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The Evangelical Presbyterian MAR-APR 2013

IN THIS ISSUE....
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Strapline
Ecclesia reformata semper reformanda est
the Reformed Church is always reforming
Editor
Gareth Burke
33, Onslow Gardens,
BELFAST,
BT6 0AQ
Phone: 07803 282489
Email: gnburke@yahoo.co.uk
First Word................................................
Belonging to a Kingdom........................
Presbytery Day Conference...................
Whose Faith Follow ...............................
The Return of Christ ..............................
C.A.R.E ni.................................................
A visit to Catherines world....................
Letters......................................................
North Belfast - A new start.....................
Book reviews...........................................
Dear Rev .................................................
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The Evangelical Presbyterian MAR-APR 2013
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F1RST WORD
It was my privilege, along with Andrew Moody, to visit Uganda from the 11th until the 22nd January this year.
We were based in the village of Goli where Andrew and Eunice had been involved in mission work for several
years. Of course there are a number of readers who will know all about Goli having been part of the EPC
Summer Outreach team that went there in August 2011.
Andrew was returning to Uganda to catch up on various matters that required attention in relation to the work
of the Christian Resource Centre based in Goli and also to attend the ordination of six young men entering the
Christian ministry. These young men were all personally well known to Andrew. He had helped them in numerous
ways during the course of their training not least by providing them with much needed books and study aids.
My own principal reason for going to Uganda was to
speak at a pastors conference for three days. This
was a thrilling experience. To meet up with around
40 minsters and to look together at some basic Bible
doctrines, Philippians and the Life of Peter was
spiritually enriching. As well as the conference there
were some eleven other preaching and speaking
engagements. All in all, it was a full programme but a
true blessing.
There were of course some incidental encouragements
as well like missing all the snow in Belfast and enjoying
beautiful sunshine and clear blue skies instead!
The food prepared and provided by sister Kim of the
Korean mission was excellent. It was a stable but much
appreciated diet of chicken indeed at the close of our visit she informed me that we had managed to consume
eight chickens in total.
However the highlight of my visit was the early morning prayer meetings in the local church.
Every morning at 5.30 a group of between 25 and 45 of the local believers gathered for an hours prayer.
I was invited to preach each morning and, as such, we looked together at the last week of Christs earthly
ministry under the title of Approaching the Cross. Yes it is true to say that they go to bed earlier in Goli than we
do in NI and that they rise, as a general rule, earlier in the morning. But even allowing for this difference it was
fairly impressive to see so many gather for prayer at such an early hour.
I came home challenged and humbled. This prayer
meeting happens every day. Would we be able to
sustain such a gathering for prayer on a daily basis in
any of our EPC congregations?
More than that, it isnt just about numbers and
attendances. There was passion, fervency and tears in
their prayers in Goli. They may not have the resources
that we have in the UK in terms of books, preaching
etc. But they had a heart for God, a desire to seek Him
early, a passion for souls. I found myself praying on
returning not just Lord teach me to pray. But teach
me to pray like my brothers and sisters in Goli.
VISIT TO UGANDA
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The Evangelical Presbyterian MAR-APR 2013
But you have come to mount Zion, to the heavenly
Jerusalem, the city of the living God. You have come
to thousands upon thousands of angels in joyful
assembly, to the church of the hrstborn, whose names
are written in heaven. You have come to God, the
judge of all men, to the spirits of righteous men made
perfect, to Jesus the mediator of the new covenant,
and to the sprinkled blood that speaks a better word
than the blood of Abel. (Hebrews 12:18-28)
Belonging is very important. There is a programme on
T.V. called Who do you think you are? Its about people
who are trying to fnd their roots their identity where
they belong. It is very important to identify where we
belong in this world. Things like, the family we come from,
the job we do, our nationality, these all give us identity.
But, for the Christian, our connection to Christ gives us
an identity which towers above all other identities we may
possess. The verses above, and the wider passage
deal with two themes: identity and permanence. I want to
explore these in this article.
Identity
The book of Hebrews was written to people who had
problems with their identity. Imagine you are a Jew living
2000 years ago. You are intensely proud of your race
and your heritage. You have been taught that God chose
Abraham and made a covenant with him. From childhood
you have learned the Law which God gave to Moses at
Mount Sinai. Then, into your frst century world comes this
prophet, Jesus, preaching and working miracles. Your high
priest has condemned him to death and crucifed him. But
there is something about him.. His claims ring true to you.
You cannot dismiss him and in the end you put your faith
in him. But what have you gained by choosing to follow
Jesus? You have joined a group of despised people
whose leader is dead. They have no priests or temple or
feasts and their form of worship bears no comparison to
the great rituals of the temple in Jerusalem. What have
you done? Where do you now belong? Your identity is
called into question.
The book of Hebrews was written for such people - to
show that when the temple and the religious system was
shaken, it was in Christ that their identity was to be found.
And we too need to be reminded who we are, that Jesus
was and is the great permanent High Priest for the people
of God - greater than Moses, greater than angels - the
Saviour of the world, the fnal great sacrifce for sin.
Our temple is in heaven and the realities of the Christian
faith are not to be found in buildings and ceremonies
but in our relationship with the Risen Christ who is now
interceding for us at the throne of God.
For the Hebrews their new identity involved great
changes. We dont do change well, do we? We love
routine. For the Hebrews it involved the great change
between the worship of the Old Covenant and that of the
New Covenant. (Compare verses 18 and 22) The writer
is saying: Now that you have become Christians, you
have changed mountains! You are not still stuck at Mt
Sinai. Now your privileges are a hundred times greater.
The contrast is between the worship of Mount Sinai where
Moses and the people met with God for the giving of the
Law and the worship of heaven, the new Mt Zion where
Christ has ascended.
Seven words describe the experience and the scene of
the worship at Sinai: fre, darkness, gloom, storm, trumpet,
death and fear - a negative forbidding scene. (v18-21)
This form of worship is not welcoming. It is saying
Stop! Stay at a distance. You are a sinner and God is
holy. That was Mt Sinai. But now, Jesus has come, and
that kind of worship is no longer appropriate. Things have
moved on. A great change has happened. The veil of
the temple has been torn. A new order has come in. We
have come to a new mountain and to a new worship!
Look at the worship to which you are now called! Look
at the kingdom to which you now belong! This is the
only identity or belonging that matters - belonging to an
unshakeable kingdom. Our identity theme now gives way
to a new theme permanence.
Permanence
This unshakeable kingdom is described using a variety
of terms all of which are designed to comfort and assure
us (V22-24)
the heavenly Jerusalem v22, It is not the earthly city
that is in view here. Our worship is now centred in
heaven where Christ has entered, not in this changing
world, but in the city which is permanent.
the city (community) of the living God. This is where
God dwells among His people and where there are no
changes.
the joyful assemblywhere we join with the angels
before Gods throne. Let our worship here on earth be
joyful. Let us get ready for that great joyful assembly.
the Church of the Firstborn We are the ones who
inherit because of Jesus. Our names are written in
heaven permanently whereas at Sinai the Israelites
names were merely enrolled on a fragile perishable
scroll.
you have come to God the judge of all men. Not
just to the God who is Israels God, but to the God who
rules all the nations. The Judge of all the earth.
Belonging to a Kingdom that
cannot be shaken.
Norman Reid
The Evangelical Presbyterian MAR-APR 2013
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to the spirits of righteous men made perfect. We are
worshipping with our loved ones in Christ who are
already in glory. We are worshipping the same God, with
them, at the same time. What a glorious privilege is
ours!
Then the writer comes to the climax in v24
you have come to Jesus the mediator of the New
Covenant. This is the focus of heaven, the Lamb in the
midst of the throne.
and to the sprinkled blood... But what is it about Jesus
that is the focus? It is the fact that he is slain. We have
been permanently redeemed. What a contrast with
Abels blood that cried out, Vengeance, retaliation,
punish the murderer! But Jesus cried out. Father
forgive even the murderers. That is our hope, our joy,
our comfort and our assurance.
Do you belong to this kingdom? Is this what is in your
mind when you worship? See the contrast between
these two mountains, between the temporary and the
permanent. At Mt Zion, the heavenly Jerusalem, there is
joy and celebration, there is love, mercy and reconciliation.
Here is grace amazing, here is a welcome through the
blood of Jesus. Doesnt it make you wish you were in
heaven? This is the kingdom that cannot be shaken. This
is reality. This is permanence. Down here we only have
illusion and transition, but heaven is all the things that
cannot and will not change. In the words of Paul The
things which are seen are temporary but the things that
are unseen are eternal. (2 Cor 4:18)
There is a higher throne than all this world has known.
Where faithful ones from every tongue will one day
come
Before the throne well stand
Made faultless through the Lamb.
Nothing else matters when we are part of the kingdom that
cannot be shaken.
Norman Reid has recently retired
from the active ministry of the EPC
having served in the congregations of
Crosscollyer St, Finaghy and Dublin.
For the last 13 years of his ministry
he was lecturing at the Dumisani
Theological Institute, Kingwilliamstown,
South Africa.
Presbytery Day Conference
Incorporating the Annual Presentation of
Presbytery Reports
Saturday 27th April, 2013
Belfast Bible College
Speaker: Iain D Campbell
Iain D Campbell is a native of
Stornoway, on the Isle of Lewis.
He has been called to minister
in the Free Church of Scotland
on his native island. He studied
biblical languages at Glasgow
University before completing
doctoral studies at the Free
Church College in Edinburgh.
Among his publications are
Doctrine of Sin, The Gospel
According to Ruth, Heroes and
Heretics, On the First Day of the Week, Opening up
Exodus, and The Seven Wonders of the World: The
Gospel in the Storyline of the Bible.
Iain D is married to Anne, a teacher of children with
severe and complex needs, and they have three
children, Iain, Stephen and Emily.
Extensive Bookstall, Childrens Programme & Crche
For further details contact David Watson: 02893340634
Cost: Adults: 13.50
Children under 11: 7
Pre-school children: Free
Max. cost per family is 40 (children up to 18yrs)
Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever You had formed
the earth and the world, even from everlasting to everlasting,
You are God. Psalm 90:2
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The Evangelical Presbyterian MAR-APR 2013
Whose faith follow
A short series on the founding fathers of the EPC
William James Grier was born 18 November 1902
near Ramelton, Co Donegal, where his parents had a
smallholding. He was William at home, James elsewhere
and Jim in later years. The family attended Second
Ramelton Presbyterian Church. When William was 13
he went to Foyle College, Londonderry, and lived with an
aunt in the city. He came home every third weekend on
the Lough Swilly railway, and his father met him with the
horse and cart at Letterkenny station. On one occasion
there was no sign of his father, so he started to walk. His
perplexity deepened when he met his fathers horse and
cart on the road. Soon he found his father. He had got out
of the cart for a moment but something startled the horse
and off it went without him!
University, Conversion and Call
In 1920 he came to Belfast, and read Classics at
Queens University. Charlie Ross, a medical student,
often witnessed to him, particularly during walks on
the Castlereagh Hills. And the witnessing bore fruit for
Jim Grier was converted in a W P Nicholson mission in
Rosemary Street Presbyterian Church in October 1922.
Soon he met Charlie Ross and told him with joy, I am the
Lords. He joined the Queens Bible Union which began
in the same year and it was there that he learned public
prayer.
He had always felt he would apply to the Indian
Civil Service but after his conversion he began to feel a
call to the Ministry. The turning point came when a local
Donegal Christian pressed him to take a service the next
evening in nearby Milford. He agreed, but his soul was
in confict over the call to the ministry. He knew he must
settle the matter before the next day, so taking with him
Ryle's Knots Untied he went over the felds to wrestle with
God. He didnt know his own mind, but he told the Lord
that he was willing to be made willing for whatever the
Lords will was. He never had another moments struggle.

Princeton Theological Seminary
Soon he was a student for the ministry. Keen to train at
a college with a reputation for orthodoxy, he decided,
in consultation with the church, to begin his studies at
Princeton, New Jersey. So he set out in the summer
of 1923, not yet 21, and learned the characters of the
Hebrew alphabet as he crossed the Atlantic. While at
Princeton, 1923-25, his commitment to the reformed faith
was forged through the Seminarys great teachers of
orthodoxy and he witnessed Princetons renowned battle
with Liberalism, led by Dr J Gresham Machen. There he
also formed his life-long friendship with Prof John Murray,
then a fellow student. He spent his summers with the
Presbyterian Church in Canada - Saskatchewan in 1924
and Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia in 1925. Cape
Breton issued him with a call in 1926. The summers in
Canada also began the highly signifcant Machen-Grier
series of 34 letters.
Assemblys College, Controversy and Licensing
In October 1925 Jim Grier returned for his compulsory
year at Assemblys College and from the outset he
debated openly with his teachers on substantive
issues. After completing his year he was licensed by
the Letterkenny Presbytery in April 1926 and became
Assistant Minister of Richview Presbyterian Church,
Belfast, in the same month. But he had felt unable to
remain silent about the College teaching. So he decided
to consult Rev James Hunter whom he came to know
through Ravenhill Presbyterian Church, his friend Charlie
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The Evangelical Presbyterian MAR-APR 2013
Rosss congregation. Jim had become a member there
after his conversion in 1922 and was like another son
in the manse. And James Hunter and Rev John Ross,
Ravenhill, were close friends. So Jim Grier went to see
James Hunter in December 1925 and the evidence he
placed before him in succeeding months led Hunter to
form the Presbyterian Bible Standards League in 1926
to prosecute his battle for orthodoxy. Jim Grier was
appointed its Deputation Secretary and Superintendent
of its book shop - later The Evangelical Book Shop. The
Heresy Trial ensued in February-March 1927 and the
founding of the Irish Evangelical Church in October.

Person, Preacher, Leader, Author
Meanwhile, 1926 had seen a wonderful providence in the
personal realm. Jim Griers mother, Elizabeth, got into
conversation with ex-missionary Catherine Gillespie at a
missions rally in Belfast and she promised to have Jim out
to her home on Saturdays. So, from mid 1926 he visited
the Gillespie home in Knockdene Park South. He married
Catherine Gillespie in 1943.
Jim Grier was ordained to the IEC ministry at a Lisburn
Road Conference on 20 July 1929. His congregations
were Shaftesbury Square-Botanic Avenue-Stranmillis
1927-1979, and Lisburn Road 1928-1942. He worked
tirelessly during the 1920s and 30s, and saw the church
established, but the 1940s, 50s and 60s were in a special
way his decades, after James Hunters death in 1942.
God equipped him well for the task. The battle of the
1920s had taught him to strengthen himself in the Lord,
and he developed courage, alertness, a commanding
presence and a gracious personality. A ready mind and
powerful memory-recall made him formidable in debate.
His own public prayers identifed him as a man of prayer.
He supported those who took part in the prayer meeting,
semi-audibly praying with them. When he visited he
gathered the family for reading and prayer.
He was an earnest, expository preacher and
teacher. He delivered substantial sections of his sermons
without reference to notes, engaging powerfully with the
congregation. His facility in quoting Scripture from memory
was remarkable. He preached on selected texts, but also
preached series and addressed topical questions. He
loved open-air preaching. The same desire fuelled his
work in the church camps and the Book Shop stand at
the Balmoral Show from 1939. He was editor of the Irish
Evangelical-Presbyterian 1928-1981, editing 625 issues.
He acquired an extensive knowledge of Christian books
and was a prolifc reviewer. He could narrate the story of
the Pilgrims Progress from memory.
His leadership extended into the feld of inter-
church relations. He represented the church at home
and abroad. He preached regularly at Free Church of
Scotland communions, the Strathpeffer Convention, the
Lancaster Cotswold Fellowship and Westminster Chapel.
Through the magazine and inter-church relations he
was enormously respected throughout the international
reformed constituency. He was also a busy correspondent.
He became an advisor of the Banner of Truth in 1957 and
later a trustee. He succeeded Professor John Murray as
chairman of the Leicester Ministers Conference in 1969
and normally gave the opening address.
He wrote books, booklets, articles, tracts, Daily
Readings and calendar notes. His books were The
Momentous Event, 1945,The Origin and Witness of the
Irish Evangelical Church, 1948, The Best Books, 1968 and
in 2013 The Banner of Truth published The Life of John
Calvin which he had serialised in The Irish Evangelical
1954-56.
W J Griers key role in the events of 1925-
1927, his vigorous profle during James Hunter's less
active years and his distinct personal gifts made him the
Churchs acknowledged leader during its establishment
and consolidating years. He went to be with the Lord on
6 August 1983. We thank God for every remembrance of
him.
He delivered
substantial sections of
his sermons without
reference to notes
Ernest Brown of Knock is well known
throughout the EPC. For many years
he represented the church on the
International Missions Board of the Free
Church of Scotland. Ernest is also the
historian of the EPC and is a recognised
authority on the 1927 Heresy Trial. Here
he continues his series on the founding
fathers of our church.
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The Evangelical Presbyterian MAR-APR 2013
The Return of Christ
Part 2 - The Signs of His Coming
During the past year in my own congregation we have been
greatly blessed by the birth of a signifcant number of new
babies. Now, we all knew that these babies were coming and
had a rough idea as to when they would be born but we did not
know the exact time of their arrival. It was impossible to predict
the precise moment at which they would make their entrance
into this world. In some respects it is the same with the return of
Christ. We know, for sure, that He will come. We have no doubt
about the fact of his return. We know that his return is nearer
now than ever before but we do not know the exact moment
when the clouds will open and Jesus will descend in power and
glory. Indeed, Jesus himself, speaking according to his human
nature, asserts:
For of that day and hour no one
knows, not even the angels of heaven,
but My Father only. (Matthew 24:36)
However, in Matthew 24 Jesus tells us that there are certain
things that are going to happen before he comes. These signs
of his coming are normally divided into two categories the
general signs and the particular signs. There are things that
are going to occur during the whole period of the last days.
Throughout the period in which we now live between the
ascension of Jesus and his return certain things will happen- the
general signs. There will probably be an intensifcation of these
things before the return of Christ. Also Jesus, and the New
Testament writers, speak about other things that will happen a
short time before his appearing the particular signs. Of course
we have to be very careful how we handle these signs. In our
last article we stressed the suddenness of Christs appearing and
the need to be ready for his coming at any moment. We have to
live with the tension of knowing that his return will take men by
surprise and the awareness that certain things will occur before
he comes.
In this article we want to consider three of the general signs
which are outlined by Jesus in the Olivet Discourse:
And you will hear of wars and rumours of wars. See that you are
not troubled; for all these things must come to pass, but the end
is not yet.
For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom.
And there will be famines, pestilences, and earthquakes in
various places..And this gospel of the kingdom will be
preached in all the world as a witness to all the nations, and then
the end will come.
(Matthew 24: 6, 7 and 14)
WARS
All of us are familiar with war and confict. Some will remember
the Second World War whilst many of us can recall Vietnam,
the Falklands and, currently, the struggle in both Iraq and
Afghanistan. Every generation has experienced war in some
form or another and Jesus tells us that this will be the case until
he comes: nation will rise against nation and kingdom against
kingdom
EARTHQUAKES, FAMINES AND PESTILENCES
The world, the physical creation, ever since the fall of man has
been out of joint and these tragic occurrences will continue to
occur throughout the last days. Not only in Matthew 24 but also
in Luke 21:11 Jesus reminds us of these things And there
will be great earthquakes in various places, and famines and
pestilences.
THE GOSPEL WILL BE PREACHED TO ALL THE NATIONS
Of the general signs that we have considered this one has
caused considerable debate within the church. Perhaps the best
way to fnd out what it means is by asking two questions.
Who are the nations? This term is consistently applied in the
scriptures to the Gentile nations. In the Great Commission
(Matthew 28: 19 & 20) Jesus is commanding his disciples to
reach out with the gospel beyond Israel, beyond the Jews.
make disciples of all nations. As such when we think of the
gospel being preached in all the nations we are essentially
thinking of worldwide evangelisation.
In what sense will the gospel be preached to all the nations?
Some suggest that what Jesus is teaching here is that when
he comes he will return to an essentially Christianised world.
However, William Hendriksen has probably correctly understood
this statement of Jesus when he says:
Jesus is saying that the nations shall have the opportunity at
one time or another during the course of history to hear the
gospel. (1)
In other words every nation will at some point during the course
of its history be signifcantly impacted by the gospel of Jesus
Christ. The gospel, the Christian faith, will be a dominant and
signifcant force in the life of every nation at some point during its
history.
Now the outworking of all of this is both sobering and
challenging. 2009 marked the one hundred and fftieth
anniversary of the 1859 revival. It was good to recollect the
glorious working of Gods Holy Spirit in days of revival and to
hear of how thousands had been swept into the kingdom of God.
Many are, quite rightly, praying for such things to happen again.
However, we must recognise that there is no guarantee that this
will be the case. Whilst we long to see God at work in power in
our nation again we must soberly acknowledge that the gospel
has been a mighty force in the life of our nation for many years.
I sincerely hope that I am wrong but we must come to terms with
the possibility that our day of gospel prosperity has passed.
A glance towards North Africa is a solemn reminder to us of how
nations that once were alive with the gospel can in time turn
aside from Christ and his truth.
The challenge arising out of all of this is two-fold. As a Christian,
I have my part to play in bringing the gospel to all the nations
of the world. Yes, I know that God is sovereign and I do believe
passionately in the doctrine of election. But Jesus tells me that I
have to go into all the nations. I have my part to play in terms of
going, giving and praying.
If you are not a Christian this sign should really trouble you.
Thanks to the rapid development of computer technology and
the remarkable advances being made with mobile phones and
related gadgets the gospel is advancing into many nations,
including many closed lands, at an incredible rate. This sign is
being fulflled before our eyes. Take note. Take note and prepare,
in repentance and in faith, for the return of Christ.
(1) William Hendriksen: Remaining Faithful: The Bible versus
End Time Fiction: Page 135
9
Mark Baillie has recently been appointed
as CARE N.reland Public Affairs Offcer.
Born and bred in Holywood, Co Down,
Mark attended Sullivan Upper School
before studying Law with Poilitics at QUB.
Prior to his present appointment in
September 2012 Mark spent a year
working in the Scottish Parliament as part
of the CARE Leadership Programme.
CARE in Northern Ireland is backing a
Bill seeking to tackle human trafhcking -
giving the Assembly a unique opportunity
to make a real difference. CARE in
Northern Ireland policy ofhcer Mark Baillie
sets the scene.
Back in June 2010, Home Secretary Theresa May
announced that the UK would not be opting in to the
EU Anti-Traffcking Directive. The Government at the
time argued that there was no need for this because
the UK law already complied with the demands
of the Directive. However, CARE and others were
not satisfed and launched a lobbying campaign to
persuade the Government to reverse its decision.
Eventually in March 2011 they did a U-turn and
announced there would be an opt-in to the Directive
after all. However, this was only half the battle. The
Government still had to outline how they would
implement it.
Amendments to the Protection of Freedoms Bill were
introduced in the House of Lords in January this
year to make the UK compliant with the EU Anti-
Traffcking Directive. However, although welcome,
the Government measures were minimal, falling far
short of all the changes mandated by the Directive.
As these amendments only applied to England and
Wales, we saw the opportunity for a different approach.
If Northern Ireland could adopt the Directive more
comprehensively within its law, this would blaze a trail
within the rest of the UK to effectively tackle the de-
humanising trade of human traffcking.
A real opportunity
A member of the Northern Ireland Assembly, Lord
Morrow, took up the challenge. With CAREs
support, he arranged for a Bill to be drafted to ensure
fuller compliance with the EU Directive. There is
an important difference between what a Directive
mandates, and the minimum that a state has to do
to be technically compliant with it. It is unlikely that
Northern Ireland would face infringement proceedings
if it failed to adopt everything, but the Directive
embodies a bold agenda. The Assembly faces a
choice: to do the least they can get away with - or to
seize the day and put in place effective and robust
provisions that enable Northern Ireland to make a
substantial difference.
CARE is supporting Lord Morrows Bill, which
proposes to:
clearly defne who is a victim of traffcking
make proper provision for their legal and other
support
appoint a legal advocate to help each child victim of
traffcking provide appropriate training and resources
to police, prosecutors etc
bring in a new offence of paying for sexual services
require the N.. Executive to produce an annual
strategy on raising awareness and reducing
traffcking in human beings.
This Bill represents a real opportunity for the people
of Northern reland in the fght against this destructive
trade, leading the way on this issue. We cannot afford
to miss this opportunity so we would urge you to pray
for legislators at the Northern Ireland Assembly for
wisdom on the way forward.
CARE is a mainstream Christian charity seeking to
combine practical caring initiatives, at national and
community level, with public policy on social and
ethical issues. CARE campaigns, provides resources,
undertakes caring work and helps to bring Christian
insight and experience to matters of public policy,
education and practical caring initiatives, particularly
on behalf of the most needy.
CARE in Northern Ireland was recently re-established
in Northern Ireland. We will be moving into a our new
offce in East Belfast later this year. f you would like
to fnd out more about CARE, please visit our website
at http://www.care.org.uk/, follow us on twitter at @
careorguk or fnd us on Facebook.
f you would like to fnd out more about CARE in
Northern Irelands work please do not hesitate to get
in touch with Mark Baillie, CARE in Northern Irelands
Public Affairs Offcer, at mark.baillie@care.org.uk.
The Evangelical Presbyterian MAR-APR 2013
10
The Evangelical Presbyterian MAR-APR 2013
Towards the end of 2012 I visited Chad with my
brother Hunter for three weeks, mainly at Catherines
hospital in Bebalem.
Country
Chad is a marvellous place, not so much as a tourist
destination but as an example of Gods rich working
in the years since 1920. Evangelical growth since
then has been enormous. There is religious freedom
in a secular state with a small Muslim majority. There
is a quiet but dehnite witness across the large divide
between the African Christian and Arab cultures.
The high birth rate is leading to population growth,
which could strain the education system and may
lead to land shortage. The headmaster of one school
in Bebalem told us there are 200 children in one hnal
year Primary class. A pastor said that crop rotation is
increasingly difhcult.
Although French is the language of the educated,
such as the hospital staff and trainees, the many local
languages are more important in local communities
and churches. In examining the patients Catherine
uses Ngambai as they dont understand French.
Bible translation is crucial. We met one translator
who was having difhculty getting the services of a
competent local helper, and another who was fying
home after attending the commissioning of three New
Testaments. She had worked on one for ten years,
and one of the others was a revision of the Ngambai
version.
Capital
NDjamena has a presidential palace, a magnihcent
independence monument and some Western style
hotels. Spectacular sculptures overlook the most
dangerous roundabouts I have ever seen. Here there
are huge churches; baptismal services have seen 500
baptised at one time. We were privileged to meet
many hne Christian missionaries, including most
of the AIM team. Wellspring Academy, a school for
missionaries children and support for families home-
schooling, enables many families to live in Chad to do
the Lords work. They urgently need more teachers
for 2013/2014 onwards.
The Journey
Catherine met us at the capital. There she did
shopping for herself, her colleagues and the hospital.
Early one morning we caught a minibus with a
cracked front window and settled down for our
hot 7 hour journey to the local provincial capital
Moundou. On our journey we saw many villages
where mosques are the only place of worship. The
tarmac road, like many others, has been constructed
since the recent discovery of oil.
Then more shopping and banking in Moundou, a
nights sleep and off we go by car the last 60 miles.
This hnal stretch is on sand not tarmac. It takes skill
to negotiate potholes and avoid the deep sand where
Catherines car was recently stuck for 1 hours. The
road can be closed in the wet season to preserve the
surface. Catherine cant afford to make mistakes on
her shopping list when supplies are two or ten hours
away. Items out of stock are very frustrating.
Hospital
Bebalem hospital, owned by the Evangelical Church
of Chad, is in the Christian south-west of the country.
Each day starts with staff prayers at 7.15am. It is
funded by patients, with some gifts of medicines and
supplies from the President. Poverty, infant mortality
(20.6% by 5 years old), drought and food lead to
difhcult situations. The doctors need real wisdom to
judge when to use the limited resources of the Poor
Fund.
There are great successes and sad tragedies on the
wards. We saw one toddler convulsing and very ill,
and then two days later had the delight of witnessing
her leaving Intensive Care in her parents arms
well on the way to recovery. There was often only
one doctor on duty/call in a 180 bed hospital. The
wards can have three children to a bed, mainly in
the malaria and malnourishment season. Nurses
(who are mainly male) operate and accept great
responsibilities. Many Western medical facilities are
absent and the power and water supplies are also
periodic. Funding for solar panels is being sought. An
X-ray department is a recent addition.
Dr Ann Fursdon the medical director is very
experienced and carries great responsibilities.
Catherine assists her, and last autumn a third doctor
Dr Robertson arrived with his wife and family.
Diagnosis is more difhcult on the wards due to the
absence of many tests which are standard in UK.
A Visit to
Catherines World
11
The Evangelical Presbyterian MAR-APR 2013
Patients often arrive too late for treatment because
they delay due to lack of funds or have visited the
local medicine man hrst.
Catherine would love to do more spiritual work, but
when she is so busy her task is to draw the patients
in and to leave it mainly to the trained pastors who
are the hospital chaplains and their assistants to tell
of the Saviour.
We visited two of the 35 health centres, which are
satellite ministries from the hospital and working in
partnership with local churches.
Most have a nurse, lab technician and midwife funded
by patient fees.
The nursing school trains
nurses, lab technicians and
midwives, both spiritually
and professionally. They
are a potential dynamo
for future church growth.
The chaplain of the nursing
school and Dr Elizabeth
its director are the key
educators. The three
doctors give the practical
instruction on the wards.
Church
There are eight vernacular
and two French speaking
theological colleges for
the evangelical churches
of Chad (EET). We met
the principal of one.
Its 70-year-old student
accommodation needs
rebuilt, which will need
outside help to supplement
local giving.
There are twelve churches in Bebalem (population
23,000) - one French speaking. We attended three
churches, each of which had more than 200 adults
attending and an earlier session for about 100
children. We were mobbed one afternoon by 90 girls
from the uniformed girls club of the much bigger
Church No.1, and were relieved that the boys were
not released simultaneously! Gods word is preached,
church discipline is publicly administered. The people
know how to pray heartily and sing in harmony.
Some say that there are problems with a low level of
discipleship (including sexual sin) and teaching, but
that is true in the West too. We may be more skilled
at concealing it and they have less background.
Christian nurses witness through a church football
team. The knitting group in Catherines church (No.9)
has the same purpose, but is trying to raise funds
to open a training workshop where Aids orphans can
learn how to earn a living.
John Grier has recently retired as
manager of the Evangelical Bookshop,
Belfast. His knowledge of reformed
literature is encyclopedic and his
contribution to the world of Christian
literature has been immense. He serves
as an elder in the congregation of
Crosscollyer St/Somerton Road.
People
Dr Ann and the Robertson family in Bebalem are
great company but they are so busy that hnding
time to pray or relax together is not always easy.
We met many lovely Christians and dedicated
capable Christian leaders, including the two hospital
chaplains.
We went to thank some of Catherines lovely local
friends, including her adopted granny. Hunter and I
will never forget meals under the stars outside mud
houses with corrugated front doors, with chickens
and dogs under the table and horned oxen roaming
freely near us.
Catherine requests prayer that she may continue to
learn cultural sensitivity and have wisdom to make
good clinical judgments on the wards. She is now in
Kenya for six weeks for further medical training.
We left thanking God for the extent and variety of His
work in Chad.
12
The Evangelical Presbyterian MAR-APR 2013
Dear Sir,
In the article entitled, The Return of Christ, Jan-Feb issue, you
correctly state that there is a great deal of confusion concerning
the events described in our Lords Olivet discourse, as found in
Matthew 24 (& Mark 13, Luke 21). Much of this confusion arises from
the fact that many Bible students fail to recognise that Jesus was
here responding to TWO questions, namely, when shall these things
be? (The destruction of the Temple), and What shall be the sign
of thy coming, and of the end of the world? Some premillennialists
would suggest that there were actually three questions, in that they
mistakenly assume there to be a literal one thousand year period
between our Lords return and the end of the world. However,
this erroneous view only serves to add further confusion, and is
scripturally unwarranted. Nonetheless, while our Lords reply can be
diffcult to follow in sequence, we are assured, as you point out, that
Jesus is coming again.
I was however left in some confusion concerning those certain
signs that must occur before Jesus comes, namely, the view that
Antichrist has not yet appeared. Referring again to the tribulation
period in the last days (Matt 24), which we note was to take place
between AD70 and our Lords return, we note that the apostle John
places antichrist within this same period when he states, Little
children, it is the last time: and as ye have heard that antichrist shall
come, even now are there many antichrists; whereby we know that it
is the last time (1 John 2:18).
In light of these passages, I would suggest that this spirit of
antichrist, 1 John 4:3, (the prefx 'the', is not found in the original
Greek) has in fact already come in many forms exactly as John
predicted. n noting that the prefx 'anti', from the Greek vi, can
refer either to an opponent of Christ, or one who claims to take the
place of Christ, we see examples of this spirit of antichrist in Judaism
and Islam, in that these religions deny that Christ, as God, actually
came "in the fesh (2 John 1:7), and also within Roman Catholicism,
whose popes falsely claim to be Christs representative on earth.
Sadly, some believers mistakenly believe that the term antichrist
refers to a future world leader who has yet to appear, and it is this
erroneous teaching which leads to the conclusion that our Lords
return must yet remain on hold until this event takes place. Failure
to address this false teaching therefore, gives rise to the very
scenario you warn about, namely, complacency in relation to the
very real possibility of our Lords imminent return.
Yours etc,
Ken McFarland,
Omagh
Dear Sir,
In 1 Corinthians 9:19-23 Paul states that For though I am free from
all men, I have made myself a servant to all, that I might win the
more; and to the Jews I became as a Jew, that I might win Jews; to
those who are under the law, as under the law, that I might win those
who are under the law; to those who are without law, as without
law, not being without law toward God, but under law toward Christ,
that I might win those who are without law; to the weak I became as
weak, that I might win the weak. I have become all things to all men,
that I might by all means save some. Now this I do for the gospels
sake, that I may be partaker of it with you. In what constructive
and practical ways can we follow Pauls example in our families,
neighbourhoods and workplaces while still being transformed by the
Holy Spirit and not being conformed to 21st Century Ulster?
Yours etc,
Neal Killen
Belfast
Dear Sir,
THE DREADFUL WEATHER - A CALL TO PRAYER
Although most of this denominations churches are urban based I
am sure we are all aware of the inclemency of the weather in the
recent past. Business premises and homes have been fooded but
the horticultural and farming sectors have borne the brunt of it. They
have experienced poor crops that are low in nutritional elements
essential for quality livestock feeding and likewise vegetables etc for
human consumption. In some areas land is inaccessible because
of the wet ground conditions hampering cultivation for the coming
season. We are also informed by the press that there is an increase
in the incidence of rickets in children due to the lack of sunshine - in
all a rather bleak picture.
What can we do? If we believe that ultimately it is GOD who controls
the weather surely it is time we appealed to Him in our public and
private worship before matters become more desperate for man and
beast, remembering we are promised a seedtime and harvest while
the earth remains.
Yours etc,
Rose R McIlrath
Troopers Lane
Dear Sir,
While reading Francis Chans excellent book Crazy Love recently,
I came across the following verse from Amos 6:1 - Woe to you
who are complacent in Zion, and to you who feel secure on Mount
Samaria, you notable men of the foremost nation... It got me thinking
about the whole topic of complacency. Although Chans writing is
addressed to an American audience, I am concerned that a certain
smugness is also evident in the Ulster church.
Would you agree, that a We are the People attitude within Northern
Irish Christianity hinders our attitude to evangelism? Our region of
the world has been bountifully blessed in terms of gospel witness
over many years, but I fear that we have begun to take this blessing
for granted, resigning ourselves to an armchair theology and basking
in our self-awarded status of being Gods chosen people and the
foremost nation.
In particular, it seems that this manifests itself in our relationship
with the Nationalist community. Each year, myriad Belfast churches
send mission teams to Africa - a worthy activity. But how many (in
comparison) are sent to Andersonstown or the south of our island?
The recent involvement of many born again Christians in the Union
fag protests serves as a reminder that politics and faith are too
closely intertwined in our land.
I do not mean to bash the church - there is much to be encouraged
about therein, and I know many do not take our blessings for
granted. As the church, we should be the ones addressing division,
as it is only Christ who can truly heal our broken land. Perhaps some
of the barriers are in our heads, and now is the time for a renewed
sense of prayer and a hunger to reach ALL parts of our island. We
need to meet Nationalists on their level: it is more Christ-followers
we long for, not more respectable Ulster Protestants.
Yours etc,
David Burke
Belfast
The Editor is grateful to those who have contributed letters. The Letters Page is now open for feedback on the issues raised by the correspondents.
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13
The Evangelical Presbyterian MAR-APR 2013
YOU ARE WARMLY INVITED TO A PREACHING RALLY IN
STRANMILLIS EPC ON FRIDAY 8TH MARCH 2013
PREACHER DR CARL TRUEMAN (USA)
PREACHING RALLY
Our denomination has had an evangelical witness in North
Belfast for over 80 years. Over that time both congregations,
Somerton Road and Crosscollyer Street, have enjoyed good
times but in the recent past, lean times. Since the beginning of
the troubles there has been substantial demographic change
which has made our work and witness even more diffcult. We
worship together on both sites.

Evangelistic outreach takes place on several fronts.
The Helping Hand group in Crosscollyer connects with those
suffering from addiction, involving a gospel meeting on Tuesday
nights and a drop-in session from 11.30 3.30 on Thursdays.
Despite recently losing three of our members to death, we are
encouraged to see improvements in nearly all of our regulars
and a number attend church on Sunday evenings. The Mother
and Toddlers group in Crosscollyer is well attended, with
opportunities to build bridges in the local community. We had for
many years an excellent Youth Group in Somerton, with older
members continuing to attend into their twenties. These have
moved on, but we are grateful for the extended time to present
the gospel to them. Unfortunately, the next age grouping (15-17
yrs) have got caught up in the ongoing fags protest and are
no longer attending we ask for your prayers for them. We do
not have suffcient manpower to sustain these outreach works
without outside help as our congregation is ageing. This has
concerned us for some time and humanly speaking, the future
looked bleak.
In the providence of God, Somerton Church recently received a
sizeable legacy which we want to use strategically to help revive
the work. The Somerton area has a mix of residents, including
many from a mixed marriage background, the vast majority of
whom have no church connection of any kind. Now with few
members of the congregation remaining, it gives the opportunity
for a fresh church plant, still solidly built on our EPC confessional
position, but suffciently fexible to connect with the increasingly
Roman Catholic community. The goodwill which the church has
developed over many years could be harnessed in this mission
feld. We are seeking a church planter (preferably an ordained
man) with experience in outreach work and having a heart and
calling for this new ministry, who can exercise Biblical creativity
and fexibility to reach people who have very little experience of
doing church. It is envisaged that an interim session would help
in the development and oversight of the work, but the church
planter would have freedom within such confnes. t would also
be crucial to have several families who believe in and want to
join in this venture.
Meanwhile the Crosscollyer ministry and outreach will continue
to be served and developed by Rev. Beckett. However, it
is desirable that someone is appointed to help with outreach
work alongside Rev Beckett for a period, prior to Rev Becketts
retirement. This post could be part of a one or two year
apprenticeship training programme and provide an ideal
opportunity for someone to test their sense of calling to this kind
of work.
As we formulate these plans we are very conscious of our great
weakness. The harvest truly is plentiful, but the labourers
are few. Therefore pray the Lord of the harvest to send out
labourers into his harvest Mt.9:38-39. We appeal for the
prayers of the whole church in this endeavour as we recognise
that without the empowerment of the Holy Spirit we can
accomplish nothing of eternal value.
North Belfast a new start
Somerton Rd Church Planter
and Crosscollyer St. Outreach Worker
Vacancies.
We envisage a 3-5 year project and
invite expressions of interest.
For more information contact:
Rev Robert Beckett
Tel. 02890838102. Mob. 07974759573
Email. robertcbeckett@ntlworld.com
14
The Evangelical Presbyterian MAR-APR 2013
Not So Secret RRP: 8-99 Our Price: 6-75
Author: Graham Orr
Publisher: IVP, 2012
150 pages, paperback.
How do we evangelise in a world in which Christianity has become so alien? For so long we had been accustomed to a
world in which there was some degree of respect for the Christian faith and in which the church had occupied a central
role in society. That, however, is now rarely, if ever, the case. In truth, it probably hasnt been the case for a long time. In response
it is too easy for our witness to be a somewhat hostile activity as we operate almost in a state of siege with engagements becoming
increasingly antagonistic and ill-tempered.
Graham Orrs delightful book, Not So Secret, has shown us another way. It has faced the levels of distrust of the church that have
emerged in these days and has traced some of the reasons. However, rather than falling into a sense of hopelessness it has
demonstrated the real opportunities there are for the gospel today. It really is the case that relationships and respect lie at the heart of
our engagement with people for the gospel today. As we read this book we are reminded there are no short-cuts; trust has been lost
and the task of re-establishing that trust will be a long and slow process which simply cannot be achieved when we treat people as an
evangelism project. Genuine, generous and open relationships are the key that can unlock the barriers which have been erected to
faith today.
With a fair for storytelling and reducing complex issues to a simplicity which is simultaneously clear and in no way superfcial this book
rewards those who read it. Building on the authors experience in a nation in which Christianity always has been a highly marginalised
faith, this book inspires us with the possibilities that arise when we are truly vulnerable and open to others.
I have thoroughly enjoyed this book and I recommend it as a deeply engaging and inspiring read.
Campbell Hamilton
The Secret Thoughts of an Unlikely Convert Our Price: 9-75
Author: Rosaria Champagne Butterheld
Publisher: Crown & Covenant
148 pages, paperback
"When was 28 years old, boldly declared myself Lesbian... begins Dr Rosaria Champagne Butterfeld's book, The
Secret Thoughts of an Unlikely Convert. Before she had reached her mid-thirties, Rosaria had achieved an English PhD,
was a professor in Women's Studies at a prestigious University, and had produced some signifcant scholarship in the area of Queer
Theory. She was in a homosexual relationship, and lived with her partner. Often these two women provided hospitality to students
and activists in their hopes to make a difference to the world. A regular at Gay Pride marches and frequently found campaigning for
Pro-Choice groups, Rosaria was often confronted with Christians who vehemently opposed her. She felt hated by these people, and
in a recent interview admitted The name of Jesus would stick in my throat, like a hairball I couldnt cough up! She felt Christians were
brainwashed and ridiculous, but things were set to change. She produced one paper on the masochistic language of the Promise
Keepers and was bombarded with both hate and fan mail. A Reformed Presbyterian Pastor wrote a letter which fell into neither
category, but asked many provocative questions, ones which she had never been asked. He also asked her to contact him, which she
did, if only under the pretence that he would be a useful research target.
God was beginning a wonderful transformation in her life; Dr Rosaria Champagne Butterfeld is most certainly a woman who does
things in the extreme. From the feminism of her twenties to her faith in Christ, she is not a woman who could easily be called lukewarm.
Her conversion was clearly the most dramatic moment of her life as she chose to step away from an inherent part of who she was to
follow the Lord. She refers to her conversion as a complicated and comprehensive chaos, and a traumatic experience, but God has
most defnitely transformed her.
We are told in Mark 16:15 to preach the Good News to all men, this includes people of every race and religion; it also includes the gay
community. As we read Rosarias Secret Thoughts, we gain an insight into the mindset of a person to whom Christianity was alien,
but also the enemy. Many of us feel uncomfortable addressing the gay issue and would rather let somebody else confront it. We dont
want gay marriage to be legalised, yet are any of us really trying to bring the gospel to gay people?
Rosarias story shows how one mans efforts changed a life, and how Pastor Ken Smiths caring approach brought the love of Christ
to Rosaria Butterfeld. This is a book to be read prayerfully, asking God to help us fnd ways of sharing the Gospel with this community,
and assessing our own words and attitudes to ensure we are showing the love of God to everyone in our society, especially those we
feel uncomfortable with!
Rosaria spends her fnal chapters talking about her life now, a Reformed Presbyterian minister's wife, a home-schooling mother, and
most importantly a follower of Christ. She narrates her tumultuous journey until the present day in a way only an English professor
could. Her writing is eloquent and concise, and although you may not agree with everything she says, you will most certainly be
challenged by it.
Judith Gordon
15
The Evangelical Presbyterian MAR-APR 2013
E Mail: info@evangelicalbookshop.co.uk
Website: www.evangelicalbookshop.co.uk
Manager: Colin Campbell
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BELFAST BT1 6DD
Tel: 028 9032 0529
The Evangelical Bookshop
Dangerous Calling: The Unique Challenges of Pastoral Ministry RRP: 11-99 Our Price: 8-99
Author: Paul David Tripp
Publisher: IVP
227 pages, paperback.
As someone who has spent a large part of my adult life working for the church I can only wish that this book had been
written a few years ago. It is a book written with a tremendous amount of insight from an international author who has
travelled the world speaking at pastors conferences. A large amount of material in the book is taken from real life experiences that
pastors have talked to him about on his travels; however Tripp also deals with issues in his own ministry that he has had to confront.
The book is split into three sections the frst dealing with the pastoral culture we have developed in our churches, where we assume
that the pastor has arrived and never has any diffculties in their lives. He also examines the nature of calling a minister and how the
things we look for are often academic rather than evidence of spiritual maturity. The second section is entitled the danger of losing your
awe, and is really addressed to pastors, who Tripp argues are in the greatest danger of forgetting who God is. Tripp argues there are
many pastors out there simply going through the motions of preparing sermons week in week out without remembering the God whom
they are serving. In this section Tripp has some very practical helpful tips on preparing sermons and the priority that should be given to
preaching the word. The fnal section is entitled "The Danger of Arrival and the main thrust of this section is warning pastors against
feeling that they have arrived in the Christian life, so much so they forget who they really are and think their ministry is all about them,
rather than about God. This seems to me to be one of the greater dangers in the pastorate today, that we forget that our ministry should
be pointing others to God rather than ourselves. Of course no one would ever verbalise that but Tripp has some self-assessment
questions to ask ourselves to check if our ministry is self-focused or God focused.
In short I would recommend that all pastors read this book to check their own ministry. However it is not just for pastors. I would
recommend that all elders should read this book to assist them in pastoring their pastor and avoiding major ministry blow outs. I would
also recommend that anyone who is serious about praying for their pastor read this book as well as it will show you the temptations
that assail a pastors heart. The most helpful thing to remember from this book is that YOUR pastor is a man who is in the middle of
his sanctifcation and as he approaches the Word, he needs your prayers, so let's pray more seriously and intelligently for our pastors.
There is no better place to start than by reading this book.
Trevor Kane
The Life of John Calvin RRP: 6-00 Our Price: 4-50
Author: W.J. Grier
Publisher: Banner of Truth, 2013
162 pages, paperback
This book had its origin nearly 60 years ago as a serial in the monthly Irish Evangelical. We are grateful to the Banner
of Truth for editing the original manuscript and publishing it in a modern format with over 40 facsimiles of plates from
Calvins life and times located throughout its pages. The Foreword provides the setting and outlines the life and ministry of W J Grier.
An immense amount has been written on Calvin since the 1950s, with the years around 2009 - the 500th centenary of his birth - among
the most prolifc. But this little volume will take its place as an outstanding introduction to Calvin. t is almost a Calvin handbook, lending
itself to ready reference to the successive phases of his life which the chapter headings identify. It is a largely chronological treatment
of Calvin's life and work, starting with The Early Years and concluding the story with The Closing Year of his life. Two fnal chapters
assess Calvin as a Thinker, Preacher and Expositor. It is well structured and balances the life story with keen insights into the issues,
battles and personalities of the day. The chapter, Geneva in Calvins Time, gives a vivid description of aspects of everyday life in 16th
century Geneva and of its transformation through the gospel: Under the ministry of the Word, Geneva became a city of God.
There are 23 chapters with an average length of just 7 pages per chapter. It is a highly readable and very engaging treatment of
Calvin's life, written with great warmth and in a spirit of thankfulness to God for the unique signifcance of Calvin for the reformed faith
and for the author's own unfinching commitment to it. t is eminently worthy of a place in all our homes.
Ernest Brown
The Real Scandal of the Evangelical Mind
RRP: 2-99 Our Price: 2-50
Publisher: Moody
The Wages of Spin
RRP:10-99 Our Price:8-25
Publisher: Christian Focus
Reformation: Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow
RRP: 6-99 Our Price: 5-25
Publisher: Christian Focus
Fools Rush in Where Monkeys Fear to Tread
RRP: 11-99 Our Price: 8-99
Publisher: P&R
The Creedal Imperative
RRP: 10-99 Our Price: 8-50
Publisher: Crossway
Minority Report
RRP: 10-99 Our Price: 8-25
Publisher: Christian Focus
Histories and Fallacies
RRP: 7-99 Our Price: 5-99
Publisher: Crossway
Republocrat
RRP: 7-99 Our Price: 5-99
Publisher: P&R
VOLUMES IN STOCK BY DR CARL TRUEMAN
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16
Dear Rev,
I hope you got back ok from your conference in the Isle of Man
and that things are going well with you and your wife. A lot has
happened since I last wrote to you. On receiving your letter I
came to realise that I would really have to sit down with Gertrude
and find out where she stood spiritually. I had no doubt that she
was very religious as she was very involved in various churches
especially the choirs and the church music scene. However, I
just wasnt sure that she knew the Saviour. You stressed the
importance of only going out with someone who is a Christian.
Well, it all came to a head after Gertrude came with me and my
family to an evening service in our church.
The preacher that night was Rev John Westminster. He was on fire.
A full - on evangelistic sermon. Gertrude was upset by the sermon
but even more so when she got to the door. I introduced her to Mr
Westminster who (typically!) said, Nice to meet you, Gertrude. And
are you saved yourself? She was offended at being asked such
a question by a stranger... But more than that it was evident from
our conversation afterwards that she wasnt saved nor did she
really see the need to be saved. It was a sad moment. Sad because
I realised that she was lost. Sad also because I realised that our
relationship was now at an end.
I believe that Ive done the right thing but to be honest I feel pretty
lonely. I do so desperately want to have a girlfriend. I have prayed
much about this and am convinced that the Lord does not want me
to remain single all my days. But how do I meet someone?
How do I go about meeting a sensible, attractive Christian girl who
in time can become my wife. Some people are telling me to try
one of the Christian dating sites that you find on the internet. Dad
thinks thats a crazy idea but Mum isnt opposed to the idea at all.
What do you think?
I look forward to your reply.
Herbert
Dear Herbert
Thank you for your letter. Really sorry to hear
about how things worked out between you and
Gertrude. Well, Im sorry because of the pain it has
caused. A break up such as you have described is
an upsetting time but, Herbert, ultimately its the
best thing. We must only marry in the Lord. The
Lord has a great future planned out for you and
to be married to someone who isnt on the same
page spiritually is only going to lead to your own
spiritual declension.
How can I meet a suitable wife? Thats your
qucsticr, Hcrbcrt. wcII 'w rc cxpcrt ir t/is cId
but heres a few thoughts. Whoever you marry
needs to be someone who will help you. Remember
what God said in the garden: It is not good that
man should be alone; I will make him a helper
comparable to him. (Genesis 2: 18) Your wife is to
be your helper, not just in a general sense but also
in a spiritual sense. Heres a worthwhile question to
ask: If I were to marry this girl would she drag me
down or pull me up spiritually?. Will she be a true
helper to me?
Also Herbert, compatibility is vital. This means
t/ut gcu /uvc tc rd scwccrc v/c isr't just u
Christian but who is the kind of person that you
get on well with. As such you have to make sure
that there are no glaring issues upon which you
fundamentally disagree issues that are going to
be a source of tension between you all your days.
So if youre committed to the reformed faith,
believe in infant baptism and have clear amillenial
convictions about the return of Christ maybe a
Faith Mission pilgrim who has passed through
the waters of baptism and loves the Left Behind
novels isnt for you! Of course compatibility isnt
just to do with spiritual issues. There has to be a
fundamental compatibility concerning the general
things of life.
Another key factor here, Herbert, is the issue of
Gods providence His leading and direction. If
it is Gods plan for you to get married - and you
need to remember that this isnt Gods plan for
everyone - God in His providence will bring the
right girl across your path. Hell do it. Now many
are discussing whether or not the internet has a
role to play in this - the Christian dating sites that
are found there .
Hcrbcrt, scrrg, 'w gcirg /uvc tc ris/ /crc. 'II
write later about the web and Gods providence etc.
Just had a call on the mobile need to go quickly
to the Royal.
Will be in touch
The Rev
The Evangelical Presbyterian MAR-APR 2013