All that learning the most profound and extensive, intellect the most acute and searching, and piety the most sincere and earnest, could accomplish, was thus concentrated in the Westminster Assembly's Confession of Faith, which may be safely termed the most perfect statement of Systematic Theology ever framed by the Christian Church.' (William Hetherington, The History of the Westminster Assembly of Divines, p. 345)
For a background summation see: History of the Assembly at Westminster, a series of 13 lectures [audio file] by Greg Price. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #9, Available (series of 13 audio files), at SermonAudio.com.
The Reformation in England 2 of 2 (and America)
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Presbyterian History, 76 min., Matthew 5:13-16; Luke 19:13 [audio file]
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=126071623510
When reading THE WESTMINSTER CONFESSION OF FAITH (1646) for the first time it is recommended that one begin by reading the Shorter Catechism and the Larger Catechism. (Thomas Manton, Epistle to the Reader)
Keep in mind that THE WESTMINSTER CONFESSION OF FAITH (1646) and Other Standards were prepared by the Westminster Assembly as a result of the The Solemn League and Covenant. "The Solemn League and Covenant was the epitome of the Second Reformation."
No man who is able to understand its nature [The Solemn League and Covenant -- compiler], and to feel and appreciate its spirit and its aim, will deny it to be the wisest, the sublimest, and the most sacred document ever framed by uninspired men. (William Hetherington, The History of the Westminster Assembly of Divines, p. 134)
"Greg Price gives special attention . . . to the central place of the Solemn League and Covenant in the thinking and international vision for Biblical Reformation of the Westminster Divines." -- Annotation found at Greg Price, History of the Assembly at Westminster [audio file].
There was one great, and even sublime idea, brought somewhat indefinitely before the Westminster Assembly, which has not yet been realized, the idea of a Protestant union throughout Christendom, not merely for the purpose of counterbalancing Popery, but in order to purify, strengthen, and unite all true Christian churches, so that with combined energy and zeal they might go forth, in glad compliance with the Redeemer's commands, teaching all nations, and preaching the everlasting gospel to every creature under heaven. This truly magnificent, and also truly Christian idea, seems to have originated in the mind of that distinguished man, Alexander Henderson. It was suggested by him to the Scottish commissioners, and by them partially brought before the English Parliament, requesting them to direct the Assembly to write letters to the Protestant Churches in France, Holland, Switzerland, and other Reformed Churches. . . . and along with these letters were sent copies of the Solemn League and Covenant, a document which might itself form the basis of such a Protestant union. The deep thinking divines of the Netherlands apprehended the idea, and in their answer, not only expressed their approbation of the Covenant, but also desired to join in it with the British kingdoms. Nor did they content themselves with the mere expression of approval and willingness to join. A letter was soon afterwards sent to the Assembly from the Hague, written by Duraeus (the celebrated John Dury), offering to come to the Assembly, and containing a copy of a vow which he had prepared and tendered to the distinguished Oxenstiern, chancellor of Sweden, wherein he bound himself 'to prosecute a reconciliation between Protestants in point of religion'. . . . On one occasion Henderson procured a passport to go to Holland, most probably for the purpose of prosecuting this grand idea. But the intrigues of politicians, the delays caused by the conduct of the Independents, and the narrow-minded Erastianism of the English Parliament, all conspired to prevent the Assembly from entering farther into that truly glorious Christian enterprise. Days of trouble and darkness came; persecution wore out the great men of that remarkable period; pure and vital Christianity was stricken to the earth and trampled under foot." -- William Hetherington, The History of the Westminster Assembly of Divines, pp. 337-339
Birger, Larry, Jr., Guide for Studying the Westminster Confession: In Suggested Order of Reading. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
Burges, Cornelius, Samuel William Carruthers, Presbyterian Church of Australia in the State of New South Wales. Westminster Society. The Westminster Confession of Faith: From the Original Manuscript Written by Cornelius Burges in 1646.
"Notes: First printed 1946. "Supplement: The amendments to the Confession made by the General Assembly of The Presbyterian Church of Australia and The declaratory statement of 1901."
Calvin, John (1509-1564), The Unity of the Reformed Churches. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #27.
Carruthers, S.W., Westminster Confession of Faith [1646]: An Account of the Preparation and Printing of the WCF's Seven Leading Editions, to which is appended a critical text of the Confession, with notes thereon. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
*D'Aubigné, J.H. Merle, The Reformation in England, 2 volumes (Carlisle, PA: The Banner of Truth Trust, 1962-1963).
"Provides an indispensable guide to the place of the Bible in the Reformation of England. No one can read the writings of D'Aubigné and be the same afterward." -- Cyril J. Barber
"The author devoted his lifetime to the study of the Reformation. His ability to convey the importance of the history of this historical transformation of the world is easy-to-understand, even exciting." -- Jay P. Green, Sr. (1918-2008)
*Edwards, Jonathan (1703-1758), The end for Which God Created the World, ISBN: 0300011989 9780300011982. Available (THE WORKS OF JONATHAN EDWARDS), on the Puritan Hard Drive.
"When those who are devoid of the Spirit of God and reject revealed religion meet up with the Scriptural doctrine of original sin, their comments expose their hostility towards God and help exhibit the very principle they deny. For example, Smellie comments on one reaction to this work of Edwards as follows: 'Mr. Lechy has condemned the treatise on Original Sin as "one of the most revolting books that have ever proceeded from the pen of man'." Edwards summarizes this book as 'a general defense of that great important doctrine,' and has skillfully answered those who would assail the revealed truth of God's Word at this point. If our doctrine is weak on man's nature and (in)ability, all manner of false 'help yourself' religion (e.g. Arminianism, Romanism, the cults, the occult, etc.), and secular seduction (e.g. psychology, socialism, etc.), based on man's inherent 'goodness' or ability to 'save himself,' will be given a wide open door to run rampant." -- Publisher
"Two dissertations . . . by the late reverend, learned and pious Jonathan Edwards, A.M., president of the college in New Jersey. Concerning the end for which God created the world."
Edwards, Jonathan, Two Dissertations: I. Concerning the end for Which God Created the World; II. The Nature of True Virtue (1765)
http://archive.org/details/twodissertations00edwa
A Dissertation Concerning the End for Which God Made the World
http://www.ccel.org/e/edwards/works/vol1/end_of_world/end.htm
*Gaussen, Louis (1790-1863), David Scott (translator), John W. Robbins (editor), God-Breathed: The Divine Inspiration of the Bible, ISBN: 0940931575. Alternate title: THEOPNEUSTIA: THE PLENARY INSPIRATION OF THE HOLY SCRIPTURES, 1854. Available (a previous edition), on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available (a previous edition), on Reformation Bookshelf CD #15.
"The fundamental doctrine of Christianity is the reliability of Scripture. Through the centuries, Christianity's enemies have concentrated their attacks on the inerrancy [infallibility -- compiler], the sufficiency, and the clarity of the Bible, alleging that it contains errors, is inadequate, or is in need of an interpreter. These attacks come from the Roman Catholic Church, zealots, modernists, and unbelievers of various other sorts. God has used these attacks as goads to prod Christian thinkers into defending his Word, and one of the greatest defenses of Scripture ever penned is the book you hold in your hands. Louis Gaussen was a 19th-century Swiss Reformed pastor, defrocked for his fidelity to God's Word. Christians in the 21st century will also face persecution, but they can answer their opponents using Gaussens's arguments." -- Publisher
"The turning-point of the battle between those who hold 'the faith once delivered to the saints' and their opponents lies in the true and real inspiration of the Holy Scriptures. This is the Thermopylae of Christendom. . . . In this work the author proves himself a master of holy argument. Gaussen charms us as he proclaims the Divine veracity of Scripture. His testimony is clear as a bell." -- C.H. Spurgeon
Gaussen, Louis, Theopneusty: or, The Plenary Inspiration of the Holy Scriptures (1844)
http://archive.org/details/theopneustyorpl00gausgoog
Hall, David W., The Practice of Confessional Subscription.
"A unique and historical study of how various Reformed churches view adherence to their confessions. Expert theologians survey a range of traditions and practical considerations.
"David W. Hall is the author or editor of SAVIOR OR SERVANT? PUTTING GOVERNMENT IN ITS PLACE, THE ARROGANCE OF THE MODERN, PARADIGMS IN POLITY, ELECTION DAY SERMONS, and 10 other volumes." -- Publisher
Hall, David W., and Duncan III, J. Ligon, The Westminster Assembly: A Guide to Basic Bibliography (Oak Ridge, TN [The Covenant Foundation, 190 Manhattan Avenue, Oak Ridge 37830]: The Covenant Foundation), ISBN: 1884416012.
*Hetherington, William (1803-1865), The History of the Westminster Assembly, ISBN: 0921148321 9780921148326. Available (PDF and MP3), on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #1, #10, #30.
" 'Every person who has directed his attention to the events of the seventeenth century, whether with regard to their civil or their religious aspect, has felt that it was impossible fully to understand either the one or the other line of study, without taking into view the character of the Westminster Assembly, the purpose for which it met, and the result of its deliberations . . . The man who penetrates a little deeper into the nature of those unrevealed but powerful influences which move a nation's mind, and mould its destinies, will be ready to direct his attention more profoundly to the objects and deliberations of an assembly which met at a moment so critical, and was comprised of the great master-minds of the age; and the theologian who has learned to view religion as the vital principle of human nature, equally in nations and in the individual man, will not easily admit that weak idea, that such an assembly could have been an isolated event, but will be disposed earnestly to inquire what led to its meeting, and what important consequences followed. And although the subject has not hitherto been investigated with such a view, it may, we trust, be possible to prove, that it was the most important event in the century in which it occurred; and that it has exerted, and in all probability will yet exert, a far more wide and permanent influence upon both the civil and the religious history of mankind than has generally been ever imagined,' writes William Hetherington in this book. (The History of the Westminster Assembly, 1856, 2nd reprint edition, 1993, pp. 16-17, emphasis added). This book is probably the best popular historical account ever published regarding this unsurpassed Assembly. The history leading up to the Assembly is especially important and not only set the context for what became the major debates among the ministers present, but even dictated who was selected to this august body of scholars. These debates and their resolutions have defined and directed Christian thought and culture ever since their original ratification. Hetherington covers the period from 1531 to 1662. Many consider this era a historical high water mark for doctrinal and practical precision. Also included is a chapter on the theological productions of the Westminster Assembly and six valuable appendices (one containing six biographical notices of the Scottish Commissioners -- including Rutherford, Gillespie, Henderson and Baillie)." -- Publisher
History of the Westminster Assembly of Divines (1643-1653), by William Maxwell Hetherington, D.D., LL.D.
http://www.reformed.org/books/hetherington/west_assembly/index.html
*Luther, Martin (1483-1546), That a Christian Assembly or Congregation has the Right and Power to Judge all Teaching and to Call, Appoint, and Dismiss Teachers, Established and Proven by Scripture. Available in Martin Luther, Conrad John Immanuel Bergendoff, and Eric W. Gritsch, CHURCH AND MINISTRY, 3 volumes. Available in LUTHER'S WORKS, VOLUME 39, CHURCH AND MINISTRY, ISBN: 0800603397 9780800603397.
That a Christian Assembly or Congregation has the Right and Power to Judge all Teaching and to Call, Appoint, and Dismiss Teachers, Established and Proven by Scripture, Martin Luther (accessed 2/27/2016)
https://www.uni-due.de/collcart/es/sem/s6/txt06_1.htm
Luther, Martin, That a Christian Assembly or Congregation has the Right and Power to Judge all Teaching and to Call, Appoint, and Dismiss Teachers, Established and Proven by Scripture.
http://www.covenanter.org/reformed/2016/4/21/that-a-christian-assembly-or-congregation-has-the-right-and-power-to-judge-all-teaching-and-to-call-appoint-and-dismiss-teachers-established-and-proven-by-scripture
*McAuley, John (1807-1883), Christ's Mediatorial Dominion; or, What our Standards Teach in Relation to the Headship, or Dominion of Christ the Mediator.
http://www.covenanter.org/reformed/2015/7/27/john-mcauleys-article-on-christs-mediatorial-dominion-or-what-our-standards-teach-in-relation-to-the-headship-or-dominion-of-christ-the-mediator
*Mitchell, Alexander F. (1822-1899), The Westminster Assembly: Its History and Standards, ISBN: 0837087732 9780837087733. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
"William Hetherington has written: 'Every person who has directed his attention to the events of the seventeenth century, whether with regard to their civil or their religious aspect, has felt that it was impossible fully to understand either the one or the other line of study, without taking into view the character of the Westminster Assembly, the purpose for which it met, and the result of its deliberations . . . The man who penetrates a little deeper into the nature of those unrevealed but powerful influences which move a nation's mind, and mould its destinies, will be ready to direct his attention more profoundly to the objects and deliberations of an assembly which met at a moment so critical, and was comprised of the great master-minds of the age; and the theologian who has learned to view religion as the vital principle of human nature, equally in nations and in the individual man, will not easily admit that weak idea, that such an assembly could have been an isolated event, but will be disposed earnestly to inquire what led to its meeting, and what important consequences followed. And although the subject has not hitherto been investigated with such a view, it may, we trust, be possible to prove, that it was the most important event in the century in which it occurred; and that it has exerted, and in all probability will yet exert, a far more wide and permanent influence upon both the civil and the religious history of mankind than has generally been ever imagined.' (Hetherington, History of the Westminster Assembly, pp. 16-17). Beattie, (Memorial Volume, p. xxxv, 1879), called this book, 'perhaps the best single popular book on the Assembly yet published.' Read this rare item and find out why. Limited stock remaining. When our hardcover stock is depleted we will substitute a 'bound photocopy' edition in its place, at the same low price, unless you instruct us otherwise.
"In the first three lectures, the author has given a succinct account of English Puritanism from its origin to the meeting of the Westminster Assembly, and in the tenth lecture, he has given a similar account of the history of doctrine in the British Churches during the same period. The seven intervening lectures were prepared in accord with the author's desire to complete his researches on the Westminster Assembly. Throughout this work, Mitchell has endeavored to give prominence to aspects of this magnificent period in Puritan history which have hitherto been generally overlooked and to treat more briefly of those which have been previously dwelt on -- making this the ideal companion volume to Hetherington's THE HISTORY OF THE WESTMINSTER ASSEMBLY OF DIVINES and Gillespie's notes taken at this assembly (found in his WORKS). Moreover, Mitchell writes in an irenic manner, making this a perfect introductory volume to Puritanism and the work of the Assembly. Mitchell notes the importance of the Westminster Assembly in the following manner, 'Richard Baxter, who was perhaps as competent as any of their contemporaries to give an impartial verdict, does not hesitate to affirm that 'the divines there congregated were men of eminent learning and godliness, ministerial ability and fidelity; and being not worthy,' he modestly adds, 'to be one of them myself, I may the more freely speak that truth which I know, even in the face of malice and envy, that so far as I am able to judge by the information of all history . . . the Christian world since the days of the apostles had never a Synod of more excellent divines.' (p. 118). Thus, it has been noted by many, that next to the Scripture itself, there is probably more to be gained from the study of this segment of history (and the works of the men God called to produce the Puritan intellect and the Westminster family of documents), than any other single period of history -- right up to the present era. Mitchell's account of this age of brilliance is a veritable information cornucopia in which all lovers of Puritanism, the Westminster Assembly, and especially the truth of Christ (which these our forefathers in the faith so boldly proclaimed), can readily take delight! 'The Westminster Assembly, if it does not form a landmark in the history of our common Protestantism, must at least be admitted to constitute an epoch, and a notable one, in the history of Puritanism,' notes Mitchell." -- Publisher
*Moore, Edwin Nisbet, Our Covenant Heritage: The Covenanters' Struggle for Unity in Truth as Revealed in the Memoir of James Nisbet (1667-1728), and Sermons of John Nevay (d. 1672), ISBN: 1857926188. Includes bibliographical references and index.
"A new book, OUR COVENANT HERITAGE, examines the rise and fall of the Scottish Church. It rose when men placed the rights of God above the rights of man. It fell when men abandoned unity in truth. It is written by Ed Moore, who spent several years examining why the Covenanters, particularly those who lived near Loudoun Castle, were willing to die for their understanding of God's truth. The answer is found in the sermons of their minister John Nevay on God's Covenant of Grace and in the Memoirs of James Nisbet, one of their number who survived their epic battle for truth only to face the age-old struggle of Christ's church for unity in truth." -- Publisher
Our Covenant Heritage, Edwin Nisbet Moore
http://www.covenanters.com/
*Owen, John (1616-1683), God's Presence With a People the Spring of Their Prosperity; With Their Special Interest in Abiding in Him. A Christian classic. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #25. Available in THE COMPLETE WORKS OF JOHN OWEN, VOL. 8, SERMONS TO THE NATION, sermon 11.
http://johnowenquotes.files.wordpress.com/2011/01/johnowenvol-8.pdf
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 [Jeremiah 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 dwelling place, Psalm 90:1, then, when in this world they have none; their refuge in the time of trouble: so Isaiah 25:4, 26:1 [Isaiah 26:1], 31:4 [Isaiah 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 come. 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
Owen, John (1616-1683), God's Presence With a People the Spring of Their Prosperity
http://www.reformedsermonarchives.com/owen11.htm
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.
The sermons is also found in the various editions of THE COMPLETE WORKS OF JOHN OWEN.
*Owen, John, (1616-1683), The Complete Works of John Owen, 16 volumes, ISBN: 0851513921 9780851513928. A Christian classic. Alternate title: THE WORKS OF JOHN OWEN. See Volume 1 for annotation on all 16 volumes. Many separate works by Owen may be found in the Puritan Hard Drive and the Reformation Bookshelf 30 CD Set.
John Owen "is by common consent not the most versatile, but the greatest among Puritan theologians. For solidity, profundity, massiveness and majesty in exhibiting from Scripture God's ways with sinful mankind there is no one to touch him. . . ." -- J.I. Packer in A Quest for Godliness, p. 81
"To master his works is to be a profound theologian." -- C.H. Spurgeon
*Price, Greg L., Foundation for Reformation: The Regulative Principle of Worship, 22 pages. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #1.
Foundation for Reformation: The Regulative Principle of Worship. Greg Price
http://www.swrb.com/newslett/actualNLs/reformation-rpw-gp.htm
Price, Greg L., History of the Assembly at Westminster, a series of 13 audio files. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #9, Available (series of 13 audio files), at SermonAudio.com.
"This lecture is probably the best introductory historical account of this unsurpassed Assembly in audio format. It fulfills the same purpose for which Hetherington noted he wrote his classic, THE HISTORY OF THE WESTMINSTER ASSEMBLY OF DIVINES (only it is in audio format and much shorter):
In common with all true Presbyterians, I have often regretted the want of a History of the Westminster Assembly of Divines . . . Especially in such a time as the present, when all distinctive Presbyterian principles are not only called in question, but also misrepresented and condemned, such a want has become absolutely unendurable, unless Presbyterians are willing to permit their Church to perish under a load of unanswered, yet easily refuted, calumny. And as the best refutation of calumny is the plain and direct statement of truth, it is by that process that I have endeavored to vindicate the principles and the character of the Presbyterian Church (p. i)."The Puritan history leading up to the Assembly (which this lecture takes an in-depth look at), is especially important and not only set the context for what became the major debates among the ministers present, but even dictated who was selected to this august body of scholars. Civil wars, national upheavals, emigration to the 'new world' and a host of other epoch making events surrounded this momentous period of history. These debates and their resolutions have defined and directed Christian thought and national cultures ever since their original ratification -- and Hetherington (in THE HISTORY OF THE WESTMINSTER ASSEMBLY OF DIVINES), is not shy about noting the significance of this Assembly when he writes,
But the man who penetrates a little deeper into the nature of those unrevealed but powerful influences which move a nation's mind, and mould its destinies, will be ready to direct his attention more profoundly to the objects and deliberations of an assembly which met at a moment so critical, and was comprised of the great master-minds of the age; and the theologian who has learned to view religion as the vital principle of human nature, equally in nations and in the individual man, will not easily admit the weak idea, that such an assembly could have been an isolated event, but will be disposed earnestly to inquire what led to its meeting, and what important consequences followed. And although the subject has not hitherto been investigated with such a view, it may, we trust, be possible to prove, that it (the Westminster Assembly -- RB), was the most important event in the century in which it occurred; and that it has exerted, and in all probability will yet exert, a far more wide and permanent influence upon both the civil and the religious history of mankind than has generally been even imagined (p. 17)."Many consider this era a historical high water mark for doctrinal and practical Puritan precision and this work is indispensable for understanding the work accomplished by the Westminster Assembly, Presbyterian and Independent history, Cromwell, and much more. For example, consider the lofty and Christ honoring goal of the Assembly as summarized by Hetherington (in THE HISTORY OF THE WESTMINSTER ASSEMBLY OF DIVINES):
There was one great, and even sublime idea, brought somewhat indefinitely before the Westminster Assembly, which has not yet been realized, the idea of a Protestant union throughout Christendom, not merely for the purpose of counterbalancing Popery, but in order to purify, strengthen, and unite all true Christian churches, so that with combined energy and zeal they might go forth, in glad compliance with the Redeemer's commands, teaching all nations, and preaching the everlasting gospel to every creature under heaven. This truly magnificent, and also truly Christian idea, seems to have originated in the mind of that distinguished man, Alexander Henderson. It was suggested by him to the Scottish commissioners, and by them partially brought before the English Parliament, requesting them to direct the Assembly to write letters to the Protestant Churches in France, Holland, Switzerland, and other Reformed Churches. . . . and along with these letters were sent copies of the Solemn League and Covenant, a document which might itself form the basis of such a Protestant union. The deep thinking divines of the Netherlands apprehended the idea, and in their answer, not only expressed their approbation of the Covenant, but also desired to join in it with the British kingdoms. Nor did they content themselves with the mere expression of approval and willingness to join. A letter was soon afterwards sent to the Assembly from the Hague, written by Duraeus (the celebrated John Dury), offering to come to the Assembly, and containing a copy of a vow which he had prepared and tendered to the distinguished Oxenstiern, chancellor of Sweden, wherein he bound himself 'to prosecute a reconciliation between Protestants in point of religion'. . . . On one occasion Henderson procured a passport to go to Holland, most probably for the purpose of prosecuting this grand idea. But the intrigues of politicians, the delays caused by the conduct of the Independents, and the narrow-minded Erastianism of the English Parliament, all conspired to prevent the Assembly from entering farther into that truly glorious Christian enterprise. Days of trouble and darkness came; persecution wore out the great men of that remarkable period; pure and vital Christianity was stricken to the earth and trampled under foot.' (pp. 337-339)"Further demonstrating his grasp of the most important events of the second Reformation, Hetherington comments on the Solemn League (the epitome of second Reformation attainments), 'no man who is able to understand its nature, and to feel and appreciate its spirit and its aim, will deny it to be the wisest, the sublimest, and the most sacred document ever framed by uninspired men.' (p. 134). Price gives special attention in this study to the central place of the Solemn League and Covenant in the thinking and international vision for Biblical Reformation of the Westminster Divines. Anyone interested in the work of the Westminster Assembly -- and the men, teaching and events which were at the heart of the Puritan revolution against the forces of antichrist -- should read listen to this audio track at least once." -- Publisher
*Price, Greg L., Worldwide Calvinistic Unity and Loving one Another (1 John Series 18 of 27), [audio file]. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #27.
A sermon by Greg Price commenting on Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. (1 John 4:7)
"An amazing sermon which exposes all unity which is not based on truth (e.g. in groups like Promise Keepers), as necessarily based on lies -- and as treason against King Jesus! Defends the Reformation view of visible and covenanted unity and uniformity from Scripture, and from pertinent quotes from Calvin (during first Reformation), Henderson (the second Reformation architect of the Solemn League and Covenant), and others. Exhibits how Reformed teaching has always viewed the real schismatics (whether in the majority or minority), as those who press 'independent denominationalism' and as those who tolerate a sinful multiformity -- against the national establishment of the one true Reformed religion. Calvin and the Geneva Presbytery of his day even counseled excommunication and exile for those that would not swear to their 'covenanted uniformity' in upholding the Geneva Confession of 1536 (cf. Calvin, Covenanting and Close Communion by Reg Barrow). Moreover, Price shows how our scandalous modern multiformists (which includes the leaders of most so-called 'conservative Presbyterian' denominations today), teach and act in direct opposition to Christ's high priestly prayer in John 17, as well as the high standard of visible unity that will one day be attained worldwide (as seen in the prophetic words found in Zechariah 14:9: And the LORD shall be king over all the earth: in that day shall there be one LORD, and his name one). Furthermore, the portion of this sermon dealing with loving the brethren is one of the most convicting practical sections of a contemporary sermon that we have ever heard. Such preaching is extremely humbling, calculated to exalt Christ and His truth, and to drive sinful human beings to the throne of grace -- seeking everlasting mercy and forgiveness in the only place that it can truly be found. In short, Price calls us back to our first love (individually), and to the biblical attainments of our covenanted forefathers (corporately). It is unlikely that you will find modern preaching much better than this. This sermon is also available on cassette [audio file]." -- Publisher
Worldwide Calvinistic Unity and Loving one Another (1997) by Greg Price (I John 4:7 [1 John 4:7], #18 of 27), [audio file]
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?currSection=sermonsspeaker&sermonID=5270121261
Still Waters Revival Books, Puritan Hard Drive Collection.
Containing 12,500 plus Puritan and Reformation resources on an external USB hard drive, "with an embedded database and custom search/interface program now added, the most extensive and powerful reformation study tool ever produced!"
"Over 12,500 Classic and Contemporary Puritan and Reformation Resources On SWRB's New, Portable, USB Puritan Hard Drive (SWRB-PHD) -- Easy, Virtually Effortless, Access To All 12,500+ Puritan And Reformation Resources (Books, MP3s and Videos [audio files, DVD]), and the Power to Search, Build, Print and Even Save An Unlimited Number of Study Lists Related to Whatever Authors, Topics and Titles You Most Need To Know and Understand!
"The new Puritan Hard Drive also works on both PCs and Macs." -- Publisher
Apparently the Puritan Hard Drive includes all Bookshelf collections prepared and in preparation by SWRB at the time of release of the Puritan Hard Drive. Therefore, it includes titles formerly in the Puritan Bookshelf, Reformation Bookshelf, Calvinism Bookshelf, and Protestant Bookshelf as well as SWRB Newsletter, and audio files. Text and audio files that Puritan Downloads has acquire since release of the PHD may be purchased and downloaded singly at puritandownloads.com. It seems that individual PHD owners can not incorporate new text into the PHD database software and indexes.
PuritanDownloads.com
Download contents: Authors, Titles, Categories, and MP3s for the Puritan Hard Drive.
http://www.puritandownloads.com/swrb-puritan-hard-drive.html
*Reformed Presbytery in North America (Steelite), David Steele (1803-1887), John Thorburn (1730?-1788), John Courtass (d. 1795), et al., Act, Declaration, and Testimony, for the Whole of the Covenanted Reformation, as Attained to, and Established in, Britain and Ireland; Particularly Betwixt the Years 1638 and 1649, Inclusive. As, Also, Against all the Steps of Defection From Said Reformation, Whether in Former or Later Times, Since the Overthrow of that Glorious Work, Down to This Present day (1876), (Philadelphia, PA: Printed by Rue and Jones, 1876), a new edition of the Ploughlandhead Testimony of 1761, the subordinate standard of the original "Steelite" Reformed Presbytery that was constitutes in 1840. Available (the 1850 edition only) on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available (the 1850 edition only) on Reformation Bookshelf CD #1.
"And now, when time has proved that more recent Testimonies, Terms, and Covenants, have failed to preserve either unity or uniformity among those who framed them; it cannot be unseasonable to re-exhibit the original ACT, DECLARATION, AND TESTIMONY, which has been justly characterized as 'the most profoundly reasoned document ever emitted by the Reformed Presbyterian Church'." -- The Reformation Advocate Magazine, Vol. I, No. 8, December, 1875, page 267
"Upholds the original work of the Westminster Assembly and testifies to the abiding worth and truth formulated in the Westminster family of documents. Upholds and defends the Crown Rights of King Jesus in Church and State, denouncing those who would remove the crown from Christ's head by denying His right to rule (by His law), in both the civil and ecclesiastical spheres. Testifies to the received doctrine, government, worship, and discipline of the Church of Scotland in her purest (reforming) periods. Applies God's Word to the Church's corporate attainments 'with a judicial approbation of the earnest contendings and attainments of the faithful, and a strong and pointed judicial condemnation of error and the promoters thereof.' (The Contending Witness magazine, Dec. 17/93, p. 558). Shows the church's great historical victories (such as the National and Solemn League and Covenant, leading to the Westminster Assembly), and exposes her enemies actions (e.g. the Prelacy of Laud; the Independency, sectarianism, covenant breaking and ungodly toleration set forth by the likes of Cromwell [and the Independents that conspired with him]; the Erastianism and civil sectarianism of William of Orange, etc.). It is not likely that you will find a more consistent working out of the principles of Calvinism anywhere. Deals with the most important matters relating to the individual, the family, the church and the state. Sets forth a faithful historical testimony of God's dealings with men during some of the most important days of church history. A basic text that should be mastered by all Christians." -- Publisher
Act, Declaration, and Testimony (1876)
https://archive.org/details/actdeclarationte00refo
Act, Declaration and Testimony, 1761 (edition of 1876)
"Compared with the 1777 edition, Philadelphia. We hereby certify that this is a true edition of the ORIGINAL JUDICIAL TESTIMONY, emitted by the Reformed Presbytery at Ploughlandhead, Scotland, 1761; together with the Supplements adopted by the Reformed Presbytery at this date, June 2d, 1876. [Signed -- compiler] David Steele, James Campbell, Robert Clyde, Robert Alexander, Committee.
http://www.truecovenanter.com/
*Reformed Presbytery of North America "Steelite" (David Steele [1803-1887], James Campbell, Thomas Sproull, James Fulton), A Short Vindication of our Covenanted Reformation, 2nd Edition, Revised, and Enlarged by a Committee of the Reformed Presbytery ("Circular" and "Review" prefixed), 1879, 50 pages. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Also available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #2 (also #1, #25, and #30).
"Until the church comes to terms with what is written in this book it will remain weak and divided. Covenant breakers will not prosper, as this rare item demonstrates from both Scripture and history. The power packed ordinance of covenanting (the National and Solemn League and Covenant in particular), was foundational to the second Reformation and the work of the Westminster Assembly. 'By the National Covenant our fathers laid Popery prostrate. By the Solemn League and Covenant they were successful in resisting prelatic encroachments and civil tyranny. By it they were enabled to achieve the Second Reformation . . . They were setting up landmarks by which the location and limits of the city of God will be known at the dawn of the millennial day . . . How can they be said to go forth by the footsteps of the flock, who have declined from the attainments, renounced the covenants and contradicted the testimony of 'the cloud of witnesses. . . . All the schisms (separations) that disfigure the body mystical of Christ . . . are the legitimate consequences of the abandonment of reformation attainments, the violation of covenant engagements.' If you are interested in knowing how to recognize a faithful church (or state), when and why to separate from unfaithful institutions, who has held up the standard of covenanted Reformation attainments and who has backslidden (and why), what it means to subscribe to the Westminster Confession (1646), (and why most that say they do so today do not have any idea of what that means), and much more concerning individual, family, church and civil, individual, family, church and civil duties, this is one of the best books you will ever lay your hands on. It chronicles 'some instances of worldly conformity and mark(s) some steps of defection from our 'covenanted unity and uniformity,' noting how 'it is necessary to take a retrospect of our history for many years; for we did not all at once reach our present condition of sinful ignorance and manifold apostasy.' Presbyterian and the Reformed churches lay under the heavy hand of God's judgement in our day, because of the very defections noted throughout this fine work. 'We heard (hear) from various quarters the cry, "maintain the truth, stand up for the principles of the Second Reformation"; and yet many of those who are the most loud in uttering this cry, appear desirous to bury in oblivion those imperishable national and ecclesiastical deeds, by which the church and kingdom of Scotland became 'married to the Lord.' Are we married to the Lord, or have we thrown off the covenants of our forefathers; are we the chaste bride of Christ, or a harlot who is found in the bedchambers of every devilish suitor (whether ecclesiastical or civil), who tempts us with the favors of this world? Let us cry out, as with 'the noble Marquis of Argyle, upon the scaffold,' when he said, 'God hath tied us by covenants to religion and reformation. These that were then unborn are yet engaged, and it passeth the power of all the magistrates under heaven to absolve them from the oath of God. They deceive themselves, and it may be, would deceive others, who think otherwise.' Not for the weak of heart." -- Publisher
A Short Vindication of our Covenanted Reformation, Reformed Presbytery
http://www.covenanter.org/reformed/2016/4/26/a-short-vindication-of-our-covenanted-reformation
*Robbins, John W. (1949-2008, editor), Christ and Civilization, ISBN: 1891777246 9781891777240.
"A new 48-page booklet. Includes a complete listing (in an additional 16 pages), of the books currently available from The Trinity Foundation."
Christ and Civilization
http://www.trinityfoundation.org/PDF/200a-ChristandCivilization.pdf
*Singer, C. Gregg (1910-1999), 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
"There is between the democratic philosophy and theological liberalism a basic affinity which has placed them in the same camp in many major political struggles.
"This condition exists because theological liberalism shares the basic postulates of the democratic philosophy. . . .
"Theological liberalism at heart has been a continuing protest against Calvinism, particularly against its insistence on the Sovereignty of God and the Total Depravity of the race. These two Biblical doctrines have often proved to be a stumbling block to theologians within the church as well as to the unbelieving world.
"The result of theological liberalism has been the movement away from constitutionalism and away from liberty, and a movement toward collectivistic society and totalitarian regime." -- C. Gregg Singer, A Theological Interpretation of American History, p. 290
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 SermonAudio.com [audio file]
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=12607114250
Dr. C. Gregg Singer at SermonAudio.com (161 messages), [audio file]
http://www.sermonaudio.com/search.asp?SpeakerOnly=true&currSection=sermonsspeaker&Keyword=Dr.^C.^Gregg^Singer
*Sowell, Thomas, A Conflict of Visions, ISBN: 9780465002054 0465002056.
"Controversies in politics arise from many sources, but the conflicts that endure for generations or for centuries show a remarkably consistent pattern. The analysis of this pattern is the purpose of A CONFLICT OF VISIONS. Its theme is that the enduring political controversies of the past two centuries reflect radically different visions of the nature of man. Issues as diverse as criminal justice, income distribution, or war and peace repeatedly show those with one vision lining up on one side and those with another vision lining up on the other.
"Dr. Thomas Sowell describes A CONFLICT OF VISIONS as 'the culmination of thirty years of work in the history of ideas' -- a field in which he established his professional reputation years before writing any of his well-known books on ethnicity and other social issues. Dr. Sowell and his books have received a number of awards and honors, and have been translated into several languages. He has been a consultant to three administrations of both parties, as well as scholar-in-residence at three "think tanks." He is now a Senior Fellow at the Hoover Institute in Stanford, California." -- Publisher
Still Waters Revival Books (Puritan Downloads), Reformation Bookshelf 30 CD Set, ISBN: 0921148674 9780921148678.
This is the WorldCat (OCLC) record for the entire 30 CD set. It gives the title of each CD. See the WorldCat (OCLC) record for each CD for a listing of the titles included on that CD. "Comprehensive Author Index Containing all the Books Found in the Entire 30 CD Reformation Bookshelf Set" is available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #30, ISBN: 0921148380 9780921148388.
*Sundry Ministers of London, The Divine Right of Church Government (Jus Divinum Regiminis Ecclesiastici), c. 1646. Alternate title: THE DIVINE RIGHT OF CHURCH-GOVERNMENT, ASSERTED AND EVIDENCED BY THE HOLY SCRIPTVRES ACCORDING TO THE LIGHT WHEREOF (BESIDES MANY PARTICULARS MENTIONED AFTER THE PREFACE), 1. THE NATURE OF A DIVINE RIGHT IS DELINEATED, 2. THE CHURCH-GOVERNMENT WHICH IS OF DIVINE RIGHT IS DESCRIBED, 3. THIS DESCRIPTION IN THE SEVERAL BRANCHES OF IT IS EXPLICATED AND CONFIRMED, 4. THE DIVINE RIGHT OF ECCLESIASTICAL CENSURES, OFFICERS, AND RULING ASSEMBLIES IS MANIFESTED: IN ALL WHICH IT IS APPARENT THAT THE PRESBYTERIAL GOVERNMENT, BY PREACHING AND RULING PRESBYTERS, IN CONGREGATIONAL, CLASSICAL AND SYNODAL ASSEMBLIES, MAY LAY TRUEST CLAIM TO A DIVINE RIGHT, ACCORDING TO THE SCRIPTURES / BY SUNDRY MINISTERS OF CHRIST WITHIN THE CITY OF LONDON. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #23.
"This is one of the all time classic defenses of the divine right of Presbyterianism. David Hall, the editor, states, the book 'was not written as a polemical tract, as if to prop up some moribund tradition; rather it is an exemplar of gentle and reasoned discourse.' Published anonymously, during the sitting of the Westminster Assembly -- because of the Erastian leaning Parliament's 'gag rule' -- this work is considered by some as 'an even truer record of the Westminster divines' views of government than the final (politically suppressed), standards,' notes the editor. Moreover, Hall goes so far as to state that 'perhaps no single work is as illuminating for original intent [of the Westminster Standards], as this rare work printed contemporaneously with the meeting of the Assembly.' It is the third title in a uniform collection of books by 17th century Presbyterians to be published by Naphtali Press. It contains an historical introduction, subject and bibliographic indices, and is retypeset and edited to reflect contemporary spelling, punctuation and usage. David Hall's THE ORIGINAL INTENT OF WESTMINSTER added to this printing, is also very useful. A helpful chart comparing Independency with Presbyterianism is also included." -- Publisher
The Divine Right of Church Government
http://www.naphtali.com/jusextrc.htm
*Symington, William (1795-1862), Messiah the Prince or, The Mediatorial Dominion of Jesus Christ, ISBN: 0966004434 0921148054. The 1884 edition is available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Also available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #13, #25, and #26.
"It is the standard work on the kingdom of God in English! There is nothing else like it." -- Publisher
"It was deemed essential to the salvation of men that their Redeemer should possess the powers at once of a prophet, a priest, and a king. These offices, while essentially distinct, are necessarily and inseparably connected with one another. Such a union has been by some utterly denied; and its denial has laid foundation for some capital errors, which have exerted a pernicious influence on the Christian church. By others it has been criminally overlooked; and the neglect with which it has been treated has occasioned vague and conflicting conceptions regarding the great work of man's deliverance from sin and wrath by the mediation of the Son of God." -- William Symington
"It is the standard work on the kingdom of God in English! There is nothing else like it; it is one-of-a kind! It covers the necessity, reality, and qualifications of Christ's dominion over not only the church, but all nations too. Anything less is to rob Christ of His magnificent, majestic, mediatorial glory -- for He is the King of kings and Lord of lords. 'While books on the priestly work of the Redeemer, and especially on the Atonement, are numerous,' notes the introduction to the American edition, 'no formal and exhaustive discussion of the kingly office of the Messiah . . . and its application to various classes of moral agents is elsewhere to be found . . . It is cause for satisfaction that the only treatise, as yet, upon this subject, is a work of signal ability, lucid in arrangement, reverent in spirit, and with hardly an exception, sound and judicious in its conclusion. Its very merits are probably, in part, the reason why no other work on the same subject has appeared, and until it is supplanted by a better work -- an event not likely soon to occur -- it will have a value peculiar to itself'." -- Publisher
Chapters include "The Necessity of the Mediatorial Dominion," "The Universality of the Mediatorial Dominion," "The Mediatorial Dominion Over the Church," and "Over the Nations," plus much more.
Symington, William, Messiah the Prince or, The Meditorial Dominion of Jesus Christ (1881)
http://archive.org/details/messiahtheprince00symiuoft
Symington, William, Messiah the Prince or, The Mediatorial Dominion of Jesus Christ
http://www.reformed.org/eschaton/symington/index.html
Symington, William, Messiah the Prince or, The Mediatorial Dominion of Jesus Christ
http://reformedchurchpublications.org/messiah_the_prince_by_william_symington.htm
*Watson, Thomas (1620-1686), Body of Divinity: Contained in Sermons Upon the Westminster Assembly's Catechism, ISBN: 0851511449. A Christian classic. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
"The first book published by the Trust, this has been one of the best sellers and consistently the most useful and influential of our publications . . . It deals with the foremost doctrinal and experimental truths of the Christian faith . . . It is based on the Westminster Assembly's Shorter Catechism, in which the main principles of Christianity that lie scattered in the Scriptures are brought together and set forth in the form of question and answer. This catechism is unsurpassed for its 'terse exactitude of definition' and 'logical elaboration' of the fundamentals. . . . Watson conveys his thorough doctrinal and experimental knowledge of the truth in such an original, concise, pithy, pungent, racy, rich, and illustrative style that he is rightly regarded as the most readable of the Puritans." -- Publisher
"As an introduction to Puritan theology, as a short and sweet course in Christian doctrine, as devotional reading, and as a preacher's gold-mine, Watson's work can hardly be praised too highly." -- J.I. Packer
"Contains Watson's exposition of the Westminster Shorter Catechism, excluding the Lord's Prayer and the Ten Commandments." -- GCB
Westminster Shorter Catechism Project: Body of Divinity Contained in Sermons Upon the Assembly's Catechism by the Rev. Thomas Watson
http://www.shortercatechism.com/resources/vincent/wsc_vi_001.html?page_id=205
Westminster Shorter Catechism With Proof Texts
http://www.reformed.org/documents/WSC_frames.html
The Complete Scripture Index to the Westminster Confession (1646), Larger and Shorter Catechisms. Alternate title: SCRIPTURE INDEX TO THE WESTMINSTER STANDARDS. Available on Library of Presbyterian Heritage Publications and Protestant Heritage Press. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
The Complete Scripture Index to the Westminster Confession (1646), Larger and Shorter Catechisms.
http://www.swrb.com/newslett/actualnls/index01.htm
Westminster Shorter Catechism Project
"Click on any of the individual questions below to get the answer and Biblical references, as well as links to works by John Flavel, Thomas Watson, Thomas Boston, James Fisher, and John Whitecross, and others."
http://www.shortercatechism.com/
Watson, A Body of Practical Divinity Sermons on the Shorter Catechism of the Westminster Assembly, also Select Sermons on Various Subjects, Together with The Art of Divine Contentment, and Christ's Various Fulness (1859)
http://archive.org/details/bodyofpracticald00watsuoft
Bordwine, James, A Guide to the Westminster Standards: Confession of Faith and Larger Catechism (Unicoi, TN: (The Trinity Foundation, 1996), ISBN: 0940931303 9780940931305.
Includes a unique, 100-page topical index to both the Confession and the Catechism.
*Watson, Thomas (1620-1686), The Lord's Prayer, ISBN: 0851511457. A Christian classic. Considered to be among the ten greatest books in the English language. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
"Watson's three works on the Westminster Shorter Catechism is concluded by his exposition of the Lord's Prayer. In this book he analyses in detail the Preface to the prayer and the six petitions. His treatment of the second petition ('thy Kingdom come'), is exceptionally full and illuminating. This book affords instruction and practical help to praying Christians." -- Publisher
"A full and powerful Puritan exposition of the Lord's Prayer. So excellent that it may be without equal." -- GCB
"A part of the writer's famous BODY OF DIVINITY. An excellent exposition combining sound doctrine with practical application." -- Cyril J. Barber
The Lord's Prayer, Thomas Watson
http://www.iclnet.org/pub/resources/text/ipb-e/epl-watson-lprayer.html
Westminster Shorter Catechism Project
"Click on any of the individual questions below to get the answer and Biblical references, as well as links to works by John Flavel, Thomas Watson, Thomas Boston, James Fisher, and John Whitecross, and others."
http://www.shortercatechism.com/
*Watson, Thomas (1620-1686), The Ten Commandments, ISBN: 0851516815. A Christian classic. Considered to be among the ten greatest books in the English language. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
"In this book Watson continues his exposition of the Shorter Catechism drawn up by the Westminster Assembly. Watson was one of the most popular preachers in London during the Puritan era . . . The series of three volumes, of which this is the second (the BODY OF DIVINITY is first and THE LORD'S PRAYER third), makes an ideal introduction to Puritan literature. There are few matters about which the Puritans differ more from present-day Christians than in their assessment of the importance of the Ten Commandments. The Commandments, they held, are the first thing in Christianity which the natural man needs to be taught and they should be the daily concern of the Christian to the last. In this book Watson examines the moral law as a whole as well as bringing out the meaning and force of each particular commandment. In view of the important function of the law in Christian life and evangelism, this is a most valuable volume." -- Publisher
"Excellent study. Highly recommended for personal and group study. The need for understanding the Law of God is always of great importance for the Christian. Watson is an excellent expositor of it." -- GCB
"The most famous commentary on the Ten Commandments was by Lancelot Andrews (1555-1626), a huge folio." -- Jay P. Green, Sr. (1918-2008)
The Ten Commandments, Thomas Watson
http://www.iclnet.org/pub/resources/text/ipb-e/epl-watson-10cm.html
Westminster Shorter Catechism Project
"Click on any of the individual questions below to get the answer and Biblical references, as well as links to works by John Flavel, Thomas Watson, Thomas Boston, James Fisher, and John Whitecross, and others."
http://www.shortercatechism.com/
*Westminster Assembly (1643-1652), The Westminster Confession of Faith (1646), [completed and first printed in 1646, approved by the Assembly, August 27, 1647, Session 23 -- compiler] (Glasgow, Scotland: Free Presbyterian Publication [133 Woodlands Road, Glasgow G3 6LE], 1994), ISBN: 0902506080 (case-bound), and ISBN: 0902506358 (paperback). Among the ten greatest works in the English language. Available (THE WESTMINSTER CONFESSION OF FAITH (1646) with all its subordinate documents in searchable format) on the Puritan Hard Drive. Also available (THE WESTMINSTER CONFESSION OF FAITH (1646) with all its subordinate documents in searchable format) on Reformation Bookshelf CD #1.
Westminster Confession of Faith (1646) With Scripture Proofs
http://www.reformed.org/documents/wcf_with_proofs/
The Confession of Faith, the Larger and Shorter Catechisms, With the Scripture Proofs at Large: Together With The sum of Saving Knowledge (contained in the Holy Scriptures, and held forth in the said Confession and Catechisms), and Practical use Thereof, Covenants National and Solemn League, Acknowledgment of Sins and Engagement to Duties, Directories, Form of Church-government, &c. of Public Authority in the Church of Scotland, With Acts of Assembly and Parliament, Relative to, and Approbative of the Same (1757) [the original version of 1646, prior to the changes of the "American Version" of 1789 -- compiler]
http://archive.org/details/confessionofscot00chur
" 'The product of Puritan conflict,' stated Shedd, reaching 'a perfection of statement never elsewhere achieved.' All that learning the most profound and extensive, intellect the most acute and searching, and piety the most sincere and earnest, could accomplish, was thus concentrated in the Westminster Assembly's Confession of Faith, which may be safely termed the most perfect statement of Systematic Theology ever framed by the Christian Church,' writes Hetherington. (The History of the Westminster Assembly of Divines, p. 345).
"Concerning The Shorter Catechism, which is one of the items also included in this book, Mitchell notes: 'it is a thoroughly Calvinistic and Puritan catechism, the ripest fruit of the Assembly's thought and experience, maturing and finally fixing the definitions of theological terms to which Puritanism for half a century had been leading up and gradually coming closer and closer to in its legion of catechisms.' (Westminster Assembly: Its History and Standards, p. 431).
"THE WESTMINSTER CONFESSION OF FAITH (1646) is the greatest of all the creeds of the Christian church. The church of Christ cannot be creedless and live. Especially in an age of doubt and confusion, it is her duty to define and proclaim the one true faith. Nowhere has the Reformed church done this so effectively as in the Westminster Confession, and family of documents. This book represents Reformed thinking at its purest and best. It was intended, as part of the Covenanted Reformation taking place during its compilation, to be adopted as the binding confessional standard for every individual, family, court, church, and legislature in the British Isles." -- Publisher
This is considered to be the definitive publication of the Westminster family of documents. It includes the following:
*Williamson, G.I. (Gerald Irvin), The Westminster Confession of Faith [1646] for Study Classes, ISBN: 0875525385. A Christian classic.
"The most thorough work on the Confession since A.A. Hodge." -- William Grier
"Describes the Christian faith. You will also find this treatment excellent in coverage and application to contemporary living. Examples of divergent doctrine, problems with other philosophy and cultural standards are presented. The arguments and Q&A after each section makes it practical for knowing and living a Christian life. This is not feel-good theology, but how intelligent and responsible people can seek to understand the breadth of scripture in a concise book." -- Publisher
The Complete Scripture Index to the Westminster Confession (1646), Larger and Shorter Catechisms. Alternate title: SCRIPTURE INDEX TO THE WESTMINSTER STANDARDS. Available on Library of Presbyterian Heritage Publications and Protestant Heritage Press. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive.
The Complete Scripture Index to the Westminster Confession (1646), Larger and Shorter Catechisms.
http://www.swrb.com/newslett/actualnls/index01.htm
Bordwine, James, A Guide to the Westminster Standards: Confession of Faith and Larger Catechism (Unicoi, TN: (The Trinity Foundation, 1996), ISBN: 0940931303 9780940931305.
Includes a unique, 100-page topical index to both the Confession and the Catechism.
*Willson (alt. Wilson), James McLeod (1809-1866), Some Reasons for Retaining the Westminster Confession as the Basis of Ecclesiastical Union. Available on the Puritan Hard Drive. Available on Reformation Bookshelf CD #24.
"Explains why the use of the Westminster Confession is one of the best ways in which to obtain godly ecclesiastical union. This booklet pays special attention to the biblical teaching regarding civil government and shows why changes to the original WCF (regarding this matter), has resulted, not surprisingly, in much ecclesiastical disunity. It also contains some interesting notes on the millennial power and glory that will be exhibited in both church and state 'in the day of the Lord's power.' Excerpted from The Original Covenanter and Contending Witness Magazine, (volumes 1:1-4).
The Doctrine of man (Human Nature, Total Depravity)
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr2cha.html#domhntd
The Westminster Confession of Faith (1646), (The Westminster Standards) and Related Works
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr9chc.html#wstandards
Commentaries on the Westminster Standards Including the Westminster Confession of Faith, The Larger Catechism, and The Shorter Catechism
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr3ch.html#cwswcsc
Westminster Assembly and Related Documents Index (of titles)
http://www.covenanter.org/reformed/westminster-assembly-and-related-documents-index
The Westminster Assembly Project
The Westminster Assembly Project exists to publish The Minutes and Papers of the Westminster Assembly.
http://www.westminsterassembly.org/
Regulations at Yale College (1745)
Showing the centrality of Calvinism and the Westminster Confession in Colonial higher education.
http://www.constitution.org/primarysources/yale.html
American Revisions to the Westminster Confession of Faith
Later leaders, unfaithful to the precise truths of the Bible, have altered THE WESTMINSTER CONFESSION OF FAITH (1646), and have changed the course of history. See C. Gregg Singer (1910-1999), A THEOLOGICAL INTERPRETATION OF AMERICAN HISTORY.
http://www.opc.org/documents/WCF_orig.html
Appendix A: Major Changes of the Savoy Declaration
http://www.bible-researcher.com/wescoappa.html
Appendix B: Major Changes of the PCUSA (1788-1958)
http://www.bible-researcher.com/wescoappb.html
Appendix C: Major Changes of the UPCUSA and PCUS (1958-1983)
http://www.bible-researcher.com/wescoappc.html
Abuses and Usurpations of the U.S. Constitution
http://www.constitution.org/cs_abuse.htm
Conservatism: An Autopsy, John W. Robbins
http://www.trinityfoundation.org/journal.php?id=115
Statements Supporting the Original Consensus That Christianity is the Highest Ethical Standard Known to Mankind and, Therefore, Should be the Basis of Law and Government
http://www.lettermen2.com/agc002.html
Trinitarianism Verses Polytheism: Unresolved Questions of Article VI, Section 3 of the U.S. Constitution
http://www.lettermen2.com/trinpoly.html
Biblical Test of Character for Candidates for Public Office and all Civil Servants
http://www.lettermen2.com/bibltest.html
Religious Test Clauses in Colonial and State Constitutions and Other Documents and Statements Supporting the Original Consensus That There Should be a Religious Test for Positions of Authority and Trust
http://www.lettermen2.com/agc001.html
The Priesthood of all Believers
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr1chb.html#priestab
Selection of Covenant Heads for Positions of Leadership
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr9cha.html#covenantheads
The Question of the One and the Many
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr9chc.html#onemany
Corporate Faithfulness and Sanctification
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr9cha.html
The Mediatorial Reign of Christ and the Crown Rights of Christ
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr1cha.html#mroccroc
The Covenanted Reformation of Scotland Background and History
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr9chc.html#covref
The Covenanted Reformation of Scotland Author/Title Listing
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr9chb.html#crsstl
The Scottish Covenanting Struggle, Alexander Craighead, and the Mecklenburg Declaration
http://www.lettermen2.com/craig.html
Works of C. Gregg Singer
http://www.lettermen2.com/bcrr3ch.html#cgsinger
Mount Olive Tape Library of Reformed Theology
This collection has been in the custody of the Greenville Presbyterian Seminary since 2006. It appears (September 8, 2016) that the Media Center at the Seminary have digitized practically none of the audio cassette and video tape addresses.
"The following listing was developed by George Calhoun, the founder of Mt. Olive Tape Library, over the course of some thirty years. This catalog reflects the personal quest of Mr. Calhoun for a balanced education in Reformed Theology. The speakers herein have been scrutinized for their faithfulness to the Bible. These tapes will enable students to pursue the study of Reformed theology at a minimum of financial expense."
"FOR YOUR INFORMATION . . . [from the introduction to the Mount Olive Tape Catalog -- compiler]
"The tapes included in this catalog are recordings of sermons and lectures given by various pastors, theologians, Bible teachers, and conference speakers who confess adherence to the broad perspectives of historic Reformed theology. We have diligently tried to screen all the materials as to their basic commitment to the Biblical perspectives reflected in the Reformed creeds and confessions.
"Since, however, no human interpreter of God's Word is infallible, it is the prayer of those responsible for sending forth these tapes that all who listen to them will cultivate the spirit of the Bereans, who 'searched the Scriptures daily to see whether these things were so.'
"Also, it should be emphasized that the tapes included in this catalog have been evaluated in terms of their basic content as they were originally given, and the inclusion of them in this catalog should not be construed as an unreserved approval of the men who originally gave them. Christians grow in grace and knowledge with the passing of time, yet it must be recognized that some turn aside from the norms of Scripture. It is our hope, therefore, that no one will attach himself to any of the men whose tapes are included in this catalog on the basis of the tapes alone. We are all commanded to be discerning toward those who would instruct us in the faith.
"Finally, it would be a tragic abuse of the intent in providing these sermons and lectures should they in any way cultivate a party spirit so clearly condemned by the Apostle Paul in 1 Corinthians 3. Paul reminded the Corinthians that all things were theirs -- Paul, Cephas, and Apollos included. We, too, may recognize that the various servants of Christ whose voices are heard on these tapes are God's gifts to us and that we are to follow them only insofar as they follow Christ and the clear teachings of His holy and infallible Word! Since not all men have the same gifts, learn to drink from the gifts of many men -- not just one fountain."
Dr. C. Gregg Singer, Mount Olive Tape Library lectures, approximately 161 of 171 [audio file]
http://www.sermonaudio.com/search.asp?speakeronly=true&currsection=sermonsspeaker&keyword=Dr._C._Gregg_Singer
The Catalog of the Mount Olive Tape Library in PDF Format
http://www.lettermen2.com/olivecat.pdf
Mt. Olive Audio Library, Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary
http://gpts.edu/media/index.php?currpage=1&sa_action=
Greenville Seminary and Mt. Olive [audio file]
http://www.sermonaudio.com/source_detail.asp?sourceid=gpts
Covenants and Covenanting (3/7) National Covenant (1/2), Greg Price [audio file]
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?currSection=sermonsspeaker&sermonID=830101554
Covenants and Covenanting (4/7) National Covenant (2/2), Greg Price [audio file]
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?currSection=sermonsspeaker&sermonID=8501202735
Covenants and Covenanting (5/7) The Solemn League and Covenant, Greg Price [audio file]
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?currSection=sermonsspeaker&sermonID=890122138
Ten Best Classics For Advanced Studies From Still Waters Revival Books
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
Combined Interactive Contents for The Web Edition of Biblical Counsel: Resources for Renewal
http://www.lettermen2.com/combtoc.html
SermonAudio.com
"SermonAudio.com is the largest library of audio sermons [audio file] on the web from conservative Christian churches and ministries with over 438,500 FREE MP3 sermons which can be streamed online for immediate listening or downloaded to your computer or MP3 player for listening at a later time. You can easily search through the entire sermon library by broadcaster, Bible reference, topic, speaker, date preached, language, or any keyword.
"The mission of SermonAudio.com is to help faithful, local churches broadcast their audio sermons to the maximum amount of people with the least amount of cost. Our chief purpose is for the preservation and propagation of great Bible preaching and teaching in its audio form for this generation and the next.
"Additionally, through our Transcription and Translation service, any sermon that is available on SermonAudio.com can be professionally and accurately transcribed by a real human and then machine-translated into 20 plus foreign languages."
http://www.sermonaudio.com/
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