Evangelical Presbyterian

Nov-Dec 2002 50p

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)

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CONTENTS
Editorial Obituaries EPC Pulpit: 1Corinthians 9:19-27 The Regions Beyond: A Bulwark of God From Belfast to Haifa via Poland Remembering Former Days:Whose Faith Follow The Messiah, GF Handel and John Newton Books etc. Making Progress with Pilgrim (6) - In the Meadow 1 2 4 9 13 17 21 24 29

J. Grier H. C. Lindsay A. Prochaska J. Hunter H. Gibson S. Atkinson

Cover Photo

by Harold Gibson

Editorial: 75 years - and counting.

As I write this I am also in the process of compiling, and preparing for print, the History of Knock EPC. It has been a fascinating study, and as a Session we are delighted at the overall production, giving thanks to God for such providential help locally over the past 75 years. As we considered a front cover for our publication we did reshape, and rename the original front cover. Initially it simply was, The History of Knock EPC 1927-2002. Although at first I found nothing wrong with this, it was pointed out to me that it seemed like an obituary notice. It gave the impression that we had a history, but it ended in 2002! Thus we promptly changed it to The History of Knock EPC 1927-2002, sub-titled, 75 years of Gospel Witness. As a denomination we celebrate 75 years and remind ourselves of the providential history of the church over that period. But we must be careful that we do not consider the historical data like an obituary notice. It is 75 years and counting, in the Lords grace and favour. While it is important and necessary that we look back, it is also vital that with such historical education and spiritual inspiration, we look ahead. The faith and faithfulness of our forefathers are to be admired to stimulate similar devotion and sacrifice. The smallness and fragile nature of those early days are to be remembered to encourage continued labour in a day of small things. The discernment, and unflinching stand for truth is to be maintained in our confused ecclesiastical climate. The uncompromised proclamation of the gospel is remembered with gratitude to God, and we are compelled to deliver the message in the same undiluted manner. Having said that we must also be aware that the world is a different place, and while there is nothing new under the sun, and the enemy hasnt gone away, we must be careful to tackle the issues of our day, rather than former days. We are to preach to modern man, in his present-day biblical ignorance and sin. We are to bring this life-giving message to 21st century man in his lostness and moral confusion.
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Sometimes the preacher is accused of preaching against sins of a by-gone age, or of hitting out at heresies that a commentator of two centuries ago wrote about in application. Obviously we are to be relevant in our sermon application, since we are to be relevant in the overall ministry of our church.

at the Spring Annual Reports evening, where the all things to all men principle is earthed in the reality of North Belfast. Critical times demand radical thinking, and without engaging in infantile novelty falsely motivated, we must engage in a strategic re-assessment of our mission in the 21st century local mission field; a radical consideration of Hence there is a need for us as a our method, in the modern melting pot, denomination, to look ahead, and close while moving not a whit on message, this anniversary year with the thought which is of course, once delivered to the that it is not 75 years - glorious past, but saints. 75 years, and counting (DV). Thus by Gods grace it will not be EPC In our EPC Pulpit feature we include 75 years (- in memoriam), but 75 years the sermon delivered by the Moderator and counting.
Corrections to September issue. In the last issue we presented a little sketch of the Rev Samuel Watson in recognition of 25 years service to the EPC. It was noted there that Samuel and his wife Valerie have four children. We regret, and deeply apologise for, the oversight in failing to mention a fifth child, little Fiona, who died at 21 months. It was also noted by our able church historians that the front picture of Dr Gillespie was of Dr JR Gillespie, and not as recorded, Dr JH Gillespie, his brother.

OBITUARIES
Mrs Violet Troughton Richhill Violet Troughton died in Newry Hospice on Friday afternoon, 20th September after an increasingly difficult and prolonged period of illness due to emphysema, compounded latterly with lung cancer. Violets association with the church in Richhill dates back to the ministry of Rev Mark Johnston but it was only during the last year that we were so thrilled to receive her into membership on profession of her personal faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. Although Violet had been housebound for a number of years she took an active interest in the work of the Church. She was a delight to visit and enjoyed so
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much the fellowship of the Lords people. She encouraged others to come and worship with us in Richhill a number of whom took up her invitation and are now worshipping with us regularly. Violet did not have an easy life but her faith and trust were firmly in the Lord. In her latter days she got so much closer to God and before she died was rejoicing that He was faithful to the end and was continuing to answer her prayers in very clear and remarkable ways. It was so noticeable that as her life on this earth was slowing ebbing away for the first time she had a strong assurance of salvation and longed for heaven. Her family and friends will miss her so much. May God graciously fill the great gulf she has left behind. Just as we prayed for Violet so we assure the family circle and especially her daughters Mandy and Winnie of our ongoing prayerful support. Violets heartfelt desire was that the church in Richhill would grow both numerically and spiritually that it might be used mightily to win many souls for the Lord and to build up the saints. She prayed earnestly for the salvation of her loved ones who were outside of Christ. May her prayers be graciously answered even though her earthly course has been run. Violets funeral took place on Monday 23rd September when the focus was upon Christ the way, and the truth and the life. She will be greatly missed. W L Elliott Mrs Kathleen Smith Omagh

The members and friends of Omagh EPC have lost a dear friend in Mrs Kathleen Smith, who was called to her heavenly home on 19th July, aged 97 years. She was a lady of high principles, friendly disposition and an example to the rising generation. Her presence at the services, and especially the prayer meetings, when failing health made it most difficult, was a challenge and an inspiration to us all. We extend to her daughter and son-in-law, Ian and Anna Harvey and all the family circle, our deepest sympathy, and assure them of our prayers in this time of bereavement. Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints. Psalm 116:15 Hugh Crawford

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EPC Pulpit
Reaching 21st Century People 1 Corinthians 9 verses 19 to 27 b

The substance of a sermon preached at Moderators Missionary Rally in April 2002

I fear that I have been slow to realise that we are not in the 1960s and 1970s anymore. The whole climate in the media and in the hearts and minds of the people around us has changed with amazing rapidity. There is now a third group in Ireland - the post Protestant or post Catholic post-modern movement. Before we witness to them we must understand where they are coming from. Thought systems, which have ruled for 200 years or more, have gone in the last 20 or 30 years. As we go round the doors in Belfast, talk to our colleagues at work or chat to our neighbours and friends, what do we hear them say? Perhaps it is something like this: Im glad you get a lot out of believing, If you need to go to church, fine! I I dont. find that I dont need to. Its good for you to trust in Jesus, if you need that crutch.

We, then must ask ourselves - What lies Its OK for you to have faith, if you behind these comments? find that it works for you, but it doesnt for me!
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New Criteria

You will notice that these and similar comments are based on new criteria. Previously people asked, What is the scientific evidence that this is true? Now they say does it feel right for me? Authority Is it relevant? Is it convenient or comfortable for my style? Does it work There is no source of ethics; not parents, not church and not state. Each for me? of these is seen as trying to secure its own ends. The government, the church New Mind Set and the employer are seen as having People are open to anything and vested interests using spin-doctors to everything quite glad to admit that achieve their selfish ends. Because there odd things may happen. They say that is little trust, mass disillusionment they believe in the god of their own follows. Because there is little loyalty, understanding. In other words each people are disconnected and alienated. individual constructs his or her own faith from incidents they have Summing up then, post-modern 21st experienced. There is no big picture century people dont like claims to uniting all human experience, merely ultimate truth, ultimate good, ultimate disconnected personal experiences authority or ultimate accountability. which are true for the participants and This attitude affects not only not necessarily anyone else. unbelievers but also believers in our midst and if we are honest we are under They think that any spirituality will do. this pressure ourselves. For example On the positive front this usually Evangelicals can find themselves means that folks will be glad to listen picking their church affiliation not by and are not shut in by the sectarian doctrine but by the feel good factor. divide, but negatively when we assert that the gospel is unique, we find we Confronted by this mindset we turn to have outlived our welcome. We are what Paul told the Corinthians in this then told that we are all on the same chapter. He calls us to three great road or that all roads lead to God. commitments. New Ethics Commitment to Truth There is now no accepted morality. I do all this for the sake of the gospel. (v23) Post-modern thought sees everyone As we love the LORD and his gospel, trying to be good or doing their best. So there is no concept of wrong or sin. we must continue to contend for the faith once for all delivered to the saints. The
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There is no sense of Gods presence as a moral judge, little knowledge indeed of the God of the Bible. One author called it the world of the knowing smirk.

gospel is beautifully summarised in chapter 15 verses 3 & 4 Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, He was buried, He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures and that He appearedto more than five hundred of the brothers at the same time. Here we have the great doctrines of the Deity of Christ, His atoning work on the Cross, His empowering resurrection and the total reliability of the God breathed Scriptures. As we sang: Behold him there! The risen Lamb, My perfect spotless righteousness, The great unchangeable I AM The King of glory and of grace! One with himself, I cannot die, My soul is purchased by his blood; My life is safe with Christ on high, With Christ, my Saviour, and my God. If we change the message because of the pressures of our culture we have nothing to give our contemporaries. The unique news of salvation cannot be amended to suit the age. 75 years ago Professor Davey wished to do this in his book Changing Vesture of the Faith. He changed the faith as well as its externals. Commitment to Change. With our strong commitment to maintain the truth, we must exercise a parallel commitment to change the way that we communicate that truth so that it speaks as clearly as possible to the changed mindset of recent years sometimes called post-modernism.
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Paul says, I have become all things to all men so that by all possible means I might save some(verse 22). Similarly as we face post-modernism, we have to adjust the way we do things so that the precious message of the gospel is adequately conveyed. Paul cheerfully gave up his rights for the spiritual good of others. He gladly gave up his Jewish heritage to reach those outside Israel. If we are reluctant to contemplate change because of the richness of our Ulster Protestant heritage let us remember how rich a heritage Paul gave up as outlined in Romans 9 verses 4 & 5. Theirs is the adoption of sons, theirs the divine glory, the covenants, the receiving of the law, the temple worship and the promises. Theirs are the patriarchs, and from them is traced the human ancestry of Christ, who is God over all, for ever praised! Amen. As we seek to communicate to our Biblically illiterate contemporaries, we must continue to be creative and imaginative in finding ways to give them space and time to see the basic outline of the Christian faith. Just as we have always done in Sunday Schools and Youth Clubs, we have to find a way to teach the 20s, 30s, 40s and 50 year olds what the faith really is. Since they feel that church is for the committed, they wont come. They feel that it would be hypocritical to pretend to a level of commitment that they know they do not possess. We need those around us to feel a welcome to

events where they can experience moved their evangelistic Sunday scripture without commitment in a non Schools to weeknights as the kids arent -threatening environment. available on Sundays and their evangelistic services to 4 p.m. on There may well be a different time scale Sunday. This is when the public have in our evangelism as Joe Public is so finished the great sleep in and eaten much more ignorant than his brunch but still leaves their evening grandparents. An example of this is intact. We could research this. reflected by the fact that in our universities conversions now often Let us follow Paul. Let us become open occur not so much in the week of the to whatever changes enable us to mission meetings as in the follow-up proclaim the eternal gospel effectively. Bible studies in subsequent weeks. Commitment to People. As our contemporaries distrust authority including Biblical authority, it Paul says elsewhere my hearts desire for Israel is that they might be saved. The same is for us to humbly explain how we came to faith and gently clear away the warm affection for his contacts is found here in by all possible means. clutter left by TV and other media. Often it is best to show how (i) It involves listening. appropriate an informed Christian view We have to humbly address their issues is on topics that interest our contact from scripture. We can only find out such as Cloning. where people are by listening to them. Each location will need different Picture the unbeliever in a cage of false methods. We need to find and use belief. All too frequently I have whatever is best in each place. In our foolishly sought to storm the cage. But witnessing we have tried cassettes and this has had the effect of making the videos instead of tracts, which often person in the cage reinforce the bars of tend to get put in the bin. Others will erroneous belief to be safe in his cage. use methods such as laying on How much better to lay on an evangelistic meals for those who dont attractive display of truth beside the know how to hold a hymnbook but do cage and tempt them out. know how to hold a knife and fork. Meeting needs in the community such (ii) It involves caring and sharing. as in Mother and Toddler groups works Love and concern can always be well in many of our churches. profitably shown but particularly at Christianity Explained or times of bereavement and trouble. We Christianity Explored courses bring come both with the answers to Marks Gospel to to-days pagans. problems and with the gospel that will enable the answers to be put into Some of our friends in England have
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action. Without the answers no one will The Three Legged Stool. bother with the gospel. Without the The three commitments are like a three gospel no one can use the answers. -legged stool. All three legs are needed In our churches we need to know the to stand up. Caring and change without truth will lack meaning and power. newcomers name and (if they want) Truth without change will lead to a also their family situation and dying church separate and irrelevant to employment problems. society. Truth and change without (iii) It involves welcoming. consistent caring rings false. It is a joy to welcome men and women One final word of warning. The burden whatever their past. In North Belfast of ministering in this way is so huge unmarried couples and single parents that it cannot be left to our ministers are in the majority in most streets. They without making them liable to early need the gospel too. heart attack, burnout or collapse. The Some of us are getting used to people listening, caring and welcoming must come from the whole body of the who dress differently, others of us membership. adjust to friends who need a cigarette before and after the meeting. Woe to us May God give us His grace that we may if we cause a little one to stumble by by all possible means save some for the withholding a welcome. sake of the gospel. Conclusion:

COVENANTER FLATS BALLYMONEY

Self contained and double flats providing accommodation for retired people in a pleasant Christian environment in a semi-rural setting. Warden supervision. Convenient to shops For further details contact:Miss Elizabeth Moore 20 Shandon Park Ballymoney BT53 7BA
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The Beyond Regions Beyond The Regions A Bulwark of God By Dr H C Lindsay MD

It is appropriate in our anniversary year to look back on our first missionary. This was Dr Harold Lindsay, member and Deacon in our Knock church, who went to Peru in 1937. Here is an article from him, just six months after his arrival. We will appreciate his descriptive skills as we read, and we will hopefully feel some motivation as we sense his evangelical zeal towards the people he had come to serve. It is interesting that the young lady, whose recovery from sickness he mentions in the final section, became his wife. We give thanks again for everything Dr Lindsay accomplished in his seventeen years in Peru, and also for the work of all who followed him to overseas service. Six months have passed since I arrived here in Moyobamba. As I look back, I regard as one of the greatest blessings among many I experienced the privilege of the companionship of Dr and Mrs Mackay for two months before their departure. And it would not do to leave the bairns out of the picture! Many a romp we had together and many a word in Spanish they taught me. They had their own methods of correction, and let me tell you they were very effective! at moments when you are least expecting it there comes the most delightful breeze, or perhaps a short, swift tropical shower will clear away all the sultriness and leave the air balmy and sweet. To a person who dislikes noise it is very restful to be in a place where motor-horns never honk, telephones do not ring and the din of wireless is seldom heard. To be sure, the night is never silent! Innumerable insects keep up a continuous volume of sound; superficially there is discordancy, Moyobamba but running through all is an underlying The longer one lives in Moyobamba the rhythm that soothes. more it fascinates. It is hot at times, but
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Holding the Fort The sinister effects of the subconscious are much emphasised to-day, but as for me, I can find sufficient of interest in the conscious past without worrying about the other. There is a story which comes to my memory from early childhood. It is about a little Dutch boy, who was walking one day alongside a great dyke. He noticed in one place a small leak. Knowing that the result would be disastrous if this were allowed to go on, he thrust in his arm and stopped the leak till help came. The small boy has his counterpart in the little missionary band whose privilege it is to hold the fort in Moyobamba. Each of us desires to have no strength of our own, but rather to lean fully on Him whose grace is sufficient and whose strength is made perfect in weakness. It is about what corresponds to the dyke that I want to write. It is a stout bulwark against a sea of evil and superstition and sin. It has been erected at great cost by the industry, patience and organising genius of those who have gone before.

had one patient recently in the private ward, to whom Miss Macmillan sold a Bible, and up to date she has sold seven among his visitors. One of these is a Doctor of Law; he told her he had already a version in Latin. The hospital has accommodation for sixteen beds. A short time ago we had fifteen patients in at one time, but it was a terrible crush. A handsome new building has been added in recent years. It abuts into the street and makes a useful entrance to the main block. There are two storeys to it. Below, in the centre, is a commodious waiting-room, flanked on one side by the dispensary and on the other by the consultingroom. Above are three roomsthe drug store, a room for dressings, and a laboratory. A verandah on both floors gives plenty of space for an overflow of patients.

For the doctor, work in hospital commences at 7.30 a.m. The Biblewoman makes a much earlier start. A meeting is held among out-patients at 6.15 a.m., at which tracts are distributed The Hospital and, when possible, Bibles and portions of the Scriptures are sold. The doors of The hospital stands in its own grounds. the consulting-room are opened the The lower storey consists of a male and night before, as sometimes patients a female ward, a private room and an actually pass the night there. operating theatre. Above are the living Consultations often go on till twelve quarters of the nurses and Biblewoman. noon, with the exception of a short Morning and evening prayers are held break about ten o'clock for a weakness and are a source of untold blessing. A of mine - a cup of tea! few weeks as a patient often changes an enemy into a friend. Few of them leave During the morning nurse attends to the without a Bible or New Testament. We needs of in-patients and then proceeds
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to clear off, with great skill and rapidity, row upon row of out-patients for dressings, opening of abscesses, injections, etc. The evening is kept free of consultations, to give time for operations and visits. New additions to medical equipment are constantly needed. This year the biggest item has been a new sterilizer. It arrived in excellent condition and is in first-class working order. It is a great comfort to have such an up-to-date fixture at our convenience. The Mission House

Contentment. One sensed that Don Manuel had found the secret of being content. The second-named is a great favourite everywhere. He speaks English well and reads it still better. As a consequence he has access to our theological literature, of which he makes eager use. Don Valentin in his preaching is at times monotonous. He makes probably the best house-to-house visitor of them all. Smiling, affable and the soul of good nature, he will make contacts sometimes where others fail.

There is a student in Lima at present, in training. He is due to commence his The Mission House is a pleasant second year shortly. Going back with dwelling-place. It is built in Peruvian him is one of the most promising style. The balcony gives a distant view candidates that will have left here for a of mountain and hills. Below is the long time. His name is Luis Torrejon. garden. In it roses and many beautiful He has already preached with great tropical plants grow in profusion. There acceptance here on different occasions. is usually a plentiful supply of Dr. Mackay wrote me from on board vegetables, besides oranges, lemons and ship that the matter of this boy's future a delectable fruit called papaya. A fig was much on his mind. I know he will tree planted a few years ago has grown be delighted, as are all of us, at the to such an extent that I can literally sit decision which has been made. under my own fig tree! It bears fruit. The New Church Peruvian Workers The subscription scheme launched We have at present three pastors, which about one year ago has succeeded enables us to keep a man in Saposoa, beyond all expectation. The amount Rioja and Moyobamba. Their names are collected up to date is about six hundred Don Manuel Morals, Don Alejandro soles, i.e., the equivalent of 30 sterling. Tuesta, and Don Valentin Velasquez. There is much evidence of real selfEach is gifted in his own way. The first- denial in giving. One man came to me mentioned is the oldest and longest with who had been off work for some time us. He has been through deep waters. on account of sickness. He is the father of a family of eleven and one of the best A few Sabbaths ago, while passing through Moyobamba from one station subscribers. Payment is usually made on a fixed day at the beginning of each to another, he preached on
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month. He came to pay some weeks before the time in case the money he had trysted to give might be spent when the usual time came. Two donations recently came from home in the same letter. One was a sum of ten guineas from a doctor in the North of Ireland and the other 8 10s from the boys of Sherborne Preparatory School, Dorsetshire. The latter figure represented the half-term collection for special objects. The headmaster tells me that such was the enthusiasm for our proposed church, the amount taken was a record for many years.

Next to the whole Book the greatest demand is for a combination of Psalms and the New Testament. The SGM. portions are distributed in great numbers. Sabbath School The Sabbath School is well attended. The roll numbers just under two hundred. A slow but steady increase in it continues to take place. At present it has seven Peruvian teachers. Two Blessings and a Need

In closing, I would like to make known two blessings and a need. It is a source Literature of deep thankfulness to God that our Literature is an important weapon in our Bible-woman, Miss Matheson, has been armament. Eight hundred copies of a restored to us again in good health. two-sheet paper called El Heraldo are Although back only a few weeks she has distributed free each month. The already gathered into her capable hands Renacimiento is a well-organised monthly the former threads of her manifold magazine of twelve pages. Its activities. The writer, after a trying subscription is about one shilling in the period of suspension, has been given year. We have almost seventy permission by the authorities in Lima to subscribers to it. Among its contributors practise for one year. are numbered many of the best-known names in evangelism in Latin America. A great work has been accomplished in In its catalogue of books listed for sale Moyobamba, but much still remains to be done, especially in other villages. there is an imposing array on There is a movement among the controversial subjects. A differential mulberry tops in many places where count of these from a copy taken at before there reigned but the stillness of random gives the following death. With the present staff many figures:Romanism 46; Adventism 4; precious opportunities have to be Communism 6; Spiritism 2; allowed to slip. An ordained missionary Pentecostalism 1; Russellism 1. Other is badly needed to consolidate our gains literature distributed includes El Mensajero Biblico, the organ of the Costa and to carry to still waiting multitudes the message of the Evangel. Rica, and Mensajes del Amor. Bible sales continue to be satisfactory.
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From Belfast to Haifa via Poland by Andrew Prochaska

Photo AndrewP.jpg

After enjoying Gods rich and manifold blessings in Northern Ireland, including the privilege of being part of the Stranmillis EPC, I found myself again in my hometown of Lodz in Poland in December 2001, following over four years of absence. The Evangelical Church in Lodz turned out to be warm and friendly fellowship of believers. It is virtually the only evangelical congregation with a sound reformed input in this city of nearly 900 thousand; the result of the influence the European Missionary Fellowship Bible School in Welwyn had upon one of the elders of the church during his studies at the school. After spending two months in Poland I made my way to Haifa, Israel, to

assume a post-doctorate position in the Israel Institute of Technology. Most of you have learned about Israel since the Sunday school period and many have had occasion to see it themselves, with an emphasis put on visiting the Biblical sites and admiring the natural beauty of the place. Besides these, another very interesting aspect, is the countrys complex and very dynamically changing society. Despite its small size of just over six million people, it features a very high level of diversity on the religious, cultural and political level and defies most of the Jewish stereotypes, perfectly reflecting the saying that where two Jews meet, there are three opinions. Around eighty percent of the society are Jews (including a small fraction of non-Jewish immigrants),
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and the rest are Arabs. Most of the Jews came here during the past century from the world-wide Diaspora; mainly from Poland, Russia, Romania, North Africa, Middle East and South America. During the past ten years, following the fall of communism in the Soviet Union, over one million new immigrants from the former Soviet republics have come to Israel, thus drastically changing the face of the Israeli society in a relatively short time. Just imagine Ulsters society enlarging itself within 10 years by over 400 thousand people coming without any command of English and most of them possessing little more than their personal belongings!

many of whom even refuse to acknowledge the legitimacy of the State of Israel until the coming of the Messiah. These two groups are the most opposed to the spread of the Gospel in the land.

Due to the specific geo-political situation of the country, life in Israel bears certain characteristics unique on the world scale. Since the very beginning of its nearly 55 year-old existence, being surrounded by hostile Arab countries populated by 350 million people, which have constantly sought Israels annihilation, the country has had to undergo an intense struggle for its survival which consisted of five Although the official language is wars with its Arabic neighbours - none Hebrew, Russian is heard virtually of which it could afford to lose. everywhere. Many elderly Ashkenazi Everybody at the age of eighteen is Jews (i.e. those coming from Central conscripted to military service (except and Eastern Europe) can still be heard for ultra-orthodox Jews and most speaking Yiddish which is a mixture of Arabs); the men for three years and German and Hebrew, and not a few of women for two. Moreover, every man those from Poland can still speak is bound to do a reserve duty one Polish. month a year, until the age of forty. This is one of the reasons why, every The vast majority of the Israelis are year 10-15,000 Israelis permanently completely secular, with their way of leave the country in the pursuit of life, apart from holidays and the easier and safer life in other parts of the military service, being not much world, such as Canada or Australia. different, from that of many Western nations. The religious people make up The waves of Palestinian terrorism, about 15% percent of the population. called Intifadas, have added to the These can be further divided into overall strain in the society. Most of the orthodox; who despite their religious public places, including universities, commitment play an active role in the schools and kindergardens, are life of the society, and ultra orthodox equipped with armed security guards (usually clad in black); who completely checking all the newcomers. Since the devote themselves to their religion and outbreak of the last Intifada two years
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ago, even wedding ceremonies have been usually accompanied by armed men with machine guns in order to ensure maximum security. The amount of daily events taking place in the country is such that checking the news every hour is simply not sufficient to keep up with what is happening around, it being another unique feature of life in Israel, especially at the present time. Despite the current security problems the society maintains its informal, open and friendly attitude with a very low crime rate. The Church and the Gospel Now, let me say few words about the church and the spread of the Gospel in the land. The societal diversity which I mentioned before, is reflected in the ways different groups respond to the Gospel as well as the makeup of the church. The most open group to hear and positively respond to the Good News of salvation are immigrants from the former Soviet Union, who are proportionately the biggest ingredient of the church in Israel. Most of the secular Israelis have usually an agnostic or atheistic mindset with their hearts closed to the Gospel, although many dont mind listening and entering into religious discussion. Interestingly, many of them acknowledge Jesus as a Jewish historical figure and a Jewish teacher The religious Israelis are rarely ready to listen about Christ and their reaction

usually consists of opposition. Substantial efforts are being made by part of the Israeli religious community to curb the Christian freedom in the land. Among others, these efforts consist of trying to pass legislation prohibiting any form of evangelism and sponsoring anti missionary organisations which harass the individual believers (including death threats) and opposing any form of outreach. The believing community in Israel, most of which dates back to less than 20 years ago, numbers around 7000 people in some 60 congregations across the land. This does not include Palestinian believers in the West Bank and the Gaza Strip. I have been in close contact with two churches. The first one is Grace and Truth, a reformed Baptist church consisting of the congregation in Rishon Le Tzion and a smaller offshoot group meeting in Asquelon. It comprises around 400 people (including children), most of whom are the immigrants from the former Soviet Union. The second church, called Bethesda, is an open Brethren assembly in Haifa. It consists of about 100 members, constituting a very warm fellowship of both Jewish and Gentile believers. Due to its proximity I attend their mid-week prayer meetings and Bible studies. Grace and Truth
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Grace and Truth has become my new spiritual home, and is one of the two reformed churches in the land and the biggest one overall. Several members of the church, including the pastor Baruch Maoz, are involved in the work of HaGefen Christian publishing house in Israel which is supported by the Christian Witness to Israel. The services are simultaneously translated from Hebrew into Russian, English and Sign language, the latter one for the deaf members of the congregation. Due to its relatively big size and a very limited space of the premises, two years ago the congregation embarked on a new church building project which if successfully completed will be the first such project in the land since Apostolic times. Due to its uncompromising, open and bold attitude in proclaiming the Gospel, outstanding on Israels scale, the church is regarded as a big threat by part of the Jewish religious community in the country (which the church takes as a complement). An anti -missionary organization Yad LeAchim and several religious members of the Knesset (Israeli parliament) have engaged in a legal battle aiming at halting or delaying the construction work at the new church building. The church services are often attended by spies from Yad LeAchim who try to find out information about the individual members of the congregation and subsequently try to persuade their employers to lay them off on the basis of their Christian faith - an action
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which is against the Israeli law. As a result of one such attempt a church deacon has recently lost his job. In a so far unprecedented move, the church has decided to fight a legal battle against the employer in order to restrict similar intimidation of the believers in the future. The case, if successful, may have an important impact on protecting Christian freedom in the land. Your prayers are much solicited. Every year the church hosts a 3-day conference in Haifa with an invited speaker from abroad. The last such event took place in May when Jim Adams, a reformed Baptist pastor from Arizona, delivered a series of lectures on spiritual life. The talks were accompanied by an evangelistic outreach on the streets of Haifa in which also deaf members of the congregation took part as well as common fellowship and worship with an Arabic congregation from the north of the country. For more information on the life of the church please refer to the churchs website: www.graceandtruthbulletin.org. Ending, let me wish all the readers the abundance of Gods grace in and through His Son Jesus Christ.

Andrew Prochaska

Remembering Former Days

In this EPC anniversary year we wish to bring to mind the former days by reprinting some articles from the very first issues of this magazine. The battle for truth remains. This article was first printed in The Irish Evangelical in October 1942.

WHOSE FAITH FOLLOW (Hebrews 13:7)

BY

Rev James Hunter

The one whose name this page so often bore is now with his Lord; on Sabbath, 20th September (1942, Ed.), our beloved leader, Rev. James Hunter, M.A., entered into rest. In the twenty years that I have been a Professor at Queens College, there has been no student who has distinguished himself more highly, and who has done so in more than one department. The subject to which he chiefly devoted EARLY LIFE AND MINISTRY himself was Classical Literature, in which not only in this College, but in the Mr Hunter was born at Royal University also, he obtained the Newtownstewart, Co Tyrone, in 1863. highest Honours attainable by an He studied at the Royal Belfast undergraduate, being in the final Academical Instutition and Queens examination for the B.A degree not only College, Belfast, and graduated at the in the First Class, but first in that class, Royal University of Ireland with First and obtaining the same distinction in the Class Honours in Classics. His academical record was an exceptionally examinations for the M.A. degree. And in this College, in the examinations distinguished one. The scholarships, which take place at the end of each exhibitions and prizes won by him reached a total of around 250. Here is session in the various subjects, he was also on every occasion the best man in the testimony given of him by C.D. the year in my subjects. Yonge, M.A., Regius Professor of Modern History and English Literature, Like testimony was borne to him by Queens College, Belfast, and Fellow of President J L Porter, Professors the Royal University: Hastings Crossley, and Thomas Dougan
page 17

of Queens College, and Professors Matthew Leitch and Robert Watts of Assemblys College. But when Mr. Hunter was ordained in 1st Newry Presbyterian Church in April, 1888, he humbly declared, Novelty of thought or of diction, commanding power of speech, I cannot promise, but only such attractiveness as comes from the plain statement of the plain truth of God. On that occasion he pledged himself to the cause of God and our Saviour Jesus Christ. After a ministry of one year and seven months at Newry he was called in 1889 to Belfast to Dundela (name changed to Knock in 1920). At his installation, on being presented with a pulpit gown and Bible, he said that the gown reminded him of the duty of being the same person when attired in the gown that he was when it was off, and he pledged himself with the help of God to speak from the bottom of his heart what he felt convinced to be the truth as well in the pulpit as out of it. The Bible reminded him of another duty They did not expect him to be an original investigator, nor to forge for them a new creed out of the fragments of the old, but rather to present entire the old faith once delivered to the saints. It would be for him then to walk in the old paths.

with enticing words of mans wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power. In concluding he declared himself not averse, should it be the will of God, to the prospect of many years at Dundela, if only he might be owned at the last as a faithful steward of the mysteries of God. In the issue he did continue some 35 years as minister of the Dundela-Knock congregation. It is some indication of the influence of his ministry through the blessing of God that the church was enlarged three times during those years. When he retired in 1924, it was not with the intention of ceasing his labours. Indeed his crowning efforts were yet to come. On his retirement he wished to devote himself to the defence of the Word of God. In this cause he was willing to speak anywhere. (For example, he gave addresses every week on the great doctrines to a Bible Class attended by several hundred young men in 1925 and 1926.) He had for long realised the need of this. There was a drift from the orthodoxy of Cooke and his associates; there was a great departure from the old paths. CONTENDING FOR THE FAITH

All along he stood for the faith. When its attitude to the Free Church of Scotland was under discussion by the He spoke of the necessity of the power General Assembly in 1905, Mr Hunter of Gods Spirit to make the preaching took the lead in maintaining that there of the truth effective in mens lives, and was ground for the stand made by the Free Church, and he gave some expressed his fervent desire that his speech and his preaching might be, not quotations from the United Free New
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Theology men which made the U.F. that lay within his knowledge he issued representatives present at the Assembly in May, 1926, S.O.S. Nos. 1, 2, and 3 look rather glum. to Irish Presbyterians. At the same time he formed the Presbyterian Bible Against all innovations in the interests Standards League, in connection with of Modernism he set his face stedfastly. which in the year that followed he Over 30 years ago there was a addressed large and enthusiastic suggestion by a leading Belfast divine to meetings in Belfast, Londonderry, change the formula of subscription. Mr Ballymena and here and there over the Hunter raised the standard of country, travelling on two occasions as opposition and the attempt was far as Co. Donegal. abandoned for the time. At the Assembly of 1926 the whole He was a member of a number of the matter which he had raised was before most important committees of the the court. He spoke at a number of its Assembly, and in these as well as on the sessions in a tense and excited house, Assembly platform, all through the justifying his conduct in issuing the years his voice was raised for the faith. S.O.S. and attacking the Modernism of the College. Then in June, 1925, the drift in the Irish Presbyterian Church was further In the following winter he tabled evidenced by the General Assemblys charges against Prof. J.E. Davey (now appointment of a Committee to Principal) in the Belfast Presbytery and consider a change in the questions put prosecuted the matter through 14 at ordination and the formula of sessions of the Presbytery in February subscription to the Westminster and March 1927. The stirring scenes of Confession. Mr. Hunter spoke in the morning of the first session (Feb. opposition to the proposal, but it was 15th, 1927) were such as to leave no carried by a majority vote. He was a doubt in Mr Hunters mind most member of the committee appointed likely he never had any as to the and at its meetings he argued strongly treatment he and his charges might against the changes proposed by those expect. Rage and hostility were in sympathy with Modernism. manifest from the outset. The S.O.S. In the following winter and spring notes from the lectures of the Presbyterian professors were made available to him by the present writer, then in his final year at the College. Using these notes and other evidence Presbytery acquitted the Professor by large majorities on each of the five charges brought. Mr. Hunter appealed to the General Assembly, but the Assembly gave him a similar reception and approved of the Professors outand-out Modernism by a vote of 707 to 82. Shortly after Mr Hunter demitted
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his position in the Irish Presbyterian Church and soon the Irish Evangelical Church was formed to carry on uncompromising witness to the faith once for all delivered to the saints. From that day he was among us in this Church a wise counsellor and leader, a faithful friend, an able minister of the new covenant, an unflinching defender of the faith. From 1928 until his death he acted as minister of our Knock congregation.

desisted. He was preaching with his usual vigour little more than a month before his death, so that he was 54 years in the active ministry of the Gospel. PREACHING

Professor J. McMaster, D.Litt., of Magee College, when Mr. Hunter had but finished his course in College, paid tribute not merely to the thoroughness of his scholarship but also to him as COURAGE AND FAITHFULNESS possessing the clearness of judgement and aptness of expression which mark Mr Hunter would have escaped the cultivation of intellect as distinct from offence of the Cross if he had been mere accumulation of learning. These content to be disloyal to his Saviour. qualities were shown in his preaching. But he kept his pledges to the plain He had a wide experience of men and truth of God and the old paths made at his ordination and installation. affairs; he read widely and travelled far This brought him often into conflicts, (China, U.S.A., Palestine, Greece, Italy, but he never flinched. He counted the Russia, Germany), and his experience cost and went straight on even when and knowledge and his marvellous memory were all put at the service of others turned back. He preferred to Christ for His glory in the preaching of lose, and did lose, friends and office the Word. and emoluments, rather than sacrifice the truth of God. The Lord be praised PERSONAL CHARACTER for His servants faithfulness! Those who maligned him and there is DEVOTION TO DUTY no denying that at times he was greatly maligned said he was harsh and bitter, One of the last duties he undertook, though weak and unfit, was to visit one even unchristian. No doubt similar of his congregation who had met with charges were made against the apostle an accident. This was characteristic of Paul who spoke so strongly concerning the man. It was the outcome of habits those who perverted the gospel of of faithfulness through a long ministry. Christ and who withstood Peter to his face because he was to be blamed. If at He commenced his article for the last times in his early career he was so well issue of this magazine and it was only spoken of that he pondered the on being urged to spare himself that he Saviours word, Woe unto you, when
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all men speak well of you!, in his battles for the Lord in middle and later life there was clearly no need for him to fear that woe. For the refutation of the charge of harshness it would be sufficient if we could have a peep into many hearts today which sorrow as they mourn their loss, saying Our father, our father, the chariot of Israel and the horsemen thereof.

hatred of vice and compromise and all departures from rectitude. Abhor that which is evil, cleave to that which is good was a precept exemplified in his life.

Let us hear the words of his prototype in the Pilgrims Progress, Mr. Valiant-for-Truth, when the summons came for him: I am going to my Fathers; Now I do not repent me of all the trouble I have been at to arrive where I am My marks and scars I carry with me, to be a witness His character was one of singular for me, that I have fought His battles, elevation. One could not but mark his who now will be my rewarder. So high moral standard, his aversion to all he passed over and all the trumpets that was false and hypocritical, his sounded for him on the other side.

The MESSIAH, G F Handel and John Newton. By Harold Gibson

As Christmas time approaches one of the events that many people attend is a performance of Handels great oratorio Messiah. Great Cathedrals and magnificent Concert Halls will echo to the sound of this wonderful music. When performances of the oratorio were at their height in London in 1784 a series of sermons were being given in a London Parish Church. The rector was expounding the texts on which Messiah was based to his congregation. HANDEL George Frederic Handel was born on 23 February 1685 in Halle, Saxony. His father was a surgeon and his mother the daughter of a Lutheran clergyman. As a young boy he showed a remarkable gift for music and his family encouraged this talent. He had the opportunity to hear excellent music in Halle both in the church and in the civic hall.
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While at University he served as organist for one year in the Reformed (Calvinist) Cathedral in Halle. He moved to Britain in 1710 and became a British subject in 1726 enabling him to be appointed a composer of the Chapel Royal. Handel worked diligently composing many operas and they were met with varying degrees of success. By 1741 he had written about 40 such works but Opera was facing a serious decline in London for a variety of reasons. Owing to that decline Handel considered a change of direction in his life but such a change proved unnecessary.

Sublime, the Grand and the Tender, adapted to the most elevated, majestick and moving Words, conspired to transport and charm the ravished Heart and Ear. During Handels lifetime, Messiah did not obtain the popularity that it achieved in later generations. No regular performances were given until the last few years of his life when a number of performances were staged in aid of the Foundling Hospital. Handel died on April 20th 1759. A grand performance to celebrate the forthcoming centenary of his birth was given in Westminster Abbey in 1784. Large audiences attended and from this time onward Messiah gained greater popularity not only in London but in Europe as well.

THE MESSIAH The Duke of Devonshire, Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, invited Handel to furnish a work in aid of a collection of Dublin charities. To assist in this work Charles Jennens, described elsewhere as a worldly cleric, sent Handel Biblical texts and it is on these texts that the oratorio is based. On receiving these texts he set to work with great enthusiasm and wrote the oratorio in a few weeks beginning on 22 August 1741 completing it by 12 September 1741. The first public performance took place in Dublin on 13 April 1742 before an audience of some 700. One Dublin newspaper reported: The

JOHN NEWTON. John Newton, whose life story and wonderful conversion is well known, became Rector of St. Mary, Woolnorth, London in 1780. In 1784 he became aware of the intense interest in Messiah in London society. He writes, Conversation in almost every company, for some time past, has much turned upon Handel.. Newton was concerned that the large crowds flocking to Westminster Abbey to listen to the music and the words might just miss the true meaning of

page 22

what he calls the several sublime and interesting passages of Scripture, which are the basis of that admired composition.

Newton continued to preach his way through the texts setting before his congregation the doctrines of our God and Saviour Jesus Christ. Writing in the preface to the published sermons Newton speaks of a plan that had he says, Messiah is the leading and come to him rather unexpectedly. He principal subject of every sermon. His told his congregation of his intention person, grace and glory; his matchless to lead their meditations based on the love to sinners; his ability and language of the oratorio and so began willingness to save to the uttermost; a series of some fifty sermons his kingdom, and the present and preached in London during the years future happiness of his willing people, 1784 and 1785. * are severally considered, according to the order suggested by the series of In his opening sermon Newton texts. remarks But they who love the Redeemer and therefore delight to join While Newton was not a great lover of in his praise, if they did not find it Handels Messiah and was indeed convenient, or think it expedient, to considered by many to be harsh and hear the Messiah at Westminster, may critical of it, he acknowledged that comfort themselves with the thought, others thought differently from him that in a little time they shall be more and in the closing sermon he says, abundantly gratified. Ere long, death permit me to hope and to pray, that shall rend the vail which hides eternal the next time you hear the Messiah, things from their view, and introduce God may bring something that you them to that unceasing song and have heard in the course of these universal chorus, which are even now sermons, nearly connected with the performing before the throne of God peace and welfare of your souls, and the Lamb. effectually to your remembrance. While Handels oratorios took biblical texts they were never considered to be church music. Church music was, in fact, scorned by the civilised tastes of the time. Just a couple of years earlier Charles Wesley had penned his now famous carol Hark the Herald Angels sing with the line hail the incarnate *The Works of John Newton, Vol.4, Banner of Truth Trust 1985. deity underlining the fundamental doctrine of God made man. Messiah speaks only in generalities of Jesus.
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Books etc.
Opening Up Ephesians Peter Jeffrey Evangelical Press 102 pages 4.95 Reviewer: Stephen Atkinson Opening Up Ephesians is the first in a new series of what is hoped will be a complete Opening Up of the entire Bible. It is not a preachers commentary, but rather more particularly designed for young adult readers, or youth group Bible studies. Having said that, it is not simplistic, retaining depth and good Scriptural exposition. In his own words, the author desires to be accurate, simple and brief, and wants to put the cookies where you can reach them. There are some good punchy lines: A Christian is not a repaired sinner; he is a new creation in Christ. (p24) purposes. But as both are aimed at the younger generation I wondered a little over the merit of two such major projects? This reviewer nonetheless commends them both! The Valley of Vision (leather-bound Gift Edition) Arthur Bennett Banner of Truth 432 pages 19.95 Reviewer: Stephen Atkinson

What a beautiful reprint of a book I have loved and regularly returned to for over almost two decades. I first bought this in 1984, suspicious of Banner producing a book of prayers! My fears were soon removed as I was led into some wonderful views of God, and I found myself drawn to say silent Amens to these wonderful written devotions from favoured pens such as I did wonder about whether I got an Brainerd, Baxter, and Bunyan, American copy for review when I Spurgeon and Toplady, Watts, and discovered that in a Lloyd Jones quote, Watson . a word was spelled the US way! Let me learn by paradox that the way Questions to Think About come at down is the way up, that to be low is to the end of each chapter and provide a be high, that the broken heart is the useful basis for group Bible Study, and healed heart that to have nothing is at the very end of the book there are a to possess all, that the valley is the few pages giving further guidance place of vision. (- from the opening Digging Deeper into Ephesians. prayer by the compiler). Evangelical Press have recently embarked on two major series in The Guide, and this Opening Up series. They each have slightly different targets and
page 24

Before thy cross I kneel and see the heinousness of my sin, my iniquity that caused thee to be made a curse, the

evil that excites the severity of divine wrath Sin is my malady, my monster, my foe, my viper, born in my birth, alive in my life, strong in my character, dominating my faculties, following me as a shadow Let me walk humbly in the lowest depths of humiliation, bathed in thy blood, tender of conscience, triumphing gloriously as an heir of salvation. (p.74) Under the conviction of thy Spirit I learn that the more I do, the worse I am, the more I know, the less I know, the more holiness I have, the more sinful I am O wretched man (p.128) How rare is such a spirit, even in our own hearts. Use it to restore such holy breathings. Give it, in either the paperback or this beautiful leather Gift Edition, to draw others to similar heart praying. I recommend it most highly. Journey with David Brainerd Richard A Hasler Soli Deo Gloria 120 pages $9.95 Reviewer: Stephen Atkinson First published in 1975 by Inter-Varsity Christian Fellowship of the USA, this is a devotional help made up of selected cuttings from the diary, journal and letters of David Brainerd (1718-1747), the famed missionary to the Indians during the Great Awakening.

prayer and communion with God, we can run with no better companion. Each chapter is a two page devotional comment, with an (added) appropriate prayer. Just in case we think all was rosy in his life, there is much written and experienced concerning the Dark Night of the Soul, and clear testimony that even for Brainerd there were times when the devotion did not come easy. He died at 29 years, thoroughly spent for God, and the best part of the book is the last section which gives us viewpoints from Bunyans Beulah Land; that is, Brainerd, within sight of eternity. This perspective is something we would all do well to have before us all our days. Useful bedside companion. King of the Cannibals (The Story of John G Paton, Missionary to the New Hebrides) Jim Cromarty Evangelical Press 288 pages 8.95 Reviewer: Joe Hutton It was C. H. Spurgeon who once introduced John G. Paton as The King of the Cannibals. Though spoken with a hint of jest, making John Paton smile, it does however pay a fitting tribute to this faithful servant of God.

The book traces the life of John Paton It presents us with devotion, zeal and compassion hard to find in the modern from his birth in Scotland and shows world, and if used to stimulate personal how the rigours of life in those days
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were used by God, in his providence, to prepare him for the life of hardship, danger and dedication he would be called upon to endure. John Paton was a man of immense courage and faith whose loyalty to the gospel and the Saviour he loved so dearly is an example for us all to follow. An added benefit of the book is the appendix at the end of each chapter which gives practical application of spiritual truths and poses searching questions for the reader; good for young and old alike and very challenging.

believers to Christ. While targeted specifically at atheists, agnostics and those who seriously doubt the claims of Christianity, this book will be of much wider interest. Indeed, the content is thoroughly challenging, both to Christian and non-Christian. The book is readable and logical, well researched and structured. It presents clear evidence from history, astrophysics, genetics and other branches of science to prove that belief in the God of the Bible is not out of date John Blanchard writes with a compelling style. So much so that the book is difficult to put down once started. Beginning with a clear setting out of the positions adopted by those who not only dont believe in God but also are actively antagonistic towards Christianity, the reader is confronted by arguments that demonstrate how false and futile the unbelievers stance is.

We see too the many and sometimes great sacrifices these pioneer missionaries were called upon to make in order to bring the gospel to these dark corners of the earth. Yet their labours were not in vain in the Lord, as we read of many who were the vilest of offenders being transformed by the power of the Gospel into trophies of Grace. Many of these were in turn used by God to take the Gospel to their own The text is skilfully interwoven with quotations from relevant literature. neighbours to great effect. Arguments against God and faith in This book will seriously challenge your Scripture are thoroughly squashed. Each Christianity. I commend it to all. chapter ends with personal testimony from people drawn from various walks of life and backgrounds. These make Is God past his sell-by date? useful and interesting illustrations of John Blanchard Christs saving work that compliment Evangelical Press the presentation of the issues. 272 pages 6.95 A recommended read for anyone Reviewer: Neil Campbell sceptical about the Christian faith, as a Here is the latest in a series of books by tonic for Christians beleaguered by the John Blanchard aimed at defending modern world and for use in personal belief in God and pointing nonevangelism. Also, there is a wealth of
page 26

issues for Bible study and discussion groups. Gods Design for Women Sharon James Evangelical Press 364 pages 8.95 Reviewer: Cathy Campbell At the beginning of the 21st century many women still struggle with the question of identity, self worth and their role in society. The world around us judges by appearance, lifestyle and occupational or relational success. We are presented with images of perfectly groomed, happy and fulfilled women. Yet, many are left feeling inadequate and some even depressed. In this book the author offers hope and encouragement, painting a very different picture of the successful, fulfilled woman, based on the riches and truths of the Word of God.

women. God made men and women to be equal and complementary the man in the leadership role; the woman as helper. She goes on to give examples of roles that women can fulfil in ministry within the church, devoting chapters to ministry in singleness, marriage, motherhood and to women at work all based on Biblical principles. This is a book for Christian men and women to read as it deals with issues that are fundamental within a true and functioning Christian society. A thought provoking and enlightening read. However, as the author acknowledges, discussion around some topics leads into controversial territory. Study material is included but care would need to be exercised in its use, given the sensitive nature of some of the issues.

Preaching: The Centrality of Scripture Sharon James is a pastors wife and a R. Albert Mohler mother. She is involved in womens ministries and, with her husband, leads Banner of Truth the Council on Biblical Manhood and 24 pages 1.25 Womanhood in the UK. Her Reviewer: Stephen Atkinson background ably qualifies her to write This latest addition to Banners about the topic of Biblical booklet series brings us to 2Timothy womanhood. The book itself is 4:1-5 and the charge given by Paul to evidence of an incredible amount of Timothy to Preach the Word. In background reading and research. reminding us of the importance of Firstly, Sharon James discusses the preaching we are given some of the history of feminism and how societys most shocking statements of modern attitude to women today has been day liberals I have recently read. The influenced by feminism. A second author quotes Professor Edward section deals with Gods design for Parley saying The Christian church is
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summoned to the apostolic task of preaching the good news, and to preach biblical passages is to reject that summons. (p12) Furthermore we are informed of a statement from another so-called scholar David Buttrick who says For the better part of the twentieth century, preaching and the Bible have been wrapped up in a kind of incestuous relationship. (p13) We need to remind ourselves that such theologians exist.

from the New Testament. The author who was minister of Sandyford-Henderson Memorial Church of Scotland in Glasgow for forty years is to be commended for this excellent book. It is easily read yet laced throughout with strong meat; a good commentary as well as a warm devotional.

In the reading for day sixty entitled, Lessons for Service from Ch.6:6-13 Mr Philip describes the danger of being The author humorously parodies his a loner in Christian service. Having no text by imagining Paul writing All one to consult with, infallibility might Scripture is problematic and some is be assumed. We are reminded that we sub-Christian, but is nonetheless can be wrong. The disciples were profitable for myth, eschatological called and then sent out two by two vision, narrative understanding and for good reason. We are reminded that interface with our humanity. Yes, remind ourselves also that some people in ministry and missionary service we need to recognize the need to maintain do live in that world of academic contact with our home base. theological nonsense. For many this booklet on Preaching will be preaching He further describes how there is to the converted, yet it reminds us, in something wrong with the attitude of our forgetful day, of primary issues and those Christians who have never the primary calling of the Christian actually joined a church or those who church. having joined have refused to become Daily Grace from the Gospel of part of the regular prayer life of their own congregation. In commenting on Mark verses 8-9 the subject of the multiplicity George M. Philip of activities and that of our main calling Evangelical Press is touched on. Thus we find his advice always most practical. 183 pages 7.95 Reviewer: Jim Stephenson This guide could be used with great benefit by the individual, family George Philip gives us one hundred and eighty three meditations covering worship or by a group. Highly the whole Gospel of Mark, each one a recommended. page in length with at least one corresponding scripture reading, usually
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making progress with pilgrim

(for pilgrims of all ages)

- (6) IN THE MEADOW (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.)

Going for a walk along a country road can be a pleasant experience, as long as you keep to the main road, and dont venture off on any little track. Dangers can lurk around the corner. Christian had just passed through Vanity Town, where Faithful had been put to death. Further along his journey the Lord provided him with another friend called Hopeful. They soon found they had a lot in common, and enjoyed each others company. They walked along the Plain of Ease, and took particular notice not to be distracted by Demas at his Hill called Lucre. The Crystal River especially refreshed them, but shortly after that they came to a stile with a notice over it pointing to By-Path Meadow. The road on the other side looked a little easier. Christian thought they should go over, and Hopeful followed him. But things werent easier at all. It began to get dark. They then thought they should return the way they came, but it got so late that they had to simply find a place where they could get some sleep. In the morning they discovered they were in great trouble. They were on land belonging to a Giant who took them prisoner in his Castle. The Giant was called Despair and their journey had come to a halt in Doubting Castle. Now, there are many aspects to our pilgrim life, as we follow the Lord Jesus Christ, that are pleasant, even easy. We might say we too have walked along a Plain of Ease. Sadly many are distracted by that Hill called Lucre as they give all their attention to getting money. Perhaps you have avoided that one, but have you ever slipped into that side track called By-Path Meadow. Following the Lord Jesus is a straight and narrow road which we must not turn off. If we do, the path is certainly not easier, and there are giant dangers around, not least a despair that can hold us for some time. How shall our friends escape? Well see next time. What is your method of escape? Are you making progress with Pilgrim?

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