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If one were asked to define what is the main characteristic of the church in the 1900s, what is that one feature of her life in this century which sets the church apart from the church in other centuries, that unique trait which stands out from all others as definitive of the church in modern times, most people would probably say: ecumenism. The church has, in this century, been especially busy with merger, been occupying her time and efforts in the cause of unity, and has stressed this aspect of the church’s life more than any other.

It seems sad that the church, at least in its institute form, should be so universally despised, as it is today, even by those who are members of it. For us as members, that is very much like biting the hand that feeds us. Nevertheless, the blame for such an attitude must not be laid completely to the charge of those who act and speak so disdainfully toward the church or churches of which they are members. There certainly is, in that respect, an overriding need for instruction regarding the church and membership in it.

. Beloved in the Lord Jesus Christ: 

It was an event of significant importance to my wife and me. Having lived and worked among the GLTS on three previous visits, we wanted to share with them their joy in being instituted as a church. This church was not to be like the other churches in Singapore. But, by the mercy of God, this church would be Reformed, having its foundation on the Three Forms of Unity, namely, the Heidelberg Catechism, the Belgic Confession, and the Canons of Dordrecht. Therefore we, with elder John Kalsbeek, decided to travel once more to the island to witness and participate in...

The most blessed and wonderful event of the history of our labors in Singapore has taken place. On January 24, 1982 the Evangelical Reformed Church of Singapore was organized. For this goal we have all labored long and hard and have long been in earnest prayer to God. We thank the Lord and praise His name for His wonderful goodness and faithfulness. From several points of view the organization of the church here was a momentous event. First of all, of course, it is a most blessed and significant event for the youthful saints of God here.

Romans 7:14-25 is a passage concerning which there has been a great deal of discussion and disagreement in the history of God’s church. The passage reads: “For we know that the law is spiritual: but I am carnal, sold under sin. For that which I do I allow not: for what I would, that do I not; but what I hate, that do I. If then I do that which I would not, I consent under the law that it is good.

A few months ago the “News Editor” for the Standard Bearer reported that our congregation in Houston, Texas was using a “question and answer” approach to try to acquaint people with the truth as we know it, love it, and try to live it. 

The truth of total depravity has always been difficult to maintain. There are two reasons for this—one spiritual, the other theological. The Scriptural teaching concerning total depravity is difficult to maintain spiritually because it is entirely contrary to our pride-filled nature. This doctrine makes us nothing, nothing at all in the sight of God. We rebel against that because we want desperately to retain some bits and pieces of our pride.

The principal mark of the three that distinguish the faithful and true church of Jesus Christ is the pure preaching of the gospel. Proper preaching is not to be equated with making speeches or being eloquent. Proper preaching of the gospel is to be distinguished by the content of that which is presented. What must the preaching of the gospel proclaim? And where does a doctrine such as “total depravity” fit within this preaching of the gospel? Some might insist that it has no place in the preaching.

It is quite apparent to anyone with any spiritual discernment that worldliness is more and more creeping into the church. In many cases worldliness has in fact taken over the church. Witness for example how the perspective of the world on almost any subject under the sun has become the perspective of the church. What the world has to say about sex, marriage, divorce, birth control, morality, education, and a host of other subjects has in many cases simply been adopted by the church. Consequently, the life-style of the church also closely resembles that of the world.