Sunteți pe pagina 1din 32

Evangelical Presbyterian

Jan-Feb 2003 75p

Evangelical Presbyterian
Editor:

is published by the Presbytery of the Evangelical Presbyterian Church.


Rev. Stephen Atkinson 1 Lord Wardens Dr Bangor, Co Down BT19 1YF (E-mail: sgt.atkinson@ukonline.co.uk)

Subscriptions: Annual subscription (six issues) Surface post: UK: Rep. of Ireland and Overseas Subscriptions enquiries to: Evangelical Book Shop 15 College Square East Belfast, BT1 6DD

5.70 8.10

Donations: If any of the Lords people wish to help in the work of the Church, please send donations to the Honorary General Treasurer Mr. J. R. McCormick 6 Eileen Gardens Belfast, BT9 6FW GiftAid: Under the GiftAid scheme the Church can benefit by Income Tax return on any donation from someone who pays tax. Contact the Honorary General Treasurer for further details. Internet: Visit the EPC Home Page on www.epc.org.uk

CONTENTS
Editorial EPC 75th Thanksgiving Day EPC Pulpit: John 14:6 Declaring our Distinctives: Evangelical The Regions Beyond: A Very Special Birthday Present
Dressing Service at Guguletu

Old Light for New Paths: Ecclesiastes 1 Books etc. Obituaries Making Progress with Pilgrim (7) - In the Castle

S. Roger J. Ballantine S. Atkinson D. MacPherson M. Miller S. Atkinson S. Atkinson

1 2 5 10 13 15 17 22 27 29

Cover Photo

by Harold Gibson

Editorial:Ring in the new... or Ecclesiastical Euthanasia


In our ultra modern society there is a great aversion to anything of considerable age. Some of that is justified, and some of it is reprehensible. However, it seems that in the church we are not immune to that mindset found in the world, and we may wish to Ring in the New. What we are saying though is effectively ecclesiastical euthanasia! And some churches are already engaged in this practice. Personally, I have a clear desire to live realistically in the 21st century and present the gospel, and worship God within that context. However I also am concerned with those who would have a simple philosophy to ring in the new. This necessitates, Out with old music, Out with old worship forms, and even Out with old doctrine. Very soon it will be (if not already!) Out with old people! - and Im getting close! How we need some sanctified common sense. If I give my children food that has been sitting in the cupboard for two years, I would risk their health. If I give my children clothing that I wore as I child, I would risk their gross embarrassment. However, if I give them advice, borne out of the crucible of years of experience, they would be foolish not to heed it. If I give them Scripture; the eternal counsels of God, it is food for young and old souls alike. We must ask for the ancient paths. Yet we must also ask - Should the spiritual food presented smell musty and taste stale? The common tongue presentation of truth is our confessional principle. Should my clothing be worn by my children? Should traditional coverings of church life be considered the only acceptable clothing in the 21st century? But dare I change the nature of the nourishment - the milk and meat of the Word of God? Dare I change the decency of the clothing? Some modern worship is downright indecent! There are twin dangers. We can become so entrenched that we live in an unreal world, hiding in the clefts. Or, we become so dismissive of all things ancient, that in effect we rewrite Scripture, and engage in ecclesiastical euthanasia. We must be careful to take a wise approach.
page 1

EPC 75th Anniversary Thanksgiving Day


The 75th Anniversary Family Day Services took place on the afternoon and early evening of 26th October 2002, being held on the premises of Stranmillis College, Belfast. Following refreshments and some brief announcements, the Moderator, Mr John Grier noted a number of apologies, specifically from Revs C H Garland, Norman Reid & Sidney Garland. He went on to pay tribute to the work done by Mr David Watson and Rev Gareth Burke in arranging the day. Prayer was offered for God's presence and blessing for the day and Psalm 145 was sung. The scripture reading from Philippians 2:1-11 was brought by Rev Andrew Lucas, and this was followed by the first of a series of musical contributions from the YPA choir. The Moderator expressed thanks to Rev Stephen Atkinson for his work in preparing the choir for the day. The Moderator then addressed the meeting answering the question, Why are we here today?, giving a brief background to the events surrounding the Heresy Trial. Rev Gareth Burke then led in a prayer of thanksgiving. Following the singing of Lord thy word abideth, the meeting enjoyed a Powerpoint presentation on the history of the Evangelical Presbyterian Church. The singing of the hymn Lord for the years followed and the meeting moved to the reception of visiting delegates.

The cutting of the cake is carefully administered by Mrs Anna Jess and watched over by Mr John Grier.

page 2

The Moderator read greetings from the Orthodox Presbyterian Church. and further expressed the sympathy of the meeting to Mr Donald Matheson who had been due to represent the Free Church of Scotland, but whose son had died earlier in the week. Delegates then addressed the meeting as follows:

development of the early church and how this pattern had been repeated in the origins of the EPC. He also brought greetings from churches in Eastern Europe.

The Rev Wallace McCollum represented the Reformed Presbyterian Church of Ireland and reminded the For the Free Church of Scotland the gathering of the long and close ties Rev Billy Graham spoke of his pleasure between the two churches and and privilege in being present, of the emphasised the importance of working esteem and warm affection in which together as much as possible. He the EPC was held and of thanks for co referred to Isaiah 40:31 and stressed -operation on the mission field over the need to wait upon God. many years. He went on to read a letter The Moderator expressed thanks to of greeting from the Free Church in those bodies that had been involved South Africa. over the years in helping with our For the Free Church of Scotland ministerial training. The YPA choir (Continuing) the Rev Bill Scott spoke provided a further brief interlude to the of his joy at being present and went on speeches before the Moderator to quote from Acts 14, referring to the introduced three further delegates.

Visiting Delegates (left to right):


Glen Jordan (Congregational Union of Ireland), David Ford (British Evangelical Council),

Wallace McCollum (Reformed Presbyterian), Billy Graham (Free Church of Scotland), Bill Scott (Free Church of Scotland (Continuing)), Ian Hamilton (Evangelical Presbyterian Church in England & Wales), John Grier (EPC Moderator).
page 3

EPC Youth Choir conducted by Rev Stephen Atkinson (Accompanist and choral arrangements - Mrs Jenny Watson)

Rev Ian Hamilton was present to represent the Evangelical Presbyterian Church in England & Wales. He spoke of the gratitude of his denomination for the great help given by the EPC in its formative years and stressed our absolute dependence on the sovereign grace of God. He brought greetings from the EPCEW and also from his own congregation at Cambridge.

Extracts of a letter from Rev Dr & Mrs Sidney Garland were then read. The session concluded by singing Psalm 117 and prayer by Rev Jeff Ballantine.

Those present then took a leisurely walk, (some travelling by minibus), to the Stranmillis refectory facilities where they enjoyed an excellent meal in pleasant surroundings. A 75th Anniversary cake was cut by Mrs Anna Rev Dr Glen Jordan then addressed the Jess, one of the denomination's oldest meeting bringing the congratulations of members, and heartily consumed. the Congregational Union on this occasion. He stated that he had found The evening session was chaired by the history of the EPC very interesting Rev Stephen Roger and again there were items from the YPA choir. The and emphasised that the CUI stands scripture reading from John 1 was read with the EPC for separatism and the by Rev Dr A A Woolsey and prayer preaching of the Word. offered by Rev Billy Elliott. Rev The Rev Dr David Ford, General Hamilton then very helpfully directed Secretary of the British Evangelical the gathering to the person and work of Council congratulated the EPC on its the Lord Jesus Christ. The day ended 75th Anniversary and brought greetings with the singing of the hymn, Jesus from the BEC churches. He spoke of the name high over all, with the four important points of connection closing prayer and benediction being between the BEC and the EPC - our given by the Moderator. common desire for true unity, our common Christian vision, our working A wonderful day of thanksgiving and together and our shared evangelicalism. mutual encouragement was had by all.
page 4

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

From early childhood I was familiar with the above words because we had a picture in our front living room with this text inscribed on it. Long before I had ever heard of relativism and pluralism I knew that our Lord had made exclusive claims which could not be ignored. Would that this text was proclaimed from the housetops to challenge the notion that all paths lead to God and that one religion is as good as another!
We live in an age which no longer accepts absolute truth. Multi-faith services abound and all paths lead to God, so were told. This is dishonest and foolish because it fails to face up to the fact that virtually all religions contradict one another. Islam teaches that Christ went into a swoon at Calvary while Christianity states that Christ died for our sins (1 Cor. 15:3). Judaism and Islam teach that God comprises one person while Christianity teaches that God is three in one. Hindus believe in reincarnation while Muslims, Jews and Christians all deny this. Everyone cant be right! In the midst of this confusion our Lords words ring out with certainty, exclusivity and finality. Do with them what you will, but this is what He said: I am the way, the truth, and the life:

no man cometh unto the Father, but by me (John 14:6).


1) The exclusiveness of our Lords claims. Note some general points about our text which reinforce the exclusiveness of our Lords claims. Firstly, Christ described Himself as I AM, a none too subtle reference to the burning bush incident (Exodus 3:14), thereby claiming equality with God. Secondly, He made use of the definite article throughout, precluding us from

page 5

interpreting the text to mean that He is only one of many ways to God, one of many depositories of truth, one of many channels of life. Thirdly, there is an emphasis in the original Greek not evident in our English translation. The phrase would be better rendered I myself am the way, the truth and the life. The emphasis makes it doubly clear what He meant! a) I am the way. The way to heaven is not through an institution (the church), nor through exertion (good works), but through a Person (Jesus Christ). Our Lord claimed to be the only One who could unite sinful man to a holy God. His life and death alone satisfied the demands of the law in terms of the keeping of its precepts (Romans 5:19) and the bearing of the punishment due (Galatians 3:13). In so doing Christ opened up for us a new and living way to God (Hebrews 10:20). None get to heaven without having personal and saving dealings with this Person (John 3:36). In the midst of his trouble Job desired a Mediator who could meet him at the point of his sinful humanity, yet lift him up to heaven - neither is there any daysman betwixt us, that might lay his hand upon us both (Job 9:33). Jesus Christ fulfilled that hope. When the patriarch Jacob had a dream he saw something more substantial in his sleep than he ever saw with his eyes open. He saw a ladder stretching from heaven to earth and angels were continually ascending and descending upon it (Genesis 28:12).
page 6

Jesus Christ is that ladder (John 1:51). He is also the highway of holiness spoken of by Isaiah: an highway shall be there, and a way, and it shall be called The way of holiness (Isaiah 35:8). The great issue of life is to strive to enter the narrow gate so as to be found on this way of holiness (Luke 13:24). b) I am... the truth. Truth has to do with unchanging realities as opposed to myths (Mark 10:6), trustworthy facts as opposed to lies (John 8:44), substance as opposed to types (Hebrews 1:1-2). Jesus Christ is the embodiment of all scientific truth, philosophical truth and spiritual truth, for in Him are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge(Colossians 2:3). We are concerned here primarily with spiritual truth: the truth about God, man, sin, salvation and eternity. All are found in Him. When Pilate sarcastically askedWhat is truth? (John 18:38), he need have looked no further for help than to the One standing before him. c) I am... the life. All natural life is found in Christ for all things were made by Him; and without him was not anything made that was made (John 1:3). Providence too, as well as creation, is His sphere of operations for by Him all things consist (Colossians 1:17). Our next breath is dependent upon Him and as the song says: Hes got the whole world in His hands. However, Christ is not just the fount of that life which is limited to the world of

the five senses, He is also the source of what Scougal called the life of God in the soul of man. Man is dead in trespasses and sins, with as much spiritual life as a corpse has physical life, and it is only through Christ that sinful creatures can enjoy the conscious communion with the Creator that Adam lost in the fall. Christ is the source, giver and sustainer of this life and He came so that we might enjoy it to the full.

conduct of human reason or human fancy. All other ways except Christ, are delusive paths that lead to perdition. 3) The credibility of our Lords character.

Its one thing for Muhammad Ali to say: I am the greatest, its quite another for someone to make claims which effectually torpedo every other religion at a stroke! CS Lewis said that, faced with the claims of Christ, people 2) The radicalism of our Lords can only really respond in one of three ways: either they conclude that He told conclusion. lies, or that He was mad, or that He is a) Notice the word of negation: no who He says He is! man cometh unto the Father. a) Could our Lord have told lies? In words of at most two syllables, words which a child could understand, Surely one of the most striking things about Christ is that there is not even Jesus at a stroke precluded the possibility of anyone, anywhere, at any the slightest indication that this was possible. The testimony of Peter, one time, in any place, coming to God of that inner circle of three disciples through Muhammad, Buddha, Dalai was this: He did no sin, neither was any Lama or anyone else. If words mean guile found in his mouth (1 Peter 2:22). anything at all Jesus taught strict John, who knew Him better than any exclusivism. In an age obsessed with since he lay on Christs bosom, tolerance we need to take note of described Him as Jesus Christ the our Lords intolerance. Righteous (1 John 2:1). Pilate would b) Notice also the word of affirmation: have been glad to have found fault but by me. with Christ, since he wanted to please the people, but he was forced to Not content to just say: I myself am the confess: I find no fault in this way... our Lord reiterated the point: man (Luke 23:4) Even Judas declared but by me. As the hymn writer said that he had betrayed the innocent Only Christ can do poor helpless blood (Matthew 27:4). When our Lord sinners good. J Brown comments: threw down the gauntlet to his Men have devised innumerable ways enemies, challenging them to convince of getting to heaven; but none ever Him of sin, a challenge which in the were - none ever will be - successful in case of all others would have resulted their attempts to reach it under the
page 7

in serious humiliation, no-one took Him up on it! Judging the lives of those who make this claim it is more reasonable to conclude that they are liars, not Christ. b) What about the idea that He was mad? Some indeed came to that conclusion (John 10:20). If caring for others in an unique manner, living an impeccable life and wielding an unparalleled influence upon mankind constitutes madness, O for an epidemic of madness. Reading about Him in the gospels He was all that a true man ought to be, although more than man. Surely it would be more correct to say that calling Jesus Christ mad is in itself the height of madness!

to give every indication that He is the life. The miracles He performed in the days of his flesh and the present lifestyle of every true Christian is proof of that. Truly did John say: as the Father hath life in himself, so hath he given The Son to have life in Himself (John 5:26). CS Lewis spoke some well known words about those who try to have their cake and eat it, by accepting the Lord as a good example to follow, while at the same time refusing to acknowledge that He is God, or that salvation can only be found through Him:-

I am trying to prevent anyone saying the really foolish thing that people often say about him: Im ready to accept Jesus as a great moral teacher, but I dont accept his claim to be God. c) Could it be that He is who He says That is the one thing we must not say. He is? A man who was merely a man and said the sort of things Jesus said would not For someone claiming to be the way be a great moral teacher. He would His credentials are impeccable. His either be a lunatic - on level with a man sinlessness makes him uniquely fitted who says he is a poached egg - or he for that role and His unparalleled would be the devil of hell. You must sufferings persuade us that through take your choice. Either this was, and Him divine justice is satisfied and the way is now open to heaven (Hebrews is, the Son of God, or else a madman or something worse. You can shut him 10:20). Furthermore, when someone claims to be the truth we would expect up for a fool or you can fall at His feet that to be evident in their teachings and and call him Lord and God. But let us not come with any patronising in their impact upon others. Christ nonsense about his being a great meets both these criteria because His human teacher. He has not left that teaching invokes the response: never man spake like this man (John 7:46) and option open to us. His true children have this identifying 4) The relevance of our Lords mark, they walk in the truth (2 John challenge. 1:4) Our Lord also gave and continues
page 8

Do you know him as the way? Have you seen the folly of works righteousness? Have you entered the narrow gate, leaving behind your sin, If these things are found in Christ, they and all other baggage which encumbers cant be found in us. The way is not us all by nature and are you walking found in us. The heights of human along that narrow road of holiness reason could never devise a way back which leads to everlasting life (Matthew to God, because all religions of human 7:13-14)? origin are based on works, whereas Gods way is the way of grace. Have you found the truth as it is in Jesus, the truth of our universal Nor is the truth found in us. Our sinfulness (Romans 3:10), the truth that understandings are darkened and in our human merit is inadequate (Titus 3:4fallen state we cannot grasp these 6), the truth that in Him is plenteous things. Men may have considerable redemption? (Psalm 130:7)? knowledge of scientific subjects, or excel in many other realms of human Do you possess the life thats found in learning, but by nature we are devoid Him, for if any man have not the Spirit of of spiritual truth (1Corinthians 2:14). Christ, he is none of his (Romans 8:9)? The things of God may be as plain as ABC to a believer, but the unbeliever is A few years ago at the Banner of Truth conference a young Nigerian man told DEF to them! us how he was converted. He had been The same can be said about the life, attending a Muslim training school because by nature we are dead in when one of his lecturers read John trespasses and sins (Ephesians 2:1). 14:6 to prove how intolerant Admittedly, we may have intellectual Christianity was in comparison to vigour, emotional vigour and even Islam. The lecturer spoke mockingly, spiritual vigour of a sort, a natural intending to bring about evil, but God religiosity and inquisitiveness like those meant it for good. Rather than being on Mars Hill who spent their time in encouraged to despise Christianity the nothing else, but either to tell, or to hear some young man actually embraced it! The new thing (Acts 17:21), however, at words sank down into his soul and he birth there isnt a spark of true spiritual trusted in the One who said: I am the life in any of us. We have neither the way, the truth and the life. It is my prayer desire or the ability to commune with that every reader will do the same. God. b) Positively, the text challenges us to ask the question: where do I stand with regard to these things?
page 9

a) Negatively, the text enforces the point that the way, the truth and the life are not found in us.

1. EVANGELICAL
It is our purpose in this new series to identify some areas of distinction in the denomination, and positively point out to ourselves and to others the importance of such. We have just concluded a successful anniversary year, in which there was much looking back with thankfulness. We must also now look ahead, refreshing our mind as to our particular calling as a denomination, and our distinct concerns within the wider church scene. When Dr Lloyd-Jones gave three addresses in 1971 on What is an Evangelical he was concerned that the meaning of the term had been thrown into the melting pot. Thirty years on, I would suggest that the melting pot is still hot, and probably a lot larger than in the good Doctors day. He was either prophetic or supremely wise in stating, The obvious open arrogant heretic generally produces a reaction, and he is not the dangerous person. The really dangerous man is the man who produces some very slight or very subtle change. In our EPC history, the arrogant heretic has already produced the reaction in the formation of our denomination, yet also, and most contemporary, is the greater danger
page 10

from the subtle changes in doctrine and practice that have entered the wider church in the past generation or so, and endanger us today. Space does not permit a full investigation and discussion of all such dangerous intrusions, but we would wish to declare in this article something of our distinctiveness as being Evangelical. I wish to identify two areas of concern, and then consider what should order our thinking in the face of such things. In case we might be charged further with simply being negative let me back up my argument from Lloyd Jones (Knowing the Times p319): One of the first signs that a man is ceasing to be an evangelical is that he ceases to be concerned about negatives...

Pluralistic Philosophies The word evangelical can be so misused as to mean whatever people want it to mean. It can also be connected with other words giving it a greater breadth but in effect stripping it of its essence. So we might come across neo-evangelicalism, or evangelical catholicism, neither of which proclaim consistent historic Christianity. Evangelicals within broad churches, rather than seeing themselves as the church, pitifully concede that they are a part, or wing of the church. In this there is already a giving way to a broad view; a view which essentially must negate the true evangelical view. The term is further confused within the denominations, as one mainline Presbyterian church in the town is the evangelical one, and the other one is liberal. This is then termed an evangelical Presbyterian Church, rather than an Evangelical Presbyterian Church. Confused? Im sure the ordinary man in the street is. Would he understand the difference between being an evangelical Anglican, or an anglican Evangelical? In such compromised denominations confusion reigns. But pluralism gains victory as the simple concede It doesnt matter. We often joke over some preachers credentials who, while termed evangelical, has too much emphasis on the jelly in the middle! Just because evangelical is in the name, doesnt guarantee consistent evangelicalism in practice. As one Ulster comedian once

quipped, It says Daz on the side of our bus, but we dont take in washing! Of course, with society riddled with this kind of pluralism we expect the enemy to engage in this subtle attack on the church, but we shouldnt expect to see it promoted in contemporary Christianity. We, in the EPC, make no apology for being negatively concerned about this area of confusion. Pragmatic Practices Another area of concern is what we might term Lowest Common Denominator Evangelism, when evangelicals, of many shades, group themselves together to make a mass impact upon an unimpressed public. Whether it be Billy Graham in the sixties, or Power to Change today, the campaigns are infected by an ecumenical pluralism, and furthermore driven by a pragmatic practice that suggests it has merit since some good is being done somewhere. What an awful indictment of our holy calling and the Lords Great Commission! To argue that The Alpha Course is OK because some people get good out of it is to let pragmatism rule our evangelicalism. To argue for continued organic union in a mixed denomination because this church is a good boat to fish from, is something that demands serious answering on the Day of Judgment, and pragmatism will not do. Great public figures are rolled out giving their testimony in some
page 11

Evangelical Campaign, but what is the nature of their evangelicalism, when some continue to worship Pope, Mary, or the great god Sport? Are they truly evangelical, or have they simply some sentimental notion about Jesus arising from a mystical experience? The melting pot has grown ever more large, and demands a firm and heavy hand to tip it over and reveal its contents. So what then shall we say to all this. What is our distinct expression of Evangelical?

exclusive message, without which, man remains lost, being without hope, without God in this world. We further proclaim this necessity for we believe and proclaim the truths of Scripture concerning the doctrine of man, the doctrine of God, and the divine mediation and redemption.

Thus it is that being evangelical, we must insist upon the Bible, the whole Bible, and nothing but the Bible, as divinely inspired; the only rule of faith and practice, and submit to its authority. Human wisdom is fallen, and Priority Principles the traditions and comment of the church throughout the centuries may Immediately we must say that our priority is to the evangel; that distinct have value, but nothing can stand alongside Scripture, ruling our life and and exclusive good news revealed by God, wrought by God, inscripturated witness; whether the councils of Popes, by God, concerning the effective saving or experiences of modern prophets. work of the Second Adam, the Lord When water is added to milk, the milk Jesus Christ. soons becomes distasteful, and when We speak unashamedly that this gospel of the penal and substitutionary work of Christ on the cross is the only hope for fallen man. We must retain the legal aspect of this evangel, since we have legally wronged a holy God. We must retain and proclaim the great transaction and exchange, as He became sin, that we might become righteous, for we have no means of achieving holiness outside of Him, and there is no means of divine approval except through his bearing the punishment of our sins. things are added to the evangel, it is distasteful before God, and lacking in proper nourishment and provision for mans desperate need.

Of course, being evangelical, we are insistent upon the need for evangelism, and we maintain an uncompromised gospel witness, and support that witness to Christ at home and overseas. We willingly support and engage with others who proclaim this exclusive message in an undiluted manner.

May the Lord continue to build His church through the evangelical As the Biblical and Historic evangel, we witness of the Evangelical Presbyterian must retain as a priority the Church. proclamation of this unique and
page 12

A Very Special Birthday Present

By Rev David MacPherson, Moyobamba, Peru.


In 1927 the Lords Supper was celebrated for the first time in the newly formed Presbyterian Church in Moyobamba. On that occasion a handful of missionaries and local converts participated in that solemn and yet also joyful remembrance. Over the years God has been pleased to bless the work and as the 75th anniversary of congregational life and witness approached it seemed appropriate to mark the occasion in a special way. After pondering on different alternatives the session determined to rise to the challenge of distributing the Word of God to every home in the city a total of some 10,000 homes. Such a proposal did rather beg the question, just how did we propose to fund such a venture? Initial enquiries with Pastor Pedro Arana President of the Peruvian Bible Society and former student at the Free Church College revealed that the cost of a special edition New Testament would be 60p per copy. Certainly a bargain, but multiply that by 10,000 and the total is still 6,000! Convinced that this was the Lords plan we determined to launch out in faith and place the order. After sharing our plans with friends in sister churches we soon discovered that there were many who wished to be part of this very special anniversary celebration and in no time we had firm commitments to cover nearly two thirds of the total. For the remainder the local congregation took on the challenge of raising the funds through free will offerings and some special fund raising events. Much to our delight and giving thanks to God we were finally able to make the final payment to the Bible
page 13

Society in October the very month that the distribution took place.

It is our conviction that any immediate harvest that God has been pleased to grant is but a foretaste of a much greater It is one thing to place the order and harvest in the months and years to quite another to determine the best way come. of organising the distribution. In the end it was decided to set aside two Saturdays The anniversary celebrations were also in October and mobilise the local marked by a number of other very church to be involved in a distribution special moments all with a common that would require some 200 willing thread of reaching out with good news helpers. Perhaps the most encouraging in and beyond Moyobamba. aspect of the whole venture was to discover that over 200 folks volunteered In November we were able to visit the city of Iquitos at the headwater of the to help ranging in ages from 7 to 70. Amazon where the Moyobamba As we went from home to home we congregation began a church plant five soon discovered that our neighbours years ago. The purpose of the visit was were more than willing to receive this to ordain elders and deacons and so birthday present a rough estimate formally establish the congregation. It is would be that only perhaps two or three worth noting that the four elders per percent of those approached ordained are each in turn responsible for preferred not to receive the Scriptures. a church plant in surrounding As pastor I had the task of visiting the communities with a view to being able local parish priest and was met with a to form a new presbytery in the coming warm welcome as he received his copy years. of the Word of God! Join with me in praying that he, along with many others, Last weekend we were in Jepelacio another church plant of the would have a saving encounter with congregation where we took part in Jesus Christ as they read His Word. the inauguration of a new church On the first Sunday following the building. Roughly a hundred folk from distribution it was thrilling to witness Moyobamba joined with the local many appear in church with their New believers in distributing New Testament in hand and more thrilling Testaments that had remained from the still in the days that followed to discover distribution in Moyobamba and inviting that God was pleased to draw to folks to the special services. The pews, Himself some of those who appeared on generously provided with funds raised that first Sunday. A group of these new by the ladies of the Stranmillis believers are now concluding a congregation, were well and truly discipleship course with a view to being inaugurated with over two hundred baptised before the end of the year. people at the special services. Please join with us in praying that this building
page 14

would soon be filled with men and words of welcome he received from women and girls and boys praising God. an elder in a church he had just accepted a call to pastor: We dont grow in Tomorrow we head for a small this church, we havent grown and were not Aguaruna community a native tribal going to grow ...and were comfortable with group called Cachiyacu to inaugurate a that. new church building. This involves crossing the Mayo River and a five-hour By the grace of God, as we look back trek. We trust that the roast monkey on 75 years of Gods faithfulness to His that will no doubt await us on arrival people in Moyobamba we can say We do will make the trip worthwhile! grow in this church, we have grown and we will grow ... and were excited about that. To A few weeks ago I had the opportunity God be the glory! to speak with a Presbyterian pastor outside Peru who shared with me the

Dressing Service at Gulguletu, Capetown, 10 November 2002

Before and After Dressing: Meg Miller provides the commentary on the photographs.

In the congregations of the Free Church in Southern Africa the presenting of uniform is made a special occasion. The young women in the photograph above are already church members and have now been accepted to begin wearing the uniform of the

Girls Association of the church. They are called to stand in front of the assembled gathering, mostly wearing black berets (a sign that they are church members) with the Youth Choir members in blue berets. While they move to the front of the congregation,
page 15

take their uniforms out of the bags, and make sure everything is ready, everyone sings an appropriate Psalm.

The young ladies look very smart in their new uniforms, which they will wear at Association meetings, at Communion services, and at any other Once the singing has stopped the local special meeting that may arise. Ministers wife, or a senior member of However, there are those who feel that the local Womens Association will having the uniform makes them address these young women. She will accepted in the Lords sight, and we give them a verse of scripture to think need to pray that they will remember on, and will encourage them to live as that, while people look on the outward Christian young women, to attend appearance and may be impressed with Girls Association meetings, and to a smart uniform, God looks on the abide by the rules of the Girls heart, and requires His own to be Association. faithful in secret as well as in public places. The senior woman will then work along the line, placing a white hat on Pray also for the older women that are each girls head, and a white collar with chosen to lead the Girls Association blue trim around the neck of her meetings. Business is dealt with and blouse, as we see in the second members are reminded of the rules of photograph. After prayer, the other the Association, but pray that the talks women of the congregation will move given at these meetings will be relevant forward, singing as they come, and to the girls needs, and will encourage shake hands with the newly dressed them from Scripture to live pure lives Girls Association members, to in the face of many temptations that welcome and encourage them to wear they face daily. their uniform proudly.

page 16

The wisdom of Ecclesiastes is supremely relevant for our day. Though 3,000 years have passed, there is nothing new under the sun. We identify some contemporary issues and bring, Old Light for New Paths.

Vanity, vanity, all is vanity. (Eccles. 1:1)


BY

Rev Stephen Atkinson

Proverbs 8:34-36 is a simple, yet radical answer to that essential question of what is life all about. Concerning true wisdom we read...

and escapist. We're going to die anyway so let's carry on our perversions, and excesses. Hope I die before I get old. I can't get no satisfaction. So there is an accepted Blessed is the man who listens to me... way of living that drowns the sorrows whoever finds me finds life, and obtains favour with alcohol, or dreams about winning from the Lord; but he who sins against me the Lottery. But there is no answer to wrongs his own soul; all those who hate me love the great question - What is life all death. about? The principle presented is that in Ecclesiastes is a book that gives the finding wisdom from God, one finds answer. It is ever relevant, for it Life. The one who instead hates God presents glaring realities of life. It is and His wisdom, has a death wish. most useful, even vital, that we see the The generation growing up today seems reality it presents; and deliver to a obsessed with death. Generally speaking careless world, the message of what life society is pessimistic about life, cynical, is all about; -with, and without God.

page 17

1. The Book: Ecclesiastes is a Sermon about Life.

- from an experienced preacher.


Although age and experience is somewhat devalued in todays world, yet a cursory scan of job vacancies will show how necessary experience still remains. The book of Ecclesiastes is written by a man of experience, Solomon the wise; and not simply wise Solomon, but Solomon who has done it all, seen it all, tried it all. Graced with wisdom from God Solomon then sadly lived too much in the world. But when he wrote this wisdom book, he is in his closing years, and makes this statement that all people everywhere should stop and consider.

us. But what does it amount to? What is the logical conclusion? The Word of God answers in the book of Ecclesiastes. Secular humanism, (that God is dead and man is god), has been presenting us with a pot of gold at the end of the rainbow. But every child knows there is no such thing. The rainbow keeps moving and the gold is never found. Solomon takes this life without God principle and drives it to its logical conclusion and he smashes the manmade idols along the way. I remember as a child, a relative of mine having a china cabinet. To my untrained eye it was full of old cups and saucers, and other ornaments. My untrained eye noticed also that many of the cups were cracked, glued together yet still placed in the cabinet! I often wondered why they were never simply thrown out. (Such are some people!)

- from the mouth of God.


Of course thers are not simply the words of wise, experienced Solomon but words from God, and words from God on the most important matter the facts of life.

Solomon, as a man of experience, brings the word of God, from the standpoint of God is dead. He wants Consider the acclaim given to a major us to look into the cabinet and see the scientific breakthrough. There will be a crockery of this world. It is all cracked, proclamation - We have found the glued, and badly painted. And he tells secret of life (the DNA chart), or We us, firmly, to toss it all out. have found some secret on some We should learn here a lesson for our distant planet. But is there any own witnessing. He doesn't arrogantly listening to the one who made DNA; dismiss the world. He gets alongside, or the one who made the stars? befriends it (almost). Then he says, I We live in a world that has pretty much want to see your world, and I want you said that God is dead. If that is so, then to see it too - really see it. Solomon we should think what is left. Secular has been there and done it all and steps humanism is the fancy title given to into the shoes of the pagan with real much of the philosphy of life around
page 18

evangelical empathy. Now Im not saying we are to become like the world to win the world but we are to know the world, to be able to speak of the world as cracked and painted china. Christ tabernacled remember. Increasingly, with some people in todays world, we almost need some pre-evangelism. We live in a post Christian era, facing respectable atheism, successful secularism, and intellectual evolutionism. How does Solomon face-off against such mighty opposition?

prove his point with much logic, but he first opens with this staggering statement that gets attention. It is a good preacher's pattern! He has searched the totality of existence and tried to make sense of it all. This is the sum theory; the conclusion of the thesis - It is all meaningless. It all boils down to this: Life is one big nothing. No, its a nothing of nothings.

Life without God is miserably meaningless.

Life without God, that dismisses God and his Word is a miserable life indeed. Man is building his tower of Babel, and stupidly thinks he can reach the He begins his sermon (the Book of heavens, or maybe is still trying to find Ecclesiastes) with his text: (1:2) Vanity that pot of gold, which isn't there. of vanities, all is vanity. Solomon says, I've been to the Following on from that in the book of rainbow's end. There's nothing there! Ecclesiastes we have exposition; We live in a day of wonderful expansion; and application. It is carried technological inventions. Children through with vivid illustration; and today may have never seen a black and gripping logical argument, coming to white TV. They cannot imagine living inescapable conclusions. And his without video. They laugh at parents purpose? - to bring the fear of the Lord remembering when there were only two to the inquirer; that he may find life in channels. Did you really have to get God and his favour, by grace and out of your chair to change to BBC? mercy. When man is so humbled, and brought to the point of despair, then he We have CDs, DVDs, PCs, Mobiles, is beckoned to look up. and now WAPs. What a wonderful world - yes? Or perhaps not. Someone 2. The Text: A Statement about has said that the world is all title page Emptiness. without contents - a good illustration. His statement is that Life (under the Some books have fantastic covers but sun / without God) is meaningless... or the story is very poor. The world vanity of vanities. Literally, the phrase without God has a spectacular cover on suggests meaningless multiplied; the front but inside it is blank emptiness times emptiness. He will miserably empty.
page 19

Life without God is hopelessly futile. philosophy, there is no destination

(God is dead) we are fully justified in What profit has a man from all his labour... partying all the way. But Solomon hits the eye is not satisfied with seeing, nor the ear home. It is all futile; empty. with hearing. (1:3,8) What are you working for? - to make a Putting it in a nutshell, life's a rat race. name for yourself? - to make a fat We grow up, increase our wealth. We profit? - to leave your mark on the buy a house, a car, and live for success, world's stage. But the mark is a mark in or fame and fortune. Miserable man, get dust. Life is meaningless, and futile, real! What shall it profit a man to gain and the whole world? But hold on! There is earthly profit. Yes, but what is the worth of this as a man takes his dying breath. Do you know what it is like to clear out a house after someone has died? The house of mourning can teach us many things about the emptiness of this life. In our world we have set up for worship the idol of consumption. We live in a massively over-advertised society which constantly purveys its wares as essentials. You just have to have this. Then when you get it, You must have this also. the eye is not satisfied with seeing, nor the ear with hearing. Gordon Keddie - It is all journey, and no destination.

Life without God is depressingly repetitive.

One generation passes away, and another generation comes... The sun also rises, and the sun goes down... The wind goes towards the south, and turns around to the north... That which has been is what will be... And there is nothing new under the sun. (1:4-7,9) There may be new actors on the stage and new scenery, but the storyline is the same. The story of fallen humanity is a story of sin, misery and death. We may live with wonderful new technologies; but Luther was right - We do nothing new because the old Adam is in us all.

I remember as a young nineteen year old just beginning my university studies, being overwhelmed by Queen's You might have taken one of those University Library. The only other Stena day cruises on the HSS from libraries I had ever seen were school Belfast to Stranraer. Special rates apply libraries, or even town libraries but this for those who dont get off in Scotland one was a tower block in itself! Oh, if I and simply want the two hour cruise, could only drink in the wisdom found while entertainment is promised during in such a building. the brief journey. But what is found in a library? Some people live for the journey, not According to one cynic, Much wisdom the destination. Since according to their from many dead people. So one
page 20

commentator spoke of a library as - a Conclusion: cemetery of departed reputation. Under the sun all is vanity, but there is life under the Son. Jesus came that The wise in their field, they write we might have Life, and have it books, and die. And so it goes on abundantly. depressingly repetitive. We have a number of goldfish. We've had them a few years. Apart from being transferred into a basin once in a while, for cleaning, they swim around the same bowl every day. Im told that goldfish have such a short memory the the next time round the bowl seems like a new experience! What's the difference between them and us? We have a larger bowl! But our memory should teach us that we have been round this corner before. We dont have a merry go round, but a weary go round. So some have said Stop the world I want to get off. What a depressing sermon, preacher! Yes, it is. In the reality of life without anything else; life lived under the sun, we must see it all as meaningless, futile, and repetitive. So the preacher says at a funeral - Earth to earth, ashes to ashes, dust to dust. Eat the grass the world offers, - it presents you with a life that is empty, futile, and repetitive. But may God restore spiritual sense to mankind, and help us look up! Why waste your energy on things of no significance? All the vain things that charm me most, I sacrifice them to his blood. Be honest; become a realist. Look at the birds, the fields, the heavens shouting forth the glory of God. God has made foolish the wisdom of the world. And God was pleased through the foolishness of what was preached to save.

The world's wisdom is empty, but more, it is deadly. And many are going to their eternal reward still looking for the pot of gold. They have lived a restless life and they face an eternally But do you see what wise old Solomon restless death. is doing? Like one mighty man of old, May the Lord instead direct us all to he is making us eat grass. He is find Life; bringing the worldly man to see the logic of his position in order to bring Come to me, all you who labour, and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. him to despair. (Matthew 11:28) But what he will do as he proceeds, and what we must do, is to realise the glorious reality that God is not dead.
page 21

Books etc.
Why I left the Contemporary Christian Music Movement Dan Lucarini Evangelical Press 142 pages 7.95 Reviewer: Stephen Atkinson The controversy over music styles in worship is certainly a hot potato, and in this book the author is not afraid to handle it and by his own journey teach some lessons, give some rebukes, and offer some suggestions. He is utterly scathing of a great deal of the ethos, arrogance, and even the morality of the Contemporary Christian Music (CCM) scene. His argument is on the whole biblical, searching, and sound, and is his own written repentance for formerly leading many astray. When I saw what the Bible teaches about true worship, and what it really means to be in the presence of God, I became sickened at the way my generation so glibly used profane and vulgar music accompanied by vulgar dress to offer up worship and praise to God. (p.34) Previously he considered all music to be amoral, that God accepted all styles, but he is quick to point out he learned with good reason that some music is guilty by association. He also issues a doctrinal warning on the Come as you are philosophy, pointing out that while in itself it can be a sound statement, this often was re-interpreted to mean, Remain as you are.
page 22

There are however a couple of points with which I personally would take issue. As with much writing that intends to provoke, there is a danger of not giving the full picture. He writes, The self-indulgent spirit entered the church with the baby boomers. The urge to change church music coincided with our rise to church leadership positions in the mid-1980s. (p.64) But self indulgence was not invented in the swinging sixties, though greatly promoted, I agree! Ritualism and Romanism are forms of self-indulgent worship. Traditionalism can also be indulgent, if the heart is not right. Handels Messiah can be an instrument of worship, and yet also a means of the deepest hypocrisy, indulging the performer in a self-centredness no different from the Contemporary Christian Musician with his microphone. I know. Ive sung the solos, and enjoyed it! I wouldnt however then say that The Messiah is guilty by association, and unusable in public worship. It is too easy an argument simply to toss out the modern and resort to the traditional, thinking all shall be well in the camp. The composers of classical music were not all paragons of virtue, and their music too is tainted by sin. His argument of guilt by association would demand some radical revision of many a traditional hymnbook. And perhaps that would be right. Are those old favourite gospel hymns suspect

because of a beat? Is toe-tapping granny any less carnal that the teenager who listens to Jesus freaks? Im not answering; Im only suggesting the book opens up more questions than it answers. It is too simple to adopt an either-or approach. He does however permit some contemporary music, but is particularly suspicious of syncopation. If people think he is totally archaic they should note that the author would allow in worship, piano, guitar, orchestra, choir, and soloists (not engaging in performance). He strongly opposes electric guitars and drums, projected words, rather than sheet music, and dressing and singing like the world. While making comment upon the heart of worship he writes out of a reaction against the impurity he sees in CCM, and at that point some of us might see similar impurity in the false sham of many traditional church services. Although he is not confining worship to church organ and old hymns, there is a danger that this book will simply be fuel for those who neither see the need of, nor wish, change. His argument certainly is a large condemnation of a great deal of supposed worship, I would say, largely aimed at the US scene. I would commend him for that, and agree its necessity. But while he throws out the bath-water, I would have liked him to make more comment concerning that stagnant tub of hypocritical traditionalism which is pervasive in

these islands, but perhaps that is for another author Why I left the Traditional and Hypocritical Music Movement - Any takers? Winning the Day Gwynn Williams Evangelical Press 78 pages 4.50 Reviewer: Stephen Atkinson First published in Welsh in 1998, this is the fruit of an EMW Conference in Aberystwyth. Four sessions have been reshaped into four chapters and give forth the challenge to the church today to imitate the early church in its efforts at turning the world upside down. Following the pertinent question in the Introduction, Where precisely do we fight the battle? Fighting the battles of the past will avail us nothing; times have changed. We are drawn to four areas of battle: The realm of the mind, the realm of preaching, the realm of love, and the realm of sacrifice. The author blends old wisdom with present day common sense, and shows particularly where we have failed, and where we need to reclaim ground. Thus in our experience-orientated society we need this emphasis first on the renewing of the mind. From the old pop song Video killed the radio star, we live with so much visual, that the mind doesnt need to think, and indeed is not encouraged to. While that is fine for the world, sadly it is all too present in the church, with conversions being emotional rather than mental and how
page 23

you feel about a service, more has helpful comment generally upon important than how it made you think. grief, and upon glory. The primary reason to look toward eternity is not We are carried through the other reunion with loved ones but union with realms with similar argument, calling us God. (p.73) to unashamed preaching, exemplary love, and a readiness for suffering the In the light of the fact that in the year consequences of being a Christian in a 2000 there were 6399 suicide deaths in pagan world. A little book with a big the UK and Ireland, it it important for message. pastors, and indeed all of us, to be instructed in this difficult area, and Grieving a Suicide have helpful material ready to hand. Al Hsu Evolution: Fact or Fiction IVP John Blanchard 190 pages 6.99 Evangelical Press Reviewer: Stephen Atkinson 40 pages 1.50 A great deal of personal study and an Reviewer: Stephen Atkinson enormous amount of personal pain has obviously gone into the writing of this This is an excellent give-away booklet book. The authors father took his own on the subject of evolution, and while it life after developing acute depression is not overtly evangelistic, simply following a stroke. endeavouring to blow open the myth, it does conclude with the biblical It is warmly written, with frank, vivid worldview, and a clear, concise and and illuminating anecdotes from his simple presentation of the gospel. own experience, and others he has researched. It is therefore tough to read It is packed with punchy and most without weeping with those who weep. relevant quotes from eminent scientists. Blanchard ably shows ardent While not lacking biblical depth, it is evolutionists their flaws, and written telling the story, which is presuppositions, largely, that there is no probably the best way to both deal with God. Chief enemy is probably Richard such a situation and teach to us the Dawkins who calls those who do not suffering involved. He importantly believe in evolution ignorant, stupid, identifies characters and careers which or insane, and yet unscientifically are prone to depression and suicide and suggests, ...given enough time, there is a helpful appendix giving anything is possible. (p19) May we further resource centres in the UK and suggest ... even God? the USA. Give to all scientists. No, give to all! It is primarily about suicide but it also
page 24

Travel with CH Spurgeon Clive Anderson Travel with John Bunyan John Pestell Day One Publications 128 pages 9.99 (each) Reviewer: Stephen Atkinson

The Net Commandments Norman Fraser IVP 160 pages Reviewer: Mark Thompson

5.99

Thousands of years since the giving of the Ten Commandments, many people Is it a biography? Is it a guide? Should we claim that they are of no relevance today. However, this short book by Norman invent a new name - the bio-guide? Fraser shows us just how applicable they These excellent Travel Guides from Day still are in a world dominated by highOne are both visually attractive, bringing spec computer technology. the history alive, and packed with historical, biographical and geographical Starting with a brief introduction about how he developed an interest in information about their characters. For computers while at university, the author those who know the areas (and have their then looks at each commandment own photos!), it is a joy to see so much individually, and applies it in relation to more in print. the moral challenges and dangers of The authors of both books are avid fans computer technology. He then sums up with an easily remembered net of their hero, and write with such commandment. At the end of each enthusiasm that it is hard not to be infected, and head for the Travel Agent. chapter there is a short prayer which asks Those who have already visited the sites God to help us in that particular area. in question will remember with affection The ten net commandments are: their visit. (Yes, it poured with rain that day in Bedford!) 1. Put God first in cyberspace. 2. Do not allow technology to become an idol. The Bunyan guide takes you to places 3. Do not say anything in cyberspace that linked with Pilgrims Progress such as the misrepresents God or His Gospel. House Beautiful, and the Delectable 4. Do not get into addictive patterns of computer Mountains. In the Spurgeon guide there use. is an unusual photo of a Players 5. Do not use your knowledge of computers to cigarette card, expressing Spurgeons humiliate older generations. gratefulness to God for cigars! 6. Do not play with violence or act irresponsibly towards others in cyberspace. As well as personally useful, the guides 7. Do not have anything to do with pornography, would make great gifts. Churches also perversion or inappropriate relationships on the would find them a great resource for historical outings. Much recommended. Internet. 8. Do not steal electronic money or information,
page 25

or violate software copyright. 9. Do not slander anyone on the internet. 10. Do not upgrade your computer beyond what you need. In the area of computer technology, some commandments may appear more relevant than others, but each net commandment Norman Fraser has come up with will make us all take a long hard look at our own actions.

will yield rewards, and surely such an important subject demands our careful attention and disciplined instruction. Business of great consequence we make preparation for... Now if men and women would but understand the duties of Gods worship to be great, they would see a necessity to make a preparation. (p.71)

The Most Reluctant Convert This is a helpful book which can open (C.S.Lewiss Journey to Faith) our eyes and help keep us aware of the David C. Downing dangers that exist in cyberspace and IVP information technology in general. 192 pages 12.99 Gospel Worship Reviewer: Fred Harper Jeremiah Burroughs This is a book for the Lewis enthusiast Soli Deo Gloria and will be especially helpful to those 398 pages 14.95 who have already read Lewiss own Reviewer: Stephen Atkinson autobiography Surprised by Joy and The Pilgrims Regress. The Pilgrims Regress is This is a twentieth-century edition of C.S. Lewiss own attempt to state his the careful, painstaking work of journey to faith in allegory following Burroughs outlining and declaring what John Bunyans classic allegory The is acceptable worship. In heart Pilgrims Progress. Lewis himself found it approach and in particular duties the difficult to state this clearly, and has author approaches the vital confessed it to be needlessly obscure. worshipping activities of hearing the Word, participating at the Lords Table, In his book David Downing attempts and engaging in prayer. to do so without the allegory. But a journey to faith with or without Sometimes puritan books are presented allegory is a mysterious and sovereign in small print, and with an obvious work of grace; which all who come to language barrier they can prove most faith in Jesus Christ must personally difficult and uninviting. This volume is experience for themselves. sensibly presented on the page, with a small amount of modernisation of In the first chapter Downing recounts language. Nonetheless it still requires a Lewiss comfortable childhood. This slower pace of reading than more soon evaporates in the next two modern material. Yet such a reading chapters into a miserable boyhood and
page 26

a lost faith. In chapter four we meet Chapter eight presents a gradual with William T. Kirkpatrick who had a recovery from what his brother called dour impact upon Lewis. Spiritual illness of longstanding, an intellectual conversion and then a Kirkpatrick thought this cosmos a more whole-souled acceptance. grim and meaningless place. Chapter five covers Lewiss war experiences, What can we say about the way of the estrangement from his father, and Mrs Lord with a soul in conversion? Janie K. Moore. In chapter six Grace is even more amazing than Downing probes Lewiss youthful those four things which Solomon interest in spiritism, the occult and found too wonderful to explain. parapsychology. Lewis recommends A book well worth reading. books of this nature to his friends. Chapter seven finds Lewis in his twenties, studying philosophy, with an interest in idealism and pantheism.

OBITUARIES
Mr William Rutherford Lisburn Rd The Lisburn Road Congregation mourn the passing of their highly respected member, William Rutherford, on Sunday 27th October, 2002. A native of Ballycairn, it was locally, at Ballylesson, that Billy came to faith in Christ over 60 years ago. From his conversion he sought to live a God-glorifying life. Married in the Lord to Nancy, they served their Redeemer together for 50 happy years. He loved to hear the gospel preached and supported the Lord's work irrespective of the label! He had a keen missionary interest, desirous that Christ's name should be honoured throughout the earth. Billy served the public via the Ambulance Service, but in reality it was the Lord he served in his daily work. A man of principle, integrity and godliness, his courteous manner never stopped him from taking a bold stand for the truth. Now departed this life, he has left a wonderful and fragrant Christian testimony behind him so that he being dead yet speaketh. We extend sincere sympathy to his widow Nancy and to the wider family circle commending them to the Father of mercies and the God of all comfort. Samuel Watson
page 27

Mrs Olive Gwynne

Richhill

Mrs Olive Gywnne died peacefully and suddenly, on Friday 25th October 2002, in Fairlawns Nursing home, Armagh, aged 87. Olive was a valued member of the congregation and although unable to be with us at public worship, due to advanced years, she was with us very much in spirit. She continued to be interested in the work of the church right up to the end, supporting it so faithfully in prayer. This quiet Christian lady was a real trophy of grace, visibly a true child of God, and a genuine disciple of Christ. She was an excellent example to, and encourager of, many. Olive practiced what she preached. Her faith was her life and her life was her testimony. The words of one of her favourite hymns sum up her life so well:
"I know who holds the future and He'll guide me with His hand With God things don't just happen, everything by Him is planned. So as I face tomorrow with its problems large and small, I'll trust the God of miracles, give to Him my all".

Typically Olive wanted her funeral service to be a celebration of the many blessings her God had lavished upon her during her long life. She wanted her Saviour, Master and Lord to be the focus of the service and not herself. We thank God for every fond remembrance of our sister and commend her son Kenneth, daughter Lorna and the whole family circle to the tender mercy of her Lord and God. W L Elliott Darwins blob. DNA houses a staggering amount of genetic information. All the data needed to specify the design of a human being, including the arrangement of over 200 bones, 600 muscles, 10,000 auditory nerve fibres, two million optic nerve fibres, 100 billion brain-cell nerves and 400 billion feet of blood vessels and capillaries is packed into a unit weighing less than a few thousand-millionths of a gram, and several thousand million million times smaller than the smallest piece of functional machinery used by man. It has been said that on the same scale all the information needed to specify the design of every living species that has ever existed on our planet could be put in a teaspoon, with enough room for all the information in every book ever written. Some blob!
(From Evolution: Fact or Fiction - John Blanchard, reviewed earter in this issue.)
page 28

making progress with pilgrim


(for pilgrims of all ages)

- (7) IN THE CASTLE (John Bunyan presented the world with a wonderful picture of Christian experience in The Pilgrims Progress. We continue to retell some of the main parts of the story.)

Castles are fascinating places, steeped in history, drawing many a young child into a fantasy world of knights and damsels. When Christian and Hopeful found themselves in a castle, it was not quite so thrilling. Indeed it was downright depressing for this was Doubting Castle, owned by Giant Despair, ably support by his wife Gloom. Christian and Hopeful had gone into By-Path Meadow and onto land owned by this Giant, who imprisoned them in his dungeon, while his wife endeavoured to get them to commit suicide. Hopeful tried to encourage his partner as much as possible, but it was in the depths of Doubt, in the grip of Despair, surrounded by Gloom, that our two friends found themselves from Wednesday through to Saturday night. Only then did Christian remember he had a key in his pocket all along, called the Key of Promise, which soon had them out of the Castle, and back onto the Kings Highway. Writing this story, John Bunyan was really telling his own experiences. Many of us too can say we have slipped into the grip of despair and gloom. It can become so bad that we feel we cant go on. Despair and Gloom are giants indeed! Such feelings can last so long and seem like an imprisonment. Yet do not despair, there is a key of escape. It began with our friends at prayer on a Saturday night! Even in the darkest times, in times most difficult to pray, pray on, and by grace you will discover the locked doors of Doubting Castle open up for you, bringing release from that iron grip of a great foe. Then turn to the Bible. The Scriptures are full of promises for the people of God. Get out those keys, and get back onto the Kings Highway. Despair is not good, but it is infinitely better than indifference. (Alexander Whyte: Bunyan Characters) Are you making progress with Pilgrim?

Evangelical Book Shop


15 College Square East, Belfast, BT1 6DD E-mail: shop@evanbooks-belfast.fsnet.co.uk Tel. 028 9032 0529 Fax 028 9043 8330 Manager: John Grier Enjoying God Always

New Hardbacks

Peter Jeffery 19.99 14.99 366 Daily Devotionals. Profound yet simple, reliable yet contemporary 365 Days with Spurgeon Volume 2 11.99 7.99 Gospel for Real Life Jerry Bridges 14.99 10.75 Turn to the liberating power of the Cross everyday. The famous author of Pursuit of Holiness (5.99 3.99) has produced this new book. The First Fifty Years Noel Gibbard 9.99 The history of the Evangelical Movement of Wales 1948-1998

Life in Two Kingdoms

Romans Chapter 13 D Martyn Lloyd-Jones 16.50 13.20 The penultimate volume of the Doctors exposition. The Imperative of Preaching John Carrick 13.50 10.80 Matthew Henrys sermons on the Covenant of Grace 15.99 11.99 Professor Allan Harman has edited Matthew Henrys own hand written notes of sermons preached in 1691 and 1692.

Blue Skies Over Africa Maizie Smyth/Victor Maxwell 7.99

New Paperbacks

5.99 One womans experience of God at work. The UFM Ulster born missionary, who has spoken in our churches, tells her story. Spiritual Disciplines of the Christian Life 6.50 4.75 10 Questions to Diagnose your Spiritual Health Donald S Whitney A combined paperback edition of two classics on the Christian Life at a fraction of the cost of the original books. Where in the World is the Church? Michael S Horton 8.95 6.70 Evolution: Fact or Fiction? (33 Pages) John Blanchard 1.50 90p Another great handout from the Evangelist. My Fathers World Philip G Ryken 9.95 Faith of the Vatican Herbert M Carson 7.95 One of our many New Year bargains Send for the full list

S-ar putea să vă placă și