Love for the SB from “Far Off”

On behalf of all those who love the Standard Bearer from “far off,” I express my heartfelt thanks to all those involved in the production of this most excellent periodical. I have learned so much from its pages. It stands as a beacon for the Reformed faith in an age of backsliding and apostasy among those who claim the title “Reformed.”

It is good for us to know that we are not alone or isolated in holding to the truths of sovereign election, the covenant, reprobation, and the denial of a common love of God for the reprobate, among other doctrines.

Congratulations to the Protestant Reformed Churches on 75 years of faithful witness! May your celebration of God’s goodness be a truly blessed time for all of you.

Robert K. Burford
Frankston, Victoria, Australia

Good Use of Trees

I look forward to every issue of the Standard Bearer. In my opinion, it is the best use of trees in the country.

(Pastor) Richard Bacon
Rowlett, Texas

Monumental Research into Hoeksema’s Theology

A recent issue of the Standard Bearer (April 1, 2000) has given the Reformed world heartening news. According to the editorial, “Hoeksema’s Romans Sermons,” we are soon to have the pleasure of reading for the first time 96 sermons by one of the century’s foremost Reformed theologians. The RFPA is to be commended for this project, even more so if it is expeditious. Hoeksema’s theology is roundly condemned as “hyper-Calvinistic.” Some of the charges are completely malicious, but others, I believe, stem from ignorance. If the only systematic theology is one which denigrates the Reformed theology accentuated by Hoeksema, or the only academic writings are those which transpose Hoeksema and those who are often viewed as the apotheoses of hyper-Calvinism, is it really any wonder that the Reformed world is opposed to particular grace, the covenant, the antithesis, etc.? I think not.

What have the Protestant Reformed Churches contributed to the exoneration of Herman Hoeksema from these opprobrious charges? A letter to the Standard Bearer (Jan. 15, 1996) suggested that doctoral research was needed into Hoeksema’s writings. As far as I am aware, such work has not been undertaken. In this the 75th anniversary of the great denomination so dear to Hoeksema’s heart, is it not time that the Protestant Reformed synod consider releasing one of its four professors to undertake pioneering and monumental research into Hoeksema’s theology? What better tribute not only to the past 75 years, but, more importantly, to the next 75 years!

The challenge is to you, the Protestant Reformed Churches. No one else shall do your work for you.

Raymond A. Kemp
Republic of Ireland