I One of the most striking characteristics of our time is that everywhere in the world we see new ideas appearing, which have a tremendous influence upon us all. Of course, one should not exaggerate this as if only our time produces new ideas. In a way you find these in every period of history. […]

In the previous article we used the term “Reformed” in its broad sense of “Reformed according to the Word of God.” In this sense it includes all the churches of the Reformation: Lutheran, Calvinistic and also Anglican Churches. Usually, however, the term is used in a more restricted sense and serves to indicate one particular […]

What is Reformed? Originally this word characterised the whole Reformation. All the churches of the Reformation called themselves “Reformed,” namely, reformed from Roman popery “according to the Word of God.” In this broad sense the term is used of Lutheran, Calvinist and Anglican churches. The Church of England, for example, was sometimes called the “reformed” […]

  An important question There can be little doubt that the question stated in the title of this article is a very important one for all who claim to be Reformed. Particularly in our time the question is of extreme importance. (1) In recent years we have witnessed all kinds of new theological developments, which […]

In the previous article we looked at some of the arguments used by those who advocate liberalization of our present legislation on abortion. We also saw that these arguments are not as convincing as they look at a first glance. As Christians, however, we are primarily interested in the Christian point of view, and in […]

In this final article of the series on abortion we shall look at some more practical aspects. There are several different cases of abortion. It can he performed for the following reasons: (1) therapeutic; (2) psychiatric; (3) eugenic; (4) social and financial; (5) rape and incest. Each case is different and has to be judged […]

In recent months there has been quite some debate on the subject of abortion. Newspapers discussed it in leading and special articles, while the column “Letters to the Editor” time and again carried letters by advocates or opponents of change in our present legislation on abortion. The debate started, when in some Australian States (notably […]

SHOULD WE MIX THEM? Last time we had looked at the biblical and L the historical side of the problem, as posed by Prof. J. Plomp in his inaugural address. This time we want to look at the more practical side. Prof. Plomp also mentions several practical points which we shall discuss briefly. 1. The […]

In the editorial paragraphs of last month we briefly outlined the argument of Prof. J. Plomp in his inaugural address. As we saw, Prof. Plomp believes that we should accept an “element” of episcopacy in our presbyterial system. He discussed the matter under three headings: Is it permitted? Is it desirable? Is it possible? All […]

In recent months more than one of our ministers has said to me jokingly: “I believe we could do with a bishop in our churches.” They said this with a view to our system of calling ministers. My usual answer was: “I don’t mind, as long as you make me the bishop!” Generally that was […]