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File Name: Shields, Alexander - A Hind Let Loose
File Submitter: superaben
File Submitted: 25 Aug 2012
File Updated: 26 Aug 2012
File Category: Reference Books (topx)
Author: Alexander Shields
e-Sword Version: 9.x - 10.x

Alexander Shields remains one of the most reliable Scottish Covenanters. Alongside of other firsthand writers, David Calderwood, John Knox, and George Buchanan, Shield’s history of the church of Scotland forms a source.

Shields was born around 1660. During the Glorious Revolution, he joined on the side of William and Mary. After the war subsided, he became minister at St. Andrews, but was sent as a deputation to the Scottish settlement at Darien in the Americas. He died of fever in Jamaica.

A Hind Let Loose remains Shield’s most well known work. It was published to reject many of the false claims about the Scottish reformation, as well as to explain their positions.

From the Preface:

“Presuming it is thy desire to answer the holy and honourable designation I accost thee with, I shall take the confidence to assure thee, it is my design to answer, in some measure, the expectation which the title of this treatise would offer, in the hope that, wherein I come short (as I indeed confess not only my jealous fears, but my sensible conviction of my insufficiency for such a great undertaking) thy Christian tenderness will impute it to my weakness, and not to any want of worth in the cause I manage, which is truly worthy, weighty, noble and honourable, in the esteem of all the lovers of Christ, that have zeal for his honour in exercise; and therefore as it gives me all the encouragement I have, in dependence on his furniture whose cause it is, to make such an essay, so it animates my ambition, albeit I cannot manage it with any proportion to its merit, yet to move the Christian reader to make enquiry about it, and then sure I am he will find it is truth I plead for, though my plea be weak.

“The design then of this work is of great importance, even no less than to essay the discussing the difficulties of all our conflicts with open enemies, about the present state of the testimony; the vindicating of all the heads of sufferings sustained thereupon these twenty-seven years past; the proposing of the right state of the testimony for the interest of Christ, not only of this, but of all former periods, with an account of the propagation and prosecution of the witnesses, wrestlings, and sufferings of it from time to time, to the end it may appear, not only how great the sufferings have been, since this fatal catastrophe and overturning of the covenanted reformation, and unhappy restoration of tyranny and prelacy; but that the grounds upon which they have been stated, are not niceties and novelties, (as they are reproached and reprobated by many), but worthy and weighty truths of great value and validity, and of near affinity unto, and conformity with the continued series and succession of the testimonies in all former periods. So that in this little treatise must be contained a compendious history of the Church of Scotland, her testimony in all ages, a vindication of the present state of it; yea, in effect, a short epitome of the substance of those famous forecited authors, as far as we need to consult them, concerning the controversies of the present time with adversaries; which is much, and perhaps too much, to be undertaken in so small a volume. But considering that many who are concerned in this cause, yea the most part who concern themselves about, are such who have neither access, nor time, nor capacity to revolve the voluminous labours of these learned men for light in this case, I have done best to bring them into one body of portable bulk with as great brevity as could consist well with any my measure of perspicuity, not meddling with any thing but what I thought might some way conduce to clear some part of the present testimony.”

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File Name: Hopkins, Ezekiel - The Two Covenants

File Submitter: superaben

File Submitted: 12 Aug 2012

File Category: Reference Books (topx)

Author: Ezekiel Hopkins
e-Sword Version: 9.x - 10.x
Suggest New Tag:: Covenantal, Covenant of Grace, Covenant of Works

Ezekiel Hopkins, born around 1633, remained in the Church of England although his views accorded more towards the Puritan movement. As the Bishop of Derry, Ireland, Hopkins was caught in the midst of the Glorious Revolution of William and Mary. He advised no resistance to a Catholic nation that supported the falling James II. After this unpardonable offense to Ireland, his parish chose to send Hopkins back to protestant England.

The covenants are critical for the Christian’s right understanding of the Gospel and grace of God. There is nothing more beautiful than looking at the unchanging nature of God’s sovereign plan through all of time. Ezekiel Hopkins takes the necessary effort to prove Scripturally the differences between the two covenants that make up the harmonious plan of the Gospel.

From the Introduction:

“Of all the mysterious depths in the Christian religion, there is none more necessary for our information, nor more influential upon our practice, than a right apprehension, and a distinct knowledge, of the Doctrine of the Covenants; for, if we be ignorant or mistaken in this, we must needs be liable to false or confused notions of the law and the gospel; of our fall in Adam, and restoration by Christ; of the true grounds of men's condemnation, and the means and terms of their justification; of the justice of God in punishing sinners, and his glorious mercy in saving believers: and, consequently, neither can many perplexing doubts and questions be resolved, the necessity, and yet different concurrence of faith and obedience unto salvation cleared, the utter insufficiency of our own righteousness to procure acceptance for us with God, evinced, his justice vindicated, nor his grace glorified. For all these great and important truths will readily own themselves to be built upon the foundation of God's covenant and stipulation with man; as I hope to make appear in our farther progress.

“And yet, though this doctrine be thus generally serviceable both to knowledge and practice, how many are there who call themselves Christians, that are grossly ignorant of these transactions between God and man! that know not upon what terms they stand with the Almighty; nor what they may expect, according to the tenor of their mutual compact and agreement!

“This, therefore, I shall endeavor to treat of, as briefly and as clearly as the subject will permit, from the words which I have now read unto you; which are the transcript and copy of those two great contracts made between heaven and earth, God and man: the one, from the beginning of his being, and that is the Covenant of Works; the other, immediately upon his fall and ruin, and that is the Covenant of Grace: the one, called here the Righteousness of the Law; and the other, the Righteousness of Faith.”

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File Name: Feathers for Arrows

File Submitter: superaben

File Submitted: 05 Aug 2012

File Category: Dictionaries

Author: Charles H. Spurgeon
e-Sword Version: 9.x - 10.x

Charles Spurgeon’s power in preaching was achieved solely through the blessing of Jesus Christ. During his career, thousands listened to Spurgeon’s sermons and even more read his transcripts after his death. Spurgeon drew crowds because he had a way of preaching that made hard things clear.

Feathers for Arrows was Spurgeon’s personal scrapbook of anecdotes and illustrations. Those astute in Spurgeon’s writings will even recognize a few illustrations found in Spurgeon’s own published sermons. Spurgeon mentioned Feathers for Arrows in his special lectures on the use of anecdotes, part of his Lectures.

This module has been formatted into “.DCTX” as a convenient dictionary for the pastor’s reference.

From the Preface:

There is no necessity in these times to advocate the free use of similitudes in public teaching. Far more needful is it to assist our brethren to find a supply of these indispensable aids to understanding. To some it is difficult to create a comparison, although they know how to use it with effect when it is once suggested to them; and the most fertile minds are frequently stimulated to further production by reading the thoughts of others. It is not, therefore, I hope, an impertinence on my part to present to the Christian public a bundle of illustrations original and collected. My aim has not been to amuse the reader, but to furnish Feathers for Arrows for the servants of Christ.

Whenever I have been permitted sufficient respite from my ministerial duties to enjoy a lengthened tour, or even a short excursion, I have been in the habit of carrying with me a small Note Book, in which I have jotted down any illustrations which have occurred to me by the way. My recreations have been all the more pleasant because I have made them subservient to my lifework. The note book has been useful in my travel as a mental purse. If not fixed upon paper, ideas are apt to vanish with the occasion which suggested them. A word or two will suffice to bring an incident or train of thought to remembrance; and therefore, it would be inexcusable in a minister, who needs so much, not to preserve all that comes in his way.

From the pencil-marks of the pocket-hook my notes have been enlarged into more permanent manuscript, and have been of great service to me. Out of hundreds of metaphors and anecdotes thus collected, I have used the main body in my constant sermonisings; but as enough remained unused to make me feel competently rich in illustrations, I determined to offer a portion of my hoard to my fellow workers, feeling the less difficulty in so doing because the ingatherings of continual observation more than replace the material expended in this distribution. Moreover, indebted as every preacher must be to the illustrations of others, it is but just, that, if he be able, he should make some return: in that spirit my contribution is hereby offered.

To the nucleus formed by callings from my Note Book, my readings, in an attempt to expound the Psalms (The Treasury of David) have enabled me to add many quaint comparisons and ancient stories, which from their very age are probably newer than the latest novelties to modem readers. A few clippings from favorite writers, such as James Hamilton and William Arnot have been thrown in almost of necessity, for one feels a sort of obligation, by the exhibition of golden nuggets, to give note to others of the mines where treasure lies piled up in glittering heaps, To make the gathering still more varied, scraps from newspapers and magazines are interspersed, —fragments preserved in such odd times and circumstances, that out of what basket they first fell I cannot say, whether they are new or old I know not; I can only say that they were new to me. The whole collection is now presented to teachers and preachers as a sincere offering of hearty "brother-help." If there be here a single illustration which shall assist one of my Master's servants in his efforts to impart truth, I shall be greatly gratified. Desiring to do this and every other word and deed,” in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks unto Cod and the Father by him," I prepared these figures and metaphors, that they may serve as feathers for arrows —arrows of gospel truth which I pray may be made sharp in the hearts of the King's enemies.

According to Disraeli's canon, “a preface being the entrance to a book, should invite by its beauty," but he might have equally well remarked that a preface being merely a porch, no one ought to be long detained in it. Believing in this last rule, and begging the reader's lenient criticism, I invite him to such entertainment as this little volume may afford: being myself,

His willing servant,

C.H. Spurgeon

Clapham,
February, 1870.

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File Name: Gill, John - Infant Baptism A Part and Pillar of Popery
File Submitter: superaben
File Submitted: 15 Jul 2012
File Updated: 15 Jul 2012
File Category: Reference Books (topx)
Author: John Gill
e-Sword Version: 9.x - 10.x

The main argument over baptism boils down to the Church’s desire to conform to Christ’s standards as best as humanly possible. Paedobaptists and Credobaptists firmly believe they are running closer to Christ’s standards, and in the best cases, but sadly not the most cases, their antagonism is a fair desire to see a pure church.

Unfortunately for those wishing to study the subject, both sides of the baptism differences seem to “infer” Biblical proof that is not always clear. Both sides claim the support of the early fathers, and both sides have strong ties to historical background. Even worse, there are those who chose to be antagonistic for the sake of antagonism, who only cause needless divisions amongst brothers. As a result, it is to the student’s advantage to pursue a Scriptural, objective, and compassionate book on baptism.

However, choosing an “objective” book on baptism is impossible, and a “compassionate” book is rare. Both sides employ convincing apologetical authors defending their views and attacking the opposite view. As a result, attempting a study necessarily involves an uncomfortable sensation of being accused of scriptural corruption by the author of the opposing treatise. It is a shame that the church is reduced to squabble over an important issue in a commonly childish fashion.

The baptism issue is important, as a Christian’s view of baptism will influence other areas of his theology. Coming to a conclusion on the controversy is essential.

Publisher’s Note

Please realize that as the publisher of this module, I do not necessarily endorse the content, arguments, or perspectives of this module. I have undertaken this module because of my desire to understand the issue of baptism; I am still a student of the issue desiring to see Christ’s church closely conforming to His commands. Please do not view this module as representative of my opinions, but feel free to send me helpful articles on baptism!

John Gill’s Infant Baptism a Part and Pillar of Popery

John Gill is merely remembered today for his gigantic Commentary on the Whole Bible. Gill was a scholar of the first sort, reading and citing the entire Jewish Rabbinic writings in his works. No one since has had quite the same level of traditional knowledge. Gill pastored the church founded by Benjamin Keach, and was succeeded by John Rippon, James Smith, and a man named Charles Spurgeon.

Spurgeon himself writes rather critically of his predecessor. Like Keach before him, Gill had a bone to pick with his Paedobaptist brethren. Infant Baptism, a Part and Pillar of Popery was Gill’s stab at his favorite topic.

As the publisher, please realize that I cannot recommend this book. I hesitated to upload it because of its divisive nature. However, at the same time, after reading it for my own study, I realize that its historical and authoritative value cannot be forgotten. Gill feels strongly on this issue, and antagonizes greatly his opponents. This is no easy read! I must restate my disclaimer that I do not endorse the unloving nature of this module. If you choose to study it for the sake of its past significance, please be aware that Gill does not represent all credobaptistic authors in his stance and beliefs.

Please do not download this book to create division in the church; I have provided it for those who desire to study this issue, not for those who choose to antagonize.

From the Introduction:

“Having been called upon to maintain certain statements which, in a recent publication, I advanced with respect to infant baptism, or else to retract them, I readily undertake the former; and shall, therefore, in the ensuing treatise, endeavor to explain myself, and to defend the positions then taken. With this view, it will be proper first to recite the paragraph which has been so strenuously assailed. It is as follows: ‘The Pedobaptists are ever restless and uneasy, struggling to sustain, if possible, their unscriptural practice of infant baptism; although it is no other than a pillar of Popery; a corruption, by which Antichrist has spread his baneful influence over many nations; which forms the basis of national churches and ecclesiastical establishments; and which, uniting the church and the world, binds them together so firmly, that there can never be a full separation of the one from the other, nor any thorough reform in religion, until it be wholly removed. But, although it has so long and so largely obtained, and still does obtain, yet I believe, with a firm and unshaken faith, that the time is hastening on, when it will no more be practiced in the world; when churches will be formed on the model ordained by Christ, and observed by the Apostles; when the doctrines and discipline of the Gospel will be restored to their primitive purity and luster; and when the ordinances of baptism and the Lord's supper will be administered as they were first delivered, clear from all the superstitious admixtures with which later times have defaced them. All this, I am persuaded, will be accomplished, when the Lord shall be King over all the earth, and there shall be one Lord, and His name one.’

“The paragraph, thus cited, consists of several distinct propositions, which I shall endeavor, in the following chapters, to elucidate and establish. And if, in the course of the investigation, any thing should be said that may seem to savor of severity, let it be remembered that all my remarks are directed against infant baptism itself, and not against the individuals who practice it. For the evangelical denominations adhering to this custom, I cherish the highest regard. I recognize them as members of the body of Christ, and fellow heirs with the saints. I rejoice in their general advocacy of the doctrines of the Gospel; in their Christian spirit; in their unwearied labors to extend the kingdom of the Redeemer. But while I love and venerate them for their manly excellencies, I do not the less deplore the one error by which those excellencies are sullied. And I deplore it, not because it is fatal to their piety, and will ultimately bar them out of heaven; but because, however honestly held, it nevertheless dishonors the authority of the Savior whom they profess to obey, hinders the supremacy of His laws, and counteracts their own efforts to promote it. May ‘the Spirit of truth’ so enlighten our minds, that we shall all know and receive ‘the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth.’”

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File Name: Calvin, John - A Treatise on the Sacraments

File Submitter: superaben

File Submitted: 15 Jul 2012

File Category: Reference Books (topx)

Author: John Calvin
e-Sword Version: 9.x - 10.x

John Calvin is known today as the author of The Institutes of the Christian Religion, and his Commentary on the Bible. Although born in France and originally unwilling to stay in the front lines of the Reformation, the Lord stopped Calvin in his flight from France by using William Farel at Geneva. Through God’s grace, Farel “forced” Calvin to stay at Geneva, Switzerland, to reform this important town and create a stronghold for Reformed truth. Calvin’s pen was feared by those corrupting the church, and his influence reached globally.

One of the largest issues confronting the Protestant Reformation was the sacraments. To start, the Roman Catholic Church created a total of three “sacraments” to add to the Biblical duo of communion and baptism. Calvin took upon himself the job of illustrating more on this critical issue beyond the extensive coverage in the Institutes. Calvin broke down the issue into three parts, one on each sacrament and one on the sacraments in general.

As usual, Calvin uses his extensive Scriptural and classical knowledge to proclaim the Reformation. Calvin comes from the Paedobaptist point of view on baptism, and since his view on baptism has influenced thousands since, it is important to understand Calvin’s perspective. Whether you agree or not, you will find that Calvin was indeed a student, a scholar, and a Christian.

Calvin’s Definition of a Sacrament:

“Beside the preaching of the Gospel, another help of like sort is in the sacraments; of which to have some certain doctrine taught, is much behoveful for us, whereby we may learn both to what end they were ordained, and what is now the use of them. First, it is meet to consider what is a sacrament. It seemeth to me that this shall be a plain and proper definition, if we say that it is an outward sign, wherewith the Lord sealeth to our consciences the promises of his good will toward us, to sustain the weakness of our faith; and we again, on our behalfs, do testify our godliness toward him, as well before him and the angels, as before men. We may also with more briefness define it otherwise, as to call it a testimony of God's favor toward us, confirmed by an outward sign, with a mutual testifying of our godliness toward him. Whethersoever you choose of these definitions, it differeth nothing in sense from that definition of Augustine, which teacheth that a sacrament is a visible sign of a holy thing, or a visible form of invisible grace; but it doth better and more certainly express the thing itself. For whereas in that briefness there is some darkness, wherein many of the unskilfuller sort are deceived: I thought good in more words to give a fuller sentence, that there should remain no doubt.”

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