Appendix D

Pseudo-Christian Movements: A Selection of Works

Contents

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

General Works

---

Thou shalt have no other gods before me. -- The Holy One of Israel (Exodus 20:3)

Take heed to yourselves, that your heart be not deceived, and ye turn aside, and serve other gods, and worship them. (Deuteronomy 11:16)

If ye forsake the LORD, and serve strange gods, then he will turn and do you hurt, and consume you, after that he hath done you good. (Joshua 24:20)

Jesus said unto him, It is written again, Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God.
Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve. -- Jesus Christ (Matthew 4:7,10)

If this people go up to do sacrifice in the house of the LORD at Jerusalem, then shall the heart of this people turn again unto their lord, even unto Rehoboam king of Judah, and they shall kill me, and go again to Rehoboam king of Judah. (He feared that while the tribes went up every year to the temple, the old love to one another would revive, and seeing the palace of the house of David in its magnificence, they might feel regret for having revolted from their ancient line of kings: Jeroboam therefore felt that the temple worship endangered his position. He was a man of a crafty mind, like Ahithophel, and had no fear of God before his eyes, and therefore he resolved to set up a new religion. God's honour was nothing to him. Worldly policy and other base motives have often been the reasons for founding false systems of religion.)
Whereupon the king took counsel, and made two calves of gold, and said unto them, It is too much for you to go up to Jerusalem: behold thy gods, O Israel, which brought thee up out of the land of Egypt. (Men naturally love ease, and prefer a religion which involves little trouble and inconvenience, hence Jeroboam craftily appealed to this degrading propensity of human nature; but how disgraceful it was on the part of Israel that under such a pretext they sould forsake the living God and bow before the image of a bullock. May wae never leave the good old paths of truth for the sake of honour, position, gain, or ease. Let us cleave unto the Lord with purpose of heart.)
And he set the one in Bethel, and the other put he in Dan.
And this thing became a sin: for the people went to worship before the one, even unto Dan. (At both ends of the land, so that none might have far to travel.)
And he made an house of high places, and made priests of the lowest of the people, which were not of the sons of Levi. (The true priests were faithful and hence he must needs set up others. This speaks well for the Levites. If all other men become idolators, God's ministers must not.)
And Jeroboam ordained a feast in the eighth month, on the fifteenth day of the month, like unto the feast that is in Judah, and he offered upon the altar. So did he in Bethel, sacrificing unto the calves that he had made: and he placed in Bethel the priests of the high places which he had made.
So he offered upon the altar which he had made in Bethel the fifteenth day of the eighth month, even in the month which he had devised of his own heart; and ordained a feast unto the children of Israel: and he offered upon the altar, and burnt incense. (He dared to take upon himself the priesthood, to change the ordained sesons for worship, to set up a rival altar, and to adore God under a symbolic form. All this was detestable in the sight of God. It is to be feared that in our day many are guilty of Jeroboam's sin, for they invent rites and ceremonies of their own, and forsake the Lord, who is a Spirit, and must be worshipped in spirit and in truth. O for grace to be faithful to the World of God in all points.) (1 Kings 12:27-33) -- Spurgeon's Devotional Bible

And, behold, there came a man of God out of Judah by the word of the LORD unto Bethel: and Jeroboam stood by the altar to burn incense.
And he cried against the altar in the word of the LORD, and said, O altar, altar, thus saith the LORD; Behold, a child shall be born unto the house of David, Josiah by name; and upon thee shall he offer the priests of the high places that burn incense upon thee, and men's bones shall be burnt upon thee.
And he gave a sign the same day, saying, This is the sign which the LORD hath spoken; Behold, the altar shall be rent, and the ashes that are upon it shall be poured out. (This was bravely spoken. The prophet feared not the wrath of the king or of the crowds around him. Messengers of God must not fear the faces of men.) (1 Kings 13:1-3) -- Spurgeon's Devotional Bible

Howbeit this kind goeth not out but by prayer and fasting. -- Jesus Christ (Matthew 17:21)

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

And Joshua said unto the people, Ye are witnesses against yourselves that ye have chosen you the LORD, to serve him. And they said, We are witnesses.
Now therefore put away, said he, the strange gods which are among you, and incline your heart unto the LORD God of Israel.
And the people said unto Joshua, The LORD our God will we serve, and his voice will we obey. So Joshua made a covenant with the people that day, and set them a statute and an ordinance in Shechem. (Joshua 24: 22-24)

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

And if the blind lead the blind, both shall fall into the ditch. -- Jesus Christ (Matthew 15:14b)

See the Theological Notes, "True Knowledge of God," at Jeremiah 9:24, page 1167, in The Reformation Study Bible

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

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

Prove all things; hold fast that which is good. Abstain from all appearance of evil. (1 Thessalonians 5:21,22)

True worship is due only to One who by reason of His infinite perfections deserves our supreme love, honor, and trust. Angels are the highest order of creatures, yet we are forbidden to worship them. (Deut. 17:3) It is the lack of this knowledge that has caused unbelievers to idolize creatures. For wherever they found any virtue or excellency in the creature, presently they adored and worshipped it. -- William Gurnall

See the Theological Notes, "Syncretism and Idolatry," at Hosea 2:13, page 1362, in The Reformation Study Bible

But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin. (1 John 1:7)

And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light.
Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works. (2 Corinthians 11:14,15)

The wicked often masquarade as righteous. Their destructive plans, if broadly known, would be sure to meet with resistance from their victims. Indeed, Satan transformes himself into an angel of light in order to deceive the very elect. (2 Corinthians 11:14,15) The soul is the most precious item in creation. Certainly a plan to destroy one's soul must be cloaked in the uttmost deceit and hypocracy. We know of nothing worse than a bad "Christian."

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

Soul-violence begins when one individual tries to usurping authority over another, to control and possess them. The means of control may be either outward or occult: possessiveness, deceit, repression or suppression of the truth, soul-stealing, attempts to take authority over another politically or by mental malpractice, denial of freedom, indebtedness, whoredom, esposal without love, and so forth. Abuse of the soul quenches the Holy Spirit.
If either side is immovable, then death is the result of the conflict of will. How are conflicts of will resolved? By submission to the absolute truth of God's word. These observations bear a strain of the Gospel.

And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them. (Ephesians 5:11)

Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abideth in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son. (2 John 9)

To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me. -- Jesus Christ (Acts 26:18)

For what is a man profited if he may gain the whole world, but of his life suffer loss? or what shall a man give as an exchange for his life? -- Jesus Christ (Matthew 16:26, YLTHB)

There is no wisdom nor understanding nor counsel against the Lord. (Proverbs 21:30)

Your iniquities have turned away these things, and your sins have withholden good things from you. For among my people are found wicked men: they lay wait, as he that setteth snares; they set a trap, they catch men. As a cage is full of birds, so are their houses full of deceit: therefore they are become great, and waxen rich. They are waxen fat, they shine: yea, they overpass the deeds of the wicked: they judge not the cause, the cause of the fatherless, yet they prosper; and the right of the needy do they not judge. Shall I not visit for these things? saith the LORD: shall not my soul be avenged on such a nation as this? A wonderful and horrible thing is committed in the land; The prophets prophesy falsely, and the priests bear rule by their means; and my people love to have it so: and what will ye do in the end thereof? (Jeremiah 5: 25-31)

Calvin's Commentaries: Jeremiah 5:30-31
"He then adds, And my people have wished it to be so. The common people, no doubt, exculpated themselves, as they do at this day, who hold forth this excuse as their shield, 'O, we are not learned, we have never been in school, and what can we do but to follow our bishops?' Thus, then, at this day, the lower orders, the multitude, seek to cast off every blame from themselves. But the Prophet says here, that the people loved to have things so. And, doubtless, we shall find that to be ever true which is said in Deuteronomy 13:3, that when false prophets come, it is for the purpose of trying God's people, whether they from the heart love God. It is then his object to try our religion, whenever he gives loose reins to impostors and false prophets: for every one who truly loves God will be preserved by his Spirit from being led away by such deceivers. When, therefore, ignorant men are deluded, it is certain that they are justly punished for their neglect and contempt of God, because they have not been sufficiently attentive to his service; yea, because they have wished for impostors, according to what has been also often said by the monks, "The world wishes to be deceived, let it be deceived in the name of the devil." These impostors have become so shameless, as to boast that they are the ministers of Satan to deceive men. However, that common saying has been found true; for the world is never deceived except with its own consent, and willingly; for those who are the most ignorant close their eyes against clear light, and shun God as much as they can, and seek to hide themselves in darkness, according to what Christ says,
Whosoever committeth sin hateth the light. (John 3:20)
The Prophet adds in the last place, And what will ye do at last, or at the end of it? Some omit the pronoun h, he; and others apply it to the false prophets and the priests; but the Prophet, I have no doubt, refers to Jerusalem, What will ye do at the end of it? For we know that as Jerusalem had been founded by God's hand, and while it had him as its protector and guardian, it was safe; but this was a false confidence, when they despised God and gloried in their wickedness. What, then, he says, will ye do at the end of it? as though he had said, "You deceive yourselves, if you think that this city will be perpetual; for its overthrow is nigh at hand: what then will ye do, when the city itself shall bc destroyed, except that you shall be all destroyed together with it?"

Prayer

"Grant, Almighty God, that since we have been hitherto extremely deaf to thy many exhortations, and also to those threatenings by which thou hast sharply stimulated us to repentance, -- O grant, that this perverseness may not always remain in us, but that we may at length submit to thee, not only for a short time, but continually, so that we may to the end devote ourselves wholly to thee, and thus glorify thy name, that we may at last become partakers of that glory, which has been procured for us by the blood of thy only -- begotten Son. -- Amen." -- John Calvin commenting on Jeremiah 5:30-31
http://www.ccel.org/c/calvin/comment3/comm_vol17/htm/xv.xxviii.htm

Calvin's Commentaries: Jeremiah 14:15-16
"It is certain that except the world winingly sought falsehoods, the power of the devil to deceive would not be so great. When men therefore are led astray by impostures, it happens through their own fault, inasmuch as they are more ready to embrace vanity than to submit to God and his word. [No one is ever deceived except by his own will.] And we must remember that saying of Paul, that all the reprobate are blinded and given up to a reprobate mind, because they wilfully seek falsehood, and will not obey the truth. (Romans 1:28) And on this account God declares that he tries the hearts of men, whenever false prophets come abroad; for every one who really fears God shall by no means be led away by the deceits of Satan and of impostors. Hence, whenever men are too credulous and readily embrace deceptions, it is certain that their hypocrisy is thus justly punished by God. And it was well known to the Prophet, that the Jews ever wished for such prophets as soothed their ears and promised them an abundant harvest and a fruitful vintage. (Micah 2:11) As then they had itching ears, a liberty was justly given to Satan to deluge the whole land with falsehood; and so indeed it happened. There is then no wonder that the Lord was so severe in chastising the people; for they had not been deceived except through their own fault. The same thing happens at this day. Though we are touched with pity when we see the ministers of Satan prevail in deceiving the common people: yet we must remember that a reward is rendered by heaven for the impiety of men, who either extinguish or smother the light of God as much as they can, and seek to plunge into darkness." -- Calvin commenting on Jeremiah 14:15-16
http://www.ccel.org/c/calvin/comment3/comm_vol18/htm/vi.xi.htm

Calvin's Commentaries: Micah 2:11
"In short, Micah intimates that the Israelites rejected all sound doctrine, for they sought nothing but flatteries, and wished to be cherished in their vices; yea, they desired to be deceived by false adulation to their own ruin. It hence appears that they were not the people they wished to be deemed, that is, the people of God: for the first condition in God's covenant was, -- that he should rule among his people. Inasmuch then as these men would not endure to be governed by Divine power, and wished to have full and unbridled liberty, it was the same as though they had banished God far from them. Hence, by this proof, the Prophet shows that they had wholly departed from God, and had no intercourse with him. If there be then any man walking in the spirit, let him, he says, keep far from the truth; for he will not otherwise be borne by this people. -- How so? Because they will not have honest and faithful teachers. What is then to be done? Let flatterers come, and promise them plenty of wine and strong drink, and they will be their best teachers, and be received with great applause: in short, the suitable teachers of that people were the ungodly; the people could no longer bear the true Prophets; their desire was to have flatterers who were indulgent to all their corruptions.
Prayer.
"Grant, Almighty God, that since we cannot otherwise really profit by thy word, than by having all our thoughts and affections subjected to thee, and offered to thee as a sacrifice, -- O grant, that we may suffer thee, by the sound of thy word, so to pierce through everything within us, that being dead in ourselves, we may live to thee,and never suffer flatteries to become our ruin but that we may, on the contrary, patiently endure reproofs, however bitter they may be, only let them serve to us as medicine, by which our inward vices may be cleansed, until at length being thoroughly cleansed and formed into new creatures, we may, by a pious and holy life, really glorify thy name, and be received into that celestial glory, which has been purchased for us by the blood of thy only-begotten Son, our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen." -- John Calvin commenting on Micah 2:11
http://www.ccel.org/c/calvin/comment3/comm_vol28/htm/iv.2.xi.htm

"Heresy is a gross and dangerous error, voluntarily held and factiously maintained by some person or persons within the visible church, in opposition to some chief or substantial truth or truths grounded upon and drawn from the holy Scripture by necessary consequence." -- George Gillespie

Pseudo-Christian movements and hypocracy within the church evidence and reinforce the Majesty and Lordship of the True and Living God -- even the wicked must feign obedience to Him. The wicked must masquerade as righteous.

G.K. Chesterton summed up well this sorry state of affairs by declaring, "The modern world is full of old Christian virtues gone mad." This statement reveals how man, duped by this enemy, misapplies and misappropriates the virtues of God and Christianity to mask his evil. The bottom line, according to Proverbs 12:10b, "But the tender mercies of the wicked are cruel." -- Rusty Lee Thomas

"At the bottom, all non-Christian systems demand autonomy for man, thereby seeking to dethrone God." -- Cornelius Van Til

"Three of the most influential pseudo-Christian movements in the West are Roman Catholicism, Arminianism, and Pentecostalism." -- John W. Robbins

Regrettably the most powerful, the most pervasive false systems in our culture, are overlooked by many anti-cult ministries.
The denial of God by the Socinian, Pelagian, Arminian, Antinomian, Erastian, Prelatic, Atheistic, non-dualistic, egalitarian, pluralistic, polytheistic, tolerant, morally relativistic, Secular Humanistic State is the leading obstacle to the coming Kingdom of Christ and to covenant economy. If the God ordained institution of the State would punish wrong doers, then the pseudo-Christian and anti-Christian cults would be repressed and suppressed, they would neither exert their destabilizing influence on society, nor would they oppress and destroy the innocent with impunity.
The venerated Roman Catholic Institution (the Reformers, including Luther and Calvin, considered the Pope to be the anti-Christ) continues to standby in ruthless opposition to the progress of Western Civilization under the Protestant and Covenanted Reformations.
Freemasonry, including its many splinter associations, had its origins in 17th century Scotland, an apparently reaction to The Covenanted Reformation of Scotland, the highest attainment of Christianity in history, and has a pervasive grip on major Protestant institutions, and the workplace.
Christianity is the highest ethical standard known to mankind. Yet all the cults deny Christ's Crown and Covenant, and therefore, are in a conflict of will with the absolute justice of the Christian ethic and, consequently, they are destructive of society and individuals. As can be seen by a discerned look at the Gospel message of salvation, conflict of will leads to death. Christ took away the sin of the world, and gave the elect life eternal.

Selfishness and pride will blind even the gifted and learned to the truth. Lust for power and the will to play God will blind us to the truth. Intense nationalistic pride, political bent, alienation during secular schooling, or personal ambitions blind us to the "evident connection between Absolute Truth, sovereign authority, holiness, life, loving obedience, moral behavior, sanctification, justice, freedom (political, economic, and individual), social stability, and real progress. . . ." -- Preface, Biblical Counsel: Resources for Renewal (The Web Edition).

To the world -- that is to unbelieving unregenerate men -- who dislike and despise genuine Christianity, and genuine Christians, of whom it is quite possible some may be now hearing me, I have to say, Behold your character, and reflect on your danger. You have a heart-dislike of truly good men; and if it does not break out in reproach and injury, it is the effect of the restraining influences of the circumstances in which you are placed. If you dislike genuine Christianity and genuine Christians, it is because you dislike Christ; and if you dislike Christ, it is because you dislike God, being "enemies by evil works;" and if you dislike God and Christ, it is because you do not know them aright, being "alienated from them through the ignorance that is in you;" and if you do not know them aright, it is because you will not receive the knowledge of God and Christ, "not liking" to receive nor "to retain the knowledge of God," though clearly stated and abundantly confirmed. Your ill-will and its consequences are no proper cause of shame to Christians, but they are a very proper cause of shame to yourselves. How do good men, how do angels, wonder at you? -- how does the devil, whom you serve, despise you? What must the end be, if you remain in your present state -- if you persist in your present course? -- John Brown (of Edinburgh, 1784-1858), Discourses and Sayings of Our Lord Jesus Christ, III:398

The Pagan/Occult Revival and the rise in Violent/Destructive Crime can be stopped by the punishment of individuals and organizations who violate first God's Law, The Ten Commandments, and then man's law. But man has corrupted law to take the liberty and property of his neighbors as Frederic Bastiat has so beautifully articulated in his 19th century work THE LAW.
The difference between God's law and man's laws? God enforces his law. Man's law is corrupted, and man is unable to enforce his law. The administration of justice in the legal system depends upon being true to the Trinitarian God who has taught mankind the difference between right and wrong in The Holy Bible.
Punishment does not change the heart of depraved man. Only God can change the heart. However, punishment changes behavior, and, if it is based upon God's Law as revealed in The Holy Bible, both repressess and supresses evil, and protects the innocent who suffer at the hands of the wrong doer.
The State was divinely ordained to punish wrong doers. There is an evident correlation between the decline of historic, orthodox, Reformed Christianity and the politicization, the secularizing, and the corruption of the Legal Sector and the Court System for the purpose of taking the property and the liberty of the individual. Departure of the State from the Law of God is analagous to nonduality, polytheism, heresy, syncretism, toleration, temporization, invasiveness, bondage, loss of liberty, declension, and destruction. (See Frederick Bastiat, The Law and C. Gregg Singer, Theological Interpretation of American History.)

Heresies has the purpose of proving what is true. The charges then are, among others: Pseudo-christianity, Religiosity covering moral corruption (Christianity is the highest etical standard known to mankind), Denial of the inspiration and infallibility of scripture, Irrationality, Radicalism, Mysticism, Will-worship [anti-regulativism], Arminianism, Antinomianism, Legalism, Religious pluralism and tolerationism [anti-establishmentarianism], A refusal to recognize lawful civil government as the ordinance of God, Syncretism, Pelagianism, False gospels, Unholy Alliance, `Restorationist' Christianity, Anti-paedobaptism, Perfectionism, Societal escapism, Pietism, Denial of the perpetual obligation of social covenanting, Schism, Sectarianism, Independency, Brownism, Erastianism, Separation, Socialism, Communism, Familism, Carnality and flesh pleasing, Condoning carnal knowledge outside of marriage, Effeminacy, Pacifism, Cowardice, Hypocracy, Machiavellianism, Priestcraft, Occultism, Soul-violence, and so forth, and so on.

Adams, Jay E., A Call to Discernment [30005]
"This book shows how serious a problem lack of discernment is . . . and poses how one can become a more discerning Christian." -- GCB

American Portrait Films, Hells Bells: The Dangers of Rock 'n' Roll
"A shocking expose of the message and medium that has mesmerized whole generations. This is an incredibly intense biblical look at one of the major forces in our culture today. `When modes of music change, the fundamental laws of the state change with them,' stated Plato. The degenerate communist dictator Vladimir Lenin noted the potential power for evil in music, when he said, `One quick way to destroy a society is through its music.' Moreover, for Christians, music is an extremely important expression of faith and worship, as we note that God has providentially positioned the Psalter (His divinely inspired song-book) right in the center of the Bible. But it is clear that music can be a sanctifying or seducing power. Satan has made full use of his musical prowess through rock and its promoters and this video unmasks the devil's spiritual power as the driving force behind rock and roll. Contrasting the message of rock with the Word of God, rock's seductive nature is laid bare in these instructive videos, thus providing a clear warning to those who are still entangled in its demonic clutches. First-hand experience coupled with several years of research has produced this exhaustive analysis and these videos have now been seen by millions. It is considered the definitive work on Rock music from a Christian perspective. One drawback that we should warn you about is that these videos contain some pictures of an effeminate, long-haired man (the Roman Catholic `Jesus') who is clearly supposed to be the Lord Jesus Christ. We note this violation of the second commandment so that you do not purchase these videos unaware of this fact. The videos are also quite explicit and are not suitable for younger children; parental discretion is strongly advised. We leave you with a telling quote from the study guide, `A lot of people want to say' It's just music, I'm not paying attention to the words...' This is a total cop-out, the scriptures practically scream at us that we are to have NO fellowship with evil . . . Consider the following parable: A man is married to a woman named Mary and Mary has dedicated her life to fighting pollution. The man comes home one day and says, 'Mary, I've got the greatest new album; you won't believe how hot the guitarist is! One thing though, the words kind of stink so don't pay any attention to them.' As the CD plays Mary hears lyrics advocating the rape of the environment and even making fun of her by name for her anti-pollution efforts. She walks over and picks up the cover and it's got a picture of the group sticking her face into an oil slick! In Mary's mind (and really anybody else's), who does the man love more, Mary or his music? So Jesus must ask of a person who says he loves Him but listens to songs that mock him, tell lies, or extol the very sins that nailed Him to the cross." -- SWRB
American Portrait Films
We now offer (2001) over 30 Christian creation science videos, young earth creationism videos, creation science videos, and videos on other creationist topics as well as 100 other thought provoking pro life, pro family videos.
http://www.amport.com/

Ankerberg, John, and John Weldon, Cult Watch: What You Need to Know About Spiritual Deception (Eugene, OR: Harvest House Publishers, 1991). D1004
"Provides historical background and vital facts on the major beliefs of modern religious movements in question and answer format." -- GCB

Ankerberg, John, Facts on the Faith Movement (Eugene, OR: Harvest House Publishers, 1993). D1007

Ankerberg, John, and John Weldon, The Facts on False Teaching in the Church (Eugene, OR: Harvest House Publishers, 1988). D1005 "If you are concerned about the new philosophies and psychologies that are infilrating today's churches, THE FACTS ON FALSE TEACHING IN THE CHURCH is an invaluable resource to help you judge which teachings are biblical and which are not." -- Synopsis

Barger, Eric, From Rock To Rock: The Music of the Darkness Exposed (Lafayette, LA: Huntington House, c1990). 10635
"Eric Barger, for twenty years involved in the Rock music industry, offers solid, Biblical counsel for parents and teens wondering what to do about Rock music. Includes the first Music Rating System classifying 1500 groups and artists." -- Publisher's Annotation

*Barna, George, What Americans Believe: An Annual Survey of Values and Religious Views in the United States [20735]
Barna Research
http://www.barna.org/

Barron, Bruce, The Health and Wealth Gospel (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press). D1009
"Barron probes the teachings of prominent preachers like Charles Capps, Kenneth Hagin, and Kenneth Copeland. Can we have whatever we ask from God? Can we see a 100-fold return on our Kingdom investment? Is sickness a sign of a lack of faith? These and other claims are examined fully and fairly." -- GCB

*Bickersteth, Edward, The Trinity: The Classic Study of Biblical Trinitarianism (Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel Publications). A Christian classic.
"A must for gaining a grasp of the doctrine of the Trinity." -- Jay P. Green, Sr.

Bowker, John, Licensed Insanities: Religions and Belief in God in the Contemporary World

Breece, Dave, Satan's Ten Most Believable Lies [90619A]

Burks, Ron, and Vicki Burks, Damaged Disciples: Casualties of Authoritarian Churches and the Shepherding Movement [70419, 70418]
Damaged Disciples, by Ron and Vicki Burk
http://www.dtl.org/shield/disciples.htm

Bussell, Harold, Unholy Devotion: Why Cults Lure Christians (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 1983). D1010

Carl, Frank, and Joan H. Robie, Courting the King of Terrors: is Satan Having the Last Laugh? (Lancaster, PA: Starburst Publishers, 1989). D1011
"Why are so many people turning to mental, spiritual, and physical suicide? This book gives an answer. Its purpose is two-fold: to sound the trumpet of concern about sins creeping into the church, and to offer practical help and hope in working with those who have fallen prey to Satan's lies." -- GCB

Christenson, Evelyn, Battling the Prince of Darkness: Rescuing Captives From Satan's Kingdom (Wheaton, IL: Victor Books, c1990). 40171
"When you study Evelyn Christenson's new book you'll learn about the recent explosion of Satanic activity--and about the Prince of the Kingdom of Darkness. But this book isn't just about problems; it's about the one and only solution--Jesus Christ. And it's about evangelism--the very best strategy for defeating Satan." -- Publisher's Annotation. A leader's guide is available. Ideal for group study.

Christian Research Institute, CRI Resource Catalog (San Juan Capistrano, CA [Christian Research Institute International, Post Office Box 500, San Juan Capistrano 92693]: Christian Research Institute International, 1992). D1012
"A collection of books, pamphlets, tracts, and cassette tapes providing information on cults, the occult, Christian aberrations, apologetics, and the New Age movement available from the Christian Research Institute."

Clark, Gordon, H., Thales to Dewey: A History of Philosophy (Unicoi, TN: The Trinity Foundation). 31280A
"This is the best one volume history of philosophy in English. It is clearly written, and it accurately explains the views of the major figures in the history of philosophy for the beginning student. It may be studied with profit by teachers, parents, and students. Contents include: Greek Philosophy, The Presocratics, The Milesians, Heraclitus, The Pythagoreans, Parmenides, The Pluralists, Zeno, The Sophists, Socrates, Plato, Aristotle, The Hellenistic Age, The Middle Ages, The Patristic Period, The Dark Ages, The Scholastic Period, Modern Philosophy, Seventeenth Century Rationalism, British Empiricism, Immanuel Kant, G.W.F. Hegel, and Contemporary Irrationalism." -- John W. Robbins. Includes bibliography and index.

Clark, Gordon H., Three Types of Religious Philosophy (Unicoi, TN: The Trinity Foundation). 31282
"Dr. Clark carefully and clearly examines rationalism, empiricism, and dogmatism -- and for good measure includes a chapter on modern philosophy and theology: irrationalism. He answers the question, `How should Christianity be defended'?" -- GCB

*Enroth, Ronald, The Gay Church

*Enroth, Ronald, The Lure of Cults and New Religions: Why They Attract and What We Can Do (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press). D1000
"First published in 1979, this work probes the power and idiosyncrasies of cultic figures and exposes the inadequacies of their theologies. It also describes the methods of intimidation used by the different organizations and why they are able to enforce conformity on the part of their adherents. This important work should be placed in the hands of all college freshmen, while also being in every church library." -- Cyril J. Barber

*Enroth, Ronald, Why Cults Succeed Where the Church Fails (Elgin, IL: Brethren Press, 1985). D1014

*Enroth, Ronald, Youth, Brainwashing and Extremist Cults [20838]

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

Gerstner, John H., Teachings of Christian Science (Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Book House). D1016

Groothuis, Douglas, Deceived by the Light
"Doug Groothuis a well-respected expert on new religious movements, takes us to the teaching of Scripture for some surprising answers about death, near-death experiences, and what comes after death." -- Synopsis
"This book begins with an evaluation of the claims of Bettie Eadie's account of her supposed near-death experience (NDE), explores the concept of the NDE, and evaluates the idea logically, evidentially, and theologically. I argue that there is little reason to support Eadie's NDE, given the lack of evidence (she refused to release medical records, etc.), and the internal incoherence of her account. It doesn't ring true to medical facts. Moreover, her world view is an unstable compound of Mormonism, New Age thought, and a bit of Christian terminology. I critique the work of Raymond Moody, Kenneth Ring, and other NDE researchers. I also address the sticky question of hellish or "near-hell" experiences. I conclude after argumentation that the biblical account of the afterlife is true and rational. Jesus Christ, who tasted death and rose from the grave, is the only one in the position to reveal the realities of life after death." -- Douglas Groothuis, April 3, 2000

Groothuis, Douglas, The Soul in Cyberspace
"This book evaluates the emerging technologies of cyberspace in relation to their effects on our society and souls, and deals especially with the potential pitfall of becoming informationally rich but spiritually deprived. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title." -- Synopsis
"A philosophical/theological assessment of cyberspace. This book was first published by Baker Books in 1997. It was the first and remains the only philosophical and theological critique of cyberspace technologies written from an evangelical Christian perspective. Besides the Scriptures themselves, I am quite influenced by the writings of Neal Postman and Jacques Ellul. I am neither Luddite nor a digitopian, but a cultural critic of the form and nature of cyberspace.
"I have presented material from the book at a Wheaton College seminar and for the Board of Prison Fellowship as well as teaching from the book in ethics courses at Denver Seminary, where I am Associate Professor of Philosophy.
"Here are the chapter titles:
Introduction: Cyberspace and the Trouble with our Souls
1. The Postmodern Soul in Cyberspace
2. Disembodied Existence in a Digital World
3. The Book, the Screen, and the Soul
4. Hypertext Realities and Effects
5. The Fate of Truth in Cyberspace
6. Cybersex: Eroticism without Bodies
7. Technoshamanism: Digital Deities
8. Exploring Virtual Community
9. Virtual Community: Trust, Deception, and Infection
10. Online Christianity Conclusion: Eloquent Realities." -- Douglas Groothuis, July 15, 2000

Hexham, Irving, Karla Poewe, New Religions As Global Cultures: The Sacralization of the Human (Explorations: Contemporary Perspectives on Religion. Westview Press).
"An ambitious book written for the general audience, particularly college students . . . The author's thesis is that various new religions should be understood in a global context . . . The first chapter . . . paints a miserable picture of evangelicals as unscholarly, uninformed and reactionary - a picture that fits some . . . The authors' overall method . . . vacillates between attempting a non judgmental description . . . and giving a critical analysis . . . Their long discussion of shamanism never explores the possibility that some shamans may be demonized ..." -- Reader Comment

Hexham, Irving, Karla Poewe, and J.I. Packer, Understanding Cults and New Religions (Grand Rapids, MI: Wm.B. Eerdmans Publishing Co.).
"This book is designed to help Christian laymen, pastors, youth workers, and students understand cults from a social, psychological, and religious perspective. . . ." -- GCB

Howitt, William (1792-1879), William Howitt's abridgment of his popular History of Priestcraft, reprint edition (Kessinger Publishing, February 1, 1998, and London: England: Effingham Wilson, 1834).
"Two Evil Principles: Kingcraft and Priestcraft; Paganism; Mythology of the Assyrians and Syrians; Establishment of Monkery (monks); Popish Arrogance and Atrocities; Jesuits and Inquisitors; English Church; Ministerial Plan of Irish Church Reform; Clerical Incomes; Evils of the system of Church Patronage; Retrospect view of of the Effects of Priestcraft."

IMP, The Pagan Invasion Series (Jeremiah Films).
"Each stereo VHS tape is about 48 minutes long. Almost a video encyclopedia of information on the New Age cult strangeness of our day. The narrators of the tapes look into the history and current practices concerning the subject of each tape." -- GCB
IMP, Volume 1: Halloween: Trick or Treat [70268A]
IMP, Volume 2: Invasion of the Godmen
"Look into the growing god-consciousness movement. Incredible film footage from mystical India highlights the shocking expose." -- GCB
IMP, Volume 3: Meditation: Pathway to Deception?
IMP, Volume 4: The East Seduces the West
"God power within movement, oneness with nature, reincarnation, self-realization, past life regression, hypnosis, innter guides, visualization and more." -- GCB
IMP, Volume 5:
IMP, Volume 6: Evolution: Hoax of the Century? [90635]
IMP, Volume 7: Evolution: From Physics to Metaphysics [90636]
IMP, Volume 8:
IMP, Volume 9: Secrets of Mind Control [20853]
"Many think they are beyond or above having their mind controlled by someone else. The massive social and political movements of our century suggest otherwise. Tape also shows actual footage of mind control therapies." -- GCB
IMP, Volume 10: The Latter Day EMPIRE
"Who was Joseph Smith? Who are the Latter Day Saints? Has this group, relatively small in numbers, infiltrated city, county, state and federal law enforcement agencies like the FBI and CIA? What kind of money is behind these groups? An eye opening look into the hidden secrets of the Mormons." -- GCB
IMP, Volume 11: Joseph Smith's Temple of Doom
"Takes us behind the closed doors of the Mormon Temple where we discover a host of bizarre and mysterious teachings involving magic clothing, baptism for the dead, multiple wives, blood oaths, blood atonement, spirit babies, celestial sex, secret rituals and occultic practices." -- GCB
IMP, Volume 12: Religions vs. Christianity [70461A]
"A dramatic comparison of the living relationship found in the person of Jesus Christ, with the dead religions of dead men. Key world religions are analyzed in light of historical and archaeological evidence, claims of religious leaders and founders, and their ancient writings." -- GCB
IMP, Volume 13: Doorways to Satan
"We are almost in the 21st century yet modern man is increasingly involved in old religions. Obsessed with occult mysteries, sadistic violence, and evil. Its everywhere: Movies, books, music, video games and comics. Most disturbing of all is the unveiled rise of Satanism. Tape takes a close look at much of what is going on in this area." -- GCB
Jeremiah Films
http://www.jeremiahfilms.com/
Witness Inc. and Jeremiah Films Video Tapes
http://www.witnessinc.com/Videos.htm

Lindsell, Harold, The New Paganism (New York, NY: Harper and Row). 90313
"Cogently and urgently, Lindsell documents his belief that Christians must work from a clear understanding of the pagan nature of our culture and society. He argues for the restoration of Christian humanism and God-centered values." -- GCB

Lindsell, Harold, World, the Flesh and the Devil

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

*Leahy, Frederick S., Satan Cast Out: A Study in Biblical Demonology (Carlisle, PA: Banner of Truth Trust, 1990, 1975).
"It is often said that wherever there is a rejection of faith in the living God a corresponding upsurge of the demonic will eventually appear. That is true not only in the pages of the Bible and in the annals of Christian missions; it has also become a striking feature of the life in our materialistic, post-Christian society. . . . Full of sane exposition and wise counsel, his work has been widely appreciated since its first publication in 1975." -- Publisher's Annotation
"Probably one of the best, most Scriptural books written today on the subject of demonology." -- Presbyterian Journal

MacArthur, John, Avoiding Spiritual Counterfeiters (1 Timothy 1:3-11; 6:3-5; 2 Timothy 2:14-19) [31600]

*MacArthur, John F., Jr., Our Sufficiency in Christ (Dallas, TX: Word Publishing, c1991). [31633A]
"True or false: Scripture, prayer, the indwelling Holy Spirit, and the other spiritual resources Christians have aren't enough to meet people's real needs. `False!' says MacArthur. But far too many Christians don't understand the truth about their spiritual sufficiency, and are all too ready to embellish the Gospel with mysticism, humanism, secularization, and plain old bad doctrine. MacArthur calls believers back to a renewed appreciation of what it means to be complete in Christ." -- CBD
Includes bibliographical references and indexes.

MacArthur, John F., The Vanishing Conscience: Drawing the Line in a No-Fault, Guilt-Free World
"In this compelling book, John MacArthur challenges us to confront society's flight from moral responsibility. With sound biblical doctrine, Dr. MacArthur shows how and why sin must be dealt with if we are to live lives that please God. With clarity and insight, he provides biblical solutions for attaining a personal holiness that can move us from living a life of blame and denial to one of true peace and freedom. -- Reader Comment "In THE VANISHING CONSCIENCE, MacArthur addresses, from a biblical perspective, the issues of self-esteem, personal guilt, and individual responsibility. How does modern psychology's obsession with personal forgiveness, high self-esteem, and the love of self stand in the light of Holy Scripture? What became of the little word sin with all of its grave implications, ramifications, and negative connotations? In an age of self-absolution, it would appear that Jesus Christ suffered and died in vain, for, if we are to believe the modern self-proclaimed and self-ordained prophets of the "feel good" philosophy, we are to forgive, each his or her own, transgressions and iniquities by blaming our environment, our genetic predisposition, our parents, our teachers, our political leaders, our role models, anything or anyone but our individual selves.
"THE VANISHING CONSCIENCE is an extraordinarily germane work in that MacArthur not only elucidates the church's adoption and endorsement of this secular abomination as well as the inherent dangers of this heretical philosophy, but does so in such a manner that the reader is made knowledgeable of that which a just God demands of His children. Of far greater importance than self-esteem is our relationship to a God who will hold you and I accountable for each act, thought, word, and deed.
"On that Great and Terrible Day, conscience may be either a dear friend or a damning foe, but it will not claim neutrality. Self-esteem, that placebo of modern psychology, will not be a factor." -- Reader Comment

MacGregor, Lori, Coping With Cults: Practical Insight for Concerned Christians (Eugene, OR: Harvest House Publishers). D1021
"The author was a Jehovah's Witness for 15 years, so she understands cults and the way they think." -- GCB

MacGregor, Lori, What You Need to Know About Jehovah's Witness (Conversations With the Cults. Harvest House Publishers, Inc.).
"Effective teaching about the contradictory beliefs of Jehovah's Witnesses in light of Scripture will help you reach them for Christ." -- Reader Comment

*Machiavelli, Niccolo, The Prince (Oxford Univ Pr). D1020
This famous analysis of statesmanship and power, lauded by the world system and read by practically all politicians, will give insight to those who may still not understand power politics in Washington. But to fully understand the current situation in the Federal government even the discerning person must work in a Federal office or within the corporate limits of the District of Columbia for at least a year. A secular author.
The Prince, Nicolo Machiavelli
http://books.mirror.org/gb.machiavelli.html

Martin, Paul R., "Dispelling the Myths: The Psychological Consequences of Cultic Involvement," Christian Research Journal, Winter/Spring 1989 (San Juan Capistrano, CA: Christian Research Institute International). D1022A
Dispels six myths and gives seven steps to recovery for those who have been taken in by a cult. Includes bibliographic footnotes.

Morey, Robert, The Islamic Invasion: Confronting the World's Fastest Growing Religion (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 1992). D1024

*North, Gary, Unholy Spirits: Occultism and New Age Humanism (Ft. Worth, TX: Dominion Press, 1988). 90579
"According to this in-depth analysis by renowned historian and author Dr. Gary North, the New Age movement is indeed a serious threat and its adherents are no laughing matter. By tracing the historical and theological roots of modern occultic practices, Dr. North paints a frightening portrait of just exactly what we are up against. It's not a pretty sight. Fortunately though, UNHOLY SPIRITS is not simply another `doom and gloom' forecast. He offers parents, teachers, pastors, and other committed Christians practical steps of action to nullify and ultimately eliminate the effects of the New Age infiltration into our homes, our schools, our communities, and our nation." -- Publisher's Annotation.
A revision of his earlier work NONE DARE CALL IT WITCHCRAFT, published in 1974. Includes bibliographic footnotes, index, and Scripture index.
Institute for Christian Economics Freebooks.com
http://www.freebooks.com/

Pride, Bill, Flirting With The Devil (Wheaton, IL: Good News Publishers [Crossway Books], 1988). D1025
"The author shows how Satan's message preached to Adam and Eve in the Garden has affected the church today. Chapters include: No Fault Sin; I'm in With the In-Crowd; Hot Crossed Roles, etc. He concludes by pointing Christians to the solutions, so that they can again become the most dynamic force in our culture. Pride is an M.I.T. grad with two degrees from Covenant Seminary in St. Louis." -- GCB

*Robbins, John W., Ecclesiastical Megalomania: The Economic and Political Thought of the Roman Catholic Church (Unicoi, TN: The Trinity Foundation), ISBN: 0940931753 9780940931756.
The following presents, by contrast, what a Christian society should look like.
"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.

*Robbins, John, Freedom and Capitalism: Essays on Christian Politics and Economics (Unicoi, TN: The Trinity Foundation, November, 2006), 650 pages, ISBN: 1891777157 9781891777158.
See particularly the "Forword" to this work.
"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

Ridenour, Fritz, So What's the Difference? (Ventura, CA: Regal Books). D1026
"A very helpful and handy guide to the real points of difference between Biblical Protestantism and Roman Catholicism, Judaism, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, Unitarianism, Jehovah's Witnesses, Christian Science, and Mormonism." -- GCB "With more than 800,000 copies in print since it was first published in 1967, SO WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE? now appears in this updated and enlarged edition.
"Fritz Ridenour is one of America's best-selling authors. He has written more than a dozen books which have sold millions of copies. He has written this book for adults as well as for youth to answer their questions about Christianity." -- Publisher's Annotation

Roebuck, Julian B., and Marcus L. Hickson, The Southern Redneck: A Phenomenalogical Class Study (Westport, CT: Praeger Publishers, 1982).
Not perjuritive. Includes extensive bibliography.
"The Redneck's chief problem remains false consciousness." -- Julian Roebuck

Rogers, Richard, (1550?-1618) Judges (Banner of Truth, 1996).
Richard Rogers was a contemporary of William Perkins (1558-1602).
"This for the Puritan period is THE work upon Judges. It is thoroughly plain and eminently practical. . . ." -- C.H. Spurgeon
"It [The Book of Judges] provides a dramatic illustration of the effect of apostasy upon every aspect of life. The root cause of Israel's decline was that the covenant relationship with the Lord, with its requirement of absolute and loyal obedience to His commands, was broken. This led to disintegration in the political, religious, social, and family spheres and to a sharp increase in immorality. The Book of Judges serves as a reminder that a nation cannot live on its past glories. The author of Judges was, of course, a preacher to his own generation, but his message has a permanent and universal application, and may be summed up in the words of Proverbs 14:34:

Righteousness exalts a nation,
but sin in a reproach to any people.

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

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

Singer, C. Gregg, (Charles G. Singer) The Unholy Alliance: The Definitive History of the National Council of Churches and its Leftist Policies -- From 1908 to the Present (New Rochelle, NY: Arlington House, 1975), ISBN: 0870003275 9780870003271, 384 pages.
"This book is not calculated to win friends among adherents to the National Council of Churches. It provides convincing evidence of the tremendous gap that has developed between the NCC and its critics and demonstrates the NCC's inability to achieve its objectives." -- Cyril J. Barber
Unholy Alliance: The Definitive History of the National Council of Churches and Its Leftist Policies -- From 1908 to the Present
Freebooks online etext.
http://freebooks.entrewave.com/freebooks/docs/39be_47e.htm

Sire, James, Scripture Twisting: 20 Ways the Cults Misread the Bible (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 1980). D1027
"James Sire has isolated twenty separate kinds of reading errors which are characteristically made by cultists as they interpret the Bible. He covers the full range from simple misquotation to complex argumentation. Sire also handles twisted translation, overspecification, virtue by association, ignoring the context, and others. It's a book to help us all become better readers of the Scriptures. . . ." -- Hank Hanegraaff

Spiritual Counterfeits Project (Berkeley, CA [Spiritual Counterfeits Project, P.O. Box 2418, Berkeley 94702]: Spiritual Counterfeits Project). D1028
Spiritual Counterfeits Project
http://www.scp-inc.org/

Stratford, Lauren, and Johanna Michaelson, Satan's Underground: The Extraordinary Story of One Woman's Escape (Gretna, LA: Pelican Publishing Company, Incorporated). D1029
Foreword by Johanna Michaelsen.
"Readers from coast to coast will be shocked and disturbed by the story told here. But most of all, they will come to care deeply for the many thousands of innocent children who are faced with unspeakable horrors at the hands of modern day satanists." -- Reader Comment

*Turretin, Francis, Institutes of Elenctic Theology, Vols. 1, 2 and 3 (Philadelphia, PA: The Presbyterian and Reformed Publishing Co., 1992). Volume 1: First Through Tenth Topics; Volume 2: Eleventh Through Seventeenth Topics; Volume 3: Eighteenth Through Twentieth Topics
These three volumes "mark the arrival of the first complete edition of the INSTITUTES OF ELENCTIC THEOLOGY to be published in the English language. Heartily recommended by James Montgomery Boice, Sinclair B. Ferguson, John H. Gerstner, Leon Morris, and others. Theologians, pastors, and students will welcome this treatise, which first develops and then contrast Reformed doctrines with Roman Catholic, Arminian, and Socinian views. . . ." -- Publisher's Annotation

*Wilson, Howard A., Invasion From the East (Minneapolis, MN: Augsburg Publishing House, 1979). [90679]
"Evaluates the impact of Eastern religions on Western society and culture. Voices justifiable concern over the spiritual barrenness that has made America vulnerable to such inroads. Sobering." -- Cyril J. Barber

See also: Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, Sexual relationship, The religion of secular humanism, Secret societies, ungodly alliances, voluntary alliances, Mind control, Signs of a destructive cult, Pride, Abuse, Spiritual warfare, Churches that abuse, Appendix c "psychology and psychiatry," John Ankerberg and John Weldon have written over 70 books on pseudo-Christian movements.

Related WebLinks

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

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

The Blood of the Lamb, the Conquering Weapon
A sermon by C.H. Spurgeon delivered on Lord's-day morning, September 9, 1888, at the Metropolitan Tabernacle, Newington, Sermon no. 2043.
http://www.mountzion.org/fgb/Summer97/FgbS6-97.html

Churches That Abuse
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr7chb.html#ctabs

Toleration: The Cut-Throat of True Religion, by the Reformed Presbytery
http://www.swrb.com/newslett/actualNLs/ToleratT.htm

The Unholy Alliance
"Down through the centuries, much of Christendom has become a synthesis of humanism and Biblical semantics -- an unholy alliance," states Dan S., author of this paper, and webcurator for the Miles J. Stanford website.
The paper demonstrates that even an anti-Calvinist, anti-Covenantalist, dispensationalist can articulate the unholy alliance of Pelagianism, Roman Catholicism, Semi-Pelagianism, Anglicanism/Episcopal, Arminianism, Methodism, Renaissance/Enlightenment, Wesleyan/Holiness Movement, Deism/Unitarianism, Pentacostalism, Transcendentalism, Charismatic Movement, Modernism/Liberalism, Third Wave Movement, Postmodernism/Humanism, New Age "Christianity," New World Order, and One World Church
http://withchrist.org/unholy.htm

Philosophy

Necessary Ingredients for a Sound Approach to Problems in Philosophy
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Christian View of Philosophy
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=7202144452

Aspects of Biblical Theology in Relation to Philosophy
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Christian View of Philosophy
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=628022101

Intrinsic Conflict That the Early Church Faced with Classical Culture
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Christian View of Philosophy
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=62802205833

Rationalism to Irrationality
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, 49 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=12160371146

Hegel and Marx
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, 56 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=9150393828

The Christian Answer to Problems of Philosophy
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Christian View of Philosophy
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=790220101

The Contemporary Christian Approach to the Meaning of Philosophy
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, The Christian View of History
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=72202214819

The Decline of Modern Philosophy
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Christian View of Philosophy
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=7202144553

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

"Destructive Heresies in Today's Church," a sermon by Gil Rugh on 2 Peter 2:1
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=102104172433

The Religious Movements Page @ The University of Virginia
http://religiousmovements.lib.virginia.edu/

A Resolution to Combat Mind Control With Truth
http://www.lettermen2.com/mindc.html

Apologetics Index: Apologetics Research Resources on Religious Cults, Sects, Movements, Doctrines, Etc.
http://www.gospelcom.net/apologeticsindex/index.html

A Redneck Resolution Against Self-destruction
http://members.aol.com/vtpa/redneck.html

The Orange Papers, by Secret Agent Orange
One man's analysis of Alcoholics Anonymous, an online book.
A comprehensive and excellent resources.
http://www.orange-papers.org/

IMP, The Pagan Invasion Series (Jeremiah Films).
"Each stereo VHS tape is about 48 minutes long. Almost a video encyclopedia of information on the New Age cult strangeness of our day. The narrators of the tapes look into the history and current practices concerning the subject of each tape." -- GCB
IMP, Volume 1: Halloween: Trick or Treat [70268A]
IMP, Volume 2: Invasion of the Godmen
"Look into the growing god-consciousness movement. Credible film footage from mystical India highlights the shocking expose." -- GCB
IMP, Volume 3: Meditation: Pathway to Deception?
IMP, Volume 4: The East Seduces the West
"God power within movement, oneness with nature, reincarnation, self-realization, past life regression, hypnosis, inner guides, visualization and more." -- GCB
IMP, Volume 5:
IMP, Volume 6: Evolution: Hoax of the Century? [90635]
IMP, Volume 7: Evolution: From Physics to Metaphysics [90636]
IMP, Volume 8:
IMP, Volume 9: Secrets of Mind Control [20853]
"Many think they are beyond or above having their mind controlled by someone else. The massive social and political movements of our century suggest otherwise. Tape also shows actual footage of mind control therapies." -- GCB
IMP, Volume 10: The Latter Day EMPIRE
"Who was Joseph Smith? Who are the Latter Day Saints? Has this group, relatively small in numbers, infiltrated city, county, state and federal law enforcement agencies like the FBI and CIA? What kind of money is behind these groups? An eye opening look into the hidden secrets of the Mormons." -- GCB
IMP, Volume 11: Joseph Smith's Temple of Doom
"Takes us behind the closed doors of the Mormon Temple where we discover a host of bizarre and mysterious teachings involving magic clothing, baptism for the dead, multiple wives, blood oaths, blood atonement, spirit babies, celestial sex, secret rituals and occultic practices." -- GCB
IMP, Volume 12: Religions vs. Christianity [70461A]
"A dramatic comparison of the living relationship found in the person of Jesus Christ, with the dead religions of dead men. Key world religions are analyzed in light of historical and archaeological evidence, claims of religious leaders and founders, and their ancient writings." -- GCB
IMP, Volume 13: Doorways to Satan
"We are almost in the 21st century yet modern man is increasingly involved in old religions. Obsessed with occult mysteries, sadistic violence, and evil. Its everywhere: Movies, books, music, video games and comics. Most disturbing of all is the unveiled rise of Satanism. Tape takes a close look at much of what is going on in this area." -- GCB
Jeremiah Films
http://www.jeremiahfilms.com/
Witness Inc. and Jeremiah Films Video Tapes
http://www.witnessinc.com/Videos.htm

Existentialism
http://www.britannica.com/eb/article?eu=34018&tocid=0

est, Warner Erhard, The Forum, Landmark Education, Large Group Awareness Training, Lifespring
http://www.gospelcom.net/apologeticsindex/l30.html

Scientology
http://www.gospelcom.net/apologeticsindex/s22.html

A Listing of Anti-Cult Groups
http://slvrsplsh.freeservers.com/pagan101/page18.html

Heresy and Apostacy

---

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

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

It is very plain that he who modifies the teachings of the Word of God in the smallest particular at the dictation of any man-made opinion has already deserted the Christian ground, and is already, in principle, a heretic. The very essence of heresy is that the modes of thought and tenets originating elsewhere than in the Scriptures of God are given decisive weight when they clash with the teachings of God. -- Benjamin B. Warfield, as cited by John W. Robbins, Scripture Twisting in the Seminaries, vii

Non-creedal churches, which includes many independent churches, tend to become heretical in three steps. First, they are superflous. Second, they become liberal. And, third, they become heretical. See Church History #12: Pelagius and his Theology, Dr. C. Gregg Singer, 57 min.

The doctrine of the blood of the Lamb prevents or scatters error. I do not think that by reasoning we often confute error to any practical purpose. We may confute it rhetorically and doctrinally, but men still stick to it. But the doctrine of the precious blood, when it once gets into the heart, drives error out of it, and sets up the throne of truth. You cannot be clinging to an atoning sacrifice, and still delight in modern heresies. Those who deny inspiration are sure to get rid of the vicarious atonement, because it will not allow their errors. Let us go on proclaiming the doctrine of the great sacrifice, and this will kill the vipers of heresy. Let us uplift the cross, and never mind what other people say. Perhaps we have taken too much notice of them already. Let the dogs bark, it is their nature to. Go on preaching Christ crucified. God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of the Lord Jesus Christ! -- C.H. Spurgeon in a sermon, The Blood of the Lamb, the Conquering Weapon

What is the heresy of Rome, but the addition of something to the perfect merits of Jesus Christ -- the bringing in of the works of the flesh, to assist in our justification? And what is the heresy of Arminianism but the addition of something to the work of the Redeemer? Every heresy, if brought to the touchstone, will discover itself here. I have my own private opinion that there is no such thing as preaching Christ and Him crucified, unless we preach what nowadays is called Calvinism. It is a nickname to call it Calvinism; Calvinism is the gospel, and nothing else. I do not believe we can preach the gospel, if we do not preach justification by faith, without works; nor unless we preach the sovereignty of God in His dispensation of grace; nor unless we exalt the electing, unchangeable, eternal, immutable, conquering love of Jehovah; nor do I think we can preach the gospel, unless we base it upon the special and particular redemption of His elect and chosen people which Christ wrought out upon the cross; nor can I comprehend a gospel which lets saints fall away after they are called, and suffers the children of God to be burned in the fires of damnation after having once believed in Jesus. Such a gospel I abhor. -- C.H. Spurgeon, in the sermon "A Defense of Calvinism"

Many divines say that Christ did something when he died that enabled God to be just, and yet the Justifier of the ungodly. What that something is they do not tell us. They believe in an atonement made for everybody; but then, their atonement is just this. They believe that Judas was atoned for just as much as Peter; they believe that the damned in hell were as much an object of Jesus Christ's satisfaction as the saved in heaven; and though they do not say it in proper words, yet they must mean it, for it is a fair inference, that in the case of multitudes, Christ died in vain, for he died for them all, they say; and yet so ineffectual was his dying for them, that though he died for them they are damned afterwards. Now, such an atonement I despise -- I reject it. -- C.H. Spurgeon (4:121)

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. Base 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

Pride is the highway to utter apostasy. . . . Mark those that are proud in any town, or any company of professors of piety; and if any infection of heresy or infidelity come into that place, these are the men that will soonest catch it. . . . -- Richard Baxter

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

*Bobgan, Martin, and Deidre Bobgan, Psycho-Heresy: The Seduction of Christianity by Psychoanalysis (Santa Barbara, CA: EastGate Publishers). C1005
"Analyzes attempts to integrate psychology with the Bible, exposes fallacies of psychological counseling, examines four commonly held myths about psychology, and encourages a return to sound Biblical foundations for Christian living. Praised by Jay Adams, Ed Payne, et al." -- GCB
"Some people will say the Bobgans are hitting too hard--naming names and all that--but I don't think so. Whenever someone writes for the Christian public he sets forth his views to the scrutiny of others, but if others think that what he says is dangerous to the church, they, like Paul (who names names, too) have an obligation to say so. The chapter Amalgamania is the best. Indeed it should be enlarged and made into an entire book." -- Jay Adams
"In the Amalgamania chapter (5), the authors use 2 Corinthians 6:14-17, the separation between light and darkness, between Christ and Belial, between believers and unbelievers, to point out the unbiblical practice of mixing Bible and psychology, with the palm going to the latter. Note the many `How to' books being produced, the fact that they do not have the Bible as the sole rule of faith and practice. It is the Bible plus something else that will solve your problems. Just as teens think that the wisdom of their parents is pass‚, so the writers of today's books in effect regard the Bible's teaching in the same way. To hear the psychologists is to find that they think that the Bible is not adequate for this present age
. . . . Find a church `counselor' who sticks strictly to God's Word, and you will know that you have seen a rare bird indeed. . . . The truth of the matter is that the Christian counselor who determines by the grace of God to know and use the Scriptures in his counseling is the only one who can ever have a solid basis for what he says and does
(p. 203). . . . Read the Puritan sermons, for instance. They expounded the Word fully, and then they gave application after application to everyday life to show that every situation was covered by the Scriptures . . ." -- Jay P. Green Sr.

Brown, Harold O.J., Heresies [70448]
"Dr. Brown is currently with the Reformed Theological Seminary Resident Faculty, in Charlotte, NC. Heresies is a comprehensive history book as well as a copious treatise of various heresies since the first century A.D. This would explain its renaming for the current editions.
"Dr. Brown brings this to us in a logical, well written, chronological narrative. It is easy reading, chockfull of interesting details and bibliography/footnoting par excellence. He discusses the early persecutions and shows that even some heretics were genuine martyrs. Most importantly to the layman, he explains clearly the ramifications of any particular heresy. He does not stop with an explanation of why it is wrong, but discusses thoroughly the logical implications, conclusions, even actions to which this variant belief brings the heretic." -- Reader Comment

*BROWN, JOHN, The Absurdity and Perfidy of All Authoritative Toleration of Gross Heresy, Blasphemy, Idolatry, Popery, in Britain. In two letters to a friend in which the doctrine of the Westminster Confession of Faith [1646] relative to Toleration of a False Religion, and the power of the civil magistrate about sacred matters; and the nature, origin, ends and obligation of the National Covenant and Solemn League are candidly represented and defended, 1797, 1803 edition (Cerlox Bound Photocopy Series. Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books, 1997). Included on Reformation Bookshelf CD #25. ISBN: 0921148208 9780921148203. A Christian classic.
"REFORMATION ATTAINMENTS VERSUS BACKSLIDING RELIGIOUS PROFESSORS
"Here Brown deals with three major Reformation attainments (anti-tolerationism, establishmentarianism and the obligations of lawful covenants as they biblically bind posterity) that Satan has always been especially concerned to overthrow -- in every major demonic move to open the floodgates of lawlessness, anarchy and misrule. Fletcher, in the preface to the 1797 edition, relates this truth as it comes to bear on various religious professors, stating, 'Papists were enemies to our covenants because they were a standard lifted up against their system of abominable idolatries. Episcopalians were enemies to them, because they were a standard lifted up against their anti-scriptural church-officers and inventions of men in the worship of God. Some Presbyterians are enemies to them in our day through ignorance of their nature and ends; and others through fear of being too strictly bound to their duty.' (Cited in Johnston, Still Waters Revival Books, ATLA 1988-6070, p. 486). -- SWRB
"It is also interesting to note the long list of backsliders and heretics that often oppose one or more of these points. 'The ancient Donatists, a sect of Arian separatists, who appeared about the beginning of the 4th Century, seem to have been among the first who held out these opinions to the Christian world. Feeling the weight of the arm of power for their schismatical practices, by way of reprisal, they stript the magistrate of all power in religion; -- maintaining that he had no more power about religious matters than any private person, and refusing him the right of suppressing the propagators of doctrines different from those professed by the Church, or the observers of a different form of worship. From them the German Anabaptists adopted the same views. Then the Socinians (i.e. an early form of Scripture-denying liberals -- RB) and remonstrant Arminians, whenever the magistrate ceased to patronize their cause. The English Independents during the time of the Long Parliament were the zealous supporters of the same opinions. In their rage for liberty of conscience, they formed the strongest opposition in the Westminster Assembly which the Presbyterians had to encounter. Through their influence that venerable body was much embarrassed (hindered -- RB) in their proceeding; and by their means (in collusion with that 'Judas of the Covenant,' Cromwell-RB), certain passages of the Confession of Faith never obtained the ratification of the English Parliament. The English Dissenters of the present age are generally in the same views, especially the Socinians, the Arians, and the Quakers, who have most to dread from the Laws of the Land against their blasphemies. And who knows not that the high reputation of Mr. Locke as a Philosopher... has given these opinions such an air of respectability, that many youth in the Universities have been thereby inclined to embrace them?' (Preface, pp. vi-vii).
"THE COVENANTAL HAMMER SMASHING THE IDOLS OF OUR DAY
"In our day the tree of toleration (and the anti-Scriptural principles which logically grow out of it) has spread its branches in ways that could have never been envisioned by those that took the first steps away from biblical and covenanted uniformity. What Brown is fighting against here is an error so foundational that when left unchecked it permeates all of society, cutting out the foundational roots that are necessary for all national Reformations. And 'if the foundations be destroyed, what can the righteous do?' (Ps. 11:3). Furthermore, as the preface notes 'liberty of conscience and of opinion' are 'the great idols of the day.' Here Brown takes out his covenantal hammer and smashes these idols with an inconoclastic zeal worthy of our earlier Reformed forefathers. This book is especially useful in answering the persistent fear and questions that always arise when these old Reformed views are discussed: that is, the questions dealing with religious persecution. Brown spends much time in clearing the Westminster Divines of such false charges, while also setting these controversial Reformed teachings on a thoroughly biblical foundation.
"WESTMINSTER'S VIEW OF THE 'EVERLASTING' SOLEMN LEAGUE AND COVENANT
"Interestingly, in the section defending the continuing obligation of the National and Solemn League and Covenant, we also note that the Westminster Assembly considered the Solemn League and Covenant an 'everlasting covenant.' Brown cites the following as proof, 'That the body of the English nation also swore the Solemn League and Covenant, is manifest. The Westminster Assembly and English Parliament, affirm, 'The honourable house of Parliament, the Assembly of Divines, the renowned city of London, and multitudes of other persons of all ranks and quality in this nation, and the whole body of Scotland, have all sworn it, rejoicing at the oath so graciously seconded from heaven. God will, doubtless, stand by all those, who with singleness of heart shall now enter into an everlasting covenant with the Lord' (p. 161, emphasis added). The footnote tells us that the words Brown was quoting were taken from "Exhortation to take the Covenant, February, 1644."
"OUR MODERN DAY MALIGNANTS
"Brown also includes a helpful section on a point some modern day malignants are once again attempting to use to overthrow the biblical attainments of the covenanted Reformation. This section shows that the '(t)he intrinsic obligation of promises, oaths, vows, and covenants which constitutes their very essence or essential form, is totally and manifestly distinct from the obligation of the law of God in many respects' (p. 120, emphasis added).
"BROWN'S DYING TESTIMONY TO HIS CHILDREN
"Finally, we cite a portion of Brown's dying testimony to his children given in the introduction (p. xix). Such testimonies, from notable Christian leaders, often contain singularly pertinent charges to their hearers. (For another notable example of this see James Renwick's dying testimony, as he was about to be martyred for his adherence to the Solemn League and Covenant, when he recounts what was later to become most of the terms of communion in Covenanted Presbyterian churches. This testimony can be found in Thompson's <*>A Cloud of Witnesses for the Royal Prerogatives of Jesus Christ Being the Last Speeches and Testimonies of those Who Have Suffered for the Truth in Scotland Since... 1680). Here are Brown's dying words to his children: ' "Adhere constantly, cordially and honestly to the Covenanted Principles of the Church of Scotland, and to that Testimony which hath been lifted up for them. I fear a generation is rising up which will endeavour silently," (O how prophetic!) 'to let slip these matters, as if they were ashamed to hold them fast, or even to speak of them (as with many "reformed" publishers and preachers today, who dare not touch the topics Brown deals with in this book-RB). May the Lord forbid that any of you should ever enter into this confederacy against Jesus Christ and his cause! This from a dying father and minister, and a witness for Christ' (Signed) 'John Brown'."
"DO YOU HAVE WHAT IT TAKES?
"If you have the courage to compare the original Reformed faith with that which is often promoted under its name today (and in many ways the old Reformed faith bears little resemblance to the 'new light' Reformers and innovators of our day), then this is an ideal book to obtain and study." -- Reg Barrow

Ferreiro, Alberto (editor), Jeffrey Burton Russell (editor), The Devil, Heresy and Witchcraft in the Middle Ages: Essays in Honor of Jeffrey B. Russell (Cultures, Beliefs, and Traditions, Vol. 6., Brill Academic Publishers).

Gillespie, George, Heresies Defined and the Necessity of Heresies Explained, by George Gillespie, Scottish Commissioner to the Assembly of Divines at Westminster
"Heresy is a gross and dangerous error, voluntarily held and factiously maintained by some person or persons within the visible church, in opposition to some chief or substantial truth or truths grounded upon and drawn from the holy Scripture by necessary consequence." -- George Gillespie
http://www.truecovenanter.com/gillespie/ggilles09.html

GILLESPIE, GEORGE, Truth and Heresy
http://www.swrb.com/newslett/actualnls/TruthHer.htm

PRICE, GREG, The Reformed Confessions, Heresy, Schism and the Faithful Remnant (Reformation Bookshelf CD #6)

PRICE, GREG Terms of Communion: The Westminster Standards (Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books). Five audio cassettes.
"Explains and defends the second term of communion, which is 'That the whole doctrine of the Westminster Confession of Faith [1646], and the Catechisms, Larger and Shorter, are agreeable unto, and founded upon the Scriptures.' Price not only explains why we need creeds and confession (answering the question: Isn't the Scripture sufficient?), but he shows how everyone has a creed and how such statements of faith are actually inescapable -- for as soon as one says what he believes the Bible means, he has (by definition) put forth his creed ('credo' in Latin means 'to believe'). There is no neutrality! He also gives a summary of the Westminster Standards and the history of this august assembly, demonstrating why these standards are agreeable to the word of God. After showing how faithful creeds and confessions (i.e. human testimony) have brought untold blessings to the church he gives a history of the Westminster Assembly (setting the context for the study of the Standards themselves). The doctrines contained in the confessional standards are then summarized. Price also exposes and rebukes much false teaching and false practice (contrary to the standards) using the specific names associated with each heresy refuted. The following doctrines are covered: sola Scripture (refuting popery, neo-orthodoxy, liberalism and the charismatics), the doctrine of God (refuting Unitarianism, Oneness theology [Modalism, Sabellianism], and tritheism), God's decrees and predestination (refuting Arminianism, fatalism [Islam]), creation (refuting Evolutionism, Pantheism and New Age and Eastern mysticism), the covenant of works, Providence (against 'luck' and 'accidents'), the fall of man (refuting Arminianism and Pelagianism), the covenant of grace (refuting dispensationalism), Christ our mediator (refuting Arianism [JW's], Apollinarianism, Nestorianism, Eutychianism [which led to the transubstantiation and consubstantiation heresies], the free offer of the gospel, effectual calling (contra Arminianism), justification by faith alone through Christ alone (contra Rome and the Arminians), sanctification and good works (condemning antinomianism and legalism), assurance of faith, perseverance of the saints, the law of God, Christian liberty (against pretended liberty of conscience and the imposition of legalistic standards outside of the law of God), worship (against the anti-regulativists and promoters of will-worship), the regulative principle (condemning Arminianism in worship), the Sabbath (taking the high Scottish view), lawful oaths and vows (condemning covenant breaking [churches and nations included], perjury, etc.), the civil magistrate (against pluralism, false toleration, Erastianism, and for biblical establishments), marriage, the church (contra popery, prelacy and independency [all of which are forms of sectarianism]), and the resurrection and general judgement." -- SWRB

*Ryle, J.C., Warnings to the Churches (London, England: The Banner of Truth Trust, 1996).
"I see this tendency to lean on man everywhere. I know no branch of the Protestant Church of Christ which does not require to be cautioned upon the point. It is a snare, for example, to the English Episcopalian to make idols of Bishop Pearson and `the Judicious Hooker.' It is a snare to the Scotch Presbyterian to pin his faith on John Knox, the Covenanters, and Dr. Chalmers. It is a snare to the Methodists in our day to worship the memory of John Wesley. It is a snare to the Independent to see no fault in any opinion of Owen and Dodderidge. It is a snare to the Baptist to exaggerate the wisdom of Gill and Fuller and Robert Hall. All these are snares, and into these snares how many fall!
"Infallibility is not to be found in the early fathers, but in the Bible.
"What are the best of ministers but men -- dust, ashes, and clay -- men of like passions with ourselves, men exposed to temptations, men liable to weaknesses and infirmities?
"It is amazing to observe how vast a man's intellectual attainments may be, and yet how little he may know of the grace of God.
"We have no right to expect anything but the pure Gospel of Christ, unmixed and unadulterated -- the same Gospel that was taught by the Apostles -- to do good to the souls of men.
"Peace without truth is a false peace; it is the very peace of the devil. Unity without the Gospel is a worthless unity; it is the very unity of Hell.
"False doctrine and heresy are even worse than schism.
"It was controversy that won the battle of Protestant Reformation.
"Three things there are which men never ought to trifle with -- a little poison, a little false doctrine, and a little sin.
"A church may have good forms and regularly ordained ministers, and the sacraments properly administered, but a church will not see conversion of souls going on under its pulpits when this doctrine [Justification by Faith]is not plainly preached.
"Once let a man get wrong about justification, and he will bid a long farewell to comfort, to peace, to lively hope, to anything like assurance in his Christianity. An error here is a worm at the root.
"An ignorant laity will always be the bane of a church.
"True Gospel in the pulpit, true Gospel in every Religious Society we support, true Gospel in the books we read, true Gospel in the friends we keep company with -- let this be our aim, and never let us be ashamed to let men see that it is so.
"Let the meekness of St. Peter in taking a reproof be as much our example as the boldness of St. Paul in reproving." -- J.C. Ryle "The Fallibility of Ministers" in Warning to the Churches, pp. 93-121.
The Fallibility of Ministers, by J.C. Ryle
http://www.trinityfoundation.org/journal.php?id=182
"Pharisees and Sadducees," J.C. Ryle
http://members.ozemail.com.au/~rseaborn/pharisees_and_sadducees.html

See also: Spiritual discernment, Christian scholarship, The covenanted reformation of scotland, Unfaithful reformed ministries, Blasphemy, Arminianism, Antinomianism, Appendix d: pseudo-christian movements: a selection of works, Appendix c: psychology and psychiatry, Toleration

Related WebLinks

"Forensic Science and the Antichrist"
"In these days of ever-growing heresies, apostasies and rampant unbelief by professing Christians, the battle rages on several fronts. This ministry is especially dedicated to defending classic Reformation truths, not the least of which is the unanimous declaration of the Protestant Reformers that the Antichrist prophesied by Holy Writ was presently in their midst, reigning in the visible Church of God, II Thess. 2:4, under the guise of the Pope of Rome. One does not need to search secret tunnels under Oxford and Cambridge to discover this historic fact. This potent Protestant truth is manifest for all to see. Simply by reading the creeds of the Reformation, available on the Internet, in libraries and bookstores, it quickly becomes apparent that, in their days, no Protestant worthy of the name believed anything less."
http://www.iconbusters.com/iconbusters/science.htm

Straight Gate Ministry
"Strait Gate Ministries is the only organization formed for the specific purpose of correcting the scriptural New Testament heresy0 that fires the Judaized Christians, the War Enablers... We are not out to destroy evangelicalism, but we want to steer it to its roots in the early church of the Apostle Paul, as Christ himself taught it. Most of our advisors are recovering Judaized Christians. We have written and documented most errors of the Judaized Christian Study Bibles (Scofield)."
http://www.straitgateministry.org

"Why is the Antichrist Necessary?"
"There is an evil permeating professing non-Roman Catholic Christianity in the English-speaking world. This evil has been increasing for the past two hundred years and shows no signs of abating. What was once viewed the standard orthodox Protestant position regarding the prophetic interpretation of the Scriptures has today been nearly extinguished by those calling themselves Protestant, Reformed, Puritan, and Evangelical. The Historical-Continuous School of prophetic interpretation has been replaced by the Futurist, Preterist and Idealist schools. Simply stated, the Historical school has viewed the Revelation as the ongoing, continuous history of the Lord's Elect Church from the days of the Apostle John through the centuries comprising the rise, reign and rule of the Antichrist and his false church, even until the Second Coming of Christ in Judgment. We are then given a glimpse into what is to occur after the Judgments of Christ, when eternity is opened up to us. All but the Historical school place the Antichrist outside the Church, whereas the Historical school recognizes the Antichrist in the midst of the professing, visible Christian Church. This is no small disagreement. One must be right, the other wrong. Because the issue of the Antichrist is prophetic, those in leadership holding teaching and/or pastoring offices and who prophesy erroneously, no matter how sincere, are prophesying falsely. Thus, they are false prophets. False prophets are liars. Liars are not written in the Lamb's book of life, nor are they admitted into New Jerusalem to partake of the tree of life should they continue in their lies. Instead, their end is the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone. (Rev. 21:8, 27; Rev. 22:15)"
http://www.iconbusters.com/iconbusters/docs/why/why.htm

False Gospels

---

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

Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. -- Jesus Christ (John 14:6)

Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved. (Acts 4:12)

Salvation belongeth unto the LORD: thy blessing is upon thy people. Selah. (Psalm 3:8)

For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures. (1 Corinthians 15:3,4)

For I am not ashamed of the Gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith. (Romans 1:16,17)

"I. The grace of faith, whereby the elect are enabled to believe to the saving of their souls, is the work of the Spirit of Christ in their hearts, and is ordinarily wrought by the ministry of the Word, by which also, and by the administration of the sacraments, and prayer, it is increased and strengthened.
"II. By this faith, a Christian believes to be true whatsoever is revealed in the Word, for the authority of God Himself speaking therein; and acts differently upon that which each particular passage thereof contains; yielding obedience to the commands, trembling at the threatenings, and embracing the promises of God for this life, and that which is to come. But the principal acts of saving faith are accepting, receiving, and resting upon Christ alone for justification, sanctification, and eternal life, by virtue of the covenant of grace." -- The Westminster Confession of Faith (1646) Chapter XIV, Of Saving Faith

So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. (Romans 10:17)

"Jesus Only"
A sermon by C.H. Spurgeon delivered on Lord's-day morning, April 3, 1870, at the Metropolitan Tabernacle, Newington, Sermon no. 924.
A sermon on the text "And when they had lifted up their eyes, they saw no man, save Jesus only." (Matthew 17:8)
"Jesus only could cleanse them, and did. Christ could lead them on, and did. Ah, Brethren, all the Savior we want we find in Jesus only. The priests of Rome and their Anglican mimics officiously offer us their services. How glad they would be if we would bend our necks once again to their yoke! But we thank God we have seen 'Jesus only,' and if Moses has gone, and if Elijah has gone, we are not likely to let the fools of Rome come in and fill up the vacancy. 'Jesus only,' is enough for our comfort, without either Anglican, Mosaic, or Roman priest-craft. . .
"He was enough as their power for future life, as well as their Master. They needed not ask Moses to lend them official dignity, nor to ask Elijah to bring them fire from Heaven. Jesus would give them His Holy Spirit, and they should be strong enough for every enterprise. And, Brethren, all the power you and I want to preach the Gospel, and to conquer souls for the Truth, we can find in Jesus only. You want no sacred State prestige, no pretended Apostolic succession, no prelatic unction—Jesus will anoint you with His Holy Spirit, and you shall be plenteously endowed with power from on high, so that you shall do great things and prevail. 'Jesus only.' Why, they wanted no other motive to constrain them to use their power aright. It is enough incentive to a man to be allowed to live for such a One as Christ. Only let the thought of Christ fill the enlightened intellect, and it must conquer the sanctified affections! Let but Jesus be well understood as the everlasting God who bowed the heavens and came down and suffered shame, and ignominy, that He might redeem us from the wrath to come. Let us get but a sight of the thorncrowned head and those dear eyes all red with weeping, and those sweet cheeks bruised and battered by the scoffers’ fists.
"Let us but look into the tender heart that was broken with griefs unutterable for our sakes—and the love of Christ must constrain us—and we shall thus, “judge, that if one died for all, then were all dead: and that He died for all, that they which live should not, therefore, live unto themselves, but unto Him which died for them, and rose again.” In the point of motive, Believers do not need the aid of Moses. That you ought to do such a thing because otherwise you will be punished will but little strengthen you. Nor will you be much aided by the spirit of prophecy which leads you to hope that in the millennial period you will be made a ruler over many cities.
"It will be enough for you that you serve the Lord Christ. It will be enough for you if you may be enabled to honor Him, to deck His crown, to magnify His name. Here is stimulus sufficient for martyrs and confessors—'Jesus only'. " p. 647
http://www.spurgeongems.org/vols16-18/chs924.pdf

"Yea, Judas' master, the devil himself, one far enough from justifying faith, yet he assents to the truth of the word. He goes against his conscience when he denies them. When he tempted Christ he did not dispute against the Scripture, but from the Scripture, drawing his arrows out of this quiver (Matt. 4:6). And at another time, he makes as full a confession of Christ, for the matter, as Peter himself did (Matt. 8:29, compared with Matt. 16:17). Assent to the truth of the word is but an act of the understanding, which reprobates and evils may exercise. But justifying faith is a compounded habit, and has its seat both in the understanding and will. Therefore it is called a "believing with the heart" (Rom. 10:10); yea, a "believing with all the heart" (Acts 8:37). Philip said, "If you believe with all your heart, you may." It takes in all the powers of the soul. There is a double object in the promise, one proper to the understand, to move that; another proper to the will, to excite and work on that. As the promise is true, so it calls for an act of assent from the understanding; and as it is good as well as true, so it calls for an act of the will to embrace and receive it. Therefore, he which only notionally knows the promise, and speculatively assent to the truth of it, without clinging to it, and embracing of it, does not believe savingly, and can have no more benefit from the promise, than nourishment from the food he sees and acknowledges to be wholesome, but eats none of." -- William Gurnall

"One of the most popular beliefs of the day is that God loves everybody. . . . So widely has this dogma been proclaimed, and so comforting is it to the heart which is at enmity with God we have little hope of convincing many of their error. . . . To tell the Christ-rejector that God loves him is to cauterize his conscience as well as to afford him a sense of security in his sins. The fact is, the love of God is a truth for the saints only, and to present it to the enemies of God is to take the children's bread and cast it to the dogs." -- A.W. Pink

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

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

If I could show you a picture of a starving Christian, I would. But the starvation is not physical, it is invisible: the starvation of the spirit, of the soul: the starvation caused by the failure of the churches and their leaders in the United States to feed their sheep the Gospel. Not since the Middle Ages has there been such a spiritual famine in the West.
It is not that the sheep aren't being fed; they are -- junk food, scraps, husks, and poison.
For the past century ordinary American Christians have been betrayed by the treason of the clergy and the churches, by men who have defected from the truth, by men who do not teach the truth because there is no truth in them. . . . -- John W. Robbins

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

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

Soul-violence begins when one individual tries to usurping authority over another, to control and possess them. The means of control may be either outward or occult: possessiveness, deceit, repression or suppression of the truth, soul stealing, attempts to take authority over another politically or by mental malpractice, denial of freedom, indebtedness, whoredom, and so forth. Abuse of the soul quenches the Holy Spirit.
If either side is immovable, then death is the result of the conflict of will. How are conflicts of will resolved? By submission to the absolute truth of God's word. These observations bear a strain of the Gospel.

The media are buzzing with news about Mel Gibson's new movie, "The Passion of the Christ," which opened today, Ash Wednesday [February 25, 2004] in the Roman Church-State calendar. Showing in 2800 theaters nationwide, the movie is expected to recoup its production costs in 5 days, due to the enormous numbers of "evangelicals" who are buying tickets.
The important questions are not, as most commentators seem to think, Is the movie historically accurate, or Biblically accurate, or anti-Semitic. Of course it is neither historically nor Biblically accurate, despite what leading "evangelicals" have said. The movie is informed by Gibson's traditional Romanism, which is radically un-Biblical and historically inaccurate. Rome also has a long and undeniable tradition of anti-Semitism, which makes many suspicious about Gibson's movie.
The important question is, rather, Why are millions of "evangelicals" flocking to see a Romanist movie? The answer is one that no one wants to hear: So-called evangelicals are Romanists at heart.
In the crucial debates over salvation five centuries ago,the difference between Rome and the Reformers was not merely grace versus works, but, at a more profound level, imputed righteousness versus infused grace.
The Reformers (and the Bible) said that sinners are saved only by the imputation of Christ's perfect righteousness to their legal accounts. Sinners had broken the law of God, and their just punishment could be averted only by someone taking the punishment they deserved and fulfilling all God's Law perfectly as their Substitute and Representative -- their Mediator. So Jesus Christ lived a perfect life and died an innocent death for his people. His righteousness is imputed to believers, and they are saved.
The Romanists said that sinners are saved by grace infused into their hearts through the sacraments. This doctrine of infused grace, with its focus on the interior life and experience of the sinner (who actually ate the physical body and drank the physical blood of Christ in the Mass), gave birth to all sorts of bizarre "spirituality" during the Middle Ages: mysticism, monasticism, asceticism, masochism, and sacramentalism.
The Reformation recovered and preached the Biblical doctrine of salvation by the extrinsic righteousness of Christ imputed to believers through belief alone. But even during the Reformation, many who were outside the Roman Church adopted its subjectivist view of salvation by religious experience.
Luther himself never repudiated the Romanist superstition of eating the physical body and drinking the physical blood of Christ in the Lord's Supper. The German Enthusiasts and Pietists, the Dutch Arminians, and even some of the English Puritans became quasi-Romanist in their focus on "experimental religion" and religious experience. The Wesleyans in England and America made religious experience central to their new doctrine, and John Wesley vehemently attacked the Biblical doctrine of justification by faith alone.
All of these groups ignored or repudiated "extrinsic justification," that is, justification by a righteousness wholly outside the sinner and imputed to him by an act of God. The whole theology of religious revivalism in "evangelical" circles is Romanist at its heart. They now see this Romanist movie as a tool and opportunity for revival -- the greatest, one of them has said, in 2000 years.
Louis Bouyer, a convert to Romanism who became a Roman priest, pointed out the rediscovery of Romanism in "Protestant" Revivalism nearly 50 years ago.
In his 1955 book, "The Spirit and Forms of Protestantism," Bouyer wrote:

"The Protestant Revival...recalls the best and most authentic elements of the Catholic tradition. . . . For we see in every Protestant country Christians who owed their religion to the movement we have called, in general, Revivalism, attain a more or less complete rediscovery of Catholicisim."

In the 19th and 20th centuries, "evangelicals" used new terms to describe the plan of salvation -- terms not found in Scripture: "personal encounter with Christ," "personal relationship with Christ," "let Jesus into your heart," "put Christ on the throne of your heart." Both "evangelicals" and the Neo-orthodox adopted and taught the Medieval religion of religious experience. All of them rejected the Biblical doctrine of justification by an extrinsic righteousness imputed only through belief of the Gospel.
And that is why we now see millions of "evangelicals" flocking to theatres to watch an R-rated Romanist film: They seek a religious experience, and this movie -- a high-tech version of a Medieval Passion Play -- will give them an overwhelming religious experience, and they think that is Christianity." -- John Robbins, The Trinity Foundation, February 25, 2004

It is a clear understanding of the Doctrine of Justification that enables us to repair broken relationships, both with God and with man. Repentance and forgiveness bridges the gap between man and God. It enables man and wife to reconcile their broken relationships, and to live together in harmony. It enables individuals to repair relationships broken by sin and to live and work together in unity in society.
If the reader would be interested in a full discussion of these errors in the Doctrine of Justification, as well as the doctrine in its wholeness, we recommend the following books:

1. THE CURRENT JUSTIFICATION CONTROVERSY, by O. Palmer Robertson
2. A COMPANION TO THE CURRENT JUSTIFICATION CONTROVERSY, by John W. Robbins
3. NOT REFORMED AT ALL: MEDIEVALISM IN 'REFORMED' CHURCHES, by John Robbins and Sean Gerety
4. THE CHANGING OF THE GUARD: WESTMINSTER THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY IN PHILADELPHIA, by Mark W. Karlberg

   For basic background on the doctrine of justification:

5. THE EVERLASTING RIGHTEOUSNESS, by Horatius Bonar
6. JUSTIFICATION BY FAITH ALONE, by Charles Hodge
7. WHAT IS SAVING FAITH? by Gordon H. Clark. -- John Robbins

Abrahams, Israel, Studies in Pharisaism and the Gospels (New York, NY: Ktav Publishing House, 1967, 1924, 1917). 70445
"First published in two volumes in 1917 and 1924. Now available in one volume. Long regarded as a pioneer work that revolutionized an understanding of the character and development of Pharisaism." -- Cyril J. Barber

Barna, George, The Barna Report: What Americans Believe: An Annual Survey of Values and Religious Views in the United States. [70368, 90247]
"Barna's WHAT AMERICANS BELIEVE captures a snapshot of American Christianity. . . . Vital information is easy to grasp with key charts and graphs (more detailed tables appear in the appendix) and easy to apply practical action steps." -- CBD

Barna, George and Mark Hatch Boiling Point (February 2001)

Barna, George, Index of Leading Spiritual Indicators
"In this book, veteran pollster George Barna provides an overview of the trends and conditions of spirituality in America--including beliefs, institutional connections, donations, corporate religious activity, and private spirituality." Publisher's Annotation

Barron, Bruce, The Health and Wealth Gospel (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press). D1009
"Barron probes the teachings of prominent preachers like Charles Capps, Kenneth Hagin, and Kenneth Copeland. Can we have whatever we ask from God? Can we see a 100-fold return on our Kingdom investment? Is sickness a sign of a lack of faith? These and other claims are examined fully and fairly." -- GCB

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

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

*Clark, Gordon H., Today's Evangelism: Counterfeit or Genuine? (Unicoi, TN: The Trinity Foundation). [31273]
"Clark compares the methods and messages of today's evangelists with Scripture, and finds that Christianity is on the wane because the Gospel has been distorted or lost. This is an extremely useful and enlightening book." -- John W. Robbins
"According to Dr. Clark, true evangelism aims for truth rather than counting heads. `The message, the teaching, the doctrine of the evangelist is what separates genuine Christian evangelism from counterfeit evangelism . . . Evangelism is the exposition of the Scripture. God will do the regenerating'." -- Robert Duvall

*Elliott, Paul M., Christianity and Neo-Liberalism: The Spiritual Crisis in the Orthodox Presbyterian Church and Beyond (Unicoi, TN: The Trinity Foundation; October, 2005).
"Paul M. Elliott, a former Ruling Elder in the Orthodox Presbyterian Church, carefully traces the origin of the spiritual crisis in the OPC and similar denominations to the pernicious teaching of Westminster Theological Seminary. That teaching is that God is unknowable, that Scripture is contradictory, and that salvation is by faith-plus-works. Elliott provides copious quotations from faculty members, from the Westminster Theological Journal, and from pastors in OPC congregations to document his analysis. This book is must reading for all Presbyterians.
"Elliott's book is a massive documentation of Liberalism at Westminster Seminary (Philadelphia) and in the OPC on the doctrines of Scripture, God, salvation, and hermeneutics. Officers of the OPC should not even begin to think, 'We are the children of Machen,' for if they were, they would do the deeds of Machen." -- The Trinity Foundation
" 'The Marks of Neo-Liberalism' is taken from chapter 2 of . . . CHRISTIANITY AND NEO-LIBERALISM: THE SPIRITUAL CRISIS IN THE ORTHODOX PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH AND BEYOND.
"In this chapter Mr. Elliot lists the marks of Neo-Liberalism -- they are the principles of the Liberalism that Machen opposed -- and shows how the OPC displays those marks, even while claiming that 'there's no one here but us Reformed folks.'
The Marks of Neo-Liberalism, Paul M. Elliott
http://www.trinityfoundation.org/journal.php?id=219
"I would like to recommend Paul Elliot's new book, CHRISTIANITY AND NEO-LIBERALISM. This is a book that everyone who loves Jesus Christ, loves the truth, and loves the Gospel must read.
"It is a riveting and horrifying story. Elliot explains in great detail how the enemies of the faith have been able to surreptitiously supplant the true Gospel with a clever fraud and, more importantly, how they were able to succeed in the OPC. The track Elliot outlines in the OPC is mirrored in many respects in the PCA as well. Further, the politics involved and how these enemies of Christ have positioned themselves in places of power and influence over the years and their success in neutralizing their opposition is a lesson all of us need to learn, but I'm afraid few of us have. The incredible gullibility and complacency of countless churchmen recounted in this book is frightening. The comparison to Machen's CHRISTIANITY AND LIBERALISM is more than fitting. I would argue Elliot's book is considerably better on a number of counts. His account of the Kinnaird affair alone is worth the price of the book. Yet, there is so much I haven't even considered, like the "hermeneutic of trust" which has supplanted the Reformed hermeneutic yin many circles is an eye-opener. This is simply an amazing book." -- Sean Gerety
Contents:
Part One: Liberalism and Neo-Liberalism: A Little Leaven; The Marks of Neo-Liberalism.
Part Two: Historical Background: Those Who Ignore the Errors of History; Embracing the Principles of the Auburn Affirmation.
Part Three: The Growth of Neo-Liberalism: The Shepherd Controversy: Entry of Another Gospel; Richard Gaffin's New Perspective on Paul; The Kinnaird Case and Its Aftermath; The Hermeneutic of Trust: Prescription for Doctrinal Anarchy; How Did It Happen?
Part Four: How Shall We Respond?: The Biblical Imperative.
Appendices: The Auburn Affirmation; Kinnaird Memorandum; Proposed (Rejected) Overture to the 2004 OPC General Assembly; Scripture Index; Index.

Ellul, Jacques, Jesus and Marx: From Gospel to Ideology.

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

Flavel, John, A Warning Against Backsliding, False Worship and False Teachers (Cerlox Bound Photocopy Series. Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books).
"Exposes the subtlety of false worship and false teachers and counsels all Christians to remove themselves from under ministries that practice such things. Promotes family religion and house gatherings in times of great declension and apostasy (such as ours)." -- SWRB

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

Karlberg, Mark W., The Changing of the Guard: Westminster Theological Seminary in Philadelphia (Unicoi, TN: The Trinity Foundation, 2001).
A critical discussion of Westminster Seminary's anti-Reformational and un-Biblical teaching on the Doctrine of Justification.
"The Changing of the Guard", Mark W. Karlberg
http://trinityfoundation.org/reviews/last.asp

*Knox, John, Against Apostasy and Indifference (Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books).
"Formerly titled 'An Epistle to the Inhabitants of New Castle and Berwick, 1558,' one subheading reads; 'John Knox to the Inhabitants of Newcastle and Berwick, and Unto All Others, Who Sometime in the Realm of England Professed Christ Jesus, and Now Be Returned to the Bondage of Idolatry, Wishes True and Earnest Repentance By the Power and Operation of That Same Spirit Who Called From Death Jesus, the Only Pastor of Our Souls.' Written to stem the tide of backsliding and compromise during the dark days of Mary's reign in England, Knox sends a pastoral exhortation of repentance to those who had reverted to idolatrous worship. Grieving, he says that he was 'wounded almost to death' over these developments. Nevertheless he remained faithful to his readers, directing them to consider the great reward awaiting those who persevere and noting 'how horrible are the torments which the slaves of Satan (I mean idolaters, and such as for fear refuse the known truth) shall suffer with the Devil, and with his angels, without end.' Herein we see the serious nature of idolatry and of turning away from truth once attained." -- SWRB

*Knox, John, What To Do When There Is no Faithful Church in Your Area (Cerlox Bound Photocopy Series. Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books).
"Formerly titled 'A Letter of Wholesome Counsel, Addressed to His Brethren in Scotland, 1556.' Given the lack of truly Reformed churches in many areas, this letter, full of practical advice, should be a welcome addition to the libraries of those seeking to remain ecclesiastically faithful to the Lord. As God continues to pour out his Spirit (by revealing the doctrines of grace, purity of worship, Presbyterian polity and discipline, Christian education of youth, family worship, the principles of courtship, covenanting [personal, ecclesiastical and national], separation from corrupt and idolatrous communions, male headship, adherence to the WCF [1646] and other faithful confessions, etc.), this letter will provide a useful bridge for those separated geographically from faithful fellowship, until new, duly constituted churches can be formed." -- SWRB

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

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

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

Murren, Doug and George Barna (introduction) Churches That Heal: Becoming a Church That Mends Broken Hearts and Restores Shattered Lives
"Many churches are struggling to find a way to reach the people of their community. This book reminds us that the focus should be on ministering to the broken. Doug provides practical advice on how to accomplish this. Our local church is in disarray and searching for a new pastor. I found this book to provide some practical insight as to the characteristics that we should strive for in rebuilding our church and selecting a pastor. It should be prayerfully read by every pastor and deacon. It describes the focus that the local church needs to be relevant to the 21st century." -- Reader Comment

Olsson, Eva, The Philosophy of Sri Aurobindo in the Light of the Gospel (Madras, India: Christian Literature Society, 1959).
Includes bibliography.

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

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

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

*Owen, John, The Death of Christ (Carlisle, PA: The Banner of Truth Trust), ISBN: 9780851510644 0851510647. A Christian classic.
"Greatest Biblical apologetic on the specific and limited nature of the atoning work of Christ in print. Contains discussions on Arminianism, the death of death in the death of Christ, Divine justice, and also discusses, in detail, many views of the atonement that certain men and groups held (and still hold)." -- Publisher's Annotation. A Christian classic.
"THE DEATH OF DEATH IN THE DEATH OF CHRIST is a polemical work, designed to show, among other things, that the doctrine of universal redemption is unscriptural and destructive of the gospel. . . . Those who see no need for doctrinal exactness and have no time for theological debates which show up divisions between so-called Evangelicals may well regret its reappearance. Some may find the very sound of Owen's thesis so shocking that they will refuse to read his book at all. . . . But . . . there are signs today of a new upsurge of interest in the theology of the Bible: a new readiness to test traditions, to search the Scriptures and to think through the faith. It is to those who share this readiness that Owen's treatise is now offered, in the belief that it will help us in one of the most urgent tasks facing evangelical Christendom today - the recovery of the gospel.
"It is safe to say that no comparable exposition of the work of redemption as planned and executed by the Triune Jehovah has ever been done since Owen published his in 1684. None has been needed.
"Owen's interpretation of the texts . . . is sure; his power of theological construction is superb; nothing that needs discussing is omitted, and . . . no arguments for or against his position have been used since his day which he has not himself noted and dealt with. . . . Owen's work is a constructive, broad-based biblical analysis of the heart of the gospel, and must be taken seriously as such. . . Nobody has a right to dismiss the doctrine of the limitedness . . . of the atonement as a monstrosity of Calvinistic logic until he has refuted Owen's proof that it is part of the uniform biblical presentation of redemption, clearly taught in plain text after plain text. And nobody has done that yet." -- J.I. Packer, from the Introduction
"Packer's well balanced definition of Calvinism in the introduction to that volume [John Owen's THE DEATH OF DEATH IN THE DEATH OF CHRIST] is by far the best we have seen in 42 years of intensive reading." -- Jay P. Green, Sr. A Christian classic.
J.I. Packer's Introduction to The Death of Death in the Death of Christ by John Owen
http://www.monergism.com/thethreshold/articles/onsite/packer_intro.html
The Death of Death in the Death of Christ, by John Owen
http://www.monergism.com/thethreshold/articles/onsite/packer_intro.html
Owen, John. Salus electorum, sanguis Jesu: or the death of death in the death of Christ. Being a treatise of the redemption and reconciliation that is in the blood of Christ; wherein the whole controversy about universal redemption is fully discussed: in four parts; ... By John Owen, D.D. Carefully revised and corrected. Edinburgh, 1755. (ECCO) Gale Document Number CW3321796584

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

Robbins, John W., A Companion to the Current Justification Controversy (Unicoi, TN: The Trinity Foundation, 2003).
Contents:
1. The Roots and Fruits of the Shepherd Controversy: Neo-orthodoxy, Roman Catholicism, The New Perspective on Paul, Reconstructionism, Biblical Theology, Gaffin and Bavinck, Vantilianism, The Kinnaird Case, The Auburn Avenue Presbyterian Church; by John W. Robbins
2. The Sanders/ Dunn "Fork in the Road" in the Current Controversy over the Pauline Doctrine of Justification by Faith; by Robert L. Reymond
3. Some Reasons for Dissenting from the Majority Report; by Philip E. Hughes
4. Letter of Concern; by 45 theologians
5. Reason and Specifications Supporting the Action of the Board of Trustees in Removing Professor Shepherd; by the Executive Committee of the Board of Westminster Theological Seminary
6. A Resolution to the Eleventh General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church in America; by O. Palmer Robertson
Index, Scripture Index, The Crisis of Our Time. Intellectual Ammunition
"A Companion to the Current Justification Controversy," Trinity Review
http://www.trinityfoundation.org/ammo/closeup.asp?ID=81

Robbins, John, and Sean Gerety, Not Reformed at All: Medievalism in 'Reformed' Churches (Unicoi, TN: The Trinity Foundation, 2004).
"NOT REFORMED AT ALL is an analysis of and rejoinder to Douglas Wilson's book, 'REFORMED' IS NOT ENOUGH: RECOVERING THE OBJECTVITY OF THE COVENANT.
"Wilson's book is a manifesto of the theological movement sometimes called Neolegalism, hypercovenantalism, the Moscow-Monroe Axis, Federal Vision, and the Auburn Avenue Theology. That movement, an attack on the Biblical Covenant of Grace and a repudiation of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, has gained currency in nominally Reformed churches.
"Contents:
Foreword
1. The Revolution Was
2. Theological Sophistry
3. The Matrix
4. Dodging the Charge of Heresy
5. Tradition
6. The "Objectivity" of the Covenant
7. What Is a Christian?
8. Westminster versus Wilson
9. The New Birth
10. The Arch-Heresy of Individualism
11. Justification Not by Faith Alone
12. The Biblical Covenant of Grace
13. Wilson's Counterfeit Covenant
14. The Church Tangible and Intangible
15. Church Unity
16. Conclusion
Index
Scripture Index
The Crisis of Our Time
Intellectual Ammunition

Forgotten Principles of the Reformation John W. Robbins
"These also are principles of the Reformation, largely forgotten among those who call themselves Reformed. We ought to remember and defend the solas, [Sola Scriptura, Sola Gratia, Sola Fide, Solus Christus, Soli Deo Gloria-- sk] but we ought also to remember and defend the equally Biblical principles of logical consistency, Scripture alone, the right of private judgment, and separation of church and state."
http://www.trinityfoundation.org/journal.php?id=202

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

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

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

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

Smith, Timothy L., George Whitefield and Wesleyan Perfectionism
http://www.google.com/search?q=cache:wesley.nnu.edu/theojrnl/19-07.htm+george+whitefield+publishing+company&hl=en

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

Waters, Guy Prentiss, Justification and the New Perspectives on Paul: A Review and Response (P & R Publishing; November 30, 2004).
"Among the reasons for writing this book, Waters, in the Preface, writes,

'I want to illustrate the ways in which the New Perspectives on Paul deviate from the doctrines set forth in the Westminster Standards. I also want to show how Reformed theology surpasses the New Perspectives on Paul in explaining Paul's statements regarding the law, the righteousness of God, justification, and a host of other topics and doctrines.'

'All expressions of Christianity are on the path to one of two destinations, Rome or Geneva. What the New Perspectives on Paul offer us is decidedly not "Genevan." It seems that there are elements active in the Reformed churches that wish to lead the church into a sacramental religion, all in the name of being "more Reformed." If we examine their arguments carefully, we see that what they are really and increasingly saying is that Luther and Calvin were mistaken, and that Trent was right. May God give us grace that we may not squander the rich theological heritage bequeathed to us by the Reformers, historic British Calvinism, and American Presbyterianism. May we model, in spirit and teaching, that "pattern of teaching" preserved so faithfully by our forefathers.' -- quoted by Guy Waters
Federal Vision, David Engelsma
A book review of THE FEDERAL VISION, Steve Wilkins and Duane Garner, editors. Monroe, Louisiana: Athanasius Press, 2004. 299 pages.
http://www.trinityfoundation.org/latest.php

See also: Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, Sexual relationship, Book length presentations of the free offer of gospel message of salvation and the life to come: the means of grace, Repentance the key to salvation and change, Justification, Justifying faith, Forgiveness, Sanctification, Reconciliation of relationships, The local church, Church leadership, Reform of the church

Related WebLinks

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

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

Heresies Defined and the Necessity of Heresies Explained, by George Gillespie, Scottish Commissioner to the Assembly of Divines at Westminster
"Heresy is a gross and dangerous error, voluntarily held and factiously maintained by some person or persons within the visible church, in opposition to some chief or substantial truth or truths grounded upon and drawn from the holy Scripture by necessary consequence." -- George Gillespie
http://www.truecovenanter.com/gillespie/ggilles09.html

"Destructive Heresies in Today's Church," a sermon by Gil Rugh on 2 Peter 2:1
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=102104172433

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) 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

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

The Blood of the Lamb, the Conquering Weapon
A sermon by C.H. Spurgeon delivered on Lord's-day morning, September 9, 1888, at the Metropolitan Tabernacle, Newington, Sermon no. 2043.
"This is the way in which you should use this plea. Say, 'My God, I am utterly unworthy, and I own it; but, I beseech thee, hear me for the honour of thy dear Son. By his agony and bloody sweat, by his cross and passion, by his precious death and burial, I beseech thee hear me! O Lord, let the blood of thine Only-begotten prevail with thee! Canst thou put aside his groans, his tears, his death, when they speak on my behalf?' If you can thus come to pleading terms with God upon this ground, you must and will prevail. Jesus must be heard in heaven. The voice of his blood is eloquent with God. If you plead the atoning sacrifice, you must overcome through the blood of the Lamb." -- C.H. Spurgeon
http://www.mountzion.org/fgb/Summer97/FgbS6-97.html

A Collection of Tracts by John W. Robbins

"Counterfeit Gospels," a tract by John W. Robbins
http://trinityfoundation.org/ammo/tract_view.asp?ID=tract03.html
"Are You Catholic?" a tract by John W. Robbins
http://trinityfoundation.org/ammo/tract_view.asp?ID=tract01.html
Four Great Certainties
http://trinityfoundation.org/ammo/tract_view.asp?ID=tract02.html
God's Plan to Save His People
http://trinityfoundation.org/ammo/tract_view.asp?ID=tract04.html
What Is Christian Philosophy?
http://trinityfoundation.org/ammo/tract_view.asp?ID=tract06.html
Civilization and the Protestant Reformation
http://trinityfoundation.org/ammo/tract_view.asp?ID=tract05.html

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

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

The Reformation Day Declaration
Refutes modern day corruptions of The Gospel within the Reformed Church. "Electronic signatures" may be added.
http://www.trinityfoundation.org/state_declaration.php

The Religious Movements Page @ The University of Virginia
http://religiousmovements.lib.virginia.edu/

The Moral Foundation of Love
http://talkingethics.50megs.com/index.html

George Whitefield and Wesleyan Perfectionism, Timothy L. Smith
http://www.google.com/search?q=cache:wesley.nnu.edu/theojrnl/19-07.htm+george+whitefield+publishing+company&hl=en

The Orange Papers, by Secret Agent Orange
One man's analysis of Alcoholics Anonymous, an online book.
A comprehensive and excellent resources.
http://www.orange-papers.org/

Sorcery

---

For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubborness is as iniquity and idolatry. (1 Samuel 15:23a)

The sacrifices of God [are] a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, thou wilt not despise. (Psalms 51:17)

But if I cast out devils by the Spirit of God, then the kingdom of God is come unto you. -- Jesus Christ (Matthew 12:28)

Christ's commandments are his Father's commandments. He must, then, be displeased with those who break them; He must be pleased with those who observe them, and observe them because they love him who gives them. This, then, is the privilege of him who loves Christ, and shows that he loves Christ, by keeping his commandments.
And is not this, my brethren, a privilege of a very high order? To be an object of the esteem and love of good and wise men -- to have our characters and actions the objects of their approbation, and our persons of their complacent affection, and our happiness of their sincere and ardent wishes, -- is a privilege far more valuable than any amount of worldly wealth or sensuous enjoyment. But what is the concentrated esteem and affection of all holy creatures, human and angelic, in the highest degree they are capable of entertaining them, in comparison of the privileges here promised by our Lord to those who love and obey him: to be approved of -- to be loved -- to be delighted in, by HIM, who is infinite in loveliness and in love -- in holiness and beginity -- in power and wisdom! Think on his infinite, eternal, immutable grandeur and grace! think on his disposition and his power to bless the objects of his approbation and complacency! His power is omnipotence; "his kingdom ruleth over all." Think on his unsearchable wisdom, in choosing what is to make the objects of his love happy, and the means of putting them in possession of these objects! -- none of his kind designs can either be misdirected or miscarry; and, in fine, think of the intensity of the affection, which corresponds with the perfections of Him who cherishes it; and to give us some distant conception of which, the sacred writers (under the guidance of that Spirit who knows what is in God, as the spirit of a man knows what is in him -- who searches "the deep things of God," -- the -- to all the other being -- unsearchable "riches of his grace -- in kindness" towards his people,) exhaust all the stores of imagery supplied by the nearest and dearest relations of created beings. Think that, "as the bridegroom rejoiceth over the bride," so does the Father rejoice over him who loves and obeys the Son; and that, "as a father pitieth his children," and "spares his own Son who serves him," so He pities and spares him who loves and obey Him and his Son. Hear Him proclaiming to the lover of his Son, "Can a woman forget her sucking child, that she should not have compassion on the fruit of her womb? ye, she may forget, yet will I not forget thee." (1 Corinthians 2:10; Isaiah 62:5; Psalm 103:13; Malachi 3:17; Isaiah 49:15) Surely to be thus loved by the Father is a privilege indeed.
But this is not all. The Saviour adds, "And I will love him." `I will love him who, having my commandments, loves me, and who, loving me, keeps my commandments.' Everything that has been said about the Father's love of complacency being the natural, necessary, result of enlightened influential love to Christ, and of the greatness of this privilege, is equally applicable to the love of the Son as a divine person. But our Lord plainly speaks of himself as the man Christ Jesus -- the mediator between God and man. It is as if he had said, `Such love on your part will delight my heart, and call forth sentiments of the most complacential approval. Your kindness will not be met with coldness or indifference; "I love them that love me." In your love to me, and obedience to me, I see the end of my mediation gained, in the glory of my Father, and your salvation. When you love and obey me, you glorify me, and the Father is glorified in the Son. Loving me, you love Him; obeying me, you obey Him. It was for this I laboured, and suffered, and died; and when I see you loving and obeying me, I "see of the travail of my soul, and am satisfied." "The pleasure of the Lord prospers in my hand." When ye keep my commandments from love to me, ye "continue in my love, and my joy is fulfilled in you'." What a privilege to be the object of the complacent regard of him, "in whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge," who has "all power in heaven and in earth to give eternal life" to all who love and obey him: who -- himself a man -- knows what is necessary to make man happy; who "can be touched with the feeling of our infirmities, having been in all things tempted like as we are;" and who retains, on the throne of universal government, that power to sympathise, which "he learned by the things which he suffered." (Colossians 2:3; Matthew 28:18; Hebrews 2:18; 4:15; 5:8) What is the disapprobation of the world, if we have his approval? what their cold contempt, or cruel persecution, if we have his sympathy? what their hatred, if we have his love? -- John Brown (of Edinburgh, 1784-1858), commenting on John 14:21-24 in Discourses and Sayings of Our Lord Jesus Christ, III:174-176

See THE NEW NAVE'S TOPICAL BIBLE, "Sorcery," divination by an alleged assistance of evil spirits. Forbidden, Lev. 19:26-28,31; 20:6; Deut. 18:9-14. Denounced, Isa. 8:19; Mal. 3:5.Practiced: by the Egyptians, Isa. 19:3,11,12; by the magicians, Ex. 7:11,22; 8:7,18; by Balaam, Num. 22:6; 23:23, with Num. 22; 23; by Jezebel, 2 Kin. 9:22; by the Ninevites, Nah. 3:4,5; by the Babylonians, Isa. 47:9-13; Ezek. 21:21,22; Dan. 2:2,10,27; by Belshazzar, Dan. 5:7,15; by Simon Magus, Acts 8:9,11; by Elymas, Acts 13:8; by the young girl at Philippi, Acts 16:16; by vagabond Jews, Acts 19:13; by sons of Sceva, Acts 19:14,15; by astrologers, Jer. 10:2; Mic. 3:6,7; by false prophets, Jer. 14:14; 27:9; 29:8,9; Ezek. 13:6-9; 22:28; Matt. 24:24.To cease, Ezek. 12:23,24; 13:23; Mic. 5:12. Messages of, false, Ezek. 21:29; Zech. 10:2; 2 Thess. 2:9. Diviners shall be confounded, Mic. 3:7. Belongs to the works of the flesh, Gal. 5:20. Wickedness of, 1 Sam. 15:23. Vainness of, Isa. 44:25. Punishment for, Ex. 22:18; Lev. 20:27; Deut. 13:5. Divining by familiar spirits, Lev. 20:27; 1 Chr. 10:13; 2 Chr. 33:6; Isa. 8:19; 19:3; 29:4; by entrails, Ezek. 21:21; by images, 2 Kin. 23:24; Ezek. 21:21; by rods, Hos. 4:12. Saul consulted the Witch of Endor, 1 Sam. 28:7-25. Books of, destroyed, Acts 19:19. See Charmers and Charming; Clairvoyance; Necromancy. -- The New Nave's Topical Bible

See the Theological Notes, "Demons," at Deuteronomy 32:17, page 285, in The Reformation Study Bible

JEZEBEL [ISABEL]. The name probably means chaste as does the common European name Agnes -- quite inappropriate. Her story extends from 1 Kings 16 to 2 Kings 11.

1. Jezebel's family origin. This remarkable evil woman was derived from a Phoenician clan which she truly represented. This family happens to constitute one of the earliest confluences of Biblical history with the written classical history of Greece -- if one may suppose that such were Josephus' sources. Though called "king of the Zidonians," Ethbaal (1 Kings 16: 31) her father was king of all Phoenicia. By assassination of his predecessor he had established his reign at the age of thirty- six. His reign lasted thirty-two years. His dynasty included a great-grandson, Pygmalion, who, at the time of his death ninety-four years after Ethbaal's accession, brought the reign of the dynasty to an end. (See ARAB.)

2. Marriage (1 Kings 16:31). Although marriage of Hebrews with the Canaanite peoples of the Levant was strictly forbidden by Mosaic law it was precisely her unlawful conjugal union with Ahab (q.v.) which rescued her name from the oblivion of most other ancients and secured for her a perpetual infamy wherever the Holy Scriptures are known.

3. Her anti-Jehovah acts. Scripture traces her husband's apostasy directly to her influence (1 Kings 6:30-34). His evils, said to be more than any of his predecessors' in office, are laid at her door. These were chiefly giving himself to Baal worship, with all its vile accompaniments, establishin~g a Baal cult center at Samaria, the national capital, and thereby leading the whole nation into apostasy. At her instigation (Ahab consenting) a systematic program aimed at extermination of all leadership of Jehovah worship in Israel was begun. Evidently the Lord's prophets were slaughtered by the hundreds (1 Kings 18:1-4). At the same time Baal prophets were given national prominence, a number even being housed and fed in precincts of the royal pal- ace (1 Kings 18:17-19).

4. Contest with Elijah (1 Kings 18; 19). It was in this climate of national tension that the prophet Elijah (q.v.) appeared as single public advocate of the ancestral faith. The striking events of Elijah's career -- the prophesied drought (2 Kings 17:1ff.), his period of hiding and divine sustenance (17: 2-24), the contest with the 850 prophets of Baal and his consort (18:1-40), breaking of the drought (18:41-46) and the flight to Sinai are all features of Elijah's personal contest with Jezebel.

5. Murder of Naboth (1 Kings 21:5-15 cf. 2 Kings 9:26). This incident which displays the worst side of Ahab's weak character shows his wife as a true daughter of a pagan court -- intrigue, treason, deception, public display of legality and virtue to cover subvert unrighteousness. The scrupulosity of apparent observance of legal (Mosaic law, for it was still official constitution) details, while perpetrating murder and theft, is a lesson in betrayal of public trust by official persons.

6. Prophecy of her violent death and extinction of her family (1 Kings 21:17-24). For fulfillment of this horrible prognostication read 1 Kings 22:29-40 (Ahab's end) and 2 Kings 9: 1-37 (Jezebel and her posterity). [See also JEHOSHAPHAT; JEHORAM; AHAZIAH and ATHALIAH.]

7. Her permanent baleful influences. Immediately, the Scripture states, she corrupted her husband (1 Kings 21:25, 26) and through him the kingdom of Israel. Through her offspring, married to the leading scion of the house of David (viz. JEHOSHAPHAT; AHAZIAH; ATHALIAH), she came near to bringing the house of David to extinction (viz. also 2 Kings 8:25-27; 11:1-3; 2 Chron 21:5-7; 22: 10-23:21). -- R.D. CULVER, The Zonervan Pictorial Encyclopedia of the Bible, pp. 589,590

The secret things belong to the Lord our God: but those things which are revealed belong unto us and to our children for ever, that we may do all the words of this law. (Deuteronomy 29:29)

The secret of the Lord is with them that fear him; and he will shew them his covenant. (Ps. 25:14)

But he said, Yea rather, blessed [are] they that hear the word of God, and keep it. -- Jesus Christ (Luke 11:28)

In your patience possess ye your souls. -- Jesus Christ (Luke 21:19)

But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death. (Revelation 21:8)

There shall not be found among you any one that maketh his son or his daughter to pass through the fire, or that useth divination, or an observer of times, or an enchanter, or a witch, or a charmer, or a consulter with familiar spirits, or a wizard, or a necromancer. For all that do these things are an abomination unto the Lord: and because of these abominations the Lord thy God doth drive them out from before thee. (Deuteronomy 18:10-12)

And I will cut off witchcrafts out of thine hand; and thou shalt have no more soothsayers. (Micah 5:12)

Helen Berger in the Columbia University Seminar on Contents and Methods, September 13, 1989, revealed that some prominent scientists are practicing witches. Berger also said the rise of neo-paganism in scientific circles, and the startling fact that 40-plus scientists and researchers at Harvard and MIT are witches, is indicative of a "crisis of rationality" in modern science.

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

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

Uncondoned carnal knowledge blasts lives and destoys souls.

The only way for man and wife and children and society to live together happily is to pursue holiness through Christ Jesus, The Everlasting Righteousness.

Anderson, Peter, Satan's Snare: The Influence of the Occult (Darlington, Co., Durham, England: Evangelical Press).
"The author provides valuable information on many occult practices and their insidious influences on people's thinking. Includes a helpful chapter on counselling." -- GCB

Balodis, Jacquie, Soul Stealing: An Overview of Satanic and Black Witchcraft Ritual Abuse and Brainwashing, 1988.
This book has been discredited by one expert on cult/occult crime because of alleged known practices of the author after writing the book. Notice that creating and spreading false religion is the ultimate form of brain washing with the most horrific consequences.

Baxter, Richard, The Certainty of the Worlds of Spirits. Fully evinced by the unquestionable histories of apparitions, operations, witchcrafts, voices, etc. proving the immortality of souls, the malice and misery of the devils and the damned, and the blessedness of the justifed. Written for the conviction of Sadduces and Infidels. By Richard Baxter (London, England: Printed for T. Parkhurst at the Bible and Three Crowns in Cheapside and J. Salusbury at the Rising Sun near the Royal Exchange in Cornhill, 1691), EEBO. Reproduction note: Microfilm. Ann Arbor, Mich.: University Microfilms, 1966. 1 microfilm reel; 35 mm. (Early English Books, 1641-1700; 200:11). Cited in: Wing B1215.
"This, as it is among the quaintest and most curious, is also the rarest of Baxter's writings." -- Alexander B. Grosart
See also: Baxter, Richard (1615-1691), and Cotton Mather (1663-1728), The certainty of the world of spirits fully evinced, 3rd edition (London: S. Cornish & Co., 1841), to which was added Cotton Mahter, The wonders of the invisible world, OCLC 19713229.
Translations: German, entitled under John Cotton (1663-1728), WONDERS OF THE INVISIBLE WORLD and to which was added Baxter's THE CERTAINTY OF THE WORLD OF SPIRITS FULLY EVINCED, (Schw. Hall: F.F. Haspel), OCLC: 41952189.
Mather, Cotton (1663-1728), The wonders of the invisible world (singly) is available in EEBO.
Wonders of the Invisible World, Cotton Mather, 1693
http://www.constitution.org/primarysources/wonders.html

Bromley, David G., Diana G. Cutchin, and John G. Melton (editor) Satanism: An Annotated Bibliography

Bufford, Rodger, K., Counseling and the Demonic (Resources for Christian Counseling Series. Dallas, TX: Word Publishing, c1988).
"Throughout human history, the question of demonic influence has been a controversial one. It continues to be so now, when there are two widely held views. According to the first view, demons are everywhere. Those who believe this are preoccupied with demons and with efforts to appease, avoid, or escape them. The second view discounts demons, looking on them as irrelevant, at best, or even nonexistent. Both these views are mistaken. Unfortunately, reality is both less comfortable and more complex than either outlook permits." -- Reader Comment
"This book on counseling and the demonic by Dr. Rodger Bufford is part of the notable Resources for Christian Counseling series, a series which seeks to combine the best insights from psychology with strict adherence to biblical truth." -- Publisher's Annotation. Includes bibliography.

Carl, Frank, and Joan H. Robie, Courting the King of Terrors: Is Satan Having the Last Laugh? (Lancaster, PA: Starburst Publishers, 1989). D1011
"Why are so many people turning to mental, Spiritual and physical suicide? This book gives an answer. Its purpose is two-fold: one to sound the trumpet of concern about sins creeping into the Church, and two, to offer practical help and hope in working with those who have fallen prey to Satan's lies." -- GCB

Ferreiro, Alberto (editor), Jeffrey Burton Russell (editor), The Devil, Heresy and Witchcraft in the Middle Ages: Essays in Honor of Jeffrey B. Russell (Cultures, Beliefs, and Traditions, Vol. 6., Brill Academic Publishers).

Free the Masons Ministries, "Perfect Love and Perfect Trust" (Issaqua, WA: Free The Masons Ministry, 1991).
A tract, witnessing to witches.

Godwin, Rick, Exposing Witchcraft in the Church
"It's about the kind of witchcraft that happenens in Christ professing, evangelical, `we don't have that kind of thing happening in our church' churches.
"Anyone who thinks that their church is immune to this type of situation should read it...." -- Reader Review

*Gilpin, Richard, Daemonologia Sacra: A Treatise on Satan's Temptations (Minneapolis, MN: Klock & Klock Christian Publishers, 1982, 1677).
"Originally published in 1677 and now reissued under the new title BIBLICAL DEMONOLOGY, this collection of sermons ably explores Satan's person and work. It is of particular value for Gilpin's analysis of the way Satan tempts the saints. A rare and edifying study." -- Cyril J. Barber

Institoris, Henricus, The Malleus Maleficarum of Heinrich Kramer and James Sprenger
"This book shows that the origin of witchcraft is with the devil. The Bible says clearly that a witch shall not live. To claim otherwise is to say that God either does not exist or that the Bible is false, which many wish were true. . . . This witch hunters bible shows the origin of witchcraft, why witchcraft is against the Bible, how it originated, and a host of other intriguing topics. One reviewer wrote that witchcraft is condemned because of the evil results it brings forth. Is it coincidence that Hitler was involved with satanism, that Charlie Manson was involved with witchcraft, that the Son of Sam killer was involved with satanism? Why is there so much evidence of elites being involved in satanism and witchcraft throughout history? This book gives the answers. How else does the Devil spread evil? Because people do not want the truth is why there is so much evil. This book doesn't pull punches and tells things the way they are." -- Reader Comment

*Leahy, Frederick S., Satan Cast Out: A Study in Biblical Demonology (Carlisle, PA: Banner of Truth Trust, 1990, 1975).
"It is often said that wherever there is a rejection of faith in the living God a corresponding upsurge of the demonic will eventually appear. That is true not only in the pages of the Bible and in the annals of Christian missions; it has also become a striking feature of the life in our materialistic, post-Christian society. . . . Full of sane exposition and wise counsel, his work has been widely appreciated since its first publication in 1975." -- Publisher's Annotation
"Probably one of the best, most Scriptural books written today on the subject of demonology." -- Presbyterian Journal

Mather, Cotton (1663-1728), The wonders of the invisible world, 1693, EEBO.

Mather, Cotton, 1663-1728, and Richard Mather, 1596-1669, Memorable providences, relating to witchcrafts and possessions a faithful account of many wonderful and surprising things, that have befallen several bewitched and possessed persons in New-England, particularly, a narrative of the marvellous trouble and relief, experienced by a pious family in Boston, very lately and sadly molested with evil spirits: whereunto is added, a discourse delivered unto a congregation in Boston, on the occasion of that illustrious providence: as also, a discourse delivered unto the same congregation, on the occasion of an horrible self-murder committed in the town: with an appendix, in vindication of a chapter in a late book of remarkable providences, from the calumnies of a Quaker at Pensilvania / written by Cotton Mather . . . and recommended by the ministers of Boston and Charleston, 1697, EEBO.

*Montgomery, John W., Principalities and Powers: The World of the Occult (Minneapolis, MN: Bethany House Publishers, 1974). [D1110]
"Few men possess the personal resources Montgomery has at his disposal. Having studied in Europe, he has amassed a vast library on all aspects of the history and doctrines of demonism and the occult. Here is an able synthesis that makes available to contemporary students an analysis of the many forms of Satanism. Every well informed person should read this book." -- Cyril J. Barber

*North, Gary, Unholy Spirits: Occultism and New Age Humanism (Ft. Worth, TX: Dominion Press, 1988). [90579]
"According to this in-depth analysis by renowned historian and author Dr. Gary North, the New Age movement is indeed a serious threat and its adherents are no laughing matter. By tracing the historical and theological roots of modern occultic practices, Dr. North paints a frightening portrait of just exactly what we are up against. It's not a pretty sight. Fortunately though, UNHOLY SPIRITS is not simply another `doom and gloom' forecast. He offers parents, teachers, pastors, and other committed Christians practical steps of action to nullify and ultimately eliminate the effects of the New Age infiltration into our homes, our schools, our communities, and our nation." -- Publisher's Annotation.
A revision of his earlier work NONE DARE CALL IT WITCHCRAFT, published in 1974. Includes bibliographic footnotes, index, and Scripture index.
Institute for Christian Economics Freebooks.com
http://www.freebooks.com/

Passantino, Bob and Gretchen Passantino, Satanism
"A look into the dark world of satanic ritual and devil worship that thrives in an `enlightened' Western society.
"Belief in Satan worship is often viewed as an embarrassing throwback to the superstitions of another time. And `selling your soul to the Devil?' Nothing more than an overworked theme in literature and opera. To the contrary, Bob and Gretchen Passantino show how, in the midst of prevailing attitudes of skepticism and disbelief, Satanism has made unprecedented inroads into our society." -- Publisher's Annotation "This book is the Passantino's contribution to the Zondervan Guide to Cults and Religious Movements. The Passantinos have cultivated a reputation over their 20 plus years of ministry for fairness, accuracy and truthfulness. They took a leading role in the Christian community to debunk false claims of Satanic Ritual Abuse.
"In conducting their research, they interviewed Anton Szandor LaVey, founder of the Church of Satan. It was the first interview that he had granted for publication in fifteen years.
"Satanism concisely presents the findings of the Passantinos research. It is the definitive Christian book on the subject, and it is an invaluable resource for anyone interested in understanding Satanism as it exists in late 20th century America. It is extensively documented and full of factual information. The Bibliography alone is well worth the price of the book." -- Reader Comment

Passantino, Bob and Gretchen Passantino, Witch Hunt (Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson Publishers, 1990).
We affirm that sorcery leads to the dissolution, sometimes very suddenly, of families. Sorcery is probably one of the leading causes of separation and divorce today. See Isaiah 47.

Perkins, William, 1558-1602, and Pickering, Thomas, d. 1625, A discourse of the damned art of witchcraft; so farre forth as it is reuealed in the Scriptures, and manifest by true experience. Framed and deliuered by M. William Perkins, in his ordinarie course of preaching, and now published by Tho. Pickering Batchelour of Diuinitie, and minister of Finchingfield in Essex. Whereunto is adioyned a twofold table; one of the order and heades of the treatise; another of the texts of Scripture explaned, or vindicated from the corrupt interpretation of the aduersarie, 1608, EEBO.

Phillips, Phil Halloween and Satanism
"This book is what got me started on learning about the Occult. It has information on pretty much everything that has to do with Halloween. And it's all true! Thanks to the people who wrote this book I now know the truth and am no longer celebrating a holiday made by Satan." -- Reader Comment

*Powlison, David, Power Encounters: Reclaiming Spiritual Warfare
"In our increasingly pagan culture Christians are being engulfed by a flood of the New Age, the occult, and a fascination with demons. Into this explosive climate the deliverance ministries have burst with mega best-sellers and sensational accounts that show how we can all cast out demons.
"David Powlison challenges this movement as being more occult than it realizes. The Kingdom of God is about power and we do battle with very real enemies. But Powlison provides a strategy for a more biblical and more effective way to fight." -- Description
"Powlison (Ivy League Ph.D., ex-missionary, full-time counselor) has thought deeply about his subject and he makes an unanswerable case. His critique is compassionate, balanced, and generous. Honestly, this is the most important book I have read all year." -- Reader Comment

Powlison, David, "Various Audio Cassette Tapes on Counseling Subjects in the NANC Tape Library," for example:

Inner Healing and Visualization, N9112s
"Where do these subjects belong in today's biblical counseling program?"
Demons, Deliverance and Counselor, N9212s
"Helping the counseled confront these problems with a Biblical approach."
Don't Fail To Get At The Idols, N8923
Demons and Deliverance (part 1 of 2), N9686
Demons and Deliverance (part 2 of 2), N9687
Demons, Deliverance and Counselor #1, N9212
Demons, Deliverance and Counselor #2, N9219
Counseling and Nature of Righteousness #1, N9511
Counseling and Nature of Righteousness #2, N9512
Are You Using the Bible Biblically? N0003

Pride, Bill, Flirting With The Devil (Wheaton, IL: Good News Publishers [Crossway Books], 1988). D1025
"The author shows how Satan's message preached to Adam and Eve in the Garden has affected the church today. Chapters include: No Fault Sin; I'm In With The In Crowd; Hot Crossed Roles, etc. He concludes by pointing Christians to the solutions, so that they can again become the most dynamic force in our culture. Pride is a M.I.T. grad with two degrees from Covenant Seminary in St. Louis." -- GCB

Russell, Jeffrey Burton, A History of Witchcraft: Sorcery, Heretics, Pagan (Ithaca, NY: Cornell University Press, 1980).
A comprehensive work.

Russell, Jeffrey Burton, Mephistopheles: The Devil in the Modern World
"A very thorough, well-written examination of how Satan and evil have been viewed since the Reformation. Russell takes a historian's stance to examine a subject both controversial and mystifying at best. No stone is left unturned as he looks at how the devil is viewed by church officials, common folk, and intelligentsia,and how these views are reflected in the artwork and pop-culture of those times. This work manages at once to be intellectual and an easy read, thorough and engrossing. A must for anyone fascinated by the forces that have shaped Christian thought." Reader Comment

Russell, Jeffrey Burton, The Prince of Darkness: Radical Evil and the Power of Good in History "An amazing, fascinating, intellectually stimulating book on a subject too often the province of cranks, fanatics, or frauds--the Devil himself. Russell, a California history professor, has written several volumes on Lucifer, and this is the most far-ranging. An in-depth study that traces the history of the Devil from his shadowy origins in the desert wastes of the Middle East and of course even further back, in Africa; follows him through Judaism and early Christianity to the Middle Ages, up through the Reformation and Age of Enlightenment, right through to the Holocaust and the post-modern world. Russell explores theology, folklore, literature, and history to piece together this ultimate symbol of evil. From early church writers such as Origen and Tertullian to Milton and Dante, to Baudelaire, de Sade, Dostoevski and Flannery O'Connor, Russell looks at the ways in which the Devil has been personified for different ages. Highly readable, packed with accurate and well-researched information, this should appeal to anyone with an interest in comparative religions, mythology, or history. This really is perhaps the definitive book on the figure of the Devil, although I would also recommend Paul Carus' THE DEVIL AND THE IDEA OF EVIL, Alice Turner's THE HISTORY OF HELL, and Homer Smith's MAN AND HIS GODS." -- Reader Comment

Russell, Jeffrey Burton, Witchcraft in the Middle Ages

Schnoebelen, William, and Sharon Schnoebelen, We Were Witches ( With One Accord
A tract.

Schnoebelen, William, WICCA: Satan's Little White Lie.
"Saved by Jesus from `white' witchcraft, Bill looks at its perils today." -- Ed Decker
"This book is the truth, it is so real...Wicca and the overall New Age worldview is a "little white lie" of Satan himself...making the world seem "nature" "loving" "peaceful" but in fact if a belief does not center around the grace, the holiness, and the truth of Jesus Christ..then that belief system is still Satanic...for whomever turns their back on Jesus Christ . . . is a Satanist..." -- Reader Comment
"I was involved in Wicca for over four years . . . I practiced "drawing down the moon" "god/goddess rituals" "channeling" "calling spirit guides" etc. All of those are dangerous, I really mean that in all honest truth...The more I got involved in the spirits, the more angry, depressed, and depraved I became...oh it was a gradual change...but a change nonetheless . . . oh you can spend many years "in heaven" from Wicca .. but in the end...Lucifer holds your soul ...and you will be in hades...
"Luckily, I was washed in the blood of Christ, saved from my sins of being involved in this dangerous Satanic Religion...and went back to following the narrow road of the Cross....
"Praise Jesus...the only way for salvation..." -- Reader Comment
Anyone doubting the impact of Wicca in America today need only read the reviews of this work at Amazon.com.
With One Accord
http://www.withoneaccord.org/

Scot, Reginald, (1538?-1599), Scot's Discovery of vvitchcraft (London: Printed by R.C. and are to be sold by Giles Calvert ..., 1651), EEBO.

Summers, Montague, The Discovery of Witches, reprint of 1928 edition (New York, NY: AMS Press).

Witchcraft in Europe and America: guide to the microfilm collection

See also: Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, Sexual relationship, Suffrage and reproductive rights, Gratuitous sex, The occult, The new age, Women and the new age, Mind control, Spiritual discernment, Ungodly alliance, Brainwashing, Intimidation and coercion (Uris Library at Cornell University has a large collection on witchcraft and freemasonry.)

Related WebLinks

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

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

Baxter, Richard, The Certainty of the Worlds of Spirits. Fully evinced by the unquestionable histories of apparitions, operations, witchcrafts, voices, etc. proving the immortality of souls, the malice and misery of the devils and the damned, and the blessedness of the justifed. Written for the conviction of Sadduces and Infidels. By Richard Baxter (London, England: Printed for T. Parkhurst at the Bible and Three Crowns in Cheapside and J. Salusbury at the Rising Sun near the Royal Exchange in Cornhill, 1691), EEBO. Reproduction note: Microfilm. Ann Arbor, Mich.: University Microfilms, 1966. 1 microfilm reel; 35 mm. (Early English Books, 1641-1700; 200:11). Cited in: Wing B1215.
"This, as it is among the quaintest and most curious, is also the rarest of Baxter's writings." -- Alexander B. Grosart
See also: Baxter, Richard (1615-1691), and Cotton Mather (1663-1728), The certainty of the world of spirits fully evinced, 3rd edition (London: S. Cornish & Co., 1841), to which was added Cotton Mahter, The wonders of the invisible world, OCLC 19713229.
Translations: German, entitled under John Cotton (1663-1728), WONDERS OF THE INVISIBLE WORLD and to which was added Baxter's THE CERTAINTY OF THE WORLD OF SPIRITS FULLY EVINCED, (Schw. Hall: F.F. Haspel), OCLC: 41952189.
Mather, Cotton (1663-1728), The wonders of the invisible world (singly) is available in EEBO.
Wonders of the Invisible World, Cotton Mather, 1693
http://www.constitution.org/primarysources/wonders.html

Cotton Mather, Memorable Providences, Relating to Witchcrafts and Possessions, 1689
http://www.law.umkc.edu/faculty/projects/ftrials/salem/ASA_MATH.HTM

Wonders of the Invisible World, Cotton Mather, 1693
http://www.constitution.org/primarysources/wonders.html

Cases of Conscience Concerning Evil Spirits, Personating Men, Witchcrafts. Infallible Proofs of Guilt in Such as Are Accused With That Crime. All Considered According to the Scriptures, History, Experience, and the Judgment of Many Learned men, by Increase Mather, President of Harvard Colledge at Cambridge, and Teacher of a Church at Boston in New-England.
http://etext.virginia.edu/salem/witchcraft/speccol/

Witchcraft in Salem Village
Supported by the Electronic Text Center, Institute for Advanced Technology in the Humanities, Special Collections Department, and the Geospatial and Statistical Data Center at the University of Virginia in conjunction with the Boston Public Library, Danvers Archival Center, Peabody and Essex Museum, Massachusetts Archives, and the Massachusetts Historical Society.
http://etext.lib.virginia.edu/salem/witchcraft/

Salem Witch Trials
http://cti.itc.virginia.edu/~jkh8x/soc257/nrms/salem.html

Transcripts of the Salem Witch Trials, 1692
http://www.universitylake.org/salem.html

Salem Witch Trials: Other Primary Sources
http://www.ogram.org/17thc/primarysources.shtml

The Examination of Mrs. Anne Hutchinson in the Court at Newton, 1637
http://personal.pitnet.net/primarysources/hutchinson.html

The Examination and Confession of Ann Foster at Salem Village, 1692
http://longman.awl.com/history/primarysource_2_6.htm

The Blood of the Lamb, the Conquering Weapon
A sermon by C.H. Spurgeon delivered on Lord's-day morning, September 9, 1888, at the Metropolitan Tabernacle, Newington, Sermon no. 2043.
"This is the way in which you should use this plea. Say, 'My God, I am utterly unworthy, and I own it; but, I beseech thee, hear me for the honour of thy dear Son. By his agony and bloody sweat, by his cross and passion, by his precious death and burial, I beseech thee hear me! O Lord, let the blood of thine Only-begotten prevail with thee! Canst thou put aside his groans, his tears, his death, when they speak on my behalf?' If you can thus come to pleading terms with God upon this ground, you must and will prevail. Jesus must be heard in heaven. The voice of his blood is eloquent with God. If you plead the atoning sacrifice, you must overcome through the blood of the Lamb." -- C.H. Spurgeon
http://www.mountzion.org/fgb/Summer97/FgbS6-97.html

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

With One Accord
http://www.withoneaccord.org/

A Resolution to Combat Mind Control With Truth
http://www.lettermen2.com/mindc.html

"Something Cool," Tierney Sutton
" 'Something Cool' (2002) quickly rose to #1 on the Jazz radio charts and includes favorites like 'Rt. 66' and 'Ding Dong the Witch is Dead' -- always treated with masterful creativity."
Tierney Sutton heads up Vocal Studies in the Jazz Department of the University of Southern California (USC).
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/stores/recs/radio/krex/-/album/B00006J9T0/ref=pd_krex_dp_a/002-9068142-8187204

Soul-violence

---

For the enemy hath persecuted my soul; he hath smitten my life down to the ground; he hath made me to dwell in darkness, as those that have been long dead. Therefore is my spirit overwhelmed within me; my heart within me is desolate. (Psalm 143: 3, 4)

Your iniquities have turned away these things, and your sins have withholden good things from you. For among my people are found wicked men: they lay wait, as he that setteth snares; they set a trap, they catch men. As a cage is full of birds, so are their houses full of deceit: therefore they are become great, and waxen rich. They are waxen fat, they shine: yea, they overpass the deeds of the wicked: they judge not the cause, the cause of the fatherless, yet they prosper; and the right of the needy do they not judge. Shall I not visit for these things? saith the LORD: shall not my soul be avenged on such a nation as this? A wonderful and horrible thing is committed in the land; The prophets prophesy falsely, and the priests bear rule by their means; and my people love to have it so: and what will ye do in the end thereof? (Jeremiah 5: 25-31)

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

In your patience possess ye your souls. -- Jesus Christ (Luke 21:19)

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

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

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

Soul-violence begins when one individual tries to usurping authority over another, to control and possess them. The means of control may be either outward or occult: possessiveness, deceit, repression or suppression of the truth, soul stealing, attempts to take authority over another politically or by mental malpractice, denial of freedom, indebtedness, whoredom, and so forth. Abuse of the soul quenches the Holy Spirit.
If either side is immovable, then death is the result of the conflict of will. How are conflicts of will resolved? By submission to the absolute truth of God's word. These observations bear a strain of the Gospel.

Acton, John E., Essays on Freedom and Power (Boston, MA: Beacon Press, 1948). 90111
Essays such as, "The History of Freedom in Christianity," "The Protestant Theory of Persecution," and so forth. Includes bibliography.
The Acton Institute is now controlled by the Roman Catholic Institution.

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)

Acton, John E., History of Freedom and Other Essays, facsimile edition (Salem, NH: Ayer Company Publishers, Incorporated, 1907). 90112
"Perhaps better known for the famous quote of how `power corrupts, and absolute power corrupts absolutely.' This work by Lord Acton is an excellent example of Europe's finest late 19th century political/historical intellectual. Acton's assertions are often dated due to the age within which he lived, but his perceptive views are worth investigating. Unfortunately Acton never wrote a single full volume of history. All that we have from Acton are compilations of his lectures, essays, and smaller works. The above such title being an example. The most interesting essay for American readers is Acton's essay on the American Revolution. A well read novice will be able to understand Acton's thesis, though his language can be somewhat difficult at times. The most fascinating aspect of this essay is Acton's assertion that America will degenerate into a `barbarous' nation unless America's black population is segregated to another country. Acton did not live long enough to see America's burgeoning civil rights movements, and was obliged to see America from the standpoint of post-Reconstruction America. The only reason I graded this work short of `10' is due to the language. Besides being fluent in five languages, Acton was an awe inspiring intellectual, and sometimes his prose reflects his intellectualism, thereby sacrificing some readability." -- John R. Grace

*Anderson, James N.D., Morality, Law and Grace (Wheaton, IL: Tyndale House Publishers, 1971). 90130
"Faces the pressing problems of the present day and provides perceptive counsel and sane solutions to the moral confusion of our contemporary society. Also underscores the relevancy of the Christian message, the uniqueness of its ethic, and the richness of its liberty. An admirable blending of scientific logic, legal expertise, and Biblical knowledge." -- Cyril J. Barber

Balodis, Jacquie, Soul Stealing: An Overview of Satanic and Black Witchcraft Ritual Abuse and Brainwashing, 1988.
This book has been discredited by one expert on cult/occult crime because of alleged known practices of the author after writing the book. Notice that creating and spreading false religion is the ultimate form of brain washing with the most horrific consequences.

Bussell, Harold, Unholy Devotion: Why Cults Lure Christians (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 1983). D1010
"The spiritual truths imparted through this book strengthened my understanding of Christianity in a way that has had a monumental and long-lasting impact upon my life. Even through the loss of both of my children during the past two years, my faith is still sustained when I re-read passages from it. Dr. Bussell is a committed Christian who understands God's grace and helps others understand it as well." -- Reader Comment

*Bunyan, John, The Holy War made by Shaddai upon Diabolus for the regaining of the metropolis of the world: or, The losing and taking again of the town of Mansoul. A Christian classic.
"I have read this novel before, and it is as good as PILGRIM'S PROGRESS. John Bunyan shows how Satan constantly tries to keep our souls, and uses all of the tricks in the book to try to keep our souls. This book is for Christians and non-Christians alike, the same is true with the THE PILGRIM'S PROGRESS. John Bunyan knows how to keep you entertained and thinking about what kind of shape your spirit is in. This book is a true masterpiece and is the best book about Spiritual Warfare that I have read so far." -- Reader Comment
"Bunyan's second and most loved work after Pilgrim's Progress. Also allegorical, this work tells the story of mankind's redemption by comparing it to a besieged city." -- Book Description
"Forget Frank Peretti! Bunyan's allegory on spiritual warfare is absolutely profound. The old tinker of Bedford knew whereof he spoke. The chronicles of Mansoul and the great battle for its mind, heart and spirit make difficult reading to be sure, but you will be rewarded for your perseverance a hundredfold!
"BONUS: Bunyan uses real army stratagems and tactics in his descriptions of the symbolic battles. He is believed to have picked up these details while a soldier in Cromwell's New Model Army." -- Reader Comment

*Enroth, Ronald, The Lure of Cults and New Religions: Why They Attract and What We Can Do (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press). D1000
"First published in 1979, this work probes the power and idiosyncrasies of cultic figures and exposes the inadequacies of their theologies. It also describes the methods of intimidation used by the different organizations and why they are able to enforce conformity on the part of their adherents. This important work should be placed in the hands of all college freshmen, while also being in every church library." -- Cyril J. Barber

*Hassan, Steven, Combating Cult Mind Control: The #1 Best-Selling Guide to Protection, Rescue and Recovery From Destructive Cults (Rochester, VT: Park Street Press, 1988). D1123
Recognize the signs of destructive organizations and protect yourself from psychological manipulation.
"Remarkably useful and important. I heartily recommend this book to anyone affected by the cult experience. Hassan's work will be valuable to health professionals, clergy, attorneys, and all those involved with cults, their members, and the families whose lives they touch." -- Louis Jolyon West, M.D., Chairman, Department of Psychiatry, UCLA School of Medicine.
Chapter 4, "Understanding Mind Control," explains how to recognize mind control activities.
Includes bibliography, bibliographical footnotes, index, and an appendix of resource organizations. Recommended as a valuable reference work. A secular author.
An Understanding of Cult Mind Control
http://www.shassan.com/

Hassan, Steven, Releasing The Bonds: Empowering People to Think for Themselves
"Help People to Recover from Abusive Relationships and Cults! My second book, RELEASING THE BONDS: EMPOWERING PEOPLE TO THINK FOR THEMSELVES, is the culmination of over twenty-five years of first-hand experience. I became interested in the issue of cults after being rescued by my family from the Moonies in 1976. I had dropped out of college and was indoctrinated to believe that Sun Myung Moon was the Messiah and that Armageddon was about to take place.
"Once liberated, I have gone on to spend twenty-three years working full-time in the area of cult mind control. I am a licensed mental health counselor with a Master's degree in counseling psychology from Cambridge College. I have helped thousands of people who have been hurt by cult groups and destructive relationships. I have appeared as an expert on television shows such as 60 Minutes, Nightline, Dateline, Oprah Winfrey, Larry King Live and have been appeared in innumerable publications and media.
"This book describes in detail my Strategic Interaction Approach. It involves a family-centered, goal-oriented communications method that systematically neutralizes phobias and empowers people to think independently. The book was written especially for concerned family and friends, mental health professionals, clergy and for anyone who wants to understand how intelligent, educated people can become dependent, obedient slaves." -- Steven Hassan
"Cults are rapidly spreading around the globe like viruses - changing constantly, adapting easily to new cultures, destroying hundreds of thousands of lives each year, by radically altering people's identities through mind control, brainwashing, hypnosis, and less subtle mind control techniques. What compels bright, energetic and idealistic people of all ages to give up their individuality, their freedom of mind, and oftentimes their jobs, wealth, and families to become a slave to a self-proclaimed master? Why do well-educated, highly intelligent people even offer their lives in mass suicides for what appear to be `nutty' beliefs? Once enslaved, how can victims of cults regain their freedom and begin to think for themselves again?
"In his new book, RELEASING THE BONDS: Empowering People to Think for Themselves, one of the world's foremost authorities on cult mind control, Steven Hassan, reveals the astonishingly effective behavior, information, thought and emotion control techniques (B.I.T.E.) at the root of all cult powers. With dozens of examples from real-life cases, Hassan presents a new, more refined, non-coercive, and totally legal Strategic Interaction Approach (S.I.A.) to freeing oneself from the terrible grip of life-threatening cults, enabling cult victims to think independently again.
"Hassan's revolutionary Strategic Interaction Approach replaces crude deprogramming and kidnapping rescue attempts with an in-depth process of evaluating the situation;interacting with dual identities;communication strategies for phone calls, letter writing and visits;understanding and utilizing cult beliefs and tactics; techniques to reality-test and promote freedom of mind;planning and instituting effective interventions.
"The extent to which cults have invaded the social infrastructures is a truly staggering phenomenon in the modern world. RELEASING THE BONDS: Empowering People to Think for Themselves by Steven Hassan is a profoundly insightful probe into a vast, expanding secret world in our everyday midst, offering hope for those lost in misery and freedom of mind for those who have the courage to overcome their fears." -- Publisher's Annotation

*Johnston, Jerry, with Bill Stern, The Edge of Evil: The Rise of Satanism in North America (Dallas, TX: Word Publishing, 1989). [20945]
Foreword by Geraldo Rivera. "Amid the hoopla and shock of occult mysteries and Jerry Johnston's trans-continental investigation he ferrets out the truth. The intoxication of satanic power, the mind-warping of Satan's new children isn't easy reading, but it is must reading for every parent, educator, and teenager desiring to be protected. . . . Jerry Johnston's profound impact on young people and their parents has been acclaimed by educators, clergy, mayors, media personalities, politicians, and President Reagan coast-to-coast . . . . Johnston is considered an expert on youth culture and trends. . . ." -- Publisher's Annotation

*Leahy, Frederick S., Satan Cast Out: A Study in Biblical Demonology (Carlisle, PA: Banner of Truth Trust, 1990, 1975).
"It is often said that wherever there is a rejection of faith in the living God a corresponding upsurge of the demonic will eventually appear. That is true not only in the pages of the Bible and in the annals of Christian missions; it has also become a striking feature of the life in our materialistic, post-Christian society. . . . Full of sane exposition and wise counsel, his work has been widely appreciated since its first publication in 1975." -- Publisher's Annotation
"Probably one of the best, most Scriptural books written today on the subject of demonology." -- Presbyterian Journal

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

Martin, Grant, Counseling in Cases of Family Violence and Abuse (Resources in Christian Counseling Series, Vol. 6. Dallas, TX: Word Publishing, 1987).

Martin, Paul R., "Dispelling the Myths: The Psychological Consequences of Cultic Involvement," Christian Research Journal, Winter/Spring 1989 (San Juan Capistrano, CA: Christian Research Institute International). D1022A
Dispels six myths and gives seven steps to recovery for those who have been taken in by a cult. Includes bibliographic footnotes.

McKenney, Tom, and Jim Shaw, The Deadly Deception: Freemasonry Exposed (Lafayette, LA: Huntington House, 1988). D1062
"This is an impossible book for a Mason to dismiss, since it was written by one of their own, who reached the very pinnacle of prestige and power and then, like Paul, counted it all as `dung' next to the beauty and glory of Jesus Christ. (Philippians 3:8) It is also a testimony which will bless any Christian's heart!" -- Ed Decker
"Not one in 10,000 Masons understands what Masonry is really about. . . . Find out how Christians get into Masonry and why they must get out." -- Publisher's Annotation
Excellent for witnessing to Masons.

Epperson, Ralph, Masonry: Conspiracy Against Christianity Evidence That the Masonic Lodge Has a Secret Agenda
"First, let me say that I used 29 books by the top 12 Masonic writers (Rex Hutchens, Albert G. Mackey, Arthur Edward Waite, John Robinson, Henry Clausen, Henry Wilson Coil, Carl Claudy, W.L. Wilmshurst, Kenneth MacKenzie, William Hutchison, and of course Albert Pike and Manly P. Hall.) Each of them is a recognized Masonic authority; in fact, Mr. Pike was `the leader of the world wide Masonic movement.' So, when I quoted them, I was quoting their own authorities. Secondly, there are 470 quotations inside my book, the overwhelming majority of which come from these 29 books. It is true that Mr. Hall did not become a Mason when he started writing about this secret organization. But when he died on August 7, 1990, the Scottish Rite Journal, the official magazine of the Scottish Rite, called him `Masonry's Greatest Philosopher.' They ended their eulogy with: `The world is a far better place because of Manly Palmer Hall, and we are better persons for having known him and his work.' `His work' certainly included THE LOST KEYS OF FREEMASONRY, which tells the reader (page 48:) `The seething energies of Lucifer [this is the name of the Devil in the Holy Bible] are in his hands [the hands of the Mason] and before he may step onward and upward, he must prove his ability to properly apply energy.' I believe the reader of this review will now know why my critic did not mention this in his criticism. I found THE LOST KEYS that contains this revealing quotation on an official Masonic magazine's `list of recommended reading,' so the Mason is encouraged to learn that he can possess `the seething energies of Lucifer' after he completed his initiation. So I was justified in using that quotation in my book. I used the quotations from Mr. Pike's book MORALS AND DOGMA because the Masons acknowledge this book as being one of their key ones. This comes from A BRIDGE TO LIGHT, unanimously approved by the `Committee on Rituals and Ceremonies' of the Supreme Council of the 33rd Degree. Mr. Hutchens, a 33rd Degree Mason, wrote: `contained within its pages are some of the most profound teachings' of the Masons. So it appears that whoever Mr. Pike quotes, he wants the reader to learn `some of the most profound teachings' of the Masons. I will conclude with this: I will leave the debate up to the reader. Let me ask: what if I am right? What if the `true purpose' of the Masons (as Mr. Pike wrote) is the actual destruction of Christianity? Remember that I did my research in the very writings of the Masons themselves! The Masons themselves will prove that I am correct!" -- Ralph Epperson
"I read "Masonry Conspiracy Against Christianity" my interest was piqued after reading Epperson's THE UNSEEN HAND. Do world changing events like our Civil War and Communism have roots that can be traced to Solomon's Temple and earlier? What do Albert Pike and the KKK have in common with Karl Marx? Where is the New World Order going from here? Is there room for Christianity in worldwide governance? You probably know the answers to these questions already or you wouldn't be actively seeking for the real TRUTH. Epperson has the courage to come forward with the facts about a secret organization that is said to ordain kings and shape governments. The book is well written rife with footnotes and references. Ralph Epperson gives new meaning to history, in fact after reading this book you will never view history in the same `light' again, I promise you." -- Reader Comment

Peters, David B., A Betrayal of Innocence: What Everyone Should Know About Child Sexual Abuse (Dallas, TX: Word Publishing, c1986). [20649]
"Covers what abuse is, the signs and effects it can have, what to do once abuse is discovered, how to question a child, precautionary measures every parent should take, whom to trust, whom not to trust, and how to overcome emotional trauma and live a happy life."

Roebuck, Julian B., and Marcus L. Hickson, The Southern Redneck: A Phenomenalogical Class Study (Westport, CT: Praeger Publishers, 1982).
Not perjuritive. Includes extensive bibliography.
"The Redneck's chief problem remains false consciousness." -- Julian Roebuck

Schlesinger, Benjamin, Sexual Abuse of Children: A Resource Guide and Annotated Bibliography (Toronto, Canada: University of Toronto Press, 1982). [20651] "An informative guide to the literature covering all aspects of sexual molestation -- including profiles of parents and siblings." -- Cyril J. Barber

Weldon, John, and Clifford Wilson, Occult Shock and Psychic Forces (Chattanooga, TN: Global, c1987). D1122

See also: Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, Sexual relationship, A Selection of Works on Pseudo-Christian Movements, Mind Control, Signs of a Destructive Cult, Sexual relationship, Pride, Abuse, Child Abuse, Spiritual Warfare, Churches That Abuse

Related WebLinks

The Blood of the Lamb, the Conquering Weapon
A sermon by C.H. Spurgeon delivered on Lord's-day morning, September 9, 1888, at the Metropolitan Tabernacle, Newington, Sermon no. 2043.
"This is the way in which you should use this plea. Say, 'My God, I am utterly unworthy, and I own it; but, I beseech thee, hear me for the honour of thy dear Son. By his agony and bloody sweat, by his cross and passion, by his precious death and burial, I beseech thee hear me! O Lord, let the blood of thine Only-begotten prevail with thee! Canst thou put aside his groans, his tears, his death, when they speak on my behalf?' If you can thus come to pleading terms with God upon this ground, you must and will prevail. Jesus must be heard in heaven. The voice of his blood is eloquent with God. If you plead the atoning sacrifice, you must overcome through the blood of the Lamb." -- C.H. Spurgeon
http://www.mountzion.org/fgb/Summer97/FgbS6-97.html

Priestcraft

---

If this people go up to do sacrifice in the house of the LORD at Jerusalem, then shall the heart of this people turn again unto their lord, even unto Rehoboam king of Judah, and they shall kill me, and go again to Rehoboam king of Judah. (He feared that while the tribes went up every year to the temple, the old love to one another would revive, and seeing the palace of the house of David in its magnificence, they might feel regret for having revolted from their ancient line of kings: Jeroboam therefore felt that the temple worship endangered his position. He was a man of a crafty mind, like Ahithophel, and had no fear of God before his eyes, and therefore he resolved to set up a new religion. God's honour was nothing to him. Worldly policy and other base motives have often been the reasons for founding false systems of religion.)
Whereupon the king took counsel, and made two calves of gold, and said unto them, It is too much for you to go up to Jerusalem: behold thy gods, O Israel, which brought thee up out of the land of Egypt. (Men naturally love ease, and prefer a religion which involves little trouble and inconvenience, hence Jeroboam craftily appealed to this degrading propensity of human nature; but how disgraceful it was on the part of Israel that under such a pretext they sould forsake the living God and bow before the image of a bullock. May wae never leave the good old paths of truth for the sake of honour, position, gain, or ease. Let us cleave unto the Lord with purpose of heart.)
And he set the one in Bethel, and the other put he in Dan.
And this thing became a sin: for the people went to worship before the one, even unto Dan. (At both ends of the land, so that none might have far to travel.)
And he made an house of high places, and made priests of the lowest of the people, which were not of the sons of Levi. (The true priests were faithful and hence he must needs set up others. This speaks well for the Levites. If all other men become idolators, God's ministers must not.)
And Jeroboam ordained a feast in the eighth month, on the fifteenth day of the month, like unto the feast that is in Judah, and he offered upon the altar. So did he in Bethel, sacrificing unto the calves that he had made: and he placed in Bethel the priests of the high places which he had made.
So he offered upon the altar which he had made in Bethel the fifteenth day of the eighth month, even in the month which he had devised of his own heart; and ordained a feast unto the children of Israel: and he offered upon the altar, and burnt incense. (He dared to take upon himself the priesthood, to change the ordained sesons for worship, to set up a rival altar, and to adore God under a symbolic form. All this was detestable in the sight of God. It is to be feared that in our day many are guilty of Jeroboam's sin, for they invent rites and ceremonies of their own, and forsake the Lord, who is a Spirit, and must be worshipped in spirit and in truth. O for grace to be faithful to the World of God in all points.) (1 Kings 12:27-33) -- Spurgeon's Devotional Bible

And, behold, there came a man of God out of Judah by the word of the LORD unto Bethel: and Jeroboam stood by the altar to burn incense.
And he cried against the altar in the word of the LORD, and said, O altar, altar, thus saith the LORD; Behold, a child shall be born unto the house of David, Josiah by name; and upon thee shall he offer the priests of the high places that burn incense upon thee, and men's bones shall be burnt upon thee.
And he gave a sign the same day, saying, This is the sign which the LORD hath spoken; Behold, the altar shall be rent, and the ashes that are upon it shall be poured out. (This was bravely spoken. The prophet feared not the wrath of the king or of the crowds around him. Messengers of God must not fear the faces of men.) (1 Kings 13:1-3) -- Spurgeon's Devotional Bible

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

Charles Spurgeon on the apostasy in the Presbyterian Church in Scotland in 1870:
"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, "Ministers Sailing Under False Colours", Sword and Trowel, February 1870, quoted by John W. Robbins, February 10, 2006

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

Anonymous, The behaviour of the clergy, as well as their traditions, destructive of religion, or, a succinct history of priestcraft, throughout all ages, 2d edition (London, England: Printed for A. Dodd [etc.], 1731).

Anonymous, Priestcraft exposed (New Haven, CT: Carter and Henderson).

Anonymous, Priestcraft exposed and primitive Christianity defended (Lockport, NY: E.A. Cooley).

Dennis, John (1657-1734), The danger of priestcraft to religion and government: with some politick reasons for toleration, occasion'd by a discourse of Mr. Sacheverel's intitul'd The political union &c., lately printed at Oxford: in a letter to a new-elected member of Parliament (London, England: printed in the year 1702).

Dennis, John, (1657-1734), Priestcraft distinguish'd from Christianity, 3rd edition (London, England: Printed for J. Roberts, 1718).
Shewing: I. That wicked priests are the real antichrists mention'd in Scripture.--II. That the corruption of the laity in all Christian states proceeds from the corruption of the clergy.--III. That there was a more general vertue in the grossest times of paganism, than there has been since our Saviour came into the world.--IV. That there is a more general vertue in other parts of the globe, than in the Christian world.--V. That there was a more general vertue in our own nation in the times of our ancestors, than there is in our own times; and that priestcraft, and corruption of manners, have increas'd together.

Dennis, John (1657-1734), The select works of Mr. John Dennis ... (London, England: Printed by J. Darby, 1718).
Notes: v. l. Poetical works. Priestcraft dangerous to religion and government. Proposal for putting a speedy end to the war, written upon the death of Charles II of Spain. Essay upon publick spirit. Essay on the operas after the Italian manner.--v. 2. Iphigenia, a tragedy. Liberty asserted, a tragedy. Appius and Virginia, a tragedy. A plot and no plot, or Jacobite credulity, a comedy. Priestcraft distinguish'd from Christianity. The grounds of criticism in poetry. Letters upon several occasions, written by and between Mr. Dryden, Mr. Wycherley, Mr.---, Mr. Congreve, and the author.

Douglas, James, The system of Methodism further exposed; and the wiles of priestcraft investigated: being a refutation of the calumnies contained in the pamphlet of the Rev. Mr. Farrar, entitled "The condemner of Methodism condemned;" with a further development of the plans adopted by the Wesleyan preachers to enslave their followers, and establish a system of universal tyranny and priestly dominion (S.l.: Printed for the author, by J. Mitchell, 1814).

Howitt, William (1792-1879), William Howitt's abridgment of his popular History of Priestcraft, reprint edition (Kessinger Publishing, February 1, 1998, and London: England: Effingham Wilson, 1834). "Two Evil Principles: Kingcraft and Priestcraft; Paganism; Mythology of the Assyrians and Syrians; Establishment of Monkery (monks); Popish Arrogance and Atrocities; Jesuits and Inquisitors; English Church; Ministerial Plan of Irish Church Reform; Clerical Incomes; Evils of the system of Church Patronage; Retrospect view of of the Effects of Priestcraft."

Kraut, Ogden, The four crafts: doctorcraft, lawyercraft, priestcraft, kingcraft (Salt Lake City, UT: Pioneer Press, 1994).
The Mormon doctrine of the priestcraft.

*Robbins, John W., Ecclesiastical Megalomania: The Economic and Political Thought of the Roman Catholic Church (Unicoi, TN: The Trinity Foundation), ISBN: 0940931753 9780940931756.
The following presents, by contrast, what a Christian society should look like.
"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.

Sloan, James, Priestcraft unmasked, or, The Whore of Rome, alias Mystery Babylon the Great: the mother of harlots and abominations of the earth, that hath made all nations drunk with the wine of her fornication, stripped of her gay and fascinating [sic] attire, and shown in her genuine form, which is that of a filthy painted harlot (Sloansville, NY: Printed for the author, James Sloan, late member of Congress from New-Jersey, 1829).

See also: Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, Sexual relationship, Tyranny, False gospels, Unfaithful reformed ministries, Effeminacy, Antichrist, The counter reformation, Machiavellianism, Mind control, intimidation, and coercion, Secret societies, ungodly alliances, voluntary associations, Reform of the church, The local church, Sorcery, Soul-violence, Conspiracy and corruption, Antinomianism

Related WebLinks

Rebellion and Lawlessness: Wickedness, Demonic Possession, Substance Abuse, Abnormal Behavior, Insanity, Mental Illness, Mental Retardation
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrrappd.html#rlinsane

The Blood of the Lamb, the Conquering Weapon
A sermon by C.H. Spurgeon delivered on Lord's-day morning, September 9, 1888, at the Metropolitan Tabernacle, Newington, Sermon no. 2043.
"This is the way in which you should use this plea. Say, 'My God, I am utterly unworthy, and I own it; but, I beseech thee, hear me for the honour of thy dear Son. By his agony and bloody sweat, by his cross and passion, by his precious death and burial, I beseech thee hear me! O Lord, let the blood of thine Only-begotten prevail with thee! Canst thou put aside his groans, his tears, his death, when they speak on my behalf?' If you can thus come to pleading terms with God upon this ground, you must and will prevail. Jesus must be heard in heaven. The voice of his blood is eloquent with God. If you plead the atoning sacrifice, you must overcome through the blood of the Lamb." -- C.H. Spurgeon
http://www.mountzion.org/fgb/Summer97/FgbS6-97.html

Machiavellianism

---

*Bastiat, Frederic, The Law (Foundation for Economic Education, October 1998). A Christian classic.
"Full of truths that are not merely relevant, but are absolutely vital to our future." -- Congressman Dick Armey
"If ever there was a concise and powerful argument for defending Liberty and the Law against every social engineer, this has to be it (only 75 pages!). Bastiat is a master of words and the analogy. Every lover of freedom who wishes to get a nutshell understanding of why Liberty and Law matters ought to read this book. . . ." -- Reader Comment
The Law by Frederic Bastiat (Part 1 of 10)
"The law perverted! And the police powers of the state perverted along with it! The law, I say, not only turned from its proper purpose but made to follow an entirely contrary purpose! The law become the weapon of every kind of greed! Instead of checking crime, the law itself guilty of the evils it is supposed to punish! " -- Frederic Bastiat, from the Introduction
http://nesara.org/articles/bastiat_the_law01.htm

*Baxter, Richard, William Lamont (editor) A Holy Commonwealth (Cambridge Texts in the History of Political Thought. New York, NY: Cambridge University Press, 1994).
"A HOLY COMMONWEALTH is Richard Baxter's invisible masterpiece." -- William Lamont
"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
Contains 380 theses on government with commentary when available. These 380 aphorisms are valuable casuistry in support of Christian magistracy.
Baxter's repudiation of the work is also included. It is interesting to note that he never repudiated the first part of the book, which lays the foundation for Christian Magistracy. It was only the second part that was repudiated by, as Lamont says, his public persona which was Arminian.
Apparently, in Richard Baxter we have an example of the Armenian being unable to stand publicly for Covenanted Reformation, yet his private persona wrote A HOLY COMMONWEALTH, and his unpublished papers show that he continued to recommend the work to associates after his public repudiation.

*Brutus, Junius (attributed to Philippe Duplessis-Mornay), A Defense of Liberty Against Tyrants (New York, NY: Gordon Press Publishers, 1992, 1689, 1579). (Available from Still Waters Revival Books). Alternate title: Vindiciae, Contra Tyrannos: Or, Concerning the Legitimate Power of a Prince Over the People, and of the People Over a Prince, George Garnett (editor), (Cambridge Univ Pr).
This is a reprint of a 1689 edition of this work, which was originally written in 1579.
"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
"John Adams held this book to be one of the most influential books in America on the eve of the Revolution. This `defense' manual will help equip you for the battle." -- Publisher's Annotation
"This book was even more influential than Thomas Payne's COMMON SENSE, in molding the American mind and preparing it for the war for independence. Much of our Declaration of Independence reflects its wisdom and thought. Written by a French Huguenot to give Biblical and civil justification for fighting against a government that was illegally killing it own people during the religious wars on France between 1540s-late 1700. A must reading for those who want to understand religious and political history of Europe, or want to better understand the Biblical justification sought by our own founding fathers in their fight for independence. A must read!" -- Reader Comment
Vidiciae Contra Tyrannos: A Defense of Liberty Against Tyrants, by Junius Brutus, attributed to Philippe Duplessis-Mornay
http://www.constitution.org/vct/vindiciae.htm
The Covenant between God and Kings, from A DEFENSE OF LIBERTY
http://www.constitution.org/vct/vindiciae1a.htm

*Frederick II, King of Prussia, Frederick of Prussia Anti-Machiavel (Ohio University Press, November 1981). ISBN: 0821405594 9780821405598 0821405985 9780821405987
"This delightful and hard to find book, translated with only minor variations, does include the 2nd chapter from Voltaire, as it was missing from the original manuscript. Frederick is threatened it would seem by the writings of THE PRINCE in the hands of mere political overachievers. He is constantly referring to the difference in the beliefs of Kings and 'would be' princes. Frederick picks Machiavelli's writing apart line by line and deserves a second read with THE PRINCE close at hand. An integeral link to the real Frederick of Prussia." -- Reader's Comment
Frederick the Great's ANTI-MACHIAVEL
http://www.geocities.com/danielmacryan/antimac.html

*Marshall, Walter, 1628-1680, The Gospel-Mystery of Sanctification (London, England: Oliphants Press, 1956, 1692) and (Grand Rapids, MI: Reformation Heritage Books, Inc.,) 1999).
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."
Also available from Trinity Book Service and . [10363]
"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.
The Secret of Sanctification: Union With Christ: Walter Marshall's Gospel Mystery of Sanctification, Joel R. Beeke
http://www.hnrc.org/html/marshall.html
The Gospel-Mystery of Sanctification, Walter Marshall
http://www.lettermen2.com/gmswm.html

*Machiavelli, Niccolo, The Prince (Oxford Univ Pr).
This famous analysis of statesmanship and power, lauded by the world system and read by practically all politicians, will give insight to those who may still not understand power politics in Washington. But to fully understand the current situation in the Federal government even the discerning person must work in a Federal office or within the corporate limits of the District of Columbia for at least a year. A secular author.
The Prince, Nicolo Machiavelli
http://books.mirror.org/gb.machiavelli.html

Phillips, Kevin, American Dynasty: Aristocracy, Fortune, and the Politics of Deceit in the House of Bush (Viking Books, January 1, 2004).
"Paraphrasing a passage from Machiavelli's THE PRINCE, Kevin Phillips writes, 'a ruler can ignore the mob and devote himself to the interests of the ruling class, gulling the inert majority who constitute the ruled.' He then says, 'Borgia references aside, 21st-century American readers of THE PRINCE may feel that they have stumbled on a thinly disguised Bush White House political memo.' These pointed words would sting regardless of who uttered them, but coming from Phillips, a former Republican strategist, they have an added piquancy. In AMERICAN DYNASTY: ARISTOCRACY, FORTUNE, AND THE POLITICS OF DECEIT IN THE HOUSE OF BUSH, Phillips traces the rise of the Bush family from investment banking elites to political power brokers, using their Ivy League network, vast wealth, and questionable political maneuvering to obtain the White House and consequently, shake the foundation of constitutional American democracy. Citing the Bush family mainstays of finance, energy (oil), the military industrial complex, and national security and intelligence (the CIA), Phillips uses copious examples to show the dangerous alliance between the Bushes' business interests (huge corporations such as Enron and Haliburton) and the formation of national policy. No other family, Phillips says, that has fulfilled its presidential aspirations has been so involved in the ascendancy of the arms industry and of the 21st-century American imperium -- often at the expense of regional and world peace and for their personal gain.
"It is hard to tell what offends Phillips the most: the Bushes' systematic deceit and secrecy, their shady business dealings, their cronyism, or their family philosophy that privileges the very wealthy and utterly dismisses all the rest. It is clearly all of these things combined. But at the top of Phillips' list is the dynastic nature of their family power, for it is that concentration of power and influence that strikes at the heart of our democracy. Past administrations have transgressed, albeit not so egregiously, and other political families have had dynastic ambitions. But none have succeeded as thoroughly as the Bushes. Jefferson and Madison would be horrified, and according to Phillips, we should be too." --Silvana Tropea

*Robbins, John W., Ecclesiastical Megalomania: The Economic and Political Thought of the Roman Catholic Church (Unicoi, TN: The Trinity Foundation), ISBN: 0940931753 9780940931756.
The following presents, by contrast, what a Christian society should look like.
"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.

*Rutherford, Samuel, Lex, Rex (Harrisonburg, VA [Sprinkle Publications, P.O. Box 1094, Harrisonburg, 22803]: Sprinkle Publications), EEBO.
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, "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

Strauss, Leo, The Thoughts on Machiavelli (University of Chicago Press).
"Towering achievement: One of the best and most important books of the 20th Century. . . . Strauss traces the beginnings of modernity to a conscious design of Machiavelli's to overthrow all previous authority in favor of `new modes and orders.' In other words, according to Strauss, the world we live in is not only not the result of impersonal, inevitable `progress,' it was made possible by one man who knew exactly what he was doing.
"Through a detailed analysis of Machiavelli's books, Strauss shows how . . . important feature[s] of modern thought . . . [are] either directly traceable to Machiavelli, or else depends on a foundation he built. More importantly, Strauss outlines the differences between Machiavellism and what Machiavelli sought to replace -- thereby making possible a (qualified) return to the superior understanding of pre-Machiavellian philosophy.
"Such a return becomes more necessary every day, as the contradictions and prodigious errors of modern thought continue to erode civilization. Strauss . . . has shown that return is possible -- and this book is an indispensable guide for how to get there." -- Reader Comment "It is misleading to describe the thinker Machiavelli as a patriot. He is a patriot of a particular kind: he is more concerned with the salvation of his fatherland than with the salvation of his soul. His patriotism therefore presupposes a comprehensive reflection regarding the status of the fatherland on the one hand and of the soul on the other. This comprehensive reflection, and not his patriotism, established his fame and made him the teacher of many men in all countries. The substance of his thought is not Florentine, or even Italian, but universal. It concerns, and it is meant to concern, all thinking men regardless of time and place. . . .
"Patriotism, as Machiavelli understood it is collective selfishness. The indifference to the distinction between right and wrong which springs from devotion to one's country is less repulsive than the indifference to the distinction which springs from exclusive preoccupation with one's own ease or glory. . . . Love of one's own is inferior to love of what is both one's own and good. To justify Machiavelli's terrible counsels by having recourse to his patriotism, means to see the virtues of that patriotism while being blind to that which is higher than patriotism, or to that which both hallows and limits patriotism. In referring to Machiavelli's patriotism one does not dispose of a mere semblance of evil; one merely obscures something truly evil. . . .
"Machiavelli seems merely to attempt to show that the Biblical teaching contradicts experience or contradicts itself. He does not refer to the possibility that human assertions regarding God and divine things are necessarily self-contradictory nor does he consider that limitations of experience as he understood experience. . . .
"According to Machiavelli, Biblical religion and pagan religion have this in common, that they are both of merely human origin. . . .
"Machiavelli was not the first man to assert that religion is both untrue and salutary. Religion is a part of virtue or is a virtue. . . . Religion is indeed indispensable for the well-being of a republic but not for that of a principality ruled by a prince of outstanding virtue. . . .
"Machiavelli may be said to foreshadow the extreme form of `enlightened despotism.' In his usage, a virtuous prince is not so much a prince possessing moral virtue as a prince of strong mind and will who prudently uses his moral virtue and vice according to the requirements of the situation. A virtuous prince in this sense cannot be religious. In other words, a prince need not be religious and ought not to be religious, but it is most important for him to appear to be religious." -- Leo Strauss

See also: Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, Sexual relationship, Book length presentations of the free offer of Gospel message of salvation and the life to come: the means of grace, Reform of the church, Unfaithful reformed ministries, A theological interpretation of american history, Corporate faithfulness and sanctification, Conspiracy and corruption, Politics, Friendly fascism, Tyranny, Ensnaring oaths (vows, promises, covenants) and bonds with the ungodly, Justification, Forgiveness, Sanctification, Petitions, Referendums, Politics

Related WebLinks

Hitech Polygraphy as a Means of Broadscale Reform (Preliminary DRAFT)
http://members.aol.com/vtpa/pvtpa010.html

Trinitarianism Verses Polytheism: Unresolved Questions of Article VI, Section 3 of the U.S. Constitution
http://members.aol.com/vtpa/pvtpa001.html

The Biblical Test of Character for Candidates for Public Office, all Civil Servants, Magistrates, Judges, and all Lawyers
http://members.aol.com/vtpa/pvtpa002.html

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

"Treason and Impeachment"
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr9cha.html#treason

Conservative Petitions
http://www.conservativepetitions.com/

Virginia Trinitarian Pro-nomian Alliance
http://members.aol.com/VTPA/vtpahome.html

Mind Control, Intimidation, and Coercion

---

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

And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. (Romans 12:2)

(For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;) Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ; And having in readiness to revenge all disobedience, when your obedience is fulfilled. (2 Corinthians 10:4-6)

Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it. -- Jesus Christ (John 8:44)

My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge: because thou hast rejected knowledge, I will also reject thee, that thou shalt be no priest to me: seeing thou hast forgotten the law of thy God, I will also forget thy children. As they were increased, so they sinned against me: therefore will I change their glory into shame. -- The Word of The Lord (Hosea 4:6,7)

Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me do: and the God of peace shall be with you. (Philippians 4:8,9)

That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; and be renewed in the spirit of your mind; and that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness. (Ephesians 4:22-24)

For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts. (Isaiah 55:8,9)

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

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

It's a con game: Eastern meditation, witchcraft, divination, Science of Mind, psychic healing, holistic education -- oh, the list goes on and on -- it's all the same thing, nothing but a ruse to take over people's minds and spirits, even their bodies. -- Frank Peretti

Journalism is the search for truth. . . . -- Lee Web

Anything we hear often enough, to the exclusion of everything else, we will begin to believe is true.

Mind control is deception taken to its extreme.

The Deceiver's strategy is to blind our eyes to truth, to repress and suppress truth, and to withhold knowledge. Knowing only part of the truth, instead of the whole truth, makes us vulnerable to deception, persuasion, manipulation, and entrapment. It is called mind control.

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

Soul-violence begins when one individual tries to usurping authority over another, to control and possess them. The means of control may be either outward or occult: possessiveness, deceit, repression or suppression of the truth, soul stealing, attempts to take authority over another politically or by mental malpractice, denial of freedom, indebtedness, whoredom, and so forth. Abuse of the soul quenches the Holy Spirit.
If either side is immovable, then death is the result of the conflict of will. How are conflicts of will resolved? By submission to the absolute truth of God's word. These observations bear a strain of the Gospel.

Adams, Dan, The Child Influencers: Restoring the Lost Art of Parenting [70180]
"Dan Adams does a great job focusing on the needs of our children and how we as parents can and should meet those needs. It is not the responsibility of the church, YMCA, day-care center, or public school to meet those needs. As parents, we need to take seriously the God given responsibility we have been given and determine to be the main influence in our children's lives. The result of our efforts can either be rewards for a job well done, or grief from a rebellious child that was not properly guided. This book contains many insights on how to spend quantity time, not just quality time, with our children and gives many ideas on how to turn the TV set off and get our children to enjoy reading alone as well as reading together as a family, and build memories as a family that will be the root system that the child will need to withstand the "winds" later in life." -- Reader Comments

Anderson, Peter, Satan's Snare: The Influence of the Occult (Philadelphia, PA: The Presbyterian and Reformed Publishing Co., 1988). [20843]
"The author provides valuable information on many occult practices and their insidious influences on people's thinking. Includes a helpful chapter on counseling." -- GCB

Beechick, Ruth, A Biblical Psychology of Learning: How Your Mind Works (Denver, CO: Accent Books, 1982).
"May be the finest book on the contemporary scene that explains the learning process, while allowing the Scriptures to judge the vast array of learning theories. The mode of learning the author presents and her discussion of creativity, higher thinking, and the spiritual developmental tasks are provocative. But her use of the Biblical concept of the heart marks the book with its uniqueness. It pries open a variety of areas with a new touch." -- Warren S. Benson

Boice, James Montgomery, Renewing Your Mind in a Mindless Age: Learning to Think and ACT Biblically

Bozell, L. Brent, III, and Brent H. Baker, And That's The Way It Is(n't): A Reference Guide to Media Bias (Alexandria, VA: Media Research Center, 1990). 90464
An expos‚ of the liberal anti-American, anti-Christian hold on the media. Reviewed by Loren Mitchel in Letter From Plymouth Rock, January 1991. David Burke, the President of CBS News, was formerly the Chief of Staff for Senator Ted Kennedy (D-MA). Secular authors.

Eakman, B.K., Cloning of the American Mind: Eradicating Morality through Education
"Mrs. Eakman's book is an excellent overview of various psychological schools of thought that have done more than almost any other discipline to adversely effect the modern age. As Mrs. Eakman points out, it is no accident that psychology and politics have come together in order to discover ways to manipulate attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors on a mass scale. While her book is meant to describe the ways in which psychological based curriculum, coupled with electronic data retrieval systems on the part of the State have created psychological profiling and attitude readjustment programs for all school-aged children, her book really out to be read as an expose of more sinister agendas and programs undertaken by governments in this century. The most interesting sections of the book are the ones that connect the development of 19th century materialist atheistic psychologies and 20th century totalitarian politics: the career paths of Nazi and Soviet psychologists crossing with that of such influential Foundations as the Ford and Carnegie Foundations, together with psychological programs emerging out of the Intelligence community after the War, is particularly disturbing. Mrs. Eakman connects the dots, pointing out how a particular person started off in Intelligence, made his way into academia, only to find his way to the corporate world or the media. The only draw back of her book is the absence in many places of detailed footnotes and citing of sources. However, for anyone who has actually read Kurt Lewin or Frankfurt School luminaries, it isn't hard to believe her claims. Additionally, Mrs. Eakman sometimes confuses personages and history: when referring to Dr. Albert Hoffman, the Swiss chemist who developed LSD, she claims he later became a counterculture icon known as Albert 'Abbie' Hoffman -- almost suggesting that Abbie Hoffman of the Sixties and Dr. Albert Hoffman are one and the same. She is also out of her element when discussing philosophers and leading intellectuals. At one point she claims that in Bertrand Russell in his writings about 'a certain educator, Johann Fichte' -- not realizing that Fichte was a Neo-Kantian German philosopher of the earlier 19th century. There are other snafus like these here and there but these can be easily forgiven in light of her insightful analyses and heroic overview of 20th century psychology. To some, Mrs. Eakman's book may sound like 'wacky' conspiracy theories. However, there are a number of so-called mainstream books and publications that have made the same accusations that Mrs. Eakman does and have provided histories of psychological warfare. For the skeptical, try reading Christopher Simpson's book -- published by Oxford Press." -- Reader Comment

Ellul, Jacque, Propaganda: The Formation of Men's Attitudes (New York, NY: Random House, Incorporated, 1973). 20847
Jacques Ellul, famous French author describes the incredible process of propaganda. Totally relevant in today's mind numbing information processing society. Arguably one of the most informative and concise books written on the subject. If you ever wondered what is propaganda and why do you think like you do, this book may help explain some of the difficulties in modern man's inherent thinking. The fact that this comes from French soil and was written prior to the Ken Starr investigation makes it all the more compelling.

*Enroth, Ronald, The Lure of Cults and New Religions: Why They Attract and What We Can Do. [20838]
"Written to prepare parents and those who work with young people for the psychological, sociological, and pseudospiritual onslaughts of cultists who yearly ensnare into their totalitarian systems large numbers of America's youth. Provides timely warning." -- Cyril J. Barber

FERGUSSON, JAMES, Refutation of the errors of toleration, independency, erastianism, and separation, 1692, Still Waters Revival Books, EEBO.
See also: The Bible Doctrine of the Separated Life: Part I, 1960 Johannes G. Vos
http://members.aol.com/RSIGRACE/vos1.html

*Fuller, Thomas, Good Thoughts in Bad Times (Ann Arbor, MI: University Microfilms International). 20080
A Christian classic.

*Goodwin, Thomas, Vanity of Thoughts Discovered EEBO. [31014]
See THE WORKS OF THOMAS GOODWIN [31013]. A Christian classic.

Grant, George, The Family Under Siege: What the New Social Engineers Have in Mind for You and Your Children (Bethany House).
"As many Christian families sense their values being undermined, Grant offers a fast-paced, well-researched look at some of the major powers at work--groups like the ACLU, NEA, National Organization of Women--to show how new social agendas of these groups are gaining control over the most sacred areas of life." -- Synopsis

Haselden, Kyle, Morality and the Mass Media (Nashville, TN: Broadman Press, 1968). 90391
"An important, revealing study of the effect of radio, TV, newspapers, and novels on the moral climate." -- Cyril J. Barber

*Hassan, Steven, Combating Cult Mind Control: The #1 Best-Selling Guide to Protection, Rescue and Recovery From Destructive Cults. D1123
An Understanding of Cult Mind Control
http://www.shassan.com/

IMP, The Pagan Invasion Series (Jeremiah Films). 20852 [110059B]
"Each stereo VHS tape is about 48 minutes long. Almost a video encyclopedia of information on the New Age cult strangeness of our day. The narrators of the tapes look into the history and current practices concerning the subject of each tape." -- GCB
Volume 9: Secrets of Mind Control 20853
"Many think they are beyond or above having their mind controlled by someone else. The massive social and political movements of our century suggest otherwise. Tape also shows actual footage of mind control therapies." -- GCB
Jeremiah Films
http://www.jeremiahfilms.com/
Witness Inc. and Jeremiah Films Video Tapes
http://www.witnessinc.com/Videos.htm

*Knox, David B., Not by Bread Alone [10692]

*Leahy, Frederick S., Satan Cast Out: A Study in Biblical Demonology (Carlisle, PA: Banner of Truth Trust, 1990, 1975).
"It is often said that wherever there is a rejection of faith in the living God a corresponding upsurge of the demonic will eventually appear. That is true not only in the pages of the Bible and in the annals of Christian missions; it has also become a striking feature of the life in our materialistic, post-Christian society. . . . Full of sane exposition and wise counsel, his work has been widely appreciated since its first publication in 1975." -- Publisher's Annotation
"Probably one of the best, most Scriptural books written today on the subject of demonology." -- Presbyterian Journal

*Lichter, S. Robert, and Stanley Rothman, The Media Elite: America's New Power Brokers (Mamaroneck, NY: Hastings House Publishers, 1990).
The media is very powerful in molding the political attitudes and minds of the nation. The media has, in fact, reversed our thinking on many things.

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

Medved, Michael, Hollywood vs. America: Popular Culture and the War Against Traditional Values (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan Publishing House, 1992). 90321
"The author exposes the attacks by the motion picture industry, television, and music stars against the church and Christians. He expresses our frustrations. He not only suggests a way out for Hollywood, but also concrete suggestions for concerned citizens who want to protect themselves and their children." -- GCB

Medved, Michael and Diane Medved Saving Childhood: Protecting Our Children from the National Assault on Innocence
"The Medveds speak for many when they say that too much of present-day U.S. culture is inimical to childhood. And it isn't just a matter of trash TV for the former PBS-TV movie reviewer and his psychologist spouse. Other culprits are sensationalized news in all media; profane and violent amusements of all sorts; too early, too explicit sex education; fostering self-esteem at the expense of learning; dire, one-sided presentation to children of such large problems as environmental degradation; gangs and other bad peer groups; and parents spending too much time at work and not enough with their kids. Nor does that exhaust the Medveds' bill of indictable particulars that, they say, together tend to make children unnecessarily fearful, cynical, and sad. Indeed, two-thirds of their lively, heartfelt book consists of their analysis of the national assault on innocence. In the remaining third, and drawing heavily upon their parenting of two daughters and a son, all still under 12, they discuss how to maintain children's innocence for its proper duration by providing psychological security, encouraging children's sense of wonder, and inculcating optimism. Chief among specific actions they advise is--ironically enough, coming from a former TV "star" --to stop watching the tube and to read instead, especially to the kids. An honorable addition to the strain of child-advocacy literature that runs from Marie Winn's Children without Childhood (1981) to Dana Mack's ASSAULT ON PARENTHOOD (1997)." -- Ray Olson, from Booklist August 19, 1998
"Saving Childhood offers parents and grandparents practical strategies to cope with a society that seems perversely determined to frighten and corrupt its young. Cultural critic and popular radio host Michael Medved and his wife, psychologist Diane Medved, argue that in a mistaken effort to curb problems plaguing its youth, our culture has changed from protecting childhood as a precious time of growth to hammering even the smallest youngsters with a grim, harsh, and menacing view of the world. The Medveds systematically present unassailable scientific evidence, moving anecdotes, and personal experiences of raising their three young children to explain the attack from four primary directions--media, schools, peers, and even well-intentioned parents themselves.
"In a unique analysis the Medveds define innocence not as ignorance but as the result of three components--security, a sense of wonder and optimism. They empower parents and all who care about childhood with concrete, easily accomplished means to fend off the assault, as well as advice for handling hurdles such as the Internet, television, peer pressure, and the plague of pessimism. Saving Childhood enables us to restore and maintain for our children imagination, confidence, and hope for the future." -- Book Description

Miller, C. John, Biblical Principles of Meditation (Michigan City, IN: Sound Word Associates, 1991). [30289]
Audio cassette CM304.

Murray, John, Let This Mind Be in You (Michigan City, IN: Sound Word Associates, 1991). 30318
Audio cassette JM201.

Phillips, Phil, Saturday Morning Mind Control (Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson Publishers). 20859
"Just a little harmless cartoon-watching? No, says Phillips. Today's cartoons and children's TV shows -- along with their spinoff toys, books, and movies -- endanger a child's developing social skills, motor coordination, and world view. `Mind control' is not far off the mark! Phillips (author of TURMOIL IN THE TOYBOX) examines what TV really teaches children and outlines what parents can do to minimize its influence." -- CBD

Proctor, William, The Gospel According to the New York Times: How the World's Most Powerful News Organization Shapes Your Mind and Values
"The New York Times is the nation's recognized newspaper of record. Through its unparalleled status as the nation's journalistic "bible," and the frequent replication of its views and articles in other media, the Times is literally on our doorstep every day. However, what is not known is that the Times, far from being "objective," is subtly promulgating its own comprehensive worldview and value system, which runs counter to the personal beliefs of many Americans. In The Gospel According to the New York Times, author Bill Proctor exposes the Times' belief system unveiling the mechanism of "Culture Creep," which the Times uses to promote its views." -- Book Description
"Bill Proctor is a graduate of Harvard College and Harvard Law School, and has worked as a reporter for the New York Daily News. He has written or co-authored more than 70 nonfiction books, including several national bestsellers. Leaders and celebrities he has interviewed or collaborated with include Mother Teresa of Calcutta, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Ronald Reagan, Billy Graham, Charles Colson, Art Linkletter, Willard Scott, Pat Boone, and George Gallup, Jr. Proctor is the author of the Broadman and Holman title THE RESURRECTION REPORT, and also two novels. He currently lives in Vero Beach, Florida." -- Publisher's Annotation

*Reisman, Judith A., Edward W. Eichel, John H. Court, and J. Gordon Muir (editors), Kinsey, Sex and Fraud: The Indoctrination of a People [70165]

Sandoz, Ellis, The Politics of Truth and Other Untimely Essays: The Crisis of Civic Consciousness
"The Politics of Truth and Other Untimely Essays explores the historical and theoretical underpinnings of personal liberty and free government and provides a trenchant analysis of the crisis of civic consciousness endangering both of them today. The book addresses a range of issues in contemporary political philosophy and constitutional theory. These are seen to be all the more urgent in importance because of the surging aspirations for liberty in the wake of the collapse of the Soviet empire and the post-Cold War anomaly of crisis, malaise, and disarray in free government itself in America and in other bastions of modern democracy." -- Publisher's Annotation

Seiden, Martin H., Access to the American Mind: The Damaging Impact of the New Mass Media (New York, NY: Shapolsky Publishers, Incorporated, 1990). 20859A
A secular author.

Seiden, Martin H., Who Controls the Mass Media? Popular Myths and Economic Realities

*Singer, C. Gregg, (1910-1999) From Rationalism to Irrationality: The Decline of the Western Mind From the Renaissance to the Present (Philadelphia, PA: The Presbyterian and Reformed Publishing Co., 1979), ISBN: 0875524281 9780875524283 and a reprint of the P&R Publishing edition of 1979 (Wipf and Stock, 2006), 479 pp.
"Now, frankly students, this course is presented from obviously the Reformed Theology. I hold unabashedly, unashamedly to the whole of Reformed Theology as we find it specifically in the Westminster Confession of Faith and the Longer and Shorter Catechisms.
"At the same time I hold to a position in regard to Apologetics generally known as Presuppositionalism, and particularly that view held by Cornelius Van Til.
"This book is an attempt to enlarge and to broaden the scope of Van Til's own Apologetical system, and also his Epistemology. By that I mean, and I worked this book with him, so anything that I say is not to be construed as a criticism of Cornelius Van Til. I might add he wrote me a letter. He is delighted with this book. But what I did was to take his principles, both of Apologetics and of Epistemology, and apply them to all realms of modern thought.
"Dr. Van Til, for good and sufficient reason, sought to limit to the main stream of what we might call pure Philosophy, that is from Saint Thomas, well even before them, back to the Greeks, but particularly in the more modern period, from Saint Thomas Aquinas, William of Ockham (Occam), down through Descartes, the Rationalists, the Empiricists, down to Kant and Hegel, and of course Modern Philosophy and Modern Theology. Very seldom has he gone into what we might call the arena of Political Philosophy, or the arena of Social Thought, or the arena of Psychology and Psychiatry, the realm of Educational Philosophy, and into Art, Music, and so on, to the Fine Arts.
"This book is an attempt to apply his system, and show what happens when the Western mind has forsaken his principles, or the principles which he has espoused, and turned into its own way. And thus the book called FROM RATIONALISM TO IRRATIONALITY. The thesis being that the Rationalism inherent in Saint Thomas and the post-Thomists, and more particularly, and more openly, in the Philosophy of the Renaissance, and Descartes, and Spinosa, and Leibniz has, as it's gained momentum in the modern world, brought Western Culture to its knees. We are living, as I would think, in the death throws of the Western Cultures, the Western Civilization." -- Dr. C. Gregg Singer, in the introductory address to his course in Apologetics soon after FROM RATIONALISM TO IRRATIONALITY came off the press in 1979
Apologetics: #01: Classical and Medieval Thought #1
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Apologetics, 56 min.
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=2250511453
"Locke endeavored to set forth a political philosophy which would anchor his democratic political thought on what he felt were the firm foundations of his empiricism. However, his insistence that nature has bestowed upon mankind certain basic and inalienable rights was an assumption quite contrary to his empiricism. His denial of conscience as an innate possession or quality makes it impossible for men to know that they possess the rights of life, liberty, and property. The very concept of a human right is moral in nature and has its basis of authority in the human conscience. It is thus impossible for men to know through the senses that they have these cherished human rights. Granted that it was far from Locke’s intention to undermine or destroy the traditional English concept of personal rights, his empiricism removed from his political thought the necessary foundations on which a government could be built for the protection of these rights. His empiricism supported neither the idea that men have such rights nor that they are inalienable. (p. 61)
"Underlying the secular and naturalistic assumptions of the thought of the Enlightenment was a related and equally serious problem. In their political and economic thought the leaders of this era were passionately devoted to the pursuit of freedom, and yet they seemed to be completely unaware of this incompatibility between their quest for freedom on the one hand and their reliance upon natural law on the other. How can an impersonal and deterministic concept of law produce and sustain a meaningful concept of freedom? Blindly convinced that there was no problem involved in the contradiction, the leaders of the Enlightenment pushed boldly ahead in the quest for political and economic liberty. However, their failure to recognize the issues involved in this quest led not only to the disaster of the French Revolution but to the growth of the totalitarian political and economic philosophies which first appeared in Hegel and Marx during the nineteenth century and reached their culmination in the totalitarianism of the twentieth century." (p. 73) -- quoted at the blog, IMAGO VERITATIS: Post-modern Reformed Paleo-orthodoxy.
Singer used this as textbook for his course in Apologetics. Epistemology is a recurring theme throughout the textbook and the course. The series of 24 addresses on Apologetics is available free online. See "Apolgetics" under:
Works of C. Gregg Singer
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr3ch.html#cgsinger

Steele, Richard, Remedy for Wandering Thoughts (Harrisonburg, VA [Sprinkle Publications, P.O. Box 1094, Harrisonburg, 22803]: Sprinkle Publications). 20861
"A much needed study for the present day church." -- Lloyd T. Sprinkle

Stowell, Joseph M., The Dawn's Early Light (Chicago, IL: Moody Press).
"Christianity is losing the battle for the Christian mind. Stowell exposes the fuzzy thinking, misconceptions and lies we've learned to live with -- and often to love." -- GCB

*Strauss, Richard L., Win the Battle for Your Mind (Wheaton, IL: Victor Books, 1980). 20841
"A Biblical and theological study of the place and importance of the mind in the life and spiritual growth of the Christian. Also exposes the social forces that, through appeals to the mind, seek to subvert the senses and conform believes to the world's standards and system of values." -- Cyril J. Barber

Thompson-Iserbyt, Charlotte The Deliberate Dumbing Down of America: A Chronological Paper Trail
"This book is THE BOOK to have. EVERY CONCERNED PARENT in America should invest in a copy of it. It's the encyclopedia, IN YEAR DATE ORDER, of just what has been going on in America in the public school system, now for years and years. . . . YEARS OF RESEARCH at our fingertips -- the size of a telephone book. It's HONEST, OFFICIAL DOCUMENTATION, undisputable evidence. If every parent were to read this, we could right a terrible wrong being done in public schools today. . . . Saves me years of research AT MY FINGERTIPS. . . ." -- Reader Comment. The author was a Senior Policy Advisor for the US Dept. of Education.

*United States. National Commission on Excellence in Education, A Nation at Risk: The Imperative for Educational Reform: A Report to the Nation and the Secretary of Education, United States Department of Education by the National Commission on Excellence in Education (Washington, DC: The Commission: [Superintendant of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office distributor], 1983).

*Weaver, Richard M., Ideas Have Consequences (Chicago, IL: University of Chicago Press, 1984). [90377]
"Weaver was a professor of rhetoric at the University of Chicago. IDEAS HAVE CONSEQUENCES, like Weaver's other books, is small but deep. It brilliantly diagnoses what ails modern man, tracing the illness to its root, the flight from faith.
"According to Weaver's friend Russell Kirk, the publisher imposed the title, which Weaver hated, on this book.
"My one problem with the book is that its title is used as an incantation by some conservative intellectuals who insist that being right, in the sense of being correct, is sufficient to win. To support their position, they utter the words: "Ideas have consequences," thinking that by so doing they have enlisted Richard Weaver on their side and thereby absolved themselves of any obligation to take effective actions.
"Once you have read the book, you will know that Weaver didn't believe that ideas in and of themselves have consequences. He believed that skillful actions, when based on good ideas, have good consequences." -- Reader Comment

*Woodbridge, John D. (editor), Renewing Your Mind in a Secular World (Chicago, IL: Moody Press, 1985). 20842
"The subtle attacks against authority, and in particular Biblical authority, have taken a toll. This book assess the issues and summons Christians to return to a distinctive life-style in which the Word of God is known and its truth applied to all areas of life. . . ." -- Cyril J. Barber

Woodbridge, John D., and D.A. Carson (editors), Scripture and Truth (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan Publishing House). 10122
"An extremely important book for our day. Contains articles by Wayne Grundem, Carson, Longenecker, Moses Silva, P. Hughes, Bromiley, W.R. Godfrey, Woodbridge and R.H. Balmer, R. Nicole, P. Helm, and Packer." -- GCB

See also: Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, Sexual relationship, Book length presentations of the free offer of Gospel message of salvation and the life to come: the means of grace, Bible promises, Appendix A: the words of Christ, Modern myths and fallacies, The decline of american society, Christian Liberty, (John Ankerberg and John Weldon have written over 70 books on pseudo-Christian movements), Appendix c, psychology and psychiatry, Public schools, Home schooling, Protecting your children from dangers

Related WebLinks

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

The Bible Doctrine of the Separated Life: Part I, 1960 Johannes G. Vos
http://members.aol.com/RSIGRACE/vos1.html

"Ecclesiastical Megalomania," a review by John W. Robbins in the May 1994 issue of Trinity Review
Excerpts transcribed from a taped lecture by David Chilton describing his experience in Theonomist/Reconstructionist churches.
http://www.trinityfoundation.org/journal.php?id=184

"The Law of a Sound Mind," Peter Masters
"By discarding the law of a sound mind (the protection provided by the reasoning faculty) Charismatics have rendered themselves highly gullible in the face of false teaching, exaggeration, and lies. They have become notably vulnerable to religious charlatans and rogues, as the 1987 crisis in American religious television (which is predominantly Charismatic) has demonstrated. Emotionalism is rampant among them, and because all are free to do whatever seems right in their own eyes, serious spiritual lawlessness is widespread. These things are the inevitable result of laying aside the objective standard of God’s Word, the faculty of judgment, and the power of selfcontrol, all of which are brought into play by the sound mind." -- Peter Masters
http://www.trinityfoundation.org/PDF/Review_272_masters.pdf

AFF Resources About Psychological Manipulation, Cult Groups, Sects, and New Religious Movements
http://www.csj.org/infoserv_links/linksindex.htm

Bible Study Fellowship (International) a Closer Look, Virginia Donovan
"The dialectic process (thesis + antithesis = synthesis) is at work here. The formula for the dialectic is "a diverse group of people dialoging to consensus over social issues in a facilitated meeting." This method will brainwash participants to abdicate strict adherence to Scripture for the sake of their relationship to the group. In other words, Thesis (What the Bible says) + Antithesis (What BSF says) = Synthesis (Allegiance to BSF's interpretation of the Bible)."
http://watch.pair.com/bsf.html

What's Wrong With Multi-Level Marketing?
http://www.vandruff.com/mlm.html

A Resolution to Combat Mind Control With Truth
http://www.lettermen2.com/mindc.html

An Understanding of Cult Mind Control
http://www.shassan.com/

The Religious Movements Page @ The University of Virginia
http://religiousmovements.lib.virginia.edu/

Pseudo-Christian Movements

---

"For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect." -- Jesus Christ (Matthew 24:24)

"The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly." -- Jesus Christ (John 10:10)

Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abideth in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son.
If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into your house, neither bid him God speed:
For he that biddeth him God speed is partaker of his evil deeds. (2 John 9-11)

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

Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils; Speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron. (1 Timothy 4:1,2)

Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world. Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God: And every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God: and this is that spirit of antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the world. (1 John 4: 1-3) Cults exclusively deny the deity of Christ.

For many deceivers are entered into the world, who confess not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh. This is a deceiver and an antichrist. Look to yourselves, that we lose not those things which we have wrought, but that we receive a full reward. Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abideth in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son.
If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into your house, neither bid him God speed: For he that biddeth him God speed is partaker of his evil deeds. (1 John 7:7-11)

Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers. For there are many unruly and vain talkers and deceivers, specially they of the circumcision: Whose mouths must be stopped, who subvert whole houses, teaching things which they ought not, for filthy lucre's sake. One of themselves, even a prophet of their own, said, The Cretians are alway liars, evil beasts, slow bellies. This witness is true. Wherefore rebuke them sharply, that they may be sound in the faith; Not giving heed to Jewish fables, and commandments of men, that turn from the truth. Unto the pure all things are pure: but unto them that are defiled and unbelieving is nothing pure; but even their mind and conscience is defiled. They profess that they know God; but in works they deny him, being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate. (Titus 1: 9-16)

He loveth righteousness and judgment: the earth is full of the goodness of the Lord. (Psalm 33:5) See also: Psalm 45:7; Psalm 99:4; Jeremiah 9:24; Psalm 1:5; Psalm 7:6; Psalms 11:3; Psalm 119:142; Psalm 145:17; Psalm 36:6; Hebrews 1:9; Revelation 15:3, 4; Genesis 18:25; 2 Chronicles 19:7; Job 8:3; Job 34:12; Job 37:23. Genuine love does not ignore injustice or evil.

Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil; that put darkness for light, and light for darkness; that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter! (Isaiah 5:20). See also Matthew 6:23 and John 3:19, 20.

Your iniquities have turned away these things, and your sins have withholden good things from you. For among my people are found wicked men: they lay wait, as he that setteth snares; they set a trap, they catch men. As a cage is full of birds, so are their houses full of deceit: therefore they are become great, and waxen rich. They are waxen fat, they shine: yea, they overpass the deeds of the wicked: they judge not the cause, the cause of the fatherless, yet they prosper; and the right of the needy do they not judge. Shall I not visit for these things? saith the LORD: shall not my soul be avenged on such a nation as this? A wonderful and horrible thing is committed in the land; The prophets prophesy falsely, and the priests bear rule by their means; and my people love to have it so: and what will ye do in the end thereof? (Jeremiah 5: 25-31)

There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love. (1 John 4:18)

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

God speaks by the Church (the true Church we mean); but He speaks nothing by her but what He speaks in the Scriptures, which she does only ministerially declare to us; and therefore the authority of God and His law is above hers, who, though she publish, yet did not make it, but is herself subject to it. -- John Owen

"By entertaining of strange persons, men sometimes entertain angels unawares: but by entertaining of strange doctrines, many have entertained devils unaware." -- John Flavel

"Oh, it is to be feared that there are many that give themselves to lusts, and carnal pleasures, that so they may put a foggy mist between their conscience and themselves. Others dig into the world, labouring to become senseless, that so there may be an eclipse of this light by the interposition of the earth. Others run to damnable heresies, denying Scriptures, God, heaven, hell. . . . What are these but refuges of guilty consciences? We must distinguish between our carnal concupiscence, and conscience; between deluded imaginations, and conscience; between an erroneous and scrupulous conscience, and a well-grounded and truly informed conscience; and when we have done so, we must follow conscience as far as that follows the Word." -- Anthony Burgess

Pride is the highway to utter apostasy. . . . Mark those that are proud in any town, or any company of professors of piety; and if any infection of heresy or infidelity come into that place, these are the men that will soonest catch it. . . . -- Richard Baxter

"The devil is a great student in divinity." -- William Gurnall

Three of the most influential pseudo-Christian movements in the West are Roman Catholicism, Arminianism, and Pentecostalism. -- John W. Robbins

Pseudo-Christian movements includes, among others: Arminianism, Antinomianism, Socinianism, Pelangianism, Pharisaism, Popery, Catholicism, Romanism, Jesuitism, Freemasonry, Syncretism, Pentecostalism, Ecumenism, Erastianism, Liberalism (Socinianism), Atheisim, Americanism, Humanism, Secularism, Statism (Hellenic Thought), Institutionalism and Corporatism, Communism, Disestablishmentarianism, Independency, Patriotism, Democracy (as opposed to a Democatic Republic), prelacy, legalism, and mysticism, Psychoheresy, and Totalitarianism.

The Pagan/Occult Revival and the rise in Violent/Destructive Crime can be stopped by the punishment of individuals and organizations who violate God's Law and man's law.
Punishment does not change the heart of depraved man. Only God can change the heart. However, punishment changes behavior and repressess and supresses evil.
The State was divinely ordained to punish wrong doers. There is an evident correlation between the decline of historic, orthodox, Reformed Christianity and the corruption of the Secular State, including the politicization of Legal Sector, the Judicial System.

The only way for man and wife and children and society to live together happily is to pursue holiness through Christ Jesus, The Everlasting Righteousness.

Albrecht, M., Spiritual Counterfeits (Michigan City, IN: Sound Word Associates, 1991). [30115]
Audio cassette NA101.

Ankerberg, John, Cult Watch: What You Need to Know About Spiritual Deception [D1006]

Ankerberg, John, The Facts on False Teaching in the Church (Eugene, OR: Harvest House Publishers, 1988). D1030
"If you are concerned about the new philosophies and psychologies that are infiltrating today's churches, THE FACTS ON FALSE TEACHING IN THE CHURCH is an invaluable resource to help you judge which teachings are biblical and which are not." -- Synopsis

*Bickersteth, Edward, The Trinity: The Classic Study of Biblical Trinitarianism (Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel Publications). A Christian classic.
"A must for gaining a grasp of the doctrine of the Trinity." -- Jay P. Green, Sr.

Brown, Harold O.J., Heresies [70448]
"Dr. Brown is currently with the Reformed Theological Seminary Resident Faculty, in Charlotte NC. Heresies is a comprehensive history book as well as a copious treatise of various heresies since the first century A.D. This would explain its renaming for the current editions.
"Dr. Brown brings this to us in a logical, well written, chronological narrative. It is easy reading, chock full of interesting details and bibliography/footnoting par excellence. He discusses the early persecutions and shows that even some heretics were genuine martyrs. Most importantly to the layman, he explains clearly the ramifications of any particular heresy. He does not stop with an explanation of why it is wrong, but discusses thoroughly the logical implications, conclusions, even actions to which this variant belief brings the heretic." -- Reader Comment

Brown, Harold O. J.,The Sensate Culture: Western Civilization Between Chaos and Transformation
"THE SENSATE CULTURE: WESTERN CIVILIZATION BETWEEN CHAOS AND TRANSFORMATION is a probing work grappling with the reasons so many moderns worship the sensuous, the material, the merely colossal -- but still feel empty and shallow. Building on the work of the late Pitirim Sorokin, Harold Brown finds the roots of cultural disintegration in the abandonment of the spiritual dimension. The author shows how most societies have descended from spiritual values to a period like our own, when materialism and sensuality rule. The result will be not just apostasy, but revolution, and the collapse of civilization. However, this need not be inevitable. The profound connections THE SENSATE CULTURE makes between Christianity and culture are accessible to every thoughtful person who takes seriously the crises faced by a world spinning out of control." -- Midwest Book Review

Burks, Ron, and Vicki Burks, Damaged Disciples: Casualties of Authoritarian Churches and the Shepherding Movement [70418]

Canfield, Joseph, The Incredible Scofield and His Book (Vallecito, CA: Ross House Books). 90527
"This is a powerful book. The material is well documented. Anyone who gets this book and reads it will find here some amazing things about a man whose book is well known, but whose life we believe concerning many of its most important features has been purposely concealed lest it be found to contradict his teachings. . . . Here is a book that dispensationalists as well as others will do well to read. It is powerful, so powerful we dare say, that if despensationalists would read it carefully, perhaps half of them would turn from that system." -- Loraine Boettner

*Enroth, Ronald M., Churches That Abuse: Help for Those Hurt by Legalism, Authoritarian Leadership, Manipulation, Excessive Discipline (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan Publishing House, 1992).
"What makes a church abusive? Usually it's not doctrinal deviation but intimidating behavior: legalism, authoritarian leadership, manipulation, and excessive discipline. Enroth names abusive groups, shows you how to recognize them, and lists `red flags' that may indicate when a church is drifting into trouble. Most importantly, Enroth offers help to Christians who've been hurt by abusive churches." -- CBD
"Aggressive Christianity Missions Training Corps; The Assembly; Body of Christ Fellowship (Piecemakers); Boston Church of Christ; Christian Growth Ministries; Church of Bible Understanding; Church of Jesus Christ Forever; Church of Our First Love; Church of the Great Shepherd; Christian Growth Ministries; Community of Jesus; Emmaus Christian Fellowship; Faith Assembly; Faith Tabernacle; Fellowship of Christian Churches and Ministries; Great Commission International; Maranatha Christian Ministries; No-Name Fellowship/C-U (Champaign-Urbana) Ministries; River of Life/Truth Station; Set Free; Two-by-Two's; University Bible Fellowship; Victory Chapel (Potter's House); Vineyard; Word of God Community."

Enroth, Ronald M., Recovering from Churches That Abuse
"The sequel to CHURCHES THAT ABUSE, this book deals more in-depth with the recovery process and its ups and downs. The author does not sugar-coat the toll that spiritual abuse takes on people. Instead, he gives accurate, compassionate, real-life stories which illustrate the recovery process. Anyone who has been harmed by a church or religious group would greatly benefit from this book. Mr. Enroth also shows that this type of abuse is not an easy, simple thing to recover from. Christians who have been given the pat answer `forgive and forget' will find welcome relief and understanding here. This book will be helpful to Christians and non-Christians alike. Those who have suffered from similar experiences will find support in processing, expressing, and recovering from their ordeal. The author has provided an important service in courageously addressing this formerly forbidden subject." -- Reader Comment

*Hassan, Steven, Combating Cult Mind Control: The #1 Best-Selling Guide to Protection, Rescue and Recovery From Destructive Cults (Rochester, VT: Park Street Press, 1988). D1123
Recognize the signs of destructive organizations and protect yourself from psychological manipulation.
"Remarkably useful and important. I heartily recommend this book to anyone affected by the cult experience. Hassan's work will be valuable to health professionals, clergy, attorneys, and all those involved with cults, their members, and the families whose lives they touch." -- Louis Jolyon West, M.D., Chairman, Department of Psychiatry, UCLA School of Medicine.
Chapter 4, "Understanding Mind Control," explains how to recognize mind control activities.
Includes bibliography, bibliographical footnotes, index, and an appendix of resource organizations. Recommended as a valuable reference work. A secular author.
An Understanding of Cult Mind Control
http://www.shassan.com/

*Johnson, David, and Jeff VanVonderen, The Subtle Power of Spiritual Abuse: Recognizing and Escaping Spiritual Manipulation and False Spiritual Authority Within the Church (Minneapolis, MN: Bethany House Publishers, October 1, 2005).
"Manipulation, shaming, `using' other people -- that's in the church, too. Spiritual abuse happens when authority figures use spiritual means to gratify their desires for importance, power, or intimacy. Because abusers use spiritual-sounding language, their followers are trapped in legalism, guilt performance, and begrudging service. Johnson and VanVonderen explain how to identify spiritual abuse, break the cycle of abusive spiritual dynamics, and encourage both abusers and victims to repent and recover." -- CBD
"In a breakthrough book first published in 1991, the authors address the dynamics in churches that can ensnare people in legalism, guilt, and begrudging service, keeping them from the grace and joy of God's kingdom. Written for both those who feel abused and those who may be causing it, THE SUBTLE POWER OF SPIRITUAL ABUSE shows how people get hooked into abusive systems, the impact of controlling leadership on a congregation, and how the abused believer can find rest and recovery.
"David Johnson has been the senior pastor at Church of the Open Door in Maple Grove, Minnesota, since 1980. During this time, the church has grown from a congregation of 160 to 3,000 people. A much sought-after speaker, he is a graduate of Bethel College and received his theological training at Bethel Seminary and Trinity Evangelical Divinity School. His "Growing in Grace" radio broadcast is syndicated internationally. David and his family live in Minnesota.
"Jeff VanVonderen is an internationally known speaker on addictions and church and family wellness. He has worked as a counselor in both residential and outpatient treatment settings, as well as in the religious community, taught at the college level, and is the author of several books. He makes his home in California." -- Publisher's Annotation
"The difference between churches that use manipulation and those that practice grace is like night and day. . . .
"Van Vonderen and Johnson warn people who read the book not to use what they have learned as a weapon, but to take action only in the proper spirit. Of course, any time someone takes action in a church, real problems will become visible. My question in every case is: are those problems caused by those speaking out, or have they been there all along and are only now being exposed. . . ?
"It is fair, it is doctrinally solid, and it gives effective counsel. There is something beneficial for everyone. . . leader, wounded Christian, or loved ones of people in either group." -- Reader's Comment

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

*Machen, J. Gresham, Christianity and Liberalism (Grand Rapids, MI: Wm.B. Eerdmans Publishing Co). 90209
"Machen's classic was written in the height of the battle for control over the Presbyterian Church USA (the most prominent of the "mainline denominations), and defines with brilliance the battle lines between liberal (so-called) Christianity and the orthodox faith. Moreover, it points out exactly what is at stake: the true faith, or a perverse shadow of that faith, a shadow based on subjectivism which elevates man's sovereignty over God's and ends in believing nothing at all.
"The one problem with this book (and it made good rhetorical sense at the time, but is somewhat misleading concerning the true nature of the struggle) is Machen's categories. Machen deals with theological conservatives and liberals (legitimate in terms of the Bible's own theological dichotomy between saved and lost), but misses the inescapable fact that there was a third faction at work (a fact which eventually resulted in his defrocking). That third faction was a great mushy evanjellyfish middle, a pietistic/mystical majority which was neither willing to accept the liberal position nor fight for the conservative one. As Machen rightly pointed out two years earlier in his address to incoming students at Princeton (and again, much later, in the last two years of the struggle), these were the Christians who said `"Peace, peace",' when there was no peace,' and elevated that `peace' over truth. As in all other endeavors, `peace at any price' resulted in defeat, and in the end, it was that great mushy middle which delivered the PCUSA to the left and off the cliff.
"But it wasn't them alone. To see the mistakes of the conservative side, I strongly recommend North's CROSSED FINGERS, the only definitive history of this fight.
"Yet at the end of the day, you must read Machen. This book is vital for Christians defending their churches and denominations against increasing liberal encroachment, and indeed more so by the day. A great read." -- Reader's Comment
"Still stands, after many years, as one of the strongest books ever written against liberalism. A complete and thorough critique." -- GCB

Olsson, Eva, The Philosophy of Sri Aurobindo in the Light of the Gospel (Madras, India: Christian Literature Society, 1959).
Includes bibliography.

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

*Robbins, John W., Ecclesiastical Megalomania: The Economic and Political Thought of the Roman Catholic Church (Unicoi, TN: The Trinity Foundation), ISBN: 0940931753 9780940931756.
The following presents, by contrast, what a Christian society should look like.
"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.

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

See also: Selection of covenant heads for positions of leadership, Sexual relationship, Book length presentations of the free offer of Gospel message of salvation and the life to come: the means of grace, Corporate faithfulness, Secret societies and ungodly alliance, Sexual relationship, Conspiracy and corruption (John Ankerberg and John Weldon have written over 70 books on pseudo-Christian movements)

Related WebLinks

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

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

The Religious Movements Page @ The University of Virginia
http://religiousmovements.lib.virginia.edu/

The Moral Foundation of Love
http://talkingethics.50megs.com/index.html

Statism (Hellenic Thought), Institutionalism and Corporatism

---

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

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

Balke, William, Calvin and the Anabaptist Radicals (Grand Rapids, MI: Wm.B. Eerdmans, 1981). D1082
William Heynen, translator.
"Harnack is often critical of the `Hellenizing' of Christianity in the writings of Sts. Peter and John, yet few sources for Church history can equal the volumn of Greek footnotes (as well as Latin and Hebrew, some several pages long) found in the History of Dogma. Definitely not light reading, but unsurpassed as a political, dogmatic (kerygmatic), exegetical and linguistic reference. Excellent organization and index, provides a good foundation for any first millennium European historical perspective." Reader Comment

Frederick II, King of Prussia, Frederick of Prussia Anti-Machiavel (Ohio University Press, November 1981).
"This delightful and hard to find book, translated with only minor variations, does include the 2nd chapter from Voltaire, as it was missing from the original manuscript. Frederick is threatened it would seem by the writings of THE PRINCE in the hands of mere political overachievers. He is constantly referring to the difference in the beliefs of Kings and 'would be' princes. Frederick picks Machiavelli's writing apart line by line and deserves a second read with THE PRINCE close at hand. An integeral link to the real Frederick of Prussia." -- Reader's Comment
Frederick the Great's ANTI-MACHIAVEL
http://www.geocities.com/danielmacryan/antimac.html

*Galbraith, James, The Predator State: How Conservatives Abandoned the Free Market and Why Liberals Should Too, first edition (Free Press, August 5, 2008), 240 pages, ISBN-10: 141656683X ISBN-13: 978-1416566830
"Shows how to break the spell that conservatives have cast over the minds of liberals (and everyone else) for many years." -- Joseph E. Stiglitz, Nobel Laureate in Economic Sciences (2001)
"The cult of the free market has dominated economic policy-talk since the Reagan revolution of nearly thirty years ago. Tax cuts and small government, monetarism, balanced budgets, deregulation, and free trade are the core elements of this dogma, a dogma so successful that even many liberals accept it. But a funny thing happened on the bridge to the twenty-first century. While liberals continue to bow before the free-market altar, conservatives in the style of George W. Bush have abandoned it altogether. That is why principled conservatives -- the Reagan true believers -- long ago abandoned Bush.
"Enter James K. Galbraith, the iconoclastic economist. In this riveting book, Galbraith first dissects the stale remains of Reaganism and shows how Bush and company had no choice except to dump them into the trash. He then explores the true nature of the Bush regime: a 'corporate republic,' bringing the methods and mentality of big business to public life; a coalition of lobbies, doing the bidding of clients in the oil, mining, military, pharmaceutical, agribusiness, insurance, and media industries; and a predator state, intent not on reducing government but rather on diverting public cash into private hands. In plain English, the Republican Party has been hijacked by political leaders who long since stopped caring if reality conformed to their message.
"Galbraith follows with an impertinent question: if conservatives no longer take free markets seriously, why should liberals? Why keep liberal thought in the straitjacket of pay-as-you-go, of assigning inflation control to the Federal Reserve, of attempting to 'make markets work'? Why not build a new economic policy based on what is really happening in this country?
"The real economy is not a free-market economy. It is a complex combination of private and public institutions, including Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid, higher education, the housing finance system, and a vast federal research establishment. The real problems and challenges -- inequality, climate change, the infrastructure deficit, the subprime crisis, and the future of the dollar -- are problems that cannot be solved by incantations about the market. They will be solved only with planning, with standards and other policies that transcend and even transform markets.
"A timely, provocative work whose message will endure beyond this election season, THE PREDATOR STATE will appeal to the broad audience of thoughtful Americans who wish to understand the forces at work in our economy and culture and who seek to live in a nation that is both prosperous and progressive." -- Publisher's Annotation
"James Galbraith has written an extremely challenging book. Although its principal target is conservative economics, it is no less critical of conventional liberalism. Galbraith correctly recognizes that today both approaches are intellectually bankrupt and incapable of addressing the nation's pressing economic problems. I hope The Predator State stimulates needed debate among both liberals and conservatives on the mistakes both sides have made that have gotten us to where we are now."-- Bruce Bartlett, author of IMPOSTOR: HOW GEORGE W. BUSH BANKRUPTED AMERICA AND BETRAYED THE REAGAN LEGACY

*Machiavelli, Niccolo, The Prince (Oxford Univ Pr).
This famous analysis of statesmanship and power, lauded by the world system and read by practically all politicians, will give insight to those who may still not understand power politics in Washington. But to fully understand the current situation in the Federal government even the discerning person must work in a Federal office or within the corporate limits of the District of Columbia for at least a year. A secular author.
The Prince, Nicolo Machiavelli
http://books.mirror.org/gb.machiavelli.html

*OWEN, JOHN, "God's Presence With a People the Spring of Their Prosperity; With Their Special Interest in Abiding in Him" (Cerlox Bound Photocopy Series and Hardcover. Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books). A Christian classic.
Owen preaches at length, 21 pages, on God's presence with a people both individually and corporately in a sermon on the text "And he went out to meet Asa, and said unto him, Hear ye me, Asa, and all Judah and Benjamin; The Lord is with you, while ye be with him; and if ye seek him, he will be found of you; but if ye forsake him, he will forsake you." (2 Chronicles 15:2) delivered to Parliament October 30, 1656.
"The great concernment of any people or nation is, to know that all their prosperity is from the presence of God amongst them, and to attend to that which will give continuance thereunto. . . .
"There is a presence of God in respect of providential dispensations. . . . -- attended with peculiar love, favor, good-will, special care towards them with whom he is so present. So Abimelech observed that he was with Abraham, Genesis 21:22, "God is with thee in all that thou doest," -- with thee to guide thee, bless thee, preserve thee, as we shall see afterward. So he promised to be with Joshua, "I will be with thee," Joshua 1:5; and so he was with Gideon, "The Lord is with thee," Judges 6:12, -- to bless him in his great undertaking; and so with Jeremiah, "I am with thee," Jeremiah 15:20. This is fully expressed, Isaiah 43:1,2, "I have redeemed thee, I have called thee by thy name; thou art mine. When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee." And this is the presence of God here intimated, -- his presence with the people as to special providential dispensations, as is manifest from the whole discourse of the prophet; and wherein this consists, shall be afterward at large declared. . . .
"There is an abiding with God in national administrations; -- this is a fruit of the other, in those who are called to them. And that this is principally here intended is evident from that use that Asa made of this information and exhortation of the prophet. He did not only look to his personal walking thereupon, but also immediately set upon the work of ordering the whole affairs of the kingdom so as God might be glorified thereby. How this may be effected, shall at large afterward be declared. What hath already been spoken may suffice for a foundation of that proposition which I shall this day insist upon; and it is this, --
"The presence of God with a people, in special providential dispensations for their good, depends on their obediential presence with him in national administrations to his glory: "The Lord is with you, while ye be with him. . . ."
"What is the rule and measure of God's continuance with his people in the covenant of grace? Plainly this, -- that he will never forsake them; and, on that account, will take care that they shall never forsake him, but abide with him forever. It is not whilst they do so and so, he will abide with them; and when they cease so to do, he will forsake them, as to his federal and covenant presence; -- there is not such a sandy foundation left us of our abiding with God in Christ. See the tenor of the covenant, Jeremiah 31:33, 32:38-40. The sum is, that God will be with them, and take care that they always abide with him; and therefore hath he provided for all interveniences imaginable, that nothing shall violate this union. God lays his unchangeableness as the foundation of the covenant, Malachi 3:6, and he therein makes us unchangeable; -- not absolutely so, for we change every moment; but with respect to the terms and bounds of the covenant, he hath undertaken that we shall never leave him. The law of God's presence in respect of providential dispensations, and all special privileges attending it, is quite of another importance: it is purely conditional, as you may see in my text. The tenor of it is expressed to the height, 1 Samuel 2:30, "I said indeed that thy house, and the house of thy father, should walk before me forever: but now the Lord saith, Be it far from me; for them that honor me I will honor, and they that despise me shall be lightly esteemed." Here is no alteration of counsel or purpose in God; but merely an explanation of the rule, law, and tenor of providential dispensations; -- no interpretation of the covenant of grace (Eli held not the priesthood by that covenant); but an explication of the tenor of a privilege given in special providence, Psalm 89:32,33. Hence is that variety of God's dealings with men mentioned in the Scripture; which yet are always righteous, according to one or other of these rules and laws. . . . "I suppose I need not go for proof beyond the observation of the constant tenor of God's proceedings with his people of old. When did he not deal thus with them? What instance can be given of transgressing this rule? Is the whole story of the nation of the Jews any thing but the illustration of this proposition? Some ruled well, and sought the Lord; and the Lord was with them, and prospered them in all their ways; — some fell from him, and walked according to their own imaginations; and the Lord cut them short on that account; -- yea, sometimes the same man, as Solomon, Asa, Uzziah, experienced both these states and conditions. Hath not the state of all nations, since they came into the power of men professing the knowledge of him, been the same? Look on the Roman empire; did it not flourish under the hand of men who ruled with God, and were faithful with the saints? Is not the present distraction of it, under the fury and cruelty of Turk and Pope, the issue of the violence, unrighteousness, idolatry, luxury, and persecution of ill governors? Doth not the demonstration of all God's people in the world -- the consideration whereof, in particular, might be insisted on as the ground and reason of the truth insisted on -- require that it should be thus Leviticus 26:1, and almost the whole book of Deuteronomy, are sermons on this text; and every verse, almost, in them would afford a new confirmation of the truth in hand. . . .
"The second use of this pillar was, to give them protection and defense in their ways; so Exodus 14:19,20,24. This protected them from the Egyptians; -- and from thence God troubled their enemies out of the pillar; that is, from his especial presence. This use of it is insisted on, Isaiah 4:5,6. The cloud, that was as smoke by day, and as fire by night, was also a shadow, a place of refuge, and a covert; in one word, a protection or a defense. And this is a second thing which is in God’s special presence, -- he will protect or defend them with whom he is so present. He is their dwellingplace, Psalm 90:1, then, when in this world they have none; their refuge in the time of trouble: so Isaiah 25:4, 26:1, 31:4. Promises and instances to make this good abound; — they are known to all; the time would fail me to insist upon them. I might go over all the causes, means, and ways of the fears, dangers, ruin of such a people, and show you how a defense is provided against them all. Are their fears from themselves, because of their folly, weakness, and division? or from pretended friends, because of their envy and desertion? or from open enemies, because of their power, cruelty, malice, and revenge? A defense is provided on every account. Heat, rain, tempests, storms, adversity, prosperity, -- all are provided against, where God is present, Isaiah 32:1,2.
"And if any people in the world have experience of this truth, we have it this day. Had not the Lord been with us, who had not destroyed us? Enemies, friends, abroad, at home, our own follies, — all, any of them, had done the work, had not the Lord himself been with us. . . .
"That we may abide with God, this is indispensably required, -- that we may have peace with him in Jesus Christ. If we are never with him, we cannot abide with him; no man can abide where he never cornea The acceptance of our persons lies at the bottom of the acceptance of our duties. As the special presence of God with any, is in and by Christ, and no otherwise, so is our abiding with God in and through him. "God with us" is the name of Christ: our being with God is in him who is our peace. Two cannot walk together, unless they be agreed, Amos 3:3.
"Now, because this is not to be expected from all the individuals of a nation, yet this thing is to be endeavored, -- that the rulers of it be such as have this interest. I do not divest of a share in government, those who have no share in Christ, if lawfully called thereunto; but I say, when God gives governors whom he intends to make a blessing unto a people, they shall be such as are blessed of him in Christ. And if ever the government of this nation, in this present constitution, -- suppose it the most exactly framed and balanced, in the several parts of it, for the furtherance of public good, -- be devolved into the hands of men not interested in God by Christ, though the constitution may be absolutely good, yet the government will not be blessed, and the nation will be ruined; for God and his glory will depart, Micah 5:5,6. It is Christ that is our peace, even in outward troubles. . . .
"This, then, I say, is pre-required, as a qualification of any person to the performance of this duty of abiding with God. It is the psalmist's advice, Psalm 2:11,12. Let this principle be always owned amongst you; by it honor Christ in the world. Give him the pre-eminence; it is the Father's will he should have it in all things. Expect not the presence of God, but upon this account. Bear testimony herein against the world of profane men, who despise these things. Seeing, then, it cannot be expected to have this qualification diffused universally, as yet, through the body of the people, let the rulers take care that they be not the cause of God's departure from us. . . ." -- John Owen
This sermon is also availabe on Reformation Bookshelf CD #25)
Owen, John, 1616-1683, God's presence with a people, the spring of their prosperity; with their speciall interest in abiding with Him. A sermon, preached to the Parliament of the Commonwealth of England, Scotland, and Ireland, at Westminster, Octob. 30. 1656. A day of solemn humiliation. By John Owen, D.D. a servant of Jesus Christ, in the work of the Gospel. Printed by Order of Parliament, 1656, EEBO.
The sermons is also found in the various editions of THE COMPLETE WORKS OF JOHN OWENS.
*Owen, John, (1616-1683) The Complete Works of John Owen, 16 volumes, Alternate title: THE WORKS OF JOHN OWEN (Carlisle, PA: The Banner of Truth Trust). ISBN-10: 0851513921 ISBN-13: 9780851513928. See Chapter 1 for annotation on all 16 volumes. Available on The Amazing Christian Library, THE COMPLETE WORKS OF JOHN OWEN including HEBREWS (OCR digital text), DVD One, CD #1. Many separate works by Owen may be found in the Reformation Bookshelf 30 CD Set, the forthcoming Calvinism Bookshelf 30 CD Set (as of August 2008), and the forthcoming forthcoming Protestant Bookshelf 30 CD Set (as of August 2008)
John Owen (1616-1683) "is by common consent not the most versatile, but the greatest among Puritan theologians. For solidity, profundity, massiveness and majesty in exhibing from Scripture God's ways with sinful mankind there is no one to touch him. . . ." -- J.I. Packer in A Quest for Godliness, p. 81
"To master his works is to be a profound theologian." -- C.H. Spurgeon
"The Banner of Truth Trust completed in May, 1968, the re-issue of the complete English works of Owen, his seven volumes on the Epistle of Hebrews excepted. All of these volumes `are of the greatest value' (Dr. Lloyd-Jones) but for newcomers to Owen we especially recommend the four volumes in the Practical Division (vols. 6-9.) . . ." -- William J. Grier
"His works on communion, Christian life, and the person and glory of Christ, the work of the Holy Spirit, etc. are of the utmost value to any serious-minded Christian." -- Jay P. Green, Sr.
John Owen is an example of a great theologian who prescribed to independency, and was unable to attain to covenanted reformation. He was not a member of the Westminster Assembly of Divines.

Pelikan, Jaroslav, Christianity and Classical Culture: The Metamorphosis of Natural Theology in the Christian Encounter With Hellenism
"Contents include: PART ONE: Natural Theology as Apologetics, 1) Classical Culture and Christian Theology, 2) Natural Theology as Apologetics, 3) The Language of Negation, 4) God and the Ways of Knowing, 5) The Many and the One, 6) THe Universe as Cosmos, 7) Space, Time, and Deity, 8) The Image of God, 9) The Source of All Good, 10) From Tyche to Telos.
"PART TWO: Natural Theology as Presupposition, 11) Christian Theology and Classical Culture, 12) Natural Theology as Presupposition, 13) The Lexicon of Transcendence, 14) Faith as the Fulfillment of Reason, 15) The One and the Three, 16) Cosmos as Contingent Creation, 17) The Economy of Salvation, 18) The Metamorphosis of Human Nature, 19) The Worship Offered by Rational Creatures, 20) The Life of the Aeon to Come." -- Reader Comment

Reformed Presbytery, 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) (Cerlox Bound Photocopy Series. Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books).
"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 Original Covenanter and Contending Witness, 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

*Robbins, John W., Ecclesiastical Megalomania: The Economic and Political Thought of the Roman Catholic Church (Unicoi, TN: The Trinity Foundation), ISBN: 0940931753 9780940931756.
The following presents, by contrast, what a Christian society should look like.
"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.

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

Wylie, Samuel B., The Two Sons of Oil; or, the Faithful Witness for Magistracy and Ministry Upon a Scriptural Basis (1850 edition) (Cerlox Bound Photocopy Series. Edmonton, AB, Canada: Still Waters Revival Books, 1995, 1850).
"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

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

Related WebLinks

What Is A Moral Person? How God Views the Church and the Nations, David Scott, John Cunningham, and George Smeaton
http://www.swrb.com/newslett/actualnls/moral.htm

Chapter 9 (part 1): "Corporate Faithfulness and Sanctification"
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr9cha.html

Chapter 9 (part 2): "Corporate Faithfulness and Sanctification"
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr9chb.html

Ten Best Classics For Advanced Studies From Still Waters Revival Books
This listing is "made up of all new material placed on sale as SUPER SPECIALS for the very first time (excludes sets and classics previously offered at special prices)." -- SWRB
http://www.swrb.com/ten-best.htm

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

Zionism

---

And I will bless them that bless thee, and curse him that curseth thee: and in thee shall all families of the earth be blessed. (Genesis 12:3)
And I will bless them that bless thee. Here the extraordinary kindness of God manifests itself, in that he familiarly makes a covenant with Abram, as men are wont to do with their companions and equals. For this is the accustomed form of covenants between kings and others, that they mutually promise to have the same enemies and the same friends. This certainly is an inestimable pledge of special love, that God should so greatly condescend for our sake. For although he here addresses one man only, he elsewhere declares the same affection towards his faithful people. We may therefore infer this general doctrine, that God so embraced us with his favor, that he will bless our friends, and take vengeance on our enemies. We are, moreover, warned by this passage, that however desirous the sons of God may be of peace, they will never want enemies. Certainly, of all persons who ever conducted themselves so peaceably among men as to deserve the esteem of all, Abram might be reckoned among the chief, yet even he was not without enemies; because he had the devil for his adversary, who holds the wicked in his hand, whom he incessantly impels to molest the good. There is then, no reason why the ingratitude of the world should dishearten us, even though many hate us without cause, and, when provoked by no injury, study to do us harm; but let us be content with this single consolation, that God engages on our side in the war. Besides, God exhorts his people to cultivate fidelity and humanity with all good men, and, further, to abstain from all injury. For this is no common inducement to excite us to assist the faithful, that if we discharge any duty towards them, God will repay it; nor ought it less to alarm us, that he denounces war against us, if we hurt any one belonging to him.
In thee shall all families of the earth be blessed. Should any one choose to understand this passage in a restricted sense, as if, by a proverbial mode of speech, they who shall bless their children or their friends, shall be called after the name of Abram, let him enjoy his opinion; for the Hebrew phrase will bear the interpretation, that Abram shall be called a signal example of happiness. But I extend the meaning further; because I suppose the same thing to be promised in this place, which God afterwards repeats more clearly, (Genesis 22:18.) And the authority of Paul brings me to this point; who says, that the promise to the seed of Abraham, that is, to Christ, was given four hundred and thirty years before the law, (Galatians 3:17.) But the computation of years requires us to understand, that the blessing was promised him in Christ, when he was coming into the land of Canaan. Therefore God (in my judgment) pronounces that all nations should be blessed in his servant Abram because Christ was included in his loins. In this manner, he not only intimates that Abram would be an example, but a cause of blessing; so that there should be an understood antithesis between Adam and Christ. For whereas, from the time of the first man's alienation from God, we are all born accursed, here a new remedy is offered unto us. Nor is there any thing contrary to this in the assertion, that we must by no means seek a blessing in Abram himself, inasmuch as the expression is used in reference to Christ. Here the Jews petulantly object, and heap together many testimonies of Scripture, from which it appears that to bless or curse in any one, is nothing else than to wish good or evil to another, according to him as a pattern. But their cavil may be set aside without difficulty. I acknowledge, that what they say is often, but not always true. For when it is said, that the tribe of Levi shall bless in the name of God, in Deuteronomy 10:8 Isaiah 65:16, and in similar passages, it is sufficiently evident, that God is declared to be the fountain of all good, in order that Israel may not seek any portion of good elsewhere. Seeing, therefore, that the language is ambiguous, let them grant the necessity of choosing this, or the other sense, as may be most suitable to the subject and the occasion. Now Paul assumes it as an axiom which is received among all the pious, and which ought to be taken for granted, that the whole human race is obnoxious to a curse, and therefore that the holy people are blessed only through the grace of the Mediator. Whence he concludes, that the covenant of salvation which God made with Abram, is neither stable nor firm except in Christ. I therefore thus interpret the present place; that God promises to his servant Abram that blessing which shall afterwards flow down to all people. But because this subject will be more amply explained else where, I now only briefly touch upon it. [bold emphasis added-- sk] -- Calvin commenting on Genesis 12:3, http://www.ccel.org/ccel/calvin/calcom01.xviii.i.html

Ball, George W., and Douglas B. Ball, The Passionate Attachment: America's Involvement With Israel, 1947 to the Present (W W Norton & Co Inc., October 1, 1992).
"Israel receives more than one-fourth of the U.S. foreign aid budget, but with its high level of militarization, it must sell weapons to survive, note the authors. Israel's dubious armaments customers include South Africa, Iran, Latin American and African dictatorships. George Ball, former undersecretary of State, and his son Douglas (FINANCIAL FAILURE AND CONFEDERATE DEFEAT) argue that Israel is no longer an indispensable protective shield for America's Middle East interests. Sharply curtailing U.S. aid, they suggest, would force Israel to get its house in order. The Israeli economy, they point out, is smothered with state-owned, incompetent, unprofitable industries and stifling bureaucracy plus the staggering costs of its military and its colonization program in the Occupied Territories. From Eisenhower to Bush, the Balls trace a shift in U.S. policy toward an accommodation to what they see as Israel's obstruction of the peace process. They advocate Palestinian self-determination with limitations on the arms permitted in an independent Palestinian state. An important, powerful book." -- Publishers Weekly
"Beginning with the Kennedy administration, the Balls indicate that American administrations have repeatedly sacrificed American interests on the altar of Israeli demands. Among the low points of the relationship was the 1967 attack by Israeli forces on the USS Liberty, a U.S. Navy intelligence ship whose existence threatened Israeli plans to occupy the Golan Heights before international pressure could force a cease-fire. Rather than responding to this attack on the U.S. Navy as it would if directed from any other quarter, the Johnson administration wrote it off as a case of mistaken identity. In subsequent administrations the retreat from principle has continued.
"The authors illustrate how, as the relationship developed, supporters of Israel were able to create the illusion that Israel served as a valuable American asset the Cold War struggle against Soviet expansionism. The authors explain how the Coalition which won the Gulf War proved that Israel's days as a strategic American asset, if they ever existed, were over.
"Much attention is devoted to the relationship between Israel and its Arab neighbors. It is refreshing to read an analysis of the recent history of the Middle East which is not filtered through Israeli apologists. The authors explain the background of developments in Israel and the Arab portions of Palestine. The Israeli policy of national expansion of military conquest, the expulsion of Arabs from conquered land and the colonization of those who have remained under the Israeli yoke are explained in detail. Acts of Israeli terrorism against Arabs are given due attention, despite the record of Israeli denials which are routinely accepted in American circles.
"An eye-opening chapter is devoted to the strong influence of Jewish pressure on American politics and how it is reflected in American foreign policy toward Israel and the Arabs.
"Particularly timely chapters are the ones on the neglected American-Arab relations and 'Terror and Reprisal' against America and Israel. The moral and financial costs of the Passionate attachment are followed by recommendations directed to both the United States and Israel on ways to advance the interests of each in the Middle East.
"This book is both edifying and shocking. It is edifying in that it presents a different views of the state of America's role in Middle eastern affairs than that to which we are normally exposed. This book is shocking in that it shows millions of Americans and several administrations as subordinating American interests to those of Israeli in the determination of American policy. This book is a worthwhile read for anyone interested in the truth about American Middle Eastern policy." -- Reader Comment

Berman, Aaron, Nazism, the Jews, and American Zionism, 1933-1948 (Wayne State University Press, 1990).

Bober, Arie, The Other Israel: The Radical Case Against Zionism (Anchor Books, 1972).

Findley, Paul, Deliberate Deceptions: Facing the Facts About the U.S.-Israeli Relationship (Amer Educational Trust, March 1, 1995).
"Findley is a former congressman who now serves as an active public-interest spokesman for the Palestinian cause. As in his previous work, THEY DARE TO SPEAK OUT, he here outlines a virulent anti-Israeli position. Using provocative themes to set the tone, he delves into three aspects of the Arab-Israeli conflict: 'Statehood and Conquest,' 'Collusion and Conflict,' and 'Perils to Peace.'
"Basing his argument upon a simplistic notion that all problems can be separated into two clear and unequivocal ideal positions of right and wrong, Findley popularizes a highly complex social and political conflict. A strongly partisan approach relying on straw man arguments; buy accordingly. -- Library Journal
"The many supposed sins of Israel, as compiled by former Illinois congressman Findley (THEY DARE TO SPEAK OUT). The author groups his points of contention with Israel into 28 categories, including 'The Likud Government,' 'The Intifada,' 'Loan Guarantees for Israel,' 'Israel's Spying On America,' 'Israel and the UN,' and 'Israel's Claims to Palestine.' After a brief introduction, he presents a kind of dialogue with himself, offering a 'fallacy' about Israel (presented in white print in a black box), followed by a corrective 'fact' (presented in black print in white box). Many of the fallacies and facts come off as vague or simplistic: That 'Israel Has Never Been Stronger,' for example -- an extremely complex issue -- is rebutted to Findley's satisfaction in two paragraphs, and his concern with the American Israel Political Action Committee's typically overblown lobbyist statements is hard to take seriously. The heart of the matter for the author is the special relationship between Israel and the US, as well as his concern that America is being exploited by Israel, financially and otherwise. On this issue, Findley does cut close to the bone when discussing the Israeli bombing, in 1967, of the US intelligence ship Liberty (34 Americans dead, 171 wounded) and the cover-up that followed in both countries. His criticism of Israel's relation to the UN (and the astounding American threat to withdraw from that organization if Israel were to be suspended for failing to abide by UN resolutions) is substantive, and his discussion on Israel's use of the Jewish diaspora to promote espionage (as in, he alleges, the Pollard case) is provocative, if shallow. The big problem here, though, is Findley's utterly partisan tone and his refusal to create a real global and historic context for his accusations. For the most part, a strident and unconvincing polemic." -- Kirkus Reviews
"Paul Findley was a congressman from 1961-1983, representing the state of Illinois. He is the author of the bestselling THEY DARE TO SPEAK OUT: PEOPLE AND INSTITUTIONS CONFRONT ISRAEL'S LOBBY." -- Publisher's Annotation

Goldberg, J.J., Jewish Power: Inside the American Jewish Establishment (Addison Wesley Publishing Company, October 1, 1997).
"JEWISH POWER by obviously liberal journalist J.J. Goldberg describes the influence of America's Jewish community in influencing the US government. There are several problems with the book. It does not provide enough historical context and skims over some areas where Jews are either predominant (such as in Hollywood or textiles) or grossly represented out of proportion to the rest of the population (such as the mainstream media and Ivy League schools). Goldberg has a lot of space to cover, and this is the type of book that might rile up that old demon 'anti-Semitism' because it gives striking details on how much power the organized Jewish community wields (which includes Reform, Conservative and Orthodox synagogues plus the non-affiliated). But otherwise what Goldberg does say is worth the five stars. The vast majority of the book is about the ins-and-outs of Jewish 'alphabet soup' organizations, AIPAC's lobbying for Israel and its silencing of opponents, and a lengthy analysis of the conflicts between blacks and Jews from the mid-70s.
"Jews form the most consistently liberal segment of the US population, and Democratic candidates for President have usually been able to command roughly 80% of the Jewish vote. One-half of the white civil rights leaders that went to the South were Jews, the NAACP was formed and directed by Jews into the mid-60s and Jews have been consistently leading the fight for "separation of church and state" (i.e. demoralizing Christians). 50% of the Democratic party's money comes from Jewish contributors. This can be deceiving, because the Jewish swing vote can influence elections, hence the Republican party also tries to drum up Jewish support, and 20% of Republican money comes from Jews. Although the section about Jews in the media is far too brief and cursory, it mentions the New York Times as being the front voice for current Jewish opinions (1/3 of the Times' readership is estimated as Jewish anyway) and 1/4 of major editors for news magazines are Jewish. As for the perennial rumors of Jews controlling the media and Hollywood in particular, consider this quote from page 280:

"And in a few key sectors of the media, notably among Hollywood studio executives, Jews are so numerically dominant that calling these businesses Jewish-controlled is little more than a statistical observation."

Hoffman, Michael, II, and Moshe Lieberman, The Israeli Holocaust Against the Palestinians (Independent History, August 29, 2002).
"Announcing one of the most explosive indictments of the Zionist State ever published! Here is unprecedented documentation of the horrendous atrocities which the Israelis visit upon the Palestinians; the fact-packed answer to the delusions of Limbaugh, O'Reilly, Falwell, Franklin Graham, William Bennett, George Will, Hitchens, Hanson and the legion of other prominent mercenaries and lapdogs of The Lobby.
"Compiled by two elite scholars with impeccable credentials -- Michael Hoffman, a former reporter for the New York bureau of the Associated Press, and Moshe Lieberman, a former Hebrew University researcher -- the authors combine their sleuthing skills and erudition to bring the reader an irrefutable dossier of Israeli war crimes in Palestine, profusely illustrated with harrowing photos of the death and destruction which the Zionist war machine has administered as collective punishment upon the entire Palestinian nation.
"Nothing like this book has ever seen print! THE ISRAELI HOLOCAUST AGAINST THE PALESTINIANS is one of the most explosive indictments of the Zionist state ever published, proving conclusively that the Israelis themselves are guilty of a holocaust.
"If books can still make a difference -- and we believe they can -- then THE ISRAELI HOLOCAUST AGAINST THE PALESTINIANS is a tsunami that will force a sea change in American perceptions of the Middle East crisis.
"Hoffman and Lieberman make a devastating case for Israeli criminality, while analyzing with profound insight the ferocious Talmudic racism that fuels the Israeli identification of the Palestinian people as 'Amalek,' and targets them for the final solution of 'total eradication.' The authors argue that to pretend that Zionist atrocities have not been systematically perpetrated in Palestine as part of a coherent dogma of eliminationism, constitutes nothing less than 'holocaust denial'." -- Publisher's Annotation

Hurley, Andrew, C. E. Carlson, Michael Heywood, and Andrew J. Hurley,