The Magazine Podcast (Banner of Truth)

This week we begin a three-part 'mini series' on the great subject of public worship. We begin by considering just why it is that public worship is so crucial for the church. Why should we do it? How should we view it? To do that, we enlist the help of Warren Peel, Peter Barnes, and the Puritan David Clarkson.

Featured Content:

– 'The Primacy of Public Worship', Warren Peel, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 722 (November 2023).

– Selections from The Works of David Clarkson, Volume 3, sermon entitled 'Public Worship to be Preferred Before Private' (on Psalm 87:2), p. 187. N.B. At time of podcast release, the three volumes of this set are being reprinted.

– 'Participating in Public Worship', Peter Barnes, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 526 (July 2007).

Explore the work of the Banner: www.banneroftruth.org

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Matthew Roberts joined us at the Banner Ministers' Conference 2024 to discuss the vital importance of a biblical understanding of sin, the challenge of the sexual revolution, and the Greater Love Declaration, which articulates an orthodox Christian position on marriage and sexuality in a spirit of self-sacrificing love.

More Info. on the Greater Love declaration:

www.greaterlove.org.uk

Resources Referenced:

Calvin, John, Institutes of the Christian Religion (1539 edition), Clothbound, 920 pages.

https://banneroftruth.org/uk/store/theology/institutes/

Flavel, John, Preparations for Sufferings (Puritan Paperback), 176 pages.

https://banneroftruth.org/uk/store/christian-living/preparations-for-sufferings/

Owen, John, Searching our Hearts in Difficult Times (Puritan Paperback), 160 pages.

https://banneroftruth.org/uk/store/christian-living/owen-searching-our-hearts-in-difficult-times/

Roberts, Matthew, Pride: Identity and the Worship of Self, paperback, 184 pages.

https://www.christianfocus.com/products/3074/pride

'It is good to give thanks to the Lord,     to sing praises to your name, O Most High;  to declare your steadfast love in the morning,     and your faithfulness by night, to the music of the lute and the harp,     to the melody of the lyre.' – Psalm 92:1–3

Evening worship on the Lord's Day is neglected by many churches today. This week's episode constitutes a case for and a call to the practice of evening worship, to the glory of God and for the good of souls.

Note: if you haven't listened to our recent episode, 'Eric Liddell and the Freedom of the Sabbath', it would make a good prelude to this episode. Listen here: https://bannermagazine.podbean.com/e/eric-liddell-and-the-consecration-of-the-sabbath/

Featured Content:

– 'Preserve Evening Worship Services!', Michael G. Brown, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 529, October 2007.

Text: https://banneroftruth.org/uk/resources/articles/2024/a-call-to-preserve-evening-worship-services/

– 'Why Not Give Evening Worship a Try?', Mary Beth McGreevy, personal blog, July 2017. Read here with permission.

Text: http://marybethmcgreevy.blogspot.com/2017/07/why-not-give-sunday-evening-worship-try.html

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'Religion was first hatched in families', wrote Thomas Manton, 'and there the devil seeketh to crush it.'

It behoves us, then, as believers, to be watchful, and to guard the spiritual vitality of our families.

This week's podcast episode is an extended encouragement to all fathers and mothers to pursue family piety.

Featured Resources:

– 'Epistle to the Reader' by Thomas Manton, found in The Westminster Confession and Associated Historical Documents (Edinburgh: Banner of Truth, 2018).

– 'Letter to Pastors Regarding Family Worship', article by Dr. Joel R. Beeke, featured in the Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 582 (March 2012).

– 'Family Worship', excerpt from sermon by J. H. Merle D'Aubigne, featured in the Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 582 (March 2012).

– Excerpts from Chapter IV of The Lives of Philip and Matthew Henry (Edinburgh: Banner of Truth, 1974). This title is currently out of print.

Other Episodes on Similar Topics:

– When a Child Turns Away: https://bannermagazine.podbean.com/e/when-a-child-turns-away/

– The Home Under Christ: https://bannermagazine.podbean.com/e/the-home-under-christ/

– A Godly Father's Counsel to His Children: https://bannermagazine.podbean.com/e/a-godly-father-s-counsel-to-his-children/

– The High Calling of Motherhood: https://bannermagazine.podbean.com/e/the-high-calling-of-motherhood/

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James Gilmour (b. 1843) laboured in Mongolia, seeing precious little external fruit in the form of conversions. He continued on, serving his Lord Jesus in trying and discouraging circumstances. In this historical address from the 2023 UK Borders Conference, David Campbell introduces us to Gilmour, a true stalwart of the faith, who laid down his life in service to the Mongols and for their salvation.

His testimony is a wonderful reminder that the Lord is often at work even when our best efforts seem to yield little in the way of tangible 'success'.

David Campbell is minister of North Preston Evangelical Church, Lancashire.

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Between the Banner Youth and Ministers' Conferences we had the pleasure of sitting down with Dr. Ligon Duncan, Chancellor/CEO of Reformed Theological Seminary. We discussed his early years, training for ministry, the mission of RTS, and some of the Banner books he has benefitted from over the years.

Ligon's Banner Picks:

Brooks, Thomas, Precious Remedies Against Satan's Devices

- https://banneroftruth.org/store/christian-living/precious-remedies-against-satans-devices/

Bucer, Martin, Concerning the True Care of Souls

- https://banneroftruth.org/store/church-ministry/concerning-the-true-care-of-souls/

Marlorat, Augustin, Prayers on the Psalms: From the Scottish Psalter of 1595 (Pocket Puritans)

- https://banneroftruth.org/store/devotionalsdaily-readings/prayers-on-the-psalms/

Warfield, B. B., Faith and Life (note especially the address 'The Outpouring of the Holy Spirit, Acts 2:16, 17)

- https://banneroftruth.org/store/theology/faith-life/

Warfield, B. B., The Saviour of the World

- https://banneroftruth.org/store/sermons-and-expositions/the-saviour-of-the-world/

Other Resources Mentioned:

Blair Smith, D., and Miller, Matthew, eds., From Generation to Generation: Writings in Honour of Douglas F. Kelly (Christian Focus, 2023).

- https://www.christianfocus.com/products/3162/generation-to-generation

Cunningham, William, An Introduction to Theological Studies (edited and introduced by J. Ligon Duncan III)

- www.abebooks.co.uk/9781884416026/Introduction-Theological-Studies-Lectures-William-1884416020/plp

Garretson, James, ed., Princeton and the Work of the Christian Ministry: A Collection of Addresses and Articles by Faculty and Friends of Princeton Theological Seminary (2 Vols, in Vol. 2 of which can be found Warfield's 'The Religious Life of Theological Students').

- https://banneroftruth.org/store/church-ministry/princeton-and-the-work-of-the-christian-ministry-3/

Witsius, Herman, The Character of a Genuine Theologian (some of the lecture, but not all, accessible here):

- https://books.google.com/books?id=MVQAAAAAYAAJ&pg=PA158&dq=witsius+character+theologian&lr=&ie=ISO-8859-1)

For more information:

Dr. Ligon Duncan: https://ligonduncan.com/

Reformed Theological Seminary: https://rts.edu/

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We live in trying times, when it often seems as if the 'foundations are destroyed' (Psalm 11:3). How are believers called to live in a dark day? This week's readings, from Mauric Roberts and John Flavel, address dark days and preparations for trial. 

Featured Content:

– 'The Believer's Duty in a Dark Day', Maurice Roberts, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 678, March 2020.

– Excerpt from Chapter 4 of John Flavel's 'Preparations for Sufferings, Or, The Best Work in the Worst Times' (Puritan Paperback, 161 pages).

Buy the book: https://banneroftruth.org/store/christian-living/preparations-for-sufferings/

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Are we saved by grace, or by faith? Does it matter? If these questions have ever exercised you, then Paul Helm's article 'A Bad Habit' may be of help. Revisiting some of B. B. Warfield's thoughts on the subjects of grace and faith, Helm shows that how we think and talk about the ground of our salvation matters enormously.

Featured Content:

– 'A Bad Habit', Paul Helm, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 128 (May 1975). 

– The prayer 'Amazing Grace' from The Valley of Vision: A Collection of Puritan Prayers and Devotions, edited by Arthur Bennett. https://banneroftruth.org/store/devotionalsdaily-readings/the-valley-of-vision/

Explore the work of the Banner: www.banneroftruth.org

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The third and final instalment of our mini-series on the three Bonar brothers who became ministers of the gospel in 19th-century Scotland. This week we consider the life of the youngest, Andrew Bonar, who ministered principally in Collace, Perthshire, and in Glasgow.

We consider the graces and gifts, weaknesses and witness of this humble, happy servant of Christ.

Featured Content:

– 'Andrew Bonar and Fellowship with Christ', Iain H. Murray, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 567, December 2010.

– 'Andrew A. Bonar—The Youngest of the Three Bonar Brothers', David Campbell, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 723, December 2023.

– 'I Heard the Voice of Jesus Say', a hymn of Horatius Bonar (public domain).

Featured Hymn: 'I Heard the Voice of Jesus Say'

I heard the voice of Jesus say, “Come unto Me and rest; Lay down, thou weary one, lay down Thy head upon My breast.” I came to Jesus as I was, Weary, and worn, and sad; I found in Him a resting-place, And He has made me glad.

I heard the voice of Jesus say, “Behold, I freely give The living water; thirsty one, Stoop down and drink, and live.” I came to Jesus, and I drank Of that life-giving stream; My thirst was quenched, my soul revived, And now I live in Him.

I heard the voice of Jesus say, “I am this dark world’s Light; Look unto Me, thy morn shall rise, And all thy day be bright.” I looked to Jesus, and I found In Him my Star, my Sun; And in that light of life I’ll walk Till travelling days are done.

Amen.

We are grateful to Mr. Jack Adair for singing this hymn.

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Among those who rediscovered the power of Puritan faith and piety in the 20th Century, the name of J. I. Packer stands out prominently. This week, we read Ian Hamilton's editorial 'The Essential Packer', and proceed to the first portion of a probing article from Packer on 'Puritan Evangelism'.

Featured Content:

– 'The Essential J.I. Packer', Ian Hamilton, editorial of Banner of Truth Magazine Issue 685, October 2020.

– 'Puritan Evangelism', J. I. Packer, Banner of Truth Magazine Issue 4, February 1957.

Explore the work of the Banner of Truth: www.banneroftruth.org

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Francis Turretin of Geneva, if he is known at all, is often thought of as a Protestant 'scholastic', where this is shorthand for an ivory tower theologian given to excessive hair-splitting. Such a caricature, however, does not do justice to the man himself. An earnest preacher, and a devoted disciple, Turretin placed his scholarship at the service of the church. While he was a thorough and careful theologian, Turretin sought to go only as far, and no further, than the Scripture warranted, and to do his theology in a spirit of charity.

This week's episode introduces us to Turretin the man and theologian, and to Volume 1 of his Institutes of Elenctic Theology, which has been published by Presbyterian and Reformed Publishers since 1992.

Featured Content:

– 'Shapers of Christianity: Francis Turretin (1623–87)', Nick Needham, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 716, May 2023.

– 'Francis Turretin's Institutes in English', Robert Sheehan, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 368, May 1994.

Resources Mentioned:

- The Institutes of Elenctic Theology, Francis Turretin (1992–1997, Presbyterian and Reformed Publishing)

Volume 1 (surveyed above): https://www.prpbooks.com/book/institutes-of-elenctic-theology

Three-volume set: https://www.prpbooks.com/book/institutes-of-elenctic-theology-3-vol-set

Explore the work of the Banner: www.banneroftruth.org

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Many are the paradoxes of the Christian life. One such paradox is that it is often in times of suffering that we gain the most, from a spiritual standpoint. As we stand at the gate of the year, we must prepare ourselves for suffering. We have been told to expect it as a built-in feature of the heavenward life. Such preparation is an exercise of faith, as we trust that God is able to turn the worst circumstances to our good. This week's articles help us in this effort.

Featured Content:

– Excerpt from a sermon by William Bridge, featured as 'Faith in Suffering Times' in the Banner of Truth Magazine, Issues 70–71 (July–August 1969).

– 'Abounding Hope', Letter by John Welsh, January 6, 1606, featured in the Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 171 (December 1977).

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Church discipline is a gracious institution of the Lord Jesus Christ for the honour of His name, the purity of His Church, and the eternal salvation of His people.

This week's episode focuses on this neglected topic. An excerpt from Jeremy Walker helps to unpack some of the reasons why church discipline matters. Drilling down on 'corrective' or 'restorative' discipline, we read a section from Stuart Olyott's article 'Church Discipline' to help guide us through a difficult area.

Featured Content:

– Excerpt from 'Called to be Holy' by Jeremy Walker sourced from pages 19 to 24 of that booklet.

Buy the booklet: https://banneroftruth.org/uk/store/christmas-bulk/called-to-be-holy/

– First part of 'Church Discipline', Stuart Olyott, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 163, April 1977.

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Reformer John Calvin (1509–1564) is principally associated with Geneva, where he pastored and preached for 23 years. It is easy to forget that he was French, and that he fostered and maintained a great love for his homeland and people throughout his life. This week in the podcast, we read a selection from W. J. Grier's Life of John Calvin, getting a sense of Calvin's early work in France, before turning to Paul Wells' account of how Calvin's Institutes has fared in the country of his birth.

Featured Content:

– Excerpt from The Life of John Calvin, by W. J. Grier (Edinburgh: Banner of Truth, 2012)

– 'Remaking Calvin's Institutes in Modern French', Paul Wells, The Banner of Truth Magazine: Issue 606, March 2014.

Buy Grier's The Life of John Calvin: https://banneroftruth.org/uk/store/history-biography/the-life-of-john-calvin/

Buy 'Institution de la Religion Chrétienne [Relié]': https://www.xl6.com/articles/9782755000870-institution-de-la-religion-chretienne

Explore the work of the Banner of Truth: www.banneroftruth.org

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The United Kingdom has a rich Christian heritage, a standing testimony to the Lord's saving mercy and transforming grace. How can visitors to the UK trace some of these movements of God's Spirit? What if the Banner were to put together a suggested itinerary?

Interestingly, the Banner did—back in 1978!—and it still makes for interesting and useful reading. We bring it to you this week as a podcast bonus, and also hear from Ben Virgo (Christian Heritage London), Jo Pinfield (Christian Heritage Cambridge) and Paul James-Griffiths (Christian Heritage Edinburgh) about the work they are doing today to share what the Lord has done in the UK.

N.B. At the time of podcast release, the address of The Evangelical Library is 5/6 Gateway Mews, London, N11 2UT.

Featured article:

– 'Suggested Eight Days' Itinerary for Visitors to UK', Iain H. Murray, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 182 (November 1978).

Helpful Organisations and Links:

Christian Heritage London (https://christianheritagelondon.org)

Walking tours of London and the British Museum

Three London highlights: St Mary Woolnoth (John Newton's church), Aldersgate Street (where John Wesley's heart was 'strangely warmed'), and the Shaftesbury Memorial (Anthony Ashley-Cooper, Lord Shaftesbury).

Contact Christian Heritage London | Ben Virgo's podcast interview with Iain H. Murray

Christian Heritage Cambridge (https://roundchurchcambridge.org/)

Visitor centre, walking tours of Cambridge, and historical events

Three Cambridge highlights: The Round Church (c. 1130), the White Horse Inn (plaque only - inn no longer extant), and Emmanuel College (seedbed of Puritanism, college of John Harvard).

Contact Christian Heritage Cambridge

Christian Heritage Edinburgh/Soul of Scotland Tours (https://soulofscotlandtours.com/)

Visitor centre, walking tours of Edinburgh

Three Edinburgh highlights: National Museum of Scotland (basement celtic crosses, etc.), Magdalene Chapel, Presbytery Hall at Edinburgh Theological Seminary (a National Covenant document, Disruption Painting, etc.)

Contact Christian Heritage Edinburgh

Other useful links and resources for planning your trip:

- Mayflower Pilgrims Tour from Pilgrims and Prophets/Bassetlaw Christian Heritage (https://www.pilgrimsandprophets.co.uk/tours/mayflower-pilgrims-highlights/)

The area around Retford and Worksop has many connections to the 17th century groups who moved to the Lower Countries and to North America as they sought to leave a godly legacy.

- England's Christian Heritage (https://englandschristianheritage.org.uk/) 

- Wales's Christian Heritage (https://waleschristianheritage.org.uk/)

Two resource websites for tracing notable figures in church history by county, and determining places to visit.

Please note that the Banner of Truth cannot be held responsible for the content of third-party websites or the substance of third-party tours, events, and publications. Listing here does not necessarily equal endorsement. 

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What are mortification and vivification? What role do they play in our Christian lives? How can we encourage men in the church to grow, in a cultural environment which in various ways undermines attempts to pursue godliness? These are questions about which the subject of this month's interview has thought deeply. Joe Barnard is Lead Pastor at Holyrood Evangelical Church in Edinburgh, and it was our great pleasure to sit down with him earlier this year to talk life, ministry, and books. We trust you'll be encouraged as you listen in. 

Books and Authors Mentioned:

Barnard, Joe, The Way Forward: A Roadmap of Spiritual Growth for Men in the 21st Century

https://www.christianfocus.com/products/2863/the-way-forward

Barnard, Joe, Surviving the Trenches: Killing Sin Before it Kills You

https://www.christianfocus.com/products/3032/surviving-the-trenches

Barnard, Joe, Hymn Workouts: 100 Exercises to Set Your Heart Ablaze

https://www.christianfocus.com/products/3056/hymn-workouts

Chalmers, Thomas, The Letters of Thomas Chalmers

https://banneroftruth.org/uk/store/letters/letters-of-thomas-chalmers/

Owen, John, Spiritual-Mindedness (available in Puritan Paperback or unabridged in Volume 7 of Owen's Works)

https://banneroftruth.org/uk/store/christian-living/spiritual-mindedness/

https://banneroftruth.org/uk/store/owen-books/the-works-of-john-owen-7/

Ryle, J. C., Practical Religion: Being Plain Papers on the Duties, Experience, Dangers, and Privileges of Professing Christians

https://banneroftruth.org/uk/store/christian-living/practical-religion-2/

Helpful Links:

Holyrood Evangelical Church - https://holyroodevangelical.org/

Cross Training Ministries - www.xtrainingministries.com

Watch the interview on Youtube:

https://youtu.be/wLuSaRRBtVY

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William Perkins, like Laurence Chaderton, was a Puritan of the Elizabethan age. As such, he lived before that golden generation of Puritans in which the likes of Flavel, Goodwin, Owen and Baxter ministered. 

He was part of a pioneering generation that set to work applying the newly-recovered doctrines of the Reformation in the English context. Although he died at the age of 44, Perkins—a 'man of parts', as the Puritans might have said—would make contributions as a preacher, pastoral counsellor, theologian, and commentator that have stood the test of time. 

Featured Resources:

– 'Art of Prophesying: William Perkins' Famous Book Reprinted', Sinclair B. Ferguson, featured in the Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 389 (February 1996).

– 'Perkins: Father of English Commentators', Edward J. Malcolm, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 462 (March 2002).

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How should we think of the Law of God? Is it all one, or are there distinctions to be made between different subdivisions of law? How does the way we think of the Law shape our Christian lives?

These fundamentally important questions, and others, are addressed in this week's episode, with the help of Maurice Roberts and Samuel Bolton.

Featured Content:

– 'Three Forms of Law', Maurice J. Roberts, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 519, December 2006.

– Excerpt from The True Bounds of Christian Freedom, by Samuel Bolton (First pub. 1645; first Banner edition 1964; latest Banner of Truth edition: 2024), pages 51–53.

Purchase: https://banneroftruth.org/us/store/christian-living/the-true-bounds-of-christian-freedom/

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Tarry any length of time with evangelical and Reformed Christians, and one is likely to hear the name of Martyn Lloyd-Jones. ‘The Doctor’ as he was affectionately known, had a ministry that was used by God in a quite unique way in the mid to late twentieth century.

This week’s articles provide a stimulus to engage with Lloyd-Jones through two distinct types of media: his letters and his books. Jeremy Brooks highlights the value of the volume of Letters published by the Banner in 1994 for our understanding of the Doctor, and Iain H. Murray offers a guide to Lloyd-Jones’ book output, with suggestions as to which volumes readers ought to prioritise.

Whether you’ve benefitted from Lloyd-Jones for years, or have just discovered him, these articles will provide valuable insights and encouragement to read the work of a wonderful servant of Christ.

Featured Articles:

– 'Revisiting Lloyd-Jones' Letters', Jeremy Brooks, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 736 (January 2025).

– 'Advice on Reading Dr Lloyd-Jones', Iain H. Murray, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 510 (March 2006).

Our thanks to Jeremy Brooks, pastor at Wellcome Hall Evangelical Church, Catshill, Bromsgrove, for reading the article he authored.

Resources by Lloyd-Jones:

The All-Sufficient God: Sermons on Isaiah 40

Authentic Christianity (Acts Set)

Born of God: Sermons from John Chapter 1

Ephesians Set

Expository Sermons on 2 Peter

Knowing the Times: Addresses Delivered on Various Occasions 1942-1977

Letters of D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones

Old Testament Evangelistic Sermons

The Puritans: Their Origins and Successors

Saved by Grace Alone: Sermons on Ezekiel 36:16-36

Resources about Dr. and Mrs Lloyd-Jones:

D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones, Iain H. Murray (2 volume biography. Volumes can be bought separately: The First Forty Years, 1899-1939 and The Fight of Faith, 1939-1981)

Lloyd-Jones: Messenger of Grace, Iain H. Murray

Memories of Sandfields, Bethan Lloyd-Jones

The Life of Martyn Lloyd-Jones, Iain H. Murray (1 volume, 'a re-cast, condensed and, in parts, re-written version of the author’s two volumes D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones: The First Forty Years (1982) and The Fight of Faith (1990). Since those dates, the life of Dr Lloyd-Jones has been the subject of comment and assessment in many publications and these have been taken into account. The main purpose of this further biography, however, is to put Dr Lloyd-Jones’ life before another generation in more accessible form. The big story is all here.')

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68 years after its first issue, the Banner of Truth Magazine is entering the podcast space! In this first episode, John Rawlinson, our General Manager, shares how the Magazine got started, why it’s worth reading, and our hopes for the podcast. We also read the 1955 editorial that got it all started.

The Banner of Truth: www.banneroftruth.org

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This summer the Trust brought out a new, retypeset edition of William Cunningham's Historical Theology (1863). This week we read its new introduction by Banner Trustee Donald John MacLean, to find out why this work is of unique value to the 21st Century reader.

Read Material:

– 'William Cunningham's Historical Theology – An Introduction', Donald John MacLean, in William Cunningham, Historical Theology (Edinburgh: Banner of Truth, 1960 and 2024). First edition 1863.

Buy the work (2 volumes): https://banneroftruth.org/store/theology/historical-theology-3/

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Many, perhaps most, evangelical churches today separate children from the main congregation for the preaching of the word of God. This week's episode asks at what cost we do this, challenging deeply-rooted assumptions about our practice of public worship.

Featured Content:

– 'Children and the Sermon', Iain H. Murray, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 108 (September 1972).

– 'Ten Benefits of Corporate Worship for Our Children', Matt Purdy, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 675 (December 2019).

Cited material:

Seat card from Heritage Presbyterian Church, Warrenton, Virginia, cited with permission.

– https://x.com/warne/status/1821658894927851709/photo/2

– https://heritage-pca.org/about/

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Confessions of faith, such as the Westminster Confession of 1646, play a celebrated role in Reformed, evangelical Christianity. This week we consider the value of such documents, and the way in which they often result from a period of pressure or crisis, which leads God's people to give fresh expression to their faith, in order to assist believers in its defense and propagation, and their unity in the truth.

Featured Content:

– 'Loving the Westminster Confession and Catechisms', David B. Calhoun, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 651, December 2017.

– Excerpt from B. B. Warfield, 'The Significance of the Westminster Standards as a Creed' in Princeton and the Christian Ministry, volume 2, pages 457—459 (Edinburgh: Banner of Truth Trust, 2012).

– 'Confessions and Crises in Church History', John R. De Witt, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 50, September/October 1967.

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The ministry of John Angell James, favoured though it was, marked the end of an era at Carrs Lane Congregational Church. When it came to ministerial handover, we observe a weakness of judgement in James which made room for a less than orthodox ministry at the church. The upshot was that sadly James's ministry legacy was not extended and built on with gospel vision by his successor, R. W. Dale.

From noting this sad turn of events, we remind ourselves of the crucial nature of truth in a victorious Christian pilgrimage with a reading from Bunyan's The Pilgrim's Progress.

Featured Content:

– 'John Angell James', Peter Seccombe, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 220 (January 1982). 

- Excerpts concerning Mr Valiant-for-truth from 'Part the Second' of John Bunyan's The Pilgrim's Progress (Banner of Truth ed., 1977, current ed., 2017), pages 348–350 and 373.

Buy The Pilgrim's Progress: https://banneroftruth.org/store/christian-living/pilgrims-progress/

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Thomas Guthrie lived to share the truth and love of the Lord Jesus Christ. Living through a time of spiritual challenge and social transformation, he had eyes to see the poorest of the poor, a heart to care for them, and the organisational flare to set up a 'Ragged School'. Far from being the outworking of a 'social gospel', Guthrie's work was animated by a genuine love for these at-risk children, expressed supremely in teaching them the Scriptures, by which they could be made wise unto salvation through Jesus Christ. This week's episode introduces this remarkable man, and some of the ways in which he became a channel of God's grace to the most vulnerable.

Featured Content:

– 'Thomas Guthrie: Preacher and Philanthropist', Andrew Murray, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 597, June 2013.

– Quotes sourced from https://thomasguthrie.org/ragged-schools/

For more on Thomas Guthrie:

– https://thomasguthrie.org/

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We've a short 'extra' this week, as we mark 362 years since the infamous 'Black Bartholomew's Day' of 24 August, 1662.

25% off Sermons of the Great Ejection (for one week, to 30 August 2024) with code 'anniversary362':

- https://banneroftruth.org/store/church-ministry/sermons-of-the-great-ejection/

Purchase the Banner of Truth 2025 Calendar (in stock, UK and World; coming soon to North America):

- https://banneroftruth.org/uk/store/calendar/banner-2025-calendar/

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Ernest Kevan is not likely to be mentioned in a list of the most significant British evangelicals of the 20th Century. Yet, as a pastor and then as the first principal of London Bible College, he exercised a profound and wide-reaching influence on those who worked and studied with him. Earnest, hard-working, and disciplined, his could be an intimidating presence. But those closest to him saw clearly his tremendous love for the Lord and genuine care for the students in his charge. In this week's episode we take a closer look at Kevan's life and labours and uncover something of how this retiring man became 'Uncle Ernie' - a guide and inspiration to so many.

Excerpt taken from Paul E. Brown, Ernest Kevan: Leader in Twentieth Century British Evangelicalism (Edinburgh: Banner of Truth, 2012).

Paul Brown's biography of Ernest Kevan: https://banneroftruth.org/store/history-biography/ernest-kevan/

Coupon code to get 30% off Paul Brown's biography (valid to June 12th, 2024): Ernest24

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Speaking for the first time at our Youth Conference this year was Joseph Mangahas (Mang-AH-hass), one of the pastors at Cubao Reformed Baptist Church, Manila.

Joseph sat down with us to discuss gospel work in the Philippines, his conversion and Christian growth, and the many and varied ministries of Cubao Reformed Baptist Church. It is an episode to encourage all who delight to hear about the Lord's work in countries about which we hear little in the West.

For Cubao Reformed Baptist Church: https://www.crbc-ph.org/

About Grace Ministerial Academy: https://www.evangelical-times.org/grace-ministerial-academy-philippines/

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This week we finish Stuart Olyott's article exploring the nature and practice of 'corrective discipline', a subject utterly essential in our non-judgemental age. He shows us that the work of such discipline must always be focused on the restoration of the erring member, and carried out with great humility and wisdom. We also read the testimony of B. R. Basted, who found himself in a situation in which he could not, as a gospel minister, exercise the basic church discipline of preventing unbelievers from accessing gospel ordinances. It is a salutory reminder of the need for ministers to be resourced and supported in the work of church discipline.

Featured Content:

– Second part of 'Church Discipline', Stuart Olyott, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 163, April 1977.

- 'Discipline at the Local Level – The Real Problem', B. R. Basted, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 80, May 1970.

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Dr Chad Van Dixhoorn has spent many years researching and teaching the theology of the Westminster Standards (comprising the Confession of Faith, with the Larger and Shorter catechisms). We sat down with him to learn more about the standards and the 'Assembly of Divines' that produced them, as well as asking him about his own upbringing in Canada, his conversion, and work. We finished by discussing his own exposition of the Westminster Confession of Faith, 'Confessing the Faith', published 10 years ago by the Trust.

More about the Westminster Standards: https://westminsterassembly.org/about-the-project/

More about Dr Van Dixhoorn: https://rts.edu/people/dr-chad-van-dixhoorn/

Buy the Westminster Standards: https://banneroftruth.org/uk/store/theology/westminster-confession/

Buy 'Confessing the Faith': https://banneroftruth.org/uk/store/theology/confessing-the-faith/

Buy the Study Guide for 'Confessing the Faith': https://banneroftruth.org/uk/store/theology/confessing-the-faith-study-guide/

Related video: 'What are Confessions?' with Jeremy Walker: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZcqSub_gtrU&t=13s

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This week we hone in on Thomas Goodwin, 'The Atlas of Independency', and read Ian Hamilton's recent article, Thomas Goodwin: The Evangelical Puritan, before turning to an extract from Goodwin's own Christ Set Forth, As the Cause of Justification and as the Object of Justifying Faith (Puritan Paperback).

Featured Content:

– Thomas Goodwin: The Evangelical Puritan, Ian Hamilton, featured in The Banner of Truth Magazine: No. 725, February 2024

– Extract from Thomas Goodwin, Christ Set Forth, As the Cause of Justification and as the Object of Justifying Faith (Chapter 3, pages 15–26). Buy the book: https://banneroftruth.org/store/theology/christ-set-forth/

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Archibald Alexander (1772–1851) was the first Principal of Princeton Theological Seminary. A preacher and a theological educator par excellence, his commitment to scholarship and to the preparation of men for ministry made his contribution foundational to the long season of fruitfulness that Princeton enjoyed in the decades after his death.

Alongside of his classroom teaching and preaching ministry, Alexander constantly counselled those who came to him in spiritual distress or need. His wise, spiritual counsel and sanctified commonsense led one onlooker to describe him as the 'Shakespeare of the Christian Heart'. These qualities are on full display in this week's second selection, from his Thoughts on Religious Experience.

Featured Content:

– The Rediscovery of Old Princeton, David B. Calhoun, featured in The Banner of Truth Magazine: No. 365, February 1994

– Extract from Archibald Alexander, Thoughts on Religious Experience (Chapter 8, pages 105–109). Buy the book: https://banneroftruth.org/store/christian-living/thoughts-on-religious-experience/

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Featured Content:

– Excerpt from W. J. Grier, 'The Life of John Calvin', (Edinburgh: Banner of Truth, 2012), featured in the Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 567, December 2010.

– 'On Toward the Goal: A Meditation for the New Year by the Late W. J. Grier', Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 244 (January 1984).

About the Contributor:

W. J. Grier came to Christ while studying Classics at Queen's University, Belfast, through the witness of a Christian student friend and in a W. P. Nicholson mission meeting.

He was a trustee of the Banner of Truth Trust, co-chairman of the Leicester Ministers’ Conference, a founding member of the British Evangelical Council (now Affinity), and served on committees of the Evangelical Fellowship of Ireland and the Evangelical Library in Belfast. He was a well-known and enormously respected leader throughout the international Reformed constituency.

He retired in 1979 after a ministry of almost fifty-two years and went to be with the Lord on 6 August 1983. He was the author of many booklets, articles, tracts, Daily Readings and Calendar Notes, including The Momentous Event and The Life of John Calvin, published by the Trust.

Listen to 'Calvin in France': https://bannermagazine.podbean.com/e/calvin-in-france/

Buy The Life of John Calvin by W. J. Grier: https://banneroftruth.org/store/history-biography/the-life-of-john-calvin/

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Godly fathers are marked by concern for their children's wellbeing, and especially their spiritual condition. This week's first selection offers a number of compelling examples of this concern in faithful men of the past, from Jonathan Edwards to Charles Spurgeon. The second selection, from Martyn Lloyd-Jones's 'Raising Children God's Way', takes us to the practical and vital topic of how we may best serve the spiritual needs of our children.

Featured Content:

– "A Godly Father's Counsel to His Children" by Richard Brooks (Banner of Truth Magazine: No. 364, January 1994)

– Excerpt from Chapter 5, "Godly Upbringing", of Martyn Lloyd-Jones's Raising Children God's Way (Banner of Truth: 2007). Excerpt can be found between pages 80 and 85. Buy the book: https://banneroftruth.org/store/christian-living/raising-children-gods-way/

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Meditation is to the Christian life what digestion is to the body: without it, the processes which sustain life are greatly hampered - even rendered impossible. The Puritans held an extremely high view of the necessity of meditation. They saw it as one of the primary means by which we take the great truths of the faith and appropriate them, applying them to our hearts in order that we might love and treasure God more.

Featured Content:

– 'Kindling the Fire of Meditation', Dillon Thornton, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 591, December 2012.

– Excerpt from Charles Bridges, Psalm 119 (First pub. 1827; latest Banner of Truth rep. 2024), pages 249–251.

Purchase: https://banneroftruth.org/store/commentaries/psalm-119-5/

– Excerpts from The Golden Treasury of Puritan Quotations, compiled by I. D. E. Thomas (First pub. 1975 [Moody Press]; latest Banner of Truth edition: 2022). Quotes mainly sourced from entries on 'Meditation'.

Purchase: https://banneroftruth.org/store/devotionalsdaily-readings/the-golden-treasury-of-puritan-quotations/

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In this short, encouraging meditation, David Campbell reminds us that the Lord is sovereign over all of our days, and that it may be in our latter years that we discover new avenues of fruitfulness for Christ's kingdom.

Featured article:

– 'God's Intriguing Timeframes', David Campbell, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 690 (March 2021).

David Campbell ministers at North Preston Evangelical Church, Lancashire, England. He is a trustee of the Banner of Truth, and author of Sanctification: Transformed Life (Banner mini-guides). 

Explore the work of the Banner of Truth: www.banneroftruth.org

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There are few, if any, earthly sorrows like the loss of a child.

In Pain of a Particular Kind, Peter Barnes draws on his own experience to help parents (and grandparents) who have suffered such a loss.

As he says in the Introduction, ‘This is not a work of apologetics, but a brief attempt to understand and work through grief, for myself, my family, and for any other readers. It has only heightened the sense of my own need to receive comfort myself. Such comfort can only come from the God who is our creator and our redeemer. The hope remains that God will use this book to minister to and bless any of his people who have suffered the agony of losing a child.’

Peter Barnes is the retired minister of Revesby Presbyterian Church, New South Wales, Australia. He written a number of books, including 'Abortion: Open Your Mouth for the Dumb' and 'John Calvin: Man of God's Word Written and Preached' with the Banner.

Buy Pain of a Particular Kind: The Loss of a Child (Small paperback, 88 pages), or sign up for Waitlist - expected in the UK in early January:

https://banneroftruth.org/store/christian-living/pain-of-a-particular-kind/

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The first of three episodes inspired by David Campbell's mini-series on three remarkable brothers who ministered in 19th Century Scotland.

This week we consider the life, ministry, and faithfulness of John James Bonar. Not as well known as his brothers Horatius and Andrew, his ministry unveils a steady commitment to parish ministry that eshewed distraction and worldly ambition.

Featured Content:

– 'John James Bonar—The eldest of the three Bonar brothers', David Campbell, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 721, October 2023.

– Excerpt from A Scottish Christian Heritage, by Iain H. Murray (Edinburgh: Banner of Truth, 2006), pages 160-161.

Purchase: https://banneroftruth.org/store/history-biography/a-scottish-christian-heritage/

– 'Going Home', a hymn of Dr. John James Bonar, which appears in the Parting Memorial of John James Bonar, D. D., First Minister of Saint Andrew's Parish and Congregation, Greenock, Being some Record of Services in Connection with his Funeral (Greenock: James MacKelvie & Sons, 1892).

'Going Home'

'I'm going home!' the Saint exclaimed;

Bright grew his closing eye;

He thought of Jesus and his rest,

And did not fear to die.

'I'm going home! I'm winged for flight

To yonder peaceful clime;

Prepared to go, I only wait

My God's appointed time.

I'm going home, to dwell with Him

Who bled and died for me;

For He hath said that where He is

There shall His servants be.

'I'm going home, transporting thought!

Lord Jesus, quickly come,

And bear my ransomed soul away

To her celestial home!'

'I'm going home!' the Saint exclaimed;

Bright grew his closing eye;

He thought of Jesus and his rest,

And did not fear to die.

We are grateful to Mr. Jack Adair for singing this hymn. The featured tune is 'Wallace'.

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What are we to make of a book that has evidently been a blessing to many, contains truths vital for the church to recover, and which is yet unbalanced and problematic at points? Jeremy Walker shows the way with grace and discernment in his review of Dane Ortlund's Gentle and Lowly (2020).

We read Jeremy's review, and then spend a little more time with Thomas Goodwin and his view of the heart of Christ.

Featured Content:

– Jeremy Walker 'Precious but Flawed: A Review Article', Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 691 (April 2021).

– Excerpt from Michael Reeves, 'Goodwin, Sibbes and the Love of Christ', Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 578 (November 2011).

About the Contributors:

Jeremy Walker is pastor at Maidenbower Baptist Church, Crawley, West Sussex. He is the author of a number of books, including Our Chief of Days: The Principle, Purpose, and Practice of the Lord's Day.

Michael Reeves is President and Professor of Theology at Union Theology (https://uniontheology.org/)

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David Dickson (1583–1663) was a living testimony to the grace of God in Christ. In bearing suffering (he was deprived of his living and exiled for a time), in counselling convicted sinners, in preaching, and in writing he demonstrated the gifts and graces of a true under-shepherd of Christ's flock. This week we explore some of the details of his life, and hear a contemporary appreciation of his value as a Christ-centred commentator on the Psalms from Christopher Ash.

Featured Resources:

– Excerpt from Faith Cook, Samuel Rutherford and His Friends (Edinburgh: Banner of Truth, 1992), pp. 73–81 in the 2013 reprint.

– 'A Personal Appreciation of David Dickson's Psalms Commentary (illustrated from Psalm 47)', Christopher Ash, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 691 (April 2021).

– 'David's Antidote to Fear', David Dickson, from his commentary on the Psalms, featured in the Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 614 (November 2014).

Further Reading:

Ash, Christopher, The Psalms: A Christ-Centred Commentary (Wheaton: Crossway, 2024). 4 Volumes.

Dickson, David, Psalms (1655; repr. Edinburgh: Banner of Truth, 1959). 

Dickson, David, Truth's Victory Over Error: A Commentary on the Westminster Confession of Faith (1684; repr. Edinburgh: Banner of Truth, 2007). 

David Dickson's Therapeutica Sacra, his guide to ministering to those with troubled consciences and questions concerning their standing with God, has been republished by Monergism Books in paperback and free epub versions.

Explore the work of the Banner of Truth: www.banneroftruth.org

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We are by nature grumblers and malcontents. We take offence easily, and become critical when our desires and expectations are disappointed. Paul Levy, in this week's main article, helps us to see that these tendencies aren't mere quirks, or 'weaknesses', but sins of great consequence in the church of God. Moreover, they are sins to which we are often tempted at times of great growth and kingdom advance.

Through a discussion of the beginning of Acts 6, he helps us see how this dynamic was negotiated by the apostles, and how we can take evasive action against it today.

Featured Content:

– 'The Gospel, Grumbling, and Growth', Paul Levy, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 735, December 2024.

– Excerpt from United We Stand (Pocket Puritans), by Thomas Brooks (Edinburgh: Banner of Truth Trust, 2009). United We Stand is sourced from Brooks' Precious Remedies Against Satan's Devices (Puritan Paperbacks).

Buy United We Stand: https://banneroftruth.org/store/church-ministry/united-we-stand/

Buy Precious Remedies Against Satan's Devices: https://banneroftruth.org/store/christian-living/precious-remedies-against-satans-devices/

About the Contributors:

Paul Levy is ministry of International Presbyterian Church in Ealing, London. He writes at https://ealinglevy.wordpress.com/

Thomas Brooks was a Puritan gospel minister. The scant amount of information known about him comes largely from his writing. Born in 1608, he entered Emmanuel College, Cambridge in 1625. He spent several years at sea, perhaps as chaplain, and was licensed as a preacher by 1640. After England’s Civil War, Brooks served as pastor of London’s Thomas Apostle; in 1648, he preached before the House of Commons. He later became the subject of controversy when he refused baptism and the Lord’s Supper to people that weren’t walking faithfully with the Lord. Thomas Brooks books include a six-volume set titled The Works of Thomas Brooks, with each book also available individually. Other books include Precious Remedies Against Satan’s Devices (written to help people resist Satan’s seductive power), The Secret Key to Heaven ( which emphasizes the importance of private prayer) and Heaven on Earth, which reminds people there is no greater privilege than to be a child of God.

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This week's episode delves into the mysterious world of Freemasonry, and addresses the important question of whether its practices, beliefs, and oaths are consistent with the Christian confession.

Featured Content:

– Freemasonry, A. W. Rainsbury, featured in The Banner of Truth Magazine: No. 273, June 1986.

– The Conversion of a Freemason, from Personal Reminiscences of the Life and Times of Gardiner Spring, Volume 1, 1966, pp. 186–93. Featured in The Banner of Truth Magazine: No. 273, June 1986.

Explore the work of the Banner of Truth: www.banneroftruth.org

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We had the great pleasure of talking with Stuart Olyott at the Banner of Truth Ministers' Conference. A much-respected Bible teacher and pastor, Stuart discusses his formative years, his time at London Bible College, and subsequent journey in ministry. He even has occasion to describe a Homburg hat for the benefit of the uninitiated!

Banner Books by Stuart:

– I Wish Someone Would Explain Hebrews to Me! (https://banneroftruth.org/store/sermons-and-expositions/i-wish-someone-would-explain-hebrews-to-me/)

– Ministering Like the Master: Three Messages for Today's Preachers (https://banneroftruth.org/store/church-ministry/ministering-like-the-master/)

– Preaching That Gets Through: God's Words and Ours (https://banneroftruth.org/store/church-ministry/preaching-that-gets-through/)

– Reading the Bible and Praying in Public (https://banneroftruth.org/store/church-ministry/reading-the-bible-and-praying-in-public/)

– You Must Read: Books That Have Shaped Our Lives, Various Authors, Stuart writes an entry on reading Spurgeon's Revival Year Sermons. (https://banneroftruth.org/store/theology/you-must-read/)

Other Resources from Stuart:

– Stuart's sermons for download: www.knowyourbiblerecordings.org

– Preaching: Pure and Simple (https://epbooks.org/product/preaching-pure-and-simple-by-stuart-olyott/)

Watch the interview on Youtube:

https://youtu.be/lyEr8S0da2U

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In May of 1871, Charles Haddon Spurgeon contributed an article to The Sword and Trowel on the kind of ministry, and the kind of minister, needed by the churches, and how such ministers might be raised up. 

Spurgeon's blend of sanctified common sense and discerning, even wry commentary on trends current in his own day will, it is hoped, stimulate thought on the sort of ministry the Scriptures encourage us to pursue and foster.

Featured Article:

– 'The Ministry Needed by the Churches', C. H. Spurgeon, The Sword and Trowel, May 1871, featured in the Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 20 (April 1960).

Related Resources:

Charles Bridges, The Christian Ministry: With an Inquiry into the Causes of its Inefficiency (https://banneroftruth.org/store/church-ministry/the-christian-ministry/)

Charles Spurgeon, Lectures to my Students (https://banneroftruth.org/store/church-ministry/lectures-to-my-students/)

Charles Spurgeon, The Pastor in Prayer (https://banneroftruth.org/store/christian-living/the-pastor-in-prayer/)

Explore the work of the Banner of Truth: www.banneroftruth.org

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This week's episode is a little different, as we bring you a conversation with a great friend of the Banner, Dr Sinclair B. Ferguson, ahead of the release of his latest contribution to the Let's Study series: Let's Study Romans. 

We asked him about his own history with the Letter to the Romans, advice for pastors and preachers seeking to teach and preach the book, and what his hopes are as this new volume goes out to readers.

Let's Study Romans is available from 26 March, 2025. 

Buy Let's Study Romans

Two hymns by James Montgomery Boice, inspired by Romans 8:

Hallelujah! (What can separate my soul...)

How Marvelous, How Wise, How Great

Explore the work of the Banner of Truth: www.banneroftruth.org

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The practice of pastoral visitation in homes has fallen on hard times. For many of our forefathers in the faith, however, it was deemed an essential part of ministry, enabling effective oversight of the souls of the people of God.

This week, we 'revisit' the area of pastoral visitation, although for many of us, it may be the first time we've considered the nature and benefits of this practice for ourselves and those we may serve in the church.

Featured Resources:

– 'Pastoral Visitation—A Needed Revival', James Howard Lynch, featured in the Banner of Truth Magazine, Issues 731–732 (August & September 2024).

– Excerpts from Charles Bridges, The Christian Ministry, with an Inquiry into the Causes of its Inefficiency (1850; repr. Edinburgh: Banner of Truth, 2018), pp. 344–360.

– Ian Hamilton audio taken from Pastoral Visitation

– Excerpts from 'The Directory for the Public Worship of God' in The Westminster Confession, with Associated Historical Documents (Edinburgh: Banner of Truth, 2023), pp. 562, 574.

The artwork featured with this week's episode is Richard Norris Brooke's 'A Pastoral Visit' (1881, Public Domain, now at the National Gallery of Art, Washington, D. C.)

Explore the work of the Banner of Truth: www.banneroftruth.org

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Leave us your feedback or a testimony: www.speakpipe.com/magazinepodcast

We recently had the pleasure of sitting down with Mark Dever, pastor at Capitol Hill Baptist Church (Washington, D. C.), to discuss books, ministry, and reading in the local church.

Mark's book recommendations:

Samuel Prime, The Power of Prayer: The New York Revival of 1858 (https://banneroftruth.org/store/history-biography/power-of-prayer/)

Andrew Bonar and Bennet Tyler, Asahel Nettleton: Life and Labours (https://banneroftruth.org/store/history-biography/asahel-nettleton/)

C. H. Spurgeon, The Greatest Fight in the World (https://banneroftruth.org/store/church-ministry/the-greatest-fight-in-the-world/)

John Bunyan, All Loves Excelling (https://banneroftruth.org/store/christian-living/all-loves-excelling/)

Richard Sibbes, The Bruised Reed (https://banneroftruth.org/store/christian-living/the-bruised-reed/)

Thomas Boston, The Crook in the Lot (https://banneroftruth.org/store/christian-living/the-crook-in-the-lot/)

William Gurnall, The Christian in Complete Armour (3 vols: https://banneroftruth.org/store/christian-living/christian-in-complete-armour-5/ 1 vol: https://banneroftruth.org/store/sermons-and-expositions/christian-in-complete-armour/)

J. C. Ryle, Thoughts for Young Men (https://banneroftruth.org/store/christian-living/thoughts-young-men/)

Iain Murray, The Forgotten Spurgeon (https://banneroftruth.org/store/history-biography/forgotten-spurgeon/)

Jonathan Edwards on Revival, especially The Distinguishing Marks of a Work of the Spirit of God (https://banneroftruth.org/store/history-biography/jonathan-edwards-on-revival/)

Iain Murray, Evangelicalism Divided: A Record of Crucial Change in the Years 1950 to 2000 (https://banneroftruth.org/store/church-ministry/evangelicalism-divided/)

J. C. Ryle, Expository Thoughts on Mark (https://banneroftruth.org/store/commentaries/expository-thoughts-on-the-gospels-10/)

The Works of Richard Sibbes (7 vols: https://banneroftruth.org/store/collected-workssets/the-works-of-richard-sibbes/)

J. C. Ryle, Light from Old Times (https://banneroftruth.org/store/christian-living/light-from-old-times/)

Iain Murray, The Life of Martyn Lloyd-Jones (1 vol: https://banneroftruth.org/store/history-biography/the-life-of-martyn-lloyd-jones/)

C. H. Spurgeon, The Metropolitan Tabernacle Pulpit (Vol 38, 1892), (https://banneroftruth.org/store/sermons-and-expositions/metropolitan-tabernacle/)

Charles Bridges, The Christian Ministry (https://banneroftruth.org/store/church-ministry/the-christian-ministry/)

Iain Murray, Revival and Revivalism: The Making and Marring of American Evangelicalism 1750–1858 (https://banneroftruth.org/store/theology/revival-and-revivalism/)

Iain Murray, ed., The Reformation of the Church (https://banneroftruth.org/store/history-biography/reformation-of-the-church/)

J. H. Merle d'Aubigné, The Reformation in England (https://banneroftruth.org/store/history-biography/the-reformation-in-england-3/)

John Calvin, Sermons on Ephesians (https://banneroftruth.org/store/sermons-and-expositions/sermons-on-ephesians/)

The Works of Jonathan Edwards (https://banneroftruth.org/store/collected-workssets/the-works-of-jonathan-edwards/)

The Works of John Bunyan (https://banneroftruth.org/store/collected-workssets/the-works-of-john-bunyan-4/)

C. H. Spurgeon's Autobiography (https://banneroftruth.org/store/history-biography/c-h-spurgeon-autobiography/)

Links from this week's episode

Capitol Hill Baptist Church: https://www.capitolhillbaptist.org/

9Marks: www.9marks.org

Connie Dever's Children's Ministry: https://praisefactory.org/

Explore the work of the Banner of Truth: www.banneroftruth.org

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The second instalment of our Puritan mini-series looks at John Flavel, the great evangelist and pastor-theologian of Devon, in England's southwest. A man who knew the Lord's blessing as a disciple, an evangelist, a pastor, and a writer, he also knew great hardship and government-sanctioned opposition.

See map of Devon (the county where Flavel ministered).

Featured Resources:

– 'John Flavel', presumed to be by Iain H. Murray, featured in the Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 60 (September 1968).

– 'The Character of a Complete Evangelical Pastor Drawn by Christ', John Flavel, sermon notes featured in the Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 8 (August 1957).

Works by Flavel

All Things Made New: Living the Christian Life (Portions selected and edited by Lewis Allen, Puritan Paperbacks, 320 pages)

Binge Drinking (Pocket Puritans, 80 pages)

Facing Grief: Counsel for Mourners (Puritan Paperbacks, 136 pages)

Impure Lust (Pocket Puritans, 80 pages)

The Mystery of Providence (Puritan Paperbacks, 224 pages)

None But Jesus: Selections from the Writings of John Flavel (Pocket Puritans, 176 pages)

Preparations for Sufferings (Puritan Paperbacks, 176 pages)

Sinful Speech: Sins of the Tongue (Pocket Puritans, 96 pages)

The Works of John Flavel (6 Clothbound volumes, 3667 pages)

Second clip from Sinclair Ferguson used with the permission of Puritan Reformed Theological Seminary.

Original Clip: I've never read any Puritan books, where should I start?

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How should the bodies of deceased believers be treated? Are burial and cremation equally valid for Christians? Do the Scriptures speak to the issue at all, or is it merely a matter of preference?

These questions are all addressed by this week's featured article, by S. M. Houghton.

Featured Content:

– 'Earth to Earth', S. M. Houghton, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issues 70-71, July-August 1969.

– Excerpt from Banner's booklet 'Burial or Cremation: Does it Matter?' by Donald Howard (Edinburgh: Banner of Truth, 2001, recent edition ), pages 20-21.

S. M. Houghton was chief literary and editorial advisor to the Banner of Truth Trust from 1960 to 1987. His reminiscences are published in 'My Life and Books'.

Buy S. M. Houghton, My Life and Books: https://banneroftruth.org/store/history-biography/my-life-and-books/

Donald Howard is the retired minister of St. Peter's Church of England, Sydney, Australia. After experience in agriculture, The Royal Australian Air Force, and journalism, Donald Howard studied Theology at Moore College, Sydney and then served for many years in the pastoral ministry. While at St. Peter’s, his first wife, Diana, died of cancer at the age of forty-six in 1977, which occasioned the writing of his booklet Christians Grieve Too.

The Banner also publishes a booklet by Donald Howard, Burial or Cremation: Does it Matter?:

https://banneroftruth.org/store/christian-living/burial-or-cremation/

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What is true Christian spirituality? This week's episode explores this question with an editorial from Maurice Roberts, 'Why Spirituality Comes First', and an excerpt from John Owen on 'How to Meditate on Heavenly Things'.

Featured Content:

– 'Why Spirituality Comes First', Maurice Roberts, The Banner of Truth Magazine: Issue 367, April 1994.

– 'How to Meditate on Heavenly Things', in John Owen, Spiritual-Mindedness (Puritan Paperbacks).

Buy John Owen, Spiritual-Mindedness: https://banneroftruth.org/store/christian-living/spiritual-mindedness/

Buy the Works of John Owen, Volume 7, Sin and Grace (which includes 'The Grace and Duty of Being Spiritually-Minded'): https://banneroftruth.org/store/owen-books/the-works-of-john-owen-7/

Explore the work of the Banner of Truth: www.banneroftruth.org

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The churches today have no greater need than an outpouring of the Holy Spirit, the glorious Divine Person who proceeds from the Father and the Son and who creates and sustains all true spiritual life. This week's selections come from J. W. Alexander (1804–1859) and John Owen (1616–1683) and point us to the Holy Spirit as one whose help and presence we cannot be without.

Featured Content:

– 'Pray for the Spirit', J. W. Alexander, The Banner of Truth Magazine: Issue 127, April 1974.

– 'The Spirit of God', Chapter 2 in The Holy Spirit by John Owen, abridged and made easy to read by R. J. K. Law (Puritan Paperback).

Read Owen's excerpt 'The Spirit of God' on our website: https://banneroftruth.org/uk/resources/book-excerpts/2024/the-spirit-of-god-john-owen-excerpt/

Buy John Owen, The Holy Spirit (Puritan Paperback): https://banneroftruth.org/uk/store/christian-living/the-holy-spirit/

Buy the Works of John Owen, Volume 3, The Holy Spirit (comprising Owen's Pneumatologia, Or, A Discourse Concerning the Holy Spirit): https://banneroftruth.org/uk/store/owen-books/the-works-of-john-owen-3/

Explore the work of the Banner of Truth: www.banneroftruth.org

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The Revoice Conference was founded in 2018 in order to 'support and encourage gay, lesbian, bisexual, and other same-sex attracted Christians—as well as those who love them—so that all in the Church might be empowered to live in gospel unity while observing the historic Christian doctrine of marriage and sexuality.' (Revoice, Mission Statement).

A year after the initial event, aware that the movement was only just beginning, Dr. Jonathan Master wrote a 'Letter from America' in the Banner Magazine. With the help of the analysis of David Wells, he notes the weakness of the postmodern vision of spirituality that informs Revoice's commitments. He points us back to classical Christian spirituality, founded on a commitment to the holiness of God and a seriousness about sin which is well reflected in our second selection, from Geoff Thomas, entitled 'Take Sin Seriously'.

Featured Content:

– 'Letter from America: The Revoice Conference', Jonathan Master, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 667 (April 2019).

– 'Take Sin Seriously', Geoff Thomas, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 678 (March 2020).

Resources Mentioned:

- 'When Christians Adopt Sinful Identities' (segment from Matthew Roberts interview): https://youtu.be/QmFkWDCixXg?si=PecUoJdy5vTIAbsp

Explore the work of the Banner: www.banneroftruth.org

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Motherhood is a precious and unique gift of God. Yet faithful motherhood has perhaps never been under such sustained and serious attack as is it now. In such a context, Christians need to recover a respect for mothers and motherhood that reveals the Lord's goodness to a faithless world.

In this episode we consider the calling of a mother, and the beauty and necessity of her God-given role.

Featured Content:

– Her Husband's Crown: A Wife's Ministry and a Minister's Wife, Sara Leone, (Edinburgh, Banner of Truth, 2007, rep. 2021). Booklet, 55 pages (excerpt read from pages 10–15).

– 'A Mother's Work', article by Rebecca Vandoodewaard (originally published on her blog, now unavailable, and appearing at The Aquila Report: https://theaquilareport.com/a-mothers-work/). Used by permission.

– Excerpt from A Father's Gift: Lessons from Proverbs, by Kenneth B. Wingate (Edinburgh: Banner of Truth, 2009), pages 155-163.

Explore the work of the Banner of Truth: www.banneroftruth.org

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The Fourth Century was, theologically speaking, a century of conflict and clarification. Heretical teachings concerning the Person of the Lord Jesus Christ and the Persons of the Trinity were widespread and backed by powerful churchmen. Faithful, biblically-rooted theologians contended for the truth, and two church councils (in 325 and 381) helped to clarify orthodox doctrine in the face of these onslaughts.

This week's episode introduces one of the theologians who, from the mid to late 4th century, gave eloquent expression to orthodox Christology and Trinitarian theology: Gregory of Nazianzus (c. 329–390). As well as introducing this quiet, pensive man, we read a section from William Cunningham's newly republished Historical Theology on the question of how the Persons of the Holy Trinity are properly to be distinguished.

Featured Content:

– 'Shapers of Christianity: Gregory of Nazianzus', Nick Needham, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 706, July 2022.

– Excerpt from William Cunningham, Historical Theology (Banner of Truth rep. 2024), pages 309–312.

Purchase: https://banneroftruth.org/store/theology/historical-theology-3/

Explore the work of the Banner: www.banneroftruth.org

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Few things are more difficult than seeing a beloved child turn his or her back on the Lord. What is the Christian mother or father to do in this situation? This week's lead article, from Lipe Cortial (original article misattributed to Cilas De Menezes), gives a number of helpful pointers for parents, and encouragement to seek the Lord's glory in what may seem like an impossible situation. Our second segment is a reading on walking with God through dark times from Theodore L. Cuyler's book 'God's Light on Dark Clouds'.

Featured Content:

– When a Child Turns Away from God's Ways, Lipe Cortial (Banner of Truth Magazine: June 2021, Issue 693).

– Excerpt from God's Light on Dark Clouds by Theodore L. Cuyler sourced from pages 27 to 32 of that book (First published in 1882, Banner of Truth ed., 2008, rep. 2022).

Buy the book: https://banneroftruth.org/store/christian-living/gods-light-on-dark-clouds/

Explore the work of the Banner: www.banneroftruth.org

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'This book will make a traveller of thee...'

So begins John Bunyan's classic The Pilgrim's Progress. Many Christians of the past four centuries would testify that it is indeed a book to stir up the heavenbound pilgrim – offering encouragement, challenge, warning, and hope to the man, woman, or child, who desires to attain to the life to come.

But the book has its critics, even prominent ones, and can be a challenging read for modern Christians. With this in mind, we read John Muether's commendation of Bunyan's classic, and an excerpt from the Trust's recent paperback edition of C. H. Spurgeon's Pictures from Pilgrim's Progress.

Featured Content:

– 'Why Evangelicals Don't Read Pilgrim's Progress (and Why They Should)', John Muether, originally published in a Reformed Theological Seminary publication. This was featured on the Banner website on Nov. 2, 2003:

https://banneroftruth.org/resources/articles/2003/why-evangelicals-dont-read-pilgrims-progress-and-why-they-should/

– C. H. Spurgeon, Pictures from Pilgrim's Progress (Edinburgh: Banner of Truth, 2024), pp. 145–153.

About the Contributors:

John R. Muether joined Reformed Theological Seminary-Orlando as Library Director in 1989. Mr. Muether also serves as Professor of Church History, teaching core courses on education in the church, Christian engagement with culture and church government as well as elective courses on various topics.

Mr. John R. Muether's faculty page: https://rts.edu/people/mr-john-r-muether/

C. H. Spurgeon was, for most of the second half of the 19th century, England’s best-known preacher, becoming converted to Christianity at the age of 15 in 1850. During the 1850s, London’s largest halls overflowed with people wanting to hear this youthful minister preach. During the 1860s, he founded the Metropolitan Tabernacle, along with a college for pastors and an orphanage, and he was already publishing sermons and a monthly magazine. He authored many books, with some of the most popular Charles Spurgeon books including Flowers From a Puritan’s Garden with its inspiring illustrations and meditations; A Defence of Calvinism, where Spurgeon explains and defends Biblical teachings about God’s grace in the Gospels; and the C.H. Spurgeon Autobiography, volumes 1 and 2. Volume 1 is subtitled “The Early Years,” while Volume 2 is “The Full Harvest 1860-1892.” The C.H. Spurgeon Autobiography is also available as a two-volume set.

Buy Pictures from Pilgrim's Progress:

https://banneroftruth.org/store/theology-books/pictures-from-pilgrims-progress/

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We continue this week with J. I. Packer's piece 'Puritan Evangelism'. Having outlined 'modern evangelism' as it was pioneered by Charles G. Finney, Packer proceeds to shine a light on the better way pursued by the Puritans. Convinced that salvation was, from first to last, the sovereign and gracious work of God in the souls of men, the Puritans sought to shape their practice of evangelism accordingly.

Featured Content:

– 'Puritan Evangelism', J. I. Packer, Banner of Truth Magazine Issue 4, February 1957. (Part II).

Listen to Part 1:

– 'J. I. Packer on Puritan Evangelism, Pt. 1'

Explore the work of the Banner of Truth: www.banneroftruth.org

Subscribe to the Magazine (Print/Digital/Both): www.banneroftruth.org/magazine

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Pastor, author, and missionary motivator, John Angell James (1785–1859) was one of the most gifted and respected of Independent church ministers in 19th-century Britain. From humble beginnings as a draper's son in Dorset, he went on to become minister of Carr's Lane Congregational Church in Birmingham. His ministry there was greatly blessed, as were his literary labours, with over 3 million copies of his works being published within his lifetime.

Angell James's ministry was marked by earnestness, a note sounded in the title and text of his book on ministry, 'An Earnest Ministry: The Want of the Times'. In this week's episode we look at the life of this outstanding servant of God, and consider his abiding interest in the work of gospel advance in China.

Featured Content:

– 'John Angell James', Peter Seccombe, Banner of Truth Magazine, appearing in two parts in Issues 219 and 220 (December 1981 and January 1982, respectively).

– 'John Angell James', Alec Taylor, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 619 (April 2015).

– 'God's Voice from China', John Angell James, reproduced in the Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 166 (July/August 1977).

Explore the work of the Banner: www.banneroftruth.org

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Last year the Banner of Truth Trust republished Alexander Moody Stuart: A Memoir, with the encouragement of Dr. Sinclair B. Ferguson.

Banner editor Sam Cunnington, who worked on the project, sat down with Dr. Ferguson to discuss why it is worth reading about this remarkable Scottish pastor today.

Buy the book: https://banneroftruth.org/store/history-biography/alexander-moody-stuart/

Buy The Three Marys By Alexander Moody Stuart: https://banneroftruth.org/store/christian-living/the-three-marys/

Explore the work of the Banner of Truth: www.banneroftruth.org

Subscribe to the Magazine (Print/Digital/Both): www.banneroftruth.org/magazine

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The godly governance of the home is a subject of vital importance in any age, and has special resonance in our troubled times. To help us consider it, this week we read A. W. Pink on the Christian home, and Don Stephens on the neglected privilege of family worship.

Featured Content:

– 'Christian Homes', A. W. Pink, reprinted in the Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 7 (June 1957)

– 'Family Worship: A Neglected Privilege', Don Stephens, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 651 (December 2017)

Explore the work of the Banner: www.banneroftruth.org

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Many errors of faith and life stem from focusing on just one part of the Bible's teaching, to the exclusion of other things clearly taught in Scripture. This week, with help from Stephen Clark and C. H. Spurgeon, we look afresh at the importance of pursuing a faith and a life that reflects all that the Lord has spoken.

Featured Content:

– 'Context, Nuance and Balance: Why They are Essential to Christian Living', Stephen Clark, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 728, May 2024.

– Excerpt from C. H. Spurgeon, Spurgeon's Practical Wisdom: Plain Advice for Plain People (Original 1869, Banner of Truth rep. 2024), pages 21–26.

Purchase: https://banneroftruth.org/store/christian-living/spurgeons-practical-wisdom/

Explore the work of the Banner: www.banneroftruth.org

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Andy Murray is a social worker and church deacon who blogs about leadership, the church, and the 19th Century Scottish gospel minister Thomas Guthrie, among other subjects. We sat down with Andy and talked about some of his passions, including the reunion, in the churches, of gospel passion and concern for the poor. We also asked him how the Highland game of shinty is played.

Resources Mentioned:

– https://thomasguthrie.org/ (includes a link to Andy's booklet, A Mission of Mercy: The Life and Legacy of Thomas Guthrie)

– http://raggedtheology.blogspot.com/

– 'Thomas Guthrie and the Ragged Schools', previous podcast episode:

https://bannermagazine.podbean.com/e/he-was-all-the-father-i-ever-knew-thomas-guthrie-and-the-ragged-schools/

Explore the work of the Banner: www.banneroftruth.org

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The second of three episodes inspired by David Campbell's mini-series on three remarkable brothers who ministered in 19th Century Scotland.

This week we consider Horatius Bonar (1808–1889), pastor, author, and hymnwriter. We read David Campbell's article on him, an excerpt from Iain H. Murray, and then read a piece by Bonar himself critiquing the idea of 'religion without theology'. We close with a rendition of Bonar's hymn, Everlasting Light.

Featured Content:

– 'Horatius Bonar—The second of the three Bonar brothers', David Campbell, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 722, November 2023.

– Excerpt from 'Horatius Bonar (1808–1889) and his Writings', Iain H. Murray, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 314, November 1989.

– 'Religion Without Theology' (taken from the preface of Catechisms of the Scottish Reformation, edited by Horatius Bonar, London 1866), featured in the Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 93, June 1971.

– 'Everlasting Life', a hymn of Horatius Bonar (public domain).

Featured Hymn: Everlasting Light

1 O everlasting Light! Shine graciously within; Brightest of all on earth that's bright, Come, shine away my sin.

2 O everlasting Truth! Truest of all that's true; Sure guide of erring age or youth, Lead me, and teach me too.

3 O everlasting Strength! Uphold me in the way; Bring me, in spite of foes, at length To joy, and light, and day.

4 O everlasting Love; Wellspring of grace and peace, Pour down Thy fullness from above, Bid doubt, and trouble cease.

5 O everlasting Rest! Lift off life's load of care; Relieve, revive this burdened breast, And ev'ry sorrow bear.

7 Thou art in heav'n our all; Our all on earth art Thou; Upon Thy glorious name we call: Lord Jesus, bless us now.

We are grateful to Mr. Jack Adair for singing this hymn.

Explore the work of the Banner of Truth: www.banneroftruth.org

Subscribe to the Magazine (print/digital/both): www.banneroftruth.org/magazine

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A professor, preacher, and stalwart believer, William Childs Robinson was a key witness to gospel truth at a time when his denomination, the Southern Presbyterian Church, was sliding into liberalism. This week's episode features an introduction to his life and work, as well as a short piece by him on the doctrine of justification by faith.

Featured Content:

– "William Childs Robinson (1897–1982)" compiled by Editor (Banner of Truth Magazine: No. 604, January 2014)

– "Justification by Faith" by William Childs Robinson (excerpted from Pleading for a Reformation Vision: The Life and Selected Writings of William Childs Robinson (1897–1982) by David B. Calhoun, Banner of Truth, 2013).

Explore the work of the Banner of Truth: www.banneroftruth.org

Subscribe to the Magazine (Print/Digital/Both): www.banneroftruth.org/magazine

Record a message for us: https://www.speakpipe.com/magazinepodcast

'The suddenness of the Lord’s second advent', wrote J.C. Ryle in the present piece, 'is a truth that should lead every professing Christian to great searching of heart.' This week's episode is a reading of Ryle's exposition of Matthew 25:1–13, often called the Parable of the Wise and Foolish Virgins.

With crystal-clear explanation and earnest calls both to hell-bound sinners and perilously sleepy Christians, Ryle expounds the crucial truth that the Lord Jesus will come again, and will come at an hour we do not expect.

Featured Content:

– "Coming Events and Present Duties", J. C. Ryle (Banner of Truth Magazine: No. 3, October 1956)

Explore the work of the Banner of Truth: www.banneroftruth.org

Subscribe to the Magazine (Print/Digital/Both): www.banneroftruth.org/magazine

Tell us your thoughts on this episode: https://www.speakpipe.com/magazinepodcast

The Puritans were a diverse group of evangelically-minded, confessionally reformed pastors of the seventeenth century whose great priority was to glorify God in their personal lives, in their families, and in the churches they served.

This week we introduce two lesser-known Puritans from the north of England, Thomas Jolley (or Jollie) and Oliver Heywood, along with some of their brethren. In the crucible of affliction, these men proved the faithfulness of God to those who labour in His harvest fields, even when the harvest is hampered by temptations within and trials without.

Featured Articles:

– 'Thomas Jolley of Wymondhouses', Iain H. Murray, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 49 (July/August 1967).

– 'First Nonconformist Ordinations in Yorkshire', Roy Middleton, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 146 (November 1975).

Related Resources:

– Text version of 'First Nonconformist Ordinations in Yorkshire': https://banneroftruth.org/resources/articles/2019/the-first-nonconformist-ordinations-in-yorkshire/

– Book: William Grimshaw of Howarth, by Faith Cook (clothbound, 368 pages – also available in paperback).

https://banneroftruth.org/store/history-biography/william-grimshaw-of-haworth-2/

– Book: Douglas Higgins: Autobiography of a Yorkshire Christian (paperback, 104 pages).

https://banneroftruth.org/store/history-biography/douglas-higgins/

Banner Borders Conference (serving the north of England and south of Scotland):

https://conferences.banneroftruth.org/conferences/borders-conference/

Explore the work of the Banner of Truth: www.banneroftruth.org

Subscribe to the Magazine (print/digital/both): www.banneroftruth.org/magazine

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Many Puritans, even leading Puritans, did not proffer much for publication and thus remain little known today. One such (relatively) unpublished leader of the Puritan movement during the reigns of Elizabeth I and James I was Laurence Chaderton (1536–1640). A gifted preacher, college Master, and Bible translator, his life and legacy repay careful attention. 

Featured Article:

– 'Laurence Chaderton: Puritan, Scholar, and Bible Translator', Nick Lunn, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 537 (June 2008).

Christian Heritage Walks in Cambridge:

Listeners wishing to explore Cambridge's Christian heritage in the company of a guide are encouraged to look into the walks offered at the Round Church. The University Walk, which provides a general overview of Cambridge's history, with special attention to how it has been shaped by the Christian faith, often stops at Emmanuel College. Private walks are available on request.

For more info. and booking: https://roundchurchcambridge.org/

Watch 'Saints and Scholars', an overview of Cambridge's Christian connections narrated by David Suchet: https://youtu.be/txLJm2UjYZM?si=tiTFVmKyhHGbyh2-

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Much has been written and said about how sermons are to be prepared and delivered. Little, by contrast, is said about how sermons are to be heard and received. This is a gaping hole in our practical instruction, since the very best sermons may be heard without profit.

This week's selections are from Peter Barnes (Revesby Presbyterian Church, NSW, Australia), who writes about hearing sermons, and Paul D. Wolfe (New Hope Presbyterian Church, Fairfax, VA), who decribes how the steady, faithful teaching of God's word over many years prepared him for the horror of a cancer diagnosis. Heard together, we trust they'll encourage and equip you to receive the preached word of God with fresh expectation and renewed focus, to the glory of God and the good of your soul.

Featured Content:

– 'Hearing a Sermon', Peter Barnes, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 653 (February 2018).

– Excerpt from My God is True!: Lessons Learned along Cancer's Dark Road, Paul D. Wolfe (Edinburgh: Banner of Truth, 2009).

Buy 'My God is True!: Lessons Learned along Cancer's Dark Road': https://banneroftruth.org/store/christian-living/my-god-is-true/

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This week's selections are powerful reminders of the importance of ongoing and focused study in the lives of pastors and teachers in Christ's church. Far from being a luxury, ministerial study is a necessary part of a fruitful, growing ministry that feeds Christ's sheep.

While this episode concerns pastors primarily, it is for all of us, as we all have a role to play in facilitating and supporting the ministry of those who teach us the word of God.

Featured Content:

– 'Ministerial Study', J. W. Alexander, The Banner of Truth Magazine: Issue 8, August 1957.

– 'The Pastor as Attorney', David A. Sherwood, The Banner of Truth Magazine: Issue 369, June 1994.

– Quote from J. C. Ryle can be found in a brief address entitled 'Ministerial Duties', given before a large ministers' meeting in Western-Super-Mare in 1858. The address can be found here [N.B. The Banner of Truth cannot be held responsible for content on third-party websites]: https://www.gracegems.org/Ryle/ministerial_duties.htm

Explore the work of the Banner of Truth: www.banneroftruth.org

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Does what we believe about the Bible really matter? Isn't it enough simply to embrace Christ? This week, we spend some time with two articles that address, in different ways, the relationship between our faith in Christ and our trust in the Scriptures. We begin by thinking about the Lord Jesus's own attitude towards the Scriptures...

Featured Content:

– 'The Bible of our Lord', entry for January 31 in Robert Macdonald, From Day to Day: Helpful Words for the Christian Life (Edinburgh: Banner of Truth, 2024). Originally published in 1856.

– 'Inerrancy Matters... to the Man in the Pew', Ian Hamilton, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 618 (March 2015)

Purchase 'From Day to Day: Helpful Words for the Christian Life' by Robert Macdonald: https://banneroftruth.org/store/devotionalsdaily-readings/from-day-to-day/

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A little more than 100 years ago, a Scotsman by the name of Eric Liddell made a stand for the Lord's Day. It was a very public stand, since he was a member of the British Olympic team sent to the Paris Olympics of 1924, and his decision to honour the Lord's Day entailed not running in one of his chosen races (the 100m)–the heats for which were to be held on a Sunday–and training instead for the 400m (he also ran the 200m).

While Liddell is well-known, the stand he took is one that many evangelicals today would deem unnecessary, even misguided. Many evangelicals do not consider Sundays to be particularly special or 'set-apart'. The observance of the Lord's Day as a special day of rest and worship has fallen on hard times in the churches.

With Liddell's witness in mind, we explore the subject of the Christian Sabbath in this week's episode. Are Christians to observe Sundays as a special day of rest and worship? Are we called to obey the Fourth Commandment, along with the other nine? How does the Christian Lord's Day differ from the Jewish Sabbath? We touch on all these questions this week with contributions from David Campbell, W. J. Grier, and Rebecca VanDoodewaard.

Featured Content:

– What Price Honouring God? Article by David Campbell (North Preston Evangelical Church), which was republished on the Banner website in July 2014:

https://banneroftruth.org/uk/resources/articles/2014/price-honouring-god/

– 'The Development of the Lord's Day from the Jewish Sabbath', W. J. Grier, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 517, October 2006.

– 'The Freedom of Sabbath', Rebecca VanDoodewaard, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 687, December 2020.

Explore the work of the Banner: www.banneroftruth.org

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The hearts of Christian parents should long for the salvation of their children.

This week, we read J Gary Aitken's digest of some of the letters of James Henley Thornwell (1812–1862). These touching letters manifest Thornwell's watchful concern for his children's eternal happiness, encouraging and challenging believing parents today.

Featured Article:

– 'Readings from a Covenant Father's Heart', article by J. Gary Aitken, featured in the Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 172 (January 1978).

About the contributor:

Dr J. Gary Aitken ministered at First Presbyterian Church, Clarksdale, Mississippi, and Covenant Presbyterian Church, Colombia, South Carolina.

Buy The Collected Writings of James Henley Thornwell:

https://banneroftruth.org/store/collected-workssets/collected-writings-of-james-henley-thornwell/

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Paul confessed, 'The life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.' (Galatians 2:20). Paul knew that Christ Jesus not only loved Paul personally, but that he had given himself on the cross to save Paul individually.

Developing and extending this biblical idea, we come to understand that the Lord Jesus did not die for a 'category' of persons who, of their own free will, would appropriate salvation for themselves. No. The Lord Jesus died for real people on a personal, definite basis. He died for those whom the Father had given him (John 6:38–40).

This week's two selections help us better to understand, and rejoice in, this definite atonement made for all those the Lord has appointed to salvation.

Featured Content:

– For Whom Christ Died, Charles H. Spurgeon, featured in The Banner of Truth Magazine: No. 5, April 1957.

– Extract from Particular Redemption: The End and Design of the Death of Christ (Sermon 1, pages 10–17). Buy the book: https://banneroftruth.org/store/theology/particular-redemption/

Explore the work of the Banner of Truth: www.banneroftruth.org

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This week's selections take us to Genesis, and the account of Lot's deliverance from the Lord's righteous judgement of Sodom. There is much that we can learn here, particularly through a consideration of what the text teaches us about Lot's compromise and sin, and the incredible grace and faithfulness of God towards him. God's unconditional election of Lot shines brightly, even as the text witnesses clearly against Lot's wavering, lukewarmness, and disobedience, which had dire consequences for him.

Featured Content:

– "Remember Lot": The Fruits of Compromise in the Sodom Narrative, Joonas Laajanen (First published at TruthScript (https://truthscript.com/family/remember-lot-the-fruits-of-compromise-in-the-sodom-narrative-2/) and featured in The Banner of Truth Magazine: No. 725, February 2024)

– Exposition of Genesis 19:15–21 from John Calvin, Commentary on Genesis (Originally published 1554, Banner of Truth edition, 1965). To buy: https://banneroftruth.org/store/commentaries/genesis/

Explore the work of the Banner of Truth: www.banneroftruth.org

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The incarnation is the central event of our faith, making possible the consummation of the New Covenant in the saving death, burial, resurrection, and ascension of the Lord Jesus Christ.

It is utterly unique, and, as made clear in this week's first piece, utterly incongruous with anything else in history, or in our experience. It is, then, to be an object of our contemplation and a stimulus to our worship of the Triune God: Father, Spirit, and incarnate Son.

Featured Content:

– 'An Incongruous Incarnation', Peter Sanlon, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 675 (December 2019).

– Excerpt from Sinclair B. Ferguson and Derek Thomas, 'Icthus: Jesus Christ, God's Son, the Saviour', (Edinburgh: Banner of Truth, 2015).

About the Contributors:

Peter Sanlon has served as a minister in Tunbridge Wells since 2013.  In previous years he has taught at Union School of Theology and Oak Hill Theological College. Today he trains presbyterian ministers via Westminster Seminary. His published books include 'Simply God' (IVP) and 'Augustine's Theology of Preaching' (Fortress).

Sinclair Ferguson has authored several books published by the Trust, of which he is a trustee, and a former editor. He retains his position as Professor of Systematic Theology at Redeemer Seminary, Dallas, Texas, and serves as a Teaching Fellow with Ligonier Ministries. He continues to preach God’s Word in churches and at conferences.

Derek Thomas, a native of Wales, is the Chancellor’s Professor of Systematic and Pastoral Theology at Reformed Theological Seminary and also serves as Senior Minister at First Presbyterian Church (ARP) in Columbia, South Carolina.

Buy Ichthus: Jesus Christ, God's Son, the Saviour: https://banneroftruth.org/store/christian-living/ichthus/

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With the help of Dr. Mark J. Larson (Heidelberg Theological Seminary, South Dakota), and Cotton Mather, we explore the lives of John Robinson (1576–1625) and William Brewster (c. 1566–1644) and the unusual path taken by their congregation. These faithful men led the congregationalist church at Leiden which became inter-continental in 1620 when a number of its key members set out for North America aboard the ships Mayflower and Speedwell.

Featured Content:

– "William Brewster and John Robinson: Labourers Together with God" by Mark J. Larson (Banner of Truth Magazine: No. 724, January 2024)

– "Primordia; Or, The Voyage to New-England" by Cotton Mather (excerpted from The Great Works of Christ in America, Banner of Truth, 1979).

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When is controversy justified? When is it not? How ought it to be conducted? When ought it to be refused?

These are questions of particular importance for Christians in an argumentative and distracted age, such as ours. The three selections we read this week go some way towards helping us answer them.

Featured Content:

– Excerpt from 'The Benefits and Dangers of Controversy' in Evangelical Holiness and Other Addresses, by Iain H. Murray (Edinburgh: Banner of Truth, 2013), pages 119–130.

– Selection from a sermon by Dan Peters given at the 2024 Banner Borders Conference, 'Blessed are the Peacemakers, Part II'.

– 'William Cunningham–Humble Controversialist', David Campbell, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 690, March 2021.

About the Contributors:

Iain H. Murray is one of the founders of the Banner of Truth Trust. His books published with Banner include Jonathan Edwards: A New Biography (1987), Revival and Revivalism: The Making and Marring of American Evangelicalism 1750–1858 (1994), and Amy Carmichael: Beauty for Ashes (2015).

Dan Peters is minister at Newcastle Reformed Evangelical Church and is the author of Distinct Communion: The Believer's Relations with Father, Son, and Holy Spirit (Christian Focus Publications, 2024).

David Campbell is minister at North Preston Evangelical Church, a trustee of the Banner of Truth Trust, and author of Sanctification: Transformed Life (Banner Mini-Guides).

Buy Iain H. Murray, Evangelical Holiness and Other Addresses (Paperback, 2011):

https://banneroftruth.org/store/christian-living/evangelical-holiness/

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This week we examine the grace-exalting teachings of the great Anglo-Saxon Monk, Bede, and Augustine, Bishop of Hippo, who influenced him so much.

Featured Content:

– 'The Calvinism of the Venerable Bede', Nick Needham, Banner of Truth Magazine (Issue 727, April 2024).

– 'Augustine: Theologian of Grace', Banner of Truth Magazine (Issue 138, March 1975).

Explore the work of the Banner of Truth: www.banneroftruth.org

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Tell us your thoughts on this episode: https://www.speakpipe.com/magazinepodcast