The Dutch Reformed Translation Society, founded in 1993, sponsors translations into English and facilitates the publication and dissemination of historically important Reformed theological and religious literature originally published in the Dutch language.
The members of the society believe that the Dutch Reformed tradition has produced works that deserve wider distribution than the limited accessibility of the Dutch language makes possible. The writings selected are recognized theological classics, or they represent a tradition like piety of the Second Reformation. All the selections reflect the spiritual and theological genius of this tradition for its heirs as well as for Christians of other backgrounds.
Spiritual Desertion
“I am delighted that the Dutch Reformed Translation Society is at last making the material available in the English language. It is a landmark feature of our Reformed heritage, and its is rich food for the soul in this or any other age.” – J.I. Packer
The Path of True Godliness
This is one of the best books ever written on the subject of sanctification. How does one flee from temptation? What is the best way for believers to open their hearts to God? Packed with scriptural guidance, this book answers these questions and many more about how to live godly in Christ Jesus.
The Marks of God’s Children
First published in 1585, The Marks of God’s Children by Jean Taffin became an instant classic in Dutch and French Reformed circles. Taffin offers comfort and encouragement to those engaged in spiritual warfare. Grounded in Reformed confessional orthodoxy, this spiritual reflection provides an astute understanding of the “marks” of God’s grace and salvation that is still relevant today. Experiential Christianity at its best. Highly recommended. Translated by Peter Y. De Jong and edited by James A. De Jong.
The Duties of Parents
The Duties of Parents is the best known-known work of Dutch Further reformation leader Jacobus Koelman. Outlining 282 guidelines for Christian parenting, Koelman emphasizes the need for loving, thoughtful discipline and urges parents to tell their children that the purpose of punishment is their eternal well-being. He describes the need for good schools and teachers and encourages the latter to realize their great responsibility. The Duties of Parents gives readers an important glimpse of the theological and practical concerns of the developing Protestant tradition. Practical application abounds for raising children today as well.
Essential Truths in the Heart of a Christian
This book presents a clear explanation of the main topics of the Reformed faith. Written in the catechetical style of question and answers, the book is noted for its succinctness and ample references to Scripture. The forty brief chapters are characterized by careful doctrinal distinctions, and each one concludes with a question or two asking what the particular subject means for the faith and spiritual reflection of the reader. For today’s readers, it is both an ideal representation of the Dutch Further Reformation’s attention to doctrine and piety, as well as an invitation to carry on that spiritual legacy.
Titles in process: Wilhelmus a Brakel, Edifying Exercises Related to the Lord Supper, Guilelmus Saldanus, The Power of the Lord’s Supper, Godefridus Undemans, The Practice of Faith, Hope, and Love, Jodocus van Lodenstein, Nine Sermons, and Petrus van Mastricht, Theoretical and Practical Theology (4 volumes).
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How is the Petrus van Mastricht set progressing? Are you going to bring out for sale one volume at a time or until the set is complete? Thanks so much for bringing this work into the English may our Lord richly bless and sustain you during the project. All for His glory, Randy 2 Cor 8:9
There is much in public domain written in Dutch. What is the best method to learn to read Dutch? I assume that modern Dutch is different from 16th and 17th century Dutch? Is this a worthy goal for one that has enough abilities to learn Biblical Greek?
I have looked at some sites on the Internet, but the focus seems to be more on speaking? Thanks for any directions!
I await with bated breadth on the publication of Petrus van Mastricht, Theoretical and Practical Theology (4 volumes).
With God’s grace it will happen in my lifetime!