Proclaim liberty throughout all the land unto all the inhabitants thereof. (Leviticus 25:10a)

If ye continue in my word, [then] are ye my disciples indeed; And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. -- Jesus Christ (John 8:31b,32)

If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed. -- Jesus Christ (John 8:36)

For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ. -- (1 Corinthians 3:11)

And the multitudes that went before, and that followed, cried, saying, Hosanna to the son of David: Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord; Hosanna in the highest. (Matthew 21:9)
This was the Lord's public claiming of authority over Israel. He was the son of David, and so He was by natural right the King of the Jews. If He had taken possession of His own, He would have been sitting on the throne of the chosen dynasty of David by right of birth. Also as the Messiah, the Christ, He was the King of His people Israel. Concerning Him it had been said by the prophet, "Rejoice greatly, O Daughter of Zion; shout, O daughter of Jerusalem: behold! thy King cometh unto thee: he is just, and having salvation; lowly, and riding upon an ass, and upon a colt the foal of an ass" (Zechariah 9:9). Our Lord Jesus literally came to Zion in this way. As King He rode to His capital and entered His palace. In His priestly royalty the Son of God went to His Father's house, to the temple of sacrifice and sovereignty. Among the tribes of Israel He is seen to be "One chosen out of the people," whom the Lord had given to be a leader and commander for the people. They might afterwards choose Barabbas and cry that they had no king but Caesar, yet Jesus was their King, as Pilate reminded them when he said, "Shall I crucify your king?" And also His cross declared, it, bearing the legal inscription, "This is Jesus the King of the Jews." Before His trial and condemnation He had put in a public claim to the rights and prerogatives of Zion's king, whom God has set on His holy hill. Would to God all fully recognized our Lord's kingdom, yielding to His sway! Oh, that you would bow before Him, and put your trust in Him! Part of His intent in riding through Jerusalem was that we also who dwell in the isles of the sea might know Him and reverence Him as King of kings and Lord of lords." -- C.H. Spurgeon commenting on Matthew 21:9 in Devotional Classics of C.H. Spurgeon, p. 86

"Whereas, we all came into these parts of America with one and the same end and aim, to advance the Kingdom of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to enjoy the liberties of the Gospel in purity and peace." -- The New England Confederation, May 19, 1643

The roots of liberty and limited government are in the Protestant Reformation. We believe the key to the maintenance of liberty and limited government are to be found in the Scottish covenanting struggle.

The question of Paul, Is Christ divided? is one to which professing Christians have not given sufficient heed, and the evil consequences are abundantly apparent.
It was deemed essential to the salvation of men that their Redeemer should possess the powers at once of a prophet, a priest, and a king. These offices, while essentially distinct, are necessarily and inseparably connected with one another. Such a union has been by some utterly denied; and its denial has laid foundation for some capital errors, which have exerted a pernicious influence on the Christian church. By others it has been criminally overlooked; and the neglect with which it has been treated has occasioned vague and conflicting conceptions regarding the great work of man's deliverance from sin and wrath by the mediation of the Son of God.
If, as we presume will be readily admitted, the whole of Christ's offices are necessary to the salvation of fallen man, it follows that they are all essential to the character of the Saviour, and that, of course, we can not suppose him to have existed for a moment without any one of them, as this would suppose him to have been, for the time at least, no Saviour. -- William Symington

Briefly stated, where Christ is demoted or limited, His Kingdom and crown rights are limited and demoted. There is then a shift of sovereignty from God to man, which means the triumph of the state. The state as the new sovereign becomes god walking on earth, and the result is the rapid death of all freedom. -- R.J. Rushdoony

In the final analysis, all modern ills, spiritual and temporal, are traceable to our continuing departure from the principles of the Second Reformation. . . . In particular, I am convinced that the Lord will not bless a church at peace with his enemies. Our departure from truth has led to our undernourished condition as a church; truth, as Thornwell argued, is the only food that the soul can digest.
It does no good to blame society or the church for our deficiencies before the Lord because Christ holds men, not churches and states, accountable. In the words of Hugh Miller, "Churches, however false and detestable, are never to be summoned to the bar of judgment. . . . To Christ, as his head and king, must every man render an account."
The great heresy of our times is that all men are children of God. Those within the church have lost their identity as a people of God, united in spirit and purpose. We have adopted the half-truths of our fathers for which Judah faced punishment: "Because they have despised the law of the Lord, and have not kept his commandments, and their lies caused them to err, after which their fathers have walked" (Amos 2:4b). Nevertheless, Christ loves his church, and he will see to it that his bride is prepared (Ephesians 5:27) for the great banquet. Based on the history of God's people, the needed corrections will result from either prayer or persecution, leading the people to renew their covenant promises. Let us pray that God's kingdom come, and let us covenant to fulfill our obligations to be his people. When persecution comes, let us pray that we would stand as firm as did the Scottish Covenanters. When covenanting comes, let us praise the Lord, for only in him will we stand firm. Let us ever strive to make it possible for our children to utter one of James Nisbet's praises, "O my soul! Bless and praise the Lord that I was born in a land where the glad tidings of the everlasting gospel are published and pressed with so much purity and plainness." This should be our prayer, "Turn us again, O God, and cause thy face to shine; and we shall be saved" (Psalm 80:3). -- Edwin Nesbit Moore, from the conclusion to Our Covenant Heritage

Ye have seen what I did unto the Egyptians, and how I bare you on eagles' wings, and brought you unto myself. Now therefore, if ye will obey my voice indeed, and keep my covenant, then ye shall be a peculiar treasure unto me above all people: for all the earth is mine: And ye shall be unto me a kingdom of priests, and an holy nation. (Exodus 19:4-6a)
What a loving preface to the law! If anything could have engaged rebellious man to obedience, this would have done it, but, alas, the Lord has nourished and brought up children, and they have rebelled against him. -- C.H. Spurgeon commenting on Exodus 19:4-6a in Spurgeon's Devotional Bible, p. 92.

---

How does a nation protect itself against terrorists who commit suicide to murder innocent citizens?
It is the presence of The Holy Spirit in society, The Third Person of the Holy Trinity -- it is His presence alone, that restrains evil in society. It is His presence alone that stops men from murdering their neighbors and from completely destroying society. See John Owen, "God's Presence With a People the Spring of Their Prosperity; With Their Special Interest in Abiding in Him"
In the absence of The Holy Spirit there is no restraint of evil.
Therefore, a nation that struggles to remove The Holy Trinity, The Father, The Son, and The Holy Spirit, from all public life, that nation will lose all restrain of evil, and will succumb to self-destruction from within. It will also succumb to destruction from ememies without. It is the presence in a nation of The Holy One of Israel, The God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, the presence of The Triune God, that restrains evil, and that gives society order and life.
Honored citizens of The United States of America, your willful rebellion against Our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ has brought the judgment of God upon this nation. God punishes a people by putting godless leaders in command. All restraint of evil has disappeared from our nation, and our leaders are helpless to stop the spread of terrorism. Repent honored citizens of this beloved nation, partake of Christ, for you are the terrorists.
And now may the Grace, the Mercy, and the Peace, of God The Father, The Son, and The Holy Spirit, rest and abide with you now and forevermore. Amen.

---

Therefore was the wrath of the LORD kindled against his people, in so much that he abhorred his own inheritance.
And he gave them into the hands of the heathen; and they that hated them ruled over them.
Their enemies also oppressed them, and they were brought into subjection under their hand. (Psalm 106:40-42)

The Treasury of David, Psalm 106
http://www.spurgeon.org/treasury/ps106.htm

Q. What kind of submission may be rendered to immoral and tyrannical governments, the ordinance of Satan, such as now exist?

A. Christians, in the exercise of their Christian liberty, and in the performance of the duty of "proving all things, and holding fast what is good," can submit to such governments "for wrath's sake," ONLY, which kind of submission has no respect to the power as legitimate authority, but simply, from dread of the cruelty of the tyrant, who pours forth his fury upon all who oppose his misrule. To God's moral ordinance as described, is allegiance due for conscience sake. Submission to this, is submission to God.

Q. When Christians reside under an immoral government, is not conformity to the general order of society a duty, provided this can be done without violating the divine law ?

A. If the constituted authorities of a nation are not in voluntary subserviency to the Mediator, but opposed to his authority, law, and religion, for the sake of peace and order, and for the sake of contributing as much as possible to the ease and happiness of society, and from a spirit of resignation to the Divine providence, and in order to make legitimate provision for themselves and relatives, so much conformity to the prevailing system as is consistent with their oath of allegiance to Messiah, is a duty conscientiously to be practiced, although very distinct from that obedience for conscience sake which they would render to the government of their choice, to the authority which has the sanction of the Divine approbation. Jer. xxix. 4-7, "Seek the peace of the city whither I have caused you to be carried away captives, and pray unto the Lord for it: for in the peace thereof shall ye have peace.:

Q. Whilst it is the duty of Christians thus to live a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty, in conformity to the laws of Christ, which are everywhere, and at all times, obligatory upon them -- is it not their duty publicly to declare their dissent from an immoral constitution of civil government, within the reach of whose power they may reside ?

A. This is, indeed, their duty. Because, 1. They are bound to defend God's moral ordinance of civil government, in the purity of which, God's own honor as "the Governor of the nations," is deeply involved. Rev. ii. 25, 26, "That which you have already hold fast till I come; and he that overcometh -- and keepeth my works unto the end -- to him will I give power in the nations," &c. Isa. viii. 16, "Bind up the testimony, seal the law among my disciples." 2. The purity of this holy ordinance cannot be preserved, if it is confounded with the existing immoral systems, and by an indiscriminate exercise of allegiance. 3. Christians are witnesses for God among men; and having in their possession "the testimony of God," in the Holy Scriptures, respecting the true character of civil government, and the duty of national subjection to Christ and his law, and respect for his holy religion, it is their duty to apply the doctrines of inspiration upon this subject, in stating and defending the truth, and condemning the existing immoral systems, and in bearing public testimony against all who uphold them. Isa. xliii. 10, "Ye are my witnesses, saith the Lord." Rev. xi. 3, "I will give power to my two witnesses, and they shall prophesy a thousand two hundred and three score days, clothed in sackcloth;" xii. 17, "And the dragon was wroth with the woman, and went to make war with the remnant of her seed, which keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ." See also Rev. xvii. 14, Acts v. 32, xxvi. 16, Micah iv. 8-18, Mark vi. 11. 4. The witnesses in Revelation are raised up not only to testify against the ecclesiastical apostasy, "The scarlet woman," or Roman church -- and "the image of the beast," -- the Papacy -- but also against "the seven-headed and ten-horned" beast -- or the civil powers -- upon which the woman rides. The nations which sustain Antichrist, and are equally, with "the man of sin," Antichristian, and are at war with the Lamb. See passages last quoted, together with Rev. xiii. 1, 2, xvii. 3-14, and xii. 11, "And they overcame him, (the devil embodied in the Roman church papacy, and civil powers,) by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony;" xvii. 14, "These, (the civil powers,) shall make war with the Lamb-and the Lamb shall overcome them: for he is Lord of lords, and King of kings: and they that are with him are called, and chosen, and faithful."

Q. Are not virtuous persons, who, in their private capacity, are endeavoring to further the true end of civil government -- the maintenance of peace and quietness in all godliness and honesty, although they dissent from the constitution of civil government of the nation in which they reside, entitled to protection ?

A. They certainly are entitled to protection in their lives, liberties, and property; "but they are not to act inconsistently with their declared dissent, and it would be tyranny to constrain them to such measures." Exod. xxii. 21, "Thou shalt neither vex a stranger nor oppress him." See also Rom. xiii. 3, 1 Tim. ii. 2, Jer. xxi. 12, Esther iii. 8, 9.

Q. Should not "Christians, testifying against national evils, and striving, in the use of moral means, to effect a reformation, relinquish temporal privileges, rather than do any thing which may appear to contradict their testimony, or lay a stumbling-block before their weaker brethren?"

A. This is unquestionably their duty. Because they cannot convince men of their own sincerity, and of the immorality of a principle or practice, whilst they themselves are found actually maintaining the immoral principle or practice, (by oath of allegiance, voting, and holding offices, &c.) and enjoying the emoluments of iniquity decreed by law. Heb. xi. 24, 26, 36, "By faith, Moses, when he was come to years, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh's daughter. Esteeming the reproach of Christ to be greater riches than the treasures in Egypt. And others had trials of cruel mockings and scourgings, yea, moreover, of bonds and imprisonments." Numb. xxiii. 9, "Lo, the people shall dwell alone, and shall not be reckoned among the nations." Rom. xiv. 21, "It is good neither to eat flesh, nor drink wine, nor anything whereby thy brother stumbleth, or is offended."

Q. Will not such a public dissent from immoral governments, and faithful testimony against them, ultimately prevail to their overthrow?

A. Yes. By these means the witnesses will prevail, however much they may suffer in the meantime, and will be the honored instruments of establishing the millennial kingdom of the Lamb. Rev. xii. 11 , "And they overcame him, by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death." Dan. vii. 22, "The Ancient of days came, and judgment was given to the saints of the Most High; and the time came that the saints possessed the kingdom." Rev. xx. 4, "And I saw thrones, and they sat upon them, and judgment was given unto them; and I saw the souls of them that were beheaded for the witness of Jesus, and for the word of God, and which had not worshipped the beast, (the civil powers,) neither his image, (the Papacy,) neither had received his mark, (yielded allegiance,) upon their foreheads, or in their hands; and they lived and reigned with Christ a thousand years." -- William L. Roberts, The Reformed Presbyterian Catechism, p. 130-133

Traditionally, law was never construed as legalist. It was always construed as a result of covenant. If we can define the word covenant as bond, that lovely four letter word, b-o-n-d, then it's a relationship, it's a solidarity with God or with another person. And from that relationship flows duty. So we can think of convent as that marvelous combination of promise and duty. And so I really see law as a response to a relationship. -- Joseph Kickasola

True, the state as the policeman can be corrupt; in fact, if the society as a whole is corrupt, the state will also be corrupt. In a healthy and godly society, the state will function successfully to restrain the minority of evil-doers. The key to the situation is not the state but the religious health of the society. -- Rousas John Rushdoony, in Institutes of Biblical Law, p. 470

If I profess with the loudest voice and clearest exposition every portion of the Word of God except precisely that little point which the world and the devil are at that moment attacking, I am not confessing Christ, however boldly I may be professing Him. Where the battle rages, there the loyalty of the soldier is proven; and to be steady on all the battlefront besides is mere flight and disgrace if he flinches at that point. -- Martin Luther

It is a poor and pitiful kind of knowledge, to know many loose parcels, and broken members of truth, without knowing the whole, or the place and the relations which they have to the rest. To know letters and not syllables, or syllables and not words, or words and not sentences, or sentences and not the scope of the discourse, are all but an unprofitable knowledge. -- Richard Baxter (I:269)

Contents

Church and State
A Theological Interpretation of American History
Background and History of the Covenanted Reformation of Scotland
An Introduction to the Covenanted Reformation
The Puritan Revolution
Sermons Preached Before Governing Bodies
The Reformed Presbytery of Scotland and The Reformed Presbytery of America
Covenant Theology and the Ordinance of Covenanting

• The Mediatorial Reign of Christ and the Crown Rights of Christ
• Suffrage and Reproductive Rights
• Theodicy
• The Question of the One and the Many
  
• Confession of National Sin and Covenant Renewal
• Servant Leadership
• Selection of Covenant Heads for Positions of Leadership
• Resolutions
• The Right to Petition
• Referendum Votes
• Bible Magistracy Turns Back the Wrath of God
• The Government Role of Punishing Wrongdoers
• Toleration, Liberty of Conscience, Pluralism, and Neutrality
• Unity and Uniformity in the Visible Church: Unity in the Truth
• National Establishment of Religion: Establishmentarianism
• Chapter 9 (part 2) Related WebLinks

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

Chapter 9 (part 2)

Corporate Faithfulness and
Sanctification

Church and State

---

See Isaiah 40:1--55:13 and annotations in The Reformation Study Bible

The priests said not, Where is the LORD? and they that handle the law knew me not: the pastors also transgressed against me, and the prophets prophesied by Baal, and walked after things that do not profit. (Jeremiah 2:8)

See the Theological Notes, "God Reigns: Divine Sovereignty," at Daniel 4:34, page 1339, in The Reformation Study Bible

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

Our Triune God has ordained that authority, power, and leadership devolves to those who know the most Truth (the Apostle Paul, Saint Augustine, Martin Luther, John Calvin, The Scots Worthies . . . ). Preeminent among those is the Lord Christ, the God Man, Our Righteousness. (John 1:1-18; Matthew 19:30; Matthew 28:18-20; Isaiah 49:7; Colossians 1:16-19; Colossians 2:9,10; Hebrews 12:1,2; Revelations 5:1-14; Revelation 19:11-15; Revelation 20:11-15; Revelation 22:12, and so forth, and so on.)

The question of Paul, Is Christ divided? is one to which professing Christians have not given sufficient heed, and the evil consequences are abundantly apparent.
It was deemed essential to the salvation of men that their Redeemer should possess the powers at once of a prophet, a priest, and a king. These offices, while essentially distinct, are necessarily and inseparably connected with one another. Such a union has been by some utterly denied; and its denial has laid foundation for some capital errors, which have exerted a pernicious influence on the Christian church. By others it has been criminally overlooked; and the neglect with which it has been treated has occasioned vague and conflicting conceptions regarding the great work of man's deliverance from sin and wrath by the mediation of the Son of God.
If, as we presume will be readily admitted, the whole of Christ's offices are necessary to the salvation of fallen man, it follows that they are all essential to the character of the Saviour, and that, of course, we can not suppose him to have existed for a moment without any one of them, as this would suppose him to have been, for the time at least, no Saviour. -- William Symington

Then all the elders of Israel gathered themselves together, and came to Samuel unto Ramah, And said unto him, Behold, thou art old, and thy sons walk not in thy ways: now make us a king to judge us like all the nations. But the thing displeased Samuel, when they said, Give us a king to judge us. And Samuel prayed unto the LORD. And the LORD said unto Samuel, Hearken unto the voice of the people in all that they say unto thee: for they have not rejected thee, but they have rejected me, that I should not reign over them. According to all the works which they have done since the day that I brought them up out of Egypt even unto this day, wherewith they have forsaken me, and served other gods, so do they also unto thee. Now therefore hearken unto their voice: howbeit yet protest solemnly unto them, and shew them the manner of the king that shall reign over them. And Samuel told all the words of the LORD unto the people that asked of him a king. And he said, This will be the manner of the king that shall reign over you: He will take your sons, and appoint them for himself, for his chariots, and to be his horsemen; and some shall run before his chariots. And he will appoint him captains over thousands, and captains over fifties; and will set them to ear his ground, and to reap his harvest, and to make his instruments of war, and instruments of his chariots. And he will take your daughters to be confectionaries, and to be cooks, and to be bakers. And he will take your fields, and your vineyards, and your oliveyards, even the best of them, and give them to his servants. And he will take the tenth of your seed, and of your vineyards, and give to his officers, and to his servants. And he will take your menservants, and your maidservants, and your goodliest young men, and your asses, and put them to his work. He will take the tenth of your sheep: and ye shall be his servants. And ye shall cry out in that day because of your king which ye shall have chosen you; and the LORD will not hear you in that day. Nevertheless the people refused to obey the voice of Samuel; and they said, Nay; but we will have a king over us; That we also may be like all the nations; and that our king may judge us, and go out before us, and fight our battles. And Samuel heard all the words of the people, and he rehearsed them in the ears of the LORD. And the LORD said to Samuel, Hearken unto their voice, and make them a king. And Samuel said unto the men of Israel, Go ye every man unto his city. (1 Samuel 8:4-22)

The Supremacy Act was 1534 under Henry VIII. Act of Supremacy? ""The first Act of Supremacy granted King Henry VIII of England Royal Supremacy which is still the legal authority of the Sovereign of the United Kingdom. Royal Supremacy is specifically used to describe the legal sovereignty of the civil laws over the laws of the Church in England." -- http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Act_of_Supremacy

They [the Scottish Parlament] passed an act recissory [The Act Rescissory of 1661], declaring all the parliaments, and acts of parliament made in favor of reformation, from the year 1640 to 1651, null and void. The king's supremacy over all persons, and in all causes, is asserted. All meeting's, assemblies, leagues and covenants, without the king's authority, are declared unlawful and unwarrantable. The renewing of the solemn league and covenant, or any other covenants or public oaths, without the king's special warrant and approbation, is discharged. -- ACT, DECLARATION AND TESTIMONY. PART I. PLOUGHLANDHEAD, June 6, 1761

"The Erastian Revolution, anno 1689, was "utterly inconsistent with the covenanted constitution of the Reformed Church of Scotland, anno 1648."
In fact, the relationship between Church and State has been in decline since 1661. "In early 1661 . . . the Scottish Parliament passed the Act Rescissory, which established the king as supreme judge in all matters civil and ecclesiastical, and which made owning the covenants [National and Solemn League] unlawful. These acts undid all the works of Reformation from 1638 to 1650 and made it high treason to acknowledge Jesus Christ as head of the church. . . ." See Act, Declaration, And Testimony, 1876, Part II.
The roots of liberty and limited government are in the Protestant Reformation. We believe the key to the maintenance of liberty and limited government are to be found in the Scottish covenanting struggle.
Act, Declaration, And Testimony, 1876
http://www.covenanter.org/RefPres/actdeclarationandtestimony/acttitle.htm
The Covenanted Reformation of Scotland Short Title Listing
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr9chb.html#crsstl

Another turning point occurred in 1758 with the reunion of the Old Side and the New Side of American Presbyterian Church. "This signaled the end of the influence of Calvinism in American Politics." For a detailed discussion see:
"From Old School to New School" in Crossed Fingers: How the Liberals Captured the Presbyterian Church, by Gary North
http://entrewave.com/freebooks/docs/html/gncf/Chapter02.htm
Another turning point occurred in 1789 with the adoption of the American Version of the Westminster Confession of Faith.

In the same establishment may be found believers in nearly every dogma of the Popish creed, who nevertheless have declared their faith in articles which are distinctly Calvinistic; and now last, and, to our minds, most sorrowful of all, it comes out that there are men to be found among Caledonia's once sternly truthful sons who can occupy the pulpits and the manses of an orthodox Presbyterian church, and yet oppose her ancient confession of faith. Our complaint is in each case, not that the men changed their views, and threw up their former creeds, but that having done so they did not at once quit the office of minister to the community whose faith they could no longer uphold; their fault is not that they differed, but that, differing, they sought an office of which the prime necessity is agreement. All the elements of the lowest kind of knavery meet in the evil which we now denounce. Treachery is never more treacherous than when it leads a man to stab at a doctrine which he has solemnly engaged to uphold, and for the maintenance of which he receives a livelihood. The office of minister would never wittingly be entrusted by any community to a person who would use it for the overthrow of the principles upon which the community was founded. Such conduct would be suicidal. A sincere belief of the church's creed was avowedly or by implication a part of the qualification which helped the preacher to his stipend, and when that qualification ceases the most vital point of the compact between him and his church is infringed, and he is bound in honor to relinquish an office which he can no longer honestly fulfill." -- Charles Spurgeon in "Ministers Sailing Under False Colours," Sword and Trowel, February, 1870, quoted by John W. Robbins, February 10, 2006

Read what Charles Hodge says in support of the "newly discovered" relationship between Church and State in America. Then decide for yourself if he unscripturally conceded to delivering the Church into the hands of the State in the "American Version, 1789" of the Westminster Confession of Faith.
The Biblical doctrine of Christian Magistracy functions correctly only when State leadership is Christian, and when the State can be depended upon to wield their sword to protect true religion. The history of the human depravity in State leadership, secular leaders who destroy true religion instead of protecting it, should not cause theologians to abandon sound doctrine as stated in the original Westminster Confession of Faith (1646). Treachery in State leadership would be far less of a problem if the writers of the US Constitution had not removed the religious test clause of Colonial constitutions. This was done in America with the adoption of the "American Version" of the Westminster Confession of Faith and the U.S. Constitution in 1789.
Besides arguing in support of the "American Version" of the Westminster Confession "he [Charles Hodge] repudiated the unhistorical position of those who denied the validity of Roman Catholic baptism. . . Hodge supported slavery in the 1830s, and while he condemned the mistreatment of slaves he did not condemn the institution of slavery itself. The background to this attitude, however, was not primarily his understanding of the Bible's teaching on the matter, but rather his churchmanship. . . .
"In 1846, however, he became convinced that slavery was wrong, reversing his earlier anti-abolitionist stance, and he then publically denounced slavery and supported both the Abolitionist movement and President Lincoln (Adams, 2003)."
American Covenanters decried the "American Version." See the Covenanter document:
Reformed Presbyterian Catechism, William L. Roberts D.D.
http://www.covenantedreformation.com/EssaysCR/RP%20Catechism/RP%20Index.html
We love Gordon Clark, and we hold him in highest esteem, one of the great minds of the 20th Century. However, astonishingly, he seems to have adopted Hodge's position on the "American Version." This relieves the State of judicial responsibilities to preserve true religion, and delivers the Church into the hands of the State. Hence, today we have the "church effeminate" and, consequently, a destabilization of every sphere of society, including that of the Reformed Church. Could this be one reason for the failure of Church courts today?
Church and State, Charles Hodge
http://www.trinityfoundation.org/journal.php?id=92
In "The Reformed Faith and the Westminster Confession," an address given at Weaverville, NC, August 17, 1955, found in the Appendix to this work [WHAT DO PRESBYTERIANS BELIEVE?], Clark eloquently extols the virtues of the Westminster Confession of Faith and condemns neo-orthodoxy for departing from the Word of God found in the Bible.
Yet, incredibly, one year later, in 1956, he published this work, [WHAT DO PRESBYTERIANS BELIEVE?] which is a commentary on the "American Version (1789)." To more fully understand Clark's error here and the consequences of such an error see:
"A Theological Interpretation of American History" http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr9chc.html#stiahis

Many scholars consider alterations to the Westminster Confession of Faith (1646), originally compiled by the Westminster Assembly of Divines, to be a "reverse plagiarism," an alteration of the original document by someone beside the author, and then passed off to the public, under the orginal title, as the work of the original authors. "Plagiarize: to steal and pass off (the ideas or words of another) as one's own use (a created production) without crediting the source; to commit literary theft: present as new and original an idea or product derived from an existing source." (Webster's New Collegiate Dictionary)
Revisers have altered the content of the original WCF (1647), have removed key doctrine related to Christ's Crown and Covenant, and yet have retained the name given by the Westminster Assembly. Consequently, revisers have deceived many in the Church into believing that their alterations are the work of the Westminster Assembly of Divines in 1647.
Most Presbyterian and Reformed denominations and seminaries today prescribe to the Westminster Confession of Faith (1789), the "American Version." Included are The Presbyterian Church in America and the newly constituted Evangelical Reformed Presbyterian Church.
Ideas have consequences. Because theology is truth, when men delete or alter key doctrines, or replace sound doctrine deducted from God's infallible Word by logic, with human imaginations, then the course of history is changed.
For a detailed analysis of the devastating consequences to American history caused by non-Biblical alterations in the Westminster Confession of Faith (1646) and non-Biblical alterations to constitutional government in the United States see the following:
"A Theological Interpretation of American History"
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr9chc.html#stiahis
In Great Britain the Independents and Calvinistic Baptists edited the Westminster Confession (1647) for their own use, but they gave the new confessions a different name, the Savoy Declaration and the Baptist Confession. Certainly this was the honest procedure.
American Revisions to the Westminster Confession of Faith (1789)
http://www.opc.org/documents/WCF_orig.html
Appendix A: Major Changes of the Savoy Declaration
http://www.bible-researcher.com/wescoappa.html
Appendix B: Major Changes of the PCUSA (1788-1958)
http://www.bible-researcher.com/wescoappb.html
Appendix C: Major Changes of the UPCUSA and PCUS (1958-1983)
http://www.bible-researcher.com/wescoappc.html

"In 1788 the U.S. Constitution and the revised Westminster Confession were ratified. For a detailed discussion see:
"Authority: Biblical, Confessional, Ecclesiastical" in Crossed Fingers: How the Liberals Captured the Presbyterian Church, by Gary North
http://entrewave.com/freebooks/docs/html/gncf/Chapter03.htm
Unfortunately these revisions (see listing of revisions to the Westminster Confession of Faith (1646) above and under "The Westminster Confession (1646, The Westminster Standards) and Related Works)" removed Christian Magistracy from the Confession (WCF 1646), 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 and turned them into effeminate figureheads.

They have set up kings, but not by me: they have made princes, and I knew it not: of their silver and their gold have they made them idols, that they may be cut off. (Hosea 8:4)

We ought to obey God rather than men. (Acts 5:29b)

"In the history of the church-state relationship, two major errors have developed: Papalism and Erastianism. The former teaches that the church (i.e., the Pope) is to rule both church and state. The latter maintains that both institutions are under the headship of the civil magistrate. Calvin disavows both. "Biblical Christianity, says the Reformer, teaches that these two are separate God-ordained institutions, while at the same time they are both under his law (i.e., there is a separation in function, but not in authority [emphasis added]). In Romans 13:1-7, we read that civil rulers are God's ministers. Thus, it is incumbent upon civil magistrates to adopt the principles of civil law, i.e., The Ten Commandments and the general equity of the Mosaic judicials, as found in Scripture. Likewise, the church is to be governed by Scriptural ecclesiastical law. The church wields only the sword of the Spirit in dealing with sin, whereas the state wields the sword of iron in accordance with Scripture, in dealing with crime. The state is not to administer the Word of God or the sacraments. It has no authority over the keys of the Kingdom. And the church is not to enter into the affairs of the civil government, other than for advice and counsel (Institutes IV:11:3; 20:1-13; Commentary on Romans 13:1-7)." -- W. Gary Crampton in WHAT CALVIN SAYS

"A truth not generally known is that the ancient Biblical covenant was the taproot from which America, its constitution, its law, and its liberty grew. That ancient Biblical covenant was the solemn agreement, an everlasting mutual agreement between God and man and between man and God. God promised man great blessings, freedom and prosperity, providing man kept the conditions of the covenant -- conditions defined by God's law." -- Charles Hull Wolfe

To [James] Thornwell, the real issue is not the relation between states and the church, but the relation between states and Christ. Although Thornwell opposed the establishment of a single denomination over another, he clearly supported a Christian government: "The state realizes its religious character through the religious character of its subjects; and a state is and ought to be Christian, because all its subjects are and ought to be determined by the principles of the gospel." [Thornwell, "National Sins," p. 517] To this point, states must acknowledge Jesus Christ. Thornwell insisted that it is not enough for a state "to acknowledge in general terms the supremacy of God; it must also acknowledge in general terms the supremacy of His Son." Jesus "is the ruler of the nations, the King of kings, and the Lord of lords." [Thornwell, "Relation of the State to Christ," p. 554] Thornwell argued that "religion of the state is embodied in its constitution," and that it is legitimate for the state to have a religion (i.e., Christianity). Neutrality is impossible. . . . Further, the state must mold its institutions in conformance with Christian principles.
Although Thornwell sought less protection of the church than did the Covenanters, their beliefs regarding this topic are not inconsistent. They both held the state accountable as a moral agent to recognize Christ as king and to protect Christianity. Thornwell, like Christ, focused his attack on the false church, not the errant state, for Christ's zeal is for the house of the Lord. Exclusively attacking the externals of civil society was not the way of our Lord when on this earth; however, his silence is not an endorsement.
Thornwell contended that the gospel is the only solution for the state. Therefore, Christians should avoid conflicts that distract from the primary object of Christianity. The power of the gospel is the only force that can change the inner man and eventually transform the outer world. These changes can only take place in the context of the church, and reformation must begin with God's people. -- Edwin Nesbit Moore, Our Covenant Heritage, p. 351.

The Relation of the State to Christ, James Henley Thornwell
"The Constitution of the United States was an attempt to realize the notion of popular freedom, without the checks of aristocracy and a throne, and without the alliance of a national church. The conception was a noble one, but the execution was not commensurate with the design. The fundamental error of our fathers was, that they accepted a partial for a complete statement of the truth. They saw clearly the human side -- that popular governments are the offspring of popular will; and that rulers, as the servants and not the masters of their subjects, are properly responsible to them. They failed to apprehend the Divine side -- that all just government is the ordinance of God, and that magistrates are His ministers who must answer to Him for the execution of their trust. The consequence of this failure, and of exclusive attention to a single aspect of the case, was to invest the people with a species of supremacy as insulting to God as it was injurious to them. They became a law unto themselves; there was nothing beyond them to check or control their caprices or their pleasure. All were accountable to them; they were accountable to none. This was certainly to make the people a God; and if it was not explicitly expressed that they could do no wrong, it was certainly implied that there was no tribunal to take cognizance of their acts. A foundation was thus laid for the worst of all possible forms of government -- a democratic absolutism, which, in the execution of its purposes, does not scruple to annul the most solemn compacts and to cancel the most sacred obligations. The will of majorities must become the supreme law, if the voice of the people is to be regarded as the voice of God; if they are, in fact, the only God whom rulers are bound to obey. It is enough, therefore, to look upon government as simply the institute of man. Important as this aspect of the subject unquestionably is, yet if we stop there, we shall sow the seeds of disaster and failure. We must contemplate people and rulers as alike subject to the authority of God. His will is the true supreme; and it is under Him, and as the means of expressing His sovereign pleasure, that conventions are called, constitutions are framed and governments erected. To the extent that the State is a moral person, it must needs be under moral obligation, and moral obligation without reference to a superior will is a flat contradiction in terms. If, then, the State is an ordinance of God, it should acknowledge the fact. If it exists under the conditions of a law superior to all human decrees, and to which all human decrees behoove to be conformed, that law should be distinctly recognized. Let us guard, in this new Confederacy, against the fatal delusion that our government is a mere expression of human will. It is, indeed, an expression of will, but of will regulated and measured by those eternal principles of right which stamp it at the same time as the creature and institute of God. And of all governments in the world, a confederate government, resting as it does upon plighted faith, can least afford to dispense with the Supreme Guardian of treaties.
"Your honourable body has already, to some extent, rectified the error of the old Constitution, but not so distinctly and clearly as the Christian people of these States desire to see done. We venture respectfully to suggest, that it is not enough for a State which enjoys the light of Divine revelation to acknowledge in general terms the supremacy of God; it must also acknowledge the supremacy of His Son, whom He hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also He made the worlds. To Jesus Christ all power in heaven and earth is committed. To Him every knee shall bow, and every tongue confess. He is the Ruler of the nations, the King of kings, and Lord of lords.
"Should it be said that the subjection of governments to Jesus Christ is not a relation manifested by reason, and therefore not obligatory on the State, the answer is obvious -- that duties spring not from the manner in which the relation is made known, but from the truth of the relation itself. If the fact is so, that Jesus Christ is our Lord, and we know the fact, no matter how we come to know it, we are bound to acknowledge it, and act upon it. A father is entitled to the reverence of his son, a master to the obedience of his servant, and a king to the allegiance of his subjects, no matter how the relation between them is ascertained. Now, that Jesus Christ is the supreme Ruler of the nations, we know with infallible certainty, if we accept the Scriptures as the Word of God.
"But it may be asked -- and this is the core of all the perplexity which attends the subject -- Has the State any right to accept the Scriptures as the Word of God? The answer requires a distinction, and that distinction seems to us to obviate all difficulty. If by 'accepting the Scriptures' it is meant that the State has a right to prescribe them as a rule of faith and practice to its subjects, the answer must be in the negative. The State is lord of no man's conscience. As long as he preserves the peace, and is not injurious to the public welfare, no human power has a right to control his opinion or to restrain his acts. In these matters he is responsible to none but God. He may be Atheist, Deist, infidel, Turk or Pagan: it is no concern of the State, so long as he walks orderly. Its protecting shield must be over him, as over every other citizen. We utterly abhor the doctrine that the civil magistrate has any jurisdiction in the domain of religion, in its relations to the conscience or conduct of others, and we cordially approve the clause in our Confederate Constitution which guarantees the amplest liberty on this subject.
"But if by 'accepting the Scriptures' it is meant that the State may itself believe them to be true, and regulate its own conduct and legislation in conformity with their teachings, the answer must be in the affirmative. As a moral person, it has a conscience as really and truly as every individual citizen. To say that its conscience is only the aggregate of individual consciences, is to say that it is made up of conflicting and even contradictory elements. The State condemns many things which many of its subjects approve, and enjoins many things which many of its subjects condemn. There are those who are opposed to the rights of property and the institution of marriage, yet the public conscience sanctions and protects them both. What, then, is this public conscience? It is clearly the sum of those convictions of right, that sense of the honourable, just and true, which legislators feel themselves bound to obey in the structure of governments and the enactment of laws. It is a reflection of the law of God; and when that law is enunciated with authoritative clearness, as it is in the Scriptures, it becomes only the more solemnly imperative. And as the eternal rule of justice, the State should acknowledge it. Considered in its organic capacity as a person, it no more violates the rights of others in submitting itself to the revealed will of God, than a Christian, when he worships the supreme Jehovah, violates the rights of an Atheist or idolater. What the State does itself, and what it enjoins upon others to do, are very different things. It has an organic life apart from the aggregate life of the individuals who compose it; and in that organic life, it is under the authority of Jesus Christ and the restraints of His holy Word.
"That, in recognizing this doctrine, the State runs no risk of trespassing upon the rights of conscience is obvious from another point of view. The will of God, as revealed in the Scriptures, is not a positive constitution for the State; in that relation it stands only to the Church. It is rather a negative check upon its power. It does not prescribe the things to be done, but only forbids the things to be avoided. It only conditions and restrains the discretion of rulers within the bounds of the Divine law. It is, in other words, a limitation, and not a definition, of power. The formula according to which the Scriptures are accepted by the State is: Nothing shall be done which they forbid. The formula according to which they are accepted by the Church is: Nothing shall be done but what they enjoin. They are here the positive measure of power. Surely the government of no Christian people can scruple to accept the negative limitations of the Divine Word. Surely, our rulers do not desire that they shall have the liberty of being wiser than God.
"The amendment which we desire, we crave your honourable body to take note, does not confine the administration of the State exclusively to the hands of Christian men. A Jew might be our Chief Magistrate, provided he would come under the obligation to do nothing in the office inconsistent with the Christian religion. He would not be required to say that he himself believes it, nor would he assume the slightest obligation to propagate or enforce it. All that he would do would be to acknowledge it as the religion of the State, and to bind himself that he will sanction no legislation that sets aside its authority. The religion of the State is one thing; the religion of the individuals who may happen to be at the head of affairs is quite another. The religion of the State is embodied in its constitution, as the concrete form of its organic life.
"Your honourable body will perceive that the contemplated measure has no reference to a union or alliance betwixt the Church and State. To any such scheme the Presbyterians, and, we think we can safely venture to say, the entire Christian people of these States, are utterly opposed. The State, as such cannot be a member, much less, therefore, can it exercise the function of settling the creed and the government, of a Church. The provinces of the two are entirely distinct: they differ in their origin, their nature, their ends, their prerogatives, their powers and their sanctions. They cannot be mixed or confounded without injury to both. But the separation of Church and State is a very different thing from the separation of religion and the State. Here is where our fathers erred. In their anxiety to guard against the evils of a religious establishment, and to preserve the provinces of Church and State separate and distinct, they virtually expelled Jehovah from the government of the country, and left the State an irresponsible corporation, or responsible only to the immediate corporators. They made it a moral person, and yet not accountable to the Source of all law. It is this anomaly which we desire to see removed; and the removal of it by no means implies a single element of what is involved in a national Church.
"The amendment which this General Assembly ventures respectfully to crave we have reason to believe is earnestly desired, and would be hailed as an auspicious omen by the overwhelming majority of the Christian people of these Confederate States. Is it not due to them that their consciences, in the future legislation of the country, should be protected from all that has a tendency to wound or grieve them? They ask no encroachments upon the rights of others. They simply crave that a country which they love should be made much dearer to them, and that the Government which they have helped to frame they may confidently commend to their Saviour and their God, under the cheering promise that those who honour Him He will honour. Promotion cometh not from the East, nor from the West, nor from the South. God is the ruler among the nations; and the people who refuse Him their allegiance shall be broken with a rod of iron, or dashed in pieces like a potter's vessel. Our Republic will perish like the Pagan republics of Greece and Rome, unless we baptize it into the name of Christ. "Be wise now therefore, O ye kings: be instructed, ye judges of the earth . . . Kiss the Son, lest he be angry, and ye perish from the way, when his wrath is kindled but a little." We long to see, what the world has never yet beheld, a truly Christian Republic, and we humbly hope that God has reserved it for the people of these Confederate States to realize the grand and glorious idea. God has wooed us by extraordinary goodness; He is now tempering us by gentle chastisements. Let the issue be the penitent submission of this great people at the footstool of His Son.
"The whole substance of what we desire may be expressed in the following or equivalent terms, to be added to the section providing for liberty of conscience:
"Nevertheless we, the people of these Confederate States, distinctly acknowledge our responsibility to God, and the supremacy of His Son, Jesus Christ, as King of kings and Lord of lords; and hereby ordain that no law shall be passed by the Congress of these Confederate States inconsistent with the will of God, as revealed in the Holy Scriptures." -- James Henley Thornwell, "Relation of the State to Christ (A Memorial)," The Collected Works of James Henley Thornwell. Vol IV: Ecclesiastical, pp. 549-56. Edited by B.M. Palmer, 1875; reprint edition, Edinburgh: The Banner of Truth Trust, 1986.

Examples of notable theologians who were, or are, unable to attain to covenanted reformation (It is not to be inferred that their work is not of value to Covenanted Reformation. To the contrary, some of their work is of exceptional value to those working toward a Third Reformation.-- sk):
Richard Baxter
Charles Hodge
Gordon Haddon Clark (subscribed to the "American Version (1789)" of the Westminster Confession of Faith.)
John W. Robbins
John Owen
Jonathan Edwards
James Thornwell
C.H. Spurgeon

"Moral habits . . . cannot safely be trusted on any other foundation than religious principle, nor any government be secure which is not supported by moral habits . . . Whatever makes men good Christians, makes them good citizens." -- Daniel Webster

Adler, Mortimer, in GREAT BOOKS OF WESTERN CIVILIZATION, concluded that more problems are caused by the denial of God than by anything else -- it changes the whole tenure of life.

Without church discipline there is no church government.
Without magistracy (judgment, justice, law enforcement, punishment of wrongdoers, criminal prosecution, civil prosecution, equal justice for the "insane" and "mentally ill" (who in most cases are demoniacs), regulation of finance, business, all spheres of human activity -- in the absence of law enforcement, and regulation there is no government. Punishment of wrong doers is the primary function of a nation's government.

*AUGUSTINE, SAINT (AURELIUS AUGUSTINE, BISHOP OF HIPPO), (354-430 AD), (author), Philip Schaff (editor), Marcus Dods (translator), St. Augustine's City of God and Christian Doctrine [A Select Library of the Nicene and Post-Nicene Fathers of the Christian Church - Volume 2], new edition (Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Company, September 2002), 624 pages, English, ISBN: 0802880991. Available (2 volumes, 1872 edition) on the forthcoming SWRB Hard Drive. A Christian classic.
Augustine is said to be the greatest Christian thinker next to the Apostle Paul. Luther set the BIBLE and the CONFESSIONS OF SAINT AUGUSTINE above all other books.
"One of the classic texts of Western civilization [originally 22 volumes it explains the fall of Roman in terms of Scripture-- sk]. . . . DE CIVITATE DEI is an important contribution of interest to students of theology, philosophy, ecclesiastical history, the history of political thought, and late antiquity." -- Publisher's Annotation (from the Cambridge University Press edition)
"Augustine began writing THE CITY OF GOD at age 59 [shortly after the city of Rome had been sacked by the Goths in 410 A.D., much to the surprise, it is said, of both the Romans and the Goths.-- sk] and worked on it, off and on, for much of the next 14 years. The impetus for the beginning of this vast work (and its recurring focus) was the charge of Pagans (polytheists) that Christianity was responsible for the decay and demise of the Roman Empire. The charge put forward the claim that the prosperity and social stability of the state was dependent upon polytheistic worship. In response, Augustine arrays several lines of argument, rebutting the assumed 'goodness' of the Pagan state, as such, and detailing the ethical/moral and logical failings of Paganism. Augustine displays tremendous scholarship, employing the writings of Paganism's greatest historians and philosophers in his case against their religious claims. The result is a giant literary, philosophical, historical, theological and exegetical work. . . .
"Against the 'city', i.e., society, of many gods, there is but one alternate society, this Augustine calls The City of God, adopting the expression found in several of King David's psalms. Not only is the society of many gods the society of polytheists, it is also the 'city' of pantheists, atheistic materialists and philosophical Cynics. In the case of the Cynics and atheists, these false gods are the myriad gods of self, indeed, at least as many gods (selves) as there are believers in them. Thus there are two 'cities,' two loves, two ways to understand the big questions of existence, two destinations. Says Augustine:

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

*Baxter, Richard, William Lamont (editor) A Holy Commonwealth (Cambridge Texts in the History of Political Thought. New York, NY: Cambridge University Press, 1994). ISBN: 0521405807.
"Written in 1659 by the Puritan minister (1615-91) who publicly repudiated the work in 1670, this modern edition of a controversial text represents a candid confession as to why a conservative Puritan fought for Parliament in the Civil War and gave his support to the Cromwells." -- Publisher's Annotation

BEGG, JAMES, Anarchy in Worship or Recent Innovation Contrasted with the Constitution of the Presbyterian Church and the Vows of Her Office-Bearers (1875). Available on the forthcoming SWRB Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #3, ISBN: 0921148712 9780921148715.
"The principles upheld in this book are extremely important today, for as the title page notes 'When nations are to perish in their sins, 'Tis in the Church the leprosy begins.' Begg lays his foundations in the second commandment and deals with all man-made innovations in the worship of God. The four types of innovators exposed are especially interesting, being: 1.) the presumptuous and blasphemous innovator; 2.) the popularity-hunting innovator; 3.) the politic and scheming innovator; 4.) the asthetic innovator. Women preachers, drama, dance and numerous other modern inventions in public worship would all be rejected outright if these Biblical principles were faithfully followed. Herein we also see why those holding to the Scriptural law of worship and the Westminster Confession of Faith (1646) must reject musical instruments in public worship as just another Popish and Judaizing innovation -- a resurrecting of the abrogated ceremonial law -- and thus a denial of the finished work of Christ. The discussion of vows taken by office holders to the Westminster Confession of Faith (1646), as they relate to worship, is also extremely important and should be read not only by all elders who have bound themselves to uphold the WCF [1646], but also by all Christians who love the truth and want to maintain the church in purity." -- SWRB

Brett, Thomas. The independency of the Church upon the state, as to its pure spiritual powers: proved from the Holy Scriptures, and the writings of the primitive Fathers. With answers to the most material objections. By Thomas Brett, LL.D. London, 1717. (ECCO) Gale Document Number CW3320236434

*BROWN, THOMAS, Church and State: A Narrative of the Struggle for Independence From 1560 to 1843 (Cerlox Bound Photocopy Series. Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books) and ATLA 1988-0160.
"Hits all the historical high points surrounding the great Scottish struggle for the spiritual independence of the church -- against unbiblical usurpation by statist forces. From Knox to the author's day, the cause of civil liberty and the interests of vital (Reformed) religion, in church and state, are both set forth." -- SWRB

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

Calvin, John, A Sermon on the Duty of Civil Rulers to Enforce and Defend the True Religion and True Godliness in their Realms by drawing out the sword against all Heretics and others who trouble the Church, and by strictly punishing whoredom, drunkenness, dancing, stageplays, &c., John Calvin
Available on the forthcoming SWRB Hard Drive.
A sermon on 1 Timothy 2:1-2.
http://www.truecovenanter.com/calvin/calvin_12_on_Timothy.html

Carson, Herbert M., Christians and the State (London, England: Tyndale Press, 1957). 90415
"A brief, informative study. Evangelical." -- Cyril J. Barber

Cobbett, William, ???A History of the Last Hundred Days of English Freedom
With an introduction, "Main events of Cobbett's life," and a biographical index.

*Cunningham, John, The Church History of Scotland: From the Commencement of the Christian Era to the Present Time [90071]

*CUNNINGHAM, WILLIAM, Church and State, the Biblical View: A Compilation of Articles From Some of the Best Christian Minds in History (Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books). A Christian classic. ISBN-10:
"A compilation of articles from some of the best Christian minds in history, including Cunningham, Smeaton, M'Crie, Symington, Gillespie, the Westminster Divines, Bannerman, Owen and Shaw. This book shows that, generally speaking, the leaders of the Reformed faith have all come to substantial agreement regarding what the Scriptures teach about Christ's Kingship over the nations and the Church. Establishmentarianism is clearly seen to be the historically Reformed consensus, and this has a huge impact on the way one views both the Church and the state, in relation to Scripture." -- SWRB

*CUNNINGHAM, WILLIAM, The Westminster Confession on the Relations Between Church and State (1843) (Cerlox Bound Photocopy Series. Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books).
"Chapter eight excerpted from Discussions on Church Principles. Answers the false claims that the Westminster Divines contradicted themselves on this issue and/or that they were Erastians. Proves that changes made to the original Westminster Confession, concerning church and state issues, were in error -- clearly demonstrating why this is so." -- SWRB

*DAVIES, SAMUEL, The Divine Government the Joy of the World. Available on the forthcoming SWRB Hard Drive.
"Expands upon the reign and rule of King Jesus and the great blessings that this entails." -- SWRB
The Divine Government the Joy of the World, Samuel Davies
http://books.google.com/books?id=q2msGwAACAAJ&ie=ISO-8859-1&output=html

*Davies, Samuel (editor), et al, The Godly Family: A Series of Essays on the Duties of Parents and Children (Soli Deo Gloria, December 29, 1998), ISBN: 1877611735 9781877611735, 341 pages.
"Gary Ezzo has collected 16 essays and sermons from 17th and 18th century pastors on ordering a godly home. The book is divided into four section: 1) The Importance of Family Religion, 2) The Duties of Parents, 3) The Duties of Children, 4) The Eternal Family. . . . All of these have been retypeset and updated for easier reading." -- Publisher's Annotation
"The necessity and excellence of family religion / by Samuel Davies -- The great duty of family religion / by George Whitfield -- A plain and serious address on the important subject of family religion / by Philip Doddridge -- Parental duties illustrated / by Samuel Worcester -- The duties of parents towards their children / by Henry Venn -- Disciplining children / by Arthur Hildersham -- On the method of instructing children / by Henry Venn -- Four sermons on the religious education of children / by Philip Doddridge -- Blessings consequent upon parental fidelity / by Thomas Houston -- The duties of children to their parents / by Samuel Stennett -- The duties of children / by Henry Venn -- Heaven considered as a family / by Samuel Stennett."

DAVIES, SAMUEL, The Necessity and Excellence of Family Religion (Cerlox Bound Photocopy Series. Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books). Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #22, ISBN: 0921148143 9780921148142. Available on The Amazing Christian Library, DVD Four, CD #24.
"Promotes daily family worship based on an indirect application of 1 Tim. 5:8, 'But if any provide not for his own, and especially for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel'." -- SWRB

Fox, John. An earnest persuasive to a manly defence of our happy constitution in church and state; a sermon, preached in the parish-church of Kildwick-Piercy, in the county of York, on Friday, February 17, 1758, . . . By John Fox, . . . York, 1758. (ECCO) Gale Document Number CW3319916615

*GILLESPIE, GEORGE, Ezekiel's Vision of Millennial Glory, Preparation for Coming Reformation and a Remedy for Backsliding and Lukewarmness. Available (THE PURITAN FAST SERMONS, 1640-1652, THE WORKS OF GEORGE GILLESPIE, and as two MP3 files) on the forthcoming SWRB Hard Drive. Available (two MP3 files) on Reformation Bookshelf CD #18, ISBN: 0921148933 9780921148937.
"This sermon was originally preached to England's House of Commons 'At Their Late Solemn Fast, Wednesday, March 27, 1644.' It is taken from volume one of Gillespie's two volume WORKS. It gives great insight into the covenanted unity, uniformity and worldwide Reformation sought by the majority of the Westminster Divines and the best of the civil leaders of Gillespie's day. Gillespie searchingly deals with the individual, the church and the state, while painting a Scriptural picture of prophesied earthly victory (Isa. 2:2-5, Ezek 47:1-12, etc.) -- in classic historicist postmillennial style -- which is sure to stir even the coldest Christian heart. He shows how the worst disease the land can suffer is corruption in religion (particularly as exhibited in false worship), rebukes those opposing the Solemn League and Covenant and calls upon all to maintain (and even improve upon) the Reformation attainments 'whereunto we have already attained' (Phil. 3:16). It is also interesting to note, especially since this sermon was preached before civil rulers, that though Gillespie points out the need for humility, repentance, prayer, tears, godly affections, sanctified minds and honorable actions, he does not forget to mention the importance of a covenanted army in this great cause of Christ's covenanted Reformation. Also noted is the destruction of Antichrist, the calling and conversion of the Jews (Rom. 11), the two witnesses and the 1260 year apostasy. Gillespie closes with an appeal to the English House of Commons, with whom the Scots had 'joined in covenant and in arms,' to be faithful 'according to the word he (God--RB) hath covenanted with you (i.e. in the Solemn League and Covenant--RB), so his spirit remaineth among you' -- exhorting these magistrates to 'fear not' but to 'be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.' This is classic Covenanter preaching, among the best sermons you may ever hear!" -- SWRB

Hall, David W., The Early Church and the State
http://capo.org/premise/96/feb/p960208.html

*Hall, David W., Savior or Servant? Putting Government in its Place, ISBN: 0965036715 9780965036719.
Table of Contents
"Savior or Servant? is the single best volume of Christian thinking on the issue of the increasingly intrusive state . . . Theology at its very best: orthodox, relevant, and provocative." -- George Grant
"SAVIOR OR SERVANT? PUTTING GOVERNMENT IN ITS PLACE is an attempt to define the role of the state: Shall it be a minister or a Messiah? Using ancient but timeless information, David W. Hall has surveyed the Bible and arrived at a coherent theology of the state. This study succeeds in identifying the responsibilities that the civil state is mandated to do, permitted to do, and prohibited from doing. Along the way, it is discovered that all political schemes and issues are fraught with theological value. Moreover, the most enduring grid to keep government in its rightful place is found in the Bible. Drawing upon thousands of verses and hundreds of thinkers, this volume is comprehensive yet readable. Theologians from Augustine to Calvin and from Aquinas to Barth are studied and presented in a non-technical manner. The Christian who is interested in politics should absorb these summaries before launching out into unstudied political activism. Rather than adopting a politics-as-usual posture, Hall challenges partisans from the right and from the left. He summons Christians to the old paths, which God's Word has occupied for centuries. Discussed in these chapters are perennial matters of practical importance, such as: taxation; resistance to evil governments; methods of influence; the escalation of rights; limited government; moral qualities for leaders; separation of powers. This book will provide excellent fodder for discussion and guidance. It returns spiritual principles to their place, while seeking to put government in its proper place.
SAVIOR OR SERVANT? is a revival of a classic approach to limited government. In a time when nations are finally beginning to shrink bloated governments, a surprising source commends itself as an able assistant in reform. The scriptural view of the state, removed from the varied fads of political science, provides an enduring perspective by which to measure all states. This study begins with a survey of biblical teaching on pressing matters of state today. Following the contours of the Old and New Testaments, SAVIOR OR SERVANT? calls all levels of government to a servant posture, rather than allowing officials to dominate. A historical tracing of the best and most pertinent that theology has to offer on the subject is contained in these pages." -- Publisher's Annotation
From Reformation to Revolution: 1500-1650, Chapter 10: Savior or Servant? Putting Government in Its Place
http://capo.org/premise/96/mar/p960304.html

*JOHNSTON, JOHN C., Treasury of the Scottish Covenant (Cerlox Bound Photocopy Series. Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books, 1997). Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #27, ISBN: 0921148240 9780921148241. Available on The Amazing Christian Library, DVD Five, CD #25, ATLA 1988-6070. A Christian classic.
"A massive listing (over 671 pages) covering Covenanting literature from the period of the Reformation to its publication in 1887. Contains not only the principal literary productions of the Covenanters (in the course of the long-sustained and heroic resistance offered by them to the spiritual despotism thrust against them in both church and state), but all of the chief historical documents connected with this period of history. Inspiration and courage can be drawn from the memories and associations of these events and writings. Here is one example of what you will find (from page 349 in the book): '(Richard) Camerons' head and hands, cut from his body at Airsmoss, were taken to his father, then suffering in prison in Edinburgh for the Covenant. He was asked if he knew them. 'His words,' says Dr. Kerr, 'were surely the most touching of all the memories of that cruel time: 'I know, I know them! they are my son's, my dear son's! It is the Lord: good is the will of the Lord, who cannot wrong me nor mine, but has made goodness and mercy to follow us all our days.' After which, by order of the Council, his head was fixed upon the Netherbow Port, and his hands beside it, with the fingers upward, a kind of preaching 'at the entry of the city, at the coming in at the doors,' that told more for his cause and against the persecutors than all the words he could have spoken.' A must for every serious theological student, religious library, or rare book collector who has any interest in Reformation thought and/or literature. It is a veritable gold mine of information, facts, documents, book listings and more!" -- SWRB

*Kelly, Douglas F., The Emergence of Liberty in the Modern World: The Influence of Calvin on Five Governments From the 16th Through 18th Centuries (Philadelphia, PA: The Presbyterian and Reformed Publishing Co.). ISBN: 0875522971.
"Examines Calvin's influence on the civil governments of Geneva, Huguenot France, Knox's Scotland, Puritan England, and Colonial America. Shows how Calvin's legacy continues to bear upon the issues that guide and agitate Western nations today." --Publisher's Annotation

*Kennedy, D. James, with Jim Nelson Black, Character and Destiny: A Nation in Search of Its Soul (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan Publishing House, 1994), ISBN: 0310443806 9780310443803.
"America faces a crisis of moral authority. In this penetrating, informative book, Dr. D. James Kennedy takes readers to the core of today's cultural erosion. The United States' rich heritage of Christian liberty is now being corrupted by those who are trying to rewrite or reinterpret history. Even our traditional values are being undermined by our educational system. More than ever, we need to assert the truth -- the truth of the existence of sin and of the absolute nature of morality." -- Publisher's Annotation
Dr. Kennedy regards this work as his most important book to date.

*Kennedy, D. James with Jerry Newcombe, What if Jesus Had Never Been Born? The Positive Impact of Christianity in History, ISBN: 0785271783 9780785271789.
Hospitals, universities, literacy and education, capitalism and free-enterprise, representative government, separation of political powers, justice and common law, civil liberties, abolition of slavery, modern science, and so forth can all be attributed to Christianity.

*Kennedy, D. James, with Jerry Newcombe, What if the Bible Had Never Been Written? (Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson Publishers), ISBN: 0785271546 9780785271543.
"Following its predecessor, WHAT IF JESUS HAD NEVER BEEN BORN, WHAT IF THE BIBLE HAD NEVER BEEN WRITTEN is a veritable compendium of the major accomplishments of the western world. D. James Kennedy demonstrates quite capably that many of the most fundamental stages of advancement for mankind over the last 2000 years began with the impetus of people whose lives were influenced by the Holy Scriptures. The book reads easily and keeps the attention of the reader as the author moves from one aspect of human development to another. He also explodes some myths along the way with clear and concise excerpts from personal letters, writings and biographies of the individuals about whom he writes. All in all, I would recommend this book to those who question the validity and potency of the Bible and to those who need to bolster their faith and resolve in the the Book of books." -- Reader's Comment

Kerr, James, Church and State: Three Lectures. I. Religious Equality -- National Disaster. II. Erastian Establishment -- Ecclesiastical Dishonour. III. Scriptural Establishment -- Imperial Glory
http://www.covenanter.org/JKerr/churchandstate.htm

Koo Jeon, Jeong, Covenant Theology: John Murray's and Meredith G. Kline's Response to the Historical Development of Federal Theology in Reformed Thought

McCLURE, DONALD, First Amendment a Master Piece of Satan Contra Antiestablishmentarianism (Cerlox Bound Photocopy Series. Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books).
"This article was sent to 278 members of the Canadian Parliament. It debunks the idea that it is right for majorities to determine law through their elected officials in opposition to God's holy law. It also opposes the false theories of human rights found in the first amendment to the Constitution of the United States. In short, and in agreement with both the Belgic and Westminster Confessions, it opposes 'the presumption that a government, ordained of God, can be neutral, and can make no law stating that Jesus Christ is King of the Nation, and that it can hold all religions, which are repugnant to the Gospel of Jesus Christ, equal before it'." -- SWRB

*M'CRIE, THOMAS (1772-1835), Statement of the Difference . . . Particularly on the Power of Civil Magistrates Respecting Religion, National Reformation, National Churches, and National Covenants, 1871. Alternate title: STATEMENT OF THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE PROFESSION OF THE REFORMED CHURCH OF SCOTLAND, AS ADOPTED BY SECEDERS, AND THE PROFESSION CONTAINED IN THE NEW TESTIMONY AND OTHER ACTS LATELY ADOPTED BY THE GENERAL ASSOCIATE SYNOD . . . Available (WORKS OF THOMAS M'CRIE) on the forthcoming SWRB Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #25, ISBN: 0921148208 9780921148203. Available on The Amazing Christian Library, DVD One, CD #6. A Christian classic.
" 'The ablest exposition in the English language of the Establishment Principle . . . Dr. (George) Smeaton describes the Statement as a masterly defense of the principles of establishments as Scripture truth: and the most complete vindication ever given to the world of the position occupied by the Reformed Church of Scotland, on the whole subject of national religion and the magistrates legitimate power in promoting it. 'The same thoroughness,' wrote the late Rev. D. Beaton, 'which gave such abiding value to his great biography of Knox, is shown in this, his less known work . . . Dr. McCrie in his STATEMENT shows that all the Confessions of the Protestant and Presbyterian Churches of the Reformation, both in Britain and on the Continent of Europe, held and maintained the Establishment Principle. 'These harmoniously agree,' he writes, 'in declaring as with one mouth that civil authority is not limited to the secular affairs of men, and that the public care and advancement of religion is a principle part of the official duty of magistrates.' He goes on to give extracts from THE CONFESSION OF HELVETIA; THE CONFESSION OF BOHEMIA; THE CONFESSION OF SAXONY; THE FRENCH CONFESSION; THE BELGIC OR DUTCH CONFESSION; THE CONFESSION OF THE ENGLISH CONGREGATION IN GENEVA; THE SCOTS CONFESSION AND THE WESTMINSTER CONFESSION OF FAITH (1646). 'Such is the harmony of doctrine in the Protestant churches on this head,' he remarks, 'expressed in their confessions and public formularies drawn from the Word of God; a harmony which deserves great attention, and from which none should rashly depart' (as cited in CHRIST'S KINGSHIP OVER THE NATIONS by C.J. Brown). Concerning the doctrine of national obedience to Christ, M'Crie demonstrates in the most convincing way that there are few doctrines 'of the practical kind, in which the best interests of mankind and the general state of religion in the world, are more deeply concerned, than in the right and wrong determination of this question.' Contains an excellent preface by George Smeaton. Considered one of the definitive works on Church/State relations, defending the historic Reformed position. An extremely rare and very expensive item if located as a rare book." -- SWRB
Statement of the Difference . . . Particularly on the Power of Civil Magistrates Respecting Religion, National Reformation, National Churches, and National Covenants, 1871, 1807
http://www.covenanter.org/McCrie/Statement/statementtitle.htm

*North, Gary, Political Polytheism: The Myth of Pluralism (Tyler, TX: Institute for Christian Economics, 1989). 90577
"Political pluralism is not simply a political philosophy; it is a theology. This theology teaches that there must never be a nation that identifies itself with any religion." -- Publisher's Annotation
"This book presents a new vision of politics and a new vision of America, a vision self-consciously tied to the Bible. . . . Dr. North, a trained historian, seeks to lead us from this downward spiral to full recovery." -- GCB
Institute for Christian Economics Freebooks.com
http://www.freebooks.com/

Muirhead, John. Dissertations on the foederal transactions between God and his church, both before and since the canon of scripture was completed. By John Muirhead, . . . Kelso, 1782. (ECCO) Gale Document Number CW3321936861

*Morey, Robert, The New Atheism and the Erosion of Freedom (Minneapolis, MN: Bethany House Publishers, c1986), ISBN: 0875523625 9780875523620.
"Exposes the godless suppression of religious freedom today and presents effective ways to convert atheists to Christ. In case you have not noticed atheism/secular humanism is gaining ground. Are you grounded in what these philosophies teach? Can you refute them? Dr. Morey will show you how." -- GCB
The American Atheist Union has said this is the most dangerous book ever written about religion. Includes bibliography.

REFORMED PRESBYTERY, Auchensaugh Renovation of the National Covenant and Solemn League and Covenant; With the Acknowledgement of Sins and Engagement to Duties as They Were Renewed at Auchensaugh in 1712 . . . Also the Renovation of These Public Federal Deeds Ordained at Philadelphia, Oct. 8, 1880, by the Reformed Presbytery, With Accommodation of the Original Covenants, in Both Transactions, to Their Times and Positions Respectively, 1880 edition Available on the forthcoming SWRB Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #2, #25, #30, ISBN: 0921148690 9780921148692.
" 'In 1712, at Auchensaugh, the Covenants, National and Solemn League, were renewed . . . At the renewal the covenant bonds were recognized as binding the descendants of those who first entered into those bonds. The Covenanters, however, sought to display the true intent of those Covenants with marginal notes. These notes explained that the Church of Jesus Christ, in Scotland (and around the world), must not join hands with any political power in rebellion to the crown rights of King Jesus. The Covenanters pledged the Covenanted Reformed Presbyterian Church to the support of lawful magistracy (i.e. magistracy which conformed itself to the precepts of God's Word) and declared themselves and their posterity against support of any power, in Church or State, which lacked biblical authority.' (From 'About the Covenanted Reformed Presbyterian Church' P.O. Box 131, Pottstown, PA 19464). An excellent introduction (historical and moral) regarding the reasons, motives and manner of fulfilling the duty of covenanting with God. Especially helpful concerning the Biblical view of the blessings (for covenant-keepers) and cursings (for covenant breakers) related to covenanting. As noted on page 37, 'the godly usually in times of great defection from the purity and power of religion, and corruption of the ordinances of God's worship, set about renewing their covenant, thereby to prevent covenant curses, and procure covenant blessing; as we find both in scripture record, 2 Chron. 15:12-13; 29:10; 34:30-31; Ezra 10:3, and in our own ecclesiastical history.' Times like ours certainly call for a revival of the Scriptural ordinance of covenanting, for '[t]he nations throughout Christendom, continue in league with Antichrist and give their strength to the beast. They still refuse to profess and defend the true religion in doctrine, worship, government and discipline, contrary to the example of the kingdoms of Scotland, England and Ireland in the seventeenth century' (p. 136 in this book)." -- SWRB
The Auchensaugh Renovation
http://www.covenanter.org/RefPres/auchensaugh.htm

*REFORMED PRESBYTERY (AMERICA, "STEELITE"), DAVID STEELE (1803-1887), JOHN THORBURN (1730?-1788), JOHN COURTASS (d. 1795), et al., Act, Declaration, And Testimony, For The Whole Of The Covenanted Reformation, As Attained To, And Established In, Britain and Ireland; Particularly Betwixt The Years 1638 and 1649, Inclusive. As, Also, Against All The Steps Of Defection From Said Reformation, Whether In Former Or Later Times, Since The Overthrow Of That Glorious Work, Down To This Present Day (1876), (A new edition of the Ploughlandhead Testimony of 1761, the subordinate standard of the "Steelite" Reformed Presbytery, 1850). Available on the forthcoming SWRB Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #1, ISBN: 0921148674 9780921148678.
"Upholds the original work of the Westminster Assembly and testifies to the abiding worth and truth formulated in the Westminster family of documents. Upholds and defends the crown rights of King Jesus in church and state, denouncing those who would remove the crown from Christ's head by denying His right to rule (by His law) in both the civil and ecclesiastical spheres. Testifies to the received doctrine, government, worship, and discipline of the Church of Scotland in her purest (reforming) periods. Applies God's Word to the Church's corporate attainments 'with a judicial approbation of the earnest contendings and attainments of the faithful, and a strong and pointed judicial condemnation of error and the promoters thereof' (The Contending Witness magazine, Dec. 17/93, p. 558). Shows the church's great historical victories (such as the National and Solemn League and Covenant, leading to the Westminster Assembly) and exposes her enemies actions (e.g. the Prelacy of Laud; the Independency, sectarianism, covenant breaking and ungodly toleration set forth by the likes of Cromwell [and the Independents that conspired with him]; the Erastianism and civil sectarianism of William of Orange, etc.). It is not likely that you will find a more consistent working out of the principles of Calvinism anywhere. Deals with the most important matters relating to the individual, the family, the church and the state. Sets forth a faithful historical testimony of God's dealings with men during some of the most important days of church history. A basic text that should be mastered by all Christians." -- SWRB
Act, Declaration, And Testimony (1876)
http://www.covenanter.org/RefPres/actdeclarationandtestimony/acttitle.htm
Act, Declaration, & Testimony for the Whole of our Covenanted Reformation (1876 Reformed Presbytery, America, Steelite)
The Project Gutenberg text was prepared by members of The Reformed Presbytery North America using the Reformed Presbytery (America, Steelite) text of the 1876 edition.
http://www.gutenberg.org/files/13200/13200.txt
The electronic text found at ManyBooks.com is the Project Gutenberg text.
http://manybooks.net/pages/presbyteryr13201320013200-8/0.html

Act, Declaration, & Testimony, For The Whole Of The Covenanted Reformation, As Attained To & Established In Britain #1
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=81907517162
Act, Declaration, & Testimony, For The Whole Of The Covenanted Reformation, As Attained To & Established In Britain #2
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=926071233170
Act, Declaration, & Testimony, For The Whole Of The Covenanted Reformation, As Attained To & Established In Britain #3
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=92707111830
Act, Declaration, & Testimony, For The Whole Of The Covenanted Reformation, As Attained To & Established In Britain #4
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=927071140420
*REFORMED PRESBYTERY, "STEELITE," (David Steele [1803-1887], James Campbell, Thomas Sproull, James Fulton) A Short Vindication of our Covenanted Reformation, 2nd edition, revised, and enlarged by a committee of the Reformed Presbytery ("Circular" and "Review" prefixed), 1879 (Cerlox Bound Photocopy Series. Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books), 50 pages. Available on the forthcoming SWRB Hard Drive. Also available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #2 (also #1, #25, and #30), ISBN: 0921148690 9780921148692.
"Until the church comes to terms with what is written in this book it will remain weak and divided. Covenant breakers will not prosper, as this rare item demonstrates from both Scripture and history. The power packed ordinance of covenanting (the National and Solemn League and Covenant in particular), was foundational to the Second Reformation and the work of the Westminster Assembly. 'By the National Covenant our fathers laid Popery prostrate. By the Solemn League and Covenant they were successful in resisting prelatic encroachments and civil tyranny. By it they were enabled to achieve the Second Reformation . . . They were setting up landmarks by which the location and limits of the city of God will be known at the dawn of the millennial day . . . How can they be said to go forth by the footsteps of the flock, who have declined from the attainments, renounced the covenants and contradicted the testimony of 'the cloud of witnesses. . . . All the schisms (separations) that disfigure the body mystical of Christ . . . are the legitimate consequences of the abandonment of reformation attainments, the violation of covenant engagements.' If you are interested in knowing how to recognize a faithful church (or state), when and why to separate from unfaithful institutions, who has held up the standard of covenanted Reformation attainments and who has backslidden (and why), what it means to subscribe to the Westminster Confession (1646) (and why most that say they do so today do not have any idea of what that means), and much more concerning individual, family, church and civil, individual, family, church and civil duties, this is one of the best books you will ever lay your hands on. It chronicles 'some instances of worldly conformity and mark(s) some steps of defection from our 'covenanted unity and uniformity,' noting how it is necessary to take a retrospect of our history for many years; for we did not all at once reach our present condition of sinfuPresbyterian and the Reformed churches lay under the heavy hand of God's judgement in our day, because of the very defections noted throughout this fine work. "We heard (hear) from various quarters the cry, ''maintain the truth, stand up for the principles of the Second Reformation;'' and yet many of those who are the most loud in uttering this cry, appear desirous to bury in oblivion those imperishable national and ecclesiastical deeds, by which the church and kingdom of Scotland became ''married to the Lord''." Are we married to the Lord, or have we thrown off the covenants of our forefathers; are we the chaste bride of Christ, or a harlot who is found in the bedchambers of every devilish suitor (whether ecclesiastical or civil) who tempts us with the favors of this world? Let us cry out, as with 'the noble Marquis of Argyle, upon the scaffold,' when he said, 'God hath tied us by covenants to religion and reformation. These that were then unborn are yet engaged, and it passeth the power of all the magistrates under heaven to absolve them from the oath of God. They deceive themselves, and it may be, would deceive others, who think otherwise.' Not for the weak of heart." -- SWRB
A Short Vindication of our Covenanted Reformation, Reformed Presbytery
http://www.covenanter.org/RPCCov/shortvindication.htm
A Short Vindication of Our Covenanted Reformation
http://books.google.com/books?id=FqwpHAAACAAJ&ie=ISO-8859-1&output=html

*REID, H.M.B., A Cameronian Apostle: Being Some Account of John Macmillan of Balmaghie, 1896. Available on the forthcoming SWRB Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #30, ISBN: 0921148380 9780921148388. Available on The Amazing Christian Library, DVD Five, CD #25.
"The author wrote this book `considering the renewed interest taken at present in questions of Church government and establishment,' noting that `there seemed to be some room for a detailed treatment of a career which covers so interesting a period as that embraced between 1690 and 1750.' Macmillan is an important historical link to those who still fight for Christ's Crown and Covenant. `For many years he fought the battle of the Covenants alone, and he fought it on lines of policy and wisdom.' states Reid. Furthermore, the author continues, `I have tried to indicate his position among the `Suffering Remnant' by calling him `a Cameronian Apostle;' for, during the long period of 36 years, he was the sole ordained minister among the scattered congregations of the `Society' people. The name seems not unfitting, and it receives a certain sanction from the authority of Dr. Cunningham, who styled him the `high-priest' of the Societies . . . Further, Macmillan's story is also the record of the development of a most interesting side of Scottish Church life. He may be said, indeed, to have made the history of what, at last, became the Reformed Presbyterian Church. This is so true, that that Church long bore the popular name of the `Macmillanites.' And the name of Macmillan is bound up with more than one congregation still existing.' An important book for those who would trace the backsliding of modern Presbyterianism (the neopresbyterians) and also be encouraged by the remnant of those who remain faithful to the position of the original Covenanters (the paleopresbyterians). This book's 308 pages includes illustrations and a detailed appendix containing important church documents." -- SWRB

REID, H.M.B., The Kirk Above Dee Water, 1895 (Cerlox Bound Photocopy Series. Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books).
" `This little book (128 pages) . . . embodies a few scattered notices of (the) Balmaghie Church since the year 1615 . . . The dominating figure in the following pages is, of course, the great Macmillan' (Preface). Here 'they went to hear the word of God properly preached' in the Kirk of the Hill Folk, which had never fyled its hands with 'an Erastian Establishment!' (Introduction). An interesting look at a Covenanter congregation." -- SWRB

Richman, Sheldon, Separating School and State (The Future of Freedom Foundation).

*Robbins, John W., Ecclesiastical Megalomania: The Economic and Political Thought of the Roman Catholic Church (Unicoi, TN: The Trinity Foundation), ISBN: 0940931753 9780940931756.
"This book is a detailed examination of the official statements of the Vatican on economic and political matters. It demonstrates the collectivism and totalitarianism of the Roman Catholic Church-State. It is the only such book written by a Christian in the twentieth century.
"This book explores the conflict between Roman Catholic social thought and human freedom, relying on official pronouncements from the Vatican to show that the political and economic theory of the Roman Church-State justifies feudalism, corporativism, liberation theology, the welfare state, and fascism.
"Dr. John W. Robbins attended Grove City College (A.B. 1969) and The Johns Hopkins University (M.A. 1970, Ph.D. 1973). He has served as chief of staff for a Member of Congress [Ron Paul of Texas], editor of The Freeman magazine, Economist for The Heritage Foundation, and Professor of Political Philosophy in The Freedom School." -- Publisher's Annotation

Power tends to corrupt and absolute power corrupts absolutely. Great men are almost always bad men, even when they exercise influence and not authority: still more when you superadd the tendency or the certainty of corruption by authority. -- John Emerich Edward Dalberg, Lord Acton (1834-1902) in a letter to Mandell Creighton, April 5, 1887 quoted by Gertrude Himmelfarb in Acton, Essays on Freedom and Power, pp. 335-36 (1972)

[The] object of the Inquisition [was] not to combat sin -- for the sin was not judged by it unless accompanied by [theological] error. Nor even to put down error. For it punished untimely and unseemly remarks the same as blasphemy. Only unity. This became an outward, fictitious, hypocritical unity. The gravest sin was pardoned, but it was death to deny the donation of Constantine. [The Donation of Constantine was a document forged in the eighth century in which the Roman Emperor Constantine willed the Western Roman Empire to the Pope. The Roman Church taught that the Donation was genuine, and the legal basis for the pope's civil authority, for centuries. -- JR] So men learnt that outward submission must be given. All this [was] to promote authority more than faith. When ideas were punished more severely than actions -- for all this time the Church was softening the criminal law, and saving men from the consequences of crime: – and the Donation was put on a level with God's own law -- men understood that authority went before sincerity.

I cannot accept your canon that we are to judge Pope and King unlike other men, with a favourable presumption that they did no wrong. If there is any presumption it is the other way, against holders of power, increasing as the power increases. Historic responsibility has to make up for the want of legal responsibility. Power tends to corrupt, and absolute power corrupts absolutely. Great men are almost always bad men, even when they exercise influence and not authority: still more when you superadd the tendency or the certainty of corruption by authority. There is no worse heresy than that the office sanctifies the holder of it. . . . For many years my view of Catholic controversy has been governed by the following chain of reasoning: 1. A crime does not become a good deed by being committed for the good of a church. 2. The theorist who approves the act is no better than the culprit who commits it. 3. The divine or historian who defends the theorist incurs the same blame. . . . To commit murder is the mark of a moment, exceptional. To defend it is constant, and shows a more perverted conscience.

The story is much more abominable than we all believed. . . . S.B. [St. Bartholomew's] is the greatest crime of modern times. It was committed on principles professed by Rome. It was approved, sanctioned, and praised by the papacy. The Holy See went out of its way to signify to the world, by permanent and solemn acts, how entirely it admired a king who slaughtered his subjects treacherously, because they were Protestants. To proclaim forever that because a man is a Protestant it is a pious deed to cut his throat in the night. . . .

A man is not honest who accepts all the Papal decisions in questions of morality, for they have often been distinctly immoral; or who approves the conduct of the Popes in engrossing power, for it was stained with perfidy and falsehood; or who is ready to alter his convictions at their command, for his conscience is guided by no principle.

The papacy contrived murder and massacre on the largest and also on the most cruel and inhuman scale. They were not only wholesale assassins but they made the principle of assassination a law of the Christian Church and a condition of salvation. . . . [The Papacy] is the fiend skulking behind the Crucifix.

*ROBERTS, WILLIAM L. (1798-1864), The Duty of Nations, in Their National Capacity, to Acknowledge and Support the True Religion, 1853 (Cerlox Bound Photocopy Series. Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books). Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #25, ISBN: 0921148208 9780921148203.
"Excerpted from THE REFORMED PRESBYTERIAN CATECHISM below, this book deals with the inescapable necessity, of the demand found in the Word of God, for the Civil establishment of Christ as King and Lawgiver over every nation on earth. If you are sick of the cease-fire with humanism, set forth by the syncretistic, Satanic and pragmatic pagan politicians of our day (those who bargain with votaries of Antichrist [the Pope], publicly tolerate all manner of false religions (e.g. Islam) and idolatry, and compose their policy and draw their pretended authority from the beast [and not the Word of God], this book is for you! For all pagan politics is summed up in the words of the Cameronian (Covenanter) political philosopher Alexander Shields, as 'rotting away under the destructive distempers of detestable neutrality, loathsome lukewarmness, declining, and decaying in corruptions, defections, divisions, distractions, confusions; and so judicially infatuated with darkness and delusions, that they forget and forego the necessary testimony of the day' (A Hind let Loose, 1797 edition, p. 20). Pick up this book and begin the political walk in the 'footsteps of the flock,' traveling the covenanting road of Reformation and Scripture (with the magisterial Reformers of the past)!" -- SWRB
On the Duty of Covenanting and the Permanent Obligations of Religious Covenants, being section 11 in the Reformed Presbyterian Catechism, 1853, by William L. Roberts
http://www.swrb.com/newslett/actualnls/PresCatCov.htm
A Hind Let Loose; Or An Historical Representation OF THE TESTIMONIES OF THE CHURCH OF SCOTLAND. . . . by Mr. ALEXANDER SHIELDS, Minister of the Gospel, in St. Andrews. , EEBO.
http://www.covenanter.org/AShields/Hind/Hindletloosetitle.htm
Reformed Presbyterian Catechism, William L. Roberts D.D.
http://www.covenantedreformation.com/EssaysCR/RP%20Catechism/RP%20Index.html

*Rushdoony, Rousas J., Christianity and the State (Vallecito, CA: Ross House Books), ISBN: 9996717755.
"The need to return to a Biblical doctrine of civil government is evidenced by our century's worldwide drift into tyranny. Humanism invariably rushes in to fill the world's theological vacuums: the need of the hour is to restore a full-orbed, Biblical, theology of the state. This work sets forth that theology." -- GCB

*RUTHERFORD, SAMUEL, The Due Right of Presbyteries or a Peaceable Plea for the Government of the Church of Scotland . . . , 1644 Available on the forthcoming SWRB Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #9 and #24, ISBN: 0921148836 9780921148838. Available on The Amazing Christian Library, DVD Three, CD #18.
"Almost 800 pages long, Rutherford here deals with church membership, separation from the visible church, the civil magistrate and religion, communion among churches, the errors of the independents (specifically in New England) and much more. This could be considered the LEX, REX of church government -- another exceedingly rare masterpiece of Presbyterianism! Characterized by Walker as sweeping `over a wider field than most. Most essential points which Gillespie has barely touched, Rutherford carefully considers; as, for instance, the nature of the visible church as such, and its constituent elements. Even in the Erastian controversy he is a necessary supplement to his great contemporary. It is something to me altogether amazing, the mass of thinking about Church questions you have in those writings.' Bannerman, in his CHURCH OF CHRIST calls this a `very learned and elaborate treatise.' Here is a sample of Mr. Rutherford's writing: `A private subtraction and separation from the Ministry of a known wolf and seducer, . . . this the Law of nature will warrant . . . as Parker saith from Saravia, `it is lawful to use that blameless and just defence, if the bad church-guide cannot be deposed.' So the son may save himself by a just defence in fleeing from his mad father, or his distracted friend coming to kill him. Now this defence is not an authoritative act, nor [a] judicial act of authority, but a natural act that is common to any private person, yea to all without the true Church as well as within to take that care in extreme necessity, for the safety of their souls, that they would do for the safety of their bodies' (1642), cited in The Original Covenanter and Contending Witness magazine." -- SWRB
The Covenant Between God and Kings, from A DEFENSE OF LIBERTY
http://www.constitution.org/vct/vindiciae1a.htm

*RUTHERFORD, SAMUEL, A Free Disputation Against Pretended Liberty of Conscience, 1649 edition. Available on the forthcoming SWRB Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #9, #25, and #26, ISBN: 0921148836 9780921148838. Available on The Amazing Christian Library, DVD Four, CD #21.
"Rutherford's FREE DISPUTATION, though scarce, is still one of his most important works with maybe only a few copies of the actual book left in existence. Though Rutherford is affectionately remembered in our day for his LETTERS, or for laying the foundations of constitutional government (against the divine right of kings) in his unsurpassed LEX, REX his FREE DISPUTATION should not be overlooked for it contains the same searing insights as LEX, REX. In fact, this book should probably be known as Rutherford's 'politically incorrect' companion volume to LEX, REX. A sort of sequel aimed at driving pluralists and antinomians insane. Written against 'the Belgick Arminians, Socinians, and other Authors contending for lawlesse liberty, or licentious Tolerations of Sects and Heresies,' Rutherford explains the undiluted Biblical solution to moral relativism, especially as it is expressed in ecclesiastical and civil pluralism! (Corporate pluralism being a violation of the first commandment and an affront to the holy God of Scripture). He also deals with conscience, toleration, penology (punishment), and the judicial laws, as related to both the civil and ecclesiastical realms. Excellent sections are also included which address questions related to determining the fundamentals of religion, how covenants bind us, the perpetual obligation of social covenants (with direct application to the Solemn League and Covenant and the covenant-breaking of Cromwell and his sectarian supporters), whether the punishing of seducing teachers be persecution of conscience, and much more. Walker adds these comments and context regarding Rutherford's FREE DISPUTATION, 'The principle of toleration was beginning to be broached in England, and in a modified shape to find acceptance there. Samuel Rutherford was alarmed, or rather, I should say, he was horrified, for he neither feared the face of man or argument. He rushed to the rescue of the good old view . . . It is not so easy to find a theoretical ground for toleration; and Rutherford has many plausible things to say against it. With the most perfect confidence, he argues that it is alike against Scripture and common sense that you should have two religions side by side. It is outrageous ecclesiastically, it is sinful civilly. He does not, however, take what I call the essentially persecuting ground. He does not hold that the magistrate is to punish religion as religion. Nay, he strongly maintains that the civil magistrate never aims at the conscience. The magistrate, he urges, does not send anyone, whether a heretic (who is a soul murderer -- RB) or a murderer, to the scaffold with the idea of producing conversion or other spiritual result, but to strengthen the foundations of civil order. But if he gives so much power to the king, he is no lover of despotism withal: the king himself must be under law. To vindicate this great doctrine is the object of another book, the celebrated LEX, REX; of which it has been said by one competent to judge, that it first clearly developed the constitutionalism which all men now accept' (Theology and Theologians . . ., pp. 11-12). In our day Francis Schaeffer, and numerous others, have critiqued many of the problems found in modern society, but most have spent little time developing explicitly Biblical solutions especially regarding the theoretical foundations that Rutherford addresses here. Rutherford's FREE DISPUTATION provides a detailed blueprint for laying the foundations that must be laid before any lasting, God-honoring solutions will be found. Furthermore, Rutherford and his writings were the enemies of all governments not covenanted with Christ. This book will give you a very clear picture as to why 'the beast' (civil and ecclesiastical) has reserved his special hatred for such teaching. As Samuel Wylie noted '[t]he dispute, then, will not turn upon the point whether religion should be civilly established . . . but it is concerning what religion ought to be civilly established and protected, -- whether the religion of Jesus alone should be countenanced by civil authority, or every blasphemous, heretical, and idolatrous abomination which the subtle malignity of the old serpent and a heart deceitful above all things and desperately wicked, can frame and devise, should be put on an equal footing therewith" (The Two Sons of Oil; or, the Faithful Witness for Magistracy and Ministry Upon a Scriptural Basis, softcover). Can our generation swallow Rutherford's hard, anti-pluralistic, Covenanter medicine, poured forth from the bottle of the first commandment, without choking on their carnal dreams of a free and righteous society divorced from God (and His absolute claims upon everyone and everything)? Not without the enabling power of the Holy Spirit -- that is for sure! In summary, this book answers all the hardest questions theonomists (and their wisest and best opponents) have been asking for the last 20-30 years (and these answers are much more in depth than any we have seen in the last couple of millennia [less about a century to account for the apostles]). As the reader will discover, Rutherford was a wealthy man when it came to wisdom (and much advanced theologically), and those who take the time to gaze into the King's treasure house, as exhibited in this book, will find that they are greatly rewarded. Furthermore, because of its uncompromising stand upon the Word of God, this book is sure to be unpopular among a wicked and adulterous generation. However, on the other hand, it is sure to be popular among the covenanted servants of King Jesus! This is one of the best books (in the top five anyway) for advanced study of the Christian faith. We have now obtained an easy-to-read, amazingly clear copy of this very rare, old treasure. Great price too, considering that a copy of the 1649 edition, containing this quality of print, would likely cost upwards of $1000 on the rare book market -- though it is unlikely you would ever see a copy for sale!" -- SWRB
The Covenant Between God and Kings, from A DEFENSE OF LIBERTY
http://www.constitution.org/vct/vindiciae1a.htm

*RUTHERFORD, SAMUEL, Lex, Rex (Harrisonburg, VA: Sprinkle Publications), ISBN: 0873779517. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #10, #25 ISBN: 0921148852 9780921148852. Available on the forthcoming SWRB Hard Drive. Available on The Amazing Christian Library, DVD Three, CD #18. A Christian classic.
Lex, rex is Latin for "law is king."
"LEX, REX is `the great political text of the Covenanters' (Johnston citing Innes in Treasury of the Scottish Covenant, p. 305.) `Rutherford was the first to formulate the great constitutional principle Lex est Rex -- the law is King . . . much of the doctrine has become the constitutional inheritance of all countries in modern times.' (Idem.)"
"Gilmour writes [in SAMUEL RUTHERFORD], 'that, as regards religious fervour, scholastic subtlety of intellect, and intensity of ecclesiastical conviction, Samuel Rutherford is the most distinctively representative Scotsman in the first half of the seventeenth century'." -- SWRB
"Without a doubt one of the greatest books on political philosophy ever written. Rutherford here has penned a great Christian charter of liberty against all forms of civil tyranny -- vindicating the Scriptural duty to resist tyrants as an act of loyalty to God." -- SWRB
"That resistance to lawful authority -- even when that authority so called has, in point of fact, set at nought all law -- is in no instance to be vindicated, will be held by those only who are the devotees of arbitrary power and passive obedience. The principles of Mr. Rutherford's LEX, REX, however obnoxious they may be to such men, are substantially the principles on which all government is founded, and without which the civil magistrate would become a curse rather than a blessing to a country. They are the very principles which lie at the basis of the British Constitution, and by whose tenure the House of Brunswick does at this very moment hold possession of the throne of these realms." -- Rev. Robert Burns, D.D., in his Preliminary Dissertation to WODROW'S CHURCH HISTORY
"Though Rutherford is affectionately remembered in our day for his Letters, or for laying the foundations of constitutional government (against the divine right of kings) in his unsurpassed LEX, REX, his Free Disputation should not be overlooked for it contains the same searing insights as Lex, Rex. In fact, this book should probably be known as Rutherford's 'politically incorrect' companion volume to LEX, REX. A sort of sequel aimed at driving pluralists and antinomians insane. Written against 'the Belgick Arminians, Socinians, and other Authors contending for lawlesse liberty, or licentious Tolerations of Sects and Heresies,' Rutherford explains the undiluted Biblical solution to moral relativism, especially as it is expressed in ecclesiastical and civil pluralism! (Corporate pluralism being a violation of the first commandment and an affront to the holy God of Scripture)." -- SWRB
"This [THE DUE RIGHT OF PRESBYTERIES OR A PEACEABLE PLEA FOR THE GOVERNMENT OF THE CHURCH OF SCOTLAND . . . ,] could be considered the LEX, REX of church government -- another exceedingly rare masterpiece of Presbyterianism! Characterized by Walker as sweeping `over a wider field than most'." -- SWRB
A HIND LET LOOSE by Alexander Shields is sometimes referred to as 'Lex, Rex volume two.'
Lex, Rex, or The Law and the Prince, Samuel Rutherford
"Rutherford is to be praised for his teaching that the king is subject to the law of God. The Bible has nothing but condemnation for those who 'frame mischief by a law' and declares rhetorically, 'Shall the throne of iniquity have fellowship with thee?' (Ps. 94:20). Deuteronomy 17 is the classic passage in defense of Lex, Rex, wherein the king is charged to ' . . . read therein all the days of his life: that he may learn to fear the Lord his God, to keep all the words of this law . . . .' (Deut. 17:19)."
http://www.natreformassn.org/lexrex/index.html
Lex, rex: the law and the prince, a dispute for the just prerogative of king and people, containing the reasons and causes of the defensive wars of the kingdom of Scotland, and of their expedition for the ayd and help of their brethren of England. In which a full answer is given to a seditious pamphlet, intituled, Sacro-sancta regum majestas, penned by J. Maxwell. By S. Rutherford. [Followed by] De jure regni apud Scotos; a dialogue, tr. by R. Macfarlan (repr. from the ed. of 1799).
http://books.google.com/books?id=jtYDAAAAQAAJ&ie=ISO-8859-1&output=html
Lex, Rex, "Lawfulness to Resist Tyranny" (Samuel Rutherford)
http://www.geocities.com/CapitolHill/7947/LexRex.html
The Covenant Between God and Kings, from A DEFENSE OF LIBERTY
http://www.constitution.org/vct/vindiciae1a.htm

*SHAW, J.W., Hephzibah Beulah. Our Covenants the National and Solemn League; and Covenanting by the Reformed Presbyterian Synod in America: Considered, 1872 (Cerlox Bound Photocopy Series. Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books).
"A very useful, easy-to-read, introductory work (by an RPCNA minister) to the topics it deals with. General Scriptural pripciples upon which this book is based are:
1. Departure from former laudable attainments, is a great evil, severely threatened in the Holy Scriptures; and that for which every one, who is guilty, must be accountable to the Righteous Judge of all the earth.
2. They who consent unto the unrighteous deeds of others, are chargeable with guilt, as well as the principal actors.
3. Societies, or individuals, having once publicly and solemnly vowed unto the Most High God; and still, after the strictest enquiry, remain satisfied in their own mind, that their vows were scriptural; should seriously endeavor to act up to the true spirit and intention of these vows; and no power upon earth, nor any class of men, whether majority or minority, in a nation, can ever possibly dissolve the obligation.
"Chapters include: The National Covenant and Solemn League and Covenant reviewed; Their Binding Obligations Shown; The Possibility That Adherence to them May Be Professed, While They are Virtually Abandoned; The Covenant Sworn and Subscribed by Synod at Pittsburgh, May 27th, 1871; Is It a Renovation or a New Covenant?; The Covenant Does Not Contain All That the Church is Bound to in America; Charges Against the Covenant; Reason Why Some Who Do Not Like It, Swear It; The Covenants National and Solemn League Must Be Maintained." -- SWRB
Shaw, Rev. J. W., HEPHZIBAH BEULAH OUR COVENANTS THE NATIONAL AND SOLEMN LEAGUE; AND COVENANTING BY THE REFORMED PRESBYTERIAN SYNOD IN AMERICA: C O N S I D E R E D
http://truecovenanter.com/covenants/shaw_hephzibah_beulah.html

Smith, B.M., Family Religion, or the Domestic Relations as Regulated by Christian Principles, 1859 (Cerlox Bound Photocopy Series. Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books). Available on The Amazing Christian Library, DVD Four, CD #24. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #22, ISBN: 0921148143 9780921148142.
"Smith's family was greatly influenced by Samuel Davies. Smith himself was a friend of R.L. Dabney. As the editor notes, the importance of this book is seen in the fact that `[r]eform of the family would soon diffuse itself throughout the whole constitution of society, a higher tone of morals would be inspired, and not only would the moral influence of the church be enlarged, but the stability and security of the state would be perpetuated.' Or as the DIRECTORY FOR FAMILY WORSHIP, appended to the Westminster Confession, so wisely points out, `[b]esides the public worship in congregations, mercifully established in this land in great purity, it is expedient and necessary that secret worship of each person alone, and private worship of families, be pressed and set up; that, with national reformation, the profession and power of godliness, both personal and domestic, be advanced.' This was a prize winning essay, covering, in depth, the family and its duties." -- SWRB

*STEELE, DAVID (1803-1887, editor), Reformed Presbytery of North America, The Contending Witness, The Reformation Advocate and The Original Covenanter magazines. Available [THE BEST OF THE ORIGINAL COVENANTER AND CONTENDING WITNESS MAGAZINE] on the forthcoming SWRB Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #18, ISBN: 0921148933 9780921148937.
"The following list of magazines, edited by David Steele, comprise what is likely the best compilation of Christian periodicals ever amassed under one set of bindings. Nothing we know of (before or since), authored as magazine articles related to full-orbed nation shaking biblical Reformation, even comes close to the consistent quality of writing found in these short works on various subjects. Steele himself should probably be considered the best theologian of the nineteenth century, and the other contributors to these magazines were all approaching the same class. A healthy portion of Steele's writing is found in these magazines, as he only wrote a few other books, so the reading is encouraged to sample for himself some of the best writing (defending the Covenanted Reformation) you will find anywhere!" -- SWRB

The Contending Witness magazine, Vol. 1:1-2:6, Apr. 1841 to Feb. 1843 (Bound Photocopy Series. Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books, 1997).
The Reformation Advocate magazine, Vol. 1:1-1:12, March 1874 to Dec. 1876(Bound Photocopy Series. Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books, 1997).
The Origianal Covenanter magazine, Vol. 2:1-2:16, July 1877 to Dec. 1880 (Bound Photocopy Series. Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books, 1997).
The Origianal Covenanter magazine, Vol. 3:1-3:16, March 1881 to Dec. 1884 (Bound Photocopy Series. Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books, 1997).

*SYMINGTON, ANDREW, Headship of Christ Over the Nations, 1841 (Cerlox Bound Photocopy Series. Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books).
"Provides Scriptural evidences for Christ's headship over the nations and the church, demonstrating the importance of this doctrine to the Kingdom of Christ. A lecture excerpted from the book Lectures on the Principles of the Second Reformation, edited by Andrew Symington." -- SWRB
Lectures on the Principles of the Second Reformation
http://www.covenanter.org/RPScotland/Principles/lecturesonthesecondreformation.htm

*SYMINGTON, WILLIAM (1795-1862), Messiah the Prince or, The Mediatorial Dominion of Jesus Christ (Pittsburgh, PA: The Christian Statesman Press [National Reform Association], 1999, 1884), ISBN: 0966004434, and (Hardbound [ISBN: 0921148054] or Cerlox Bound Photocopy Series. Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books, 1990, 1884). The 1884 edition is also available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #13, #25, and #26, ISBN: 0921148917 9780921148913. Available on the forthcoming SWRB Hard Drive.
"It was deemed essential to the salvation of men that their Redeemer should possess the powers at once of a prophet, a priest, and a king. These offices, while essentially distinct, are necessarily and inseparably connected with one another. Such a union has been by some utterly denied; and its denial has laid foundation for some capital errors, which have exerted a pernicious influence on the Christian church. By others it has been criminally overlooked; and the neglect with which it has been treated has occasioned vague and conflicting conceptions regarding the great work of man's deliverance from sin and wrath by the mediation of the Son of God." -- William Symington
"It is the standard work on the kingdom of God in English! There is nothing else like it; it is one-of-a kind! It covers the necessity, reality, and qualifications of Christ's dominion over not only the church, but all nations too. Anything less is to rob Christ of His magnificent, majestic, mediatorial glory -- for He is the King of kings and Lord of lords. 'While books on the priestly work of the Redeemer, and especially on the Atonement, are numerous,' notes the introduction to the American edition, 'no formal and exhaustive discussion of the kingly office of the Messiah . . . and its application to various classes of moral agents is elsewhere to be found . . . It is cause for satisfaction that the only treatise, as yet, upon this subject, is a work of signal ability, lucid in arrangement, reverent in spirit, and with hardly an exception, sound and judicious in its conclusion. Its very merits are probably, in part, the reason why no other work on the same subject has appeared, and until it is supplanted by a better work--an event not likely soon to occur--it will have a value peculiar to itself'." -- SWRB
Chapters include "The Necessity of the Mediatorial Dominion," "The Universality of the Mediatorial Dominion," "The Mediatorial Dominion Over the Church," and "Over the Nations," plus much more.
Messiah the Prince or, The Mediatorial Dominion of Jesus Christ, William Symington
Online free etext of the 1999 Christian Statesman Press edition.
http://www.reformed.org/eschaton/symington/index.html?mainframe=/eschaton/symington/index_mtp.html

*SYMINGTON, WILLIAM (1795-1862), Nature and Obligation of Public Vows; With an Explanation and Defense of the British Covenants, 1841, (Cerlox Bound Photocopy Series. Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books). Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #27, ISBN: 0921148240 9780921148241.
"More from the author of the classic MESSIAH THE PRINCE OR, THE MEDIATORIAL DOMINION OF JESUS CHRIST. A lecture excerpted from the book Lectures on the Principles of the Second Reformation, edited by Andrew Symington." -- SWRB
Lectures on the Principles of the Second Reformation
http://www.covenanter.org/RPScotland/Principles/lecturesonthesecondreformation.htm
The Nature and Obligation of Public Vows: With an Explanation and Defence of the British Covenants
http://books.google.com/books?id=AtL7HAAACAAJ&ie=ISO-8859-1&output=html

*SYMINGTON, WILLIAM (1795-1862), On the Atonement and Intercession of Jesus Christ, 1854 (Cerlox Bound Photocopy Series. Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books). Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #20, ISBN: 0921148976 9780921148975.
"This is the companion volume to Symington's classic MESSIAH THE PRINCE OR, THE MEDIATORIAL DOMINION OF JESUS CHRIST. In part one, we find an extensive work comparing differing views regarding the nature, necessity, matter, value, extent, and result of the atonement. Part two deals with the reality, nature, matter, properties and results of the intercessory work of Christ. Encouraging and precise. Over 300 pages." -- SWRB Nave's Topical Bible: Christ, Prayers of
http://bible.crosswalk.com/Concordances/NavesTopicalBible/ntb.cgi?number=T2807

*Thornwell, James H., Collected Writings of James Henley Thornwell (Banner of Truth, 1991), ISBN: 0524059632 9780524059630. Available on the forthcoming SWRB Hard Drive.
Vol. I. Lectures on the Doctrine of God and on Divine Government (672 pages)
Vol. II. The Doctrines of Grace; Sermons; Discourses on Truth (632 pages)
Vol. III. Theological and Controversial; Rationalist Controversy: Reason, Revelation and Miracles; Papal Controversy; Baptism, Justification, Infallibility, the Apocrypha (824 pages)
Vol. IV. Writings on the Church: Church Officers; Church Operations; Church Disciplines; The Southern Presbyterian Church, etc., Sermons and Appendices (640 pages)
"J.W. Alexander once wrote the following of one of Thornwell's sermons, 'His sermon was a model of what is rare, viz.: burning hot argument, logic in ignition, and glowing more and more to the end.'
"Henry Ward Beecher, the famous Northern liberal minister, wrote after Thornwell's death, 'By common fame, Dr. Thornwell was the most brilliant minister in the Old School Presbyterian Church, and the most brilliant debater in the General Assembly. This reputation he early gained and never lost. Whenever he was present in the Assembly, he was always the first person pointed out to a stranger.'
"Dr. D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones said of him, 'Thornwell was one of the greatest preachers that America has ever produced'." -- SWRB
See particularly, "Relation of the State to Christ" and "National Sins: a fast-day sermon, preached in the Presbyterian Church, Columbia, Wednesday, November 21, 1860.
THE RELATION OF THE STATE TO CHRIST "is the petition of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church in the Confederate States of America to the Congress of the Confederate States of America, then sitting in Richmond, Virginia. It argues that though the newly formed Confederate Constitution was admirable in many respects, it still laboured 'under one capital defect,' that being that it was not 'distinctively Christian.' It asks the Confederate Congress to 'express the precise relations which the Government of these States ought to sustain to the religion of Jesus Christ.' Suggests 'the following or equivalent terms, to be added to the section providing for liberty of conscience: Nevertheless we, the people of these Confederate States, distinctly acknowledge our responsibility to God, and the supremacy of His Son, Jesus Christ, as King of kings and Lord of lords; and hereby ordain that no law shall be passed by the Congress of these Confederate States inconsistent with the will of God, as revealed in the Holy Scripture'." -- SWRB

*Tocqueville, Alexis de, Democracy in America, 2 volumes, revised edition (New York, NY: Harper and Row, 1988), ISBN: 0060915226.
Translated by Henry Reeve and revised by Francis Bowen. Edited by Philip Bradley
"Tocqueville in the early part of the 19th century was commissioned by the French government to travel throughout the United States in order to discover the secret of the astounding success of this experiment in democracy. . . . A classic of political and sociological reporting and analysis . . ." -- Publisher's Annotation
Democracy in America
http://xroads.virginia.edu/~HYPER/DETOC/home.html

Wilson, John F. (editor), Church and State in America: A Bibliographic Guide--The Civil War to the Present (Westport, CT: Greenwood Press). 90414

Woods, Dennis, Discipling the Nations (Franklin, TN: Legacy Communications, 1996).
http://www.ismellarat.com/defaultprime.htm

*Wylie, James A., History of The Scottish Nation, in 3 volumes (London, England: Hamilton, Adams, and Company and Edinburg, Scotland: Andrew Elliot, 1886), Available (PROTESTANTISM IN SCOTLAND in two volumes and THE SCOTTISH REFORMATION [TER-CENTENARY]) on The Amazing Christian Library, DVD Four, CD #21.
http://www.reformation.org/history1.html

*WYLIE, JAMES A., Story of the Covenant and the Service of the Covenanters to the Reformation in Christendom and the Liberties of Great Britain, 1880 (Cerlox Bound Photocopy Series. Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books).
"A fine historical introduction to the battle for Godly government and liberty against the forces of anti-Christian bondage (to national sin and Satanic deception). The Covenanters are responsible, more than any other group historically, for maintaining 'the crown rights of King Jesus' -- even at peril of severe torture and the loss of their earthly lives. Their covenanting principles are still the purest and most faithful form of Christianity known to man, and the revival of these eminently Biblical views are a sure hope for the future! For a more extensive 'Camerionian' treatment of this subject: Howie's Scots Worthies." -- SWRB

See also: The sovereignty of god, The doctrine of man (human nature, total depravity), Justice, the theology of judgment, god's final judgment, the great white throne judgment, the day of the lord, The sovereign grace of god: his everlasting mercy and lovingkindness, God's deliverance of nations, Covenant theology and the ordinance of covenanting, The covenant of redemption, The covenant faithfulness of god, Sexual relationship, Oaths, ensnaring (vows, promises, covenants) and bonds with the ungodly, Background and history of the covenanted reformation of scotland, The national covenant, The solemn league and covenant, The covenanted reformation of scotland short title listing, Biography of covenanters, Acts of faithful assemblies, Covenanting in america, The scottish covenanting struggle, alexander craighead, and the mecklenburg declaration, Confession of national sin and covenant renewal, Corporate faithfulness and sanctification, Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, Bible magistracy, Magistracy turns back the wrath of god, Reform of the church, Corporate faithfulness and sanctification, The application of scripture to the corporate bodies of church and state, The westminster confession (1646), the westminster standards) and related works, The westminster confession of faith (1646) (the westminster standards) and related works: a study guide, Persecution, The one and the many, Unity and uniformity in the visible church: unity in the truth, Toleration, liberty of conscience, pluralism, and neutrality, Separation, The Protestant Reformation, Freedom: a gift of God's Grace, Calvinism, A theological interpretation of american history, Church and state, Conspiracy and corruption, The courts and the law base, Politics, The Counter Reformation, Politics and government, Modern myths and fallacies, The decline of American society, Spiritual warfare, The banking system

Related WebLinks

Relation Between Church and State, William Cunningham
http://www.westminsterconfession.org/a-godly-society/relation-between-church-and-state.php

Brief View of the Evidence for the Exercise of Civil Authority About Religion, Thomas M'Crie
http://www.westminsterconfession.org/a-godly-society/the-exercise-of-civil-authority-about-religion.php

Relation Between Church and State, William Cunningham
http://www.westminsterconfession.org/a-godly-society/relation-between-church-and-state.php

Calvin's Commentary on Hosea
http://www.iclnet.org/pub/resources/text/m.sion/calvhose.htm

Excerpts From Church and State in the United States by Philip Schaff-1888
http://www.geocities.com/CapitolHill/7947/ChurchState.html

American Revisions to the Westminster Confession of Faith (1789)
http://www.opc.org/documents/WCF_orig.html
Appendix A: Major Changes of the Savoy Declaration
http://www.bible-researcher.com/wescoappa.html
Appendix B: Major Changes of the PCUSA (1788-1958)
http://www.bible-researcher.com/wescoappb.html
Appendix C: Major Changes of the UPCUSA and PCUS (1958-1983)
http://www.bible-researcher.com/wescoappc.html

"The Relation of Church and State," Charles Hodge, in a Trinity Review, July/August, 1988
"Hodge was one of the greatest exponents and defenders of historical Calvinism in America during the 19th century." He was the principal of Princeton Theological Seminary between 1851 and 1878.
Read here what he says in support of the "newly discovered" relationship between Church and State in America. Then decide for yourself if he unscripturally conceded to delivering the Church into the hands of the State in the "American Version" of the Westminster Confession of Faith adopted in 1789.
The Biblical doctrine of Christian Magistracy functions correctly only when State leadership is Christian, and when the State can be depended upon to wield their sword to protect true religion. The history of the human depravity in State leadership, non-Christian leaders who destroy true religion instead of protecting it, should not cause theologians to abandon sound scriptural doctrine as stated in the original Westminster Confession of Faith (1646). Such treachery in State leadership would be far less of a problem if the writers of the US Constitution had not removed the religious test clause of Colonial constitutions. This was done in America with the adoption of the "American Version" of the Westminster Confession of Faith in 1789.
Besides arguing in support of the "American Version" of the Westminster Confession "he repudiated the unhistorical position of those who denied the validity of Roman Catholic baptism. . . Hodge supported slavery in the 1830s, and while he condemned the mistreatment of slaves he did not condemn the institution of slavery itself. The background to this attitude, however, was not primarily his understanding of the Bible's teaching on the matter, but rather his churchmanship. . . .
"In 1846, however, he became convinced that slavery was wrong, reversing his earlier anti-abolitionist stance, and he then publically denounced slavery and supported both the Abolitionist movement and President Lincoln (Adams, 2003)." American Covenanters decried the "American Version." See the Covenanter document:
Reformed Presbyterian Catechism, William L. Roberts D.D.
http://www.covenantedreformation.com/EssaysCR/RP%20Catechism/RP%20Index.html
We love Gordon Clark, and we hold him in highest esteem, one of the great minds of the 20th Century. However, astonishingly, he seems to have adopted Hodge's position on the "American Version." This relieves the State of judicial responsibilities to preserve true religion, and delivers the Church into the hands of the State. Hence, today we have the "church effeminate" and, consequently, a destabilization of every sphere of society, including that of the Reformed Church. Could this be one reason for the failure of Church courts today?
http://www.trinityfoundation.org/journal.php?id=92

The Scottish Covenanting Struggle, Alexander Craighead, and the Mecklenburg Declaration
http://www.lettermen2.com/craig.html#scsacmd

America: A Christian Nation or a Secular Nation?
"Forming a civil government was a religious duty imposed by the God of the Bible, and hence all governments must be 'under God. . . .'
"It is the duty of all governments to endorse and promote the true religion, and make sure the statutes they pass conform to the Bible.
"Below are over 100 links to webpages with primary source evidence that the modern notion of 'separation of church and state' is a myth. That slogan has nothing to do with churches, and really means 'the separation of God and state.' Our goal is to persuade you that America was intended to be a Christian nation."
http://members.aol.com/VFTfiles/A-T3.htm

Discipling the Nations by Dennis Woods
http://www.ismellarat.com/defaultprime.htm

The Historicism Research Foundation
http://www.historicism.net

Treason the New World Order
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ISBN%3D0945946147/minnesotaminutemA/102-7479358-0428823

A Theological Interpretation of American History

---

See the Theological Notes, "God Reigns: Divine Sovereignty," at Daniel 4:34, page 1339, in The Reformation Study Bible

Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear. (Hebrews 11:3)
"Ideas have consequences."

Piety commands that the law and church of God be maintained. Justice requires that tyrants and destroyers of the commonwealth be compelled to reason. Charity challenges the right of relieving and restoring the oppressed. Those who make no account of these things do as much as in them lies to drive piety, justice, and charity out of this world, that they may never more be heard of. -- Junius Brutus

Of course, the influence of theology on corporate bodies has its counterpart in influence of theology on the lives of individuals. For example, see Howie's appendix titled `The Judgment and Justice of God' (which chronicles God's judgments upon Reformation apostates and those who persecuted the Covenanters) in Howie, John, THE SCOTS WORTHIES. BIOGRAPHIA SCOTICANA: OR, A BRIEF HISTORICAL ACCOUNT OF THE LIVES, CHARACTERS, AND MEMORABLE TRANSACTIONS OF THE MOST EMINENT SCOTS WORTHIES, 2ND EDITION, CORRECTED AND ENLARGED, 1781, listed below.

Bauer, Jerald C. (editor), Religion and the American Revolution (Philadelphia, PA: Fortress Press, 1976).
"Shows how Puritanism and revivalism were prime forces in the development of the heart and mind that characterized the American Revolution. Controversial." -- Cyril J. Barber

*CALVIN, JOHN, The Necessity of Reforming the Church (1543). Available on the forthcoming SWRB Hard Drive. Available in Library of Presbyterian Heritage Publications and Protestant Heritage Press CD-ROM Library. Available in The Church Effeminate and Other Essays.
Available free online.
http://www.swrb.com/newslett/actualnls/NRC_ch00.htm

Calvin's Commentary on Hosea
http://www.iclnet.org/pub/resources/text/m.sion/calvhose.htm
Calvin's Commentary on Zechariah and Malachi
http://www.ccel.org/ccel/calvin/calcom30.html
Knox, the Covenanters, and the Westminster Assembly (Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books, 1997). "Great historical teaching, Singer at his best! (3 audio cassettes)" -- SWRB
The Covenanted Reformation of Scotland Short Title Listing
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr9chb.html#crsstl
*Baxter, Richard, William Lamont (editor) A Holy Commonwealth (Cambridge Texts in the History of Political Thought. New York, NY: Cambridge University Press, 1994). ISBN: 0521405807.
"A HOLY COMMONWEALTH is Richard Baxter's invisible masterpiece." -- William Lamont
Contains 380 theses on government with commentary when available.
*HOWIE, JOHN, The Scots Worthies. Biographia Scoticana: or, A Brief Historical Account of the Lives, Characters, and Memorable Transactions of the Most Eminent Scots Worthies . . . As also, an appendix, containing a short historical hint of the wicked lives . . . of the . . . apostates and . . . persecutors in Scotland . . . 2nd edition, corrected and enlarged, 1781 (Glasgow: Printed by John Bryce, and sold at his shop opposite Gibson's-Wynd, Salt-market, 1781) and (Cerlox Bound Photocopy Series. Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books). A Christian classic.
The full book and the book series of 22 MP3 files, produced by Still Waters Revival Books, may be found on Reformation Bookshelf CD #1, ISBN: 0921148674 9780921148678.
This same book series of audio files is availabe at AudioSermons.com.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/search.asp?seriesOnly=true&currSection=sermonstopic&sourceid=swrb&keyword=Book%3A+SCOTS+WORTHIES&keyworddesc=Book%3A+SCOTS+WORTHIES
Biographia Scoticana, John Howie
Original from Oxford University, published 1885, digitized May 22, 2006. Described as a reprint of the 1781 edition.
http://books.google.com/books?vid=OCLC34190563&id=5iwAAAAAQAAJ&q=Scots+Worthies+1781&dq=Scots+Worthies+1781&ie=ISO-8859-1&pgis=1
(Gale: Eighteenth Century Collection Online [ECCO.] Gale Document Number CW3300757473). English Short Title Catalog, ESTCT110333.
"Most commonly known as SCOTS WORTHIES, this edition contains Howie's footnotes (defending the Covenanters) and Howie's appendix titled `The Judgment and Justice of God' (which chronicles God's judgments upon Reformation apostates and those who persecuted the Covenanters). It is the only edition in print which contains both these sections intended for publication by the author (as later editors often removed either one or both of these parts of this book). BIOGRAPHIA SCOTICANA covers the history of `noblemen, gentlemen, ministers and others from Mr. Patrick Hamilton, who was born about the year of our Lord 1503, and suffered martyrdom at St Andrews, Feb, 1527, to Mr. James Renwick, who was executed in the Grass-market of Edinburgh, Feb. 17, 1688. Together with a succinct account of the lives of other seven eminent divines, and Sir Robert Hamilton of Preston, who died about, or shortly after the Revolution.' This is one of our best history books (over 700 pages), covering all of the major Scottish Reformers. Howie summarizes his book as follows: `The design of the following was to collect, from the best authorities, a summary account of the lives, characters, and contendings, of a certain number of our most renowned SCOTS WORTHIES, who, for their faithful services, ardent zeal, constancy in sufferings, and other Christian graces and virtues, deserve honourable memorial in the Church of Christ; and for which their names have been, and will be savoury to all the true lovers of our Zion, while Reformation principles are regarded.' Furthermore, the momentous nature of the struggles chronicled in this book are succinctly noted when Howie writes: `the primitive witnesses had the divinity of the Son of God, and an open confession of Him, for their testimony. Our reformers from Popery had Antichrist to struggle with, in asserting the doctrines of the Gospel, and the right way of salvation in and through Jesus Christ. Again, in the reigns of James VI. and Charles I., Christ's REGALIA, and the divine right of Presbytery, became the subject matter of their testimony. Then, in the beginning of the reign of Charles II. (until he got the whole of our ancient and laudable constitution effaced and overturned), our Worthies only saw it their duty to hold and contend for what they had already attained unto. But, in the end of this and the subsequent tyrant's reign, they found it their duty (a duty which they had too long neglected) to advance one step higher, by casting off their authority altogether, and that as well on account of their manifest usurpation of Christ's crown and dignity, as on account of their treachery, bloodshed, and tyranny . . . which may be summed up. The Primitive martyrs sealed the prophetic office of Christ in opposition to Pagan idolatry. The reforming martyrs sealed His priestly office with their blood, in opposition to Popish idolatry. And last of all, our late martyrs have sealed His kingly office with their best blood, in despite of supremacy and bold Erastianism. They indeed have cemented it upon His royal head, so that to the world's end it shall never drop off again.' Moreover, the importance of this book can be clearly seen when Johnston, in TREASURY OF THE SCOTTISH COVENANT, reports that, Walter Scott refers to Howie as `the fine old chronicler of the Cameronians'. . . Howie's book has been for upwards of a century a household word, occupying a place on the shelf beside THE BIBLE and THE PILGRIM'S PROGRESS.' Written for God, country and the covenanted work of Reformation. Stirring history!" -- SWRB
See also: Thomson, John Henderson (editor), A CLOUD OF WITNESSES FOR THE ROYAL PREROGATIVES OF JESUS CHRIST BEING THE LAST SPEECHES AND TESTIMONIES OF THOSE WHO HAVE SUFFERED FOR THE TRUTH IN SCOTLAND SINCE . . . 1680 (Harrisonburg, VA: Sprinkle Publications) and JOHN FOXE'S BOOK OF MARTYRS. ACTES AND MONUMENTS OF MATTERS MOST SPECIALL AND MEMORABLE, the second edition of Foxe's Book of Martyrs Variorum Edition Online (version 1.1 - summer 2006).

Potter, William, Providential Battles: Twenty Battles that Changed the World (Audio CD), (Vision Forum, October 9, 2006), ISBN: 193343130X.
"In this four-part album, "Providential Battles", Christian historian William Potter provides a providential interpretation of twenty of the greatest military battles in the world, which altered the course of history, serving strategic roles in God's unfolding plan. Including battles from ancient history, to the fall of Constantinople to the Turks, to the American War for Independence, to the Alamo and Civil War events, Mr. Potter presents a panorama of providential military highlights. This album concludes with the mysteries of providence that engulfed the Axis powers of WWII in the air, on land, and at sea. 257 minutes on 4 CDs." -- Publisher Annotation

Powell, Jim, Wilson's War: How Woodrow Wilson's Great Blunder led to Hitler, Lenin, Stalin, and World War II (Crown Forum, March 29, 2005).
*Robbins, John W., (editor) The Church Effeminate and Other Essays (Unicoi, TN: The Trinity Foundation, 2002), ISBN: 0940931540 9780940931541.
Contents: Robbins: The Church; Witherow: The Apostolic Church; Ryle: The True Church; Lloyd-Jones: The Primacy of Preaching; Adams: Preaching to the Heart; Ryle: The Fallibility of Ministers; Crampton: Exclusive Psalmody; The Geneva Service Book of 1556: Scripture and the Ordering of Worship; Miller: The Christian Education of the Children and Youth in the Presbyterian Church; Calvin: The Teachers of the Church; Clark: The Presbyterian Doctrine of Ordination; Warfield: Paul on Women Speaking in Church; Clark: The Ordination of Women; Robbins: The Church Effeminate; Luther: On the Councils and the Church; Hodge: The Relation of Church and State; Calvin: The Roman Church-State; Dostoyevsky: The Grand Inquisitor; Burroughs: Episcopacy; Witherspoon: Secrets of Church Polity; McFetridge: Calvinism and the Church; Chan: The New Babylonian Captivity of the Church; Robbins: The Reconstructionist Road to Rome; a Lasco: The Abolition of Vestments; Hanko: Ought the Church to Pray for Revival? Hodge: The Great Revival of Religion, 1740-1745; Luther: The Power of the Word; Clark: What Is Evangelism? Clark: Art and the Gospel; Calvin: The Necessity of Reforming the Church; Ryle: Idolatry; Ryle: Pharisees and Sadducees; Machen: The Good Fight of Faith; Ryle: Apostolic Fears; Machen: The Separateness of the Church; Robbins: The Sin of Signing Ecumenical Declarations; M'Crie: Fundamentalism and Ecumenism; Calvin: The Unity of the Church; Robbins: The Church Irrational; Index; Scripture Index.
The Necessity of Reforming the Church (1543), by John Calvin
This is an online document.
http://www.swrb.com/newslett/actualnls/NRC_ch00.htm
Calvin's Commentary on Hosea
http://www.iclnet.org/pub/resources/text/m.sion/calvhose.htm

Woodrow Wilson is one of the foremost examples of the gave consequences to society of ignoring the doctrines of the Sovereignty of God and of the Total Depravity of Man. Wilson was the son of a Princeton trained Presbyterian Pastor and a scholar who became President of Princeton, and later President of the United States. His Presidency was one of the worst in American history and marked the beginning of a tragic national liberal downspin. It is a political example of the destructive consequence to individuals and nations of liberal theology gone awry -- the abandonment of sound doctrine and Christian magistracy. See:
Time-line of decline in American society after World War I
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr9chc.html#suffrage.
"Wilson was born to religious and well-educated people, mainly of Scottish background. Wilson's father, Joseph Ruggles Wilson, studied for the clergy at the Presbyterian directed Princeton University. He married Janet Woodrow, and early in the 1850s the Wilsons moved to Virginia, where he became minister of a church in Staunton. There, in 1856 Thomas Woodrow Wilson was born, the first son and third child. . . .
"Wilson was the only professional academic to become president. He began his career teaching history and political science at Bryn Mawr College in 1885 and moved to Wesleyan University in Connecticut in 1888. Two years later he went to Princeton, where he quickly became the most popular and highest-paid faculty member. In 1902 he was the unanimous choice to become president of Princeton." -- Miland Brown in "Woodrow Wilson: A Brief Biography," http://www.libraryreference.org/wilson.html
"When formal theological seminaries were organized, one of the first was the Theological Seminary of the Presbyterian Church at Princeton, New Jersey, where instruction began in 1812 [Rules and Precepts That Are Observed in the College at Cambridge in Massachusetts Bay, September 26, 1642 now known as Harvard University) show the centrality of Christ at the oldest college in America. The Regulations at Yale College (1745) show the centrality of Calvinism and the Westminster Confession (1646) in Colonial higher education.-- sk]. Founded by the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church in the United States of America, the seminary held to the Westminster Confession of Faith and Catechisms as its doctrinal standards.
"Princeton excelled under the leadership of distinguished teachers who devoted themselves vigorously and effectively to the development, propagation, and maintenance of the Reformed faith. Among those best known as teachers of the great scriptural system of theology set forth by Princeton's first professor Archibald Alexander were Charles Hodge, J.A. Alexander, B.B. Warfield, and J. Gresham Machen.
"But eventually a movement surfaced to end Princeton's adherence to scriptural theology, and in 1929 Princeton Theological Seminary was reorganized under modernist influences.
"Among the Princeton faculty who loved the Reformed faith were Robert Dick Wilson, J. Gresham Machen, Oswald T. Allis, and Cornelius Van Til. Almost immediately after Princeton's reorganization, these four men founded Westminster Theological Seminary in Philadelphia, and, with others who were invited to join the teaching staff, continued the exposition and defense of the Reformed faith." -- "History" at Westminster Theological Seminary website
"[Woodrow] Wilson had been engaged for several years to Ellen Louise Axson, and they were married in June 1885. Proficient and lively, Ellen proved the perfect mate for her husband. She gave him unqualified support and helped free his mind from everyday pressures. The couple had three daughters [see below-- sk] . . . .
"In June 1916 the Democrats renominated Wilson. Their platform emphasized peace, and argued that Wilson had kept the United States out of the war. The Republicans nominated Charles Evans Hughes, a former governor of New York with an honored record of reform, and an associate justice of the U.S. Supreme Court. On election night Hughes appeared to have had won, but as the returns came in from California in the early morning hours, the race went to Wilson, who won the state by a mere 1983 votes. [Sound similar to Election 2000? Perhaps a recount would have changed Election 1916. The Lucitania was sunk. Wilson then broke his campaign promise to keep the United States out of the war. Americans were not impassioned enough to enlist in the military, and Wilson instituted compulsory conscription.-- sk]" -- Miland Brown in "Woodrow Wilson: A Brief Biography," (www.libraryreference.org/wilson.html)
A partial time-line:
1758 The reunion of the Old Side and the New Side of American Presbyterian Church. "This signaled the end of the influence of Calvinism in American Politics."
1787 There were two conventions in Philadelphia: the Constitution Convention and a convention of the Presbyterian Church.
1788 "In 1787-88, American Presbyterians revised the Westminster Confession of Faith (1646) in order to make it conform to the political pluralism that also lay behind the U.S. Constitution,(26) which was being ratified at the same time that the presbyteries were voting for the revision of the Confession. The Presbyterians removed that clause in Chapter XXIII:3 which had authorized the civil magistrate to call a synod for advice.(27) [The resulting confession is known as "The American Version." Changes were also made to 20-4, 22-3, 23-3,24-4, 25-6 and 31.2. The American Version is found in A Guide to the Westminster Standards: Confession of Faith and Larger Catechism, James Bordwine, (Unicoi, TN: The Trinity Foundation, 1996) with the text of the original Westminster Confession of Faith (1646) printed in italics for comparison. These and future revisions removed Christian Magistracy from the Confession (WCF 1646) and 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. From then on American Presbyterians could "have their cake and eat it too." What has followed has been a precipetous decline in American society. Covenanters prescribe to the original Confession of 1646 that upholds Christ's Crown and Covenant. See "The Westminster Confession of Faith (1646) (The Westminster Standards) and Related Works: A Study Guide" http://www.lettermen2.com/suggest.html which is a Covenanter document.-- sk] This was one of the last traces of the theocratic Calvinism of the Scottish Covenanters -- or Calvin's theocratic Calvinism, for that matter. . . ." -- Gary North
1788 Ratification: U.S. Constitution, revised Westminster Confession. For a detailed discussion see "Authority: Biblical, Confessional, Ecclesiastical" in Crossed Fingers: How the Liberals Captured the Presbyterian Church, by Gary North http://entrewave.com/freebooks/docs/html/gncf/Chapter03.htm
1812 The Theological Seminary of the Presbyterian Church at Princeton, New Jersey, began instruction. "Founded by the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church in the United States of America, the seminary held to the Westminster Confession of Faith and Catechisms as its doctrinal standards." Probably the "American Version" of 1789. -- sk
1856 Thomas Woodrow Wilson was born in Staunton, Virginia, the son of a Presbyterian preacher educated at Princeton.
1885 Woodrow Wilson married Ellen Louise Axson.
1886 Margaret Woodrow Wilson was born. She was devoted to social causes and "studied the religious classics of India extensively." She became fascinated by the writing of Sri Aurobindo during a visit to the New York City Library. (Mira Richards, The Mother on Aurobindo) "She eventually traveled to Pondicherry, India, [in 1941] where she lived in the ashram of Sri Aurobindo, a contemporary of Gandhi." There she was a personal assistant to Aurobindo and The Mother and typed Aurobindo's manuscripts for the IDEAL OF HUMAN UNITY. (Mira Richards, The Mother on Aurobindo) "Never married, she died of uremia on April 24, 1944 [about three years after first arriving-- sk], and is buried in the Protestant cemetery at the ashram in Pondicherry."
1890 Wilson went to Princeton, where he quickly became the most popular and highest-paid faculty member.
1902 Wilson "was the unanimous choice to become president of Princeton" University. Margaret Wilson would have been six years old.
1903 Westminster Confession revised againt (universal love of God); Establishment of the Committee on Church Cooperation. "(The final trace was the Confession's assertion that the failure to take an oath to a lawful authority is a sin [XXII:3]. That provision was abandoned in the 1903 revision, and Machen's Orthodox Presbyterian Church did not restore it in 1936.) From that time on, Presbyterians became defenders of a secularized republican order. They believed that God's civil covenant could be made on a common-ground confessional basis, without a mandatory covenantal civil oath, operating under a providential natural law order that did not mandate Trinitarian confession. . . . From that time on, Presbyterians became defenders of a secularized republican order." -- Gary North
1906 J. Gresham Machen joins Princeton's faculty.
1908 Federal Council of Churches (FCC) begins; led by Roberts Presbyterian Church reorganized.
1913 The presidency and administration of Woodrow Wilson begins (1913-1921). Margaret Wilson would have been 27 years old. See "The Non-duality of Sri Aurobindo and The Mother: A Profile."
1913 Ratification of the Sixteenth Amendment authorizes income tax; the Federal Reserve System was passed into law.
1914 Wilson's first wife dies in August. World War I breaks out in August. Wilson remarried in December to Edith who was like his first wife.
1916 The National Women's Party is founded. Margaret Wilson 30 years old.
1916 "In June 1916 the Democrats renominated Wilson. Their platform emphasized peace, and argued that Wilson had kept the United States out of the war. The Republicans nominated Charles Evans Hughes, a former governor of New York with an honored record of reform, and an associate justice of the U.S. Supreme Court. On election night Hughes appeared to have had won, but as the returns came in from California in the early morning hours, the race went to Wilson, who won the state by a mere 1983 votes. [Sound similar to Election 2000? Perhaps a recount would have changed Election 1916. The Lucitania was sunk. Wilson then broke his campaign promise to keep the United States out of the war. Americans were not impassioned enough to enlist in the military, and Wilson instituted compulsory conscription.-- sk]" -- Miland Brown in "Woodrow Wilson: A Brief Biography," (www.libraryreference.org/wilson.html)
1917 United States joins Allies in European fighting of World War I; Bolsheviks led by Lenin seize power in Russia; women picket the White House for the right to vote. Margaret was 31.
1917 Compulsory conscription enacted.
1919 The League of Nations is founded [under the Treaty of Versailles "to promote international cooperation and to achieve peace and security."]; Margaret Wilson was 33 when the League of Nations was formed in 1919, so the philosophy of Sri Aurobindo could have been influential in the founding of the League of Nations. Margaret 36 years old. "The League of Nations ceased its activities after failing to prevent the Second World War."
1919 The Communist Party of America is founded; Benito Mussolini introduces fascism in Italy; the first public birth control clinic is opened in Brooklyn, New York; Margaret Sanger is arrested for operating a birth control clinic. Margaret Wilson is 33.
1919 Wilson had a near bread down in September. In October he suffered a massive stroke.
1920 The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) founded by Roger Baldwin, Crystal Eastman, Albert DeSilver, and others, some of whom were avowed Communists.
1920 Women win the right to vote with ratification of the Nineteen Amendment; the League of Women Voters is founded. Margaret Wilson 34 years old.
1921 Wilson leaves the White House a broken man. Warren G. Harding became President.
1921 Margaret Sanger establishes the American Birth Control League, the predecessor of Planned Parenthood. Margaret Wilson 35 years old.
1922 Union of Soviet Socialist Republics is established; Mussolini is named prime minister of Italy.
1923 Machen's CHRISTIANITY AND LIBERALISM published. The Pew Charitable Trust sent a copy to every pastor in America.
1923 Adolf Hitler forms National Socialist Party in Germany.
1924 Wilson died.
1924 about 1300 ministers of the United Presbyterian Church in the United States of America "signed and circulated the Auburn Affirmation, a document that denied the infallibility of Scripture and asserted that the Virgin Birth, the miracles of Christ, his Atonement, and Resurrection were unessential." Margaret Wilson 38 years old.
1924 The first U.S. gay rights organization, the Society for Human Rights, is founded in Chicago; Joseph Stalin succeeds Lenin as leader of Soviet Union; new Chinese government is formed with communist members.
1925 John T. Scopes is convicted of teaching the theory of evolution; Tennessee bans the teaching of evolution.
1929 Princeton Theological Seminary was reorganized under modernist influences.
1929 "Almost immediately after Princeton's reorganization, these four men [Robert Dick Wilson, J. Gresham Machen, Oswald T. Allis, and Cornelius Van Til-- sk] founded Westminster Theological Seminary in Philadelphia, and, with others who were invited to join the teaching staff, continued the exposition and defense of the Reformed faith." -- Westminster Theological Seminary
1929 The stock market crashes, beginning the Great Depression.
1933 President Franklin Roosevelt closes all U.S. banks; New Deal legislation is passed including the establishment of the National Recovery Administration and the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA); the Twenty-first Amendment, ending Prohibition, is passed.
1935 President Roosevelt signs the Social Security Act.
1936 "The signers of the Auburn Affirmation showed that they had captured the church by reorganizing Princeton Seminary and placing one of the signers on its governing board, by electing one of their number Moderator of the General Assembly and, what was decisive, by excommunicating those ministers who had insisited on maintaining the Westminster Standards in practice. Thus ministers who rejected the Scripture and all it contains were given authority, while men who believed the Bible and all it contains were ejected as disturbers of the peace. Since that day the Westminster Confession has been a dead letter in that denomination. . . ." -- Gordon H. Clark
1941 Margaret Wilson, at age 55, "traveled to Pondicherry, India, where she lived in the ashram of Sri Aurobindo, a contemporary of Gandhi." There she was a personal assistant to Aurobindo and The Mother, and she typed Aurobindo's manuscripts for the IDEAL OF HUMAN UNITY. (Mira Richards, The Mother on Aurobindo)
1942 The United States enters World War II.
1944 Wilson's, oldest child, Margaret Woodrow Wilson died at age 58. She "never married, she died of uremia on April 24, 1944 [about three years after first arriving-- sk], and is buried in the Protestant cemetery at the ashram in Pondicherry." See "The Non-duality of Sri Aurobindo and The Mother: A Profile."
1945 Representatives of 50 countries met in San Francisco at the United Nations Conference on International Organization to draw up the United Nations Charter. Because Margaret Wilson was devoted to social causes, and because she was the daughter of Woodrow Wilson, who was President during the formation of the League of Nations in 1919 (she was then 33), it could be expected that the philosophy of Sri Aurobindo as expressed in THE IDEAL OF HUMAN UNITY (which Margaret typed for Sri Aurobindo as his personal assistant between 1941-1944) and which was published under the same cover with Aurobindo's WAR AND SELF DETERMINATION, may also have been influential in the formation of the United Nations.
1962 The Supreme Court bars school prayer.
1963 The Supreme Court bars mandatory Bible reading in public schools.
1963 The United States enters the Vietnamese Conflict.
1965 The Supreme Court holds that the "right of privacy" covers the use of contraceptives.
1969 The Stonewall rebellion, at a bar in New York City, starts the modern gay rights movement.
1971 The Twenty-sixth Amendment is ratified, lowering the national voting age from 21 to 18.
1972 The Supreme Court rules the death penalty unconstitutional. This ruling was later reversed in 1976.
1973 In the Roe v. Wade decision the Supreme Court rules that a state may not prevent a woman from having an abortion during the first six months of pregnancy.
1982 The Supreme Court bars posting of the Ten Commandments in schools.
1987 Robert Bork is nominated by President Reagan to the Supreme Court but withdraws in the face of strong opposition.
1993 William Clinton elected President. Poles show majority of Americans are pro-abortion.
Janet Reno sworn in as the first female Attorney General; cult leader David Koresh and many followers die in a Texas compound fire: President Clinton touches off controversy with his attempt to end the ban on homosexuals in the military; suspect arrested in bombing that killed six at the World Trade Center in New York City;
1994 The John Birch Society experienced a "tidal wave of growth, recruiting averaged 79 percent higher than in 1993, literature sales in 1994 were double that of two years earlier, and subscriptions to The New American doubled in 25 months."
1997 President William Clinton is re-elected for a second term; Reproductive rights and gun control are campaign issues; repeated attempt to outlaw partial-birth abortion failed in Congress during the Clinton administrations.
2000 Approximately 35 million American children have been killed in the womb since Roe v. Wade in 1973; approximately 35 million aliens have entered the United States since 1973.
2001 George W. Bush elected President. Poles show that the majority of Americans are anti-abortion. Americans are still unable to overturn Roe v. Wade apparently due to liberal Supreme Court Justices, appointed by liberal Presidents, elected by a liberal electorate, composed of 50 percent women voters.
The number of abortions performed in the United States reaches 35 million. The number of abortions performed world-wide reaches 750 million, more lives than have been lost in all the wars of history.
2005 Approximately 43 million American children have been killed in the womb of their mothers since Roe v. Wade in 1973;
Woodrow Wilson's first child, Margaret Woodrow Wilson (1886-1944) was devoted to social causes and "studied the religious classics of India extensively." She became fascinated by the writing of Sri Aurobindo during a visit to the New York City Library. (Mira Richards, The Mother on Aurobindo) "She eventually traveled to Pondicherry, India, [in 1941] where she lived in the ashram of Sri Aurobindo, a contemporary of Gandhi." There she was a personal assistant to Aurobindo and The Mother and typed Aurobindo's manuscripts for the IDEAL OF HUMAN UNITY. (Mira Richards, The Mother on Aurobindo) "Never married, she died of uremia on April 24, 1944 [about three years after first arriving-- sk], and is buried in the Protestant cemetery at the ashram in Pondicherry."
Margaret was 33 when the League of Nations was formed in 1919, so the philosophy of Sri Aurobindo could have been influential in the founding of the League of Nations. "The League of Nations ceased its activities after failing to prevent the Second World War."
The United Nations Conference on International Organization met in San Francisco in 1945 to draw up the United Nations Charter. Because Margaret was devoted to social causes, and because she was the daughter of Woodrow Wilson, who was President during the formation of the League of Nations in 1919 (she was then 33), it could be expected that the philosophy of Sri Aurobindo as expressed in THE IDEAL OF HUMAN UNITY (which Margaret typed for Sri Aurobindo as his personal assistant between 1941-1944) and which was published under the same cover with Aurobindo's WAR AND SELF DETERMINATION, may also have been influential in the formation of the United Nations.
Call Me Unaccountable: Woodrow Wilson and George Bush, Paul Craig Roberts
"Declaring Wilson to be 'the worst president in American history,' Powell makes a strong case that the rise of the Soviet Union and Nazi Germany were unintended consequences of Wilson's arrogance."
http://www.lewrockwell.com/roberts/roberts100.html
The Non-duality of Sri Aurobindo and The Mother: A Profile
http://www.lettermen2.com/syncret.html
"Timeline of the liberalization of the Presbyterian Church" in Crossed Fingers by Gary North
http://entrewave.com/freebooks/docs/html/gncf/timeline.htm
Heresies Defined and the Necessity of Heresies Explained, by George Gillespie, Scottish Commissioner to the Assembly of Divines at Westminster
http://www.truecovenanter.com/gillespie/ggilles09.html
Clark, Gordon H. Clark, John W. Robbins (editor), Historiography: Secular and Religious (Unicoi, TN: The Trinity Foundation, 1994).
"The Christian doctrine of the sovereignty of God transformed the world's view of history, investing it with a meaning, importance, and grandeur that pagan historiography could never achieve. History is the unfolding of God's purpose and plan. Because God is rational, because God is sovereign, history is not a tale told by an idiot. "The Bible is not only the earliest history book, it is also the most reliable. Centuries before the famed historians of Greece and Rome, Moses had already written the definitive account of mankind's early history as revealed to him by God. The account was not exhaustive, for no history can be, but it contained all that God wished it to contain and nothing else. God, writing through Moses, has given us true history. "HISTORIOGRAPHY SECULAR AND RELIGIOUS will introduce the reader to the principles and problems of historiography and, in so doing, begin to suggest what an enormous debt we owe to the Bible in the study of history." -- Publisher's Annotation
*Robbins, John W., (editor) "Christ and Civilization," 2nd edition (Unicoi, TN: The Trinity Foundation), ISBN: 1891777246 9781891777240.
"A new 48-page booklet. Includes a complete listing (in an additional 16 pages) of the books currently available from The Trinity Foundation."
"Christ and Civilization"
http://www.trinityfoundation.org/PDF/200a-ChristandCivilization.pdf
The thing to be done? Apparently, pickup where David Steele (1803-1887) left off with the Reformed Presbytery (America). The Reformed Presbytery in North American has reconstituted the Reformed Presbytery of David Steele.
The Revolution Settlement of the Church of Scotland: Its Provisions, in several Respects, Inconsistent with the Approved Principles of the Second Reformation, 1841, John Graham
Lectures on the Principles of the Second Reformation
http://www.covenanter.org/RPScotland/Principles/lecturesonsecondref.htm#contents
A Summation of who the Steelites Covenanters are, part 1, post 14052 by Edgar Ibarra on The Covenanted Reformation Club Forum
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/covenantedreformationclub/message/14052
A Summation of who the Steelites Covenanters are, part 2, post 14059 by Edgar Ibarra on The Covenanted Reformation Club Forum
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/covenantedreformationclub/message/14059
A Summation of who the Steelites Covenanters are, part 3, post 14060 by Edgar Ibarra on The Covenanted Reformation Club Forum
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/covenantedreformationclub/message/14060
Reformation Principles Re-Exhibited: An Historical Witness and Brotherly Entreaty. Summary and Analysis of Changes within Terms of Communion of the Reformed Presbyterian Churches of Scotland and America from 1761 to the Present, and a Particular Analysis and Testimony Against the Present Day RPCNA, by Greg Barrow and Larry Birger, Jr., August 5, 2002
http://www.reformedpresbytery.org/books/rpcna/rpcna.htm
Reformed Presbyterian Catechism, William L. Roberts D.D.
http://www.covenantedreformation.com/EssaysCR/RP%20Catechism/RP%20Index.html
"Meeting Reconstituting the Reformed Presbytery (Covenanters) in North America (RPNA)" (Edmonton, Alberta, Canada" Still Waters Revival Books), an audio file.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?sermonID=71402231350
The Reformed Presbytery in North America (RPNA)
The RPNA are Steelite Covenanters. They prescribe to the original Westminster Confession of Faith (1646) which upholds the magistracy of Christ.
http://www.reformedpresbytery.org/index.html
"The Westminster Confession of Faith (1646) (The Westminster Standards) and Related Works: A Study Guide"
http://www.lettermen2.com/suggest.html
Reformed Presbytery in North America (RPNA, and related books and documents on Presbyterian Reformed teaching)
http://www.swrb.com/Puritan/reformed-presbytery-rpna.htm
The Albany Covenanted Reformed Presbyterian Church
http://www.albanycrpc.org/
The Reformed Presbytery in North America -- Congregations
http://www.ecn.ab.ca/prce/churches.html
PRICE, GREG, Biblical Civil Government Versus the Beast; and, the Basis for Civil Resistance (Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books, 1996).
"This is the best modern testimony for the biblical principles of civil magistracy -- which were so prominent during the height of the second Reformation -- that we have seen. . . ." -- SWRB
Biblical Civil Government Versus the Beast; and, the Basis for Civil Resistance, Greg Price
http://www.swrb.com/newslett/actualnls/BibCG_GP.htm
Unity and Uniformity in the Visible Church: Unity in the Truth
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr9cha.html#vcunity
Are the Covenanters a Cult?" by Michael Wagner, PhD
http://www.swrb.com/Puritan/covenanters-no-cult.htm
Mandated use of The Scottish Metric Psalter (1650): A Public Request for Clarification From The Reformed Presbytery in North America (RPNA) (General Meeting)
http://www.lettermen2.com/pricemp.html

*REFORMED PRESBYTERY (AMERICA, "STEELITE"), DAVID STEELE (1803-1887), JOHN THORBURN (1730?-1788), JOHN COURTASS (d. 1795), et al., Act, Declaration, And Testimony, For The Whole Of The Covenanted Reformation, As Attained To, And Established In, Britain and Ireland; Particularly Betwixt The Years 1638 and 1649, Inclusive. As, Also, Against All The Steps Of Defection From Said Reformation, Whether In Former Or Later Times, Since The Overthrow Of That Glorious Work, Down To This Present Day (1876), (A new edition of the Ploughlandhead Testimony of 1761, the subordinate standard of the "Steelite" Reformed Presbytery, 1850). Available on the forthcoming SWRB Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #1, ISBN: 0921148674 9780921148678.
"Upholds the original work of the Westminster Assembly and testifies to the abiding worth and truth formulated in the Westminster family of documents. Upholds and defends the crown rights of King Jesus in church and state, denouncing those who would remove the crown from Christ's head by denying His right to rule (by His law) in both the civil and ecclesiastical spheres. Testifies to the received doctrine, government, worship, and discipline of the Church of Scotland in her purest (reforming) periods. Applies God's Word to the Church's corporate attainments 'with a judicial approbation of the earnest contendings and attainments of the faithful, and a strong and pointed judicial condemnation of error and the promoters thereof' (The Contending Witness magazine, Dec. 17/93, p. 558). Shows the church's great historical victories (such as the National and Solemn League and Covenant, leading to the Westminster Assembly) and exposes her enemies actions (e.g. the Prelacy of Laud; the Independency, sectarianism, covenant breaking and ungodly toleration set forth by the likes of Cromwell [and the Independents that conspired with him]; the Erastianism and civil sectarianism of William of Orange, etc.). It is not likely that you will find a more consistent working out of the principles of Calvinism anywhere. Deals with the most important matters relating to the individual, the family, the church and the state. Sets forth a faithful historical testimony of God's dealings with men during some of the most important days of church history. A basic text that should be mastered by all Christians." -- SWRB
Act, Declaration, And Testimony (1876)
http://www.covenanter.org/RefPres/actdeclarationandtestimony/acttitle.htm
Act, Declaration, & Testimony for the Whole of our Covenanted Reformation (1876 Reformed Presbytery, America, Steelite)
The Project Gutenberg text was prepared by members of The Reformed Presbytery North America using the Reformed Presbytery (America, Steelite) text of the 1876 edition.
http://www.gutenberg.org/files/13200/13200.txt
The electronic text found at ManyBooks.com is the Project Gutenberg text.
http://manybooks.net/pages/presbyteryr13201320013200-8/0.html

Act, Declaration, & Testimony, For The Whole Of The Covenanted Reformation, As Attained To & Established In Britain #1
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=81907517162
Act, Declaration, & Testimony, For The Whole Of The Covenanted Reformation, As Attained To & Established In Britain #2
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=926071233170
Act, Declaration, & Testimony, For The Whole Of The Covenanted Reformation, As Attained To & Established In Britain #3
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=92707111830
Act, Declaration, & Testimony, For The Whole Of The Covenanted Reformation, As Attained To & Established In Britain #4
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=927071140420
*Robbins, John W., Ecclesiastical Megalomania: The Economic and Political Thought of the Roman Catholic Church (Unicoi, TN: The Trinity Foundation), ISBN: 0940931753 9780940931756.
"This book is a detailed examination of the official statements of the Vatican on economic and political matters. It demonstrates the collectivism and totalitarianism of the Roman Catholic Church-State. It is the only such book written by a Christian in the twentieth century.
"This book explores the conflict between Roman Catholic social thought and human freedom, relying on official pronouncements from the Vatican to show that the political and economic theory of the Roman Church-State justifies feudalism, corporativism, liberation theology, the welfare state, and fascism.
"Dr. John W. Robbins attended Grove City College (A.B. 1969) and The Johns Hopkins University (M.A. 1970, Ph.D. 1973). He has served as chief of staff for a Member of Congress [Ron Paul of Texas], editor of The Freeman magazine, Economist for The Heritage Foundation, and Professor of Political Philosophy in The Freedom School." -- Publisher's Annotation
Martin Luther, John Calvin, John Knox, Samuel Rutherford, John Owen, Thomas Manton, The Westminster Assembly, James Renwick, Archibald Mason, Christopher Ness, Francis Turretin, The Reformed Presbytery, David Steel, James R. Willson, Alexander M'Leod, William L. Roberts, James Aiken Wylie, Andrew Wilet, Henry Wilkinson, James Wylie, Patrick Fairbairn, James Aiken, Andrew Wilet, Alexander Hislop, Francis Nigel Lee, Arthur W. Pink, and so forth, and so on, have all believed and argued in print that the seated Pope is the Anti-Christ of the Bible.
The Roman Church-State is "the world's oldest, largest, most powerful and most influential politico-ecclesiastical institution" and it "may also be the world's wealthiest."

*Singer, C. Gregg, A Theological Interpretation of American History 1994 edition, 354 pages (Greenville, SC: A Press, 1994, 1981, 1975, 1974, 1964), ISBN: 0875524265 9780875524269. A Christian classic.
This book portrays "the influence of theology and the changing doctrines in the life of the church on the pattern of American political, constitutional, social and economic development.
"The author shows that the decline of constitutional government in this country is the result of the departure from historical Christian faith and the resulting rise of alien political philosophies. Particularly does he emphasize the intimate relationship between theological liberalism on the one hand and political, social, and economic liberalism on the other. This theological liberalism has been a major agent in the decline of the Constitution in the political life of the people and in the appearance of a highly centralized government." -- Publisher's Annotation
"There is between the democratic philosophy and theological liberalism a basic affinity which has placed them in the same camp in many major political struggles.
"This condition exists because theological liberalism shares the basic postulates of the democratic philosophy. . . .
"Theological liberalism at heart has been a continuing protest against Calvinism, particularly against its insistence on the Sovereignty of God and the Total Depravity of the race. These two Biblical doctrines have often proved to be a stumbling block to theologians within the church as well as to the unbelieving world.
"The result of theological liberalism has been the movement away from constitutionalism and away from liberty, and a movement toward collectivistic society and totalitarian regime." -- C. Gregg Singer, A Theological Interpretation of American History, p. 290
See also: "John Knox, the Scottish Covenanters, and the Westminster Assembly" (tape 3 of 5 in a series of addresses "History Notes on Presbyterianism, Reformation, and Theology") by Dr. C. Gregg Singer on SermonAudion.com
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=12607114250
See also:
Dr. C. Gregg Singer at SermonAudio.com (161 messages)
http://www.sermonaudio.com/search.asp?SpeakerOnly=true&currSection=sermonsspeaker&Keyword=Dr.^C.^Gregg^Singer
"The Erastian Revolution, anno 1689, was "utterly inconsistent with the covenanted constitution of the Reformed Church of Scotland, anno 1648."
In fact, the relationship between Church and State has been in decline since 1661. "In early 1661 . . . the Scottish Parliament passed the Act Rescissory, which established the king as supreme judge in all matters civil and ecclesiastical, and which made owning the covenants [National and Solemn League] unlawful. These acts undid all the works of Reformation from 1638 to 1650 and made it high treason to acknowledge Jesus Christ as head of the church. . . ." See Act, Declaration, And Testimony, 1876, Part II.
Another turning point occurred in 1758 with the reunion of the Old Side and the New Side of American Presbyterian Church. "This signaled the end of the influence of Calvinism in American Politics." For a detailed discussion see:
"From Old School to New School" in Crossed Fingers: How the Liberals Captured the Presbyterian Church, by Gary North
http://entrewave.com/freebooks/docs/html/gncf/Chapter02.htm
An example of the positive influence of theological doctrine on American political development is the Presbyterian General Assembly meeting in 1774, in which the Assembly instructed local congregations to press for the dissolution of ties with Great Britain. The result was a flood of resolutions, the most important of which was the Mecklenburg Declaration of Independence which became a pattern for our national Declaration of Independence. See, James Geddes Craighead (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 ATLA 1988-0622
In 1787 there were two conventions in Philadelphia: the Constitution Convention and a convention of the Presbyterian Church. "In 1787-88, American Presbyterians revised the Westminster Confession of Faith [know as the "American Version (1789)"] in order to make it conform to the political pluralism that also lay behind the U.S. Constitution,(26) which was being ratified at the same time that the presbyteries were voting for the revision of the Confession. The Presbyterians removed that clause in Chapter XXIII:3 which had authorized the civil magistrate to call a synod for advice.(27) This was one of the last traces of the theocratic Calvinism of the Scottish Covenanters -- or Calvin's theocratic Calvinism, for that matter. (The final trace was the Confession's assertion that the failure to take an oath to a lawful authority is a sin [XXII:3]. That provision was abandoned in the 1903 revision, and Machen's Orthodox Presbyterian Church did not restore it in 1936.) From that time on, Presbyterians became defenders of a secularized republican order. They believed that God's civil covenant could be made on a common-ground confessional basis, without a mandatory covenantal civil oath, operating under a providential natural law order that did not mandate Trinitarian confession. Obedience to this natural order, they believed, would bring national prosperity.(28) This was the liberal worldview of English Whig politics, and no group in America was more dedicated to defending it than the Presbyterians.(29)" -- Gary North, Crossed Fingers, p. 106
Many scholars consider alterations to the Westminster Confession of Faith (1646), originally compiled by the Westminster Assembly of Divines, to be a "reverse plagiarism," an alteration of the original document by someone beside the author, and then passed off to the public, under the orginal title, as the work of the original authors. "Plagiarize: to steal and pass off (the ideas or words of another) as one's own use (a created production) without crediting the source; to commit literary theft: present as new and original an idea or product derived from an existing source." (Webster's New Collegiate Dictionary)
Revisers have altered the content of the original WCF (1646), have removed key doctrine related to Christ's Crown and Covenant, and yet have retained the name given by the Westminster Assembly. Consequently, revisers have deceived many in the Church into believing that their alterations are the work of the Westminster Assembly of Divines in 1646.
Most Presbyterian and Reformed denominations and seminaries today prescribe to the Westminster Confession of Faith (1789), the "American Version." Ideas have consequences. Because theology is truth, when men delete or alter key doctrines, or replace sound doctrine deducted from God's infallible Word by logic, with human imaginations, then the course of history is changed.
For a detailed analysis of the devastating consequences to American history caused by non-Biblical alterations in the Westminster Confession of Faith (1646) and non-Biblical alterations to constitutional government in the United States see the following:
"A Theological Interpretation of American History"
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr9chc.html#stiahis
In Great Britain the Independents and Calvinistic Baptists edited the Westminster Confession (1646) for their own use, but they gave the new confessions a different name, the Savoy Declaration and the Baptist Confession. Certainly this was the honest procedure.
"In 1788 the U.S. Constitution and the revised Westminster Confession were ratified. For a detailed discussion see:
"Authority: Biblical, Confessional, Ecclesiastical" in Crossed Fingers: How the Liberals Captured the Presbyterian Church, by Gary North
http://entrewave.com/freebooks/docs/html/gncf/Chapter03.htm
See also the following:
Appendix A: Major Changes of the Savoy Declaration
http://www.bible-researcher.com/wescoappa.html
Appendix B: Major Changes of the PCUSA (1788-1958)
http://www.bible-researcher.com/wescoappb.html
Appendix C: Major Changes of the UPCUSA and PCUS (1958-1983)
http://www.bible-researcher.com/wescoappc.html
Preface to Confession and Catechisms of the Orthodox Presbyterian Church (OPC)
http://opc.org/documents/Preface.pdf
"Trinitarianism Verses Polytheism: Unresolved Questions of Article VI, Section 3 of the U.S. Constitution"
http://members.aol.com/vtpa/pvtpa001.html
Selection of Covenant Heads for Positions of Leadership
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr9chc.html#covenantheads
"Timeline of the liberalization of the Presbyterian Church" in Crossed Fingers by Gary North
http://entrewave.com/freebooks/docs/html/gncf/timeline.htm
A THEOLOGICAL INTERPRETATION OF AMERICAN HISTORY, Chapter 6, "Theological Liberalism After 1920 and its Political Consequence."
Time-line of decline in American society after World War I
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr9chc.html#suffrage.
PRICE, GREG, Biblical Civil Government Versus the Beast; and, the Basis for Civil Resistance (Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books, 1996).
"This is the best modern testimony for the biblical principles of civil magistracy -- which were so prominent during the height of the Second Reformation -- that we have seen. Price documents the teachings of many of the major Reformers (and some of the church fathers) and in an easy reading manner simplifies what can at times become a very complex subject. This particular Reformation message, proclaiming Christ's Kingship over the nations (and the practical outworking of the same), has been buried from the view of the general public for some time now, but is once again being brought to light in this very helpful introductory book. A sobering appendix has been added (written by a friend of the covenanted Reformation) which shows why it is unlawful for a Christian to swear any oath to uphold and defend the U.S. Constitution. This appendix also compares the points of difference between classic (or historic) Reformed teaching and modern Reformed teaching regarding magistracy and religion. Special attention is given to the OPC, the PCA and the RPCNA and the changes that these groups have made to second Reformation confessional standards (concerning matters related to the civil magistrate). Statements by B.B. Warfield are also contrasted to the older Reformed views. You won't find a better easy-to-read and easy to understand introduction to this important topic -- a topic which impacts directly on every Christian's testimony for the crown rights of King Jesus!" -- SWRB
"It is this author's contention that the modern churches have let go of this important piece of the faith [Christ's Kingship over the nations-- sk] once for all delivered to the saints. Thereby they have delivered the church, not to kings as nursing fathers, but to the cruel civil domination of the enemies of the true religion, their sheep being taught that they must submit passively to every pretended civil authority as the ordinance of God. By this defection, these leaders of the flock have also undermined the magistracy, allowing and even encouraging wicked men to remove this blessed ordinance from its foundation in God its creator, and from its subjection to Christ His King, thereby directly opposing God's benevolent ends in instituting civil government: 'Thus have [they] made the commandment of God of none effect by [their] tradition. . . . teaching for doctrines the commandments of men' (Matt. 15:6, 9). Furthermore, by their false teaching regarding civil government, they have made themselves guilty of the very sin of which we are often accused: opposing the ordinance of God. If this wasn't enough, however, consider that their sin is worse than that of the garden variety rebel, inasmuch as their opposition to God's institution is not so much practical as it is principal; and because of their position as teachers and guides of the flock of God. 'Be not many masters, knowing that we shall receive the greater condemnation. . . . For we can do nothing against the truth, but for the truth' (James 3:1; II Cor. 13:8). -- Greg Price (Biblical Civil Government Verses the Beast, p. 64)
Biblical Civil Government Versus the Beast; and, the Basis for Civil Resistance, Greg Price
http://www.swrb.com/newslett/actualnls/BibCG_GP.htm
After 1920 "Forces of liberalism were able to gain a commanding position in the liberal arts colleges and seminaries run by most of the major denominations. . . .
"The denial of the inspiration and infallibility of the Scripture proved to be tantamount to a rejection of their doctrinal authority; one by one, the great evangelical doctrines of the past were rewritten in such a way as to be scarcely recognizable. . ." -- C. Gregg Singer, A Theological Interpretation of American History, p. 187
"The basic issue is the reduction of the total scope of government, on both the federal and state level, to those spheres which are clearly conferred upon it by the Scriptures, and the surrender of those extra-Biblical powers which liberal political philosophies and practice have given to it during the last one hundred years or so. . . .
"When Jesus Christ returns, this span of history will cease. Perhaps at this point the cleavage between the biblical position and the views of Hegel, Marx, Spengler, Toynbee, and other contemporaries, becomes most obvious. The modern mind simply cannot accept the idea that humanity does not control its own destiny. It refuses to believe that the ultimate manifestation of the glory of Jesus Christ is beyond all human manipulation, whether they be statesmen or educators. It denies that the sovereign Ruler of the universe will bring all sinful humanity to judgment in a final accounting for its long history of willful rebellion against His righteousness, goodness, and mercy." -- Gregg C. Singer
The roots of liberty and limited government are in the Protestant Reformation. We believe the key to the maintenance of liberty and limited government are to be found in the Scottish covenanting struggle.

Swancara, Frank, Thomas Jefferson Versus Religious Oppression.
"Swancara was a journalist, wrote book in his old age, apparently had an obsession with 'religious oppression,' Jefferson was a hero of his, he actually studied the collection of Jefferson's library, Jefferson gave it to the Library of Congress when it was formed.
"Swancara was godless and argued everything from the wrong side, but it is the best listing of public documents and legislation calling for religious tests for office holders that I have seen, goes back to English law which prohibited a man from being a member of Parliment unless he believed there was going to be a final judgement and our actions have eternal consequences. Swancara unwittingly produced a valuable work for the reformer." -- Reader's Comment

*Thornwell, James H., Collected Writings of James Henley Thornwell (Banner of Truth, 1991), ISBN: 0524059632 9780524059630. Available on the forthcoming SWRB Hard Drive.
Vol. I. Lectures on the Doctrine of God and on Divine Government (672 pages)
Vol. II. The Doctrines of Grace; Sermons; Discourses on Truth (632 pages)
Vol. III. Theological and Controversial; Rationalist Controversy: Reason, Revelation and Miracles; Papal Controversy; Baptism, Justification, Infallibility, the Apocrypha (824 pages)
Vol. IV. Writings on the Church: Church Officers; Church Operations; Church Disciplines; The Southern Presbyterian Church, etc., Sermons and Appendices (640 pages)
"J.W. Alexander once wrote the following of one of Thornwell's sermons, 'His sermon was a model of what is rare, viz.: burning hot argument, logic in ignition, and glowing more and more to the end.'
"Henry Ward Beecher, the famous Northern liberal minister, wrote after Thornwell's death, 'By common fame, Dr. Thornwell was the most brilliant minister in the Old School Presbyterian Church, and the most brilliant debater in the General Assembly. This reputation he early gained and never lost. Whenever he was present in the Assembly, he was always the first person pointed out to a stranger.'
"Dr. D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones said of him, 'Thornwell was one of the greatest preachers that America has ever produced'." -- SWRB
See particularly, "Relation of the State to Christ" and "National Sins: a fast-day sermon, preached in the Presbyterian Church, Columbia, Wednesday, November 21, 1860.
THE RELATION OF THE STATE TO CHRIST "is the petition of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church in the Confederate States of America to the Congress of the Confederate States of America, then sitting in Richmond, Virginia. It argues that though the newly formed Confederate Constitution was admirable in many respects, it still laboured 'under one capital defect,' that being that it was not 'distinctively Christian.' It asks the Confederate Congress to 'express the precise relations which the Government of these States ought to sustain to the religion of Jesus Christ.' Suggests 'the following or equivalent terms, to be added to the section providing for liberty of conscience: Nevertheless we, the people of these Confederate States, distinctly acknowledge our responsibility to God, and the supremacy of His Son, Jesus Christ, as King of kings and Lord of lords; and hereby ordain that no law shall be passed by the Congress of these Confederate States inconsistent with the will of God, as revealed in the Holy Scripture'." -- SWRB

See also: The sovereign grace of god: his everlasting mercy and lovingkindness, The doctrine of man (human nature, total depravity), Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, Corporate faithfulness and sanctification, Sin and its consequence: physical and spiritual death, Unfaithful reformed ministries, Unfaithful reformed ministries, Toleration the enemy of truth, Conspiracy and corruption, A selection of works on pseudo-Christian movements

Related WebLinks

The Covenanted Reformation of Scotland Short Title Listing
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr9chb.html#crsstl

"John Knox, the Scottish Covenanters, and the Westminster Assembly" (tape 3 of 5 in a series of addresses "History Notes on Presbyterianism, Reformation, and Theology") by Dr. C. Gregg Singer on SermonAudion.com
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=12607114250

Works of C. Gregg Singer
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr3ch.html#cgsinger

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

"Timeline of the liberalization of the Presbyterian Church" in Crossed Fingers by Gary North
http://entrewave.com/freebooks/docs/html/gncf/timeline.htm

PRICE, GREG, Biblical Civil Government Versus the Beast; and, the Basis for Civil Resistance (Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books, 1996).
"This is the best modern testimony for the biblical principles of civil magistracy -- which were so prominent during the height of the second Reformation -- that we have seen. . . ." -- SWRB
Biblical Civil Government Versus the Beast; and, the Basis for Civil Resistance, Greg Price
http://www.swrb.com/newslett/actualnls/BibCG_GP.htm

A Letter From George Whitefield to the Rev. Mr. John Wesley in Answer to Mr. Wesley's Sermon Entitled "Free Grace"
In George Whitefield: The Life and Times of the Great Evangelist of the 18th Century Revival, 2 volumes (Carlisle, PA: The Banner of Truth Trust), ISBN: 0851510264 9780851510262 085151300X 9780851513003.
Arnold Dallimore explains in detail how Wesley's possibly contrived difference with Whitefield over "sinless perfection" had the effect of carving out a 'spiritual empire' for John Wesley and of bringing him to pre-eminence.
See also "Iain Murray on Whitefield and Wesley."
http://www.spurgeon.org/~phil/wesley.htm

Iain Murray on Whitefield and Wesley
"This article first appeared in the 1960 edition of Whitefield's Journals, published by The Banner of Truth Trust. Here Iain Murray discusses the historical background that led to George Whitefield's famous letter to John Wesley."
http://www.spurgeon.org/~phil/wesley/murray.htm

Doctrinal Aberration, Signs of Abuse, and Negligence in the Reformed Church
http://www.lettermen2.com/reformab.html

The Biblical Solution to Terrorism
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrrappd.html#terror

Background and History of the Covenanted Reformation of Scotland

---

See the Theological Notes, "God's Pattern for Worship," at 1 Chronicles 16:29 in The Reformation Study Bible.

See the Theological Notes, "The Greatness of God," at 1 Chronicles 29:11 in The Reformation Study Bible.

See the Theological Notes, "The Wisdom and Will of God," at Daniel 2:20 in The Reformation Study Bible

Now in the twenty and fourth day of this month the children of Israel were assembled with fasting, and with sackclothes, and earth upon them. And the seed of Israel separated themselves from all strangers, and stood and confessed their sins, and the iniquities of their fathers. And they stood up in their place, and read in the book of the law of the LORD their God one fourth part of the day; and another fourth part they confessed, and worshipped the LORD their God.
Then stood up upon the stairs, of the Levites, Jeshua, and Bani, Kadmiel, Shebaniah, Bunni, Sherebiah, Bani, and Chenani, and cried with a loud voice unto the LORD their God. Then the Levites, Jeshua, and Kadmiel, Bani, Hashabniah, Sherebiah, Hodijah, Shebaniah, and Pethahiah, said,
Stand up and bless the LORD your God for ever and ever:
And blessed be thy glorious name, which is exalted above all blessing and praise. Thou, even thou, art LORD alone; thou hast made heaven, the heaven of heavens, with all their host, the earth, and all things that are therein, the seas, and all that is therein, and thou preservest them all; and the host of heaven worshippeth thee.
Thou art the LORD the God, who didst choose Abram, and broughtest him forth out of Ur of the Chaldees, and gavest him the name of Abraham; And foundest his heart faithful before thee, and madest a covenant with him to give the land of the Canaanites, the Hittites, the Amorites, and the Perizzites, and the Jebusites, and the Girgashites, to give it, I say, to his seed, and hast performed thy words; for thou art righteous:
And didst see the affliction of our fathers in Egypt, and heardest their cry by the Red sea; And shewedst signs and wonders upon Pharaoh, and on all his servants, and on all the people of his land: for thou knewest that they dealt proudly against them. So didst thou get thee a name, as it is this day. And thou didst divide the sea before them, so that they went through the midst of the sea on the dry land; and their persecutors thou threwest into the deeps, as a stone into the mighty waters. Moreover thou leddest them in the day by a cloudy pillar; and in the night by a pillar of fire, to give them light in the way wherein they should go.
Thou camest down also upon mount Sinai, and spakest with them from heaven, and gavest them right judgments, and true laws, good statutes and commandments: And madest known unto them thy holy sabbath, and commandedst them precepts, statutes, and laws, by the hand of Moses thy servant: And gavest them bread from heaven for their hunger, and broughtest forth water for them out of the rock for their thirst, and promisedst them that they should go in to possess the land which thou hadst sworn to give them.
But they and our fathers dealt proudly, and hardened their necks, and hearkened not to thy commandments, And refused to obey, neither were mindful of thy wonders that thou didst among them; but hardened their necks, and in their rebellion appointed a captain to return to their bondage: but thou art a God ready to pardon, gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness, and forsookest them not.
Yea, when they had made them a molten calf, and said, This is thy God that brought thee up out of Egypt, and had wrought great provocations; Yet thou in thy manifold mercies forsookest them not in the wilderness: the pillar of the cloud departed not from them by day, to lead them in the way; neither the pillar of fire by night, to shew them light, and the way wherein they should go. Thou gavest also thy good spirit to instruct them, and withheldest not thy manna from their mouth, and gavest them water for their thirst. Yea, forty years didst thou sustain them in the wilderness, so that they lacked nothing; their clothes waxed not old, and their feet swelled not.
Moreover thou gavest them kingdoms and nations, and didst divide them into corners: so they possessed the land of Sihon, and the land of the king of Heshbon, and the land of Og king of Bashan. Their children also multipliedst thou as the stars of heaven, and broughtest them into the land, concerning which thou hadst promised to their fathers, that they should go in to possess it. So the children went in and possessed the land, and thou subduedst before them the inhabitants of the land, the Canaanites, and gavest them into their hands, with their kings, and the people of the land, that they might do with them as they would. And they took strong cities, and a fat land, and possessed houses full of all goods, wells digged, vineyards, and oliveyards, and fruit trees in abundance: so they did eat, and were filled, and became fat, and delighted themselves in thy great goodness.
Nevertheless they were disobedient, and rebelled against thee, and cast thy law behind their backs, and slew thy prophets which testified against them to turn them to thee, and they wrought great provocations. Therefore thou deliveredst them into the hand of their enemies, who vexed them: and in the time of their trouble, when they cried unto thee, thou heardest them from heaven; and according to thy manifold mercies thou gavest them saviours, who saved them out of the hand of their enemies.
But after they had rest, they did evil again before thee: therefore leftest thou them in the hand of their enemies, so that they had the dominion over them: yet when they returned, and cried unto thee, thou heardest them from heaven; and many times didst thou deliver them according to thy mercies; And testifiedst against them, that thou mightest bring them again unto thy law: yet they dealt proudly, and hearkened not unto thy commandments, but sinned against thy judgments, (which if a man do, he shall live in them;) and withdrew the shoulder, and hardened their neck, and would not hear. Yet many years didst thou forbear them, and testifiedst against them by thy spirit in thy prophets: yet would they not give ear: therefore gavest thou them into the hand of the people of the lands. Nevertheless for thy great mercies' sake thou didst not utterly consume them, nor forsake them; for thou art a gracious and merciful God.
Now therefore, our God, the great, the mighty, and the terrible God, who keepest covenant and mercy, let not all the trouble seem little before thee, that hath come upon us, on our kings, on our princes, and on our priests, and on our prophets, and on our fathers, and on all thy people, since the time of the kings of Assyria unto this day. Howbeit thou art just in all that is brought upon us; for thou hast done right, but we have done wickedly: Neither have our kings, our princes, our priests, nor our fathers, kept thy law, nor hearkened unto thy commandments and thy testimonies, wherewith thou didst testify against them. For they have not served thee in their kingdom, and in thy great goodness that thou gavest them, and in the large and fat land which thou gavest before them, neither turned they from their wicked works.
Behold, we are servants this day, and for the land that thou gavest unto our fathers to eat the fruit thereof and the good thereof, behold, we are servants in it: And it yieldeth much increase unto the kings whom thou hast set over us because of our sins: also they have dominion over our bodies, and over our cattle, at their pleasure, and we are in great distress. And because of all this we make a sure covenant, and write it; and our princes, Levites, and priests, seal unto it. (Nehemiah 9)

See Isaiah 40:1--55:13 and annotations in The Reformation Study Bible

In the final analysis, all modern ills, spiritual and temporal, are traceable to our continuing departure from the principles of the Second Reformation. . . . In particular, I am convinced that the Lord will not bless a church at peace with his enemies. Our departure from truth has led to our undernourished condition as a church; truth, as Thornwell argued, is the only food that the soul can digest.
It does no good to blame society or the church for our deficiencies before the Lord because Christ holds men, not churches and states, accountable. In the words of Hugh Miller, "Churches, however false and detestable, are never to be summoned to the bar of judgment. . . . To Christ, as his head and king, must every man render an account."
The great heresy of our times is that all men are children of God. Those within the church have lost their identity as a people of God, united in spirit and purpose. We have adopted the half-truths of our fathers for which Judah faced punishment: "Because they have despised the law of the Lord, and have not kept his commandments, and their lies caused them to err, after which their fathers have walked" (Amos 2:4b). Nevertheless, Christ loves his church, and he will see to it that his bride is prepared (Ephesians 5:27) for the great banquet. Based on the history of God's people, the needed corrections will result from either prayer or persecution, leading the people to renew their covenant promises. Let us pray that God's kingdom come, and let us covenant to fulfill our obligations to be his people. When persecution comes, let us pray that we would stand as firm as did the Scottish Covenanters. When covenanting comes, let us praise the Lord, for only in him will we stand firm. Let us ever strive to make it possible for our children to utter one of James Nisbet's praises, "O my soul! Bless and praise the Lord that I was born in a land where the glad tidings of the everlasting gospel are published and pressed with so much purity and plainness." This should be our prayer, "Turn us again, O God, and cause thy face to shine; and we shall be saved" (Psalm 80:3). -- Edwin Nesbit Moore, from the conclusion to Our Covenant Heritage

The Treasury of David, Psalm 89, C.H. Spurgeon
http://www.spurgeon.org/treasury/ps089.htm

The Treasury of David, Psalm 147, C.H. Spurgeon
http://www.spurgeon.org/treasury/ps147.htm

Aiton, J., The life and times of Alexander Henderson, giving a history of the second reformation of the Church of Scotland, and of the covenanters, during the reign of Charles I. 1836
The Life and Times of Alexander Henderson: Giving a History of the Second Reformation of the Church of Scotland, and of the Covenanters, During the Reign of Charles I
http://books.google.com/books?id=fEIRAAAAIAAJ&ie=ISO-8859-1&output=html

Anderson, John, The Bass Rock: martyrs of the Bass, 1847

Anderson, John, The footsteps of the flock, 1843,

Anderson, William (1805-1866), The Scottish nation; or, The surnames, families, literature, honours, and biographical history of the people of Scotland (Edinburgh [etc.] Thomas C. Jack, 1882), ISBN: 0788402455 9780788402456.

*ANDERSON, WILLIAM, The Voice of Renwick, The Last of the Scottish Martyrs, 1882. Available on the forthcoming SWRB Hard Drive.
"A rare work setting forth the stirring story of the young minister and martyr James Renwick. It explains the main points (of Covenanted Reformation) for which he and many other Covenanters suffered and died. Also makes practical applications which can be applied to today. -- SWRB

ANONYMOUS, Articles of Military Discipline, Edinburgh, 1639

Anonymous, An Attestation to the testimony of our reverend brethren of the province of London to the truth of Jesus Christ, and to our Solemn League and Covenant as also against the errours, heresies, and blasphemies of these times, and the toleration of them, resolved on by the ministers of Cheshire, at their meeting May 2, and subscribed at their next meeting, June 6, 1648

Anonymous, A brief account of the moral and political acts of the kings and queens of England, from William the Conqueror to the Revolution in the year 1688. . . . London, 1793.

Anonymous, The concurrent testimony of the ministers in the county of VViltes, with their reverend brethren the ministers of the province of London, to the truth of Jesus Christ, and to the solemn league and covenant: as also, against the errors, heresies, and blasphemies of these times, and the toleration of them, 1648

Anonymous, The declarations of the witnesses that survived the late persecution. Published at Sanquhair. ... Paisley, 1778.

Anonymous, A dissenting presbytery. The Vindication of Mr. James Gilchrist, Minister of the Gospel at Dunscore.
http://www.truecovenanter.com/kirkgovt/gilchrist_james_vindication.html

ANONYMOUS, Eschol grapes or, some of the ancient boundaries, and covenanted march stones, set up by kirk and state, in the days when they acted for the Lord, ... betwixt 1638 and 1649. ... ([Edinburgh?]: Printed in the year, 1708).

Anonymous, Good newes from the assembly in Scotland, novv sitting in consultation, concerning their ecclesiasticall government in the church.: Exhibited to this Parliament in England, concerning this present reformation in England, with their heartie desires this ensuing treatise may be forthwith enacted; for the satisfaction of all good subjects, here or elsewhere. From Edenburgh, August 4. 1642. Scotland. (London: printed for J. W., 1642).

ANONYMOUS, The grand indictment of high-treason exhibited against the Marques of Argyle, 1661.

Anonymous, The Hearty concurrence of divers citizens and inhabitants of the city of London with the ministers of the province thereof to their testimony, to the truth of Jesus Christ and to our solemn League and Covenant: as also against the errours, heresies and blasphemies of these times, and the toleration of them, 1648,

ANONYMOUS, A Modest Apology for the Conduct of Seceders, in Refusing to Join in Christian Communion with Sectarians, Latitudinarians, etc., Who Have Departed From the Purity of Reformation Once Attained to in these Kingdoms (Cerlox Bound Photocopy Series. Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books).
"An exceedingly rare work published in 1773. Sets forth a strong case for separation from all bodies that are backslidden from the work of covenanted reformation, as it was attained during the days of the Westminster Assembly, and as set forth in the Westminster Confession of Faith [1646] and its related documents (regarding the government, worship, doctrine and discipline of Christ's church). Denounces the 'detestable indifference or neutrality' of not maintaining covenant obligations, which bind all reformers, 'to endeavour the extirpation of all superstition, heresy, schism, and whatsoever should be found contrary to sound doctrine.' Also proves that there is no liberty or love that is contrary to God's Word. Maintains Christian charity throughout by distinguishing between loving the persons in error, and taking part with, or encouraging them in their sinful confederacies or actions. A great work on the subjects of purity, faithfulness and separation. It is in keeping with the sentiments expressed in the Reformed Presbytery's Act, Declaration and Testimony which states: 'The first cry against the presbytery and its members was -- 'schism -- schismatics.' This charge was promptly and publicly met and refuted, by showing from the Scriptures, that schism -- 'is in the body,' 1 Cor. 12:26; and from the approved writings of our covenanting fathers, that 'sometimes to avoid schism, we must separate.' Our worthy ancestors knew better than to adopt the vocabulary of papal Rome. Besides, 'the majority making defection are the real separatists'. (Samuel Rutherford)" -- SWRB

*BAILLIE, ROBERT (David Laing, editor), Letters and Journals of Robert Baillie, 3 volumes, 1841 edition, ISBN: 0921148984 9780921148982. Available on The Amazing Christian Library, DVD Five, CD #25. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #17, Christian classic.
"Baillie was one of the Scottish delegates to the Westminster Assembly and these volumes cover the period from 1637 to 1662 -- some of the most momentous days in the history of the Reformed faith. These letters contain an intimate insider's look at these days of international religious drama, national covenants, and the writing of the greatest religious Confession ever given to men, the Westminster Confession of Faith (1646). A major source for 17th century Church history and a totally unique compilation -- peering into the very heart of Reformation!" -- SWRB
Volume one only of above.
"Contains Baillie's letters and journal entries covering the period from 1637 to 1641. The appendix includes "Original Letters and Papers, Chiefly Relating to Ecclesiastical Affairs in Scotland, 1633 to 1639."
Volume two only of above.
"Contains letters covering the period from 1642 to 1646. The appendix includes 'Original Letters and Papers, Chiefly Relating to Ecclesiastical Affairs in Scotland, 1639 to 1646.'
Volume three only of above.
"Contains letters covering the period from 1647 to 1662. The appendix includes 'Original Letters and Papers, Chiefly Relating to Ecclesiastical Affairs in Scotland, 1647 to 1661.' This volume also includes a glossary, an index of names and the memoir of the life and writings of Robert Baillie. Of special note are pages 525-557, which contain 'Notices Regarding the Metrical Version of the Psalms Received By the Church of Scotland,' where we see the historical validity of the Reformed practice of exclusive Psalmody, from the place occupied by the Psalter printed in Geneva in 1556, right up to the 'Psalter debates' that took place during Westminster Assembly." -- SWRB

BAILLIE, ROBERT (1599-1662) The Unlawfulness and Danger of Limited Prelacy, or Perpetual Presidency in the Church, 1641. Additional Title: The unlavvfulnesse and danger of limited episcopacie. Available on the forthcoming SWRB Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #23, ISBN: 092114816X 9780921148166.
"A defense of: Henderson, Alexander. THE VNLAVVFULNES AND DANGER OF LIMITED PRELACIE."

*BARROW, GREGORY, The Covenanted Reformation Defended Against Contemporary Schismatics (Cerlox Bound Photocopy Series. Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books, 1998), 318 pages. Available on the forthcoming SWRB Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #1, #19, #23, #27, ISBN: 0921148674 9780921148678.
A primer for the Covenanted Reformation, this is the best starting point for the new reader. It organizes the hundreds of Covenanted Reformation reprints into a logical defense of the theological landmarks established by our forefathers, with copious bibliographic references, many to e-text. An extraordinary document.
"Unsurpassed on points related to the Lord's supper and covenanting (as set forth by the best Reformers and best Reformed churches). Especially strong on citations from Calvin and the Westminster Assembly. Deals with many foundational aspects of the Covenanted Reformation (which gave us the Westminster Standards and the Solemn League and Covenant) from numerous original source documents (from the Westminster Assembly's advice to the English Parliament on the Lord's Supper to the official records of Calvin's Covenanting in Geneva). Comprehensive and compelling, this is a shocking (and sometimes advanced) look at what really took place during both the first and second Reformations -- with extensive quotations from the writings of the major Reformers (not just quotes from what others have written about them). It conclusively and irrefutably demonstrates that those churches which today call themselves Presbyterian (and even many which claim a more general Reformed heritage) have seriously departed from the Scriptural standards, principles and worship of these previous Spirit-led Reformations. It is written in an easy-to-read and easy-to-understand format and is an unsurpassed work that should not be missed by anyone interested in real Reformation in our day. This is without a doubt the best book to read if you want to understand what it means to be a Covenanter and to walk in the blood-stained footsteps of the witnessing church (Christ's Covenanted and Reformed flock) (Song 1:8)!" -- SWRB
Publisher's Preface to The Covenanted Reformation Defended Against Contemporary Schismatics
http://www.swrb.com/newslett/actualnls/pub_pref.htm
Eschewing Ecclesiastical Tyranny (Protestant Biblical Separation)
"1 Corinthians 2:15. The classic Reformation position on biblical separation, Protestant private judgment, the visible church, etc. -- contra Antichrist (the Papacy) and wayward liberal Protestants. This is Appendix G from THE COVENANTED REFORMATION DEFENDED: 'A brief examination of Mr. Bacon's principles regarding the visible church and the use of private judgment. Also, some observations regarding his ignoble attack upon Mr. Kevin Reed in his book entitled The Visible Church in the Outer Darkness'." -- SWRB
The Covenanted Reformation Defended, e-text
http://www.swrb.com/newslett/actualnls/CovRefGB.htm
The Covenanted Reformation Defended, audio files
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?sermonID=7702201426
The Covenanted Reformation Defended Against Contemporary Schismatics: A Response and Antidote Primarily to the Neopresbyterian Malignancy and Misrepresentations and the Manufactured 'Steelite' Controversy, Found in Richard Bacon's "A Defense Departed ..."
http://books.google.com/books?id=LG5EHQAACAAJ&ie=ISO-8859-1&output=html

BOSTON, THOMAS, The Complete Works of the Reverend Thomas Boston, volumes 1-12. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #6, ISBN: 0921148771 9780921148777. Available on The Amazing Christian Library, DVD Two, CD #8.
The Whole Works of the Late Reverend and Learned Mr. Thomas Boston, Minister of the Gospel at Etterick
http://books.google.com/books?id=bgdKAAAAMAAJ&ie=ISO-8859-1&output=html

*BOSTON, THOMAS, The Marrow of Modern Divinity (Cerlox Bound Photocopy Series. Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books). Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #27 ISBN: 0921148240 9780921148241. Also available on The Amazing Christian Library, DVD Four, CD #22. "Jeremiah Burroughs states,' If thou wilt pursue this little book, thou shalt find great worth in it.' First printed in 1645, this controversial book was read in 1700 by Thomas Boston and had a profound influence on his ministry. Boston added copious notes to this edition, which was reprinted in 1718. His notes, which are often longer than the text, are an invaluable addition to this work. Its contents are largely taken from the works of the Reformers and English Puritans. Three members of the Westminster Assembly wrote recommendations to the Marrow. Part one of the book, 'The Covenant of Grace and the Covenant of Works,' is definitely one of the best explanations of covenant theology in the English language. Part two is 'An Exposition of the Ten Commandments.' 'The marrow of the second bone (part),' said Caryl, 'is like that of the first, sweet and good. The commandments of God are marrow to the saints, as well as the promises; and they shall never taste the marrow of the promise who distaste the commandments. This little treatise breaketh the bone, the hard part of commandments, by plain exposition, so that all, even babes in Christ, yea, such as are yet out of Christ, may suck out and feed upon the marrow by profitable meditation.' This section on the commandments is practical and powerful -- guarding against the antinomian heresy. This whole book (of 400 pages) is in beautiful condition and this edition contains the appendix by John Brown of Haddington." -- SWRB

*BROWN, JOHN (of Wamphray, 1610?-1679), Corporate Sanctification: Holding Fast the Attainments of Reformation. Available on the forthcoming SWRB Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #1, ISBN: 0921148674 9780921148678.
"An overview of the Covenanter doctrine of reformation attainments by one of the great Covenanter theologians. Helpful in dispelling false charges of Anabaptism and perfectionism laid at the feet of faithful Covenanters by schismatics. John Brown was one of Samuel Rutherford's best students." -- SWRB
http://www.swrb.com/newslett/actualnls/attain.htm

*BURGES, CORNELIUS, The First Sermon Preached to the Honorable House of Commons now Assembled in Parliament at Their Public Fast, Nov. 17, 1640 (Cerlox Bound Photocopy Series. Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books).
"A beautifully clear facsimile copy of this amazing sermon (published by order of the British House of Commons in 1641), exhorting this Parliament to 'stand to the covenant' of God; by, 'endeavouring of a further Sanction of, and stronger Guard about our true Palladium, the true Religion, already established among us; in the perfecting of the Reformation of it; in the erecting, maintaining, protecting, and encouraging of an able, godly, faithful, zealous, profitable, Preaching Ministry, in every Parish Church and Chapel throughout England and Wales; in interceding to the Kings sacred Majesty for the setting up of a Faithful, Judicious, and Zealous Magistracy, where yet the same is wanting, to be ever at hand to back such a Ministry: without either of which, not only the power of Godliness will sooner degenerate into formality, and zeal into lukewarmness; but Popery, Arminianism, Socinianism, Profaneness, Apostasy, and Atheism itself will more and more crowd in upon us, and prevail against us, do You all You can be all other means.' Points out that where a godly ministry and magistracy are lacking, society degenerates into a godless mob, headed by one of the above named heresies -- as we have seen in our day. Presses national covenant renewal, from Jer. 50:5, and explains from scripture how and why this should take place. Cites many biblical examples of the great Scriptural blessing that has followed previous national covenanting; while making practical application to the situation of the day. This sermon foreshadows chapter 23, of the celebrated Westminster Confession of Faith [1646], on 'the Civil Magistrate,' and gives much insight into this watershed period of Christian political development. It is highly recommended for anyone even remotely interested in seeing their nation prosper politically and ecclesiastically. Furthermore, it will be a great help for anyone seeking to formulate a biblical doctrine explaining the four way relationship between: loving God with all your heart, soul, strength and mind; Jesus Christ as mediator; the everlasting covenant (and covenanting); and the state, as set forth in Scripture. A very rare item. A Covenanter's delight! 70 pages." -- SWRB

*BURGESS, ANTHONY (d. 1664?), The Reformation of the Church, To Be Endeavoured More Than That of the Commonwealth, 1645 28 pages. Available on Puritan Bookshelf CD #21. Available on The Amazing Christian Library, DVD Two, CD #9.
"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'." -- SWRB

*BURGESS, ANTHONY (d. 1664?), Vindiciae Legis: or, A Vindication of the Moral Law and the Covenants, from the Errors of Papists, Arminians, Socinians, and more especially, Antinomians, 1647 (Cerlox Bound Photocopy Series. Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books), EEBO.
" 'A nonconformist clergyman,' Burgess 'was a member of the (Westminster) Assembly of Divines. Ejected at the Restoration . . . his works are much valued and have become very scarce' (Darling, Cyclopedia Bibliographica, p. 439). This book contains 30 lectures preached at London 'against the antinomian errours of the times.' It is the second edition corrected and augmented. Burgess says that he wrote to 'maintain the dignitie and use of the Morall Law against late errours about it.' Taking on all the errorists listed in the subtitle Burgess also notes that he has 'endeavoured to give the Law its due, and the Gospel its due, remembering that of Luther . . . He that knoweth how to distinguish between Law and Gospel, let him give thanks to God, and know he is a Divine' (i.e. a scholar of Scripture -- RB). An exceedingly rare item that sells for over $300 a copy on the rare book market. This book should be read by everyone in the Protestant Reformed church (or anyone who must deal with them) as it demolishes their (i.e. Protestant Reformed) errors concerning covenants -- especially in regard to their denial (and disregard for the biblical, 'Westminster' view) of the covenant of works. Some of its 62 chapter heads include: 'What a man cannot do by the power of nature;' 'Whether there are any antecedaneous works upon the heart before grace;' 'What does this Image (of God in man -- RB) consist;' 'Whether God did enter into a covenant with Adam;' 'How God can be said to covenant, or enter into a promise with man;' What Law this delivered in Mount Sinai is, and what kind of laws there are, and why it's called the Moral Law;' Whether this Law repeated by Moses, be the same with the law of nature implanted in us;' 'Why God gave the Moral Law;' Whether the Law be an instrument of sanctification;' 'Whether the Law be a covenant of grace;' Wherein the Law and Gospel do oppose or differ from each other; under which is handled the false differences between the Law and Gospel made by Anabaptists, Papists, and Antinomians;' 'Whether the Law command faith;' 'How Christ is the end of the Law.' Indexed." -- SWRB

*Calumy, Edmund (1671-1732), and Samuel Palmer (editor), The Nonconformist's Memorial, 1802 (3 vols.), ISBN: 0781206243. OCLC: 747889 seems to be the prefered edition. E-test available OCLC: 220202826. A Christian classic. See also, Benjamin Brook, Lives of the Puritans.
"Edmund Calamy (1678-1732), a dissenting minister in London and a historian, was the son and grandson of puritan ministers inside the Church of England. Both of them, along with hundreds of others, were expelled from their church livings for their refusal to submit to the 1662 Act of Uniformity. This event, the so-called 'Great Ejection', was a crucial moment in the formation of religious dissent in England. This book, first published in 1775, is an extensively-revised version, by another dissenting minister Samuel Palmer, of materials originally collated and published by Edmund Calamy, commemorating the lives and works of these ejected ministers.
"Editing the autobiography of one of the most eminent of these ejected ministers, Richard Baxter, Calamy included a long chapter listing the ejected ministers and such biographical data as he could find. This is the famous chapter 9 of AN ABRIDGMENT OF MR BAXTER'S HISTORY OF HIS LIFE AND TIMES (1702). This chapter became a whole volume of a second edition of the ABRIDGEMENT published in 1713. And in 1727 Calamy produced a further two volumes of material under the title A CONTINUATION OF THE ACCOUNT OF THE MINISTERS, LECTURERS, MASTERS AND FELLOWS OF COLLEGES, AND SCHOOLMASTERS WHO WERE EJECTED AND SILENCED AFTER THE RESTORATION OF 1660... "Samuel Palmer attempted to integrate this material into a more readable form, making extensive revisions and additions. He certainly succeeded in producing something more accessible to eighteenth-century readers and there were several reprints of the book and a second edition in 1802-3. However readability was sometimes at the cost of accuracy and of a reduction of the scholarly value of Calamy's material.
"Nevertheless THE NONCONFORMIST'S MEMORIAL was an important work of collective memory by eighteenth-century dissenters." -- Publisher's Annotation
The Nonconformist's Memorial: Being an Account of the Lives, Sufferings, and Printed Works, of the Two Thousand Ministers Ejected from the Church of England, Chiefly by the Act of Uniformity, Aug. 24, 1666. ...
http://books.google.com/books?id=b08UwRUmWL0C&ie=ISO-8859-1&output=html

*CALDERWOOD, DAVID, The History of the Kirk of Scotland, 8 volumes (Cerlox Bound Photocopy Series. Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books). Included on the Reformation Bookshelf CD #11 (Still Waters Revival Books). A Christian classic.
" 'The extensive learning and eminent talents of the Rev. David Calderwood, his matured experience in ecclesiastical affairs, and especially in those of his native country, the persecutions he had endured for his beloved Church, and the numerous works he had written in its defense, all qualified him, in the happiest manner, for becoming a Historian of the Kirk of Scotland. Above all, when the narrative was to be one of struggle and suffering, in which the principalities and powers of the earth, as well as those of darkness, were the antagonists, the record of such a conflict fell most aptly into the hands of a man whom a monarch had in vain attempted to brow-beat, and a whole hierarchy to silence. His own heart also appears to have affectionately inclined towards this his most congenial occupation, so that, after his return from exile, he spent many years in collecting and arranging the materials necessary for such an important task. At last, when he had reached his seventy-third year, the General Assembly, for the purpose of enabling him to perfect his work, granted him an annual pension of 800 pounds Scots. Calderwood died only two years afterwards; but he lived to accomplish his purpose of writing the History of our National Church from the commencement of the Reformation to the close of the reign of James the Sixth, in two, if not three successive and copious revisals' (Preface to volume one, pp. v-vi). More on the prominent role Calderwood played in the church of his day is supplied by Johnston, TREASURY OF THE SCOTTISH COVENANT (p. 47), when he writes that 'the Second Book of Discipline was sworn to in the National Covenant in 1581, and revised by the Assembly of 1638. The most important parts of the book were legalized in 1592, and again in 1690. Calderwood, the historian, edited 'The First and Second Book of Discipline,' printed in 1621.' Furthermore, the DICTIONARY OF SCOTTISH CHURCH HISTORY AND THEOLOGY, (p. 118) tells us that Calderwood was 'excluded from the church courts when he opposed Bishop James Law of Orkney's (FES VII, 322) substitution of royal supporters in place of the Presbytery's duly elected representatives to the General Assembly. But when King James VI visited Scotland in 1617, Calderwood and 54 other ministers meeting in Edinburgh wrote a protest against the King's intention that the monarch and men of his preference should appoint forms of worship and discipline in the Church. Calderwood was required to appear with Archibald Simson before the King at St. Andrews, where from his knees he boldly opposed the King's will and asserted the freedom of the General Assembly to control the Church's ceremonies and government (emphasis added, and some today say these are points of little or no consequence -- how different from our Reformed forefathers -- RB). Calderwood was deprived of his charge, imprisoned and banished. In 1619 he went to Holland, whence he issued anonymously his monumental critique of English episcopacy, The Altar of Damascus (n.p., 1621), greatly enlarged in Latin . . . Calderwood's writings were erudite and widely persuasive, preparing the way for the restoration of Presbyterian practice at the 'Second Reformation' . . . With Alexander Henderson and David Dickson he was appointed by the General Assembly of 1643 to draft a directory for public worship, to fill a need for guidelines after the episcopal conventions had been removed (in keeping with the Solemn League and Covenant -- RB).' The same article, commenting on this eight volume history, relates, 'it is a major source for the history of the Church of Scotland from the Reformation until 1625.' This massive set (of over 6000 pages) was printed between 1842 and 1849. It contains a 171 page index and Thomson's 'Life of David Calderwood. The contents are listed and dealt with chronologically by year; beginning in the preamble with the descent of the Scots from the ancient Gauls, but formally covering the period (focusing to the church) from 1514 to 1625. Documents and information available no where else (that we know of) are also included in this set. Must reading for researchers and those interested in church history!" -- SWRB

*CALDERWOOD, DAVID, The Pastor and the Prelate or Reformation and Conformity Shortly Compared, first American edition of 1844 (Cerlox Bound Photocopy Series. Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books).
"This 17th century work refutes prelacy. Calderwood, bound by solemn oath to defend the doctrine and discipline of Biblical Presbyterian government and worship, and to oppose the hierarchy, along with all rites and ceremonies added to the worship of God, does a masterful job here. He uses the Word of God and the proceedings of the ancient and Reformation churches to make his points. He deals with controversies over things "indifferent," people's souls, state and society, etc.--as they are affected by these two systems of government. He points out the far reaching consequences of the implementation of various systems of church government and worship, showing how these specific ideas are eventually mirrored in the culture in general. Summarizing, he notes the classic saying concerning these matters and their consequences in the civil realm, "no ceremony no bishop, no bishop no king," and in the ecclesiastical arena, "no ceremony no prelate, no prelate no pope." -- SWRB

Cant, Andrew (1590?-1663), A sermon preached at a general meeting in the Gray-Friar-Church of Edinburgh, upon the 13 day of June, 1638 (Edinburgh: Printed for Alexander Henderson, 1699), EEBO.

Caryl, Joseph (1602-1673) The arraignment of unbelief, as the grand cause of our nationall non-establishment . . . in a sermon to the . . . House of Commons . . . 28th of May, 1645 (London, England: Cornmarket Press, 1971, 1645). OCLC: 25384011

Caryl, Joseph (1602-1673) Heaven and earth embracing; or, God and man approaching: shewed in a sermon preached before the . . . House of Commons . . . January 28, 1645 . . . (London, England: Cornmarket Press, 1971 1646). OCLC: 25385950

*CHURCH OF SCOTLAND GENERAL ASSEMBLY, 1638-1649, The Acts of the General Assemblies of the Church of Scotland, From the Year 1638 to the Year 1649 Inclusive, 1682 (Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books). A Christian classic. Also available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #11 ISBN-10: 0921148224 ISBN-13: 9780921148227.
"Exceedingly rare, these are the acts from what many consider the greatest general assembly gatherings since the days of the apostles. The work accomplished and ratified at these meetings has been called 'the most perfect model' of Presbyterial Church Government 'as yet attained.' Sitting during the momentous days of the Covenants (National and Solemn League) and the Westminster Assembly, this general assembly included the likes of Samuel Rutherford and George Gillespie. Judicially binding on covenanted Presbyterians (WCF 31:3), these Acts demonstrate how these godly leaders officially dealt with individual, family, ecclesiastical and civil Reformation (including national and international matters). Furthermore, it should not be forgotten that these rulings had major national and international ramifications in their day and that they still guide faithful Presbyterians at the close of the twentieth century (as terms of ministerial and Christian communion in the Reformed Presbyterian church). Moreover, they contain 'noble examples to be followed in testifying against all corruptions embodied in the constitutions of either churches or states' (Reformed Presbytery, Act, Declaration and Testimony for the Whole of Our Covenanted Reformation, p. 216). Christ's Kingship has never since been so boldly and clearly proclaimed to the nations by a duly constituted general assembly -- neither has His rule and reign been upheld and actually embodied into the laws of a nation (civil and ecclesiastical) as it was during these days in Scotland. Much of this can be attributed to the work (humanly speaking) done by the ministers present while these Acts were debated and passed. Regarding doctrine, worship, government and discipline there are few books that will be as helpful -- especially to elders and those advanced in the faith. Additionally, if you want a glimpse at the heart of the Second Reformation this is one of the best places to look. It may also be considered 'the eye of the Puritan storm,' seeing that the Scottish Covenanters exerted such a godly influence among their English Presbyterian brothers (and the Westminster Assembly) during these days -- the two nations having covenanted with God (in the Solemn League and Covenant) for the international 'reformation and defense of religion . . . the peace and safety of the three kingdoms . . . the glory of God, and the advancement of the kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, etc.' Over 500 pages and indexed for easy reference to all major topics." -- SWRB

*CHURCH OF SCOTLAND GENERAL ASSEMBLY 1639, The Declinatour and Protestation of the Sometimes Pretended Bishops, Presented in the Face of the Last Assembly. Refuted and Found Futile, but Full of Insolent Reproaches, and Bold Assertions (1639), (Cerlox Bound Photocopy Series. Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books).
"An exceedingly rare title marking the continuing rise, at critical juncture, of the covenanted Reformed Presbyterian church. Members of this General Assembly and signatories to this protestation include Samuel Rutherford, David Dickson, Robert Baillie and even James Sharp (who later apostasized to the camp of the Prelatical antichrist and persecuted [and murdered] the covenanters he once owned as brothers). This book refutes the charges of the prelates, while exposing their many errors (which included teaching Arminianism, Popery, conditional election, the power of free-will resisting effectual grace, that the Pope is not the Antichrist, that Rome is the true church [constitutionally], that worship is not regulated by the Word of God [the regulative principle], that the earlier reformers were deformers; and denying limited atonement, justification by faith alone, predestination, and a number of other revealed truths of Scripture.)" -- SWRB

*DAVIES, SAMUEL, The Divine Government the Joy of the World. Available on the forthcoming SWRB Hard Drive.
"Expands upon the reign and rule of King Jesus and the great blessings that this entails." -- SWRB
The Divine Government the Joy of the World, Samuel Davies
http://books.google.com/books?id=q2msGwAACAAJ&ie=ISO-8859-1&output=html

Defoe, Daniel. An ecclesiastical history of Scotland. Containing the state of the church of that nation, from the time of Queen Mary to the union . . . London, 1734. (ECCO) Gale Document Number CW3323539136

Duncan, J. Ligon, III and David W. Hall, The Westminster Assembly: A Guide to Basic Bibliography (Oak Ridge, TN [The Covenant Foundation, 190 Manhattan Avenue, Oak Ridge 37830]: The Covenant Foundation).

Furgol, Edward M., A regimental history of the Covenanting armies, 1639-1651 (Edinburgh : John Donald Publishers, 1990).
Includes bibliographical references (p. 426-436) and index.

*GILLESPIE, GEORGE, Ezekiel's Vision of Millennial Glory, Preparation for Coming Reformation and a Remedy for Backsliding and Lukewarmness. Available (THE PURITAN FAST SERMONS, 1640-1652, THE WORKS OF GEORGE GILLESPIE, and as two MP3 files) on the forthcoming SWRB Hard Drive. Available (two MP3 files) on Reformation Bookshelf CD #18, ISBN: 0921148933 9780921148937.
"This sermon was originally preached to England's House of Commons 'At Their Late Solemn Fast, Wednesday, March 27, 1644.' It is taken from volume one of Gillespie's two volume WORKS. It gives great insight into the covenanted unity, uniformity and worldwide Reformation sought by the majority of the Westminster Divines and the best of the civil leaders of Gillespie's day. Gillespie searchingly deals with the individual, the church and the state, while painting a Scriptural picture of prophesied earthly victory (Isa. 2:2-5, Ezek 47:1-12, etc.) -- in classic historicist postmillennial style -- which is sure to stir even the coldest Christian heart. He shows how the worst disease the land can suffer is corruption in religion (particularly as exhibited in false worship), rebukes those opposing the Solemn League and Covenant and calls upon all to maintain (and even improve upon) the Reformation attainments 'whereunto we have already attained' (Phil. 3:16). It is also interesting to note, especially since this sermon was preached before civil rulers, that though Gillespie points out the need for humility, repentance, prayer, tears, godly affections, sanctified minds and honorable actions, he does not forget to mention the importance of a covenanted army in this great cause of Christ's covenanted Reformation. Also noted is the destruction of Antichrist, the calling and conversion of the Jews (Rom. 11), the two witnesses and the 1260 year apostasy. Gillespie closes with an appeal to the English House of Commons, with whom the Scots had 'joined in covenant and in arms,' to be faithful 'according to the word he (God--RB) hath covenanted with you (i.e. in the Solemn League and Covenant--RB), so his spirit remaineth among you' -- exhorting these magistrates to 'fear not' but to 'be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.' This is classic Covenanter preaching, among the best sermons you may ever hear!" -- SWRB

*GILLESPIE, GEORGE, Reformation's Refining Fire; or, Iconoclastic Zeal Necessary to World Reformation by George Gillespie (Audio Cassette Series. Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books). Also available in printed format.
"This sermon, read by elder Lyndon Dohms, was originally preached to the House of Lords in the abbey church at Westminster during the days of the Westminster Assembly (on August 27, 1645). It deals with Malachi 3:2 and can also be found in volume one of Gillespie's Works. The reading is approximately 80 minutes in length and for content this is likely the best sermon that we have ever carried. The glory of Christ is magnified in a soul stirring manner and at a level which is seldom (if ever) reached in our day. Though preaching before some of the most powerful men of his day, Gillespie does nothing to shave off the sharp edges of the whole counsel of God. He makes it abundantly clear that spiritual Reformation (individual, ecclesiastical and civil) is like a flaming fire which burns the dross of the flesh and is often hated and opposed by those that cry loudest for `Reform.' On the other hand, the refining fire of Reformation which pleases God (and comes from His fatherly hands, filled with mercy, love and grace), not only turns his wrath from the nations (by granting the grace to remove the causes of His wrath), but invigorates the spirit with that iconoclastic zeal against sin (whether personal or corporate) that can only be produced by His sovereign power. Whole-hearted (covenanted) reformation is contrasted, throughout this sermon, with the half-hearted comfortable Christianity that has been common in most ages. Gillespie wields the sword of Scripture as few can in driving home a multitude of vitally important points. This sermon can be listened to over and over with increasing profit, as it contains a fullness which is almost impossible to absorb in just one sitting. Don't miss this one; it is a real gem!" -- SWRB
Reformation's Refining Fire; or, Iconoclastic Zeal Necessary to World Reformation by George Gillespie (a sermon from Gillespie's Works)
http://sphynx.idontknow.com/swrb/reformationrefiningfire.ram

*GILLESPIE, GEORGE, Wholesome Severity Reconciled With Christian Liberty, 1645 (Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books), EEBO. Two audio cassettes.
"Gillespie was a major force at the Westminster Assembly. This rare item gives great insight into the original intent of the framers of the Westminster documents concerning matters of conscience, liberty, law, and government. Dr. Greg Bahnsen has noted how sections mirror modern theonomic thought. Read on cassette for the first time ever! This item can also be found in written form in volume four of Naphtali Press' Anthology of Presbyterian and Reformed Literature." -- SWRB
Wholesome Severity Reconciled With Christian Liberty, or, The True Resolution of a Present Controversy Concerning Liberty of Conscience, 1645, EEBO.
http://www.naphtali.com/severity.htm

*GILLESPIE, GEORGE, The Works of George Gillespie, 2 volumes (Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books). Available on the forthcoming SWRB Hard Drive. A Christian classic.
" `Gillespie was one of the Scottish commissioners to the Westminster Assembly. One of the great theologians of all time -- almost singlehandedly steering this august Assembly at certain points. As Hetherington notes, 'in all those debates no person took a more active part, or gained more distinction than George Gillespie,' though he was the youngest man there. Furthermore, Hetherington calls him a `genius of the highest order,' and writes that his work `dazzled and astonished his countrymen.' He `held an undisputed position among the foremost of the distinguished men by whose talents and energy the Church of Scotland was delivered from the prelatic despotism' of that day. This rare work contains Gillespie's personal notes during the Westminster Assembly and A DISPUTE AGAINST ENGLISH POPISH CEREMONIES. A DISPUTE AGAINST ENGLISH POPISH CEREMONIES is a rare classic on Reformed worship, taking on all the arguments related to the use of man-made ceremonies in worship. Burned by the Prelates (Episcopalians) just after it first appeared in 1637, this masterful defense of the regulative principle has yet to be answered (by those that oppose God's sovereignty in worship). It ably, and in a detailed manner, refutes the old errors of Prelacy and Romanism -- many of which are being resurrected in our day by writers like James Jordan (and others abandoning historic Presbyterian [i.e. Biblical] worship). Gillespie's practical `TREATISE OF MISCELLANY QUESTIONS,' contains 22 chapters. Topics dealt with range from: whether prophets and prophesying continued beyond the primitive church (answered in the negative); whether a sound heart and an unsound head can consist together; what are heresies and what is their purpose; are infants to be baptized; should the civil government attach a negative sanction to not swearing to the Solemn League and Covenant (against one aspect of Theonomy); etc. These WORKS also contains a memoir of Gillespie's life and writings, written by Hetherington, Gillespie's sermons before the house of commons, and much more!" -- SWRB

*GILLESPIE, GEORGE, GEORGE BUCHANAN, JOHN BROWN (of Wamphray), DAVID HAY FLEMING, The Presbyterian's Armoury, 3 volumes, 1846. Available on the forthcoming SWRB Hard Drive.
"In terms of `bang for your book buying buck,' you will not find more fire-power `under one roof' than in THE PRESBYTERIAN'S ARMOURY! Can be purchased as the three volume set or individually as listed below."

Volume One of THE PRESBYTERIAN'S ARMOURY
"Contains `Gillespie's Life and Writings' by Hetherington, plus all of the following works by George Gillespie: `A Dispute Against English Popish Ceremonies, 1637;' An Assertion of the Government of the Church of Scotland, 1644;' '111 Propositions Concerning the Ministry and Government of the Church, 1644;' two of Gillespie's sermons, preached before the House of Common (1644), and the House of Lords (1645); and Gillespie's answers to Coleman which defend Presbyterian polity against Erastianism. `Noted for his erudition, keen mind, powerful debating skills and articulate speech and often called `Great Mr. Gillespie' in his day, he has been referred to as the prince of Scottish theologians and the supreme defender of Presbyterian church government' (Nigel Cameron (editor), Dictionary of Scottish Church History and Theology, p. 359). 474 pages."
Volume Two of THE PRESBYTERIAN'S ARMOURY
"Contains all of the following works by George Gillespie: `Aaron's Rod Blossoming, or the Divine Ordinance of Church Government Vindicated;' `A Treatise of Miscellany Questions;' Notes of Debates and Proceedings of the Assembly of Divines at Westminster (February 1644 to January 1645).' Gillespie is most famous for his Aaron's Rod which Walker called `the chef d'oeuvre' of Scottish ecclesiastical theology (cited in Cameron, Dictionary, p. 359-360). He was a thundering preacher and a prominent member of the famous Westminster Assembly. Johnston, TREASURY OF THE SCOTTISH COVENANT cites the following concerning Gillespie: `That is an excellent youth; my heart blesses God in his behalf. There is no man whose parts in a public dispute I do so admire. He has studied so accurately all the points that are yet to come to our Assembly; he has got so ready, so assured, so solid a way of public debating; that however there be in the Assembly divers very excellent men, yet, in my poor judgement, there is not one who speaks more rationally and to the point than that brave youth has done ever (Baillie from his Letters and Journals). He was one of the great men that had a chief hand in penning our most excellent Confession of Faith and Catechisms. He was a most grave and bold man, and had a most wonderful gift given him for disputing and arguing. The end of a dispute held by him with some of the promoters of the Engagement was, that Glencairn said, `There is no standing before this great and mighty man.' He was called malleus Malignantium, `the hammer of the Malignants' (Woodrow's Analecta). 558 pages."
Volume Three of THE PRESBYTERIAN'S ARMOURY
"Contains: Samuel Rutherford's LEX, REX, or the Law and the Prince; John Brown of Wamphray's Apologetical Relation; David Calderwood's Pastor and Prelate, or Reformation and Conformity Shortly Compared; and Causes of the Lord's Wrath Against Scotland agreed upon by the General Assembly, 1651. Lex, Rex is `the great political text of the Covenanters' (Johnston citing Innes in TREASURY OF THE SCOTTISH COVENANT, p. 305.) `Rutherford was the first to formulate the great constitutional principle Lex est Rex -- the law is King . . . much of the doctrine has become the constitutional inheritance of all countries in modern times' (Idem.). Brown's anti-prelatical work deals with the lawfulness of defensive wars, ecclesiastical and civil government, the hearing of curates, etc. Brown's writing has been said to be `decidedly superior to most of the Scottish writers of his day, and even to Owen.' Calderwood upholds Presbyterianism over and against prelacy. THE CAUSES OF GOD'S WRATH was written anonymously (James Guthrie was the reputed author), and was at one time burnt along with LEX, REX. 615 pages." -- SWRB

*GILLESPIE, PATRICK, The Ark of the Covenant Opened; Or, A Treatise of the Covenant of Redemption Between God and Christ, as the Foundation of the Covenant of Grace, 1677. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #27 ISBN: 0921148240 9780921148241.
Available on The Amazing Christian Library, DVD Six, CD #33. Available on the forthcoming SWRB Hard Drive. A Christian classic.
"John Owen, in his preface to this treatise writes, 'I do freely declare my judgement that for order, method, perspicuity in treating, and solidity of argument, the ensuing discourse exceedeth whatsoever single treatise I have seen written with the same design' (cited in Johnston, Treasury of the Scottish Covenant, p. 337). David Lachman tells us that '(i)n addition to arranging his brother's papers (published as Miscellany Questions [now found in George Gillespie's two volume Works, -- RB]), Gillespie used his materials also for the beginning of the first of a five-volume work on the covenant. Only two were published: THE ARK OF THE TESTAMENT OPENED... (1661) and THE ARK OF THE COVENANT OPENED... (1677), respectively treating the nature and kinds of covenants and the Mediator of the covenant. The third, on the condition of the covenant and the instrumentality of faith in justification, was extant in 1707, when the remaining two, respectively on the privileges and duties of the covenant, were believed lost (Analecta, I, 168-9)... Gillespie [was a -- RB] Covenanter, Principal of Glasgow University, and leading Protester' (Cameron, ed., Dictionary of Scottish Church History and Theology, p. 382). In this volume Gillespie proves:
1. That there is such a Covenant (of Redemption).
2. The necessity of it.
3. The nature, properties, and parties thereof.
4. The tenor, articles, subject matter of Redemption,
5. The commands, conditions, and promises annexed.
6. The harmony of the Covenant of suretiship made with Christ, and the Covenant of reconciliation made with sinners: wherein they agree, wherein they differ.
7. Grounds of comfort from the Covenant of suretiship; and, of course, much, much more!
"Owen, in his preface, (who also notes his long friendship with Gillespie), further underscores the importance of this work when he writes, 'For the Doctrine hereof, or the truth herein, is the very Center wherein all the lines concerning the Grace of God and our own duty, do meet; wherein the whole of Religion doth consist. Hence unto the understanding, Notions, and Conception, that men have of these Covenants with God, and according as the Doctrines of them is stated in their minds, their Conceptions of all other sacred Truths, or Doctrines, are conformed'." -- SWRB
Ark of the Covenant Opened: Chapter 3
http://www.truecovenanter.com/supralapsarian/pgilles_aoc_cap03.html

Gillespie, Patrick, Rulers Sins: The Causes of National Judgments, or a Sermon Preached at the Fast, Upon the 26th Day of December, Prov. XIV. 34; 2 Kings XVII. 22,23; Ezek. XIX. 14, or a Sermon Preached at the Fast, Upon the 26th Day of December 1650, rp 3195 no. 02
http://www.covenanter.org/CivilGovt/rulerssins.htm

*Hall, David W., The Arrogance of the Modern: Historical Theology Held in Contempt (Covenant Foundation), ISBN: 096503674X 9780965036740.
Table of Contents
http://capo.org/opeds/AOMTOC.html
"Into the breach comes a very well documented volume by David W. Hall, with the title, The Arrogance of the Modern: Historical Theology Held in Contempt. Early on in the book, Hall decries the tendency for researchers and theoreticians to cite only recent writings as backup of their work. He cites the concept that civilization is a democracy extending far back into time; the `votes' of citizens of old, represented by their writings, are just as important as those written just yesterday.
"To cap off his argument, Hall quotes a comment from Lord Acton, in which he said, `Just as the loss of memory in an individual is a psychiatric defect calling for a medical treatment, so too any community which has no social memory is suffering from an illness.' Those who do not learn from history, as you will recall, are doomed to repeat it. And, I might add, history has far more of what the Clarence Pages of this generation despise than the present. But, the Balkanization brought on by Postmodern criticism may well be our `unlearned lesson' that finally does us all in.
"This volume is a closely-argued, well organized thesis. It is not easy reading but, with the complexity of the subject, I think it is as well written a volume as I have seen." -- William L. Brown

*HEWISON, JAMES KING, The Covenanters: A History of the Church in Scotland From the Reformation to the Revolution, 1908, 2 volumes (1908) (Cerlox Bound Photocopy Series. Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books.) Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #25, ISBN: 0921148208 9780921148203. Available on The Amazing Christian Library, DVD Four, CD #24. ATLA 1988-1839
"Smellie, in his preface to MEN OF THE COVENANT, calls this set a 'great treatise on the Covenanters -- a treatise which covers the entire field and seems to leave no word unsaid.' Hewison states that he desired to produce '[a]n absolutely impartial account of the Covenanters.' He also notes that 'certain definite conclusions regarding the Covenanters, as a rigid sect in the Christian Church, and as a restless, rebellious political party in the 16th and 17th centuries, have been arrived at by many students; and, as a general rule, a far from favourable estimate of these brave and defensible patriots has been based upon generalizations which will not bear investigation.' Moreover, he recognizes the Covenanters for who they were: 'one of the most extraordinary orders of devotees which the civilized world ever saw.' The work is enhanced by photographic reproductions of portraits, pictures, and Covenants. Considered by some as the definitive work on the Covenanters (over 1100 pages). If you are going to study church history after the Apostles, no other group or time period offers as much edifying material. This set is sure to put a fiery zeal in the soul of all those who love the Lord Jesus Christ. Great price too!" -- SWRB
The Covenanters: A History of the Church in Scotland from the Reformation to the Revolution
http://books.google.com/books?id=tdNLAAAAMAAJ&ie=ISO-8859-1&output=html

HOUSTON, THOMAS, Letters of the Rev. James Renwick, The Last of Scotland's Covenanted Martyrs, 1865, 290 pages. Available on The Amazing Christian Library, DVD Four, CD #22.
"Contains a historical sketch of Renwick's life, labours, and martyrdom, and a vindication of his character and testimony -- along with 63 of his letters (from July 8, 1682 to Feb. 17, 1688). A useful appendix is also included denouncing the Revolution settlement and rebuking 'those who have no relish for a full covenanted testimony.' Because of the severity of Renwick's and the 'Society people's' suffering, and the wickedness of the slander and persecution they endured (which is beginning to be repeated in our day through the likes of men like Richard Bacon and other unfaithful ministers and malicious malignants), this book makes for excellent 'spiritual support and consolation in difficult times.' We also happily note, along with Houston, that 'the resurrection of the names of the confessors and martyrs of a former age, is a sure indication of the resurrection of their principles too' -- as we see God stretching forth his hand to our wicked and sinful generation in the writings of faithful covenanted ministers like James Renwick (and many others)." -- SWRB

*HOWIE, JOHN, The Scots Worthies. Biographia Scoticana: or, A Brief Historical Account of the Lives, Characters, and Memorable Transactions of the Most Eminent Scots Worthies . . . As also, an appendix, containing a short historical hint of the wicked lives . . . of the . . . apostates and . . . persecutors in Scotland . . . 2nd edition, corrected and enlarged, 1781 (Glasgow: Printed by John Bryce, and sold at his shop opposite Gibson's-Wynd, Salt-market, 1781) and (Cerlox Bound Photocopy Series. Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books). A Christian classic.
The full book and the book series of 22 MP3 files, produced by Still Waters Revival Books, may be found on Reformation Bookshelf CD #1, ISBN: 0921148674 9780921148678.
This same book series of audio files is availabe at AudioSermons.com.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/search.asp?seriesOnly=true&currSection=sermonstopic&sourceid=swrb&keyword=Book%3A+SCOTS+WORTHIES&keyworddesc=Book%3A+SCOTS+WORTHIES
Biographia Scoticana, John Howie
Original from Oxford University, published 1885, digitized May 22, 2006. Described as a reprint of the 1781 edition.
http://books.google.com/books?vid=OCLC34190563&id=5iwAAAAAQAAJ&q=Scots+Worthies+1781&dq=Scots+Worthies+1781&ie=ISO-8859-1&pgis=1
(Gale: Eighteenth Century Collection Online [ECCO.] Gale Document Number CW3300757473). English Short Title Catalog, ESTCT110333.
"Most commonly known as SCOTS WORTHIES, this edition contains Howie's footnotes (defending the Covenanters) and Howie's appendix titled `The Judgment and Justice of God' (which chronicles God's judgments upon Reformation apostates and those who persecuted the Covenanters). It is the only edition in print which contains both these sections intended for publication by the author (as later editors often removed either one or both of these parts of this book). BIOGRAPHIA SCOTICANA covers the history of `noblemen, gentlemen, ministers and others from Mr. Patrick Hamilton, who was born about the year of our Lord 1503, and suffered martyrdom at St Andrews, Feb, 1527, to Mr. James Renwick, who was executed in the Grass-market of Edinburgh, Feb. 17, 1688. Together with a succinct account of the lives of other seven eminent divines, and Sir Robert Hamilton of Preston, who died about, or shortly after the Revolution.' This is one of our best history books (over 700 pages), covering all of the major Scottish Reformers. Howie summarizes his book as follows: `The design of the following was to collect, from the best authorities, a summary account of the lives, characters, and contendings, of a certain number of our most renowned SCOTS WORTHIES, who, for their faithful services, ardent zeal, constancy in sufferings, and other Christian graces and virtues, deserve honourable memorial in the Church of Christ; and for which their names have been, and will be savoury to all the true lovers of our Zion, while Reformation principles are regarded.' Furthermore, the momentous nature of the struggles chronicled in this book are succinctly noted when Howie writes: `the primitive witnesses had the divinity of the Son of God, and an open confession of Him, for their testimony. Our reformers from Popery had Antichrist to struggle with, in asserting the doctrines of the Gospel, and the right way of salvation in and through Jesus Christ. Again, in the reigns of James VI. and Charles I., Christ's REGALIA, and the divine right of Presbytery, became the subject matter of their testimony. Then, in the beginning of the reign of Charles II. (until he got the whole of our ancient and laudable constitution effaced and overturned), our Worthies only saw it their duty to hold and contend for what they had already attained unto. But, in the end of this and the subsequent tyrant's reign, they found it their duty (a duty which they had too long neglected) to advance one step higher, by casting off their authority altogether, and that as well on account of their manifest usurpation of Christ's crown and dignity, as on account of their treachery, bloodshed, and tyranny . . . which may be summed up. The Primitive martyrs sealed the prophetic office of Christ in opposition to Pagan idolatry. The reforming martyrs sealed His priestly office with their blood, in opposition to Popish idolatry. And last of all, our late martyrs have sealed His kingly office with their best blood, in despite of supremacy and bold Erastianism. They indeed have cemented it upon His royal head, so that to the world's end it shall never drop off again.' Moreover, the importance of this book can be clearly seen when Johnston, in TREASURY OF THE SCOTTISH COVENANT, reports that, Walter Scott refers to Howie as `the fine old chronicler of the Cameronians'. . . Howie's book has been for upwards of a century a household word, occupying a place on the shelf beside THE BIBLE and THE PILGRIM'S PROGRESS.' Written for God, country and the covenanted work of Reformation. Stirring history!" -- SWRB
See also: Thomson, John Henderson (editor), A CLOUD OF WITNESSES FOR THE ROYAL PREROGATIVES OF JESUS CHRIST BEING THE LAST SPEECHES AND TESTIMONIES OF THOSE WHO HAVE SUFFERED FOR THE TRUTH IN SCOTLAND SINCE . . . 1680 (Harrisonburg, VA: Sprinkle Publications) and JOHN FOXE'S BOOK OF MARTYRS. ACTES AND MONUMENTS OF MATTERS MOST SPECIALL AND MEMORABLE, the second edition of Foxe's Book of Martyrs Variorum Edition Online (version 1.1 - summer 2006).

*Howie, John, James Stewart and John Knox: Scotland's "Two Sons of Oil" (excerpted from John Howie's Scots Worthies, 1781 edition, narrated by Larry Birger, Jr.) (Audio Cassette Series. Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books).
"As Birger accurately observes in his introduction to this one-tape reformational powerhouse, `One great reason the Church is so weak and divided today is precisely because she has rejected these commandments of her Lord and Husband [to walk in the footsteps of the flock (Song 1:8), and to seek out and walk in the old paths (Jer. 6:16)]. Forgetting the works of God in history, she has thus become an easy prey to the old lies and idolatries of the Roman Catholic Church, that whore of Babylon, such that so-called Protestantism today in many ways bears more resemblance to the Roman Church than to the biblical churches of the Reformation. We are indeed ignorant of our history, and therefore have been doomed time and again to repeat its mistakes.' He continues, pointing to one of God's powerful remedies for our sinful failings in this area: 1Our gracious Lord has nonetheless provided a way out for us, by preserving for us the narratives of His great works in history, as well as His infallible Word by which to judge which are truly the good old paths . . . . On this tape you'll hear of the lives of two men who exemplified the work of Christ's "Two Witnesses" in Scotland, James Stewart, Earl of Moray, and John Knox. These "Two Sons of Oil," like their ancient predecessors, Zerubbabel and Joshua, illustrate the holy beauty and mighty effectiveness of God's institutions of Scriptural civil magistracy and gospel ministry. We see from their high regard for one another and from the work they accomplished in the Lord how both righteous civil rulers and faithful gospel ministers are necessary for true and lasting, society-changing reformation. In our age of ungodly toleration and pretended liberty of conscience (as opposed to the true Scriptural liberty of conscience promoted by these two eminent reformers), the emphasis is generally laid upon the ministry only as the agent of reformation -- and truly, there will be no lasting reformation without a faithful ministry. Nevertheless, we see from the Scriptural examples of Hezekiah, Josiah, and other godly rulers, as well as from various instances throughout subsequent history that the civil rulers are called by, and used by, God to promote and protect the welfare of His Bride, the Church. These rulers have no authority in matters of religion, but they have a responsibility about matters of religion -- to do things like suppressing and uprooting heresy, blasphemy, and idolatry, and encouraging and promoting faithful ministers -- as all our faithful Reformed forefathers taught.' Learn with excitement how God used these two faithful men to defeat Antichrist in Scotland, and purify and unify His faithful Church there. A great tool for seeing the vital importance of the civil government (as well as the ministry) in reformation!" -- SWRB
James Stewart and John Knox: Scotland's "Two Sons of Oil" (excerpted from John Howie's Scots Worthies, 1781 ed., narrated by Larry Birger, Jr.)
http://sphynx.idontknow.com/swrb/twosons.ram

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

*HUTCHISON, MATTHEW, The Reformed Presbyterian Church in Scotland: Its Origin and History, 1680-1876, 450 pages. Available on the forthcoming SWRB Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #18, ISBN: 0921148933 9780921148937. Available on The Amazing Christian Library, DVD Four, CD #23.
"This is the only book-length history covering the period after 1680 (to 1876), when the majority Synod of the Reformed Presbyterian Church of Scotland merged with the Free Church of Scotland. The history after 1822, when the Auchensaugh Renovation was removed as a term of communion, merely chronicles the wholesale backsliding of the church and eventual split in 1863; from which a majority emerged which joined with the Free Church of Scotland in 1876. A remnant of the minority of the Reformed Presbyterian Church of Scotland still exists, however they never returned to the original position of the church from which it began to depart in 1822 (with the removal of the Auchensaugh bond -- which bond is the Auchensaugh Renovation listed under the Reformed Presbytery in this catalogue). This book is a fine illustration of the 'footsteps of the flock,' (as seen in the Protesters [paleopresbyterians] and their spiritual posterity), during the period of which it deals, while at the same time serving as a clear warning to those who have declined from Reformation attainments (i.e. the Resolutioners [neopresbyterians] and those who continue their deformation of the faith). 'By the National Covenant,' notes Thomas Sproull, 'our Fathers laid Popery prostrate. By the Solemn League and Covenant they were successful in resisting prelatic encroachments and civil tyranny. By it they were enabled to achieve the Second Reformation . . . They were setting up landmarks by which the location and limits of the city of God will be known at the dawn of the millennial day . . . How can they be said to go forth by the footsteps of the flock, who have declined from the attainments, renounced the covenants and contradicted the testimony of 'the cloud of witnesses.'. . . All the schisms (separations) that disfigure the body mystical of Christ . . . are the legitimate consequences of the abandonment of reformation attainments -- the violation of covenant engagements.' Understanding where the faithful covenanted servants of Christ have been historically, not only helps individuals to separate between truly constituted churches and the those that are false (because they have constitutionally backslidden from Reformation attainments); but is a necessary component to the keeping the fifth commandment, as the Reformed Presbytery has pointed out: ' Nor otherwise can a Christian know the time or place of his birth, or the persons whom God commands him to honor as his father and mother, than by uninspired testimony; and the same is true of his covenant obligation, if baptized in infancy. Against all who ignorantly or recklessly reject or oppose history as a bond of fellowship, in the family, in the state, but especially in the church, we thus enter our solemn and uncompromising protest' (Excerpted from: The Act, Declaration and Testimony for the Whole of Our Covenanted Reformation... by the Reformed Presbytery, pp. 177-178 -- a SWRB rare bound photocopy [1761], reprinted 1995 from the 1876 edition). This edition of THE REFORMED PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN SCOTLAND: ITS ORIGIN AND HISTORY, 1680-1876 also contains an introductory note by William Goold (the editor of John Owen's WORKS). In introducing this book Goold writes, 'This volume may claim attention as supplying an essential link in the ecclesiastical history of Scotland. It is the history of that body of men who adhered to the civil part of the Second Reformation, according to which Presbytery was established and recognized by the State between 1638 and 1649 . . . The Church of which this volume is a history took its rise in its distinctive character at this period, and on the ground that it could not, while acknowledging the relief from oppression which the Revolution (of 1688) afforded, acquiesce in the arrangements made by the State for the recognition of the Church and the due exercise of its authority within its own spiritual domain (because the so-called 'glorious revolution' was Erastian to the core and also denied the previous national covenant engagements -- RB). . . . Apart, however, from their testimony in regard to this evil and danger, resulting from a Civil Government in which Prelacy was continued as an essential element, those who dissented from the Revolution Settlement, and from whom the Reformed Presbyterian Church arose, were animated with an earnest zeal for the maintenance of religious ordinances. They strove to exist as a Church, and how far they succeeded, and what difficulties they had to surmount in the attempt, is the interesting story recorded in this volume' (pp. v-vi). In summary, this book (of 450 pages) is an one-of-a-kind chronicle of an integral part of the history of the battle for the 'Crown Rights and Royal Prerogatives of the Lord Jesus Christ'." -- SWRB

*Johnston (of Wariston), Archibald, Diary of Sir Archibald Johnston of Wariston, 3 volumes (Cerlox Bound Photocopy Series. Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books, 1997).
"The introduction to this book cites Carlyle writing, 'Archibald Johnston of Wariston; . . . a Lord Register of whom all the world had heard. Redactor of the Covenanters' protests in 1637 and onwards; redactor perhaps of the Covenant itself; canny lynx-eyed Lawyer, and austere Presbyterian Zealot; full of fire, of heavy energy and gloom: in fact a very notable character.' The introduction further notes that Johnston was 'in some respects, one of the most interesting of the leading Scotsmen who lived in those troubled times which began with the Service Book riot, the swearing and subscription of the National Covenant, and the abjuration of Episcopacy in 1637-38, and ended with the overthrow of the Protectorate and the Restoration of the Monarchy in 1660 . . .' Calling Johnston the 'Covenanter politician,' the DICTIONARY OF SCOTTISH CHURCH HISTORY AND THEOLOGY (Cameron, editor) states, 'From the start of the revolt against Charles I in 1637 he was at its centre, frequently acting as secretary to the rebel leaders and drafting their declarations. He and Alexander Henderson were joint authors of the National Covenant, and he frequently took part in negotiations with the King and the English Parliament in the years that followed. In 1638 he was appointed clerk to the General Assembly and procurator of the Church, and in 1641, he was knighted and appointed a Lord of Session. In 1643 he became one of Scotland's representatives at the Westminster Assembly, and in 1646 King's Advocate. He had from the start been identified with the most radical of the Covenanters, and in 1648 he helped inspire opposition to the Engagement. A leading figure in the Kirk Party regime of 1648-50, becoming Clerk Register in 1649, he was in the fore in demanding thorough purging and punishing of the ungodly in both Church and state. During the Cromwellian invasion of 1650-1 he supported the Western Remonstrance and the Protesters in virtually disowning the cause of Charles II. He refused to serve the regime of Oliver Cromwell at first, partly through opposition of the religious toleration it imposed (though he later backslid into accepting major positions under Cromwell's dictatorship -- RB) . . . After the Restoration he was denounced as a traitor for having served Cromwell, and fled into hiding abroad. He was discovered in France, brought back to Edinburgh and executed . . . being generally hated and despised. Yet through his remarkable diaries one can gain much understanding' (pp. 446-447). Johnston, TREASURY OF THE SCOTTISH COVENANT (pp. 404-405) provides us with more insight into this fascinating saint (and these unparalleled times) in the following two quotations. 'For the lay elders there was the redoubted Johnston of Warriston, the most able and zealous of a group of lay statesmen who were as thorough warriors in the ecclesiastical department of the great struggle as the clergy themselves . . . He looked at the Covenant as the setting of Christ on His throne, and so was out of measure zealous in it. He afterwards, in old age and physical weakness, sealed it with his blood, his last words being 'The Lord has graciously comforted me; O pray, pray; praise, praise' (Burton). 'Warriston was a religious statesman. The standard of his policy was the Word of God; his great and governing aim, the Divine glory. And on this account his name has suffered obloquy from a quarter where all who would follow his steps may expect similar treatment, so long as society is composed, as it still is to such an alarming extent, of the godless and unbelieving' (Dr. M'Crie). The TREASURY OF THE SCOTTISH COVENANT also notes that 'it is to Johnston that the world generally has attributed the project of renewing the Covenant (of 1638 -- RB). This was his master-stroke of policy.' It further informs us that 'on one occasion he continued in prayer during fourteen hours.' For a glimpse into the heart of the most thorough national (and international) Reformation thus far in history you will not get closer to the source than Johnston's rare three volume Diary! From the inner workings of the battle for the National covenant to Johnston's notes covering Cromwell, Owen's views on toleration, the Protester/Resolutioner controversy and much more, this is an exceedingly valuable historical resource. As the introduction so aptly puts it, 'the great Covenanter's Diary . . . contained many valuable passages with relation to the history of these times, nowhere else to be found.' Almost 1300 pages in total and indexed." -- SWRB

*JOHNSTON, JOHN C., Treasury of the Scottish Covenant (Cerlox Bound Photocopy Series. Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books, 1997). Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #27, ISBN: 0921148240 9780921148241. Available on The Amazing Christian Library, DVD Five, CD #25, ATLA 1988-6070. A Christian classic.
"A massive listing (over 671 pages) covering Covenanting literature from the period of the Reformation to its publication in 1887. Contains not only the principal literary productions of the Covenanters (in the course of the long-sustained and heroic resistance offered by them to the spiritual despotism thrust against them in both church and state), but all of the chief historical documents connected with this period of history. Inspiration and courage can be drawn from the memories and associations of these events and writings. Here is one example of what you will find (from page 349 in the book): '(Richard) Camerons' head and hands, cut from his body at Airsmoss, were taken to his father, then suffering in prison in Edinburgh for the Covenant. He was asked if he knew them. 'His words,' says Dr. Kerr, 'were surely the most touching of all the memories of that cruel time: 'I know, I know them! they are my son's, my dear son's! It is the Lord: good is the will of the Lord, who cannot wrong me nor mine, but has made goodness and mercy to follow us all our days.' After which, by order of the Council, his head was fixed upon the Netherbow Port, and his hands beside it, with the fingers upward, a kind of preaching 'at the entry of the city, at the coming in at the doors,' that told more for his cause and against the persecutors than all the words he could have spoken.' A must for every serious theological student, religious library, or rare book collector who has any interest in Reformation thought and/or literature. It is a veritable gold mine of information, facts, documents, book listings and more!" -- SWRB

*KNOX, JOHN (1505-1572), National Repentance and Reformation. Alternate title: A BRIEF EXHORTATION TO ENGLAND FOR THE SPEEDY EMBRACING OF THE GOSPEL, 1559. Available on the forthcoming SWRB Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #25, ISBN: 0921148208 9780921148203. Available on The Amazing Christian Library, DVD One, CD #6.
"Formerly titled 'A Brief Exhortation to England for the Speedy Embracing of the Gospel, 1559.' Mitchell in The Scottish Reformation (p. 80) cites Dr. Merle D'Aubigné on Knox: 'The blood of warriors ran in the veins of the man who was to become one of the most intrepid champions of Christ's army . . . He was active, bold, thoroughly upright and perfectly honest, diligent in his duties, and full of heartiness for his comrades.' The warrior in Knox was certainly roused for battle in this production. Kevin Reed (Selected Writings of John Knox), p. 580 comments, 'Some historians have reflected negatively on the vehemence of Knox's remarks. Perhaps they should peruse the long list of the martyrs named in the appendix to this work. Critics may then find a clue for understanding the reformer's zeal. Knox is discussing serious matters of life and death--spiritual issues which affect us deeply in this life, and for eternity.' Magistrates everywhere today need to hear this message again; God has not changed--there are still corporate curses for disobedience at a national level and corporate blessings for those nations 'that kiss the Son' (cf. Psalm 2)." -- SWRB

*KNOX, JOHN (1505-1572), Reformation, Revolution and Romanism: An Appeal to the Scottish Nobility (1558), (Audio Cassette Series. Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books).
"David Chilton notes, 'Of all the sixteenth-century Reformers, John Knox remains the most ardently loved and fiercely hated. No other leader of his day saw so clearly the political issues in the light of Scripture. Nor has any of his contemporaries had so much direct influence upon the subsequent history of the world. He transformed a land of barbarians into one of the most hardheadly Calvinistic cultures ever to exist, and his doctrines lie at the core of all Protestant revolutionary activity. While he is often considered merely one of Calvin's lieutenants, he was actually a Reformer in his own right. In some respects he was the greatest of them all.' ('John Knox,' The Journal of Christian Reconstruction: Symposium on Puritanism and Law [Vallecito, CA: Chalcedon, Vol. V, No. 2, Winter, 1978-79, p. 194). Furthermore, R.L. Greaves has noted that 'it has even been suggested -- and not altogether without merit -- that Knox was a key link in the development of political ideology that culminated in the American Revolution.' Theology and Revolution in the Scottish Reformation: Studies in the Thought of John Knox (Grand Rapids, MI: Christian University Press, 1980, p. 156). Moreover, Mason states that this Appeal 'is the most important . . . of Knox's political writings,' (in the Introduction to his compilation of Knox's political writings titled On Rebellion). It shows in a conclusive manner that Knox wanted a THEONOMIC ESTABLISHMENT which was careful to 'disapprove, detest, oppose and remove all false worship and all monuments of idolatry' (cf. Westminster Larger Catechism #108). It also clearly demonstrates that Knox believed in and promoted the continuing binding validity of the Old Testament case laws and the penal sanctions attached to them, including the death penalty. Kevin Reed, in a editor's note, introducing this piece in his newly published Selected Writing of John Knox, also points out that 'the Westminster Confession provides a distinct echo of Knox, when it states that the magistrate 'hath authority, and it is his duty, to take order, that unity and peace be preserved in the church, that the truth of God be kept pure and entire, that all blasphemies and heresies be suppressed, all corruptions and abuses in worship and discipline prevented or reformed, and all the ordinances of God duly settled, administered, and observed' (Ch. 23:3, original wording). One secular historian once described Knox as 'Calvin with a sword,' making one wonder if he had not just been reading this very book. For '[w]here Calvin merely permitted disobedience to an ungodly ruler or immoral law, Knox championed armed rebellion -- a type of Calvinism that made religious revolution in Scotland possible' (Christian History, Issue 46, p. 35). This is the best of the best; don't miss it!" -- SWRB
Reformation, Revolution & Romanism (1/2) An Appeal to the Scottish Nobility (1558) by John Knox
http://sphynx.idontknow.com/swrb/reformationrevolution.ram

MacLean, Isabelle McCall, The Scottish Covenanter Genealogical Index - (1630-1712) (iUniverse, Inc., February 13, 2007).
"This work evolved out of a love for my ancestors, one being John Whitelaw, the Covenanter Monkland Martyr, who was executed for his religious beliefs in Edinburgh, 1683. While searching for his records I came across reference to thousands of other Scottish Covenanters. This Index lists those Covenanters found in some books written about the period between 1630 and 1712.There are many, many more Covenanters, whose names need to be added to this work, and, God willing, I will do it.
"The Covenanters were steadfast in their Presbyterian beliefs and refused to take an oath unto the King stating that he was the head of the church. They believed that Christ was the Head of the Church and their loyalty to this belief allowed them to lay their lives down for it. The Royalists and Dragoons, who were seeking to bring them into obedience to the King, relentlessly chased the Covenanters from glen to glen. This disregard for their civil rights was brutally carried out basically in the Lowlands of Scotland.8
"Many of their records were destroyed along with their lives and their stories only live in family lore and books that were written about them. I have extracted some of their names and created The Scottish Covenanter Genealogical Index, which is by no means complete, but is a work in progress.
About the Author: "I learned to love my Covenanter ancestors at the knees of my father, James McCall MacLean and my grandfather, Thomas McCall McLean. As many Covenanter records had been destroyed during the "killing times" in Scotland, only scanty histories and some court records remained. What I found, I indexed for myself and for other family history researchers. You can contact the author at www.isabellemmaclean.com." -- Publisher's Annotation

Mall, Thomas, b. 1629 or 30, A cloud of vvitnesses, or, The sufferers mirrour. made up of the swan-like-songs and other choice passages of several martyrs and confessors to the end of the sixteenth century, in their treatises, speeches, letters, prayers, &c. in their prisons, or exiles, at the bar or stake &c. / collected out of the ecclesiastical histories of Eusebius, Fox, Fuller, Clark, Petrie, Scotland, and Mr. Samuel Ward's Life of faith in death, &c. and alphabetically disposed by T.M., 1665, EEBO.

*MANTON, THOMAS, David's Covenanting Our Duty Also (Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books). Two audio cassettes.
"Read by Elder Lyndon Dohms. Manton was a covenanted English Presbyterian (he swore the Solemn League and Covenant). He was also chosen to write the 'Epistle to the Reader' in the Westminster Confession of Faith (1646) (which speaks volumes as to his credibility among the preachers and scholars of his day). Sermons like this show us the great depth of the knowledge that was prevalent during the covenanting period, not only in Scotland, but in England also." -- SWRB

*Marshall, Walter, 1628-1680, The Gospel-Mystery of Sanctification: Growing in Holiness by Living in Union With Christ (London, England: Oliphants Press, 1956, 1692) and (Grand Rapids, MI: Reformation Heritage Books, Inc., 2005, 1999), ISBN-10: 189277724X. See the WorldCat record for arious foreign language editions.
The Reformation Heritage Books edition is a reprint of the 1954 edition set by Oliphants and includes an introduction by Joel R. Beeke. Also includes the author's famous sermon on "The Doctrine of Justification Opened and Applied."
Another edition: (Sovereign Grace Publishers Inc., October 1, 2001), 140 pages, ISBN-10: 1589600630.
"Here you will read the most closely reasoned defense of scriptural sanctification to be found anywhere. . . . Fourteen directions are given to the reader, all perfected with the aim of explaining to sincere souls what sanctification is, what it is not, and how to attain a holy walk before God. . . ." -- Jay P. Green, Sr.
Another edition: (Wipf & Stock Publishers, January 2005), 270 pages, ISBN-10: 1597520543.
"This is by far the best book on the doctrine of Sanctification in print. It was originally written in the 17th century, but has been put into modern english with this edition. This book will help you better understand the Gospel and its power not only for our Justification, but our Sanctification as well." -- Reader's Comment

*MCFEETERS, J.C., Sketches of the Covenanters Available on the forthcoming SWRB Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #1, ISBN: 0921148674 9780921148678. A Christian classic.
"Stirring accounts of sacrifice and martyrdom for the Reformed Faith that will bring tears to eyes of all but the backslidden. Follows the chain of events which gave Scotland two Reformations and a Revolution. Knox, the National Covenant, the Westminster Assembly, the Field Meetings, and much more is covered. The history of great battles for Christ and His royal rights are recounted in this moving history book. Sheds much light upon the warfare with the dragon for true liberty. One of our best history books, highly recommended!" -- SWRB Sketches of the Covenanters
http://www.gutenberg.org/etext/13570

M'Crie, Thomas (1772-1835), Hugh Miller, James Anderson, John Fleming, John Hutton Balfour (contributor), The Bass Rock: Its Civil and Ecclesiastic History . . . geology . . . martyrology . . , 1847 575 pages.
http://books.google.com/books?id=xJILAAAAYAAJ&ie=ISO-8859-1&output=html

*M'CRIE, THOMAS (1772-1835), Statement of the Difference . . . Particularly on the Power of Civil Magistrates Respecting Religion, National Reformation, National Churches, and National Covenants, 1871. Alternate title: STATEMENT OF THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE PROFESSION OF THE REFORMED CHURCH OF SCOTLAND, AS ADOPTED BY SECEDERS, AND THE PROFESSION CONTAINED IN THE NEW TESTIMONY AND OTHER ACTS LATELY ADOPTED BY THE GENERAL ASSOCIATE SYNOD . . . Available (WORKS OF THOMAS M'CRIE) on the forthcoming SWRB Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #25, ISBN: 0921148208 9780921148203. Available on The Amazing Christian Library, DVD One, CD #6. A Christian classic.
" 'The ablest exposition in the English language of the Establishment Principle . . . Dr. (George) Smeaton describes the Statement as a masterly defense of the principles of establishments as Scripture truth: and the most complete vindication ever given to the world of the position occupied by the Reformed Church of Scotland, on the whole subject of national religion and the magistrates legitimate power in promoting it. 'The same thoroughness,' wrote the late Rev. D. Beaton, 'which gave such abiding value to his great biography of Knox, is shown in this, his less known work . . . Dr. McCrie in his STATEMENT shows that all the Confessions of the Protestant and Presbyterian Churches of the Reformation, both in Britain and on the Continent of Europe, held and maintained the Establishment Principle. 'These harmoniously agree,' he writes, 'in declaring as with one mouth that civil authority is not limited to the secular affairs of men, and that the public care and advancement of religion is a principle part of the official duty of magistrates.' He goes on to give extracts from THE CONFESSION OF HELVETIA; THE CONFESSION OF BOHEMIA; THE CONFESSION OF SAXONY; THE FRENCH CONFESSION; THE BELGIC OR DUTCH CONFESSION; THE CONFESSION OF THE ENGLISH CONGREGATION IN GENEVA; THE SCOTS CONFESSION AND THE WESTMINSTER CONFESSION OF FAITH (1646). 'Such is the harmony of doctrine in the Protestant churches on this head,' he remarks, 'expressed in their confessions and public formularies drawn from the Word of God; a harmony which deserves great attention, and from which none should rashly depart' (as cited in CHRIST'S KINGSHIP OVER THE NATIONS by C.J. Brown). Concerning the doctrine of national obedience to Christ, M'Crie demonstrates in the most convincing way that there are few doctrines 'of the practical kind, in which the best interests of mankind and the general state of religion in the world, are more deeply concerned, than in the right and wrong determination of this question.' Contains an excellent preface by George Smeaton. Considered one of the definitive works on Church/State relations, defending the historic Reformed position. An extremely rare and very expensive item if located as a rare book." -- SWRB
Statement of the Difference . . . Particularly on the Power of Civil Magistrates Respecting Religion, National Reformation, National Churches, and National Covenants, 1871, 1807
http://www.covenanter.org/McCrie/Statement/statementtitle.htm

*Moore, Edwin Nisbet, Our covenant heritage: the Covenanters' struggle for unity in truth as revealed in the memoir of James Nisbet (1667-1728) and sermons of John Nevay (d. 1672), illustrated by Brenda Newman and Linda Rhoden (Tain [Ross-shire:] Christian Focus Publications, c2000), includes bibliographical references and index. ISBN: 1857926188.
"A new book, OUR COVENANT HERITAGE, examines the rise and fall of the Scottish Church. It rose when men placed the rights of God above the rights of man. It fell when men abandoned unity in truth. It is written by Ed Moore, who spent several years examining why the Covenanters, particularly those who lived near Loudoun Castle, were willing to die for their understanding of God's truth. The answer is found in the sermons of their minister John Nevay on God's Covenant of Grace and in the Memoirs of James Nisbet, one of their number who survived their epic battle for truth only to face the age-old struggle of Christ's church for unity in truth." -- Publisher's Annotation
Our Covenant Heritage, Edwin Nesbet Moore
http://www.covenanters.com/

Pauck (editor), Melanchthon and Bucer (Westminster Press, 1969).

Paul, Robert S., The Assembly of the Lord: Politics and Religion in the Westminster Assembly and the Grand Debate, ISBN: 0567085597 9780567085597.
"Too bad this excellent book is so expensive. It is the kind of book that anybody interested in the background of the Westminster Assembly would enjoy reading. Detailed, scholarly, and thoroughly documented. We think it is well worth the price for the understanding that it imparts." -- GCB

Pendlebury, William, National repentance and reformation the way to obtain national blessings. A sermon preach'd at Rotherham in Yorkshire, on the eleventh of April, 1744, ... by William Pendlebury, M.A.

PRICE, GREG, History of the Assembly at Westminster (Audio Cassette Series. Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books).
"This lecture is probably the best introductory historical account of this unsurpassed Assembly in audio format. It fulfills the same purpose for which Hetherington noted he wrote his classic (THE HISTORY OF THE WESTMINSTER ASSEMBLY OF DIVINES (only it is in audio format and much shorter): In common with all true Presbyterians, I have often regretted the want of a History of the Westminster Assembly of Divines . . . Especially in such a time as the present, when all distinctive Presbyterian principles are not only called in question, but also misrepresented and condemned, such a want has become absolutely unendurable, unless Presbyterians are willing to permit their Church to perish under a load of unanswered, yet easily refuted, calumny. And as the best refutation of calumny is the plain and direct statement of truth, it is by that process that I have endeavored to vindicate the principles and the character of the Presbyterian Church (p. i.). The Puritan history leading up to the Assembly (which this lecture takes a in-depth look at) is especially important and not only set the context for what became the major debates among the ministers present, but even dictated who was selected to this august body of scholars. Civil wars, national upheavals, emigration to the `new world' and a host of other epoch making events surrounded this momentous period of history. These debates and their resolutions have defined and directed Christian thought and national cultures ever since their original ratification -- and Hetherington (in The History of the Westminster Assembly of Divines) is not shy about noting the significance of this Assembly when he writes,

But the man who penetrates a little deeper into the nature of those unrevealed but powerful influences which move a nation's mind, and mould its destinies, will be ready to direct his attention more profoundly to the objects and deliberations of an assembly which met at a moment so critical, and was composed of the great master-minds of the age; and the theologian who has learned to view religion as the vital principle of human nature, equally in nations and in the individual man, will not easily admit the weak idea, that such an assembly could have been an isolated event, but will be disposed earnestly to inquire what led to its meeting, and what important consequences followed. And although the subject has not hitherto been investigated with such a view, it may, we trust, be possible to prove, that it (the Westminster Assembly–RB) was the most important event in the century in which it occurred; and that it has exerted, and in all probability will yet exert, a far more wide and permanent influence upon both the civil and the religious history of mankind than has generally been even imagined (p. 17).

*REID, H.M.B., A Cameronian Apostle: Being Some Account of John Macmillan of Balmaghie, 1896. Available on the forthcoming SWRB Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #30, ISBN: 0921148380 9780921148388. Available on The Amazing Christian Library, DVD Five, CD #25.
"The author wrote this book `considering the renewed interest taken at present in questions of Church government and establishment,' noting that `there seemed to be some room for a detailed treatment of a career which covers so interesting a period as that embraced between 1690 and 1750.' Macmillan is an important historical link to those who still fight for Christ's Crown and Covenant. `For many years he fought the battle of the Covenants alone, and he fought it on lines of policy and wisdom.' states Reid. Furthermore, the author continues, `I have tried to indicate his position among the `Suffering Remnant' by calling him `a Cameronian Apostle;' for, during the long period of 36 years, he was the sole ordained minister among the scattered congregations of the `Society' people. The name seems not unfitting, and it receives a certain sanction from the authority of Dr. Cunningham, who styled him the `high-priest' of the Societies . . . Further, Macmillan's story is also the record of the development of a most interesting side of Scottish Church life. He may be said, indeed, to have made the history of what, at last, became the Reformed Presbyterian Church. This is so true, that that Church long bore the popular name of the `Macmillanites.' And the name of Macmillan is bound up with more than one congregation still existing.' An important book for those who would trace the backsliding of modern Presbyterianism (the neopresbyterians) and also be encouraged by the remnant of those who remain faithful to the position of the original Covenanters (the paleopresbyterians). This book's 308 pages includes illustrations and a detailed appendix containing important church documents." -- SWRB

*Reid, W. Stanford, Trumpeter of God: A Biography of John Knox, paperback, 372 pages (Baker Publishing Group, February, 1982), and (New York, Scribner, 1974).
Knox laid the foundation for Presbyterianism and the Covenanted Reformation.

RENWICK, JAMES, A choice collection of very valuable prefaces, lectures, and sermons, preached upon the mountains and muirs of Scotland, in the hottest time of the late persecution. By ... Mr. James Renwick. ... The fourth edition. To which are added, The form and order of the admission of ruling elders; A reply to Mr Langlan's Letter to Gavin Wotherspoon; and A testimony to the truths of God ... By the same author. Glasgow, 1777. Available on the forthcoming SWRB Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #29, ISBN: 0921148283 9780921148289.

Ridpath, George, An answer to the Scotch Presbyterian eloquence. In three parts. ... London, 1789. Alternate title: A continuation of the Answer to The Scots Presbyterian eloquence, dedicated to the Parliament of Scotland. Being a vindication of the acts of that august assembly, from the clamours and aspersions of the Scots prelatical clergy, in their libels printed in England. With a confutation of Dr. M-----'s postscript, in answer to the former, proving, that it's not the Church of England's interest, to countenance the Scots outed clergy. As also reflections on Sir Geo. Mackenzy's defence of Charles the Second's government in Scotland. And instances on record of Sir George's subornation against Sir Hugh and Sir George Campbel, and the Laird of Blackwood, Presbyterian gentlemen. Together with the acts of the Scots General assembly and present Parliament; compared with the acts of Parliament in the two last reigns against the Presbyterians. (ECCO) Gale Document Number CW3320383857

*ROBERTS, WILLIAM L. (1798-1864), SWRB's Works of William Roberts, 6 volumes and articles. Available on the forthcoming SWRB Hard Drive.

ROBINSON, HASTINGS (editor), Original Letters Relative to the English Reformation Written During the Reigns of King Henry VIII., King Edward VI., and Queen Mary: Chiefly From the Archives of Zurich, 1846-47, 2 volumes, 819 pages, ISBN: 155635049X 9781556350498. Available on the forthcoming SWRB Hard Drive.
"The greater part of these letters are now printed for the first time: they will be found to contain many details of interest, relative to various proceedings of that period, and occasionally to give much information respecting the customs and manners of the times, as well as the private history of the writers and other individuals to whom they refer. Bucer, Melancthon, Calvin, Cranmer, Edward VI., Lady Jane Grey, Hooper, Ponet, Bullinger, Foxe, Goodman and a host of others either penned or received these letters. These letters where 'translated from authenticated copies of the autographs'." -- SWRB

ROBINSON, HASTINGS (editor), The Zurich Letters, or the Correspondence of Several English Bishops and Others, With Some of the Helvetian Reformers, During the Reign of Queen Elizabeth, 1846, 592 pages, ISBN: 155635049X 9781556350498. Available on the forthcoming SWRB Hard Drive.
"Taken chiefly from the Archives of Zurich, these letters have been translated from authenticated copies of the autographs for the Parker Society. The Parker Society was 'instituted for the publication of the works of the fathers and early writers of the Reformed English Church.' The editor notes that he 'refrains from any remarks upon the various topics treated in these letters; it being his desire, and the object of the Society, that the respective writers should speak for themselves.' Notes are added, however, 'for the purpose of throwing additional light upon the facts and circumstances recorded in the correspondence.' Calvin, Beza, Bullinger, Martyr, Farell, Zanchius, Coverdale, Queen Elizabeth and a host of others either penned or received these letters. Contains an extensive index and table of contents." -- SWRB

*RUTHERFORD, SAMUEL, A Free Disputation Against Pretended Liberty of Conscience, 1649 edition. Available on the forthcoming SWRB Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #9, #25, and #26, ISBN: 0921148836 9780921148838. Available on The Amazing Christian Library, DVD Four, CD #21.
"Rutherford's FREE DISPUTATION, though scarce, is still one of his most important works with maybe only a few copies of the actual book left in existence. Though Rutherford is affectionately remembered in our day for his LETTERS, or for laying the foundations of constitutional government (against the divine right of kings) in his unsurpassed LEX, REX his FREE DISPUTATION should not be overlooked for it contains the same searing insights as LEX, REX. In fact, this book should probably be known as Rutherford's 'politically incorrect' companion volume to LEX, REX. A sort of sequel aimed at driving pluralists and antinomians insane. Written against 'the Belgick Arminians, Socinians, and other Authors contending for lawlesse liberty, or licentious Tolerations of Sects and Heresies,' Rutherford explains the undiluted Biblical solution to moral relativism, especially as it is expressed in ecclesiastical and civil pluralism! (Corporate pluralism being a violation of the first commandment and an affront to the holy God of Scripture). He also deals with conscience, toleration, penology (punishment), and the judicial laws, as related to both the civil and ecclesiastical realms. Excellent sections are also included which address questions related to determining the fundamentals of religion, how covenants bind us, the perpetual obligation of social covenants (with direct application to the Solemn League and Covenant and the covenant-breaking of Cromwell and his sectarian supporters), whether the punishing of seducing teachers be persecution of conscience, and much more. Walker adds these comments and context regarding Rutherford's FREE DISPUTATION, 'The principle of toleration was beginning to be broached in England, and in a modified shape to find acceptance there. Samuel Rutherford was alarmed, or rather, I should say, he was horrified, for he neither feared the face of man or argument. He rushed to the rescue of the good old view . . . It is not so easy to find a theoretical ground for toleration; and Rutherford has many plausible things to say against it. With the most perfect confidence, he argues that it is alike against Scripture and common sense that you should have two religions side by side. It is outrageous ecclesiastically, it is sinful civilly. He does not, however, take what I call the essentially persecuting ground. He does not hold that the magistrate is to punish religion as religion. Nay, he strongly maintains that the civil magistrate never aims at the conscience. The magistrate, he urges, does not send anyone, whether a heretic (who is a soul murderer -- RB) or a murderer, to the scaffold with the idea of producing conversion or other spiritual result, but to strengthen the foundations of civil order. But if he gives so much power to the king, he is no lover of despotism withal: the king himself must be under law. To vindicate this great doctrine is the object of another book, the celebrated LEX, REX; of which it has been said by one competent to judge, that it first clearly developed the constitutionalism which all men now accept' (Theology and Theologians . . ., pp. 11-12). In our day Francis Schaeffer, and numerous others, have critiqued many of the problems found in modern society, but most have spent little time developing explicitly Biblical solutions especially regarding the theoretical foundations that Rutherford addresses here. Rutherford's FREE DISPUTATION provides a detailed blueprint for laying the foundations that must be laid before any lasting, God-honoring solutions will be found. Furthermore, Rutherford and his writings were the enemies of all governments not covenanted with Christ. This book will give you a very clear picture as to why 'the beast' (civil and ecclesiastical) has reserved his special hatred for such teaching. As Samuel Wylie noted '[t]he dispute, then, will not turn upon the point whether religion should be civilly established . . . but it is concerning what religion ought to be civilly established and protected, -- whether the religion of Jesus alone should be countenanced by civil authority, or every blasphemous, heretical, and idolatrous abomination which the subtle malignity of the old serpent and a heart deceitful above all things and desperately wicked, can frame and devise, should be put on an equal footing therewith" (The Two Sons of Oil; or, the Faithful Witness for Magistracy and Ministry Upon a Scriptural Basis, softcover). Can our generation swallow Rutherford's hard, anti-pluralistic, Covenanter medicine, poured forth from the bottle of the first commandment, without choking on their carnal dreams of a free and righteous society divorced from God (and His absolute claims upon everyone and everything)? Not without the enabling power of the Holy Spirit -- that is for sure! In summary, this book answers all the hardest questions theonomists (and their wisest and best opponents) have been asking for the last 20-30 years (and these answers are much more in depth than any we have seen in the last couple of millennia [less about a century to account for the apostles]). As the reader will discover, Rutherford was a wealthy man when it came to wisdom (and much advanced theologically), and those who take the time to gaze into the King's treasure house, as exhibited in this book, will find that they are greatly rewarded. Furthermore, because of its uncompromising stand upon the Word of God, this book is sure to be unpopular among a wicked and adulterous generation. However, on the other hand, it is sure to be popular among the covenanted servants of King Jesus! This is one of the best books (in the top five anyway) for advanced study of the Christian faith. We have now obtained an easy-to-read, amazingly clear copy of this very rare, old treasure. Great price too, considering that a copy of the 1649 edition, containing this quality of print, would likely cost upwards of $1000 on the rare book market -- though it is unlikely you would ever see a copy for sale!" -- SWRB
The Covenant Between God and Kings, from A DEFENSE OF LIBERTY
http://www.constitution.org/vct/vindiciae1a.htm

*RUTHERFORD, SAMUEL, (1600?-1661), The Glory, Majesty, Dominion and Power of Jesus Christ, 1643. Alternate title: A sermon preached to the Honorable House of Commons: at their late solemne fast, Wednesday, Janu. 31. 1643. By Samuel Rutherfurd, professor of Divinitie in the Universitie of St. Andrews. Published by order of the House of Commons. [Daniel 6:26] (Printed at London by Richard Cotes, for Richard Whittakers & Andrew Crooke, and are to bee sold at their shops in Pauls Church-Yard, 1644), (Cerlox Bound Photocopy Series. Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books), 66 pages. Available on the forthcoming SWRB Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #9, #25, and #29, ISBN-10: 0921148836, ISBN-13: 9780921148838. Also available on the Amazing Christian Library, DVD Two, CD #7, 64 pages. A Christian classic.
"Here Rutherford covers a wide range of topics including Christ's kingship and dominion over civil governments, what lawful power (civil and ecclesiastical) is, God's providence, suffering (especially among those covenanted to Him), the oppression and martyrdom of the saints, the wrath of God, apologetics, the fear of God, the visible church, assurance and the weak believer, the free offer of the Gospel, the sovereignty of God, antinomianism, Arminianism, and much more. However, whatever the subject, Rutherford can be found focusing on and exalting the Lord Jesus Christ and His truth in a way that few others have been granted the ability to do -- notwithstanding the fact that he himself wrote, 'I have neither tongue nor pen to express to you the happiness of such as are in Christ' (Letters of Samuel Rutherford, p. 47). Classic Rutherford, preached before some of the most powerful civil leaders of his day!" -- SWRB "It hath been the sin of this Land, that when Episcopacy, Antichristian Ceremonies, Superstition, and Will-worship were enjoined by Law, to pleasure an earthly King, you willingly followed after the command, against the direction of the King of Kings: and now hath the Lord delivered the people of the Land into the hand of their KING. And for this the Sword of the Lord hath gone through the Land." -- Samuel Rutherford

*RUTHERFORD, SAMUEL, Letters of Samuel Rutherford (Puritan Paperback Series. Carlisle, PA: The Banner of Truth Trust). ISBN: 0851511635. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #10, #21, ISBN: 0921148852 9780921148852. Available on The Amazing Christian Library, DVD Four, CD #21. A Christian classic.
With a biographical introduction by Andrew Bonar. "These letters will ever be precious to all who are sensible of their own, and the church's decay and corruptions." -- Andrew Bonar
"Like a strong winged eagle he soars into the highest heaven and with unblenched eye he looks into the mystery of love divine. . . . When we are dead and gone let the world know that Spurgeon held RUTHERFORD'S LETTERS to be the nearest thing to inspiration which can be found in all the writings of mere men." -- C.H. Spurgeon
"Hold off the Bible, such a book the world never saw." -- Richard Baxter
Letters of Samuel Rutherford
http://www.puritansermons.com/toc.htm#RUTH
Letters of Samuel Rutherford
http://books.google.com/books?id=tI_iAAAACAAJ&ie=ISO-8859-1&output=html

*RUTHERFORD, SAMUEL, Lex, Rex (Harrisonburg, VA: Sprinkle Publications), ISBN: 0873779517. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #10, #25 ISBN: 0921148852 9780921148852. Available on the forthcoming SWRB Hard Drive. Available on The Amazing Christian Library, DVD Three, CD #18. A Christian classic.
Lex, rex is Latin for "law is king."
"LEX, REX is `the great political text of the Covenanters' (Johnston citing Innes in Treasury of the Scottish Covenant, p. 305.) `Rutherford was the first to formulate the great constitutional principle Lex est Rex -- the law is King . . . much of the doctrine has become the constitutional inheritance of all countries in modern times.' (Idem.)"
"Gilmour writes [in SAMUEL RUTHERFORD], 'that, as regards religious fervour, scholastic subtlety of intellect, and intensity of ecclesiastical conviction, Samuel Rutherford is the most distinctively representative Scotsman in the first half of the seventeenth century'." -- SWRB
"Without a doubt one of the greatest books on political philosophy ever written. Rutherford here has penned a great Christian charter of liberty against all forms of civil tyranny -- vindicating the Scriptural duty to resist tyrants as an act of loyalty to God." -- SWRB
"That resistance to lawful authority -- even when that authority so called has, in point of fact, set at nought all law -- is in no instance to be vindicated, will be held by those only who are the devotees of arbitrary power and passive obedience. The principles of Mr. Rutherford's LEX, REX, however obnoxious they may be to such men, are substantially the principles on which all government is founded, and without which the civil magistrate would become a curse rather than a blessing to a country. They are the very principles which lie at the basis of the British Constitution, and by whose tenure the House of Brunswick does at this very moment hold possession of the throne of these realms." -- Rev. Robert Burns, D.D., in his Preliminary Dissertation to WODROW'S CHURCH HISTORY
"Though Rutherford is affectionately remembered in our day for his Letters, or for laying the foundations of constitutional government (against the divine right of kings) in his unsurpassed LEX, REX, his Free Disputation should not be overlooked for it contains the same searing insights as Lex, Rex. In fact, this book should probably be known as Rutherford's 'politically incorrect' companion volume to LEX, REX. A sort of sequel aimed at driving pluralists and antinomians insane. Written against 'the Belgick Arminians, Socinians, and other Authors contending for lawlesse liberty, or licentious Tolerations of Sects and Heresies,' Rutherford explains the undiluted Biblical solution to moral relativism, especially as it is expressed in ecclesiastical and civil pluralism! (Corporate pluralism being a violation of the first commandment and an affront to the holy God of Scripture)." -- SWRB
"This [THE DUE RIGHT OF PRESBYTERIES OR A PEACEABLE PLEA FOR THE GOVERNMENT OF THE CHURCH OF SCOTLAND . . . ,] could be considered the LEX, REX of church government -- another exceedingly rare masterpiece of Presbyterianism! Characterized by Walker as sweeping `over a wider field than most'." -- SWRB
A HIND LET LOOSE by Alexander Shields is sometimes referred to as 'Lex, Rex volume two.'
Lex, Rex, or The Law and the Prince, Samuel Rutherford
"Rutherford is to be praised for his teaching that the king is subject to the law of God. The Bible has nothing but condemnation for those who 'frame mischief by a law' and declares rhetorically, 'Shall the throne of iniquity have fellowship with thee?' (Ps. 94:20). Deuteronomy 17 is the classic passage in defense of Lex, Rex, wherein the king is charged to ' . . . read therein all the days of his life: that he may learn to fear the Lord his God, to keep all the words of this law . . . .' (Deut. 17:19)."
http://www.natreformassn.org/lexrex/index.html
Lex, rex: the law and the prince, a dispute for the just prerogative of king and people, containing the reasons and causes of the defensive wars of the kingdom of Scotland, and of their expedition for the ayd and help of their brethren of England. In which a full answer is given to a seditious pamphlet, intituled, Sacro-sancta regum majestas, penned by J. Maxwell. By S. Rutherford. [Followed by] De jure regni apud Scotos; a dialogue, tr. by R. Macfarlan (repr. from the ed. of 1799).
http://books.google.com/books?id=jtYDAAAAQAAJ&ie=ISO-8859-1&output=html
Lex, Rex, "Lawfulness to Resist Tyranny" (Samuel Rutherford)
http://www.geocities.com/CapitolHill/7947/LexRex.html
The Covenant Between God and Kings, from A DEFENSE OF LIBERTY
http://www.constitution.org/vct/vindiciae1a.htm

*SHAW, J.W., Hephzibah Beulah. Our Covenants the National and Solemn League; and Covenanting by the Reformed Presbyterian Synod in America: Considered, 1872 (Cerlox Bound Photocopy Series. Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books).
"A very useful, easy-to-read, introductory work (by an RPCNA minister) to the topics it deals with. General Scriptural pripciples upon which this book is based are:
1. Departure from former laudable attainments, is a great evil, severely threatened in the Holy Scriptures; and that for which every one, who is guilty, must be accountable to the Righteous Judge of all the earth.
2. They who consent unto the unrighteous deeds of others, are chargeable with guilt, as well as the principal actors.
3. Societies, or individuals, having once publicly and solemnly vowed unto the Most High God; and still, after the strictest enquiry, remain satisfied in their own mind, that their vows were scriptural; should seriously endeavor to act up to the true spirit and intention of these vows; and no power upon earth, nor any class of men, whether majority or minority, in a nation, can ever possibly dissolve the obligation.
"Chapters include: The National Covenant and Solemn League and Covenant reviewed; Their Binding Obligations Shown; The Possibility That Adherence to them May Be Professed, While They are Virtually Abandoned; The Covenant Sworn and Subscribed by Synod at Pittsburgh, May 27th, 1871; Is It a Renovation or a New Covenant?; The Covenant Does Not Contain All That the Church is Bound to in America; Charges Against the Covenant; Reason Why Some Who Do Not Like It, Swear It; The Covenants National and Solemn League Must Be Maintained." -- SWRB
Shaw, Rev. J. W., HEPHZIBAH BEULAH OUR COVENANTS THE NATIONAL AND SOLEMN LEAGUE; AND COVENANTING BY THE REFORMED PRESBYTERIAN SYNOD IN AMERICA: C O N S I D E R E D
http://truecovenanter.com/covenants/shaw_hephzibah_beulah.html

*SIBBES, RICHARD, The Faithful Covenanter, 1639 (Cerlox Bound Photocopy Series. Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books). Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #29, ISBN: 0921148283 9780921148289. Available on The Amazing Christian Library, DVD One, CD #2. EEBO.
"An amazing sermon opening the narrow road of faithful covenanting -- as seen first and foremost in the Lord Jesus Christ, our perfect covenant keeper! Expounds on the four periods of time relating to the renewing of the covenant of grace in history. Shows that 'whatsoever we give the supremacy of the inward man to, whatsoever we love most, whatsoever we trust most, whatsoever we fear most, whatsoever we joy and delight in most, whatsoever we obey most -- that is our God.' Applies this to the first commandment, as a part of the law of the covenant, and works out the implications (which involve numerous areas). Goes on to give Scriptural marks whereby covenant keepers can be distinguished from covenant breakers and connects the everlasting covenant with the sacraments and their meaning. A meaty meal, recommended for those who are willing to advance theologically and practically." -- SWRB

*STEELE, DAVID (1803-1887), The Two Witnesses: Their Cause, Number, Character, Furniture and Special Work (1859). Available on the forthcoming SWRB Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #14, ISBN: 0921148925 9780921148920.
"This is a great companion volume to Steele's NOTES ON THE APOCALYPSE. Here Steele zeros in on and works primarily from the text of Revelation 11:13, "I will give power unto my two witnesses, and they shall prophecy.' Steele deals with testimony-bearing, Antichrist, Popery, the beasts of Revelation, the mark of the beast, 666, the image of the beast, civil and ecclesiastical apostasy, Reformation, covenanting, heresy, schism, terms of communion, slavery, sectarianism, Mormonism, Independency, freemasonry, history, worship, idolatry, Britain, the United States, Canada, mystical Babylon, the last days, the ultimate victory of the church and a host of other subjects!
"As is usually the case with Steele, he makes the doctrines of Scripture eminently practical. For example, note how the faithful witnesses are continually called to testify against open opposition to the Lord's Covenanted Zion and the attainments of biblical Reformation (in 'the faith which was once delivered unto the saints'); and against whom this testimony is directed:

"These witnesses are called and commissioned to testify especially against Antichrist -- a false christ, and therefore an opposing christ. But Christ is to be considered either personally or mystically; either abstractly in his personal rights and prerogatives, or in the concrete, in the rights and immunities of his church. There is this prejudice, too prevalent, against Christians testifying against Christians! This we are often told, is contrary to the law of charity. We have not so learned Christ. They are not all Israel which are of Israel. Much of the business of these two prophets is to oppose prophets -- to prophesy against the shepherds, Ezek. 34:2. Moses with his miracles must confront the magicians with their enchantments, Exod. 8:19. Elijah must confront the prophets of Baal, 1 Kings 18:25. Paul must counteract false apostles, 2 Cor. 11:13. In short, the direct object of these witnesses' testimony is apostate christendom -- those who depart from the faith, 1 Tim. 4:1 -- who have gone out from fellowship and renounced the doctrines of the apostolic church, 1 John 2:19. Their special work is to testify against error and its propagators and abettors, together with ungodliness, the natural fruit of error, rather than against pagans." -- The Two Witnesses, p. 14
"These two witnesses have always testified -- not formally against pagans or infidels as such; but -- against apostate Christians, as composing an organized and complex system of opposition to the Lord and his Anointed. And just here, the witnesses have detected the secret of Antichrist's successful enterprise among the human family . . . 'Many false prophets are gone out into the world. . . this is a deceiver and an Antichrist,' (2 John 7.) The combination is ostensibly on the side and in the interest of Christ, and the elements of which Antichrist is composed were obviously professing Christians, "They went out from us, but they were not of us, for if they had been of us, they would no doubt have continued with us: but they went out, that they might be made manifest that they were not all of us,' (1 John 2:19.) Here is the apostasy, and so the witnesses are fully borne out in asserting that Antichrist is a great Christian apostasy! To trace the origin and development, in the organization and modifications of this enemy of all righteousness, is the special work of Christ's witnesses. The Two Witnesses, pp. 17-18

Steele, David (1826-1906), and Robert Hunter, In Memory of the Rev. David Steele, D.D., LL.D, (1826-1906) 66 pages. Alternate title: IN MEMORY OF THE REV. DAVID STEELE, D.D., LL.D, FOR FORTY-FIVE YEARS PASTOR OF THE FOURTH REFORMED PRESBYTERIAN CONGREGATION OF PHILADELPHIA AND PROFESSOR IN THE REFORMED PRESBYTERIAN SEMINARY AT PHILADELPHIA FOR FORTY-THREE YEARS . . .
The author and subject is David Steele (1826-1906), who we assume is the son of David Steele (1803-1887).
"For forty-five years pastor of the Fourth Reformed Presbyterian Congregation of Philadelphia and professor in the Reformed Presbyterian Seminary at Philadelphia for forty-three years . . ."
In memory of the Rev. David Steele, D.D., LL.D. : for forty-five years pastor of the Fourth Reformed Presbyterian Congregation of Philadelphia and professor in the Reformed Presbyterian Seminary at Philadelphia for forty-three years .. (1907)
http://books.google.com/books?id=bcAEAAAAYAAJ&ie=ISO-8859-1&output=html
http://www.archive.org/details/inmemoryofrevdav00stee

*THOMSON, JOHN HENDERSON (editor), JOHN MCMAIN, and DAVID SCOTT (introduction) A Cloud of Witnesses for the Royal Prerogatives of Jesus Christ Being the Last Speeches and Testimonies of Those who Have Suffered for the Truth in Scotland Since . . . 1680. Alternate title: "The Fifteenth Edition, Enlarged and Corrected: A Cloud of Witnesses, for the Royal Prerogatives of Jesus Christ: or, The Last Speeches and Testimonies Of those who have Suffered for the Truth in Scotland, since the year 1680: With an Appendix, Containing the Queensferry Paper; Torwood Excommunication; a Relation concerning Mr. Richard Cameron, Mr. Donald Cargil, and Henry Hall; and an Account of those who were killed without Process of Law, and banished to Foreign Lands: With a short View of some of the oppressive Exactions.
"With the Testimonies of John Nisbet the Younger, John Nisbet of Hardhill, Robert Miller, Thomas Harkness, &c. A Letter of John Semple's and of Archibald Stewart's. The Paper found upon Mr. Cameron at Airsmoss, and an Acrostick upon his name. The Testimony of John Finlay in Kilmarnock. The Epitaphs upon the Grave Stones of Mr. Samuel Rutherford, Mr. John Welwood, and the noble Patriots who fell at Pentland-hills, &c.
"Also includes The Testimony of some persecuted Presbyterian Ministers of the Gospel, unto the Covenanted Reformation of the Church of Scotland, and to the present expediency of continuing to preach the Gospel in the fields, and against the present Antichristian Toleration in its nature and design, &c. Given in to the Ministers at Edinburgh, by Mr. James Renwick, upon the 17th Jan. 1688. And Mr. Richard Cameron's Last Sermon; preached on Kype Water in Evandale, July 18th, 1680, three days before he was killed at Airs-moss. (Pittsburgh: Printed for David Reed, by Eichbaum & Johnston, 1824), (Hess Publications), (Harrisonburg, VA: Sprinkle Publications), (Cerlox Bound Photocopy Series and Hardback Bound. Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books (1884 edition), ISBN: 0873779231. Available on the forthcoming SWRB Hard Drive.
"Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God." (Hebrews 12:1,2)
"Presbyterian Covenanter martyrs of Scotland, their last speeches and testimonies. The first edition appeared in 1714, and as more material was collected it was added to the 15 editions that were printed over the next 100 years."
"An amazing book compiled to show how -- and especially why (from their own dying testimonies) -- the Covenanters suffered, bled and died. These brave martyrs for Christ laid the foundation for liberty and truth in both church and state. They have much to say to us today . . . . Though the issues and ferocity of persecution (by the Popes, prelates, and Erastians) were more obvious during the times covered in this book, the message to contemporary Christians could not be clearer: we are involved in a life and death struggle. Few books are this moving or this edifying -- a real treasure! (658 pp., 1884 ed.)." -- SWRB
The 1871 edition was praised by Spurgeon.
A Cloud of Witnesses, 1871 edition, free online e-text. Original from Oxford University. Digitized Aug 31, 2006.
http://books.google.com/books?id=4vMCAAAAQAAJ&dq=thomson+a+cloud+of+witnesses&ie=ISO-8859-1
See also, McMain, John, and John H. Thomson (editor); Thomson, John H.; and Scott, David (introduction).

Vincent, Thomas, 1634-1678, Godlinesse in principle and conversation a necessary preparative to the worlds dissolution and the escaping of future burnings / by Thomas Vincent, 1670, EEBO.

Walker, James, The Theology and Theologians of Scotland, 1560-1750 (Edinburgh: Knox Press, 1982).

Willson, James R. (1780-1853), and others, History of the Reformed Presbyterian Church: from the year 1580 to 1643 (bound with a collection of historical pamphlets), (S.l.: s.n.? 1845 1900).

WILLSON (WILSON), JAMES M., (1809-1866), Some Reasons for Retaining the Westminster Confession as the Basis of Ecclesiastical Union (Cerlox Bound Photocopy Series. Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books). Available on the forthcoming SWRB Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #24, ISBN: 0921148186 9780921148180.

Wilson, Daniel, Sir (1816-1892), Memorials of Edinburgh in the Olden Time. A Large Eye View of Edinburg in 1647, 2 volumes, 2nd edition (Edinburgh: A and C. Black, 1891).
Includes 123 illustrations, 41 full page. These are artist's renditions of the city in 1647.

Wilson, David, A modest apology for the conduct of Seceders: in refusing to join in Christian communion with Sectarians, Latitudinarians, &c., who have departed from the purity of the Reformation once attained to in these Kingdoms; in a letter to a gentleman. Available on the forthcoming SWRB Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #27 ISBN: 0921148240 9780921148241.

Wodrow, Robert, and Robert Burns (contributor), The History of the Sufferings of the Church of Scotland, From the Restoration to the Revolution. The History of the Sufferings of the Church of Scotland, Google Books
http://books.google.com/books?id=ykYRAAAAIAAJ&ie=ISO-8859-1&output=html

*Wylie, James A., History of The Scottish Nation, in 3 volumes (London, England: Hamilton, Adams, and Company and Edinburg, Scotland: Andrew Elliot, 1886), Available (PROTESTANTISM IN SCOTLAND in two volumes and THE SCOTTISH REFORMATION [TER-CENTENARY]) on The Amazing Christian Library, DVD Four, CD #21.
http://www.reformation.org/history1.html

See also: The sovereignty of god, The doctrine of man (human nature, total depravity), Justice, the theology of judgment, god's final judgment, the great white throne judgment, the day of the lord, The sovereign grace of god: his everlasting mercy and lovingkindness, God's deliverance of nations, Covenant theology and the ordinance of covenanting, The covenant of redemption, The covenant faithfulness of god, Sexual relationship, Oaths, ensnaring (vows, promises, covenants) and bonds with the ungodly, An introduction to the covenanted reformation, Background and history of the covenanted reformation of scotland, Biography of covenanters, The national covenant, The solemn league and covenant, The covenanted reformation of scotland, The covenanted reformation of scotland short title listing, Biography of covenanters, Acts of faithful assemblies, Covenanting in america, The scottish covenanting struggle, alexander craighead, and the mecklenburg declaration, Confession of national sin and covenant renewal, Corporate faithfulness and sanctification, Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, The application of scripture to the corporate bodies of church and state, God's sovereign hand in history, History, "his-story," Church history, The history of reformation of the church, A theological interpretation of american history, Revisionist history
TCRB5: 877-883, 2527

Related WebLinks

Covenanted Reformed Presbyterian Publications
http://www.truecovenanter.com/publish/

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

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

*Presbyterian Heritage Publications, Library of Presbyterian Heritage Publications and Protestant Heritage Press CD-ROM Library and Library of Presbyterian Heritage Publications and Protestant Heritage Press CD-ROM Library (Dallas, TX [Presbyterian Heritage Publications, P.O. Box 180922, Dallas, 75218]: Presbyterian Heritage Publications, 1999).

The Departure from the Puritan Heritage
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Puritan Heritage, 52 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=92903104657

The Scottish Covenanting Struggle, Alexander Craighead, and the Mecklenburg Declaration
http://www.lettermen2.com/craig.html

Calvin's Commentary on Hosea
http://www.iclnet.org/pub/resources/text/m.sion/calvhose.htm

Geneva Study Bible, 1599
http://bible.crosswalk.com/Commentaries/GenevaStudyBible/

Timeline: 1600 to 1640 Undiscovered Scotland: The Ultimate Online Guide
http://www.undiscoveredscotland.com/usfeatures/timeline/to1640.html

Anti-Romanist Homepage
http://www.covenanter.org/Romanism/romanism.htm

An Introduction to the Covenanted Reformation

---

*BROWN, JOHN (OF WAMPHRAY, 1610?-1679), Corporate Sanctification: Holding Fast the Attainments of Reformation. Available on the forthcoming SWRB Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #1, ISBN: 0921148674 9780921148678.
"An overview of the Covenanter doctrine of reformation attainments by one of the great Covenanter theologians. Helpful in dispelling false charges of Anabaptism and perfectionism laid at the feet of faithful Covenanters by schismatics. John Brown was one of Samuel Rutherford's best students." -- SWRB
http://www.swrb.com/newslett/actualnls/attain.htm

*GILLESPIE, GEORGE, Ezekiel's Vision of Millennial Glory, Preparation for Coming Reformation and a Remedy for Backsliding and Lukewarmness. Available (THE PURITAN FAST SERMONS, 1640-1652, THE WORKS OF GEORGE GILLESPIE, and as two MP3 files) on the forthcoming SWRB Hard Drive. Available (two MP3 files) on Reformation Bookshelf CD #18, ISBN: 0921148933 9780921148937.
"This sermon was originally preached to England's House of Commons 'At Their Late Solemn Fast, Wednesday, March 27, 1644.' It is taken from volume one of Gillespie's two volume WORKS. It gives great insight into the covenanted unity, uniformity and worldwide Reformation sought by the majority of the Westminster Divines and the best of the civil leaders of Gillespie's day. Gillespie searchingly deals with the individual, the church and the state, while painting a Scriptural picture of prophesied earthly victory (Isa. 2:2-5, Ezek 47:1-12, etc.) -- in classic historicist postmillennial style -- which is sure to stir even the coldest Christian heart. He shows how the worst disease the land can suffer is corruption in religion (particularly as exhibited in false worship), rebukes those opposing the Solemn League and Covenant and calls upon all to maintain (and even improve upon) the Reformation attainments 'whereunto we have already attained' (Phil. 3:16). It is also interesting to note, especially since this sermon was preached before civil rulers, that though Gillespie points out the need for humility, repentance, prayer, tears, godly affections, sanctified minds and honorable actions, he does not forget to mention the importance of a covenanted army in this great cause of Christ's covenanted Reformation. Also noted is the destruction of Antichrist, the calling and conversion of the Jews (Rom. 11), the two witnesses and the 1260 year apostasy. Gillespie closes with an appeal to the English House of Commons, with whom the Scots had 'joined in covenant and in arms,' to be faithful 'according to the word he (God -- RB) hath covenanted with you (i.e. in the Solemn League and Covenant--RB), so his spirit remaineth among you' -- exhorting these magistrates to 'fear not' but to 'be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.' This is classic Covenanter preaching, among the best sermons you may ever hear!" -- SWRB

*GILLESPIE, PATRICK, The Ark of the Covenant Opened; Or, A Treatise of the Covenant of Redemption Between God and Christ, as the Foundation of the Covenant of Grace, 1677.

*HEWISON, JAMES KING, The Covenanters: A History of the Church in Scotland From the Reformation to the Revolution, 1908, 2 volumes (1908). Available on the forthcoming SWRB Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #25, ISBN: 0921148208 9780921148203. Available on The Amazing Christian Library, DVD Four, CD #24. ATLA 1988-1839
"Smellie, in his preface to Men of the Covenant, calls this set a 'great treatise on the Covenanters -- a treatise which covers the entire field and seems to leave no word unsaid.' Hewison states that he desired to produce '[a]n absolutely impartial account of the Covenanters.' He also notes that 'certain definite conclusions regarding the Covenanters, as a rigid sect in the Christian Church, and as a restless, rebellious political party in the 16th and 17th centuries, have been arrived at by many students; and, as a general rule, a far from favourable estimate of these brave and defensible patriots has been based upon generalizations which will not bear investigation.' Moreover, he recognizes the Covenanters for who they were: 'one of the most extraordinary orders of devotees which the civilized world ever saw.' The work is enhanced by photographic reproductions of portraits, pictures, and Covenants. Considered by some as the definitive work on the Covenanters (over 1100 pages). If you are going to study church history after the Apostles, no other group or time period offers as much edifying material. This set is sure to put a fiery zeal in the soul of all those who love the Lord Jesus Christ. Great price too!" -- SWRB
The Covenanters: A History of the Church in Scotland from the Reformation to the Revolution
http://books.google.com/books?id=tdNLAAAAMAAJ&ie=ISO-8859-1&output=html

*KNOX, JOHN (1505-1572), The History of the Reformation in Scotland (Carlisle, PA: The Banner of Truth Trust). ISBN: 0851513581. Available in WORKS OF JOHN KNOX on Reformation Bookshelf CD #1, ISBN: 0921148674 9780921148678. A Christian classic.
"It breaths with the spirit of excitement and expectation, being told by the author from his experience as an eyewitness and participant in the unfolding drama of the work of God in 16th century Scotland." -- Jay P. Green, Sr.
"Knox portrayed the origins and development of a movement and not a mere chronology of events . . . Knox based his arguments on original sources and he often cited the documents in full. When KNOX'S HISTORY is compared to the contemporary vernacular narratives of Bishop Leslie and Sir James Melville, the superiority of Knox's work becomes evident. For the most part, these writers were preoccupied with petty details and had no conception of the momentous issues that hung on the events they recorded . . . Knox used history to demonstrate his single-track philosophy. And his philosophy said: 'The hearts of men, their thoughts, and their actions are but in the hands of God.' Lee said KNOX'S HISTORY was a sermon without an audience, a preaching book, one long inflammatory speech in behalf of God's truth as the reformer saw it.' (Kyle, The Mind of John Knox, p. 13). Our editions of volumes one and two of KNOX'S WORKS contain the only full, unedited version of Knox's massive HISTORY OF THE REFORMATION IN SCOTLAND available today." -- SWRB

*MCFEETERS, J.C., Sketches of the Covenanters Available on the forthcoming SWRB Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #1, ISBN: 0921148674 9780921148678. A Christian classic.
"Stirring accounts of sacrifice and martyrdom for the Reformed Faith that will bring tears to eyes of all but the backslidden. Follows the chain of events which gave Scotland two Reformations and a Revolution. Knox, the National Covenant, the Westminster Assembly, the Field Meetings, and much more is covered. The history of great battles for Christ and His royal rights are recounted in this moving history book. Sheds much light upon the warfare with the dragon for true liberty. One of our best history books, highly recommended!" -- SWRB Sketches of the Covenanters
http://www.gutenberg.org/etext/13570

*PRICE, GREG Covenant Theology and its Implications. Available on the forthcoming SWRB Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #27 and #28. ISBN: 0921148240 9780921148241. Available on Puritan Bookshelf CD #16.
"An easy-to-understand introduction to the basics of covenant theology. Explains what covenant theology is, while adducing a number of practical and theological implications which must follow when this view of Scripture is adopted. Shows how covenant theology is (and was) foundational to all true Reformation. Refutes Dispensationalism. Includes overviews (with Scripture proofs) of the covenant of Redemption, the covenant of Works and the covenant of Grace. In short, Price proclaims the classic Reformed position on covenants (and the implications of covenant theology) as it has been declared in the best Reformed Confessions (e.g. The Westminster Confession of Faith [1646]) and in books like The Marrow of Modern Divinity (by Fisher and Boston), The Covenant of Life Opened (by Samuel Rutherford), The Ark of the Covenant Opened and The Ark of the Testament Opened by Patrick Gillespie and The Life of Justification Opened (by John Brown of Wamphray). This is the best single tape sermon on covenant theology that we have knowledge of." -- SWRB
Covenant Theology and Its Implications a sermon by Greg Price
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=22801202653

Purves, Jock, Fair Sunshine (The Banner of Truth Trust, 1968), LCCN: 68141491. The material in this volume consists of two works: SWEET BELIEVING, 1948, and FAIR SUNSHINE, 1957.
Character studies of the Scottish Covenanters.
Fair Sunshine: Character Studies of the Scottish Covenanters
http://books.google.com/books?id=2WxvHwAACAAJ&ie=ISO-8859-1&output=html
An Outline of Scottish 'Covenant History' in the 17th Century From Purves' Book FAIR SUNSHINE
http://www.ianpaisley.org/article.asp?cov_intro.htm

*REFORMED PRESBYTERY (AMERICA, "STEELITE"), DAVID STEELE (1803-1887), JOHN THORBURN (1730?-1788), JOHN COURTASS (d. 1795), et al., Act, Declaration, And Testimony, For The Whole Of The Covenanted Reformation, As Attained To, And Established In, Britain and Ireland; Particularly Betwixt The Years 1638 and 1649, Inclusive. As, Also, Against All The Steps Of Defection From Said Reformation, Whether In Former Or Later Times, Since The Overthrow Of That Glorious Work, Down To This Present Day (1876), (A new edition of the Ploughlandhead Testimony of 1761, the subordinate standard of the "Steelite" Reformed Presbytery, 1850). Available on the forthcoming SWRB Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #1, ISBN: 0921148674 9780921148678.
"Upholds the original work of the Westminster Assembly and testifies to the abiding worth and truth formulated in the Westminster family of documents. Upholds and defends the crown rights of King Jesus in church and state, denouncing those who would remove the crown from Christ's head by denying His right to rule (by His law) in both the civil and ecclesiastical spheres. Testifies to the received doctrine, government, worship, and discipline of the Church of Scotland in her purest (reforming) periods. Applies God's Word to the Church's corporate attainments 'with a judicial approbation of the earnest contendings and attainments of the faithful, and a strong and pointed judicial condemnation of error and the promoters thereof' (The Contending Witness magazine, Dec. 17/93, p. 558). Shows the church's great historical victories (such as the National and Solemn League and Covenant, leading to the Westminster Assembly) and exposes her enemies actions (e.g. the Prelacy of Laud; the Independency, sectarianism, covenant breaking and ungodly toleration set forth by the likes of Cromwell [and the Independents that conspired with him]; the Erastianism and civil sectarianism of William of Orange, etc.). It is not likely that you will find a more consistent working out of the principles of Calvinism anywhere. Deals with the most important matters relating to the individual, the family, the church and the state. Sets forth a faithful historical testimony of God's dealings with men during some of the most important days of church history. A basic text that should be mastered by all Christians." -- SWRB
Act, Declaration, And Testimony (1876)
http://www.covenanter.org/RefPres/actdeclarationandtestimony/acttitle.htm
Act, Declaration, & Testimony for the Whole of our Covenanted Reformation (1876 Reformed Presbytery, America, Steelite)
The Project Gutenberg text was prepared by members of The Reformed Presbytery North America using the Reformed Presbytery (America, Steelite) text of the 1876 edition.
http://www.gutenberg.org/files/13200/13200.txt
The electronic text found at ManyBooks.com is the Project Gutenberg text.
http://manybooks.net/pages/presbyteryr13201320013200-8/0.html

Act, Declaration, & Testimony, For The Whole Of The Covenanted Reformation, As Attained To & Established In Britain #1
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=81907517162
Act, Declaration, & Testimony, For The Whole Of The Covenanted Reformation, As Attained To & Established In Britain #2
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=926071233170
Act, Declaration, & Testimony, For The Whole Of The Covenanted Reformation, As Attained To & Established In Britain #3
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=92707111830
Act, Declaration, & Testimony, For The Whole Of The Covenanted Reformation, As Attained To & Established In Britain #4
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=927071140420
*RENWICK, JAMES and ALEXANDER SHIELDS, AND OTHER "SOCIETY PEOPLE," An informatory vindication of a poor, wasted, misrepresented remnant of the suffering, anti-prelatic, anti-Erastian . . . , 1744, 142 pages. Available on the forthcoming SWRB Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #27 ISBN: 0921148240 9780921148241.
"INFORMATORY VINDICATION (1687), a statement of principles issued by the Society People (see Societies, United) during James VII's reign. Prepared mainly by James Renwick, latterly in consultation with Alexander Shields, it was published in Utrecht. Its full title reflects something of the contents: AN INFORMATORY VINDICATION OF A POOR WASTED MISREPRESENTED REMNANT OF THE SUFFERING ANTI-POPISH ANTI-PRELATIC ANTI-ERASTIAN ANTI-SECTARIAN TRUE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF CHRIST IN SCOTLAND UNITED TOGETHER IN A GENERAL CORRESPONDENCE. BY WAY OF REPLY TO VARIOUS ACCUSATIONS IN LETTERS INFORMATIONS AND CONFERENCES GIVEN FORTH AGAINST THEM. It refuted charges brought against the 'Remnant' of schism (in their eyes a great evil) . . . The VINDICATION mourned the estrangement from other Presbyterians who had accepted the government's INDULGENCES OR EDICTS OF TOLERATION, and expressed love for them as fellow-ministers 'with whom again we would desire to have communion in ordinances'. The separation had been forced upon the Society People by the tyranny and temper of the times, but it did not affect their position as being in the succession of the historic Kirk of Scotland. The document aimed to clear away the hostility and misunderstanding about them that had grown up in Scotland and Holland." (Cameron, editor, Dictionary of Scottish Church History and Theology, p. 429)
"In proof of the catholic, unsectarian, Christian spirit of Renwick and his followers, the clear statements of the INFORMATORY VINDICATION, the work which most fully and clearly defines their position, may be referred to . . . In these noble utterances, we have strikingly exemplified the true spirit of Christian brotherhood . . . This is the genuine import of the vow of the Solemn League and Covenant, which binds Covenanters to regard whatever is done to the least of them, as done to all and to every one in particular. While firmly holding fast all Scriptural attainments, and contending 'earnestly for the faith once delivered to the saints,' we should cordially rejoice in the evidences of grace in Christ's servants wherever we find them. We should love them as brethren, fulfil the law of Christ by bearing their burdens, wish them God speed in all that they are doing for the advancement of His glory, and fervently labour and pray for the coming of the happy period when divisions and animosities shall cease, and when there shall be one King, and His name one in all the earth. The testimony of Renwick and his associates is of permanent value and of special importance in our day, as it was directed against systems of error and idolatry, which serve to corrupt the Church and enslave the State. Against Popery in every form Renwick was a heroic and uncompromising witness. At the peril of life, he publicly testified against the usurpation of the papist James, and rejected him as having no claim to be regarded as a constitutional sovereign, and as utterly disqualified to reign in a Protestant reformed land. This was the main ground of his objection against James' toleration, for which the Indulged ministers tendered obsequious thanks to the usurper. Yet this edict of toleration was issued for the purpose of opening the way for the practice of Rome's abominations, and for the advancement of papists to places of power and trust in the nation. None of the Cameronians would, for any earthly consideration, even to save their lives, for a moment admit that a papist had any right to exercise political power in a reformed land. Our martyred forefathers we regard as worthy of high respect and imitation, for their deeply cherished dread of the growing influence of Popery, and for their determined resistance to its exclusive and extravagant claims. The system of Popery is the abnegation of all precious gospel truth; and is a complete politico-religious confederacy against the best interests of a Protestant nation. The boast of its abettors is that it is semper eadem ever the same. Rome cannot reform herself from within, and she is incapable of reformation from external influences and agencies. The Bible never speaks of Antichrist as to be reformed, but as waxing worse and worse till the time when he shall be completely subverted and irrecoverably destroyed. Whatever changes may be going on in some Popish countries, whereby the power of the Papacy is weakened, it is evident that the principles and spirit of the Romish priesthood, and of those who are under their influence, remain unchanged. The errors of the Antichristian system, instead of being diminished, have of late years increased. Creature worship has become more marked and general. The Immaculate Conception has been proclaimed by Papal authority as the creed of Romanism. In these countries, and some other Protestant lands, the influence of Popery in government and education, and so on the whole social system, has been greatly on the increase. Among those who have most deeply studied inspired prophecy, there is a general expectation that the period of Babylon's downfall is hastening on, and is not far distant. There is a general presentiment too, that the Man of Sin, prior to his downfall, will make some dire and violent attempt through his infatuated followers against the truth, and against such as faithfully maintain it. The 'Slaying of the Witnesses,' which we are disposed to regard as yet future may take place, not so much by the actual shedding of blood, though it is plain that Jesuit policy and violence will not hesitate to re-enact former persecution and massacre, to accomplish a desired purpose. It may mainly be effected, as Scott, the expositor, suggests, by silencing the voice of a public testimony in behalf of fundamental truths throughout Christendom; and of this there are at present unmistakable signs not a few, throughout the churches in various countries. The Protestant church in all its sections should be thoroughly awake to its danger from the destructive errors, idolatry and power of its ancient irreconcilable enemy; and should, by all legitimate means, labour to counteract and nullify its political influence. The ministry and the rising youth of the church should study carefully the Popish controversy, and should be intimately acquainted with the history of the rise and progress of the Papacy its assumed blasphemous power its accumulated errors and delusions, and its plots, varied persecutions and cruel butcheries of Christ's faithful witnesses. Above all, they should set themselves earnestly, prayerfully and perseveringly to diffuse the Bible and Gospel light in the dark parts of their native country, and among Romanists in other lands. By embracing fully and holding fast, in their practical application, the principles of the British Covenants, and by imbibing the spirit of covenanted martyrs men like Renwick and the Cameronians, we will be prepared for the last conflict with Antichrist. The firm and faithful maintenance of a martyr-testimony will be a principle instrument of the victory of truth over the error and idolatry of Rome. 'They overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death,' (Rev. 12:11.) Finally, the testimony of Renwick is valuable, as throwing light on great evils connected with systems of civil government, and with Protestant churches, and as pointing out clearly the duty of faithful witnesses in relation to them. Two great principles, the one doctrinal, and the other practical, were essential to it, or rather constituted its whole specialty. These were, first, that, according to the national vows, and the reformation attainments, the whole civil polity of the nation should be conformed to the Scriptures, and secondly, the positive duty of distinct separation from whatever systems in the state and church that are opposed to entire allegiance to Messiah the Prince" (Houston, The Life of James Renwick, pp. 52-55).
"Some of them, particularly in Scotland, loved not their lives unto death for the word of God, and for the testimony which they held. Rev. vi. 9. These refused to have communion in public ordinances not only with prelatical ministers, but even with the acceptors of indulgences or licenses from the civil power, to exercise their ministry under certain limitations. The INFORMATORY VINDICATION, which certainly contains the genuine principles of church communion, held by the sufferers for the cause of Christ in that period, declares, that they could by no means own or countenance the administrations of the indulged ministers; because they considered the indulgence, in any of the forms in which it was granted by the civil power, as derived from the supremacy claimed by that power in ecclesiastical matters; as laying the office of the ministry under unwarrantable restriction; and as tending, in a great measure, to suppress and bury the covenanted reformation, cf. Informatory Vindication, Head iv." (Anderson, Alexander and Rufus; or a Series of Dialogues on Church Communion [1862], p. 294)
"To the friends of evangelical truth, and the faithful witnesses for the redeemer's royal prerogatives, the services of Renwick, at the crisis in which he exercised his public ministry, were invaluable. He was eminently the man for the time. Through the influence of the unhappy Indulgence, the strict Covenanters were reduced to what they style themselves in the Informatory Vindication, a 'wasted, suffering, anti-popish, anti-prelatic, anti-erastian, anti-sectarian remnant.' By the death of Cargill and Cameron, they were left as 'sheep without a shepherd,' broken and scattered. Through the fierceness of persecution, and the machinations of enemies, they were in danger of falling into confusion, and of being entirely wasted and destroyed. We admire the gracious providence of God in preparing, at this particular crisis, an instrument of such rare and suitable endowments for feeding 'the flock in the wilderness,' and for unfurling and upholding so nobly the 'Banner of Truth' amidst hosts of infuriated enemies. James Renwick, though a very youth when he entered on his arduous work, and trained under great outward disadvantages, had a powerful and well-cultivated mind. He was endowed with singular administrative talent, and had great tact and skill in managing men. He was an acute and logical thinker, an eloquent and attractive public speaker, and was distinguished by fertility and force as a writer. The INFORMATORY VINDICATION his testimony against King James' 'toleration, with his 'Letters,' and 'Sermons and Lectures,' bear ample evidence of his sound judgment, comprehensive mind, and ability as an author. His prudence, meekness and loving disposition, combined with his sanctified zeal, and heroic courage, deservedly gave him great influence among those to whom he ministered. He was eminently fitted to be 'a first man among men.' The Lord held him in the hollow of his hand, and made him a 'polished shaft in his quiver.' The services which Renwick rendered to the Protestant cause were invaluable. He organized the scattered remnant, and imparted new life and ardour to their proceedings. He set forth clearly the principles of the 'Society people;' and in a number of able and logical papers, clearly defined their plans of action. He rendered it, in a great measure, impossible for enemies to misrepresent and accuse them falsely to the Government. He was their Secretary in their correspondence with foreign churches; and he did much to evoke the prayerful sympathy of Protestants in other lands in behalf of the victims of persecution in Scotland. The presence and influence of Renwick among the suffering Presbyterians were of the highest importance in his own day; and not to them alone, but also to the whole church of Christ in these lands, and to the constitutional liberties of the nation. So far as we can see, but for the singular power and devoted spirit of Renwick, and the firm and unyielding position which the Cameronians through him were led to assume, the cause of truth would have been completely borne down, and Erastianism, and Popery, and Despotism had triumphed. Renwick and his followers were the vanguard 'in the struggle for Britain's liberties, and for the Church's spiritual independence.' Though, like other patriots born before their time, they were doomed to fall, yet posterity owes to them a large part of the goodly heritage which they enjoy. (Houston, The Life of James Renwick [1865], pp. 36-37). Emphases added throughout the preceding quotations. This is a very rare and valuable specimen of Paleopresbyterian (Covenanter) thought don't miss it! 142 pages, plus new material added by the present publisher." -- SWRB
An Informatory Vindication, 1687, James, Renwick, Alexander Shields and Other "Society People"
http://www.truecovenanter.com/societies/informatory_vindication.html

*ROBERTS, WILLIAM L. (1798-1864), The Duty of Nations, in Their National Capacity, to Acknowledge and Support the True Religion, 1853 (Cerlox Bound Photocopy Series. Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books). Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #25, ISBN: 0921148208 9780921148203.
"Excerpted from THE REFORMED PRESBYTERIAN CATECHISM below, this book deals with the inescapable necessity, of the demand found in the Word of God, for the Civil establishment of Christ as King and Lawgiver over every nation on earth. If you are sick of the cease-fire with humanism, set forth by the syncretistic, Satanic and pragmatic pagan politicians of our day (those who bargain with votaries of Antichrist [the Pope], publicly tolerate all manner of false religions (e.g. Islam) and idolatry, and compose their policy and draw their pretended authority from the beast [and not the Word of God], this book is for you! For all pagan politics is summed up in the words of the Cameronian (Covenanter) political philosopher Alexander Shields, as 'rotting away under the destructive distempers of detestable neutrality, loathsome lukewarmness, declining, and decaying in corruptions, defections, divisions, distractions, confusions; and so judicially infatuated with darkness and delusions, that they forget and forego the necessary testimony of the day' (A Hind let Loose, 1797 edition, p. 20). Pick up this book and begin the political walk in the 'footsteps of the flock,' traveling the covenanting road of Reformation and Scripture (with the magisterial Reformers of the past)!" -- SWRB
On the Duty of Covenanting and the Permanent Obligations of Religious Covenants, being section 11 in the Reformed Presbyterian Catechism, 1853, by William L. Roberts
http://www.swrb.com/newslett/actualnls/PresCatCov.htm
A Hind Let Loose; Or An Historical Representation OF THE TESTIMONIES OF THE CHURCH OF SCOTLAND. . . . by Mr. ALEXANDER SHIELDS, Minister of the Gospel, in St. Andrews. , EEBO.
http://www.covenanter.org/AShields/Hind/Hindletloosetitle.htm
Reformed Presbyterian Catechism, William L. Roberts D.D.
http://www.covenantedreformation.com/EssaysCR/RP%20Catechism/RP%20Index.html

*ROBERTS, WILLIAM L. (1798-1864), The Reformed Presbyterian Catechism (New York, NY: R. Craighead, 1853), ISBN: 0524065543 9780524065549. Available on the forthcoming SWRB Hard Drive. ATLA 1991-2638.
A magnificent catechism that sets forth the Crown Rights of The King of Glory and Lord of Lords. It also presents incontrovertible evidence that the United States Constitution is not a Christian document, and that it is, in fact, a slavery document.
See also: THE SCOTTISH COVENANTING STRUGGLE, ALEXANDER CRAIGHEAD, AND THE MECKLENBURG DECLARATION, SECRET PROCEEDINGS AND DEBATES OF THE CONSTITUTIONAL CONVENTION, CONSPIRACY IN PHILADELPHIA: THE ORIGINS OF THE U.S. CONSTITUTION, and A THEOLOGICAL INTERPRETATION OF AMERICAN HISTORY.
"A manual of instruction, drawing from such notable authors as William Symington and J.R. Willson, presenting 'arguments and facts confirming and illustrating the 'Distinctive Principles' of the Reformed Presbyterian Church. Chapters deal with: 'Christ's Mediatorial Dominion in general;' Christ's exclusive Headship over the Church;' 'The Supreme and Ultimate Authority of the Word of God in the Church;' Civil Government, the Moral Ordinance of God;' Christ's Headship over the Nations;' 'The Subjection of the Nations to God and to Christ;' The Word, or Revealed Will of God, the Supreme Law in the State;' 'The Duty of Nations, in their National Capacity, to acknowledge and support the True Religion:' 'The Spiritual Independence of the Church of Christ:' 'The Right and Duty of Dissent from an Immoral Constitution of Civil Government;' 'The Duty of Covenanting, and the Permanent Obligations of Religious Covenants;' 'The Application of these Principles to the Governments, where Reformed Presbyterians reside, in the form of a Practical Testimony;' and finally 'Application of the Testimony to the British Empire.' A most important book, as we approach (possibly) the end of the great apostasy and will be in need of preparing for the dawning of the glorious millennial blessings to come; the days prophesied in which the church 'shalt also suck the milk of the Gentiles, and shalt suck the breast of kings' (Isa. 60:16)." -- SWRB
Reformed Presbyterian Catechism, William L. Roberts D.D.
http://www.covenantedreformation.com/EssaysCR/RP%20Catechism/RP%20Index.html

*RUTHERFORD, SAMUEL, A Free Disputation Against Pretended Liberty of Conscience, 1649 edition. Available on the forthcoming SWRB Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #9, #25, and #26, ISBN: 0921148836 9780921148838. Available on The Amazing Christian Library, DVD Four, CD #21.
"Rutherford's FREE DISPUTATION, though scarce, is still one of his most important works with maybe only a few copies of the actual book left in existence. Though Rutherford is affectionately remembered in our day for his LETTERS, or for laying the foundations of constitutional government (against the divine right of kings) in his unsurpassed LEX, REX his FREE DISPUTATION should not be overlooked for it contains the same searing insights as LEX, REX. In fact, this book should probably be known as Rutherford's 'politically incorrect' companion volume to LEX, REX. A sort of sequel aimed at driving pluralists and antinomians insane. Written against 'the Belgick Arminians, Socinians, and other Authors contending for lawlesse liberty, or licentious Tolerations of Sects and Heresies,' Rutherford explains the undiluted Biblical solution to moral relativism, especially as it is expressed in ecclesiastical and civil pluralism! (Corporate pluralism being a violation of the first commandment and an affront to the holy God of Scripture). He also deals with conscience, toleration, penology (punishment), and the judicial laws, as related to both the civil and ecclesiastical realms. Excellent sections are also included which address questions related to determining the fundamentals of religion, how covenants bind us, the perpetual obligation of social covenants (with direct application to the Solemn League and Covenant and the covenant-breaking of Cromwell and his sectarian supporters), whether the punishing of seducing teachers be persecution of conscience, and much more. Walker adds these comments and context regarding Rutherford's FREE DISPUTATION, 'The principle of toleration was beginning to be broached in England, and in a modified shape to find acceptance there. Samuel Rutherford was alarmed, or rather, I should say, he was horrified, for he neither feared the face of man or argument. He rushed to the rescue of the good old view . . . It is not so easy to find a theoretical ground for toleration; and Rutherford has many plausible things to say against it. With the most perfect confidence, he argues that it is alike against Scripture and common sense that you should have two religions side by side. It is outrageous ecclesiastically, it is sinful civilly. He does not, however, take what I call the essentially persecuting ground. He does not hold that the magistrate is to punish religion as religion. Nay, he strongly maintains that the civil magistrate never aims at the conscience. The magistrate, he urges, does not send anyone, whether a heretic (who is a soul murderer -- RB) or a murderer, to the scaffold with the idea of producing conversion or other spiritual result, but to strengthen the foundations of civil order. But if he gives so much power to the king, he is no lover of despotism withal: the king himself must be under law. To vindicate this great doctrine is the object of another book, the celebrated LEX, REX; of which it has been said by one competent to judge, that it first clearly developed the constitutionalism which all men now accept' (Theology and Theologians . . ., pp. 11-12). In our day Francis Schaeffer, and numerous others, have critiqued many of the problems found in modern society, but most have spent little time developing explicitly Biblical solutions especially regarding the theoretical foundations that Rutherford addresses here. Rutherford's FREE DISPUTATION provides a detailed blueprint for laying the foundations that must be laid before any lasting, God-honoring solutions will be found. Furthermore, Rutherford and his writings were the enemies of all governments not covenanted with Christ. This book will give you a very clear picture as to why 'the beast' (civil and ecclesiastical) has reserved his special hatred for such teaching. As Samuel Wylie noted '[t]he dispute, then, will not turn upon the point whether religion should be civilly established . . . but it is concerning what religion ought to be civilly established and protected, -- whether the religion of Jesus alone should be countenanced by civil authority, or every blasphemous, heretical, and idolatrous abomination which the subtle malignity of the old serpent and a heart deceitful above all things and desperately wicked, can frame and devise, should be put on an equal footing therewith" (The Two Sons of Oil; or, the Faithful Witness for Magistracy and Ministry Upon a Scriptural Basis, softcover). Can our generation swallow Rutherford's hard, anti-pluralistic, Covenanter medicine, poured forth from the bottle of the first commandment, without choking on their carnal dreams of a free and righteous society divorced from God (and His absolute claims upon everyone and everything)? Not without the enabling power of the Holy Spirit -- that is for sure! In summary, this book answers all the hardest questions theonomists (and their wisest and best opponents) have been asking for the last 20-30 years (and these answers are much more in depth than any we have seen in the last couple of millennia [less about a century to account for the apostles]). As the reader will discover, Rutherford was a wealthy man when it came to wisdom (and much advanced theologically), and those who take the time to gaze into the King's treasure house, as exhibited in this book, will find that they are greatly rewarded. Furthermore, because of its uncompromising stand upon the Word of God, this book is sure to be unpopular among a wicked and adulterous generation. However, on the other hand, it is sure to be popular among the covenanted servants of King Jesus! This is one of the best books (in the top five anyway) for advanced study of the Christian faith. We have now obtained an easy-to-read, amazingly clear copy of this very rare, old treasure. Great price too, considering that a copy of the 1649 edition, containing this quality of print, would likely cost upwards of $1000 on the rare book market -- though it is unlikely you would ever see a copy for sale!" -- SWRB
The Covenant Between God and Kings, from A DEFENSE OF LIBERTY
http://www.constitution.org/vct/vindiciae1a.htm

*RUTHERFORD, SAMUEL, (1600?-1661), The Glory, Majesty, Dominion and Power of Jesus Christ, 1643. Alternate title: A sermon preached to the Honorable House of Commons: at their late solemne fast, Wednesday, Janu. 31. 1643. By Samuel Rutherfurd, professor of Divinitie in the Universitie of St. Andrews. Published by order of the House of Commons. [Daniel 6:26] (Printed at London by Richard Cotes, for Richard Whittakers & Andrew Crooke, and are to bee sold at their shops in Pauls Church-Yard, 1644), (Cerlox Bound Photocopy Series. Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books), 66 pages. Available on the forthcoming SWRB Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #9, #25, and #29, ISBN-10: 0921148836, ISBN-13: 9780921148838. Also available on the Amazing Christian Library, DVD Two, CD #7, 64 pages. A Christian classic.
"Here Rutherford covers a wide range of topics including Christ's kingship and dominion over civil governments, what lawful power (civil and ecclesiastical) is, God's providence, suffering (especially among those covenanted to Him), the oppression and martyrdom of the saints, the wrath of God, apologetics, the fear of God, the visible church, assurance and the weak believer, the free offer of the Gospel, the sovereignty of God, antinomianism, Arminianism, and much more. However, whatever the subject, Rutherford can be found focusing on and exalting the Lord Jesus Christ and His truth in a way that few others have been granted the ability to do -- notwithstanding the fact that he himself wrote, 'I have neither tongue nor pen to express to you the happiness of such as are in Christ' (Letters of Samuel Rutherford, p. 47). Classic Rutherford, preached before some of the most powerful civil leaders of his day!" -- SWRB "It hath been the sin of this Land, that when Episcopacy, Antichristian Ceremonies, Superstition, and Will-worship were enjoined by Law, to pleasure an earthly King, you willingly followed after the command, against the direction of the King of Kings: and now hath the Lord delivered the people of the Land into the hand of their KING. And for this the Sword of the Lord hath gone through the Land." -- Samuel Rutherford

*RUTHERFORD, SAMUEL, Lex, Rex (Harrisonburg, VA: Sprinkle Publications), ISBN: 0873779517. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #10, #25 ISBN: 0921148852 9780921148852. Available on the forthcoming SWRB Hard Drive. Available on The Amazing Christian Library, DVD Three, CD #18. A Christian classic.
Lex, rex is Latin for "law is king."
"LEX, REX is `the great political text of the Covenanters' (Johnston citing Innes in Treasury of the Scottish Covenant, p. 305.) `Rutherford was the first to formulate the great constitutional principle Lex est Rex -- the law is King . . . much of the doctrine has become the constitutional inheritance of all countries in modern times.' (Idem.)"
"Gilmour writes [in SAMUEL RUTHERFORD], 'that, as regards religious fervour, scholastic subtlety of intellect, and intensity of ecclesiastical conviction, Samuel Rutherford is the most distinctively representative Scotsman in the first half of the seventeenth century'." -- SWRB
"Without a doubt one of the greatest books on political philosophy ever written. Rutherford here has penned a great Christian charter of liberty against all forms of civil tyranny -- vindicating the Scriptural duty to resist tyrants as an act of loyalty to God." -- SWRB
"That resistance to lawful authority -- even when that authority so called has, in point of fact, set at nought all law -- is in no instance to be vindicated, will be held by those only who are the devotees of arbitrary power and passive obedience. The principles of Mr. Rutherford's LEX, REX, however obnoxious they may be to such men, are substantially the principles on which all government is founded, and without which the civil magistrate would become a curse rather than a blessing to a country. They are the very principles which lie at the basis of the British Constitution, and by whose tenure the House of Brunswick does at this very moment hold possession of the throne of these realms." -- Rev. Robert Burns, D.D., in his Preliminary Dissertation to WODROW'S CHURCH HISTORY
"Though Rutherford is affectionately remembered in our day for his Letters, or for laying the foundations of constitutional government (against the divine right of kings) in his unsurpassed LEX, REX, his Free Disputation should not be overlooked for it contains the same searing insights as Lex, Rex. In fact, this book should probably be known as Rutherford's 'politically incorrect' companion volume to LEX, REX. A sort of sequel aimed at driving pluralists and antinomians insane. Written against 'the Belgick Arminians, Socinians, and other Authors contending for lawlesse liberty, or licentious Tolerations of Sects and Heresies,' Rutherford explains the undiluted Biblical solution to moral relativism, especially as it is expressed in ecclesiastical and civil pluralism! (Corporate pluralism being a violation of the first commandment and an affront to the holy God of Scripture)." -- SWRB
"This [THE DUE RIGHT OF PRESBYTERIES OR A PEACEABLE PLEA FOR THE GOVERNMENT OF THE CHURCH OF SCOTLAND . . . ,] could be considered the LEX, REX of church government -- another exceedingly rare masterpiece of Presbyterianism! Characterized by Walker as sweeping `over a wider field than most'." -- SWRB
A HIND LET LOOSE by Alexander Shields is sometimes referred to as 'Lex, Rex volume two.'
Lex, Rex, or The Law and the Prince, Samuel Rutherford
"Rutherford is to be praised for his teaching that the king is subject to the law of God. The Bible has nothing but condemnation for those who 'frame mischief by a law' and declares rhetorically, 'Shall the throne of iniquity have fellowship with thee?' (Ps. 94:20). Deuteronomy 17 is the classic passage in defense of Lex, Rex, wherein the king is charged to '...read therein all the days of his life: that he may learn to fear the Lord his God, to keep all the words of this law....' (Deut. 17:19)."
http://www.natreformassn.org/lexrex/index.html
Lex, rex: the law and the prince, a dispute for the just prerogative of king and people, containing the reasons and causes of the defensive wars of the kingdom of Scotland, and of their expedition for the ayd and help of their brethren of England. In which a full answer is given to a seditious pamphlet, intituled, Sacro-sancta regum majestas, penned by J. Maxwell. By S. Rutherford. [Followed by] De jure regni apud Scotos; a dialogue, tr. by R. Macfarlan (repr. from the ed. of 1799).
http://books.google.com/books?id=jtYDAAAAQAAJ&ie=ISO-8859-1&output=html
Lex, Rex, "Lawfulness to Resist Tyranny" (Samuel Rutherford)
http://www.geocities.com/CapitolHill/7947/LexRex.html
The Covenant Between God and Kings, from A DEFENSE OF LIBERTY
http://www.constitution.org/vct/vindiciae1a.htm

*SHIELDS, ALEXANDER, A Hind Let Loose, or An Historical Representation of the Testimonies of the Church of Scotland for the Interest of Christ with the True State thereof in all its Periods. Together with a Vindication of the Present Testimony Against Popish, Prelatical, and Malignant Enemies of that Church, as it is now Stated, for the Prerogatives of Christ, Privileges of the Church, and Liberties of Mankind; and Sealed by the Sufferings of a Reproached Remnant of Presbyterians there, Witnessing Against the Corruptions of the Time: Wherein Several Controversies of Greatest Consequence are Enquired into, and in Some Measure Cleared; Concerning Hearing of the Curates, Owning of the Present Tyranny, Taking of Ensnaring Oaths and Bonds, Frequenting of Field-Meetings, Defensive Resistance of Tyrannical Violence, with Several Other Subordinate Questions Useful for these Times, 1797, 1744, 1687 (Cerlox Bound Photocopy Series. Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books), Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #2, #26 ISBN: 0921148690 9780921148692. Available on The Amazing Christian Library, DVD Four, CD #22. A Christian classic.
"First printed in 1687 (near the end of the 'killing times'), we have used the 1797 edition for this rare bound photocopy because all of the Latin has been translated into English (an obvious improvement for English readers). This rare Covenanter classic, concerning Calvinistic political philosophy and tactics of civil resistance, is comparable to Samuel Rutherford's LEX, REX; in fact it could rightly be referred to as 'Lex, Rex volume two.' It is solidly in the line of John Knox's teachings on civil disobedience and addresses numerous topics that are relevant to today's Christian. 'In A HIND LET LOOSE, Shields justified the Camerionian resistance to royal absolutism and the divine right of kings. He argued that government is divinely ordained, but the people are entitled to bring a king to judgement for wrongdoing. Parliament is commissioned by the people to oversee the nation's affairs, but the compact between the people and their rulers does not entail a forfeiture of the people's power to depose tyrants and confer authority on someone else. Government is by consent, and must justify itself to the consciences of the people. God has given men the right of self defence, and this extends to a right not only passively to resist, but also to kill relentless persecutors' writes Isbell (in the Dictionary of Scottish Church History and Theology, p. 773). Controversial chapter titles include: 'Concerning Owning of Tyrants Authority;' 'Defensive Arms Vindicated;' 'Of Extraordinary Execution of Judgement by Private Men;' and 'Refusing to Pay Wicked Taxation Vindicated.' This book sets forth the Crown rights of King Jesus, against all usurpers in both church and state, giving a history of some of faithful sufferings endured by the elect, in maintaining this truth. It bears testimony against 'the popish, prelatical and malignant enemies' of Christ and proclaims the only true basis of liberty for mankind. 'The matter is argued with a vast abundance of Biblical illustration, and with much reference to Reformation and Puritan divines. It should be consulted, if practicable, by all who wish fully to understand the inner spirit of the Covenanting Movement,' writes Purves in FAIR SUNSHINE (p. 202). Isbell interestingly notes that Shields was once 'amanuensis to the English Puritan John Owen'." -- SWRB
A Hind Let Loose; Or An Historical Representation OF THE TESTIMONIES OF THE CHURCH OF SCOTLAND. . . . by Mr. ALEXANDER SHIELDS, Minister of the Gospel, in St. Andrews..
http://www.covenanter.org/AShields/Hind/Hindletloosetitle.htm
A Hind Let Loose; Or, An Historical Representation of the Testimonies of the Church of Scotland; for the Interest of Christ: With the True State Thereof in All Its Periods . . .
The Covenant Between God and Kings, from A DEFENSE OF LIBERTY
http://www.constitution.org/vct/vindiciae1a.htm
http://books.google.com/books?id=boAAAAAAMAAJ&ie=ISO-8859-1&output=html

*SIBBES, RICHARD, The Faithful Covenanter, 1639. Available on the forthcoming SWRB Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #29, ISBN: 0921148283 9780921148289. Available on The Amazing Christian Library, DVD One, CD #2.
"An amazing sermon opening the narrow road of faithful covenanting -- as seen first and foremost in the Lord Jesus Christ, our perfect covenant keeper! Expounds on the four periods of time relating to the renewing of the covenant of grace in history. Shows that 'whatsoever we give the supremacy of the inward man to, whatsoever we love most, whatsoever we trust most, whatsoever we fear most, whatsoever we joy and delight in most, whatsoever we obey most -- that is our God.' Applies this to the first commandment, as a part of the law of the covenant, and works out the implications (which involve numerous areas). Goes on to give Scriptural marks whereby covenant keepers can be distinguished from covenant breakers and connects the everlasting covenant with the sacraments and their meaning. A meaty meal, recommended for those who are willing to advance theologically and practically." -- SWRB

*SMELLIE, ALEXANDER, Men of the Covenant: The Story of the Scottish Church in the Years of the Persecution, 534 pages, ISBN: 0851512127. Available on the forthcoming SWRB Hard Drive. Available (10th edition, fascimile of 7th edition), ATLA 1990-5101.
" 'A great book dealing with one of the most inspiring periods of Church history,' said Dr. C. Gregg Singer. Brilliant sketches of Covenanter history addressed to ordinary readers who do not have the opportunity or leisure for protracted personal studies in this area. A testimony, as Smellie notes, to 'the dogged fighters for freedom in Church and State.' The great sufferings these Christians endured gave them a seriousness about the faith, and a 'vision' of the truth, which has been unequaled since -- stirring reading!" -- SWRB
"Recounts the events in seventeenth century Scotland in which men and women, bound by `covenant' to Christ, laid down their lives for His cause. Recaptures the intensity, zeal, heroism, and faith of these martyrs, as well as the craftiness and cruelty of their persecutors. First published in 1903." -- Cyril J. Barber

*STEELE, DAVID (1803-1887), The Two Witnesses: Their Cause, Number, Character, Furniture and Special Work (1859). Available on the forthcoming SWRB Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #14, ISBN: 0921148925 9780921148920.
"This is a great companion volume to Steele's NOTES ON THE APOCALYPSE. Here Steele zeros in on and works primarily from the text of Revelation 11:13, "I will give power unto my two witnesses, and they shall prophecy.' Steele deals with testimony-bearing, Antichrist, Popery, the beasts of Revelation, the mark of the beast, 666, the image of the beast, civil and ecclesiastical apostasy, Reformation, covenanting, heresy, schism, terms of communion, slavery, sectarianism, Mormonism, Independency, freemasonry, history, worship, idolatry, Britain, the United States, Canada, mystical Babylon, the last days, the ultimate victory of the church and a host of other subjects!
"As is usually the case with Steele, he makes the doctrines of Scripture eminently practical. For example, note how the faithful witnesses are continually called to testify against open opposition to the Lord's Covenanted Zion and the attainments of biblical Reformation (in 'the faith which was once delivered unto the saints'); and against whom this testimony is directed:

"These witnesses are called and commissioned to testify especially against Antichrist -- a false christ, and therefore an opposing christ. But Christ is to be considered either personally or mystically; either abstractly in his personal rights and prerogatives, or in the concrete, in the rights and immunities of his church. There is this prejudice, too prevalent, against Christians testifying against Christians! This we are often told, is contrary to the law of charity. We have not so learned Christ. They are not all Israel which are of Israel. Much of the business of these two prophets is to oppose prophets -- to prophesy against the shepherds, Ezek. 34:2. Moses with his miracles must confront the magicians with their enchantments, Exod. 8:19. Elijah must confront the prophets of Baal, 1 Kings 18:25. Paul must counteract false apostles, 2 Cor. 11:13. In short, the direct object of these witnesses' testimony is apostate christendom -- those who depart from the faith, 1 Tim. 4:1 -- who have gone out from fellowship and renounced the doctrines of the apostolic church, 1 John 2:19. Their special work is to testify against error and its propagators and abettors, together with ungodliness, the natural fruit of error, rather than against pagans." -- The Two Witnesses, p. 14
"These two witnesses have always testified -- not formally against pagans or infidels as such; but -- against apostate Christians, as composing an organized and complex system of opposition to the Lord and his Anointed. And just here, the witnesses have detected the secret of Antichrist's successful enterprise among the human family . . . 'Many false prophets are gone out into the world. . . this is a deceiver and an Antichrist,' (2 John 7.) The combination is ostensibly on the side and in the interest of Christ, and the elements of which Antichrist is composed were obviously professing Christians, "They went out from us, but they were not of us, for if they had been of us, they would no doubt have continued with us: but they went out, that they might be made manifest that they were not all of us,' (1 John 2:19.) Here is the apostasy, and so the witnesses are fully borne out in asserting that Antichrist is a great Christian apostasy! To trace the origin and development, in the organization and modifications of this enemy of all righteousness, is the special work of Christ's witnesses. The Two Witnesses, pp. 17-18

*STEWART, JAMES (1635-1713) and JAMES STIRLING (1631-1672?), Naphtali, or The Wrestlings of the Church of Scotland for the Kingdom of Christ, From the Beginning of the Reformation of Religion Unto the Year, 1667: together with the last speeches and testimonies of some who have died for the truth since the year 1660: whereunto also are subjoined, a relation of the sufferings and death of Mr. Hugh McKail, and some instances of the sufferings of Galloway and Nithisdale, 1693 (Cerlox Bound Photocopy Series. Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books). Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #2, ISBN: 0921148690 9780921148692. Available on the forthcoming SWRB Hard Drive.
"Stewart, a Covenanter lawyer and writer, is characterized by Wodrow as 'a great Christian, and an able Statesman, one of the greatest Lawers ever Scotland bred, of universall learning, of vast reading, great and long experience in publick business . . .' (Analecta II, 205).
"This book is '(t)he product of joint authorship. The first and logical part of this famous covenanting work was executed by Sir James Stewart of Goodtrees; it bears the stamp of a mind of great vigor and grasp. The narrative portion was written by the Rev. James Stirling of Paisley, whose RECOLLECTIONS form an interesting portion of Wodrow's ANALECTA. In 1667 the Council issued a proclamation against NAPHTALI, ordering it to be burned. (Wod., II., 100.) All copies were to be delivered up to the nearest magistrates, and a fine of ten thousand pounds Scots was the penalty inflicted upon any in whose hands the book should afterwards be found. It passed through the flames unscathed only to become dearer than ever to the Scottish hearts . . . and you cannot help admiring the manly sense, spirit, calmness, dignity, and piety which distinguished the sufferers to a degree so equal that you fancy them a band of brothers' (cited in Johnston, ,TREASURY OF THE SCOTTISH COVENANT, pp. 375-367). A rare old gem of 559 pages." -- SWRB

*THOMSON, JOHN HENDERSON (editor), JOHN MCMAIN, and DAVID SCOTT (introduction) A Cloud of Witnesses for the Royal Prerogatives of Jesus Christ Being the Last Speeches and Testimonies of Those who Have Suffered for the Truth in Scotland Since . . . 1680. Alternate title: "The Fifteenth Edition, Enlarged and Corrected: A Cloud of Witnesses, for the Royal Prerogatives of Jesus Christ: or, The Last Speeches and Testimonies Of those who have Suffered for the Truth in Scotland, since the year 1680: With an Appendix, Containing the Queensferry Paper; Torwood Excommunication; a Relation concerning Mr. Richard Cameron, Mr. Donald Cargil, and Henry Hall; and an Account of those who were killed without Process of Law, and banished to Foreign Lands: With a short View of some of the oppressive Exactions.
"With the Testimonies of John Nisbet the Younger, John Nisbet of Hardhill, Robert Miller, Thomas Harkness, &c. A Letter of John Semple's and of Archibald Stewart's. The Paper found upon Mr. Cameron at Airsmoss, and an Acrostick upon his name. The Testimony of John Finlay in Kilmarnock. The Epitaphs upon the Grave Stones of Mr. Samuel Rutherford, Mr. John Welwood, and the noble Patriots who fell at Pentland-hills, &c.
"Also includes The Testimony of some persecuted Presbyterian Ministers of the Gospel, unto the Covenanted Reformation of the Church of Scotland, and to the present expediency of continuing to preach the Gospel in the fields, and against the present Antichristian Toleration in its nature and design, &c. Given in to the Ministers at Edinburgh, by Mr. James Renwick, upon the 17th Jan. 1688. And Mr. Richard Cameron's Last Sermon; preached on Kype Water in Evandale, July 18th, 1680, three days before he was killed at Airs-moss. (Pittsburgh: Printed for David Reed, by Eichbaum & Johnston, 1824), (Hess Publications), (Harrisonburg, VA: Sprinkle Publications), (Cerlox Bound Photocopy Series and Hardback Bound. Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books (1884 edition), ISBN: 0873779231. Available on the forthcoming SWRB Hard Drive.
"Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God." (Hebrews 12:1,2)
"Presbyterian Covenanter martyrs of Scotland, their last speeches and testimonies. The first edition appeared in 1714, and as more material was collected it was added to the 15 editions that were printed over the next 100 years."
"An amazing book compiled to show how -- and especially why (from their own dying testimonies) -- the Covenanters suffered, bled and died. These brave martyrs for Christ laid the foundation for liberty and truth in both church and state. They have much to say to us today . . . . Though the issues and ferocity of persecution (by the Popes, prelates, and Erastians) were more obvious during the times covered in this book, the message to contemporary Christians could not be clearer: we are involved in a life and death struggle. Few books are this moving or this edifying -- a real treasure! (658 pp., 1884 ed.)." -- SWRB
The 1871 edition was praised by Spurgeon.
A Cloud of Witnesses, 1871 edition, free online e-text. Original from Oxford University. Digitized Aug 31, 2006.
http://books.google.com/books?id=4vMCAAAAQAAJ&dq=thomson+a+cloud+of+witnesses&ie=ISO-8859-1
See also, McMain, John, and John H. Thomson (editor); Thomson, John H.; and Scott, David (introduction).

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

1. To the Christian Reader, Especially Heads of Families, Mr. Thomas Manton's Epistle to the Reader,
2. The Confession of Faith (1646), the full and original edition with Scripture proofs written out,
3. The Larger Catechism with Scripture proofs written out,
4. The Shorter Catechism with Scripture proofs written out,
5. The Sum of Saving Knowledge,
6. The National Covenant,
7. The Solemn League and Covenant,
8. A Solemn Acknowledgement of Publick Sins and Breaches of the Covenant; and a Solemn Engagement to all the Duties Contained Therein is available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #1, ISBN: 0921148674 9780921148678,
9. The Directory for the Public Worship of God,
10. The Form of Presbyterial Church Government, and
11. The Directory for Family Worship.

*WYLIE, SAMUEL B., (1773-1852), The Two Sons of Oil; or, the Faithful Witness for Magistracy and Ministry Upon a Scriptural Basis (1850 edition, reprinted 1995), (Cerlox Bound Photocopy Series. Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #13, #26 ISBN: 0921148917 9780921148913. A Christian classic.
"A Covenanter classic opening Revelation 11:3-4 and Zechariah 4:14. It has been hailed as the 'best presentation of the position of the Covenanter Church that has been written.' Noting that the '[t]ime has been, when the whole body of Presbyterians, in Scotland, England, and Ireland, unanimously subscribed' to these principles, '[f]or civil and ecclesiastical reformation' and that thousands bled and died for the glorious covenanted cause of civil and ecclesiastical reformation; Wylie sets out to explain and defend 'that cause. Not because it is an ancient cause; not because many have sealed it with their blood; but, because,' as he says, 'I thought it the doctrine of the Bible, and the cause of Christ.' This book explains how to tell if a government (especially a civil government) is faithful to Christ and thus to be obeyed for conscience's sake. It also gives direction regarding when and how to resist (and disassociate) yourself from governments which get their power from 'the beast.' Moreover, this book gives clear testimony as to what the Bible requires of civil magistrates, noting 'that civil rulers should exercise their power in protecting and defending the religion of Jesus.' It also gives plain reasons why dissent from the government of the United States (and other covenant breaking nations) is the legitimate Scriptural pattern." -- SWRB
The Two Sons of Oil; or, the Faithful Witness for Magistracy and Ministry Upon a Scriptural Basis, Samuel B. Wylie
http://www.covenanter.org/Wylie/twosonsofoil.htm
The Two Sons of Oil; Or, The Faithful Witness for Magistracy and Ministry Upon a Scriptural Basis
http://books.google.com/books?id=nMO1JQAACAAJ&ie=ISO-8859-1&output=html

See also: The sovereignty of god, The doctrine of man (human nature, total depravity), Covetousness, greed, selfishness, The inspiration and infallibility of scripture (the doctrine of revelation, the doctrine of plenary inspiration, the doctrine of divine inspiration, the doctrine of verbal inspiration, The ten commandments, Trusting god, Idolatry, Immanuel, Christ's presence, christ in you, Justifying faith, Justification, Forgiveness, Sanctification, Glorification, Theft, Sexual relationship, Spirituality and harlotry, Rebellion and lawlessness: wickedness, demonic possession, substance abuse, abnormal behavior, insanity, mental illness, mental retardation, Repentance, the key to salvation and change, Justice, the theology of judgment, god's final judgment, the great white throne judgment, the day of the lord, The sovereign grace of god: his everlasting mercy and lovingkindness, Covenant theology, The covenanted reformation, Background and history of the covenanted reformation of scotland, Covenanted reformation short title listing, Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, The one and the many, Corporate faithfulness and sanctification, Individual responsibility for corporate faithfulness and sanctification, Unfaithful reformed ministries, Secret societies, ungodly alliances, voluntary associations, Conspiracy and corruption, and so forth, and so on.

Related WebLinks

Ten Best Classics For Advanced Studies From Still Waters Revival Books
http://www.swrb.com/ten-best.htm

An Outline of Scottish 'Covenant History' in the 17th Century From Purves' Book FAIR SUNSHINE
http://www.ianpaisley.org/article.asp?cov_intro.htm

*McLeod, Alexander (1773-1833), Negro Slavery Unjustifiable, 1802
http://www.covenanter.org/McLeod/negro.htm

The Puritan Revolution

---

With the Spirit's blessing, Puritan writings can enrich your life as a Christian in many ways as they open the Scriptures and apply them practically, probing your conscience, indicting your sins, leading you to repentance, shaping your faith, guiding your conduct, comforting you in Christ and conforming you to Him, and bringing you into full assurance of salvation and a lifestyle of gratitude to the triune God for His great salvation (xix).

Joel Beeke and Randall Pederson have produced a tremendous gift to and resource for all who want an entryway into the study of the Puritans. They not only provide accurate biographical and theological introduction to every Puritan whose works have been reprinted in the last fifty years, but also combine with their helpful summaries an insightful analysis. If this were not enough, they've added major appendices that include the so-called Scottish Puritans (that is, the great Scottish theologians who were contemporaries of and like-minded brethren in doctrine and piety with the English Puritans) as well as the Dutch Further Reformation divines. MEET THE PURITANS, WITH A GUIDE TO MODERN REPRINTS is a must have. I know of nothing like it. If you are looking for a reliable window into the life, theology, piety and ministry of the Puritans — this is it.

Bremer, Francis J., Puritan Crisis: New England and the English Civil Wars, 1630-1670 (Outstanding Studies in Early American History. New York, NY: Garland Publishing, Incorporated, 1989). 20778

*BROOK, BENJAMIN, Lives of the Puritans, 3 volumes (Morgan, PA: Soli Deo Gloria Publications), ISBN: 1877611794. Available on the forthcoming SWRB Hard Drive.
"This scarce three volume set was first published in 1813 in London, and there has never been a second printing until now. It contains biography and bibliography of many noted as well as relatively unknown (but not insignificant) Puritan pastors and authors of the 16th and 17th centuries. Brook's massive endeavor was, at his own admission, an updating of Edmund Calamy's classic NONCONFORMIST MEMORIAL. In volume one there are such men as Edward Deering, Bernard Gilpin, and Richard Greenham. In volume two are sketches of Thomas Gataker, Henry Smith, William Perkins, Richard Rogers, Henry Ainsworth, John Preston, Robert Bolton, William Ames, Henry Scudder, Arthur Dent, Daniel Dyke, Samuel Hieron, Nicholas Byfield, Richard Sibbes, and John Ball. Volume three contains Jeremiah Burroughs, Thomas Hooker, Thomas Shepard, Christopher Love, John Cotton, Obadiah Sedgwick, William Gouge, and Thomas Goodwin. And these are but a sampling of the hundreds of godly men you will find profiled." -- Jay P. Green, Sr.

*CALVIN, JOHN, et.al., GARY DEMAR (foreword), MARSHALL FOSTER (preface) 1599 Geneva Bible [enhanced], hardcover (Tolle Lege Press, 2006), 1400 pages, ISBN: 0975484699 9780975484692 0975484613 9780975484616 0975484621 9780975484623. Available on the forthcoming SWRB Hard Drive.
"When the Pilgrims arrived in America in 1620, they brought along supplies, a consuming passion to advance the Kingdom of Christ, a bright hope for the future, and the Word of God. Clearly, their most precious cargo was the Bible. The GENEVA BIBLE, printed over 200 times between 1560 and 1644, was the most widely read and influential English Bible of the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries. This superb translation was the product of the best Protestant scholars of the day and became the Bible of choice for many of the greatest writers, thinkers, and historical figures of that time. The GENEVA BIBLE is unique among all other Bibles. It was the first Bible to use chapters and numbered verses and became the most popular version of its time because of the extensive marginal notes. These notes, written by Reformation leaders such as John Calvin, John Knox, Miles Coverdale, William Whittingham, Anthony Gilby, and others, were included to explain and interpret the scriptures for the common people. For nearly half a century these notes helped the people of England, Scotland, and Ireland understand the Bible and true liberty. King James despised the GENEVA BIBLE because he considered the notes on key political texts to be seditious and a threat to his authority. Unlike the KING JAMES VERSION, the GENEVA BIBLE was not authorized by the government. It was truly a Bible by the people and for the people. You can see why this remarkable version with its profound marginal notes played a key role in the formation of the American Republic. Until now, the only complete version available was a large, cumbersome, and difficult-to-read facsimile edition. But this new edition contains all the original words and notes, but the type set has been enlarged and the font style change for today's reader." -- Publisher's Annotation
"This is the Bible that eventually put an end to Feudalism in Europe, strengthened Puritans, Quakers, and came to America on the Mayflower. This was the first Bible published in the language of the common people, the first Bible to contain commentary and verse numbers, and the first Bible written in English from Greek and Hebrew texts available from Constantinople, not from the Latin Vulgate. The dynamite in this Bible is the commentary accounting for about one third of its length.
"The Church of England and King James were so upset they determined to create a new translation. They called it the King James version. They choose to use language so formal and grand, even by the standards of those days, that the common people would find difficult to understand. The GENEVA BIBLE was found seditious by it's insertions of commentary that spoke directly about the priesthood of lay believers, the church as naturally anti-oligarchy, and setting forth some other ideas considered anarchy by the King, but meaning freedom to the masses who read it. . . .
"Important facts to remember about this Bible. The Reformation was strong in England and the Lollards were a lay group of huge influence that had to go underground. English Christian theologians, not Catholics and not Anglicans, fled in huge numbers to Geneva for freedom. Geneva was not part of Switzerland at that time, because Geneva was its own city-state. . . . The GENEVA BIBLE was printed 1560-1644. THE KING JAMES VERSION was published in 1611. The GENEVA BIBLE was against the law to own. . . ." -- Reader's Comment
Available "in printed formats with various binding options from Tolle Lege Press. Tolle Lege Press has given SWRB permission to provide a PDF copy of their retypeset and fully searchable edition of the 1599 GENEVA BIBLE (Copyright 2006-2008, Tolle Lege Press) on the forthcoming SWRB Hard Drive.
"The Geneva Bible is the Puritan Bible with Reformation promoting marginal notes authored by prominent leaders of the Reformation (during the time of John Calvin and John Knox). The New Testament was translated out of the Greek by Theodore Beza. The GENEVA BIBLE was the predominant English translation during the period in which the English and Scottish Reformations gained great impetus.
"Iain Murray, in his classic work on revival and the interpretation of prophecy, THE PURITAN HOPE, notes,

The two groups in England and Scotland developed along parallel lines, like two streams originating at one fountain. The fountain was not so much Geneva, as the Bible which the exiles newly translated and issued with many marginal notes . . . it was read in every Presbyterian and Puritan home in both realms (p. 7).

The notes of Tomson's New Testament of 1576, which took the place of the New Testament of the Bible of 1560 in many editions from 1587 onward [and, of course the GENEVA BIBLE after the 1560 edition. -- sk], are entirely different from those in the GENEVA BIBLE. They are taken from Beza's Latin Testament, and are controversial and strongly Calvinistic.

The changes adopted in the GENEVA BIBLE and New Testament synchronise with the gradual spread of the Calvinistic heresy and the contemporaneous development of hatred of the whole Papal system of doctrine. The notes attacked the Sacramental teaching of the Church, substituting for it the Calvinistic doctrines of election and reprobation. They taught that Sacraments are nothing more than signs and seals of grace previously given to the elect. All passages about the Sacraments are explained away.

GARDINER, SAMUEL RAWSON, The Constitution Documents of the Puritan Revolution, 1625-1660Still Waters Revival Books). Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #30, ISBN: 0921148380 9780921148388.
"This period of time and thought had great bearing on the foundations of many nations, not the least of which include the United States and Canada. These documents are intended to serve either as a basis for the study of the constitutional history of this important period, or as a companion to the political history of the time. Relevant to both church and state." -- SWRB
The Constitutional Documents of the Puritan Revolution, 1628-1660
http://books.google.com/books?id=wAUwAAAAMAAJ&ie=ISO-8859-1&output=html

Miller, Perry (editor) and Thomas H. Johnson (editor), The Puritans: A Sourcebook of Their Writings, two volumes in one, (Dover Publications, May 3, 2001, 1963, 1938).
"Critically acclaimed classic lets Puritans speak for themselves in crucial documents covering history, theory of state and society, religion, customs, behavior, biographies and letters, poetry, literary theory, education, science, and more. Regarded by historian Samuel Eliot Morison as 'the best selection ever made of Puritan literature, point of view and culture'."
"This thematic consideration of primary source material covers the major epochs of early American Puritanism. It includes the Puritan's views on the state and society, this world and the next, poetry, education, and so on. First published in 1938." -- Cyril J. Barber

Morrill, John (editor), Reactions to the English Civil War, 1642-1649 (New York, NY: Saint Martin's Press, Incorporated, 1984). 20781

Russell, Conrad, The Causes of the English Civil War (New York, NY: Oxford University Press, Incorporated, 1990). 20782

Solt, Leo F., Saints in Arms (New York, NY: AMS Press, Incorporated). 20783
Stanford University. Stanford Studies in History, Economics and Political Science, No. 18.

Symonds, Richard, Diary of the Marches of the Royal Army During the Great Civil War (New York, NY: AMS Press, Incorporated). 20785
Camden Society, London. Publications, First Series, No. 74.

See also: The sovereign grace of god: his everlasting mercy and lovingkindness, The doctrine of man (human nature, total depravity), Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, Puritanism: works by and about puritans, Puritan paperback series from banner of truth, Corporate faithfulness and sanctification, The covenanted reformation of scotland short title listing, The application of scripture to the corporate bodies of church and state, Reformation eschatology, Sexual relationship

Related WebLinks

Puritanism

#01: The Puritan Theological and Cultural Heritage
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Puritan Heritage, 47 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=9220394856

#02: The Puritan Political Heritage
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Puritan Heritage, 47 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=922039503

#03: The Departure from the Puritan Heritage
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Puritan Heritage, 52 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=92903104657

Sermons Preached Before Governing Bodies

---

See Isaiah 40:1--55:13 and annotations in The Reformation Study Bible

And I will make thee unto this people a fenced brasen wall: and they shall fight against thee, but they shall not prevail against thee: for I am with thee to save thee and to deliver thee, saith the LORD.
And I will deliver thee out of the hand of the wicked, and I will redeem thee out of the hand of the terrible. (Jeremiah 15:20, 21)

Baxter, Richard. The life of faith: or, a treatise of the holy and happy life of sincere believers; beginning with a sermon preached before King Charles II. . . . Written by the Reverend, learned and holy Mr. Richard Baxter. Abridged by Benjamin Fawcett, A.M. Salop, 1764. (ECCO) Gale Document Number CW3321425576

Baxter, Richard. The life of faith; as it is the evidence of things unseen. A sermon preach'd (contractedly) before the King at White-Hall, upon July the 22d, 1660. By Richard Baxter, . . . With enlargement, and relaxation of the stile for common use. London, 1706. (ECCO) Gale Document Number CW3323393997

Bond, John, Eshcol, or Grapes (among) thorns. As they were delivered in a thanksgiving sermon, to the honourable House of commons . . . 1648 (London, Printed by M.F. for S. Gellibrand, 1648).

BOWLES, OLIVER (ca. 1577-1646?), Zeale for Gods house quickned, or, A sermon preached before the assembly of Lords, Commons and Divines at their solemn fast Iuly 7, 1643, John ii. 17: Gal. 4:18. Available on Puritan Bookshelf CD #1. Available on The Amazing Christian Library, DVD Six, CD #32. Available on the forthcoming SWRB Hard Drive.

BURGES, CORNELIUS, 1589?-1665, and Stephen Marshall, 1594?-1655, The first sermon, preached to the Honourable House of Commons now assembled in Parliament at their publique fast. Novemb. 17. 1640. By Cornelius Burges Doctor of Divinitie. Published by order of that House (Cerlox Bound Photocopy Series. Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books), EEBO.
"A beautifully clear facsimile copy of this amazing sermon (published by order of the British House of Commons in 1641), exhorting this Parliament to 'stand to the covenant' of God; by, 'endeavouring of a further Sanction of, and stronger Guard about our true Palladium, the true Religion, already established among us; in the perfecting of the Reformation of it; in the erecting, maintaining, protecting, and encouraging of an able, godly, faithful, zealous, profitable, Preaching Ministry, in every Parish Church and Chapel throughout England and Wales; in interceding to the Kings sacred Majesty for the setting up of a Faithful, Judicious, and Zealous Magistracy, where yet the same is wanting, to be ever at hand to back such a Ministry: without either of which, not only the power of Godliness will sooner degenerate into formality, and zeal into lukewarmness; but Popery, Arminianism, Socinianism, Profaneness, Apostasy, and Atheism itself will