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On the night before he was betrayed, Jesus ate his last meal with his disciples. The heavy weight of the cross bore down on him, yet his focus lay not on his own suffering, but on his imminent departure and what this meant for his disciples.

The Upper Room Discourse of John 14–16 records the words of great comfort Jesus gave his disciples. He must indeed go away from them. But by doing so, Jesus would bridge the gap between creature and Creator; between earth and heaven; and between sinners and the holy, just God. Jesus is the way to the Father, and it was only through the way of the cross and his resurrection and ascension that his people could be reconciled to the Father and receive the Comforter and life.

With clear and pastoral applications to the church today, author Martyn McGeown leads us into the upper room to hear Jesus’ instruction alongside the disciples. It is in the upper room that we receive Jesus’ exhortations and encouragement, heed his warnings, and appropriate his comfort through faith.

Read reviews by Roger G. DePriest (Detroit Baptist Seminary Journal) and Wilbur Bruinsma.

Martyn McGeown is a pastor in the Protestant Reformed Churches. He is also the editor of the RFPA blog and the author of multiple RFPA publications.

• 346 pages
• hardcover
• ISBN 978-1-944555-99-3
• Release date: 2022

eBook version available

Rev. Jason Kortering (1936–2020) was a minister in the Protestant Reformed Churches. From 1992–2006, he and his wife, Jean, were called to missionary labors in Singapore, India, and Myanmar. Say Among the Heathen the Lord Reigns is Jean’s account of those years. The recollections and stories in this book will direct your heart to the Son of God who gathers, defends, and preserves to himself an elect church out of all nations, kindreds, peoples, and tongues.

“Our living in Singapore and other foreign countries for 10+ years was a great blessing for the whole family. Though children and grandchildren gave up their parents and grandparents for the Lord’s work, and we were separated from each other for a while, God remained our constant. He reigns. He reigns over the whole earth and we rejoice. He reigns over the multitude of isles and they are glad (Ps. 97). He rules in America and he rules across the globe. We were separated by many, many miles but we were so close because we worshiped and served the same God. He is supremely sovereign and yet gentle and caring in his love for his people. It was our privilege many years ago to share that truth in a heathen culture.” — Jean Kortering, July 2022

Read reviews by Ellen Kamps and Daniel Holstege (PRCA).

• 368 pages
• paperback
• ISBN 978-1-7368154-41
• Release date: 2022

eBook version available

This set contains one textbook (teacher's manual) and one workbook each of SMTW Grade 4, SMTW Grade 5, and SMTW Grade 6.

This curriculum series, Show Me Thy Ways (Grades 4-6), teaches the same material as Suffer Little Children, but on a more advanced level, and consists of a student text and a workbook for each grade.

Show Me Thy Ways Textbook (Grade 4)

Show Me Thy Ways Student's Workbook (Grade 4)

Show Me Thy Ways Textbook (Grade 5)

Show Me Thy Ways Student's Workbook (Grade 5)

Show Me Thy Ways Textbook (Grade 6)

Show Me Thy Ways Student's Workbook (Grade 6)

Read a review by Jennifer King (Worth a Bowed Head)!

What others are saying about these books:

"I was raised by immigrant parents who were new to the faith. My mom used all of Gertrude's curricula to teach us the Bible, and she learned as much from teaching it as we did! I remember studying and filling out all of the 6 workbooks as a child. Now, I'm a graduate of Reformation Bible College, and I'm continuing a career in theology with Ligonier...[That] all started with these curricula." - Giovanna M.

"I have been homeschooling now for 19 years. When our family first started homeschooling we bought a package curriculum from a company named Covenant Home. Included in that package was the Gertrude Hoeksema curriculum. We have used it in our home for years. I now own a small business that provides a one day per week enrichment program for homeschooled students (K-8th). We will be using the curriculum this year in one of our classes during the Bible lesson. I was so thrilled to discover that [the RFPA] carried exactly what I was looking for!" -Jenny Watts, The Friday Program

 Click to view a sample lesson

This textbook for Grade 4 covers Genesis 1 through 1 Samuel.

What others are saying about this book:

"I have been homeschooling now for 19 years. When our family first started homeschooling we bought a package curriculum from a company named Covenant Home. Included in that package was the Gertrude Hoeksema curriculum. We have used it in our home for years. I now own a small business that provides a one day per week enrichment program for homeschooled students (K-8th). We will be using the curriculum this year in one of our classes during the Bible lesson. I was so thrilled to discover that [the RFPA] carried exactly what I was looking for!" - Jenny Watts, The Friday Program 

• 372 pages
• hardcover 
• ISBN 978-0-916206-35-1
• Release date: 1988, 1994, 1995, 2008, 2018

 Click to view sample lesson

This textbook for Grade 5 covers 2 Samuel through Malachi.

What others are saying about this book:

"I have been homeschooling now for 19 years. When our family first started homeschooling we bought a package curriculum from a company named Covenant Home. Included in that package was the Gertrude Hoeksema curriculum. We have used it in our home for years. I now own a small business that provides a one day per week enrichment program for homeschooled students (K-8th). We will be using the curriculum this year in one of our classes during the Bible lesson. I was so thrilled to discover that [the RFPA] carried exactly what I was looking for!" - Jenny Watts, The Friday Program 

• 372 pages
• hardcover 
• ISBN 978-0-916206-40-6
• Release date: 1991, 1997

 Click to view sample lesson

This textbook for Grade 6 covers the intertestamentary period and New Testament history in the Gospel and Acts.

What others have said about this book: 

"I have been homeschooling now for 19 years. When our family first started homeschooling we bought a package curriculum from a company named Covenant Home. Included in that package was the Gertrude Hoeksema curriculum. We have used it in our home for years. I now own a small business that provides a one day per week enrichment program for homeschooled students (K-8th). We will be using the curriculum this year in one of our classes during the Bible lesson. I was so thrilled to discover that [the RFPA] carried exactly what I was looking for!" - Jenny Watts, The Friday Program 

• 338 pages
• hardcover 
• ISBN 978-0-916206-44-4
• Release date: 1993, 2000

RELATED PRODUCTS 

Show Me Thy Ways Workbook (Grade 6)

 Click to view a sample lesson

This workbook for Grade 4 covers Genesis 1 through 1 Samuel.

What others are saying about this book:

"I have been homeschooling now for 19 years. When our family first started homeschooling we bought a package curriculum from a company named Covenant Home. Included in that package was the Gertrude Hoeksema curriculum. We have used it in our home for years. I now own a small business that provides a one day per week enrichment program for homeschooled students (K-8th). We will be using the curriculum this year in one of our classes during the Bible lesson. I was so thrilled to discover that [the RFPA] carried exactly what I was looking for!" - Jenny Watts, The Friday Program 

• 71 pages
• paperback
• ISBN 978-0-916206-36-X
• Release date: 1988, 1994, 1995, 2008, 2018

 Click to view sample lesson

Workbook for Grade 5 covers 2 Samuel through Malachi.

What others are saying about this book:

"I have been homeschooling now for 19 years. When our family first started homeschooling we bought a package curriculum from a company named Covenant Home. Included in that package was the Gertrude Hoeksema curriculum. We have used it in our home for years. I now own a small business that provides a one day per week enrichment program for homeschooled students (K-8th). We will be using the curriculum this year in one of our classes during the Bible lesson. I was so thrilled to discover that [the RFPA] carried exactly what I was looking for!" - Jenny Watts, The Friday Program 

• 75 pages
• paperback
• ISBN 978-0-916206-41-6
• Release date: 1991, 1997

 Click to view sample worksheet

This workbook for Grade 6 covers the intertestamentary period and New Testament history in the Gospel and Acts.

• 74 pages
• paperback
• ISBN 978-0-916206-45-9

What others are saying about this book:

"I have been homeschooling now for 19 years. When our family first started homeschooling we bought a package curriculum from a company named Covenant Home. Included in that package was the Gertrude Hoeksema curriculum. We have used it in our home for years. I now own a small business that provides a one day per week enrichment program for homeschooled students (K-8th). We will be using the curriculum this year in one of our classes during the Bible lesson. I was so thrilled to discover that [the RFPA] carried exactly what I was looking for!" - Jenny Watts, The Friday Program

Written by two young ministers embroiled in conflict, this book was originally published in Dutch in 1923. Dead aim is taken at the doctrine of common grace, and great care is taken to prove its errors using Scripture and the Reformed creeds. The doctrine of the antithesis and the organic idea of the covenant are also developed. This is a logical refutation of a common error, as well as a lesson in twentieth-century Reformed church history.

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

• 288 pages
• hardcover
• ISBN 978-0-916206-73-4
• Release date: 1923 (Dutch), 2003

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 for a sample 

In the hustle and bustle of modern life, finding moments for peace and reflection can be a challenge. Yet, within the psalms, we discover a treasure trove of heartfelt prayers, honest expressions of emotion, and profound insights into the experience of every believer—that is, of a pilgrim and stranger in this world.

Through daily readings, thoughtful meditations, and heartfelt singing, you'll find in this book the comfort and guidance you need as you weave your pilgrim way through the sacred songbook.

Whether you're seeking solace in times of trouble, longing for a deeper connection with God, or simply craving a moment of stillness in your day, this devotional will nourish and strengthen you with the riches of the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. May you, in the reading of this devotional, come to see yourself as a child of God on your pilgrimage to God’s house, singing praises all the way.

John A. Heys (1910–1998) served in the ministry of the Protestant Reformed Churches from 1941–1980. In those years, he pastored congregations in Michigan, Iowa, and Illinois. Heys was also a musician with a great love for singing and the psalms, composing multiple tunes for The Psalter (1912). After retiring from active ministry in 1980, he penned a series of devotional pamphlets called Daily Devotions from the Psalms, which have been published in this book under the title Songs of Our Pilgrimage. Heys, who is remembered for his profound yet humble and gentle preaching and catechism instruction, deeply loved the psalms. Each devotional in Songs evidences that love of the sacred songbook and all the profound, timeless truths therein.

• 400 pages
  
• ISBN 978-1-959515-21-0
  

Hardcover version available

Click for a sample 

In the hustle and bustle of modern life, finding moments for peace and reflection can be a challenge. Yet, within the psalms, we discover a treasure trove of heartfelt prayers, honest expressions of emotion, and profound insights into the experience of every believer—that is, of a pilgrim and stranger in this world.

Through daily readings, thoughtful meditations, and heartfelt singing, you'll find in this book the comfort and guidance you need as you weave your pilgrim way through the sacred songbook.

Whether you're seeking solace in times of trouble, longing for a deeper connection with God, or simply craving a moment of stillness in your day, this devotional will nourish and strengthen you with the riches of the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. May you, in the reading of this devotional, come to see yourself as a child of God on your pilgrimage to God’s house, singing praises all the way.

Read a review by Marc Daniel Rivera (KristiyaKnow).

What others are saying about this book:

"These short meditations contain the riches of the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ and great encouragement for the saints in their pilgrim journey. Although short in length, Rev. Heys exhibits a gift of compressing profound truths of the sacred song book into each day’s meditation. The reader will also appreciate the continued references to the versification of the psalm of the day from the Psalter." –a reader

John A. Heys (1910–1998) served in the ministry of the Protestant Reformed Churches from 1941–1980. In those years, he pastored congregations in Michigan, Iowa, and Illinois. Heys was also a musician with a great love for singing and the psalms, composing multiple tunes for The Psalter (1912). After retiring from active ministry in 1980, he penned a series of devotional pamphlets called Daily Devotions from the Psalms, which have been published in this book under the title Songs of Our Pilgrimage. Heys, who is remembered for his profound yet humble and gentle preaching and catechism instruction, deeply loved the psalms. Each devotional in Songs evidences that love of the sacred songbook and all the profound, timeless truths therein.

• 400 pages
• hardcover
• ISBN 978-1-959515-20-3
  
• Release date: June 21, 2024

eBook version available

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

This set contains one textbook (teacher's manual) of SLC Grade 1, and one textbook and workbook each of SLC Grade 2 and SLC Grade 3. Please note: Grade 1 has no workbook, per the author's view that "The method of teaching Bible in grade one will be almost exclusively that of telling stories" (SLC Textbook 1, "Introduction"). Textbook 1 includes an introduction to the series, which provides a basis and approach for teaching Scripture, as well as practical tips on storytelling and other teaching aids.

Suffer Little Children Textbook (Grade 1) (no accompanying workbook)

Suffer Little Children Textbook (Grade 2)

Suffer Little Children Student's Workbook (Grade 2)

Suffer Little Children Textbook (Grade 3)

Suffer Little Children Student's Workbook (Grade 3)

What others are saying about this set:

"I was raised by immigrant parents who were new to the faith. My mom used all of Gertrude's curricula to teach us the Bible, and she learned as much from teaching it as we did! I remember studying and filling out all of the 6 workbooks as a child. Now, I'm a graduate of Reformation Bible College, and I'm continuing a career in theology with Ligonier...[That] all started with these curricula." - Giovanna M. (Orlando, FL)

"I have been homeschooling now for 19 years. When our family first started homeschooling we bought a package curriculum from a company named Covenant Home. Included in that package was the Gertrude Hoeksema curriculum. We have used it in our home for years. I now own a small business that provides a one day per week enrichment program for homeschooled students (K-8th). We will be using the curriculum this year in one of our classes during the Bible lesson. I was so thrilled to discover that [the RFPA] carried exactly what I was looking for!" - Jenny Watts, The Friday Program

 Click to view sample lessons

This Grade 1 textbook covers the material of Genesis 1 through 1 Samuel 31. There is no accompanying workbook because on this level, the students do not have the skills to use one. The teacher will find all the lesson suggestions in the teacher's manual.

What others are saying about this book:

"I was raised by immigrant parents who were new to the faith. My mom used all of Gertrude's curricula to teach us the Bible, and she learned as much from teaching it as we did! I remember studying and filling out all of the 6 workbooks as a child. Now, I'm a graduate of Reformation Bible College, and I'm continuing a career in theology with Ligonier...[That] all started with these curricula." - Giovanna M.

"I have been homeschooling now for 19 years. When our family first started homeschooling we bought a package curriculum from a company named Covenant Home. Included in that package was the Gertrude Hoeksema curriculum. We have used it in our home for years. I now own a small business that provides a one day per week enrichment program for homeschooled students (K-8th). We will be using the curriculum this year in one of our classes during the Bible lesson. I was so thrilled to discover that [the RFPA] carried exactly what I was looking for!" - Jenny Watts, The Friday Program

• 339 pages
• paperback
• ISBN 978-0-916206-16-5
• Release date: 1977

 Click to view sample lesson

This Grade 2 textbook covers the material of 2 Samuel through Malachi.

What others are saying about this book:

"I was raised by immigrant parents who were new to the faith. My mom used all of Gertrude's curricula to teach us the Bible, and she learned as much from teaching it as we did! I remember studying and filling out all of the 6 workbooks as a child. Now, I'm a graduate of Reformation Bible College, and I'm continuing a career in theology with Ligonier...[That] all started with these curricula." - Giovanna M. (Orlando, FL)

"I have been homeschooling now for 19 years. When our family first started homeschooling we bought a package curriculum from a company named Covenant Home. Included in that package was the Gertrude Hoeksema curriculum. We have used it in our home for years. I now own a small business that provides a one day per week enrichment program for homeschooled students (K-8th). We will be using the curriculum this year in one of our classes during the Bible lesson. I was so thrilled to discover that [the RFPA] carried exactly what I was looking for!" - Jenny Watts, The Friday Program

• 189 pages
• paperback
• ISBN 978-0-916206-18-1
• Release date: 1978, 1992, 1996, 2003, 2020

Click to view sample lesson AND sample worksheet (please note: the sample lesson is taken from this Textbook, but the matching lesson's worksheet is only available in the Workbook, which can be ordered here. This sample PDF also includes the author's introduction and methods)

This Grade 3 textbook begins with a lesson on the intertestamentary period that explains the transition from the Old to the New Testament and then covers New Testament history in the Gospels and Acts.

What others are saying about this book:

"I was raised by immigrant parents who were new to the faith. My mom used all of Gertrude's curricula to teach us the Bible, and she learned as much from teaching it as we did! I remember studying and filling out all of the 6 workbooks as a child. Now, I'm a graduate of Reformation Bible College, and I'm continuing a career in theology with Ligonier...[That] all started with these curricula." - Giovanna M. (Orlando, FL)

"I have been homeschooling now for 19 years. When our family first started homeschooling we bought a package curriculum from a company named Covenant Home. Included in that package was the Gertrude Hoeksema curriculum. We have used it in our home for years. I now own a small business that provides a one day per week enrichment program for homeschooled students (K-8th). We will be using the curriculum this year in one of our classes during the Bible lesson. I was so thrilled to discover that [the RFPA] carried exactly what I was looking for!" - Jenny Watts, The Friday Program

• 200 pages
• paperback 
• ISBN 978-0-916206-20-3
• Release date: 1979, 1991, 1996

 Click to view sample lesson

This Grade 2 workbook covers 2 Samuel through Malachi.

What others are saying about this book:

"I was raised by immigrant parents who were new to the faith. My mom used all of Gertrude's curricula to teach us the Bible, and she learned as much from teaching it as we did! I remember studying and filling out all of the 6 workbooks as a child. Now, I'm a graduate of Reformation Bible College, and I'm continuing a career in theology with Ligonier...[That] all started with these curricula." - Giovanna M. (Orlando, FL)

"I have been homeschooling now for 19 years. When our family first started homeschooling we bought a package curriculum from a company named Covenant Home. Included in that package was the Gertrude Hoeksema curriculum. We have used it in our home for years. I now own a small business that provides a one day per week enrichment program for homeschooled students (K-8th). We will be using the curriculum this year in one of our classes during the Bible lesson. I was so thrilled to discover that [the RFPA] carried exactly what I was looking for!" - Jenny Watts, The Friday Program

• 55 pages
• paperback 
• ISBN 978-0-916206-17-3
• Release date: 1978, 1992, 1996, 2003, 2020

 Click to view sample worksheet

This Grade 3 workbook begins with a lesson on the intertestamentary period that explains the transition from the Old to the New Testament and then covers New Testament history in the Gospels and Acts.

What others are saying about this book:

"I was raised by immigrant parents who were new to the faith. My mom used all of Gertrude's curricula to teach us the Bible, and she learned as much from teaching it as we did! I remember studying and filling out all of the 6 workbooks as a child. Now, I'm a graduate of Reformation Bible College, and I'm continuing a career in theology with Ligonier...[That] all started with these curricula." - Giovanna M. (Orlando, FL)

"I have been homeschooling now for 19 years. When our family first started homeschooling we bought a package curriculum from a company named Covenant Home. Included in that package was the Gertrude Hoeksema curriculum. We have used it in our home for years. I now own a small business that provides a one day per week enrichment program for homeschooled students (K-8th). We will be using the curriculum this year in one of our classes during the Bible lesson. I was so thrilled to discover that [the RFPA] carried exactly what I was looking for!" - Jenny Watts, The Friday Program

• 54 pages
• paperback 
• ISBN 978-0-916206-21-1

• Release date: 1979, 1991, 1996

Click to look inside

This alphabet book is a collection of Bible passages, short rhymes, and detailed illustrations designed to teach young children of their heavenly Father’s almighty power and his faithfulness to fulfill the promises he makes to them as children of his covenant. Use this book to instruct your children in the truths of salvation for all of God’s people and especially his littlest lambs.

Read reviews by Old Schoolhouse bloggers (click on the link and scroll down to the bottom of the page for 40 reviews!) and Worth a Bowed Head.

What others are saying about this book:

"Share this lovely ABC book with your youngest children. Mrs. Meyer’s colorful, detailed illustrations please the eyes; her simple, rhyming verses gratify the ears; and the selected scripture texts delight the soul. What better way to introduce our little ones to the alphabet than with the word of him who is the Alpha and Omega, the first and the last?"

—Sarah Mowery, children’s and youth literature reviewer for Perspectives in Covenant Education

"[I] think it's super inspiring to see RFPA's commitment to providing believers with resources that deepen their understanding of the Reformed faith. My mom gifted my son your 'T is for Tree' book and he loves it!" —Madison H.

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, and has written three books of art curriculum for the RFPA under the series title Behold the Beauty.

• 32 pages
• hardcover
• ISBN 978-1-944555-27-6
• Release date: 2018

eBook version available

This book teaches children...

• what God’s law is: his ten words to his people
• how we obey God's law: by loving him and our neighbor
• why we keep God's law: to thank him for delivering us from our sin, to be assured that he has made us his children, and more

This book explains and applies each commandment in two to three chapters, covering both what God forbids and requires. Chapters include discussion questions, a Bible memory verse, and a related psalm to be sung.

Read reviews by Amanda DeBoer (Clarion), Judy Joyce (Embracing a Healthy Family), Abby VanSolkema (The Left Fork), Dawn Peluso (Schoolin' Swag), Vanessa Le (The Outlook), and Todd and Nicole Kooienga (The Grandville Gleaner)! Also, check out our feature on Challies.com here!

Ronald L. Cammenga is professor of dogmatics and Old Testament studies at the Protestant Reformed Theological Seminary in Wyoming, Michigan. Ten Commandments is his first children's book.

Ana Sebastián is a digital illustrator and visual development artist based in Madrid, Spain. 

• 63 pages
• Hardcover
• ISBN 978-0-916206-30-7
• Release date: May 2023

Find other Reformed children's books here.

Find other New Releases here.

Other books in the Doctrine for Children series: COMING SOON!

eBook version available

 Click to look inside

If you live in a godly home, you have probably known from a very young age what it looks like to be a Christian.

But simply knowing about God and acting like a Christian isn’t enough. And trusting in your own ability to live a life that looks good to others is not the way to friendship and fellowship with God. The only way to the Father is Jesus. He makes the way through his death and resurrection and leads us in this way by his Spirit.

As you read through John 10–15, pray that Jesus will lead you in this way—the way of repentance, belief, and trust in him—because it is the only way to true peace and eternal life.

What others are saying about the books in this series:

"This devotional is intended for teens, but like most good books, other ages would be blessed by reading it. I read several of the devotions aloud to all of my children at breakfast; now I’m passing it along to the teens in our home to read in its entirety. And I’m looking forward to the next three installments in the series. In my busy season of life and as Christmas approaches, I’m grateful for the opportunities this little book granted me to consider, Who is Jesus? After all, there is no other question in all the world that is more important or more urgent." – Sarah Mowery (Loveland, CO) on Who is Jesus?, book 1

"The book encourages us to walk with Christ daily and always trust in him...This devotional is a good way to remind yourself to follow Jesus and trust in him because he showed us how to be humble and loving. Whether you're a teen or an adult this is a great book to help you grow in your spiritual journey." – Sarah De Boer (Grandville, MI) on Humble Servant, book 2

Abby Van Solkema has been writing devotionals for young people since 2018. She is a graduate of Grand Valley State University and lives with her husband, Tedd, and their four children in Byron Center, Michigan. Follow Abby on Instagram @the.left.fork.

• 103 pages
• paperback
• ISBN 978-1-959515-36-4
• Release date: November 22, 2024

eBook version available

Other books in the Devotions on the Gospel of John series: COMING SOON! Subscribe to our email list to stay informed of new teen book releases and sales!

  Click to read an excerpt!

August 1862. Eighteen-year-old Harm van Wyke finds his quiet life in the Dutch Reformed community of Holland, Michigan, upended by the American Civil War. When it becomes clear the war will not be as easily won as once believed, President Lincoln calls for 300,000 volunteers to defend the Union. Harm’s minister, Rev. Albertus van Raalte, encourages the young men of his community to join the cause. Harm’s father bitterly opposes the idea. Harm hesitates to leave his home, but when his friends portray the war as a grand adventure, he gives in and joins them. Together, some eighty boys and young men from Holland join the 25^th Michigan Volunteer Infantry Regiment.

As Harm and his friends travel to army camps in Kalamazoo, Michigan, and then Louisville, Kentucky, they face daily temptations to forget God and turn from their faith. Fellow soldiers think nothing of taking the Lord’s name in vain. They gamble, drink, and “forage” from neighboring homes and farms. Harm and his friends gather regularly to sing the old psalms and discuss the Bible, but still, on occasion, they stumble and fall.

As the war progresses, the boys from Holland battle Confederate General John Hunt Morgan in Western Kentucky, and endure an arduous march to Eastern Tennessee where they join the fighting around Knoxville. Later, they take part in General Sherman’s prolonged and bloody Atlanta campaign. Along the way, Harm and his friends face the harsh realities of war—exposure, disease, injury, and death. In the midst of such hardship, Harm’s faith is tried at every turn. His greatest conflict turns out to be spiritual. Will God give Harm the strength to stand for what is right, even if he finds himself opposed by friends?

Read review by Annemarieke Ryskamp (The Outlook), Ken Kolk (retired professor of history), and John Van Dyk (Christian Renewal). 

P.M. Kuiper is a member of the Protestant Reformed Churches. In his free time he enjoys wandering the great outdoors, writing, reading good literature, and playing guitar. He resides in West Michigan. TMD is his first book. Learn more about the author from an interview Kuiper did with Beacon Lights here.

Paula Barone is a member of the Protestant Reformed Churches and a former academic support teacher. She enjoys drawing, reading, and indoor rock climbing. She also lives in West Michigan.

• 2-volume set
• 408 pages (206 pages book 1; 202 pages book 2)
• ISBN 978-1-944555-91-7
• Release date: 2021

eBook 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
• hardcover
• ISBN 978-0-916206-93-2
• Release date: June 24, 2014

eBook version available

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

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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.

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 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.

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.

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)

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.

 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

Using Scripture as his guide, author Herman Hanko in this book develops the truth of God's covenant as it relates to the baptism of the infants of believers. "We" (the elect people of God) and "our children" are and should be inseparably linked because they both belong to the covenant of grace, though some Christian denominations deny this beautiful truth when they refuse to baptize their children.

What others are saying about this book:

"Excellent." – Douglas Wilson (Goodreads)

"One of the best biblical arguments I've read for the case for covenantal infant baptism." – Chris G. (Goodreads)

Read reviews by Henry Pieter Kik (Westminster Theological Seminary) and Russell J. Dykstra (The Standard Bearer).

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.

• 184 pages
• paperback
• ISBN 978-0-616206-79-6
• Release date: 2004

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
• hardcover
• ISBN 978-0-916206-94-9
• Release date: 2006, 2019

eBook version available

audiobook version available

 Click to look inside

Contrary to what many believe today, neither the truth that Jesus is both really God and really man nor the way that he views the people on this earth are ideas that you can simply form your own opinion on. These truths are clearly taught in the pages of Scripture and are “profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness” (2 Tim. 3:16).

So who is Jesus? John’s inspired gospel account of our Savior’s ministry will help you answer this question biblically, and it will also help you understand just how important the answer to your question is. When you fall into sin or are tempted to sin or when you suffer hardship and loss, there is great comfort in knowing who Jesus is—the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world.

Read reviews by Luke Potjer, Sarah Mowery, Michelle Drnek, and Elizabeth Machiele!

Abby Van Solkema has been writing devotionals for young people since 2018. She is a graduate of Grand Valley State University and lives with her husband, Tedd, and their four children in Byron Center, Michigan. Follow Abby on Instagram @the.left.fork.

• 89 pages
• paperback
• ISBN 978-1-944555-92-4
• Release date: December 2023

eBook version available

Other books in the Devotions on the Gospel of John series: COMING SOON! Subscribe to our email list to stay informed of new teen book releases and sales!

"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
• paperback 
• ISBN 978-0-916206-67-3
• Release date: July 25, 2014

eBook version available

NEW in 2024! Click here for a study guide to The Wonder of Grace.

This guide was written by Kyle Bruinooge, who teaches New Testament and Worldviews at Covenant Christian High School.

"The questions in this study guide are of varying forms. Some questions are simply designed as an aid to give organization and structure to the chapters. Other questions are crafted to foster and promote profitable and lively discussion on the topics raised in the book. Finally, my overall aim was that a number of questions would be personal and real for the child of God. For these questions, each individual who studies the book can respond uniquely and personally to how God has used the precious truths of grace in his or her life." -Kyle Bruinooge, 2023

2nd edition

 Click for a sample

Originally a series of radio sermons broadcast on the Reformed Witness Hour program, The Wonder of Grace was first published as a book in 1944. In Wonder, the author develops the concept of salvation by grace. Each of the fifteen chapters is devoted to one aspect of the grace that God bestows on the believer in the process of salvation. The reader of this work will grow in the knowledge and confidence that salvation is by grace alone and that God is worthy of all praise and glory.

This edition of The Wonder of Grace is a reprint of the 1982 edition of Herman Hoeksema’s little classic on God’s sovereign grace. In order to remain faithful to the words and ideas of the author, changes made to this edition were stylistic in nature.

Chapter 1: The Idea of Salvation by Grace
Chapter 2: Chosen by Grace
Chapter 3: Reconciled by Grace
Chapter 4: United with Christ by Grace
Chapter 5: Regenerated by Grace
Chapter 6: Called by Grace
Chapter 7: Believing Through Grace
Chapter 8: Justified by Grace
Chapter 9: Converted by Grace
Chapter 10: Working Out Our Salvation by Grace
Chapter 11: Good Works Through Grace
Chapter 12: Suffering Through Grace
Chapter 13: Victory Through Grace
Chapter 14: Assurance of Grace
Chapter 15: Glorified Through Grace

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.

• 120 pages
• paperback
• ISBN 978-1-944555-97-9
• Release date: January 5, 2017