Authors on this CD: Augustine, John Calvin, John Knox, Jonathan Edwards, John Owen, C.H. Spurgeon, Robert Traill, the Covenanted General Assembly of the Church of Scotland, David Hay Fleming, Jerom Zanchius, William Ames, David Steele, R.L. Dabney, James M. Willson, Robert Baillie, Ralph Erskine, Christopher Ness, Elisha Coles, Augustus Toplady, John Gill, John Brown (of Haddington), John Anderson, William Binnie, Robert Nevin, James Chrystie, the Reformed Presbytery (RPNA), J.A. Wylie, James Douglas, Michael Wagner, the Puritan Reformed Church of Edmonton (Session), Greg Price, Lyndon Dohms and Family, Greg Barrow, Reg Barrow, the Westminster Divines, the famous Synod of Dort (1618-1619), Thomas Manton, George Gillespie, Samuel Rutherford, Matthew Henry, John Brown (of Wamphray), Francis Turretin, James Durham, John Howie, William Hetherington, Samuel Miller, John Girardeau, Edward Fisher, Robert Shaw, A.W. Pink, Loraine Boettner, Augustus Toplady, Andrew Symington, Patrick Fairbairn, William Roberts, Richard Baxter, William Cunningham, John Anderson, Andrew Clarkson, David Scott, John Cunningham, George Smeaton, Larry Birger, Francis Rouse, Dr. F. Nigel Lee, Bill Mencarow, et al.
This CD contains:
AUGUSTINE
A Treatise on the Predestination of the Saints (c. 428)
Augustine was the great forerunner to the Reformation and it was on books like this that Luther, Calvin, and the other magisterial Reformers cut their teeth. The corrupted demon seed of Pelagianism and Semi-Pelagianism (later being refined into Arminianism), being just newly planted by the wicked one in Augustine's day, has grown into a massive tree in our day. Its poison fruit now feeds most of the branches of ecclesiastical antichrist: from Rome, to the liberal Protestant churches and the cults, and now even reaching all the way into the very heart of so-called "evangelical" Protestant churches (of all varieties). This soul destroying heresy has reached pandemic proportions among professing "Christians" in our day. Ironically, this work of Augustine is probably more needed in our day than it was in his -- over a millennium and a half later.
BAILLIE, ROBERT
The Canterburians Self-Conviction: or an evident demonstration of the avowed Arminianisme, Poperie, and tyrannie of that faction, by their owne confessions.... (1641)
Baillie was one of the Scottish commissioners to the Westminster Assembly. The two predominant heresies addressed by Baillie in this book still cover much of the professing Christian world today; these being: (1.) false, man-centered views of salvation (Arminianism and Pelagianism) and (2.) false man-centered views of worship (Liturgical innovationism: either high church or Charismatic). "Baillie fought hard against Arminianism" noted Johnston (The Treasury of the Scottish Covenant, p. 310); making this book especially valuable for today! This is the third edition of 128 pages, plus a 28 page postscript.
BROWN, HENRY
Arminian Inconsistencies and Errors; In Which It Is Shown That All the Distinctive Doctrines of the Presbyterian Confession of Faith are Taught by Standard Writers of the Methodist Episcopal Church (1856)
This title focuses on the doctrine of salvation, especially the five points of Calvinism. It contrasts Calvinism with Arminianism throughout. Wesley's distinctive positions (aberrations) also receive much special attention -- including his views of sanctification and original sin.
COLES, ELISHA
God's Sovereignty, A Practical Discourse
A Puritan work recommended by Charles Spurgeon, John Owen, Thomas Goodwin and William Romaine. Owen, in particular, marvels at Coles' singular reliance on Scripture alone to vindicate God's sovereignty, as it relates to election, redemption, effectual calling, and the perseverance of the saints. Originally published in 1673, this is the 1831 edition. 298 pages.
EDWARDS, JONATHAN
Total Depravity, Obtaining Salvation and Miscellaneous Discourses
GILL, JOHN
The Cause of God and Truth
An exegetical work on the five points of Calvinism and reprobation. The Preface states that "this work was published at a time when the nation was greatly alarmed with the growth of Popery," and that rather than just "lopping off the branches of Popery, the axe should be laid to the root of the tree, Arminianism and Pelagianism, the very life and soul of Popery."
LANDIS, ROBERT W.
The Doctrine of Original Sin, as Received and Taught by the Churches of the Reformation Stated and Defended, and the Error of Dr. Hodge in Claiming that this Doctrine Recognizes the Gratuitous Imputation of Sin, Pointed Out and Refuted (1844)
Considered a classic in its field, this book of over 550 pages takes on Charles Hodge and his views concerning original sin. The author states that the "doctrine concerning Imputation and Original Sin" as taught "for many years past, in the Theological School at Princeton" is a "radical departure from... recognized Augustinian theology, or Calvinism." The author also notes "that the difference in this issue is fundamental to evangelical doctrine. The design of the present tractate, therefore, is to furnish a thorough historical, theological, and exegetical discussion of the essential points which this issue involves." Furthermore, Landis writes (concerning Hodge's view) that "the church herself can ultimately and logically have no possible alternative but either to abandon all the distinctive principles of the Augustinian or evangelical system of doctrine, or to reject this (i.e. Hodge's--RB) theory utterly and in all its parts."
KNOX, JOHN
Against an Anabaptist: In Defense of Predestination
Curt Daniel calls this "Knox's major theological work." Moreover, he states that this is "more than a short answer (to the Anabaptist--RB, 468 pages), it is a complete exposition and defence of the Reformed doctrine at the height of the Scottish Reformation" which helped "guide early Presbyterianism and build the theological bridge between Edinburgh and Geneva." This work was much esteemed by Knox's Puritan friends in England and "Calderwood, in summing up Knox's character, remarks: 'How profound he was in divinity, that work of his upon Predestination may give evidence" (Laing. ed., p. 17). Quoting freely from Calvin, his major influence in this work, Knox lays low the heresy that man plays any part in his own salvation. This heresy, of man's pretended ability to save himself (in any way), is at the root of all defection from the sovereign God of Scripture and is rampant today! As Kevin Reed notes, in refuting this Anabaptist, Knox unequivocally states, "For with the Pelagians and papists, you have become teachers of free will, and defenders of your own justice," clearly recognizing that, "the defence of man's free will, to do good and avoid evil," is "the damned heresy of Pelagius."
NESS, CHRISTOPHER
An Antidote Against Arminianism (1700)
Recommended by John Owen, John Gill, and Augustus Toplady. An easy-to-read but devastating critique of the Arminian heresy. A treatise to refute all five points of Arminianism, setting forth predestination and the five points of Calvinism clearly and forcefully, along with numerous Scripture proofs.
OWEN, JOHN
A Display of Arminianism: Being A Discovery of the Old Pelagian Idol of Free Will, With the New Goddess Contingency Advancing Themselves Into the Throne of the God of Heaven, to the Prejudice of His Grace, Providence, and Supreme Dominion Over the Children of Men...
This was Owen's first publication (1642) and immediately brought him into notice. It contains numerous useful charts contrasting Arminian doctrines, from some of their major teachers, with those of Scripture (Calvinism) in a side-by-side format. Owen leaves no room for compromise with Arminianism as he shows why this is, when sincerely believed, a dangerous, devilish and damnable heresy!
RICE, N.L.
God Sovereign and Man Free: or the Doctrine of Divine Foreordination and Man's Free Moral Agency, Stated, Illustrated, and Proved from Scriptures (1850)
SPURGEON, CHARLES H.
Spurgeon's Sovereign Grace Sermons
Completely retypeset and unedited, this book (of 188 pages) contains ten stirring Spurgeon sermons focusing on the sovereignty of God, the five points of Calvinism and the triumph of Christ as King.
Sermons included are:
1. God's Will and Man's Will
2. High Doctrine
3. The Sure Triumph of the Crucified One
4. The Perpetuity of the Law of God
5. The Unconquerable King
6. Human Inability
7. Christ's Work No Failure
8. Christ Crucified
9. The Doctrines of Grace Do Not Lead to Sin
10. Election.
TOPLADY, AUGUSTUS
A Letter to John Wesley Relative to His Pretended Abridgment of Zanchius on Predestination
Toplady here documents Wesley's deliberate lies and deception concerning Calvinism. He shows how Wesley abridged certain Calvinistic writings and attributed the abridgments to Toplady. This book also exposes Wesley as a plagiarist, pointing out his pro-monarchy and anti-American sentiments.
TRAILL, ROBERT
Select Practical Writings of Robert Traill
Traill was a persecuted covenanter, 1642-1716. His father was once severely wounded when he refused to submit to Cromwell, during a siege by the English army at Edinburgh, and was later imprisoned by Charles II. Thus he (Robert) learned early of hardships brought by faithfulness to truth. Later he was forced to flee Scotland because of Prelatical persecution. In Holland, a shelter for persecuted Presbyterians, he assisted in publishing Rutherford's Examination of Arminianism. When he returned to Scotland, he risked his life to preach (without Episcopalian ordination) at field conventicles, a capital offence in those days. This is the 1845 edition and clearly shows the excellence of Traill's works. Written during the times of life and death struggles for Christ's crown and covenant, these are no ivory tower essays. Contains: "By What Means May Ministers Best Win Souls," "The Protestant Doctrine of Justification Vindicated from the Charge of Antinomianism," and much more.
ZANCHIUS, JEROM
The Doctrine of Absolute Predestination
Atherton calls this "one of the best, if not the best book ever issued on Absolute Predestination."
AGAINST ARMINIAN VIEWS OF WORSHIP
(Calvinistic Worship/Regulative Principle of Worship)
AMES, WILLIAM
A Fresh Suit Against Human Ceremonies in God's Worship (1633)
A rare facsimile from this Calvinist divine who was one of the most acute controversialists of his age. This highly influential Puritan theologian was assistant to the president of the Synod of Dort and Professor of Divinity at Franecker. He died in 1633. In this massive work, Ames aims at vindicating the Lord's sovereign Kingship in matters of worship. The summary and general thrust of the detailed and precise argumentation found in this book is beautifully encapsulated by the words inscribed on its title page, "I hate vayn inventions: but thy law doe I love" (Ps. 119:113). Almost 700 pages.
BARROW, REG
Reformation Worship and Separation from Idolatry
These two articles, "Worship, The Regulative Principle of Worship in History," and Psalm Singing in Scripture and History," are also available in the "Free Books" file in all the Reformation Bookshelf CDs.
BARROW, REG
A Warning Against the False and Dangerous Views of James Jordan Concerning Worship: A Book Review of Kevin Reed's Canterbury Tales
This article is in the "free book" files on every Reformation Bookshelf CD.
BARROW, REG & DOUG WILSON
Saul in the Cave of Adullam: A Testimony Against the Fashionable Sub-Calvinism of Doug Wilson (Editor of Credenda/Agenda Magazine); and, for Classical Protestantism and the Attainments of the Second Reformation
Demonstrates in an email debate (of 170, 8.5 inch by 11 inch, pages) between Doug Wilson (editor of Credenda/Agenda magazine) and Reg Barrow (president of Still Waters Revival Books) how violations of the regulative principle of worship (i.e. the second commandment) are grounds for excommunication. Also gives specific examples of how modern "Reformed" Christians (e.g. John Frame) and denominations are in violation of the second commandment and are tolerating false and idolatrous worship contrary to their own Confessional standards and vows. Contains many quotations from major Reformation works and confessions in defense of the regulative principle of worship representing the classical Reformation position on worship. This book is in the FREE BOOKS file on this CD.
CALVIN, JOHN
An Exhortation to Suffer Persecution and to Flee Outward Idolatry (1553)
COVENANTED GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE CHURCH OF SCOTLAND
Directions of the General Assembly Concerning Secret and Private Worship, and Mutual Edification, For Cherishing Piety, For Maintaining Unity, and Avoiding Schism and Division: With An Act for observing these Directions, and for censuring such as use to neglect Family Worship. And An Act against such as withdraw themselves from the Public Worship in their own Congregations (1647)
ERSKINE, RALPH
Faith No Fancy: Or, A Treatise of Mental Images (1745)
The title continues: "Discovering the vain Philosophy and vile Divinity of a late Pamphlet, entitled, Mr. Robe's fourth Letter to Mr. Fisher, and Showing, that an imaginary Idea of Christ as Man, (when supposed to belong to saving Faith, whether in its Act or Object), imports nothing but Ignorance, Atheism, Idolatry, great Falsehood, and gross Delusion." David Lachman calls this "Erskine's most extensive publication," noting that it "was a contribution to the controversy with the Church of Scotland ministers involved in the Cambuslang revival" (Cameron, ed., Dictionary of Scottish Church History and Theology, p. 302). We have added Erskine's sermon "The True Christ, No New Christ" (1742) and Fisher's "Review of What Has Been Called an Extraordinary Work at Cambuslang, Kelsyth, etc." from the 1805 Philadelphia edition of this work. A very pertinent book given all the idolatry connected with the senses, pictures of Christ, etc. in our day. 523 pages.
HAY FLEMING, DAVID
The Hymnology of the Scottish Reformation (1884)
A courteous and detailed historical defence of the exclusive Psalmody of the Scottish Reformers, Calvin and others. These articles (excerpted from the Original Secession Magazine) were written to counter the false claims of Horatius Bonar, that uninspired hymns were used in the public worship of the church during the Scottish Reformation. 42 pages.
KNOX, JOHN
Against Apostasy and Indifference
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.
OWEN, JOHN
A Discourse Concerning Liturgies and their Imposition
Bannerman (in his two volume set The Church of Christ), summarizes this book by Owen as "giving the Scriptural argument against the imposition of liturgies as well as of other humanely devised elements in Divine worship, with great clearness and force" (p. 435).
Furthermore, the Westminster Theological Journal (55, 1993, p. 322, 3n) notes, "Owen discusses the true nature of NT worship, especially focusing on the challenge made to it by the Church of England. His discourse regarding the imposition of liturgies is one of the most thorough and forceful arguments for the regulative principle of worship as the only principle which safely guards the Christian conscience from the abuse of church power."
RYLE, J.C.
Idolatry
"To study the Reformation debate over idolatry is to peer into the eye of the storm. 'Idolatry' is a fighting word. It presupposes a definition of what is true and what is false in religion, for an idol cannot be universally recognized as such; idolatry is not simply the worship of a physical object, but rather any form of devotion that is judged to be incorrect''(Eire in War Against the Idols, p. 5 [$US29.95]). In this book Ryle gives the definition, cause, and form of idolatry. He concludes by showing what will end it.
WILLSON, JAMES M.
Dr. (Isaac) Watts, an Anti-Trinitarian: Demonstrated in A Review of Dr. Samuel Miller's Letter to the editor of the Unitarian Miscellany (1821)
This book is a review of a letter written by Prof. Samuel Miller. Prof. Miller had preached a sermon in which he had noted that Unitarians are not Christians, and in response a Unitarian periodical had published a heated attack on Miller. Miller thus wrote a reply to the attack, but the Unitarian periodical would not print it. Miller's reply was then published separately.
Willson reviews Miller's letter and points out that he clearly refutes the Unitarian's published attack. There was only one problem with Miller's argument; he claims that Isaac Watts was a Trinitarian. Watts was not, in fact, a Trinitarian, and Willson considered this point important enough to demonstrate from Watts' own work that he does not hold to the orthodox view of the Trinity. After citing portions of Watts' writing, Willson states,
"In these quotations Watts cannot be misunderstood. He most distinctly denies the existence of three persons in the Trinity, and makes the Son and Holy Ghost to be mere faculties, physical faculties, or attributes. The Son and Holy Ghost, in his view, are no more persons, than the human understanding and will are persons."
Thus, Isaac Watts, a favorite hymn writer of evangelicals, actually held to what Willson, Miller, and Turrettin all agree (in this book) is a "damnable heresy." For as Willson points out, Turrettin maintains, that no anti-trinitarian can be saved, while continuing in the belief of anti-trinitarianism. Contains 18 (8.5"X11") newly typeset pages.
YOUNG, WILLIAM
The Puritan Principle of Worship
(Psalms and Exclusive Psalmody)
THE PSALMS OF DAVID IN METRE (i.e. the Scottish Metrical Psalter of 1650): Allowed By the Authority of the Kirk of Scotland, and of Several Branches of the Presbyterian Church in the United States. With Notes, Exhibiting the Connection, Explaining the Sense, and for Directing and Animating the Devotion (1844 edition published by Robert Carter [New York]) John Brown of Haddington (annotations).
Psalter as translated by Francis Rouse, the Westminster Divines, and the Scottish General Assembly (from 1646-1650)
This is the Psalter (less Brown's notes, which were added later) mandated, approved and used (for public and private worship) by the Westminster Assembly and all those who covenanted to uphold the Biblical Reformation that these Divines proclaimed. The text of the Scottish Metrical Psalms was authorized by the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland in 1650. The notes added by Brown are suitable for explaining the Psalm before singing and are a great aid to understanding and worship (whether public, family or private). This is a primary source document of Reformation; not to be missed by those serious about the Reformed faith -- and worshipping God in spirit and in truth. There are few things in life as pleasing and enjoyable as communing with Christ through the singing of His Psalms!
ANDERSON, JOHN
Vindiciae Cantus Dominici: Or, A Vindication of the Doctrine Taught in a Discourse on the Divine Ordinance of Singing Psalms (1793)
Because the author contends that "the welfare of the church and her members is deeply concerned in the preservation of the purity of God's worship," he here defends the old paths of Protestant worship in opposition to the will-worship of Popery, Socinianism and Arminianism. Herein he shows how the singing of songs other than the Psalms (in public worship) violates the second commandment, dishonors God and brings His wrath upon individuals, churches and nations. Anderson also answers a number of objections against exclusive Psalmody which are still common today; for example the objection, "with respect to the nature of singing, as if there were no difference between it and prayer, except in the manner of performance." This is a valuable contribution to the defense of exclusive Psalmody. 184 pages.
ASSOCIATE PRESBYTERIAN MAGAZINE
The Ancient and Modern Mode of Singing the Psalms (Sept., 1863)
Historically demonstrates how the Old Testament saints, the early New Testament Christians and almost all Presbyterians (after adopting the Westminster Standards) sang the Psalms by "lining them out" (e.g. see the Westminster Directory for Public Worship). Musical instruments, a Papal innovation, were also unheard of among faithful Reformers and "denominated the ensigns of Baal."
BINNIE, WILLIAM
The Imprecations: God's Forgotten Prayers of Power
BINNIE, WILLIAM
The Psalms: Their History, Teaching, & Use
A one-of-a-kind general introduction to studying the psalms [1886]. "A highly valuable work... great skill and intense devotion... unlike any other...," said Spurgeon. Part one: "History and Poetical Structure of the Psalms." Part two: "The Theology of the Psalms." Part three: "Notices Regarding the Use of the Psalms in the Church." Indexed, 424 pages.
BLAIKE, ALEXANDER
A Catechism on Praise (1854)
"In brief space, and a clear, calm, scriptural way, this little manual covers, we conceive, the entire ground of the Psalmody question, and will meet a cordial reception from all the friends of the inspired songs and a simple worship" (Christian Instructor magazine).
DICK, JAMES
Hymns and Hymn Books (1883)
Greg Price calls this one of the best short defences of exclusive Psalmody. It is excerpted from The Original Covenanter magazine (Dec, 1883, vol. 3, No. 12). Here is a taste of Dick's writing,
Hymns of human composition are used so commonly now in public worship by Presbyterian churches that it is difficult to believe that the practice is not a hundred years old, and that in some of the churches it is of very recent date. On the supposition that it is good and dutiful and wise to sing such hymns in worship, it is equally difficult to account for the neglect of the churches at the time of the Reformation, and for generations afterwards. What could have so blinded the reformers as to make them reject hymns and sing the Psalms alone? How could the Westminster Divines, in framing their Confession of Faith and Directory for Worship, have been so unanimous in the blunder that the service of praise is to consist of the 'singing of Psalms?' And apart from the aspect of duty, how could the Presbyterian churches, for about a hundred and fifty or two hundred years after the Westminster Assembly, have been so insensible to the power of hymns as an attractive addition to their public services? We cannot by any means understand how it was that, if it was dutiful to use hymns in worship, the reformers did not discover the Scriptural warrant for the duty, especially as hymns had been used for centuries by the Church of Rome. Nor can we understand how they rejected the hymns and used the Psalms alone, unless on the supposition that they believed the use of hymns to be part of the will-worship of Rome. If they were wrong on this point, then Rome and our modern Presbyterian churches are right. In that case, the Puritans and Covenanters were fanatics, and Romanists were truly enlightened! And most of our Presbyterian churches of the present day were fanatical too, and did not become truly enlightened and liberal till they got back to the Romish practice!
GIBSON, JAMES
The Public Worship of God: Its Authority and Modes, Hymns and Hymn Books (1868)
Gibson was Professor of Systematic Theology and Church History at Free Church College in Glasgow. Written to promote the glory of God and the purity of His worship. The chapters deal with Praise, Public Worship, Alleged Authority for Human Hymns, Historical Argument for Human Hymns, How Hymn Books Were Introduced into Public Worship, Instrumental Music, and a Review of Hymnbooks. An important book given the fact that, "[t]he public worship of a church is a decisive measure of its true spiritual condition" (Kevin Reed, John Knox the Forgotten Reformer [ on the PHP CD, $98.98 at http://www.swrb.com/catalog/R.htm ], Presbyterian Heritage Publications, p. 79).
MAGILL, GEORGE (Chairman)
Psalm-Singers Conference (1905)
While hardly any department of the Psalmody question is entirely overlooked, several of its most important aspects are more fully and satisfactorily dealt with than in any previous work on the subject. 328 pages.
MANY AUTHORS
The True Psalmody; or, The Bible Psalms the Church's Only Manual of Praise (1878)
This book was originally "issued at Philadelphia in 1859 by a committee of ministers from the Reformed Presbyterian and United Presbyterian church of that city. A judicious compilation of the finest argumentation from a number of 19th century writers, the volume went through at least six American editions, the last in 1870. It was also printed in Belfast, Ireland in 1867, and in 1878 at Edinbugh, Scotland" (Isbell, Presbyterian Reformed magazine, vol. IX, No. 3, p. 111). In our opinion, this is the best older American defense of the Reformed practice of exclusive Psalmody, as it covers some aspects of this debate not covered in any other publication. 212 pages.
M'MASTER, GILBERT
An Apology for the Book of Psalms in Five Letters (1852)
This book argues for exclusive Psalmody. It includes a detailed history (ancient [the Fathers, Augustine, Apostolic Constitutions, etc.] and modern [Wickliffe, Luther, Calvin, etc., to the author's day]) of Psalmody, gives reasons for retaining the book of Psalms and considers numerous objections. It takes on both Watts (and his anti-Trinitarianism) and Wesley. 223 pages.
MCNAUGHER, JOHN, ed.
The Psalms in Worship
Dr. David Freeman (who was John Murray's pastor in Philadelphia) said that the Psalms in Worship was the most comprehensive treatment of this subject to be found anywhere. This volume (of almost 600 pages) consists of material presented at two conventions in 1905, promoting the claims of the Psalms in worship.
PRESSLY, JOHN
Review of Ralston's Inquiry into the Propriety of Using an Evangelical Psalmody in the Worship of God (1848)
ROMAINE, WILLIAM
Essay on Psalmody (1880)
STEELE, DAVID
Continuous Singing
The title continues: "In the Ordinary Public Worship of God, Considered in the Light of Scripture and the Subordinate Standards of the Reformed Presbyterian Church; In Answer to Some Letters of Inquiry Addressed to the Writer." Here Steele defends the Apostolic practice of "lining out" the Psalms in public worship -- noting love for the brethren (i.e. young children, others that can not read, etc.; but can join in the worship when the Psalms are lined) as the primary motivation for this practice; in accord with God's command (1 Pet. 3:8).
(Instrumental Music in Public Worship: A Popish Innovation!)
DABNEY, R.L.
Dabney's Review of Girardeau's Instrumental Music in Public Worship (1889)
GIRARDEAU, JOHN
Instrumental Music in the Public Worship of the Church (1888)
"To sing the praises of God upon the harp and psaltery," says John Calvin, "unquestionably formed a part of the training of the law and of the service of God under that dispensation of shadows and figures; but they are not now to be used in public thanksgiving."
Written in 1888, this book was highly praised by R.L. Dabney (in a review which we have bound together with this printing). Dabney notes,
Dr. Girardeau has defended the old usage of our church with a moral courage, loyalty to truth, clearness of reasoning and wealth of learning which should make every true Presbyterian proud of him, whether he adopts his conclusions or not. The framework of his argument is this: it begins with that vital truth which no Presbyterian can discard without a square desertion of our principles. The man who contests this first premise had better set out at once for Rome: God is to be worshipped only in the ways appointed in His Word. Every act of public cultus not positively enjoined by Him is thereby forbidden. Christ and His apostles ordained the musical worship of the New Dispensation without any sort of musical instrument, enjoining only the singing of psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs. Hence such instruments are excluded from Christian worship. Such has been the creed of all churches, and in all ages, except for the Popish communion after it had reached the nadir of its corruption at the end of the thirteenth century, and of its prelatic imitators.
Arguments from Scripture, history and creedal standards are all considered, while objections are noted and countered. Defending the Apostolic (and later Puritan and Reformed) position, against Popish innovations, Girardeau clearly lays down what God requires in the area of public worship. Given the present rejection of the regulative principle of worship (which is nothing less than the biblical application of the second commandment) in most Protestant quarters, this book is even more valuable today than when it was first written. It contains the best discussion of biblical and godly guidelines regarding worship in general, and the instrumental music question in particular, that has come to us out of the 19th century. 208 pages.
GLASGOW, JAMES
Heart and Voice: Instruments in Christian Worship Not Authorized (1873)
"The Early church did not use instrumental music in its worship.... They considered the practice as pagan or Jewish rather than Christian. Dr. Hughes Oliphant Old, in his work The Patristic Roots of Reformed Worship says: "As is well known, the ancient church did not admit the use of instrumental music in worship. It was looked upon as a form of worship which like the sacrifices of the Jerusalem temple prefigured the worship in spirit and truth....'" (Needham, The Presbyterian, #32, p. 35). This book contains advanced exegetical study of the second commandment (from the Hebrew) and upholds the regulative principle of worship. It's a vindication of the Westminster Confession against all ritualistic practices that give the Church the power to decree rites and ceremonies -- a power that denies the sovereignty of God. Glasgow proclaims that he has "sought to vindicate the words of the Westminster Confession," and has made his "appeal "to the law and to the testimony." He also demonstrates why it was that many of the Reformers regarded the use of instrumental music in public worship as the "badge of Popery."
NEVIN, ROBERT
Instrumental Music in Christian Worship (1873)
Nice, moderately short (87 pages of smaller type) refutation of this Popish innovation!
NEVIN, ROBERT
Instrumental Music in the Worship of God
An excellent short introduction to this subject. Defends the regulative principle of worship, proves that the use of instruments in the Old Testament was ceremonial, answers some major objections from instrumentalists, and explains why this is not a trivial matter.
ANDERSON, JOHN
Alexander and Rufus; or a Series of Dialogues on Church Communion, in Two Parts. Part 1: Vindication of Scriptural Church Communion in Opposition to Latitudinarian Schemes. Part 2: Defence of the Communion Maintained in the Secession Church (1862)
Alexander and Rufus gives us an excellent defense of biblically regulated close communion, which Anderson shows to be God's ordained method of promoting truth, unity and Reformation.
BARROW, REG
Calvin, Covenanting and Close Communion (1996)
Demonstrates how social covenanting and close communion were practiced by Calvin in Geneva. This book is available in the "Free Books" file in every Reformation Bookshelf CD.
BARROW, REG
Publisher's Preface to The Covenanted Reformation Defended Against Contemporary Schismatics (1998). In the free book section of this CD.
CHRYSTIE, JAMES
Terms of Church Union and Communion
After having witnessed "Calvinists and avowed Arminians at the table of the Lord, under the influence of a disposition to esteem their differences of no importance," the author began to question his own loose views regarding terms of admission to the Lord's supper. This eventually led to this book. Promotes the necessity of agreement to faithful creeds and confessions, as prerequisites to unity and for partaking at the Lord's table. Deals with: the difference between essentials and non-essentials; which creeds are faithful; Calvin's and Augustine's views; and the arguments from Holy Scripture.
GEORGE, R.J.
Close Communion
Covers the five major theories of Church communion: 1. The Latitudinarian Theory; 2. The Visible Discipleship Theory; 3. The Restricted Communion Theory; 4. The Occasional Communion Theory; and 5. the Close Communion Theory. Shows how the theory of close communion presents the true Scriptural doctrine of Church fellowship and answers objections to the doctrine of close communion. An excellent short, easy reading introduction.
LEE, F.N.
Calvin's Convincing Antipaedocommunionism
This fascinating book contains much useful information concerning some of the first steps toward understanding close communion in Calvin's writing and thought (for more see Reg Barrow's Calvin, Close Communion, and the Coming Reformation), while primarily demonstrating how Calvin refuted the very dangerous error of paedocommunion -- which is a form of open communion. This book is in the "free books" file in all the Reformation Bookshelf CDs.
REFORMED PRESBYTERY
An Explanation and Defence of the Terms of Communion, Adopted by the Community of Dissenters, etc.
Defends the inescapable necessity of creeds and confessions, while promoting a fully creedal church membership. Shows how the law of God obliges all Christians "to think the same things, and to speak the same things; holding fast the form of sound words, and keeping the ordinances as they have been delivered to us" (Col. 3:13). After laying some basic groundwork, this book proceeds to defend the six points of the "Terms of Ministerial and Christian Communion Agreed Upon by the Reformed Presbytery." These six points are the most conservative and comprehensive short statements of consistent Presbyterianism you will likely ever see. Besides the obvious acknowledgement of the alone infallible Scriptures, the Westminster Standards, and the divine right of Presbyterianism, these points also maintain the perpetual obligation of our Covenants, National and Solemn League, the Renovation of these covenants at Auchensaugh in 1712, and the Judicial Act, Declaration and Testimony emitted by the Reformed Presbytery. In short, this book sets forth adherence to the whole of the covenanted reformation, in both church and state, as it has been attained by our covenanting forefathers.
UNKNOWN
Ecclesiastical Fellowship Versus Free Communion
Works out the implications of open communion by exhibiting its destructiveness to the discipline of the visible church. The author says that open (or free) communion "is the secret enemy of all constitutional government -- of all distinctive truth -- of all purity of worship -- and of all ecclesiastical discipline."
Also contains the 101 FREE bonus books and articles listed in the summary for Reformation Bookshelf CD #1 ( http://www.swrb.com/Puritan/reformation-bookshelf-CDs.htm ).
Also free on this CD are the following audio (MP3) tracks:
John Calvin - Election and Reprobation: Concerning Jacob and Esau #6
Reformed Presbytery - An Explanation and Defence of the Terms of Communion, Adopted by the Community of Dissenters, etc. (1/2)
Reformed Presbytery - An Explanation and Defence of the Terms of Communion, Adopted by the Community of Dissenters, etc. (2/2)
R.J. George - The Badge of Popery: Musical Instruments in Public Worship
Greg Price - Corrupt Worship & God's Anger With the Church and the Nations (Micah Series, Micah 1:1-7)
Greg Price - What is Biblical (Presbyterian) Worhsip?
Greg Price - Regulative Principle of Worship in the Old Testament
Greg Price - Regulative Principle of Worship in the New Testament
Greg Price - Exclusive Psalmody 1/7 (Inspired Song vs. Uninspired Song)
Greg Price - Exclusive Psalmody 2/7 (God's Covenant Songs in Worship)
Greg Price - Exclusive Psalmody 3/7 (Sufficiency of the Psalter)
Greg Price - Exclusive Psalmody 4/7 (Exclusive Psalmody & the Regulative Principle)
Greg Price - Exclusive Psalmody 5/7 (Exclusive Psalmody in Church History)
Greg Price - Exclusive Psalmody 6/7 (& the Westminster Standards)
Greg Price - Exclusive Psalmody 7/7 (Objections to Exclusive Psalmody Answered)
Lyndon Dohms and Family - 50 Suggested Tunes for Use With the Scottish Metrical Psalter
John Howie - Biographia Scoticana: or, A Brief Historical Account of the Lives, Characters, and Memorable Transactions of the Most Eminent Scots Worthies (2/21) (Second edition, corrected and enlarged, 1781)
This CD contains approximately 16,348 pages of material.
This
CD also
contains the 101
FREE bonus books and articles listed below:
1. The Westminster
Assembly - Westminster Confession of Faith (1646)
Contains
the original and unedited text of this judicially binding document, the greatest of Christian
Confessions, with the
full scripture proof texts written out. This book represents
Reformed
thinking at its purest and best.
"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 in The History of the Westminster Assembly of
Divines (p. 345, emphasis
added). Also included
are the following documents, which are usually bound together with the Westminster
Confession of Faith:
a. The Solemn
League and Covenant
b. The
Confession of Faith of the Kirk of
Scotland: Or, The National Covenant
c. The
Westminster Shorter Catechism (with full
Scripture references)
d. The
Westminster Larger Catechism (with full
Scripture references)
e. To the
Christian Reader, Especially Heads of
Families (Prefaced to the Westminster Confession and Catechisms)
f. Mr. Thomas
Manton's Epistle to the Reader
(Prefaced to the Westminster Confession and Catechisms)
g. The Sum of
Saving Knowledge
h. The
(Westminster) Directory for the Publick Worship
of God
i. The
(Westminster) Directory for Family Worship
j. The
(Westminster) Form of Presbyterial Church
Government
k. A Solemn
Acknowledgement of Public Sins, and
Breaches of the (Solemn League and) Covenant; and A Solemn Engagement
to All
the Duties Contained Therein.
2. Reformed Presbytery - The Six
Points of the Terms of Ministerial and
Christian Communion in the Reformed Presbyterian Church
3. William Hetherington - History
of the Westminster Assembly of Divines
The
best history of this unsurpassed Assembly, their times, and their work!
4. Fisher's Catechism - The Great Scottish
Commentary on the Westminster
Shorter Catechism.
5. Robert Shaw - The
Reformed Faith: An Exposition of the Westminster Confession of Faith
(With An
Introductory Essay by William M. Hetherington)
6. Andrew Symington - Religious
Principles of the Scottish Martyrs
Sets
forth the major Scriptural truths which the Scottish
Presbyterians/Covenanters
died for. Also introduces some of the reasons why these Scriptural
teachings
were held in such high esteem; showing why multitudes died a martyr's
death
rather than denying Christ before men in relinquishing the precious
truths.
7. Reformed Presbytery - A Short
Vindication of Our Covenanted Reformation
8. Greg Barrow - The
Covenanted Reformation Defended (1998)
An
unsurpassed work, citing
original source documents from the Westminster Divines (and the
Covenanted
Reformation that gave us the Westminster Standards), Calvin's Geneva,
and a
broad range of other classic Reformation sources, documenting what true
biblical Reformation is -- as opposed to the almost complete defection
from
biblical Reformation attainments among modern Presbyterian and Reformed
churches in our day. Originally written in the context of a debate with
neopresbyterian Richard [Dick]
Bacon. (http://www.swrb.com/newslett/FREEBOOK/GBarrow.htm). Must
reading for anyone who is
serious about the truth of Scripture as formulated by some of the most
faithful
Christians thus far in history.
9. Michael G. Wagner - Paleopresbyterianism
Versus Neopresbyterianism
10. William Roberts - "The Covenanting
Martyrs and the Revival of the
Covenants!" from the Reformed Presbyterian Catechism.
11. William Roberts - "On the Duty of
Covenanting and the Permanent
Obligations of Religious Covenants" from section
11 of the Reformed
Presbyterian Catechism (1853).
12. George Gillespie - Whether
it be lawful, just, and expedient, that the
taking of the Solemn League and Covenant be enjoined by the Parliament
upon all
persons in the kingdom under a considerable penalty.
CHAPTER
16 of "A Treatise of Miscellany Questions," pp. 85-88, from The Works of George
Gillespie, volume
2, Still Waters Revival Books reprint. Includes "Nine particulars to be
remembered for the right deducing and stating the matter of fact. - The
grounds
and reasons of such an ordinance and appointment may be eleven.. - Four
objections answered. - How this ordinance would not be tyranny over
men's
consciences. - The covenant is no temporary obligation.. - If such an
ordinance
to the army be scandalum acceptum, then the not making of it is
scandalum
datum.
13. The Nicene
Creed
14. The
Athanasian Creed
15. The
Definition of the Council of Chalcedon
(451)
16. Larry
Birger - The
Biblical and Logical
Necessity of Uninspired Creeds
A
humorous and instructive dialogue between Hans [a paleopresbyterian]
and Franz
[a neopresbyterian], demonstrating the absolute necessity of uninspired
creeds.
Hans shows Franz that Franz's rejection of uninspired creeds is itself
an
uninspired creed.
B.
Free Bonus Books and Articles on the Sovereignty of God in Salvation
("Calvinism")
1. A.W. Pink - The
Sovereignty of God
One of
the best books explaining the foundations of Calvinism and
God's sovereignty --
as revealed in Scripture. This
is
the unabridged edition.
2. Augustus Toplady - Arminianism:
The Road to Rome!
3. John Calvin - Calvin's
Calvinism: Treatises on the Eternal Predestination of God and the
Secret
Providence of God.
4. C.H. Spurgeon - A
Defense of Calvinism
5. John Owen - For
Whom Did Christ Die?
6. Loraine Boettner - The
Reformed Faith
7. Synod of Dort - The
Canons of Dordt ("The Decision of the Synod of Dordt on the Five Main
Points of Doctrine in Dispute in the Netherlands")
"This
famous Synod of Dordt (1618-19) was held in order to settle a serious
controversy
in the Dutch churches initiated by the rise of Arminianism... Although
this was
a national synod of the Reformed churches of the Netherlands, it had an
international character, since it was composed not only of Dutch
delegates but
also of twenty-six delegates from eight foreign countries... In the
Canons the
Synod of Dordt rejected the Arminian views and set forth the Reformed
doctrine
on unconditional election, limited atonement, total depravity,
irresistible
grace, and the perseverance of saints (later known as TULIP)."
C.
Free Bonus Books and Articles on the Sovereignty of God in Worship (The
Regulative Principle of Worship, Close Communion, Against Occasional
Hearing
and for Biblical Separation, etc.)
1. John Calvin - On
Shunning the Unlawful Rites of the Ungodly and Preserving the Purity of
the
Christian Religion (1537)
Herein
Calvin maintains the sinfulness of outward conformity to false worship. Dealing with a
major problem of his
day, Calvin shows
that false worship should never
be tolerated or participated in (even by your bodily presence), no
matter what
the cost -- whether it be persecution, exile, or death. For
his faithfulness in this matter, Calvin
was greatly scorned. Obvious parallels to our day abound, not the least
of
which include the Lordship controversy, false ecumenism, rampant
idolatry in
the false rites maintained in the public worship of backslidden
Protestantism,
and in the rise of the influence Roman Catholic harlot (once again in
our day).
Excerpted from the "Library of Presbyterian Heritage and Protestant
Heritage Press" CD (listed at http://www.swrb.com/catalog/R.htm under "REED
KEVIN"). Used by
permission.
2. Psalter by Francis
Rouse, the Westminster
Divines, and the Scottish General Assembly (from 1646-1650) Annotations
by John
Brown (of Haddington) - THE PSALMS OF
DAVID IN METRE (i.e. the Scottish
Metrical Psalter of 1650): Allowed By the Authority of the Kirk of
Scotland,
and of Several Branches of the Presbyterian Church in the United
States. With
Notes, Exhibiting the Connection, Explaining the Sense, and for
Directing and
Animating the Devotion (1841 edition)
This
is the Psalter (less Brown's notes, which were added later) mandated,
approved
and used (for public, family, and private worship) by the Westminster
Assembly
and all those who covenanted to uphold the Biblical Reformation that
these
Divines proclaimed. The
text of the Scottish Metrical Psalms was authorized by
the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland
in 1650. The notes added by Brown are suitable for explaining the Psalm
before
singing and are a great aid to understanding and worship (whether
public,
family, or private).
This
is a primary source document of Reformation; not to be missed by those
serious
about the Reformed faith -- and worshipping God in spirit and in truth. There are few things in life as
pleasing and enjoyable as
communing with Christ through the singing of His Psalms! Excerpted from the
"Library of
Presbyterian Heritage and Protestant Heritage Press" CD (listed at http://www.swrb.com/catalog/R.htm under "REED
KEVIN"). Used by
permission.
3. George Gillespie - Of
Uniformity In Religion, Worship of God, and
Church Government by George Gillespie
4. Greg Price - Foundation
for Reformation: The Regulative Principle of Worship (1995, http://www.reformedpresbytery.org/books/index.html )
5. The
(Westminster) Directory for the
Publick Worship of God
6. James Douglas'
classic Strictures
on Occasional Hearing: An Inquiry Into
Song 1:7 ( http://www.reformedpresbytery.org/books/index.html )
7. John Anderson - A
Sermon Against Occasional Hearing
8. S. Bowden - Debarring
and Inviting Service at the Administration of the Lord's Supper, 1871
9. Andrew Clarkson - The
Reformed View of Schism
The
Reformers often said "that to avoid schism we must separate." This should give
the perceptive reader
some indication of how badly misunderstood the biblical teaching
regarding
schism and separation (which should be differentiated in many ways) has
become
in our day. Sadly, some of the most anti-Reformed work on this subject
has been
written by contemporary individuals, who, though calling themselves
Reformed,
"understanding neither what they say, nor whereof they affirm" (1
Tim. 1:7). This excerpt from Clarkson's Plain
Reasons for Presbyterians Dissenting should contribute much to
correcting the promotion of unbiblical ecumenism and place this
doctrine back
on its Scriptural foundation -- which was recovered during the
Reformation.
Clarkson cites Beza, Rutherford, Gillespie, Dickson, Durham, McWard
(Rutherford's "disciple"), Marshal, Watson, Owen, Burroughs, and many
others, while defending the truth about schism. Objections brought
against the
Reformation view of schism are also carefully answered. This is
probably the
single best short treatment of this subject.
10. Reg Barrow - Worship:
The Regulative Principle of Worship in History
11. Reg Barrow - Psalm
Singing in Scripture & History
Discusses
Reformed worship-song in the context of the regulative principle of
worship [Sola
Scriptura in Worship]. Defends exclusive Psalmody from Scripture and
the
writings and testimony of the most prominent Reformers.
12. David Steele - Martin
Luther and Psalm Singing
Did
Luther and the Reformation Lutherans practice exclusive Psalmody? What
about
Luther's hymns? Where and when were they used? ANSWERS HERE!
13. John Calvin and John
Girardeau - Instrumental
Music in Public Worship: The Views of
John Calvin, the Westminster Assembly, Many English Puritans, the
Scottish
Church, the churches of Holland in the Synods of the Reformed Dutch
Church
(soon after the Reformation), Zwingle, Spurgeon, et al.
"Instruments
were first introduced into use (in public worship) by the Roman
Catholic Church
in the thirteenth century. The Calvinistic Reformed Church ejected
instrumental
music from its services as a element of Popery. The historical argument
combines with the scriptural and the confessional arguments to raise a
solemn
and powerful protest against the employment of instruments in public
worship by
the Presbyterian Church (or any other church seeking to remain faithful
to
Scripture)" adapted from Instrumental
Music in the Public Worship of the Church by John L. Girardeau.
14. Session of the Puritan
Reformed Church of Edmonton - A Brief
Defense Of Dissociation In The
Present Circumstances 1996.
Recounts
the Covenanter/Westminster position on biblical separation, with
special
emphasis on the teaching of Samuel Rutherford.
15. Greg Barrow &
Larry Birger, Jr. - Reformation
Principles Re-Exhibited: An
Historical Witness & Brotherly Entreaty. Summary and
Analysis of Changes within
the Terms of Communion of the Reformed Presbyterian Churches of
Scotland and
America from 1761 to the Present, and a Particular Analysis and
Testimony
Against the Present Day Reformed Presbyterian Church of North America
(RPCNA).
(August 5, 2002).
16. Reg Barrow - Calvin,
Close Communion, and the Coming Reformation (a book review of Alexander
and
Rufus... by John Anderson [1862])
Shows
how Calvin practiced close communion and covenanting -- and how a
biblical view
of these ordinances is intended to purify the individual, church, and
state.
Refutes the Popish and paedocommunion heresies (regarding the Lord's
Supper),
as well as all views of open communion. Also argues that Arminians,
anti-paedobaptists, anti-regulativists, and all those who openly
violate the
law of God [and are unrepentant] should be barred from the Lord's table
-- as a
corrective measure ordained of God for their recovery. This is
Reformation
History Notes number two.
17. Dr. F. Nigel Lee - Calvin's
Convincing Antipaedocommunionism
18. Larry Birger - Terms
of Ministerial and Christian Communion in the Reformed Presbyterian
Church,
With Explanatory Dialogue (Including
"The Biblical and Logical Necessity of Uninspired Creeds")
19. Reg Barrow - Saul
in the Cave of Adullam: A Testimony Against the Fashionable,
Sub-Calvinism of
Doug Wilson (Editor of Credenda Agenda Magazine); And for Classical
Protestantism and the Attainments of the Second Reformation
A debate between the editor
of Credenda/Agenda magazine, Doug
Wilson and the President
of Still Waters Revival Books, Reg Barrow, concerning Reformation
worship, the
Lord's supper, civil and ecclesiastical government, history,
covenanting (and
the Solemn League and Covenant), separation, and much more, 1997, http://www.swrb.com/newslett/FREEBOOK/RBarrow.htm.
20. Reg Barrow - Steve
Schlissel Versus Reformation Worship (http://www.swrb.com/Puritan/steve-schlissel.htm)
21. Bill
Mencarow - Steve
Schlissel's Flawed Conception of the Regulative Principle of Worship
Corrupts
His Arguments: A Letter To A Ruling Elder (PCA) From A Ruling Elder
(Formerly
PCA) http://www.cashflows.org/rpw.htm
22. Reg Barrow - A
Warning Against the False and Dangerous Views of James Jordan
Concerning
Worship: A Book Review of Kevin Reed's Canterbury Tales
23. Session of the Puritan
Reformed Church of Edmonton - A Brief
Testimony Against the Practice of
Occasional Hearing.
24. John Howie of Lochgoin - Faithful
Witness-Bearing Exemplified: A Preface
Concerning Association, Toleration, and What is Now Called Liberty of
Conscience (published 1783).
25. Reformed Presbytery in
North America - The
Practice
of Headcoverings in Public Worship,
June 4, 2001. (http://www.reformedpresbytery.org/books/index.html)
26. Reformed Presbytery - A Short
Directory for Religious Societies, drawn up by
appointment for the particular use
of the several societies of Christian people under their inspection, at
the
desire of the said societies, and addressed to them. 1881.
D.
Free Bonus Books and Articles on the Sovereignty of God in History (The
Eschatology of Victory, Historicism, etc.)
1. Jonathan Edwards - The Work
of Redemption, Period III
A most
remarkable glimpse into the mind of President Edwards. He boldly
proclaims the
glorious future of Christ's Kingdom on earth BEFORE the return of
Christ.
Excerpted by CRTA from: The
Works of Jonathan
Edwards as published on CD-ROM by Ages
Software (and used by
SWRB by permission of Ages Software).
2. Francis Nigel Lee - Always
Victorious! The
Earliest Church Not Pre- But Postmillennial (2000)
A fascinating
24 page look at early church history and eschatology (with English
tranlations
of Latin works) which backs up the following strong statements by Dr.
Lee,
The
plain truth is: Chiliasm (Premillennialism--RB) is neither
Old-Testamentical,
Ancient-Apocryphal, Pseudepigraphical, New-Testamentical,
Neo-Apocryphal, or
Early-Patristic. Instead, it is a Mid-Patristic minority
viewpoint -- derived from Zoroastrian
Paganism. Where, then, did
the unscriptural
chiliastic teaching of the "double resurrection" come from? Whence
arose this teaching of a physical resurrection of the saints separated by
a thousand years from a subsequent
physical resurrection of the wicked? Not from the Bible -- but from Babel!
It was
only from the middle of the second century A.D. onward, then, that the
Babylonian-Persian chiliastic idea
of two widely-separated physical resurrections began to expand even on
the
fringes of the Christian Church.
First it influenced Sub-Christian groups like the Cerinthians,
Ebionites, and
the Montanists -- cf. too
the modern Mormons, Pentecostalists, Seventh-day Adventists, and
Jehovah's
Witnesses. And then it ultimately influenced even some of the
authentically-Christian groups themselves.
We
summarize. None of
the books of the Bible nor any
extant writings of the Earliest Church Fathers -- such as the Didachee or Teaching of the Twelve Apostles (A.D. 97), the Epistle
of Barnabas (98), Clement of
Rome (98), Hermas (100),
Ignatius (107), Quadratus (120), the Epistle to Diognetus (130),
Pseudo-Clement (135), Polycarp
(140), or Papias (145) -- are chiliastic. With the exception of the
Mid-Patristic Justin (150), Irenaeus (185), Tertullian (200) and those
who
followed them -- none of the later Patristic Fathers were Chiliasts.
3. J.A. Wylie - The
Papacy is the Antichrist.
This
book contains the classic teaching of the Protestant Reformation
regarding
Antichrist (an integral part of that Reformation, we might add -- as
all the
Reformed creeds and confessions attest). The easy reading format and
style make
this book an ideal introduction to this topic. 1888.
4. Patrick Fairbairn - Is
Popery the Antichrist? or The Tendency of
Prophecy to Describe Things According to the Reality, Rather that the
Appearance or Profession
Classic
Protestant Historicism demonstrating why both futurism and preterism
are
hermeneutically flawed.
5. Francis Nigel Lee - Islam
in the Bible (2000)
Many
Reformers considered the Papacy "the great Western Antichrist," and
Islam "the great Eastern Antichrist." Read why in this book! Classic
Protestant eschatology (Historicism) on what Bible prophecy teaches
about the
rise and fall of Islam -- and even what to expect in the future!
6. Francis Nigel Lee - Calvin
on Islam (2000)
Given the
prominent place in Scripture that God apportions to revealing Islam as one
of the most significant antichristian forces in history (and in the light
of the rise and
progress of Islam in our day), Dr. Lee has provided a much-needed
service to
the Christian community by gathering together (into one easy-reading
book) the
thoughts of one of the greatest Reformers, John Calvin, on
one of the chief
historical enemies of the church of Christ and the souls of men.
7. L'Avenir - Apocalyptic
Interpretation
Since
the time of the great Reformation, there have been no less than SIX
PROMINENT THEORIES of
eschatological interpretation, each claiming for itself the palm of
merit, and
all demanding the unanimous suffrage of the Christian Church. This
article summarizes these positions while also exposing the Jesuit
origins of
Preterism and Futurism.
It also notes that Historicism was the theory of the Waldenses, Wickliffites, and Hussites; and the
great body
of the Reformers in the 16th century-German, Swiss, French, English,
generally
received it. It has been the view of the vast majority of Scottish
Presbyterians. It was also the view of many prominent American divines,
from
Edwards to the 19th century Princeton theologians - the Alexanders, the
Hodges,
Miller, etc. It is
preeminently the theory of the Reformation, and therefore has
been violently opposed by Roman Catholics,
prelatists, rationalising expositors and other foes of reformational
principles.
8. Francis Nigel Lee - The
Anti-Preterist
Historicism of John Calvin and the Westminster Standards (2000)
An
overview of classic Protestant eschatology (historicism) focusing on
John
Calvin and the Westminster Standards (as contrasted with the
Jesuit-inspired
Preterist view). 14 pages.
9. Matthew Henry - Complete
Commentary on the Revelation
E.
Free Bonus Books, Articles, and Catechisms on the Sovereignty of God
Over the
Family
1. The
(Westminster) Directory for
Family Worship
2. To the
Christian Reader, Especially Heads of
Families (Prefaced to the
Westminster Confession and Catechisms)
3. Mr. Thomas
Manton's Epistle to the Reader (Prefaced to the Westminster
Confession and Catechisms)
4. The
Westminster Shorter Catechism (with full
Scripture references).
Concerning
the Westminster Shorter Catechism,
Mitchell writes,"...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). Richard
Baxter said of the Westminster
Shorter Catechism,
"It is the best Catechism I ever saw -- a most excellent
sum of the Christian faith and
doctrine, and a fit test to try the orthodoxy of its teachers."
5. The
Westminster Larger Catechism (with full
Scripture references).
6. John Calvin - Catechism
of the Church of Geneva, Being A Form of Instruction For Children.
7. Richard Baxter - The
Duties of Parents For Their Children (From: Baxter's
Practical Works, Vol. 1,
A Christian Directory, on Christian Economics, Chap. X., pp. 449-454).
8. Richard Baxter - The
Special Duties Of Children Towards Their Parents (From: Baxter's Practical
Works, Vol. 1, A Christian Directory , on Christian Economics, Chap. XI., pp.
454-457).
9. Richard Baxter - The
Special Duties Of Children And Youth Towards God (From: Baxter's Practical
Works, Vol. 1, A Christian Directory, on Christian Economics, Chap. XII., pp.
457-458).
10. Greg Price - Christian
Education in the Home: Help! My Daughter Wants to Date.
1994.
11. Reg Barrow - Godless
Public Education & Sin
The
primacy of godliness in education is here contrasted with the
sinfulness of
turning young children over to the pagans and Christ-haters for
education.
Shows how Christians violate the first commandment when they send the
children
that God has given them stewardship over to His enemies for
"training."
F.
Free Bonus Books and Articles on the Sovereignty of God Over the Church
and the
Ministry
1. The
(Westminster) Form of
Presbyterial Church Government
2. William Cunningham and
Reg Barrow - Apostolic
Presbyterianism
Shows from
Scripture how the Apostles practiced the divine right of
Presbyterianism.
3. Dr. Francis Nigel Lee - John
Owen
Represbyterianized
4. Michael G. Wagner - Forgotten
Hero: The Autobiography of David Steele
(1998)
5. David Scott, John
Cunningham, and George Smeaton - What Is
A Moral Person? How God Views the
Church and the Nations
A
clear and concise summary of the biblical doctrine of the moral person
(i.e.
that God regards churches and nations as moral entities separate from
the
individual members of which they are composed). No Christian can afford
not to
understand this vital teaching! In many ways this is a crux of the
Covenanter
position, underlying as it does the issues of separation from
backslidden or
anti-Christian civil and church governments, the binding nature of
lawful
Covenants on posterity, eschatology, etc.
6. John Brown (of
Wamphray) - Corporate
Sanctification: Holding Fast the
Attainments of Reformation
An
overview of the Covenanter doctrine of reformation attainments by one
of the
great Covenanter theologians. Helpful in dispelling false charges of
Anabaptism
and perfectionism laid at the feet of faithful Covenanters by
schismatics. John
Brown was one of Samuel Rutherford's best students.
7. Francis Turretin - Proof That
the Church is Often Obscured
8. Reformed Presbytery in
North America - Deed
of Constitution, August 5, 2000.
9. John L. Girardeau - The
Discretionary Power of the Church
10. Reformed Presbytery - Historical
Testimony, Church Union, and the Second
Reformation
11. Reg Barrow - Would
John Calvin Excommunicate John Frame?
12. Reformed Presbytery - Toleration: The
Cut-Throat of True Religion
13. Michael Wagner - Up From
Reconstructionism (1996, http://www.reformedpresbytery.org/books/index.html ).
14. James Durham
(1622-1658) - Concerning
a Calling to the Ministry, and Clearness
Therein
From: A
Commentary Upon the Book of the Revelation, Revelation
1:19-20, Lecture IX pages 66-83 (of 60-83).
15. Samuel Miller - The
Ruling Elder (An Essay on the Warrant, Nature, and Duties of the Office
of the
Ruling Elder, in the Presbyterian Church)
16. Greg Barrow &
Larry Birger, Jr. - Reformation
Principles Re-Exhibited: An
Historical Witness & Brotherly Entreaty. Summary and
Analysis of Changes within
Terms of Communion of the Reformed Presbyterian Churches of Scotland
and
America from 1761 to the Present, and a Particular Analysis and
Testimony Against
the Present Day Reformed Presbyterian Church of North America (RPCNA).
(August
5, 2002).
G.
Free Bonus Books and Articles on the Sovereignty of God Over Civil
Governments
1. Greg
Price - Biblical Civil
Government
Versus The Beast; and The Basis for Civil Resistance (1996, http://www.swrb.com/newslett/FREEBOOK/GPrice.htm )
2. Michael G. Wagner - A
Presbyterian Political Manifesto
3. Unknown - When
Is Civil Government So Constituted that Christians Can Swear Allegiance
To It?
4. The Commissioners of
the General Assembly of the
Kirk of Scotland. With the Answer of Parliament to the said Testimony - A Solemn
Testimony Against Toleration and
the Present Proceedings of the Sectaries and Their Abettors, in
England, in
Reference to Religion and Government (1649)
5. Samuel Rutherford - Samuel
Rutherford Refutes Roger Williams Regarding
Toleration, Sectarianism, and Peace
6. Reg Barrow - Reformation
Civil Government
7. John Howie of Lochgoin - Faithful
Witness-Bearing Exemplified: A Preface
Concerning Association, Toleration, and What is Now Called Liberty of
Conscience [published 1783]
H.
Miscellaneous Free Bonus Books, Articles, and Quotations
1. Classic Covenanter,
Presbyterian, Puritan, and
Reformed Quotes from Various Authors - Arranged
By Topic
Great
for cutting and pasting during online debates or for confirming classic
Protestant and Presbyterian teaching!
2. Greg Price - A
Testimony Against the Unfounded Charges of Anabaptism.
3. Dr. F.N. Lee - Calvin's
Convincing Antipaedocommunionism
4. John Calvin - "The
Second Sermon Upon the First Chapter of Job (or "Feasts and Godly
Children") on Job 1:2-5," from the book Sermons on the Book
of Job (1574).
5. Greg Price - The
Bible and Alcoholic Beverages. 1995.
6. Greg Price - An
Open Letter to those in the Identity Movement.
7. Greg Price - When
Does the Sabbath Begin? Morning or Evening? 1995.
8. Session of the Puritan
Reformed Church of Edmonton - A
Reformation Discussion of Extraordinary
Predictive Prophecy Subsequent to the Closing of the Canon of Scripture (prepared by Elder Greg Barrow) 1998.
Also free on this CD are the following audio (MP3)
tracks:
John
Howie - "James Stewart
and
John Knox: Scotland's 'Two Sons of Oil'" from Biographia
Scoticana (Scots Worthies), as
read by Larry Birger.
John
Knox - Reformation,
Revolution
and Romanism
John
Knox - True and False
Worship
Greg
Price - What
is Occasional Hearing?
(1/3) On Biblical Separation
Greg
Price - What
is Occasional Hearing?
(2/3) On Biblical Separation
Greg
Price - What
is Occasional Hearing?
(3/3) On Biblical Separation
John
Howie - Biographia
Scoticana: or,
A Brief Historical Account of the Lives, Characters, and Memorable
Transactions
of the Most Eminent Scots Worthies (19/21) (Second
edition, corrected and enlarged, 1781) (Contains
the lives of Robert Traill [father and
Son], William Vetch, and an abstract of a speech delivered by Lord
Warriston
before the Assembly of Divines at Westminster.)
This
CD
contains approximately 16,348 pages of material.
(CD)
$29.95 (US
funds) [$70 off!]
AFTER September 13, 2010, OUR REGULAR DISCOUNTED PRICE BELOW APPLIES
(CD)
$99.95 (US funds)
For SECURE ORDERING (click
here)
ANY QUESTIONS? swrb@swrb.com
Still
Waters Revival Books (www.swrb.com)
Serving
Christians worldwide (in over 100 countries) for 24+ years.
Voice:
(780) 450-3730 or Fax: (780) 468-1096 Mail:
4710-37A Ave. Edmonton, Alberta, Canada T6L 3T5
More REFORMATION CDs
http://www.swrb.com/Puritan/reformation-bookshelf-CDs.htm
Add yourself to our SUPER SPECIAL email list by sending an email
to add@swrb.com -- for email notices of our best
time-limited sales, new releases, and new FREEBIES (i.e. new FREE etext and new
FREE audio (MP3) sermons and classic Reformed books read on tape). Your email
address will be kept private (as we do not sell or trade email addresses in any
way) and you may remove yourself from the list at any time -- as easy (one
email) remove instructions come with every email. A small selection of previous
sales may be viewed at EMAIL SUPER SPECIALS
(http://www.swrb.com/puritan-books.htm).
Reformation Bookshelf CD Series Super Sale (30 CDs)
http://www.swrb.com/Puritan/reformation-bookshelf-CDs.htm