Reformation CD#19 - Reformation Against Arminianism
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Augustine was the great forerunner to the Reformation and it was on books like this that Luther, Calvin, and the other magisterial Reformers cut their teeth. The corrupted demon seed of Pelagianism and Semi-Pelagianism (later being refined into Arminianism), being just newly planted by the wicked one in Augustine's day, has grown into a massive tree in our day. Its poison fruit now feeds most of the branches of ecclesiastical antichrist: from Rome, to the liberal Protestant churches and the cults, and now even reaching all the way into the very heart of so-called "evangelical" Protestant churches (of all varieties).This soul destroying heresy has reached pandemic proportions among professing "Christians" in our day. Ironically, this work of Augustine is probably more needed in our day than it was in his -- over a millennium and a half later.

This title focuses on the doctrine of salvation, especially the five points of Calvinism. It contrasts Calvinism with Arminianism throughout. Wesley's distinctive positions (aberrations) also receive much special attention -- including his views of sanctification and original sin.

A Puritan work recommended by Charles Spurgeon, John Owen, Thomas Goodwin and William Romaine.Owen, in particular, marvels at Coles’ singular reliance on Scripture alone to vindicate God’s sovereignty, as it relates to election, redemption, effectual calling, and the perseverance of the saints. Originally published in 1673, this is the 1831 edition. 298 pages.

An exegetical work on the five points of Calvinism and reprobation. The Preface states that "this work was published at a time when the nation was greatly alarmed with the growth of Popery," and that rather than just "lopping off the branches of Popery, the axe should be laid to the root of the tree, Arminianism and Pelagianism, the very life and soul of Popery."

Considered a classic in its field, this book of over 550 pages takes on Charles Hodge and his views concerning original sin. The author states that the "doctrine concerning Imputation and Original Sin" as taught "for many years past, in the Theological School at Princeton" is a "radical departure from... recognized Augustinian theology, or Calvinism." The author also notes "that the difference in this issue is fundamental to evangelical doctrine. The design of the present tractate, therefore, is to furnish a thorough historical, theological, and exegetical discussion of the essential points which this issue involves."Furthermore, Landis writes (concerning Hodge's view) that "the church herself can ultimately and logically have no possible alternative but either to abandon all the distinctive principles of the Augustinian or evangelical system of doctrine, or to reject this (i.e. Hodge's--RB) theory utterly and in all its parts."

Curt Daniel calls this "Knox's major theological work." Moreover, he states that this is "more than a short answer (to the Anabaptist–RB, 468 pages), it isa complete exposition and defence of the Reformed doctrine at the height of the Scottish Reformation" which helped "guide early Presbyterianism and build the theological bridge between Edinburgh and Geneva." This work was much esteemed by Knox's Puritan friends in England and "Calderwood, in summing up Knox's character, remarks: 'How profound he was in divinity, that work of his upon Predestination may give evidence" (Laing. ed., p. 17).Quoting freely from Calvin, his major influence in this work, Knox lays low the heresy that man plays any part in his own salvation.This heresy, of man's pretended ability to save himself (in any way), is at the root of all defection from the sovereign God of Scripture and is rampant today! As Kevin Reed notes, in refuting this Anabaptist, Knox unequivocally states, "For with the Pelagians and papists, you have become teachers of free will, and defenders of your own justice," clearly recognizing that, "the defence of man's free will, to do good and avoid evil," is "the damned heresy of Pelagius."

Recommended by John Owen, John Gill, and Augustus Toplady. An easy-to-read but devastating critique of the Arminian heresy. A treatise to refute all five points of Arminianism, setting forth predestination and the five points of Calvinism clearly and forcefully, along with numerous Scripture proofs.

This was Owen's first publication (1642) and immediately brought him into notice. It contains numerous useful charts contrasting Arminian doctrines, from some of their major teachers, with those of Scripture (Calvinism) in a side-by-side format. Owen leaves no room for compromise with Arminianism as he shows why this is, when sincerely believed, a dangerous, devilish and damnable heresy!

Completely retypeset and unedited, this book (of 188 pages) contains ten stirring Spurgeon sermons focusing on the sovereignty of God, the five points of Calvinism and the triumph of Christ as King.

Toplady here documents Wesley's deliberate lies and deception concerning Calvinism. He shows how Wesley abridged certain Calvinistic writings and attributed the abridgments to Toplady. This book also exposes Wesley as a plagiarist, pointing out his pro-monarchy and anti-American sentiments.

Traill was a persecuted covenanter, 1642-1716. His father was once severely wounded when he refused to submit to Cromwell, during a siege by the English army at Edinburgh, and was later imprisoned by Charles II. Thus he (Robert) learned early of hardships brought by faithfulness to truth. Later he was forced to flee Scotland because of Prelatical persecution. In Holland, a shelter for persecuted Presbyterians, he assisted in publishing Rutherford'sExamination of Arminianism. When he returned to Scotland, he risked his life to preach (without Episcopalian ordination) at field conventicles, a capital offence in those days. This is the 1845 edition and clearly shows the excellence of Traill's works. Written during the times of life and death struggles for Christ's crown and covenant, these are no ivory tower essays. Contains: "By What Means May Ministers Best Win Souls," "The Protestant Doctrine of Justification Vindicated from the Charge of Antinomianism," and much more.

Atherton calls this "one of the best, if not the best book ever issued on Absolute Predestination."

A rare facsimile from this Calvinist divine who was one of the most acute controversialists of his age.This highly influential Puritan theologian was assistant to the president of the Synod of Dortand Professor of Divinity at Franecker. He died in 1633.In this massive work, Ames aims at vindicating the Lord’s sovereign Kingship in matters of worship. The summary and general thrust of the detailed and precise argumentation found in this book is beautifully encapsulated by the words inscribed on its title page, "I hate vayn inventions: but thy law doe I love" (Ps. 119:113). Almost 700 pages.

These two articles, "Worship, The Regulative Principle of Worship in History," and Psalm Singing in Scripture and History," are also available in the "Free Books" file in all the Reformation Bookshelf CDs.

This article is in the "free book" files on every Reformation Bookshelf CD.

Demonstrates in an email debate (of 170, 8.5 inch by 11 inch, pages) between Doug Wilson (editor ofCredenda/Agendamagazine) and Reg Barrow (president of Still Waters Revival Books) how violations of the regulative principle of worship (i.e. the second commandment) are grounds for excommunication. Also gives specific examples of how modern "Reformed" Christians (e.g. John Frame) and denominations are in violation of the second commandment and are tolerating false and idolatrous worshipcontrary to their own Confessional standards and vows. Contains many quotations from major Reformation works and confessions in defense of the regulative principle of worship representing the classical Reformation position on worship. This book is in the FREE BOOKS file on this CD.

A courteous and detailed historical defence of the exclusive Psalmody of the Scottish Reformers, Calvin and others. These articles (excerpted from the Original Secession Magazine) were written to counter the false claims of Horatius Bonar, that uninspired hymns were used in the public worship of the church during the Scottish Reformation. 42 pages.

Formerly titled "An Epistle to the Inhabitants of New Castle and Berwick, 1558," one subheading reads; "John Knox to the Inhabitants of Newcastle and Berwick, and Unto All Others, Who Sometime in the Realm of England Professed Christ Jesus, and Now Be Returned to the Bondage of Idolatry, Wishes True and Earnest Repentance By the Power and Operation of That Same Spirit Who Called From Death Jesus, the Only Pastor of Our Souls."Written to stem the tide of backsliding and compromise during the dark days of Mary's reign in England, Knox sends a pastoral exhortation of repentance to those who had reverted to idolatrous worship.

This book is a review of a letter written by Prof. Samuel Miller. Prof. Miller had preached a sermon in which he had noted thatUnitarians are not Christians, and in response a Unitarian periodical had published a heated attack on Miller. Miller thus wrote a reply to the attack, but the Unitarian periodical would not print it. Miller's reply was then published separately.

Willson reviews Miller's letter and points out that he clearly refutes the Unitarian's published attack. There was only one problem with Miller's argument; he claims that Isaac Watts was a Trinitarian.Watts was not, in fact, a Trinitarian, and Willson considered this point important enough to demonstrate from Watts' own work that he does not hold to the orthodox view of the Trinity. After citing portions of Watts' writing, Willson states,

Thus, Isaac Watts, a favorite hymn writer of evangelicals, actually held to what Willson, Miller, and Turrettin all agree (in this book) is a "damnable heresy." For as Willson points out, Turrettin maintains, that no anti-trinitarian can be saved, while continuing in the belief of anti-trinitarianism. Contains 18 (8.5"X11") newly typeset pages.

This is the Psalter (less Brown's notes, which were added later) mandated, approved and used (for public and private worship) by the Westminster Assembly and all those who covenanted to uphold the Biblical Reformation that these Divines proclaimed. The text of the Scottish Metrical Psalmswas authorized by the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland in 1650. The notes added by Brown are suitable for explaining the Psalm before singing and are a great aid to understanding and worship (whether public, family or private).This is a primary source document of Reformation; not to be missed by those serious about the Reformed faith -- and worshipping God in spirit and in truth.There are few things in life as pleasing and enjoyable as communing with Christ through the singing of His Psalms!

Because the author contends that "the welfare of the church and her members is deeply concerned in the preservation of the purity of God's worship," he here defends the old paths of Protestant worship in opposition to the will-worship of Popery, Socinianism and Arminianism. Herein he shows how the singing of songs other than the Psalms (in public worship) violates the second commandment, dishonors God and brings His wrath upon individuals, churches and nations. Anderson also answers a number of objections against exclusive Psalmody which are still common today; for example the objection, "with respect to the nature of singing, as if there were no difference between it and prayer, except in the manner of performance." This is a valuable contribution to the defense of exclusive Psalmody. 184 pages.

Historically demonstrates how the Old Testament saints, the early New Testament Christians and almost all Presbyterians (after adopting the Westminster Standards) sang the Psalms by "lining them out" (e.g. see the Westminster Directory for Public Worship). Musical instruments, a Papal innovation, were also unheard of among faithful Reformers and "denominated the ensigns of Baal."

A one-of-a-kind general introduction to studying the psalms[1886]. "A highly valuable work... great skill and intense devotion... unlike any other...," saidSpurgeon. Part one: "History and Poetical Structure of the Psalms." Part two: "The Theology of the Psalms." Part three: "Notices Regarding the Use of the Psalms in the Church." Indexed, 424 pages.

"In brief space, and a clear, calm, scriptural way, this little manual covers, we conceive, the entire ground of the Psalmody question, and will meet a cordial reception from all the friends of the inspired songs and a simple worship" (Christian Instructor magazine).

Greg Price calls this one of the best short defences of exclusive Psalmody. It is excerpted from The Original Covenanter magazine(Dec, 1883, vol. 3, No. 12). Here is a taste of Dick's writing,

Gibson was Professor of Systematic Theology and Church History at Free Church College in Glasgow. Written to promote the glory of God and the purity of His worship. The chapters deal with Praise, Public Worship, Alleged Authority for Human Hymns, Historical Argument for Human Hymns, How Hymn Books Were Introduced into Public Worship, Instrumental Music, and a Review of Hymnbooks. An important book given the fact that, "[t]he public worship of a church is a decisive measure of its true spiritual condition" (Kevin Reed,John Knox the Forgotten Reformer, Presbyterian Heritage Publications, p. 79).

While hardly any department of the Psalmody question is entirely overlooked, several of its most important aspects are more fully and satisfactorily dealt with than in any previous work on the subject. 328 pages.

This book was originally "issued at Philadelphia in 1859 by a committee of ministers from the Reformed Presbyterian and United Presbyterian church of that city. A judicious compilation of the finest argumentation from a number of 19th century writers, the volume went through at least six American editions, the last in 1870. It was also printed in Belfast, Ireland in 1867, and in 1878 at Edinbugh, Scotland" (Isbell,Presbyterian Reformedmagazine, vol. IX, No. 3, p. 111). In our opinion, this isthe best older American defense of the Reformed practice of exclusive Psalmody, as it covers some aspects of this debate not covered in any other publication. 212 pages.

This book argues for exclusive Psalmody. It includes a detailed history (ancient [the Fathers, Augustine, Apostolic Constitutions, etc.] and modern [Wickliffe, Luther, Calvin, etc., to the author’s day]) of Psalmody, gives reasons for retaining the book of Psalms and considers numerous objections. It takes on bothWatts (and his anti-Trinitarianism) and Wesley. 223 pages.

Dr. David Freeman (who was John Murray’s pastor in Philadelphia) said that thePsalms in Worshipwas the most comprehensive treatment of this subject to be found anywhere. This volume (of almost 600 pages) consists of material presented at two conventions in 1905, promoting the claims of the Psalms in worship.

The title continues: "In the Ordinary Public Worship of God, Considered in the Light of Scripture and the Subordinate Standards of the Reformed Presbyterian Church; In Answer to Some Letters of Inquiry Addressed to the Writer." Here Steele defends the Apostolic practice of "lining out" the Psalms in public worship -- noting love for the brethren (i.e. young children, others that can not read, etc.; but can join in the worship when the Psalms are lined) as the primary motivation for this practice; in accord with God's command (1 Pet. 3:8).

GIRARDEAU, JOHN
Instrumental Music in the Public Worship of the Church (1888)

"To sing the praises of God upon the harp and psaltery," says John Calvin, "unquestionably formed a part of the training of the law and of the service of God under that dispensation of shadows and figures; but they are not now to be used in public thanksgiving."

Written in 1888, this book was highly praised by R.L. Dabney(in a review which we have bound together with this printing). Dabney notes,

Dr. Girardeau has defended the old usage of our churchwith a moral courage, loyalty to truth, clearness of reasoning and wealth of learningwhich should make every true Presbyterian proud of him, whether he adopts his conclusions or not. The framework of his argument is this: it begins with that vital truth which no Presbyterian can discard without a square desertion of our principles.The man who contests this first premise had better set out at once for Rome: God is to be worshipped only in the ways appointed in His Word.Every act of public cultus not positively enjoined by Him is thereby forbidden. Christ and His apostles ordained the musical worship of the New Dispensation without any sort of musical instrument, enjoining only the singing of psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs. Hence such instruments are excluded from Christian worship.Such has been the creed of all churches, and in all ages, except for the Popish communion after it had reached the nadir of its corruption at the end of the thirteenth century, and of its prelatic imitators.

Arguments from Scripture, history and creedal standards are all considered, while objections are noted and countered. Defending the Apostolic (and later Puritan and Reformed) position, against Popish innovations, Girardeau clearly lays down what God requires in the area of public worship.Given the present rejection of the regulative principle of worship (which is nothing less than the biblical application of the second commandment) in most Protestant quarters, this book is even more valuable today than when it was first written.It contains the best discussion of biblical and godly guidelines regarding worship in general, and the instrumental music question in particular, that has come to us out of the 19th century. 208 pages.

"The Early church did not use instrumental music in its worship.... They considered the practice as pagan or Jewish rather than Christian. Dr. Hughes Oliphant Old, in his work The Patristic Roots of Reformed Worship says: "As is well known, the ancient church did not admit the use of instrumental music in worship. It was looked upon as a form of worship which like the sacrifices of the Jerusalem temple prefigured the worship in spirit and truth....'" (Needham, The Presbyterian, #32, p. 35). This book contains advanced exegetical study of the second commandment (from the Hebrew) and upholds the regulative principle of worship. It's a vindication of the Westminster Confession against all ritualistic practices that give the Church the power to decree rites and ceremonies -- a power that denies the sovereignty of God. Glasgow proclaims that he has "sought to vindicate the words of the Westminster Confession," and has made his "appeal "to the law and to the testimony."He also demonstrates why it was that many of the Reformers regarded the use of instrumental music in public worship as the "badge of Popery."

Nice, moderately short (87 pages of smaller type) refutation of this Popish innovation!

An excellent short introduction to this subject. Defends the regulative principle of worship, proves that the use of instruments in the Old Testament was ceremonial, answers some major objections from instrumentalists, and explains why this is not a trivial matter.

Alexander and Rufusgives us an excellent defense of biblically regulated close communion, which Anderson shows to be God's ordained method of promoting truth, unity and Reformation.

Demonstrates how social covenanting and close communion were practiced by Calvin in Geneva. This book is available in the "Free Books" file in every Reformation Bookshelf CD.

Publisher's Preface to The Covenanted Reformation Defended Against Contemporary Schismatics (1998).In the free book section of this CD.

After having witnessed "Calvinists and avowed Arminians at the table of the Lord, under the influence of a disposition to esteem their differences of no importance," the author began to question his own loose views regarding terms of admission to the Lord's supper. This eventually led to this book. Promotes the necessity of agreement to faithful creeds and confessions, as prerequisites to unity and for partaking at the Lord's table. Deals with: the difference between essentials and non-essentials; which creeds are faithful; Calvin's and Augustine's views; and the arguments from Holy Scripture.

Covers the five major theories of Church communion: 1. The Latitudinarian Theory; 2. The Visible Discipleship Theory; 3. The Restricted Communion Theory; 4. The Occasional Communion Theory; and 5. the Close Communion Theory. Shows how the theory of close communion presents the true Scriptural doctrine of Church fellowship and answers objections to the doctrine of close communion. An excellent short, easy reading introduction.

This fascinating book contains much useful information concerning some of the first steps toward understanding close communion in Calvin's writing and thought (for more see Reg Barrow'sCalvin, Close Communion, and the Coming Reformation), while primarily demonstrating how Calvin refuted the very dangerous error of paedocommunion -- which is a form of open communion. This book is in the "free books" file in all the Reformation Bookshelf CDs.

Defends the inescapable necessity of creeds and confessions, while promoting a fully creedal church membership.Shows how the law of God obliges all Christians "to think the same things, and to speak the same things; holding fast the form of sound words, and keeping the ordinances as they have been delivered to us" (Col. 3:13). After laying some basic groundwork, this book proceeds to defend the six points of the "Terms of Ministerial and Christian Communion Agreed Upon by the Reformed Presbytery."These six points are the most conservative and comprehensive short statements of consistent Presbyterianism you will likely ever see.Besides the obvious acknowledgement of the alone infallible Scriptures, the Westminster Standards, and the divine right of Presbyterianism, these points also maintain the perpetual obligation of our Covenants, National and Solemn League, the Renovation of these covenants at Auchensaugh in 1712, and the JudicialAct, Declaration and Testimonyemitted by the Reformed Presbytery.In short, this book sets forth adherence to the whole of the covenanted reformation, in both church and state, as it has been attained by our covenanting forefathers.

Works out the implications of open communion by exhibiting its destructiveness to the discipline of the visible church. The author says that open (or free) communion "is the secret enemy of all constitutional government -- of all distinctive truth -- of all purity of worship -- and of all ecclesiastical discipline."

Also freeon this CD are the following audio (MP3) tracks: