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PRC and Sister-Church News Highlights for September 15, 2024

2 Kings 17 38Today, September 15, is the thirty-seventh Lord's Day of this year of our Lord 2024, and another rest stop on our pilgrim journey through this world. "Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest." Matthew 11:28

Below you will find special highlights of PRC and sister-church news. It is our hope that these reports not only inform you but also give you opportunity to pray for the needs of these churches and mission fields throughout the world.

With whom [Israel] the LORD had made a covenant, and charged them, saying, Ye shall not fear other gods, nor bow yourselves to them, nor serve them, nor sacrifice to them: But the LORD, who brought you up out of the land of Egypt with great power and a stretched out arm, him shall ye fear, and him shall ye worship, and to him shall ye do sacrifice. And the statutes, and the ordinances, and the law, and the commandment, which he wrote for you, ye shall observe to do for evermore; and ye shall not fear other gods. And the covenant that I have made with you ye shall not forget; neither shall ye fear other gods. But the LORD your God ye shall fear; and he shall deliver you out of the hand of all your enemies. ~ 2 Kings 17:35-39

If you are new to this website and the PRCA, we invite you to join us in worship today or on any of the Sunday's of this year at one of our local congregations near you; or you may listen online through one of the PRC's livestreams.

CONGREGATIONAL NEWS 

  • Rev. D. Noorman and his family moved into the Georgetown PRC parsonage this past week. His installation is set for next Sunday Sept.22. A welcome program is planned for him and his family after the morning service today.

  • Last Sunday Hope PRC (Walker, MI) voted to call Rev. N. Decker (Grandville PRC).

  • Last Sunday Zion PRC voted to call Rev. C. Spronk (Faith PRC). 

  • Cand. A. Haveman accepted the call to Loveland PRC on Sept.1. From Loveland's bulletin last week we find this information from her Council: "With thanksgiving the Council expresses gratitude to God for the acceptance of the call from Pastor-elect Arend Haveman. The council has made a request to the Classical committee to examine Pastor-elect Haveman at the upcoming Classis which is scheduled for September 25. His specimen sermon will take place, D.V., on Tuesday evening, September 24, at 7:00 p.m. during a special worship service at Hull PRC."

  • Hope PRC-Redlands' Council has a new trio which to call her next pastor: Revs. A. Brummel (Calvary PRC, Hull, IA), J. Maatman (Southeast PRC, Grand Rapids, MI), and H. Bleyenberg (Immanuel PRC, Lacombe, AB). A congregational meeting is scheduled for Monday, September 23. 

  • Lynden (WA) PRC's Consistory presents the following trio from which to call a pastor: Revs. A. Brummel, G. Eriks, and J. Engelsma. The congregational meeting is scheduled for next Sunday, Sept.22.

  • Southwest PRC's Council has formed a trio of Revs. M. DeBoer (Edgerton PRC), N. Decker (Grandville PRC), and J. Engelsma (Crete-IL PRC). The special congregational meeting will be held after the morning service on September 22.

Classical appointments and pulpit supply for today in the vacant PRCs: Prof. C. Griess and Rev. W. Langerak in Georgetown PRC;  Prof. D. Kuiper and  in Hope PRC-Walker; Rev. C. Haak in Hope PRC-Redlands; Prof. B. Huizinga and Rev. J. Holstege in Hudsonville PRC; Rev. M. Koerner (1st week) in Loveland PRC; Rev. J. Marcus (1st week) in Lynden PRC; Prof. R. Cammnega and Prof. C. Griess in Southwest PRC; Prof. B. Gritters and Prof. D. Kuiper in Zion PRC. May we count it a blessing of our church federation that we can help one another in these needs. Let us remember to pray for the men who supply these pulpits and for the vacant congregations. And may we continue to pray for men to hear the call to serve as pastors and missionaries!

Special Congregational/Evangelism Notices:

  • Hope PRC-Redlands, CA: "The CA Senior Retreat is this week Tuesday-Friday at Tahquitz Pines Retreat Center in Idyllwild. We welcome our visitors today and look forward to a spiritually uplifting time together this week! As a reminder, the congregation is invited to attend the speeches, 9 a.m. on Wednesday and 4 p.m. on Thursday, and also a music night at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday."
  • Unity PRC: This month Rev. G. Eriks will have reached 25 years serving as a minister of the Word in the Protestant Reformed Churches. An open house is scheduled for September 21 at Adams Christian School from 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM. Please join us in celebrating this special occasion with him and his family. We give thanks to God for his years of faithful service in our denomination and especially for the time he has served us as our Pastor at Unity. 'Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honor, especially they who labor in the word and doctrine,' I Timothy 5:17."

PRC DENOMINATIONAL NEWS

  • Classis East convenes this Wednesday, September 18 at 8 a.m. at Georgetown PRC. Pray that the men have wisdom from the Lord and grace from His Spirit to do all things according to His Word and will.

  • Note the addition of a part-time option! The Domestic Mission Committee plans to hire a full-time or part-time website manager for the new PRCA website. The new website is being designed to improve our worldwide evangelism and to improve usability for all PRCA members and churches. Initially the work will be to maintain the current site and assist with the development of the new website. Besides day-to-day maintenance, the web manager’s future role will be to promote and feature a wide range of PRCA materials. Interested candidates should contact Mike Gritters (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.) to learn more about this new position.
  • PRC 100th Anniversary Celebration: All the members of the PRCA, our sister churches, and close contacts are encouraged to come together at Calvin University from June 2-6, 2025 (note the new dates) to participate in this commemorative week. Visit prca100.org for basic event information and to sign up for email updates.

devotions Joseph D Sept 2024
First-year student Joseph Dick led in daily devotions last week.

PRC Seminary Notices:

  • The PR Theological Seminary has now completed three weeks of its 2024-25 school year. We are off to a good start under the Lord's blessing. Remember to pray for faculty, students, and staff as they busy themselves again in the normal semester labors and activities. The first semester's schedule and calendar (2024-25) have been posted on this webpage.
  • This week Joe Ophoff will lead the daily devotions and Rev. W. Bruinsma will lead the Wednesday chapel.
  • Student Club meets this Thursday evening, Sept.19, at Prof. B. Gritters' home. The subject is apologetics based on the book Every Thought Captive by R. Pratt, Jr.
  • Even though the first weeks of classes are over, it's not too late to begin auditing a class. The seminary faculty invite interested persons to audit five classes this semester. Prof. Huizinga’s class of Dogmatics – Christology, a study of the person and work of Christ. Prof. Cammenga’s class of NT History – From the intertestamental period through the life of Christ, up to the passion week. Prof. Kuiper’s class of Hermeneutics – a study of the principles and method of biblical interpretation. Prof. Kuiper’s class of Ancient Church History – a study of the church’s history and doctrinal development from AD 100-590. Prof. Griess’s class of Catechetics is open to past and current elders. Please contact the secretary, Bethany Engelsma, at 616-531-1490 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. if you are interested in attending one of these classes and she can provide you with more information. The class schedule is posted on the PRC Seminary website.
  • The annual Seminary Convocation was held in Byron Center PRC on September 4. A full church of attenders sang and prayed together and heard Prof. C. Griess speak on Colossians 2:8-10, "The Spoiled Pastor." Look for the video of the evening on the Seminary's YouTube channel soon.
  • Sem. Bruce Feenstra has been licensed to to speak a word of edification in the churches. All scheduling of Mr. Feenstra must be done through the seminary, either by sending a request to the seminary secretary (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.) or the rector, Prof. D. Kuiper (doug.kuiperThis email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.).
  • Sem. Aaron Van Dyke is interning this summer and fall in our Wingham, Ontario congregation, under the supervision of Wingham’s Consistory and the mentoring of Rev. Daniel Holstege. The internship runs from July 1 through December 31. Continue to pray for Mr. Van Dyke and his family during his internship. Today he is leading both services while Rev. Holstege is in Michigan yet.
  • 100th Anniversary Seminary Conference: Did you know that ministers in our mother 100th Anniversary Seminary Conference: Did you know that ministers in our mother church in 1924 viewed common grace as the middle way between being liberal and fleeing the world? And that our denomination’s fathers rejected common grace as compromising the antithesis? Come to the next seminary conference to hear a fresh perspective on the doctrine that gave rise to our denomination. The theme is “By Grace I Am What I Am”: The PRCA’s Rejection of Common Grace. Mark your calendars for Thursday, October 31, through Saturday, November 2, at Grace PRC in Standale, MI. Help us praise God for His grace on the occasion of our centennial!
  • The Spring 2024 issue of the PR Theological Journal is currently available. The digital editions (pdf and epub) are posted on the journal page (visit the link here). This latest issue features three main articles, one dealing with the history of common grace at the 1924 Synod in the Christian Reformed Church (which led to the formation of the Protestant Reformed Churches), one involving another translation of H. Bouwman's work on the Reformed Church Order, and another chapter from Prof. D. Kuiper on the history of Classis West in the PRC. Plus, there is a good number of book reviews again, on a variety of subjects. The Fall 2024 issue will feature the speeches to be given at the seminary's fall conference. If you want to be added to our mailing list (either print or digital) or wish to pick up a copy, contact Bethany Engelsma, the seminary secretary (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.). 
  • For the latest seminary news and information, visit the seminary's website - and don't forget the blog!

Ps133 1 2

SISTER-CHURCH/MISSION NEWS:

  • Covenant ERC, Singapore and her Kolkata, India mission work:
    • Pastors J. Tan and M. Wee are faithfully serving the CERC. Both pastors led services today and Pastor Tan had these fitting words in his "pastoral voice": "The source of this [saving] calling is God’s unconditional election. Before the foundations of the world were laid, before the stars were hung in the sky, God chose you in Christ—not because of anything you would do, not for any so-called foreseen faith, but purely out of His good pleasure. ...This is grace that humbles us to the core, for it strips away every pretense, every notion that we could ever earn or deserve God’s favor to call us. It leaves us with nothing but gratitude, for we know that if it were not for God’s sovereign choice, we would be lost. Let this truth sink in: God called us not because of our works but because of the solid rock of God’s eternal decree. ...Are we living as called-out ones? Does our worship reflect the glory of the One who called us? Do our lives mirror the grace that has saved us?"
    • A new issue of Salt Shakers is available - August2024, #73, the third of this year!  Once again you will find a variety of articles on timely subjects in this issue! Written especially for young people and young adults, SS is edifying for all adults!
  • Covenant PRC, N. Ireland:
    • Rev. A. Stewart continues to minister the gospel of sovereign grace faithfully in the CPRC, Ballymena, N. Ireland - and beyond! And in this week's bulletin: "The Annual General Meeting will be held this Wednesday (18 September) at 7:30 p.m."
    • The August 2024 issue of "Covenant Reformed News" is the latest available. Read the articles by Rev. A. Stewart on the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls (Nehemiah) and part two of Rev. R. Hanko's response to a question about "The Civil and Ceremonial Laws" of the Old Testament.
    • The CPRC YouTube channel may be found here.
  • PRC in the Philippines and her mission work in various places:
    • Berean PRC bulletin: Elders Espiritu and Umali led her worship services today. Rev. V. Ibe is scheduled to preach at Provident PRC in both worship services as requested by the Council of Provident. And, "The saints in All of Grace Protestant Reformed Fellowship in Gabaldon Nueva Ecija will join us in our worship services today via live stream at our Facebook account, God willing. We pray for God’s continued care and blessings upon them as they hear the Word of God."
    • Provident PRC bulletin: Rev Ibe led her services today.
    • Mission labors: "Rev. Ibe and elder J. Armas plan to visit with the pastors and saints in Bacolod and Sipalay City this week Monday and Tuesday (Sept.16,17). Pastor Ibe is scheduled to continue the lecture on the Reformed Church Government [Church Order of Dordt 1618-19, Arts. 4-6] and Reformed Dogmatics [Soteriology]. We pray for God’s continued spiritual strength and growth for the churches in these areas as they learn and receive the Reformed truth of God’s sovereign particular grace in Christ Jesus and for His sake only. Soli Deo Gloria!"

REFORMED RESOURCES for EDUCATION, EDIFICATION, and EVANGELISM

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Listen to the Reformed Witness Hour each Sunday - on a radio station near you, on Sermonaudio, or on your favorite podcast - wherever you are!

W Bruinsma RWH

  • This month - September2024 - the RWH continues broadcasting five gospel messages by Rev. W. Bruinsma on the subject of Christ's return and its signs. Today's message is titled "The Emergence of the Anti-Christian Kingdom" based on Revelation 17:9-17.

  • The Reformed Witness Hour publishes each month's messages in an attractive booklet. These printed sermons are a great blessing to many and are distributed all over the world, including to many prisoners in the U.S. If you or your Evangelism Committee would like to receive these, let the RWHC know and they will add you to the mailing list (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.).
September BOOK SALE is available now!

Throughout the month of September, on sale is Battle for Sovereign Grace in the Covenant by David J. Engelsma. Get your copies today for only $10 each!

Order by clicking the picture below or the "Monthly Sales" button on the RFPA website homepage.
  • RBO Aug 2023 2The Reformed Book Outlet (downtown Hudsonville, MI) is now operating out of its new store in downtown Hudsonville (3472 Harvey St.). Visit the store and browse the variety of resources for your Reformed-Christian faith and walk, including many children's titles. They are open Tuesday-Friday, 10-5, and Saturday 10-1. 
  • In need of sound biblical and Reformed catechism materials for children and young people? Check out the PRC's full curriculum of materials here. Call the PRC Seminary for help with any of these materials (616-531-1490).

  • For sound, distinctively Reformed literature on a variety of subjects and for all ages - including church history and Bible study materials - visit the Reformed Free Publishing Association website or stop in at their Jenison (Michigan) location.

This Week's Thought for Contemplation

 WHO IS JESUS? The True Vine

I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman…I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.” John 15: 1, 5

"The vine with its roots planted in the soil is the source of life for the branches and the fruit that is produced. Jesus is the source of all life for his church. He gives strength to the church and causes her to be productive to his glory. Jesus grants to his church all the blessings of salvation.

"As with the physical vine, the branches have nothing if they are cut off from the vine. They have to be connected. How are they connected? There is a farmer, a vine-dresser. John 15:1 refers to the husbandman. It is he that plants the vine. It is he who cares for the vine. He prunes the vine branches, and grafts other branches into the vine. The branches draw their life from the vine.

"Jesus’ Father in heaven gave Jesus to be the life for his people. We depend upon Jesus for our spiritual life, vitality, nutrition and salvation. We depend upon Jesus, just as the branch depends upon the vine for everything. Without Jesus Christ, we are nothing. In Christ we receive grace, forgiveness, righteousness, and eternal life.

"How is Jesus this life providing vine? The answer is first found in the “I am” statement. Jesus is the true vine, the source of life, strength, and salvation to his church because he is God. God is the source of all that we need.

"Secondly, Jesus is this vine because God planted his son, Jesus, here in our world. He came in the likeness of men, our sinful flesh as a lowly vine. He bore our sin and guilt and death. But by his resurrection, he gives life to us, making us living branches.

"Thirdly, there is, in the figure of the vine, wonderful fruit. Jesus stresses this in our passage. Jesus is the One who causes the branches to bear fruit. How disappointing it would be if we walked through a vineyard and there was absolutely no fruit, or only sickly fruit. Six times Jesus mentions bearing fruit or not bearing fruit. Everything depends upon the branches being connected to the vine. Everything depends upon our being connected to Jesus. Jesus is the only power that enables his people to produce fruit. That was why Jesus said in verse 3: “now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you.” Jesus cleanses us and enables us to bring forth good fruit.

"Of ourselves, all that we can produce is sin and evil. The only reason that you and I are able to bear any fruit that is pleasing to God is because we are connected to Jesus. He is the source, our strength, and our life. All our strength to do good is in Jesus."

~ Taken from the series "Who Is Jesus?" (based on the "I ams" of Jesus found in the Gospel according to John) by Rev. A. Spriensma

Read more...

PRC and Sister-Church News Highlights for September 8, 2024 *(Updated)

Deuteronomy 30 19Today, September 8, is the thirty-sixth Lord's Day of this year of our Lord 2024, and another rest stop on our pilgrim journey through this world. "Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest." Matthew 11:28

Below you will find special highlights of PRC and sister-church news. It is our hope that these reports not only inform you but also give you opportunity to pray for the needs of these churches and mission fields throughout the world.

See, I have set before thee this day life and good, and death and evil; In that I command thee this day to love the LORD thy God, to walk in his ways, and to keep his commandments and his statutes and his judgments, that thou mayest live and multiply: and the LORD thy God shall bless thee in the land whither thou goest to possess it. But if thine heart turn away, so that thou wilt not hear, but shalt be drawn away, and worship other gods, and serve them; I denounce unto you this day, that ye shall surely perish, and that ye shall not prolong your days upon the land, whither thou passest over Jordan to go to possess it. I call heaven and earth to record this day against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore choose life, that both thou and thy seed may live: That thou mayest love the LORD thy God, and that thou mayest obey his voice, and that thou mayest cleave unto him: for he is thy life, and the length of thy days: that thou mayest dwell in the land which the LORD sware unto thy fathers, to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob, to give them. ~ Deuteronomy 30:15-20

If you are new to this website and the PRCA, we invite you to join us in worship today or on any of the Sunday's of this year at one of our local congregations near you; or you may listen online through one of the PRC's livestreams.

CONGREGATIONAL NEWS 

  • This evening Rev. D. Noorman preached his farewell at Southwest PRC, and a program for him and his family was held afterward. His installation at Georgetown PRC is set for Sept.22.

  • This evening Hope PRC's Council (Walker, MI) voted to call from her new trio of Rev. N. Decker (Grandville PRC), J. Maatman (Southeast PRC), and J. Smidstra (First PRC-Holland). UPDATE: Rev. Decker has received this call.

  • This evening Zion PRC voted to call from her latest trio of Revs. G. Eriks (Unity PRC), J. Smidstra (First PRC-Holland), and C. Spronk (Faith PRC). UPDATE: Rev. Spronk has received this call.

  • Last Sunday Cand. A. Haveman accepted the call to Loveland PRC. From Loveland's bulletin today we find this information from her Council: "With thanksgiving the Council expresses gratitude to God for the acceptance of the call from Pastor-elect Arend Haveman. The council has made a request to the Classical committee to examine Pastor-elect Haveman at the upcoming Classis which is scheduled for September 25. His specimen sermon will take place, D.V., on Tuesday evening, September 24, at 7:00 p.m. during a special worship service at Hull PRC."

  • Last Sunday Rev. M. DeBoer declined the call from Hudsonville (MI) PRC. 

  • Hope PRC-Redlands' Council has a new trio which to call her next pastor: Revs. A. Brummel (Calvary PRC, Hull, IA), J. Maatman (Southeast PRC, Grand Rapids, MI), and H. Bleyenberg (Immanuel PRC, Lacombe, AB). A congregational meeting is scheduled for Monday, September 23. 

  • Southwest PRC's Council has formed a trio of Revs. M. DeBoer (Edgerton PRC), N. Decker (Grandville PRC), and J. Engelsma (Crete-IL PRC). The special congregational meeting will be held after the morning service on September 22.

Classical appointments and pulpit supply for today in the vacant PRCs: Rev. A. Spriensma and Prof. D. Kuiper in Georgetown PRC;  Prof. D. Kuiper and Prof. B. Huizinga in Hope PRC-Walker; Rev. A. Brummel (2nd week) in Hope PRC-Redlands; Prof. B. Huizinga and Rev. J. Smidstra in Hudsonville PRC; Rev. K. Koole (2nd week) in Loveland PRC; Rev. D. Kleyn (2nd week) in Lynden PRC; Prof. B. Gritters and Rev. A. Spriensma in Zion PRC. May we count it a blessing of our church federation that we can help one another in these needs. Let us remember to pray for the men who supply these pulpits and for the vacant congregations. And may we continue to pray for men to hear the call to serve as pastors and missionaries!

Special Congregational/Evangelism Notices:

  • Unity PRC: This month Rev. G. Eriks will have reached 25 years serving as a minister of the Word in the Protestant Reformed Churches. An open house is scheduled for September 21 at Adams Christian School from 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM. Please join us in celebrating this special occasion with him and his family. We give thanks to God for his years of faithful service in our denomination and especially for the time he has served us as our Pastor at Unity. 'Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honor, especially they who labor in the word and doctrine,' I Timothy 5:17."

PRC DENOMINATIONAL NEWS

  • The Domestic Mission Committee plans to hire a fulltime website manager for the new PRCA website. The new website is being designed to improve our worldwide evangelism and to improve usability for all PRCA members and churches. Initially the work will be to maintain the current site and assist with the development of the new website. Besides day to day maintenance, the web manager’s future role will be to promote and feature a wide range of PRCA materials. Interested candidates should contact Mike Gritters (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.) to learn more about this new position.
  • PRC 100th Anniversary Celebration: All the members of the PRCA, our sister churches, and close contacts are encouraged to come together at Calvin University from June 2-6, 2025 (note the new dates) to participate in this commemorative week. Visit prca100.org for basic event information and to sign up for email updates.

Porf CG Convocation BC PRC Sept 4
Prof. C. Griess speaking at PRC Seminary Convocation this past Wednesday, Sept.4, at Byron Center PRC.

PRC Seminary Notices:

  • The PR Theological Seminary has now completed two weeks of its 2024-25 school year. We are off to a good start under the Lord's blessing. Remember to pray for faculty, students, and staff as they busy themselves again in the normal semester labors and activities. The first semester's schedule and calendar (2024-25) have been posted on this webpage.
  • This week Prof. D. Kuiper will lead the Wednesday chapel again while Joseph Dick will lead the daily devotions. The Theological School Committee will meet on Thursday afternoon of this week.
  • Even though the first week of classes is over, it's not too late to begin auditing a class. The seminary faculty invite interested persons to audit five classes this semester. Prof. Huizinga’s class of Dogmatics – Christology, a study of the person and work of Christ. Prof. Cammenga’s class of NT History – From the intertestamental period through the life of Christ, up to the passion week. Prof. Kuiper’s class of Hermeneutics – a study of the principles and method of biblical interpretation. Prof. Kuiper’s class of Ancient Church History – a study of the church’s history and doctrinal development from AD 100-590. Prof. Griess’s class of Catechetics is open to past and current elders. Please contact the secretary, Bethany Engelsma, at 616-531-1490 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. if you are interested in attending one of these classes and she can provide you with more information. The class schedule is posted on the PRC Seminary website.
  • The annual Seminary Convocation was held in Byron Center PRC this past Wednesday, September 4. A full church of attenders sang and prayed together and heard Prof. C. Griess speak on Colossians 2:8-10, "The Spoiled Pastor." Look for the video of the evening on the Seminary's YouTube channel soon.
  • Sem. Bruce Feenstra has been licensed to to speak a word of edification in the churches. All scheduling of Mr. Feenstra must be done through the seminary, either by sending a request to the seminary secretary (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.) or the rector, Prof. D. Kuiper (doug.kuiperThis email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.).
  • Sem. Aaron Van Dyke is interning this summer and fall in our Wingham, Ontario congregation, under the supervision of Wingham’s Consistory and the mentoring of Rev. Daniel Holstege. The internship runs from July 1 through December 31. Continue to pray for Mr. Van Dyke and his family during his internship. Today he is leading both services while Rev. Holstege is in Michigan yet.
  • 100th Anniversary Seminary Conference: Did you know that ministers in our mother 100th Anniversary Seminary Conference: Did you know that ministers in our mother church in 1924 viewed common grace as the middle way between being liberal and fleeing the world? And that our denomination’s fathers rejected common grace as compromising the antithesis? Come to the next seminary conference to hear a fresh perspective on the doctrine that gave rise to our denomination. The theme is “By Grace I Am What I Am”: The PRCA’s Rejection of Common Grace. Mark your calendars for Thursday, October 31, through Saturday, November 2, at Grace PRC in Standale, MI. Help us praise God for His grace on the occasion of our centennial!
  • The Spring 2024 issue of the PR Theological Journal is currently available. The digital editions (pdf and epub) are posted on the journal page (visit the link here). This latest issue features three main articles, one dealing with the history of common grace at the 1924 Synod in the Christian Reformed Church (which led to the formation of the Protestant Reformed Churches), one involving another translation of H. Bouwman's work on the Reformed Church Order, and another chapter from Prof. D. Kuiper on the history of Classis West in the PRC. Plus, there is a good number of book reviews again, on a variety of subjects. If you want to be added to our mailing list (either print or digital) or wish to pick up a copy, contact Bethany Engelsma, the seminary secretary (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.). 
  • For the latest seminary news and information, visit the seminary's website - and don't forget the blog!

CPRC News Header

SISTER-CHURCH/MISSION NEWS:

  • Covenant ERC, Singapore and her Kolkata, India mission work:
    • Pastors J. Tan and M. Wee are faithfully serving the CERC. Both pastors led services today as the CERC celebrated her 37th anniversary as a Reformed church. "Today as we celebrate our church anniversary, we remember God’s faithfulness towards us all these 37 years. It is a faithfulness not because we deserved or earn it. Just like to Judah, God’s faithfulness to us is in spite of our unfaithfulness and gross spiritual failings. In His grace He has preserved us. In His grace he has lead us thus far. So let us this day of our church anniversary marvel at the steadfast covenant love of our God. Let us fill His church with songs of praise and thanksgiving. For He preserves us for His name’s sake."
    • A new issue of Salt Shakers is available - August2024, #73, the third of this year!  Once again you will find a variety of articles on timely subjects in this issue! Written especially for young people and young adults, SS is edifying for all adults!
  • Covenant PRC, N. Ireland:
    • Rev. A. Stewart continues to bring the Word of truth faithfully in the CPRC, Ballymena, N. Ireland - and beyond! 
    • The August 2024 issue of "Covenant Reformed News" is the latest available. Read the articles by Rev. A. Stewart on the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls (Nehemiah) and part two of Rev. R. Hanko's response to a question about "The Civil and Ceremonial Laws" of the Old Testament.
    • The CPRC YouTube channel may be found here.
  • PRC in the Philippines and her mission work in various places:
    • Berean PRC bulletin: Rev. V. Ibe led her worship services today. 
    • Provident PRC bulletin: Deacon Ruel dela Fuente led both worship services today using PRCA’s recorded video sermons.

REFORMED RESOURCES for EDUCATION, EDIFICATION, and EVANGELISM

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Listen to the Reformed Witness Hour each Sunday - on a radio station near you, on Sermonaudio, or on your favorite podcast - wherever you are!

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  • This month - September2024 - the RWH continues broadcasting five gospel messages by Rev. W. Bruinsma on the subject of Christ's return and its signs. Today's message is titled "The Rise of Counterfeit Christianity" based on Mark 13:21-23.

  • The Reformed Witness Hour publishes each month's messages in an attractive booklet. These printed sermons are a great blessing to many and are distributed all over the world, including to many prisoners in the U.S. If you or your Evangelism Committee would like to receive these, let the RWHC know and they will add you to the mailing list (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.).
September BOOK SALE is available now!

Throughout the month of September, on sale is Battle for Sovereign Grace in the Covenant by David J. Engelsma. Get your copies today for only $10 each!

Order by clicking the picture below or the "Monthly Sales" button on the RFPA website homepage.
  • RBO Aug 2023 2The Reformed Book Outlet (downtown Hudsonville, MI) is now operating out of its new store in downtown Hudsonville (3472 Harvey St.). Visit the store and browse the variety of resources for your Reformed-Christian faith and walk, including many children's titles. They are open Tuesday-Friday, 10-5, and Saturday 10-1. 
  • In need of sound biblical and Reformed catechism materials for children and young people? Check out the PRC's full curriculum of materials here. Call the PRC Seminary for help with any of these materials (616-531-1490).

  • For sound, distinctively Reformed literature on a variety of subjects and for all ages - including church history and Bible study materials - visit the Reformed Free Publishing Association website or stop in at their Jenison (Michigan) location.

This Week's Thought for Contemplation

 WHO IS JESUS? The Way, the Truth, and the Life

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

"Jesus is drawing a picture. A “way” is literally a ‘road’, a travelled path. The Bible tells us that there are two paths: a broad way that leads to destruction and hell, and a narrow way that leads to life (Matt. 7:13, 14). The broad way is the way of delusion, sin, and error. Many are travelling on that broad way. We read in Prov. 14:12 of the way that seemeth right unto a man, but the end therof are the ways of death. Rom.3:13, “They are all gone out of the way.”

Over against that broad way is the narrow path. When Jesus says that he is the way, he means that he is the blessed way to his Father and the Father’s house of many mansions. A house speaks of closeness, friendship, and fellowship. Children living with father and mother experience their love, care, and protection. Jesus declares that he is the way to this Father and to this heavenly home.

The sinner cannot come to God, but God in the person of Jesus, has come to sinners. Jesus is not merely the guide to show people the path that they ought to walk. He is himself the way to the Father.

Notice, Jesus is the way. That means he is the only way. It is not by human philosophies; it is not by works that we perform; neither is it by other teachers or leaders. Jesus is the way because he is the Savior. The road to heaven is shut and barred for us human beings because of our sin. We turned our backs and walked away from God. The road was closed; the path was shut.

But God provided the way for us to come back to him and his house above. That way is his Son, Jesus. Jesus came down to our sinful existence and suffered and died to save us, and give us life. This was the path that Jesus was on when he spoke to his disciples of the necessity of his coming death and leaving them."

~ Taken from the series "Who Is Jesus?" (based on the "I ams" of Jesus found in the Gospel according to John) by Rev. A. Spriensma

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Covenant Reformed News - August 2024

Covenant Reformed News
August 2024 • Volume XX, Issue 4


 

Let Us Rebuild Jerusalem’s Walls!

What did Nehemiah do after his earnest prayers, careful preparations and confidential investigations (Neh. 1:1-2:16)? He called God’s people to a public meeting.

At that assembly, Nehemiah first outlined the problem. In material terms, Jerusalem’s walls were mostly rubble and its gates were charred wood, as he had witnessed personally on his secret night ride around the city’s perimeter. In more emotional terms, Nehemiah reminded the people that they were ridiculed by their enemies.

But did the people themselves not know this? Of course they did! And Governor Nehemiah knew that they knew it: “Ye see the distress that we are in, how Jerusalem lieth waste, and the gates thereof are burned with fire” (17). The leader clearly states the pressing issue so that all are agreed that this is the problem.

Second, Nehemiah presented the obvious solution. We must rebuild the walls and the gates. Then we will no longer be taunted and mocked, as if our God were unable to defend and care for His people. How did David put it? “Is there not a cause?” (I Sam. 17:29). The cause may be fighting Goliath or building up a local church or training our children in God’s glorious truth or battling against incessant discouragement or a larger scale project, such as establishing a Reformed day school.

Third, after stating the problem and its solution, Nehemiah exhorts, “come, and let us build up the wall of Jerusalem, that we be no more a reproach” (Neh. 2:17).

Fourth, this raises the issue of identification. Nehemiah did not say, “You have a problem and I will give orders to you and you must work to effect the solution.” Instead, Nehemiah identified himself with the problem and its solution, and included himself in his exhortation. Look out for “we” and “us” in the governor’s address: “Ye see the distress that we are in, how Jerusalem lieth waste, and the gates thereof are burned with fire: come, and let us build up the wall of Jerusalem, that we be no more a reproach” (17). Nehemiah spoke of “we” and “us,” because he was a living and godly member in Israel, and he had gotten to know God’s people in Jerusalem.

Fifth, Nehemiah reinforced his exhortation by presenting his double authorization. In the first instance, Jehovah had called and led him: “Then I told them of the hand of my God which was good upon me” (18). At this point, Nehemiah may have informed them of his persevering prayer in his closet (1:4-11) and his ejaculatory prayer in the palace (2:4). “I was Artaxerxes’ cupbearer and am now governor of Judah and I will rebuild Jerusalem’s walls, by our Lord’s good providence.”

In the second instance, Nehemiah appeals to his authority from Medo-Persian Emperor Artaxerxes: “Then I told them [1] of the hand of my God which was good upon me; [2] as also the king’s words that he had spoken unto me” (18). The governor informed them that Artaxerxes had granted him imperial authority to rebuild Jerusalem’s walls (5-6) and to requisition the necessary timber from the emperor’s forests (8). There are situations, even in our day, when the Lord’s work requires civil authorization, for example, permits to erect church buildings. Rev. Stewart

 

The Civil and Ceremonial Laws (2)

We continue our answer to the question: “Is it true that the Lord Jesus teaches in Matthew 5:17-19 that all the law of Moses, including the ceremonial and civil laws, are binding and must be ‘fulfilled’ by believers in the New Testament age?” Having spoken of the ceremonial laws last month, we focus on the civil laws in this article.

The civil laws of the Old Testament are those that had to do with Israel’s every-day life: food and cooking, bodily adornment and appearance, sanitation and health, work and possessions, government and taxes, crime and its punishment, marriage and family. There is not an absolute difference between these and the ceremonial laws, but it is these laws that are haled by Christian Reconstructionists and Theonomists as still in force and necessary for the establishment of their future post-millennial golden age.

These movements teach that, unless such laws are explicitly abrogated in the New Testament, they are still obligatory in the New Testament. Some of them even argue against particular passages of the New Testament that do abrogate various Old Testament laws. Peter’s vision of the unclean animals let down in a sheet from heaven, and the command given him to rise and eat, they say, does not do away with the Old Testament food laws, but was only a command to preach the gospel to the Gentiles. Certainly God used a change in those Old Testament food laws to teach Peter and the church about preaching to the Gentiles. Yet God’s word to Peter did concern those formerly unclean animals. Peter was commanded to eat what he formerly was not allowed to eat: “And there came a voice to him, Rise, Peter; kill, and eat. But Peter said, Not so, Lord; for I have never eaten any thing that is common or unclean” (Acts 10:13-14; cf. 11:7-8).

One finds these Theonomists and Reconstructionists scrambling to explain how some of those civil laws apply in the New Testament. The law of Deuteronomy 22:8 required the Israelites to build a “battlement” or parapet around a flat roof that was used as living space. In societies where such roofs do not exist, this is applied to swimming pools and the necessity of a fence around them.

We use this example deliberately. The wisdom of the rule regarding flat roofs, and the wisdom of having a fence around a swimming pool that is accessible to children is unquestionable, so much so that some municipalities require a fenced pool. Such is, we believe, what the Westminster Confession of Faith calls the “general equity” of the Old Testament civil laws (19:4). This refers to legislative principles that are not arbitrary, but just and right. Nevertheless, a man does not break God’s law if he does not have a fence around his swimming pool. He may have to suffer the consequences of that decision but he does not sin simply by having an unfenced pool.

Along these same lines, there was a great deal of wisdom in the food laws which God gave Israel but there is no obligation in the New Testament to follow them. One may eat pork (and eat it much more safely) in the New Testament. Nevertheless, God’s word to Peter stands. One may even have his sons circumcised, though never as something necessary for salvation (Acts 16:1-3; Gal. 5:1-3). What is more, the application of these laws to modern society by way of establishing a Christian society comes very close to a denial of salvation by grace and by faith alone. Fenced swimming pools and a pigless diet do not make a Christian society. God’s sovereign grace alone makes a Christian society and that society is already in existence. Scripture calls it the church: “But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light” (I Pet. 2:9). That “society” exists within a society that is always and inimically opposed to the kingdom of God, and which cannot be transformed by the mere application of Old Testament civil law.

The Westminster Confession of Faith is correct when it says that these laws “expired together with the state of that people,” that is, with the expiration of Israel as God’s chosen nation came also an expiration of these laws. There is more that must be said, however, since all this raises the question of how God-given laws can be changed or abrogated.

Here the statement of the Belgic Confession 25 is important: “We believe that the ceremonies and figures of the law ceased at the coming of Christ, and that all the shadows are accomplished; so that the use of them must be abolished amongst Christians; yet the truth and substance of them remain with us in Jesus Christ, in whom they have their completion.”

This Reformed creed reminds us that there is, and always was, a difference between the precepts of God’s moral law on the one hand and the civil and ceremonial laws on the other. The moral law forbids things that are inherently sinful. Idol worship is always wicked because it is a denial of the great truth that there is no God beside Jehovah. The civil and ceremonial laws, however, were an application of the moral law to Israel’s life in the Old Testament. They command and forbid things that were not in themselves sinful or matters of life and death. There is nothing inherently wrong about eating pork, except that in the Old Testament it was forbidden by God. The example has been used of a fish in its watery environment. God’s law for a fish is that it stay in the water. It is a matter of life and death to the fish to “obey” that law. If I try to make the fish truly free by bringing it up onto dry land, the fish dies. So it is with the precepts of the moral law. They are life and death to me. Outside of them are bondage and death; within are liberty and life.

The addition of the civil and ceremonial laws to God’s people in Moses’ day was something like taking that fish out of the lake in which it lived and putting it in an aquarium. Then it is under another law which is much more restrictive, but it is not a matter of life and death, nor something which cannot be changed in the future.

The civil and ceremonial laws, different from the precepts of the moral law, were tools by which God taught Israel the fundamental and unchangeable principles of the moral law, just as a father might use a rule about not riding one’s bicycle on the Lord’s day to teach his children that the Lord’s day is different. There is, of course, nothing wrong in itself about riding a bicycle on the Lord’s day. Indeed, if that is the only way to get to church, it ought to be done, but the rule may nevertheless be useful until such a time as a child learns that the day belongs to the Lord in a special way, at which time the rule should expire.

That the civil and ceremonial laws were used to teach Israel is clear from passages like Leviticus 10:9-11 and 11:45-47, where various civil and ceremonial laws are described as teaching the difference between holy and unholy. They do not stand on the same level as the moral law.

We use the example of parental rules deliberately. In Galatians 4:1-7, the apostle Paul reminds us that the church of the Old Testament (Acts 7:38) was in its childhood and was, therefore, under a kind of bondage to parental rules that were used by God in the same way we make our rules, not all of them matters of sin and righteousness, to teach our children. Through the coming of Christ and His Spirit, Galatians tells us that the church entered its adulthood and now enjoys “the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free” (Gal. 5:1), liberty from the “bondage” of those Old Testament rules but also the liberty of spiritual maturity, a maturity which has learned the grace of God in Christ and obeys not just for the command’s sake, but out of love and no longer needing the endless rules of childhood.

That principle is applied to us in Galatians 5:1. We must stand fast in the liberty wherewith Christ has made us free and not be entangled again in a yoke of bondage, that is, in bondage to all those Old Testament civil and ceremonial laws. But we must also not confuse liberty with licence (13), as though our freedom in Christ means that we may live as we please without regard for God’s moral law. Freedom is always within the bounds of the moral law, as the example of a fish, used above, reminds us. All this discussion is useless unless we, as New Testament Christians, practise fervently our liberty in Christ, serving God faithfully out of love and gratitude for what the Lord Jesus has done in saving us.

There is one more thing I wish to address: the statement of Belgic Confession 25 that “the truth and substance” of the civil and ceremonial laws remain with us in Jesus Christ. The Confession applies this by saying: “we still use the testimonies taken out of the law and the prophets, to confirm us in the doctrine of the gospel, and to regulate our life in all honesty to the glory of God, according to his will.” This needs explanation in the next issue of the News, DV. Rev. Ron Hanko

Covenant Protestant Reformed Church
83 Clarence Street, Ballymena, BT43 5DR • Lord’s Day services at 11 am & 6 pm
Website: https://cprc.co.uk/ • Live broadcast: cprc.co.uk/live-streaming/
Pastor: Angus Stewart, 7 Lislunnan Road, Kells, N. Ireland, BT42 3NR • (028) 25 891851  
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. • www.youtube.com/cprcni • www.facebook.com/CovenantPRC
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Reformed Witness Hour - September 2024 Messages

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September 2024

 

In September we will continue Rev. W. Bruinsma’s series on The End Times. Please help us share these messages!

W Bruinsma RWH

 

September 1

The Gospel Preached to All Nations

Matthew 24:14

 

September 8

The Rise of Counterfeit Christianity

Mark 13:21-23

September 15

The Emergence of the Antichristian Kingdom

Revelation 17:9-17

 

September 22

The Man of Sin Revealed

2 Thessalonians 2:3,4

 

September 29

Peace Shall Destroy Many

Daniel 8:23-25

 

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PRC and Sister-Church News Highlights for September 1, 2024

Exodus 34 14Today, September 1, is the thirty-fifth Lord's Day of this year of our Lord 2024, and another rest stop on our pilgrim journey through this world. "Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest." Matthew 11:28

Below you will find special highlights of PRC and sister-church news. It is our hope that these reports not only inform you but also give you opportunity to pray for the needs of these churches and mission fields throughout the world.

And he said, Behold, I make a covenant: before all thy people I will do marvels, such as have not been done in all the earth, nor in any nation: and all the people among which thou art shall see the work of the LORD: for it is a terrible thing that I will do with thee. ...Take heed to thyself, lest thou make a covenant with the inhabitants of the land whither thou goest, lest it be for a snare in the midst of thee: But ye shall destroy their altars, break their images, and cut down their groves: For thou shalt worship no other god: for the LORD, whose name is Jealous, is a jealous God: ~ Exodus 34:10, 12-14

If you are new to this website and the PRCA, we invite you to join us in worship today or on any of the Sunday's of this year at one of our local congregations near you; or you may listen online through one of the PRC's livestreams.

CONGREGATIONAL NEWS 

  • Today Cand. A. Haveman accepted the call to Loveland PRC. We praise and thank the Lord for this confrmation of his call to the ministry and pray for him as he will prepare for the next steps, including his examination at Classis West later this month and then ordination into the ministry and installation as Loveland's pastor, all, the Lord willing.

  • Today Rev. M. DeBoer declined the call from Hudsonville (MI) PRC. 

  • Last Sunday Rev. G. Eriks (Unity PRC) declined the call to Hope PRC-Redlands, CA. 

  • On August 18 Rev. D. Noorman (Southwest PRC-Wyoming, MI) accepted the call from Georgetown (MI) PRC. His farewell at Southwest PRC will be Sept.8, and his installation at Georgetown PRC is set for Sept.22. May the Lord provide for Rev. Noorman and his family as well as for both congregations during this time of transition.

  • Hope PRC's Council (Walker, MI) announces a new trio of Revs. N. Decker (Grandville PRC), J. Maatman (Southeast PRC), and J. Smidstra (First PRC-Holland). The congregational meeting to vote from this trio will be held on Sept.8, D.V.

  • Zion PRC's Council has a new trio from which to call a pastor: Revs. G. Eriks (Unity PRC), J. Smidstra (First PRC-Holland), and C. Spronk (Faith PRC). The congregation will call on September 8.

Classical appointments and pulpit supply for today in the vacant PRCs: Prof. C. Griess and Rev. G. Eriks in Georgetown PRC;  Prof. R. Cammenga and Rev. C. Haak in Hope PRC-Walker; Rev. A. Brummel (1st week) in Hope PRC-Redlands; Prof. B. Huizinga and Rev. M. McGeown in Hudsonville PRC; Rev. K. Koole (1st week) in Loveland PRC; Rev. D. Kleyn (1st week) in Lynden PRC; Prof. B. Gritters and Rev. C. Spronk in Zion PRC. May we count it a blessing of our church federation that we can help one another in these needs. Let us remember to pray for the men who supply these pulpits and for the vacant congregations. And may we continue to pray for men to hear the call to serve as pastors and missionaries!

Special Congregational/Evangelism Notices:

  • Byron Center (MI) PRC: "The Community Bible Study meets this Thursday, September 5, at 7:30 p.m. at church to continue our study of the book of Philippians. Discussion will begin at chapter 3 verse 16. You are welcome to bring friends and neighbors to join us in this study!"
  • Hope PRC-Redlands, CA: "Evangelism Lecture: The evangelism committee is excited to host a lecture this week Friday [Sept.6] at 7 p.m. Rev. A. Brummel will speak on “The Importance of Church Membership" followed by refreshments and fellowship."

PRC DENOMINATIONAL NEWS

  • PRC Seminary Convocation will be held this Wednesday evening, September 4, at 7 p.m. at Byron Center PRC (MI). Prof. C. Griess will be speaking on Colossians 2:8-10 under the theme, "The Spoiled Pastor." We encourage you to attend, joining with faculty, students, and the Theological School Committee, to seek the Lord's blessings on the upcoming school year. Those who are unable to attend are encouraged to tune in to the livestream.

  • The Domestic Mission Committee plans to hire a fulltime website manager for the new PRCA website. The new website is being designed to improve our worldwide evangelism and to improve usability for all PRCA members and churches. Initially the work will be to maintain the current site and assist with the development of the new website. Besides day to day maintenance, the web manager’s future role will be to promote and feature a wide range of PRCA materials. Interested candidates should contact Mike Gritters (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.) to learn more about this new position.
  • PRC 100th Anniversary Celebration: All the members of the PRCA, our sister churches, and close contacts are encouraged to come together at Calvin University from June 2-6, 2025 (note the new dates) to participate in this commemorative week. Visit prca100.org for basic event information and to sign up for email updates.

Prof Kuiper chapel Aug 2024
Prof. D. Kuiper leading the first chapel of the new PRC Seminary school year this past Wednesday.

PRC Seminary Notices:

  • The PR Theological Seminary began its 2024-25 school year this past week. We had a good first week under the Lord's blessing. Remember to pray for faculty, students, and staff as they busy themselves again in the normal semester labors and activities. The first semester's schedule and calendar (2024-25) have been posted on this webpage.
  • Even though the first week of classes is over, it's not too late to begin auditing a class. The seminary faculty invite interested persons to audit five classes this semester. Prof. Huizinga’s class of Dogmatics – Christology, a study of the person and work of Christ. Prof. Cammenga’s class of NT History – From the intertestamental period through the life of Christ, up to the passion week. Prof. Kuiper’s class of Hermeneutics – a study of the principles and method of biblical interpretation. Prof. Kuiper’s class of Ancient Church History – a study of the church’s history and doctrinal development from AD 100-590. Prof. Griess’s class of Catechetics is open to past and current elders. Please contact the secretary, Bethany Engelsma, at 616-531-1490 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. if you are interested in attending one of these classes and she can provide you with more information. The class schedule is posted on the PRC Seminary website.
  • The annual Seminary Convocation will be hosted by Byron Center PRC this Wednesday, September 4, at 7:00 p.m. Professor C. Griess will be speaking on Colossians 2:8-10, "The Spoiled Pastor." We encourage you to attend, joining with faculty, students, and the Theological School Committee, to seek the Lord's blessings on the upcoming school year. Those who are unable to attend are encouraged to tune in to the livestream.
  • Two students were granted permission by the 2024 PRC Synod to enter the seminary this Fall: Joe Ophoff (Byron Center PRC, previously enrolled in the new Special Student Entrance Program) and Joseph Dick (Sovereign Grace URC), who also took his pre-seminary Greek at PRTS. Continuing students are Aaron van Dyke (senior), Bruce Feenstra (junior), and Isaac Van Baren (sophomore).
  • Sem. Bruce Feenstra has been licensed to to speak a word of edification in the churches. All scheduling of Mr. Feenstra must be done through the seminary, either by sending a request to the seminary secretary (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.) or the rector, Prof. D. Kuiper (doug.kuiperThis email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.).
  • Sem. Aaron Van Dyke is interning this summer and fall in our Wingham, Ontario congregation, under the supervision of Wingham’s Consistory and the mentoring of Rev. Daniel Holstege. The internship runs from July 1 through December 31. Continue to pray for Mr. Van Dyke and his family during his internship. Today he is leading both services while Rev. Holstege is in Michigan yet.
  • The Spring 2024 issue of the PR Theological Journal is currently available. The digital editions (pdf and epub) are posted on the journal page (visit the link here). This latest issue features three main articles, one dealing with the history of common grace at the 1924 Synod in the Christian Reformed Church (which led to the formation of the Protestant Reformed Churches), one involving another translation of H. Bouwman's work on the Reformed Church Order, and another chapter from Prof. D. Kuiper on the history of Classis West in the PRC. Plus, there is a good number of book reviews again, on a variety of subjects. If you want to be added to our mailing list (either print or digital) or wish to pick up a copy, contact Bethany Engelsma, the seminary secretary (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.). 
  • 100th Anniversary Seminary Conference: Did you know that ministers in our mother 100th Anniversary Seminary Conference: Did you know that ministers in our mother church in 1924 viewed common grace as the middle way between being liberal and fleeing the world? And that our denomination’s fathers rejected common grace as compromising the antithesis? Come to the next seminary conference to hear a fresh perspective on the doctrine that gave rise to our denomination. The theme is “By Grace I Am What I Am”: The PRCA’s Rejection of Common Grace. Mark your calendars for Thursday, October 31, through Saturday, November 2, at Grace PRC in Standale, MI. Help us praise God for His grace on the occasion of our centennial!
  • For the latest seminary news and information, visit the seminary's website - and don't forget the blog!

great commission map 3

SISTER-CHURCH/MISSION NEWS:

  • Covenant ERC, Singapore and her Kolkata, India mission work:
    • Pastors J. Tan and M. Wee are faithfully serving the CERC. Pastor Tan led both services today while Pastor Wee was in the Philippines: "This week, Pastor Wee will assist with pulpit supply at Provident PRC in the Philippines. Let us keep him in our prayers, along with his wife and family who remain in Singapore. Last week, I had the privilege of helping with pulpit supply in the Philippines. It is always such a joy to visit fellow brothers and sisters in Christ from another land. It helped me keep perspective: our Lord Jesus Christ is not only merciful and gracious to us but also to the saints around the world. He is the universal King of Kings."
    • A new issue of Salt Shakers is available - August2024, #73, the third of this year!  Once again you will find a variety of articles on timely subjects in this issue! Written especially for young people and young adults, SS is edifying for all adults!
  • Covenant PRC, N. Ireland:
    • Rev. A. Stewart continues to bring the Word of truth faithfully in the CPRC, Ballymena, N. Ireland - and beyond! 
    • The July 2024 issue of "Covenant Reformed News" is the latest available (the August issue has just been published; look for that soon on this website and on hers). Read the articles by Rev. A. Stewart on "Nehemiah's Secret Night Ride" and Rev. R. Hanko's response to a question about "The Civil and Ceremonial Laws" of the Old Testament.
    • The CPRC YouTube channel may be found here.
  • PRC in the Philippines and her mission work in various places:
    • Berean PRC bulletin: Elders Espiritu and Umali led her worship services today.  And, "Our pastor and family are scheduled to visit the saints in All of Grace Protestant Reformed Fellowship in Gabaldon Nueva Ecija on Saturday [August 31] and Ptr. Ibe will lead them in their worship service on Sunday at 9 AM and Bible study at 10:45 AM. We pray for God’s continued care and blessings upon them as they hear the Word of God."
    • PRCP Classis met this past Monday (August 26, 2024) at Provident PRC church building.. Pastor M. Wee from CERC-Singapore was also able to attend.
    • Provident PRC bulletin: "A warm welcome to Rev. Marcus Wee who arrived safely from Singapore yesterday, August 31, 2024. Our congregation praises the LORD and is grateful for having him for the second time in the Philippines and that Rev. Wee responded to our request for pulpit supply from CERC through the contact committee of the PRCA. Pastor Marcus Wee will preach in both of our worship services today, the Lord willing."

REFORMED RESOURCES for EDUCATION, EDIFICATION, and EVANGELISM

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Listen to the Reformed Witness Hour each Sunday - on a radio station near you, on Sermonaudio, or on your favorite podcast - wherever you are!

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  • This month - September2024 - the RWH continues broadcasting five gospel messages by Rev. W. Bruinsma on the subject of Christ's return and its signs. Today's message is titled "The Gospel Preached to All Nations" based on Matthew 24:14.

  • The Reformed Witness Hour publishes each month's messages in an attractive booklet. These printed sermons are a great blessing to many and are distributed all over the world, including to many prisoners in the U.S. If you or your Evangelism Committee would like to receive these, let the RWHC know and they will add you to the mailing list (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.).

Union Christ 2024 BRF

New from the Covenant PRC Bookstore, the PRC Seminary bookstore, or your local PRC! "Union with our Lord Jesus Christ, the subject of this book, is a profound and beautiful biblical truth that exalts the Triune God and comforts believers. This book consists of the speeches and sermons at the 16th British Reformed Fellowship (BRF) Family Conference held in Castlewellan Castle, County Down, Northern Ireland on “Union With Christ” (9-16 July, 2022). Though all the addresses have been reworked somewhat for publication in written form, one of them has been extensively developed: “Christ Is Made Ours:” Calvin’s Doctrine of Union."

  • RBO Aug 2023 2The Reformed Book Outlet (downtown Hudsonville, MI) is now operating out of its new store in downtown Hudsonville (3472 Harvey St.). Visit the store and browse the variety of resources for your Reformed-Christian faith and walk, including many children's titles. They are open Tuesday-Friday, 10-5, and Saturday 10-1. 
  • In need of sound biblical and Reformed catechism materials for children and young people? Check out the PRC's full curriculum of materials here. Call the PRC Seminary for help with any of these materials (616-531-1490).

  • For sound, distinctively Reformed literature on a variety of subjects and for all ages - including church history and Bible study materials - visit the Reformed Free Publishing Association website or stop in at their Jenison (Michigan) location.

This Week's Thought for Contemplation

 WHO IS JESUS? The Resurrection and the Life

Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live: And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this?” John 11: 25,26

"Jesus himself is the power over death. He has conquered and defeated this killing force. Jesus is the power to raise the dead out of the grave, to bring life out of death. Jesus is the power to form new bodies that are adapted for heaven. Jesus gives that life that can never perish. What a power of victory, joy, peace, and comfort. He is the resurrection.

Jesus not merely possesses the power of the resurrection and the power of life. He is the resurrection and the life. He does not merely say that he will be that in the future when he comes again. He is that right now, in himself. “I am…” Jesus is the resurrection because he is the life.

What is the connection between these two titles for Jesus? Jesus has the power to raise folks from the dead because he is the Life. His life is the cause of his being the resurrection. That Jesus is the Life does not merely mean that he has life or possesses life. He is the living One. He is the source of all life. This can only be because he is God! We have in our text another of Jesus’ “I am…” statements. Jesus is the eternal and natural Son of God.

When Jesus says that he is the life, he does not mean merely physical or biological life. It is not mere earthly existence. Jesus is spiritual life. That life is fellowship and friendship with God. Jesus, with this statement also means that he is the life to sinners who are in the grip of death (separation from God). Jesus is the life to dying people. He is the saving life. He is that life because he delivers sinners from the penalty and power of death and gives them life! Jesus is this life to us because he is the Savior. He came into this world of death. He took the penalty of our sins, suffered it, and conquered it. On the cross, he said, “It is finished.” Debts paid in full.

Because Jesus has this life in himself, he is also the resurrection. He has power to bring life out of death. This was true of his own death for us. He died on the cross, and on the third day he arose from the dead. After his resurrection, Jesus was seen in his body by over 500 of his saints. He is now in heaven in that resurrection body.

Jesus is the resurrection to and for his people, those who believe in him. He raises our dead souls to new life. This is called regeneration. Some are given this new spiritual life while yet in their mother’s womb. Others receive this gift of new life later (like the thief on the cross). This is called the new birth, being born again, or, being born from above. From being dead in trespasses and sins, we are made alive.

What Jesus does for our souls, he will also do for our bodies when he comes again. Martha had it right. “I know that he shall rise again in the resurrection at the last day.” When you and I stand by the sickbed of a loved one or bury them in the grave, Jesus is the Resurrection and the Life to those who believe in him. The body that is placed in the grave is called a “sleep”, because when Jesus comes again, our loved one will be awakened. As Jesus called, “Lazarus, come forth”, so also Jesus will cause all those who are his to come forth from the grave in a new body fit for heavenly life. We are called to comfort one another with these words (I Thess. 4:18)."

~ Taken from the series "Who Is Jesus?" (based on the "I ams" of Jesus found in the Gospel according to John) by Rev. A. Spriensma

Read more...

PRC and Sister-Church News Highlights for August 25, 2024

Psalms 150 1Today, August 25, is the thirty-fourth Lord's Day of this year of our Lord 2024, and another rest stop on our pilgrim journey through this world. "Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest." Matthew 11:28

Below you will find special highlights of PRC and sister-church news. It is our hope that these reports not only inform you but also give you opportunity to pray for the needs of these churches and mission fields throughout the world.

Praise God in his sanctuary: praise him in the firmament of his power. Praise him for his mighty acts: praise him according to his excellent greatness. Praise him with the sound of the trumpet: praise him with the psaltery and harp. Praise him with the timbrel and dance: praise him with stringed instruments and organs. Praise him upon the loud cymbals: praise him upon the high sounding cymbals. Let every thing that hath breath praise the LORD. Praise ye the LORD. ~ Psalm 150

If you are new to this website and the PRCA, we invite you to join us in worship today or on any of the Sunday's of this year at one of our local congregations near you; or you may listen online through one of the PRC's livestreams.

CONGREGATIONAL NEWS 

  • Today Rev. G. Eriks (Unity PRC) declined the call to Hope PRC-Redlands, CA. 

  • Last Sunday Rev. D. Noorman (Southwest PRC-Wyoming, MI) accepted the call from Georgetown (MI) PRC. According to Southwest's bulletin, his farewell there will be Sept.8. And according to Georgetown's bulletin today, he plans to be installed there on Sept.22. May the Lord provide for Rev Noorman and his family as well as for both congregations during this time of transition.

  • Rev. M. DeBoer is considering the call from Hudsonville (MI) PRC. He now plans to answer by Sept.1.

  • Cand. A. Haveman is considering the call to Loveland PRC (received July 21). He plans to answer this call by Sept.1.

  • Hope PRC's Council (Walker, MI) announces a new trio of Revs. N. Decker (Grandville PRC), J. Maatman (Southeast PRC), and J. Smidstra (First PRC-Holland). The congregational meeting to vote from this trio will be held on Sept.8, D.V.

Classical appointments and pulpit supply for today in the vacant PRCs: Prof. C. Griess and Rev. C. Haak in Georgetown PRC;  Prof. D. Kuiper and Rev. N. Decker in Hope PRC-Walker; Prof. B. Gritters (2nd week) in Hope PRC-Redlands; Prof. B. Huizinga and Rev. J. Maatman in Hudsonville PRC; Rev. R. Barnhill (2nd week) in Loveland PRC; Rev. W. Langerak (2nd week) in Lynden PRC; Rev. J. Laning and Rev. E. Guichelaar in Zion PRC. May we count it a blessing of our church federation that we can help one another in these needs. Let us remember to pray for the men who supply these pulpits and for the vacant congregations. And may we continue to pray for men to hear the call to serve as pastors and missionaries!

Special Congregational/Evangelism Notices:

  • Heritage PRC Evangelism Committee: "The Heritage PRC Evangelism Committee will be hosting a lecture on August 30, at 7:00 p.m., at Heritage PRC. Rev. Daniel Kleyn will speak on “Evangelism: Lessons From Mission Work.” Refreshments will follow. The event will be livestreamed on the Heritage PRC YouTube channel. All are welcome to attend!"
  • Southeast PRC-Wyoming, MI: "The evangelism committee would like to remind the congregation of the community Bible study at the Wyoming library. Our next and last meeting will take place on August 28 at 6:30pm. We encourage you to come and to invite others to join us."

PRC DENOMINATIONAL NEWS

  • The Foreign Mission Committee (FMC) will be going on a joint delegation with Loveland PRC to visit contacts in Malawi (Southeast Africa) from August 20-27. Rev. D. Kleyn will represent the FMC on this delegation, and Matthew Miersma and Stephen Boonstra will represent Loveland PRC. The work will include making visits to groups/fellowships during the week, as well as Rev. Kleyn preaching and giving speeches. All of this, the Lord willing. The churches are asked to pray that God would add fruit to the work done on this trip.

  • The Domestic Mission Committee plans to hire a fulltime website manager for the new PRCA website. The new website is being designed to improve our worldwide evangelism and to improve usability for all PRCA members and churches. Initially the work will be to maintain the current site and assist with the development of the new website. Besides day to day maintenance, the web manager’s future role will be to promote and feature a wide range of PRCA materials. Interested candidates should contact Mike Gritters (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.) to learn more about this new position.
  • PRC 100th Anniversary Celebration: All the members of the PRCA, our sister churches, and close contacts are encouraged to come together at Calvin University from June 2-6, 2025 (note the new dates) to participate in this commemorative week. Visit prca100.org for basic event information and to sign up for email updates.

front side view Aug 2024

PRC Seminary Notices:

  • The PR Theological Seminary begins its 2024-25 school year this week. We covet your prayers as faculty, students, and staff busy themselves again in the normal semester labors and activities. The first semester's schedule and calendar (2024-25) have been posted on this webpage.
  • Seminary classes will begin for the first semester on Tuesday, August 27, D.V. The seminary faculty invite interested persons to audit five classes this semester. Prof. Huizinga’s class of Dogmatics – Christology, a study of the person and work of Christ. Prof. Cammenga’s class of NT History – From the intertestamental period through the life of Christ, up to the passion week. Prof. Kuiper’s class of Hermeneutics – a study of the principles and method of biblical interpretation. Prof. Kuiper’s class of Ancient Church History – a study of the church’s history and doctrinal development from AD 100-590. Prof. Griess’s class of Catechetics is open to past and current elders. Please contact the secretary, Bethany Engelsma, at 616-531-1490 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. if you are interested in attending one of these classes and she can provide you with more information. The class schedule is posted on the PRC Seminary website.
  • Special Notice: The annual Seminary Convocation will be hosted by Byron Center PRC on Wednesday, September 4, at 7:00 p.m. Professor C. Griess will be speaking on Colossians 2:8-10, "The Spoiled Pastor." All are invited and encouraged to attend. Look for notices and links for the livestream soon.
  • There are two students granted permission by the 2024 PRC Synod to enter the seminary this Fall: Joe Ophoff (Byron Center PRC, previously enrolled in the new Special Student Entrance Program) and Joseph Dick (Sovereign Grace URC), who also took his pre-seminary Greek at PRTS. Continuing students are Aaron van Dyke (senior), Bruce Feenstra (junior), and Isaac Van Baren (sophomore).
  • Sem. Bruce Feenstra has been licensed to to speak a word of edification in the churches. All scheduling of Mr. Feenstra must be done through the seminary, either by sending a request to the seminary secretary (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.) or the rector, Prof. D. Kuiper (doug.kuiperThis email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.).
  • Sem. Aaron Van Dyke is interning this summer and fall in our Wingham, Ontario congregation, under the supervision of Wingham’s Consistory and the mentoring of Rev. Daniel Holstege. The internship runs from July 1 through December 31. Continue to pray for Mr. Van Dyke and his family during his internship. Today he is leading both services while Rev. Holstege is in Michigan yet.
  • The Spring 2024 issue of the PR Theological Journal is currently available. The digital editions (pdf and epub) have been posted on the journal page (visit the link here). This latest issue features three main articles, one dealing with the history of common grace at the 1924 Synod in the Christian Reformed Church (which led to the formation of the Protestant Reformed Churches), one involving another translation of H. Bouwman's work on the Reformed Church Order, and another chapter from Prof. D. Kuiper on the history of Classis West in the PRC. Plus, there is a good number of book reviews again, on a variety of subjects. If you want to be added to our mailing list (either print or digital) or wish to pick up a copy, contact Bethany Engelsma, the seminary secretary (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.). 
  • 100th Anniversary Seminary Conference: Did you know that ministers in our mother 100th Anniversary Seminary Conference: Did you know that ministers in our mother church in 1924 viewed common grace as the middle way between being liberal and fleeing the world? And that our denomination’s fathers rejected common grace as compromising the antithesis? Come to the next seminary conference to hear a fresh perspective on the doctrine that gave rise to our denomination. The theme is “By Grace I Am What I Am”: The PRCA’s Rejection of Common Grace. Mark your calendars for Thursday, October 31, through Saturday, November 2, at Grace PRC in Standale, MI. Help us praise God for His grace on the occasion of our centennial!
  • For the latest seminary news and information, visit the seminary's website - and don't forget the blog!

Ephesians 4 3 3

SISTER-CHURCH/MISSION NEWS:

  • Covenant ERC, Singapore and her Kolkata, India mission work:
    • Pastors J. Tan and M. Wee are faithfully serving the CERC. Pastor Wee led both services today and also had some profitable thoughts on the work of members and elders in church discipline in the "pastoral voice" section of today's bulletin: "Beloved saints, I pray that we will grow in abiding by the 9th commandment, judging fairly, not rashly or unheard, and also seeking to defend and promote each other’s reputation, as much as possible. I pray also that we may be able to grow in our considered (not blind) trust of our office-bearers. God will be pleased to bless our congregation with peace and unity, as we grow in this grace also (2 Thess. 5:12-13)."
    • The latest issue of Salt Shakers is available - May 2024#72, the second of this year!  Once again you will find a variety of articles on timely subjects in this issue! Written especially for young people and young adults, SS is edifying for all adults!
  • Covenant PRC, N. Ireland:
    • Rev. A. Stewart continues to bring the Word of truth faithfully in the CPRC, Ballymena, N. Ireland - and beyond! 
    • The July 2024 issue of "Covenant Reformed News" is the latest available. Read the articles by Rev. A. Stewart on "Nehemiah's Secret Night Ride" and Rev. R. Hanko's response to a question about "The Civil and Ceremonial Laws" of the Old Testament.
    • The CPRC YouTube channel may be found here.
  • PRC in the Philippines and her mission work in various places:
    • Berean PRC bulletin: Rev. V. Ibe led her worship services today.  And, "The saints in All of Grace Protestant Reformed Fellowship in Gabaldon Nueva Ecija will join us in our worship services this morning via Livestream on our Facebook page. We pray for God’s continued care and blessings upon them as they hear the Word of God."
    • In PRCP mission work, "Rev. Ibe and Deacon John Noel Longalong’s visit with the pastors and saints in Bacolod and Sipalay City on August 19-20, went very well by the grace of God. Rev. Ibe led them in a lecture on Reformed Church Government [Church Order of Dordt 1618-19, Art. 78-80] and Reformed Dogmatics [Soteriology]. We pray for God’s continued spiritual strength and growth for the churches in these areas as they learn and receive the Reformed truth of God’s sovereign particular grace in Christ Jesus and for His sake only. Soli Deo Gloria!"
    • PRCP Classis Meeting this week: "Classis meeting of the congregations of the PRCP is scheduled for Monday [August 26, 2024] at 9 AM at the Provident PRC church building."
    • Provident PRC bulletin: The officebearers led both worship services today through PRCA’s recorded video sermons.

REFORMED RESOURCES for EDUCATION, EDIFICATION, and EVANGELISM

RWH Logo 2019
Listen to the Reformed Witness Hour each Sunday - on a radio station near you, on Sermonaudio, or on your favorite podcast - wherever you are!

W Bruinsma RWH

  • This month - August 2024 - the RWH is broadcasting four gospel messages by Rev. W. Bruinsma on the subject of Christ's return and its signs. Today's message is titled "Lawlessness in Society" based on Matthew 24:12,13.

  • The Reformed Witness Hour publishes each month's messages in an attractive booklet. These printed sermons are a great blessing to many and are distributed all over the world, including to many prisoners in the U.S. If you or your Evangelism Committee would like to receive these, let the RWHC know and they will add you to the mailing list (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.).

Union Christ 2024 BRF

New from the Covenant PRC Bookstore or your local PRC! "Union with our Lord Jesus Christ, the subject of this book, is a profound and beautiful biblical truth that exalts the Triune God and comforts believers. This book consists of the speeches and sermons at the 16th British Reformed Fellowship (BRF) Family Conference held in Castlewellan Castle, County Down, Northern Ireland on “Union With Christ” (9-16 July, 2022). Though all the addresses have been reworked somewhat for publication in written form, one of them has been extensively developed: “Christ Is Made Ours:” Calvin’s Doctrine of Union."

  • RBO Aug 2023 2The Reformed Book Outlet (downtown Hudsonville, MI) is now operating out of its new store in downtown Hudsonville (3472 Harvey St.). Visit the store and browse the variety of resources for your Reformed-Christian faith and walk, including many children's titles. They are open Tuesday-Friday, 10-5, and Saturday 10-1. 
  • In need of sound biblical and Reformed catechism materials for children and young people? Check out the PRC's full curriculum of materials here. Call the PRC Seminary for help with any of these materials (616-531-1490).

  • For sound, distinctively Reformed literature on a variety of subjects and for all ages - including church history and Bible study materials - visit the Reformed Free Publishing Association website or stop in at their Jenison (Michigan) location.

This Week's Thought for Contemplation

 WHO IS JESUS? The Good Shepherd

““I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep.” John 10: 11

"Two main parts of Jesus’ care are brought out in John 10:11-18. First of all, Jesus knows his sheep. Second, Jesus lays down his life for his sheep.

First, Jesus knows his sheep. Jesus speaks of this in vs. 14, “I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine.” This is different from a person who is merely hired for a short time to take care of animals. I grew up on a farm. When my father had to go back to the Netherlands at the passing of his mother, he hired a man to take care of our cows. This hired man did not know the cows by name. He did not know the nature and characteristics of each animal. The hired man did not know the individual needs of each animal. When my father returned home after two weeks, there were several of the cows that were very sick or diseased.

The religious leaders of Jesus’ day did not know, love, or care for the sheep of Israel. They were as sheep without a shepherd. In contrast, Jesus, the good shepherd knows his sheep. God’s people are Jesus’ very own sheep. They belong to him. He knows them personally. He loves them. Jesus compares his knowledge of his sheep with his Father’s knowledge of him and his knowledge of his Father.

How wonderful this is. Jesus knows everything about you, child of God. He knows our specific names and individual needs, trials, afflictions, sorrows, and temptations. We are like sheep: weak, sinful, wayward, helpless, and defenseless. .Jesus leads us to the green pastures of his Word. Jesus knows what sheep are not yet gathered. It is by his Word, the Gospel that Jesus calls, feeds, and saves his sheep.

Second, the gracious care of Jesus for his sheep is revealed especially in that he lays down his life for his sheep. We read this three times in John 10:11-18. “The good shepherd giveth his life for his sheep (vs. 11).” “I lay down my life…No man taketh it from me, but I lay it down of myself… (vs. 17, 18).”

What does this mean? All of his life, Jesus gave his life for his sheep. But, Jesus is especially referring to his death on the cross. Jesus’ sheep are sinful, and the punishment of sin is death (Rom. 6:23). The guilt of sin brings death and hell. As sheep, we are weak and helpless to save ourselves. Jesus gave his own life for us. He took our place, bore our sin and guilt, died our death, and suffered our hell. He did this by becoming the sacrificial lamb on the cross.

A hired man would run away if he saw his and the sheep’s life threatened. Jesus voluntarily and deliberately put himself in our place. He laid down his life for his sheep. Why would Jesus do that? It was his Father’s will. It was his great love for his sheep. Jesus gave himself for his sheep. That death was powerful, saving each and every one of the sheep that the Father gave him to save."

~ Taken from the series "Who Is Jesus?" (based on the "I ams" of Jesus found in the Gospel according to John) by Rev. A. Spriensma

Read more...

PRC and Sister-Church News Highlights for August 18, 2024

Psalm 149 1Today, August 18, is the thirty-third Lord's Day of this year of our Lord 2024, and another rest stop on our pilgrim journey through this world. "Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest." Matthew 11:28

Below you will find special highlights of PRC and sister-church news. It is our hope that these reports not only inform you but also give you opportunity to pray for the needs of these churches and mission fields throughout the world.

Praise ye the LORD. Sing unto the LORD a new song, and his praise in the congregation of saints. Let Israel rejoice in him that made him: let the children of Zion be joyful in their King. Let them praise his name in the dance: let them sing praises unto him with the timbrel and harp. For the LORD taketh pleasure in his people: he will beautify the meek with salvation. ~ Psalm 149:1-4

If you are new to this website and the PRCA, we invite you to join us in worship today or on any of the Sunday's of this year at one of our local congregations near you; or you may listen online through one of the PRC's livestreams.

CONGREGATIONAL NEWS 

  • Last Sunday Rev. N. Decker (Grandville PRC) declined the call from Zion PRC (Jenison, MI).

  • Today Rev. D. Noorman (Southwest PRC-Wyoming, MI) accepted the call from Georgetown (MI) PRC.  

  • Rev. G. Eriks (Unity PRC) is considering the call from Hope PRC-Redlands, CA. He plans to answer this call by August 25.

  • Rev. M. DeBoer is considering the call from Hudsonville (MI) PRC. He plans to answer by August 25.

  • Cand. A. Haveman is considering the call to Loveland PRC (received July 21). He plans to answer this call by Sept.1.

Classical appointments and pulpit supply for today in the vacant PRCs: Prof. C. Griess and Rev. J. Slopsema in Georgetown PRC;  Prof. D. Kuiper and Rev. J. Laning in Hope PRC-Walker; Prof. B. Gritters (1st week) in Hope PRC-Redlands; Rev. J. Slopsema and Rev. C. Haak in Hudsonville PRC; Rev. R. Barnhill (1st week) in Loveland PRC; Rev. W. Langerak (1st week) in Lynden PRC; Sem. B. Feenstra and Rev. J. Holstege in Zion PRC. May we count it a blessing of our church federation that we can help one another in these needs. Let us remember to pray for the men who supply these pulpits and for the vacant congregations. And may we continue to pray for men to hear the call to serve as pastors and missionaries!

Special Congregational/Evangelism Notices:

  • Loveland PRC: "Our delegation of Rev. D. Kleyn, Stephan Boonstra and Matthew Miersma leave for Malawi this week Tuesday and return on Wednesday, August 28th. The congregation is asked to remember them in our prayers that the Lord grant them traveling mercies. Also, that He will bless the labors with these new contacts in this far away land for His glory and for the good of His people."
  • Heritage PRC Evangelism Committee: "The Heritage PRC Evangelism Committee will be hosting a lecture on August 30, at 7:00 p.m., at Heritage PRC. Rev. Daniel Kleyn will speak on “Evangelism: Lessons From Mission Work.” Refreshments will follow. The event will be livestreamed on the Heritage PRC YouTube channel. All are welcome to attend!"

PRC DENOMINATIONAL NEWS

  • The Foreign Mission Committee (FMC) will be going on a joint delegation with Loveland PRC to visit contacts in Malawi (Southeast Africa) from August 20-27. Rev. D. Kleyn will represent the FMC on this delegation, and Matthew Miersma and Stephen Boonstra will represent Loveland PRC. The work will include making visits to groups/fellowships during the week, as well as Rev. Kleyn preaching and giving speeches. All of this, the Lord willing. The churches are asked to pray that God would add fruit to the work done on this trip.

  • The Domestic Mission Committee plans to hire a fulltime website manager for the new PRCA website. The new website is being designed to improve our worldwide evangelism and to improve usability for all PRCA members and churches. Initially the work will be to maintain the current site and assist with the development of the new website. Besides day to day maintenance, the web manager’s future role will be to promote and feature a wide range of PRCA materials. Interested candidates should contact Mike Gritters (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.) to learn more about this new position.
  • PRC 100th Anniversary Celebration: All the members of the PRCA, our sister churches, and close contacts are encouraged to come together at Calvin University from June 2-6, 2025 (note the new dates) to participate in this commemorative week. Visit prca100.org for basic event information and to sign up for email updates.

sign Aug 2024

PRC Seminary Notices:

  • The PR Theological Seminary is in the final week of its summer break, with faculty, students, and staff busy with preparing for a new semester, which will begin, D.V., the week of August 26. Continue to pray for faculty, students, and staff as we labor during these months. The first semester's schedule and calendar (2024-25) have been posted on this webpage.
  • Seminary classes will begin for the first semester on Tuesday, August 27, D.V. The seminary faculty invite interested persons to audit five classes this semester. Prof. Huizinga’s class of Dogmatics – Christology, a study of the person and work of Christ. Prof. Cammenga’s class of NT History – From the intertestamental period through the life of Christ, up to the passion week. Prof. Kuiper’s class of Hermeneutics – a study of the principles and method of biblical interpretation. Prof. Kuiper’s class of Ancient Church History – a study of the church’s history and doctrinal development from AD 100-590. Prof. Griess’s class of Catechetics is open to past and current elders. Please contact the secretary, Bethany Engelsma, at 616-531-1490 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. if you are interested in attending one of these classes and she can provide you with more information. The class schedule is posted on the PRC Seminary website.
  • Sem. Bruce Feenstra (entering junior year) has been licensed to to speak a word of edification in the churches. All scheduling of Mr. Feenstra must be done through the seminary, either by sending a request to the seminary secretary (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.) or the rector, Prof. D. Kuiper (doug.kuiperThis email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.).
  • Sem. Aaron Van Dyke (entering his senior year) is interning this summer and fall in our Wingham, Ontario congregation, under the supervision of Wingham’s Consistory and the mentoring of Rev. Daniel Holstege. The internship runs from July 1 through December 31. Continue to pray for Mr. Van Dyke and his family during his internship. Today he is leading both services while Rev. Holstege is in Michigan yet.
  • SPECIAL NOTICE: The annual Seminary Convocation will be hosted by Byron Center PRC on Wednesday, September 4, at 7:00 p.m. Professor C. Griess will be speaking on Colossians 2:8-10, "The Spoiled Pastor." All are invited and encouraged to attend. Look for notices and links for the livestream soon.
  • The Spring 2024 issue of the PR Theological Journal is currently available. The digital editions (pdf and epub) have been posted on the journal page (visit the link here). This latest issue features three main articles, one dealing with the history of common grace at the 1924 Synod in the Christian Reformed Church (which led to the formation of the Protestant Reformed Churches), one involving another translation of H. Bouwman's work on the Reformed Church Order, and another chapter from Prof. D. Kuiper on the history of Classis West in the PRC. Plus, there is a good number of book reviews again, on a variety of subjects. If you want to be added to our mailing list (either print or digital) or wish to pick up a copy, contact Bethany Engelsma, the seminary secretary (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.). 
  • 100th Anniversary Seminary Conference: Did you know that ministers in our mother 100th Anniversary Seminary Conference: Did you know that ministers in our mother church in 1924 viewed common grace as the middle way between being liberal and fleeing the world? And that our denomination’s fathers rejected common grace as compromising the antithesis? Come to the next seminary conference to hear a fresh perspective on the doctrine that gave rise to our denomination. The theme is “By Grace I Am What I Am”: The PRCA’s Rejection of Common Grace. Mark your calendars for Thursday, October 31, through Saturday, November 2, at Grace PRC in Standale, MI. Help us praise God for His grace on the occasion of our centennial!
  • For the latest seminary news and information, visit the seminary's website - and don't forget the blog!

greatcommission1

SISTER-CHURCH/MISSION NEWS:

  • Covenant ERC, Singapore and her Kolkata, India mission work:
    • Pastors J. Tan and M. Wee are faithfully serving the CERC. Both pastors led services today. Pastor Wee had some good thoughts on prayer in the "pastoral voice" section of today's bulletin: "When we are struggling with worries and trapped by the snare of anxieties, we must remember that our prayer to God, as Philippians 4:6 commands us, must be made in sincerity, in purity of heart, to God. We may not pray thinking to ourselves that we are actually quite capable on our own. "I can't depend on God fully and entirely; after all, that is irresponsible," such thoughts reflect an insincere petition to God for help. Rather, genuine asking of God comes only when we acknowledge that we are completely impotent and that all of our planning, thinking, calculating, analyzing, and pondering are useless to save ourselves. We tell God that we actually have no clue what to do and that only He alone can save us and help us. That we are going to rely on Him completely and entirely."
    • The latest issue of Salt Shakers is available - May 2024#72, the second of this year!  Once again you will find a variety of articles on timely subjects in this issue! Written especially for young people and young adults, SS is edifying for all adults!
  • Covenant PRC, N. Ireland:
    • Rev. A. Stewart continues to bring the Word of truth faithfully in the CPRC, Ballymena, N. Ireland - and beyond! "We welcome Rev. & Nancy Hanko again and all visitors to our worship services. Rev. Hanko will be preaching for us today."
    • 2024 BRF Family Conference was held at Cloverley Hall Conference Centre in Shropshire, England, from Saturday, August 3, to Saturday, August 10, with visitors from multiple countries. Prof. Brian Huizinga and Rev. Ron Hanko lectured on “Then Comes the End: The Reformed Doctrine of Eschatology." Look for the speeches on CPRC's YouTube channel (see note below).
    • The July 2024 issue of "Covenant Reformed News" is the latest available. Read the articles by Rev. A. Stewart on "Nehemiah's Secret Night Ride" and Rev. R. Hanko's response to a question about "The Civil and Ceremonial Laws" of the Old Testament.
    • The CPRC YouTube channel may be found here.
  • PRC in the Philippines and her mission work in various places:
    • Berean PRC bulletin: Elders Umali and Espirut led her worship services today.  And, "The saints in All of Grace Protestant Reformed Fellowship in Gabaldon Nueva Ecija will join us in our worship services this morning—what a joy to worship God’s name in unity and the bond of peace. We pray for God’s continued care and blessings upon them as they hear the Word of God."
    • In PRCP mission work, "Rev. Ibe and Deacon John Noel Longalong are scheduled to visit the pastors and saints in Bacolod and Sipalay City on August 19-20, the Lord willing. Rev. Ibe will lead them in a lecture on Reformed Church Government [Church Order of Dordt 1618-19, Art. 78-80] and Reformed Dogmatics [Soteriology]. We pray for God’s continued spiritual strength and growth for the churches in these areas as they learn and receive the Reformed truth of God’s sovereign particular grace in Christ Jesus and for His sake only. Soli Deo Gloria!"
    • Provident PRC bulletin: Rev. V. Ibe led both worship services today through PRCA’s recorded video sermons.

REFORMED RESOURCES for EDUCATION, EDIFICATION, and EVANGELISM

RWH Logo 2019
Listen to the Reformed Witness Hour each Sunday - on a radio station near you, on Sermonaudio, or on your favorite podcast - wherever you are!

W Bruinsma RWH

  • This month - August 2024 - the RWH is broadcasting four gospel messages by Rev. W. Bruinsma on the subject of Christ's return and its signs. Today's message is titled "Nation Against Nation" based on Matthew 24:6,7.

  • The Reformed Witness Hour publishes each month's messages in an attractive booklet. These printed sermons are a great blessing to many and are distributed all over the world, including to many prisoners in the U.S. If you or your Evangelism Committee would like to receive these, let the RWHC know and they will add you to the mailing list (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.).

Refd Dogm HH sale

AUGUST SALE at the RFPA! To celebrate our most recent release, this month's book sale is 50% off Reformed Dogmatics Vol. 1 and 2 by Herman Hoeksema. 

  • RBO Aug 2023 2The Reformed Book Outlet (downtown Hudsonville, MI) is now operating out of its new store in downtown Hudsonville (3472 Harvey St.). Visit the store and browse the variety of resources for your Reformed-Christian faith and walk, including many children's titles. They are open Tuesday-Friday, 10-5, and Saturday 10-1. 
  • In need of sound biblical and Reformed catechism materials for children and young people? Check out the PRC's full curriculum of materials here. Call the PRC Seminary for help with any of these materials (616-531-1490).

  • For sound, distinctively Reformed literature on a variety of subjects and for all ages - including church history and Bible study materials - visit the Reformed Free Publishing Association website or stop in at their Jenison (Michigan) location.

This Week's Thought for Contemplation

 WHO IS JESUS? The Door of the Sheep

Then said Jesus unto them again, Verily, verily, I say unto you, I am the door of the sheep… I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture” ~ John 10: 7, 9

"In contrast to these false shepherds is Jesus Christ. He is the door of the sheep. Jesus is the Good Shepherd who enters the sheepfold by the door. He loves the sheep and seeks their good. Jesus is himself the door that opens into the sheepfold of the church. He is the door that opens to salvation and life. Only when we enter through him are we saved. Jesus is the only way of salvation. Jesus is the only door. And he is the door of the sheep, not the goats.

Why is this? Why is he the only way of salvation? He is the only door because he is God in our flesh. That he is God is revealed in the “I AM” statement. It is God alone who serves as the only access to salvation. We ourselves, our works, and our will cannot be the door. We of ourselves are dead in sin and only continue to increase our debt. The name Jesus means “Jehovah saves”.

He is the only door because he alone is God in our flesh. He is God become man to save us people. He is God come down to bring God and us together by his death on the cross. He took away our sins and brought God perfect obedience. In this way only is there salvation. He saves his sheep by causing them to enter into the only door of the sheepfold.

Jesus is our salvation! Jesus says in verse 9, “By me if any man enter in, he shall be saved.” Jesus is the door that saves! He alone causes sinners to enter into the gate of the sheepfold and find salvation. Sheep are wayward animals that need a good shepherd to lead and care for them. Sinners do not by nature belong to the sheepfold. They enter the door because they by nature are outside of salvation and the kingdom of God. They are without safety and security. They are exposed to every kind of spiritual danger.

That Jesus is the door means that he sees that his people are brought to salvation. He feeds them and leads them to streams of living water. What a complete Savior Jesus is! Do you know him? Do you know your need of Jesus to bring you into the kingdom and salvation?"

~ Taken from the series "Who Is Jesus?" (based on the "I ams" of Jesus found in the Gospel according to John) by Rev. A. Spriensma

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PRC and Sister-Church News Highlights for August 11, 2024

Psalm 148 14Today, August 11, is the thirty-second Lord's Day of this year of our Lord 2024, and another rest stop on our pilgrim journey through this world. "Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest." Matthew 11:28

Below you will find special highlights of PRC and sister-church news. It is our hope that these reports not only inform you but also give you opportunity to pray for the needs of these churches and mission fields throughout the world.

Praise the LORD from the earth, ye dragons, and all deeps: Fire, and hail; snow, and vapour; stormy wind fulfilling his word: Mountains, and all hills; fruitful trees, and all cedars: Beasts, and all cattle; creeping things, and flying fowl: Kings of the earth, and all people; princes, and all judges of the earth: Both young men, and maidens; old men, and children: Let them praise the name of the LORD: for his name alone is excellent; his glory is above the earth and heaven. He also exalteth the horn of his people, the praise of all his saints; even of the children of Israel, a people near unto him. Praise ye the LORD. ~ Psalm 148:7-14

If you are new to this website and the PRCA, we invite you to join us in worship today or on any of the Sunday's of this year at one of our local congregations near you; or you may listen online through one of the PRC's livestreams.

CONGREGATIONAL NEWS 

  • Today Rev. N. Decker (Grandville PRC) declined the call from Zion PRC (Jenison, MI).

  • Last Sunday Rev. M. DeBoer (Edgerton PRC-MN) declined the call from Hope PRC (Walker, MI).

  • Rev. D. Noorman (Southwest PRC-Wyoming, MI) is considering the call from Georgetown (MI) PRC.  He plans to answer by August 18.

  • Rev. G. Eriks (Unity PRC) is considering the call from Hope PRC-Redlands, CA. He plans to answer this call by August 25.

  • Rev. M. DeBoer is considering the call from Hudsonville (MI) PRC. He plans to answer by August 25.

  • Cand. A. Haveman is considering the call to Loveland PRC (received July 21). He plans to answer this call by Sept.1.

Classical appointments and pulpit supply for today in the vacant PRCs: Prof. C. Griess and Rev. D. Lee in Georgetown PRC;  Prof. D. Kuiper and Rev. M. DeVries in Hope PRC-Walker; Rev. K. Koole (2nd week) in Hope PRC-Redlands; Rev. J. Slopsema and Rev. D. Holstege in Hudsonville PRC; Rev. D. Kleyn in Loveland PRC; Rev. R. Smit (2nd week) in Lynden PRC; Prof. B. Gritters and Prof. R. Dykstra in Zion PRC. May we count it a blessing of our church federation that we can help one another in these needs. Let us remember to pray for the men who supply these pulpits and for the vacant congregations. And may we continue to pray for men to hear the call to serve as pastors and missionaries!

Special Congregational/Evangelism Notices:

  • Byron Center (MI) PRC: "The Community Bible Study meets this Thursday, August 15, at 7:30 PM at church to continue our study of the book of Philippians. Discussion will begin at chapter 3 verse 14. You would be welcome to bring friends and neighbors to join us!"
  • Loveland PRC (CO): "Malawi Delegation: Our church’s Evangelism Committee with the PRC Foreign Mission Committee are sending a delegation to Malawi in August. Rev. Daniel Kleyn with Stephan Boonstra and Matthew Miersma will be leaving August 20th and returning August 28th. There are many meetings and gatherings planned during their stay in Malawi. We pray that the Lord may bless this visit with these saints. And also, that we may grow in our knowledge of one another as we grow in our knowledge of Him."
  • Southeast PRC-Wyoming, MI: "The evangelism committee would like to remind the congregation of the community Bible study at the Wyoming library. Our next meeting will take place on August 14 at 6:30pm. We encourage you to come and to invite others to join us."

PRC DENOMINATIONAL NEWS

  • The Domestic Mission Committee plans to hire a fulltime website manager for the new PRCA website. The new website is being designed to improve our worldwide evangelism and to improve usability for all PRCA members and churches. Initially the work will be to maintain the current site and assist with the development of the new website. Besides day to day maintenance, the web manager’s future role will be to promote and feature a wide range of PRCA materials. Interested candidates should contact Mike Gritters (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.) to learn more about this new position.
  • After approving the examination of Arend Haveman, the 2024 PRC Synod declared the brother a candidate for the ministry of the Word and sacraments in the PRC, eligible for a call on or after July 13. We give thanks to the Lord for providing another laborer in His vineyard.
  • PRC 100th Anniversary Celebration: All the members of the PRCA, our sister churches, and close contacts are encouraged to come together at Calvin University from June 2-6, 2025 (note the new dates) to participate in this commemorative week. Visit prca100.org for basic event information and to sign up for email updates.

front side view Aug 2024

PRC Seminary Notices:

  • The PR Theological Seminary is in the final two weeks of its summer break. Faculty, students, and staff are busy with normal and special duties during these months, all in preparation for a new semester, which will begin, D.V., in two weeks, on August 26. Continue to pray for faculty, students, and staff as we labor during these months. The first semester's schedule and calendar (2024-25) have been posted on this webpage.
  • Seminary classes will begin for the first semester on Tuesday, August 27, D.V. The seminary faculty invite interested persons to audit five classes this semester. Prof. Huizinga’s class of Dogmatics – Christology, a study of the person and work of Christ. Prof. Cammenga’s class of NT History – From the intertestamental period through the life of Christ, up to the passion week. Prof. Kuiper’s class of Hermeneutics – a study of the principles and method of biblical interpretation. Prof. Kuiper’s class of Ancient Church History – a study of the church’s history and doctrinal development from AD 100-590. Prof. Griess’s class of Catechetics is open to past and current elders. Please contact the secretary, Bethany Engelsma, at 616-531-1490 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. if you are interested in attending one of these classes and she can provide you with more information. The class schedule is posted on the PRC Seminary website.
  • In the last week (Aug.3-10) Prof. B. Huizinga participated in the British Reformed Fellowship Conference again this year (with Rev. R. Hanko). Today he is preaching in Covenant PRC in Ballymena, N. Ireland before returning home early this week.
  • Sem. Bruce Feenstra (entering junior year) has been licensed to to speak a word of edification in the churches. All scheduling of Mr. Feenstra must be done through the seminary, either by sending a request to the seminary secretary (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.) or the rector, Prof. D. Kuiper (doug.kuiperThis email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.).
  • Sem. Aaron Van Dyke (entering his senior year) is interning this summer and fall in our Wingham, Ontario congregation, under the supervision of Wingham’s Consistory and the mentoring of Rev. Daniel Holstege. The internship runs from July 1 through December 31. Continue to pray for Mr. Van Dyke and his family during his internship. Today he is leading both services while Rev. Holstege is in Michigan yet.
  • The Spring 2024 issue of the PR Theological Journal is currently available. The digital editions (pdf and epub) have been posted on the journal page (visit the link here). This latest issue features three main articles, one dealing with the history of common grace at the 1924 Synod in the Christian Reformed Church (which led to the formation of the Protestant Reformed Churches), one involving another translation of H. Bouwman's work on the Reformed Church Order, and another chapter from Prof. D. Kuiper on the history of Classis West in the PRC. Plus, there is a good number of book reviews again, on a variety of subjects. If you want to be added to our mailing list (either print or digital) or wish to pick up a copy, contact Bethany Engelsma, the seminary secretary (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.). 
  • ADVANCE NOTICE: The annual Seminary Convocation will be hosted by Byron Center PRC on Wednesday, September 4, at 7:00 p.m. Professor C. Griess will be speaking on Colossians 2:8-10, "The Spoiled Pastor." All are invited and encouraged to attend.
  • 100th Anniversary Seminary Conference: Did you know that ministers in our mother 100th Anniversary Seminary Conference: Did you know that ministers in our mother church in 1924 viewed common grace as the middle way between being liberal and fleeing the world? And that our denomination’s fathers rejected common grace as compromising the antithesis? Come to the next seminary conference to hear a fresh perspective on the doctrine that gave rise to our denomination. The theme is “By Grace I Am What I Am”: The PRCA’s Rejection of Common Grace. Mark your calendars for Thursday, October 31, through Saturday, November 2, at Grace PRC in Standale, MI. Help us praise God for His grace on the occasion of our centennial!
  • For the latest seminary news and information, visit the seminary's website - and don't forget the blog!

Ps133 1 2

SISTER-CHURCH/MISSION NEWS:

  • Covenant ERC, Singapore and her Kolkata, India mission work:
    • Pastors J. Tan and M. Wee are faithfully serving the CERC. Pastor Wee led both services today, but Pastor Tan had some good thoughts on the concluding message of his colleague on the book of Revelation: "This series on Revelation has also given me a much more sober view of the future. The world is not getting better, but the falling away of many from true churches will increase yet more and more. The true church will not turn from being a remnant for the past 2000 years to being suddenly popular in this world. Rather, as 2 Timothy 3:12-13 reminds us, we will face persecution, and the evil of apostasy (leaving the true worship of God) will increase. But the series on Revelation has also helped me see the importance of focusing on the glory of Christ and to love His coming (2 Tim 4:8). For it is that singular focus on the revelation of Jesus Christ in the clouds of glory that will anchor us as a church through the storms we are experiencing now till Christ comes."
    • The latest issue of Salt Shakers is available - May 2024#72, the second of this year!  Once again you will find a variety of articles on timely subjects in this issue! Written especially for young people and young adults, SS is edifying for all adults!
  • Covenant PRC, N. Ireland:
    • Rev. A. Stewart continues to bring the Word of truth faithfully in the CPRC, Ballymena, N. Ireland - and beyond! After the BRF Conference in England last week, the congregation and visitors returned to Ballymena for their worship services today, with Prof. Huizinga preaching. "We welcome Prof. & Michelle Huizinga and all visitors from the US and elsewhere who are here after the BRF Conference. Prof. Huizinga will be preaching for us today."
    • 2024 BRF Family Conference was held last week at Cloverley Hall Conference Centre in Shropshire, England, from Saturday, August 3, to Saturday, August 10, with visitors from multiple countries. Prof. Brian Huizinga and Rev. Ron Hanko lectured on “Then Comes the End: The Reformed Doctrine of Eschatology." Look for the speeches on CPRC's YouTube channel (see note below).
    • The July 2024 issue of "Covenant Reformed News" is the latest available. Read the articles by Rev. A. Stewart on "Nehemiah's Secret Night Ride" and Rev. R. Hanko's response to a question about "The Civil and Ceremonial Laws" of the Old Testament.
    • The CPRC YouTube channel may be found here.
  • PRC in the Philippines and her mission work in various places:
    • Berean PRC bulletin: Rev. V. Ibe led her worship services today.  And, "The saints in All of Grace Protestant Reformed Fellowship in Gabaldon Nueva Ecija will join us in our worship services this morning—what a joy to worship God’s name in unity and the bond of peace. We pray for God’s continued care and blessings upon them as they hear the Word of God."
    • In PRCP mission work, "Rev. Ibe and Deacon John Noel Longalong are scheduled to visit the pastors and saints in Bacolod and Sipalay City on August 19-20, the Lord willing. Rev. Ibe will lead them in a lecture on Reformed Church Government [Church Order of Dordt 1618-19, Art. 78-80] and Reformed Dogmatics [Soteriology]. We pray for God’s continued spiritual strength and growth for the churches in these areas as they learn and receive the Reformed truth of God’s sovereign particular grace in Christ Jesus and for His sake only. Soli Deo Gloria!"
    • Provident PRC bulletin: Elder Jun Armas led both worship services today through PRCA’s recorded video sermons.

REFORMED RESOURCES for EDUCATION, EDIFICATION, and EVANGELISM

RWH Logo 2019
Listen to the Reformed Witness Hour each Sunday - on a radio station near you, on Sermonaudio, or on your favorite podcast - wherever you are!

W Bruinsma RWH

  • This month - August 2024 - the RWH is broadcasting four gospel messages by Rev. W. Bruinsma on the subject of Christ's return and its signs. Today's message is titled "The Beginning of Birth Pains" based on Matthew 24:7,8.

  • The Reformed Witness Hour publishes each month's messages in an attractive booklet. These printed sermons are a great blessing to many and are distributed all over the world, including to many prisoners in the U.S. If you or your Evangelism Committee would like to receive these, let the RWHC know and they will add you to the mailing list (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.).

Refd Dogm HH sale

AUGUST SALE at the RFPA! To celebrate our most recent release, this month's book sale is 50% off Reformed Dogmatics Vol. 1 and 2 by Herman Hoeksema. 

  • RBO Aug 2023 2The Reformed Book Outlet (downtown Hudsonville, MI) is now operating out of its new store in downtown Hudsonville (3472 Harvey St.). Visit the store and browse the variety of resources for your Reformed-Christian faith and walk, including many children's titles. They are open Tuesday-Friday, 10-5, and Saturday 10-1. 
  • In need of sound biblical and Reformed catechism materials for children and young people? Check out the PRC's full curriculum of materials here. Call the PRC Seminary for help with any of these materials (616-531-1490).

  • For sound, distinctively Reformed literature on a variety of subjects and for all ages - including church history and Bible study materials - visit the Reformed Free Publishing Association website or stop in at their Jenison (Michigan) location.

This Week's Thought for Contemplation

 WHO IS JESUS? The Light of the World

Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.” John 8:12

The contrast in John 8:12 is light and darkness. Light is in Scripture a picture of true knowledge, holiness, and joy and happiness. Darkness is a figure of ignorance, sin, guilt, error, evil, uncleanness, and misery. Jesus came into the darkness of the world to bring light. What does this mean?

Jesus is divine. When Jesus says, “I am the light of the world” he is again announcing that he is divine, the Son of God. In Isaiah the Savior that was to come is announced as a light to the Gentiles. In Malachi 4:2 the coming Savior is called the Sun of righteousness that shall arise with healing in his wings. Can you imagine this brilliant bright light blazing with the glory of God?

Jesus is the revelation of the holy God. One of the perfections of God is that he is light (I John1:5), “and in him is no darkness at all.” This means God is pure, clean, and without sin. He is perfect. This is true therefore also of Jesus. He came into the world as a pure and holy light, shining in the midst of the world’s immorality and sin.

Jesus is the Savior. The sinless One came to deliver us from the darkness. To do so, he must himself be without sin. He came into our sin and guilt, descending into the darkness of hell to pay for our sins. He did that on the cross. By this he earned for us life.

Jesus comes to impart true knowledge. Light in Scripture stands for truth and knowledge. What kind of knowledge does Jesus give? He is unlike many teachers today who give merely their opinion. Jesus gives true knowledge of God, of our sin, the only way of salvation, and the life of obedience that follows.

Jesus is the source of spiritual life to sinners. The first thing that God created was light. This was necessary for the plants and animals that God would later create. They needed the light and heat of God’s created light. We, who were in the darkness of sin and death, need Jesus. He came to give life to lightless and lifeless sinners. He is the light of life because he is the divine Savior with power to give the light of eternal life to dead sinners like you and me.

~ Taken from the series Who Is Jesus?" by Rev. A. Spriensma

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