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2nd edition

Originally written in 1552, this treatise by Calvin on the doctrines of predestination and providence represents his mature thoughts on these subjects.
 
In the previous edition, Calvin's treatise was divided into two parts according to the subject matter. This edition of Calvin's Calvinism puts the related topics of predestination and providence together, the way Calvin himself addressed them in his original.
 
Calvin's Calvinism features brief historical introductions to the treatise and to Calvin's replies to a former friend who wrote against this treatise. These replies are also included in this edition.

• 330 pages
• ISBN 978-1-936054-85-5
  
• Translated by Henry Cole
• Edited by Russell J. Dykstra

Hardcover version available

How many Christians can confidently say that they have “mastered” the art of prayer? Probably no one. Hanko’s work, When You Pray, is blessedly refreshing in his admission that none of us is good at prayer—including himself. Yet, over the years of one’s life, the author assures us, a person can make progress in praying. 

Hanko shares with his readers homely yet highly meaningful lessons he learned from growing up in a covenant family and covenantal church community. He also details the specific benefits of praying to the sovereign God of the universe, who knows our sins and weaknesses but loves us still. Valuable is this clear explanation of how God can be likened to the father of an earthly family, loving and caring for his own dear children. Eye-opening and helpful too is the author’s pinpointing of misconceptions people have about God and prayer that bar them from praying in a God-honoring way. 

If you have found your devotional life to be frequently barren, reading what the author has learned the hard way over fifty years in ministry will give you a renewed desire to fellowship with your Father in prayer.

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.

• 192 pages
• ISBN 978-1-936054-84-8

hardcover version available

audiobook version available

2nd edition

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The 1960s were years of challenges to the infallibility and inspiration of scripture. These attacks were precipitated by the increasingly popular theory of evolution, which was making inroads into Reformed churches and schools. In contradiction to this creeping heresy and in unequivocal defense of the doctrine of scripture, the Reformed Free Publishing Association published In the Beginning God.

Since then the conflict between creation and evolution as the explanation of the origin of the world has intensified, and the doctrine of scripture is increasingly compromised, even in historically Reformed churches and schools.

God’s people must be knowledgeable regarding the doctrines of scripture and of creation so that they are able staunchly to defend these truths. To this end the Reformed Free Publishing Association is pleased to republish this explanation and defense of these timeless truths.

Read review by Dr. Fred G. Zaspel (Books at a Glance).

Homer C. Hoeksema (1923-1989) was the second son of Herman Hoeksema, born during the turmoil of the Common Grace controversy which led to the formation of the Protestant Reformed Churches. He served charges in Iowa and Illinois before being called to serve as professor in the Protestant Reformed Seminary, where he taught Dogmatics and New Testament studies. He also served for years as the editor of The Standard Bearer and wrote many books for the RFPA.

• 144 pages
• ISBN 978-1-936054-77-0

Paperback version available

2nd edition

 Click to look inside

The 1960s were years of challenges to the infallibility and inspiration of scripture. These attacks were precipitated by the increasingly popular theory of evolution, which was making inroads into Reformed churches and schools. In contradiction to this creeping heresy and in unequivocal defense of the doctrine of scripture, the Reformed Free Publishing Association published In the Beginning God.

Since then the conflict between creation and evolution as the explanation of the origin of the world has intensified, and the doctrine of scripture is increasingly compromised, even in historically Reformed churches and schools.

God’s people must be knowledgeable regarding the doctrines of scripture and of creation so that they are able staunchly to defend these truths. To this end the Reformed Free Publishing Association is pleased to republish this explanation and defense of these timeless truths.

Read a review by Fred G. Zaspel (Books at a Glance).

Homer C. Hoeksema (1923-1989) was the second son of Herman Hoeksema, born during the turmoil of the Common Grace controversy which led to the formation of the Protestant Reformed Churches. He served charges in Iowa and Illinois before being called to serve as professor in the Protestant Reformed Seminary, where he taught Dogmatics and New Testament studies. He also served for years as the editor of The Standard Bearer and wrote many books for the RFPA.

• 144 pages
• paperback
• ISBN 978-1-936054-76-3
• Release date: February 25, 2015

eBook version available

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The parables form a substantial part of our Savior's ministry, and this is ample reason for us to give good attention to them. With simple and familiar earthly pictures, Jesus tells us what the kingdom of heaven is like.

"The author takes each parable and by careful exegesis opens up its rich seam of spiritual instruction, and gives a faithful and solidly Reformed interpretation. He shows us gospel mysteries of immense beauty, power, encouragement, practical relevance, and everlasting worth for citizens of a kingdom that is not of this world."

What others are saying about this book:

"We trust that the book will be given a wide circulation. May it be a useful instrument as God's kingdom is extended in our world through the power of His Word and Spirit." - The Banner, Feb. 11, 1977

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.

• 432 pages
• ISBN 978-1-936054-82-4
  

Hardcover version available

The Covenant of God and the Children of Believers defends the Reformed faith of the covenant of God by exposing the view of the covenant from which the attack of the "federal vision" arises. At the same time, the book sets forth the doctrine of the covenant that safeguards and promotes the gospel of sovereign grace, demonstrating that this covenant doctrine is biblical, confessional, and traditionally Reformed.

Since the controversy centers on the inclusion of the children of believers in the covenant, this book emphasizes the rightful place of children in the covenant of grace and the proper rearing of them. The author gives consideration to the views of the Protestant Reformed Churches, Baptists, the Netherlands Reformed Congregations, and the Canadian Reformed Churches ("liberated") on this topic. Leading representatives of these churches and traditions join in the discussion. 

What others are saying about the book:

"The Covenant of God and the Children of Believers strikes a death blow to the heart of heresy which is sweeping through Reformed churches." —English Churchman

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.

• 250 pages
• ISBN 978-1-936054-80-0

Hardcover version available

2nd edition

This is the first in a two-volume series titled Reformed Dogmatics by Herman Hoeksema. A clear, systematic study and exposition of Reformed theology written by a man who held the Chair of Dogmatics for some forty years at the Protestant Reformed seminary, the book is divided into the six generally-accepted branches of theology (theology, anthropology, Christology, soteriology, ecclesiology, and eschatology). This scholarly work is logical, Scripturally sound, and faithful to the Reformed creeds and traditions.

What others are saying about this book:

"This is Herman Hoeksema’s greatest book, and he did not live to see it published. Reformed Dogmatics is the deposit of the mature thinking of an authentic theologian; it displays a breadth of thought and a richness of insight and originality little known to those who knew the author only in terms of that theological controversy which created his public image but overshadowed his theological stature." - James Daane (Reformed Journal)

Read a review by M. Eugene Osterhaven (Christianity Today).

Herman Hoeksema (HH) (1886-1965) was ordained into the ministry in the Christian Reformed Churches in 1915. He is considered one of the founding "fathers" of the Protestant Reformed Churches in America. He taught in the Seminary of the Protestant Reformed Churches from its founding and until his retirement in 1964.

• 646 pages
• ISBN 978-1-936054-78-7

Hardcover version available

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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

2nd edition

This is the second in a two-volume series titled Reformed Dogmatics by Herman Hoeksema. A clear, systematic study and exposition of Reformed theology written by a man who held the Chair of Dogmatics for some forty years at the Protestant Reformed seminary, the book is divided into the six generally-accepted branches of theology (theology, anthropology, Christology, soteriology, ecclesiology, and eschatology). This scholarly work is logical, Scripturally sound, and faithful to the Reformed creeds and traditions.

What others are saying about this book:

"This is Herman Hoeksema’s greatest book, and he did not live to see it published. Reformed Dogmatics is the deposit of the mature thinking of an authentic theologian; it displays a breadth of thought and a richness of insight and originality little known to those who knew the author only in terms of that theological controversy which created his public image but overshadowed his theological stature." - James Daane (Reformed Journal)

Read a review by M. Eugene Osterhaven (Christianity Today).

Herman Hoeksema (HH) (1886-1965) was ordained into the ministry in the Christian Reformed Churches in 1915. He is considered one of the founding "fathers" of the Protestant Reformed Churches in America. He taught in the Seminary of the Protestant Reformed Churches from its founding and until his retirement in 1964.

• 736 pages
• ISBN 978-1-936054-79-4

Hardcover version available

This set contains volumes 1 and 2 of the Reformed Dogmatics series by Herman Hoeksema. Buy the books individually here: Volume 1 (eBook) and Volume 2 (eBook).

2nd edition

This is a two-volume series titled Reformed Dogmatics by Herman Hoeksema. A clear, systematic study and exposition of Reformed theology written by a man who held the Chair of Dogmatics for some forty years at the Protestant Reformed seminary, the book is divided into the six generally-accepted branches of theology (theology, anthropology, Christology, soteriology, ecclesiology, and eschatology). This scholarly work is logical, Scripturally sound, and faithful to the Reformed creeds and traditions.

What others are saying about these books:

"This is Herman Hoeksema’s greatest book, and he did not live to see it published. Reformed Dogmatics is the deposit of the mature thinking of an authentic theologian; it displays a breadth of thought and a richness of insight and originality little known to those who knew the author only in terms of that theological controversy which created his public image but overshadowed his theological stature." - James Daane (Reformed Journal)

Read a review by M. Eugene Osterhaven (Christianity Today).

Herman Hoeksema (HH) (1886-1965) was ordained into the ministry in the Christian Reformed Churches in 1915. He is considered one of the founding "fathers" of the Protestant Reformed Churches in America. He taught in the Seminary of the Protestant Reformed Churches from its founding and until his retirement in 1964.

Hardcover version of the set available here.

3rd edition

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Although this book’s controversial contention that marriage is an unbreakable bond for life gets the most attention today, the book is a mainly positive explanation and application of the Bible’s teaching about marriage in all of marriage’s aspects. Marriage is a Reformed pastor’s instruction and exhortation to married couples, especially young married couples, with the purpose that they glorify God in their marriages and enjoy the bliss of this blessed communion of life. The second section is a history of the church’s doctrine and practice of marriage from Augustine and the early church through Calvin and the Reformation to the contemporary chaos.

The timeliness of the book is evident simply from the rate of divorce, not alone in North America in the early twenty-first century, but also in Reformed churches throughout the world.

What others have said about this book:

“This is one of those books that you wish could be put into the hands of every married couple and those contemplating marriage…If the contents of this book were put into practice, society would become more stable and broken homes would be few and far between.” –The Gospel Witness

“…one of the finest among the flood of such books flowing off the presses…The book [has] a theological depth and seriousness often lacking in non-Reformed books on this subject.” –Reformed Herald

“A book that says many biblical things about sex, children, family, the mystery of marriage. Recommended for laypersons and preachers alike.” –The Reformed Journal

“This book does faithfully reflect the teachings of God’s Word on marriage.” –The Banner

“A pastor, husband, and father speaks of marriage and its relationships in terms that few want to hear today–even in the church.” –Moody

“…there is much to be learned from this book for it touches upon much where the rubber hits the road in marriage.” –Ray Hoekzema, Trowel and Sword

“If ever there is a book which is vital reading for the church in our day, it is this one….This book is essential reading…and particularly should it be part of the staple diet offered to young people contemplating marriage.”  ALSO “…these books…challenged my views on the vexed subject of divorce and remarriage…they also caused me to re-examine my whole attitude to marriage in general and my own marriage in particular, and to re-appraise my role as husband, lover and head of the family.” –John Lowery, British Reformed Journal

“…Engelsma’s book is ideal for any who has an interest in the subject…Ministers, elders, deacons, husbands, wives, parents, young people, and engaged couples, especially engaged couples, should read it. They will do so with life-long profit.” –R.J. Hooper, The Tamar Reformed Witness

“…Engelsma…presents a rich, biblically based view of marriage.” –New Oxford Review

“…Engelsma…provides what may well be the clearest expression of God’s heart on the matter of marriage in print today. In simple, readable form, the author sets out the biblical view of marriage.”-Charles Crisimier III, Standard Bearer

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.

• 256 pages
• paperback
• ISBN 978-1-936054-46-6

Paperback version available

Hardcover version available

2nd edition

 Click for sample lesson

Mere formalism in worship is a danger that the church of Christ has had to fight in every age. It is so easy for church members to become accustomed to the practice of worship such that it becomes a mere habit.

Malachi was used in a mighty way to warn the church of his day about the evil of worshiping God outwardly rather than from the heart.

In nine lessons, the author presents this study as a means to open the minds and hearts of believers to the treasures of wisdom in the prophecy of Malachi, which has special significance in being the last book of the Old Testament.

This guide is split into 9 lessons for personal or group study.

• 72 pages
• paperback
• ISBN 978-1-936054-50-3
• Release date: 1993, 2014

Find all Bible study guides here.

2nd edition

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Why is Ruth a favorite book of the Bible for Christians? We learn from the introduction to the study pamphlet that "...we are all Ruths at heart, foreigners and strangers brought into the covenant kingdom by the overwhelming grace of God." Each time we read this book of the Bible we are thrilled to see how the sovereign God directs circumstances so that the Moabitess Ruth becomes a mother in the covenant line of Jesus in his incarnation.

The book of Ruth shows how God preserves his church even in such dark times as the period of the Judges when every man did that which was right in his own eyes.

This guide is split into 7 lessons for personal or group study.

• 36 pages
• paperback
• ISBN 978-1-936054-49-7
• Release date: 1993, 2014

Find all Bible study guides here.

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Many people are familiar with the public persona of Herman Hoeksema. As one of the leading theologians of the twentieth century, a seminary professor, the pastor of a large congregation, and a prolific writer, he was well-known in ecclesiastical circles, as well as in the world in general. But to his family he was “just Dad.” This anecdotal biography written by his youngest child records many stories about him - some perhaps familiar, but others never before told.

Included in the book are numerous pictures of Hoeksema and his family, as well as an appendix with several personal letters of Hoeksema written to his children when he took a trip to Europe in 1929. These will show you a side of Hoeksema not found elsewhere.

Read a review by Charles Terpstra (The Three R's blog), and Monica Koole

What others have said about the book:

“In so many ways I can relate to [Lois'] feelings and experiences...It is also good for us to see that [Hoeksema] was a husband and a father. A normal and fallible man, doing the work the Lord placed before him. I still think people today place their minister and family on a pedestal and forget they have feelings, likes and dislikes, and they like to spend time with their own family and have a good time too. I'm glad the RFPA printed this book.”—a Protestant Reformed minister’s wife

"[A] pleasing, if lightweight, little book. Many readers will enjoy it as the portrait of a kindly Christian man, of great integrity, of whatever doctrinal persuasion. The book's supplement of some of Hoeksema's correspondence only adds to its value!"—Gerald Parker

Lois E. (Hoeksema) Kregel is the youngest daughter of Herman Hoeksema, who was a founding figure of the Protestant Reformed Churches in America. This memoir of her father is her first book.

• 144 pages
• paperback
• ISBN 978-1-936054-54-1
• Release date: November 24, 2014

eBook version available

 Click to look inside

Many people are familiar with the public persona of Herman Hoeksema. As one of the leading theologians of the twentieth century, a seminary professor, the pastor of a large congregation, and a prolific writer, he was well-known in ecclesiastical circles, as well as in the world in general. But to his family he was “just Dad.” This anecdotal biography written by his youngest child records many stories about him - some perhaps familiar, but others never before told.

Included in the book are numerous pictures of Hoeksema and his family, as well as an appendix with several personal letters of Hoeksema written to his children when he took a trip to Europe in 1929. These will show you a side of Hoeksema not found elsewhere.

Read a review by Charles Terpstra (The Three R's blog), and Monica Koole

What others have said about the book:

“In so many ways I can relate to [Lois'] feelings and experiences...It is also good for us to see that [Hoeksema] was a husband and a father. A normal and fallible man, doing the work the Lord placed before him. I still think people today place their minister and family on a pedestal and forget they have feelings, likes and dislikes, and they like to spend time with their own family and have a good time too. I'm glad the RFPA printed this book.”—a Protestant Reformed minister’s wife

"[A] pleasing, if lightweight, little book. Many readers will enjoy it as the portrait of a kindly Christian man, of great integrity, of whatever doctrinal persuasion. The book's supplement of some of Hoeksema's correspondence only adds to its value!"—Gerald Parker

Lois E. (Hoeksema) Kregel is the youngest daughter of Herman Hoeksema, who was a founding figure of the Protestant Reformed Churches in America. This memoir of her father is her first book.

• 144 pages
• ISBN 978-1-936054-55-8

Paperback version available

The Coming of Zion's Redeemer is written on the prophecies of Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi. 

These prophecies, though not always easy to understand, are as much needed today as when they were written. Written for those living at the end of the Old Testament and looking forward to the first coming of Christ, they speak with authority and promise to those who are looking forward to the second coming of Christ and who live near the end of this present age. Very different in style, they have a unity of theme and purpose in Christ, the great king, priest, and prophet of his people. 

Read a review by Thomas Miersma (PRCA).

Ronald Hanko was ordained and installed in 1979 as minister at Covenant Protestant Reformed Church in Wyckoff, New Jersey. Throughout his time as a minister of the Word, he also served congregations in Houston, TX; Lynden, WA; and as a missionary in Northern Ireland. He has authored multiple RFPA books.

• 544 pages
• ISBN 978-1-936054-42-8

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The Coming of Zion's Redeemer is written on the prophecies of Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi.

These prophecies, though not always easy to understand, are as much needed today as when they were written. Written for those living at the end of the Old Testament and looking forward to the first coming of Christ, they speak with authority and promise to those who are looking forward to the second coming of Christ and who live near the end of this present age. Very different in style, they have a unity of theme and purpose in Christ, the great king, priest, and prophet of his people.

Read a review by Thomas Miersma (PRCA).

• 544 pages
• hardcover
• ISBN 978-1-936054-41-1
• Release date: September 1, 2014

eBook version available 

"And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely" (Rev. 22:17).

In this beloved volume, Hoeksema refutes the common misinterpretation of this phrase and pastorally brings home to the believer its rich, personal meaning, explaining the doctrine of sovereign, particular grace regarding coming to faith in Jesus Christ.

What others are saying about this book:

"An excellent book, and so much needed in this day of dishwater doctrine. It displays God on the throne, not man." —Christian Literature World

"The purpose of Whosoever Will is set forth in the preface in the words: 'As the title of this book may suggest to those that understand, the following pages are intended to set forth the inseparable connection between the certainty that "whosoever will may come", and the truth of God’s sovereign grace: the former is based on and rooted in the latter.' No one, it seems to the reviewer, can disagree with this purpose. In a country filled with Arminianism, it is necessary, indeed, to set forth the true relation between the 'whosoever' truth and the doctrine of divine, sovereign grace. With the general trend of this book every truly Reformed believer will be in hearty agreement." —Wm. Hendriksen (The Banner)

Herman Hoeksema (HH) (1886-1965) was ordained into the ministry in the Christian Reformed Churches in 1915. He is considered one of the founding "fathers" of the Protestant Reformed Churches in America. He taught in the Seminary of the Protestant Reformed Churches from its founding and until his retirement in 1964.

• 126 pages
• ISBN 978-1-936054-48-0

Paperback version available

Prosperous Wicked and Plagued Saints is a commentary on Psalm 73 that sets forth the truth of God’s goodness to his people in their trouble and of God’s curse on the wicked in their prosperity.

In light of the teaching of Psalm 73, the book takes issue with a theory about earthly prosperity and earthly woe that, for all its strange popularity with Reformed and evangelical Christians, only intensifies the believer’s temptation to doubt in the hour of trouble: the theory of common grace.

What others are saying about the book:

"This book arrived yesterday and I'll finish it today. Can't recommend it enough...The prosperity of the wicked is an illusion. What grace is it for a man to gain the whole world and yet lose his soul? The answer is none. While it's popular today to say things like, 'God is good all the time and all the time God is good' or 'Have a blessed day' or 'I am blessed,' let's not be deceived. God is good towards His elect alone. All things work together FOR GOOD to those who are CALLED, to those who are in Christ Jesus and ONLY those who are in Christ Jesus." - Tim, from Arkansas

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. He has authored many RFPA books.

• 120 pages
• ISBN 978-1-936054-47-3

Softcover version available

Can believers and their children understand more about God’s covenant fellowship with his people with his people if they have a better understanding of the inner, triune life of God in himself? Does the life of Jesus Christ revealed in the Holy Scriptures help? What have Augustine, John Calvin, Karl Barth, Leonardo Boff and others offered on this topic?

Trinity and Covenant: God as Holy Family by Professor David Engelsma answers these questions and more.

In the light of profound insights of Augustine, following the lead of certain theologians in the Reformed tradition, and on the basis of the Holy Scripture, this book conceives the life of God in himself as fundamentally family fellowship. The fellowship of the Father and the Son in the Holy Spirit determines the nature of God’s works in the creating and redeeming humanity. The reader of this book will grow in the understanding of God’s covenant fellowship with his people.

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.

• 158 pages
• ISBN 978-1-936054-44-2

Hardcover version available

Written as a response to Dr. Richard J. Mouw's He Shines in All That's Fair: Culture and Common Grace, this book examines the theory of common grace in the light of scripture and the Reformed confessions, challenges Shines' claim to be part of the body of Reformed truth, and proposes an alternative to common grace.

What others are saying about the book:

"Worth the read...a small paperback that's extremely meaty and offers those who believe in common grace...an interesting and different perspective on the issue. It summarizes Dr. Engelsma's position in the wake of his 'debate' with Dr. Richard Mouw on the subject. I used to have at least a half-dozen copies, but I gave all but one away." —a reader

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.

• 112 pages
• paperback
• ISBN 978-1-936054-43-5

Paperback version available

Other Books in the Rightly Dividing Series:

Reformed Worship (eBook)

Sixteenth-Century Reformation

Always Reforming (eBook)

 Click to look inside

"The book is controversial. It was controversial when it was written. It is still controversial in Reformed churches..."

Originally published in Dutch (De Gemeene Gratis) at the end of the nineteenth century, Particular Grace's explanation and development of the gospel of salvation by the grace of God in Jesus Christ was controversial then and continues to be so today. But by no means is the book controversy alone. Within is the lively, warm writing of a Reformed theologian who influenced much of the Reformed church world in his time. Kuyper is fresh. Kuyper is fervent. Kuyper storms the heart of the believer.

What others are saying about the book:

"The Reformed Free Publishing Association has accomplished a breakthrough. For the first time, with the possible exception of Kuyper's work on the Holy Spirit, the Kuyper of sound Reformed doctrine and church reformation is presented to the English reading public…"

"The book is biblical, deliberately and pervasively so…"

"Reformed believers will surely be impressed with the power of the author's language and argument, the breadth of this acquaintance with past and contemporary discussion, and the cumulative weight of his case. They will also find Kuyper surprisingly fresh and pointed. Many contemporary denials of particular grace are anticipated by his arguments." —Mid-America Journal of Theology

• 376 pages
• ISBN 978-1-936054-36-7

Hardcover version available

View a sample lesson from Grade 4. 

View a sample lesson from Grade 5. 

View a sample lesson from Grade 6.

This third volume in the three-volume art curriculum set, Behold the Beauty, is designed to be used by teachers or homeschooling parents for kindergarten–6th grade.

Behold the Beauty was also written with practical considerations in mind: to assist instructors who have had little or no training in art. The lessons are clear and easy to use, requiring minimal supplies without compromising objectives.

The ultimate objective of every lesson is exactly as the title implies: to behold the beauty of creation and to praise God in doing that. As students learn to more closely observe creation while rendering what they see in pencil, paint, or other artistic media, they will be trained to meet that objective. The lessons teach how to use the elements of art, such as line, shape, and color, while introducing the principles of design, such as unity, variety, and focal point. Not only do students learn to behold the evidence of God's glory all around them by these means, they also learn to make objects of beauty in order to communicate that glory to others. The curriculum is based on the infallible Scriptures, and the twelve lessons of each grade level comprise a thorough, biblical, and systematic art education.

Read review by Renita Kuehner (The Old Schoolhouse). 

What others have said about this curriculum:

"This book has been a great introduction to art for my son. We've been using it for over a year now and have made many wonderful art projects. I even have his 2 yr. brother participate and he has fun. It teaches great art concepts and includes godly wisdom alongside."

"This is a great book. There is a small amount of prep (little more than making sure you have the materials), and no special skills required. I have been working through this with my 6 year old (started when she was 5. Her little brother also tries to do the projects (and is successful for the most part). Highly recommended."

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 used Behold the Beauty lessons with her children and has helped teachers teach art in their classrooms. 

• 280 pages
• softcover
• ISBN: 978-1-936054-30-5

Other Books in the Behold the Beauty Series: 

Behold the Beauty - Art Curriculum (Kindergarten & First Grade)

Behold the Beauty - Art Curriculum (Second & Third Grade)

This exposition on what the author calls "one of the richest and most beautiful parts of the word of God" is clear in language, simple and warm in teaching, rich in practical application, and faithful to Scripture. This exposition is addressed not to the scholars, but to the very same audience for whom the apostle wrote the epistle: the "beloved of God, called to be saints."

What others are saying about the book:

"...the best combination of theology and devotional reading that I have come across in a long time." —Evangelical Times

"...the personal benefits from this exposition are as fine gold." —New Focus

Herman Hoeksema (HH) (1886-1965) was ordained into the ministry in the Christian Reformed Churches in 1915. He is considered one of the founding "fathers" of the Protestant Reformed Churches in America. He taught in the Seminary of the Protestant Reformed Churches from its founding and until his retirement in 1964.

• 728 pages
• ISBN 978-1-936054-40-4

Hardcover version available

 3rd edition

 Click to look inside

Is there a "well-meant offer" of salvation to all men? Or is the call of the gospel restricted to the elect only? Is there an alternative to these two extremes?

This book sets forth and defends the Reformed position of the gospel call to all mankind.

Read review by Dr, C. Matthew McMahon (apuritansmind.com)

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.

• 224 pages
• ISBN 978-1-936054-20-6

Paperback 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

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, 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

Today the central doctrine of the Reformation—justification by faith alone—is under attack, even by many in historically Reformed and Presbyterian denominations. Under the guise of a “new perspective on Paul,” revisionist theologians are resurrecting the old heresy of justification by faith and works. They give this a new name—the federal vision. But it is nothing else than the error of the Judaizers that Paul condemns in the Epistle to the Galatians.

In direct contradiction of the federal vision heresy, the author stands squarely in the tradition of Luther and Calvin. From an uncompromisingly Reformed perspective, he clearly and positively expounds the epistle, emphasizing the truth of justification by faith alone, as well as the liberty this truth gives to God’s people.

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.

• 448 pages
• ISBN 978-1-936054-37-4

Hardcover version available

 Click to look inside

The third book in the Reformed Spirituality series, this book again consists of meditations by Protestant Reformed minister and theologian, Herman Hoeksema. The meditations in this volume have in common their living, breathing zeal for the glory of the good God. God is only good—good in himself; good in creation; good in salvation; good in Christ; good to his elect people.

This set of beautiful meditations demonstrates that genuine spirituality rises from and ends in the glory of God, for the zeal of the soul for God's glory is the most profound spirituality. And because the Spirit works spirituality by sound doctrine, spirituality exists and flourishes by means of sound instruction in biblical, Reformed doctrine.

All Glory to the Only Good God is part of the Reformed Spirituality series comprised of meditations written by Herman Hoeksema.

Herman Hoeksema (HH) (1886-1965) was ordained into the ministry in the Christian Reformed Churches in 1915. He is considered one of the founding "fathers" of the Protestant Reformed Churches in America. He taught in the Seminary of the Protestant Reformed Churches from its founding and until his retirement in 1964.

• 336 pages
• ISBN 978-1-936054-29-9

Hardcover version available

Other Books in the Reformed Spirituality Series:

Peace for the Troubled Heart

Communion with God

 Click to look inside

Knowing God in the Last Days is an explanation of the general epistle of Peter to the early New Testament church. The primary theme of the letter is the knowledge of God, a concept that occurs many times and in various contexts throughout the book. This short epistle contains a wealth of instruction for the church today.

The secondary theme of 2 Peter is the application of the knowledge of God to the last days in which we live. Especially in his third chapter, Peter reveals to the church the knowledge of God as it relates to the end times.

Based on exegesis of the Greek text, this commentary gives clarity of explanation to God’s people regarding necessary and important aspects of today’s Christian life. May all who read be edified.

Read reviews by Dr. Julian Kennedy (CPRC), Martyn McGeown (PRCA), and Heath Bleyenberg (PRC)

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. 

• 96 pages
• hardcover
• ISBN 978-1-944555-22-1
• Release date: August 9, 2017

eBook version available

 Click to look inside

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

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

3rd edition

 Look inside the book

This revised third edition is the accepted standard for the interpretation and application of the Church Order of Dordrecht by Reformed and Presbyterian denominations. This weighty and time-tested commentary instructs us today on the need for a book of order for biblical consistency in church government.

• 464 pages
• ISBN 978-1-936054-25-1

Hardcover version available

A biblical, doctrinal, and Christ-centered devotional, this book addresses the theme of the believer’s communion with God. Each meditation expresses the knowing, desiring, feeling, and acting of the faith of the heart that is near to God and in fellowship with him in Christ by the Holy Spirit.

Communion with God is the second part of the Reformed Spirituality series comprised of meditations written by Herman Hoeksema.

Read a review by Emma Nienhuis (the Grandville Gleaner).

Herman Hoeksema (HH) (1886-1965) was ordained into the ministry in the Christian Reformed Churches in 1915. He is considered one of the founding "fathers" of the Protestant Reformed Churches in America. He taught in the Seminary of the Protestant Reformed Churches from its founding and until his retirement in 1964.

• 368 pages
• ISBN 978-1-936054-12-1

Hardcover version available

Other Books in the Reformed Spirituality Series:

Peace for the Troubled Heart

All Glory to the Only Good God

 Click to look inside

In his first epistle Peter writes to the saints in Asia Minor from the perspective of their lives as pilgrims. As sojourners in a strange land, they are on a journey through this world toward their eternal home.

How must these pilgrims (and how must we), torn between this world and the next, walk in all the relationships of this life? Peter’s answers this question in his letter which serves as a pilgrim’s manual.

Believers will find A Pilgrim’s Manual to be full of instruction, comfort, and hope as they wend their way toward their eternal home.

Read reviews on Amazon.com.

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.

• 352 pages
• ISBN 978-1-936054-18-3

Some professing Christians deny the necessity of church membership. Others join a church for unsubstantial reasons or leave a church for trivial, often selfish reasons. Many remain members of apostatizing churches because of family or traditional ties. Some Christians find themselves in areas or countries where no true church exists or can be formed. They ask, sometimes in anguish, "What must we do?"

Seemingly forgotten today is the truth that Jesus Christ institutes his catholic church in organized congregations that are clearly identified by objective marks. These are true churches, in distinction from false and apostatizing churches.

In the form of letters to an inquiring (though not always appreciative) European audience, this book addresses the issue of church membership in the twenty-first century.  This instruction is applicable to all believers and is based on scripture, the Belgic Confession, and the important, but little known, controversy of John Calvin with the Nicodemites.

Read review by David Higgs (The Evangelical Presbyterian July 2011)

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.

• 184 pages
• ISBN 978-1-936054-10-7

Hardcover version available

The statement in Article 28 of the Belgic Confession that all believers are “in duty bound to join and unite themselves with” an instituted church that has the three marks of the true church has proved to be controversial in North America and Europe. Engelsma’s recent book, Bound to Join, addresses the doctrine of church membership and has received criticism from both expected and unexpected critics.

This book answers those critics, defending the doctrine of church membership and demonstrating that love for the universal, invisible church invariably expresses itself by love for the manifestation of this church in the church institute. This book also examines the "house church" movement and the claim by such men as Harold Camping that the church age has ended.

This book is a must-read, especially for those who have read Bound to Join!

Read reviews on Christianbook.com and Amazon.com.

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.

• 160 pages
• ISBN 978-1-936054-15-2

Doctrine according to Godliness is perfect for older youths or adults who have questions on Reformed theology and want answers quickly. The book consists of short, easy-to-read explanations of more than 235 topics of Reformed theology. The sections are both comprehensive yet succinct, each only a page or two long. An index to the subject titles allows the reader to find a title under any of its key words. The book makes an especially good resource for older young people in doctrine classes, for newcomers to the Reformed faith on domestic or foreign mission fields, and for those studying doctrine with a view toward church membership.

One would expect a book of this kind to be quite dry and tedious to read, but Doctrine according to Godliness is warm, personal, and has a definite devotional feel to it. 

Ronald Hanko was ordained and installed in 1979 as minister at Covenant Protestant Reformed Church in Wyckoff, New Jersey. Throughout his time as a minister of the Word, he also served congregations in Houston, TX; Lynden, WA; and as a missionary in Northern Ireland. He has authored multiple RFPA books.

• 352 pages
• ISBN 978-1-936054-24-4

Hardcover 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
• ISBN 978-1-936054-09-1

Hardcover version available

Peace for the Troubled Heart is a genuinely Reformed devotional, breathing the rich experience of the believing child of God.

Comprised of 37 meditations written by Herman Hoeksema, this book addresses the theme of struggle and suffering in this life of every believer as a pilgrim of this world. Hoeksema, in his warm, personal, often poetic style, masterfully exercises the spiritual gift of devotional writing.

Read a review by Joe Holstege (Young Calvinists).

Herman Hoeksema (HH) (1886-1965) was ordained into the ministry in the Christian Reformed Churches in 1915. He is considered one of the founding "fathers" of the Protestant Reformed Churches in America. He taught in the Seminary of the Protestant Reformed Churches from its founding and until his retirement in 1964.

• 304 pages
• ISBN 978-1-936054-11-4

Hardcover version available

Other Books in the Reformed Spirituality Series:

All Glory to the Only Good God

Communion with God

Click to look inside

This beautiful eBook is the perfect gift for anyone, young or old. This book discusses the nine aspects of the fruit of the Spirit (found in Galatians 5:22, 23) that proceed from that fountain, Christ, and which by his Spirit he works in his saints. The author encourages branches of believers and their seed unto a life of good fruit-bearing.

New author Richard J. Smit first wrote about the fruit of the Spirit in a series of articles that appeared in the Standard Bearer and now appear in book form in this new eBook. 

Richard J. Smit has been a minister in the Protestant Reformed churches since his ordination in 1996. He has served as a missionary to the Philippines twice, ministering for over a decade to the saints there. Fruit of the Spirit is his first book.

• 155 pages
• ISBN 978-1-936054-22-0

Paperback version available

Audiobook version available

 Click to look inside

The contemporary heresy of the federal vision is wreaking havoc on the Reformed and Presbyterian churches in North America. The author exposes the ugly root of the heresy (a conditional covenant) and sets forth the truth of the unconditional covenant, proclaiming the Reformation’s gospel of salvation by grace alone.

Read reviews by Ian A. Hewitson (Westminster Theological Seminary) and Douglas Douma (A Place for Thoughts).

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.

• 252 pages
• ISBN 978-1-936054-08-4
  

Hardcover version available

2nd edition

 Click to look inside

Better to Marry provides straightforward, practical instruction for single and married believers alike, taken directly from the classic Bible passages on sex and marriage. Two appendices treat the remarriage and prohibition of the remarriage of the "innocent party."

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.

• 128 pages
• ISBN 978-1-936054-39-8

Reformed Education is an explanation for the people of God of the fundamentals of Christian day-school education. The book demonstrates that the basis of the Christian school is God's covenant of grace with believers and their children. Treating such vital subjects as the place of Scripture and the creeds in the school, the biblical view of culture, the qualifications and calling of the Christian schoolteacher, and the goal of education, the author contends that the covenant of God controls and shapes all aspects of the Christian school.

In the course of this explanation, the book defends Christian schools against serious challenges—challenges as old as the claim that the state schools are adequate and challenges as new as the home-schooling movement.

This is the book to put in the hands of all believing parents. It will encourage those committed to Christian education. It will educate those who are doubtful. Christian schoolteachers will benefit from the book's description of their work: a divine calling to help in the rearing of the covenant child. Indeed, if the author is right in saying that all members of the church, whether parents or not, should support the Christian education of the children of believers as the church's own children, all can read the book with profit.

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.

• 112 pages
• ISBN 978-1-936054-17-6

  Click for sample lessons. (First sample is Second Grade. Second sample is Third Grade)

The second volume in the three-volume art curriculum set, Behold the Beauty, is designed to be used by teachers or homeschooling parents for second and third grade. 

Behold the Beauty was also written with practical considerations in mind: to assist instructors who have had little or no training in art. The lessons are clear and easy to use, requiring minimal supplies without compromising objectives.

The ultimate objective of every lesson is exactly as the title implies: to behold the beauty of creation and to praise God in doing that. As students learn to more closely observe creation while rendering what they see in pencil, paint, or other artistic media, they will be trained to meet that objective. The lessons teach how to use the elements of art, such as line, shape, and color, while introducing the principles of design, such as unity, variety, and focal point. Not only do students learn to behold the evidence of God's glory all around them by these means, they also learn to make objects of beauty in order to communicate that glory to others. The curriculum is based on the infallible Scriptures, and the twelve lessons of each grade level comprise a thorough, biblical, and systematic art education.

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 used Behold the Beauty lessons with her children and has helped teachers teach art in their classrooms. 

• 179 pages
• softcover, spiral bound
• ISBN: 978-0-916206-90-1

Other Books in the Behold the Beauty Series: 

Behold the Beauty - Art Curriculum (Kindergarten & First Grade)

Behold the Beauty - Art Curriculum (Grades 4-6)

Click to look inside

This beautiful paperback is the perfect gift for anyone, young or old. This book discusses the nine aspects of the fruit of the Spirit (found in Galatians 5:22, 23) that proceed from that fountain, Christ, and which by his Spirit he works in his saints. The author encourages branches of believers and their seed unto a life of good fruit-bearing.

New author Richard J. Smit first wrote about the fruit of the Spirit in a series of articles that appeared in the Standard Bearer and now appear in book form in this new book. 

Richard J. Smit has been a minister in the Protestant Reformed churches since his ordination in 1996. He has served as a missionary to the Philippines twice, ministering for over a decade to the saints there. Fruit of the Spirit is his first book.

• 155 pages
• paperback
• ISBN 978-1-936054-21-3
• Release date: December 31, 2012

eBook version available

Audiobook version available

 Click to look inside the book

In his first epistle Peter writes to the saints in Asia Minor from the perspective of their lives as pilgrims. As sojourners in a strange land, they are on a journey through this world toward their eternal home.

How must these pilgrims (and how must we), torn between this world and the next, walk in all the relationships of this life? Peter’s answers this question in his letter which serves as a pilgrim’s manual.

Believers will find A Pilgrim’s Manual to be full of instruction, comfort, and hope as they wend their way toward their eternal home.

Read reviews on Amazon.com.

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.

• 352 pages
• hardcover
• ISBN 978-1-936054-14-5
• Release date: 2012

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The Standard Bearer digital index will help you locate a specific article or topic, an article written by a certain author, book reviews, etc.

A link to download the complete PDF of the index will be emailed to you after you receive your order confirmation.

Indexes included in this file: Subject/Topic, Textual, Book Reviews, and Title.

NOTE: This digital index is separate from the Standard Bearer searchable archives of past SB articles, which is available online free of charge at sb.rfpa.org.