A Sketch of the Christian’s Catechism

by William Ames, Translated by Todd M. Rester, Introduction by Joel R. Beeke and Todd M. Rester
Early 2009

Retail: $40.00 RHB: $30.00

Ames’s method in this book is not an analysis of the Catechism itself. Rather, he chooses a particular text of Scripture that supports the main thoughts for a given Lord’s Day. While the exposition is directly from the Bible, Ames’s doctrinal conclusions and interact with the corresponding Questions and Answers of the Heidelberg Catechism.

Joel R. Beeke and Todd M. Rester’s introduction provides valuable background on Ames and his work. Rester’s fresh translation from the Latin opens several avenues of interest for modern day English readers. Historians of 16th and 17th century thought will value the critical English translation of a much neglected text, and the fact that it demonstrates the interaction between English Puritanism and the Dutch Further Reformation. Reformed pastors will also take interest in this, as it provides yet another resource on a classic doctrinal standard.

Sowing the Seed: Evangelism Stories for Children

By, Diana Kleyn

Volume 3 in The Lord’s Garden series
Paperback, 150 pages
Retail Price: $8.00 RHB Price: $6.00

Available December 2008

A garden will never grow unless someone takes the time to plant seeds. Likewise, God has planned things so that people will not be saved from their sins unless someone shares the good news of Jesus Christ with them. Just like a seed planted in good soil brings forth a beautiful garden, God uses the gospel message to produce Christians fit for bearing spiritual fruit. In Sowing the Seed, children will read stories about people sharing the gospel with others. These stories about missions and evangelism reinforce the importance of sharing the gospel and encourage children to see the joy of telling others about Jesus.

 

 

John Calvin

By, Simonetta Carr with illustrations by Emanuele Taglietti
Hardback, 64 pages
Retail Price: $20.00 RHB Price: $15.00

Available: Mid December For ages 7–10

In this attractive volume, Simonetta Carr introduces young readers to the life, thought, and work of the one of the most famous Reformers of the Christian church. She tells about the life of John Calvin from his birth to his death, placing him within the troubled context of the 16^th Century. She also introduces Calvin’s writings in a way that children will desire to know more about his ministry and influence. Readers will come to know Calvin’s personality, his devotion to God and the church, and the personal challenges he faced. They will understand the struggles of the early Reformed church faced at that time, not only surviving attacks of the Roman Catholic Church, but also achieving a clear identity and a unified doctrine. They will also have a glimpse of life in sixteenth-century Europe, stricken by pestilence, poverty, and wars. Simply written, and full of interesting facts, this book makes a great gift for children of this rich Reformed heritage. 

 

“The Soul of Life”: The Piety of John Calvin

Edited and Introduced by Joel R. Beeke
Part of the Profiles of Reformed Spirituality series
Paperback, 185 pages
Retail Price: $10.00 RHB Price: $7.50

Available: Early 2009

John Calvin is the most notable figure from the Reformed tradition. Unfortunately, he is often characterized as a stern and cerebral individual who had little concern for practical matters. However, Calvin was actually influential in promoting a profound sense of piety among early Protestantism. In “The Soul of Life”, Joel R. Beeke presents the life and ministry of Calvin with a special on emphasis Calvin’s efforts for cultivating healthy spirituality among the churches. The selections from Calvin’s own work will give readers a firsthand look at Calvin’s emphasis on godliness, and by God’s grace, will be a means for spurring on greater godliness in our day.

 I call “piety” that reverence joined with love of God which the knowledge of His benefits induces. For until men recognize that they owe everything to God, that they are nourished by His fatherly care, that He is the Author of their every good, that they should seek nothing beyond Him—they will never yield him willing service. Nay, unless they establish their complete happiness in Him, they will never give themselves truly and sincerely to Him. —John Calvin

 

The Church’s Book of Comfort

Edited by Willem van ’t Spijker Translated by Gerrit Bilkes
Hardcover, 300 pages
Retail Price: $30.00 RHB Price: $23.00

Available: Early 2009

In The Church’s Book of Comfort, Willem van ’t Spijker and his team of scholars present an introductory investigation into the history, theology, and impact of the Heidelberg Catechism. The authors give careful attention to the background of the Reformation in Germany, the production of the Catechism, and the lives of those involved in making the Catechism. Interesting details are given about the practice of using catechisms before 1563, and the reception of the Heidelberg Catechism among the Reformed churches. Emphasis is also placed on the practice of Catechism preaching and the efforts to increase theological education among congregations. Readers will see the rich theological dimensions of the Catechism and its call for experiential religion. The Heidelberg Catechism has long been known for its warm display of orthodox doctrines, and this helpful book further displays the importance of this classic confessional statement.

The Heidelberg Catechism has always been and continues to be one of the best-known confessional statements of the Western church. Many associate it with catechetical instruction or the broader teaching role of the church. How did this particular Catechism acquire and retain such popularity? The present volume answers this question in an easy-to-follow and user-friendly manner by exploring the historical background and theology of this book of the church’s comfort. It offers the reader new and exciting insights.  For the first time ever all persons involved in its compilation are portrayed.  Particular attention is given to its reception and influence in the Netherlands through preaching and catechetical instruction.  In addition this book addresses the question as to why this Catechism continues to be enormously relevant. This splendidly illustrated edition is eminently suitable as a guide to the use of the Heidelberg Catechism.

 

Be sure to check back for more information to come…