December: Old or New Year?

December is a unique month. On our Gregorian calendar, the end and beginning, old and new, touch each other. Midnight December 31 holds a mystique of its own. Time seems to suspend itself for a moment even as it races onward. The old ushers in the new without pause.

But December is more than Old Years bumping into New Years. As January 1, 1986 marks the beginning of a new calendar year for society at large, December 1, 1985 marks the beginning of a new Christian ecclesiastical year. For four Sundays prior to Christmas, the message of Advent the coming of Christ, sets the tone for the festival season of Christianity which runs its way through Passion, Good Friday, Easter, and Ascension, climaxing near the beginning of June in Pentecost.

December is both old and new the unique month of overlap. As one calendar winds its way to conclusion, another calendar commences. From the secular calendar, the reality of December 31 preaches anew that all on earth is ripening for timeless eternity. December 31 silently preaches the doctrine of the last things (i.e., eschatology): Christs second advent, the end of the world, resurrection, judgment, everlasting sentence and abode well or woe.

Though each Christian feast is essentially trinitarian, the church calendar primarily focuses on Gods acts in redemption through Jesus Christ (i.e., Christology). It emphasizes Christs mediatorial work, particularly in His states of humiliation (humble birth: Christmas; sufferings: Passion; death and burial: Good Friday) and exaltation (resurrection: Easter; homecoming: Ascension).

Decembers overlap of Christs first and second comings, of Christology and eschatology must become experiential reality for us, for it is through Spirit-taught acquaintance with the church year that we are prepared for the judgment day. The two are interwoven: the believer who knows Christology need not fear eschatology. In Christ, he may confess in anticipation of the final December 31 by faith, Come, Lord Jesus, come quickly (Rev. 22).

May this confession be yours by conquering, saving grace.

Decembers overlap of Christs first and second comings, of Christology and eschatology must become experiential reality for us, for it is through Spirit-taught acquaintance with the church year that we are prepared for the judgment day.

CHRISTOLOGY

Athanasius. The Incarnation of the Word of God.

London: A.R. Mowbray and Co., 1963. [OP]

A classic by the renowned Bishop of Alexandria from 328 to 373. Athanasius (ca. 296-373) was one of the great leaders of the Ancient Church. Rightly regarded as the greatest theologian of his day, he was an uncompromising foe of Arianism, and was particularly instrumental in bringing about its condemnation at Nicaea and subsequent councils.

Berkouwer, Gerrit C. The Person of Christ and The Work of Christ. Grand Rapids: Wm. B. Eerdmans, 1954, 1965.

In these companion volumes, Berkouwer discusses the historical pronouncements of the ecumenical councils and the Christian confessions; the nature, unity, and sinlessness of Christ; and provides an in-depth discussion of the stages of Christs work in the states of humiliation and exaltation. Fully abreast of current theological literature, Berkouwer is nevertheless too often influenced by it, taking a position too moderate or vague on many issues. Though he often does not take a decisive stand himself, the value of Berkouwer lies in his grasp of Reformed thinkers and presentation of issues in theology. Recommended for advanced readers only.

*Brown, John. The Sufferings and Glories of the Messiah. Reprint ed., Byron Center, Ml: Sovereign Grace Pubs., 1970. [OP]

A solid exposition of Psalm 18 and Isaiah 52:13 53:12 exegetically, practically, experimentally. Dr. Brown is always edifying.

*Charnock, Stephen. Christ Our Passover. Reprint ed., Evansville: Sovereign Grace Book Club, 1959. [OP]

Always reliable, Charnocks writings are filled with valuable practical and experiential jewels for those willing to dig through Puritan language. These sermons focus on the Lords Supper (its end, subjects, unworthy receiving, and self-examination) and Christs death (its voluntariness, acceptableness, and necessity).

*Durham, James. Christ Crucified; or, The Marrow of the Gospel in LXXII Sermons on Isaiah 53.

2 vols. Glasgow: Alex Adam, 1792. [OP]

Spurgeon rightly notes: This is marrow indeed. We need say no more: Durham is a prince among spiritual expositors. Scarce; needs reprinting.

*Goodwin, Thomas. Christ Our Mediator. Reprint ed., Grand Rapids: Sovereign Grace Pubs., 1971. [OP]

Originally published as Discourse of Christ the Mediator (posthumously, 1692), Goodwins volume is superior for its combination of experimental depth, intelligent piety, and practical approach. This is edificatory writing at its best. No better volume on Christ could be recommended than this classic. Expounds 2 Corinthians 5:1819; Hebrews 2:1417, 4:1416, 10:310, 1922, 13:2021; 2 Timothy 2:6. An excellent companion volume, The Glories of Christ, has long been out of print and sorely needs reprinting.

Writer of the first draft of the Savoy Confession of Faith, Goodwin was a renowned seventeenth century Puritan who founded the congregational way of church government with John Owen and Jeremiah Burroughs. Notable divines, such as Jonathan Edwards, John Gill, and George Whitefield, have noted their indebtedness to this pillar of the golden age of theology.

Hengstenberg, E.W. Christiology of the Old Testament. 4 vols. Reprint ed., Grand Rapids: Kregel Pub., 1956.

A valuable study of Christ in types and prophecy throughout the Old Testament. Particularly suitable on advent material for teaching or preaching. Originally published, 187278.

*Henry, Philip. Christ All in All. Reprint ed., Swengel, PA: Reiner, 1970.

Forty sermons on Christs names by the father of commentator Matthew Henry. Philip Henrys (1631-1697) writings are warmly devotional and Christ-centered. Very instructive and comforting for Gods people; highly recommended.

*Hodge, A.A. The Atonement. Reprint ed., Grand Rapids: Baker, 1975.

Archibald Alexander Hodge (18231886) was the eldest son and successor of theologian Charles Hodge. He continued the Calvinist tradition begun at Princeton Theological Seminary by Archibald Alexander, after whom he was named. His monograph on the atonement (first published, 1867) is written in the same practical, pointed style as his other major, valuable works. Note especially Outlines of Theology (1860), Exposition of the Confession of Faith (1869), and Popular Lectures on Theological Themes (posthumously, 1887).

Of special value is part 2, particularly the historical discussion of Calvinists (ch. 4), Calvin (ch. 5), and the Reformed design of the atonement (ch. 6).

*Hurrion, John. The Knowledge of Christ Glorified, Opened and Applied in Twelve Sermons on Christs Resurrection, Ascension, Sitting at Gods Right Hand, Intercession and Judging the World.

London: for Clark and Hett, 1729 [OP]

A gold mine of scriptural experimental truth displaying the riches of Christ in sermons preached in 1700. Rare; worth reprinting.

*Krummacher, Friedrich W. The Suffering Saviour.

Reprint ed., Chicago: Moody Press, 1966.

No volume on Christs sufferings matches Krummachers (17961868). This classic is a feast, and is worthy of multiple readings. Personal, instructive, experiential. At times, Krummachers exegesis is faulty and his imagination a bit too picturesque, but these weaknesses do not tarnish the greatness of this unparalleled work. History provides many examples of blessing upon the writings of this German Reformed pastor.

*Kuiper, Rienk B. For Whom Did Christ Die?

Reprint ed., Grand Rapids: Baker, 1982.

First published in 1959, this readable 100 page monograph contains valuable information not readily obtained elsewhere. Rooted solidly in the Scriptures, this is the best volume currently available for one who desires to be introduced to the doctrine of the atonement.

Machen, J. Gresham. Virgin Birth of Christ.

Reprint ed., Grand Rapids: Baker, 1967.

A scholarly defense of the supernatural conception of Christ, first published in 1930 by the founder of Westminster Theological Seminary. Recommended for advanced readers.

Milligan, William. The Ascension and Heavenly Priesthood of Our Lord. London: Macmillan Co., 1908. [OP]

The Baird lectures for 1891, focusing on Christs post-resurrection ministry on earth and present ministry in heaven. Solid and valuable.

*Owen, John. On the Person and Glory of Christ. The Death of Death in the Death of Christ. The Works of John Owen, vols. 1 and 10. Reprint ed., Edinburgh: Banner of Truth Trust, 1982.

Dr. Owen (16161683) has rightly been denominated the greatest Puritan theologian. His work on The Glory of Christ was his very last (1696), and has long since become a classic in Christology. His Death of Death has deservedly been reprinted on numerous occasions and, despite its long-windedness at times, has never been surpassed to date. A separate reprint of this latter volume with a valuable 25-page introductory essay by lames I. Packer was provided by Banner of Truth Trust in 1959. For able readers, Owens works are a must.

*Philpot, J.C. Meditations on the Sacred Humanity of the Blessed Redeemer. Harpenden, Herts: O.G. Pearce, 1975.

Gleaned from the Gospel Standard and arranged under the editorship of Pastor B.A. Ramsbottom, this little volume is invaluable. It represents Philpot at his best. As always, he combines his learning and experience in a remarkable way, transplanting the Puritan ideal of intelligent piety into the nineteenth century. Every family should have a copy.

A corresponding volume, Meditations on the Office Characters of the Lord Jesus Christ, is worthy of being reprinted as well.

Schilder, Klass. Christ in His Suffering. Christ on Trial. Christ Crucified. 3rd ed. 3 vols. Reprint ed., Minneapolis: Klock and Klock, 1978.

Only for the discerning reader. Schilder is often profound, and his work contains numerous valuable thoughts, but these volumes are seriously marred by speculation and philosophical tendencies not based on exegetical evidence in Scripture.

Warfield, Benjamin B. The Person and Work of Christ. Philadelphia: Presbyterian and Reformed Pub. Co., 1950.

A massive volume, second only to Owens, which ably sets forth the doctrine of Christ exegetically and polemically. Warfield (18511921) was the renowned successor of Archibald Alexander and the Hodgess at Princeton Seminary prior to its demise into liberalism and the consequent founding of Westminster Seminary established to uphold the orthodox Reformed theology of old Princeton.

ESCHATOLOGY

[Note: For a basic definition of pre, post, and amillennialism, see page 10 of the November 1985 Banner of Truth.]

*Adams, Jay. The Time is at Hand. Phillipsburg, NJ: Presbyterian and Reformed, 1966. [OP]

A straight forward defense of amillennialism commended for its positive statement of the Reformed position. Easy and practical reading. Renowned for his Reformed approach to Christian counselling, Jay Adams is presently professor at Westminster Seminary in California.

*Baxter, Richard. The Saints Everlasting Rest.

Reprint ed., Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1962.

A classic Puritan treatment of the final destiny of believers. Edifying.

*Berkof, Louis. The Second Coming of Christ.

Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1953. [OP]

Basic and reliable introductory guide.

Berkouwer, Gerrit C. The Return of Christ.

Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1972.

A learned treatise. Valuable interfacing with contemporary theologians. Amillennial. (Cf. notes above on Berkouwers Dogmatics.)

Bounds, Edward M. Heaven: A Place, A City, A

Home. Grand Rapids: Baker, 1975.

Edifying, practical. Comforting for true believers.

Clouse, Robert G. The Meaning of the Millennium: Four Views. Downers Grove, IL: Inter-Varsity Press, 1977.

A presentation of four major millennial views by prospective proponents: historic premillennialism (Ladd); dispensational premillennialism (Hoyt); postmillennialism (Boettner); amillennialism (Hoekema). For discerning reader only.

Cox, William E. Amillennialism Today and Biblical Studies in Final Things. Philadelphia: Presbyterian and Reformed, 1975.

These volumes are instructive, solid, and highly readable for the layman.

*Gerstner, John. Jonathan Edwards on Heaven and Hell. Grand Rapids: Baker, 1980.

An excellent, concise (93 pages), readable study. Dr. Gerstner discusses Edwardss teaching on heaven and hell under parallel themes which include such topics as the nature, locality, degrees, eternality, growth, rationale, and objections relative to each place of eternal abode. Edifying and instructive reading; highly recommended.

*Grier, William J. The Momentous Event. Reprint ed., London: Banner of Truth Trust, 1970.

Very helpful 128-page paperback discussing Scriptures teaching on the second advent. The best book for beginning readers in this particular area of doctrine.

*Henriksen, William. The Bible on the Life Hereafter and More than Conquerors. Reprint ed., Grand Rapids: Baker, 1974 and 1982.

Both volumes are written simply and soundly. More than Conquerors is a valuable contribution towards an understanding of the book of Revelation, and The Bible on the Life Hereafter addresses a great number of practical questions scripturally, sanely, and effectively. Highly recommended for readers of all age groups, but particularly suited for youth and discussion groups.

*Hoekema, Anthony A. The Bible and the Future.

Grand Rapids: Wm. B. Eerdmans, 1979.

Overall, the best, most readable and up-to-date volume on eschatology as a whole from the amillennial perspective.

*Hoeksema, Herman. Behold, He Cometh! An Exposition of the Book of Revelation. Grand Rapids: Reformed Free Pub. Assn., 1974.

The best practical, yet thoroughly exegetical, commentary currently in print on the book of Revelation. Amillennial. Often sermonic and pastoral in nature; remarkably readable. Avoids the dryness of a typical commentary.

*Murray, lain. The Puritan Hope. London: Banner of Truth Trust, 1971.

Excellent study interfacing missiology and eschatology, and confirming that many Puritans expected the last days to be resplendent with numerous revivals.

*Ramsey, James B. Revelation. Reprint ed., Edinburg: Banner of Truth Trust, 1977.

Dr. Ramsey (181471) served as missionanary to the Choctow Indians and as principal of Spencer Academy. Of this volume, published posthumously, Charles Hodge writes: To a greater degree than any commentary within the writers knowledge, this volume is adapted to spiritual edification. The leading characteristic of these lectures is their spirituality.

Unfortunately, the 28 Lectures cover only chapters 111 of Revelation; nevertheless, we are grateful to Banner of Truth Trust for this worthy reprint.

*Smith, Wilbur M. The Biblical Doctrine of Heaven. Chicago: Moody Press, 1968.

Fills a gap in the study of Biblical eschatology. Scriptural, practical, and basically orthodox. Very readable.

Questions on religious books may be addressed to 55 Robin Hood Way, Wayne, NJ 07470.

For assistance in obtaining new books at discount prices, try Bible Truth Books, P.O. Box 2373, Kalamazoo, Ml 49003 and/or Puritan Reformed Discount Book Service, 1319 Newport Gap Pike, Plaza 41, Wilmington, Delaware 19804.

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