Church History

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The author’s narrative recounts the reformation of the church in 1834, when Hendrik de Cock witnessed against the false doctrines and unspiritual character of the state Reformed church of the Netherlands. After having been unceremoniously suspended and deposed from office, he led his congregation to return to the biblical worship of God in Christ Jesus as set forth in the Reformed creeds, which represents the faith of God’s saints throughout the ages. His witness has inspired the witness of hundreds of thousands of people throughout the world until this day.

This book therefore recounts one man’s struggle against the perversions of scripture by the vast majority of ordained pastors in the state Reformed church with its million or more spiritually sleeping members. Contra mundum was the character of this struggle for the truth. De Cock’s witness therefore was a trumpet blast in the night of spiritual darkness that awakened God’s people at the morn of a new day, while at the same time it angered and galvanized the unfaithful ecclesiastical administrators in opposition. De Cock gave witness to the sole authority of sacred scripture and to the binding authority of the Reformed creeds, which for Reformed believers is derived from the binding authority of the Bible. 

Read reviews by Dr. Wes Bredenhof, Prof. David Engelsma, Dr. Eugene Heideman, Rev. E. T. Kirkland, Rev. Cornelius Pronk, Rev. Clayton Spronk, Rev. Pieter VanderMeyden, and Charles Terpstra (The Three R's blog).

Read reviews on Goodreads.com here.

Find more reviews at the Covenant Protestant Reformed Church (NI) bookstore page here.

Marvin Kamps (1940-2014) was a minister of the word in the Protestant Reformed Churches from 1976-1993. He served congregations in Iowa, Washington, and West Michigan.

• 512 pages
• hardcover
• ISBN 978-1-936054-32-9
• Release date: March 21, 2014

eBook version available

Look inside the book

The author’s narrative recounts the reformation of the church in 1834, when Hendrik de Cock witnessed against the false doctrines and unspiritual character of the state Reformed church of the Netherlands. After having been unceremoniously suspended and deposed from office, he led his congregation to return to the biblical worship of God in Christ Jesus as set forth in the Reformed creeds, which represents the faith of God’s saints throughout the ages. His witness has inspired the witness of hundreds of thousands of people throughout the world until this day.

This book therefore recounts one man’s struggle against the perversions of scripture by the vast majority of ordained pastors in the state Reformed church with its million or more spiritually sleeping members. Contra mundum was the character of this struggle for the truth. De Cock’s witness therefore was a trumpet blast in the night of spiritual darkness that awakened God’s people at the morn of a new day, while at the same time it angered and galvanized the unfaithful ecclesiastical administrators in opposition. De Cock gave witness to the sole authority of sacred scripture and to the binding authority of the Reformed creeds, which for Reformed believers is derived from the binding authority of the Bible. 

Read reviews by Dr. Wes Bredenhof, Prof. David Engelsma, Dr. Eugene Heideman, E. T. Kirkland, Cornelius Pronk, Clayton Spronk, Pieter VanderMeyden, and Charles Terpstra (The Three R's blog).

Read reviews on Goodreads.com here.

Marvin Kamps (1940-2014) was a minister of the word in the Protestant Reformed Churches from 1976-1993. He served congregations in Iowa, Washington, and West Michigan.

• 512 pages
• ISBN 978-1-936054-23-7

Hardcover version available

Featuring over a dozen authors, Always Reforming demonstrates that the Spirit of Christ has carried on the reforming work of Christ in the sixteenth century in one particular branch of the church of the Reformation. A successor to The Sixteenth-Century Reformation of the Church, this book traces the continuing reformation in the Netherlands in the seventeenth and nineteenth centuries, and in the Protestant Reformed Churches in North America in the twentieth century.  

• 318 pages
• ISBN 978-1-944555-09-2
• Edited by David Engelsma

Paperback version available

Other Books in the Rightly Dividing Series:

Common Grace Revisited (eBook)

Reformed Worship (eBook)

Sixteenth-Century Reformation

Featuring over a dozen authors, Always Reforming demonstrates that the Spirit of Christ has carried on the reforming work of Christ in the sixteenth century in one particular branch of the church of the Reformation. A successor to The Sixteenth-Century Reformation of the Church, this book traces the continuing reformation in the Netherlands in the seventeenth and nineteenth centuries, and in the Protestant Reformed Churches in North America in the twentieth century.

• 318 pages
• paperback
• ISBN 978-0-916206-99-4 
• Edited by David Engelsma
• Release date: June 6, 2016

eBook version available 

Other Books in the Rightly Dividing Series:

Common Grace Revisited

Reformed Worship

Sixteenth Century Reformation

This book recounts much of the gripping history of the schism of 1953 within the Protestant Reformed Churches (PRC), the culmination of the hard fought battle for sovereign grace in the covenant. The book includes new, important details that have not been previously published and also provides the history of the controversial adoption by the PRCA of the Declaration of Principles, the document that in some ways occasioned the schism of 1953. In the appendices of the book, Engelsma gives a brief, valuable commentary on the Declaration, the first commentary to be written.

David J. Engelsma served as minister to several Protestant Reformed congregations until he was appointed to the Protestant Reformed Seminary in 1988 as professor of Dogmatics and Old Testament studies. He also served as editor of the "Standard Bearer" from 1988-2002. Prof. Engelsma has lectured and preached throughout the British Isles on behalf of the British Reformed Fellowship, which is devoted to the spread and defense of the Reformed faith in the United Kingdom. He lives in Grand Rapids, MI, with his wife and is the father of 9 children. He has authored many RFPA books. 

• 304 pages
• ISBN 978-1-936054-27-5

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This book recounts much of the gripping history of the schism of 1953 within the Protestant Reformed Churches (PRC), the culmination of the hard-fought battle for sovereign grace in the covenant. The book includes new, important details that have not been previously published and also provides the history of the controversial adoption by the PRCA of the Declaration of Principles, the document that in some ways occasioned the schism of 1953. In the appendices of the book, Engelsma gives a brief, valuable commentary on the Declaration, the first such commentary to be written.

David J. Engelsma served as minister to several Protestant Reformed congregations until he was appointed to the Protestant Reformed Seminary in 1988 as professor of Dogmatics and Old Testament studies. He also served as editor of the "Standard Bearer" from 1988-2002. Prof. Engelsma has lectured and preached throughout the British Isles on behalf of the British Reformed Fellowship, which is devoted to the spread and defense of the Reformed faith in the United Kingdom. He lives in Grand Rapids, MI, with his wife and is the father of 9 children. He has authored many RFPA books. 

• 304 pages
• Hardcover
• ISBN 978-1-936054-19-0
• Release date: June 16, 2013

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For many, the term “ancient” implies drudgery and irrelevance. However, the outset of this book will dispel any such notions. The ancient age brims with interest, instruction, and encouragement for today’s readers. This was an age of miracle-working apostles, fearless martyrs, and stalwart church fathers; an age that preserved the scriptures, prescribed the creeds, and produced timeless Christian classics; an age when the church was buffeted by fierce waves of persecution and assailed by heresies of every sort. Through this volume and the ones that follow, the Lord Jesus Christ, the cornerstone of the church, sovereignly shepherded his beloved church by his word and Spirit.

In this first volume of Christ and His Church through the Ages, author and historian Herman Hanko tells the fascinating story of the ancient church during the first six centuries of the New Testament dispensation. He relates how Christ faithfully guided the church from the ministry of the apostles through the fall of the Roman Empire. Highlights of this history include the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, the spread of the gospel to the Gentiles, the persecution of the church under Roman emperors, the deliberations of the ecumenical councils, and the battle for the truth of sovereign grace.

Through this and future volumes, students of church history and interested readers alike will surely grow in their love and appreciation for the saga of Christ’s church. They will find church history to be, as the author once affectionately described it, “the exciting adventure of the marvelous work of grace.”

Read a review by Prof. Doug Kuiper (The Standard Bearer) and Martyn McGeown.

Herman Hanko (1930-2024) served as a minister in the Protestant Reformed Churches from 1955 to 1965, when he was appointed to serve as professor in the Protestant Reformed Seminary in Grandville, MI. He served in that capacity until his retirement in 2001. Until his passing in April 2024, he continued to lecture widely in the USA, the United Kingdom, and other countries, including Singapore and the Philippines. He is the author of several RFPA books.

Dan Van Uffelen is a church history teacher at Covenant Christian High School in Walker, Michigan. He has taught church history for almost two decades.

• 272 pages
• ISBN 978-1-944555-92-4

Hardcover version available

Other Books in this Series:

COMING SOON!

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For many, the term “ancient” implies drudgery and irrelevance. However, the outset of this book will dispel any such notions. The ancient age brims with interest, instruction, and encouragement for today’s readers. This was an age of miracle-working apostles, fearless martyrs, and stalwart church fathers; an age that preserved the scriptures, prescribed the creeds, and produced timeless Christian classics; an age when the church was buffeted by fierce waves of persecution and assailed by heresies of every sort. Through this volume and the ones that follow, students will learn how the Lord Jesus Christ, the cornerstone of the church, sovereignly shepherded his beloved church by his word and Spirit.

In this first volume of Christ and His Church through the Ages, author and historian Herman Hanko tells the fascinating story of the ancient church during the first six centuries of the New Testament dispensation. He relates how Christ faithfully guided the church from the ministry of the apostles through the fall of the Roman Empire. Highlights of this history include the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, the spread of the gospel to the Gentiles, the persecution of the church under Roman emperors, the deliberations of the ecumenical councils, and the battle for the truth of sovereign grace.

Through this and future volumes, students of church history and interested readers alike will surely grow in their love and appreciation for the saga of Christ’s church. They will find church history to be, as the author once affectionately described it, “the exciting adventure of the marvelous work of grace.”

Read a review by Prof. Doug Kuiper (The Standard Bearer) and Martyn McGeown (PRCA).

Herman Hanko (1930-2024) served as a minister in the Protestant Reformed Churches from 1955 to 1965, when he was appointed to serve as professor in the Protestant Reformed Seminary in Grandville, MI. He served in that capacity until his retirement in 2001. Until his passing in April 2024, he continued to lecture widely in the USA, the United Kingdom, and other countries, including Singapore and the Philippines. He is the author of several RFPA books.

Dan Van Uffelen is a church history teacher at Covenant Christian High School in Walker, Michigan. He has taught church history for almost two decades.

• 272 pages
• hardcover
  
• ISBN 978-1-944555-75-7
• Release date: 2018, 2021

eBook version available

Other Books in this Series:

COMING SOON!

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Contending for the Faith presents the history of heretics that have troubled the church over the last two thousand years, treating errors from AD 100 (Marcion) to the present day (federal vision theology). What sets this book apart is its evaluation of every heresy from a consistently and unashamedly Reformed perspective. The reader will readily grasp the significance of the early heretics as Herman Hanko demonstrates the connection between their heresies and the errors arising later in history. The vibrant writing style brings the heretics—ancient and modern—to life. This trustworthy guide to the heretics equips believers today to "contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints" (Jude 1:3).

Contending for the Faith is a companion volume to Hanko's Portraits of Faithful Saints, a book of short biographies of the defenders of the truth from as far back as AD 100.

Read a review by @biblebookstheology.

What others are saying about the book:

“Contending for the Faith is an essential read. In opening up two thousand years of heresy and error in the church, Herman Hanko has left a magnificent spiritual deposit for the church." —Gareth

Herman Hanko (1930-2024) served as a minister in the Protestant Reformed Churches from 1955 to 1965, when he was appointed to serve as professor in the Protestant Reformed Seminary in Grandville, MI. He served in that capacity until his retirement in 2001. Until his passing in April 2024, he continued to lecture widely in the USA, the United Kingdom, and other countries, including Singapore and the Philippines. He is the author of several RFPA books.

Hardcover version available

 Click to look inside

Contending for the Faith presents the history of heretics that have troubled the church over the last two thousand years, treating errors from AD 100 (Marcion) to the present day (federal vision theology). What sets this book apart is its evaluation of every heresy from a consistently and unashamedly Reformed perspective. The reader will readily grasp the significance of the early heretics as Herman Hanko demonstrates the connection between their heresies and the errors arising later in history. The vibrant writing style brings the heretics—ancient and modern—to life. This trustworthy guide to the heretics equips believers today to "contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints" (Jude 1:3).

Contending for the Faith is a companion volume to Hanko's Portraits of Faithful Saints, a book of short biographies of the defenders of the truth from as far back as AD 100.

Read a review by @biblebookstheology.

What others are saying about the book:

“Contending for the Faith is an essential read. In opening up two thousand years of heresy and error in the church, Herman Hanko has left a magnificent spiritual deposit for the church." —Gareth

Herman Hanko (1930-2024) served as a minister in the Protestant Reformed Churches from 1955 to 1965, when he was appointed to serve as professor in the Protestant Reformed Seminary in Grandville, MI. He served in that capacity until his retirement in 2001. Until his passing in April 2024, he continued to lecture widely in the USA, the United Kingdom, and other countries, including Singapore and the Philippines. He is the author of several RFPA books.

Hardcover version available

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Does the eternal, unchangeable, all-powerful, and sovereign God really have a temporal, changeable and weak desire to save those whom he has unconditionally reprobated (Rom. 9:22), for whom the Son did not die (John 12:31) and whom the Holy Spirit will not regenerate, sanctify or glorify (John 3:8)?

Pelagianism, semi-Pelagianism, Roman Catholicism, Lutheranism, Anabaptism, Arminianism, Amyraldism, and Marrowism say yes to the well-meant offer of the gospel. The biblical, Augustinian, Reformed, and creedal position is no!

Emeritus professor of church history Herman Hanko guides us through fascinating doctrinal controversies in the early, Reformation, and modern eras of the church, taking us to North Africa, Switzerland, France, England, Scotland, the Netherlands, and America, and emphasizing the teaching of the great theologians, such as Augustine and John Calvin, on God’s particular grace, which is always irresistible and never fails or is frustrated.

In dealing with the historical perspective of God's absolutely sovereign grace versus the well-meant offer, this book fills a gap in the literature, and does so in a way that is warm and easily understood.

Herman Hanko (1930-2024) served as a minister in the Protestant Reformed Churches from 1955 to 1965, when he was appointed to serve as professor in the Protestant Reformed Seminary in Grandville, MI. He served in that capacity until his retirement in 2001. Until his passing in April 2024, he continued to lecture widely in the USA, the United Kingdom, and other countries, including Singapore and the Philippines. He is the author of several RFPA books.

Mark Homer Hoeksema (1949-2021) was the son of a Protestant Reformed minister. He had a great love for church history, facilitating and recording many dozens of interviews and profiles with men and women in the Reformed church tradition. Many of these can be found in the archives of the Standard Bearer and the Beacon Lights, a publication for Reformed young people of which he was editor-in-chief for some years. He also wrote numerous Bible study guides for the RFPA. 

• 272 pages
• hardcover
• ISBN 978-1-944555-10-8
• Release date: December 1, 2016

eBook version available

Covenant and election are two of the most prominent and most important truths in Scripture. They run through the Bible like two grand, harmonious themes in symphony. These two doctrines and their relation are the twofold subject of this book.

The author illumines covenant and election from the controversial history of the confession of the teachings and their relation to the Reformed tradition—from John Calvin in the sixteenth-century through the fathers of the Secession churches in the nineteenth-century Netherlands to the twentieth-century theologians Herman Bavinck and Herman Hoeksema.

David J. Engelsma served as minister to several Protestant Reformed congregations until he was appointed to the Protestant Reformed Seminary in 1988 as professor of Dogmatics and Old Testament studies. He also served as editor of the "Standard Bearer" from 1988-2002. Prof. Engelsma has lectured and preached throughout the British Isles on behalf of the British Reformed Fellowship, which is devoted to the spread and defense of the Reformed faith in the United Kingdom. He lives in Grand Rapids, MI, with his wife and is the father of 9 children. He has authored many RFPA books.

• 288 pages
• hardcover
• ISBN 978-1-936054-02-2
• Release date: 2011

Covenant and election are two of the most prominent and most important truths in Scripture. They run through the Bible like two grand, harmonious themes in symphony. These two doctrines and their relation are the twofold subject of this book.

The author illumines covenant and election from the controversial history of the confession of the teachings and their relation to the Reformed tradition—from John Calvin in the sixteenth-century through the fathers of the Secession churches in the nineteenth-century Netherlands to the twentieth-century theologians Herman Bavinck and Herman Hoeksema.

David J. Engelsma served as minister to several Protestant Reformed congregations until he was appointed to the Protestant Reformed Seminary in 1988 as professor of Dogmatics and Old Testament studies. He also served as editor of the "Standard Bearer" from 1988-2002. Prof. Engelsma has lectured and preached throughout the British Isles on behalf of the British Reformed Fellowship, which is devoted to the spread and defense of the Reformed faith in the United Kingdom. He lives in Grand Rapids, MI, with his wife and is the father of 9 children. He has authored many RFPA books.

• 288 pages
• ISBN 978-1-936054-09-1

Hardcover version available

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Among Reformed Christians, the celebration of the anniversary of the Synod of Dordt (1618–19) is second only to the commemoration of the Reformation of the sixteenth century. Indeed, marking the anniversary of the “great synod,” as it soon was called, is commemoration of the Reformation. This book explores the preservation of the gospel of God’s sovereign grace at Dordt, which was restored to the church through the Reformation. This heritage is one that faithful Reformed churches ought to esteem, as that heritage was defended and handed down by the Synod of Dordt.

In 2018, the Protestant Reformed Theological Seminary held a conference to celebrate the 400th anniversary of the Synod of Dordt. For God’s Glory and the Church’s Consolation includes all the presentations made at that conference and more. 

Authors of the content in this book include Angus Stewart, Brian Huizinga, Mark Shand, Douglas Kuiper, William Langerak, Ron Cammenga, and Barrett Gritters. 

Read review by Stuart Brogden (Truth in Grace). 

• 320 pages
• ISBN 978-1-944555-58-0
  

Hardcover version available

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Among Reformed Christians, the celebration of the anniversary of the Synod of Dordt (1618–19) is second only to the commemoration of the Reformation of the sixteenth century. Indeed, marking the anniversary of the “great synod,” as it soon was called, is commemoration of the Reformation. This book explores the preservation of the gospel of God’s sovereign grace at Dordt, which was restored to the church through the Reformation. This heritage is one that faithful Reformed churches ought to esteem, as that heritage was defended and handed down by the Synod of Dordt.

In 2018, the Protestant Reformed Theological Seminary held a conference to celebrate the 400th anniversary of the Synod of Dordt. For God’s Glory and the Church’s Consolation includes all the presentations made at that conference and more. 

Authors of the content in this book include Angus Stewart, Brian Huizinga, Mark Shand, Douglas Kuiper, William Langerak, Ron Cammenga, and Barrett Gritters. 

Read review by Stuart Brogden (Truth in Grace). 

• 320 pages
• softcover
• ISBN 978-1-944555-57-3
• Release date: October 21, 2019

eBook version available

This fascinating study shows how the battle for truth and the history of Christ's church are inseparably connected. Historical facts are woven through doctrinal history as the author tells the story of a denomination that has fought hard to hold to the Reformed truth.

Herman Hanko (1930-2024) served as a minister in the Protestant Reformed Churches from 1955 to 1965, when he was appointed to serve as professor in the Protestant Reformed Seminary in Grandville, MI. He served in that capacity until his retirement in 2001. Until his passing in April 2024, he continued to lecture widely in the USA, the United Kingdom, and other countries, including Singapore and the Philippines. He is the author of several RFPA books.

• 592 pages
• ISBN 978-1-944555-62-7
  

Hardcover version available

This fascinating study shows how the battle for truth and the history of Christ's church are inseparably connected. Historical facts are woven through doctrinal history as the author tells the story of a denomination that has fought hard to hold to the Reformed truth.

Herman Hanko (1930-2024) served as a minister in the Protestant Reformed Churches from 1955 to 1965, when he was appointed to serve as professor in the Protestant Reformed Seminary in Grandville, MI. He served in that capacity until his retirement in 2001. Until his passing in April 2024, he continued to lecture widely in the USA, the United Kingdom, and other countries, including Singapore and the Philippines. He is the author of several RFPA books.

• 592 pages
• hardcover
• ISBN 978-1-944555-61-0
• Release date: February 11, 2020

eBook version available

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These were the Dark Ages, the days of knights and castles and kings and queens, of monasteries, Vikings, and monks. But one monk stood out from all the rest. One monk stood firm for the truth he believed, though no one stood with him at all. This is the story of Gottschalk of Orbais, a light of truth in the darkness of his age—and a light of truth in ours.

For years, the RFPA has discussed publishing books for younger readers, and Gottschalk: Servant of God represents our first effort. This book is intended for junior high and high school ages. Because the story is intriguing and the history of Gottschalk is not well-known, adults will also enjoy this book and find it profitable.

Read reviews by Dr. Julian Kennedy (CPRC), Ryan Schipper, Taylor Vink, and Lori Hooten (The Old Schoolhouse).

What others have said about this book:

"Gottschalk is my hero."—Herman Hanko

"Students, parents, elders, and ministers. This is a volume they could all read with profound benefit."—Marvin Kamps

"Honestly, it is a very, very good book."—7th grade student

Connie Meyer is a 1982 graduate of Calvin College with a BA in art education. She is a wife and the mother to five children. She has written multiple RFPA publications, including a 3-volume art curriculum called Behold the Beauty.

• 160 pages
• ISBN 978-1-936054-89-3

This book is currently only available as an eBook.

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The great 16th-century church Reformation was so significant an event that virtually every church today is affected by that history and the 16th-century reforms in doctrine and life.

This book demonstrates the impact of that historic event by focusing on a few aspects of the Reformation, including the crucial issues of justification by faith alone, the authority of scripture, and proper worship. This book also covers two lesser-known yet significant aspects of the Reformation that began in 1517: the unique development of the Reformation in the Lowlands, and the reformers’ response to the “radical reformation.”

Read reviews by Kevin Huizinga and Julian Kennedy.

The chapters included in this book are written by Ronald L. Cammenga (editor), David Torlach, Barrett L. Gritters, Martyn McGeown, Russell Dykstra, and Steven Key.

• 208 pages
• ISBN 978-1-944555-38-2

Hardcover version available

 Click to look inside

The great 16th-century church Reformation was so significant an event that virtually every church today is affected by that history and the 16th-century reforms in doctrine and life.

This book demonstrates the impact of that historic event by focusing on a few aspects of the Reformation, including the crucial issues of justification by faith alone, the authority of scripture, and proper worship. This book also covers two lesser-known yet significant aspects of the Reformation that began in 1517: the unique development of the Reformation in the Lowlands, and the reformers’ response to the “radical reformation.”

Read reviews by Kevin Huizinga and Julian Kennedy.

The chapters included in this book are written by: Ronald L. Cammenga (editor), David Torlach, Barrett L. Gritters, Martyn McGeown, Russell Dykstra, and Steven Key.

• 208 pages
• softcover
• ISBN 978-1-944555-37-5
• Release date: April 19, 2018

eBook version available

2nd edition

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Less Than the Least is the memoirs of Rev. Cornelius Hanko’s long, fruitful life of nearly a century (1907–2005). He lived through two world wars, the Great Depression, the Korean and Vietnam Wars, the rise and fall of communism, and the advent of the space age, and spanned the terms of eighteen US presidents, from Theodore Roosevelt to George W. Bush.

Son of Dutch immigrants to America, Hanko served six pastorates in five states, most notably in First Protestant Reformed Church, Grand Rapids, Michigan (1948–1964), along with Rev. Herman Hoeksema and Rev. Hubert De Wolf. Hanko poignantly describes the grief caused in the PRC by De Wolf’s heresy and schism (1953).

More than this, Less Than the Least follows Hanko from his childhood, school days, and seminary training, all the way to his retirement (1977) and beyond.

This delightful book comes complete with photos and appendices.

Read review by Tang Jee Fung (Salt Shakers).

• 348 pages
• ISBN 978-1-944555-21-4

Paperback version available

2nd edition

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Less Than the Least is the memoirs of Rev. Cornelius Hanko’s long, fruitful life of nearly a century (1907–2005). He lived through two world wars, the Great Depression, the Korean and Vietnam Wars, the rise and fall of communism, and the advent of the space age, and spanned the terms of eighteen US presidents, from Theodore Roosevelt to George W. Bush.

Son of Dutch immigrants to America, Hanko served six pastorates in five states, most notably in First Protestant Reformed Church, Grand Rapids, Michigan (1948–1964), along with Rev. Herman Hoeksema and Rev. Hubert De Wolf. Hanko poignantly describes the grief caused in the PRC by De Wolf’s heresy and schism (1953).

More than this, Less Than the Least follows Hanko from his childhood, school days, and seminary training, all the way to his retirement (1977) and beyond.

This delightful book comes complete with photos and appendices.

Read review by Tang Jee Fung (Salt Shakers).

• 348 pages
• hardcover
• ISBN 978-1-944555-20-7
• Release date: June 20, 2017

eBook version available

 Click to read sample

Ave and her best friend Katie lived for many years as nuns in a convent in Nimbschen. But one day the two women and several other nuns decided they must flee the convent for the city of Wittenberg so that they could worship the Lord in a way pleasing to him.

After their respective marriages, Ave moved away from Wittenberg, while Katie remained in the city with her new husband, Dr. Martin Luther. Over the years, the women wrote each other many letters and remained close friends and “sisters in the Lord.”

Now, in a novel set almost three decades later, Ave has received news that Katie has died. Determined to share her friend’s story, Ave begins to relay her memories of Katie and share the letters she has kept for all these years. Her desire is only that we learn what her friend Katie came to learn over fifty-three years on this earth: trust in the Lord, who strengthens the hearts of all who hope in him (Psalm 31:24).

Read reviews by Kristin Dykstra, Sarah Mowery (Perspectives), Eva and Mina Boekestein (The Outlook), Ronald Cammenga (Standard Bearer), and Dr. Jason Van Vliet (Clarion).

• 208 pages
• ISBN 978-1-944555-54-2
  

Paperback version available

Click to read sample

Ave and her best friend Katie lived for many years as nuns in a convent in Nimbschen. But one day the two women and several other nuns decided they must flee the convent for the city of Wittenberg so that they could worship the Lord in a way pleasing to him.

After their respective marriages, Ave moved away from Wittenberg, while Katie remained in the city with her new husband, Dr. Martin Luther. Over the years, the women wrote each other many letters and remained close friends and “sisters in the Lord.”

Now, in a novel set almost three decades later, Ave has received news that Katie has died. Determined to share her friend’s story, Ave begins to relay her memories of Katie and share the letters she has kept for all these years. Her desire is only that we learn what her friend Katie came to learn over fifty-three years on this earth: trust in the Lord, who strengthens the hearts of all who hope in him (Psalm 31:24).

Read reviews by Kristin Dykstra, Sarah Mowery, Eva and Mina Boekestein (The Outlook), Ronald Cammenga (Standard Bearer), and Jason Van Vliet (Clarion).

• 208 pages
  
• softcover
• ISBN 978-1-944555-53-5
• Release date: April 1, 2020

eBook version available

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This collection of short biographies details the lives of fifty-two professing believers who lived and died for Christ. Read about old favorites, such as Augustine and Luther, and learn about the obscure, though equally influential Christians, such as Cocceius and Olevianus. Not sentimental or fictionalized, these accounts tell what Christians actually said and did during difficult times, and they prepare the reader to face opposition today.

What others are saying about the book:

"While Portraits of Faithful Saints may not make the official textbook lists in some seminaries, students are going to latch on to Hanko's latest as an indispensable cheatsheet on the biography of theologians—the Halley's Handbook of its field."—Christian Observer

Herman Hanko (1930-2024) served as a minister in the Protestant Reformed Churches from 1955 to 1965, when he was appointed to serve as professor in the Protestant Reformed Seminary in Grandville, MI. He served in that capacity until his retirement in 2001. Until his passing in April 2024, he continued to lecture widely in the USA, the United Kingdom, and other countries, including Singapore and the Philippines. He is the author of several RFPA books.

• 464 pages
• hardcover 
• ISBN 978-1-944555-24-5
• Release date: 1999, 2018

eBook version available

Read about old favorites, such as Augustine and Luther, and learn about the obscure, though equally influential Christians, such as Cocceius and Olevianus. This collection of short biographies details the lives of fifty-two professing believers who lived and died for Christ. Not sentimental or fictionalized, these accounts tell what Christians actually said and did during difficult times, and they prepare the reader to face opposition today.

What others are saying about the book:

"While Portraits of Faithful Saints may not make the official textbook lists in some seminaries, students are going to latch on to Hanko's latest as an indispensable cheatsheet on the biography of theologians—the Halley's Handbook of its field."—Christian Observer

Herman Hanko (1930-2024) served as a minister in the Protestant Reformed Churches from 1955 to 1965, when he was appointed to serve as professor in the Protestant Reformed Seminary in Grandville, MI. He served in that capacity until his retirement in 2001. Until his passing in April 2024, he continued to lecture widely in the USA, the United Kingdom, and other countries, including Singapore and the Philippines. He is the author of several RFPA books.

• 464 pages 
• ISBN 978-1-944555-31-3 

RELATED PRODUCTS 

Contending for the Faith 

Hardcover version available 

 Click to look inside

The Rock Whence We Are Hewn is comprised of various pamphlets and booklets written very early in the history of the Protestant Reformed Churches—between 1919 and 1940. The authors are two men whom God used in forming these churches, and these foundational writings were used to establish these churches in the beginning of their history.

The title of the book is taken from Isaiah 51:1, “Hearken to me, ye that follow after righteousness, ye that seek the Lord: look unto the rock whence ye are hewn, and to the hole of the pit whence ye are digged.” In this figurative way, the prophet Isaiah called the people of Israel to look to their origins. Likewise, this book's title calls members of the Protestant Reformed Churches to explore the doctrinal truths that are of fundamental importance to the Protestant Reformed Churches still today. By the work of the Spirit, the doctrines confessed, defended, and explained in the writings in this book are the rock whence they were hewn.

This book explains and defends the great doctrines of the Reformed faith that were fundamental to the founding of the Protestant Reformed Churches—that is, covenant; predestination; particular grace; and antithesis.

Read reviews by Herman Hanko and Martyn McGeown.

Henry Danhof and Herman Hoeksema are considered two of the founding "fathers" of the Protestant Reformed Churches in America. 

• 544 pages
• hardcover
• ISBN 978-1-936054-96-1
• Edited by David J. Engelsma

Hardcover version available

 Click to look inside

The Rock Whence We Are Hewn is comprised of various pamphlets and booklets written very early in the history of the Protestant Reformed Churches—between 1919 and 1940. The authors are two men whom God used in forming these churches, and these foundational writings were used to establish these churches in the beginning of their history.

The title of the book is taken from Isaiah 51:1, “Hearken to me, ye that follow after righteousness, ye that seek the Lord: look unto the rock whence ye are hewn, and to the hole of the pit whence ye are digged.” In this figurative way, the prophet Isaiah called the people of Israel to look to their origins. Likewise, this book's title calls members of the Protestant Reformed Churches to explore the doctrinal truths that are of fundamental importance to the Protestant Reformed Churches still today. By the work of the Spirit, the doctrines confessed, defended, and explained in the writings in this book are the rock whence they were hewn.

This book explains and defends the great doctrines of the Reformed faith that were fundamental to the founding of the Protestant Reformed Churches—that is, covenant; predestination; particular grace; and antithesis.

Read reviews by Herman Hanko and Martyn McGeown.

Henry Danhof and Herman Hoeksema are considered two of the founding "fathers" of the Protestant Reformed Churches in America. 

• 544 pages
• hardcover
• ISBN 978-1-936054-95-4
• Edited by David J. Engelsma
• Release date: February 1, 2016

eBook version available

From sketches of the lives of Martin Luther and John Calvin to an explanation of the reformers’ distinctive doctrine of the last things, this book ranges widely over the sixteenth-century Reformation of the church.

The Sixteenth-Century Reformation of the Church is divided into three parts: (fascinating) “Lives”; (significant) “History”; and (fundamental) “Doctrines and Issues.”

Written for believers and their children, rather than for scholars, the 23 short but meaty articles will serve to introduce the Reformation to the reader who is ignorant of that grand work of Christ; to remind the reader who is familiar with the Reformation of its glories and worth; and to ground the believing reader in the truth of the Reformation confessed, as well as to help him or her in the holy life the Reformation called for. Especially the young people of the covenant will benefit from this book.

The writers are ministers of the Protestant Reformed Churches in America and of the Evangelical Presbyterian Church of Australia.

What others are saying about this book:

"As Reformation Day gets closer, I would recommend this book to any teen or adult who would like to learn more about the Reformation and those who were involved in it." - Andrew Pastoor (Grandville Gleaner).

• 202 pages
• paperback
• ISBN 978-0-916206-95-6
• Release date: 2007

Other Books in the Rightly Dividing Series:

Common Grace Revisited

Reformed Worship

Always Reforming

Click to look inside

A treasure of local church history, this is the story of a true church of Jesus Christ with very humble beginnings. The congregation of mostly poor farmers in Grand Rapids, Michigan, faced and survived many challenges, some due to her isolated location in a hook-like bend in the Grand River. But this one-hundredth anniversary book of Hope Protestant Reformed Church is more than a record of Hope’s history. More importantly, it reveals the secrets of her continuance as a faithful church today: secrets which if heeded give Hope and like-minded churches hope for tomorrow.

Read reviews by Bruce Koole (Standard Bearer), Jay Kalsbeek, Ben Mowery, and Chua Lee Yang (Salt Shakers).

• 752 pages
• hardcover
• ISBN 978-1-944555-06-1
• Edited by Calvin Kalsbeek
• Release date: 2016

Unfolding Covenant History is a series that includes Old Testament history syllabi written by the late Homer C. Hoeksema, with additional syllabi written by David J. Engelsma, his successor as Professor of Dogmatics and Old Testament at the Protestant Reformed Theological Seminary in Wyoming, Michigan. Recognizing the work's potential for the edification and comfort to all of God's people, the RFPA originally undertook the publication of this series of hardcover volumes under the editorship of Mark H. Hoeksema, son of Homer Hoeksema.

The unique feature of these volumes, which distinguishes them from other such writings, is their emphasis on the theme of God's covenant of grace as the unifying principle of Old Testament history and of the very gospel itself. The reader's appreciation for this truth will grow during the unfolding of the meaning of the covenant as this history progresses through the books of the Old Testament. 

From Creation to the Flood, the 1st volume in the Unfolding series, covers Genesis 1:1 through Genesis 6. Though a small portion of the Scriptures, this period encompasses 1,650 years of biblical history! In this volume, Hoeksema shows that the "book of beginnings" holds significance for God's people today and endures to the end of the ages.

• 368 pages
• hardcover
• ISBN 978-0-916206-64-2
• Release date: December 8, 2015

RELATED PRODUCTS

Unfolding Covenant History set, vol. 1 through 6

Unfolding Covenant History set, vol. 1 through 6 (eBook)

Unfolding Covenant History is a series that includes Old Testament history syllabi written by the late Homer C. Hoeksema, with additional syllabi written by David J. Engelsma, his successor as Professor of Dogmatics and Old Testament at the Protestant Reformed Theological Seminary in Wyoming, Michigan. Recognizing the work's potential for the edification and comfort to all of God's people, the RFPA originally undertook the publication of this series of hardcover volumes under the editorship of Mark H. Hoeksema, son of Homer Hoeksema.

The unique feature of these volumes, which distinguishes them from other such writings, is their emphasis on the theme of God's covenant of grace as the unifying principle of Old Testament history and of the very gospel itself. The reader's appreciation for this truth will grow during the unfolding of the meaning of the covenant as this history progresses through the books of the Old Testament.

From Creation to the Flood, the 1st volume in the Unfolding series, covers Genesis 1:1 through Genesis 6. Though a small portion of the Scriptures, this period encompasses 1,650 years of biblical history! In this volume, Hoeksema shows that the "book of beginnings" holds significance for God's people today and endures to the end of the ages.

• 368 pages
• ISBN 978-1-936054-97-8

RELATED PRODUCTS

Unfolding Covenant History set, vol. 1 through 6

Unfolding Covenant History set, vol. 1 through 6 (eBook)

Unfolding Covenant History is a series that includes Old Testament history syllabi written by the late Homer C. Hoeksema, with additional syllabi written by David J. Engelsma, his successor as Professor of Dogmatics and Old Testament at the Protestant Reformed Theological Seminary in Wyoming, Michigan. Recognizing the work's potential for the edification and comfort to all of God's people, the RFPA originally undertook the publication of this series of hardcover volumes under the editorship of Mark H. Hoeksema, son of Homer Hoeksema.

The unique feature of these volumes, which distinguishes them from other such writings, is their emphasis on the theme of God's covenant of grace as the unifying principle of Old Testament history and of the very gospel itself. The reader's appreciation for this truth will grow during the unfolding of the meaning of the covenant as this history progresses through the books of the Old Testament.

This 2nd volume (From the Flood to Isaac) of the Unfolding series is divided into three parts: the postdiluvian world and the patriarchal eras of Abraham and Isaac. The postdiluvian section covers the changed earth after the flood, the establishment by God of the sword-power ordinance, the covenant with Noah, Noah’s prophetic blessing and cursing, Nimrod, Babel, and the genealogy/chronology provided for Shem’s generations. Though the facts about the first two patriarchs are familiar, the covenantal perspective on those lives makes for a much richer interpretation than most readers have ever before encountered. 

• 328 pages
• hardcover 
• ISBN 978-0-916206-70-3
• Release date: December 8, 2015

RELATED PRODUCTS

Unfolding Covenant History set, vol. 1 through 6

Unfolding Covenant History set, vol. 1 through 6 (eBook)

Unfolding Covenant History is a series that includes Old Testament history syllabi written by the late Homer C. Hoeksema, with additional syllabi written by David J. Engelsma, his successor as Professor of Dogmatics and Old Testament at the Protestant Reformed Theological Seminary in Wyoming, Michigan. Recognizing the work's potential for the edification and comfort to all of God's people, the RFPA originally undertook the publication of this series of hardcover volumes under the editorship of Mark H. Hoeksema, son of Homer Hoeksema.

The unique feature of these volumes, which distinguishes them from other such writings, is their emphasis on the theme of God's covenant of grace as the unifying principle of Old Testament history and of the very gospel itself. The reader's appreciation for this truth will grow during the unfolding of the meaning of the covenant as this history progresses through the books of the Old Testament.

This 2nd volume (From the Flood to Isaac) of the Unfolding series is divided into three parts: the postdiluvian world and the patriarchal eras of Abraham and Isaac. The postdiluvian section covers the changed earth after the flood, the establishment by God of the sword-power ordinance, the covenant with Noah, Noah’s prophetic blessing and cursing, Nimrod, Babel, and the genealogy/chronology provided for Shem’s generations. Though the facts about the first two patriarchs are familiar, the covenantal perspective on those lives makes for a much richer interpretation than most readers have ever before encountered. 

• 328 pages
• ISBN 978-1-936054-98-5

RELATED PRODUCTS

Unfolding Covenant History set, vol. 1 through 6

Unfolding Covenant History set, vol. 1 through 6 (eBook)

Unfolding Covenant History is a series that includes Old Testament history syllabi written by the late Homer C. Hoeksema, with additional syllabi written by David J. Engelsma, his successor as Professor of Dogmatics and Old Testament at the Protestant Reformed Theological Seminary in Wyoming, Michigan. Recognizing the work's potential for the edification and comfort to all of God's people, the RFPA originally undertook the publication of this series of hardcover volumes under the editorship of Mark H. Hoeksema, son of Homer Hoeksema.

The unique feature of these volumes, which distinguishes them from other such writings, is their emphasis on the theme of God's covenant of grace as the unifying principle of Old Testament history and of the very gospel itself. The reader's appreciation for this truth will grow during the unfolding of the meaning of the covenant as this history progresses through the books of the Old Testament.

Volume 3 (From Jacob to the Exodus) of the Unfolding series is divided into three parts: the history of Jacob, the history of Joseph, and the history of the bondage and exodus of Israel from Egypt.

Jacob is a very strong character in the history of God's covenant. His sins and shortcomings, as well as his penchant for running ahead of the Lord, are described in detail by the author. Yet, the great strength of his faith in the covenant promise of God is the overriding theme. The history of this father of the tribes of Israel makes for interesting reading.

The history of Joseph is perhaps even more intriguing. The story of his life, from his being sold into slavery to his ascension to a position as ruler of Egypt, is almost stranger than fiction. The author explains how—through the awesome power of God's sovereign providence by means of Joseph—the line of the covenant was preserved, and the fledgling nation of Israel came to live in Egypt.

The section on the bondage and exodus details the increasingly oppressive bondage of God's people. It describes the ten plagues visited by God upon Egypt, culminating in God's powerful deliverance of his people from the land of bondage, which is typical of our deliverance from the dominion of sin.

• 344 pages
• hardcover
• ISBN 978-0-916206-78-9
• Release date: December 8, 2015

RELATED PRODUCTS

Unfolding Covenant History set, vol. 1 through 6

Unfolding Covenant History set, vol. 1 through 6 

Unfolding Covenant History is a series that includes Old Testament history syllabi written by the late Homer C. Hoeksema, with additional syllabi written by David J. Engelsma, his successor as Professor of Dogmatics and Old Testament at the Protestant Reformed Theological Seminary in Wyoming, Michigan. Recognizing the work's potential for the edification and comfort to all of God's people, the RFPA originally undertook the publication of this series of hardcover volumes under the editorship of Mark H. Hoeksema, son of Homer Hoeksema.

The unique feature of these volumes, which distinguishes them from other such writings, is their emphasis on the theme of God's covenant of grace as the unifying principle of Old Testament history and of the very gospel itself. The reader's appreciation for this truth will grow during the unfolding of the meaning of the covenant as this history progresses through the books of the Old Testament.

Volume 3 (From Jacob to the Exodus) of the Unfolding series is divided into three parts: the history of Jacob, the history of Joseph, and the history of the bondage and exodus of Israel from Egypt.

Jacob is a very strong character in the history of God's covenant. His sins and shortcomings, as well as his penchant for running ahead of the Lord, are described in detail by the author. Yet, the great strength of his faith in the covenant promise of God is the overriding theme. The history of this father of the tribes of Israel makes for interesting reading.

The history of Joseph is perhaps even more intriguing. The story of his life, from his being sold into slavery to his ascension to a position as ruler of Egypt, is almost stranger than fiction. The author explains how—through the awesome power of God's sovereign providence by means of Joseph—the line of the covenant was preserved, and the fledgling nation of Israel came to live in Egypt.

The section on the bondage and exodus details the increasingly oppressive bondage of God's people. It describes the ten plagues visited by God upon Egypt, culminating in God's powerful deliverance of his people from the land of bondage, which is typical of our deliverance from the dominion of sin.

• 344 pages
• ISBN 978-1-936054-99-2

RELATED PRODUCTS

Unfolding Covenant History set, vol. 1 through 6

Unfolding Covenant History set, vol. 1 through 6

Unfolding Covenant History is a series that includes Old Testament history syllabi written by the late Homer C. Hoeksema, with additional syllabi written by David J. Engelsma, his successor as Professor of Dogmatics and Old Testament at the Protestant Reformed Theological Seminary in Wyoming, Michigan. Recognizing the work's potential for the edification and comfort to all of God's people, the RFPA originally undertook the publication of this series of hardcover volumes under the editorship of Mark H. Hoeksema, son of Homer Hoeksema.

The unique feature of these volumes, which distinguishes them from other such writings, is their emphasis on the theme of God's covenant of grace as the unifying principle of Old Testament history and of the very gospel itself. The reader's appreciation for this truth will grow during the unfolding of the meaning of the covenant as this history progresses through the books of the Old Testament.

Volume 4 (Through the Wilderness Into Canaan) of the Unfolding series describes the journey of Israel from Egypt to the land of promise, as well as their conquering and inheritance of Canaan.

In the section on the wanderings in the wilderness, the author details Israel's journey to Mt. Sinai, where by the giving of God's law they were constituted as a covenant nation. He narrates their eventful progress towards Canaan, and their drawing back in unbelief when they were at the very door of the promised land.

After their fulfillment of God's sentence to wander for forty years in the wilderness because of their unbelief, God's people must learn anew to trust in Jehovah as they seek to dispossess the inhabitants of the land of promise. Under the leadership of Joshua, and despite much stumbling, Israel learns to expect the victory from their covenant God, and finally subdues and inherits Canaan.

• 414 pages
• hardcover
• ISBN 978-0-916206-80-2
• Release date: December 8, 2015

RELATED PRODUCTS

Unfolding Covenant History set, vol. 1 through 6

Unfolding Covenant History set, vol. 1 through 6 (eBook)

Unfolding Covenant History is a series that includes Old Testament history syllabi written by the late Homer C. Hoeksema, with additional syllabi written by David J. Engelsma, his successor as Professor of Dogmatics and Old Testament at the Protestant Reformed Theological Seminary in Wyoming, Michigan. Recognizing the work's potential for the edification and comfort to all of God's people, the RFPA originally undertook the publication of this series of hardcover volumes under the editorship of Mark H. Hoeksema, son of Homer Hoeksema.

The unique feature of these volumes, which distinguishes them from other such writings, is their emphasis on the theme of God's covenant of grace as the unifying principle of Old Testament history and of the very gospel itself. The reader's appreciation for this truth will grow during the unfolding of the meaning of the covenant as this history progresses through the books of the Old Testament.

Volume 4 (Through the Wilderness Into Canaan) of the Unfolding series describes the journey of Israel from Egypt to the land of promise, as well as their conquering and inheritance of Canaan.

In the section on the wanderings in the wilderness, the author details Israel's journey to Mt. Sinai, where by the giving of God's law they were constituted as a covenant nation. He narrates their eventful progress towards Canaan, and their drawing back in unbelief when they were at the very door of the promised land.

After their fulfillment of God's sentence to wander for forty years in the wilderness because of their unbelief, God's people must learn anew to trust in Jehovah as they seek to dispossess the inhabitants of the land of promise. Under the leadership of Joshua, and despite much stumbling, Israel learns to expect the victory from their covenant God, and finally subdues and inherits Canaan.

• 414 pages
• ISBN 978-1-944555-00-9

RELATED PRODUCTS

Unfolding Covenant History set, vol. 1 through 6

Unfolding Covenant History set, vol. 1 through 6 (eBook)

Unfolding Covenant History is a series that includes Old Testament history syllabi written by the late Homer C. Hoeksema, with additional syllabi written by David J. Engelsma, his successor as Professor of Dogmatics and Old Testament at the Protestant Reformed Theological Seminary in Wyoming, Michigan. Recognizing the work's potential for the edification and comfort to all of God's people, the RFPA originally undertook the publication of this series of hardcover volumes under the editorship of Mark H. Hoeksema, son of Homer Hoeksema.

The unique feature of these volumes, which distinguishes them from other such writings, is their emphasis on the theme of God's covenant of grace as the unifying principle of Old Testament history and of the very gospel itself. The reader's appreciation for this truth will grow during the unfolding of the meaning of the covenant as this history progresses through the books of the Old Testament.

Judges and Ruth, the 5th volume in the Unfolding series, continues the exposition of Old Testament history from the viewpoint of God’s covenant faithfulness toward his people in the old dispensation. Professor David J. Engelsma now becomes the author, intending to finish in this and succeeding volumes what Professor Homer C. Hoeksema began.

Part 1 traces the dark history of the time of the judges with its recurring themes of Israel’s departure from Jehovah to serve heathen idols, God’s chastisement of his people by delivering them to the persecution and dominance of their enemies, their crying to him for help in their distress, and the Lord’s gracious deliverance of them by various judges. The conclusion of this downward line of the history of God’s people illustrates the necessity of a theocratic king in Israel, as expressed in the words of Judges 21:25: “In those days there was no king in Israel.”

Part 2 explains the familiar but amazing history of Ruth, which illustrates vividly the truth of God’s sovereign redemption in the salvation of the Gentiles and the inclusion of Ruth into the line of the covenant so that she becomes the grandmother of King David, the savior of Israel as the theocratic king and the type of Christ.

• 238 pages
• hardcover
• ISBN 978-0-916206-86-4
• Release date: December 8, 2015

RELATED PRODUCTS

Unfolding Covenant History set, vol. 1 through 6

Unfolding Covenant History set, vol. 1 through 6 (eBook)

Unfolding Covenant History is a series that includes Old Testament history syllabi written by the late Homer C. Hoeksema, with additional syllabi written by David J. Engelsma, his successor as Professor of Dogmatics and Old Testament at the Protestant Reformed Theological Seminary in Wyoming, Michigan. Recognizing the work's potential for the edification and comfort to all of God's people, the RFPA originally undertook the publication of this series of hardcover volumes under the editorship of Mark H. Hoeksema, son of Homer Hoeksema.

The unique feature of these volumes, which distinguishes them from other such writings, is their emphasis on the theme of God's covenant of grace as the unifying principle of Old Testament history and of the very gospel itself. The reader's appreciation for this truth will grow during the unfolding of the meaning of the covenant as this history progresses through the books of the Old Testament.

Judges and Ruth, the 5th volume in the Unfolding series, continues the exposition of Old Testament history from the viewpoint of God’s covenant faithfulness toward his people in the old dispensation. Professor David J. Engelsma now becomes the author, intending to finish in this and succeeding volumes what Professor Homer C. Hoeksema began.

Part 1 traces the dark history of the time of the judges with its recurring themes of Israel’s departure from Jehovah to serve heathen idols, God’s chastisement of his people by delivering them to the persecution and dominance of their enemies, their crying to him for help in their distress, and the Lord’s gracious deliverance of them by various judges. The conclusion of this downward line of the history of God’s people illustrates the necessity of a theocratic king in Israel, as expressed in the words of Judges 21:25: “In those days there was no king in Israel.”

Part 2 explains the familiar but amazing history of Ruth, which illustrates vividly the truth of God’s sovereign redemption in the salvation of the Gentiles and the inclusion of Ruth into the line of the covenant so that she becomes the grandmother of King David, the savior of Israel as the theocratic king and the type of Christ.

• 238 pages
• ISBN 978-1-944555-01-6

RELATED PRODUCTS

Unfolding Covenant History set, vol. 1 through 6

Unfolding Covenant History set, vol. 1 through 6 (eBook)

Unfolding Covenant History is a series that includes Old Testament history syllabi written by the late Homer C. Hoeksema, with additional syllabi written by David J. Engelsma, his successor as Professor of Dogmatics and Old Testament at the Protestant Reformed Theological Seminary in Wyoming, Michigan. Recognizing the work's potential for the edification and comfort to all of God's people, the RFPA originally undertook the publication of this series of hardcover volumes under the editorship of Mark H. Hoeksema, son of Homer Hoeksema.

The unique feature of these volumes, which distinguishes them from other such writings, is their emphasis on the theme of God's covenant of grace as the unifying principle of Old Testament history and of the very gospel itself. The reader's appreciation for this truth will grow during the unfolding of the meaning of the covenant as this history progresses through the books of the Old Testament.

The Old Testament history covered in this 6th volume of the Unfolding series is extensive, covering the account of the life and significance for the covenant of Samuel, Saul, David, and Solomon. This is the history recorded in 1 and 2 Samuel; 1 Kings 1–11; 1 Chronicles 10–29; and 2 Chronicles 1–9. In addition, the volume takes into consideration other passages in Scripture (Psalms) that reflect on this history.

This history is also rich in significance with regard to the development of God’s covenant and covenant dealings with his people. It includes the institution and early functioning of the office of the prophet; the institution of the office of king; the stark contrast between the people’s choice as king, in the charismatic, but reprobate, Saul, and God’s elect, David; and the realization of the fellowship of the covenant in the Old Testament in the temple. Among fascinating and controversial events of the history on which this volume sheds light is the appearance to Saul of the “witch of Endor.”

Read reviews by Nathan Langerak (Sword and Shield), David Noorman (The Standard Bearer), H. David Schuringa, Martyn McGeown (Protestant Reformed Theological Journal), and Jerome Julien (The Outlook).

• 224 pages
• hardcover
• ISBN 978-1-944555-63-4
• Release date: April 6, 2020

RELATED PRODUCTS

Unfolding Covenant History set, vol. 1 through 6

Unfolding Covenant History set, vol. 1 through 6 (eBook)

Unfolding Covenant History is a series that includes Old Testament history syllabi written by the late Homer C. Hoeksema, with additional syllabi written by David J. Engelsma, his successor as Professor of Dogmatics and Old Testament at the Protestant Reformed Theological Seminary in Wyoming, Michigan. Recognizing the work's potential for the edification and comfort to all of God's people, the RFPA originally undertook the publication of this series of hardcover volumes under the editorship of Mark H. Hoeksema, son of Homer Hoeksema.

The unique feature of these volumes, which distinguishes them from other such writings, is their emphasis on the theme of God's covenant of grace as the unifying principle of Old Testament history and of the very gospel itself. The reader's appreciation for this truth will grow during the unfolding of the meaning of the covenant as this history progresses through the books of the Old Testament.

The Old Testament history covered in this 6th volume of the Unfolding series is extensive, covering the account of the life and significance for the covenant of Samuel, Saul, David, and Solomon. This is the history recorded in 1 and 2 Samuel; 1 Kings 1–11; 1 Chronicles 10–29; and 2 Chronicles 1–9. In addition, the volume takes into consideration other passages in Scripture (Psalms) that reflect on this history.

This history is also rich in significance with regard to the development of God’s covenant and covenant dealings with his people. It includes the institution and early functioning of the office of the prophet; the institution of the office of king; the stark contrast between the people’s choice as king, in the charismatic, but reprobate, Saul, and God’s elect, David; and the realization of the fellowship of the covenant in the Old Testament in the temple. Among fascinating and controversial events of the history on which this volume sheds light is the appearance to Saul of the “witch of Endor.”

Read reviews by Nathan Langerak (Sword and Shield), David Noorman (The Standard Bearer), H. David Schuringa, Martyn McGeown (Protestant Reformed Theological Journal), and Jerome Julien (The Outlook).

• 224 pages
• ISBN 978-1-944555-64-1

RELATED PRODUCTS

Unfolding Covenant History set, vol. 1 through 6

Unfolding Covenant History set, vol. 1 through 6 (eBook)

This set contains one copy each of volumes 1 through 6 in the Unfolding Covenant History series. Each individual title can be purchased separately through the blue links below.

Volume 1 - From Creation to the Flood (eBook)
by Homer C. Hoeksema
368 pages

Volume 2 - From the Flood to Isaac (eBook)
by Homer C. Hoeksema
328 pages

Volume 3 - From Jacob to the Exodus (eBook)
by Homer C. Hoeksema
344 pages

Volume 4 - Through the Wilderness into Canaan (eBook)
by Homer C. Hoeksema
414 pages

Volume 5 - Judges and Ruth (eBook)
by David J. Engelsma
238 pages

Volume 6 - From Samuel to Solomon (eBook)
by David J. Engelsma
224 pages

Follow Old Testament history using God's covenant as the basis for a proper understanding of the unfolding events! Volumes 1-6 of an estimated 8-volume series are now available. 

What others are saying about this set: 

"These very readable volumes are a veritable treasure store, into which, when the believer dips, he will surely increase his spiritual wealth." —The Outlook 

The hardcover version of this set is available here.

This set contains one copy each of volumes 1 through 6 in the Unfolding Covenant History series. Each individual title can be purchased separately through the blue links below.

Volume 1 - From Creation to the Flood
by Homer C. Hoeksema
368 pages
hardcover

Volume 2 - From the Flood to Isaac
by Homer C. Hoeksema
328 pages
hardcover

Volume 3 - From Jacob to the Exodus
by Homer C. Hoeksema
344 pages
hardcover

Volume 4 - Through the Wilderness into Canaan
by Homer C. Hoeksema
414 pages
hardcover

Volume 5 - Judges and Ruth
by David J. Engelsma
238 pages
hardcover

Volume 6 - From Samuel to Solomon
by David J. Engelsma
224 pages
hardcover


Follow Old Testament history using God's covenant as the basis for a proper understanding of the unfolding events! Volumes 1-6 of an estimated 8-volume series are now available. 

What others are saying about this set: 

"These very readable volumes are a veritable treasure store, into which, when the believer dips, he will surely increase his spiritual wealth." —The Outlook 

"The best books for understanding Bible history. I have them all, and use them!"—Carol B.

The eBook version of this set is available here.

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Simon van Velzen was a powerful preacher of the gospel. He was a reformer of the church of Christ in the Netherlands in the Secession of 1834. He was a seminary professor who influenced hundreds of future Reformed ministers. He was a faithful husband and devoted father.

In his own day, he was held in high regard by such notable figures as Abraham Kuyper and Herman Bavinck, and was respected as a spiritual father and John Calvin-like figure by Reformed believers both in the Netherlands and America. Sadly, many Reformed Christians in the twenty-first century have little, if any, idea who he is. Where he is remembered, he is often branded as being “unyielding, obstinate, and domineering,” and he is dismissed as being of little significance in the history of the church. This biography corrects such ignorance and misconceptions by setting forth the fascinating life of an influential figure in the history of Christ’s church.

What others are saying about this book:

"This readable story of the Afscheiding leader who most impacted orthodox Dutch Calvinists in North America should be in every church library." - Robert P. Swierenga

Read reviews by Robert P. Swierenga (Protestant Reformed Theological Journal), Stephan Regnerus (PRCA), and Jerome Julien (The Outlook). 

Joshua Engelsma is a minister in the Protestant Reformed Churches of America. He is also the author of Dating Differently: A Guide to Reformed Dating.

• 240 pages
• ISBN 978-1-959515-16-6
  

Hardcover version available

 Click for preview

Simon van Velzen was a powerful preacher of the gospel. He was a reformer of the church of Christ in the Netherlands in the Secession of 1834. He was a seminary professor who influenced hundreds of future Reformed ministers. He was a faithful husband and devoted father.

In his own day, he was held in high regard by such notable figures as Abraham Kuyper and Herman Bavinck, and was respected as a spiritual father and John Calvin-like figure by Reformed believers both in the Netherlands and America. Sadly, many Reformed Christians in the twenty-first century have little, if any, idea who he is. Where he is remembered, he is often branded as being “unyielding, obstinate, and domineering,” and he is dismissed as being of little significance in the history of the church. This biography corrects such ignorance and misconceptions by setting forth the fascinating life of an influential figure in the history of Christ’s church.

What others are saying about this book:

"This readable story of the Afscheiding leader who most impacted orthodox Dutch Calvinists in North America should be in every church library." - Robert P. Swierenga

Read reviews by Robert P. Swierenga (Protestant Reformed Theological Journal), Stephan Regnerus (PRCA), and Jerome Julien (The Outlook). 

Joshua Engelsma is a minister in the Protestant Reformed Churches of America. He is also the author of Dating Differently: A Guide to Reformed Dating.

• 240 pages
• hardcover
  
• ISBN 978-1-944555-73-3
• Release date: February 24, 2021

eBook version available