The Magazine Podcast

Loving the Lord's Day

Mon, 11 May 2026 06:30:00 +0100

How are we to love and to set apart the Lord's Day? Why are we to love it and set it apart? Maurice Roberts explains, in clear and compelling terms, what relevance the Fourth Commandment has for Christians in the New Covenant.

Featured Resource:

Maurice Roberts, 'Sabbath Observance,' Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 392 (May 1996).

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What Thomas Boston Saw

Thu, 07 May 2026 16:13:34 +0100

Thomas Boston was one of the outstanding Scottish ministers of the eighteenth century. This week we consider his faithfulness in two small parishes in the Scottish Lowlands, and God's sustaining of him in these difficult charges.

Featured Resource:

G. N. M. Collins, 'How Thomas Boston Beheld the Lamb of God which Taketh Away the Sin of the World,' Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 640 (January 2017)

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Meet the Trustees: Robert Strivens (BONUS)

Fri, 01 May 2026 17:32:19 +0100

Our bonus episode this week is a conversation with Dr Robert Strivens, Banner of Truth Trustee and Director of the recently set-up Reformed Baptist Study Centre. We hear more about Robert, the work of the Banner trustees, and the hopes for the new study centre in this interview recorded at the recent Banner Ministers' Conference in Staffordshire.

Robert's recommendations:

D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones, The Puritans: Their Origins and Successors

Iain H. Murray, The Life of Martyn Lloyd-Jones (1 volume)

Iain H. Murray, D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones (2 volumes)

John Murray, Redemption Accomplished and Applied

Find out more about the Reformed Baptist Study Centre and its events:

https://rbstudycentre.com/

Be Part of the Next Chapter of the Banner of Truth:

More information about our building project, and how you can pray and give, can be found here:

https://banneroftruth.org/uk/nextchapter/

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The Minister's Treasure

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 06:30:00 +0100

This week's selection is an excursion into Pastor William Shishko's ministerial library, to see which books have fed him as a Christian and as a minister. The result will be of interest not only to other men called to shepherd the Lord's flock, but to every Christian with an appetite to know more of God.

(In Print) Books Mentioned in the Episode:

John Owen, The Glory of Christ (Volume 1 of The Works of John Owen, comprising Owen's Christologia, Or a Declaration of the Glorious Mystery of the Person of Christ and Discourses and Meditations on the Glory of Christ)

Gardiner Spring, The Attraction of the Cross (Out of print).

Octavius Winslow, Personal Declension and the Revival of Religion in the Soul

Octavius Winslow, No Condemnation in Christ, as Unfolded in the Eighth Chapter of the Epistle to the Romans

Octavius Winslow, The Work of the Holy Spirit: An Experimental and Practical View

J. C. Ryle, Expository Thoughts on the Gospels

Matthew: https://banneroftruth.org/store/commentaries/expository-thoughts-on-the-gospels-9/

Mark: https://banneroftruth.org/store/commentaries/expository-thoughts-on-the-gospels-10/

Luke (I): https://banneroftruth.org/store/commentaries/expository-thoughts-on-the-gospels-11/

Luke (II): https://banneroftruth.org/store/commentaries/expository-thoughts-on-the-gospels-12/

John (I): https://banneroftruth.org/store/commentaries/expository-thoughts-on-the-gospels-13/

John (II): https://banneroftruth.org/store/commentaries/expository-thoughts-on-the-gospels-14/

John (III): https://banneroftruth.org/store/commentaries/expository-thoughts-on-the-gospels-15/

William Hendriksen's Commentaries: https://banneroftruth.org/about/banner-authors/william-hendriksen/

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What Earth's Princes Never Knew

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 06:30:00 +0100

The doctrine of the cross of Christ is not merely a constituent part of the Christian system of belief - it is the beating heart of the Christian message, the saving reality which cannot be known or loved by man in a state of sin and rebellion. The cross mocks human wisdom, exposing its strength as weakness. Maurice Roberts helps us see that only divine wisdom, given by the Holy Spirit, enables us to receive the cross of Christ and its implications.

Featured Resource:

Maurice Roberts, 'What Earth's Princes Never Knew,' Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 370 (July 1994).

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The Coming Glory

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 06:30:00 +0100

We need regular reminders of the reality and goodness of the glory that awaits those who belong to God. This week, with the help of Eric J. Alexander and R. B. Kuiper, we consider the glorious future of the Church of Jesus Christ.

Featured Resources:

Eric J. Alexander, 'The Coming Glory,' Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 370 (July 1994).

R. B. Kuiper, The Glorious Body of Christ: A Scriptural Appreciation of the One Holy Church (1966, repr. Edinburgh: Banner of Truth, 1967, 2006), p. 364–367 in older editions, p. 372–375 in the clothbound setting of 2025.

The Glorious Body of Christ Product Page

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Infanticide, And Our Response

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 06:30:00 +0100

Infanticide has become normal, acceptable, and even celebrated in the West and around the world. This week we take time to note two events which occurred in March and their significance for the Church's work and witness in defense of unborn children.

Featured Content:

Peter Barnes, 'Abortion: Kermit Gosnell and the Slide to Infanticide,' Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 599–600 (Aug–Sep 2013).

Christian Institute Report on Abortion Decriminalisation:

https://www.christian.org.uk/news/peers-vote-through-extreme-abortion-measure/

Peter Barnes' booklet:

Abortion: Open Your Mouth for the Dumb

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Newton the Letter-Writer: An Interview with Grant Gordon

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 17:18:12 +0100

John Newton was a prolific writer of pastoral letters - letters which have been used of the Lord to encourage, challenge, and counsel many people beyond their original recipients.

In this bonus episode, we talk with Grant Gordon, who has studied and collated many of Newton's letters. His volume Wise Counsel, representing many of Newton's letters to the Baptist pastor John Ryland Jr., has now been updated and we hear a bit more about the features of this new edition.

Grant Gordon has pastored a number of baptistic churches in Ontario, Canada, and elsewhere, and served as an adjunct professor of Christian Ethics at Central Baptist Seminary (now Heritage Seminary, Cambridge, Ontario).

Buy Wise Counsel: John Newton's Letters to John Ryland Jr., edited by Grant Gordon

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Present-Day Antichrists (Part II)

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 06:30:00 +0100

This week we continue our reading of R. B. Kuiper's sermon, 'Present-Day Antichrists' from his series of sermons on the 'signs of the times' contained in While the Bridegroom Tarries.

We follow this with a reading from Professor John Murray on Kuiper's final (and unfinished work) The Bible Tells Me So.

Featured Resource:

'Present-Day Antichrists' in While the Bridegroom Tarries (1919, repr. Edinburgh: Banner of Truth, 2010).

Other R. B. Kuiper Books Published by Banner:

The Glorious Body of Christ

God-Centred Evangelism

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Present-Day Antichrists (Part I)

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 06:30:00 +0000

R. B. Kuiper’s While the Bridegroom Tarries, which we publish in paperback, is a collection of sermons on the ‘signs of the times’ preached in the wake of the First World War.

This week’s episode is Part I of his sermon from that collection entitled, ‘Present-Day Antichrists.’ In it, he explains the difference between ‘an Antichrist’ and ‘the Antichrist’, and critiques two contemporary movements falsely claiming to represent the Lord Jesus Christ.

We anticipate posting Part II, and some biographical material on Kuiper, next week.

Featured Resource:

'Present-Day Antichrists' in While the Bridegroom Tarries (1919, repr. Edinburgh: Banner of Truth, 2010).

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Pursue Faithfulness, Not a Legacy

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 17:05:32 +0000

Many listeners will know that John Rawlinson, Banner of Truth General Manager since 1999, is soon to retire. John was recently asked to give an address summing up lessons he has learned over the years in Reformed publishing and resourcing.

On reflection, we felt that John's address, which has the character of a 'final charge' and exhortation, might be of interest to our podcast listeners and so share it as a 'bonus episode' this week.

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Preparing an Assault on our Unread Books

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 06:30:00 +0000

Few maladies are more common among Christians than 'too many books, not enough time!' What we often lack, however, is not time so much as the will and the strategy to read the books we have. Maurice Roberts helps us remedy this, and makes a number of excellent suggestions for the struggling reader.

Featured resource:

Maurice Roberts, 'Preparing a Methodical Assault on our Unread Books,' Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 331 (April 1991).

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A Visit to Priesthill

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 12:32:56 +0000

The third instalment of The Covenanter Story tells of the martyrdom of John Brown at his home at Priesthill, Ayrshire.

In this bonus episode we talk a little more about the place itself, and read a beautiful poem from George Paulin (1812–1898) which reflects on John Brown's life, death, and heavenly home-going as the poet himself conducts a visit to Priesthill.

Watch John Brown of Priesthill | The Covenanter Story, Part 3

Read J. H. Thomson's The Martyr Graves of Scotland (Internet Archive version)

Read Poets and Poetry of the Covenant, Compiled, With An Introduction by the Rev. David McAllister (1894, Internet Archive Version)

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Adolphe Monod on Reading the Bible

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 06:30:00 +0000

This week, as our host recovers from a time of illness, we read a short selection from Adolphe Monod's Farewell (currently out of print). In this excerpt, Monod recalls a special time of Bible reading which caused him great humiliation as he pondered the use he had made of the inspired Scriptures.

Featured resource:

'On Reading the Bible,' Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 221 (February 1982). This is an extract from Adolphe Monod's Farewell.

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An Extraordinary Principle

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 06:30:00 +0000

In The Principle of Readiness and Acceptance, James Bruce III describes a pattern in God's dealings with us that is gracious and encouraging to all believers, and perhaps especially to those who, in the Lord's providence, are unable to do all that they would like for him.

Featured resource:

James Bruce III, 'Neglecting the Soul,' Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 491—492 (August–September 2004).

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Neglecting the Soul

Mon, 16 Feb 2026 06:30:00 +0000

Are you neglecting your soul?

The Scriptures make it plain that it is possible for us to do the outward works proper to the Christian—and to look impressive in doing them—while our hearts are far from God.

This is a perilous place to be. In this week's piece, with prophetic precision and pastoral encouragement, Maurice Roberts calls us from neglect of soul to an earnest tending of 'God's acre' within us.

Featured resource:

Maurice Roberts, 'Neglecting the Soul,' Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 491—492 (August–September 2004).

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The Covenanter Who Liked to Fish

Thu, 12 Feb 2026 11:23:52 +0000

Puritans and Covenanters alike have garnered a reputation for being austere and glum. Sometimes that reputation is deserved, but often it is a most unjust caricature.

In this week's bonus episode we meet a jovial Covenanter - a man who, although serious and earnest in ministry, was approachable and joyful. He was also not averse to casting a fly.

William Guthrie of Fenwick was cousin to James Guthrie, who is the subject of the first episode in our four-part series, The Covenanter Story, which is now available to watch.

Featured resource:

Blaikie, William G., The Preachers of Scotland: From the Sixth to the Nineteenth Century (1888, repr. Edinburgh: Banner of Truth, 2001), pages 122–129.

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Crying Out for our Sons and Daughters

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 06:30:00 +0000

The Lord has given fathers and mothers a solemn responsibility in relation to their children. It is their high calling and great privilege to hold out the word of life to their sons and daughters by their gospel-sharing words—crucially—and in their gospel-displaying deeds, their example and personal piety.

This week's meditations from John Flavel and Ernest Reisinger awaken us to the gravity of this call, and highlight some practical ways we can work it out in our own families.

Featured Resources:

John Flavel, The Works of John Flavel (1820, repr. Edinburgh: Banner of Truth, 1968, 2023), Volume 4, pages 373–5.

Ernest Reisinger, 'The Family and Evangelism,' Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 298 (July 1988) and 491 (August–September 2004).

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Who Were the Covenanters?: David Whitla Interview

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 06:30:00 +0000

In the month of February we hope to focus on the story of the Scottish Covenanters.

To help us grapple with the topic we sat down with David Whitla, Professor of Church History at the Reformed Presbyterian Theological Seminary in Pittsburgh, PA. Dr. Whitla is a trustee of the Banner and did his doctoral work on the Covenanting lawyer Archibald Johnston of Wariston (1611–1663), and so he is well-placed to aid us in getting to grips with this important movement.

Find out more about Reformed Presbyterian Theological Seminary

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The Preacher and Books (Part II)

Mon, 26 Jan 2026 06:30:00 +0000

How can we judge which books will be most profitable to us? Should a minister pursue breadth in reading or depth of reading early in his ministry?

These and other questions are addressed in this week's reading from Iain H. Murray's 1996 address, 'The Preacher and Books.'

Resource read:

Iain H. Murray, 'The Preacher and Books,' Banner of Truth Magazine Issue 389 (February 1996).

Similar resources:

The Preacher and Books (Part 1)

The Pastor and His Study

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The Preacher and Books (Part I)

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 06:30:00 +0000

What is the proper relationship between a preacher and his books? How can a minister prioritise the most helpful kinds of reading and study?

These and other questions were addressed by the Rev Iain H Murray in his address to the Bethlehem Pastors' Conference in early 1996. We read part of his address this week.

Resource read:

Iain H. Murray, 'The Preacher and Books,' Banner of Truth Magazine Issue 389 (February 1996).

Similar resources:

The Pastor and His Study

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Remembering Paul Helm

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 10:11:49 +0000

We were saddened to hear of the recent death of Paul Helm (1940–2025). Paul, who is perhaps best known for his work in philosophical theology, has had a long and fruitful association with the Banner of Truth.

Daniel J. Hill, Senior Lecturer in Philosophy at the University of Liverpool, has written a tribute to Paul. We are grateful to Dr Hill for reading it for us on the podcast.

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The Warrior-Theologian

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 06:30:00 +0000

J. Gresham Machen (1881–1937) is noted for his earnest and powerful contending for the truth of the Bible and of the historic Christian faith in the early part of the Twentieth Century. Early on in his life, however, he almost fell prey to the liberalism that was sweeping through the seminaries and churches of the Western world. This encounter with liberalism, and the grace of God in preserving him from it, set him in good stead to warn others of its dangers.

This week, with the help of Nick Needham, we delve deeper into the story of J. Gresham Machen, a man whose courage and love of the truth we desperately need today.

Featured Resource:

– Nick Needham, 'Shapers of Christianity: J. Gresham Machen (1881–1937),' Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 713 (February 2023).

A Unique Opportunity to Serve

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 17:17:30 +0000

In this standalone short episode, we provide some details of an exciting opportunity at the Banner of Truth Trust. With our General Manager nearing retirement, the trustees are prayerfully seeking a Chief Operations Officer to guide the work into the future. Could that be you, or someone you know? Will you pray for the right person to be appointed?

To apply:

Please email your CV and a covering letter describing your suitability for the post and your interest in the ministry of the Banner of Truth Trust to: jobs@banneroftruth.co.uk.

The closing date for applications is Friday 16 January 2026. It is expected that interviews will be held in Edinburgh in the week of 26 January 2026.

Please note: only those with the right to live and work in the UK should apply for this role.

When the State Presumes to Educate

Mon, 05 Jan 2026 06:30:00 +0000

A hundred years ago, the great New Testament scholar J. Gresham Machen sounded the alarm about educational freedom in America. He believed that the state had begun to encroach in a most grievous way upon the sphere of the family, assuming duties it had no warrant to perform.

Machen's words of caution are most timely for us. We live in an epoch in which, informed by UN policy goals, western governments are showing fresh determination to become arbiters and guarantors of the education of each and every child. This week we look in detail at what is happening in the UK, and consider what a faithful Christian response to these pressures might look like.

Featured resources:

– Excerpt from J. Gresham Machen, 'Shall We Have a Federal Department of Education?'

– Excerpt from Ned B. Stonehouse, J. Gresham Machen: A Biographical Memoir (1954, repr. Edinburgh: Banner of Truth Trust, 1987, 2020), p. 468.

– Joshua Kellard, 'When the State Presumes to Educate', Banner of Truth Magazine, Issues 743–4 (August–September 2025).

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New Year Special: Memory and Prospect

Thu, 01 Jan 2026 06:30:00 +0000

In this short bonus episode, we read an apt New Year meditation from the pen of Professor John Murray: 'Memory and Prospect.'

Featured Resource:

– John Murray, 'Memory and Prospect', Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 172 (January 1978).

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Year Round-Up; Preachers and the Blues

Mon, 29 Dec 2025 06:30:00 +0000

This week we review some of the ground we have covered on the podcast in 2025, and read an article from our editor, Mark G. Johnston, 'When Preachers Sing the Blues'.

The article reminds us that the charge to preach God's word is often, perhaps always, accompanied by a heavy spiritual burden. While the Lord's grace is sufficient for every preacher, that sufficiency is proved in and through very trying times. May this editorial be a spur to all to pray for ministers and elders, and an encouragement to them to keep going, even in the darkness.

Featured resource:

– Mark G. Johnston, 'When Preachers Sing the Blues,' Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 748 (January 2026).

Most-downloaded episodes of 2025:

5. The Life of John Newton

4. A Holy Minister: Robert Murray M'Cheyne

3. The Seafarer's Friend: John Flavel

2. The Prince of Puritans: John Owen

1. Let's Study Romans, with Sinclair B. Ferguson

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Are You Battle-Weary?

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 06:30:00 +0000

Maurice Roberts, who edited the Banner of Truth Magazine for many years, is noted for his poignant editorials. This one, from the December 1994 issue of the magazine, is typically probing and helpful. Are we battle-weary? Are we disappointed? Are we, dare we admit it, spiritually sleepy?

If so, Rev. Roberts' article can help us see our need and seek the Lord for the grace of repentance and the gift of renewal.

Featured Resource:

– Maurice Roberts, 'Are You Battle-Weary?', Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 375 (December 1994).

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The Free Offer of the Gospel

Mon, 15 Dec 2025 11:55:41 +0000

The gospel of God is to be offered freely to all. Accordingly, all who hear the gospel have a warrant to believe it. As Samuel Rutherford wrote, 'reprobates have as fair a warrant to believe as the elect have.'

This week we consider the offer of the gospel made freely by God, addressed to every sinner—indeed, addressed to you and to me.

Featured resources:

– Iain H. Murray, 'The Free Offer of the Gospel,' Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 11 (June 1958).

– Robert Murray M'Cheyne, excerpt from his sermon 'The Acceptable Year of the Lord' on Isaiah 61:1–3, found in Andrew Bonar, Memoir and Remains of Robert Murray M'Cheyne (1844, repr. Edinburgh: Banner of Truth, 1966, 2024), pages 583–4.

Banner Resources on the Free Offer of the Gospel:

Andrew Fuller, 'The Gospel Worthy of All Acceptation' in The Works of Andrew Fuller (clothbound, 1012 pages)

Iain H. Murray, Spurgeon vs. Hyper-Calvinism: The Battle for Gospel Preaching (paperback, 168 pages)

John Bunyan, The Jerusalem Sinner Saved (paperback, 144 pages)

John Murray, The Free Offer of the Gospel (booklet, 32 pages)

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Why Republish William Cunningham?

Thu, 11 Dec 2025 11:10:39 +0000

This summer the Trust brought out a new, retypeset edition of William Cunningham's Historical Theology (1863). This week we read its new introduction by Banner Trustee Donald John MacLean, to find out why this work is of unique value to the 21st Century reader.

Read Material:

– 'William Cunningham's Historical Theology – An Introduction', Donald John MacLean, in William Cunningham, Historical Theology (Edinburgh: Banner of Truth, 1960 and 2024). First edition 1863.

Buy the work (2 volumes): https://banneroftruth.org/store/theology/historical-theology-3/

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'Remember the Poor'

Mon, 08 Dec 2025 06:30:00 +0000

The poor are a priority to God, and must be a priority for us, too. This week we focus on this aspect of the biblical witness with the help of Peter Barnes (Revesby Presbyterian Church, NSW, Australia) and Thomas E. Peck, the nineteenth-century Southern Presbyterian minister and teacher.

Featured resources:

– Peter Barnes, 'Looking After the Poor: Biblical Principles', Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 502 (July 2005).

– Thomas E. Peck, 'The Gospel Preached to the Poor' in The Writings of Thomas E. Peck (repr. Edinburgh: Banner of Truth, 1999), Vol. 1, pp. 25, 27–8.

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Pitfalls in Preaching: Application

Fri, 05 Dec 2025 12:08:19 +0000

There are many pitfalls in preaching. One area which many preachers struggle with is application. And yet, in a sense, application is the whole of preaching. David Vaughn's letter to a fellow Christian leader in the December 2025 issue of the magazine addresses this very subject.

Featured resources:

– David Vaughn, 'What can we learn from John Knox?', Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 514 (March 2006). Excerpted from A Scottish Christian Heritage.

Resources Mentioned by David Vaughn:

D. A. Carson and J. D. Woodbridge, Letters Along the Way (Wheaton: Crossway, 1993), p. 99-100. Available free as a pdf.

A. T. Pierson, The Divine Art of Preaching, (New York: The Baker and Taylor Company, 1892), pp. 24-27.

Jay Adams, Review of John Stott's Between Two Worlds in The Journal of Pastoral Practice, Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation (Vol. VIII, No. 2, 1986), p. 62.

The Works of Jonathan Edwards, (repr. Edinburgh: The Banner of Truth Trust, 1987), vol. 1, p. cxc.

Ron Taylor anecdote from an article in The Journal of Pastoral Practice, Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation (Vol. 4, No. 4, 1980), p. 109.

John Broadus, A Treatise on the Preparation and Delivery of Sermons (New York: A. C. Armstrong and Son, 1896), p. 230.

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The Benefits and Dangers of Controversy

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 06:30:00 +0000

This week's normal Magazine Podcast episode will be delayed. In the meantime, we are publishing Iain H. Murray's address, The Benefits and Dangers of Controversy from the Ministers' Conference in Leicester in 2012.

Why the Pilgrims Really Went to America

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 06:30:00 +0000

This week, by kind permission of Dr Robert Tracy McKenzie, we read his insightful piece on the motivations of the Mayflower Pilgrims. As we mark 405 years since they made landfall in Provincetown, Massachussetts, what can we learn of spiritual benefit from their reasons for going to the 'New World'?

Original article:

https://faithandamericanhistory.wordpress.com/2017/11/12/why-the-pilgrims-really-came-to-america-2/

Books by Robert Tracy McKenzie:

The First Thanksgiving: What the Real Story Tells Us About Loving God and Learning from History

We the Fallen People: The Founders and the Future of Democracy

Guard Your Heart (2): Warren Peel

Sat, 22 Nov 2025 14:38:48 +0000

Part II of Warren Peel's preaching on Proverbs 4:23 from the 2025 Australia Conference.

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Guard Your Heart (1): Warren Peel

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 17:49:09 +0000

Of all of the great imperatives found in Scripture, few are more crucial than that found in Proverbs 4:23:

'Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life.'

If we fail to do this, all else will be in vain. This text was taken by Warren Peel, pastor at Covenant Christian Fellowship in Galway at the recent Banner Conference in Australia (February 2025). The conference theme was 'A Lifetime in Ministry.' We will post both instalments of this message on the podcast in the next week.

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The Prophetic Preaching of John Knox

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 06:30:00 +0000

This week we consider the life and legacy of the great Scottish Reformer John Knox (c. 1514–1572). In particular, we focus on his preaching and ask what made it so effective.

Featured resources:

– Iain H. Murray, 'What can we learn from John Knox?', Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 514 (March 2006). Excerpted from A Scottish Christian Heritage.

– D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones, 'Remembering the Reformation', featured in John Knox and the Reformation and Knowing the Times.

Books by or about John Knox:

– The Works of John Knox (clothbound, six volumes, 3824 pages)

– The Select Practical Writings of John Knox (clothbound, 336 pages)

– John Knox and the Reformation (paperback, 144 pages)

Episode 73: The College Master: Laurence Chaderton

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Young People in the Great Awakening

Mon, 27 Oct 2025 06:30:00 +0000

There is much talk of awakening, revival, and 'quiet revival' in the churches in the West at present. While we wish to avoid the extremes of sensationalism and cynicism, it is right for us to hunger to see God move again, and to give ourselves afresh to studying how the Lord has moved in the past.

This week's piece helps us to reflect on one aspect of the Great Awakening of the eighteenth century: the Lord's work among young people and children.

Featured resources:

– Ian Shaw, 'Young People in the Great Awakening', Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 169 (October 1977).

On the Great Awakening and men associated with it:

– Jonathan Edwards, Thoughts on the New England Revival: Vindicating the Great Awakening (Clothbound, 304 pages)

– Joseph Tracy, The Great Awakening (Clothbound, 472 pages)

– Select Sermons of George Whitefield (paperback, 200 pages)

Assurance, Evangelism, and Voracious Reading: An Interview with Jeremy Walker (BONUS)

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 16:20:06 +0100

This week's bonus episode is an interview with Jeremy Walker, a pastor at Maidenbower Baptist Church in Crawley, West Sussex, just south of London. Jeremy has long been a friend of the Banner and serves as book reviews editor for the magazine.

We sat down with Jeremy to talk about his Christian pilgrimage, call to ministry, some favourite books and, well, where he stands on the pronunciation of John Flavel's name.

Note: Jeremy mentioned a book chapter that had helped him towards greater assurance and he identified that as a chapter on the fruits of the Spirit in B. B. Warfield's The Saviour of the World. In retrospect, we think that the chapter in question is actually that on 'The Spirit's Testimony to Our Sonship, Romans 8:16' in Warfield's Faith and Life.

Resources Mentioned or Relevant

From the Heart of Spurgeon Podcast

If you enjoy the Banner Magazine podcast, you are likely to find From the Heart of Spurgeon most valuable. The episodes, of which to date there are 260, consist of Spurgeon sermons read by Jeremy Walker.

Bunyan, John, The Pilgrim's Progress

Fuller, Andrew, The Works of Andrew Fuller (Banner one-volume edition).

Spurgeon, C. H., Pictures from Pilgrim's Progress

Spurgeon, C. H., The Saint and His Saviour (available in a free pdf and epub version from Monergism)

Walker, Jeremy, The Brokenhearted Evangelist (Reformation Heritage Books)

Walker, Jeremy, Passing the Baton: How to Equip the Next Generation of Pastors and Teachers (EP Books)

Read Brad Franklin's review at 9Marks.

Walker, Jeremy, Rooted and Grounded: A Light Modernisation of the 1689 Baptist Confession of Faith (EP Books)

Warfield, B. B., Faith and Life

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Why Is There No Wrestling?

Mon, 20 Oct 2025 06:30:00 +0100

Some articles have what it takes not only to arrest the attention, but also to change the life. Maurice Roberts published just such an article in the August–September 1995 issue of the magazine.

'Why Is There No Wrestling?' is a passionate plea for urgent prayer. It is a call to arms that is just as timely today — perhaps more so — as it was to its original readers thirty years ago.

We read the piece in full in this week's episode.

Featured resources:

– Maurice Roberts, 'Why Is There No Wrestling?', Banner of Truth Magazine, Issues 383–384 (August–September 1995). Read the piece as a web article.

This week's featured article also appears in Maurice Roberts' paperback The Christian's High Calling, which is a compilation of pieces he wrote for the magazine.

The Banner 2026 Calendar: https://banneroftruth.org/uk/store/calendar/banner-2026-calendar/

Truth Spoken in Love: An Anthology of Quotations from J. C. Ryle (edited by Daniel W. McManigal): https://banneroftruth.org/store/devotional-books/truth-spoken-in-love/

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Assurance of Salvation (2/2): Iain H. Murray

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 12:34:16 +0100

The following address, the second of two on the subject, was given by Rev. Iain H. Murray at the 1988 Banner of Truth Youth Conference.

Banner Resources on Assurance

William Guthrie, The Christian's Great Interest

Thomas Brooks, Heaven on Earth: Assurance in the Christian Life

Thomas Brooks, Precious Remedies Against Satan's Devices

Thomas Brooks, The Works of Thomas Brooks, Volume III ('A Cabinet of Jewels', pg. 285–505)

James Fraser, Am I a Christian?

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Assurance of Salvation (1/2): Iain H. Murray

Mon, 13 Oct 2025 06:30:00 +0100

The following address, one of two on the subject, was given by Rev. Iain H. Murray at the 1988 Banner of Truth Youth Conference.

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No Christian Doctrine? No Christian Ministry.

Mon, 06 Oct 2025 06:30:00 +0100

There have always been calls for the church to de-emphasise doctrine. Sometimes these calls come from those who wish to promote 'unity' at any cost—enter the ecumenical movement. Sometimes they come from those who feel that the truths of the faith are encumbrances or 'stumbling blocks' to those who just want a simple faith.

This week's episode shows why such calls are so misguided. There can be no true Christian ministry without a setting forth of what B. B. Warfield called 'the great Christian verities'. The great need of the church, in every age, is to treasure, set forth, and 'to contend for the faith that was once for all delivered to the saints'. (Jude 3).

Featured resources:

– Michael Haykin, 'A Lesson from a Victorian Preface', Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 457 (October 2001).

– B. B. Warfield, 'The Indispensableness of Systematic Theology to the Preacher', Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 613 (October 2014). This first appeared in Homiletic Review (Feb. 1897) and is featured in Princeton and the Work of the Christian Ministry, vol. 2, pp. 497–504 (Edinburgh: Banner of Truth Trust, 2012).

– C. H. Spurgeon, An All-Round Ministry (1900, repr. Edinburgh: Banner of Truth, 1960, 2023), p. 292.

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The Irenic Jeremiah Burroughs

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 06:30:00 +0100

Jeremiah Burroughs was a peace-loving Puritan. Without sacrificing the truth, he sought unity among those who professed it, and prayed, preached, and pleaded to that end. Indeed, Richard Baxter, who felt keenly the need for peace but struggled himself to promote it, once remarked that if all the Episcopalians had been like Archbishop [James] Ussher, all the Presbyterians like Stephen Marshall, and all the Independents like Jeremiah Burroughs, then the breaches of the church would soon have been healed.

Article read this week:

– James Davison, 'The Irenic Jeremiah Burroughs', Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 559 (April 2010).

The Plots of Men and the Strife of Tongues

Mon, 22 Sep 2025 06:30:00 +0100

In Psalm 31, David prays the following about those who fear the Lord:

'In the cover of your presence you hide them

from the plots of men;

you store them in your shelter

from the strife of tongues.'

In a world in which deception so often seems to prevail, and good reputations are tarnished by falsehoods, we need to realise afresh the power (and danger) of the tongue. We must lay hold of the God who can deliver us both from sinning with our tongues, and from 'the strife of tongues' when they are turned unjustly against us.

Featured Resources:

– Maurice Roberts, 'The Strife of Tongues', Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 460 (January 2002).

– Arnold A. Dallimore, Spurgeon: A Biography (1984, repr. Edinburgh: Banner of Truth, 1985, 2014), p. 69.

The Socinian Menace

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 06:30:00 +0100

The system of false teaching known as Socinianism proved a thorn in the side of the Reformed churches for more than two centuries. Even today, the essential tenets of Socinianism are still with us, and aspects of it pop up in the teaching of such movements as Unitarian Universalism, 'Oneness' Pentecostalism, Christadelphianism, and among the Jehovah's Witnesses.

As such, it is well for us to take a closer look at this movement, its key commitments, and how it emerged in the context of Reformation-era Europe.

Banner resources relevant to Socinianism:

– The Works of John Owen, Volume 12: The Gospel Defended (Clothbound, 639 pages)

– The Works of Andrew Fuller (1 Volume, 1012 pages)

– William Cunningham, Historical Theology (Clothbound, 1408 pages)

John Owen's (tragically amusing) presentation of John Biddle's Socinianism, in the form of a satirical catechism, can be found on pages 588 to 590 of The Works of John Owen, vol. 12: The Gospel Defended.

This week's podcast artwork features an image of a plaque in the Sozzini's palace in Siena which depicts Fausto and Lelio Sozzini. The etching on the plaque claims that 'During ages of fierce despotism, with their new doctrines they awoke the free thought'.

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John Knox (Iain H. Murray Address)

Mon, 08 Sep 2025 06:30:00 +0100

As summer turns to autumn in the northern hemisphere, we do hope this note finds you doing well. This week we bring you an audio recording of Iain H. Murray speaking on 'John Knox' at the 2003 Youth Conference in Leicester, England.

More resources on John Knox:

– The Select Practical Writings of John Knox (Clothbound, 336 pages)

– The Works of John Knox (6 Volumes, 3824 pages)

– D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones, John Knox and the Reformation (paperback, 144 pages)

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The Two Prophets to Nineveh (Author Interview)

Mon, 01 Sep 2025 06:30:00 +0100

This week we bring you a conversation with Rev Jim McCarthy of Trinity Presbyterian Church, Statesboro, Georgia. Jim is the author of a new exposition of the two (yes, two) minor prophets who were sent by God to Nineveh, a leading city (and later capital) of the Assyrian empire. Join us as we consider what these two biblical books have to say to us today.

The Two Prophets To Nineveh (paperback, 120 pages) will be released on October 6. You can join the waitlist to be informed when the title is available for purchase.

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For the Flagging Pastor

Mon, 25 Aug 2025 06:30:00 +0100

This week we read some words of comfort and counsel suitable for all weary believers, and especially for pastors who feel stretched beyond what they can bear.

Featured Resources:

– C. H. Spurgeon, 'The Minister's Fainting Fits,' in The Minister's Self-Watch & The Minister's Fainting Fits (booklet), (Edinburgh: Banner of Truth, 2025), p. 40–42. This lecture also appears in Lectures to My Students by the same author.

– Robert Murray M'Cheyne, 'To the Rev. Dan. Edwards' in Memoir and Remains of Robert Murray M'Cheyne (Edinburgh: Banner of Truth, 1966, 2024), p. 282.

– Robert Murray M'Cheyne, 'To the Rev. W. C. Burns' in Memoir and Remains of Robert Murray M'Cheyne (Edinburgh: Banner of Truth, 1966, 2024), p. 216.

– Robert Murray M'Cheyne, 'To the Rev. W. C. Burns' in Memoir and Remains of Robert Murray M'Cheyne (Edinburgh: Banner of Truth, 1966, 2024), p. 289.

New from the Banner:

The Minister's Self-Watch and The Minister's Fainting Fits (booklet)

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The Legacy of Arnold Dallimore

Mon, 18 Aug 2025 06:30:00 +0100

Arnold Dallimore's name has long been associated with the Banner of Truth. Noted for his biographies of Spurgeon and Whitefield, Dallimore (d. 1998) was an Ontarian 'small-town pastor' whose writing labours took place against a backdrop of financial pressure and ministerial responsibility, and without the advantages of local research facilities. We take time this week to go 'behind the scenes' and find out more about this patient servant of the Lord, and his beloved wife May (d. 2015).

Featured Resources:

– Michael A. G. Haykin, 'Remembering Arnold Dallimore and His Books,' The Banner of Truth Magazine, Issues 707–708, August & September 2022.

– Ian Hugh Clary, 'Remembering Arnold and May Dallimore,' The Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 621, June 2015.

– Walter Chantry*, 'Supporting Arnold Dallimore', The Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 510, March 2006.

*Author unknown. Walter Chantry was magazine editor at the time.

Books by Arnold Dallimore:

George Whitefield: The Life and Times of the Great Evangelist of the 18th Century Revival (2 volumes)

Spurgeon: A Biography

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The Forgotten Spurgeon

Mon, 11 Aug 2025 06:30:00 +0100

This week on the podcast we focus on the contents and impact of one particular Banner book: Iain H. Murray's The Forgotten Spurgeon. First published in the Banner of Truth Magazine, and then in paperback in 1966, it has proved valuable in teaching many about the central importance of the doctrines of grace, and underscoring the need for a theologically rich gospel witness.

Featured Resources:

– Ian S. Barter, 'The Forgotten Spurgeon', You Must Read: Books That Have Shaped Our Lives (Edinburgh: Banner of Truth Trust, 2015, 2025), pp. 251–256.

– Iain H. Murray, The Forgotten Spurgeon (Edinburgh: Banner of Truth Trust, 1966, 2023), pp.

Of note:

Spurgeon's Catechism: https://www.princeofpreachers.org/uploads/4/8/6/5/48652749/apuritancatechism.pdf

Iain H. Murray, Spurgeon vs. Hyper-Calvinism: The Battle for Gospel Preaching: https://banneroftruth.org/store/history-biography/spurgeon-vs-hyper-calvinism/

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The Life of John Newton

Mon, 04 Aug 2025 06:30:00 +0100

4 August 2025 marks three-hundred years since the birth of John Newton: pastor, author, and hymnwriter. This week we depart from our usual format to supply an audio recording of Iain H. Murray speaking on 'The Life of John Newton' at the 2007 Ministers' Conference in Leicester, England.

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Two Hymnwriters

Mon, 28 Jul 2025 06:30:00 +0100

To learn the backstory of a hymn can be a richly rewarding exercise. The same applies with hymnwriters. This week we consider the life and faith of two wonderful hymnists of yesteryear: Isaac Watts (1674–1748) and Frances Ridley Havergal (1836–1879).

Featured Resources:

– Mark S. Shuttleworth, 'Isaac Watts: The Man Behind the Hymns', The Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 221, February 1982.

– Pamela D. Bugden, 'Sweet Singer and Poet of Worcestershire', The Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 503, August–September 2005.

Worthy of note:

The Havergal Trust has been set up by David Chalkley to make the complete works of Frances Ridley Havergal available to the body of Christ in our own day. To date, a number of the titles have appeared as paperbacks, and there is a strong desire to see all volumes published in due course. If you would like to browse the books, or find out more about the project, see below:

https://www.havergaltrust.com/about/about-the-havergal-trust/

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Dying in the Lord (3/3): A Time to Die

Mon, 21 Jul 2025 06:30:00 +0100

There is, writes the Preacher of Ecclesiastes, 'a time to die' (Ecclesiastes 3:2). The believer in Christ is called to be mindful of this time, to prepare for it, and then, when it comes, to commit his or her soul to a faithful Heavenly Father.

Featured Resources:

- Toni Saad, 'Life at all Costs?', The Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 738, March 2025.

- Excerpt from Iain H. Murray, David Martyn Lloyd-Jones: The Fight of Faith 1939–1981 (Edinburgh: Banner of Truth, 1990, 2024), Chapter 35, 'Dying ... He Worshipped', pages 746–748.

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Dying in the Lord (2/3): Preparation

Mon, 14 Jul 2025 06:30:00 +0100

How can a Christian prepare for death? It is a question pertinent to us all, and yet it is asked earnestly by so few.

This week we seek guidance on this question from the work of the seventeenth-century minister George Swinnock and the nineteenth-century pastoral theologian Archibald Alexander.

Featured Resources:

- Excerpt from 'The Fading of the Flesh' in The Works of George Swinnock, Vol. 3 (1672; repr. Edinburgh: Banner of Truth, 1996), pages 466–471.

- Excerpt from Archibald Alexander, Thoughts on Religious Experience (1844; repr. Edinburgh: Banner of Truth, 1978, 2024), pages 277–280.

Related resources:

The Works of George Swinnock (5 volumes, 2526 pages, clothbound)

The Works of George Swinnock, Volume 3 (source of today's excerpt from The Fading of the Flesh, a work contained in volumes 3 and 4 of Swinnock's Works)

Archibald Alexander, Thoughts on Religious Experience

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Dying in the Lord (1/3): Perspective

Mon, 07 Jul 2025 06:30:00 +0100

In this, the first of three episodes on the subject of dying in the Lord, we ask what the Bible teaches about death, and apply it to the case of the unbeliever and the believer.

Featured Resources:

- George Curry, Preparing Unbelievers for Death, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 317 (Ferbruary 1990).

- Excerpt from 'The Christian Man's Calling' in The Works of George Swinnock, Vol. 3 (1672; repr. Edinburgh: Banner of Truth, 1996), pages 84–86.

- Excerpt from 'The Christian Man's Calling' in The Works of George Swinnock, Vol. 3 (1672; repr. Edinburgh: Banner of Truth, 1996), page 46.

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Christ, the God of Christians

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 06:30:00 +0100

Meditating on the Lord Jesus Christ is a high privilege of the Christian. It strengthens his faith, deepens his love, and calibrates his hope. The Lord Jesus Christ is the One in whom we, by the power of the Spirit, see the glory of the Father.

This week we take time not to pursue another aspect of Christian living, or another profile from church history, but to think about 'God the only Son, who is at the Father’s side' (John 1:18).

Featured Resources:

- Excerpt from John Calvin, Institutes of the Christian Religion (1541), (Edinburgh: Banner of Truth, 2014).

- Charles Hodge, Christ, the God of Christians, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 590 (November 2012).

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The Revival of Religion

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 06:20:00 +0100

New this summer from the Banner of Truth is a unique collection of lectures on revival from nineteenth-century Scotland.

In this brief bonus episode, we read a portion of the Publisher's Introduction by Banner trustee Donald John MacLean to see just why this collection warrants republication today.

Read the entire Publisher's Introduction: https://banneroftruth.org/resources/book-excerpts/2025/the-revival-of-religion-publishers-introduction/

Buy your copy of Revival of Religion: https://banneroftruth.org/store/uncategorized/revival-of-religion/

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Bad Reasons to Become a Pastor

Mon, 16 Jun 2025 06:30:00 +0100

Pastoral ministry isn't for everyone. Indeed, it isn't for the many. 'Not many of you should become teachers, my brothers', writes James, 'for you know that we who teach will be judged with greater strictness' (James 3:1).

This week's readings spell out and explore some bad reasons for going into ministry, hopefully serving men considering the pastoral office, as well as those who advise and support them.

Featured Resources

– Rebecca Vandoodewaard, Five Bad Reasons to Go Into Ministry, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 698 (November 2021).

– Albert N. Martin, Wrong Reasons for Entering the Christian Ministry, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 208 (January 1981).

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George Whitefield

Mon, 09 Jun 2025 06:48:00 +0100

'He did not get up to talk about his party, his cause, his interest or his office', wrote J. C. Ryle of George Whitefield. 'He was perpetually telling you about your sins, your heart, Jesus Christ, the Holy Ghost, the absolute need of repentance, faith, and holiness, in the way that the Bible presents these mighty subjects.'

This week we turn our attention to a man who, by God's grace, became a means in the salvation of thousands of souls in the eighteenth century.

Featured Resources:

– David Campbell, 'George Whitefield: The Power of the Gospel', Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 699 (December 2021).

– Bob Thomas (collator, introduction), 'Encouragement from the Eighteenth Century: Extracts from Arnold Dallimore's Biography of George Whitefield', Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 737 (February 2025).

Resources on Whitefield:

Dallimore, Arnhold, George Whitefield: The Life and Times of the Great Evangelist of the 18th Century Revival (2 volumes, clothbound, 1232 pages, also available as single volumes)

Philip, Robert, The Life and Times of George Whitefield (paperback, 588 pages)

Vandoodewaard, Rebecca, The Man Who Preached Outside (board book)

Select Sermons of George Whitefield, With an Account of His Life by J. C. Ryle (paperback, 200 pages)

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Author Interview: W. Ross Blackburn

Mon, 02 Jun 2025 06:24:00 +0100

Last year the Trust published W. Ross Blackburn's Unveiling the Cross: Beholding and Proclaiming the Whole Christ. Ross has a background in Old Testament studies, has pastored in the ACNA (Anglican Church in North America) and has been involved for many years with the pro-life movement in the USA. We sat down with Ross and found out a bit more about his own backstory, and also his burden in Unveiling the Cross. We trust you'll enjoy the conversation.

Buy the Book:

Unveiling the Cross: Beholding and Proclaiming the Whole Christ

Online articles from W. Ross Blackburn:

- Down Syndrome Day? (Human Life Review)

'Have you ever wondered why we see so few children with Down Syndrome today compared with past generations?...' Read the article

- Keep Them From Idols: The Education of Children Takes Generations of Fidelity (Touchstone Magazine)

'Education is chiefly about God. If that sounds strange, it is because we have understood education to be a different endeavor than raising children to know God...'

Read the article.

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Thoughts on the Writing of History

Mon, 26 May 2025 06:30:00 +0100

There is no such thing as 'neutral' history. All history is written from a religious standpoint, reflecting either an awareness of and reverence for God and his purposes and dealings, or an ignorance of the same.

Towards the end of the twentieth century, some Christian historians reacted to 'providentialist' history, that is, history that gives place to God, and sought to deal in strictly naturalistic terms, explaining and conjecturing on the sole basis of biological, social, and economic forces. It was thought that only this approach could make the work of Christian historians appeal to those with no faith. This framework was even brought to bear to 'explain' revival movements and the success of preachers.

In 1994 Iain H. Murray engaged with such a group of scholars in a book review. His critique will continue to resonate while Christian scholars feel the need to operate according to a framework which allows no room for a free, sovereign God to work out his glorious purposes in the world.

We read Mr. Murray's review article this week, alongside the Foreword to his book Heroes, which sets forth some of the blessings history offers to the attentive believer.

Featured Resources

– Iain H. Murray, 'Explaining Evangelical History', Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 370 (July 1994).

– Iain H. Murray, Foreword to Heroes (Edinburgh: Banner of Truth, 2009, 2020), pages ix to xiii.

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When Charles Hodge Wrote to the Pope

Mon, 19 May 2025 06:30:00 +0100

In 1868 Pope Pius IX issued a call to those who, in his words, 'glory in the name of Christian, yet do not profess the true faith of Christ, nor hold to and follow the Communion of the Catholic Church.' He wanted them to submit to and join with the Catholic church, and hoped that the forthcoming First Vatican Council would catalyse this.

Grasping the need for a concise and clear response, grounded in the biblical teaching recovered by the Reformers, Princeton theologian Charles Hodge penned a letter on behalf of the two General Assemblies of the Presbyterian Church in the USA. His explanation of the non-attendance of Protestant clergy at 'Vatican I' is helpful to us as the Pope and the Catholic Church once again loom large in the headlines.

Featured Resources:

– Charles Hodge, 'Letter to Pope Pius IX', as re-published in the Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 415 (April 1998).

– W. Robert Godfrey, 'The Lutheran–Roman Catholic Joint Declaration', Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 436 (January 2000).

Materials Referenced:

Joint Declaration on the Doctrine of Justification: The Lutheran World Federation and the Roman Catholic Church

The Joint Declaration on the Doctrine of Justification in Confessional Lutheran Perspective (The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod)

Banner Resources on Justification:

Buchanan, James, The Doctrine of Justification (Clothbound, 520 pages)

Roberts, Maurice, Finding Peace with God: Justification Explained (Booklet, 40 pages)

Traill, Robert, Justification Vindicated (Puritan Paperback, 96 pages)

Venema, Cornelis P., Getting the Gospel Right: Assessing the Reformation and New Perspectives on Paul (Paperback, 112 pages)

Venema, Cornelis P., The Gospel of Free Acceptance in Christ: An Assessment of the Reformation and the New Perspective on Paul (Clothbound, 352 pages)

Banner Resources on Catholicism and its Claims:

Bennett, Richard, Catholicism: East of Eden (Catholicism for the 21st Century) (Paperback, 336 pages)

Bennett, Richard, Far from Rome Near to God: Testimonies of Fifty Converted Catholic Priests (Paperback, 360)

Pollitt, H. J., The Inter-Faith Movement: The New Age Enters the Church (Paperback, 224 pages)

Webster, William, Salvation, the Bible & Roman Catholicism (Paperback, 184 pages)

Webster, William, The Church of Rome at the Bar of History (Paperback, 256 pages)

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Persevering in Ministry

Mon, 12 May 2025 06:30:00 +0100

Weakness within and trials without. A constant battle against the World, the Flesh, and the Devil. This is the common lot of Christian believers in this life. This is the sober reality which ought to push us, each day, to apply for new supplies of the Holy Spirit's power for perseverance.

The life of the gospel minister fits this pattern, too, and if anything, the intensity of the battle is greater. Satan has a particular loathing for all members of Christ's body, but especially for its leaders.

This week we read two articles on different aspects of perseverance in ministry. They call us all—especially those of us in church office—to fresh vigilance and new earnestness, confident of the Lord's power and willingness to sustain us.

Featured Resources:

– Andrew Swanson, 'Causes and Cure of Spiritual Decline in the Minister's Life', Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 391 (April 1996).

– David N. Jones, 'Maintaining the Earnestness of our Ministry', Banner of Truth Magazine, Issues 239–240 (August–September 1983).

– Interview snippets with Gerard Hemmings and Keith Berry recorded at the UK Ministers' Conference 2025 ('A Lifetime in the Ministry')

Note: the dates for this year's US West Coast Ministers' Conference are October 21–23, 2025, and those for next year's UK Ministers' Conference are April 20–23, 2026. For more information, go to https://conferences.banneroftruth.org/

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The Paul Levy Interview (BONUS)

Mon, 05 May 2025 06:30:00 +0100

We had the joy of sitting down with Paul Levy who pastors International Presbyterian Church in Ealing, a thriving district of West London. Paul spoke to us about a range of topics, including the joys and challenges of church growth and how he prays for the children of his church to have a ‘boring testimony’, and he also recommends a couple of the Banner’s more obscure publications. We trust you’ll enjoy the conversation.

Revolution or Reformation?

Mon, 28 Apr 2025 06:30:00 +0100

This week we consider the Christian's relationship to revolution. In the first reading, we ask how the Christian is to relate to the 'spirit of Revolution' embodied in the French Revolution (a movement that is still with us, bearing fruit in our own politics and society). Towards the end of the episode we consider Francis Schaeffer and Samuel Rutherford in their arguments for civil resistance to ungodly authority. Is it right to oppose the humanistic revolutionary spirit, if necessary, by force? These and other questions are given attention in this episode of the Magazine Podcast.

Featured Resources:

– Jan Freeke, 'The Life and Work of Groen van Prinsterer', Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 430 (July 1999).

– D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones, 'The Christian and the State in Revolutionary Times', The Puritans: Their Origins and Successors (Edinburgh: Banner of Truth, 1987, 2024), pages 393–396.

– John Legg, 'The Christian and Revolution', Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 247 (April 1984).

Further Reading:

D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones, The Christian and the State in Revolutionary Times

A helpful, sustained treatment of issues around Church and State, the Christian and the State, civil disobedience, and other related subjects (including capital punishment, revolution, and pacifism) can be found in Dr. Martyn Lloyd Jones' treatment of Romans 13:1–7. This is published by the Trust in the Lloyd-Jones series as Volume 13: Life in Two Kingdoms and is also available freely in audio format from MLJ Trust.

About the Contributors:

Jan Freeke is a member of the Free Presbyterian Church of Scotland congregation in Glasgow.

D. M. Lloyd-Jones was the minister of Westminster Chapel, London, for 25 years and a noted evangelist and teacher. D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones author page.

John David Legg (1936–2023) ministered in North Yorkshire (Reeth Congregational Church and Northallerton Evangelical Church) and in Shropshire (Shrewsbury Evangelical Church). Read John's obituary here.

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Godly Precision: Remembering Professor Murray

Mon, 21 Apr 2025 06:30:00 +0100

John Murray was one of the outstanding Reformed theologians of the 1900s. Earnest and serious, he was also deeply affectionate and much beloved of his students and colleagues. On the 50th anniversary of his death in 1975 we take time to consider his life, theology, and legacy to us today.

Featured Resources:

– Excerpt from Iain Murray, 'John Murray: A Memorial with Tributes' in Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 143–4 (August/September 1975), Chapter 4, 'Glimpses of Work in the War Years', p. 45–49. N.B. Iain Murray's Life of John Murray (v. i.) represents an enlargement of this memorial with additional information.

– Tribute to Professor Murray by Geoffrey Thomas, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 143–4 (August/September 1975), p. 75–80.

– Murray, John, 'The Death of Christ' in The Collected Writings of John Murray: Volume 1, The Claims of Truth (Edinburgh: Banner of Truth Trust, 1976, 2024), p. 36–40.

Note:

Professor Murray's response to Geoff Thomas' question about whether the New Testament teaches that every Christian should witness for his Saviour:

'Later in the week he came to me after a lecture and gave me a piece of paper with these textual references written upon it: Acts 8:4; 18:26; 1 Cor. 1:5, 17; 1 Cor. 2:1–5; 1 Cor. 4:15; 1 Cor. 11:4, 5; 2 Cor. 3:8–12; compared with 1 Cor. 4:13; 2 Cor. 5:12, 18, 19; 2 Cor. 8:7; Eph. 4:15, 29; Eph. 5:11; Eph. 6:17; Phil. 1:14–18; 1 Thess. 1:8; Titus 2:3, 4; 1 Peter 3:15.'

Cover art: juxtaposition of a view of Loch Migdale, looking east towards Badbea (pron. 'Bad-bay'), and a picture of Professor Murray taken at a Banner of Truth ministers' conference in Leicester, c. 1965.

Further Reading:

Murray, Iain H., The Life of John Murray (Paperback, 240 pages)

Murray, John, Collected Writings of John Murray (4-volume clothbound set, 1224 pages)

— Volume 1: The Claims of Truth (Clothbound, 388 pages)

— Volume 2: Systematic Theology (Clothbound, 428 pages)

— Volume 3: Life, Sermons, Reviews (Clothbound, 404 pages)

— Volume 4: Studies in Theology (Clothbound, 400 pages)

Murray, John, The Free Offer of the Gospel (Booklet, 32 pages)

Murray, John, Redemption Accomplished and Applied (Paperback, 200 pages)

Digging Deeper:

Listen to Dr. Donald John Maclean's lecture on The Theological Method of John Murray (at Puritan Reformed Theological Seminary).

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A Holy Minister: Robert Murray M'Cheyne

Mon, 14 Apr 2025 06:25:00 +0100

Robert Murray M'Cheyne died at the age of 29. Yet his life continues to inspire the servants of Christ today, and his passion for holiness, and sincere godliness, stand as a testament to the grace of God made effective in an otherwise weak man.

This week we look at M'Cheyne from three angles, taking in the shape of his life, the character of his labours, and finally the special love he had for the Jewish people.

Featured Resources:

– David Campbell, 'Robert Murray M'Cheyne: The Beauty of Holiness', Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 700 (January 2022).

– Keith Walker, 'Robert Murray M'Cheyne: Saint and Preacher (2)', Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 247 (April 1984).

– Excerpt from Memoir and Remains of Robert Murray M'Cheyne (1844; repr. Edinburgh: Banner of Truth Trust, 2024), 'To Rev. R. Macdonald of Blairgowrie', from page 268.

Further Reading:

Andrew Bonar, Memoir and Remains of Robert Murray M'Cheyne (1844; repr. Edinburgh: Banner of Truth Trust, 2024). Clothbound, 664 pages.

Andrew Bonar, Robert Murray M'Cheyne (paperback edition of Bonar's Memoir as it appears in Memoir and Remains of Robert Murray M'Cheyne. Paperback, 192 pages.

Sermons of Robert Murray M'Cheyne. Paperback, 196 pages.

Old Testament Sermons of Robert Murray M'Cheyne. Clothbound, 183 pages.

New Testament Sermons of Robert Murray M'Cheyne. Clothbound, 321 pages.

Sermons on Hebrews, Robert Murray M'Cheyne. Clothbound, 198 pages.

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For the Tempted Christian

Mon, 07 Apr 2025 06:30:00 +0100

Christian believers will be tempted to sin. How are we to understand what goes on in temptation? Where is God when we are tempted? How do we lay hold of the resources to resist and come through these times of agony?

These and other crucial questions are considered in this week's episode.

Featured Resources:

– 'Lead Us Not Into Temptation', Sinclair B. Ferguson, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 145 (October 1975).

– Excerpt from William Bridge, A Lifting Up for the Downcast (1649; repr. Edinburgh: Banner of Truth Trust, 2024), Chapter 7, 'A Lifting Up in the Case of Temptation', p. 214–220.

Further Reading:

Bridge, William, A Lifting Up for the Downcast

Gurnall, William, The Christian in Complete Armour (single volume or abridged in three paperback volumes)

Owen, John, Temptation Resisted and Repulsed (abridged and made easy to read by Richard Rushing)

Owen, John, The Mortification of Sin (abridged and made easy to read by Richard Rushing)

Owen, John, Works, Volume 6: Sin and Temptation (includes full text of On the Mortification of Sin in Believers, Of Temptation, Indwelling Sin, and A Practical Exposition of Psalm 130)

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The Prince of Puritans: John Owen

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 06:35:00 +0100

Described as 'perhaps the greatest British theologian of all time', John Owen was far more than a theoretician. As a pastor-scholar, Owen showed that his great concern was to promote holiness in his hearers and readers, to the glory of God and their lasting joy. This week's episode constitutes an introduction to Owen and many of his chief works which, it is hoped, will be of help to those new to him, as well as to confirmed and seasoned appreciators of this humble, profound Christian teacher.

Featured Resources:

– 'John Owen: A Defeated Puritan?', Ian Hamilton, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 711 (December 2022).

– 'John Owen on Spiritual-Mindedness', J. I. Packer, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 620 (May 2015).

– 'Some Thoughts on Reading the Works of John Owen', Sinclair B. Ferguson, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 152 (May 1976).

– Three testimonies about reading John Owen, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 57 (June 1968).

From the Pen of Owen:

The Works of John Owen (Goold edition, 16 volumes). Please note each volume can be purchased separately.

Owen's Exposition of Hebrews (Goold edition, 7 volumes). Please note each volume can be purchased separately.

Apostasy from the Gospel: Nature and Causes (Puritan Paperback, 176 pages, abridged and made easy to read by R. J. K. Law)

Communion with God (Puritan Paperback, 224 pages, abridged and made easy to read by R. J. K. Law)

The Death of Death in the Death of Christ (Large paperback, 440 pages, introduction and analysis by J. I. Packer)

Duties of Christian Fellowship (Puritan Paperback, 96 pages, modernized)

The Glory of Christ (Puritan Paperback, 184 pages, abridged and made easy to read by R. J. K. Law)

Gospel Life (Puritan Paperback, 256 pages, modernized)

Gospel Ministry (Puritan Paperback, 208 pages, modernized)

The Holy Spirit (Puritan Paperback, 216 pages, abridged and made easy to read by R. J. K. Law)

Indwelling Sin in Believers (Puritan Paperback, 176 pages, abridged and made easy to read)

The Mortification of Sin (Puritan Paperback, 144 pages, abridged and made easy to read by Richard Rushing)

Searching Our Hearts in Difficult Times (Puritan Paperback, 160 pages, abridged and made easy to read)

The Spirit and the Church (Puritan Paperback, 208 pages, abridged and made easy to read by R. J. K. Law)

Temptation Resisted and Repulsed (Puritan Paperback, 128 pages, abridged and made easy to read by Richard Rushing)

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A Conversation with Geoff Thomas

Mon, 24 Mar 2025 06:30:00 +0000

We caught up with Geoff Thomas at the recent Banner Ministers' Conference in Staffordshire. Geoff, who ministered at Alfred Place Baptist Church for over fifty years, has been a faithful friend of the Banner of Truth Trust. It was a joy to talk with him about his varied associations with the Banner, his friendship with Iain Murray, preaching through Romans, and pastoral visitation, among other topics.

Geoff Thomas' Sermon Archive

Geoff's new book: Letters to my Grandson: On First Reading and Hearing Dr Martyn Lloyd-Jones (Day One)

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'He Showed Me All My Heart': David Dickson

Mon, 17 Mar 2025 06:30:00 +0000

David Dickson (1583–1663) was a living testimony to the grace of God in Christ. In bearing suffering (he was deprived of his living and exiled for a time), in counselling convicted sinners, in preaching, and in writing he demonstrated the gifts and graces of a true under-shepherd of Christ's flock. This week we explore some of the details of his life, and hear a contemporary appreciation of his value as a Christ-centred commentator on the Psalms from Christopher Ash.

Featured Resources:

– Excerpt from Faith Cook, Samuel Rutherford and His Friends (Edinburgh: Banner of Truth, 1992), pp. 73–81 in the 2013 reprint.

– 'A Personal Appreciation of David Dickson's Psalms Commentary (illustrated from Psalm 47)', Christopher Ash, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 691 (April 2021).

– 'David's Antidote to Fear', David Dickson, from his commentary on the Psalms, featured in the Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 614 (November 2014).

Further Reading:

Ash, Christopher, The Psalms: A Christ-Centred Commentary (Wheaton: Crossway, 2024). 4 Volumes.

Dickson, David, Psalms (1655; repr. Edinburgh: Banner of Truth, 1959).

Dickson, David, Truth's Victory Over Error: A Commentary on the Westminster Confession of Faith (1684; repr. Edinburgh: Banner of Truth, 2007).

David Dickson's Therapeutica Sacra, his guide to ministering to those with troubled consciences and questions concerning their standing with God, has been republished by Monergism Books in paperback and free epub versions.

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Revisiting Pastoral Visitation

Mon, 10 Mar 2025 06:30:00 +0000

The practice of pastoral visitation in homes has fallen on hard times. For many of our forefathers in the faith, however, it was deemed an essential part of ministry, enabling effective oversight of the souls of the people of God.

This week, we 'revisit' the area of pastoral visitation, although for many of us, it may be the first time we've considered the nature and benefits of this practice for ourselves and those we may serve in the church.

Featured Resources:

– 'Pastoral Visitation—A Needed Revival', James Howard Lynch, featured in the Banner of Truth Magazine, Issues 731–732 (August & September 2024).

– Excerpts from Charles Bridges, The Christian Ministry, with an Inquiry into the Causes of its Inefficiency (1850; repr. Edinburgh: Banner of Truth, 2018), pp. 344–360.

– Ian Hamilton audio taken from Pastoral Visitation

– Excerpts from 'The Directory for the Public Worship of God' in The Westminster Confession, with Associated Historical Documents (Edinburgh: Banner of Truth, 2023), pp. 562, 574.

The artwork featured with this week's episode is Richard Norris Brooke's 'A Pastoral Visit' (1881, Public Domain, now at the National Gallery of Art, Washington, D. C.)

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'Worthy Master Perkins'

Mon, 03 Mar 2025 06:30:00 +0000

William Perkins, like Laurence Chaderton, was a Puritan of the Elizabethan age. As such, he lived before that golden generation of Puritans in which the likes of Flavel, Goodwin, Owen and Baxter ministered.

He was part of a pioneering generation that set to work applying the newly-recovered doctrines of the Reformation in the English context. Although he died at the age of 44, Perkins—a 'man of parts', as the Puritans might have said—would make contributions as a preacher, pastoral counsellor, theologian, and commentator that have stood the test of time.

Featured Resources:

– 'Art of Prophesying: William Perkins' Famous Book Reprinted', Sinclair B. Ferguson, featured in the Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 389 (February 1996).

– 'Perkins: Father of English Commentators', Edward J. Malcolm, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 462 (March 2002).

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Let's Study Romans, with Sinclair B. Ferguson

Mon, 24 Feb 2025 06:11:00 +0000

This week's episode is a little different, as we bring you a conversation with a great friend of the Banner, Dr Sinclair B. Ferguson, ahead of the release of his latest contribution to the Let's Study series: Let's Study Romans.

We asked him about his own history with the Letter to the Romans, advice for pastors and preachers seeking to teach and preach the book, and what his hopes are as this new volume goes out to readers.

Buy Let's Study Romans

Two hymns by James Montgomery Boice, inspired by Romans 8:

Hallelujah! (What can separate my soul...)

How Marvelous, How Wise, How Great

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The UK's Church History: A Banner Itinerary (BONUS)

Mon, 17 Feb 2025 06:30:00 +0000

The United Kingdom has a rich Christian heritage, a standing testimony to the Lord's saving mercy and transforming grace. How can visitors to the UK trace some of these movements of God's Spirit? What if the Banner were to put together a suggested itinerary?

Interestingly, the Banner did—back in 1978!—and it still makes for interesting and useful reading. We bring it to you this week as a podcast bonus, and also hear from Ben Virgo (Christian Heritage London), Jo Pinfield (Christian Heritage Cambridge) and Paul James-Griffiths (Christian Heritage Edinburgh) about the work they are doing today to share what the Lord has done in the UK.

N.B. At the time of podcast release, the address of The Evangelical Library is 5/6 Gateway Mews, London, N11 2UT.

The College Master: Laurence Chaderton

Mon, 10 Feb 2025 06:30:00 +0000

Many Puritans, even leading Puritans, did not proffer much for publication and thus remain little known today. One such (relatively) unpublished leader of the Puritan movement during the reigns of Elizabeth I and James I was Laurence Chaderton (1536–1640). A gifted preacher, college Master, and Bible translator, his life and legacy repay careful attention.

God's Intriguing Timeframes (BONUS)

Mon, 03 Feb 2025 06:11:00 +0000

In this short, encouraging meditation, David Campbell reminds us that the Lord is sovereign over all of our days, and that it may be in our latter years that we discover new avenues of fruitfulness for Christ's kingdom.

Lloyd-Jones: His Letters and Books

Mon, 27 Jan 2025 06:30:00 +0000

Tarry any length of time with evangelical and Reformed Christians, and one is likely to hear the name of Martyn Lloyd-Jones. ‘The Doctor’ as he was affectionately known, had a ministry that was used by God in a quite unique way in the mid to late twentieth century.

This week’s articles provide a stimulus to engage with Lloyd-Jones through two distinct types of media: his letters and his books. Jeremy Brooks highlights the value of the volume of Letters published by the Banner in 1994 for our understanding of the Doctor, and Iain H. Murray offers a guide to Lloyd-Jones’ book output, with suggestions as to which volumes readers ought to prioritise.

Whether you’ve benefitted from Lloyd-Jones for years, or have just discovered him, these articles will provide valuable insights and encouragement to read the work of a wonderful servant of Christ.

The Seafarer's Friend: John Flavel

Mon, 20 Jan 2025 06:30:00 +0000

The second instalment of our Puritan mini-series looks at John Flavel, the great evangelist and pastor-theologian of Devon, in England's southwest. A man who knew the Lord's blessing as a disciple, an evangelist, a pastor, and a writer, he also knew great hardship and government-sanctioned opposition.

See map of Devon (the county where Flavel ministered).

Featured Resources:

– 'John Flavel', presumed to be by Iain H. Murray, featured in the Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 60 (September 1968).

– 'The Character of a Complete Evangelical Pastor Drawn by Christ', John Flavel, sermon notes featured in the Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 8 (August 1957).

Works by Flavel

All Things Made New: Living the Christian Life (Portions selected and edited by Lewis Allen, Puritan Paperbacks, 320 pages)

Binge Drinking (Pocket Puritans, 80 pages)

Facing Grief: Counsel for Mourners (Puritan Paperbacks, 136 pages)

Impure Lust (Pocket Puritans, 80 pages)

The Mystery of Providence (Puritan Paperbacks, 224 pages)

None But Jesus: Selections from the Writings of John Flavel (Pocket Puritans, 176 pages)

Preparations for Sufferings (Puritan Paperbacks, 176 pages)

Sinful Speech: Sins of the Tongue (Pocket Puritans, 96 pages)

The Works of John Flavel (6 Clothbound volumes, 3667 pages)

Second clip from Sinclair Ferguson used with the permission of Puritan Reformed Theological Seminary.

Original Clip: I've never read any Puritan books, where should I start?

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C. H. Spurgeon: The Ministry the Churches Need

Mon, 13 Jan 2025 06:30:00 +0000

In May of 1871, Charles Haddon Spurgeon contributed an article to The Sword and Trowel on the kind of ministry, and the kind of minister, needed by the churches, and how such ministers might be raised up.

Spurgeon's blend of sanctified common sense and discerning, even wry commentary on trends current in his own day will, it is hoped, stimulate thought on the sort of ministry the Scriptures encourage us to pursue and foster.

Two Northern Stalwarts: Thomas Jolley and Oliver Heywood

Mon, 06 Jan 2025 06:30:00 +0000

The Puritans were a diverse group of evangelically-minded, confessionally reformed pastors of the seventeenth century whose great priority was to glorify God in their personal lives, in their families, and in the churches they served.

This week we introduce two lesser-known Puritans from the north of England, Thomas Jolley (or Jollie) and Oliver Heywood, along with some of their brethren. In the crucible of affliction, these men proved the faithfulness of God to those who labour in His harvest fields, even when the harvest is hampered by temptations within and trials without.

Pursuing Family Piety

Mon, 30 Dec 2024 06:30:00 +0000

'Religion was first hatched in families', wrote Thomas Manton, 'and there the devil seeketh to crush it.'

It behoves us, then, as believers, to be watchful, and to guard the spiritual vitality of our families.

This week's podcast episode is an extended encouragement to all fathers and mothers to pursue family piety.

Featured Resources:

– 'Epistle to the Reader' by Thomas Manton, found in The Westminster Confession and Associated Historical Documents (Edinburgh: Banner of Truth, 2018).

– 'Letter to Pastors Regarding Family Worship', article by Dr. Joel R. Beeke, featured in the Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 582 (March 2012).

– 'Family Worship', excerpt from sermon by J. H. Merle D'Aubigne, featured in the Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 582 (March 2012).

– Excerpts from Chapter IV of The Lives of Philip and Matthew Henry (Edinburgh: Banner of Truth, 1974). This title is currently out of print.

Letters of a Longing Father

Mon, 23 Dec 2024 06:30:00 +0000

The hearts of Christian parents should long for the salvation of their children.

This week, we read J Gary Aitken's digest of some of the letters of James Henley Thornwell (1812–1862). These touching letters manifest Thornwell's watchful concern for his children's eternal happiness, encouraging and challenging believing parents today.

An Apology for The Pilgrim's Progress

Mon, 16 Dec 2024 06:30:00 +0000

'This book will make a traveller of thee...'

So begins John Bunyan's classic The Pilgrim's Progress. Many Christians of the past four centuries would testify that it is indeed a book to stir up the heavenbound pilgrim – offering encouragement, challenge, warning, and hope to the man, woman, or child, who desires to attain to the life to come.

But the book has its critics, even prominent ones, and can be a challenging read for modern Christians. With this in mind, we read John Muether's commendation of Bunyan's classic, and an excerpt from the Trust's recent paperback edition of C. H. Spurgeon's Pictures from Pilgrim's Progress.

Featured Content:

– 'Why Evangelicals Don't Read Pilgrim's Progress (and Why They Should)', John Muether, originally published in a Reformed Theological Seminary publication. This was featured on the Banner website on Nov. 2, 2003:

https://banneroftruth.org/resources/articles/2003/why-evangelicals-dont-read-pilgrims-progress-and-why-they-should/

– C. H. Spurgeon, Pictures from Pilgrim's Progress (Edinburgh: Banner of Truth, 2024), pp. 145–153.

About the Contributors:

John R. Muether joined Reformed Theological Seminary-Orlando as Library Director in 1989. Mr. Muether also serves as Professor of Church History, teaching core courses on education in the church, Christian engagement with culture and church government as well as elective courses on various topics.

Mr. John R. Muether's faculty page: https://rts.edu/people/mr-john-r-muether/

C. H. Spurgeon was, for most of the second half of the 19th century, England’s best-known preacher, becoming converted to Christianity at the age of 15 in 1850. During the 1850s, London’s largest halls overflowed with people wanting to hear this youthful minister preach. During the 1860s, he founded the Metropolitan Tabernacle, along with a college for pastors and an orphanage, and he was already publishing sermons and a monthly magazine. He authored many books, with some of the most popular Charles Spurgeon books including Flowers From a Puritan’s Garden with its inspiring illustrations and meditations; A Defence of Calvinism, where Spurgeon explains and defends Biblical teachings about God’s grace in the Gospels; and the C.H. Spurgeon Autobiography, volumes 1 and 2. Volume 1 is subtitled “The Early Years,” while Volume 2 is “The Full Harvest 1860-1892.” The C.H. Spurgeon Autobiography is also available as a two-volume set.

Buy Pictures from Pilgrim's Progress:

https://banneroftruth.org/store/theology-books/pictures-from-pilgrims-progress/

Explore the work of the Banner of Truth: www.banneroftruth.org

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Suffering Times are Gaining Times

Mon, 09 Dec 2024 06:30:00 +0000

Many are the paradoxes of the Christian life. One such paradox is that it is often in times of suffering that we gain the most, from a spiritual standpoint. As we stand at the gate of the year, we must prepare ourselves for suffering. We have been told to expect it as a built-in feature of the heavenward life. Such preparation is an exercise of faith, as we trust that God is able to turn the worst circumstances to our good. This week's articles help us in this effort.

Featured Content:

– Excerpt from a sermon by William Bridge, featured as 'Faith in Suffering Times' in the Banner of Truth Magazine, Issues 70–71 (July–August 1969).

– 'Abounding Hope', Letter by John Welsh, January 6, 1606, featured in the Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 171 (December 1977).

Explore the work of the Banner of Truth: www.banneroftruth.org

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The Loss of a Child: Peter Barnes Interview

Mon, 02 Dec 2024 06:30:00 +0000

There are few, if any, earthly sorrows like the loss of a child.

In Pain of a Particular Kind, Peter Barnes draws on his own experience to help parents (and grandparents) who have suffered such a loss.

As he says in the Introduction, ‘This is not a work of apologetics, but a brief attempt to understand and work through grief, for myself, my family, and for any other readers. It has only heightened the sense of my own need to receive comfort myself. Such comfort can only come from the God who is our creator and our redeemer. The hope remains that God will use this book to minister to and bless any of his people who have suffered the agony of losing a child.’

Peter Barnes is the retired minister of Revesby Presbyterian Church, New South Wales, Australia. He written a number of books, including 'Abortion: Open Your Mouth for the Dumb' and 'John Calvin: Man of God's Word Written and Preached' with the Banner.

Buy Pain of a Particular Kind: The Loss of a Child (Small paperback, 88 pages), or sign up for Waitlist - expected in the UK in early January:

https://banneroftruth.org/store/christian-living/pain-of-a-particular-kind/

Explore the work of the Banner of Truth: www.banneroftruth.org

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Pressing On, Finishing Well

Mon, 25 Nov 2024 06:30:00 +0000

As 2024 draws to a close, we present a brief round-up of some of the most popular episodes of the first 12 months of the Magazine Podcast. We then read W. J. Grier's account of the last months of John Calvin's life, an appropriate 'bookend' counterbalancing the account of Calvin's early ministry in our episode 'Calvin in France'. We finish with a stirring meditation for a new year, also by W. J. Grier.

Featured Content:

– Excerpt from W. J. Grier, 'The Life of John Calvin', (Edinburgh: Banner of Truth, 2012), featured in the Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 567, December 2010.

– 'On Toward the Goal: A Meditation for the New Year by the Late W. J. Grier', Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 244 (January 1984).

About the Contributor:

W. J. Grier came to Christ while studying Classics at Queen's University, Belfast, through the witness of a Christian student friend and in a W. P. Nicholson mission meeting.

He was a trustee of the Banner of Truth Trust, co-chairman of the Leicester Ministers’ Conference, a founding member of the British Evangelical Council (now Affinity), and served on committees of the Evangelical Fellowship of Ireland and the Evangelical Library in Belfast. He was a well-known and enormously respected leader throughout the international Reformed constituency.

He retired in 1979 after a ministry of almost fifty-two years and went to be with the Lord on 6 August 1983. He was the author of many booklets, articles, tracts, Daily Readings and Calendar Notes, including The Momentous Event and The Life of John Calvin, published by the Trust.

Listen to 'Calvin in France': https://bannermagazine.podbean.com/e/calvin-in-france/

Buy The Life of John Calvin by W. J. Grier: https://banneroftruth.org/store/history-biography/the-life-of-john-calvin/

Explore the work of the Banner of Truth: www.banneroftruth.org

Subscribe to the Magazine (print/digital/both): www.banneroftruth.org/magazine

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The Incarnation of the Son of God

Mon, 18 Nov 2024 06:33:00 +0000

The incarnation is the central event of our faith, making possible the consummation of the New Covenant in the saving death, burial, resurrection, and ascension of the Lord Jesus Christ.

It is utterly unique, and, as made clear in this week's first piece, utterly incongruous with anything else in history, or in our experience. It is, then, to be an object of our contemplation and a stimulus to our worship of the Triune God: Father, Spirit, and incarnate Son.

Featured Content:

– 'An Incongruous Incarnation', Peter Sanlon, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 675 (December 2019).

– Excerpt from Sinclair B. Ferguson and Derek Thomas, 'Icthus: Jesus Christ, God's Son, the Saviour', (Edinburgh: Banner of Truth, 2015).

About the Contributors:

Peter Sanlon has served as a minister in Tunbridge Wells since 2013. In previous years he has taught at Union School of Theology and Oak Hill Theological College. Today he trains presbyterian ministers via Westminster Seminary. His published books include 'Simply God' (IVP) and 'Augustine's Theology of Preaching' (Fortress).

Sinclair Ferguson has authored several books published by the Trust, of which he is a trustee, and a former editor. He retains his position as Professor of Systematic Theology at Redeemer Seminary, Dallas, Texas, and serves as a Teaching Fellow with Ligonier Ministries. He continues to preach God’s Word in churches and at conferences.

Derek Thomas, a native of Wales, is the Chancellor’s Professor of Systematic and Pastoral Theology at Reformed Theological Seminary and also serves as Senior Minister at First Presbyterian Church (ARP) in Columbia, South Carolina.

Buy Ichthus: Jesus Christ, God's Son, the Saviour: https://banneroftruth.org/store/christian-living/ichthus/

Explore the work of the Banner of Truth: www.banneroftruth.org

Subscribe to the Magazine (print/digital/both): www.banneroftruth.org/magazine

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Precious, but Flawed

Mon, 11 Nov 2024 06:30:00 +0000

What are we to make of a book that has evidently been a blessing to many, contains truths vital for the church to recover, and which is yet unbalanced and problematic at points? Jeremy Walker shows the way with grace and discernment in his review of Dane Ortlund's Gentle and Lowly (2020).

We read Jeremy's review, and then spend a little more time with Thomas Goodwin and his view of the heart of Christ.

Featured Content:

– Jeremy Walker 'Precious but Flawed: A Review Article', Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 691 (April 2021).

– Excerpt from Michael Reeves, 'Goodwin, Sibbes and the Love of Christ', Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 578 (November 2011).

About the Contributors:

Jeremy Walker is pastor at Maidenbower Baptist Church, Crawley, West Sussex. He is the author of a number of books, including Our Chief of Days: The Principle, Purpose, and Practice of the Lord's Day.

Michael Reeves is President and Professor of Theology at Union Theology (https://uniontheology.org/)

Explore the work of the Banner of Truth: www.banneroftruth.org

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Burial or Cremation?

Mon, 04 Nov 2024 06:14:00 +0000

How should the bodies of deceased believers be treated? Are burial and cremation equally valid for Christians? Do the Scriptures speak to the issue at all, or is it merely a matter of preference?

These questions are all addressed by this week's featured article, by S. M. Houghton.

Featured Content:

– 'Earth to Earth', S. M. Houghton, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issues 70-71, July-August 1969.

– Excerpt from Banner's booklet 'Burial or Cremation: Does it Matter?' by Donald Howard (Edinburgh: Banner of Truth, 2001, recent edition ), pages 20-21.

S. M. Houghton was chief literary and editorial advisor to the Banner of Truth Trust from 1960 to 1987. His reminiscences are published in 'My Life and Books'.

Buy S. M. Houghton, My Life and Books: https://banneroftruth.org/store/history-biography/my-life-and-books/

Donald Howard is the retired minister of St. Peter's Church of England, Sydney, Australia. After experience in agriculture, The Royal Australian Air Force, and journalism, Donald Howard studied Theology at Moore College, Sydney and then served for many years in the pastoral ministry. While at St. Peter’s, his first wife, Diana, died of cancer at the age of forty-six in 1977, which occasioned the writing of his booklet Christians Grieve Too.

The Banner also publishes a booklet by Donald Howard, Burial or Cremation: Does it Matter?:

https://banneroftruth.org/store/christian-living/burial-or-cremation/

Explore the work of the Banner of Truth: www.banneroftruth.org

Subscribe to the Magazine (print/digital/both): www.banneroftruth.org/magazine

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James Gilmour of Mongolia (BONUS)

Mon, 28 Oct 2024 06:30:00 +0000

James Gilmour (b. 1843) laboured in Mongolia, seeing precious little external fruit in the form of conversions. He continued on, serving his Lord Jesus in trying and discouraging circumstances. In this historical address from the 2023 UK Borders Conference, David Campbell introduces us to Gilmour, a true stalwart of the faith, who laid down his life in service to the Mongols and for their salvation.

His testimony is a wonderful reminder that the Lord is often at work even when our best efforts seem to yield little in the way of tangible 'success'.

David Campbell is minister of North Preston Evangelical Church, Lancashire.

Explore the work of the Banner of Truth: www.banneroftruth.org

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Of Controversy

Mon, 21 Oct 2024 06:30:00 +0100

When is controversy justified? When is it not? How ought it to be conducted? When ought it to be refused?

These are questions of particular importance for Christians in an argumentative and distracted age, such as ours. The three selections we read this week go some way towards helping us answer them.

Featured Content:

– Excerpt from 'The Benefits and Dangers of Controversy' in Evangelical Holiness and Other Addresses, by Iain H. Murray (Edinburgh: Banner of Truth, 2013), pages 119–130.

– Selection from a sermon by Dan Peters given at the 2024 Banner Borders Conference, 'Blessed are the Peacemakers, Part II'.

– 'William Cunningham–Humble Controversialist', David Campbell, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 690, March 2021.

About the Contributors:

Iain H. Murray is one of the founders of the Banner of Truth Trust. His books published with Banner include Jonathan Edwards: A New Biography (1987), Revival and Revivalism: The Making and Marring of American Evangelicalism 1750–1858 (1994), and Amy Carmichael: Beauty for Ashes (2015).

Dan Peters is minister at Newcastle Reformed Evangelical Church and is the author of Distinct Communion: The Believer's Relations with Father, Son, and Holy Spirit (Christian Focus Publications, 2024).

David Campbell is minister at North Preston Evangelical Church, a trustee of the Banner of Truth Trust, and author of Sanctification: Transformed Life (Banner Mini-Guides).

Buy Iain H. Murray, Evangelical Holiness and Other Addresses (Paperback, 2011):

https://banneroftruth.org/store/christian-living/evangelical-holiness/

Explore the work of the Banner of Truth: www.banneroftruth.org

Subscribe to the Magazine (print/digital/both): www.banneroftruth.org/magazine

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Growth, Grumbling, and Gospel Unity

Mon, 14 Oct 2024 06:30:00 +0100

We are by nature grumblers and malcontents. We take offence easily, and become critical when our desires and expectations are disappointed. Paul Levy, in this week's main article, helps us to see that these tendencies aren't mere quirks, or 'weaknesses', but sins of great consequence in the church of God. Moreover, they are sins to which we are often tempted at times of great growth and kingdom advance.

Through a discussion of the beginning of Acts 6, he helps us see how this dynamic was negotiated by the apostles, and how we can take evasive action against it today.

Featured Content:

– 'The Gospel, Grumbling, and Growth', Paul Levy, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 735, December 2024.

– Excerpt from United We Stand (Pocket Puritans), by Thomas Brooks (Edinburgh: Banner of Truth Trust, 2009). United We Stand is sourced from Brooks' Precious Remedies Against Satan's Devices (Puritan Paperbacks).

Buy United We Stand: https://banneroftruth.org/store/church-ministry/united-we-stand/

Buy Precious Remedies Against Satan's Devices: https://banneroftruth.org/store/christian-living/precious-remedies-against-satans-devices/

About the Contributors:

Paul Levy is ministry of International Presbyterian Church in Ealing, London. He writes at https://ealinglevy.wordpress.com/

Thomas Brooks was a Puritan gospel minister. The scant amount of information known about him comes largely from his writing. Born in 1608, he entered Emmanuel College, Cambridge in 1625. He spent several years at sea, perhaps as chaplain, and was licensed as a preacher by 1640. After England’s Civil War, Brooks served as pastor of London’s Thomas Apostle; in 1648, he preached before the House of Commons. He later became the subject of controversy when he refused baptism and the Lord’s Supper to people that weren’t walking faithfully with the Lord. Thomas Brooks books include a six-volume set titled The Works of Thomas Brooks, with each book also available individually. Other books include Precious Remedies Against Satan’s Devices (written to help people resist Satan’s seductive power), The Secret Key to Heaven ( which emphasizes the importance of private prayer) and Heaven on Earth, which reminds people there is no greater privilege than to be a child of God.

Explore the work of the Banner of Truth: www.banneroftruth.org

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The Bonar Brothers (3/3): Andrew

Mon, 07 Oct 2024 06:56:00 +0100

The third and final instalment of our mini-series on the three Bonar brothers who became ministers of the gospel in 19th-century Scotland. This week we consider the life of the youngest, Andrew Bonar, who ministered principally in Collace, Perthshire, and in Glasgow.

We consider the graces and gifts, weaknesses and witness of this humble, happy servant of Christ.

Featured Content:

– 'Andrew Bonar and Fellowship with Christ', Iain H. Murray, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 567, December 2010.

– 'Andrew A. Bonar—The Youngest of the Three Bonar Brothers', David Campbell, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 723, December 2023.

– 'I Heard the Voice of Jesus Say', a hymn of Horatius Bonar (public domain).

Featured Hymn: 'I Heard the Voice of Jesus Say'

I heard the voice of Jesus say,
“Come unto Me and rest;
Lay down, thou weary one, lay down
Thy head upon My breast.”
I came to Jesus as I was,
Weary, and worn, and sad;
I found in Him a resting-place,
And He has made me glad.

I heard the voice of Jesus say,
“Behold, I freely give
The living water; thirsty one,
Stoop down and drink, and live.”
I came to Jesus, and I drank
Of that life-giving stream;
My thirst was quenched, my soul revived,
And now I live in Him.

I heard the voice of Jesus say,
“I am this dark world’s Light;
Look unto Me, thy morn shall rise,
And all thy day be bright.”
I looked to Jesus, and I found
In Him my Star, my Sun;
And in that light of life I’ll walk
Till travelling days are done.

Amen.

We are grateful to Mr. Jack Adair for singing this hymn.

Explore the work of the Banner of Truth: www.banneroftruth.org

Subscribe to the Magazine (print/digital/both): www.banneroftruth.org/magazine

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The Bonar Brothers (2/3): Horatius

Mon, 23 Sep 2024 06:30:00 +0100

The second of three episodes inspired by David Campbell's mini-series on three remarkable brothers who ministered in 19th Century Scotland.

This week we consider Horatius Bonar (1808–1889), pastor, author, and hymnwriter. We read David Campbell's article on him, an excerpt from Iain H. Murray, and then read a piece by Bonar himself critiquing the idea of 'religion without theology'. We close with a rendition of Bonar's hymn, Everlasting Light.

Featured Content:

– 'Horatius Bonar—The second of the three Bonar brothers', David Campbell, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 722, November 2023.

– Excerpt from 'Horatius Bonar (1808–1889) and his Writings', Iain H. Murray, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 314, November 1989.

– 'Religion Without Theology' (taken from the preface of Catechisms of the Scottish Reformation, edited by Horatius Bonar, London 1866), featured in the Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 93, June 1971.

– 'Everlasting Life', a hymn of Horatius Bonar (public domain).

Featured Hymn: Everlasting Light

1 O everlasting Light!
Shine graciously within;
Brightest of all on earth that's bright,
Come, shine away my sin.

2 O everlasting Truth!
Truest of all that's true;
Sure guide of erring age or youth,
Lead me, and teach me too.

3 O everlasting Strength!
Uphold me in the way;
Bring me, in spite of foes, at length
To joy, and light, and day.

4 O everlasting Love;
Wellspring of grace and peace,
Pour down Thy fullness from above,
Bid doubt, and trouble cease.

5 O everlasting Rest!
Lift off life's load of care;
Relieve, revive this burdened breast,
And ev'ry sorrow bear.

7 Thou art in heav'n our all;
Our all on earth art Thou;
Upon Thy glorious name we call:
Lord Jesus, bless us now.

We are grateful to Mr. Jack Adair for singing this hymn.

Explore the work of the Banner of Truth: www.banneroftruth.org

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The Chad Van Dixhoorn Interview (BONUS)

Mon, 16 Sep 2024 06:41:00 +0100

Dr Chad Van Dixhoorn has spent many years researching and teaching the theology of the Westminster Standards (comprising the Confession of Faith, with the Larger and Shorter catechisms). We sat down with him to learn more about the standards and the 'Assembly of Divines' that produced them, as well as asking him about his own upbringing in Canada, his conversion, and work. We finished by discussing his own exposition of the Westminster Confession of Faith, 'Confessing the Faith', published 10 years ago by the Trust.

More about the Westminster Standards: https://westminsterassembly.org/about-the-project/

More about Dr Van Dixhoorn: https://rts.edu/people/dr-chad-van-dixhoorn/

Buy the Westminster Standards: https://banneroftruth.org/uk/store/theology/westminster-confession/

Buy 'Confessing the Faith': https://banneroftruth.org/uk/store/theology/confessing-the-faith/

Buy the Study Guide for 'Confessing the Faith': https://banneroftruth.org/uk/store/theology/confessing-the-faith-study-guide/

Related video: 'What are Confessions?' with Jeremy Walker: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZcqSub_gtrU&t=13s

Explore the work of the Banner of Truth: www.banneroftruth.org

Subscribe to the Magazine (print/digital/both): www.banneroftruth.org/magazine

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The High Calling of Motherhood

Mon, 09 Sep 2024 06:30:00 +0100

Motherhood is a precious and unique gift of God. Yet faithful motherhood has perhaps never been under such sustained and serious attack as is it now. In such a context, Christians need to recover a respect for mothers and motherhood that reveals the Lord's goodness to a faithless world.

In this episode we consider the calling of a mother, and the beauty and necessity of her God-given role.

Featured Content:

– Her Husband's Crown: A Wife's Ministry and a Minister's Wife, Sara Leone, (Edinburgh, Banner of Truth, 2007, rep. 2021). Booklet, 55 pages (excerpt read from pages 10–15).

– 'A Mother's Work', article by Rebecca Vandoodewaard (originally published on her blog, now unavailable, and appearing at The Aquila Report: https://theaquilareport.com/a-mothers-work/). Used by permission.

– Excerpt from A Father's Gift: Lessons from Proverbs, by Kenneth B. Wingate (Edinburgh: Banner of Truth, 2009), pages 155-163.

Explore the work of the Banner of Truth: www.banneroftruth.org

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The Bonar Brothers (1/3): John James

Mon, 02 Sep 2024 06:30:00 +0100

The first of three episodes inspired by David Campbell's mini-series on three remarkable brothers who ministered in 19th Century Scotland.

This week we consider the life, ministry, and faithfulness of John James Bonar. Not as well known as his brothers Horatius and Andrew, his ministry unveils a steady commitment to parish ministry that eshewed distraction and worldly ambition.

Featured Content:

– 'John James Bonar—The eldest of the three Bonar brothers', David Campbell, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 721, October 2023.

– Excerpt from A Scottish Christian Heritage, by Iain H. Murray (Edinburgh: Banner of Truth, 2006), pages 160-161.

Purchase: https://banneroftruth.org/store/history-biography/a-scottish-christian-heritage/

– 'Going Home', a hymn of Dr. John James Bonar, which appears in the Parting Memorial of John James Bonar, D. D., First Minister of Saint Andrew's Parish and Congregation, Greenock, Being some Record of Services in Connection with his Funeral (Greenock: James MacKelvie & Sons, 1892).

'Going Home'

'I'm going home!' the Saint exclaimed;

Bright grew his closing eye;

He thought of Jesus and his rest,

And did not fear to die.

'I'm going home! I'm winged for flight

To yonder peaceful clime;

Prepared to go, I only wait

My God's appointed time.

I'm going home, to dwell with Him

Who bled and died for me;

For He hath said that where He is

There shall His servants be.

'I'm going home, transporting thought!

Lord Jesus, quickly come,

And bear my ransomed soul away

To her celestial home!'

'I'm going home!' the Saint exclaimed;

Bright grew his closing eye;

He thought of Jesus and his rest,

And did not fear to die.

We are grateful to Mr. Jack Adair for singing this hymn. The featured tune is 'Wallace'.

Explore the work of the Banner of Truth: www.banneroftruth.org

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Loving the Confessions

Mon, 26 Aug 2024 06:30:00 +0100

Confessions of faith, such as the Westminster Confession of 1646, play a celebrated role in Reformed, evangelical Christianity. This week we consider the value of such documents, and the way in which they often result from a period of pressure or crisis, which leads God's people to give fresh expression to their faith, in order to assist believers in its defense and propagation, and their unity in the truth.

Featured Content:

– 'Loving the Westminster Confession and Catechisms', David B. Calhoun, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 651, December 2017.

– Excerpt from B. B. Warfield, 'The Significance of the Westminster Standards as a Creed' in Princeton and the Christian Ministry, volume 2, pages 457—459 (Edinburgh: Banner of Truth Trust, 2012).

– 'Confessions and Crises in Church History', John R. De Witt, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 50, September/October 1967.

Explore the work of the Banner: www.banneroftruth.org

Subscribe to the magazine (print/digital/both): www.banneroftruth.org/magazine

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The Andy Murray Interview

Mon, 19 Aug 2024 06:30:00 +0100

Andy Murray is a social worker and church deacon who blogs about leadership, the church, and the 19th Century Scottish gospel minister Thomas Guthrie, among other subjects. We sat down with Andy and talked about some of his passions, including the reunion, in the churches, of gospel passion and concern for the poor. We also asked him how the Highland game of shinty is played.

Resources Mentioned:

– https://thomasguthrie.org/ (includes a link to Andy's booklet, A Mission of Mercy: The Life and Legacy of Thomas Guthrie)

– http://raggedtheology.blogspot.com/

– 'Thomas Guthrie and the Ragged Schools', previous podcast episode:

https://bannermagazine.podbean.com/e/he-was-all-the-father-i-ever-knew-thomas-guthrie-and-the-ragged-schools/

Explore the work of the Banner: www.banneroftruth.org

Subscribe to the magazine (print/digital/both): www.banneroftruth.org/magazine

Leave us a voice message: www.speakpipe.com/magazinepodcast

The Threefold Division of the Law

Mon, 12 Aug 2024 06:38:00 +0100

How should we think of the Law of God? Is it all one, or are there distinctions to be made between different subdivisions of law? How does the way we think of the Law shape our Christian lives?

These fundamentally important questions, and others, are addressed in this week's episode, with the help of Maurice Roberts and Samuel Bolton.

Featured Content:

– 'Three Forms of Law', Maurice J. Roberts, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 519, December 2006.

– Excerpt from The True Bounds of Christian Freedom, by Samuel Bolton (First pub. 1645; first Banner edition 1964; latest Banner of Truth edition: 2024), pages 51–53.

Purchase: https://banneroftruth.org/us/store/christian-living/the-true-bounds-of-christian-freedom/

Explore the work of the Banner: www.banneroftruth.org

Subscribe to the magazine (print/digital/both): www.banneroftruth.org/magazine

Leave us a voice message: www.speakpipe.com/magazinepodcast

Thomas Guthrie and the Ragged Schools

Mon, 05 Aug 2024 06:30:00 +0100

Thomas Guthrie lived to share the truth and love of the Lord Jesus Christ. Living through a time of spiritual challenge and social transformation, he had eyes to see the poorest of the poor, a heart to care for them, and the organisational flare to set up a 'Ragged School'. Far from being the outworking of a 'social gospel', Guthrie's work was animated by a genuine love for these at-risk children, expressed supremely in teaching them the Scriptures, by which they could be made wise unto salvation through Jesus Christ. This week's episode introduces this remarkable man, and some of the ways in which he became a channel of God's grace to the most vulnerable.

Featured Content:

– 'Thomas Guthrie: Preacher and Philanthropist', Andrew Murray, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 597, June 2013.

– Quotes sourced from https://thomasguthrie.org/ragged-schools/

For more on Thomas Guthrie:

– https://thomasguthrie.org/

Explore the work of the Banner: www.banneroftruth.org

Subscribe to the magazine (print/digital/both): www.banneroftruth.org/magazine

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The Bountiful Blessing of Biblical Meditation

Mon, 29 Jul 2024 06:30:00 +0100

Meditation is to the Christian life what digestion is to the body: without it, the processes which sustain life are greatly hampered - even rendered impossible. The Puritans held an extremely high view of the necessity of meditation. They saw it as one of the primary means by which we take the great truths of the faith and appropriate them, applying them to our hearts in order that we might love and treasure God more.

Featured Content:

– 'Kindling the Fire of Meditation', Dillon Thornton, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 591, December 2012.

– Excerpt from Charles Bridges, Psalm 119 (First pub. 1827; latest Banner of Truth rep. 2024), pages 249–251.

Purchase: https://banneroftruth.org/store/commentaries/psalm-119-5/

– Excerpts from The Golden Treasury of Puritan Quotations, compiled by I. D. E. Thomas (First pub. 1975 [Moody Press]; latest Banner of Truth edition: 2022). Quotes mainly sourced from entries on 'Meditation'.

Purchase: https://banneroftruth.org/store/devotionalsdaily-readings/the-golden-treasury-of-puritan-quotations/

Explore the work of the Banner: www.banneroftruth.org

Subscribe to the magazine (print/digital/both): www.banneroftruth.org/magazine

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All That God Has Spoken: Balance in the Christian Life

Mon, 22 Jul 2024 06:30:00 +0100

Many errors of faith and life stem from focusing on just one part of the Bible's teaching, to the exclusion of other things clearly taught in Scripture. This week, with help from Stephen Clark and C. H. Spurgeon, we look afresh at the importance of pursuing a faith and a life that reflects all that the Lord has spoken.

Featured Content:

– 'Context, Nuance and Balance: Why They are Essential to Christian Living', Stephen Clark, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 728, May 2024.

– Excerpt from C. H. Spurgeon, Spurgeon's Practical Wisdom: Plain Advice for Plain People (Original 1869, Banner of Truth rep. 2024), pages 21–26.

Purchase: https://banneroftruth.org/store/christian-living/spurgeons-practical-wisdom/

Explore the work of the Banner: www.banneroftruth.org

Subscribe to the magazine (print/digital/both): www.banneroftruth.org/magazine

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A Foray into the Fourth Century

Mon, 15 Jul 2024 06:30:00 +0100

The Fourth Century was, theologically speaking, a century of conflict and clarification. Heretical teachings concerning the Person of the Lord Jesus Christ and the Persons of the Trinity were widespread and backed by powerful churchmen. Faithful, biblically-rooted theologians contended for the truth, and two church councils (in 325 and 381) helped to clarify orthodox doctrine in the face of these onslaughts.

This week's episode introduces one of the theologians who, from the mid to late 4th century, gave eloquent expression to orthodox Christology and Trinitarian theology: Gregory of Nazianzus (c. 329–390). As well as introducing this quiet, pensive man, we read a section from William Cunningham's newly republished Historical Theology on the question of how the Persons of the Holy Trinity are properly to be distinguished.

Featured Content:

– 'Shapers of Christianity: Gregory of Nazianzus', Nick Needham, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 706, July 2022.

– Excerpt from William Cunningham, Historical Theology (Banner of Truth rep. 2024), pages 309–312.

Purchase: https://banneroftruth.org/store/theology/historical-theology-3/

Explore the work of the Banner: www.banneroftruth.org

Subscribe to the magazine (print/digital/both): www.banneroftruth.org/magazine

Leave us a voice message: www.speakpipe.com/magazinepodcast

The Joe Barnard Interview (BONUS)

Mon, 08 Jul 2024 06:30:00 +0100

What are mortification and vivification? What role do they play in our Christian lives? How can we encourage men in the church to grow, in a cultural environment which in various ways undermines attempts to pursue godliness?

These are questions about which the subject of this month's interview has thought deeply. Joe Barnard is Lead Pastor at Holyrood Evangelical Church in Edinburgh, and it was our great pleasure to sit down with him earlier this year to talk life, ministry, and books. We trust you'll be encouraged as you listen in.

Books and Authors Mentioned:

Barnard, Joe, The Way Forward: A Roadmap of Spiritual Growth for Men in the 21st Century

https://www.christianfocus.com/products/2863/the-way-forward

Barnard, Joe, Surviving the Trenches: Killing Sin Before it Kills You

https://www.christianfocus.com/products/3032/surviving-the-trenches

Barnard, Joe, Hymn Workouts: 100 Exercises to Set Your Heart Ablaze

https://www.christianfocus.com/products/3056/hymn-workouts

Chalmers, Thomas, The Letters of Thomas Chalmers

https://banneroftruth.org/uk/store/letters/letters-of-thomas-chalmers/

Owen, John, Spiritual-Mindedness (available in Puritan Paperback or unabridged in Volume 7 of Owen's Works)

https://banneroftruth.org/uk/store/christian-living/spiritual-mindedness/

https://banneroftruth.org/uk/store/owen-books/the-works-of-john-owen-7/

Ryle, J. C., Practical Religion: Being Plain Papers on the Duties, Experience, Dangers, and Privileges of Professing Christians

https://banneroftruth.org/uk/store/christian-living/practical-religion-2/

Helpful Links:

Holyrood Evangelical Church - https://holyroodevangelical.org/

Cross Training Ministries - www.xtrainingministries.com

Watch the interview on Youtube:

https://youtu.be/wLuSaRRBtVY

Explore the work of the Banner: www.banneroftruth.org

Subscribe to the magazine (print/digital/both): www.banneroftruth.org/magazine

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A Joyful Case for Sunday Evening Worship

Mon, 01 Jul 2024 06:30:00 +0100

'It is good to give thanks to the Lord,
    to sing praises to your name, O Most High;
to declare your steadfast love in the morning,
    and your faithfulness by night,
to the music of the lute and the harp,
    to the melody of the lyre.' – Psalm 92:1–3

Evening worship on the Lord's Day is neglected by many churches today. This week's episode constitutes a case for and a call to the practice of evening worship, to the glory of God and for the good of souls.

Note: if you haven't listened to our recent episode, 'Eric Liddell and the Freedom of the Sabbath', it would make a good prelude to this episode. Listen here: https://bannermagazine.podbean.com/e/eric-liddell-and-the-consecration-of-the-sabbath/

Featured Content:

– 'Preserve Evening Worship Services!', Michael G. Brown, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 529, October 2007.

Text: https://banneroftruth.org/uk/resources/articles/2024/a-call-to-preserve-evening-worship-services/

– 'Why Not Give Evening Worship a Try?', Mary Beth McGreevy, personal blog, July 2017. Read here with permission.

Text: http://marybethmcgreevy.blogspot.com/2017/07/why-not-give-sunday-evening-worship-try.html

Explore the work of the Banner: www.banneroftruth.org

Subscribe to the magazine (print/digital/both): www.banneroftruth.org/magazine

Leave us a voice message: www.speakpipe.com/magazinepodcast

A Day to Remember: The Great Ejection of 1662

Wed, 26 Jun 2024 06:30:00 +0100

We've a short 'extra' this week, as we mark 362 years since the infamous 'Black Bartholomew's Day' of 24 August, 1662.

25% off Sermons of the Great Ejection (for one week, to 30 August 2024) with code 'anniversary362':

- https://banneroftruth.org/store/church-ministry/sermons-of-the-great-ejection/

Purchase the Banner of Truth 2025 Calendar (in stock, UK and World; coming soon to North America):

- https://banneroftruth.org/uk/store/calendar/banner-2025-calendar/

Explore the work of the Banner: www.banneroftruth.org

Subscribe to the magazine (print/digital/both): www.banneroftruth.org/magazine

Leave us a voice message: www.speakpipe.com/magazinepodcast

Children and Public Worship

Mon, 24 Jun 2024 06:30:00 +0100

Many, perhaps most, evangelical churches today separate children from the main congregation for the preaching of the word of God. This week's episode asks at what cost we do this, challenging deeply-rooted assumptions about our practice of public worship.

Featured Content:

– 'Children and the Sermon', Iain H. Murray, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 108 (September 1972).

– 'Ten Benefits of Corporate Worship for Our Children', Matt Purdy, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 675 (December 2019).

Cited material:

Seat card from Heritage Presbyterian Church, Warrenton, Virginia, cited with permission.

– https://x.com/warne/status/1821658894927851709/photo/2

– https://heritage-pca.org/about/

Explore the work of the Banner: www.banneroftruth.org

Subscribe to the magazine (print/digital/both): www.banneroftruth.org/magazine

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Eric Liddell and the Freedom of the Sabbath

Mon, 10 Jun 2024 06:21:00 +0100

A little more than 100 years ago, a Scotsman by the name of Eric Liddell made a stand for the Lord's Day. It was a very public stand, since he was a member of the British Olympic team sent to the Paris Olympics of 1924, and his decision to honour the Lord's Day entailed not running in one of his chosen races (the 100m)–the heats for which were to be held on a Sunday–and training instead for the 400m (he also ran the 200m).

While Liddell is well-known, the stand he took is one that many evangelicals today would deem unnecessary, even misguided. Many evangelicals do not consider Sundays to be particularly special or 'set-apart'. The observance of the Lord's Day as a special day of rest and worship has fallen on hard times in the churches.

With Liddell's witness in mind, we explore the subject of the Christian Sabbath in this week's episode. Are Christians to observe Sundays as a special day of rest and worship? Are we called to obey the Fourth Commandment, along with the other nine? How does the Christian Lord's Day differ from the Jewish Sabbath? We touch on all these questions this week with contributions from David Campbell, W. J. Grier, and Rebecca VanDoodewaard.

Featured Content:

– What Price Honouring God? Article by David Campbell (North Preston Evangelical Church), which was republished on the Banner website in July 2014:

https://banneroftruth.org/uk/resources/articles/2014/price-honouring-god/

– 'The Development of the Lord's Day from the Jewish Sabbath', W. J. Grier, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 517, October 2006.

– 'The Freedom of Sabbath', Rebecca VanDoodewaard, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 687, December 2020.

Explore the work of the Banner: www.banneroftruth.org

Subscribe to the magazine (print/digital/both): www.banneroftruth.org/magazine

Leave us a voice message: www.speakpipe.com/magazinepodcast

The Priority of Public Worship

Mon, 03 Jun 2024 06:42:00 +0100

This week we begin a three-part 'mini series' on the great subject of public worship. We begin by considering just why it is that public worship is so crucial for the church. Why should we do it? How should we view it? To do that, we enlist the help of Warren Peel, Peter Barnes, and the Puritan David Clarkson.

Featured Content:

– 'The Primacy of Public Worship', Warren Peel, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 722 (November 2023).

– Selections from The Works of David Clarkson, Volume 3, sermon entitled 'Public Worship to be Preferred Before Private' (on Psalm 87:2), p. 187. N.B. At time of podcast release, the three volumes of this set are being reprinted.

– 'Participating in Public Worship', Peter Barnes, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 526 (July 2007).

Explore the work of the Banner: www.banneroftruth.org

Subscribe to the magazine (print/digital/both): www.banneroftruth.org/magazine

Leave us a voice message: www.speakpipe.com/magazinepodcast

The Joseph Mangahas Interview (BONUS)

Mon, 27 May 2024 06:30:00 +0100

Speaking for the first time at our Youth Conference this year was Joseph Mangahas (Mang-AH-hass), one of the pastors at Cubao Reformed Baptist Church, Manila.

Joseph sat down with us to discuss gospel work in the Philippines, his conversion and Christian growth, and the many and varied ministries of Cubao Reformed Baptist Church. It is an episode to encourage all who delight to hear about the Lord's work in countries about which we hear little in the West.

For Cubao Reformed Baptist Church: https://www.crbc-ph.org/

About Grace Ministerial Academy: https://www.evangelical-times.org/grace-ministerial-academy-philippines/

Explore the work of the Banner: www.banneroftruth.org

Subscribe to the magazine (print/digital/both): www.banneroftruth.org/magazine

Leave us a voice message: www.speakpipe.com/magazinepodcast

When a Child Turns Away

Mon, 20 May 2024 06:30:00 +0100

Few things are more difficult than seeing a beloved child turn his or her back on the Lord. What is the Christian mother or father to do in this situation? This week's lead article, from Lipe Cortial (original article misattributed to Cilas De Menezes), gives a number of helpful pointers for parents, and encouragement to seek the Lord's glory in what may seem like an impossible situation. Our second segment is a reading on walking with God through dark times from Theodore L. Cuyler's book 'God's Light on Dark Clouds'.

Featured Content:

– When a Child Turns Away from God's Ways, Lipe Cortial (Banner of Truth Magazine: June 2021, Issue 693).

– Excerpt from God's Light on Dark Clouds by Theodore L. Cuyler sourced from pages 27 to 32 of that book (First published in 1882, Banner of Truth ed., 2008, rep. 2022).

Buy the book: https://banneroftruth.org/store/christian-living/gods-light-on-dark-clouds/

Explore the work of the Banner: www.banneroftruth.org

Subscribe to the magazine (print/digital/both): www.banneroftruth.org/magazine

Leave us a voice message: www.speakpipe.com/magazinepodcast

The Pain and the Promise of Church Discipline

Mon, 13 May 2024 06:30:00 +0100

This week we finish Stuart Olyott's article exploring the nature and practice of 'corrective discipline', a subject utterly essential in our non-judgemental age. He shows us that the work of such discipline must always be focused on the restoration of the erring member, and carried out with great humility and wisdom. We also read the testimony of B. R. Basted, who found himself in a situation in which he could not, as a gospel minister, exercise the basic church discipline of preventing unbelievers from accessing gospel ordinances. It is a salutory reminder of the need for ministers to be resourced and supported in the work of church discipline.

Featured Content:

– Second part of 'Church Discipline', Stuart Olyott, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 163, April 1977.

- 'Discipline at the Local Level – The Real Problem', B. R. Basted, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 80, May 1970.

Explore the work of the Banner: www.banneroftruth.org

Subscribe to the magazine (print/digital/both): www.banneroftruth.org/magazine

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The Grace of Church Discipline

Mon, 06 May 2024 06:33:00 +0100

Church discipline is a gracious institution of the Lord Jesus Christ for the honour of His name, the purity of His Church, and the eternal salvation of His people.

This week's episode focuses on this neglected topic. An excerpt from Jeremy Walker helps to unpack some of the reasons why church discipline matters. Drilling down on 'corrective' or 'restorative' discipline, we read a section from Stuart Olyott's article 'Church Discipline' to help guide us through a difficult area.

Featured Content:

– Excerpt from 'Called to be Holy' by Jeremy Walker sourced from pages 19 to 24 of that booklet.

Buy the booklet: https://banneroftruth.org/uk/store/christmas-bulk/called-to-be-holy/

– First part of 'Church Discipline', Stuart Olyott, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 163, April 1977.

Explore the work of the Banner: www.banneroftruth.org

Subscribe to the magazine (print/digital/both): www.banneroftruth.org/magazine

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The Believer's Duty in a Dark Day

Mon, 29 Apr 2024 06:32:00 +0100

We live in trying times, when it often seems as if the 'foundations are destroyed' (Psalm 11:3). How are believers called to live in a dark day? This week's readings, from Mauric Roberts and John Flavel, address dark days and preparations for trial.

Featured Content:

– 'The Believer's Duty in a Dark Day', Maurice Roberts, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 678, March 2020.

– Excerpt from Chapter 4 of John Flavel's 'Preparations for Sufferings, Or, The Best Work in the Worst Times' (Puritan Paperback, 161 pages).

Buy the book: https://banneroftruth.org/store/christian-living/preparations-for-sufferings/

Explore the work of the Banner: www.banneroftruth.org

Subscribe to the magazine (print/digital/both): www.banneroftruth.org/magazine

Leave us a voice message: www.speakpipe.com/magazinepodcast

The Stuart Olyott Interview (BONUS)

Mon, 22 Apr 2024 06:32:00 +0100

We had the great pleasure of talking with Stuart Olyott at the Banner of Truth Ministers' Conference. A much-respected Bible teacher and pastor, Stuart discusses his formative years, his time at London Bible College, and subsequent journey in ministry. He even has occasion to describe a Homburg hat for the benefit of the uninitiated!

Banner Books by Stuart:

– I Wish Someone Would Explain Hebrews to Me! (https://banneroftruth.org/store/sermons-and-expositions/i-wish-someone-would-explain-hebrews-to-me/)

– Ministering Like the Master: Three Messages for Today's Preachers (https://banneroftruth.org/store/church-ministry/ministering-like-the-master/)

– Preaching That Gets Through: God's Words and Ours (https://banneroftruth.org/store/church-ministry/preaching-that-gets-through/)

– Reading the Bible and Praying in Public (https://banneroftruth.org/store/church-ministry/reading-the-bible-and-praying-in-public/)

– You Must Read: Books That Have Shaped Our Lives, Various Authors, Stuart writes an entry on reading Spurgeon's Revival Year Sermons. (https://banneroftruth.org/store/theology/you-must-read/)

Other Resources from Stuart:

– Stuart's sermons for download: www.knowyourbiblerecordings.org

– Preaching: Pure and Simple (https://epbooks.org/product/preaching-pure-and-simple-by-stuart-olyott/)

Watch the interview on Youtube:

https://youtu.be/lyEr8S0da2U

Explore the work of the Banner: www.banneroftruth.org

Subscribe to the magazine (print/digital/both): www.banneroftruth.org/magazine

Leave us a voice message: www.speakpipe.com/magazinepodcast

The Muffling of Truth at Carrs Lane

Mon, 15 Apr 2024 06:32:00 +0100

The ministry of John Angell James, favoured though it was, marked the end of an era at Carrs Lane Congregational Church. When it came to ministerial handover, we observe a weakness of judgement in James which made room for a less than orthodox ministry at the church. The upshot was that sadly James's ministry legacy was not extended and built on with gospel vision by his successor, R. W. Dale.

From noting this sad turn of events, we remind ourselves of the crucial nature of truth in a victorious Christian pilgrimage with a reading from Bunyan's The Pilgrim's Progress.

Featured Content:

– 'John Angell James', Peter Seccombe, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 220 (January 1982).

- Excerpts concerning Mr Valiant-for-truth from 'Part the Second' of John Bunyan's The Pilgrim's Progress (Banner of Truth ed., 1977, current ed., 2017), pages 348–350 and 373.

Buy The Pilgrim's Progress: https://banneroftruth.org/store/christian-living/pilgrims-progress/

Explore the work of the Banner: www.banneroftruth.org

Subscribe to the magazine (print/digital/both): www.banneroftruth.org/magazine

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John Angell James: An Earnest Minister

Mon, 08 Apr 2024 06:32:00 +0100

Pastor, author, and missionary motivator, John Angell James (1785–1859) was one of the most gifted and respected of Independent church ministers in 19th-century Britain. From humble beginnings as a draper's son in Dorset, he went on to become minister of Carr's Lane Congregational Church in Birmingham. His ministry there was greatly blessed, as were his literary labours, with over 3 million copies of his works being published within his lifetime.

Angell James's ministry was marked by earnestness, a note sounded in the title and text of his book on ministry, 'An Earnest Ministry: The Want of the Times'. In this week's episode we look at the life of this outstanding servant of God, and consider his abiding interest in the work of gospel advance in China.

Featured Content:

– 'John Angell James', Peter Seccombe, Banner of Truth Magazine, appearing in two parts in Issues 219 and 220 (December 1981 and January 1982, respectively).

– 'John Angell James', Alec Taylor, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 619 (April 2015).

– 'God's Voice from China', John Angell James, reproduced in the Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 166 (July/August 1977).

Explore the work of the Banner: www.banneroftruth.org

Subscribe to the magazine (print/digital/both): www.banneroftruth.org/magazine

Leave us a voice message: www.speakpipe.com/magazinepodcast

The Elenctic Theologian

Mon, 01 Apr 2024 06:32:00 +0100

Francis Turretin of Geneva, if he is known at all, is often thought of as a Protestant 'scholastic', where this is shorthand for an ivory tower theologian given to excessive hair-splitting. Such a caricature, however, does not do justice to the man himself. An earnest preacher, and a devoted disciple, Turretin placed his scholarship at the service of the church. While he was a thorough and careful theologian, Turretin sought to go only as far, and no further, than the Scripture warranted, and to do his theology in a spirit of charity.

This week's episode introduces us to Turretin the man and theologian, and to Volume 1 of his Institutes of Elenctic Theology, which has been published by Presbyterian and Reformed Publishers since 1992.

Featured Content:

– 'Shapers of Christianity: Francis Turretin (1623–87)', Nick Needham, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 716, May 2023.

– 'Francis Turretin's Institutes in English', Robert Sheehan, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 368, May 1994.

Resources Mentioned:

- The Institutes of Elenctic Theology, Francis Turretin (1992–1997, Presbyterian and Reformed Publishing)

Volume 1 (surveyed above): https://www.prpbooks.com/book/institutes-of-elenctic-theology

Three-volume set: https://www.prpbooks.com/book/institutes-of-elenctic-theology-3-vol-set

Explore the work of the Banner: www.banneroftruth.org

Subscribe to the magazine (print/digital/both): www.banneroftruth.org/magazine

Leave us a voice message: www.speakpipe.com/magazinepodcast

Revoice and Postmodern Spirituality

Mon, 25 Mar 2024 06:31:00 +0000

The Revoice Conference was founded in 2018 in order to 'support and encourage gay, lesbian, bisexual, and other same-sex attracted Christians—as well as those who love them—so that all in the Church might be empowered to live in gospel unity while observing the historic Christian doctrine of marriage and sexuality.' (Revoice, Mission Statement).

A year after the initial event, aware that the movement was only just beginning, Dr. Jonathan Master wrote a 'Letter from America' in the Banner Magazine. With the help of the analysis of David Wells, he notes the weakness of the postmodern vision of spirituality that informs Revoice's commitments. He points us back to classical Christian spirituality, founded on a commitment to the holiness of God and a seriousness about sin which is well reflected in our second selection, from Geoff Thomas, entitled 'Take Sin Seriously'.

Featured Content:

– 'Letter from America: The Revoice Conference', Jonathan Master, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 667 (April 2019).

– 'Take Sin Seriously', Geoff Thomas, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 678 (March 2020).

Resources Mentioned:

- 'When Christians Adopt Sinful Identities' (segment from Matthew Roberts interview): https://youtu.be/QmFkWDCixXg?si=PecUoJdy5vTIAbsp

Explore the work of the Banner: www.banneroftruth.org

Subscribe to the magazine (print/digital/both): www.banneroftruth.org/magazine

Leave us a voice message: www.speakpipe.com/magazinepodcast

Hearing Sermons: an Exhortation and a Testimony

Mon, 18 Mar 2024 06:31:00 +0000

Much has been written and said about how sermons are to be prepared and delivered. Little, by contrast, is said about how sermons are to be heard and received. This is a gaping hole in our practical instruction, since the very best sermons may be heard without profit.

This week's selections are from Peter Barnes (Revesby Presbyterian Church, NSW, Australia), who writes about hearing sermons, and Paul D. Wolfe (New Hope Presbyterian Church, Fairfax, VA), who decribes how the steady, faithful teaching of God's word over many years prepared him for the horror of a cancer diagnosis. Heard together, we trust they'll encourage and equip you to receive the preached word of God with fresh expectation and renewed focus, to the glory of God and the good of your soul.

Featured Content:

– 'Hearing a Sermon', Peter Barnes, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 653 (February 2018).

– Excerpt from My God is True!: Lessons Learned along Cancer's Dark Road, Paul D. Wolfe (Edinburgh: Banner of Truth, 2009).

Buy 'My God is True!: Lessons Learned along Cancer's Dark Road': https://banneroftruth.org/store/christian-living/my-god-is-true/

Explore the work of the Banner: www.banneroftruth.org

Subscribe to the magazine (print/digital/both): www.banneroftruth.org/magazine

Leave us a voice message: www.speakpipe.com/magazinepodcast

The Ligon Duncan Interview (BONUS)

Mon, 11 Mar 2024 06:31:00 +0000

Between the Banner Youth and Ministers' Conferences we had the pleasure of sitting down with Dr. Ligon Duncan, Chancellor/CEO of Reformed Theological Seminary. We discussed his early years, training for ministry, the mission of RTS, and some of the Banner books he has benefitted from over the years.

Ligon's Banner Picks:

Brooks, Thomas, Precious Remedies Against Satan's Devices

- https://banneroftruth.org/store/christian-living/precious-remedies-against-satans-devices/

Bucer, Martin, Concerning the True Care of Souls

- https://banneroftruth.org/store/church-ministry/concerning-the-true-care-of-souls/

Marlorat, Augustin, Prayers on the Psalms: From the Scottish Psalter of 1595 (Pocket Puritans)

- https://banneroftruth.org/store/devotionalsdaily-readings/prayers-on-the-psalms/

Warfield, B. B., Faith and Life (note especially the address 'The Outpouring of the Holy Spirit, Acts 2:16, 17)

- https://banneroftruth.org/store/theology/faith-life/

Warfield, B. B., The Saviour of the World

- https://banneroftruth.org/store/sermons-and-expositions/the-saviour-of-the-world/

Other Resources Mentioned:

Blair Smith, D., and Miller, Matthew, eds., From Generation to Generation: Writings in Honour of Douglas F. Kelly (Christian Focus, 2023).

- https://www.christianfocus.com/products/3162/generation-to-generation

Cunningham, William, An Introduction to Theological Studies (edited and introduced by J. Ligon Duncan III)

- www.abebooks.co.uk/9781884416026/Introduction-Theological-Studies-Lectures-William-1884416020/plp

Garretson, James, ed., Princeton and the Work of the Christian Ministry: A Collection of Addresses and Articles by Faculty and Friends of Princeton Theological Seminary (2 Vols, in Vol. 2 of which can be found Warfield's 'The Religious Life of Theological Students').

- https://banneroftruth.org/store/church-ministry/princeton-and-the-work-of-the-christian-ministry-3/

Witsius, Herman, The Character of a Genuine Theologian (some of the lecture, but not all, accessible here):

- https://books.google.com/books?id=MVQAAAAAYAAJ&pg=PA158&dq=witsius+character+theologian&lr=&ie=ISO-8859-1)

For more information:

Dr. Ligon Duncan: https://ligonduncan.com/

Reformed Theological Seminary: https://rts.edu/

Explore the work of the Banner: www.banneroftruth.org

Subscribe to the magazine (print/digital/both): www.banneroftruth.org/magazine

Leave us a voice message: www.speakpipe.com/magazinepodcast

'Uncle Ernie': The First Principal of London Bible College

Mon, 04 Mar 2024 06:31:00 +0000

Ernest Kevan is not likely to be mentioned in a list of the most significant British evangelicals of the 20th Century. Yet, as a pastor and then as the first principal of London Bible College, he exercised a profound and wide-reaching influence on those who worked and studied with him. Earnest, hard-working, and disciplined, his could be an intimidating presence. But those closest to him saw clearly his tremendous love for the Lord and genuine care for the students in his charge. In this week's episode we take a closer look at Kevan's life and labours and uncover something of how this retiring man became 'Uncle Ernie' - a guide and inspiration to so many.

Excerpt taken from Paul E. Brown, Ernest Kevan: Leader in Twentieth Century British Evangelicalism (Edinburgh: Banner of Truth, 2012).

Paul Brown's biography of Ernest Kevan: https://banneroftruth.org/store/history-biography/ernest-kevan/

Coupon code to get 30% off Paul Brown's biography (valid to June 12th, 2024): Ernest24

Explore the work of the Banner: www.banneroftruth.org

Subscribe to the magazine (print/digital/both): www.banneroftruth.org/magazine

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The Bible of our Lord

Mon, 26 Feb 2024 06:31:00 +0000

Does what we believe about the Bible really matter? Isn't it enough simply to embrace Christ? This week, we spend some time with two articles that address, in different ways, the relationship between our faith in Christ and our trust in the Scriptures. We begin by thinking about the Lord Jesus's own attitude towards the Scriptures...

Featured Content:

– 'The Bible of our Lord', entry for January 31 in Robert Macdonald, From Day to Day: Helpful Words for the Christian Life (Edinburgh: Banner of Truth, 2024). Originally published in 1856.

– 'Inerrancy Matters... to the Man in the Pew', Ian Hamilton, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 618 (March 2015)

Purchase 'From Day to Day: Helpful Words for the Christian Life' by Robert Macdonald: https://banneroftruth.org/store/devotionalsdaily-readings/from-day-to-day/

Explore the work of the Banner: www.banneroftruth.org

Subscribe to the magazine (print/digital/both): www.banneroftruth.org/magazine

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A Bad Evangelical Habit

Mon, 19 Feb 2024 06:31:00 +0000

Are we saved by grace, or by faith? Does it matter? If these questions have ever exercised you, then Paul Helm's article 'A Bad Habit' may be of help. Revisiting some of B. B. Warfield's thoughts on the subjects of grace and faith, Helm shows that how we think and talk about the ground of our salvation matters enormously.

Featured Content:

– 'A Bad Habit', Paul Helm, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 128 (May 1975).

– The prayer 'Amazing Grace' from The Valley of Vision: A Collection of Puritan Prayers and Devotions, edited by Arthur Bennett. https://banneroftruth.org/store/devotionalsdaily-readings/the-valley-of-vision/

Explore the work of the Banner: www.banneroftruth.org

Subscribe to the magazine (print/digital/both): www.banneroftruth.org/magazine

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The Matthew Roberts Interview (BONUS)

Mon, 12 Feb 2024 06:39:00 +0000

Matthew Roberts joined us at the Banner Ministers' Conference 2024 to discuss the vital importance of a biblical understanding of sin, the challenge of the sexual revolution, and the Greater Love Declaration, which articulates an orthodox Christian position on marriage and sexuality in a spirit of self-sacrificing love.

More Info. on the Greater Love declaration:

www.greaterlove.org.uk

Resources Referenced:

Calvin, John, Institutes of the Christian Religion (1539 edition), Clothbound, 920 pages.

https://banneroftruth.org/uk/store/theology/institutes/

Flavel, John, Preparations for Sufferings (Puritan Paperback), 176 pages.

https://banneroftruth.org/uk/store/christian-living/preparations-for-sufferings/

Owen, John, Searching our Hearts in Difficult Times (Puritan Paperback), 160 pages.

https://banneroftruth.org/uk/store/christian-living/owen-searching-our-hearts-in-difficult-times/

Roberts, Matthew, Pride: Identity and the Worship of Self, paperback, 184 pages.

https://www.christianfocus.com/products/3074/pride

The Home under Christ

Mon, 05 Feb 2024 06:30:00 +0000

The godly governance of the home is a subject of vital importance in any age, and has special resonance in our troubled times. To help us consider it, this week we read A. W. Pink on the Christian home, and Don Stephens on the neglected privilege of family worship.

Featured Content:

– 'Christian Homes', A. W. Pink, reprinted in the Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 7 (June 1957)

– 'Family Worship: A Neglected Privilege', Don Stephens, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 651 (December 2017)

Explore the work of the Banner: www.banneroftruth.org

Subscribe to the magazine (print/digital/both): www.banneroftruth.org/magazine

Leave us a voice message: www.speakpipe.com/magazinepodcast

The Pastor and His Study

Mon, 29 Jan 2024 06:30:00 +0000

This week's selections are powerful reminders of the importance of ongoing and focused study in the lives of pastors and teachers in Christ's church. Far from being a luxury, ministerial study is a necessary part of a fruitful, growing ministry that feeds Christ's sheep.

While this episode concerns pastors primarily, it is for all of us, as we all have a role to play in facilitating and supporting the ministry of those who teach us the word of God.

Featured Content:

– 'Ministerial Study', J. W. Alexander, The Banner of Truth Magazine: Issue 8, August 1957.

– 'The Pastor as Attorney', David A. Sherwood, The Banner of Truth Magazine: Issue 369, June 1994.

– Quote from J. C. Ryle can be found in a brief address entitled 'Ministerial Duties', given before a large ministers' meeting in Western-Super-Mare in 1858. The address can be found here [N.B. The Banner of Truth cannot be held responsible for content on third-party websites]: https://www.gracegems.org/Ryle/ministerial_duties.htm

Explore the work of the Banner of Truth: www.banneroftruth.org

Subscribe to the Magazine (Print/Digital/Both): www.banneroftruth.org/magazine

Tell us your thoughts on this episode: https://www.speakpipe.com/magazinepodcast

Our Need for the Holy Spirit

Mon, 22 Jan 2024 06:30:00 +0000

The churches today have no greater need than an outpouring of the Holy Spirit, the glorious Divine Person who proceeds from the Father and the Son and who creates and sustains all true spiritual life. This week's selections come from J. W. Alexander (1804–1859) and John Owen (1616–1683) and point us to the Holy Spirit as one whose help and presence we cannot be without.

Featured Content:

– 'Pray for the Spirit', J. W. Alexander, The Banner of Truth Magazine: Issue 127, April 1974.

– 'The Spirit of God', Chapter 2 in The Holy Spirit by John Owen, abridged and made easy to read by R. J. K. Law (Puritan Paperback).

Read Owen's excerpt 'The Spirit of God' on our website: https://banneroftruth.org/uk/resources/book-excerpts/2024/the-spirit-of-god-john-owen-excerpt/

Buy John Owen, The Holy Spirit (Puritan Paperback): https://banneroftruth.org/uk/store/christian-living/the-holy-spirit/

Buy the Works of John Owen, Volume 3, The Holy Spirit (comprising Owen's Pneumatologia, Or, A Discourse Concerning the Holy Spirit): https://banneroftruth.org/uk/store/owen-books/the-works-of-john-owen-3/

Explore the work of the Banner of Truth: www.banneroftruth.org

Subscribe to the Magazine (Print/Digital/Both): www.banneroftruth.org/magazine

Tell us your thoughts on this episode: https://www.speakpipe.com/magazinepodcast

The Calvinism of Augustine and Bede

Mon, 15 Jan 2024 06:30:00 +0000

This week we examine the grace-exalting teachings of the great Anglo-Saxon Monk, Bede, and Augustine, Bishop of Hippo, who influenced him so much.

Featured Content:

– 'The Calvinism of the Venerable Bede', Nick Needham, Banner of Truth Magazine (Issue 727, April 2024).

– 'Augustine: Theologian of Grace', Banner of Truth Magazine (Issue 138, March 1975).

Explore the work of the Banner of Truth: www.banneroftruth.org

Subscribe to the Magazine (Print/Digital/Both): www.banneroftruth.org/magazine

Tell us your thoughts on this episode: https://www.speakpipe.com/magazinepodcast

The Need for True Spirituality

Mon, 08 Jan 2024 06:30:00 +0000

What is true Christian spirituality? This week's episode explores this question with an editorial from Maurice Roberts, 'Why Spirituality Comes First', and an excerpt from John Owen on 'How to Meditate on Heavenly Things'.

Featured Content:

– 'Why Spirituality Comes First', Maurice Roberts, The Banner of Truth Magazine: Issue 367, April 1994.

– 'How to Meditate on Heavenly Things', in John Owen, Spiritual-Mindedness (Puritan Paperbacks).

Buy John Owen, Spiritual-Mindedness: https://banneroftruth.org/store/christian-living/spiritual-mindedness/

Buy the Works of John Owen, Volume 7, Sin and Grace (which includes 'The Grace and Duty of Being Spiritually-Minded'): https://banneroftruth.org/store/owen-books/the-works-of-john-owen-7/

Explore the work of the Banner of Truth: www.banneroftruth.org

Subscribe to the Magazine (Print/Digital/Both): www.banneroftruth.org/magazine

Tell us your thoughts on this episode: https://www.speakpipe.com/magazinepodcast

Why You Should Read Alexander Moody Stuart, w/ Sinclair Ferguson

Mon, 01 Jan 2024 06:30:00 +0000

Last year the Banner of Truth Trust republished Alexander Moody Stuart: A Memoir, with the encouragement of Dr. Sinclair B. Ferguson.

Banner editor Sam Cunnington, who worked on the project, sat down with Dr. Ferguson to discuss why it is worth reading about this remarkable Scottish pastor today.

Buy the book: https://banneroftruth.org/store/history-biography/alexander-moody-stuart/

Buy The Three Marys By Alexander Moody Stuart: https://banneroftruth.org/store/christian-living/the-three-marys/

Explore the work of the Banner of Truth: www.banneroftruth.org

Subscribe to the Magazine (Print/Digital/Both): www.banneroftruth.org/magazine

Tell us your thoughts on this episode: https://www.speakpipe.com/magazinepodcast

The Mark Dever Interview

Mon, 25 Dec 2023 06:30:00 +0000

We recently had the pleasure of sitting down with Mark Dever, pastor at Capitol Hill Baptist Church (Washington, D. C.), to discuss books, ministry, and reading in the local church.

Mark's book recommendations:

Samuel Prime, The Power of Prayer: The New York Revival of 1858 (https://banneroftruth.org/store/history-biography/power-of-prayer/)

Andrew Bonar and Bennet Tyler, Asahel Nettleton: Life and Labours (https://banneroftruth.org/store/history-biography/asahel-nettleton/)

C. H. Spurgeon, The Greatest Fight in the World (https://banneroftruth.org/store/church-ministry/the-greatest-fight-in-the-world/)

John Bunyan, All Loves Excelling (https://banneroftruth.org/store/christian-living/all-loves-excelling/)

Richard Sibbes, The Bruised Reed (https://banneroftruth.org/store/christian-living/the-bruised-reed/)

Thomas Boston, The Crook in the Lot (https://banneroftruth.org/store/christian-living/the-crook-in-the-lot/)

William Gurnall, The Christian in Complete Armour (3 vols: https://banneroftruth.org/store/christian-living/christian-in-complete-armour-5/ 1 vol: https://banneroftruth.org/store/sermons-and-expositions/christian-in-complete-armour/)

J. C. Ryle, Thoughts for Young Men (https://banneroftruth.org/store/christian-living/thoughts-young-men/)

Iain Murray, The Forgotten Spurgeon (https://banneroftruth.org/store/history-biography/forgotten-spurgeon/)

Jonathan Edwards on Revival, especially The Distinguishing Marks of a Work of the Spirit of God (https://banneroftruth.org/store/history-biography/jonathan-edwards-on-revival/)

Iain Murray, Evangelicalism Divided: A Record of Crucial Change in the Years 1950 to 2000 (https://banneroftruth.org/store/church-ministry/evangelicalism-divided/)

J. C. Ryle, Expository Thoughts on Mark (https://banneroftruth.org/store/commentaries/expository-thoughts-on-the-gospels-10/)

The Works of Richard Sibbes (7 vols: https://banneroftruth.org/store/collected-workssets/the-works-of-richard-sibbes/)

J. C. Ryle, Light from Old Times (https://banneroftruth.org/store/christian-living/light-from-old-times/)

Iain Murray, The Life of Martyn Lloyd-Jones (1 vol: https://banneroftruth.org/store/history-biography/the-life-of-martyn-lloyd-jones/)

C. H. Spurgeon, The Metropolitan Tabernacle Pulpit (Vol 38, 1892), (https://banneroftruth.org/store/sermons-and-expositions/metropolitan-tabernacle/)

Charles Bridges, The Christian Ministry (https://banneroftruth.org/store/church-ministry/the-christian-ministry/)

Iain Murray, Revival and Revivalism: The Making and Marring of American Evangelicalism 1750–1858 (https://banneroftruth.org/store/theology/revival-and-revivalism/)

Iain Murray, ed., The Reformation of the Church (https://banneroftruth.org/store/history-biography/reformation-of-the-church/)

J. H. Merle d'Aubigné, The Reformation in England (https://banneroftruth.org/store/history-biography/the-reformation-in-england-3/)

John Calvin, Sermons on Ephesians (https://banneroftruth.org/store/sermons-and-expositions/sermons-on-ephesians/)

The Works of Jonathan Edwards (https://banneroftruth.org/store/collected-workssets/the-works-of-jonathan-edwards/)

The Works of John Bunyan (https://banneroftruth.org/store/collected-workssets/the-works-of-john-bunyan-4/)

C. H. Spurgeon's Autobiography (https://banneroftruth.org/store/history-biography/c-h-spurgeon-autobiography/)

Links from this week's episode

Capitol Hill Baptist Church: https://www.capitolhillbaptist.org/

9Marks: www.9marks.org

Connie Dever's Children's Ministry: https://praisefactory.org/

Explore the work of the Banner of Truth: www.banneroftruth.org

Subscribe to the Magazine (Print/Digital/Both): www.banneroftruth.org/magazine

Tell us your thoughts on this episode: https://www.speakpipe.com/magazinepodcast

Calvin in France

Mon, 18 Dec 2023 06:30:00 +0000

Reformer John Calvin (1509–1564) is principally associated with Geneva, where he pastored and preached for 23 years. It is easy to forget that he was French, and that he fostered and maintained a great love for his homeland and people throughout his life. This week in the podcast, we read a selection from W. J. Grier's Life of John Calvin, getting a sense of Calvin's early work in France, before turning to Paul Wells' account of how Calvin's Institutes has fared in the country of his birth.

Featured Content:

– Excerpt from The Life of John Calvin, by W. J. Grier (Edinburgh: Banner of Truth, 2012)

– 'Remaking Calvin's Institutes in Modern French', Paul Wells, The Banner of Truth Magazine: Issue 606, March 2014.

Buy Grier's The Life of John Calvin: https://banneroftruth.org/uk/store/history-biography/the-life-of-john-calvin/

Buy 'Institution de la Religion Chrétienne [Relié]': https://www.xl6.com/articles/9782755000870-institution-de-la-religion-chretienne

Explore the work of the Banner of Truth: www.banneroftruth.org

Subscribe to the Magazine (Print/Digital/Both): www.banneroftruth.org/magazine

Tell us your thoughts on this episode: https://www.speakpipe.com/magazinepodcast

For Whom Did Christ Die?

Mon, 11 Dec 2023 06:30:00 +0000

Paul confessed, 'The life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.' (Galatians 2:20). Paul knew that Christ Jesus not only loved Paul personally, but that he had given himself on the cross to save Paul individually.

Developing and extending this biblical idea, we come to understand that the Lord Jesus did not die for a 'category' of persons who, of their own free will, would appropriate salvation for themselves. No. The Lord Jesus died for real people on a personal, definite basis. He died for those whom the Father had given him (John 6:38–40).

This week's two selections help us better to understand, and rejoice in, this definite atonement made for all those the Lord has appointed to salvation.

Featured Content:

– For Whom Christ Died, Charles H. Spurgeon, featured in The Banner of Truth Magazine: No. 5, April 1957.

– Extract from Particular Redemption: The End and Design of the Death of Christ (Sermon 1, pages 10–17). Buy the book: https://banneroftruth.org/store/theology/particular-redemption/

Explore the work of the Banner of Truth: www.banneroftruth.org

Subscribe to the Magazine (Print/Digital/Both): www.banneroftruth.org/magazine

Tell us your thoughts on this episode: https://www.speakpipe.com/magazinepodcast

Christianity and Freemasonry

Mon, 04 Dec 2023 06:30:00 +0000

This week's episode delves into the mysterious world of Freemasonry, and addresses the important question of whether its practices, beliefs, and oaths are consistent with the Christian confession.

Featured Content:

– Freemasonry, A. W. Rainsbury, featured in The Banner of Truth Magazine: No. 273, June 1986.

– The Conversion of a Freemason, from Personal Reminiscences of the Life and Times of Gardiner Spring, Volume 1, 1966, pp. 186–93. Featured in The Banner of Truth Magazine: No. 273, June 1986.

Explore the work of the Banner of Truth: www.banneroftruth.org

Subscribe to the Magazine (Print/Digital/Both): www.banneroftruth.org/magazine

Tell us your thoughts on this episode: https://www.speakpipe.com/magazinepodcast

'The Shakespeare of the Christian Heart'

Mon, 27 Nov 2023 06:30:00 +0000

Archibald Alexander (1772–1851) was the first Principal of Princeton Theological Seminary. A preacher and a theological educator par excellence, his commitment to scholarship and to the preparation of men for ministry made his contribution foundational to the long season of fruitfulness that Princeton enjoyed in the decades after his death.

Alongside of his classroom teaching and preaching ministry, Alexander constantly counselled those who came to him in spiritual distress or need. His wise, spiritual counsel and sanctified commonsense led one onlooker to describe him as the 'Shakespeare of the Christian Heart'. These qualities are on full display in this week's second selection, from his Thoughts on Religious Experience.

Featured Content:

– The Rediscovery of Old Princeton, David B. Calhoun, featured in The Banner of Truth Magazine: No. 365, February 1994

– Extract from Archibald Alexander, Thoughts on Religious Experience (Chapter 8, pages 105–109). Buy the book: https://banneroftruth.org/store/christian-living/thoughts-on-religious-experience/

Explore the work of the Banner of Truth: www.banneroftruth.org

Subscribe to the Magazine (Print/Digital/Both): www.banneroftruth.org/magazine

Tell us your thoughts on this episode: https://www.speakpipe.com/magazinepodcast

Thomas Goodwin: The Evangelical Puritan

Mon, 20 Nov 2023 06:30:00 +0000

This week we hone in on Thomas Goodwin, 'The Atlas of Independency', and read Ian Hamilton's recent article, Thomas Goodwin: The Evangelical Puritan, before turning to an extract from Goodwin's own Christ Set Forth, As the Cause of Justification and as the Object of Justifying Faith (Puritan Paperback).

Featured Content:

– Thomas Goodwin: The Evangelical Puritan, Ian Hamilton, featured in The Banner of Truth Magazine: No. 725, February 2024

– Extract from Thomas Goodwin, Christ Set Forth, As the Cause of Justification and as the Object of Justifying Faith (Chapter 3, pages 15–26). Buy the book: https://banneroftruth.org/store/theology/christ-set-forth/

Explore the work of the Banner of Truth: www.banneroftruth.org

Subscribe to the Magazine (Print/Digital/Both): www.banneroftruth.org/magazine

Tell us your thoughts on this episode: https://www.speakpipe.com/magazinepodcast

J. I. Packer on Puritan Evangelism, Pt. 2

Mon, 13 Nov 2023 06:30:00 +0000

We continue this week with J. I. Packer's piece 'Puritan Evangelism'. Having outlined 'modern evangelism' as it was pioneered by Charles G. Finney, Packer proceeds to shine a light on the better way pursued by the Puritans. Convinced that salvation was, from first to last, the sovereign and gracious work of God in the souls of men, the Puritans sought to shape their practice of evangelism accordingly.

Featured Content:

– 'Puritan Evangelism', J. I. Packer, Banner of Truth Magazine Issue 4, February 1957. (Part II).

Listen to Part 1:

– 'J. I. Packer on Puritan Evangelism, Pt. 1'

Explore the work of the Banner of Truth: www.banneroftruth.org

Subscribe to the Magazine (Print/Digital/Both): www.banneroftruth.org/magazine

Tell us your thoughts on this episode: https://www.speakpipe.com/magazinepodcast

J. I. Packer on Puritan Evangelism, Pt. 1

Mon, 06 Nov 2023 06:30:00 +0000

Among those who rediscovered the power of Puritan faith and piety in the 20th Century, the name of J. I. Packer stands out prominently. This week, we read Ian Hamilton's editorial 'The Essential Packer', and proceed to the first portion of a probing article from Packer on 'Puritan Evangelism'.

Featured Content:

– 'The Essential J.I. Packer', Ian Hamilton, editorial of Banner of Truth Magazine Issue 685, October 2020.

– 'Puritan Evangelism', J. I. Packer, Banner of Truth Magazine Issue 4, February 1957.

Explore the work of the Banner of Truth: www.banneroftruth.org

Subscribe to the Magazine (Print/Digital/Both): www.banneroftruth.org/magazine

Tell us your thoughts on this episode: https://www.speakpipe.com/magazinepodcast

The Compromises of Lot and the Faithfulness of the Lord

Mon, 30 Oct 2023 06:30:00 +0000

This week's selections take us to Genesis, and the account of Lot's deliverance from the Lord's righteous judgement of Sodom. There is much that we can learn here, particularly through a consideration of what the text teaches us about Lot's compromise and sin, and the incredible grace and faithfulness of God towards him. God's unconditional election of Lot shines brightly, even as the text witnesses clearly against Lot's wavering, lukewarmness, and disobedience, which had dire consequences for him.

Featured Content:

– "Remember Lot": The Fruits of Compromise in the Sodom Narrative, Joonas Laajanen (First published at TruthScript (https://truthscript.com/family/remember-lot-the-fruits-of-compromise-in-the-sodom-narrative-2/) and featured in The Banner of Truth Magazine: No. 725, February 2024)

– Exposition of Genesis 19:15–21 from John Calvin, Commentary on Genesis (Originally published 1554, Banner of Truth edition, 1965). To buy: https://banneroftruth.org/store/commentaries/genesis/

Explore the work of the Banner of Truth: www.banneroftruth.org

Subscribe to the Magazine (Print/Digital/Both): www.banneroftruth.org/magazine

Tell us your thoughts on this episode: https://www.speakpipe.com/magazinepodcast

Coming Events and Present Duties – J. C. Ryle

Mon, 23 Oct 2023 06:30:00 +0100

'The suddenness of the Lord’s second advent', wrote J.C. Ryle in the present piece, 'is a truth that should lead every professing Christian to great searching of heart.' This week's episode is a reading of Ryle's exposition of Matthew 25:1–13, often called the Parable of the Wise and Foolish Virgins.

With crystal-clear explanation and earnest calls both to hell-bound sinners and perilously sleepy Christians, Ryle expounds the crucial truth that the Lord Jesus will come again, and will come at an hour we do not expect.

Featured Content:

– "Coming Events and Present Duties", J. C. Ryle (Banner of Truth Magazine: No. 3, October 1956)

Explore the work of the Banner of Truth: www.banneroftruth.org

Subscribe to the Magazine (Print/Digital/Both): www.banneroftruth.org/magazine

Tell us your thoughts on this episode: https://www.speakpipe.com/magazinepodcast

A Godly Father’s Counsel to his Children

Mon, 16 Oct 2023 06:30:00 +0100

Godly fathers are marked by concern for their children's wellbeing, and especially their spiritual condition. This week's first selection offers a number of compelling examples of this concern in faithful men of the past, from Jonathan Edwards to Charles Spurgeon. The second selection, from Martyn Lloyd-Jones's 'Raising Children God's Way', takes us to the practical and vital topic of how we may best serve the spiritual needs of our children.

Featured Content:

– "A Godly Father's Counsel to His Children" by Richard Brooks (Banner of Truth Magazine: No. 364, January 1994)

– Excerpt from Chapter 5, "Godly Upbringing", of Martyn Lloyd-Jones's Raising Children God's Way (Banner of Truth: 2007). Excerpt can be found between pages 80 and 85. Buy the book: https://banneroftruth.org/store/christian-living/raising-children-gods-way/

Explore the work of the Banner of Truth: www.banneroftruth.org

Subscribe to the Magazine (Print/Digital/Both): www.banneroftruth.org/magazine

Tell us your thoughts on this episode: https://www.speakpipe.com/magazinepodcast

William Childs Robinson: Stalwart of the Faith

Mon, 09 Oct 2023 06:30:00 +0100

A professor, preacher, and stalwart believer, William Childs Robinson was a key witness to gospel truth at a time when his denomination, the Southern Presbyterian Church, was sliding into liberalism. This week's episode features an introduction to his life and work, as well as a short piece by him on the doctrine of justification by faith.

Featured Content:

– "William Childs Robinson (1897–1982)" compiled by Editor (Banner of Truth Magazine: No. 604, January 2014)

– "Justification by Faith" by William Childs Robinson (excerpted from Pleading for a Reformation Vision: The Life and Selected Writings of William Childs Robinson (1897–1982) by David B. Calhoun, Banner of Truth, 2013).

Explore the work of the Banner of Truth: www.banneroftruth.org

Subscribe to the Magazine (Print/Digital/Both): www.banneroftruth.org/magazine

Record a message for us: https://www.speakpipe.com/magazinepodcast

The Congregation on Two Continents

Mon, 02 Oct 2023 06:30:00 +0100

With the help of Dr. Mark J. Larson (Heidelberg Theological Seminary, South Dakota), and Cotton Mather, we explore the lives of John Robinson (1576–1625) and William Brewster (c. 1566–1644) and the unusual path taken by their congregation. These faithful men led the congregationalist church at Leiden which became inter-continental in 1620 when a number of its key members set out for North America aboard the ships Mayflower and Speedwell.

Featured Content:

– "William Brewster and John Robinson: Labourers Together with God" by Mark J. Larson (Banner of Truth Magazine: No. 724, January 2024)

– "Primordia; Or, The Voyage to New-England" by Cotton Mather (excerpted from The Great Works of Christ in America, Banner of Truth, 1979).

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