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ClarionTHE CANADIAN REFORMED MAGAZINE

VOLUME 47, NO. 17 AUGUST 21, 1998

Cooperation in the Work Place

398 CLARION, AUGUST 21, 1998

In recent years Reformed churches are increasinglydealing with questions of worship. The way things have al-ways been done is now (once again) being subjected to anin-depth review, and in many cases, changes are beingmade. Especially in the Netherlands the process of liturgicalchange has advanced considerably with the decisions ofthe synod of Berkel en Rodenrijs.1 In Canada we lag behind,but the same issues live among us as well. Questions con-cerning a responsive ‘Amen’, the confession of sins, and theplace of the collection are all a part of the current discussionson liturgy. Have we been shortchanging ourselves? Do weneed to rethink our approach?

The Lord’s SupperPerhaps one of the more thought provoking recommen-

dations coming out of the report on liturgy as commission bythe Synod of Ommen 1993 in the Netherlands is the issueof the liturgical texts of the early church and their functionfor the church today.2 The report makes specific mention ofthe so-called Ordinary (Latin: Ordinarium, the term used onthe European continent), the order of worship for the mass,with its five main parts: the Kyrie, the Gloria, Credo, theSanctus and Benedictus,3 and the Agnus Dei.4 The reportraised the issue whether or not the texts for these parts ofthe communion service could not be reinstated in our ser-vices since they were an essential part of the liturgy of theearly church, and the reformation did not need to abandonall elements of this liturgy of the early church.5

According to the report of the synodical committee ofBerkel, the deputies of Synod Ommen 1993 also consid-ered the question whether the old Ordinary and its partswere influenced by the Roman doctrine of the mass. Theyconcluded that since the doctrine of transubstantiation de-veloped from the sixth to the twelfth centuries and was notraised to an official doctrine until 1215, and that since theparts of the Ordinary date from a much earlier period, thesetexts did not grow out of the transubstantiation doctrine.Deputies therefore wanted to distinguish between the ear-lier use and the later misuse of the parts of the Ordinary.6

The deputies then considered the question why the re-formers did not consider reintroducing the use of the Ordinaryto a place of honour in worship. Their conclusion is that thisis a question that cannot be answered. For example, Calvin atno point says a word about the hymns of the Ordinary. Ac-cording to the report of the synodical deputies, this is seen asa question the Reformers did not occupy themselves with.

Were the fathers sleeping?Here again we need to raise the question whether the Re-

formed fathers were asleep on this point, and simply over-looked a integral element of the worship of the early churchin their work of reformation. If reformation means a returnto the pattern of worship in the early church, why was thisintegral element overlooked? If the pattern of the Ordinary

predates the period of decline in the early church, why didthe reformers not reinstate the order and why do we not haveit incorporated in the life of the church today?

In my view, we need to confirm that the reformers werenot asleep, but that in the reformation of the mass they verydeliberately charted their own course, one which sought tocapture the teaching of Scripture, and let this teaching de-termine the course of the celebration. For while it is truethat the actual texts of the Ordinary were abandoned, thethoughts or pedagogical elements of these texts have beenpreserved and worked into the Form for the Celebration ofthe Lord’s Supper. Here they are unfolded in a didactic wayso that what once were loose texts now become a shortScriptural exposition of what the holy sacrament means. Inother words, rather than work with loose texts, the reform-ers went back to the Word and put the instruction of theWord central in the celebration of the eucharistic feast!

The FormA brief look at the Form for the celebration of the Lord’s

Supper will highlight some of these elements for us. Take forexample the Kyrie in the mass.7 It represents the appeal formercy on the part of the sinner. Our Form (which goes backto the Palatinate, and was translated by P. Dathenus) beginswith self-examination and the realization of sin and misery.Here in effect the Kyrie is expounded and set forth to thecongregation. Then follows the Gloria and the Credo, twoelements which extol not only God’s wonderful plan of re-demption, but also His mercy and grace in the revelation ofthe forgiveness of sins through the blood of the cross. And onefinds precisely this movement of thought in the further in-struction concerning the Lord’s Supper following the pointof self-examination. Who are the worthy partakers?8 Theywho rely not on their own righteousness but on the merits andworthiness of Jesus Christ, and His mercy: “God will certainlyreceive in grace all who are thus minded and count themworthy to partake of the supper of our Lord Jesus Christ.”

Besides retaining its distinct place before the fraction (thebreaking of bread) in the Reformed service, the creed is alsobriefly set forth in the historical section of the Form. And infact, this historical section already contains in it the preludeto the closing part of the ancient service, the Agnus Dei. Forthe Form reads: “First of all we must understand that the LordJesus was sent by the Father into this world and that He as-sumed our flesh and blood.” Who cannot hear the echoesof the Credo and Agnus Dei in this historical section?9

Then the Form moves to assurance and the application ofChrist’s work to the believer. Here the strains of the Sanctuscan still be heard in the wording crafted by Olevianus. Forthe focus of these words is on fellowship and thanksgiving,which were the dominant elements of the old Sanctus andBenedictus.10 These words also lead into the eucharisticprayer much in the same way the older Sanctus did. Thiseucharistic prayer, with its epiclesis, or special prayer for

EDITORIAL

By J. De Jong

Keeping the Festival!

the coming of the Holy Spirit was considered in the ancienteastern liturgy to be the point at which a special transforma-tion took place.11 This idea goes back much farther than thesixth century posited by the deputies of Ommen.12 Accord-ing to K. Deddens, the notion of a transforming epiclesiswas already present in the fourth century! And in order tobring all these elements to reformation, what did Calvin (andfollowing him, Olevianus) do? The prayer for the HolySpirit has become an essential part of our eucharistic prayer:“Work in our hearts through the Holy Spirit so that we mayentrust ourselves more and more to thy Son Jesus Christ.”13 Ifone reads ahead in this prayer he notices that in effect thespeaker now prays as if the “transformation” has taken place:“Grant that our contrite hearts may be nourished with histrue body and blood, yes, with Him who is the only heavenlybread, that we may not live in our sins but He in us and wein Him.” Of course, a real or physical transformation hasnot taken place; but spiritually the transformation is as-sumed! At this point the elements are referred to by whatthey signify, and not by what they are in themselves.

Then follows the Credo, which has already been brieflyexplained, but now expressed in order to highlight the as-pect of proclamation that marks the celebration of the eu-charistic feast (1 Cor 11:26). Thereupon one finds the tableexhortation, which is really nothing else than the old sursumcorda now filled with a Reformed perspective. For here thehearts of the believers are not directed to the elements as heldup by the priest (as in the old rite), but are directed to heaven“where Christ our advocate is at the right hand of His heav-enly Father.”14

Then we have the post communion doxology. Althoughthe actual texts are different, one can surely hear the strainsof the Benedictus in the words of Psalm 103: “Bless the Lord,O my soul!” Further, the content and substance of the Ag-nus Dei is brought into words in a very pointed way with twoquotations from Paul’s letter to the Romans : “He who didnot spare his own Son but gave Him up for us all . . .” and“But God shows his love for us in that while we were yetsinners Christ died for us.”

The hymnsOne might wonder whether it still would not be appro-

priate to take the ancient texts and craft with them several re-sponsive hymns for the celebration of the Lord’s Supper. Initself there are no Scriptural objections to this, since for themost part the prose texts of the Ordinary are passages fromScripture. But we should recall that the reformers, specifi-cally Calvin, preferred to use psalmody in the responsive el-ements of the communion feast as well, just as they func-tioned at other places in the Reformed liturgy. And whatbetter route can be followed than to choose psalms fitting tothe occasion?15

This does not mean that hymns are to be excluded inour worship. On the contrary! We may sing of the great actsof salvation according to the great hymns of the New Testa-ment as well! Especially the hymns surrounding the birth ofour Saviour have found a place in the Reformed hymnal,since they form as it were a climax to the psalmody of the oldcovenant.16 Many of the New Testament hymns can also beused for the Lord’s supper services. Besides the more obvi-ous hymn choices (Hymn 44), several other psalms andhymns are specifically suitable for communion services.17

However, Calvin and other reformers leaned specifically tothe songs of the New Testament, rather than to the singingof various (didactic or prophetic) prose texts. In this way our

CLARION, AUGUST 21, 1998 399

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IN THIS ISSUE

Editorial – Keeping the Festival! — J. De Jong ................398

Treasures, New and Old – Healings and Miracles Today — P. Aasman ................401

The Work Research Foundation — C. Van Dam ............402

The Covenant and the Christian Life (Part 1)

Personal Appropriation — J. De Jong............................404

Book Reviews – The Three Faces of the Law: A Christian Perspective by Ian Hunter — reviewed by H. Faber ..............................................406

Romans, An Exposition of Chapter 10: Saving Faithby D.M. Lloyd-Jones — reviewed by C. Bosch ............408

The Hi-Liter — J. de Gelder ............................................409

Responding to God’s Word ............................................410

Our Little Magazine — Aunt Betty ..................................412

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worship of praise most accurately re-flects the specific praise patterns of thechurch of the Scriptures.

The Reformed LiturgyIt is, therefore, questionable for me

whether such a detailed introduction ofelements of the liturgy of the earlychurch, i.e. the texts of the Ordinary, isreally necessary in our liturgy. Theseelements are already in some form rep-resented in the Reformed communionliturgy.18 This at least should make usmore thoughtful, and may perhaps helpto temper our zeal for change withsome awareness of what motivated theReformers. The fathers were not quite asforgetful as we might think! Theywanted to get away from the practiceof the rote repetition of texts, and so in-corporated a more didactic element inthe Form in which all members (in-cluding the children!) could be taughtconcerning what is actually takingplace in the communion service.

Furthermore one might question thewisdom of introducing a term like the“Ordinary” into the Reformed liturgy.Regardless of its age, the term is indis-solubly connected with the holy Eu-charist, which from the sixth century wascalled the mass.19 But the reformers con-sistently wanted all attention focussed onthe Word!20 In promoting the develop-ment of a Reformed ’Ordinary-order’next to the existing orders of worship,do we not unwittingly open the door toa shift of emphasis away from the Wordand more specifically on the sacramentof holy communion? The introductionof a special liturgy for the Lord’s Supper,over and above the “ordinary”(!) Re-formed liturgy can result in fostering anunwanted Romanizing tendency.

This does not take away that ourliturgy needs continued attention. But aswe approach this vast area, we need tobe conscious of building on those whohave gone before us rather than eithertearing down their work, or developingdisjointed and strange junctures in theroad. Changes in themselves may some-times initially appear attractive, and alsoappear to reflect Scripture, but in theend more can be lost that we realize.

1See Acta van de Generale Synode van deGereformeerden Kerken in Nederland.Berkel en Rodenrijs 1996 (De Vuurbaak,Barneveld, 1996), Article 63, 92-107. AnEnglish text of some excerpts of the decisionson liturgy can be found in Diakonia (Sep-tember 1997), 49-51.2I was not able to get hold of a copy of thisreport for this editorial, and simply had to

rely on the summary given in the Acts.Therefore my remarks should not be seen asspecifically directed against this report.3Sanctus and Benedictus are usually takentogether, and in the Roman rite were sungand recited just before the Canon. See W.D.Marshall, An Outline of Christian Worship.Its Development and Forms, (London: Ox-ford University Press, 1936) 604The “ordinarium-order” includes all the el-ements normally present in a communionworship service, [especially in the Lutheran,Anglican and Roman traditions] includingthe Lord’s prayer, gospel readings, respon-sive Amens, and individual short acclama-tions, salutations and benedictions.5The committee report for the Synod ofBerkel gives the following reasons for rein-stating the texts: The ordinarium includedelements that go back to early Christian tra-ditions; 2. elements of the ordinarium comeout of the Scriptures but have not been takenover by the Calvinist tradition, cf. Acta, 257.Synod’s ground is that “next to existing ordersof worship, a so-called ordinarium ordercould result in an enrichment of the liturgy,if it appears that this order gives a good formto praise God in the worship services in ourtime” (my translation) cf Acta, 96.6Acta, 137.7Kyrie eleison is the Greek expression for:“Lord have mercy”, and it became a stan-dard element of the mass, also in the musicalrenditions of the modern era.8The issue of the “worthy partakers” (Latin:Manducatio indignorum) was a much de-bated point in the Reformation period. Cf.G.C. Berkouwer, De Sacramenten, (Kam-pen: Kok, 1954) 327ff.9According to C. Trimp, this part of the Form(called the anamnesis) replaces the canonprayer of the mass, with its emphasis on tran-substantiation, cf. C. Trimp, Formulieren engebeden. Een beschrijving van de liturgischeformulieren en gebeden in het Gere-formeerde kerkboek (Kampen: Van denBerg, 1978) 50.10The Sanctus (with its Trisagion, the three-fold Holy, Holy, Holy) has its roots in Is 6:1-3, where we read of the majestic appear-ance of the Lord as He proceeds to revealHimself for salvation and judgment. 11In the later Roman or western rite, the trans-formation of the elements occurs during thewords of consecration spoken by the priest.

12So K. Deddens, Het begon in Jeruzalem,(Goes: Oosterbaan en Le Cointre, 1976)178-179.13Here the essence of the old epiclesis is re-tained, but that which was formerly appliedto the elements is now applied to the people.In other words, through the prayer for theHoly Spirit the elements are not offered toGod, (as in the mass) but the people offerthemselves to God, (with their oblations forthe poor). The old offeremus or offertorium(oblation) can be noticed in the words :”. . .that we may entrust (i.e. offer, JDJ) ourselvesmore and more to Thy Son.” C. Trimp says:“In fact this is the replacement of the offer-torium of the mass, so detested by the Re-formers.” Cf. C. Trimp, 52.14Here the detailed confession of Article 26Belgic Confession must be kept in mind asthe background to the Reformed phrasing ofthe sursum corda.15For example the words of the Benedictusare taken from Psalm 118.16The three most common hymns in the Re-formed liturgies were the Nunc dimittis (theSong of Simeon), the Benedictus (the Song ofZechariah) and the Magnificat (the Song ofMary). 17Luther used Ps. 111 for the communion ser-vice, and Calvin made much use of Ps. 34:3 and the Song of Simeon (at the end). Theold Agnus Dei is also echoed in our Hymn22, and is very suitable for a hymn of prepa-ration or thanksgiving surrounding the com-munion service. This hymn also includes theReformed idea of the old offertorium. Seenote 13.18In this regard, Synod Berkel’s statementwith regard to the hymns and songs of thechurch, that we should not become too iso-lated with regard to other Christians, raisesmany questions, cf. Acta, 100. Especially inthis area we need to be focussed on devel-oping a specifically Reformed liturgy, notan eclectic one.19The Ordinary has its origin in the RomanSacramentary which in turn has its roots inservice books of the fifth century, cf H.B.Swete, Church Services and Service BooksBefore the Reformation (London, SPCK,1930) 75. 20 So G. Van Rongen, Our Reformed ChurchService Book (Neerlandia: Inheritance Pub-lications, 1995) 216-217.

The ancient hymns of the mass:Kyrie eleison: Lord, have mercy! (see Matthew 15:22)

Gloria: Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will to-ward men. (Luke 2:14)

Credo: I believe (see Mark 9:24)

Sanctus: Holy, holy, holy, [is] the LORD of hosts: the whole earth [is]full of his glory. (Isaiah 6:3)

Benedictus: Blessed [be] he that comes in the name of the LORD: we blessyou out of the house of the LORD. (Psalms 118:26)

Agnus Dei: Behold the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world.(John 1:29)

Many people wish that the kinds ofsigns and miracles performed in crucialperiods of the church’s life, would con-tinue today. Oh! to hear one like Mosestell us that tonight bread would raindown from heaven. Oh! to see one likeElijah who could strike a river and thenwalk right through it. What wouldn’t wegive to see one like Jesus Christ touch aleper and make him clean; to hear Himcommand a storm, “Be still!”, and seeit obey; to witness Him call to a deadman in a tomb, “Come out!” and to seehim obey. That would be something.

We cannot read the Gospel narra-tives without becoming a little jealousof the people who lived in Palestine inthose days. Some people so badly wantto see these things today that they willimagine that the healings and the mira-cles are actually still happening.

Now, the thing that made many ofour Lord’s miracles so brilliant was thatthe people He healed were in agony. Weare riveted by the story of the leper’s pleafor help when he said, “Lord, if you arewilling, you can make me clean,” be-cause we cannot imagine a more horri-ble existence than that of a leper. Weare in suspense with the woman whowas subject to bleeding for twelve years,as she thinks, “If I only touch his cloak, Iwill be healed,” and we secretly urgeher on, because it must have been avery burdened life for her. We are movedto pity at the blind man outside Jerichocrying out, “Son of David, have mercy!”

What makes the healing of each ofthese persons so brilliant is that these

people were suffering so much. WhenGod heals those who suffer, our heartsare thrilled by the demonstration ofGod’s compassion. The importantthing, then, is this: At the centre is not somuch the sign of power, but the deliv-erance from agony.

So we don’t need to be jealous afterall. The act of healing and the brillianceof divine miracles are happening everyday. In the Gospel narratives, we readof a certain kind of pathos – that of thesick, the maimed, the mad and the de-mon possessed. In the book of Psalms,we read about a different kind ofpathos, but one that is deeper and morepainful. In Psalm 32 David reflected onthe pain he felt after sinning againstGod, because he refused to confess hissin. He said that it felt as though hisbones where disintegrating. Spiritually,he was in such agony that he groanedall day long. Even at night, he got norest. In his effort to find an adequate il-lustration for the spiritual pain he expe-rienced, he said, “It were as though thesummer’s heat had sapped all mystrength.” In Psalm 51 David describesperhaps the very same dark season inhis life, and he says that it were asthough God were crushing all hisbones, one by one. When you considerthe images David used to describe hisspiritual condition, then we are leftwondering: Is there anything more pa-thetic than a child of God who hassinned and refuses to repent?

In the Bible, there is no conditionmore painful, more pathetic, then that of

a sinner. And that kind of pain is onewhich each one of us absolutely mustshare. Our pain MUST be worse thanthat of the leper; our desperation mustbe deeper than the woman with theblood disorder; our hopelessness mustbe darker than that of the blind man.God says through Isaiah: “I live in ahigh and holy place, but also with himwho is contrite and lowly in spirit, to re-vive the spirit of the lowly and to revivethe heart of the contrite” (Isa 57:15).

This is where God lives – with theperson who is broken because of hissin, who sees the true pathos of his sin-ful condition and needs to be revived.David says in Psalm 51 that the onlysacrifice that ultimately is pleasing toGod is a broken and contrite spirit.

God in Jesus Christ performed bril-liant miracles in Palestine. But Godperforms even more brilliant ones to-day. When we go to God in the sameway that the leper, the woman and theblind man and so many others went toJesus Christ, then he will heal us. Themiracle we enjoy is better because hedoes not just heal a physical problemthat ends with death, but he heals a spir-itual one that makes our life nearly un-bearable, and furthermore, one thatwould have destroyed us in hell forever.

No need for us to be jealous. Heal-ings and miracles happen in our livesevery day!

Rev. Paul Aasman preaches the mira-cle of God’s healing grace in GrandValley, Ontario.


TREASURES, NEW AND OLDMATTHEW 13:52

By P. Aasman

Healings and Miracles TodayI live . . . also with him who is contrite and lowly in spirit. Isaiah 57:15

What’s inside?Summer is waning. Many of us have had opportunity to get away for awhile and do a little travelling, sightseeing, and relax-

ing. The time for holidays is over. Photo albums are being updated. Summer tans will soon fade. Labour Day marks the transitionfrom the holiday months to “back to work.” Most will carry on with present work or employment. Some begin new work. Stu-dents face new challenges as they enter a new year of school. Labour Day in many ways signals a new start to our work. LabourDay ought to be especially important to Christians. Of all people, Christians have a good perspective on labour. They know thatGod created them to work. When we, as people redeemed by the blood and Spirit of Jesus Christ, work hard in our daily calling– whatever it might be – then we please God. In this issue Dr. Van Dam introduces the Work Research Foundation, an organiza-tion which deals with labour issues. Accompanying this article is a review by Mr. H. Faber on a recent WRF publication.

We labour six days; we rest one day, the Lord’s day on which we gather for worship. Our Dutch sister churches have, oflate, been thinking about Sunday worship and introducing liturgical change. Dr. De Jong writes about this in the editorial. Aswell, Dr. De Jong introduces the topic of the covenant and the Christian life.

Have a good day! GvP


Committee for Justice and LibertyDuring the 1960s and early 1970s,

many members of the Canadian Re-formed Churches supported the Com-mittee for Justice and Liberty (CJL). CJLhad been established in 1961 with thestated aim “to protect and advance thecivil liberties of all Canadian workersand to safeguard their right to employ-ment.” It was especially their valiantfight against compulsory union mem-bership as a condition for employmentthat earned enthusiastic and wide-spread support. In many ways the workof CJL was blessed and their effortsmade the difference on the job site fornot a few whose right to employmentwas upheld in the courts.

The CJL however gradually changedits direction during the 1970s and ac-tively sought a wider constituency out-side the Reformed community. Thisdevelopment was in part reflected intheir name change from CJL to Citizensfor Public Justice (CPJ). The focus shiftedfrom labour relations to social concernssuch as poverty, native rights, energyand pollution. I would be surprised ifthere are very many original supportersof CJL supporting Citizens for PublicJustice in the Canadian ReformedChurches today. The current agenda ofthis organization has alienated many Re-formed people and has caused socialgospel activists to embrace it.

The continuing need to addresslabour issues

With labour relations and employ-ees’ rights no longer front and centre inthe CJL/CPJ, discussion on these issueshas largely died out in our circles. Al-though many in our midst are self-em-ployed, the underlying issues of freedomof association for employees have notgone away. It would be foolish andshortsighted not to be concerned aboutthe continuing injustices in this area. Forthis reason, I would like to call atten-

tion to the existence of the Work Re-search Foundation, an organization thatdoes not appear to be that well-knownamong us. This foundation is of greatsignificance for to my knowledge, thisis the only think tank that is working fulltime on giving Christian arguments andanswers to the type of labour issues thatCJL used to deal with. With its work ithopes to influence for the better publicopinion and eventually the law makers.

“The CJL graduallychanged its directionduring the 1970s.”

In this context, it needs to be notedin passing that there is another organi-zation which from time to time contin-ues to work actively through the courtsto support freedom of association forthose who for reasons of conscience donot want to join a union at their place ofwork. It is the National Citizens Coali-

tion, a small c conservative organiza-tion with no specific Christian preten-sions. Their address is: 100 AdelaideStreet West, Suite 907, Toronto, ONM5H 1S3 (internet: http://www.citzen-scoalition.org). It also deserves our sup-port, particularly since the WorkResearch Foundation is primarily athink tank and does not engage in courtbattles on behalf of workers strugglingagainst compulsory unionism.

The focus of the Work ResearchFoundation

To come back to the Work ResearchFoundation (WRF), it was incorporatedin 1974 for the purpose of doing re-search and education in economics andindustrial relations from a Christianperspective. WRF is rightly convincedthat how people view any issue ulti-mately depends on their religious pre-suppositions and worldview. Guidingprinciples in their work include the

The Work Research Foundation

By C. Van Dam


following (summarized from WRF An-nual Report 1997):i. Economic activity is a responsible

human task. A business needs to beprofitable, but it does not just existfor making a profit.

ii. Cooperation between managementand workers is vital to making anenterprise a success.

iii. Workers need to be treated withdignity and fairness.

iv. Employers have the right to be freefrom union harassment or intimi-dation.

v. Workers must be free to join or notto join a union.

vi. Unions have a legitimate function torepresent and protect the interests ofworkers.

Ongoing researchAs just noted, a major area of con-

cern and research is the right of employ-ees to be free from union harassment orintimidation and to have freedom of as-sociation. Last year, some of the work ofthe WRF received widespread media at-tention. The news concerned a WRF-sponsored survey of current attitudes inCanada towards labour unions. The moststriking find of the survey (and this par-ticularly made the press) was that while57% of Canadians still approve of unions(down from 66% in 1966), between75% to 90% disapprove of commonunion policies such as closed shops,

mandatory dues, restrictive biddingclauses, and the financial support of po-litical and other non-union causes.Canadians clearly have strong objec-tions against forced union membershipas a condition of employment.

“How people view any issue ultimately

depends on theirreligious

presuppositions and worldview.”

Labour of course tried to play downor discredit this survey but this is diffi-cult to do. WRF had commissionedrenowned Canadian sociologist Dr.Reginald W. Bibby of the University ofLethbridge to oversee the survey. Thishighly regarded social trends analystmade arrangements with the AngusReid Group, one of the country’s toppollsters, to carry out the data collectionas part of their monthly national om-nibus surveys. The Angus Reid Groupcollected data using a representativesample of 1,504 adults. Such a sample

size permits accurate generalizations tothe Canadian adult population – statisti-cally about 3 percentage points, plus orminus, 19 times in 20. The study was re-leased under the title “Canadians andUnions. A National Survey of CurrentAttitudes” (March 1997). In concludinghis survey, Bibby notes:

The mood of the country is onewhere freedom should be experi-enced in the workplace – wherepeople and companies should beable to work when they are quali-fied to work, where individualshave a measure of freedom in join-ing unions and paying dues, andhave input into how their dues arebeing used. And overall, Canadiansare maintaining that, in the late90’s, cooperation between unionsand employers is both possible andpreferable to confrontation.

This published survey is the initialphase of a major public education pro-ject about the injustice of compulsoryunionism. The future will probably seethe WRF bring to the public attentionspecific instances of workers and em-ployers who have been deprived oftheir right to go about their daily busi-ness freely.

Other activitiesThe WRF publishes a quarterly

newsletter, WRF Comment, in whichimportant trends in labour relationsand economics are analyzed. It hasalso recently published Three Faces ofthe Law: A Christian Perspective, bylabour arbitrator and law Professor IanHunter. In this publication ProfessorHunter critically analyzes the expandedrole of the courts and the subversive in-fluence of The Charter of Rights andFreedoms. A review of this work ap-pears elsewhere in this issue of Clarion.This month it is also sponsoring a con-ference in Burlington on “UnchangingWorkplace; Unchanging Faith” inwhich Christian perspectives on shap-ing the workplace will be explored.

For the past 23 years Harry An-tonides has served WRF with distinctionas its Director of Research. He has re-cently retired and Ed Pypker has beenappointed in his place. The director ofthe ongoing project described above isRay Pennings.

Further information on the WorkResearch Foundation can be receivedby writing WRF, 5920 Atlantic Drive,Mississauga, ON L4W 1N6 (ph. 905670 7386) or by going to internet web-site: http://www.interlog.com/~wrf.


The following article was first pre-sented as a speech at the opening ofthe study year in Ancaster on September25, 1996. Some changes and additionsto the text have been made as a resultof the discussion.

IntroductionWe wish to devote some time to a

topic which has received an increasingdegree of attention in church discus-sions today: the covenant and its rolein the Christian life. With this title I wishto retain a more practical focus. I willnot give an elaborate treatment of thedoctrine of the covenant, but shift theattention to the question as to whichway the covenant functions in the life offaith and the daily life of the believer.

This has been a problem for an in-creasing number of people in the Re-formed world in recent years. The realquestion is whether or not the covenantis becoming a well-known cliché whichreally does not say too much for us to-day. It functions as little more than as ahallmark of orthodoxy. Is this the im-pression we wish to give? Is this the pic-ture that the Canadian Reformed give tothe outside world? If so, where does themisunderstanding arise? Are we pro-jecting a skewed image of the faith?

In order to look more closely atthese questions I have isolated three ar-eas for consideration. 1. The covenantand faith, specifically concerning thepersonal dimension of the Christian life;2. The covenant and assurance, and 3.the covenant and election. Looking atall three areas, we hope to see the im-portance of the role of the covenant andits promises and obligations in our dailyChristian life.

Covenant and faith (the personal aspect)

One of the more critical questionsthat arises in many of our discussions

today concerns the issue whether wehave forgotten the personal dimensionof faith in our view of the covenant.Does not the doctrine of the covenant attimes form a hindrance to the very inte-gral aspects of personal faith and expe-rience that are so important in the Chris-tian life?

The real issue is then not whether we canspeak of personal

experience but whatkind of personal

experience we must speak about.

Now I am among those who believethat the question of personal involve-ment and personal experience of faith isa legitimate one. The church has neverpromoted a faith that comes across as acold, lifeless set of rules and dogmaand that one must blindly and arbitrar-ily accept. On the contrary, the life offaith reflects a certain warmth andshould also reflect a spirit of happinessand joy! After all, we share a rich gift!Christ gave his life on the cross for us,and the fruit of that cross is beingworked in us through his Spirit. Whatgreater reason for joy and thanksgivingcould one find?

The real issue then is not whether wecan speak of personal experience, butwhat kind of personal experience mustwe speak about? In our approach todoctrine, we often distinguish betweenredemption accomplished and applied.When we speak of the latter term, ap-plication, we are definitely moving inthe personal realm. The other term usedfor this area of God’s work is appropria-tion, a term focusing more on the human

side of this work. Christ applies His sal-vation to his chosen people one by one.And from our side, appropriation is apersonal activity. But what kind of per-sonal experience are we referring to?How must this personal appropriation inthe covenant be qualified?

Personal appropriationAppropriation is dealt with in a

number of places in our confessions.One can notice in our confessions a re-markable connection between applica-tion and appropriation.1 In Article 22Belgic Confession it is clear that theHoly Spirit applies and appropriates sal-vation. For there we read: “the HolySpirit kindles in our hearts a true faithwhich embraces Jesus Christ with all hismerits, makes Him our own and doesnot seek anything beside Him.” How-ever, later the article says: “Meanwhile,strictly speaking, we do not mean thatfaith itself justifies us, for faith is onlythe instrument by which we embraceChrist our righteousness.” Here we con-fess appropriation as something we do!So in the one article we have the sameact confessed as from God’s side andfrom our side.

This same theme is carried on inLord’s Day 23, Heidelberg Catechism.After confessing the righteousnesswhich Christ obtained for us by hisdeath, question and answer 60 adds: “. . . if only I accept this gift with a be-lieving heart.” And in question and an-swer 61 the same point is made: “I canreceive this righteousness and make itmy own by faith only.” Notice the ele-ment of personal appropriation. Wemust do it, or even better: I must do it.The call is personally directed. Appro-priation is a human work, and it is a per-sonal work. At the same time, it is adivine work. Lord’s Day 25 asks: “. . .where does this faith come from?” Andthe answer is clear: (65): “From the

The Covenant and the Christian Life (Part 1)

Personal AppropriationBy J. De Jong


Holy Spirit who works it in our hearts bythe preaching of the gospel. . . .”

So we have this structure in the con-fession: personal appropriation is boththe work of the Holy Spirit, and ourwork. We can say that the work of theSpirit is prior, while our work is a fruit,a result (see Phil 1:29). We can neveract without the indwelling Holy Spirit(Eph 2:8). But our role is by no meansinsignificant or secondary! It is postu-lated as a living element of our faith,and it even receives extra attention. Thisdoes not mean that we contribute to ourown salvation. Rather, it means thatthrough the working of the Holy Spiritwe are co-workers with God in beingmade partakers of Christ’s merits. Es-sentially the Spirit’s work and our workgo hand in hand, and you should notemphasize the one without the other.

The liturgical formsThe same line is found in our litur-

gical forms for the sacraments. In theForm for the Baptism of Infants weconfess that the Holy Spirit promises usthat “He will dwell in us, making uspartakers of that which we have inChrist.” We also pray that God in hisinfinite mercy will “incorporate by hisHoly Spirit this child into his Son JesusChrist.” Here we confess that the HolySpirit makes us partakers of Christ. Heappropriates salvation for us. But at thesame time, we must do it. For the sameForm says: “we are called and obligedby the Lord to a new obedience. . . .We must not love the world but putoff our old nature and lead a God-fearing life.”

In the Form for the Celebration ofthe Lord’s Supper we confess that by thegrace of the Holy Spirit “we are heartilysorry for our shortcomings and desireto fight against our unbelief and liveaccording to all the commandments ofGod.” And in the so-called epiclesis orprayer for the Spirit at the table, weplead: “Work in our hearts through theHoly Spirit so that we may entrust our-selves more and more to thy Son JesusChrist.” The Holy Spirit appropriates!Yet we too must appropriate salvation!For the same form says: “For the sakeof Christ, who so exceedingly loved usfirst, we shall now love one another,and shall show this to one another, notonly in words, but also in deeds.”

Now despite the differences inwording, and despite the two sides ofappropriation that we confess in ourcreeds and forms, they have one thingin common. The appropriation is never

directed to oneself, but always directedoutside of oneself. We are to cling tonothing else besides Jesus Christ.2Thisis the line of Art. 22, Belgic Confession:“This faith embraces Jesus Christ withall his merits, makes Him our own, anddoes not seek anything beside Him.”And Lord’s Day 23 says: “by faith weare righteous in Christ, and heirs to eter-nal life” [emphasis added].” The Formfor the Baptism of Infants says that wemust seek our “cleansing and salvationoutside of ourselves [emphasis added].”The Form for the Celebration of the LordSupper says: “On the contrary, we seekour lives outside of ourselves, and indoing so we acknowledge that we aredead in ourselves [emphasis added].”

The appropriation isnever directed to oneself,

but always directedoutside of oneself.

Look to Christ!Here then is the hallmark of per-

sonal appropriation in the Reformedsense. We are personally involved! Butthe direction or focus is always onChrist, and not ourselves. To be sure,as Calvin says, to know God we mustturn into ourselves.3 But one can neverturn into oneself without first looking atthe cross. On the cross redemption isaccomplished for us. From the crosswe turn to ourselves. Then we are ac-cused of sin! But in the act of the ap-propriation of Christ’s righteousness weare also acquitted of guilt!

If in the consideration of the personalaspect we begin to focus on ourselves wewill end up in dangerous waters. In thehistory of Reformed Protestantism onemeets with the danger of perfectionismon the one hand and defeatism on theother.4 Perfectionism sets in when wefocus inordinately on ourselves and tendto be positive with what we see. Perfec-tionism does not build on the promises ofGod or the merits of Christ, but buildson certain experiences through whichwe have gone, whether it be a secondblessing, a special experience of God’spresence, the sense of new life, and soon. The danger here is that we believewe can come to some form of freedomfrom sin above and beyond what Godhas promised, and over and beyondwhat He gives in Jesus Christ.5

The other danger is defeatism. Welook to ourselves and see how weak we

are, and how small our faith is, and endup disqualifying ourselves, becoming to-tally discouraged, and laying down ourarmour. Carelessness with the things ofGod and an easy attitude are also thehallmarks of defeatism. For people whosay to themselves “what is the sense oftrying?” end up showing that they aregiving up the struggle. The elements ofprecision and urgency are cast aside andwe take the real situation for granted.We all too easily feel that we are notgood enough, we stand under the judg-ment of God, and we are in danger ofeternal condemnation. We are thenlooking to ourselves, not to the cross!

From personal to communalDo we then need to think about a

personal element, and a personal di-mension in the life of faith? Indeed, wedo! – but in the right spirit and in theright attitude. The focus must be Christ-centred, not man-centred. As soon asthat focus is adopted one will invariablycome to the communal aspect as well.For we all share the same riches andthe same gift! How can one be focusedon Christ, and not on His body? Howcan one look to Him, and not on thosefor whom He died?

We should not speak of a personal

relationship with Jesus Christ with a

neglect of the communal aspect in that

relationship.

So we have every reason to highlighta personal element in order to guardourselves against a dead orthodoxy. Butas we do so, we realize we cannot iso-late the personal aspect from its com-munal framework. We should not speakof a personal relationship with JesusChrist with a neglect of the communalaspect, as if that personal aspect has theprimary or all-encompassing signifi-cance in one’s life. The relationship withChrist has a personal aspect, but in thatpersonal aspect you invariably come tothe communal aspect. Indeed, con-scious personal appropriation leads atthe same time to growth in the commu-nal bonds, and in the realization of com-munal obligations in the service of theLord. You then see the communal as-pect as the key element! That is the heart


of the relationship we share and livefor! Is not this what church life is allabout: the fellowship, the communionwe have in Christ, and in the riches andtreasures found in Him?

In Scripture one will find distinctpersonal admonitions and exhortations.Paul warns that each one should exam-ine himself to see whether he is hold-ing to the faith (2 Cor 13:5). He warnseach not to boast in himself, but in theLord. Each must make it his aim toplease God “so that each may receivecommendation for what has been donein the body, whether good or evil” (2Cor 5:10). But these personal directives

find their place within the room ofGod’s specific admonitions and en-couragement to the entire congregation.Within the context of the address to thechurch as a whole, more specific ad-monitions are directed to each one ofthe members. Therefore, for those in thechurch the road of personal appropria-tion normally takes place in the roomof communal fellowship, and in the endyou are drawn through personal appro-priation to communal sharing and mu-tual giving in Christ!

1This was pointed out by C. Trimp, Klank enweerklank, (Barneveld: De Vuurbaak, 2nd.ed., 1989), 129-130

2On this see A.N. Hendriks, “Hoe zijn wijzeker van onze verkiezing?” De ReformatieVol 69, # 2 and 3 (9 and 16 October 1993)17-19; 41-443Institutes, I.v.3. Calvin uses the phrase “todescend into oneself” when he deals withthe road to know the true God, and the re-quirement for self-examination. In dealingwith conversion he always speaks of a turn-ing outside of oneself to God, cf. InstitutesIII.iii.7.4For more detail on this see J. Kamphuis in“Gelegen – Ongelegen” De Reformatie,Vol 68, #14 (January 2, 1993) and followingissues.5This was the error of the Anabaptists, towhom Calvin reacts in Institutes III.iii.14

BOOK REVIEWS

By H. Faber

Three Faces of the Law“If the foundations are destroyed, what can the righteous do?” Ps 11:3

Ian Hunter. Three Faces of the Law: AChristian Perspective. Mississauga,ON: Work Research Foundation, 1996.94 pages paperback, $ 7.95 Can.

This booklet is an insightful andreadable critique of the changes inCanadian jurisprudence since the 1982Charter of Rights. Ian Hunter, professorof law at the University of Western On-tario, describes and illustrates the rapidsecularization of the courts and societyin the last decades, so that what is polit-ically and socially correct has becomethe controlling factor in our courts. Inthree lectures, comparing Biblical truthsof Justice, Liberty and Life with the mod-ern day, secular “wasteland” of expedi-ency and individual rights, ProfessorHunter demonstrates how, in Canada,control of the moral and constitutionalframework has passed to an unaccount-able group of nine jurists, with far reach-ing consequences.

The different notions of “justice” areaptly illustrated by comparing Jerusalemand Athens. In Scripture, doing justice(Micah 6) is an honourable goal, andPaul exhorted the Philippians to thinkabout “whatever is just” (Phil 4:3). Chris-tian justice involves judgment, not com-promise or “victimology.” “We have a

charter of rights; we lack a charter of re-sponsibilities,” writes Hunter, and hewarns that modern society is in dangerof losing the faculty of judging: “at theend of this road is not tolerance, buttyranny” (p. 27). Christian justice also in-volves truth, to which Christ came tobear witness (John 18:37). But Cana-dian courts seem to follow Pilate, andput truth on a sliding scale of political

correctness. Lastly, Christian justice istempered with mercy, as God’s mercyis boundless towards those that fear Him(Ps. 103:11). The view from Athens,which has prevailed in the courts, is tofit justice to man’s concept of a propersocial organization.

The concept of “liberty” is the fo-cus of the second section. ProfessorHunter illustrates, by looking at the


modern universities, how liberty hasbeen replaced with political correct-ness, where free speech can only begender-neutral, and individual opinionswhich do not reflect the correct out-look, are repressed. Canadian society,likewise, has replaced the British ruleof law with a code of rights – the 1982Charter of Rights. It is noted that theBritish North America Act of 1867 doesnot refer to liberties or freedoms – theseare implied in the parliamentary democ-racy. “Rights” in the 1867 BNA Act is aconcept limited to private law, beingcivil disputes among individuals. Bymaking the Charter of Rights thesupreme law of the land, social issuesare now defined by a Court which wasnever intended to be a constitutionalcourt, and key issues such as abortion,euthanasia, cruise missile testing andhomosexual rights have moved from thepublic forum of the legislature to thenine justices who are appointed by thegovernment. This leaves the decision-making to individuals who are not ac-countable, and therefore, is undemoc-ratic. Prof. Hunter points out that evengiven these flaws, the Supreme Courthas the option of exercising “judicial re-straint”, but instead has become anagent for social change. As an exampleof such judicial activism, Prof. Hunterpoints to the Askov decision, where thecourt struck out a criminal convictionfor delay in proceeding with the trial,which, according to the court, jeopar-dized the accused person’s right to a fairtrial under the Charter. The conse-quence of Askov, in the Province of On-tario alone, was that forty-seven thou-sand criminal charges, ranging fromattempted murder to fraud, were thrownout. Justice Peter Cory of the SupremeCourt, the author of the Askov deci-sion, later said that the Court wasshocked by this reaction, and had notforeseen these consequences. Clearly,the Court is not prepared to accept re-sponsibility, according to Prof. Hunter,and may be out of touch with reality.Many other examples, especially in thearea of criminal law, show how theCourt’s decisions under the Charterhave curtailed the effectiveness of thepolice and allowed known offenders togo free because of “botched” investiga-tions by police. This does not promoteliberty, but fear on the part of law-abid-ing citizens.

In contrast, the Christian view of lib-erty is that service to God is true free-dom, “the glorious law of liberty”(James 1:25). Unlike a human Charter,

which is judicially enforced, the Christ-ian is called to stand fast in the liberty inwhich Christ has made him free, andavoid entanglement with man-madeconcepts (Gal. 5:1). That our Canadiansociety has traded in this heavenly con-cept for a human set of rules is truly aform of bondage.

The third area of discussion centresaround “law and life.” In this section,which I consider the best part, Prof.Hunter looks at the abortion decisionsand the direction of the euthanasia de-bate, areas of life which have been leftfor decision by the Supreme Court ofCanada. As of January 1988, with thestroke of a pen, Canada is the onlycountry among civilized nations to haveno law on abortion. The Morgentalerdecision by a 5-2 majority of the Court,means that abortion is available on de-mand, even though all justices of theCourt expressed the view that the statehas a legitimate interest in the protec-tion of the fetus. Prof. Hunter’s analysisdemonstrates how only one justice,Mme. Justice Wilson, based the deci-sion on the substantive argument of theliberty of the woman to choose, whilethe other justices ruled on narrow pro-cedural grounds. Nevertheless, withthe developments since the Charter,the result has been no protection forthe unborn for some nine years, withno indication of a political will tochange the situation.

The Borowski case, which followedMorgentaler, sought to have the Courtrule that the fetus had a right to life, un-der section 7 of the Charter of Rights,which states “Everyone has the right tolife.” As result of the Court’s schedule,the Morgentaler decision was renderedfirst, making the key section of theCriminal Code unconstitutional, andthe Borowski case was dismissed as nolonger having any bearing on the Crim-inal Code. The Borowski case thusended, “not with a bang, but (a child’s)whimper” (p. 67, quoting Morris Shu-miatcher). Prof. Hunter also analysesthe subsequent injunction cases, wherethe father sought to stop the motherfrom having an abortion, and the emer-gency hearing by the Supreme Court ofthe Daigle case. When during the argu-ments before the Court it was admittedthat Ms. Daigle had gone ahead and ob-tained an abortion (contrary to the in-junction), the same Court which dis-missed the Borowski claim as beingmoot, continued to hear the matter,and ruled in Ms. Daigle’s favour, sanc-tioning the abortion decision.

In the area of euthanasia, Prof.Hunter sees the same developments ofpolitical inaction and judicial activism.He reviews the Rodriques case involvingthe terminally ill Mrs. Rodriques, whochallenged the validity of the CriminalCode prohibition of assisted suicide, andsketches the secular wasteland in whichthe Supreme Court struggles to articulate“values”. The reasoning in this caseagain demonstrates the relativistic ap-proach of the court, and the lack of theapplication of principles. Only Mr. Jus-tice Sopinka considers the “sanctity oflife” a principle of fundamental justice,and draws a distinction in principle be-tween active and passive euthanasia.The great concern is that the majorityview (trading-off various concepts), willultimately prevail.

In a short post-script, Prof. Hunterreflects on the discussions which fol-lowed each of his lectures, and espe-cially the question, “What should wedo?” Unfortunately, few answers aresuggested, and the response seems toacknowledge our limited potential forimprovement. Prof. Hunter focuses onthe individual’s responsibility to doright and to consciously distinguishright from wrong. Like the Belgic Con-fession, Art. 36, he also advocatesprayer for those in authority. However,in addition to a personal response, weshould also be aware of a corporate ac-tivity, such as political activity, pro-lifeorganizations, petitions, letters to theeditor, and similar ways to express toour government the need to return toBiblical principles, in a society whichis adrift in a sea of expediency.

Mr. Herman Faber is barrister and so-licitor in Hamilton, Ontario.

CHURCH NEWS

NEW EMAIL ADDRESS:Rev. J. VanRietschoten

[email protected]

CALLED and DECLINED to Denver,CO, U.S.A.:

Rev. J.G. Slaaof Elora, ON

CALLED to Fergus, ON:Rev. P.G. Feenstra

of Owen Sound, ON

Sermons on Romans 10

By C. Bosch

D.M.Lloyd-Jones, Romans, An Exposi-tion of Chapter 10: Saving Faith. Edin-burgh: The Banner of Truth Trust,1997. Hardcover, 400 pp. $ 35.99 U.S.

This excellent book, a comprehen-sive exposition of Romans 10, is a vol-ume of thirty-five sermons originallypreached by Dr. Lloyd-Jones at West-minster Chapel, London, in 1963 and1964. It is the tenth book in the serieson Romans by this prolific writer and Ibelieve it to be one of the best. Thistimely and patient explanation of an im-portant chapter of Paul’s letter is in-tended for all students of Scripture andwould serve as an excellent resourcebook for any Bible study group.

The sermons are lively, to the pointand give food for much reflection. Itmakes one appreciate something of thewealth that is ours in knowing the truedoctrine of salvation. When these mes-sages are taken to heart they can’t butfortify us in our spiritual battle today. Itis in this chapter that the apostle Paulexposes the futility of self righteousnesswhile proclaiming the wealth of thatrighteousness which is a gift of God, ap-propriated by a living faith. That faithconfesses the risen and exalted Christ. Itis also here that we learn to knowpreaching as God’s primary means ofgrace in bringing people to repentanceand faith. God did not arbitrarily rejectIsrael as His people for, “Everyone whocalls on the name of the Lord will besaved” (Rom 10:13).

Dr. Lloyd-Jones’ method of pro-claiming the Word is an outstanding ex-ample of what is called “expositorypreaching.” The author does not onlyexplain his text in the context of thewhole of Paul’s letter. His wealthyknowledge of Scripture and the historyof the Christian church allow us to seethe text within the framework of thewhole Bible and the history of salva-tion. The author maintains that, “Youcan’t believe that Jesus is Lord withoutbelieving the whole of Scriptures” (p. 128). Though we certainly experi-ence truth we are exhorted to knowwhy and what we believe (p. 134)!

There is a great deal of applicationof the Word that is relevant to our livesand our days. In a day when not a few

authors stress man’s feelings and expe-rience at the expense of doctrine, Dr.Lloyd-Jones resists this movement. Timeand again we read such statements as:“We must be careful that we are notgoverned by our feelings. Rather, toput is positively, we must always begoverned by Scripture and its teach-ings” (p. 8). The author takes no lessthat eleven sermons to show the richesof Romans 10: 9,10. It is here that heexpounds the “content, character andnature” of “saving faith.” He showsthat believing is far more than giving“intellectual assent” to the Word ofGod. It is a matter of the heart and whilethat hearts certainly involves our emo-tions “it is deeper than that” (p. 149)and includes the whole person “in thevery depths of the personality.”

Dr. Lloyd-Jones does not lose sightof the fact that the initial address ofPaul’s letter was the church of Christ atRome. He notes Paul’s great desire andprayer to God for the Jews, “that theymay be saved” (v. 1). He shows how theLord rejects all forms of work-right-eousness and that haughty self-confi-dence which characterized so much ofthe Pharisees’ words and deeds.

We live in a time when “church-shopping” is popular with some whileothers deny God’s call to be gatheredwith His people altogether. In dealingwith the vv. 9-10 of Romans 10, Dr.Lloyd-Jones shows that to confessGod’s name must mean that we longto be with God’s people and our “de-light is to be with them” (p. 205). In thisway we simply confess that “Jesus isLord” and that not our will but Christ’sis decisive.

The author takes pains to show thatPaul is not advocating a barren, life-less, joyless existence. He shows that“faith “ in this chapter is a gift that isfull of joy in the Lord. He asks thequestion, “How much of this joy isthere in the Christian church today” (p. 347)? He has no hesitation sug-gesting that many are outside of thechurch of God today because, “wehave failed to have the impact that thefirst Christians had upon their con-temporaries.” While not advocatingthat we all go door to door in evange-lizing our neighbours, he reiterateswhat we confess in Lord’s day 32 ofthe Heidelberg Catechism, viz. “Thatby our godly walk of life we may winour neighbours for Christ.” Yet whatmust lead to such a joyful walk of lifeis not some quick and shallow spiritu-alism. On the contrary it must involve

a deep conviction of our sin and mis-ery, a humbling of ourselves before thethrone of God and amazement at thegrace of God to us in Jesus Christ. Inlooking back on previous chapters ofPaul’s letter to the Romans Lloyd-Jonesis not shy to suggest, “you will neverget this joy until you have grasped theteaching of the first five chapters of thisEpistle” (p. 351).

Reading this book with eyes of faithwill certainly enrich your life. It wasthe author’s prayer that God might writethe message of Romans 10 “deeply onour minds, hearts and spirits in orderthat we all, examining ourselves mayhumble ourselves before Him” (p. 400).

Does all this mean that we mustagree with everything Dr. Lloyd-Joneshas written here? I don’t think so. Thereis a hint of an attained perfectionismin the author’s statement ( p. 124):“You must not believe any teachingthat tells you to crucify your old na-ture.” Though he writes this in reac-tion to those who suggest it is man’spower to crucify one’s sinful self, nev-ertheless there is more to sanctifica-tion than only realizing that our oldnature has been crucified with Christ.Though true Christians have been bornagain, as Peter writes in his first letter(1: 23) yet time and again they need tohumble themselves under God’smighty hand (1 Pet 5: 6). They willneed to die to their sins day after day.

I also don’t think the author doesjustice to the importance of believingthe doctrine of election. It is simply afalse dilemma to suggest, as he does,that “You can be a Christian without be-lieving it” (p. 138). The Lord does notallow us to be selective about his truth.Though the Spirit testifies that thosewho believe in the Lord Jesus Christ willsurely be saved that same Spirit saysthat we are to watch our life and doc-trine closely (1 Tim 4:16). Seeing allthe right things the author has writtenabout the content of faith these state-ments are unfortunate.

Having said this I nevertheless rec-ommend this book heartily for studyand reflection. May the Lord use it forgood in our personal, family andchurch life and may we grow in the un-derstanding of God’s wondrous Word.

Rev. C. Bosch is minister of the Fellow-ship Canadian Reformed Church inBurlington, Ontario.



THE HI-LITER

By J. de Gelder

News from Here and There

SaskatoonWith regard to the developments in Saskatchewan I

found the following update in the bulletin of ProvidenceCanadian Reformed Church in Edmonton:

Recently two families moved from Abbotsford to Saska-toon. Their request is to be members of our congregation.They have advised us in careful detail that they wouldlike to start a house congregation under the oversight ofProvidence Church. They plan to advertise extensively tolet other church members know of the possibility of liv-ing in the Saskatoon area. Apparently it is very feasiblefor young families to start a dairy operation in this area.They have also committed themselves to doing this forfive years. If there is no growth, then they would moveto Alberta. The consistory received a serious commit-ment from these two families to the Lord and to thechurch. The consistory has decided to accept the attes-tations of these families and to encourage the develop-ment of a house congregation in the Saskatoon area. Itis hoped that the Lord will bless this by allowing aCanadian Reformed congregation to be established inthe province of Saskatchewan.

BarrheadStudy of liturgical matters leads to a better understanding

of the nature of our worship services, which in turn canlead to suggestions for implementing certain improvements.In Barrhead the following has been proposed:

On the basis of the feedback received from the congre-gation regarding changes in the liturgy, the consistorycomes with the following proposal and will ask the mem-bers to respond with Scriptural reasons why the various items should not be implemented:1. Votum will be pronounced by the congregation2. Salutation: the congregation will pronounce the

Amen.3. After the prayers the congregation will repeat the

Amen.4. After the proclamation of the Word the congregation

will repeat the Amen.5. After the blessing, the congregation will respond with

singing a three-fold Amen.

BramptonTurning east we learn that by now the church at Bramp-

ton may rejoice in musical enrichment of its worship services.The installment of the organ will be completed thiscoming week and next Sunday DV [somewhere in thebeginning of June, JdG] will be ready for use. We aregrateful to a number of volunteers that, via the commit-tee of administration, gave freely of their time to getthings ready. We trust that this instrument with its manypossibilities will enrich our worship services as we offerour songs of praise. However, with so many available

possibilities there is also a learning curve for the organ-ists. We therefore request your patience and under-standing over the next few weeks when we, as organ-ists, become accustomed to this new instrument.

TorontoThe purchase of new pew Bibles for the Toronto church

prompted the encouragement to handle them with care.They wrote:

Observation of practices and habits in this regard makeit necessary to stress this point: Bibles are not there forknee support! Sometimes it is good to hear those whohave come to us from different backgrounds, even fromother cultures, for then you will find out that one of theoffensive observations they make is the irreverent use of‘the Book!’ Let this be no longer a stumbling blockamong us!

I am sure that this is not only applicable in Toronto.

Grand ValleyIn Grand Valley the minister started an interesting initia-

tive. Rev. Aasman wrote:I have offered to give some help to a brother who wantsto learn Greek. It really is a lovely language that is notas hard to learn as you might think. With a bit of hardwork, one will be able to begin to work with the simpleparts of the New Testament in the words as they wereoriginally inspired. There are few things as lovely asreading the Bible in the language it was originally writ-ten. Text books are affordable and the lessons are quitemanageable. It is nice, however, to have two or morepeople learning together in order to encourage one an-other in their work. If anyone is at all interested in join-ing our Greek club, please let me know soon.

Which minister is going to start a Hebrew club?

WatfordThe church at Watford is looking forward to the possi-

bility of building its own facilities, but things don’t always goas smoothly as we would like to see. The Building Commit-tee reported:

We had hoped that by now the property would havebeen in our hands. Due to matters out of our control,the process has been dragging on for an unreasonableamount of time. Though extremely frustrated, there isnothing we can do but be patient and pray that theTownship lawyer will soon be satisfied with all his legalconcerns. As soon as this happens, the property dealwill close. May the Lord bless this hope.

AncasterSignificant progress has been made in Ancaster with re-

gard to the plans for a Home Mission Worker Project. In theAncaster bulletin we read:

Women’s League Day 98, hosted bythe Surrey Maranatha Women’s Soci-ety, welcomed 213 ladies from the ninechurches in the Fraser Valley and Lyn-den, as well as guests from Vernon, Al-berta and the Netherlands. The themeof the day was “Responding to God’sWord,” with an emphasis on both ouroutward appearance and our relation-ships to God and each other.

Everyone was officially welcomed byMrs. Anne Vandermolen, who opened

the day with prayer and an invitation tosing God’s praise. This was the first yearthat a change in League Day organiza-tion was implemented. The hosting so-ciety has traditionally done the morningtopic as well as the lunch preparations,but due to the larger number of congre-gations in the valley, it was decided to di-vide the responsibilities more evenly.Consequently, Yarrow took care of themorning topic, under the capable direc-tion of chairlady Mrs. Jenny Janzen. After

pointing out that women’s issues are of-ten front-page news today, she cautionedagainst the world’s emphasis on self andindividual achievement, rather than thebiblical concept of service in communalrelationships.

Mrs. Heather Aikema then presentedher topic entitled “Adorn Yourself withModesty.” Heather detailed many scrip-tural references to clothing and thebody, emphasizing that because we be-long to Christ and are temples of his

For the past while an ad hoc committee and the consis-tory have been studying the whole matter of whetherwe are ready to establish a home mission base in theGreater Hamilton area. The proposal was that wewould work together with the church at BurlingtonSouth which has already approved a similar proposal.After many hours of discussion – in committee, consis-tory, in joint committee meetings with Burlington – andafter fine tuning of reports, the consistory unanimouslyadopted the proposal to work together with BurlingtonSouth in appointing a mission worker who will work forthe spreading of the gospel of Jesus Christ in this area.

Later on a meeting was held to seek the approval of thecongregation, and Rev. VanPopta reported on this meetingas follows:

. . . at the congregational meeting the consistory receivedapproval to put into effect the Mission Worker Project pro-posal. This is a great development. Lord willing, by Sep-

tember 1 we will have someone in place to begin ex-panding and developing the work. May the Lord bless it!

How encouraging to see the efforts in the Church to focus onthe central mandate given by our Lord and Saviour!

HamiltonAll good things come to an end, as the saying goes. The

bulletin of the Cornerstone church in Hamilton informs us:Our dear pastor is nearing the end of his sabbatical.You may be interested to know that the book he hasbeen writing is very near completion, as a matter of factit is in the final editing stage.

From down under this time only one little note, from Kelm-scott:

Church membership is somewhat like gardening – ifyou nurture it, you’ll get a lot in return.A word to ponder for everyone of us.


Responding to God’s Word

Spirit, also our outward appearancemust witness to our commitment to leada godly life. She pointed out that theNew Testament believers were also sur-rounded by immorality, and had to bereminded that true beauty comes fromwithin and not from fashionable or ex-pensive clothing. Such beauty does notfade with age, because the believer isclothed with such lasting garments asrighteousness, compassion, kindness,patience and humility.

The discussion touched on manypoints, including the training of daugh-ters by their mothers, how we mustmaintain our femininity in the face oftoday’s blurring of gender distinctions,and the responsibilities of both men andwomen in regards to provocative dress.It was pointed out that the world shouldnot dictate our fashions, and that ouryoung women must be encouraged byboth word and example to avoid im-modest attire. Parents have the author-ity to ensure that standards of modesty

are met, even though the task of ensur-ing compliance can be very difficult.

Mrs. Marian Nienhuis from Abbots-ford then read a poem entitled “Moth-ers Apron Strings,” after which we sangthe League song, and Mrs. Jenny VanDriel led in lunchtime devotions. Adelicious lunch of salads and buns wasserved in the festively-decorated base-ment. Old friends and new acquain-tances exchanged lively conversations,and before long the afternoon sessionwas announced.

Chaired by Mrs. Linda Vane, the af-ternoon featured three Aldergrove ladieswho held a dialogue on the topic“Growing in Faith.” Mrs. Fran Vander-pol, Mrs. Margaret Meyer, and Mrs.Karen Van Spronsen discussed how wewere created to live in relationship toGod and our fellowman. Sin has bro-ken these relationships, but restorationhas come through the renewal of thecovenant in Christ the Redeemer. Aswives and mothers we struggle to grow

in faith as we work towards a commongoal in our marriages and families. Thisrequires patience, endurance and muchself-discipline. It means giving up con-trol over our lives, and learning to pleaseGod in his way, instead of our own. Oneof the issues raised during the questionperiod concerned the definition of faith,as well as the connection between faithas a gift from God, and faith as it isworked out in our human relationships.Does faith grow only through strugglesin our lives, or is it fed by hearing theWord? How does faith relate to obedi-ence? Fran stressed that faith is not onlywhat we believe but also what we do.

After some general business wasdiscussed, Mrs. Corrie Geurts invitedus to sing “Great is Thy Faithfulness,”the day was closed with prayer. Teatimeafford one last opportunity for socializ-ing, after which all returned home un-der God’s providential care.

C. Geurts


Mrs. Marian Nienhuis

l to r: Mrs. Karen VanSpronsen,Mrs. Margaret Meyer, Mrs. Fran Vanderpol

l to r: Mrs. Linda Vane, Mrs.Fran Vanderpol

Mrs. Jenny Janzen


Dear Busy BeaversDid you have a good Sunday last week? Did you go to

church, or did you stay at home because you were sick, or forsome other reason? Did you go to your own church, or tothe church of some cousins, or friends, or to the churchwhere you are holidaying? Don’t you think it is lots of funbeing able to go to another church, knowing that these peo-ple believe in the same God as you do, read the same Bible,and pray just like your Dad and Mom, or Minister pray?

Yes, it is wonderful that in so many places in Canada youcan find a Canadian Reformed Church, that you are able togo to church in freedom, without anyone teasing you aboutit. It is amazing, though, how many churches there arearound the world, very similar to your own. If you go to Hol-land, you’ll find the same churches, although they have theirservices in another language, of course. If you go to Aus-tralia, you’ll find the same churches, although only in a fewplaces. If you go to South Africa, you’ll also find somechurches. And there are some in China, Indonesia, Koreaand many more places where you will find somewhere thatyou can go to church.

Do you believe that God looks after us in such a way thatalmost wherever we go, we can find a church to go to wor-ship Him? I do!

OUR LITTLE MAGAZINE

By Aunt Betty

ALL J’SThe answer to each clue below begins with the letter ‘J’.

How many can you identify?

1. He “sold pottage” and stole his brother’s birthright.2. The walls of this city fell down after the besieging Is-

raelites had “compassed it about seven days.”3. This man was sold into slavery but rose to be the king’s

right-hand man whose organizing ability staved off thethreat of famine.

4. His father was the first king of Israel and a great friendwith the one who was to succeed his father.

5. The biggest river in Palestine.6. The writer of a book of the Old Testament whose

prophecy was quoted by Peter in his speech on the dayof Pentecost.

7. He was eight years old when he began to reign, and heeffected a great reformation in Judah during the thirty-one years before he was killed at Megiddo.

8. He came from Bethlehem and his most famous son wasfirst a shepherd and later a king.

9. His rash oath led to the sacrifice of his only daughterafter his victory over the Ammonites.

10. He was an unwilling messenger to Nineveh, but even-tually, after being thrown into the sea and swallowedby a great fish, he converted the city by his preaching.

11. He commanded the sun and moon to stand still so thatthe Israelites could complete the pursuit and destructionof the Amorites.

1 Bernice Ravensbergen1 Lydia Kingma4 Melissa Tuininga4 Michelle DeBoer6 Hannah Bergsma10 Debbie Olson

17 Margriet Snip18 Rebecca Bethlehem19 Amanda Tamminga22 Christa Agema22 Laurence Kingma26 Arnold Kanis

BIRTHDAYS FOR AUGUST

WORD SEARCHBy Busy Beaver Kim Van Dyk

B T N T E I E N P P A R A K E E T T T E EL O O N N E T T A I E T N E T N I E E T LU F R I E T T I R T N T E E I T T E T N EE A G L E I N E R T T N E I N S T H C I CJ K A D M E E C O H I C K A D E E A C H MA C L C U C H C T C H E S D K D C E K I AY K N E A I I D E C I A D E A C I H A C LA D H E D F H C A K E E E H C I C K A D LD A E F A L C O N H A W K K C H I C E E AE E R H E A C I P U F F I N K H A E D E RZ S O A R M E B Z M E B L A K C I C H C DE W N B R M A E Z M B R A E Z N B R A E ZL A B B E I A R E I O Z R A B I Z E A R BR N R A E N Z B Z N E R B R A F B A E C DS R Q P O G U L L G N L N M K D J G I H FC W T U V O Y X Z B A B D I C L E I G K NH Y W L V U S T S I L R Q P N O F J H M LI Z X A A B C T D R E U F H G G I J K L OC Z Y N X W V U R D T S E R Q P D R O N MK A B I C D F E H I G I K B J L M O N P OE Q R D O D O S T U C V X W I Y Z B V A BN Q P R O M N K L J I H H G F R E I D E CR S T A U W V X Y Z B A C G E D D N F H JM L K C A N A R Y H E C I A Y U W R S P IN P G O O S E J I G F D W B Z X V T O Q KD O Q R S T A L B A T R O S S W A L L O WB C B L A C K B I R D W V W X A Z U N M L

Find:HummingbirdMorning DoveGold FinchParakeetOstrichAlbatrossOwlSwallowChickenDodo

MallardEmuFalconGooseGullHeronLoonPuffinCanaryBlackbird

SwanHawkEagleRobinBluejayPheasantCardinalFlamingoBluebirdParrot


CLARION ADVERTISEMENTS

Thanks be to God who has richly blessed our family with more of Hisprecious gifts. This time He entrusted to our care the double blessingof twins JORDAN ALBERT and JUSTIN NIKOLAAS Born June 23, 1998Despite some early concerns, the Lord was gracious and made allthings well. Baby brothers for Kimberly, Jessica, BradleyJohn and Karen Mans (nee Smouter) 528 Tipperary Avenue, Burlington, ON L7L 2L5

Our Gracious Father has entrusted into our care one of His covenantchildren. He is our firstborn, a son MICHAEL FREDERICK TEITSMA Born June 21, 1998James and Joanne Teitsma (nee Vandermeulen) 90 Ranchgrove Bay, Winnipeg, MB R2C [email protected] new grandchild for Jack and Frances Vandermeulen and Dennis and Annie Teitsma.

The LORD has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy. Psalm 126:3with the birth of one of His covenant children. ALEANA JANELLE Born June 24, 1998 Will and Gloria FaberSecond grandchild for both grandparentsMr. and Mrs. Allan FaberMr. and Mrs. Lloyd Bredenhof6913-144th Street, Surrey, BC V3W 5R8

With thankfulness to our heavenly Father, who has entrusted into ourcare another one of His covenant children, we joyfully announce thebirth of our son TIMOTHY DAVID Born July 14, 1998 A brother for Michael, Ashley, Darren, Nathaniel and KirstenMarc and Margaret Schutten 45 Harris Avenue, Richmond Hill, ON L4E 3M2

O give thanks to the LORD for He is good; for his steadfast love endures for-ever. Psalm 107:1We have been blessed and give thanks to our heavenly Father forgranting to us a third child LUCAS MOURICE Born July 6, 1998 A brother for Evan and Connor Proud parents Mike and Emma VanderVelde (nee Bosma) Box 1692, Carman, MB R0G 0J0

The Lord has blessed our family with another covenant child. We joy-fully announce the birth of JACOB PETER Born June 12, 1998 A brother for Jennie, Kelsey and PaigeJeff and Cynthia Kuntz 8405 - 161 Street, Edmonton, AB T5R 2K7

With thankfulness to the Lord for again blessing our family, we joy-fully announce the birth of another girl JESSICA CINDY Born July 16, 1998 Parents: Gordon and Charlene Tenhage (nee VanWoudenberg) A sister for Carrie, Robyn and Sara1749 Arlington Road, Blue Bell, PA 19422

Births

WORD SLEUTHBy Busy Beaver Melissa Brouwer

FROM THE MAILBOXThank you for your letter and puz-

zle, Kim Van Dyk. It was great to hearfrom you again. Are you enjoying yourholiday? Did you have lots of fun withyour cousins, camping at Sibald Point?I’m sure you must have had a really en-joyable time. Are you looking forwardto going back to school yet? Write tome again, won’t you, Kim.

Love from Aunt Betty

AUNT BETTY

c/o Premier Printing Ltd.One Beghin Avenue, Winnipeg, MB R2J 3X5


Psalm 144:12,15Thankful to the Lord who has blessed us with another precious child,we wish to announce the birth of our daughter KIMBERLY ROSE Born July 22, 1998 A sister for Philip, Kyle and MitchellEd and Michelle Bergsma (nee vanEgmond) Box 521 Carman, MB R0G 0J0

Psalm 128:4Your children will be like olive shoots around your table.With thankfulness to the Lord who in His providence has blessed andprotected both mother and child, we announce the birth of a son,KEVIN PHILIP on May 29, 1998A brother for Elissa, Stephen and Christopher.Jeff and Evelyn Dykstra (nee Geusebroek)199 Hatcher Road, Winnipeg, MB R2C 3W6

They will bear fruit in old age, they will stay fresh and green, proclaiming,“The LORD is upright” Psalm 92:14 WILHELMINA LEYENHORST (nee Vandeburgt) will celebrate her 80th birthday onAugust 10, 1998, D.V. We invite you to join us in this joyousoccasion in an Open House on August15, 1998 in the Annex of the CloverdaleCanadian Reformed Church.Her thankful children:

Clarence and Audrey MostertJohn and Minnie HuttemaJohn and Jenny PruimCasey and Nelly LeyenhorstPete and Marian NienhuisHarold and Annette LeyenhorstMartin and Annette LeyenhorstEric and Shirley LeyenhorstBill and Tilda PothovenRalph and Joyce LeyenhorstStan and Lynn LeyenhorstAndrew and Bettyanne LeyenhorstAlso 53 grandchildren and 41 great-grandchildren

At the open house we also remember that Dad and Mom arrived inCanada 50 years ago on July 29, 19485899-173 Street, Surrey, BC V3S 4A4Phone (604) 574-0430

Many waters cannot quench love; neither can floods drown it.Song of Songs 8 verse 7aWith thankfulness to our heavenly father, we HARRIET WINKELAAR and MARCEL STELare pleased to announce our engagement. June 30, 19985319 - 58 Avenue, Barrhead, AB T7N 1E3e-mail [email protected]

With thankfulness to the Lord who brought us together and has guidedus in all things, we EMILY BOSSCHER and ART BEIJES joyfully announce our engagement. June 17, 1998 491 Deerhurst Drive, Burlington, ON L7L 5T1

Give thanks to the LORD, for He is good; His love endures forever. Psalm 118:1With thankfulness to the Lord who has brought us together, weMARY-LYNN LOF and JUSTIN SCHUTTENjoyfully announce our engagement. July 17, 1998 7132 South Chippawa Road, Wellandport, ON L0R 2J0

For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united tohis wife, and the two will become one flesh. So they are no longer two, butone. Therefore what God has joined together, let man not separate.Matthew 19: 5,6KAREN GRACE VANDERVEEN and DOUGLAS JAMES BEINTEMA together with our parents Herman and Barbara VanderVeen andAndy and Ina Beintema joyfully announce our forthcoming marriage,D.V., on Saturday, the fifth of September, 1998, at the Eben-EzerCanadian Reformed Church at Chatham, Ontario.Rev. H. Versteeg officiating.Future Address: 23647 Industrial Road, Thamesville, ON N0P 2K0

With thankfulness to our heavenly Father we announce that we will beunited in marriage on, D.V. August 13, 1998 ANDREW VIERSEN and RIANNE JANSSENOur address: P.O. Box 169, Neerlandia, AB T0G 1R0Ph./Fax: 1-403-674-3199

For this God is our God for ever and ever; He will be our guide even tothe end. Psalm 48:14With thankfulness to our heavenly Father, who has been our faithfulguide, weMELISSA ANTOINETTE KOTTELENBERG and IVAN HENRY BOS with our parents, John and Toni Kottelenberg and Jake and Winnie Bosjoyfully announce our marriage.The ceremony will take place, the Lord willing, on Saturday, Septem-ber 12, 1998 at 1:00 p.m. in the Second Christian Reformed Churchat Brampton, Ontario. Rev. B.J. Berends officiating.Future address: 64 Sherwood Drive, Guelph, ON N1E 1R6

This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you.John 15:12We praise and thank our Father in heaven who guided our paths andbrought us together, we JUDITH EMILY daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Johannes VanAssen andJASON CORNELIUS MARKson of Mr. and Mrs. Pieter Dejong announce our marriage. We will exchanged our vows, D.V., Friday, September 4th, 1998 at1:30 p.m. in the Canadian Reformed Church, Neerlandia, Alberta. Rev. W.B. Slomp officiating. Future address: Box 127, Neerlandia, AB T0G 1R0

Weddings

Engagement

Birthdays


York 1958 – August 29 – 1998 Welland”. . . in all your ways acknowledge him, and He will make your pathsstraight.” Proverbs 3:6Thanking God for our parents and grandparents, we announce andcelebrate their forty years of marriageRAY and JILL MIDDEL (Radsma) (Reint and Jeltje)

Harley and Freda – Anthony, Michael, Brendan, ReubenFrank and Rieka – Sarah, Esther, AmosAlice and Bert Schussler – Mark, David (with the Lord)John and Anita – Raylene, JeremyRay and Susan – Nathan, Colin BrittanyTheo and Rachelle – Jessica, Timothy, Rebekah

Open House: Saturday, August 29, 1998 from 2:00 - 4:30 p.m. at theWellandport Orthodox Reformed Church, 74082 Wellandport Rd.,Wellandport, ONMailing Address: 65 Chantler Road, Welland, ON L3C 4M6 (Best wishes only).

1953 Hamilton, ON – September 11 – 1998 Burlington, ONWith thankfulness to God who has kept them in His faithful care, wejoyfully announce the 45th Wedding Anniversary of our dear parentsand grandparents KLAAS and ALBERTA HARKE (Nee Hoogezand)Congratulations from your children and 10 granddaughtersBurlington, ON: Ruby and Matt VanderMooren

Alana, Joanne, Emma, KaylaBoma, Irian Jaya: Jeanette and Clarence Togeretz

Marla, JasmineMeaford, ON: Gerald and Carmen Harke

Justine, Allison, Leah, Meghan2289 Sharron Street, Burlington, ON L7R 1W5

1958 – September 6 – 1998With great joy and thankfulness to our heavenly Father for the love andblessings He has bestowed on them over the past 40 years, we wishto announce the anniversary of our dear parents JOHN and JOANNE DEBOER (nee Koopman)Their thankful children and grandchildren:Wellandport, ON: James and Simone DeBoer

Justin, Scott, David, Rachel, ColinBurlington, ON: Joyce and Fred Bosscher

Darryl, Brian, Michael, Gregory, Thomas, Kevin

St. Ann’s, ON: Maurice and Lorraine VanSpronsenAndrew, Alisha, Daniel, Jonathan, Jordan

Caistor Centre, ON: Dave and Nancy ElgersmaRandy, Blake, Leah

Smithville, ON: Frank and Sandra DeBoerJoshua

Burlington, ON: Jason and Debra BouwmanTo celebrate this occasion, you are invited to an Open House, theLord willing, on Saturday, September 12, 1998 at their residence from2:00 - 4:30 p.m. (7426 Sixteen Road, Caistor Centre). In case ofinclement weather it will be held in the annex of the Canadian Re-formed Church of SmithvilleRR 1, Caistor Centre, ON L0R 1E0

1958 – August 15 – 1998I say to the LORD, “Thou are my LORD; I have no good apart from Thee.”As for the saints in the land, they are the noble, in whom is all my delight.Psalm 16: 2,3With joy and thankfulness to our heavenly Father we announce the40th Wedding Anniversary of our parentsFREDRIKUS and APOLLONIA HOFSINK (nee VanDyk)

(Fred) (Ploon)May our Lord continue to bless and guide themSmithers, BC: Willie and Rita Hofsink

Justin, Robert, Chelsey, EricaClearbrook, BC: Nelena HofsinkSmithers, BC: Harry and Clara Hofsink

Melissa, Tanya, Loralee, CurtisBurlington, ON: Ria and Henry Jans

Laura, NathanSmithers, BC: Fred Jr. and Judy Hofsink

Robynn, Rachel, Debbie, FreddyPlony Hofsink

Burlington, ON: Deb and Gerard TorenvlietP.O. Box 984, Smithers, BC V0J 2N0

1973 – August 25 – 1998The beams of our house are cedars; our rafters are firs. Song of Songs 1:17 NIVIt is with great joy and thankfulness that we may celebrate the love ourparents and grandparents share on this 25th Wedding Anniversary.We thank God for being with you and may He grant you many moreyears together as family.EDWARD and PADDY ROODZANT (nee Keep)Vineland, ON: Michelle and Jack VanderVelde

Chelsea DanielleDunnville, ON: Kerry and Allen Komdeur

Cameron Patrick, Austin KurtisOrangeville, ON: Vicki and Chris KampenBrampton, ON: Nicole

ScottSarahJoshuaJennifer

You are invited to an Open House in the reception hall at ImmanuelChristian Reformed Church, 63 Church Street East, Brampton, ONon Saturday August 29 from 2:00 - 4:00 p.m.84 Major Wm. Sharpe Drive, Brampton, ON L6X 3T7

1973 – September 27 – 1998Do everything in love. 1 Corinthians 16:14With thankfulness to the Lord we wish to announce the 25th WeddingAnniversary of our loving parents ALBERTUS GERRIT and ALFYTHA VAN ZUYLEN (nee Vos)May the Lord continue to bless them and keep them in his loving care.Burlington, ON: Anita

Bradley (at home with the Lord)KimberleyPamela

43-1300 Maple Crossing Blvd., Burlington, ON L7S 2K7

Anniversaries


1968 – August 30 – 1998“Blessed is everyone who fears the LORD, who walks in His ways. . . .”Psalm 128 :1-6With thankfulness to our heavenly Father for His blessings andguidance, we joyfully announce the 30th Wedding Anniversary of ourdear parentsLUITSEN and ANNIE DEWITT (nee Vanderstoep)We pray that the LORD will continue to guide and protect them inthe years to come.Their thankful children,Carman, MB: Doane deWittFergus, ON: Peter and Sandra deWitt (VanLeeuwen)

Curtis, MitchellCarman, MB: Henrietta and Marten Riepema

Shawn, Sarah, Jessica, CassandraFergus, ON: Ronald deWittCarman, MB: Beverly and Neil Gansekoele

AutumnElora, ON: Michael deWittGuelph, ON: Margaret deWitt6596 Gerrie Road, RR 1, Elora, ON NOB ISO

August 21, 1953 – August 21, 1998Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptablein Thy sight, O LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer. Psalm 19:14With great joy and thankfulness to God, we announce the 45th Wed-ding Anniversary of our dear parents and grandparents RICHARD and ROELFIEN IDA HOEKSEMA (nee Smit)Sardis, BC: Tony and Alice Hoeksema

Angelina, Diana, Richard, Jason, Martin, Veronica and Tyler

Winnipeg, MB: Bill and Bonita VanderLindeJohn, James, David, Michelle, Deborah, Kenneth, Mark and Daniel

Barrhead, AB: Melvin and Jane HoeksemaBrian, Amy, Kevin, Tiffany and Jeremy

Neerlandia, AB: Charles and Caroline deBoerChristopher†, Nathaniel, Matthew, Timothy†, Aaron, Rachel and Miriam†

Smithville, ON: Richard and Margareth HoeksemaYolanda, Esther and Aileen

Kenneth†We plan to celebrate this special occasion with an Open House,D.V., on Saturday, August 22, 1998 from 2:00 - 4:00 p.m. in theCanadian Reformed Church at Barrhead.Address: 5506-56th Street, Barrhead, AB T7N 1C6

1968 – August 23 – 1998We would like to announce God’s gracious gift of providing our par-ents with a loving marriage of 30 years.Congratulations to:FRITS and SUSAN MEYER (nee Zeldenrust)God’s love shines through you both!From your children,

Bryan and Denise MeyerCharlaine and Bill FrostJana Meyer

We celebrate with our parents on the occasion of their 30th Wed-ding Anniversary.It was August 9, 1968 when HENDRIK TAEKE VANDERVELDE andEMILY ELIZABETH VAN EGMOND exchanged marriage vows. They have been blessed with six childrenand eight grandchildren. They have shared happy and sad time to-gether, and through it all experienced the guiding Hand of our heav-enly Father. Dad and Mom, we wish you many more years togetherin His care. With love,Dugald, MB: Tim and Angelina Degelder

Sylvia, Joanna, Bryan, Rebecca and BenjaminWellandport, ON: Mark and Christy VanderVelde

OwenJake and Ingrid Jansema

Vanessa, JacquelineGregWinstonNicoline

5396 Canborough Road, RR 3, Wellandport, ON L0R 2J0

1958 – September 20 – 19981Corinthians 13:3-8aWith deep gratitude to our Heavenly Father we may announce the40th Wedding Anniversary of GERRIT and ALICE BRASZ (nee DeBoer)With love from your children and children’s childrenAurora, ON: Ron and Ev Brasz

Serena, Kendra, Erica†, JennaVineland Stn, ON: Rick and Yvette Brasz

Angela, Becca, Catey, Deanna, Erin, FaithThornhill, ON: Rob and Bev Brasz

Collin, Kurtis, CassondraMaple, ON: Yvonne and Andrew Kampen

Krystle, Brandon, Trevor, EvanEtobicoke, ON: Gary and Cindy BraszParry Sound, ON: Paul BraszOak Ridges, ON: Troy Brasz 73 Lake Avenue, Postal Station B, Richmond Hill, ON L4E 3G3

1958 – September 6 – 1998With joy and thankfulness to the Lord, who guided them in the waysof their wedding text of Proverbs 3:3A, “My son, forget not my law”,we announce the 40th Wedding Anniversary of our parents and grand-parentsYUL and COBY KRIKKE (nee VanDelden)London, ON: Ubbo and Marian Meinen

Jonathan, James, Gregory, Daniel, Matthew,Benjamin

Everson, WA: Bob and Debby LodderAlyssa, Kyle, Rianne, Reece, Julia

Waterdown, ON: John and Tammy KrikkeMichael, Nadine

Milton, ON: Ray and Leona KrikkeJustin, Amanda, Melissa

Burlington, ON: Paul and Shauna KrikkeSpencer, Connor

Mark Krikke and Lisa1027 Cedarwood Place, Burlington, ON L7T 3J4


1963 – August 2 – 1998So we know and believe the love God has for us. God is love, and thosewho abide in love abide in God, and God abides in them. 1 John 4:16It is with great joy and thankfulness that we, the children and grand-children of JAMES and AUDREY VAN RAALTE (nee Brouwer) share in the 35th Wedding Anniversary of our dear parents and grand-parents. May the love of Christ continue to guide them and us all.RR 4, Belwood, ON N0B 1J0

Obituaries

January 12, 1956 – July 24, 1998Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life and I willdwell in the house of the Lord forever. Psalm 23:6At the age of 42, after a courageous battle with cancer, the Lordtook to himself our beloved daughter-in-law, sister-in-law, aunt andgreat aunt. MARTHA DALHUISEN (nee Welfing) May the Lord comfort Dick and his children, Jeremy and Jackie,Monica and Allison, through this difficult time.Vernon, BC: Alice DalhuisenLethbridge, AB: Mary and Jake OussorenCoaldale, AB: Henny and Albert Engels,

Brandon, MichaelLethbridge, AB: Gary and Tracy OussorenVernon, BC: Sheri and Matt Hofsink,

Samantha, JasmineAldergrove, BC: Wiea and Paul WelfingCoaldale, AB: Marlies WelfingAldergrove, BC: Pauline, Tim, Joanne, FredVernon, BC: Tina Dalhuisen and Brian CareyCoaldale, AB: John and Betty Dalhuisen

Brenda, Laura, Ken, AudreyVernon, BC: Ron and Barb Dalhuisen

Alicia, Miranda, Rebecca, GideonTaber, AB: Cathy and Andy Westerhoud

CandaceLangley, BC: Joyce and Vince Van Spronsen

Ashley, Daniel

Teaching PositionsThe John Calvin School at Launceston, TasmaniaURGENTLY requires 3 TEACHERSThe Free Reformed School Association of Tas (Inc) invites applica-tions from suitably qualified persons to fill several vacancies before thestart of the 1999 school year.The vacancies will be in the middle to upper primary department, butany teachers are invited to apply.The successful applicants must be members of the Free ReformedChurches of Australia or of a sister church overseas and are expectedto be committed to Reformed Education.Possession of a Diploma of Reformed Education or equivalent wouldbe an advantage.A contract appointment of fixed duration may also be considered.For enquiries please contact the Principal:Mr. G. BrouwerPO Box 89, Launceston 7250, Tasmania, AustraliaPh (03) 6344 3794, Fax (03) 6344 3690Applications should be lodged with:The Free Reformed School AssociationMr J. Wielstra14 Kipling Crescent, Hadspen 7290, Tasmania, AustraliaFax (03) 6393 7527, E-mail: [email protected] CLOSE AUGUST 30 1998

The Timothy Canadian Reformed School Society of Hamilton, Ontarioinvites applications for GRADE ONE TEACHERDuties to commence January 1, 1999.For further information concerning this upcoming vacancy pleasecontact the principal: Mrs. K. Dieleman Tel.: School (905) 385-3953; Home (905) 304-4016, or contact theEducation Committee: c/o Ellen Hekert: Tel. (905) 679-4897 Send applications to: Timothy Canadian Reformed School, c/o Education Committee, Box 20007, Upper James Postal Outlet,Hamilton, ON L9C 7M5

The Board of Dufferin Christian School, Carman, Manitoba is inviting applications for a teacher to fill a position at the PRIMARY LEVEL Applicant must be certified or able to obtain Manitoba certification.Duties to commence January 19, 1999. For more information contact the principal: Mr. S.F. Nap, Phone 745-2278 (school) or 745-3688 (home).Resumes stating the applicant’s faith commitment, academic creden-tials, experience, extra curricular interests and other relevant infor-mation should be sent to the Secretary of the School Board on or be-fore September 15, 1998. Mr. Herro Koster, Box 1450, Carman, MB R0G 0J0 Fax: (204) 745-3441Applications considered will be notified by telephone for interview date.

On November 7, 1998

REV. W.W.J. VAN OENE

hopes to celebrate the fact that it has been 55 yearsago that he was installed as minister of the Word.We are thankful to the Lord for what He has given

the church at Fergus and also our church federationas a whole in our retired minister.

The council of the Canadian Reformed Church atFergus wants to remember this day by offering Rev.

and Mrs. Van Oene an Open House on Saturday,September 19 from 2 p.m. till 4:30 p.m. in our church

building at Belsyde Ave., Fergus. You are all cordially invited.


LOOKING FOR OPPORTUNITIES?INTERESTED IN A CHANGE?

FEELING A NEED FOR CHANGE?Come and explore the options and opportunities inSaskatoon, Saskatchewan and the surrounding area.Saskatoon has much to offer as a major city centre. It

boasts the University of Saskatchewan, a thrivinglivestock industry, construction industry, and service

sector all located in a beautiful setting near theSaskatchewan River.

The Lord willing, within a year, we hope to havea house congregation in place. If you would like tojoin us or if you have any questions or need a place

to stay, contact:

Arthur and Elaine Pruim1-306-668-6163

Anthony and Corien Nienhuis1-306-242-3121

[email protected]

NEEDED IMMEDIATELYCarpenters and carpenter helpers!

For more information, call:1-306-242-3121

REQUESTIf you have anything that would be beneficial for a

CARE Pioneer Kit to be used in our schools (to fit intoa box 62cm x 40cm) please send it to M. Vandelden,

1338 Janina Blvd., Burlington, ON L7P 1K6

OOOOnnnncccceeee aaaaggggaaaaiiii nnnn aaaavvvvaaaaiiii llllaaaabbbbllll eeeeThe Children’s Bible

by Anne De Vriesin Hardcover with full colour illustrations

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SSSStttt iiii llll llll aaaavvvvaaaaiiii llllaaaa bbbblllleeeeRSV Gift and Award BibleRegular $14.95 Now on sale at $7.50

Colours Black, Red, White and BrownFreight $1.00 first copy – $.50 each additional copy.

Please add 7% G.S.T. only.VISA, Mastercard, AMEX or cheque accepted.

Christian Book& Record13042-82 StreetEdmonton, AB T5E 2T5Ph. (403) 478-2798Fax (403) 478-2002

J. RICHARD WERKMAN, D.Ch.Certified Chiropodist

Foot Care and Orthotics Specialist

1450 Headon Road Burlington, ON L7M 3Z5(905) 332-8919

- Prescription Orthotics/Biomechanical Assessments- Diabetics, Arthritic & All Ages Foot Care- Corns, Calluses and Wart treatments

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY IN SOUTHWESTERN ONTARIO

A & H Custom Machine is a manufacturing companyof various types of equipment. We are presently lookingfor motivated individuals in the following positions:

APPRENTICE MACHINIST orMACHINIST APPRENTICE WELDER or

WELDER/FITTER and a PROJECT MANAGER

preferably with CAD experience.We offer a pleasant working environment, opportu-nity for overtime, and a competitive wage and benefitpackage.

Please fax or mail your resume to:

A & H Custom Machine919 Zelco Drive, Burlington, ON L7L 4Y2

Fax: (905) 681-3172

EBENEZER VILLA Stone Church Road East

Hamilton, OntarioFor your enjoyment we offer: 35 apartments for seniorcitizens with rent subsidy possible, if available.Rewarding atmosphere, close to all amenitiesAudio/Video linkup with the Cornerstone CanadianReformed Church.For further information, please contact

Ike Vanderwoude (905) 639-8110 Tony Vanderhout (905) 692-3986

JOE A. BOERSEMA, R.R.S.Sales Representative

A professional who honours the Lord’s Day!

It is my privilege to assist you withcompetence and confidentiality in allyour buying and selling needs.

Garden City Realty Inc., Realtor720 guelph lineburlington, ontario L7R 4E2bus: (905) 333-3500res: 333-1753 fax: 333-3616


BURNHILL REALTY LIMITED

JOHN MEERVELDAssociate Broker

1(905) 639-33551(905) 528-21771(905) 563-4185

FAX 1(905) 639-7852CAR 1(905) 572-0677

Call me at noobligation

l TO LIST l TO SELL l TO BUY

PERSONAL PROFESSIONAL SERVICE FOR YOUR REAL ESTATE NEEDS

Serving the COMMUNITY SINCE 1980Burlington, Waterdown, Flamborough

Grimsby and Beamsville Area

Christian Festival ConcertRoy Thomson Hall

* Friday, November 6 *by the

Ontario Christian Music Assemblyand guests

Lisette Emmink, sopranoSander van Marion and Andre Knevel,

organ & piano under the direction of

LEENDERT KOOIJ

Tickets $24.00 / $20.00 / $14.00

Order from: Ontario Christian Music Assembly 90 Topcliff Ave., Downsview, ON M3N 1L8

Call (416) 636-9779 for tickets or info.

Open:Monday-Saturday – 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

5205 Harvester Road #2Burlington, ON L7L 6B5

Tel./Fax (905) 631-19291-800-376-7199

T H E M U S I C G R O U PWillem Van Suydam, General Manager

• CONTENT CHURCH ORGANS• DOMUS HOME ORGANS ($6,995.00)• DUTCH CD’S and TAPES• LESSONS• NOW ALSO PRE-OWNED PIANOS

WALINGA INC.Leadership in Engineered

Transportation Equipment since 1954 R.R. #5 Guelph, ON Canada N1H 6J2

Walinga has immediate opening(s) for the following position:

MECHANICAL ENGINEERING TECHNICIAN

We are willing to train and we offer excellent remu-neration and a complete fringe benefit package.

Applicants please contact:

Butch Medemblik Tel: (519) 824-8520 Fax: (519) 824-5651

e-Mail: [email protected]

WALINGA INC.Leadership in Engineered

Transportation Equipment since 1954 R.R. #5 Guelph, ON Canada N1H 6J2

Walinga has immediate opening(s) for the following position:

WELDER / FITTERSand

TRUCK EQUIPMENT MECHANICS

We are willing to train and we offer excellent remu-neration and a complete fringe benefit package.

Applicants please contact:

Butch Medemblik Tel: (519) 824-8520 Fax: (519) 824-5651

e-Mail: [email protected]

ARE YOU RESIDING OR VISITING ON THESOUTHERN PART OF VANCOUVER ISLAND?

Won’t you join us for worship on Sundays in the Mill Bay area?

Services are held by the Cowichan Valley Immanuel Reformed Church,

an outreach of the Free Reformed Churches of N.A.

For information please contactLeonard Wolters at 250-746-7851

CLARION, AUGUST 21, 1998

THE THEOLOGICAL COLLEGE

OF THE CANADIAN REFORMED CHURCHES

The Twenty-ninth Anniversary Meeting and the Twenty-fourth Convocation

of the Theological Collegewill be held on

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 1998 AT 8:00 P.M.in the auditorium of Redeemer College

(Hwy. 53, Ancaster), D.V.Prof. J. Geertsema will give an address on

The Perfection of Christ Jesus and

Our Perfection Before God

The Master of Divinity Degree will be conferred on

Marc JagtJannes Smith

Douglas VandeBurgtThe Diploma of Theological Studies

will be conferred onRichard Bultje

A collection will be taken for the Theological College Building Expansion

(tax receipts available)

FOR RENT1 Bedroom Bachelor Basement Apartment available

for rent in Beamsville, ON. Close to Q.E.W. July 1st.

(905) 563-7192

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

HEAVY DUTY MECHANIC

Agricultural experience an asset.

Competitive wages and a good benefit package.

Please send resume to: Albert Mast

Neerlandia Co-Op Association Box 188

Neerlandia, AB T0G 1R0

Ph: (403) 674-3020 Fax: (403) 674-2256

Custom print your message orcompany logo on the

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PRO MUSICA CHOIR of Burlington, Ontario

invites singers to join for the coming season.

Concerts are planned for Dec. 12, 1998,

and May 1,1999.

Weekly rehearsals are enjoyable and challenging.

Conductor Ian Sadlerwill audition all voices.

Call 905-574-1046.

What is the real meaning of Christmas, Good Friday, Easter,Ascension, and Pentecost? What will happen before Jesus Christ

returns? “Celebrating Salvation” discusses those Biblepassages that deal directly with the great facts of salvation

concerning the ministry of Jesus Christ. It may help tounderstand what really happened and how Christ today

lives as Head of his church.

Soft cover, 302 pages …………………………………$15.75ISBN 0-88756-066-0

Place your order with your local bookstore or distributor, or order directly from

PREMIER PUBLISHING, ONE BEGHIN AVENUEWINNIPEG, MANITOBA, CANADA R2J 3X5

CelebratingSalvation

byClarence Stam

clarionclarionmagazine.ca/archives/1998/397-420_v47n17.pdf · sanctus and benedictus,3 and the...

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