The Standard Bearer is 86

The October 1 issue is the beginning of the new volume year. This year is the Standard Bearer’s 86th.

First of all, we express our heartfelt gratitude to Rev. Jason Kortering, Minister Emeritus (who asked to be relieved of his writing duties), for his many years of regular contributions to the magazine. Since his early years in the ministry, which began in 1960, Rev. Kortering put pen to paper faithfully. The older readers will remember his early meditations, and his insightful articles to young people in the “Strength of Youth.” For over 45 years the Standard Bearer audience profited from his work in the Word. “We are bound to thank God…for you, as it is meet….”

The staff granted Rev. W. Langerak’s request to be relieved of “Bring the Books,” so that he could continue with “A Word Fitly Spoken,” a rubric with a writer the SB did not want to lose. Mrs. Sue Looyenga and Mr. Charles Terpstra will take over “Bring the Books,” carrying out our intention to review and obtain reviews of a wide variety of books that will be profitable for Reformed Christians.

The staff also has asked Rev. J. Laning to write brief articles explaining the basic doctrines of the Christian faith. His first appears in this issue under the rubric title “God’s Wonderful Works.” These one-page articles intend to offer the meat of the Scriptures at a level all can reach, not just the theologians.

For the rest, the magazine will march forward in the cause of Christ, in full dependence on Him. We will continue to publish meditations, editorials, doctrine, news and commentary from the world and church world, Bible study, word studies, history, explanation of the creeds, book reviews, missions studies, Christian perspectives on science, and more.

For 85 years the Standard Bearer has aimed at a distinctively Reformed promotion and defense of the Christian faith, faithful to the Scriptures and the creeds, to the honor of God. As we begin our 86th year, may the Lord give strength to continue, faithful to His cause and truth.

Anonymous Letters

I do not read anonymous letters. I receive very few, but my practice is what I have advised others for many years: If the letter is not signed, don’t read it. I recently received an unsigned letter and put it immediately into the kitchen trash bin before I read the first sentence. A Christian should not read a letter from someone who would not identify himself (herself), a letter that cannot receive a response, a letter that may be filled with misunderstandings or hurtful accusations. I have known people very hurt by anonymous letters. Even if some anonymous-letter-writers have good motivations, their motivations do not justify a wrong method. Speaking the truth in love is speaking openly, willingly giving to the one spoken to the opportunity to respond. Don’t write anonymous letters. Don’t read them, either.

Prof. B. Gritters