [AUGUST 19, 1565]," ISBN: 0851513581 9780851513584. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #1.

    Knox, John (1505-1572), The Execution of Servetus for Blasphemy, Heresy, Obstinate Anabaptism, Defended. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #1. Available in THE WORKS OF JOHN KNOX (1846), volume 5.
    http://archive.org/details/worksofjohnknox05knox

    Nash, David, Blasphemy in the Christian World: A History, ISBN: 9781435609976 1435609972, 280 pages.
    "Blasphemy -- the denial or denigration of God -- has a long history. Jesus was tried for blasphemy. Early Christians felt that the Jews in taking such action were themselves guilty of it. But it is not a story confined to the remote past. The publication in 2005 of 12 cartoons in a Danish newspaper linking the prophet Mohammed to terrorism sparked outrage in the global Islamic community. And that was not an instance of blasphemy intruding itself upon a Western society unused to such issues within Christianity. In many societies blasphemy remained an offence in law and the prosecution of artistic productions profaning the sacred was still a possibility.
    "David Nash's new study focuses on the development of blasphemy in the Christian world. Tracing the subject from the Middle Ages to the present, he outlines the history of blasphemy as a concept, from a species of heresy to modern understandings of it as a crime against the sacred and individual religious identity. Investigating its appearance in speech, literature, popular publishing and the cinema, he disinters the likely motives and agendas of blasphemers themselves, as well as offering a glimpse of blasphemy's victims. In particular, he seeks to understand why this seemingly medieval offence has reappeared to become a distinctly modern presence in the West.
    "David Nash is Reader in History at Oxford Brookes University. He has previously published on the secular and republican movements in England, specializing in the history of blasphemy, and appearing extensively in the media both Britain and America to speak on this subject. He has held visiting professorships in Utrecht and Buffalo, and is a permanent Visiting Research Fellow of the Center for Inquiry (Amherst, New York). In 2003 he was invited to give both verbal and written evidence to the House of Lords Select Committee on religious offences." -- Publisher

    North, Gary, Blasphemy and Civil Rights. Available in LEVITICUS: AN ECONOMIC COMMENTARY, Gary North.
    http://entrewave.com/freebooks/docs/html/gnbd/Chapter23.htm

    Parliament, England, Ordinances of Parliament in Second-reformation England Concerning Blasphemy and Heresy
    http://www.truecovenanter.com/official/1646_and_1648_acts_of_parliament_england_re_heresy.html?doc_banner_show=false

    Simpson, Rick, Blasphemy and the Law in a Plural Society, ISBN: 1851742417 9781851742417, 25 pages.

    Smith, F. LaGard, Blasphemy and the Battle for Faith, ISBN: 0340522798 9780340522790, 208 pages.

    See also: Pseudo-christian movements: a selection of works, atheism, Hypocrisy, Lying and deceit, Betrayal, profanity, Spiritual blindness, Absolute truth and relativism, Epistemology of theology, the theory of knowledge, Heresy, Secular humanism, Conscience, casuistry, cases of conscience, Treason and impeachment, Covenant faithfulness and sanctification, The counter-reformation, Secret societies, ungodly alliances, voluntary associations, The doctrine of man (human nature, total depravity), The root cause of criminal acts of extreme depravity, Repentance the key to salvation and change, Justice, god's final judgment, the great white throne judgment, the day of the lord, and so forth, and so on.
    TCRB5: 473-479, 1608 1682, 3494

    Related Weblinks

    Ordinances of Parliament in Second-reformation England Concerning Blasphemy and Heresy
    http://www.truecovenanter.com/official/1646_and_1648_acts_of_parliament_england_re_heresy.html?doc_banner_show=false



    Blindness, Spiritual

    See the Theological Notes: "Illumination and Conviction," at 1 Corinthians 2:10 in The Reformation Study Bible.
    But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God.
    For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God.     (1 Corinthians 2:10,11)

    See the Theological Notes: "God is Light: Divine Holiness and Justice" at Leviticus 11:44 in The Reformation Study Bible.

    Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path. (Psalm 119:105)

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

    And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not. (John 1:5)

    Therefore, behold, I add to do. He threatens that he will punish by blinding not only the ignorant or the ordinary ranks, but those wise men who were held in admiration by the people. From this vengeance we may easily learn how hateful a vice hypocrisy is, and how greatly it is abhorred by God, as the Prophet spoke a little before about human inventions; for what kind of punishment is more dreadful than blindness of mind and stupidity? This indeed is not commonly perceived by men, nor are they aware of the greatness of this evil; but it is the greatest and most wretched of all. -- Calvin commenting on Isaiah 29:1-24

    And if the blind lead the blind, both shall fall into the ditch. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 15:14b)

    And I will bring the blind by a way that they knew not; I will lead them in paths that they have not known: I will make darkness light before them, and crooked things straight. These things will I do unto them, and not forsake them. (Isaiah 42:16)

    And Jesus said, For judgment I am come into this world, that they which see not might see; and that they which see might be made blind. (John 9:39)

    But your iniquities have separated between you and your God, and your sins have hid his face from you, that he will not hear. (Isaiah 59:2)

    And for this cause God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie: That they all might be damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness. (2 Thessalonians 2:11,12)

    While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal. (2 Corinthians 4:18). See the annotation in The Reformation Study Bible.

    But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him. But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God. (1 Corinthians 2:9,10)

    Thence we learn that a clear and powerful understanding is a special gift of the Spirit, since men are ever blind even in the brightest light, until they have been enlightened by God. -- John Calvin commenting on Deuteronomy 29:4 and context

    But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned. (1 Corinthians 2:14)

    A man can receive nothing, except it be given him from heaven. (John 3:27)
    Right views of God's truth are not an intellectual attainment, but a blessing bestowed on us by God.
    How little is that statement understood by the majority of professing Christians! How unpalatable it is to the self-sufficient Laodiceans of this age, ignorant as they are of their wretchedness, poverty and blindness (Revelation 3:17). Though the wisdom and power of the Creator manifestly appear in every part of His creation, yet when the first Gospel preacher was sent to the Gentiles he had to declare, the world by wisdom knew not God (1 Corinthians 1:21). Though the Jews had the Holy Scriptures in their hands and were thoroughly familiar with the letter of them, yet they knew neither the Father nor His Son when He appeared in their midst. Nor are things any better today. One may accept the Bible as God's Word and assent to all that it teaches, and still be in his sins. He may believe that sin is a transgressing of God's Law, that the Lord Jesus is alone the Savior of sinners, and even be intellectually convinced that without holiness no man shall see the Lord, and yet be entirely ignorant of God to any good purpose. Until a miracle of grace is wrought within them, the state and experience of all men "spiritually speaking" is, Hearing, ye shall hear, and not understand; seeing, ye shall see, and not perceive (Acts 28:26).
    They cannot do so until the veil of pride and prejudice, carnality and self-interest be removed from their hearts, by God's grace. -- Arthur Pink (1886-1952), The Doctrine of Revelation

    Cain and Abel stand as the representatives of two great classes of people. They typify respectively the lost and the saved; the self-righteous and the broken spirited; the formal professor and the genuine believer; those who rely upon their own works and those who rest upon the finished work of Christ; those who insist upon salvation by human merits, and those who are willing to be saved by Divine grace; those who are rejected and cursed by God and those who are accepted and blessed. Cain denied his ruined and fallen condition and refused to accept the remedy God provided; while Abel acknowledged his sinnership, believed the Divine testimony, put his faith in a sacrificial substitute, and was righteous before God. (Genesis 4:3-7) -- Arthur Pink (1886-1952), Gleanings in Genesis

    Where there is no religion, and no fear of God, whatever is said concerning the punishment of the wicked, vanishes as a vain and illusory thing. And hence we perceive how fatal an evil security is, which so inebriates, yea, fascinates, the minds of the wicked, that they no longer think God sits as Judge in heaven; and thus they stupidly sleep in sin, till, while they’re saying, Peace and safety, they are overwhelmed in sudden ruin. And especially, the nearer the vengeance of God approaches, the more does their obstinacy increase and become desperate. There is nothing more full of fear, and even of terror, than wicked men are, when the hand of God presses closely on them; but until, constrained by force, they perceive their destruction to be imminent, they either reject all threats with proud scorn, or contemptuously pass them by. But their indolence ought to awaken us to the fear of God, so that we may be always careful; but more especially when some token of the wrath of God presents itself before us. -- John Calvin (1509-1564), commenting on Genesis 19:14 and context

    We are born spiritually blind, and cannot be restored without a miracle of grace. This is your case, whoever you are that are not born again. . . . Cry earnestly to God for a new heart, for His regenerating Spirit, for the gift of saving faith. Prayer is a universal duty. -- Arthur Pink (1886-1952), Studies on Saving Faith

    But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost: In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them. (2 Corinthians 4:3,4)

    Having the understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God through the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart. (Ephesians 4:18)

    In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them. (2 Corinthians 4:4)

    Let them alone: they be blind leaders of the blind. And if the blind lead the blind, both shall fall into the ditch. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 15:14)

    For the enemy hath persecuted my soul; he hath smitten my life down to the ground; he hath made me to dwell in darkness, as those that have been long dead. Therefore is my spirit overwhelmed within me; my heart within me is desolate. (Psalm 143:3,4)
    Sever abuse of all types can blind a victim spiritually.

    The Gospel according to Isaiah. (Isaiah 59:1-21 [Isaiah 40 -- Isaiah 56])

    See also: Hosea 4:6,7; Jeremiah 9:5; Revelation 20:1-3; Revelation 12:7; Revelation 112:9; 2 Corinthians:44; 2 Timothy 4:3,4; 2 Corinthians 11:3; Leviticus 19:11; Isaiah 59:14,15; Jeremian 7:28; 1 Kings 11:6-11; 2 Kings 22:13; 2 Kings 23:15; Leviticus 18:3; Psalm 106:36; Amos 5:21; Acts 7:43; Leviticus 20:6; Jeremian 7:9; Proverbs 12:22; Romans 1:18; Revelation 21:8 and James 4:4.

    Unbelief is not simply an infirmity of fallen human nature, it is a heinous crime. Scripture everywhere attributes it to love of sin, obstinacy of will, hardness of heart. Unbelief has its root in a depraved nature, in a mind which is enmity against God. Love of sin is the immediate cause of unbelief: And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. (John 3:19) -- A.W. Pink (1886-1952), Practical Christianity

    A humble and prayerful spirit will find a thousand things in the Bible, which the proud, self-conceited student will utterly fail to discern. -- J.C. Ryle (1816-1900)

    Men that are proud and self-conceited are ignorant of the excellencies of others; and this is a cause why they are ignorant of their own comparative meanness. For instance, they are ignorant of the glory and greatness and excellencies of God and so don't know the difference between him and them. And they are blind to others' excellencies, because they have no spirit of love to their neighbor. They are ignorant of their own mistakes, and that makes them think themselves wise. [They are] blind to their own faults and blemishes. They don't see the evil and hatefulness of many things in themselves; which if they did they would be sensible that they are vile and unworthy. If men saw what a sinful and vile heart they have, if they saw the evil of their sinful actions, they would be full of shame and confusion would cover them, instead of being lifted up in a high thought of themselves. -- Jonathan Edwards (1703-1758)

    The unregenerate do not really believe in the holiness of God. Their concept of His character is altogether one-sided. They fondly hope that His mercy will override everything else. You thought that I was just like you (Psalm 50:21), is God's charge against them. They think only of a god patterned after their own evil hearts, hence their continuance in a course of mad folly. -- Arthur Pink (1886-1952), Gleanings in the Godhead -- The Holiness of God

    Edwards, Jonathan (1703-1758), Man's Natural Blindness in the Things of Religion. In THE WORKS OF JONATHAN EDWARDS (2:247-56).

    Flavel, John (1628-1691), The Blinding Policies of Satan as the Cause of Unbelief and Forerunner of Destruction in THE WORKS OF JOHN FLAVEL, (2:451-74)

    Flavel, John (1628-1691), The Method of Grace in the Gospel Redemption, ISBN: 0923309519. Available in THE WORKS OF JOHN FLAVEL, (2:3-474).
    "THE METHOD OF GRACE was first published by the Puritan John Flavel in the late 1600's, and has 'taught thousands how to commit the keeping of their souls to Christ.' The Publishers are happy to bring this Reformation classic back to print as an example of the transforming writings that brought us out of the dark ages.
    "The early Puritan preachers of England did not write and preach from ivory towers. The Act of Uniformity of 1662 declared the public ministry of all non-conformist preachers illegal, but hundreds continued faithfully, preaching under the pressure of persecution and possible arrest. One of this courageous band was John Flavel, who from the crucible of hardship, wrote for the heart as well as the mind.
    "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." -- Publisher
    Flavel, John (1630-1691), The Method of Grace in the Holy Spirit's Applying to the Souls of Men the Eternal Redemption Contrived by the Father and Accomplished by the Son. A sequel to "The Fountain of Life, or Christ in his Essential and Mediatorial Glory."
    http://archive.org/details/methodofgraceinh00flavrich
    The Method of Grace in the Gospel Redemption
    http://www.ccel.org/flavel/grace/grace.txt

    Newton, John (1725-1807), On Blindness. In WORKS OF JOHN NEWTON (1:282-89). Also in THE LETTERS OF JOHN NEWTON (35-40).

    See also: The sovereignty of god, The doctrine of man (human nature, total depravity), Blasphemy, Epistemology of theology, the theory of knowledge, Absolute truth and relativism (duality and non-duality), Spiritual discernment, Foolishness, Pseudo-christian movements: a selection of works, Conscience, casuistry, cases of conscience, Will and recalcitrance, Rebellion and lawlessness: wickedness, demonic possession, abnormal behavior, insanity, mental illness, mental retardation, Justice, god's final judgment, the great white throne judgment, the day of the lord, and so forth, and so on.
    TCRB5: 500-501

    Related Weblinks

    Calvin's Commentaries: Jeremiah 14:15-16
    "It is certain that except the world willingly sought falsehoods, the power of the devil to deceive would not be so great. When men therefore are led astray by impostures, it happens through their own fault, inasmuch as they are more ready to embrace vanity than to submit to God and his word. [No one is ever deceived except by his own will. -- compiler] And we must remember that saying of Paul, that all the reprobate are blinded and given up to a reprobate mind, because they wilfully seek falsehood, and will not obey the truth. (Romans 1:28) And on this account God declares that he tries the hearts of men, whenever false prophets come abroad; for every one who really fears God shall by no means be led away by the deceits of Satan and of impostors. Hence, whenever men are too credulous and readily embrace deceptions, it is certain that their hypocrisy is thus justly punished by God. And it was well known to the Prophet, that the Jews ever wished for such prophets as soothed their ears and promised them an abundant harvest and a fruitful vintage. (Micah 2:11) As then they had itching ears, a liberty was justly given to Satan to deluge the whole land with falsehood; and so indeed it happened. There is then no wonder that the Lord was so severe in chastising the people; for they had not been deceived except through their own fault. The same thing happens at this day. Though we are touched with pity when we see the ministers of Satan prevail in deceiving the common people: yet we must remember that a reward is rendered by heaven for the impiety of men, who either extinguish or smother the light of God as much as they can, and seek to plunge into darkness." -- John Calvin commenting on Jeremiah 14:15-16



    Bribery

    The king by judgment establisheth the land: but he that receiveth gifts overthroweth it. (Proverbs 29:4)

    To have respect of persons is not good: for for a piece of bread that man will transgress. (Proverbs 28:21). See the annotation in The Reformation Study Bible.

    And thou shalt take no gift. This kind of theft is the worst of all, when judges are corrupted either by bribes, or by affection, and thus ruin the fortunes which they ought to protect: for, since their tribunal is as it were a sacred asylum, to which those who are unjustly oppressed may fly, nothing can be more unseemly than that they should there fall amongst robbers. Judges are appointed to repress all wrongs and offenses; if therefore they shew favour to the wicked, they are harbourers of thieves; than which there is no more deadly pest. And besides, since their authority excludes every other remedy, they are themselves like robbers with arms in their hands. The greater, therefore, their power of injury is, and the greater the damage committed by their unjust sentences, the more diligently are they to be beware of iniquity; and thus it was necessary to keep them in the path of duty by special instructions, lest they should conceal and encourage thievery by their patronage. Now, as avarice is the root al all evils, when it thus lays hold of the mind of judges, no integrity can continue to exist. -- John Calvin, commenting on Exodus 23:8 in Commentaries on the Four Last Books of Moses, p. 136

    When he [David] farther says, Their right hands are full of bribes, we may infer from this, that it was not the common people whom he pointed out for observation, but the nobility themselves, who were most guilty of practising this corruption. Although the common and baser sort of men may be hired for reward, and suborned as agents in wickedness, yet we know that bribes are offered chiefly to judges, and other great men who are in power; and we likewise know, that at the time referred to here the worst of men bore sway. It was no wonder, therefore, that David complained that justice was exposed to sale. We are farther admonished by this expression, that those who delight in gifts can scarcely do otherwise than sell themselves to iniquity. Nor is it in vain, unquestionably, that God declares that gifts blind the eyes of the wise, and pervert the hearts of the righteous, (Deuteronomy 16:19.) . . . He saw many become suddenly rich by gifts, as we still see those who sit at the helm of affairs accumulating to themselves, in a very brief space, a great abundance of wealth, building sumptuous palaces, and extending their lands far and wide. -- John Calvin commenting on Psalm 26:10,11

    Who justify the wicked for a reward. He censures a corruption which at that time abounded in judgment-seats, and points out the reason why there is no room for justice in these places, namely, that they are under the influence of gifts. For covetousness blindeth the eyes of the wise, and perverteth all regard to what is good and just, even among those who would otherwise be disposed to follow what is right. (Exodus 23:8; Deuteronomy 16:19) . . . .
    For where gifts are allowed, the regard to what is just and right must be corrupted, and it is impossible for your mind not to be favourably disposed towards him from whom you received them. In short, we should hear the Lord, who declares that the understanding of the wisest man is corrupted, and the disposition of the most upright man is perverted, unless we choose to be thought wiser than God. . . ." -- John Calvin commenting on Isaiah 5:23

    Moreover, He lays down this rule to these judges and officers: they are to judge justly, that is, according to the Law of God and not according to their own understanding. Then He forbids corrupt feelings; they are not to leave the Law behind and be led and motivated by the consideration of persons and bribes. These two things tend to distort and misdirect all justice, and therefore he here adds this aphorism: "Bribes blind the eyes of the wise and subvert the cause of the righteous" (v. 19). Partiality towards persons includes such things as these: fear of persons great, might, or wealthy; love of relatives; regard for friends; contempt for the lowly; sympathy toward those stricken by calamity; and fear of peril to one's own life, reputation, and property. "Bribes," however, include gain, advantage, ambition, and the insatiable and boundless gulf of greed. Therefore, in Exodus 18:21 Jethro advises Moses to choose men who are without greed, that is, birds that are as rare as a black swan. (Martin Luther, Deuteronomy, in Jeroslav Pelikan and Daniel Poellot, [editors], Luther's Works, [St. Louis: Concordia, 1960], p. 163)

    Roman tyrants provided the city wards with feasts to cajole the rabble. Tyrants would distribute largesse, a bushel of wheat, a gallon of wine, and a sesterce (a sliver Roman coin): and then everybody would shamelessly cry, "Long live the King!" The fools did not realize that they were merely recovering a portion of their own property, and that their ruler could not have given them what they were receiving without having first taken it from them. A man might one day be presented with a sesterce and gorge himself at the public feast, lauding Tiberius and Nero for handsome liberality, who on the morrow, would be forced to abandon his property to their avarice, his children to their lust, his very blood to the cruelty of these magnificent emperors, without offering any more resistance than a stone or a tree stump. The mob has always behaved in this way -- eagerly open to bribes. -- Etienne de La Boétie, (1530-1563), The Politics of Obedience: The Discourse of Voluntary Servitude, 1552

    "The business world is awash with money that makes good men do bad things."

    Borkin, Joseph, The Corrupt Judge: An Inquiry Into Bribery and Other High Crimes and Misdemeanors in the Federal Courts.

    Heftel, Cecil, End Legalized Bribery: An Ex-Congressman's Proposal to Clean up Congress, ISBN: 0929765591 9780929765594, 135 pages.
    "Only those who donate large sums of money to congressmen, senators and presidents get represented in our nation's capital. If you try to represent the American people you'll never get on a committee and you'll never receive any funds from your party for re-election. Large corporations and multi-million dollar lobbying groups rule this country. They write legislation, buy senators and congressmen, they destroy the careers of honest lawmakers, alter the tax-code to suit their own selfish needs and keep useful products off the market, so that their own inferior products wont have any competition. The American Automotive industry even got a law passed that exempted them from being prosecuted if they built an unsafe or dangerous product. Why are your taxes so high? Because large corporations with millions or even billions of dollars in profits pay little to no taxes on those profits! These and other corrupt practices are heavily documented in this book. Your government is for sale and YOU can't afford it! YOU are not represented in the nation's capital and your congressman doesn't care about you. He cares about the NRA, Lockheed Martin, McDonnell Douglass, General Motors, Northrop Grumman and General Electric." -- Reader's Comment

    Juettner, Bonnie, Blackmail and Bribery, ISBN: 9781420500684 1420500686.

    Malone, Samuel A., Greed, Fraud, Lies, Bribery and Corruption: A Guide to Organizational Ethics, ISBN: 9781852525774 1852525770, 250 pages.

    Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development, Bribery in Public Procurement: Methods, Actors and Counter-measures, ISBN: 9789264013940 9264013946, 104 pages.
    "Public works contracts mean big business. From road-building to high-tech communication infrastructure, public procurement averages 15 percent of GDP in OECD countries -- substantially more in non-OECD economies -- and it is a major factor in the world trade of goods and services. Given the growing complexity of bribe schemes in todays globalized markets, the problem is how to identify corruption in public procurement so governments can work toward effective prevention and apply sanctions if necessary. This report provides insights on all three fronts. Based on contributions from law enforcement and procurement specialists, the report describes how bribery is committed through the various stages of government purchasing; how bribery in public procurement is related to other crimes, such as fraud and money laundering; and how to prevent and sanction such crimes. The typical motivations and conduct of the various actors engaging in corruption are also highlighted, as well as ten case studies.
    Table of Content: Executive Summary, Introduction, Part I. Analysis of Corruption in Public Procurement, Chapter 1. Public Procurement Rules, Procedures and Practices, Chapter 2. Vulnerabilities Relating to Project Size, Sector, or Tendering Administration, Chapter 3. Links to Other Offenses, Part II. Analysis of the Actors Engaging in Bribery and Typical Corruption Agreements, Chapter 4. Parties Involved in Bribery, Chapter 5. Content of the Bribery Agreements, Part III. Preventing, Detecting, and Sanctioning Bribery in Public Procurement, Chapter 6. Preventive Measures, Chapter 7. Controls, Chapter 8. Detection Mechanisms, Chapter 9. Investigation and Sanctions, Part IV. Ten Anonymous Studies on Bribery in Public Procurement Template for the Description of the Cases of Bribery in Public Procurement, I. A senior civil servant and a subcontractor from another state, II. Bribery relating to public procurement within a local authority, III. Bribery related to procurements within an international aid organization, IV. Fraudulent bid evaluation by an independent consultant in international limited bidding, V. Award of a consultancy contract to fellow national in exchange for bridges, VI. Susceptibility of international bidders to influence bidding and coercion in bid tendering, VII. Collusive bidding and overpricing in international shopping/international price quotations, VIII. Preferential treatment in exchange for gratuities and family member employment, IX. Bribes in exchange for rewarding contracts, X. Bribes from contractor to increase quantity of work, Annex A. The OECD Anti-Bribery Instruments: How They Address Public Procurement.

    Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development, Implementing The OECD Anti-bribery Convention: The United States, ISBN: 9264017828 9789264017825, 116 pages.

    Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), No Longer Business as Usual: Fighting Bribery and Corruption, ISBN: 9264176608 9789264176607, 250 pages.
    "Corruption respects no borders, knows no economic distinctions, and infects all forms of government. Today, corruption has moved to the top of the global political agenda as its dramatic impact on economic development and its corrosive effect on political stability and democratic political institutions has become increasingly obvious. In the new millennium, the OECD and associated governments, which account for over 75 percent of trade and investment worldwide, will play by stricter rules. The Convention on Combating Bribery of Foreign Public Officials in International Business Transactions will outlaw the practice of bribing foreign officials, making competition for international business much more fair and open. Bribery in commercial transactions is only part of the problem. A whole arsenal of legal instruments to combat corruption have now been developed to improve ethical standards in the public sector, to end tax deductibility for bribes, to curtail money laundering, and to clean up public procurement practices. This book provides the key elements needed to build and preserve corruption-free institutions, systems, and private enterprises."

    Reisman, W. Michael, Folded Lies: Bribery, Crusades, and Reforms, ISBN: 0029262801 9780029262801.
    "A comprehensive analysis of the phenomenon of business bribery in all its manifestations. It goes beyond the recent wave of popular books that have simply dramatized the extent to which bribery has become institutionalized. The significance of FOLDED LIES is in its very credible -- and persuasive -- analysis and synthesis of the dynamics of the bribery phenomenon and the societal reactions it will inevitably precipitate. FOLDED LIES should be important reading for the business community, policy makers, lawyers, social scientists, and the general reader." -- John A. Gardiner, author of Theft of the City
    "This is a major contribution to the analysis of one type of white-collar crime. It lifts the veil on 'jurisprudence in the shadows' and analyzes a type of decision pathology. More than that -- the author places the timely topic of bribery in the context of timeless principles of myth systems and operational codes . . . . An incisive inquiry at a fundamental level of the policy alternatives for business and social order." -- Gerald M. Meier, Stanford University

    Wrage, Alexandra Addison, Bribery and Extortion: Undermining Business, Governments, and Security, ISBN: 9780275996499 0275996492.
    Bribery plays a significant role in international criminal activity. Terrorists pay bribes. Money-launderers pay bribes. Those who traffic in people, narcotics, and illegal arms pay bribes. People pay immigration officers not to ask, customs officials not to inspect, and police officers not to investigate. At corporate headquarters in the United States, it can be easy to dismiss modest bribes in distant countries as an unfortunate cost of doing business. Bribes follow patterns that are not at all mysterious to the officials, salesmen, and citizens who seek them and pay them. Using a series of international cases, Wrage examines bribery, peeling back the mystique and ambiguity and exposing the very simple transactions that lie beneath. She shows how these seemingly everyday transactions can affect security, democratization, and human aid around the globe. Bribery and Extortion presents a clear picture of the world of bribery and the havoc it can wreak on whole populations. Wrage covers commercial bribery, administrative and service-based bribery, and extortion. She considers bribery and extortion at both high levels of government and lower levels on "the street." Examples from around the world help to illustrate the nature of the problem and efforts at combating it. The book concludes with practical suggestions and an assessment of current efforts to stem the tide of bribery and restore transparency to everyday transactions in all realms.
    "Alexandra Addison Wrage is an international attorney and President of TRACE International, a nonprofit, anti-bribery business association with over 1,000 corporate members in more than 100 countries. She has worked as in-house counsel for both Northrop Grumman Corporation and MCI Communications. She has written numerous articles on practical anti-bribery strategies and speaks frequently on topics of international law and the hidden costs of corruption." -- Publisher

    See also: The ten commandments: the moral law, Covetousness, greed, and selfishness, Theft, fraud, stealing: property rights and freedom, Conspiracy, corruption, organized crime, The attributes of god, Repentance the key to salvation and change, Justice, god's final judgment, the great white throne judgment, the day of the lord, The teaching of our lord jesus christ, Trusting god, Conscience, casuistry, cases of conscience, Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, Sexual relationship, Spiritual adultery (spiritual whoredom/harlotry), Idolatry, Carnality and flesh pleasing: lust, desires, ambition, Lust, Selfishness, Fearfulness, Pseudo-christian movements: a selection of works, Secret societies and ungodly alliance, The covenanted reformation, The counter-reformation, and so forth, and so on.
    TCRB5: 2548, 2549

    Related Weblinks

    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



    Call Upon the Name of the Lord

    Call Upon the Name of the Lord
    http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr1chb.html#callnl



    Calling, Christian

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

    And Samuel said, Hath the LORD as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams.
    For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry. Because thou hast rejected the word of the LORD, he hath also rejected thee from being king.     (1 Samuel 15:22,23)

    Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 5:16)

    It is only those who truly love Christ that are fitted to minister to His flock! The work is so laborious, the appreciation is often so small, the response so discouraging, the criticisms so harsh, the attacks of Satan so fierce, that only the love of Christ (Ephesians 3:19) -- His for us and ours for Him -- can constrain (2 Corinthians 5:14) to such work. -- Arthur Pink, Exposition of the Gospel of John

    Boice, James Montgomery, Ordinary Men Called by God: Abraham, Moses, and David, ISBN: 082542075X 9780825420757.

    Boston, Thomas (1676-1732), Of Effectual Calling and Of the Benefits of Effectual Calling, both in THE COMPLETE WORKS OF THE REVEREND THOMAS BOSTON.

    Coles, Elisha (1608?-1688), God's Sovereignty, a Practical Discourse, 1673. Alternate Title: A PRACTICAL DISCOURSE OF GOD'S SOVEREIGNTY: WITH OTHER MATERIAL POINTS DERIVED THENCE, NAMELY: OF THE RIGHTEOUSNESS OF GOD, OF ELECTION, OF REDEMPTION, OF EFFECTUAL CALLING, OF PERSEVERANCE. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #3.
    "A Puritan work recommended by Charles Spurgeon, John Owen, Thomas Goodwin, and William Romaine. Owen, in particular, marvels at Coles' singular reliance on Scripture alone to vindicate God's sovereignty, as it relates to election, redemption, effectual calling, and the perseverance of the saints. Originally published in 1673, this is the 1831 edition." -- Publisher

    Firmin, Giles, The Real Christian, or, A Treatise of Effectual Calling. . . . To Which is Added, . . . a few Words Concerning Socinianism . . . By Giles Firmin . . . 1744.

    Flavel, John (1628-1691), The Work of the Spirit as the Internal and Most Effectual Means of the Application of Christ (2:67-87). In THE METHOD OF GRACE IN THE GOSPEL REDEMPTION (2:3-474). Both found in THE WORKS OF JOHN FLAVEL.

    Hooker, Thomas (1586-1647), The Soules Vocation or Effectual Calling to Christ, 1638.

    Knox, John (1505-1572), Knox's Call to the Ministry and First Public Debate (1547) with an editor's note by Kevin Reed, 1547. Available (WORKS OF JOHN KNOX) on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #15, #26. Available in SELECTED WRITINGS OF JOHN KNOX.
    Knox's Call to the Ministry and First Public Debate (1547)
    http://www.swrb.com/newslett/actualnls/KnoxCall.htm

    Love, Christopher (1618-1651), Simeon Ashe, Rev Boucher Jonathan, Archdeacon of Cleveland Churton Edward, Edmund Calamy, A Treatise of Effectual Calling and Election. In XVI. sermons, on 2 Pet. I. I0 [2 Peter 1:10]. Wherein a Christian may Discern, Whether yet he be Effectually Called and Elected. And what course he ought to take that he may attain the assurance thereof. Available (MP3 files) on the Puritan Hard Drive.

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

    Rollock, Robert (1555?-1599), Henry Holland, and Theodore de Beze, A Treatise of Gods Effectual Calling: Written First in the Latine Tongue, by the Reuerend and Faithfull Seruant of Christ, Maister Robert Rollock, Preacher of Gods Word in Edenburgh. And now faithfully translated for the benefite of the vnlearned, into the English tongue, by Henry Holland, preacher in London, 1603.

    Steele, Richard (1629-1692), The Religious Tradesman: Plain and Serious Hints of Advice for the Tradesman's Prudent and Pious Conduct From his Entrance Into Business to his Leaving it Off.
    "Work is considered as a calling of God." -- Publisher
    "For the modern-day businessman this is not an easy read. First the style is that of the late 1600's. Second he is deeper and more spiritually focused than writers of today on the same subject. However, the benefits are greater here. Following the principles and ideas he discusses would revolutionize most business practice in America." -- GCB

    *Watson, Thomas (1620-1686), All Things for Good: Romans 8:28, A Divine Cordial. Alternate title, A DIVINE CORDIAL in 1663, ISBN: 0851514782 9780851514789. A Christian classic. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
    "I would prescribe them to take, now and then, a little of this Cordial: all things work together for good to them that love God. To know that nothing hurts the godly, is a matter of comfort; but to be assured that all things which fall out shall cooperate for their good, that their crosses shall be turned into blessings, that showers of affliction water the withering root of their grace and make it flourish more; this may fill their hearts with joy till they run over." -- Thomas Watson, from the Preface
    "Thomas Watson of St. Stephen's, Walbrook believed he faced two great difficulties in his pastoral ministry. The first was making the unbeliever sad, in the recognition of his need of God's grace. The second was making the believer joyful in response to God's grace. He believed the answer to the second difficulty could be found in Paul's teaching in Romans 8:28, God works all things together for good for his people.
    "Watson's exposition is always simple, illuminating and rich in practical application. He explains that both the best and the worst experiences work for the good of God's people. He carefully analyses what it means to be someone who 'loves God' and is 'called according to his purpose.' ALL THINGS FOR GOOD provides the biblical answer to the contemporary question: 'Why do bad things happen to good people'?" -- Publisher

    Witsius, Herman (1636-1708), Election and Effectual Calling.
    Of Election From Economy of the Covenants Between God and Man
    http://www.truecovenanter.com/gospel/witsius_election.html

    See also: The sovereignty of god, The doctrine of man (human nature, total depravity), Spiritual discernment, The free offer of the gospel message of salvation and the life to come: the means of grace, the covenant of eternal salvation, How to become a christian, Book-length presentations of the gospel message of salvation and the life to come: the means of grace, Predestination, election, efficatious grace, Trusting god, Loving and obeying god, Discipleship, Self-discipline, Discipleship, Deceit, self-deception, lying, false witness, and so forth, and so on.
    TCRB5: 622, 1789-1793, 2378, 3508, 3845, 3889, 3924
    MGTP: Calling, Vocation or Calling



    Carnality and Flesh Pleasing: Desires, Pleasure

    The enemies of the eternal souls of the elect are the flesh, Satan, and the world system. (James 4:4; Acts 26:18)

    To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Acts 26:18)

    For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. (Romans 8:6)

    So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God.
    But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his. And if Christ be in you, the body is dead because of sin; but the Spirit is life because of righteousness. But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you.
    Therefore, brethren, we are debtors, not to the flesh, to live after the flesh. For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live. For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God: And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together.
    For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.     (Romans 8:8-18)

    Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness,
    Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies,
    Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.     (Galatians 5:19-21)

    Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever. (1 John 2:15-17)

    Therefore, brethren, we are debtors, not to the flesh, to live after the flesh. For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live. (Romans 8:12-13)
    A man may easier see without eyes, speak without a tongue, than truly mortify one sin without the Spirit. -- John Owen

    See the Theological Notes: "Christians in the World," at Colossians 2:20 in The Reformation Study Bible.

    I made a covenant with mine eyes; why then should I think upon a maid? (Job 31:1)

    Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not commit adultery: But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart. And if thy right eye offend thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee: for it is profitable for thee that one of thy members should perish, and not that thy whole body should be cast into hell. And if thy right hand offend thee, cut it off, and cast it from thee: for it is profitable for thee that one of thy members should perish, and not that thy whole body should be cast into hell. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 5:27-30)

    Dearly beloved, I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul. (1 Peter 2:5)

    Ultimately the Seventh Commandment (Exodus 20:14), is about our fidelity to Christ. (Hosea 2:19-20; 1 Corinthians 6:15-20; James 4:4)
    To fracture the Seventh Commandment is to break covenant with the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.
    The sexual revolution is really a revolution against God. (Numbers 25:1-3, 29; Joshua 22:17; Psalm 106:30,31)
    See: Engelsma, Marriage, the Mystery of Christ and the Church.

    There is a way that seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death. (Proverbs 16:25)

    Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness? (Romans 6:16)

    There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. (Romans 8:1)

    Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be. (Romans 8:7)

    For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would. (Galatians 5:17)

    That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness. (Ephesians 4:22-24)

    If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God. When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory.
    Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry: For which things' sake the wrath of God cometh on the children of disobedience: In the which ye also walked some time, when ye lived in them.
    But now ye also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth. Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds; And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him: Where there is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcision nor uncircumcision, Barbarian, Scythian, bond nor free: but Christ is all, and in all.     (Colossians 3:1-11)

    Oh that our souls would so fall at odds with the love of this world, as to think of it as a traveller doth of a drink of water, which is not any part of his treasure, but goeth away with the using! For ten miles' journey maketh that drink to him as nothing. Oh that we had as soon done with this world, and could as quickly dispatch the love of it! But as a child cannot hold two apples in his little hand, but the one putteth the other out of its room, so neither can we be masters and lords of two loves. Blessed were we, if we could make ourselves master of the invaluable treasure, the love of Christ; or rather suffer ourselves to be mastered and subdued to Christ's love, so as Christ were our all things, and all other things our nothings, and the refuse of our delights. -- The Letters of Samuel Rutherford, Letter 195, p. 383

    Choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season;
    Esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt: for he had respect unto the recompence of the reward.     (Hebrews 11:25-26)
    This clause ought to be carefully noticed; for we here learn that we ought to shun as a deadly poison whatever cannot be enjoyed without offending God; for the pleasures of sin he calls all the allurements of the world which draw us away from God and our calling. But the comforts of our earthly life, which we are allowed by pure conscience, and God's permission to enjoy, are not included here. Let us then ever remember that we ought to know and understand what God allows us. There are indeed some things in themselves lawful, but the use of which is prohibited to us, owing to circumstances as to time, place, or other things. Hence as to all the blessings connected with the present life, what is ever to be regarded is, that they should be to us helps and aids to follow God and not hindrances. And he calls these pleasures of sin temporary or for a time, because they soon vanish away together with life itself.
    "In opposition to these he sets the reproach of Christ, which all the godly ought willingly to undergo. For those whom God has chosen, he has also foreordained to be conformed to the image of his own son; not that he exercises them all by the same kind of reproaches or by the same cross, but that they are all to be so minded as not to decline to undertake the cross in common with Christ. Let every one then bear in mind, that as he is called to this fellowship he is to throw off all hindrances. Nor must we omit to say, that he reckons among the reproaches of Christ all the ignominious trials which the faithful have had to endure from the beginning of the world; for as they were the member of the same body, so they had nothing different from what we have. As all sorrows are indeed the rewards of sin, so they are also the fruits of the curse pronounced on the first man: but whatever wrongs we endure from the ungodly on account of Christ, these he regards as his own. Hence Paul gloried that he made up what was wanting as to the sufferings of Christ. Were we rightly to consider this, it would not be so grievous and bitter for us to suffer for Christ.
    "He also explains more fully what he means in this clause by the reproach of Christ, by what he has previously declared when he said, that Moses chose to suffer affliction with the people of God. He could not have otherwise avowed himself as one of God's people, except he had made himself a companion to his own nation in their miseries. Since, then, this is the end, let us not separate ourselves from the body of the Church: whatever we suffer, let us know that it is consecrated on account of the head. So on the other hand he calls those things the treasures of Egypt, which no one can otherwise possess than by renouncing and forsaking the Church. For he had respect unto the recompense of the reward, or for he looked to the remuneration. He proves by the description he gives, that the magnanimity of Moses' mind was owing to faith; for he had his eyes fixed on the promise of God. For he could not have hoped that it would be better for him to be with the people of Israel than with the Egyptians, had he not trusted in the promise and in nothing else.
    By faith he forsook Egypt, etc.
    This may be said of his first as well as of his second departure, that is, when he brought out the people with him. He then indeed left Egypt when he fled from the house of Pharaoh. Add to this, that his going out is recorded by the Apostle before he mentions the celebration of the Passover. He seems then to speak of the flight of Moses; nor is what he adds, that he feared not the wrath of the king, any objection to this, though Moses himself relates that he was constrained to do so by fear. For if we look at the beginning of his course he did not fear, that is, when he avowed himself to be the avenger of his people. However, when I consider all the circumstances, I am inclined to regard this as his second departure; for it was then that he bravely disregarded the fierce wrath of the king, being armed with such power by God's Spirit, that he often of his own accord defied the fury of that wild beast. It was doubtless an instance of the wonderful strength of faith, that he brought out a multitude untrained for war and burdened with many encumbrances, and yet hoped that a way would be opened to him by God's hand through innumerable difficulties. He saw a most powerful king in a furious rage, and he knew that he would not cease till he had tried his utmost. But as he knew that God had commanded him to depart, he committed the event to him, nor did he doubt but that he would in dug time restrain all the assaults of the Egyptians.
    As seeing him who is invisible. Nay, but he had seen God in the midst of the burning bush: this then seems to have been said improperly, and not very suitable to the present subject. I indeed allow, that Moses was strengthened in his faith by that vision, before he took in hand the glorious work of delivering the people; but I do not admit that it was such a view of God, as divested him of his bodily senses, and transferred him beyond the trials of this world. God at that time only showed him a certain symbol of his presence; but he was far from seeing God as he is. Now, the Apostle means, that Moses so endured, as though he was taken up to heaven, and had God only before his eyes; and as though he had nothing to do with men, was not exposed to the perils of this world and had no contests with Pharaoh. And yet, it is certain, that he was surrounded with so many difficulties, that he could not but think sometimes that God was far away from him, or at least, that the obstinacy of the king, furnished as it was with so many means of resistance, would at length overcome him. In short, God appeared to Moses in such a way, as still to leave room for faith; and Moses, when beset by terrors on every side, turned all his thoughts to God. He was indeed assisted to do this, by the vision which we have mentioned; but yet he saw more in God than what that symbol intimated: for he understood his power, and that absorbed all his fears and dangers. Relying on God's promise, he felt assured that the people, though then oppressed by the tyranny of the Egyptians, were already, as it were, the lords of the promised land.
    We hence learn, that the true character of faith is to set God always before our eyes; secondly, that faith beholds higher and more hidden things in God than what our senses can perceive; and thirdly, that a view of God alone is sufficient to strengthen our weakness, so that we may become firmer than rocks to withstand all the assaults of Satan. It hence follows, that the weaker and the less resolute any one is, the less faith he has. -- John Calvin commenting on Hebrew 11:25-27

    And he humbled thee, and suffered thee to hunger, and fed thee with manna, which thou knewest not, neither did thy fathers know; that he might make thee know that man doth not live by bread only, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of the LORD doth man live. (Deuteronomy 8:3)

    Therefore was the wrath of the LORD kindled against his people, in so much that he abhorred his own inheritance.
    And he gave them into the hands of the heathen; and they that hated them ruled over them.
    Their enemies also oppressed them, and they were brought into subjection under their hand.     (Psalm 106:40-42)

    The Treasury of David, Psalm 106, commentary by C.H. Spurgeon
    Our fathers understood not thy wonders in Egypt. (v. 7)
    Nevertheless he saved them for his name's sake, that he might make his mighty power to be known. (v. 8)
    And he saved them from the hand of them that hated them. (v. 10)
    They soon forgat his works. (v. 13)
    And he gave them their request; but sent leanness into their soul. (v. 15)
    They made a calf in Horeb, and worshipped the molten image. (v. 19)
    Thus they changed their glory into the similitude of an ox that eateth grass. (v. 20)
    They forgat God their saviour. (v. 21)
    Thus they provoked him to anger with their inventions: and the plague brake in upon them. (v. 29)
    Then stood up Phinehas, and executed judgment: and so the plague was stayed. (v. 30)
    And that was counted unto him for righteousness unto all generations for evermore. (v. 31)
    They did not destroy the nations, concerning whom the LORD commanded them. (v. 34)
    But were mingled among the heathen, and learned their works. (v. 35)
    Yea, they sacrificed their sons and their daughters unto devils. (v. 37)
    Thus were they defiled with their own works, and went a whoring with their own inventions. (v. 39)
    Therefore was the wrath of the LORD kindled against his people, in so much that he abhorred his own inheritance. (v. 40)
    And he gave them into the hands of the heathen; and they that hated them ruled over them. (v. 41)
    Their enemies also oppressed them, and they were brought into subjection under their hand. (v. 42)
    Many times did he deliver them; but they provoked him with their counsel, and were brought low for their iniquity. (v. 43)
    Nevertheless he regarded their affliction, when he heard their cry. (v. 44)
    And he remembered for them his covenant. (v. 45)
    Save us, O Lord our God, and gather us from among the heathen, to give thanks unto thy holy name, and to triumph in thy praise. (v. 47)
    Blessed be the Lord God of Israel from everlasting to everlasting: and let all the people say, Amen. Praise ye the Lord. (v. 48)
    http://archive.spurgeon.org/treasury/ps106.php

    Wherefore do ye spend money for that which is not bread? and your labour for that which satisfieth not? hearken diligently unto me, and eat ye that which is good, and let your soul delight itself in fatness.
    Incline your ear, and come unto me: hear, and your soul shall live; and I will make an everlasting covenant with you, even the sure mercies of David.     (Isaiah 55:2,3)

    Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 7:21)

    For it seemed good to the Holy Ghost, and to us, to lay upon you no greater burden than these necessary things: That ye abstain from meats offered to idols, and from blood, and from things strangled, and from fornication: from which if ye keep yourselves, ye shall do well. Fare ye well. (Acts 15:28,29) -- From a letter written by the Apostles after they had consulted together, and declared to the church at Antioch

    The four "Servant Songs" of Isaiah are Isaiah 42:1-9; Isaiah 49:1-7; Isaiah 50:4-11; and Isaiah 52:13 -- Isaiah 53:12. See the annotations in The Reformation Study Bible.

    Our Triune God has ordained that the preeminent leader of the Church is the Lord Jesus Christ, the God Man, Our Righteousness. (John 1:1-18; Matthew 19:30; Matthew 28:18-20; Isaiah 49:7; Colossians 1:16-19; Colossians 2:9,10; Hebrews 12:1,2; Revelation 5:1-14; Revelation 19:11-15; Revelation 20:11-15; Revelation 22:12, and so forth, and so on). Human leadership is also divinely ordained and tends to devolve to those who are most perfectly at one with Christ, and to those who also know the most Truth (the Apostle Paul, Saint Augustine, Martin Luther, John Calvin, Puritan leaders, The Scots Worthies, and so forth, and so on).
    And Jesus said unto them, Verily I say unto you, That ye which have followed me, in the regeneration when the Son of man shall sit in the throne of his glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 19:28). See: (Matthew 19:28, 1599 Geneva Bible)
    Then his master said unto him, It is well done good servant and faithful, Thou hast been faithful in little, I will make thee ruler over much: enter into thy master's joy. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 25:21) (Matthew 25:21 1599 Geneva Bible)
    Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 25:34). See: (Matthew 25:34, 1599 Geneva Bible)
    And he said unto him, Well, good servant: because thou hast been faithful in a very little thing, take thou authority over ten cities. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 19:17) (Luke 19:17, 1599 Geneva Bible)
    Therefore I appoint unto you a kingdom, as my Father hath appointed unto me. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 22:29) (Luke 22:29, 1599 Geneva Bible)
    And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together. (Romans 8:17). See: (Romans 8:17, 1599 Geneva Bible)
    Know ye not that we shall judge angels? how much more things that pertain to this life? (1 Corinthians 6:3). See: (1 Corinthians 6:3, 1599 Geneva Bible)
    And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus. (Ephesians 2:6). See: (Ephesians 2:6, 1599 Geneva Bible)
    To execute vengeance upon the heathen, and corrections among the people:
    To bind their kings in chains, and their nobles with fetters of iron,
    That they may execute upon them the judgment that is written: this honor shall be to all his Saints. Praise ye the Lord.     (Psalm 149:7-9) (Psalm 149:7-9, 1599 Geneva Bible)
    But I suffer not a woman to teach, nor to usurp authority over the man, but to be in silence. (1 Timothy 2:12), (1 Timothy 2:12, 1599 Geneva Bible)
    And he that overcometh, and keepeth my works unto the end, to him will I give power over the nations. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Revelation 2:26). See: (Revelation 2:26, 1599 Geneva Bible)
    To serve God is to reign. -- Seneca (4 BC -- 65 AD)

    Keep a strict government and watch over your fleshly appetite and senses. (Romans 8:13; Romans 13:13,14). For the loosing of the reins to carnal lusts, and yielding to the importunity of sensual desires, is the most ordinary way of wasting grace, and falling off from God. -- Richard Baxter (1615-1691)

    Son, whatever weakens your reasoning, impairs the tenderness of your conscience, obscures your sense of God, or takes away your relish for spiritual things; in short, if anything increases the authority and power of the flesh over the Spirit, then that to you becomes sin, however good it is in itself. -- Susanna Wesley's answer to her son, John Wesley, who asked her to define sin. -- cited in Sherwood Eliot Wirt (editor) and Kersten Beckstrom (editor), Topical Encyclopedia of Living Quotations

    Selfishness and pride will blind even the gifted and learned to the truth. Lust for power and the will to play God will blind us to the truth. Intense nationalistic pride, political bent, alienation during secular schooling, or personal ambitions blind us to the "evident connection between Absolute Truth, sovereign authority, holiness, life, loving obedience, moral behavior, sanctification, justice, freedom (political, economic, and individual), social stability, and real progress. . . ." -- Preface to Biblical Counsel: Resources for Renewal

    Trusting in men instead of trusting in God results in incompetence and corruption
    The unregenerate, the skeptic, regardless of their level in society, look to men for their livelihood and well-being, instead of trusting in God to prepare a table before me in the face of mine enemies, to care for them and to satisfy their needs throughout life, a lesson that King David learned and expressed in Psalm 23:5,6. They are blind to spiritual values and swallowed up by needs of the flesh.
    The skeptic, who can not trust God, is more worried about loosing his job than he is worried about job duties, responsibilities, and performance. This inevitably leads to incompetence and corruption in the workplace.
    This obsessive preoccupation with job security, whether conscious or sub-conscious, also applies to elected officials, from top to bottom, who make demands on subordinates to not "rock the boat," to not jeopardize their popularity with the electorate, leading to the observation that "all bureaucracies are incompetent and corrupt."
    The "savvy" Washington bureaucrat is "hog-tied" because he is more interested in "covering his butt," not jeopardizing his easy, secure, well-paying, lifetime "career" with retirement and benefits, than in carrying out his responsibilities, especially regulatory or enforcement duties (i.e. the Securities and Exchange Commission). The net effect is paralysis in the workplace. Friday evening rush hour in Washington, DC is said to be the most sluggish of any city in the country.
    Calvin unfolds Scripture on this fact of the incompetence and corruption of the unregenerate, the blind, in their fearful pursuit of fleshly needs. See his commentary on: Proverbs 1:7, Genesis 4:7, Genesis 25:29-34, Hebrews 2:14,15, and Matthew 16:26.

    Adams, Jay E. (1929-2020), Winning the war Within: A Biblical Strategy for Spiritual Warfare, ISBN: 188903200X 9781889032009. Alternate title: THE WAR WITHIN: A BIBLICAL STRATEGY FOR SPIRITUAL WARFARE.
    "The Christian life is war. The holy war between God and Satan gets played out within ourselves in the conflict between the Holy Spirit and the flesh. 'It is to the enemy within that Satan, the world, and the demons must make their appeal.' Describes Satan's tactics and power, and then the strategies for victory: the Spirit's sword, prayer, faith, the help of believers. 'The prime purpose of this book is to encourage faltering Christians'." -- David Powlison

    *Baxter, Richard (1615-1691), A Christian Directory: Baxter's Practical Works, Vol. 1. Full title: A Christian Directory: or A Sum of Practical Theology, and Cases of Conscience. Directing Christians how to use Their Knowledge and Faith; How to Improve all Helps and Means, and to Perform all Duties; How to Overcome Temptations, and to Escape or Mortify Every Sin. In Four Parts.
    I. Christian Ethics (or Private Duties)
    II. Christian Economics (or Family Duties)
    III. Christian Ecclesiastics (or Church Duties)
    IV. Christian Politics (or Duties to Our Rulers and Neighbours)     (Morgan, PA: Soli Deo Gloria Publications, 1997, 1990, 1838, 1707, 1678, 1673), ISBN: 1877611131 9781877611131. Foreword by J.I. Packer (Soli Deo Gloria edition only). The Soli Deo Gloria publication is a facsimile reprint of the 19th century reprint by George Virtue, London, 1846. The original 1673 edition and the 1678 edition, both printed by Robert White for Nevill Simmons. Bibliographic and scriptural footnotes. A Christian classic. Considered to be among the ten greatest books in the English language. Available (less the J.I. Packer's Foreword, but searchable with an OCR-based index), on the Puritan Hard Drive.
    This work is available in many editions, and in many formats.
    Reformation Heritage Books has new copies of the Soli Deo Gloria edition (including the J.I. Packer Introduction), as of March 2008, even though it is generally thought to be out of print. They acquired Soli Deo Gloria from Ligonier Ministries in late 2007.
    The best digital format of the reprint by George Virtue is included on the Puritan Hard Drive. It has an OCR scan in the background, meaning one can search the entire volume and copy text into another document. It also has a computer generated indexed from the OCR scan which is, of course, in Baxter's vocabulary.
    A PDF image scan only of the same edition is available on the Reformation Bookshelf CD #21.
    The reprint by George Virtue is available online and may be downloaded in PDF format at Christian Classics Ethereal Library.
    The reprint by George Virtue appears in full preview in Google Books but may not be downloaded. So it is useful if the reader wants to become acquainted with the book. Text can be searched, but can not be copied into another document. This particular Google Books scan includes the contents in detail on pages iii-xix which is not included in the Christian Classics Ethereal Library PDF files. About five other editions from libraries are available in Google Books, and may be downloaded (August 2008).
    Notice that the e-text in Google Books has the advantage of being searchable. Searching an image-based PDF file (without an OCR scan in the background), is not possible, unless the user owns software such as Abode Acrobat Pro or Kirtas BookScan Editor. They both have an OCR (optical character recognition), feature that will search an image-based PDFs (bit-map scans). Searches appear to be perfect in this work, although one must know Baxter's vocabulary. Text can be cut and pasted from image-based PDF format to OCR (character) format. This particular Google Books scan can not be cut and pasted or downloaded.
    One of the older, multi-volume editions of THE WORKS OF RICHARD BAXTER is available at Monergism.com in the "Puritan Library," "Richard Baxter." A CHRISTIAN DIRECTORY, volume 23. It can be downloaded.
    http://www.puritanlibrary.com/
    Another older edition is available on microfilm (Ann Arbor, MI: University Microfilms, 1970), 1 microfilm reel, 35 mm (Early English books, 1641-1700; 343:11).
    "The complete practical works of Richard Baxter are in print in four volumes entitled BAXTER'S PRACTICAL WORKS. This volume (about 1 1/4 million words, 1028 pages), is volume one of the set. The editor's preface (1707), p. xiii, stated that the works of Richard Baxter are 'perhaps the best body of practical divinity that is extent in our own or any other tongue.' Richard Baxter lived from 1615-1691. The DIRECTORY was completed in 1665. Its scope was intended to cover all of practical theology, a summa of casuistry . . ." -- Don Kistler
    "Baxter's series, which grew in range and scope as it proceeded . . . is a peak point in Puritan devotional writing, and remains a precious resource for all, in this or any age, who want to know what is involved in Biblical godliness. . . . A CHRISTIAN DIRECTORY may justly be described as a landmark. It is the fullest, most thorough, and in this writer's judgment, most profound treatment of Christian spirituality and standards that has ever been attempted by an English-speaking Evangelical author. The fact that it embraces both spirituality and standards (the principles of communion with God plus the specifics of obedience to God), merits approving comment in itself; nowadays spirituality and ethics have become two distinct disciplines in the schools, and books written on either say virtually nothing about the other . . ." -- J.I. Packer (1926-2020)
    Timothy Keller calls it the greatest manual on Biblical counseling ever produced.
    "There are many Puritan classics on this subject. Thomas Brooks' PRECIOUS REMEDIES FOR SATAN'S DEVICES, Thomas Goodwin's A CHILD OF LIGHT WALKING IN DARKNESS, William Bridge's A LIFTING UP FOR THE DOWNCAST, and many other similar works give evidence that the Puritans were. . . . masters at applying Biblical answers and principles to problems that can only be solved by spiritual means. No Puritan work, however, has ever approached the popularity, the scope, or the depth of Baxter's classic treatise. With the widespread interest in counseling in today's church, this reprint of Baxter's work should be a welcome addition to every pastor's library, or to anyone else who wishes to give solid Biblical answers to man's questions." -- Don Kistler
    "We have long waited for a purely Biblical treatment of the spiritual ills and cures of men which is untainted by the views of psychology. Since Baxter lived about 200 years before psychology arrived, his deep work is completely void of its encroachment -- thankfully!" -- John MacArthur
    "The kings men sought to arrest Richard Baxter, but he traveled ceaselessly from place to place, writing his sermons and his books even on horseback (he had an inkwell in his saddle), and preached over a wide area." -- Brian H. Edwards
    "Baxter was a wonder of his age. His writings total 72 large volumes, much of it written on horseback as he traveled in his widespread preaching efforts. He seldom, if ever, edited anything he wrote. Knowing this any reader will be amazed at how well he communicated his deep love for his Savior. For 26 years he was public enemy No. 1 to the king, yet he lived to see the flight of the king in 1688." -- Jay P. Green, Sr. (1918-2008)
    POOR MAN'S FAMILY BOOK (1674) and THE CATECHIZING OF FAMILIES (1683), are less detailed works and are found in THE REFORMED PASTOR: BAXTER'S PRACTICAL WORKS, VOL. 4. They are more suitable for family instruction than are the detailed presentation in A CHRISTIAN DIRECTORY.
    "Ptacek in FAMILY WORSHIP: BIBLICAL BASIS, HISTORICAL REALITY, CURRENT NEED (pp. 51-52), supplies the following information in regard to Baxter and this book. He notes that after the Episcopalians ejected numerous 'nonconformists,' in what is know as the 'great ejection,' in 1662, 'Baxter pastored from house to house, visiting families of his parish in their homes. These visits contributed to Baxter's A CHRISTIAN DIRECTORY, a large and still very relevant manual of pastoral care.' Focusing on just one area of great importance, Ptacek demonstrates how this book's relevance is not limited by time or culture, though sometimes the use of specific words are. 'Published in 1673, but written 1664-65, a large book-length part of Baxter's CHRISTIAN DIRECTORY is devoted to the family. It is entitled 'Christian Economics' based on the archaic usage of the word, which reflects the proper sense of the Greek root oikonomos as the manager of a household, in the Christian case, the spiritual leader of the family. The family head is essential to Baxter's view of family worship and instruction. Baxter asserts that it is God's will that this instruction be carried out by the rulers of the families.' For a male head of the household to fail to do so, or to have another instruct in the family, is contrary to his position of authority.' This is the kind of book that can be passed on from generation to generation and still find much use in the service of the kingdom of God.
    "Though relatively weak on corporate sanctification, corporate faithfulness and some important areas of doctrine (such as justification), Baxter's work on subjects related to personal piety can be of good practical use to the Christian -- if one is careful to separate out his aberrant doctrinal views and any practical errors they may lead to." -- Publisher
    The following three excerpts are included as bonus free books on Reformation Bookshelf CD #28.
    1. "The Duties of Parents for Their Children" from BAXTER'S PRACTICAL WORKS, VOL. 1, A CHRISTIAN DIRECTORY, on Christian Economics, Chap. X., pp. 449-454.
    2. "The Special Duties of Children Towards Their Parents" from BAXTER'S PRACTICAL WORKS, VOL. 1, A CHRISTIAN DIRECTORY, on Christian Economics, Chap. XI., pp. 454-457.
    3. "The Special Duties of Children and Youth Towards God" from BAXTER'S PRACTICAL WORKS, VOL. 1, A CHRISTIAN DIRECTORY, on Christian Economics, Chap. XII., pp. 457-458).
    A summary of currently (2012) available publications.
    http://www.lettermen2.com/pwrbcd.html
    Richard Baxter, from Wikipedia
    http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Richard_Baxter

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

    Baxter, Richard (1615-1691), Walking With God: The Description, Reasons and Reward of the Believer's Walking With God: On Genesis v. 24 [Genesis 5:24], ISBN: 1877611360.

    *Bolton, Robert (1572-1631), and Thomas Goodwin (1600-1680), Bolton, Robert, The Carnal Professor and Thomas Goodwin, Christ Set Forth, ISBN: 1877611468 9781877611469. Alternate title: CHRIST SET FORTH IN HIS DEATH, RESURRECTION, ASCENSION, SITTING AT GOD'S RIGHT HAND, AND INTERCESSION / BY THOMAS GOODWIN. Available (CHRIST SET FORTH), in THE WORKS OF THOMAS GOODWIN, VOL. 1.
    The Works of Thomas Goodwin
    http://archive.org/details/worksofthomasgoo01good
    "The first 156 pages is a heart-searching treatise directed at those who profess Christianity without necessarily possessing it. Goodwin's 384 pages is directed toward those who have embraced the principles of Christ, but have neglected Christ Himself in all of His glory. Both authors are Puritans of great renown." -- CBD

    Bridge, William, The Carnality of Professors. In WORKS OF WILLIAM BRIDGE (5:117-32).

    Burroughs, Jeremiah (1599-1646), and Don Kistler (editor), Moses' Choice: With his eye Fixed Upon Heaven: Discovering the Happy Condition of a Self-denying Heart With his eye Fixed Upon Heaven: Delivered in a Treatise Upon Hebrews 11:25,26, ISBN: 9780982615591 0982615590.
    "This work by the English Puritan Jeremiah Burroughs is based on Hebrews 11:25: choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season. It is a masterful treatise on suffering and self-denial. This is the first modern edition of this rare work since its initial printing in 1641." -- Publisher
    The companion volume, MOSES' SELF-DENIAL, edited by Don Kistler is also in print as of 2016.
    Moses his Choice, Burroughs
    https://archive.org/details/moseshischoicewi00burr

    Burroughs, Jeremiah (1599-1646), A Treatise of Earthly-Mindedness and a Heavenly Conversation (Walking With God), ISBN: 1877611387.
    "A comprehensive treatment of the nature and enticements of worldliness. It reflects the keen insight of Puritan Christianity." -- GCB

    Calvin, John (1509-1564), A Sermon on the Duty of Civil Rulers to Enforce and Defend the True Religion and True Godliness in their Realms by drawing out the sword against all Heretics and others who trouble the Church, and by strictly punishing whoredom, drunkenness, dancing, stage plays, &c., John Calvin. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
    A sermon on 1 Timothy 2:1-2.
    http://www.truecovenanter.com/calvin/calvin_12_on_Timothy.html

    *Lloyd-Jones, D. Martyn (1899-1981), The Law: Its Functions and Limits (Romans 7:1 -- 8:4),
    "This careful and detailed work is an example of expository preaching at its best. Lloyd-Jones' analysis of carnality and spirituality is designed to expose the reason for the former and the way to acquire the latter." -- Cyril J. Barber

    *Love, Christopher (1618-1651), The Combat Between the Flesh and Spirit. As also the wofull with-drawing of the Spirit of God, with the causes thereof: and walking in, and after the Spirit, together with the blessednesse thereof. Being the summe and substance of XXVII. sermons: preached a little before his death, by that faithfull servant of Christ, Mr. Christopher Love, late minister of the Gospel at Lawrence Jury London. To which is added the Christians directory tending to direct him in the various conditions that God may cast him into. In XV. sermons, 1654. Available (THE SELECT WORKS OF THE REV. CHRISTOPHER LOVE), on Puritan Hard Drive. Available [audio file], on Reformation Bookshelf CD #4.

    Lundgaard, Kris, The Enemy Within: Straight Talk About the Power and Defeat of Sin, ISBN: 0875522017 9780875522012.
    "This book, based on John Owen's masterpiece entitled THE NATURE, POWER, DECEIT, AND PREVALENCY OF THE REMAINDERS OF INDWELLING SIN IN BELIEVERS, unpacks the truth found in the Scriptures for readers to help them get just that: victory! But victory over what? Satan? Yeah. Sin? Yeah. But more specifically, the flesh -- something that is overlooked as the source of the sin by many evangelicals today, yet cited by almost all biblical authors as the part of us that hates God and therefore sins. Lundgaard himself claims to have 'kidnapped Owen'. (p. 14). This is not Lundgaard's wisdom, it is Owen's Bible-inspired wisdom converted into modern language with modern examples for modern readers." -- Reader's Comment

    Manton, Thomas (1620-1677), Sermon Upon Deuteronomy 32:51. In THE COMPLETE WORKS OF THOMAS MANTON (16:387-96).
    "The sins of God's children may cost them dear in this world."

    Perkins, William (1558-1602), Tvvo Treatises I. Of the Nature and Practise of Repentance. II. Of the Combat of the Flesh and Spirit, 1593.

    *Pike, Samuel (1717-1773), and Samuel Hayward (1718-1757), Distinguishing Faith and Feelings. In RELIGIOUS CASES OF CONSCIENCE ANSWERED IN AN EVANGELICAL MANNER . . . TO WHICH IS ADDED THE SPIRITUAL COMPANION; OR, THE PROFESSING CHRISTIAN TRIED AT THE BAR OF GOD'S WORD; AND CHARACTER OF THE HAPPY MAN, 1866.
    Distinguishing Faith and Feelings
    http://www.westminsterconfession.org/godly-living/distinguishing-faith-and-feelings.php

    *Pike, Samuel (1717-1773), and Samuel Hayward (1718-1757), Spiritual Injury From Undue Pursuit of the Affairs of This Life. In RELIGIOUS CASES OF CONSCIENCE ANSWERED IN AN EVANGELICAL MANNER . . . TO WHICH IS ADDED THE SPIRITUAL COMPANION; OR, THE PROFESSING CHRISTIAN TRIED AT THE BAR OF GOD'S WORD; AND CHARACTER OF THE HAPPY MAN, 1866.
    Spiritual Injury From Undue Pursuit of the Affairs of This Life
    http://www.westminsterconfession.org/godly-living/spiritual-injury-from-undue-pursuit-of-the-affairs-of-this-life.php

    Powlison, David (1949-2019), Pleasure, ISBN: 9780976230861 0976230860.

    Preston, John (1587-1628), Foure Godly and Learned Treatises. Intituled, I. A Remedy Against Covetousnesse. II. An Elegant and Lively Description of Spirituall Death and Life. III. The Doctrine of Selfe-deniall. IV. Vpon the Sacrament of the Lords Supper. Delivered in Sundry Sermons, by that late famous preacher, and worthy instrument of Gods glory, Iohn Preston, Doctor of Divinitie, chaplaine in ordinarie to his Majestie; master of Emanuel Colledge, and sometime preacher of Lincolnes Inne, 1633.

    Preston, John (1587-1628), Hovv to Mortifie Covetousnesse.

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

    Reisinger, Ernest C., What Should we Think of the Carnal Christian? ISBN: 0851513891 9780851513898.

    Swinnock, George (1627-1673), The Fading of the Flesh and Flourishing of Faith, or, One Cast for Eternity With the Only way to Throw it VVell: as Also the Gracious Persons Incomparable Portion / by George Swinnock, 1662.
    Psalm LXXIII, 26 [Psalm 26].

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

    See also: The sovereignty of god, The doctrine of man (human nature, total depravity), Mortification of sin in the flesh, Pride, ambition, self-aggrandizement, arrogance, ego, Menpleasing, Theater, sports, and entertainment, Covetousness, greed, and selfishness, Glory in iniquity, the temptation of vainglory, The inspiration and infallibility of scripture (the doctrine of revelation, the doctrine of plenary inspiration, the doctrine of divine inspiration, the doctrine of verbal inspiration, theopneustia, sufficiency of scripture), Repentance the key to salvation and change, Justice, the theology of judgment, god's final judgment, the great white throne judgment, the day of the lord, Hypocrisy, Conscience, casuistry, cases of conscience, Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, Sexual relationship, Spiritual adultery (spiritual whoredom/harlotry), Menpleasing, Covetousness, greed, and selfishness, Self, Theft, fraud, stealing: property rights and freedom, Menpleasing, Conscience, casuistry, cases of conscience, Bribery, Conspiracy, corruption, organized crime, The decline of western society, and so forth, and so on.
    TCRB5: 645, 2351-2359, 3187-3189, 3198, 3199, 3200-3204, 3208, 3914-3918, 4128
    MGTP: Carnality, Ambition (Carnal), Ambition (Spiritual)

    Related Weblinks

    *Love not the World (FGB #163)
    The World Passeth Away | The Scriptures and the World | The Christian and the World | Love not the World | What art Thou? | Which World am I a Citizen of? | The Saint and the World
    https://www.chapellibrary.org/book/lntwfg/love-not-the-world

    Modest Apparel (FGB #216)
    Our Royal Apparel | A Crying sin of our Age | Symptoms of Bodily Pride | A Return to Modest Apparel | Christian Modesty | Your Clothing Reveals Your Heart | Avoiding Immodest Fashions | Accessories to Adultery | Thinking Like a Christian About Modest Apparel | Too Much, too Little, too Tight
    https://www.chapellibrary.org/book/mappfg/modest-apparel

    The Temperate Life, Sherman Isbell
    http://www.westminsterconfession.org/godly-living/the-temperate-life.php

    The Things of This World
    http://www.westminsterconfession.org/godly-living/the-things-of-this-world.php

    The Westminster Confession Larger Catechism, Questions 103-106
    http://www.reformed.org/documents/wlc_w_proofs/index.html

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



    Conscience, Casuistry, Cases of Conscience

    See the Theological Notes: "Conscience and the Law," at 1 Samuel 24:5 in The Reformation Study Bible.

    See the Theological Notes: "Mankind's Guilty Knowledge of God," at Romans 1:29 in The Reformation Study Bible.

    For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, saith the Lord; I will put my laws into their mind, and write them in their hearts: and I will be to them a God, and they shall be to me a people. (Hebrews 8:10)

    The counsel of the LORD standeth for ever, the thoughts of his heart to all generations. (Malachi 3:6)

    Surely the conscience, which, discerning between good and evil, responds to God's judgment, is an undoubted sign of the immortal spirit. For how could a motion without essence penetrate to God's judgment seat, and inflict itself with dread at its own guilt? For the body is not affected by the fear of spiritual punishment, which falls upon the soul only; from this it follows that the soul is endowed with essence. Now the very knowledge of God sufficiently proves that souls, which transcend the world, are immortal, for no transient energy could penetrate to the fountain of life. -- John Calvin, Institutes of the Christian Religion, 1.15.2, "2. Diversity of body and soul"

    Hence it follows, that he not only raged in vain and to no profit; but was held guilty by his own inward conviction, even though no one should accuse him; for the expression, Sin lieth at the door, relates to the interior judgement of the conscience, which presses upon the man convinced of his sin, and besieges him on every side. Although the impious may imagine that God slumbers in heaven, and may strive, as far as possible, to repel the fear of his judgment; yet sin will be perpetually drawing them back, though reluctant and fugitives, to that tribunal from which they endeavor to retire. The declarations even of heathens testify that they were not ignorant of this truth; for it is not to be doubted that, when they say, 'Conscience is like a thousand witnesses,' they compare it to a most cruel executioner. There is no torment more grievous or severe than that which is hence perceived; moreover, God himself extorts confessions of this kind. Juvenal says: -- 'Heaven's high revenge on human crimes behold;
    Though earthly verdicts may be bought and sold,
    His judge the sinner in his bosom bears,
    And conscience racks him with tormenting cares.' -- John Calvin commenting on Genesis 4:7

    To be without Christ is to be without peace. Every man has a conscience within him, which must be satisfied before he can be truly happy. So long as this conscience is asleep or half dead, so long, no doubt, he gets along pretty well.
    But as soon as a man's conscience wakes up, and he begins to think of past sins, and present failings, and future judgment, at once he finds out that he needs something to give him inward rest.
    But what can do it? Repenting, and praying, and Bible-reading, and church-going, and sacrament-receiving, and self-mortification may be tried, and tried in vain.
    They never yet took off the burden from any one's conscience.
    And yet peace must be had! There is only one thing that can give peace to the conscience, and that is the blood of Jesus Christ sprinkled on it.
    A clear understanding that Christ's death was an actual payment of our debt to God, and that the merit of that death is made over to man when he believes, is the grand secret of inward peace.
    It meets every craving of conscience. It answers every accusation. It calms every fear. It is written, These things I have spoken unto you, that in Me ye might have peace.
    He is our peace. . . . Being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. (John 16:33; Ephesians 2:14; Romans 5:1.)
    We have peace through the blood of His cross: peace like a deep mine, -- peace like an ever flowing stream. -- J.C. Ryle (1816-1900), Holiness: Its Nature, Hindrances, Difficulties and Roots (London: William Hunt and Company, 1889), 364-365.

    True rest of conscience and inward peace of soul will never come from anything but direct faith in Christ Himself and His finished work. -- J.C. Ryle (1816-1900)

    Casuistry: a method of doctrine dealing with cases of conscience and the resolution of questions of right or wrong in conduct.

    Casuistic books, spelling out the standards of conduct set in God's law so that Christians might be able to live with a good conscience, knowing that they were doing God's will. The century that followed the Reformation was a great age of case-divinity among both Romans and Protestants, but whereas Jesuit casuistry was guidance for the priest in the confessional, that of the Puritans was for the ordinary Christian in everyday life. Perkins was the pioneer here, systematically reforming the medieval heritage on conscience and good works by the Bible; most of the contents of the three folio volumes of his works (1616-1618), prove on inspection to be case-divinity. Baxter's massive Directory sums up two generations of work in this field, and between Perkins and Baxter lie abundance of smaller books like the Plaine and Familiar Exposition of the Ten Commandments by John Dod and Thomas Cleaver (1603), (nineteen editions in thirty-two years), and many treatments of particular areas where problems of right conduct arose then, as they arise now (marriage and the family; work; the occult; the use of wealth; the stewardship of truth, etc.). All this material remains enormously impressive in the depth of its insight into both biblical teaching and the paralogisms of the human heart. -- J.I. Packer (1926-2020)

    See the Theological Notes: "The Wisdom and Will of God," at Daniel 2:20 in The Reformation Study Bible.

    The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul:
    the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple.
    The statutes of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart:
    the commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes.
    The fear of the Lord is clean, enduring for ever:
    the judgments of the Lord are true and righteous altogether.     (Psalm 19:7-9)

    And Samuel said, Hath the LORD as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams.
    For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry. Because thou hast rejected the word of the LORD, he hath also rejected thee from being king.     (1 Samuel 15:22,23)

    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, and the note at Psalm 14:1 in The Reformation Study Bible.

    But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear: Having a good conscience. . . (I Peter 3:15,16a [1 Peter 3:15,16a])
    Oh how highly we are to be concerned that our conscience be tender, and yet how little care is taken of it! What has become of the authority of conscience, when your thoughts and your passions, when your eyes and your ears and your appetite and your tongue are left unbridled and unconquered? When every servant is set up to be master, to bear rule in you, where is your conscience? When your soul is no better kept, what poverty and leanness is growing on it, what a starveling it is both in grace and peace, eaten out with lust, evaporated into vanity, sunk into sensuality, your spirit even transubstantiated into perishing flesh, ready to die away, because you have not had a tender conscience. If you have not better kept your covenant with God, when you have not performed the duties you have vowed, when your hours of prayer are so short, your sabbaths such wintry, cold days, where has your conscience been? When your God is so shamefully neglected, never hears from you even when you have nothing else to do; yea, when your corn, your cattle, your pleasures, your friends (even those you vowed to renounce), are invited into your heart to steal it away from Heaven, then where is your conscience? When you lie asleep and allow God's enemies to sow tares in your field; when you are being a busy-body in other men's affairs, while your own vineyard is not being kept; when both your heart and your house are so much out of order, where is your conscience? When you leave your wife and your children and your servants to do all that is right in their own eyes; when you take care more for your possessions than for your sons and daughters, ready to die for lack of instruction, where is your conscience? And if you have no conscience, then where is your covenant? And if you have no covenant, then where is your God and your peace? -- C.H. Spurgeon commenting on 1 Peter 3:15,16 as quoted in Morning and Evening II: A Second Year of Daily Devotions by C.H. Spurgeon, May 28, p. 149 found in Devotional Classics of C.H. Spurgeon

    Positive good is the real moderating influence, not compromise with evil. -- Roger Pooley

    *Abernetay, M.I., A Christian and Heavenly Treatise Containing Physicke for the Soule. Very Necessary, 1622.

    *Ames, William (d. 1633), Conscience With the Power and Cases Thereof, ISBN: 9022107086. Available (THE WORKS OF THE REVEREND AND FAITHFUL MINISTER OF CHRIST, WILLIAM AMES), on the Puritan Hard Drive.
    William Ames was a student of William Perkins at Cambridge.
    "Translated out of the Latin into English, this extremely rare item is in excellent condition (i.e. the print is very good, making it easy to read). The work is divided into five books, expanding on the second part of his famous MARROW OF DIVINITY. Book one contains the definition of conscience. Book two deals with cases of conscience which concern the state of man. Book three expounds man's duty in general. Book four explains Ames' view concerning conscience and the duty of man towards God and book five treats of the duties of man towards his neighbor. For the Scottish Presbyterian view concerning these matters see Samuel Rutherford's amazing FREE DISPUTATION AGAINST PRETENDED LIBERTY OF CONSCIENCE." -- Publisher
    The Works of the Reverend and Faithful Minister of Christ William Ames . . .
    http://books.google.com/books?id=VhZSGwAACAAJ&ie=ISO-8859-1&output=html

    *Barrow, Gregory, The Covenanted Reformation Defended Against Contemporary Schismatics, 318 pages. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #1, #19, #23, #27.
    "A primer for the Covenanted Reformation, this is the best starting point for the new reader. It organizes the hundreds of Covenanted Reformation reprints into a logical defense of the theological landmarks established by our forefathers, with copious bibliographic references, many to e-text. An extraordinary document.
    "Unsurpassed on points related to the Lord's supper and covenanting (as set forth by the best Reformers and best Reformed churches). Especially strong on citations from Calvin and the Westminster Assembly. Deals with many foundational aspects of the Covenanted Reformation (which gave us the Westminster Standards and the Solemn League and Covenant), from numerous original source documents (from the Westminster Assembly's advice to the English Parliament on the Lord's Supper to the official records of Calvin's Covenanting in Geneva). Comprehensive and compelling, this is a shocking (and sometimes advanced), look at what really took place during both the first and second Reformations -- with extensive quotations from the writings of the major Reformers (not just quotes from what others have written about them). It conclusively and irrefutably demonstrates that those churches which today call themselves Presbyterian (and even many which claim a more general Reformed heritage), have seriously departed from the Scriptural standards, principles and worship of these previous Spirit-led Reformations. It is written in an easy-to-read and easy-to-understand format and is an unsurpassed work that should not be missed by anyone interested in real Reformation in our day. This is without a doubt the best book to read if you want to understand what it means to be a Covenanter and to walk in the blood-stained footsteps of the witnessing church (Christ's Covenanted and Reformed flock), (Song of Solomon 1:8)!" -- Publisher
    Publisher's Preface to The Covenanted Reformation Defended Against Contemporary Schismatics
    http://www.swrb.com/newslett/actualnls/pub_pref.htm
    Eschewing Ecclesiastical Tyranny (Protestant Biblical Separation)
    "1 Corinthians 2:15. The classic Reformation position on biblical separation, Protestant private judgment, the visible church, etc. -- contra Antichrist (the Papacy), and wayward liberal Protestants. This is Appendix G from THE COVENANTED REFORMATION DEFENDED: 'A brief examination of Mr. Bacon's principles regarding the visible church and the use of private judgment. Also, some observations regarding his ignoble attack upon Mr. Kevin Reed in his book entitled The Visible Church in the Outer Darkness'." -- Publisher
    The Covenanted Reformation Defended, e-text
    http://www.swrb.com/newslett/actualnls/CovRefGB.htm
    The Covenanted Reformation Defended, audio files
    http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?sermonID=7702201426
    The Covenanted Reformation Defended Against Contemporary Schismatics: A Response and Antidote Primarily to the Neopresbyterian Malignancy and Misrepresentations and the Manufactured 'Steelite' Controversy, Found in Richard Bacon's "A Defense Departed . . ."
    http://books.google.com/books?id=LG5EHQAACAAJ&ie=ISO-8859-1&output=html

    *Baxter, Richard (1615-1691), A Christian Directory: Baxter's Practical Works, Vol. 1. Full title: A Christian Directory: or A Sum of Practical Theology, and Cases of Conscience. Directing Christians how to use Their Knowledge and Faith; How to Improve all Helps and Means, and to Perform all Duties; How to Overcome Temptations, and to Escape or Mortify Every Sin. In Four Parts.
    I. Christian Ethics (or Private Duties)
    II. Christian Economics (or Family Duties)
    III. Christian Ecclesiastics (or Church Duties)
    IV. Christian Politics (or Duties to Our Rulers and Neighbours)     (Morgan, PA: Soli Deo Gloria Publications, 1997, 1990, 1838, 1707, 1678, 1673), ISBN: 1877611131 9781877611131. Foreword by J.I. Packer (Soli Deo Gloria edition only). The Soli Deo Gloria publication is a facsimile reprint of the 19th century reprint by George Virtue, London, 1846. The original 1673 edition and the 1678 edition, both printed by Robert White for Nevill Simmons. Bibliographic and scriptural footnotes. A Christian classic. Considered to be among the ten greatest books in the English language. Available (less the J.I. Packer's Foreword, but searchable with an OCR-based index), on the Puritan Hard Drive.
    This work is available in many editions, and in many formats.
    Reformation Heritage Books has new copies of the Soli Deo Gloria edition (including the J.I. Packer Introduction), as of March 2008, even though it is generally thought to be out of print. They acquired Soli Deo Gloria from Ligonier Ministries in late 2007.
    The best digital format of the reprint by George Virtue is included on the Puritan Hard Drive. It has an OCR scan in the background, meaning one can search the entire volume and copy text into another document. It also has a computer generated indexed from the OCR scan which is, of course, in Baxter's vocabulary.
    A PDF image scan only of the same edition is available on the Reformation Bookshelf CD #21.
    The reprint by George Virtue is available online and may be downloaded in PDF format at Christian Classics Ethereal Library.
    The reprint by George Virtue appears in full preview in Google Books but may not be downloaded. So it is useful if the reader wants to become acquainted with the book. Text can be searched, but can not be copied into another document. This particular Google Books scan includes the contents in detail on pages iii-xix which is not included in the Christian Classics Ethereal Library PDF files. About five other editions from libraries are available in Google Books, and may be downloaded (August 2008).
    Notice that the e-text in Google Books has the advantage of being searchable. Searching an image-based PDF file (without an OCR scan in the background), is not possible, unless the user owns software such as Abode Acrobat Pro or Kirtas BookScan Editor. They both have an OCR (optical character recognition), feature that will search an image-based PDFs (bit-map scans). Searches appear to be perfect in this work, although one must know Baxter's vocabulary. Text can be cut and pasted from image-based PDF format to OCR (character) format. This particular Google Books scan can not be cut and pasted or downloaded.
    One of the older, multi-volume editions of THE WORKS OF RICHARD BAXTER is available at Monergism.com in the "Puritan Library," "Richard Baxter." A CHRISTIAN DIRECTORY, volume 23. It can be downloaded.
    http://www.puritanlibrary.com/
    Another older edition is available on microfilm (Ann Arbor, MI: University Microfilms, 1970), 1 microfilm reel, 35 mm (Early English books, 1641-1700; 343:11).
    "The complete practical works of Richard Baxter are in print in four volumes entitled BAXTER'S PRACTICAL WORKS. This volume (about 1 1/4 million words, 1028 pages), is volume one of the set. The editor's preface (1707), p. xiii, stated that the works of Richard Baxter are 'perhaps the best body of practical divinity that is extent in our own or any other tongue.' Richard Baxter lived from 1615-1691. The DIRECTORY was completed in 1665. Its scope was intended to cover all of practical theology, a summa of casuistry . . ." -- Don Kistler
    "Baxter's series, which grew in range and scope as it proceeded . . . is a peak point in Puritan devotional writing, and remains a precious resource for all, in this or any age, who want to know what is involved in Biblical godliness. . . . A CHRISTIAN DIRECTORY may justly be described as a landmark. It is the fullest, most thorough, and in this writer's judgment, most profound treatment of Christian spirituality and standards that has ever been attempted by an English-speaking Evangelical author. The fact that it embraces both spirituality and standards (the principles of communion with God plus the specifics of obedience to God), merits approving comment in itself; nowadays spirituality and ethics have become two distinct disciplines in the schools, and books written on either say virtually nothing about the other . . ." -- J.I. Packer (1926-2020)
    Timothy Keller calls it the greatest manual on Biblical counseling ever produced.
    "There are many Puritan classics on this subject. Thomas Brooks' PRECIOUS REMEDIES FOR SATAN'S DEVICES, Thomas Goodwin's A CHILD OF LIGHT WALKING IN DARKNESS, William Bridge's A LIFTING UP FOR THE DOWNCAST, and many other similar works give evidence that the Puritans were. . . . masters at applying Biblical answers and principles to problems that can only be solved by spiritual means. No Puritan work, however, has ever approached the popularity, the scope, or the depth of Baxter's classic treatise. With the widespread interest in counseling in today's church, this reprint of Baxter's work should be a welcome addition to every pastor's library, or to anyone else who wishes to give solid Biblical answers to man's questions." -- Don Kistler
    "We have long waited for a purely Biblical treatment of the spiritual ills and cures of men which is untainted by the views of psychology. Since Baxter lived about 200 years before psychology arrived, his deep work is completely void of its encroachment -- thankfully!" -- John MacArthur
    "The kings men sought to arrest Richard Baxter, but he traveled ceaselessly from place to place, writing his sermons and his books even on horseback (he had an inkwell in his saddle), and preached over a wide area." -- Brian H. Edwards
    "Baxter was a wonder of his age. His writings total 72 large volumes, much of it written on horseback as he traveled in his widespread preaching efforts. He seldom, if ever, edited anything he wrote. Knowing this any reader will be amazed at how well he communicated his deep love for his Savior. For 26 years he was public enemy No. 1 to the king, yet he lived to see the flight of the king in 1688." -- Jay P. Green, Sr. (1918-2008)
    POOR MAN'S FAMILY BOOK (1674) and THE CATECHIZING OF FAMILIES (1683), are less detailed works and are found in THE REFORMED PASTOR: BAXTER'S PRACTICAL WORKS, VOL. 4. They are more suitable for family instruction than are the detailed presentation in A CHRISTIAN DIRECTORY.
    "Ptacek in FAMILY WORSHIP: BIBLICAL BASIS, HISTORICAL REALITY, CURRENT NEED (pp. 51-52), supplies the following information in regard to Baxter and this book. He notes that after the Episcopalians ejected numerous 'nonconformists,' in what is know as the 'great ejection,' in 1662, 'Baxter pastored from house to house, visiting families of his parish in their homes. These visits contributed to Baxter's A CHRISTIAN DIRECTORY, a large and still very relevant manual of pastoral care.' Focusing on just one area of great importance, Ptacek demonstrates how this book's relevance is not limited by time or culture, though sometimes the use of specific words are. 'Published in 1673, but written 1664-65, a large book-length part of Baxter's CHRISTIAN DIRECTORY is devoted to the family. It is entitled 'Christian Economics' based on the archaic usage of the word, which reflects the proper sense of the Greek root oikonomos as the manager of a household, in the Christian case, the spiritual leader of the family. The family head is essential to Baxter's view of family worship and instruction. Baxter asserts that it is God's will that this instruction be carried out by the rulers of the families.' For a male head of the household to fail to do so, or to have another instruct in the family, is contrary to his position of authority.' This is the kind of book that can be passed on from generation to generation and still find much use in the service of the kingdom of God.
    "Though relatively weak on corporate sanctification, corporate faithfulness and some important areas of doctrine (such as justification), Baxter's work on subjects related to personal piety can be of good practical use to the Christian -- if one is careful to separate out his aberrant doctrinal views and any practical errors they may lead to." -- Publisher
    The following three excerpts are included as bonus free books on Reformation Bookshelf CD #28.
    1. "The Duties of Parents for Their Children" from BAXTER'S PRACTICAL WORKS, VOL. 1, A CHRISTIAN DIRECTORY, on Christian Economics, Chap. X., pp. 449-454.
    2. "The Special Duties of Children Towards Their Parents" from BAXTER'S PRACTICAL WORKS, VOL. 1, A CHRISTIAN DIRECTORY, on Christian Economics, Chap. XI., pp. 454-457.
    3. "The Special Duties of Children and Youth Towards God" from BAXTER'S PRACTICAL WORKS, VOL. 1, A CHRISTIAN DIRECTORY, on Christian Economics, Chap. XII., pp. 457-458).
    A summary of currently (2012) available publications.
    http://www.lettermen2.com/pwrbcd.html
    Richard Baxter, from Wikipedia
    http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Richard_Baxter

    *Baxter, Richard (1615-1691), William Lamont (editor), A Holy Commonwealth, ISBN: 0521405807.
    "A HOLY COMMONWEALTH is Richard Baxter's invisible masterpiece." -- William Lamont
    "Written in 1659 by the Puritan minister (1615-1691), who publicly repudiated the work in 1670, this modern edition of a controversial text represents a candid confession as to why a conservative Puritan fought for Parliament in the Civil War and gave his support to the Cromwells." -- Publisher
    Contains 380 theses on government with commentary when available. These 380 aphorisms are valuable casuistry in support of Christian magistracy.
    Baxter's repudiation of the work is also included. It is interesting to note that he never repudiated the first part of the book, which lays the foundation for Christian Magistracy. It was only the second part that was repudiated by, as Lamont says, his public persona which was Arminian.
    Apparently, in Richard Baxter we have an example of the Armenian being unable to stand publicly for Covenanted Reformation, yet his private persona wrote A HOLY COMMONWEALTH, and his unpublished papers show that he continued to recommend the work to associates after his public repudiation.
    A Holy Commonwealth: or, Political Aphorisms, Opening the True Principles of Government: For the Healing of the Mistakes, and Resolving the Doubts, That Most Endanger England at This Time (1659)
    http://archive.org/details/holywealth00baxt

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

    Binning, Hugh (1627-1653), An Useful Case of Conscience Learnedly and Accuratly Discussed and Resolved: Concerning Associations and Confederacies with Idolaters, Infidels, Heretics, Malignants, or any Other Known Enemies of Truth and Godliness, 1693. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #8.
    "Dr. McCrie said of Binning, 'few writers please me more.' Binning was appointed Regent and Professor of Moral Philosophy at the University of Glasgow in his nineteenth year. An extremely popular preacher, his works continue to be highly esteemed to this day. He died in 1654 at the age of 29. Here he warns against joining oneself with any known enemies of truth and upholds the Biblical injunction, concerning secondary separation, to abstain from even the appearance of evil. Specifically, 'written to expose and counteract the purpose and proceeding of the Resolutioners. Binning was one of the band of Covenanters (i.e. a Protester -- RB), who deemed they would not be justified in fighting for Charles, without additional security being provided for the maintenance of their religious privileges, and unless some adequate restraint were imposed upon the exercise of the royal authority.' (Johnston, Treasury of the Scottish Covenant, p. 328). Excerpted from the 1858 edition of BINNING'S WORKS." -- Publisher
    An Useful Case of Conscience, Learnedly and Accurately Discussed and Resolved, Concerning Associations and Confederacies with Idolaters, Infidels, Heretics, Malignants, or any Other Known Enemies of Truth and Godliness, by Hugh Binning
    http://www.covenanter.org/reformed/2015/8/19/hugh-binnings-an-useful-case-of-conscience

    *Brooks, Thomas (1608-1680), The Crown and Glory of Christianity: or Holiness the Only way to Happiness. Discovered in 58 Sermons, From Heb. 12:14 [Hebrews 12:14]. Where you have the necessity, excellency, rarity, beauty and glory of holiness set forth: with the resolution of many weighty questions and cases. Also motives and means to perfect holiness: with many other things of very high and great importance to all the sons and daughters of men, that had rather be blessed than cursed, saved than damned. In THE WORKS OF THOMAS BROOKS, 1886 (4:1-446). Available (THE WORKS OF THOMAS BROOKS), on the Puritan Hard Drive.
    Brooks, Complete Works of Thomas Brooks (1866), vol. 1 of 6.
    http://archive.org/details/completeworksoft01broo

    *Brooks, Thomas (1608-1680), Precious Remedies Against Satan's Devices, ISBN: 0851510027 9780851510026. A Christian classic.
    "The best Christian authors of former times treated the seductive influence and terrible power of Satan in a way 'greatly more full and suggestive than in the literature of the present day'." -- William Grimshaw
    " 'The strange opposition that I met with from Satan, in the study of the following discourse, hath put an edge upon my spirit, knowing that Satan strives mightily to keep these things from seeing the light that tend eminently to shake and break his kingdom of darkness, and to lift up the kingdom and glory of the Lord Jesus Christ, in the souls and lives of the children of men . . .' This is one of the seven reasons for writing his book which the author, Thomas Brooks, gives in his preface." -- Publisher

    *Brown, John (of Wamphray, 1610-1679), Christ, the Way, and the Truth, and the Life, or a Short Discourse pointing forth the way of making use of Christ for justification, and especially and more particularly, for sanctification in all its parts from John 14:6, wherein several cases of conscience are briefly answered, chiefly touching sanctification, 1677. A Christian classic. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #8, #21.
    "John Brown of Wamphray (1610-1679), has been rightly called the most important Scottish theologian of his day. He was especially gifted at merging profound doctrinal truth with warm Christ-centered zeal and godly piety. Samuel Rutherford wrote of him, 'I always [had] . . . a great love to dear Mr. John Brown because I thought I saw Christ in him more than in his brethren.' Brown's blending of doctrinal truth and Christ-centered piety is most clearly displayed in his CHRIST: THE WAY THE TRUTH AND THE LIFE. This is biblical, Reformed, Puritan spirituality at its best. Would you learn the art of continually fleeing to Christ by faith for your justification and sanctification? Read and reread this precious volume, filled with experimental truth about how to go to Christ continually for every spiritual need. Use it as a devotional gem, and pray for the Holy Spirit to grant you a growing, daily 'making use' of Christ by faith." -- Joel Beeke
    "This book was written during Brown's time of banishment in Holland. Among its 29 chapters we find Brown dealing with justification, but especially focusing on sanctification. Chapters are given to 'crucifying the old man,' 'How to make use of Christ, as Truth, for comfort, when truth is oppressed and bornedown,' 'for steadfastness,' 'for encouragement,' and much more. A classic on practical godliness if there ever was one." -- Publisher

    Brown, John (of Wamphray, 1610-1679), Hugh Binning (1627-1653), John Howie (1735-1793), the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland, and Sundry Ministers of Perth and Fife, Faithful Witness-Bearing Exemplified: A Collection. Containing, I. An Useful Case of Conscience . . . by Mr. Hugh Binning. II. A Solemn Testimony Against Toleration . . . by the Commissioners of the General Assembly, and by Sundry Ministers in . . . Perth and Fife. III. The History of the Indulgence. By Mr. John Brown . . . To Which is Prefixed, a Preface, Concerning Association, Toleration, and . . . Liberty of Conscience. Kilmarnock, 1783. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #8, #26.

    *Burgess, Anthony (d. 1664?), Spiritual Refining, or, A Treatise of Grace and Assurance Part I: Wherein are handled, the doctrine of assurance, the use of signs in self-examination, how true graces may be distinguished from counterfeit, several true signs of grace, and many false ones, the nature of grace, under divers scripture-notions or titles, as regeneration, the new-creature, the heart of flesh, vocation, sanctification, &c.: many chief questions (occasionally) controverted between the orthodox and the Arminians: as also many cases of conscience, tending to comfort and confirm saints, [and] undeceive and convert sinners. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available (SPIRITUAL REFINING, PART I AND PART II), on Reformation Bookshelf CD #21.
    "The first section is on the deceitfulness and guile of the natural heart (Jeremiah 17:9). . . . Next he contrasts thee natural tendencies toward deceitfulness in all of us to the uprightness of the heart; or, the heart without guile (Psalm 32:2) . . . Section three deals with practical cases of conscience which regularly test our sincerity in seeking to be guileless . . ." -- Jay P. Green, Sr. (1918-2008)

    *Burgess, Anthony (d. 1664?), Spiritual Refining, Part II. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available (SPIRITUAL REFINING, PART I AND PART II), on Reformation Bookshelf CD #21.
    "The first section is on the deceitfulness and guile of the natural heart (Jeremiah 17:9). . . . Next he contrasts thee natural tendencies toward deceitfulness in all of us to the uprightness of the heart; or, the heart without guile (Psalm 32:2) . . . Section three deals with practical cases of conscience which regularly test our sincerity in seeking to be guileless . . ." -- Jay P. Green, Sr. (1918-2008)

    Burgess, Anthony, (d. 1664), and Samuel Clarke (1599-1682), Golden Apples, or Seasonable and Serious Counsel From the Sanctuary to the Rulers of the Earth: Held Forth in the Resolution of Sundry Questions and Cases of Conscience, 1659.

    Cartwright, Christopher, A Commentary, or Exposition on the Whole Fifteenth Psalm [Psalm 15], Wherein the Text is Learnedly and Fruitfully Explained, some controversies discussed, sundry cases of conscience are cleared, more especially the subject of usury. Many common places succinctly handled, and divers spiritual, holy, seasonable observations raised for the increase of Christian knowledge. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.

    Cathcart, Dwight, Doubting Conscience: Donne and the Poetry of Moral Argument, ISBN: 0472081985 9780472081981.

    Clifford, N.K., Richard Baxter: A Study of Puritan Casuistical Divinity.

    Dabney, Robert L. (1820-1898), The Practical Philosophy: Being the Philosophy of the Feelings, of the Will, and of the Conscience, With the Ascertainment of Particular Rights and Duties.
    "Dabney . . . gives a thorough discussion of liberty, and the totalitarian corruption of freedom." -- Jay P. Green, Sr. (1918-2008)

    Dickson, David (1583-1663), Select Practical Writings of David Dickson, 8 volumes. Available (volume 1) on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available (volume 1) on Reformation Bookshelf CD #20.

    *Dickson, David (1583-1663), Therapeutica Sacra, Shewing Briefly the Method of Healing the Diseases of the Conscience, Concerning Regeneration, 1656. Available (THE WORKS OF DAVID DICKSON), on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #20.
    Dickson, David, Therapeutica Sacra: Chapter 4
    http://www.truecovenanter.com/dickson/dickson_therapeutica_sacra_04.html

    Dod, John (1549-1645), and Thomas Cleaver (born 1562), Plaine and Familiar Exposition of the Ten Commandments, 1603.
    This work went through nineteen editions in thirty-two years.

    Durham, James (1622-1658), Heaven Upon Earth, in the Serene Tranquility, and Calm Composure; in the Sweet Peace and Solid joy, of a Good Conscience; Sprinkled with the blood of Jesus, and exercised always to be void of offence toward God and toward men. Brought down and holden forth in 22 very searching sermons on several texts of Scripture to that purpose. Wherein many weighty and momentous cases of conscience greatly influencing a tender Christian walk, are soberly, solidly, succinctly and satisfyingly discussed; several of which are not readily to be met with in the writings of other divines on this subject, 1688. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.

    Durham, James (1622-1658), and Chris Coldwell (editor), Collected Sermons of James Durham: Sixty-one Sermons, ISBN: 9781601785565, 9781601785572, 1601785569, 1601785577.
    "This volume contains sermon series titled 'The Blessedness of the Death of Those That Die in the Lord,' 'The Unsearchable Riches of Christ' (Communion sermons), 'Heaven upon Earth' (on conscience), 'The Great Gain of Contenting Godliness,' and 'The Great Corruption of Subtle Self,' as well as miscellaneous sermons that appeared in various publications. The last includes a recent transcription from manuscript of one of Durham's most important sermons preached at the beginning of the Protester-Resolutioner schism in Scotland. All have been uniformly edited and cross-referenced as needed. Also included is an introduction covering the life and works of Durham.
    "English Puritanism and Scottish Presbyterianism in the seventeenth century had many bright and shining lights. Of these, James Durham (1622-1658) ranks alongside the greatest for his theological depth, for his faithful preaching, and particularly for his moderate spirit at a time of great controversy. James Walker commented: 'No Scotchman of that age was more profoundly venerated.' Durham, whose father and grandfather served the king as Clerk of Exchequer, was seemingly destined to the life of a Scottish laird, yet through several remarkable providences he came to study for the ministry under David Dickson and did so well that he could have served as a professor of divinity in any university. Yet Durham's brief ministry was spent for the most part preaching in the Inner Kirk of Glasgow Cathedral. He came to excel in 'case divinity' or 'cases of conscience,' and it was thought that he poured so much of himself into his preparations that it brought about his early death.
    "Durham's sermons and expositions left an impression that lasted for centuries, and while he was mostly overlooked in the resurgence of interest in the Puritans in the nineteenth century, in the late twentieth century publishers brought renewed attention with various editions of some of his works. Most of his lectures (on the Ten Commandments, the Song of Solomon, Job, John's Revelation, and the Treatise on Scandal) have been published in new editions. The remaining works are sets of sermons, many of which have not seen new editions since the eighteenth century, and original editions are extremely rare. The publishers are pleased to offer for the first time all the sermons of James Durham in two uniform volumes." -- Publisher

    Durham, James (1622-1658), William Jenkyn (1613-1685), and John Owen (1616-1683), The law Unsealed; or, a Practical Exposition of the Ten Commandments. With a Resolution of Several Momentous Questions and Cases of Conscience, 422 pages. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
    "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 and Theology, 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), [Romans 7:12]." -- Publisher

    Fraser, James (of Brea, 1639-1698), The Lawfulness and Duty of Separation From Corrupt Ministers and Churches Explained and Vindicated, 1744. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #27. A Christian classic.
    "This is one of the most comprehensive treatises dealing with the lawfulness and duty of separation. It does not shy away from the hard biblical questions, but rather meets them head on. Fraser covers all the major biblical reasons for separation, both in general and in particular. Some of these Scriptural reasons for separation include (examples in parentheses are selected to fit our contemporary situation in accord with the general headings found in the book -- though a number of these specific errors are also dealt with in the book itself): 1. Heresy, or error in doctrine (e.g. Arminianism, Pelagianism, Romanism, the denial of the regulative principle of worship, antinomianism, legalism, etc.); 2. Idolatry in public worship (e.g. singing hymns of human composition, paedocommunion and open communion, the use of musical instruments, women speaking or preaching, anti-paedobaptism, Charismatic [or anabaptistic], folly and excesses, malignancy [anti-covenanting], etc.); 3. Tyranny in government (e.g. Popery, Prelacy, Independency, etc.); 4. Sinful terms of communion (e.g. any terms which deny or ignore the attainments of the Covenanted Reformation or in any way contravene Scripture); 5. Tolerationism (e.g. refusing to discipline the scandalous, open communion and countenancing false ministers or false governments or false doctrine, etc.). Many other areas are also dealt with, not the least of which include a strong testimony against the Prelatical Priest George Whitefield (who, as the preface notes, is 'a person leavened with gross errors, enthusiastic delusions, etc.'). In the publisher's original reasons for publication we read, 'In this book the case and nature of schism and separation is cleared, and the true scriptural terms of church-communion, and grounds of separation from corrupt churches and ministers, carrying on backsliding courses from the Covenanted Reformation principles . . . are clearly handled, and the same proven to be just and warrantable grounds of separation, and many useful cases of conscience concerning separation; and what are just and warrantable grounds of separation and what are not, are solidly, learnedly, and accurately discussed and resolved, and the case of separation clearly stated, handled and determined; and separation from corrupt ministers and churches is fully vindicated; and the true Scripture marks of time-servers and hirelings, who should be separated from, are given from the Word of God.' Calvin, Knox, Rutherford, Gillespie, Durham, Owen (who repented of his Independency and embraced Presbyterianism just before he died), and a host of other notable Reformers are cited throughout. Occasional hearing and occasional communion are also exposed and rebuked from Scripture. Appended to the book is, 'The Reasons agreed upon by the Reformers of the Church of Scotland, For which the Book of Common Prayer, urged upon Scotland, Anno 1637 was refused. As also the Reasons agreed upon by the Assembly of Divines at Westminster, for laying aside the English Book of Common Prayer. Together with Mr. George Graham's Renunciation and Abjuration of Episcopacy.' This is an almost flawless photocopy of this exceedingly rare and valuable book (which was obtained at great expense from the Bodleian Library [Oxford University] in England). It is one of the major Reformed classics concerning the topics that it addresses and it answers many common questions which Christians raise today regarding church affiliation. It is also a much needed landmark of Reformation testimony against the white devils of Independency and sectarianism and the black devils of Popery and Prelacy -- which can be seen to be covering the land once again -- contrary to the teaching of the Word of God and the attainments fought (and died), for during the Second Reformation." -- Publisher

    French Reformed Church National Councils, Synodicon in Gallia Reformata: Or, The Acts, Decisions, Decrees, and Canons of Those Famous National Councils of the Reformed Churches in France. Being

    I. A Most Faithful and Impartial History of the Rise, Growth, Perfection, and Decay of the Reformation in that Kingdom, with its Fatal Catastrophe upon the Revocation of the Edict of Nants, in the Year 1685.
    II. The Confession of Faith and Discipline of Those Churches.
    III. A Collection of Speeches, Letters, Sacred Politicks, Cases of Conscience, and Controversies in Divinity, determined and resolved by those grave Assemblies.
    IV. Many excellent Expedients for preventing and healing Schisms in the Churches, and for re-uniting the dismembered Body of divided Protestants.
    V. The Laws, Government, and Maintenance of their Colleges, Universities and Ministers, together with their Exercise of Discipline upon delinquent Ministers and Church-members.
    VI. A Record of very many illustrious Events of Divine Providence relating to those Churches.
    The Whole Collected and Composed out of Original Manuscript Acts of those Renowned Synods.
    A Work Never Before Extant in any Language. In Two Volumes. By John Quick, Minister of the Gospel in London, London, Printed for T. Parkhurst and J. Robinson, at the Three Bibles and Crown in Cheapside, and the Golden Lion in St. Paul's Church-yard, 1692,     2 volumes. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.

    Gataker, Thomas (1574-1654), Theophilus Timorcus, Richard Vines (1600?-1656), and Richard Baxter (1615-1691), The Covenanters Plea Against Absolvers: or, A Modest Discourse, shewing why those who in England and Scotland took the Solemn League and Covenant, cannot judge their consciences discharged from the obligation of it, by any thing heretofore said by the Oxford men; or lately by Dr. Featly, Dr. Gauden, or any others. In which also several cases relating to promissory oathes, and to the said Covenant in special, are spoken to, and determined by Scripture, reason, and the joynt suffrages of casuists. Contrary to the indigested notions of some late writers; yet much to the sense of the Reverend Dr. Sanderson. Written by Theophilus Timorcus a well-wisher to students in casuistical divinity, 1660.
    "Notes: Attributed to Richard Baxter, Thomas Gataker, and Richard Vines by John Brown in his "An apologeticall relation of the particular sufferings of the faithfull ministers and professours of the Church of Scotland, since August, 1660."

    *Gillespie, George (1613-1648), A Treatise of Miscellany Questions Wherein Many Useful Cases of Conscience are Discussed and Resolved, for the Satisfaction of Those who Desire Nothing More Than to Search and Find out Precious Truths in the Controversies of These Times, 1649. Available (THE WORKS OF GEORGE GILLESPIE), on the Puritan Hard Drive.
    Gillespie, George, Miscellany Questions (partial)
    http://www.truecovenanter.com/gillespie/miscqs.html

    *Gillespie, George (1613-1648), Wholesome Severity Reconciled With Christian Liberty, or, The True Resolution of a Present Controversie Concerning Liberty of Conscience: here you have the question stated, the middle way betwixt popish tyrannie and schismatizing liberty approved and also confirmed from Scripture and the testimonies of divines, yea of whole churches: the chiefe arguments and exceptions used in the bloudy tenent, the compassionate samaritane, M.S. to A.S. &c., examined: eight distinctions added for qualifying and clearing the whole matter: and in conclusion a parænetick to the five apologists for choosing accommodation rather than toleration, 1645. Available (PDF and MP3 files [audio file]), on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #25.
    "Gillespie was a major force at the Westminster Assembly. This rare item gives great insight into the original intent of the framers of the Westminster documents concerning matters of conscience, liberty, law, and government. Dr. Greg Bahnsen has noted how sections mirror modern theonomic thought. Read on cassette for the first time ever! This item can also be found in written form in volume four of Naphtali Press' Anthology of Presbyterian and Reformed Literature." -- Publisher
    Wholesome Severity Reconciled With Christian Liberty, or, The True Resolution of a Present Controversy Concerning Liberty of Conscience, 1645
    http://www.naphtali.com/severity.htm
    Wholesome Severity Reconciled With Christian Liberty
    http://www.covenanter.org/reformed/2016/4/21/wholesome-severity-reconciled-with-christian-liberty

    Girardeau, John L., College of Charleston, Society of Graduates, Conscience and Civil Government: An Oration Delivered Before the Society of Alumni of the College of Charleston on Commencement day, March 27th, 1860.

    Gouge, Thomas, Christian Directions Shewing how to Walk With God all the day Long, 1688.

    *Gouge, William (1578-1653), Hebrews Commentary, 3 volumes. Alternate title: A LEARNED AND VERY USEFUL COMMENTARY ON THE WHOLE EPISTLE TO THE HEBREWS; WHEREIN EVERY WORD AND PARTICLE IN THE ORIGINAL IS EXPLAINED, AND THE EMPHASIS THEREOF FULLY SHEWED; THE SENSE AND MEANING OF EVERY VERSE LOGICALLY AND EXACTLY ANALYZED; GENUINE DOCTRINES NATURALLY RAISED; THE MANIFOLD TYPES OF CHRIST UNVEILED, ETC. BEING THE SUBSTANCE OF THIRTY YEARS' WEDNESDAY'S LECTURES AT BLACKFRIARS, LONDON, 1866 EDITION. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
    "Darling calls this 'a labourious and valuable work, of very rare occurrence.' (Cyclopaedia Bibliographica, p. 1295). 'We greatly prize Gouge,' writes Spurgeon of this commentary, 'upon any topic which he touches he gives outlines which may supply sermons for months.'-- Commenting on Commentaries
    "Gouge was a leader among the Covenanted English Presbyterians, a respected member of the Westminster Assembly and one of its most active members. Some of his enemies vilified him as an 'Arch Puritan.' 1162 pages of the cream of Puritan-style commentating." -- Publisher

    Hall, Thomas (1610-1665), A Practical and Polemical Commentary, or Exposition Upon the Third and Fourth Chapters of the Latter Epistle of St. Paul to Timothy [2 Timothy 3; 2 Timothy 4], Wherein the text is explained, some controversies discussed, sundry cases of conscience are cleared, many common places are succinctly handled, and divers useful, and seasonable observations raised, 1658. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.

    Hall, Thomas (1610-1665), and Swinnock, George (1627-1673), The Beauty of Magistracy in an Exposition of the 82 Psalm, Where is set Forth the Necessity, Utility, Dignity, Duty, and Mortality of Magistrates: Here many other texts of Scripture occasionally are cleared, many quaeries and cases of conscience about the magistrates power, are resolved, many anabaptistical cavils are confuted, and many seasonable observations containing many other heads of divinity, are raised: together with references to such authors as clear any point more fully / by Thomas Hall . . . ; with an additional sermon on verse 6 [Psalm 82:6], by George Swinnock, 1660.
    "Notes: Added t.p. on p. [3] following p. 188: Men are gods, or, The dignity of magistracy . . . by George Swinnock."

    *Harrison, Roland Kenneth (editor), Encyclopedia of Biblical and Christian Ethics, revised and updated (Testament, March 4, 2003), 480 pages, ISBN: 0517222280.
    "A comprehensive reference work for everyone concerned with the complicated moral issues of this world, this unique volume clearly communicates what Scripture teaches about the ethical dilemmas facing our society. Biological warfare, corporate responsibility, human rights, computer ethics, and much more are discussed by over fifty scholars who explain the moral guidelines in the Bible and historic Christian teachings.
    "R.K. Harrison, author and editor of over thirty books on biblical studies, has brought together a valuable A to B treasury of thought for every believer searching for guidance." -- Publisher
    "A compendium of reliable information. Arranged in dictionary format, 550 entries and 61 contributors. Goes beyond descriptive data to the practical application of truth to a variety of situations . . . . The book is well-indexed. . . . Treats ethical areas like apartheid and surrogate motherhood. Probably the best available evangelical treatment of this type." -- GCB

    *Hayward, Samuel (1718-1757), and Samuel Pike (1717-1773), Religious Cases of Conscience Answered in an Evangelical Manner . . . to Which is Added The Spiritual Companion; or, The Professing Christian Tried at the Bar of God's Word; and Character of the Happy Man, 1866, ISBN: 0902506005 9780902506008. Alternate title: SOME IMPORTANT CASES OF CONSCIENCE ANSWERED. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
    Excerpts From Cases of Conscience and the Spiritual Companion, Samuel Pike and Samuel Hayward
    "Renewal after a time of spiritual dullness, Living with the promises and threats of God's word, Distinguishing faith and feelings, Discerning providential guidance, Assurance of growth in grace, Discovering why the Spirit is grieved, How to perform serious meditation, Spiritual injury from undue pursuit of the affairs of this life, Self-examination, The character of an honest man."
    http://www.westminsterconfession.org/literature/godly-living.php
    Religious Cases of Conscience Answered, by S. Pike and S. Hayward. To which is added The spiritual companion. With The touchstone of saving faith
    Full view in Google Books.
    http://books.google.com/books?id=6toHAAAAQAAJ&ie=ISO-8859-1&output=html

    Heywood, Oliver, Closet-prayer: A Christian Duty, or A Treatise upon Matt 6:6 [Matthew 6:6], tending to prove that the worship of God in secret is the indispensable duty of all Christians, both by sundry examples and arguments, together with a severe rebuke of Christians for their neglect of, or negligence in the duty of closet prayer. And many directions for the managing thereof, exhortations to it, objections answered, cases of conscience cleared. 1687. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.

    Leites, Edmund (editor), Conscience and Casuistry in Early Modern Europe, ISBN: 0521301130 9780521301138.
    "The eight contributors to this volume are philosophers, historians, and political theorists from six different countries, with a corresponding diversity of disciplines and national traditions. Yet their contributions show a remarkable convergence on three themes: changes in the modes of moral education in early modern Europe, the emergence of new relations between conscience and law (particularly the law of the state), and the shared continuities and discontinuities of both Roman Catholic and Protestant moral culture in relation to their medieval past." -- Publisher

    Lindsley, Arthur W., Jr., Conscience and Casuistry in the English Puritan Concept of Reformation (University of Pittsburgh, Ph.D. thesis, 1982).
    "This study also argues that it is in the Puritan view of conscience and casuistry that we have a key to the uniqueness of Puritanism. The passion of Puritans like Perkins and Ames was the application of theology to life. It is in their view of conscience and casuistry that theology and practice meet. . . . It is also argued that there has been a failure to recognize the centrality of conscience in Puritan preaching. Preaching was directed at the conscience. The Puritan 'plain' style was thought the most adequate method for penetrating the conscience. . . ." -- Dissertation Abstracts

    Long, Edward Le Roy, Conscience and Compromise: An Approach to Protestant Casuistry.

    Love, Christopher (1618-1651), Edmund Calamy, Jeremiah Whittaker, Simeon Ashe, and William Taylor, Sixteen Sermons: Wherein is Plainly Shewn True Grace, With its Different Degrees -- And Several Important Cases of Conscience Answered in the Course of the Work. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. May be available in Christopher Love (1618-1651), and Edmund Calamy, SERMONS.
    "Classic Puritan preaching showing why the Puritans were masters of encouragement, especially to young and weak Christians with the smallest measures of grace. Here Love points out from numerous Scriptures how God Himself encourages even the weakest of His children! Sermon #1 includes a preface by several Westminster divines.
    "There is also good material here to counter the errors of N.T. Wright, NEW PERSPECTIVE ON PAUL, see also: pp. 84-92 in the free PDF -- which also counters Wright's false ecumenism), Norman Shepherd, Doug Wilson (see also: http://www.swrb.com/newslett/FREEBOOK/DWilson.htm), Steve Schlissel (see also: http://www.swrb.com/Puritan/steve-schlissel.htm), Steven Wilkins, John Barach and others who have fallen for the false teaching from the Auburn Avenue Pastors Conference (AAPC), or what has now become known as 'Federal Vision theology'." -- Publisher

    May, William F., A Catalogue of Sins: A Contemporary Examination of Christian Conscience.

    *McMaster (M'Master), Gilbert (1778-1854), The Duty of Nations: A Sermon, Delivered on the First Thursday of November, 1809: Being a day of Public Thanks-giving, Appointed by the Reformed Presbyterian Church in the United States of America, 1809. Available from Covenanter Pamphlets.
    The pamphlet includes TESTIMONY TO THE COVENANTED WORK OF REFORMATION (FROM 1638 TO 1649), IN BRITAIN AND IRELAND by Samuel Rutherfurd [Rutherford].
    Covenanter Monthly Pamphlets
    http://covenanter.org/pamphlets/
    The Duty of the Nations, 1810, a sermon.
    http://www.covenanter.org/reformed/2015/8/18/gilbert-mcmasters-sermon-on-the-duty-of-nations

    Miller, Richard B., Casuistry and Modern Ethics: A Poetics of Practical Reasoning, ISBN: 0226526364 9780226526362 0226526372 9780226526379.
    "Did the Gulf War defend moral principle or Western oil interests? Is violent pornography an act of free speech or an act of violence against women? In CASUISTRY AND MODERN ETHICS, Richard B. Miller sheds new light on the potential of casuistry -- case-based reasoning -- for resolving these and other questions of conscience raised by the practical quandaries of modern life." -- Publisher

    *Owen, John (1616-1683), The Complete Works of John Owen, 16 volumes, ISBN: 0851513921 9780851513928. Alternate title: THE WORKS OF JOHN OWEN. A Christian classic. See Volume 1 for annotation on all 16 volumes. Many separate works by Owen may be found in the Puritan Hard Drive and the Reformation Bookshelf 30 CD Set.
    John Owen "is by common consent not the most versatile, but the greatest among Puritan theologians. For solidity, profundity, massiveness and majesty in exhibiting 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. (1918-2008)

    *Indexes to The Complete Works of John Owen, Banner of Truth, volume 16
    Volumes 17-23 are the 7 volumes on Hebrews. Apparently they are not included in the "Indices."
    http://spurgeon.wordpress.com/2006/11/08/download-free-index-to-the-works-of-john-owen-16-volumes/

    Keep in mind that there are many other editions of Owen's books that have been published in modern times.
    Many single works by Owen may be found on the Puritan Hard Drive and on the Reformation Bookshelf 30 CD Set. Available (THE COMPLETE WORKS OF JOHN OWEN including HEBREWS, OCR digital text, in the Amazing Christian Library, DVD One, CD #1.

    *Owen, John (1616-1683), Hebrews, 7 volume set, volumes 17-23 of Owen's WORKS. Alternate title: EXPOSITION OF HEBREWS and AN EXPOSITION OF THE EPISTLE TO THE HEBREWS.

    This same Banner of Truth edition is available from (Grand Rapids, MI: Reformation Heritage Books, Inc.).
    "To master his works is to be a profound theologian." -- C.H. Spurgeon
    "THE work on Hebrews is John Owen's massive 4000-page commentary." -- Jay P. Green, Sr. (1918-2008)
    See also: Owen, John (1616-1683), J.I. Packer (introduction, series editor), Alister McGrath (series editor), HEBREWS, an abridgement of the 7 volume work, 272 pages, ISBN: 1581340265 9781581340266 1856841847 9781856841849.
    "The author of Hebrews wanted his audience to know and understand one truth: Christ is superior, and therefore, so is Christianity. He demonstrates this by comparing the imperfect old covenant with the perfect new covenant. The person of Christ is better than prophets and angels, His priesthood is greater than that of Melchizedek and the line of Aaron, and His power within the believer's life is incomparable. Between these contrasts he exhorts the readers to persevere in their faith, be obedient, grow in their understanding, and not miss the grace of God. The lessons and admonitions of Hebrews have intensely practical application for all readers -- then and now.
    "Know as the 'theologian's theologian' John Owen (1616-1683), was vice chancellor of Oxford University and served as advisor and chaplain to Oliver Cromwell. Among the most learned and active Puritans in seventeenth-century Europe, he was a erudite and accomplished theologian both in doctrine and practical theology." -- Publisher
    Owen, John (1616-1683), An Exposition of the Epistle to the Hebrews; With the Preliminary Exercitations. By John Owen, D.D. revised and abridged; . . . by Edward Williams, 3 vols.
    Owen, Hebrews, vol. 1 of 3
    http://archive.org/details/expositionofepis184001owen
    Owen, Hebrews, vol. 2 of 3
    http://archive.org/details/expositionofepis184002owen
    Owen, Hebrews, vol. 3 of 3
    http://archive.org/details/expositionofepis184003owen

    *Owen, John (1616-1683), The Mortification of sin in Believers: Containing the necessity, nature, and means of it. With a resolution of sundry cases of conscience thereunto belonging. By John Owen, D.D. . . . A new edition London, 1783.
    "I owe more to John Owen than to any other theologian, ancient or modern; and I owe more to [THE MORTIFICATION OF SIN] than to anything else he wrote." -- J.I. Packer
    "John Owen's treatises on INDWELLING SIN IN BELIEVERS [in TEMPTATION AND SIN, Vol. 6 of Works] and THE MORTIFICATION OF SIN are, in my opinion, the most helpful writings on personal holiness ever written." -- Jerry Bridges
    The Works of John Owen, Vol. 6 (including THE MORTIFICATION OF SIN, Goold edition, 1862)
    https://archive.org/details/theworksofowen06owenuoft
    The Mortification of sin, an e-book
    https://www.monergism.com/mortification-sin-believers-ebook-0
    The Mortification of sin
    https://faculty.gordon.edu/hu/bi/ted_hildebrandt/SpiritualFormation/Texts/Owen_MortificationOfSin.pdf
    On the Mortification of Sin in Believers, John Owen (1 of 6), an audio file reading
    Currently (February 2009), there are 63 readings of John Owen by SWRB and Reformed Baptist of Holland (Michigan), (Thomas Sullivan), at SermonAudio.com available for listening online, downloading as MP3 files, and listening on iPhone or Mobile Phones.
    http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=62906111628

    *Owen, John (1616-1683), The Nature, Power, Deceit, and Prevalency of the Remainders of Indwelling-sin in Believers. Together with the ways of its working, and means of its prevention. Opened, evinced and applyed, with a resolution of sundry cases of conscience thereunto appertaining. By J. Owen, D.D., 1732. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.

    *Owen, John (1616-1683), Sermons to the Church, ISBN: 0851510655 9780851510651. Alternate title: THE COMPLETE WORKS OF JOHN OWEN VOLUME 9; THE WORKS OF JOHN OWEN, VOLUME 9. A Christian classic.
    "Contains 83 sermons: Fourteen which resolve practical cases of conscience, twenty-five intended as preparations to the Lord's Table, and others of various Gospel subjects."

    *Pascal, Blaise (1623-1662), The Provincial Letters, ISBN: 1579100961.
    "In 1654, Pascal, a man of the world and a noted mathematician. . . . issued the famous Lettres Ecrites par Louis de Montalte a un Provincial de ses Amis, eighteen tracts directed with the keenest irony against the casuistry of the Jesuits. These LETTERS appeared between January 23, 1656, and March 24, 1657. They were published without the author's real name, had a large circulation, and created an immense sensation throughout Europe."
    "Containing an exposure of the reasoning and morals of the Jesuits." -- Publisher
    The Provincial Letters, Blaise Pascal
    http://archive.org/details/theprovinciallet00pasciala

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

    *Perkins, William (1558-1602), The Whole Treatise of the Cases of Conscience, 1632. Alternate title: THE WHOLE TREATISE OF THE CASES OF CONSCIENCE DISTINGUISHED INTO THREE BOOKES: THE FIRST WHEREOF IS REVISED AND CORRECTED IN SUNDRIE PLACES, AND THE OTHER TWO ANNEXED. TAUGHT AND DELIUERED BY M.W. PERKINS IN HIS HOLY-DAY LECTURES, CAREFULLY EXAMINED BY HIS OWNE BRIEFES, AND NOW PUBLISHED TOGETHER FOR THE COMMON GOOD, BY T. PICKERING BACHELOUR OF DIUINITIE. WHEREUNTO IS ADIOYNED A TWOFOLD TABLE: ONE OF THE HEADS AND NUMBER OF THE QUESTIONS PROPOUNDED AND RESOLUED; ANOTHER OF THE PRINCIPALL TEXTS OF SCRIPTURE VVHICH ARE EITHER EXPLANED, OR VINDICATED FROM CORRUPT INTERPRETATION, ISBN: 9022104826 68113020. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
    "Called 'the principal architect of Elizabethan Puritanism' and 'the most important Puritan writer,' Perkins was the first theologian of the Reformed English church to gain an international reputation. His preaching manual, THE ART OF PROPHESYING (recently reprinted by the Banner of Truth Trust -- RB is found on nearly every seventeenth century New England book list. . . . Perkin's theological legacy extended through his Cambridge students, most prominently William Ames . . . Perkins's Calvinist theology was presented according to the logic and method of Peter Ramus . . . Ramism helped Perkins maintain the unity of theology and ethics, provided an educational tool by streamlining logic, fostered plain-style preaching, enhanced the art of memory, provided a tool for biblical interpretation as well as supplying a secure philosophical base on which to build theology,' notes the ENCYCLOPEDIA OF THE REFORMED FAITH (p. 274). This book is no exception and beautifully illustrates the usefulness of the Ramist method. 'Several of Perkins' works have been translated into Latin, French, Dutch, and Spanish' (Cyclopaedia Bibliographica, p. 2337)." -- Publisher

    Perkins, William (1558-1602), and Thomas F. Merrill (editor), William Perkins 1558-1602, English Puritanist -- His Pioneer Works on Casuistry: Discourse on Conscience and the Whole Treatise of Cases of Conscience, ISBN: 68113020.
    Edited with an introduction by Thomas F. Merrill.
    Includes bibliography.

    Pierce, C.A., Conscience in the New Testament.

    Rogers, Richard, Seven Treatises: The Practice of Christianity, 1630. Alternate title: SEVEN TREATISES: CONTAINING SUCH DIRECTION AS IS GATHERED OUT OF THE HOLY SCRIPTURES, LEADING AND GUIDING TO TRUE HAPPINESSE, BOTH IN THIS LIFE, AND IN THE LIFE TO COME: AND MAY BE CALLED THE PRACTICE OF CHRISTIANITY. PROFITABLE FOR ALL SUCH AS HEARTILY DESIRE THE SAME: IN THE WHICH, MORE PARTICULARLY TRUE CHRISTIANS MAY LEARNE HOW TO LEAD A GODLY AND COMFORTABLE LIFE EVERY DAY, NOTWITHSTANDING THEIR TRIBULATIONS. FIRST PENNED, AND NOW SET FORTH THE FIFTH TIME, CORRECTED AND ENLARGED BY RICHARD ROGERS, PREACHER OF THE WORD OF GOD AT WETHERSFIELD IN ESSEX.
    http://books.google.com/books?id=52HgIAAACAAJ&ie=ISO-8859-1&output=html

    Ruddoch, John, A Serious Advice, how to Attain Assurance of Salvation, by Personal Covenanting With our Lord Jesus Christ: Together With a Resolution of the Most Weighty and Necessary Cases of Conscience, That Trouble Exercised Christians, Concerning Their State, and Case of Their Souls. Being a letter from Mr. John Ruddoch, to all the societie [sic] in the south and west of Scotland, who joined in communion with the Reverend Mr. John Taylor, minister of the Gospel, in renewing our covenants, national and solemn league, in Wamphray Muir in Anandale, on the 23d of August, and in celebrating the Lord's Supper, in that place, on the Sabbath next thereafter, being the 26th of August 1722.

    *Rushdoony, Rousas J. (1916-2001), Institutes of Biblical Law, 3 volumes, ISBN: 1879998130. Available through Exodus Books.

    Volume 1: Institutes of Biblical Law, ISBN: 0875524109.
    "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
    Volume 2: Law and Society, ISBN: 1879998238.
    "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
    Volume 3: The Intent of the Law, ISBN: 1879998130.
    " '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
    See also: 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
    *Rutherford, Samuel (1600-1661), A Free Disputation Against Pretended Liberty of Conscience: Tending to Resolve Doubts Moved by Mr. John Goodwin, John Baptist, Dr. Jer. Taylor, the Belgick Arminians, Socinians, and Other Authors, 1649. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #9, #25, and #26.
    "Rutherford's FREE DISPUTATION, though scarce, is still one of his most important works with maybe only a few copies of the actual book left in existence. Though Rutherford is affectionately remembered in our day for his LETTERS, or for laying the foundations of constitutional government (against the divine right of kings), in his unsurpassed LEX, REX his FREE DISPUTATION should not be overlooked for it contains the same searing insights as LEX, REX. In fact, this book should probably be known as Rutherford's 'politically incorrect' companion volume to LEX, REX. A sort of sequel aimed at driving pluralists and antinomians insane. Written against 'the Belgick Arminians, Socinians, and other Authors contending for lawless liberty, or licentious Tolerations of Sects and Heresies,' Rutherford explains the undiluted Biblical solution to moral relativism, especially as it is expressed in ecclesiastical and civil pluralism! (Corporate pluralism being a violation of the first commandment and an affront to the holy God of Scripture). He also deals with conscience, toleration, penology (punishment), and the judicial laws, as related to both the civil and ecclesiastical realms. Excellent sections are also included which address questions related to determining the fundamentals of religion, how covenants bind us, the perpetual obligation of social covenants (with direct application to the Solemn League and Covenant and the covenant-breaking of Cromwell and his sectarian supporters), whether the punishing of seducing teachers be persecution of conscience, and much more. Walker adds these comments and context regarding Rutherford's FREE DISPUTATION, 'The principle of toleration was beginning to be broached in England, and in a modified shape to find acceptance there. Samuel Rutherford was alarmed, or rather, I should say, he was horrified, for he neither feared the face of man or argument. He rushed to the rescue of the good old view . . . It is not so easy to find a theoretical ground for toleration; and Rutherford has many plausible things to say against it. With the most perfect confidence, he argues that it is alike against Scripture and common sense that you should have two religions side by side. It is outrageous ecclesiastically, it is sinful civilly. He does not, however, take what I call the essentially persecuting ground. He does not hold that the magistrate is to punish religion as religion. Nay, he strongly maintains that the civil magistrate never aims at the conscience. The magistrate, he urges, does not send anyone, whether a heretic (who is a soul murderer -- eb), or a murderer, to the scaffold with the idea of producing conversion or other spiritual result, but to strengthen the foundations of civil order. But if he gives so much power to the king, he is no lover of despotism withal: the king himself must be under law. To vindicate this great doctrine is the object of another book, the celebrated LEX, REX; of which it has been said by one competent to judge, that it first clearly developed the constitutionalism which all men now accept.' (Theology and Theologians . . . pp. 11-12). In our day Francis Schaeffer, and numerous others, have critiqued many of the problems found in modern society, but most have spent little time developing explicitly Biblical solutions especially regarding the theoretical foundations that Rutherford addresses here. Rutherford's FREE DISPUTATION provides a detailed blueprint for laying the foundations that must be laid before any lasting, God-honoring solutions will be found. Furthermore, Rutherford and his writings were the enemies of all governments not covenanted with Christ. This book will give you a very clear picture as to why 'the beast' (civil and ecclesiastical), has reserved his special hatred for such teaching. As Samuel Wylie noted 'the dispute, then, will not turn upon the point whether religion should be civilly established . . . but it is concerning what religion ought to be civilly established and protected, -- whether the religion of Jesus alone should be countenanced by civil authority, or every blasphemous, heretical, and idolatrous abomination which the subtle malignity of the old serpent and a heart deceitful above all things and desperately wicked, can frame and devise, should be put on an equal footing therewith." -- The two Sons of oil; or, The Faithful Witness for Magistracy and Ministry Upon a Scriptural Basis. Can our generation swallow Rutherford's hard, anti-pluralistic, Covenanter medicine, poured forth from the bottle of the first commandment, without choking on their carnal dreams of a free and righteous society divorced from God (and His absolute claims upon everyone and everything)? Not without the enabling power of the Holy Spirit -- that is for sure! In summary, this book answers all the hardest questions theonomists (and their wisest and best opponents), have been asking for the last 20-30 years (and these answers are much more in depth than any we have seen in the last couple of millennia. [less about a century to account for the apostles]). As the reader will discover, Rutherford was a wealthy man when it came to wisdom (and much advanced theologically), and those who take the time to gaze into the King's treasure house, as exhibited in this book, will find that they are greatly rewarded. Furthermore, because of its uncompromising stand upon the Word of God, this book is sure to be unpopular among a wicked and adulterous generation. However, on the other hand, it is sure to be popular among the covenanted servants of King Jesus! This is one of the best books (in the top five anyway), for advanced study of the Christian faith. We have now obtained an easy-to-read, amazingly clear copy of this very rare, old treasure. Great price too, considering that a copy of the 1649 edition, containing this quality of print, would likely cost upwards of $1000 on the rare book market -- though it is unlikely you would ever see a copy for sale!" -- Publisher
    A Brotherly and Free Epistle to the Patrons and Friends of Pretended Liberty of Conscience, Samuel Rutherford
    http://www.truecovenanter.com/anti_toleration/rutherfurd_epistle_against_pretendedlibertyofconscience.html
    Chapter 21 From Samuel Rutherford's 1649 Edition of A Free Disputation Against Pretended Liberty of Conscience being Rutherford, Samuel (1600-1661), Of the Samaritans, and of the Non Compelling of Heathens; How the Covenant Bindeth us
    http://www.swrb.com/newslett/actualnls/FreeDis21.htm
    Brutus, Junius, The Covenant Between God and Kings, from A DEFENSE OF LIBERTY
    http://www.constitution.org/vct/vindiciae1a.htm

    *Rutherford, Samuel (1600-1661), Lex, Rex, or the Law and the Prince, ISBN: 0873779517. Alternate title: A TREATISE OF CIVIL POLICY: BEING A RESOLUTION OF FORTY THREE QUESTIONS CONCERNING PREROGATIVE, RIGHT AND PRIVILEGE, IN REFERENCE TO THE SUPREME PRINCE AND THE PEOPLE. / BY SAMUEL RUTHERFORD PROFESSOR OF DIVINITY OF ST ANDREWS IN SCOTLAND. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #10, #25.
    " 'Lex, rex' is Latin for 'law is king.'
    "LEX, REX is 'the great political text of the Covenanters.' (Johnston citing Innes in Treasury of the Scottish Covenant, p. 305). 'Rutherford was the first to formulate the great constitutional principle Lex est Rex -- the law is King . . . much of the doctrine has become the constitutional inheritance of all countries in modern times.'
    "Gilmour writes [in SAMUEL RUTHERFORD], 'that, as regards religious fervour, scholastic subtlety of intellect, and intensity of ecclesiastical conviction, Samuel Rutherford is the most distinctively representative Scotsman in the first half of the seventeenth century'." -- Publisher
    "Without a doubt one of the greatest books on political philosophy ever written. Rutherford here has penned a great Christian charter of liberty against all forms of civil tyranny -- vindicating the Scriptural duty to resist tyrants as an act of loyalty to God." -- Publisher
    "That resistance to lawful authority -- even when that authority so called has, in point of fact, set at nought 'all law' -- is in no instance to be vindicated, will be held by those only who are the devotees of arbitrary power and passive obedience. The principles of Mr. Rutherford's LEX, REX, however obnoxious they may be to such men, are substantially the principles on which all government is founded, and without which the civil magistrate would become a curse rather than a blessing to a country. They are the very principles which lie at the basis of the British Constitution, and by whose tenure the House of Brunswick does at this very moment hold possession of the throne of these realms." -- Rev. Robert Burns, D.D., in his "Preliminary Dissertation" to Wodrow's Church History
    Additional sources of text related to LEX REX are as follows:
    "Though Rutherford is affectionately remembered in our day for his LETTERS, or for laying the foundations of constitutional government (against the divine right of kings), in his unsurpassed LEX, REX, his FREE DISPUTATION should not be overlooked, for it contains the same searing insights as LEX, REX. In fact, this book [A FREE DISPUTATION AGAINST PRETENDED LIBERTY OF CONSCIENCE -- compiler] should probably be known as Rutherford's 'politically incorrect' companion volume to LEX, REX. It is a sort of sequel aimed at driving pluralists and antinomians insane. Written against 'the Belgick Arminians, Socinians, and other Authors contending for lawless liberty, or licentious Tolerations of Sects and Heresies,' Rutherford explains the undiluted Biblical solution to moral relativism, especially as it is expressed in ecclesiastical and civil pluralism! (Corporate pluralism being a violation of the first commandment, and an affront to the holy God of Scripture)." -- Publisher
    A HIND LET LOOSE by Alexander Shields is sometimes referred to as 'Lex, Rex, Volume Two.'
    A Hind let Loose; or An Historical Representation of the Testimonies of the Church of Scotland. . . . by Mr. Alexander Shields, Minister of the Gospel, in St. Andrews
    http://www.truecovenanter.com/shields/
    A Hind let Loose; or, An Historical Representation of the Testimonies of the Church of Scotland, for the Interest of Christ
    "This book sets forth the Crown rights of King Jesus, against all usurpers in both church and state, giving a history of some of faithful sufferings endured by the elect, in maintaining this truth." -- Publisher
    http://archive.org/details/hindletlooseorhi00shie
    "This [THE DUE RIGHT OF PRESBYTERIES OR A PEACEABLE PLEA FOR THE GOVERNMENT OF THE CHURCH OF SCOTLAND -- compiler], could be considered the LEX, REX of church government -- another exceedingly rare masterpiece of Presbyterianism! Characterized by Walker as sweeping 'over a wider field than most'." -- Publisher
    Rutherford, Samuel (1600-1661), Lex, rex: The law and the Prince, a Dispute for the Just Prerogative of King and People (1843)
    http://archive.org/details/lexrexlawandpri00ruthgoog
    Lex, Rex, or The Law and the Prince, Samuel Rutherford
    "Rutherford is to be praised for his teaching that the king is subject to the law of God. The Bible has nothing but condemnation for those who frame mischief by a law and declares rhetorically, Shall the throne of iniquity have fellowship with thee? (Psalm 94:20). Deuteronomy 17 is the classic passage in defense of Lex, Rex, wherein the king is charged to read therein all the days of his life: that he may learn to fear the Lord his God, to keep all the words of this law. (Deuteronomy 17:19)." -- Publisher
    http://www.constitution.org/sr/lexrex.htm
    Lex, rex: the law and the Prince, a Dispute for the Just Prerogative of King and People, containing the reasons and causes of the defensive wars of the kingdom of Scotland, and of their expedition for the ayd and help of their brethren of England. In which a full answer is given to a seditious pamphlet, intituled, Sacro-sancta regum majestas, penned by J. Maxwell. By S. Rutherford. [Followed by], De jure regni apud Scotos; a dialogue, tr. by R. Macfarlan (repr. from the ed. of 1799).
    http://books.google.com/books?id=jtYDAAAAQAAJ&ie=ISO-8859-1&output=html
    Brutus, Junius, The Covenant Between God and Kings, from A DEFENSE OF LIBERTY
    http://www.constitution.org/vct/vindiciae1a.htm

    Shaw, Mark R., The Marrow of Practical Divinity: A Study in the Theology of William Perkins (Westminster Theological Seminary, Th.D. thesis, 1981).
    "Chapters four and five concern the first two books of Perkins' CASES OF CONSCIENCE and cover the issues of conversion, assurance, and worship. . . . Chapter six focuses on Perkins' social, economic, and political thought. His views on such questions as the structure of the family, the power of government, the rise of capitalism and the proper use of wealth, food, clothing, arts and recreation are considered. . . . The final chapter evaluates Perkins' PRACTICAL DIVINITY as a force for renewal in the church. . . . -- Dissertation Abstracts

    Shepard, Thomas (1605-1649), Theses Sabbaticae. Alternate title: THESES SABBATICAE, OR THE DOCTRINE OF THE SABBATH, WHEREIN THE SABBATH'S MORALITY, CHANGE, BEGINNING AND SANCTIFICATION, ARE CLEARLY DISCUSSED. WHICH WERE FIRST HANDLED MORE LARGELY IN SUNDRY SERMONS IN CAMBRIDGE IN NEW-ENGLAND IN OPENING OF THE FOURTH COMMANDMENT. IN UNFOLDING WHEREOF MANY SCRIPTURES ARE CLEARED, DIVERS CASES OF CONSCIENCE RESOLVED, AND THE MORAL LAW AS A RULE OF LIFE TO A BELIEVER OCCASIONALLY AND DISTINCTLY HANDLED, 1650. Available (THE WORKS OF THOMAS SHEPARD, vol. 3 of 3 [THESES SABBATICAE], only), on the Puritan Hard Drive.
    "The author, who was founder of Harvard University and a Puritan minister at Cambridge in the early 1600s, has written four theses on the morality of the Sabbath, the change of the Sabbath from the seventh day to the first, the beginning of the Sabbath, and how the Sabbath is to be sanctified by God's people. This book should silence the cavils of those misguided souls who deny that the Fourth Commandment finds its New Testament fulfillment in the celebration of the Lord's Day." -- Publisher

    Stanislaus, Woywod, and John Ambrose McHugh, The Casuist: A Collection of Cases in Moral and Pastoral Theology.

    Starr, George A., Defoe and Casuistry, ISBN: 0691061920 9780691061924.

    *Steele, David (1803-1887), A Case of Conscience. Alternate title: THE U.S. CONSTITUTION, TAXATION, SLAVERY, ANTICHRIST, CHURCH DISCIPLINE AND THE COVENANTERS and CIRCULAR NO. 2. Available (THE U.S. CONSTITUTION, TAXATION, SLAVERY . . .) on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available (THE U.S. CONSTITUTION, TAXATION, SLAVERY . . .) on Reformation Bookshelf CD #18, #26.
    Circular No. 2, David Steele
    "On Covenanter identity, the American 'civil' war and matters of taxation." -- Publisher
    http://www.covenanter.org/reformed/2016/4/25/circular-no-2
    Steele, David (1803-1887), A Case of Conscience
    "An short article on the question of covenanters and taxation." -- Publisher
    http://www.covenanter.org/reformed/2016/4/26/a-case-of-conscience

    Strong, William (d. 1654), and Theophilus Gale (1628-1678), A Discourse of the two Covenants Wherein the Nature, Differences, and Effects of the Covenant of Works and of Grace are Distinctly, Rationally, Spiritually and Practically Discussed: Together With a Considerable Quantity of Practical Cases Dependent Thereon / by William Strong, 1678.

    Toon, Peter, Your Conscience as Your Guide, ISBN: 081921339X 9780819213396.
    "Meets a felt need for a reliable work that adheres to the Scriptures and at the same time interacts with non-Christian and anti-Christian systems of thought. . . ." -- Cyril J. Barber

    Trapp, John, A Clavis to the Bible, or a New Comment Upon the Pentateuch, or Five Books of Moses, Wherein are: 1. Difficult texts explained, 2. Controversies discussed, 3. Common places handled, 4. Cases of Conscience cleared, 5. Many remarkable matters hinted, that had by other interpreters been omitted, 6. Besides, divers texts of Scripture, which occasionally occur, are fully opened, 7. And the whole so intermixed with pertinent Histories, as will yield both pleasure, and profit to the judicious, pious reader, 1650 Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.

    Trapp, John, Commentary on Hosea to Malachi, Volume 4 of 5, 1654, 1865-1868 edition. Alternate title: A COMMENTARY, OR EXPOSITION UPON THE 12 MINOR PROPHETS (HOSEA, JOEL, AMOS, OBADIAH, JONAH, MICAH, NAHUM, HABAKKUK, ZEPHANIAH, HAGGAI, ZECHARIAH, AND MALACHI), WHEREIN THE TEXT IS EXPLAINED, SOME CONTROVERSIES ARE DISCUSSED, SUNDRY CASES OF CONSCIENCE ARE CLEARED, AND MANY REMARKABLE MATTERS HINTED, THAT HAD BY FORMER INTERPRETERS BEEN PRETERMITTED. HEREUNTO IS ADDED A TREATISE CALLED, 'THE RIGHTEOUS MAN'S RECOMPENSE -- A TRUE CHRISTIAN CHARACTERIZED AND ENCOURAGED, OUT OF MALACHI 3:16-18,' AS WELL AS 'THEOLOGICIA THEOLOGIAE: THE TRUE TREASURE. A TREASURY OF THE HOLY TRUTHS TOUCHING GOD'S WORD, AND GOD THE WORD. DIGGED UP AND DRAWN OUT OF THAT INCOMPARABLE MINE OF UNSEARCHABLE MYSTERY, HEBREWS 1:1-3.' IN ALL WHICH DIVERSE TEXTS OF SCRIPTURE WHICH OCCASIONALLY OCCUR, ARE FULLY OPENED, AND THE WHOLE SO INTERMIXED WITH PERTINENT HISTORIES, AS WILL YIELD BOTH PLEASURE AND PROFIT TO THE JUDICIOUS READER. Indexed. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.

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

    *Turretin, Francis (1623-1687), Institutes of Elenctic Theology, Vols. 1, 2, and 3, ISBN: 0875524516 9780875524511 0875524524 9780875524528.
    Turretin was the renowned teacher of the Academy in Geneva and successor to Calvin, Beza, and Diodati.
    These three volumes "mark the arrival of the first complete edition of the INSTITUTES OF ELENCTIC THEOLOGY to be published in the English language. Heartily recommended by James Montgomery Boice, Sinclair B. Ferguson, John H. Gerstner, Leon Morris, and others. Theologians, pastors, and students will welcome this treatise, which first develops and then contrast Reformed doctrines with Roman Catholic, Arminian, and Socinian views. . . ." -- Publisher
    Francis Turretin, excerpts
    http://www.apuritansmind.com/FrancisTurretin/francisturretin.htm

    *Vincent, Thomas (1634-1678), Shorter Catechism Explained From Scripture. Alternate title: THE SHORTER CATECHISM OF THE WESTMINSTER ASSEMBLY EXPLAINED AND PROVED FROM SCRIPTURE, ISBN: 085151314X. A Christian classic. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
    "Forty Puritans including John Owen, Thomas Manton, Thomas Brooks and Thomas Watson recommended this useful volume as a very worth aid for family instruction. This volume gives parents very simple explanations to take their children through the Westminster Shorter Catechism."
    Westminster Shorter Catechism With Proof Texts
    http://www.reformed.org/documents/WSC_frames.html
    Westminster Shorter Catechism Project: Body of Divinity Contained in Sermons Upon the Assembly's Catechism by the Rev. Thomas Watson (1620-1686)
    "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/

    Webster, W. (William), A Casuistical Essay on Anger and Forgiveness; Wherein the practice of duelling, and some defects in our laws, with regard to the punishment of crimes, are consider'd; . . . In three dialogues between a gentleman and a clergyman, London, 1750.

    Willard, Samuel (1639-1707), The Character of a Good Ruler as it was Recommended in a Sermon Preached Before His Excellency the Governour, and the Honourable Counsellors, and Assembly of the Representatives of the Province of Massachusetts Bay in New-England, May 30, 1694: which was the day for election of counsellors for that province, by Samuel Willard.
    Samuel Willard was pastor of a Church of Christ in Boston and Vice-President of Harvard College. See his other works.

    Willard, Samuel (1639-1707), The Duty of a People That Have Renewed Their Covenant With God: Opened and Urged in a Sermon preached to the Second Church in Boston in New-England, March 17, 1679[/]80, after that church had explicitly and most solemnly renewed the engagement of themselves to God and one to another.

    Willard, Samuel (1639-1707), Thomas Prince, and Joseph Sewall, A Compleat Body of Divinity in Two Hundred and Fifty Expository Lectures on the Assembly's Shorter Catechism Wherein the Doctrines of the Christian Religion are Unfolded, Their Truth Confirm'd, Their Excellence Display'd, Their Usefulness Improv'd; Contrary errors and vices refuted and expos'd, objections answer'd, controversies settled, cases of conscience resolv'd; and a great light thereby reflected on the present age. By the Reverend and learned Samuel Willard, M.A. late Pastor of the South Church in Boston, and vice-president of Harvard College in Cambridge, in New-England. Prefac'd by the pastors of the same church.
    Samuel Willard was pastor of a Church of Christ in Boston and Vice-President of Harvard College. See his other works.

    Woodward, Park, The Triumph of Faith: or, Anti-Christian policy Detected in the Field of High Places, as Represented on the Stage of Divine Revelation, Both in the Old and New Testament, Being Displayed in the Form of a Dialogue Between Christian and Calvin, in Which Twelve Doctrinal Heads are Contended For.

    Wylie, Samuel B. (1773-1852), The Obligation of Covenants: A Discourse, Delivered, Monday, June 27, 1803, After the Dispensation of the Lord's Supper, in the Reformed Presbyterian Congregation, Glasgow. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
    The Obligation of Covenants
    http://www.covenanter.org/reformed/2015/8/18/samuel-b-wylies-sermon-on-the-obligation-of-covenants

    *Wylie, Samuel B. (1773-1852), The two Sons of oil; or, The Faithful Witness for Magistracy and Ministry Upon a Scriptural Basis (1850 edition, reprinted 1995). A Christian classic. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #13, #26.
    "A Covenanter classic opening Revelation 11:3,4 and Zechariah 4:14. It has been hailed as the 'best presentation of the position of the Covenanter Church that has been written.' Noting that the 'time has been, when the whole body of Presbyterians, in Scotland, England, and Ireland, unanimously subscribed' to these principles, 'for civil and ecclesiastical reformation' and that thousands bled and died for the glorious covenanted cause of civil and ecclesiastical reformation; Wylie sets out to explain and defend 'that cause. Not because it is an ancient cause; not because many have sealed it with their blood; but, because,' as he says, 'I thought it the doctrine of the Bible, and the cause of Christ.' This book explains how to tell if a government (especially a civil government), is faithful to Christ and thus to be obeyed for conscience's sake. It also gives direction regarding when and how to resist (and disassociate), yourself from governments which get their power from 'the beast.' Moreover, this book gives clear testimony as to what the Bible requires of civil magistrates, noting 'that civil rulers should exercise their power in protecting and defending the religion of Jesus.' It also gives plain reasons why dissent from the government of the United States (and other covenant breaking nations), is the legitimate Scriptural pattern." -- Publisher
    The two Sons of oil; or, The Faithful Witness for Magistracy and Ministry Upon a Scriptural Basis, Samuel B. Wylie
    http://www.swrb.com/newslett/actualNLs/two-sons-of-oil.htm
    The two Sons of oil, or, The Faithful Witness for Magistracy and Ministry Upon a Scriptural Basis (1850), Samuel Brown Wylie and James McLeod Willson
    http://archive.org/details/twosonsofoilorfa00wylirich

    See also: The sovereignty of god, The doctrine of man (human nature, total depravity), Conscience, casuistry, cases of conscience, Guilt, Repentance the key to salvation and change, Justification, Justifying faith, Spiritual discernment, The inspiration and infallibility of scripture (the doctrine of revelation, the doctrine of plenary inspiration, the doctrine of divine inspiration, the doctrine of verbal inspiration, theopneustia, sufficiency of scripture), The ten commandments: the moral law, Systematic theology, ethics, Medical ethics, The westminster standards, Logic based on god's truth, Justice, the theology of judgment, god's final judgment, the great white throne judgment, the day of the lord, Epistemology, Resolutions, The right to petition, Referendum votes, Bible magistracy turns back the wrath of god, The doctrine of the lesser magistrates, The government role of punishing wrongdoers, Toleration, liberty of conscience, pluralism, "religious freedom," and neutrality, Unity and uniformity in the visible church: unity in the truth, National establishment of religion: establishmentarianism, Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, Expository bible commentaries, Biblical counsel by subject, Discipleship, Puritans, works by and about, and so forth, and so on.
    TCRB5: 824-826
    MGTP: Conscience (Cases of), Conscience

    Related Weblinks

    Cases of Conscience Concerning Evil Spirits, Personating Men, Witchcrafts. Infallible Proofs of Guilt in Such as Are Accused With That Crime. All Considered According to the Scriptures, History, Experience, and the Judgment of Many Learned men, by Increase Mather, President of Harvard Colledge at Cambridge, and Teacher of a Church at Boston in New-England.
    http://etext.virginia.edu/salem/witchcraft/speccol/

    Cases of Conscience Resolved, John Owen. Modernized by Richard J. Vincent
    http://www.theocentric.com/originalarticles/owenconscience.html

    Conscience and the Power Thereof
    http://www.gcpublications.com/Documents/Cases%20of%20Conscience%20and%20the%20Power%20Thereof/6_COMPLETE.pdf

    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



    Cheerfulness

    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. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (John 16:33)

    Strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness;
    Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light.     (Colossians 1:11,12)

    God is a Spirit infinitely happy, therefore we must approach him with cheerfulness. -- Stephen Charnock

    *Scudder, Henry (d. 1659?), The Christian's Daily Walk in Holy Security and Peace. Alternate title: THE CHRISTIAN'S DAILY WALK, IN HOLY SECURITY AND PEACE, BEING AN ANSWER TO THESE QUESTIONS: 1. HOW A MAN MAY DO EACH PRESENT DAY'S WORK WITH CHRISTIAN CHEERFULNESS? 2. HOW TO BEAR EACH PRESENT DAY'S CROSS WITH CHRISTIAN PATIENCE? CONTAINING FAMILIAR DIRECTIONS 1. HOW TO WALK WITH GOD IN THE WHOLE COURSE OF A MAN'S LIFE 2. HOW TO BE UPRIGHT IN THE SAID WALKING 3. HOW TO LIVE WITHOUT TAKING CARE OR THOUGHT IN ANYTHING 4. HOW TO GET AND KEEP TRUE PEACE WITH GOD, WHEREIN ARE MANIFOLD HELPS TO PREVENT AND REMOVE DAMNABLE PRESUMPTION, ALSO TO QUIET AND EASE DISTRESSED CONSCIENCES, 1690. A Christian classic.
    "I remember not any book which is written to be the daily companion of Christians, to guide them in the practice of a holy life, which I prefer before this . . ." -- John Owen
    "We could say nothing more about this book than that it has been highly recommended by John Owen and Richard Baxter. Owen said it had been very effective for him in his youth and Baxter said there is no book better on the subject." -- GCB

    Spurgeon, C.H. (1834-1892), Cheer up my Comrades! Encouragement for all Christians, a sermon. Available as an MP3 [audio file] at SermonAudio.com. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.

    Winslow, Octavius (1808-1878), Joel R. Beeke (foreword), Help Heavenward: Guidance and Strength for the Christian's Life-journey, ISBN: 0851517757. Alternate title: HELP HEAVENWARD, OR, WORDS OF STRENGTH AND HEART-CHEER TO ZION'S TRAVELLERS.

    See also: The sovereignty of god, The doctrine of man (human nature, total depravity), The inspiration and infallibility of scripture (the doctrine of revelation, the doctrine of plenary inspiration, the doctrine of divine inspiration, the doctrine of verbal inspiration, theopneustia, sufficiency of scripture), The sovereign grace of god, The covenant faithfulness of god, The all-sufficiency of christ, Immanuel, christ's presence, christ in you, Eternal life, immortality, Heaven, Thanksgiving, gratitude, Worship, Joy, Happiness and holiness, Comfort, encouragement, and so forth, and so on.
    TCRB5: 668, 669
    MGTP: Blessedness, Joy, Salvation, Justifation faith, Worship



    Child Abuse and Pedophilia

    See the Theological Notes: "The Image of God," at Genesis 1:27 in The Reformation Study Bible.
    So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them. (Genesis 1:27)

    Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven.
    And whoso shall receive one such little child in my name receiveth me.
    But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and [that] he were drowned in the depth of the sea.     -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 18:4-6)

    Woe to the world because of offences! for it must needs be that offences come; but woe to that man by whom the offence cometh! . . . .
    Take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones; for I say unto you, that in heaven their angels do always behold the face of my Father which is in heaven.     -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 18:7,10)

    Even though a mother may forget her children, yet will I not forget you. (Isaiah 49:15)

    Whosoever shall receive this child in my name receiveth me: and whosoever shall receive me receiveth him that sent me: for he that is least among you all, the same shall be great. -- The Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 9:48b)

    Lo, children are an heritage of the LORD: and the fruit of the womb is his reward. (Psalm 127:3)

    Wicked parents are the most notable servants of the devil in all the world and the bloodiest enemies to their children's souls. More souls are damned by ungodly parents, and next [to them] ungodly ministers and magistrates, than by any instruments in the world besides. -- Richard Baxter (1615-1691) in Baxter's Practical Works, vol. 1, A Christian Directory, Part II, Christian Economics: or, The Family Directory . . , Chapter X, "The Duties of Parents for Their Children," the Soli Deo Gloria Publications reprint, 1990, of the 19th century reprint by George Virtue, London, p. 451

    For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus. (Galatians 3:26)

    There is documented research proving the thesis that child abuse (emotional, physical, sexual, or spiritual, etc.) results in disturbances in learning, and disturbances in adjusting emotionally and socially, regardless of "differences in age, sex, race, gender, IQ, or socioeconomic status."
    In other words, the implications are that abuse has the effect of making it difficult for a child to learn (grow in knowledge of the truth and understanding, have an open mind, be teachable), and of making it difficult to relate to the world (relationships, spouses, family, church, workplace, government), regardless of the child's innate capabilities and gifts. So, even the gifted child, if abused, will in later life suffer, however subtle, learning disabilities, blocks, blind spots, or abnormal behaviour. "If a parent and child love each other, then the parent can teach the child anything." But emotional scars can be as hard to heal as chronic disease.
    "Physically abused and nonabused children were compared on child-completed measures of depression, hopelessness, self-esteem, and locus of control. Results indicated that, in comparison with nonabused controls, abused children evidenced more depressive symptoms, heightened externality, lower self-esteem, and greater hopelessness about the future. Group differences in depressive symptomatology were not accounted for on the basis of differences in age, sex, race, gender, IQ, or socioeconomic status."
    Depressive Characteristics of Physically Abused Children, Denise M. Allen and Kenneth J. Tarnowski
    http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/2926018
    The Effects of Violence in the Home on Children's Emotional, Behavioral, and Social Functioning. A Review of the Literature
    http://ebx.sagepub.com/content/6/2/94.abstract

    Abuse of all types (emotional, psychological, educational, physical, sexual, spiritual, etc.) results in spiritual blindness, and the wicked are self-destructive. The victim of abuse is rendered, in many cases, unable to love his fellowman, socially awkward, emotionally maladjusted, disturbances in learning, unable to attain to his full potential -- out of touch with reality. Abuse is the "evangel" of the Adversary, the Liar and the Deceiver. The answer? The Gospel.

    When my father