And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins. (1 Peter 4:8)

Give instruction to a youth about his way,
Even when he is old he turneth not from it. (Proverbs 22:6, YLTHB)

Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever. (1 John 2:15-17)

If your life would have guidance and strength to follow that guidance, then you will find that in the Word of God.
If you would have your marriage to be what it would be, what God would have it to be, then search the Scriptures daily.
If you would have your children to grow up and be anything but rebels, then teach them the Word of God.
If you would have financial success in business, then work and operate your business according to the Word of God. -- D. James Kennedy

Contents

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

Chapter 7 (part 2)
Family Life, Education, Church, and Work

Teaching

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See also: The teaching of the lord jesus christ, Home Schooling, Sexual relationship, Christian fiction (The Elsie Books by Martha Finley)

Related WebLinks

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

THE LOCAL CHURCH

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This is the day which the LORD hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it. (Psalms 118:24)

Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity! (Psalms 133:1)

And now I say unto you, Refrain from these men, and let them alone: for if this counsel or this work be of men, it will come to nought: But if it be of God, ye cannot overthrow it; lest haply ye be found even to fight against God. (Acts 5:38,39)

And it came to pass, when the priests were come out of the holy place, that the cloud filled the house of the LORD, So that the priests could not stand to minister because of the cloud: for the glory of the LORD had filled the house of the LORD. (1 Kings 8:10,11) (The cloudy pillar was the token of the presence of God, and its filling the sanctuary was a sign of his graciously accepting the temple. We cannot tell whether it was the dazzling brightness, or the deep, portentous darkness, which overwhelmed the minds of the priests, but assuredly it is a glorious thing to have the Lord so present in the midst of his people that all our works become as nothing, and we feel that no longe do we stand to minister, but the Lord himself is there.) -- Spurgeon's Devotional Bible

How amiable are thy tabernacles, O Lord of hosts! (Psalm 84:1) (More delightful than tongue can tell are the assemblies for divine worship. They are lovely in prospect, lovely at the time, and lovely to the memory afterwards. Under heaven, no place is so heavenly as the church of the living God.) -- Spurgeon's Devotional Bible

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 verse 3:5)
Calvin's Commentary on the Book of Zephaniah verse 3:5
http://www.biblestudyguide.org/comment/calvin/comm_vol29/htm/iv.iv.v.htm

And Jesus knew their thoughts, and said unto them, Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation; and every city or house divided against itself shall not stand. -- Jesus Christ (Matthew 12:25)

Those by the way side are they that hear; then cometh the devil, and taketh away the word out of their hearts, lest they should believe and be saved. -- Jesus Christ (Luke 8:12)

That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son, Jesus Christ. (1 John 1:3)

But Jesus did not commit himself unto them, because he knew all men, and needed not that any should testify of man: for he knew what was in man. (John 2:24,25)

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

Verily, verily, I say unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord; neither he that is sent greater than he that sent him. -- Jesus Christ (John 13:16)

That they all may be one; as thou, Father, [art] in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me.
And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one:
I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me. -- Jesus Christ (John 17:21-23)

For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and he is the saviour of the body. Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in every thing. Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it; that he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word, that he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish. (Ephesians 5:23-27)

I believe that there is on earth, through the whole wide world, no more than one holy, common, Christian church, which is nothing else than the congregation, or the assembly of the saints, i.e., the pious, believing men on earth, which is gathered, preserved, and ruled by the Holy Ghost, and daily increased by means of the sacraments and the Word of God. -- Martin Luther

"Jesus Only"
A sermon by C.H. Spurgeon delivered on Lord's-day morning, April 3, 1870, at the Metropolitan Tabernacle, Newington, Sermon no. 924.
A sermon on the text "And when they had lifted up their eyes, they saw no man, save Jesus only." (Matthew 17:8)
"We, on the other hand say, blessing the name of the Lord that we can say it, that there abides with us our Lord Jesus. At this day He is with us, and will be with us even to the end of the world! Christ’s existence is not a fact confined to antiquity or to remote distance. By His Spirit He is actually in His Church. We have seen Him, though not with eyes. We have heard Him, though not with ears. We have grasped Him, though not with hands. And we feed upon His flesh, which is meat, indeed, and His blood, which is drink, indeed. We have with us at this very day Jesus our Friend, to Whom we make known our secrets, and who bears all our sorrows.
"We have Jesus our interpreting Instructor, who still reveals His secrets to us, and leads us into the mind and name of God. We have Jesus still with us to supply us with strength, and in His power we are still mighty. We confess His reigning Sovereignty in the Church, and we receive His all-sufficient succor. The Church is not decapitated, her Head abides in vital union with her—Jesus is no myth to us—whatever He may be to others. He is no departed shade, He is no heroic personification—in very deed there is a Christ, and though others see Him not, and even we with these eyes see Him not, yet in Him believing we rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory.
"Oh, I trust it will never be so with us, that as we go about our life work our religion shall melt into fiction and become nothing but mere sentiment, nothing but thought, and dream, and vision. But may our religion be a matter of FACT, a walking with the living and abiding Savior. Though Moses may be gone, and Elijah may be gone, yet Jesus Christ abides with us and in us, and we in Him, and so shall it be forever more." p. 641
http://www.spurgeongems.org/vols16-18/chs924.pdf

There is no doubt that evangelicalism today is in a state of perplexity and unsettlement. In such matters as the practice of evangelism, the teaching of holiness, the building up of local church life, the pastor's dealing with souls and the exercise of discipline, there is evidence of widespread dissatisfaction with things as they are and or equally widespread uncertainty as to the road ahead. This is a complex phenomenon, to which many factors have contributed; but, if we go to the root of the matter, we shall find that these perplexities are all ultimately due to our having lost our grip on the biblical gospel. Without realizing it, we have during the past century bartered that gospel for a substitute product which, though it looks similar enough in points of detail, is as a whole a decidedly different thing. Hence our troubles; for the substitute product does not answer the ends for which the authentic gospel has in past days proved itself so mighty. Why?
We would suggest that the reason lies in its own character and content. It fails to make men God-centered in their thoughts and God-fearing in their hearts because this is not primarily what it is trying to do. One way of stating the difference between it and the old gospel is to say that it is too exclusively concerned to be 'helpful' to man - to bring peace, comfort, happiness, satisfaction - and too little concerned to glorify God. The old gospel was 'helpful', too - more so, indeed, than is the new - but (so to speak) incidentally, for its first concern was always to give glory to God. It was always and essentially a proclamation of divine sovereignty in mercy and judgment, a summons to bow down and worship the mighty Lord on whom man depends for all good, both in nature and in grace. Its center of reference was unambiguously God. But in the new gospel the center of reference is man. This is just to say that the old gospel was religious in a way that the new gospel is not. Whereas the chief aim of the old was to teach people to worship God, the concern of the new seems limited to making them feel better. The subject of the old gospel was God and his ways with men; the subject of the new is man and the help God gives him. There is a world of difference. The whole perspective and emphasis of gospel preaching has changed.
From this change of interest has sprung a change of content, for the new gospel has in effect reformulated the biblical message in the supposed interests of 'helpfulness'. Accordingly, the themes of man's natural inability to believe, of God's free election being the ultimate cause of salvation, and of Christ dying specifically for his sheep are not preached. These doctrines, it would be said, are not 'helpful'; they would drive sinners to despair, by suggesting to them that it is not in their own power to be saved through Christ. (The possibility that such despair might be salutary is not considered: it is taken for granted that it cannot be, because it is so shattering to our self-esteem.) However this may be (and we shall say more about it later), the result of these omissions is that part of the biblical gospel is now preached as if it were the whole of that gospel; and a half-truth masquerading as the whole truth becomes a complete untruth. Thus, we appeal to men as if they all had the ability to receive Christ at any time; we speak of his redeeming work as if he had make it possible for us to save ourselves by believing; we speak of God's love as if it were no more than a general willingness to receive any who will turn and trust; and we depict the Father and the Son, not as sovereignly active in drawing sinners to themselves, but as waiting in quiet impotence 'at the door of our hearts' for us to let them in.
It is undeniable that this is how we preach; perhaps this is what we really believe. But it needs to be said with emphasis that this set of twisted half-truths is something other than the biblical gospel. The Bible is against us when we preach in this way; and the fact that such preaching has become almost standard practice among us only shows how urgent it is that we should review this matter. To recover the old, authentic, biblical gospel, and to bring our preaching and practice back into line with it, is perhaps our most pressing present need. And it is at this point that Owen's treatise on redemption can give us help. -- J.I. Packer in the Introduction to The Death of Death in the Death of Christ by John Owen

"True Gospel in the pulpit, true Gospel in every Religious Society we support, true Gospel in the books we read, true Gospel in the friends we keep company with -- let this be our aim, and never let us be ashamed to let men see that it is so.
"Let the meekness of St. Peter in taking a reproof be as much our example as the boldness of St. Paul in reproving." -- J.C. Ryle "The Fallibility of Ministers" in Warning to the Churches, pp. 93-121.

"I see this tendency to lean on man everywhere. I know no branch of the Protestant Church of Christ which does not require to be cautioned upon the point. It is a snare, for example, to the English Episcopalian to make idols of Bishop Pearson and `the Judicious Hooker.' It is a snare to the Scotch Presbyterian to pin his faith on John Knox, the Covenanters, and Dr. Chalmers. It is a snare to the Methodists in our day to worship the memory of John Wesley. It is a snare to the Independent to see no fault in any opinion of Owen and Dodderidge. It is a snare to the Baptist to exaggerate the wisdom of Gill and Fuller and Robert Hall. All these are snares, and into these snares how many fall! -- J.C. Ryle "The Fallibility of Ministers" in Warning to the Churches, pp. 93-121.

"Ah, were their souls fully assured that God had loved them freely, and received them graciously, and justified them perfectly, and pardoned them absolutely, and would glorify them everlastingly, they could not but love where God loves, and own where God owns, and embrace where God embraces, and be one with every one that is one with Jesus." -- Thomas Brooks

One of the most important concepts in the history of Western thought is the concept of the corporation. Although in Rome some aspects of the idea existed, what we know as the corporation is a Biblical doctrine. A corporation is an entity which exists apart from the life of its members, is a legal person, and has a continuing existence. The word corporation, comes from a Latin word meaning body. A corporation is thus a corpus, a body, with a life of its own. . . .
The early church thus saw itself as a body, a corporation. It was more than the sum total of its members, moreover, because the church was and is created by Jesus Christ, and its essential existence is in Christ, not apart from Him. A church separated from Christ is no longer a church but a parody of a church. The church thus is not only a corporation, it is a supernatural body or corporation, because its Head and Ruler is the King of all creation. The church thus has an existence which transcends this earth and transcends time and death. -- R.J. Rushdoony

Brethren, if we are to win great victories we must have greater courage. Some of you hardly dare speak about the blood of Christ in any but the most godly company; and scarcely there. You are very retiring. You love yourselves too much to get into trouble through your religion. Surely you cannot be of that noble band that love not their own lives unto the death! Many dare not hold the old doctrine nowadays because they would be thought narrow and bigoted, and this would be too galling. They call us old fools. It is very likely we are; but we are not ashamed to be fools for Christ's sake, and the truth's sake. We believe in the blood of the Lamb, despite the discoveries of science. We shall never give up the doctrine of atoning sacrifice to please modern culture. What little reputation we have is as dear to us as another man's character is to him; but we will cheerfully let it go in this struggle for the central truth of revelation. It will be sweet to be forgotten and lost sight of, or to be vilified and abused, if the old faith in the substitutionary sacrifice can be kept alive. This much we are resolved on, we will be true to our convictions concerning the sacrifice of our Lord Jesus; for if we give up this, what is there left?
God will not do anything by us if we are false to the cross. He uses the men who spare not their reputations when these are called for in defence of truth. Oh to be at a white heat! Oh to flame with zeal for Jesus! O my brethren, hold you to the old faith, and say, "As for the respect of men, I can readily forfeit it; but as for the truth of God, that I can never give up." This is the day for men to be men; for, alas! the most are soft, molluscous creatures. Now we need backbones as well as heads. To believe the truth concerning the Lamb of God, and truly to believe it, this is the essential of an overcoming life. Oh for courage, constancy, fixedness, self-denial, willingness to be made nothing of for Christ! God give us to be faithful witnesses to the blood of the Lamb in the midst of this ungodly world! -- C.H. Spurgeon in a sermon, The Blood of the Lamb, the Conquering Weapon

One of the great twentieth century tragedies in the church is that so many, not lay members only, but ministers in particular, are satisfied to know so little. -- Gordon H. Clark

Whenever leaders (fathers, pastors, businessmen, elected officials) lose sight of the Gospel, then they lead us into hypocracy, Pharisaism, and legalism. -- Phil Smuland

The unity of the church, and the concord of believers, is necessary to its strength and safety; for Christ also strengtheneth as well as quickeneth them by suitable means. . . . But to see the churches of Christ with one heart and soul acknowledging their Maker and Redeemer, and singing his praise as with one voice, and living together in love and concord, as those that have one principle, on rule, one nature, one work, one interest, and one hope, and end, this is the truly beauteous symmetry, and delectable harmony. -- Richard Baxter

Some would take Christ if they might even be allowed to choose the time when he should be their all, if they might do it in the church or in private, but not in the world. But if you are his, you will choose Christ tonight, Christ tomorrow, Christ forever; Christ in the private room, and in the family; Christ in the shop, and in the market; Christ in the church and in the world; Christ when you are with the godly; Christ when with the ungodly and the profane; Christ in the hour of prosperity, Christ in the hour of adversity; Christ when the world smiles, and says, as it sometimes seems to do, that Christ is good; and Christ when the world frowns, and says that Christians are mad, and that Christ has a devil. You will take Christ with you to the humble cottage and to the lordly mansion; Christ among your poor and despised fellow-sinners; Christ with the nobles of the land; Christ in the drawing room -- I do not say Christ in the ball-room, for if you go there, you must leave Christ behind; I do not say Christ in the theatre, for you must get Satan to go with you there; but Christ in life, Christ in death, Christ in the day of judgement, and then -- ineffably glorious hope -- Christ to all eternity. - William C. Burns (1815-1868)

It is not possible to institutionalize Christianity.

"George Barna reviewed more than a dozen national surveys related to matters of faith conducted by the Barna Research Group during 2000 and devised three lists of faith-related survey results - particularly noteworthy insights. . ."
Surveys showed the following results:

• "Born again adults are more likely to experience a divorce than are non-born again adults (27% vs. 24%).
• "Large proportions of the lay leaders in Christian churches hold a range of unbiblical religious views regarding the holiness of Christ, the reality of Satan, the existence of the Holy Spirit, the reality of the resurrection, and the means to salvation.
• "Desiring to have a close, personal relationship with God ranks just sixth among the 21 life goals tested, trailing such desires as `living a comfortable lifestyle.'
• "Born again Christians spend seven times as much time on entertainment as they do on spiritual activities.
• "Although two-thirds of all teenagers say they know all the basic teachings and principles of the Christian faith, two-thirds of them reject the existence of Satan, three-fifths reject the existence of the Holy Spirit, and half believe that Jesus sinned during His lifetime.
• "In a representative nationwide survey among born again adults, none of the individuals interviewed said that the single, most important goal in their life is to be a committed follower of Jesus Christ."

"Barna is known for providing objective though not-always-flattering surveys regarding the Christian faith and the state of the church. Among his findings that have generated substantial interest or controversy in recent years are: children are the most important population segment to minister to because of their spiritual vulnerability; Protestant churches are generally ineffective vessels for evangelism and discipleship; most Protestant pastors are neither called to nor competent in leadership; less than one out of every ten born again adults possess a biblical worldview; every church engages in marketing, but few do it well; the mass media have the most dramatic effect on people's behavior and beliefs; house churches and other alternative forms of church life are growing rapidly; a growing group of spiritually devout people, known as Revolutionaries, is reshaping spiritual life in the U.S.; and most 'church growth' is simply the recycling of church-goers from one congregation to another."

And because I tell you the truth, ye believe me not. -- Jesus Christ (John 8:45)
The leading idea is, "Falsehood has laid such fast hold of, has taken such deep root in, your minds, -- you so firmly believe a lie, -- that truth, instead of being a recommendation to my statements, is the very thing which prevents you from receiving them." They had professed faith in him; but that was when they were in a mistake respecting his character. They had concluded that he was "the Messiah," understanding by that word a temporal deliverer. Viewing him in this false light, they were quite ready to be his followers; but no sooner had he told them the truth, that the liberty he came to bestow was a liberty of mind and heart, to be produced by the operation of his doctrine understood and believed, than they retracted their profession, -- they would not acknowledge him as the Messiah, -- they would not "continue in his word," -- they would not be "his disciples." Had he told them a lie, -- had he flattered their prejudices, -- had he promised to "restore the kingdom to Israel," in their sense of these terms, -- then they would have believed him, then they would have followed wherever he chose to lead. But because he told them the truth, that he was not a temporal deliverer, but a spiritual Saviour, -- "therefore," on that very ground, they disbelieved him, and were disposed not only to "go back, and walk no more with him," but even to wish and to plot his destruction. They thus showed that they not only had no appetite for truth, but a positive distaste for it, and proved their spiritual relationship to him who is a lair, who abides not in the truth, in whom there is no truth. So dangerous is it for the mind to get under the influence of error respecting the great fundamental principles of religion. It leads, in innumerable instances, to the mistaking of truth for falsehood, and falsehood for truth, -- and induces men to receive a doctrine for the very reason for which they out to reject it, and to reject a doctrine for the very reason for which they ought to receive it." -- John Brown (of Edinburgh, 1784-1858) (II:62)

Banks, Robert J. and Julia Banks, The Church Comes Home (Hendrickson Publishers, January 1, 1998).
"In our modern dislocated society many are searching for a church experience that offers true Christian sharing, nurturing, and discipleship, in addition to teaching and worship. For many such people the answer is found in the home church: a small, committed group of often diverse people who meet together in homes to pray, eat, sing, study, and share their lives.
"THE CHURCH COMES HOME is a handbook for those interested in home churches. It is both visionary and practical. It describes how home churches can be formed, how they should grow, and how networks of home churches can develop. It examines issues-for example, how to make decisions; how to determine doctrine; how to include children, singles, elders; and how to reach out to the community at large-and offers practical suggestions for their resolution.
"Robert Banks is Professor of the Ministry of the Laity and Chair of the Ministry Division at Fuller Theological Seminary, Pasadena, California.
"Julia Banks and her husband Robert have been involved with home churches for over twenty-five years. Together they have led seminars and assissted congregations in developing this style of gather in many parts of the world. Julia coordingateds the community house in which she and Rob live with a group of students. She is also active as a church planter and in building networks among house churches." -- Publisher's Annotation

*Banks, Robert J., Paul's Idea of Community: The Early House Churches in Their Cultural Setting, revised edition (Hendrickson Publishers, November 1, 1994).
"Robert Bank's widely read PAUL'S IDEA OF COMMUNITY: THE EARLY HOUSE CHURCHES IN THEIR CULTURAL SETTING is once again available to laypeole, pastors and scholars alike. In this extensively revised edition Banks has rewritten chapters for clarity, taken into account recent scholarship on Paul's writings, updated and expanded the bibliography, and added an index. This new edition retains, however, all the freshness and vitality of the original.
"The book draws fully upon the wealth of recent scholarly analysis of the New Testament churches, but in such a skilled way that the picture is not buried in learning, but brought to life for present-day readers. . . . People will be startled to find how much of modern church life has departed form the New Testament spirit. And yet the modern communities still possess in the New Testament, as illuminated through a book like this, the sources from which church life can be reawakened to the community consequences of accepting the Pauline gospel." -- Edwin A. Judge, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
"It is good news that Robert Banks's Paul's Idea of Community is once more available, now in a thoroughly revised, expanded edition. Convinced that Paul's distinctive contribution to Christianity is his idea of community, Banks demonstrates how this notion informs Paul's instruction to his churches. . . . [I]t is striking how naturally discussions of such topics as Paul's teaching on freedom and on eschatology fall within the purview of this stimulating book." -- Abraham J. Malherbe, Yale University
"Robert Banks is Professor of the Ministry of the Laity and Chair of the Ministry Division at Fuller Theological Seminary, Pasadena, California." -- Publisher's Annotation

*Bannerman, James, Church of Christ: A Treatise on the Nature, Powers, Ordinances, Discipline, and Government of the Christian Church (Cerlox Bound Photocopy Series. Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books, 1869).
"Two large volumes. A classic on the Church and worship! This is one of the most extensive studies of its kind ever compiled. Nothing compares to it on this subject. Regarding these gems, Iain Murray has stated, `In our day, however greatly we need an evangelical revival, we need more than that. We need another Reformation, a movement which will go "to the root of the mischief" ' and bring back the visible church to the pattern of God's Word in her government, ordinances and ministry. The republication of Bannerman is a step in that direction... For those who wish to study the doctrine of the Church in its several aspects as it was held by the majority of the Reformers, Puritans, Covenanters and leaders of 'The Third Reformation,' it will prove an invaluable textbook." -- SWRB

Barna, George, Revolution Revolution (Tyndale House Publishers, February 2006).
We feel that Barna's polls and statistics are valuable in giving a picture of the current state of the local church. However, we see no evidence that separated and divided Christians will ever attain to the fullness of the true church united in one body. Our top priority should always be reform of the church. (See the chapters on "Corporate Faitfulness and Sanctification," The Westminster Confession of Faith (The Westminster Standards) and Related Works: A Study Guide, and Unity and uniformity in the visible church: unity in the truth.)
"Somehow, the other day, I happened to pick up a copy of George Barna's new book called REVOLUTION. For those of you who are unfamiliar, George Barna is the founder of Barna Research Group (now called The Barna Group), which was created more than two decades ago with the intent to help ministries facilitate strategic decision-making. Much of this was accomplished through detailed statistical research provided by the Group. Over the course of that 20 years the Barna research team interviewed nearly a half million people in the course of hundreds of research studies, provided seminar-based training to leaders from more than 50,000 churches, produced more than 60 books and syndicated reports, and developed a website that provided free information to hundreds of thousands of people every month. Barna became one of the most (if not the most) trusted resource for church-related statistical research in the United States and has often been hailed as 'the most quoted person in the Christian Church today!'
"But, as I found out reading this book, a drastic change occurred in George Barna's life (about 2003) as a result of his countless hours of researching the effects of organized religion; he realized that very little actual life transformation appeared to be occurring in churched believers all over the country. Even worse, he realized that his own efforts in research were being used by pastors mostly for the purpose of seeking statistical evidence to support their teaching. To his surprise, however, the same research Barna had been conducting over the years led him to a discovery of the fact that God was moving in mighty ways OUTSIDE the four walls of the Institutional Church! In fact, Barna was so impacted by what he observed in the lives of 'churchless' Christians all over the U.S. that it convinced him to give up what he had done for 20 years and refocus his attentions. He changed the name of his organization from the Barna Research Group to simply the Barna Group, downsized his organization from 100 employees to eight, moved out of their large office space into a compact area, sought to become more partnership based, and chose to raise the level of risk they were willing to take in new ventures, determining that it would be better to go broke in the pursuit of true life transformation than to remain financially safe but without any gain for the kingdom.
"All of that to say that George Barna no longer has interest to merely help grow the Institutional Church. His new passion is solely to see God's true Church, who are His very people (His body), walk into the fullness of what God intends for them without obstacles, without distractions, without religious strings attached - and to see them live life to the fullest in Christ and minister truth to a lost and dying world who desperately need Him. George was humbled to find that this is already happening without the aid of churches and formal religious organizations or 'official' leadership. In fact, one of the most impacting things he notes in his new book is that so many of these groups of believers who serve the Lord outside the Institutional Church System, even though they often have poor organization, lack of great numbers, meager financial resources, often weak human leadership and are sometimes ridiculed and despised by those in larger church organizations, yet they are often more effective (in terms of actual life transformation, relationship building, devotion to truth, and sincere Christian devotion); proving that it is GOD - not man - that is leading these believers. Barna now calls these Christians who no longer center their lives around religious organizations (i.e. churches) "Revolutionaries" and believes they (all 20 million of them and growing) are the real future of the manifested body of Christ on earth; in other words they represent those who have moved beyond the established church and chosen to BE the Church instead. Barna also humbly and joyously admits that he is now one of them as well.
"While many traditionalists argue today that, in order to grow properly in the Lord, you must attend a local church, Barna refutes this notion strongly with both Scripture and statistical example of how literally millions of believers today are finding a vibrant relationship with God (and fellowship with their brothers and sisters in Christ) outside the walls of organized religion (and the same are effecting change around them by their Christ-like influence); However, Barna does not make the argument simply about those 'in' churches and those 'outside' (as a sort of 'us versus them' attitude), rather he directs his writing to every true believer in Jesus Christ and focuses on the importance of becoming full disciples of Jesus (whether inside or outside the walls of some organization) and not to become distracted with anything that may remove our full attention from Him. Barna states in the book: 'In fact, there is no verse in Scripture that links the concepts of worshiping God and a "church meeting." The Bible does not tell us that worship must happen in a church sanctuary and therefore we must be actively associated with a local church. It simply tells us that we must worship God regularly and purely, in spirit and truth. Take particular note of the fact that Jesus dismissed the organized worship of His day as "a farce" and intimated that we ought not be so limited as to how and when we worship God (see Mark 7:7). When the Samaritan woman asked about worship practices and places, Jesus responded bluntly that, "The time is coming when it will no longer matter whether you worship the Father on this mountain or in Jerusalem... But the time is coming - indeed it is here now - when true worshipers with worship the Father in spirit and in truth" (John 4:21-23). He was highlighting the same foolish irrelevancies that traditionalists argue about today".
"The book also highlights trademarks of true Revolutionaries as Barna has observed and attempts to give suggestions as to how all of us, even (and especially) those believers who are still associated with or who lead traditional congregations, can make way for this current revolution and move of God's Spirit. While some may find the content of this book uncomfortable or even controversial, Barna speaks with grace but also fervor and excitement, presenting a strong, biblically-sound argument for what he has observed transpiring over the last two decades and encourages the reader to make their own educated observations. Finally, he challenges the reader to boldly face this crossroad and decide whether or not they will become a part of the revolution themselves (risking all to follow Christ without reserve). He presses the reader with the question as to whether or not they will embrace what God is doing or outright fight it and reject it altogether. Whether or not a Christian chooses to agree with Barna's observations of what he considers to be a magnificent move of God and the very future of the Lord's Church on earth as we know it, Barna believes that every Christian needs to be aware of 'the revolution' and confront their reaction to it head on.
"Anyone who has been familiar with the Barna Group (a.k.a. Barna Research Group) over the years knows that they are a trustworthy voice in the Church and have a firm grasp on the nationwide picture of organized religion and its effects on society and the body of Christ. We would do well to listen to what this brother in Christ, George Barna, has to say about what he has observed. "This is a remarkable book that will encourage and inspire believers (whether outside the institutional church program or even still within). It's a very easy read. The book also contains some statistics (as you'd expect from Barna Group) and proves to be a very informative, spiritually-motivating read. I highly recommend this book!
"In closing I would just like to say that this review is not necessarily intended to be a full on endorsement of everything George Barna may personally believe or engage in as it concerns every facet of his ministry. The truth is, I know very little at this point about all of that. Each person should exercise discernment and hold fast to the truth of God's Word as their gage in all things. I merely wish to encourage people to see that God is working in wonderful ways OUTSIDE the four walls, as He can in you... and if a man who spent more than 30 years of his life supporting the old system can humble himself, recognizing the hand of God in ways previously unfamiliar to him and risk everything to follow Christ, even if it costs him the success of his own well-established and financially-successful ministry, certainly so can we press on in Jesus without fear or worry for the things others may say about us and live to become Revolutionaries for the glory of our Lord. Ultimately, I hope all of us who know the Lord can agree that life as believers is ABOUT HIM and we ought never to allow ourselves to be distracted from a pure and true devotion to Jesus Christ.
"God bless you all!" -- Reader Comment

Barna, George, The Second Coming of The Church (Thomas Nelson, March 6, 2001).
Barna considers this his most important work.
"In this "blueprint for survival," Christian sociologist George Barna evaluates the moral and spiritual decline of society and the corresponding stagnation within the Church. Using hard data, Barna unveils the status quo and argues convincingly that the Church must re-invent itself or face virtual oblivion by the mid-21st century." -- Publisher's Annotation
"Barna, the George Gallup of the Christian church, opens this book with a rather dire prediction: 'within the next few years America will experience one of two outcomes: either massive spiritual renewal or total moral anarchy.' Most Christian churches, he argues in the first part of the book, are operating on models of authority, leadership and congregational structure that are more than 30 years old and fail to meet the needs of a changing culture. In Part II, Barna pulls out his demographic toolkit of surveys, interviews and polls to measure how contemporary culture is becoming more pluralistic and syncretistic. Part III explores 'a biblical perspective on what God expects of His church,' and Barna uses scripture to draw a portrait of the 'true church,' one grounded in a worldview that reflects God's priorities and principles. Finally, in Part IV, Barna suggests three steps for renewing the church so that it might spearhead an American spiritual renewal: caring for existing members so that they 'grow strong enough to reach others;' training future professional and lay leaders; and preparing new models of ministry service. Barna's book is recommended for anyone interested in the relationship between church and culture." -- Publishers Weekly

Barna, George, The State of the Church: 2002 (Ventura, Calif: Issachar Resources, 2002)
Lists Barna's complaints with today's local church.
"We're spending $50 to $60 billion a year on domestic ministry. Tell you what. You give the CEO of IBM $50 to $60 billion this year, and see what he can do."
"It bothers him deeply that the church is soft, and possesses no urgency to change. . . .
"Every day, the church is becoming more like the world it allegedly seeks to change."

*Baxter, Richard, The Reformed Pastor: Baxter's Practical Works, Vol. 4 [30937]
The Reformed Pastor, Richard Baxter
http://www.e4.net
The Richard Baxter Page
http://members.aol.com/augusteen/Baxter.html
Compassionate Counsel to all Young Men (1681), by Richard Baxter
http://www.lettermen2.com/ccaym.html

*Burgess, Anthony, The Reformation of the Church, To Be Endeavoured More Than That of the Commonwealth, 1645 (Cerlox Bound Photocopy Series. Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books).
"A 'Sermon preached before the Right Honourable House of Lords at the publicke Fast, August 27, 1645,' (notes the cover) during the days of the sitting of the Westminster Assembly. Can you image these words (which are just a small sample from the preface to the godly exhortation contained in this sermon) directed, by request of the civil magistrate, to the leaders of your nation? Burgess writes, 'It was my endeavour in this Sermon to excite your Lordships to a speedy and exact Reformation of the Church from all the corruptions that have defiled her, and herein to attend unto God's Word, as the only starre that will conduct unto Christ. None are too great to undertake so good a work. Gregory said of David dancing before the Ark, Magis miror Davidum saltantem, quam pugnantem, David is to be more admired in his religious worship of God, than in his courageous conquest and slaughter of the Philistines, or other enemies. Hence, Jer. 9:23,24. where glory in wisdome, riches and might is forbidden, there is a kinde of an holy pride allowed in the knowledge of the Lord. Let Heathens glory, that they are saluted by the Common-wealth, Patres Pariae; but let those Christians, whom God honoureth with dignity and place, delight to be nursing Fathers to the Church, by speaking comfortably unto those who teach the good knowledge of God; and by commanding the Levites to carry all the filthiness out of the Temple. Which that your Lordships may faithfully and zealously doe, is the prayer of Your Lordships humble Servant, Anthony Burgesse.' 28 pages." -- SWRB

*Gallup, George, Jr., and David Poling, The Search for America's Faith (Nashville, TN: Abingdon Press, c1980). 70354
"An epochal work that probes the attitudes and desires of youth, the family, different religious groups, the church; assesses the validity of religious experience; and explores prospects for the future. Points to the needs of the hour, and provides an analysis of the questions people are asking. Should be read by all in the ministry." -- Cyril J. Barber

*Harper, Norman E., Making Disciples: The Challenge of Christian Education at the End of the 20th Century (Memphis, TN: Christian Studies Center, 1981). 90204
"An important monograph calling believers back to the primary role of Christian education in the local church . . ." -- Cyril J. Barber

*Hodge, Charles, Church and Its Polity (London, England: Thomas Nelson and Sons, 1879). 70355
"A masterful presentation of the evangelical doctrine of ecclesiology. Not a part of the author's systematic theology. Reformed." -- Cyril J. Barber

*Knowling, Richard J., The Testimony of St. Paul to Christ [10099]

*Knox, John, What To Do When There Is no Faithful Church in Your Area (Cerlox Bound Photocopy Series. Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books).
"Formerly titled 'A Letter of Wholesome Counsel, Addressed to His Brethren in Scotland, 1556.' Given the lack of truly Reformed churches in many areas, this letter, full of practical advice, should be a welcome addition to the libraries of those seeking to remain ecclesiastically faithful to the Lord. As God continues to pour out his Spirit (by revealing the doctrines of grace, purity of worship, Presbyterian polity and discipline, Christian education of youth, family worship, the principles of courtship, covenanting [personal, ecclesiastical and national], separation from corrupt and idolatrous communions, male headship, adherence to the WCF and other faithful confessions, etc.), this letter will provide a useful bridge for those separated geographically from faithful fellowship, until new, duly constituted churches can be formed." -- SWRB

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

*Moore, John, and Ken Neff, The New Testament Blueprint for the Church [90214]

*Mudge, Lewis S., In His Service (Philadelphia, PA: Westminster Press, 1959). 70358

Owen, John. A view of the nature, order, & communion of the churches of Christ, as exhibited in the New Testament: extracted from Dr. John Owen's treatise on evangelical churches. With an appendix on scripture presbytery. Edinburgh, 1797. (ECCO) Gale Document Number CW420863300

Reed, Kevin, The Decline of American Presbyterianism (A Book Review of Gary North's CROSSED FINGERS: HOW THE LIBERALS CAPTURED THE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
http://www.swrb.com/newslett/actualnls/decline.htm
Crossed Fingers: How the Liberals Captured the Presbyterian Church, by Gary North
http://entrewave.com/freebooks/docs/html/gncf/table_of_contents.htm

Reisinger, John G. When Should a Christian Leave a Church: An Open Letter to Pastors and Elders (Sterling, VA: Grace Abounding Ministries, 1998)

Robbins, John W., Slavery Christianity: Paul's Letter to Philemon (Unicoi, TN: The Trinity Foundation, November 2005). ISBN: 189177173
"Slavery. Racism. Rebellion. Civil disobedience. The problems are as pressing today as they were 1900 years ago when the Apostle Paul wrote a letter to a slave-owner, Philemon, about his runaway slave – and the runaway slave carried Paul’s letter back to his legal owner.
"What did the letter say? Did Paul -- does Christianity -- approve of slavery? Does Christianity condone slavery? Or does the Gospel abolish slavery and establish freedom wherever it is believed? Jesus said, If you abide in my Word, you are my disciples indeed; and you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.
"Paul's letter to Philemon is a masterpiece of divinely inspired political philosophy. It provides the basis for the non-violent abolition of slavery wherever the Gospel of Jesus Christ is preached and believed.
"Dr. John W. Robbins holds the Ph.D. in Political Philosophy from The Johns Hopkins University. His most recent book is FREEDOM AND CAPITALISM: ESSAYS ON CHRISTIAN POLITICS AND ECONOMICS." -- Publisher's Annotation

*Ryle, J.C., Warnings to the Churches (London, England: The Banner of Truth Trust).
"I see this tendency to lean on man everywhere. I know no branch of the Protestant Church of Christ which does not require to be cautioned upon the point. It is a snare, for example, to the English Episcopalian to make idols of Bishop Pearson and `the Judicious Hooker.' It is a snare to the Scotch Presbyterian to pin his faith on John Knox, the Covenanters, and Dr. Chalmers. It is a snare to the Methodists in our day to worship the memory of John Wesley. It is a snare to the Independent to see no fault in any opinion of Owen and Dodderidge. It is a snare to the Baptist to exaggerate the wisdom of Gill and Fuller and Robert Hall. All these are snares, and into these snares how many fall!
"Infallibility is not to be found in the early fathers, but in the Bible.
"What are the best of ministers but men -- dust, ashes, and clay -- men of like passions with ourselves, men exposed to temptations, men liable to weaknesses and infirmities?
"It is amazing to observe how vast a man's intellectual attainments may be, and yet how little he may know of the grace of God.
"We have no right to expect anything but the pure Gospel of Christ, unmixed and unadulterated -- the same Gospel that was taught by the Apostles -- to do good to the souls of men.
"Peace without truth is a false peace; it is the very peace of the devil. Unity without the Gospel is a worthless unity; it is the very unity of Hell.
"False doctrine and heresy are even worse than schism.
"It was controversy that won the battle of Protestant Reformation.
"Three things there are which men never ought to trifle with -- a little poison, a little false doctrine, and a little sin.
"A church may have good forms and regularly ordained ministers, and the sacraments properly administered, but a church will not see conversion of souls going on under its pulpits when this doctrine [Justification by Faith]is not plainly preached.
"Once let a man get wrong about justification, and he will bid a long farewell to comfort, to peace, to lively hope, to anything like assurance in his Christianity. An error here is a worm at the root.
"An ignorant laity will always be the bane of a church.
"True Gospel in the pulpit, true Gospel in every Religious Society we support, true Gospel in the books we read, true Gospel in the friends we keep company with -- let this be our aim, and never let us be ashamed to let men see that it is so.
"Let the meekness of St. Peter in taking a reproof be as much our example as the boldness of St. Paul in reproving." -- J.C. Ryle "The Fallibility of Ministers" in Warning to the Churches, pp. 93-121.
The Fallibility of Ministers, by J.C. Ryle
http://www.trinityfoundation.org/journal.php?id=182
"Pharisees and Sadducees," J.C. Ryle
http://members.ozemail.com.au/~rseaborn/pharisees_and_sadducees.html

*Scheneman, Mark A., The Identification of Models of Ministry for Clergy and Congregations to Confront the Destructive Cults (The Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary, D.Min. thesis, 1983). 70361
"This project undertook the task of identifying and suggesting models of ministry which clergy and congregations might find appropriate and helpful in dealing with destructive cults. . . . It was argued that destructive cults ought to be confronted on moral and procedural grounds, rather than for theological considerations." -- Dissertation Abstracts

*Wallace, Ronald, Calvin's Doctrine of the Christian Life [10586]

Adams, Jay E., A Call to Discernment [30005]

Alexander, Archibald, Thoughts on Religious Experience (Carlisle, PA: The Banner of Truth Trust, 1978). 70365

Bainton, Roland H., The Church of Our Fathers [20867]

Bainton, Roland H., The Travail of Religious Liberty [90078]

Baker, Don, Beyond Rejection: The Church, Homosexuality and Hope [20824]

Barna, George, The Barna Report 1992-93: America Renews Its Search for God (Ventura, CA: Gospel Light [Regal]). 70368
"Barna's WHAT AMERICANS BELIEVE captures a snapshot of American Christianity in 1991. This totally-new election-year edition updates the picture! . . . Vital information is easy to grasp with key charts and graphs (more detailed tables appear in the appendix) and easy to apply practical action steps." -- CBD

*Barna, George, What Americans Believe: An Annual Survey of Values and Religious Views in the United States [90247]

Barrs, Jerram, Shepherds and Sheep: A Biblical View of Leading and Following [70424]

Browin, Raymond K., Reach Out to Singles: A Challenge to Ministry [70003]

Bunyan, John, House of God (Sterling, VA: GAM Publications). 70371

Calvin, John, Calvin's Ecclesiastical [10918]

Cragg, Gerald Robertson, Puritanism in the Period of the Great Persecution, 1660-1668 [31163]

Davis, Clair, The Church in the Modern Age: Kuyper and Educational Reformation [30166]

Davis, Clair, The Church in the Modern Age: Kuyper and the Dutch Church [30167]

Davis, Clair, The Medieval Church: Authority [30170]

DeMar, Gary, Contrary to Popular Opinion: Fifteen Misconceptions That Render Christians Powerless (Brentwood, TN: Wolgemuth and Hyatt Publishers). 70381
"DeMar has authored many books, most of which are debunkers like this one. . . . If you want to respond to Christ's call to the church in today's world, you will find that you have to sweep away a host of worldly fables. Read this volume and get involved! . . . DeMar offers a penetrating analysis of `fifteen Biblical misconceptions that render Christians powerless.' He urges his readers to respond to the Bible's call for action. The book is neatly divided into five parts: the Christian and the Word, morality, politics, the Kingdom, and the future." -- Robert H. Duvall

Dorough, C. Dwight, The Bible Belt Mystique (Philadelphia, PA: Westminster Press, 1974). 70382

Gallup, George, Jr., and Jim Castelli, The People's Religion: American Faith in the 90's (New York: Macmillan and London, England: Collier Macmillan, c1989). 70384
Includes bibliography.

Hoekstra, Harvey T., The World Council of Churches and the Demise of Evangelism [90470]

Knox, John, The Early Church and the Coming Great Church (New York, NY: Abingdon Press, 1955). 70387

*Leith, John H., John Calvin's Doctrine of the Christian Life [10926]

Lyon, David, The Steeple's Shadow: On the Myths and Realities of Secularization (Grand Rapids, MI: Wm.B. Eerdmans Publishing Co.). 70388
"Lyon argues that there is a fundamental fault in the sociology which predicts an inevitable withering away of the Church's influence in people's lives. Although secularization is an interesting concept for understanding the apparent decline and isolation of churches, it is misleading to assume that religion is dying." -- GCB

Nash, Ronald H., Social Justice and the Christian Church [90215]

Olson, Richard P., and Carole Della Pia-Terry, Ministry With Remarried Persons [70586]

Paul, James L. (editor), The Exceptional Child: A Guidebook for Churches and Community Agencies (New York, NY: Syracuse University Press, 1983). 70390

Sheldon, Joseph K., Rediscovery of Creation: A Bibliographical Study of the Church's Response to the Environmental Crisis (ATLA Bibliography Series, No. 29. Metuchen, NJ: Scarecrow Press, Incorporated, 1992). 70393

Snyder, Howard A., Radical Renewal: The Problem of Wineskins Today
"This book is a revision of THE PROBLEM OF WINESKINS. THE PROBLEM OF WINESKINS: CHURCH STRUCTURE IN A TECHNOLOGICAL AGE was first published in 1975, and has been translated into eight languages. This current addition is an updating of the earlier book, with new material added. It shows how churches today can be as dynamic as the New Testament church. -- Howard A. Snyder, the author, hasnyder@uky.campuscwix.net
Howard Snyder was a directory of Light and Life Men International (Free Methodist) and was a speaker at Lausanne. Richard Halverson was impacted by this book.

Singer, C. Gregg, (Charles G. Singer) The Unholy Alliance: The Definitive History of the National Council of Churches and its Leftist Policies -- From 1908 to the Present (New Rochelle, NY: Arlington House, 1975), 384 pages.
"This book is not calculated to win friends among adherents to the National Council of Churches. It provides convincing evidence of the tremendous gap that has developed between the NCC and its critics and demonstrates the NCC's inability to achieve its objectives." -- Cyril J. Barber
Unholy Alliance: The Definitive History of the National Council of Churches and Its Leftist Policies -- From 1908 to the Present
Freebooks online etext.
http://freebooks.entrewave.com/freebooks/docs/39be_47e.htm

Smith, Ruth S., Getting the Books Off the Shelves: Making the Most of Your Congregation's Library (New York, Hawthorn Books, 1975). 110068
"A most important publication that stresses the ways in which church libraries can extend their influence." -- Cyril J. Barber

Swinnock, George, 1627-1673, The Christian-mans calling, or, A treatise of making religion ones business wherein, the nature and necessity of it is discovered: as also, the Christian directed how he may perform it, in religious duties, natural actions, his particular vocation, his family directions, and his own recreations / by George Swinnock ..., 1662, EEBO.
Includes bibliographical references.

Robbins, John W. (editor), The Church Effeminate and Other Essays (Unicoi, TN: The Trinity Foundation, 2001).
"A large collection (740 pages) of some of the best essays of the past five centuries on the structure, purpose, and function of the church and Christian worship." -- Publisher's Annotation

Ryle, J.C., Warnings to the Churches (London, England: The Banner of Truth Trust).
"I see this tendency to lean on man everywhere. I know no branch of the Protestant Church of Christ which does not require to be cautioned upon the point. It is a snare, for example, to the English Episcopalian to make idols of Bishop Pearson and `the Judicious Hooker.' It is a snare to the Scotch Presbyterian to pin his faith on John Knox, the Covenanters, and Dr. Chalmers. It is a snare to the Methodists in our day to worship the memory of John Wesley. It is a snare to the Independent to see no fault in any opinion of Owen and Dodderidge. It is a snare to the Baptist to exaggerate the wisdom of Gill and Fuller and Robert Hall. All these are snares, and into these snares how many fall!
"Infallibility is not to be found in the early fathers, but in the Bible.
"What are the best of ministers but men -- dust, ashes, and clay -- men of like passions with ourselves, men exposed to temptations, men liable to weaknesses and infirmities?
"It is amazing to observe how vast a man's intellectual attainments may be, and yet how little he may know of the grace of God.
"We have no right to expect anything but the pure Gospel of Christ, unmixed and unadulterated -- the same Gospel that was taught by the Apostles -- to do good to the souls of men.
"Peace without truth is a false peace; it is the very peace of the devil. Unity without the Gospel is a worthless unity; it is the very unity of Hell.
"False doctrine and heresy are even worse than schism.
"It was controversy that won the battle of Protestant Reformation.
"Three things there are which men never ought to trifle with -- a little poison, a little false doctrine, and a little sin.
"A church may have good forms and regularly ordained ministers, and the sacraments properly administered, but a church will not see conversion of souls going on under its pulpits when this doctrine [Justification by Faith]is not plainly preached.
"Once let a man get wrong about justification, and he will bid a long farewell to comfort, to peace, to lively hope, to anything like assurance in his Christianity. An error here is a worm at the root.
"An ignorant laity will always be the bane of a church.
"True Gospel in the pulpit, true Gospel in every Religious Society we support, true Gospel in the books we read, true Gospel in the friends we keep company with -- let this be our aim, and never let us be ashamed to let men see that it is so.
"Let the meekness of St. Peter in taking a reproof be as much our example as the boldness of St. Paul in reproving." -- J.C. Ryle "The Fallibility of Ministers" in Warning to the Churches, pp. 93-121.
The Fallibility of Ministers, by J.C. Ryle
http://www.trinityfoundation.org/journal.php?id=182
"Pharisees and Sadducees," J.C. Ryle
http://members.ozemail.com.au/~rseaborn/pharisees_and_sadducees.html

Watson, Thomas, d. 1686, Paramuthion, or, A word of comfort for the church of God by Thomas Watson ..., 1662, EEBO.

Withrow, The Apostolic Church, Which Is It?
"One of the best handbooks for church government that has been written. It packs an enormous amount of information into a small book." -- George Knight
The Apostolic Church, Which Is It? Withrow
http://www.e4.net

See also: Corporate faithfullness and sanctification, Unity and uniformity in the visible church: unity in the truth, The westminster confession of faith (the westminster standards) and related works: a study guide, Church government, Covenant theology and covenanting, House churches, Justification, Believer's position in christ and sonship, Christian history, Church and state, Creeds, confessions, and catechisms, Sexual relationship, Education, Family worship, Local church and biblical counseling, Priesthood of believers, Protestant reformation, Secret societies and unholy alliance, Small groups and the local church, Churches that abuse

Related WebLinks

"The Westminster Confession of Faith (1646, The Westminster Standards) and Related Works: A Study Guide"
http://www.lettermen2.com/suggest.html

The Decline of American Presbyterianism, a book review by Kevin Reid
http://www.swrb.ab.ca/newslett/actualnls/decline.htm

Covenant Reformed Presbyterian Church (CRPC)
This is the authorized website of the Covenant Reformed Presbyterian Church (CRPC), a Reformed and Presbyterian denomination organized in 1998.
http://www.refcm.org/crpc%20web%20stuff/crpcindex.htm

Covenant Reformed Presbyterian Church, Sheboygan, Wisconsin
The Presbyterian & Reformed News was edited by Robert Shapiro and Frank J. Smith. Both men were among the original founders of the Presbyterian Church in America (PCA).
Frank J. Smith announced in the final issue, Volume 10 Numbers 1-4 Jan - Dec 2004 (link below), that he will be leaving the PCA. He has joined with the Covenant Reformed Presbyterian Church in Sheboygan, Wisconsin, part of the Covenant Reformed Presbyterian Church (CRPC), a Reformed and Presbyterian denomination organized in 1998. This new denomination established "The Society of Presbyteries and Reformed Churches" and is engaged in merger talks with other Reformed denominations.
RESOLUTION TO ESTABLISH THE SOCIETY OF PRESBYTERIES AND REFORMED CHURCHES
http://www.refcm.org/crpc%20web%20stuff/CRPC--SPARC%20documents.pdf
Presbyterian & Reformed News
"Recording the Story of the Presbyterian Church in America."
The final issue, Volume 10 Numbers 1-4 Jan - Dec 2004
http://www.presbyteriannews.org/volumes/v10/1/pr38.pdf
Talks included the Reformed Presbyterian Church, Hanover Presbytery (Richard Bacon, Roberty La May).
The Reformed Presbyterian Church Hanover Presbytery
http://www.rpchanover.org
Mr. Smith had been examined and approved by the Hanover Presbytery.
It was reported in December 18, 2004 (http://www.americanpresbyterianchurch.org/minutes_12-18-04.htm) that the Covenant Reformed Presbyterian Church (CRPC) declined to pursue merger talks with the Reformed Presbyterian Church, Hanover Presbytery. The main issue was membership in Masonic Lodges, which is tolerated by the RPCUS, Hanover Presbytery.
Robert Shapiro wrote an articule entitled "Whither the PCA?". In it he sums up the corruption in the PCA. Over six pages expose problems with Doug Wilson's ministry. With Frank J. Smith's departure for reasons cited in the publication the late 2004 issue of the Presbyterian & Reformed News was the final issue. It is no longer published.
http://www.refcm.org/crpc%20web%20stuff/crpcsheboygan/index.htm

Deed of Constitution for the REFORMED PRESBYTERY IN NORTH AMERICA (RPNA)
http://www.swrb.com/Puritan/reformed-presbytery-RPNA.htm

The Ronald W. Taber Memorial Lectures 2005, "The Justification Controversy" (Collection 13. The Trinity Foundation Lecture Series).
"The Justification Controversy" is a five lecture series by John W. Robbins, including:

1. The Doctrine of Revelation
2. The Doctrine of Justification
3. The Theology of N.T. Wright
4. The Theology of Richard Gaffin and Norman Shepherd
5. The Auburn Avenue Theology

The Necessity of Reforming the Church (1543), by John Calvin
This is an online document.
http://www.swrb.com/newslett/actualnls/NRC_ch00.htm

The Evangelical Reformed Presbyterian Church
The Evangelical Reformed Presbyterian Church is "a new association of congregations that stand unequivocally for justification by faith alone."
"The ERPC is spearheaded by former members of the Orthodox Presbyterian Church who believe that the testimony of that denomination has been compromised for the past 30 years by its toleration of the teaching of two different gospels, the Biblical Gospel of justification by faith alone, and the false gospel of justification by faith and works/faithfulness/obedience. [See Paul M. Elliott' book, CHRISTIANITY AND NEO-LIBERALISM]
"If you or your congregation are looking for an association that unambiguously proclaims the doctrines of salvation by belief alone, grace alone, and Christ alone, please visit their website." -- John Robbins
"The Doctrinal Standards of the Evangelical Reformed Presbyterian Church, consisting of the American version of the Westminster Confession of Faith . . . adopted by the first American Presbyterian Assembly of 1789, including their proof texts." -- "Doctrinal Distinctives" at the ERPC website, http://www.erpchurch.org/news/pres_release_051705.html
Unfortunately these revisions removed Christian Magistracy from the Confession (WCF 1649), essentially emasculated Christianity, and set aside Christ's Crown and Covenant. Conveniently this removed churchmen and laymen from the battlefront of standing for Christ's Crown and Covenant.
The Evangelical Reformed Presbyterian Church (ERPC)
http://www.erpchurch.org/news/pres_release_051705.html See "A Theological Interpretation of American History" http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr9chc.html#stiahis

The Trinity Foundation Church Registry and Clearinghouse
"By publishing this church registry we hope to offer some modest help to both individual Christians looking for an acceptable place to worship, and to congregations seeking Christians for mutual edification and to evangelize their communities. We do not guarantee that everyone will be satisfied with every church in this Registry; the user is always under the obligation to compare what is taught by these churches with Scripture." http://www.trinityfoundation.org/churchregmain.php

The Distinguishing Marks of False Teachers, Thomas Brooks
http://www.graceonlinelibrary.org/revival/full.asp?ID=397

Barna Research
http://www.barna.org/

The Free Church of Scotland
http://www.freechurch.org/

Free Presbyterian Church
http://www.freepres.org/main.asp

Covenant United Reformed Church
Includes links to extensive resources.
http://www.covenant-urc.org/Default.htm

The Sovereign Grace Home Page
Home page of Sovereign Grace Baptist Church, Dale City, Virginia, Pastor Robert Gifford Senior Pastor.
http://members.cox.net/jroden/homepage.html

Successful Church Libraries, Elmer L. Towns and Cyril J. Barber
This is a link to free online e-text of this title. http://www.elmertowns.com/books/online/sccss_ch_lib/Successful_Church_Libraries[ETowns].pdf

Church History and the History of Local Churches

---

Brown, John. A compendious history of the British churches in England, Scotland, Ireland, and America. By John Brown. Volume I. Vol. 1. [Glasgow ], [1784]. 2 vols. (ECCO) Gale Document Number CW3322220150

Brown, John. A compendious history of the British churches in England, Scotland, Ireland, and America. By John Brown. Volume II. Vol. 2. [Glasgow ], [1784]. 2 vols. (ECCO) Gale Document Number CW3322220492

Carson, David M., A History of the Reformed Presbyterian Church in America to 1871 (Philadelphia: [s.n.], 1964).
Princeton Theological Seminary Libraries, Microfilm 1170

Carson, David M., Pro Christo Et Patria: A History of Geneva College (Donning Co Pub).

Climpson, Roger, Lance Lambert, and Hugh Kitson, Jerusalem, the Covenant City (Hatikvah Film Foundation; Gateway Films; Vision Video, January 12, 2004), DVD-Video.
"See where Jesus of Nazareth lived and preached a message that reached out across eternity, radiating from the Sea of Galilee and its fertile mountains to parched southern deserts, from the rolling hills of Samaria to the sacred slopes of Jerusalem. Experience the wonder of a visit to the sites that to this day bear witness to Jesus’ life and work. Learn how the entire sweep of biblical history points to the future of this glorious land, from the days of the Patriarchs and Matriarchs to the reign of Israel’s Kings, the era of Roman and Byzantine rule, the Crusader Kingdom and right up to modern times." -- Publisher's Annotation
"If you ever wanted to experience the Holy Land of Israel - the land of Jesus Christ and the prophets, sitting at your home, you couldn't have asked for a better DVD. I have seen many DVDs on the Holy Land, but this one really ranks as the best. Capturing the essence of the Holy Land, this spectacular DVD makes the sights and sounds of the Holy Land come alive. Exciting and informative, it carries you on a journey back in time and retraces from the beginning to Jesus and up until today, many of the important places and events in the Bible. There are locations of Old Testament like Beer Sheba, Hebron, Egypt, Jericho, Mt. Carmel, Jaffa, Ashkelon - to name a few. The tombs of Patriarchs and Matriarchs of Old Testament are also shown in the DVD. A major portion of the DVD has been devoted to the places of New Testament. The documentary exhibits many churches erected throughout the Holy Land marking special events described in the New Testament which attract millions of pilgrims all over the world. One can stand in faith to witness the star of Bethlehem (the traditional place where Jesus is said to have been born) in the holy cave beneath the Church of Nativity in Bethlehem. One can stand in awe and set his eyes on the streets of Via Dolorosa, the path Jesus followed carrying His cross and the Calvary where Jesus was crucified. One can stand up and praise the Lord while looking upon at the empty tomb of Jesus. There are many important places shown (like Lazarus's tomb, Garden of Gethsemane, Mount of Olives, the room of Lord Supper etc.) connected with the life of Jesus that I think every Christian must be a witness to. The documentary not only ends after Jesus but also goes further on to describe the important events happened in the history of Holy Land right up to the freedom of the state of Israel in 1948. At this time, I am reminded of the famous reply Philip gave to Nathanael in John 1:46 when the latter asked him whether any good thing could come out of Nazareth. Philip simply replied "Come and see". Well friends, this DVD is definitely worth seeing. Buy this title and share it with everybody. I certainly hope that this DVD will prove to be as much a blessing to you as it has been to me!!!
"PS - To experience the Holy Land of Israel with all its majestic landscape in a hardcover, I strongly recommend the beautiful book IMAGES OF THE HOLY LAND by the Israeli photographer Hanan Isachar (ISBN: 9652800856). Further, if you are genuinely interested to know about amazing discoveries on Noah's Ark, Real Mount Sinai, Red Sea Crossing Site, Sodom and Gomorrah and Ark of the Covenant, I strongly recommend that you go to the website of Wyatt Musuem which has all these discoveries covered on DVDs." -- Reader's Comment

Davies, Samuel. An account of a remarkable work of grace, or the great success of the gospel in Virginia. In a letter from the Rev. Mr. Davis ... to the Rev. Mr. Bellamy. ... With an account of the state of religion in several parts of North-America, from 1743 to June 1751. (ECCO) Gale Document Number CW3322842095

Davies, Samuel. Letters from the Rev. Samuel Davies, &c. shewing the state of religion in Virginia, particularly among the negroes. Likewise an extract of a letter from a gentleman in London to his friend in the country, containing some observations on the same. The second edition London, 1757. (ECCO) Gale Document Number CW3322972047

Davies, Samuel. The state of religion among the Protestant dissenters in Virginia; in a letter to the Rev. Mr. Joseph Bellamy, of Bethlem, in New-England: from the Reverend Mr. Samuel Davies, V.D.M. in Hanover County, Virginia. [Two lines from Proverbs]. Boston: N.E., MDCCLI. [1751]. (ECCO) Gale Document Number CW3321738237

*Craighead, James Geddes (1832-1895), Scotch and Irish seeds in American soil the early history of the Scotch and Irish churches, and their relations to the Presbyterian church of America (Philadelphia, PA: Presbyterian Board of Publication, 1878). ATLA 1988-0622, ISBN: 0790546221 (microfiche), OCLC: 22138740.

*Craighead, James Geddes (1832-1895), The Craighead Family: A Genealogical Memoir of the Descendants of Rev. Thomas and Margaret Craighead, 1658-1876, 1st edition (Philadelphia, PA: Printed for the descendants by Sherman and Co., Printers, 1876), first edition.
Relates "the life and times of hundreds of Craigheads and their friends. . . ." -- Reader Comment

*Cuthbertson, John, Register of Marriages and Baptisms Performed by Rev. John Cuthbertson, Covenanter Minister 1751-1791

Foote, William Henry, Sketches of Virginia, Historical and Biographical, Second Series (Harrisonburg, VA [Sprinkle Publications, P.O. Box 1094, Harrisonburg, 22803]: Sprinkle Publications, 2007, 1856).
"This volume contains much valuable information regarding early Presbyterian families in the State, biographical sketches of early Presbyterian ministers, and the founding of a number of churches and educational institutions in the State. It also includes a detailed treatment of the Presbyterian efforts toward a separation of church and state in the newly formed State of Virginia. The author, Dr. Foote, was a man of clear and strong convictions. His views of divine truth were early formed. The doctrines of Grace announced in the trial sermon before Presbytery, were repeated fifty years afterwards from the same text (Eph. 2:8) as his last sermon. As a missionary and pastor he was never deterred by difficulties or dangers from the discharge of duty. As a scholar, he was accurate and well informed; as a writer, easy and copious, delighting in the use of his pen. Dr. Morton Smith, Professor of Theology at Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary has written an introduction for the new reprint. A rather exhaustive index has also been appended and will be helpful to the average reader and researcher. Our plans are to reprint Series one of the SKETCHES in the future. (629 pages hardbound)

*McCeachy, Neill Roderick, A History of Sugaw Creek Presbyterian Church (1954).
One of two churches, Sugaw Creek (later Sugar Creek) and Rocky River, pastored by Alexander Craighead in Mecklenburg County, North Carolina.

North, Gary, Foundations of Christian Scholarship (Ross House Books, September 2000), 372 pages.
Of particular interest in this collection of papers are the following:
"PART ONE - EPISTEMOLOGICAL CRITICISM
Chapter 1 - The Epistemological Crisis of American Universities - by Gary North
Chapter 2 - The Quest for Common Ground - by Rousas Rushdoony
PART TWO - ACADEMIC DISCIPLINES
Chapter 3 - Psychology - by Rousas Rushdoony
Chapter 4 - History - by C. Gregg Singer [Dr. Singer addresses "The Problem of Historical Interpretation" -- SK]
Chapter 5 - Economics - by Gary North
Chapter 6 - Education - by William Blake
Chapter 7 - Political Science - by Lawrence Pratt
Chapter 8 - Sociology - by Gary North
Chapter 9 - Mathematics - by Vern Poythress

*Robinson, William J., A History of Windy Cove Presbyterian Church, Millboro Springs, Virginia, 1749-1976 (Verona, VA: McClure Printing Co., Inc., 1976).

Rouse, J.K., Some Interesting Colonial Churches in North Carolina, 1961.

Singer, C. Gregg, Christian Approaches: To Philosophy; To History (Coronation Series. Craig Press, 1978).

Singer, C. Gregg, Christian Approaches: To Philosophy; To History (Coronation Series. Craig Press, 1978).

Singer, C. Gregg, Theological Interpretation of American History, revised edition (Philadelphia, PA: The Presbyterian and Reformed Publishing Co., 1981).
This book portrays "the influence of theology and the changing doctrines in the life of the church on the pattern of American political, constitutional, social and economic development.
"The author shows that the decline of constitutional government in this country is the result of the departure from historical Christian faith and the resulting rise of alien political philosophies. Particularly does he emphasize the intimate relationship between theological liberalism on the one hand and political, social, and economic liberalism on the other. This theological liberalism has been a major agent in the decline of the Constitution in the political life of the people and in the appearance of a highly centralized government." -- Publisher's Annotation
"There is between the democratic philosophy and theological liberalism a basic affinity which has placed them in the same camp in many major political struggles.
"This condition exists because theological liberalism shares the basic postulates of the democratic philosophy. . . .
"Theological liberalism at heart has been a continuing protest against Calvinism, particularly against its insistence on the Sovereignty of God and the Total Depravity of the race. These two Biblical doctrines have often proved to be a stumbling block to theologians within the church as well as to the unbelieving world.
"The result of theological liberalism has been the movement away from constitutionalism and away from liberty, and a movement toward collectivistic society and totalitarian regime." -- C. Gregg Singer, Theological Interpretation of American History, p. 290

*Singer, C. Gregg, (Charles G. Singer) The Unholy Alliance: The Definitive History of the National Council of Churches and its Leftist Policies -- From 1908 to the Present (New Rochelle, NY: Arlington House, 1975), 384 pages.
"This book is not calculated to win friends among adherents to the National Council of Churches. It provides convincing evidence of the tremendous gap that has developed between the NCC and its critics and demonstrates the NCC's inability to achieve its objectives." -- Cyril J. Barber
Unholy Alliance: The Definitive History of the National Council of Churches and Its Leftist Policies -- From 1908 to the Present
Freebooks online etext.
http://freebooks.entrewave.com/freebooks/docs/39be_47e.htm

*Spence, Thomas Hugh, Jr., The Presbyterian Church at Rocky River (1954)
One of Alexander Criaghead's churches in Mecklenburg County, North Carolina.

Van Devanter, J.N., History of the Augusta Church From 1737 to 1900 (Staunton, VA: The Ross Printing Co., 1900).

Waddell, Joseph, Annals of Augusta County, Virginia.

Wilson, Howard McKnight, The Lexington Presbytery Heritage

Wilson, Howard McKnight, The Tinkling Spring: Headwater of Freedom. A story of the church and her people, 1732-1952 (Fishersville, VA: The Tinkling Spring and Hermitage Presbyterian Churches, 1954).

See also: God's sovereign hand in history, History, "his-story," Church history, The history of reformation, A theological interpretation of american history, Background and history of the covenanted reformation of scotland, Revisionist history

Related WebLinks

Dr. C. Gregg Singer at SermonAudio.com (161 messages)
http://www.sermonaudio.com/search.asp?SpeakerOnly=true&currSection=sermonsspeaker&Keyword=Dr.^C.^Gregg^Singer

The Reformation in England 1 of 2 (the Providential Historical Preparation for the Westminster Assembly)
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=12607144153

The Reformation in England 2 of 2 (and America)
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=126071623510

Church History

Church History #01: Introduction
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Church History, 67 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=41504162722

Church History #02: The Early Church #1
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Church History, 38 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=41504162840

Church History #03: The Early Church #2
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Church History, 62 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=41504163046

Church History #04: The Early Church #3
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Church History, 53 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=41504163142

Church History #05: The Early Church #4
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Church History, 69 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=41504163311

Church History #06: The Early Church #5
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Church History, 43 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=41504163442

Church History #07: Doctrinal Advances in the 4th Century #1
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Church History, 82 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=41504163559

Church History #08: Doctrinal Advances in the 4th Century #2
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Church History, 58 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=4150416374

Church History #09: Augustine #1
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Church History, 58 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=41504163949

Church History #10: Augustine #2
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Church History, 43 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=41504164048

Church History #11: Augustine #3
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Church History, 51 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=41504164152

Church History #12: Pelagius and his Theology
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Church History, 57 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=41504164318

Church History #13: Anselm of Canterbury
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Church History, 51 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=41504164440

Church History #14: Development of the Sacramental System #1
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Church History, 61 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=41504164541

Church History #15: Development of the Sacramental System #2
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Church History, 55 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=41504164645

Church History #16: Development of the Sacramental System #3
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Church History, 28 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=41504164921

Church History #17: Thomas Aquinas #1
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Church History, 60 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=41504165023

Church History #18: Thomas Aquinas #2
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Church History, 84 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=41504165114

Church History #19: Thomas Aquinas #3
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Church History
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=4150416526

Church History #20: The Renaissance #1
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Church History, 52 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=41504165259

Church History #21: The Renaissance #2
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Church History, 56 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=41504165351

Church History #22: Causes of the Reformation #1
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Church History, 77 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=41504165444

Church History #23: Causes of the Reformation #2
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Church History, 66 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=41504165545

Church History #24: Martin Luther's Early Days
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Church History, 75 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=41504165712

Church History #25: Martin Luther the Emerging Reformer
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Church History, 39 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=41504165818

Church History #26: Martin Luther the Reformer
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Church History, 77 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=4150416597

Church History #27: Martin Luther and Zwingli
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Church History, 34 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=4150417010

Church History #28: John Calvin
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Church History, 76 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=4150417057

Church History #29: John Calvin and the Church #1
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Church History, 43 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=415041727

Church History #30: John Calvin and the Church #2
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Church History, 67 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=4150417258

Church History #31: The Reformation in England
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Church History, 43 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=4150417415

Church History #32: The Reformation in England and America
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Church History, 87 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=4150417519

Results of the Reformation
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Church History, 46 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=12160372228

Applications of American History
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Church History, 49 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=1216037113

Presbyterian History

The Reformation in England 1 of 2 (The Providential Historical Preparation for the Westminster Assembly), Hebrews 11:2; Ephesians 4:11
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Presbyterian History, 44 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=12607144153

The Reformation in England 2 of 2 (And America)
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Presbyterian History, 76 min., Matthew 5:13-16; Luke 19:13
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=126071623510

John Knox, the Scottish Covenanters, and the Westminster Assembly 1/3 (History Notes on Presbyterianism, Reformation, and Theology)
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Presbyterian History, 52 min., Acts 1:11; Romans 13, Still Waters Revival Books
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=124071413102

John Knox, the Scottish Covenanters, and the Westminster Assembly 2/3 (History Notes on Presbyterianism, Reformation, and Theology)
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Presbyterian History, 46 min., Hebrews 11:39; 1 Peter 2:13-14
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=12607114250

John Knox, the Scottish Covenanters, and the Westminster Assembly 3/3 (History Notes on Presbyterianism, Reformation, and Theology)
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Presbyterian History, 53 min., Daniel 4:35; Acts 13:17
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=12607114250

The Westminster Assembly
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, 50 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=12160371617

Great Movements in Presbyterian History

Great Moments in Presbyterian History #1
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Great Movements in Presbyterian History
http://www.sermonaudio.com/play.asp?ID=12160371437

Great Moments in Presbyterian History #2
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Great Movements in Presbyterian History, 34 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=12160371538

Great Moments in Presbyterian History #3: The Westminster Assembly
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Great Movements in Presbyterian History
http://www.sermonaudio.com/play.asp?ID=12160371617

Great Moments in Presbyterian History #4: Colonial Presbyterianism and the Great Awakening
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Great Movements in Presbyterian History
http://www.sermonaudio.com/play.asp?ID=1216037179

Great Moments in Presbyterian History #5: Theological Tensions of the 19th Century: Old School - New School
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Great Movements in Presbyterian History
http://www.sermonaudio.com/play.asp?ID=1216037188

Great Moments in Presbyterian History #6: Presbyterianism in the 20th Century
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Great Movements in Presbyterian History
http://www.sermonaudio.com/play.asp?ID=12160371916

Great Moments in Presbyterian History #7: The Presbyterian Church in the 20th Century: Emergence of the OPC
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Great Movements in Presbyterian History
http://www.sermonaudio.com/play.asp?ID=12160372014

Great Moments in Presbyterian History #8: What the Bible Has to Say About the Nature of Government
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Great Movements in Presbyterian History
http://www.sermonaudio.com/play.asp?ID=12160372131

History of the American Presbyterian Church

History of the American Presbyterian Church #1
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, History of the AP Church, 40 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=1270518534

History of the American Presbyterian Church #2
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, History of the AP Church, 52 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=127051872

Colonial Presbyterianism and the Great Awakening
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, History of the American Presbyterian Church, 49 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=1216037179

The Religious and Theological Causes of Secession
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, 75 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=12705181136

Theological Tensions of the 19th Century: Old School - New School
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, History of the American Presbyterian Church, 34 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=1216037188

Presbyterianism in the 20th Century
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, History of the American Presbyterian Church, 42 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=12160371916

The Presbyterian Church in the 20th Century: Emergence of the OPC
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, History of the American Presbyterian Church, 47 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=12160372014

The topical listing for "A Theological Interpretation of American History"
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr9chc.html#stiahis

Evangelism in the Early Church

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

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

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

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

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

Evangelism in the Early Church

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

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

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

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

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

Evangelism in the Early Church

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

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

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

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

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

Evangelism in the Early Church

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

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

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

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

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

History of Revivalism

#01: The Biblical Basis for Revival in the Church
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, History of Revivalism, 65 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=1217037126

#02: Evangelism in the Early Church #1
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, History of Revivalism, 58 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=1217037244

#03: Evangelism in the Early Church #2
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, History of Revivalism, 74 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=1217037348

#04: Evangelism in the Early Church #3
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, History of Revivalism, 48 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=1217037438

#05: Evangelism in the Early Church #4
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=1217037520

#06: Evangelism in the Early Church #5
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, History of Revivalism, 50 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=1217037153

#07: Evangelism in the First Four Centuries
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, History of Revivalism, 86 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=1217037169

#08: Impact of the Ancient Church on the World and the World on the Church
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, History of Revivalism, 48 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=1217037177

#09: Summary of Evangelism in the Church from AD 500 to AD 1500 #1
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, History of Revivalism, 63 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=12170371946

#10: Summary of Evangelism in the Church from AD 500 to AD 1500 #2
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, History of Revivalism, 49 min
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=12170372131.

#11: The Greatest Revival: The Reformation
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, History of Revivalism, 69 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=12170372251

#12: Revivalism in the New World
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, History of Revivalism, 48 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=12170372351

Colonial Presbyterianism and the Great Awakening
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, 49 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=1216037179

#13: Revivalism in the New World: Edwards and Whitefield
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, History of Revivalism, 45 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=12160372911

#14: Revivalism in the New World: Moving West
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, History of Revivalism, 51 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=12160373036

Pedigree of: Alexander Craighead, 1705/6-1766
http://www.concentric.net/~pvb/GEN/ac.html

Early New World Covenanters
http://members.aol.com/skettler/cradle.html

The Local Church and Counseling

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

*Broger, John C. (developer/editor), Course II: Nouthetic Counseling Study Guide and Course II: Self-Confrontation Tapes [20037]

Kyle, William H. (editor), Healing Through Counseling: A Christian Counseling Center (London, England: Epworth Press, 1964). 70397
Consists largely of lectures originally given as part of the training program at the Counseling Center, Highgate Methodist Church. Includes bibliographical footnotes and bibliography.

Franklin, Godfrey, The nature and perceived adequacy of the preparation for counseling of selected Presbyterian and Reformed Church ministers in the United States 1991 (1983 Ph.D. dissertation, University of Alabama.)

Richardson, W., Pastoral Counseling in the Urban Church [30370]

Strom, Kay M., Helping Women in Crisis: A Handbook for People Helpers [40220A]

See also: Training in Biblical Counseling, Biblical Counseling by Subject, Family life, education, church and work, Christian fiction (The Elsie Books by Martha Finley)

Related WebLinks

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Church Discipline

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*DURHAM, JAMES, 1622-1658, Concerning Scandal, (Dallas, TX: Naphtali Press, c1990, 1680), Still Waters Revival Books 1659 edition, Additional Titles: The Dying Man's Testament to the Church of Scotland: Or, A Treatise Concerning Scandal, 1740 edition, EEBO. [30983]
"The Rise Of The Following Treatise
"Having had occasion to consider the Book of the Revelation, and being on the Epistle to the Church of Pergamos in the second chapter, ground was given to speak something of Scandal, by reason of several doctrines clearly arising from that place. Upon this occasion I did first essay the writing of something of the doctrine of scandal in general, intending only to have spent a sheet or two thereupon, as elsewhere on some other subjects. When this was brought to a close, I found the place to give ground to speak of public church offenses, as they are the object of church discipline and censures. And being convinced, that that subject was not impertinent to be spoken of, I yielded to spend some thoughts upon it also, which did draw to a greater length than at first was intended or was suitable for a digression. This being finished, as it is, and any more thoughts of this subject laid by, it occurred again to me to think of doctrinal scandals or of scandalous errors. And considering that the scandals mentioned in that place, are of such nature, and that such are very frequent in this time, I yielded also to put together what thoughts the Lord would furnish concerning the same, whereupon followed the third part of this treatise.
"When this was even at the closing, there was a fourth part of the same subject that did occur to me to be thought on, which before that had never been minded, and that was concerning scandalous church divisions. To this my mind and inclination was exceedingly averse at first, as knowing it not only to be difficult in itself to be meddled in, but also exceedingly above me, who am altogether unsuitable to hazard on such a subject. Yet considering the rise of the motion, and how the Lord had helped through the other parts, I did resolve to condescend to follow it, at least so far till it might appear what was his mind to me therein, and accordingly did follow it till it came to the period (whatever it be) that now it is at.
"This is the true rise and occasion of this treatise, and of the several parts thereof, and therefore I have continued its entry in the original mold thereof, to wit, in laying down some general doctrines from that place of Scripture, and if there is afterward any more particular relation to the second and third chapters of the Revelation than to other Scriptures, this simple narration of the rise thereof may satisfy any concerning the same. Whereof we shall say no more, but first lay down grounds of all from that text, and then proceed in the treatise, which is divided in four parts, upon the reasons formerly hinted."
"The Grounds Of This Treatise
"Among other things that troubled the church in the primitive times, scandal, or offense, was a chief one. The many directions that are given concerning it, and the reproofs that are of it, show that it is a main piece of a Christian's conversation to walk rightly in reference thereto, and a great evidence of looseness where it is not heeded. On verse 6 [Rev. 2], we show that this was a sole fault of the Nicolaitans to be careless of offending, or