Historical-Testimony-And-The-Second-Reformation-Reformed-Presbytery

HISTORICAL TESTIMONY, CHURCH UNION
AND THE SECOND REFORMATION

To this it is answered, by no means, every way the contrary, in accordance with the alone
infallible rule; for "Christ's scholars never learn above their Bible." This presbytery believes
firmly, that the testimony of Christ's witnesses is necessarily progressive, and that it will
assuredly advance in the face of all opposition till it be "finished." Rev. xi,7. There is no such
anomalous document recognized among the faithful witnesses as a "Standing Testimony."
All such measures of compromise they must repudiate. The church of God is one, Song vi.9;
Eph. iv, 4-6; the only true historical society on earth; Ps.lxxxix,29; cv,10; Rom. iv.13; the
only indestructible and immortal corporation. Is. liv,17; Matt. xvi, 18. Her earnest
contendings against the devil, the world, and the flesh, are to be put on record, but not to be
confounded with confession of her faith, though both be inseparable. Thus it is that when the
spouse is in perplexity, as to present duty, her glorious Husband directs, to "go her way forth
by the footsteps of the flock;" Song i,8; to "take for an example of suffering affliction and of
patience, the prophets who have spoken in the name of the Lord." Jas. v,10. Christ himself
hath left us an example that we should "follow his steps," as well as receive his doctrines. In
total disregard of such plain and reiterated declarations of the Holy Spirit, all the so-called
judicial testimonies, which have been emitted since the overthrow of the Second
Reformation, have excluded history and argument, the very essence of a testimony, save that
faithful and Scriptural one adopted in 1761, re-published in 1850, with a progressive
supplement. Thus different parties claiming to be the followers of Christ's witnesses, have
palmed upon a credulous world a confession, instead of a testimony. The Reformed
Presbytery would earnestly desire to disabuse the Christian mind of this gross deception and
great imposition, by which many sincere and devout disciples are befogged and distracted.

1. The Bible, both Old and New Testament, is largely historical, the books of Genesis and
Matthew beginning with narrative, the wonderful works of God. It is thus adapted to the
rational nature of man, and equally to the spiritual nature of the new man.

2. The church cannot ascertain the fulfillment of prophecy, the cumulating external evidence
of her divine original: nor can Christ's witnesses otherwise than by history identify her
confederated enemies- the man of sin and son of perdition, his paramour, the well favored
harlot, and her harlot daughters, the offspring of her fornication with the kings of the earth.

3. The present cannot in faith confess the sins, or express thanks to God for the mercies, of a
former generation, except on the credibility of human history.

4. Nor otherwise can a Christian know the time or place of his birth, or the persons whom
God commands him to honor as his father and mother, than by uninspired testimony; and the

same is true of his covenant obligation, if baptized in infancy. Against all who ignorantly or
recklessly reject or oppose history as a bond of fellowship, in the family, in the state, but
especially in the church, we thus enter our solemn and uncompromising protest.

And finally, we testify against all who, under pretext of superior charity or liberality, fiercely
clamor for union of churches by a sacrifice of divine truth, and in violation of order; or, who
advocate intercommunion among bodies organically separate; or who furnish testimonials of
Christian character to officers or members, who avow their intention to break covenant; thus
inculcating hypocrisy, by precept and example, and reducing the awful sin of perjury to
system. By such sinful and debasing practices; by the haughty bearing of idle shepherds of
mercenary spirit- "greedy dogs which can never have enough"-the poor sheep of Christ,
whose souls starve under a fruitless ministry, are tempted to "heap to themselves teachers"-
unauthorized revivalists-who "understand neither what they say, nor whereof they affirm;"
and are thus prepared to become the vassals of anti-christ; to be led blindfold down to the
chambers of eternal perdition. And, notwithstanding the judgments of God inflicted on this
nation by the recent internecine war, it still refuses to submit to the authority of the Lord and
his Anointed. It authoritatively tolerates all religions, necromancy and polygamy; and
profanes the Lord's day by post- office and railway traffic, for profit or pleasure.

"Arise, O God, judge the earth: for thou shall inherit all nations."

Excerpted from: The Act, Declaration and Testimony for the Whole of Our Covenanted
Reformation... by the Reformed Presbytery, pp. 177- 178 (a SWRB rare bound photocopy
[1761], reprinted 1995 from the 1876 edition).

FOR FURTHER STUDY

All titles below available from Still Waters Revival Books at:
http://www.swrb.com/pcopy/photoc.htm.

REFORMED PRESBYTERY

Act, Declaration, And Testimony, For The Whole Of The Covenanted Reformation, As
Attained To, And Established In, Britain and Ireland; Particularly Betwixt The Years

1638 and 1649, Inclusive. As, Also, Against All The Steps Of Defection From Said
Reformation, Whether In Former Or Later Times, Since The Overthrow Of That
Glorious Work, Down To This Present Day (1876)
Upholds the original work of the Westminster Assembly and testifies to the abiding worth
and truth formulated in the Westminster family of documents. Upholds and defends the
crown rights of King Jesus in church and state, denouncing those who would remove the
crown from Christ's head by denying His right to rule (by His law) in both the civil and
ecclesiastical spheres. Testifies to the received doctrine, government, worship, and discipline
of the Church of Scotland in her purest (reforming) periods. Applies God's Word to the
Church's corporate attainments "with a judicial approbation of the earnest contendings and
attainments of the faithful, and a strong and pointed judicial condemnation of error and the
promoters thereof" (The Original Covenanter and Contending Witness, Dec. 17/93, p. 558.).
Shows the church's great historical victories (such as the National and Solemn League and
Covenant, leading to the Westminster Assembly) and exposes her enemies actions (e.g. the
Prelacy of Laud; the Independency, sectarianism, covenant breaking and ungodly toleration
set forth by the likes of Cromwell [and the Independents that conspired with him]; the
Erastianism and civil sectarianism of William of Orange, etc.). It is not likely that you will
find a more consistent working out of the principles of Calvinism anywhere. Deals with the
most important matters relating to the individual, the family, the church and the state. Sets
forth a faithful historical testimony of God's dealings with men during some of the most
important days of church history. A basic text that should be mastered by all Christians. This
book is also free on the web at:
http://www.covenanter.org/RefPres/actdeclarationandtestimony/acttitle.htm.

CLARKSON, ANDREW

Plain Reasons for Presbyterians Dissenting from the Revolution Church of Scotland.
Also Their Principles Concerning Civil Government, and the Difference Betwixt the
Reformation and Revolution Principles (1731)
An exceedingly rare and important book. The Contending Witness magazine (May, 1841)
described Plain Reasons "as the single best volume penned defending the principles of the
second Reformation." It sets forth "the grounds why Presbyterian Dissenters refused to hold
communion with the revolution church and state," (Reformed Presbytery, Act Declaration
and Testimony for the Whole of Our Covenanted Reformation, p. 154n). These principles still
apply today and this still remains one of the best books explaining why and when an
individual (our church) should separate itself from those (in church or state) who do not hold
fast to all the attainments of our covenanted forefathers. The Reformed Presbytery's Act,
Declaration and Testimony (p. 47) further explains the context of the so-called "glorious
revolution of 1688" and overthrow of the Royalist tyranny with these words, "for in a few

months, God in his righteous judgement and adorable providence, overturned that (Royalist--
RB) throne of iniquity on which they depended, and expelled that inhuman, cruel monster
(the duke of York--RB), from his tyrannical and usurped power, upon the Prince of Orange's
(William--RB) coming over into England, in the beginning of November that same year
(1688--RB). But although the Lord at this juncture, and by this means, rescued and delivered
our natural and civil rights and privileges in a national way, from under the oppression and
bondage of anti-christian tyranny, arbitrary and absolute power; yet the revolution, at this
time, brought no real deliverance to the church of God; but Christ's rights (by these [rights--
RB] are not meant the rights of Christ personal. It is not in the power of mortals, or any
creature, to acquire and secure these to him; but the rights of Christ mystical, that is, of the
church, or of his truth, true worship, and religion, and professors of it as such.), formerly
acquired for him by his faithful servants, lay still buried under the rubbish of that anti-
christian building of prelacy, erected on the ruins of his work in this land; and the spiritual
liberties and privileges of his house remained, and do still remain under the bondage of
Erastianism, supremacy, toleration, etc. For it is well known, that although this man (William
of Orange--RB), Jehu-like, 'destroyed Baal out of Israel, yet he departed not from the sins of
Jereboam, wherewith he made Israel to sin.'" See pages 55 and following in the Act,
Declaration and Testimony for more on "the grounds of the presbytery's testimony against
the constitutions, both civil and ecclesiastical, at the late revolution, anno 1689; as also
against the gross Erastianism and tyranny that has attended the administration both of church
and state, since that memorable period; with various instances thereof, etc." The only
drawback that needs to be noted, regarding Clarkson's Plain Reasons, is that a few of the
pages (the book being as rare as it is) in the only copy that we have been able to obtain, are a
little hard to read. Even so, most of the book is easily legible and contains the highest quality
of Reformation thought regarding the subjects of which it deals.

DOUGLAS, JAMES

Strictures on Occasional Hearing
An inquiry into Song 1:7, "Why should I be as one that turneth aside by the flocks of thy
companions?" This book sets out to demonstrates the proposition that one should not hear the
public preaching of those he can not take communion with (i.e. it proposes a ban on
occasionally hearing those with whom you can not maintain organic fellowship with). The
implications contained in this truth are immense; especially when one has adopted the
Biblical doctrine of close communion and is set upon upholding the covenanted reformation.
The duty to separation and to true visible unity are all encompassed here. A review of this
book, written in 1818, notes that the "treatise may be viewed as a complete repository of all
that has yet been said on the subject." It is filled with Scriptural, as well as historical

testimony, and is a welcome tonic to the weak and compromising books of our day that so
often sacrifice the truth of the altar of some other man made expediency (such as unity for
political or ecclesiastical advantage). For as the introduction notes, "It is the revealed will of
God, and not saintship, which is the only rule of a visible profession." That Christians exist in
other denominations is not denied, but that they are faithful to the covenanted reformation
(already historically obtained) is. The arguments set forth here are reminiscent of those found
in Rutherford's Due Right of Presbyteries. If you are struggling with questions related to
separation, the unity of the visible church, close communion, etc. this book may be exactly
what you've been looking for. A massive appendix also lays out the historical testimony
concerning this matter.

REFORMED PRESBYTERY

An Explanation and Defence of the Terms of Communion, Adopted by the Community
of Dissenters, etc.
Defends the inescapable necessity of creeds and confessions, while promoting a fully creedal
church membership. Shows how the law of God obliges all Christians "to think the same
things, and to speak the same things; holding fast the form of sound words, and keeping the
ordinances as they have been delivered to us" (Col. 3:13). After laying some basic
groundwork, this book proceeds to defend the six points of the "Terms of Ministerial and
Christian Communion Agreed Upon by the Reformed Presbytery." These six points are the
most conservative and comprehensive short statements of consistent Presbyterianism you will
likely ever see. Besides the obvious acknowledgement of the alone infallible Scriptures, the
Westminster Standards, and the divine right of Presbyterianism, these points also maintain
the perpetual obligation of our Covenants, National and Solemn League, the Renovation of
these covenants at Auchensaugh in 1712, and the Judicial Act, Declaration and Testimony
emitted by the Reformed Presbytery. In short, this book sets forth adherence to the whole of
the covenanted reformation, in both church and state, as it has been attained by our
covenanting forefathers.

Reformed Presbytery in North America
(RPNA)

The Meeting Reconstituting the Reformed
Presbytery in North America (RPNA) (Aug. 5,

2000)

As of August 5, 2000 (and FOR THE FIRST TIME IN 113 YEARS) a Reformed
Presbyterian (Covenanter) PRESBYTERY exists which embraces the faithful biblical
attainments of the best Churches of both the first and second Reformations (Phil. 3:16).
In accordance with Scriptural doctrine of the Church, the "Deed of Constitution for the
Reformed Presbytery in North America" (RPNA) states,

We do sincerely profess that it is the glory of God, the edification of Christ's
Church, as well as the preservation and promotion of the true Christian religion
throughout the whole world that does persuade us to unite in constituting this
Presbytery.

We do voluntarily promise to be subject in the Lord unto the Reformed
Presbytery In North America; to promote and to preserve the doctrine, worship,
government, and discipline as summarized in the above cited "Six Terms Of
Ecclesiastical Communion" (http://www.swrb.com/newslett/actualnls/6points.htm --
RB); and to receive with meekness all brotherly counsel and admonition
tendered by fellow members of this Presbytery.

We do not consider the Reformed Presbytery In North America to be an
entirely new entity, but rather a continuation of the one moral person with
other covenanted judicatories of the past, and with those faithful witnesses of
the Covenanted Reformation known as Protesters and Society People (1650-
1742 inclusive). Accordingly, when we refer above to our "Constitution", we
include within it all the judicial documents comprehended and engaged unto in
our "Six Terms Of Ecclesiastical Communion (
http://www.swrb.com/newslett/FREEBOOK/RefConf.htm -- RB)" -- specifically, only
those documents which are agreeable to the Word of God, and consistent with
our covenanted attainments, as they were formally received and approved by

the following covenanted judicatories between the following inclusive dates:

1. The Church Of Scotland (1560-1602, 1638-1649).

2. The Reformed Presbytery In Scotland (1743-1808), and the
Synod Of The Reformed Presbyterian Church In Scotland (1809-
1821).

3. The Reformed Presbytery In Ireland (1763-1779, 1782-1810),
and the Synod Of The Reformed Presbyterian Church In Ireland
(1811-1839).

4. The Reformed Presbytery In America (1774 -1778, 1798 -
1805, 1840 -1845, 1854 -1887).

In constituting the Reformed Presbytery In North America in moral succession
to these aforementioned faithful judicatories, it is evident that we have not
included any of the present bodies designated as "Reformed Presbyterian"
whether in Scotland, Ireland, Canada, or the United States.

In full agreement with the official position of the Reformed Presbytery In
America, as recorded in their Minutes of June 2, 1841 (which are attached as
an Addendum to this Deed of Constitution), we hold these ecclesiastical bodies
to be unfaithful to the attainments of the Covenanted Reformation. With full
persuasion of conscience, we stand separate from them and cannot unite with
them until they publicly repent of their shameful backsliding.

Thus, we affirm that we, having returned to faithful terms of communion, and a
true constitution, are not a schismatic body that has further divided the Church
of Christ. To the contrary, the Reformed Presbytery In North America is a
moral perpetuation of that faithful and unified manifestation of Christ's
Covenanted Church in Scotland, Ireland, and the United States. It is our goal to
unite the Church of Christ in every land by means of promoting a truly
covenanted reformation in accordance with the prayer of our Lord, "That they
may be one, even as we are one" (John 17:22).

This resource provides a video and/or audio (cassette) record of this historic meeting and
includes the complete Deed of Constitution for the REFORMED PRESBYTERY IN
NORTH AMERICA (RPNA). Just the "Deed of Constitution," and not the complete
meeting, is also available in etext (free of charge) at:

http://www.ecn.ab.ca/prce/books/index.html .

Cassettes below are for sale at: http://www.swrb.com/music/cassets.htm

PRICE, GREG

The Apostolic/Reformation Way to
Worldwide (Biblical) Church Unity (7 cassette

sermons, 1998)

Seven astounding sermons on God's biblically ordained method to fulfill His command for
unity (and the great commission) in the visible church:

1. What Are Terms of Communion? (2 cassettes)
2. What is Close Communion? (2 cassettes)
3. What is Occasion Hearing (or Occasional Communion)? (3 cassettes)

These truths which have been prominent from Old Testament times to the days of the
Apostles -- and in all great subsequent Reformations and true revivals (especially during the
second Reformation) -- are clearly, simply and Scripturally presented. These forgotten or
ignored doctrines are once again coming to public notice in the preaching of Greg Price (and
the publishing of classic Covenanter literature), as well as in the contemporary call for a third
Reformation in which the nations of the earth will once again enter into (or renew) covenant
with Christ.

As Price points out from Scripture, these truths will also be well known in the days of
millennial glory to come. "And the LORD shall be king over all the earth: in that day shall
there be one LORD, and his name one (visibly--RB)" (Zech. 14:9). These sermons give us a
foretaste of the blessings that God will pour out upon His church when she runs "the
way of thy commandments" (Ps. 119:32) and when "the earth shall be full of the
knowledge of the LORD, as the waters cover the sea" (Isa. 11:9)!

All these seven sermons are also free in MP3 audio on the web, beginning with the first tape
in each set (which are linked to subsequent sermons in the series), at:

What Are Terms of Communion? (1/2)
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?sermonid=780119920

What is Close Communion? (1/2)

http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?sermonid=42101152912

What is Occasion Hearing (or Occasional Communion)? (1/3)

http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?sermonid=6201223051

Terms of Communion (19 cassettes by Greg Price)

This set explains the six "Terms of Ministerial and Christian Communion in the
Reformed Presbyterian Church" (i.e. the historic Covenanters). These terms represent a
high water mark concerning covenanted Reformation attainments thus far in history. They
are thoroughly Scriptural (as this set proves) and should be adopted by all Churches as the

minimum standard by which people are admitted to to the Lord's Supper. The "rare bound
photocopy" An Explanation and Defense of the Terms of Communion... ($C3.98 cerlox;
$C15.00 hardcover) by the Reformed Presbytery also covers much the same ground, adding
some arguments not found in this tape set, but generally containing less detail. McKnight's
"rare bound photocopy" Concerning Close Communion ($C3.99 cerlox; $C15.00 hardcover)

is also very helpful in regard to the general subject of the Scriptural propriety of a close
communion and explicit, open, honest, and biblical terms for fencing the table of the
Lord. Separate sections of this cassette series can be purchased individually as outlined

below.

Terms of Communion: The Word of God (2 cassettes)

Explains and defends the first term of communion, which is "An acknowledgement of the Old and New
Testament to be the Word of God, and the alone infallible rule of faith and practice." Covers the attributes of
Scripture, including the necessity, inspiration, authority, sufficiency, perspicuity, perpetuity, etc. of the Word
of God. Also deals with principles of interpretation (hermeneutics) and how we know that God's Word is His

Word, and thus can be trusted as the absolute, inerrant, infallible and inspired truth. Touches on higher
criticism and the debate over bible version, upholding the Textus Receptus (i.e. the ecclesiastical or received
text) and the King James Version. A fine defense of Sola Scriptura which also touches on how "extra-
biblical" terms of communion are not only required by Scripture itself, but are an inescapable necessity.
Price is careful to point out the difference between the primary, infallible standard of Scripture and those
uninspired subordinate standards, which nevertheless bind the conscience whenever they say the same thing
as Scripture. A great introduction to God's Word that comes with our highest recommendation. "I will
worship toward thy holy temple, and praise thy name for thy lovingkindness and for thy truth: for thou hast
magnified thy word above all thy name" (Ps. 138:2).

Terms of Communion: The Westminster Standards (5 cassettes)

Explains and defends the second term of communion, which is "That the whole doctrine of the Westminster
Confession of Faith, and the Catechisms, Larger and Shorter, are agreeable unto, and founded upon the
Scriptures." Price not only explains why we need creeds and confession (answering the question: Isn't the
Scripture sufficient?), but he shows how everyone has a creed and how such statements of faith are actually
inescapable -- for as soon as one says what he believes the Bible means, has has (be definition) put forth his
creed ("credo" in Latin means "to believe"). There is no neutrality! He also gives a summary of the
Westminster standards and the history of this august assembly, demonstrating why these standards are
agreeable to the word of God. After showing how faithful creeds and confessions (i.e. human testimony)
have brought untold blessings to the church he gives a history of the Westminster Assembly (setting the
context for the study of the Standards themselves). The doctrines contained in the confessional standards are
then summarized. Price also exposes and rebukes much false teaching and false practice (contrary to the
standards) using the specific names associated with each heresy refuted. The following doctrines are
covered: sola Scripture (refuting popery, neo-orthodoxy, liberalism and the charismatics), the doctrine of
God (refuting Unitarianism, Oneness theology [Modalism, Sabellianism], and tritheism), God's decrees and
predestination (refuting Arminianism, fatalism [Islam]), creation (refuting Evolutionism, Pantheism and New
Age and Eastern mysticism), the covenant of works, Providence (against "luck" and "accidents"), the fall of
man (refuting Arminianism and Pelagianism), the covenant of grace (refuting dispensationalism), Christ our
mediator (refuting Arianism [JW's], Apollinarianism, Nestorianism, Eutychianism [which led to the
transubstantiation and consubstantiation heresies], the free offer of the gospel, effectual calling (contra
Arminianism), justification by faith alone through Christ alone (contra Rome and the Arminians),
sanctification and good works (condemning antinomianism and legalism), assurance of faith, perseverance of
the saints, the law of God, Christian liberty (against pretended liberty of conscience and the imposition of
legalistic standards outside of the law of God), worship (against the anti-regulativists and promoters of will-
worship), the regulative principle (condemning Arminianism in worship), the Sabbath (taking the high
Scottish view), lawful oaths and vows (condemning covenant breaking [churches and nations included],
perjury, etc.), the civil magistrate (against pluralism, false toleration, Erastianism, and for biblical
establishments), marriage, the church (contra popery, prelacy and independency [all of which are forms of
sectarianism]), and the resurrection and general judgement.

Terms of Communion: Presbyterian Worship and Government (2 cassettes)

Explains and defends the third term of communion, which is "That Presbyterial Church Government and
manner of worship are alone of divine right and unalterable; and that the most perfect model of these as yet
attained, is exhibited in the Form of Government and Directory for Worship, adopted by the Church of
Scotland in the Second Reformation." "To many readers, the subject of church government will not seem
terribly exciting. Judging from the lack of contemporary literature on the topic, one might conclude that
church polity is not very important. Yet, if the truth were known, many of the practical problems facing the
church are the result of an abandonment of scriptural church polity. The church is not a mere social club. The
church is the kingdom of Christ (Col. 1:13), subject to his rule. In the Bible, the Lord has established an

ecclesiastical government by which his people are to be ruled. Just as Christ has instituted civil government
to ensure civil order, so he has established ecclesiastical government to preserve order in the church (1 Cor.
14:33). A man is not free to dispense with the church's government anymore than he is at liberty to disregard
the (lawful--RB) civil authorities. We do not contend that the divine order for church government extends to
every detail. Obviously, the Lord did not mandate how many times the elders of the church must meet each
month; nor did he prescribe any particular attire for them to wear while performing their official duties. Such
incidentals are adapted to the needs and exigencies of the time and place; according to the general rules of
the word, which are always to be observed. Nevertheless, the scriptures do provide an overall plan of
government which the church must follow if she is to remain faithful to her Lord. Therefore, it is important
to examine biblical principles of church polity," writes Kevin Reed in his Biblical Church Government.
Much the same could be said regarding worship. These tapes are an excellent introductory explanation of the
fundamentals of Divine Right Presbyterian church government and Divine Right Presbyterian worship. They
are jam-packed with Scripture, history and sound reasoning and should be very helpful to all those seeking
the Lord's will concerning these two important subjects. Price distinguishes between the elements and
circumstances of worship (contra John Frame's heretical innovations, wherein he rejects these distinctions),
while the vital issues of unity and uniformity, separation from false worship and false man-made church
governments are not forgotten. All this is set in the context of faithfully approaching the Lord's table. "Now I
praise you, brethren, that ye remember me in all things, and keep the ordinances, as I delivered them to you"
(1 Cor. 11:2).

Terms of Communion: Covenants and Covenanting (7 cassettes)

Explains and defends the fourth term of communion, which is "That public, social covenanting is an
ordinance of God, obligatory on churches and nations under the New Testament; that the National Covenant
and the Solemn League are an exemplification of this divine institution; and that these Deeds are of
continued obligation upon the moral person; and in consistency with this, that the Renovation of these
Covenants at Auchensaugh, Scotland, 1712 was agreeable to the word of God." Includes the studies offered
separately on the National Covenant (2 tapes), the Solemn League and Covenant (1 tape), the Auchensaugh
Renovation (2 tapes), as well as two introductory lectures (only available in this set) on the biblical principles
related to the ordinance of covenanting, the descending obligation of lawful covenants, objections against
covenanting, etc. A thoroughly amazing set of tapes -- among our best!

Terms of Communion: The Martyrs and Historic Testimony (2 cassettes)

Explains and defends the fifth term of communion, which is "An approbation of the faithful contendings of
the martyrs of Jesus, especially in Scotland, against Paganism, Popery, Prelacy, Malignancy and
Sectarianism; immoral civil governments; Erastian tolerations and persecutions which flow from them; and
of the Judicial Testimony emitted by the Reformed Presbytery in North Britain, 1761 (i.e. The Act,
Declaration and Testimony for the Whole of Our Covenanted Reformation--RB) with supplements from the
Reformed Presbyterian Church; as containing a noble example to be followed, in contending for all divine
truth, and in testifying against all corruptions embodied in the constitutions of either churches or states."
Price demonstrates how and why uninspired historical testimony must be a term of communion. A number of
the same arguments apply to this question (of fencing the Lord's table based on uninspired historical
testimony), as apply to fencing the table based on biblically accurate creeds and confessions -- so those that
understand biblical creedalism (and close communion) should have no problem with this aspect of
Reformation thought. Reformation views are also differentiated from Romish views of history, church
authority, etc., as they come to bear on this point. At one of the most interesting points of this study, Price
also proves how one cannot even keep the inspired commandments of God without the use of uninspired
history (using the fifth and ninth commandments as examples). History is here set on its biblical foundations.
Testimony is also well dealt with. Testimony is defined as "That record which a witness gives (in a court) in
defense of the truth and in opposition to error." Faithful biblical testimony is shown, by various examples

from inspired and uninspired history, to bring the fury of the enemy. This is where the Reformation
theological rubber meets the road of experimental Christianity and disinterested self-sacrifice (often resulting
in suffering and persecution as the antichristian beast [ecclesiastical and civil] is stirred from his slumber by
the barbs of faithful Christian witnesses as they testify to the truth and against "all corruptions embodied in
the constitutions of either churches or states" -- thus the long list of Christian martyrs throughout history).

Terms of Communion: The Practice of Truth (forthcoming, 1 cassette)

Explains and defends the sixth term of communion, which is "Practically adorning the doctrine of God our
Savior by walking in all His commandments and ordinances blamelessly."

BARROW, GREG

and LARRY BIRGER

Reformation Principles Re-Exhibited: An
Historical Witness and Brotherly
Entreaty.

Summary and Analysis of Changes within Terms of Communion of
the Reformed Presbyterian Churches of Scotland and America from
1761 to the Present, and a Particular Analysis and Testimony Against

the Present Day RPCNA. (August 5, 2002)

In a day of spiritual confusion and complacency, what could be more welcome than a
clarion call to godly faithfulness and a clear testimony for the truth? Among the
Reformed Presbyterian community, the appearance of this new book by Elder Greg Barrow
and Dr. Larry Birger, Jr. should be like a magnificent flare lighting up a pitch-black night
sky. The terrain that is revealed by the light might not be pretty, but the soldiers of God's
Army can easily identify enemy positions and avoid them. Some may actually discover that

they are surrounded by deserters and need to get back to the position marked out by the Lord.

One can tell much about a church from its terms of communion, and Barrow and
Birger are able to trace the progressive defection of the Reformed Presbyterian Church
of North America (RPCNA) by analysing the changes in that denomination's terms of
communion. Terms of communion are the formal basis for admitting people to the Lord's
Table. The RPCNA began as a Covenanter church, but later turned away from the Covenants
(National and Solemn League) and defected from the Covenanter testimony. This is
demonstrated in the evolution of its terms of communion, from clear, faithful terms, to
loose and general ones.

The Reformed Presbyterian Church of Scotland (RPCS), like the RPCNA, defected
from faithful terms of communion. It did this largely to make communicant membership
easier for new members. "Rather than patiently teaching the people, and bringing them up to
'own' and 'acknowledge' the testimony of the past contendings of faithful witnesses (as
Scripture commands), they opted to 'dumb down' their constitutional standards which were
originally designed to protect the unwitting, ignorant, and the scandalous from partaking of
the Lord's Supper. In so doing they declined from a more pointed testimony unto one which
is more evasive, loose and general" (p. 15). This is a significant issue raised by Barrow
and Birger: over time, doctrinal standards and terms of communion should become
clearer and more precise. If the reverse is happening, that is undeniable evidence that a
church is backsliding and progressively abandoning the Biblical attainments of previous
generations.

The defection of these churches has included a growing doctrinal latitudinarianism. This
leads to an important question: "How can a group of people who obviously incorporate,
inculcate, and tolerate serious differences amongst themselves regarding the doctrine
contained in the Westminster Confession of Faith, come to the Lord's Table professing
themselves to be in agreement, and of one mind, before our Lord and Saviour Jesus
Christ, without overtly and highhandedly violating the precepts of the ninth
commandment?" (p. 28).

Barrow and Birger conclude that the "RPCNA must be accounted guilty of extreme

spiritual adultery, and must be testified against" (p. 49).

This is an important document for those who would avoid the doctrinal declension of our
day.

49 pages.

This book is also available on all the Reformation Bookshelf CDs (in the "Free Books" file)
at: http://www.swrb.com/Puritan/reformation-bookshelf-CDs.htm

Free in html, PDF, and zip formats, at: http://www.ecn.ab.ca/prce/books/index.html
Or directly at:

http://www.ecn.ab.ca/prce/books/rpcna/rpcna.htm (html)
http://www.ecn.ab.ca/prce/books/rpcna/rpcna.pdf (pdf)
http://www.ecn.ab.ca/prce/books/rpcna/rpcna.zip (zip)

Other Reformation Resources:

The Divine Right of Presbyterianism
Versus the Sin of the Independent Church Government
(and John Owen Represbyterianized) Super Sale
http://www.swrb.com/Puritan/presbyterian-independents.htm

Westminster Confession of Faith Super Sale
http://www.swrb.com/Puritan/westminster-confession.htm

Covenanter Sale
http://www.swrb.com/Puritan/covenanter-books.htm

Reformed Presbytery (RPNA, Covenanters)
(reconstituted after 113 years) Super Sale
http://www.swrb.com/Puritan/reformed-presbytery-RPNA.htm

Puritan Bookshelf CD Series Super Sale
http://www.swrb.com/Puritan/puritan-bookshelf-CDs.htm

Reformation Bookshelf CD Series Super Sale
http://www.swrb.com/Puritan/reformation-bookshelf-CDs.htm

Doctrinal Integrity: The Utility and Importance of Creeds and Confessions and Adherence to
Our Doctrinal Standards by Samuel Miller

The Covenanted Reformation Defended Against Contemporary Schismatics: A
Response and Antidote Primarily to the Neopresbyterian Malignancy and
Misrepresentations, and the Manufactured "Steelite" Controversy, Found in Richard
Bacon's A Defense Departed; With a Refutation of Bacon's Independency, Popery,
Arminianism, Anabaptism and Various Other Heresies (Including an Exhibition of His
Opposition to Scripture and the Covenanted Reformation, in General; and His
Opposition to John Calvin, John Knox, the General Assembly of the Church of
Scotland [Especially 1638-1649], Samuel Rutherford, George Gillespie, the Testimony
of the Covenanter Martyrs, the Reformed Presbytery, the Puritan Reformed Church of
Edmonton and a Host of Other Prominent Reformers from Past Generations, in
Particular) -- With Copious Notes on Mr. Bacon's Backsliding and His Blackening of
the Blue Banner; as Well as Various Replies to Other Modern Malignants by Greg
Barrow (Greg Price, Reg Barrow, Larry Birger, et al.) (Though set in the context of a
debate with one individual, this book addresses a number of specific problems which plague
the Presbyterian and Reformed churches of our day in general. "It conclusively and
irrefutably demonstrates that those churches which today call themselves Presbyterian [and
even many which claim a more general Reformed heritage] have grievously departed from
the Scriptural standards and principles of the previous Spirit led Reformations [of the 16th
and 17th centuries]. This will become progressively [and painfully] clear as the reader
witnesses evidence upon evidence of defection from biblically based Reformation

attainments (Phil. 3:16) -- and the burying and/or removing of the ancient Reformation
landmarks. Ultimately, when the testimony and evidence [presented in this book] is weighed
in light of Scriptural verities, it is entirely safe to say that the original Reformers would not
only have sought negative ecclesiastical sanctions against our modern pseudo-Reformers, but
in many cases negative civil sanctions as well," writes Reg Barrow in the "Publisher's
Preface." This book, of over 300 [8.5" X 11"] pages, is also offered as a cerlox bound
photocopy [$14.98 Canadian funds] or a hardcover photocopy [$25.00 Canadian funds]. It is
also free on most of the CDs in both the REFORMATION BOOKSHELF CD set [30 CDs,
http://www.swrb.com/Puritan/reformation-bookshelf-CDs.htm ] and the PURITAN
BOOKSHELF CD set [32 CDs, http://www.swrb.com/Puritan/puritan-bookshelf-CDs.htm ])

Still Waters Revival Books, 4710-37A Ave., Edmonton, AB, Canada T6L 3T5
(Reformation resources at great discounts!)
E-mail: [email protected]
Home page at: http://www.swrb.com/

Contact us today for your FREE mail-order catalogue!

Back to swrb home page

OCR-BASED INDEX
Listings May Include Partial Matches
Page Numbers Refer to PDF Page Numbers

1560, 7 Bible, 1, 11 Confession of Faith, 11,
1638, 3, 7, 16 biblical attainments, 6 14, 16
1649, 3, 7, 16 Birger, 13, 14, 16 confessional, 11
1650, 6 blessing, 9, 11 conscience, 7, 11
1688, 3, 4 Blue Banner, 16 conservative, 5
1689, 4 brethren, 12 constituted, 16
1712, 5, 12 Britain, 2, 12 constitution, 4, 8, 12,
1761, 1, 2, 12, 13 by faith alone, 11 13, 14
1876, 2, 3 calling, 11 constitutional, 14
A Defense Departed, 16 Calvin, 3, 16 consubstantiation, 11
adultery, 15 Calvinism, 3 contending, 1, 3, 12, 14
advocate, 2 Canada, 7, 17 Contending Witness, 3
affliction, 1 Canadian, 17 corporate attainments,
altar, 5 charismatic, 11 3
America, 5, 6, 7, 8, 13, charity, 2 corruption, 12, 13
14 Christ, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, court, 12
Anabaptism, 16 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14 covenant, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6,
anti-christ, 2, 4 Christ alone, 11 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 16
anti-regulativist, 11 Christian, 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, covenant breaking, 3,
antichrist, 4, 13 10, 11, 13 11
antichristian, 4, 13 Christian liberty, 11 covenant obligation, 2
antinomianism, 11 Christian martyr, 13 covenanted, 3, 4, 5, 6,
Apollinarianism, 11 Christianity, 13 7, 8, 10
Apostolic, 8 church, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 9, Covenanted
Arian, 11 11, 12, 13, 14, 16 Reformation, 2, 3, 6, 7,
Arianism, 11 church government, 11, 12, 16
Arminian, 11, 16 12 Covenanter, 3, 6, 9, 10,
Arminianism, 11, 16 church history, 3 14, 16
Arminianism in worship, Church of Christ, 8 Covenanter church, 14
11 Church of Scotland, 3, covenanting, 5, 12
assembly, 11 11, 14, 16 creedal, 5, 12
assurance, 11 circumstance, 12 Cromwell, 3
attained, 5, 11 circumstances, 12 daughter, 1
attainment, 3, 6, 7, 10, civil government, 12 debate, 11, 16
14, 17 civil magistrate, 11 deception, 1
attainments of the civil sanctions, 17 declaration, 1, 3
Covenanted Clarkson, 4 declension, 15
Reformation, 7 close communion, 4, 5, decree, 11
Auchensaugh, 5, 12 10, 12 Deed of Constitution, 6,
Auchensaugh commandment, 9, 12, 7, 8
Renovation, 12 13, 14 defection, 14, 16
authority, 2, 10, 12 commandments of God, Defense Departed, 16
Baal, 4 12 denomination, 5, 14
backsliding, 7, 14 communion, 2, 3, 4, 5, denominations, 5
Bacon, 16 8, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14 descending obligation,
baptism, 16 compromise, 1 12
baptized, 2 Concerning Close devil, 1
Barrow, 13, 14, 16, 17 Communion, 10 disciple, 1
beast, 13 confession, 1, 5, 11, 12, discipline, 3, 6
believe, 1, 11 16 dispensation, 11

Still Waters Revival Books
All Rights Reserved

www.PuritanDownloads.com

OCR-BASED INDEX
Listings May Include Partial Matches
Page Numbers Refer to PDF Page Numbers

dispensational, 11 Frame, 12 interpretation, 10
divine, 1, 2, 5, 11, 12 free offer, 11 Ireland, 2, 7, 8
divine right, 5, 11 free offer of the gospel, Islam, 11
divine right of 11 Israel, 4
Presbyterianism, 5 fundamental, 12 James, 11
doctrinal, 14, 15 General Assembly of the Jesus, 3, 12, 14
doctrinal standards, 14 Church of Scotland, 16 Jesus Christ, 14
doctrine, 1, 3, 4, 6, 9, generation, 1, 14 John Calvin, 16
11, 13, 14 Genesis, 1 John Frame, 12
Due Right of George Gillespie, 16 John Knox, 16
Presbyteries, 5 Gill, 16 John Owen, 15
Easter, 11 Gillespie, 16 judgement, 4, 11
ecclesiastical, 3, 4, 5, 7, glory, 6, 9 judgment, 2
11, 12, 13, 17 glory of God, 6 judicial, 1, 3, 6
ecclesiastical God's Word, 3, 10, 11 justification, 11
government, 12 good works, 11 justification by faith, 11
ecclesiastical sanction, gospel, 11 justification by faith
17 government, 3, 6, 11, alone, 11
Edmonton, 16, 17 12 Kevin Reed, 12
effectual call, 11 grace, 11 King James Version, 11
effectual calling, 11 great commission, 9 King Jesus, 3
elder, 12 Greg Barrow, 13, 16 kingdom, 11
element, 12 Greg Price, 9, 10, 16 knowledge, 5, 9, 10, 14
England, 4 guilt, 14 landmark, 17
Erastian, 3, 4, 11, 12 harlot, 1 Larry Birger, 13, 16
Erastianism, 3, 4, 11 heresies, 11 Latin, 11
essence, 1 heresy, 11 latitudinarian, 14
establishment, 11 heretic, 12 Laud, 3
Eutychianism, 11 heretical, 12 law of God, 5, 11
evidence, 1, 14, 16, 17 hermeneutic, 10 lawful, 11, 12
Evolution, 11 hermeneutics, 10 League and Covenant,
faith, 1, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, historical, 1, 3, 4, 5, 12 3, 12
10, 11, 12, 13, 14 historical testimony, 3, legalism, 11
faith alone, 11 5, 12 legalist, 11
faithfulness, 13 history, 1, 2, 3, 10, 11, legalistic, 11
fall of man, 11 12, 13 liberal, 2, 11
fallible, 1, 5, 10, 11 holy, 11 liberty, 11, 12
false worship, 12 Holy Spirit, 1 liberty of conscience, 11
family, 2, 3 home, 17 light, 13, 17
father, 1, 3, 5 house, 4 logic, 13
fellowship, 2, 4 hypocrisy, 2 logical, 13
fencing the table, 10, immoral civil Lord's Supper, 10, 14
12 government, 12 Lord's table, 12
flesh, 1 independency, 11 magazine, 3
footsteps of the flock, 1 independent, 15 magistrate, 11
forefather, 3, 5 index, 8, 15 man of sin, 1
fornication, 1 inerrant, 11 marriage, 11
fornication with the infallible, 1, 5, 10, 11 martyr, 12, 13
kings of the earth, 1 innovation, 12 martyrs of Jesus, 12
foundation, 12 inspiration, 10 Matthew, 1

Still Waters Revival Books
All Rights Reserved

www.PuritanDownloads.com

OCR-BASED INDEX
Listings May Include Partial Matches
Page Numbers Refer to PDF Page Numbers

McKnight, 10 Original Covenanter, 3 prophet, 1
media, 11 orthodoxy, 11 Protesters, 6
mediator, 11 Owen, 15 providence, 4
meek, 6 pain, 16 pseudo-Reformer, 17
meekness, 6 parable, 1 publishing, 9
millennial, 9 patience, 1 Puritan Bookshelf, 16
millennial glory, 9 PDF, 15 Puritan Reformed, 16
Miller, 16 Pelagian, 11 Puritan Reformed
mind, 1, 14 Pelagianism, 11 Church, 16
ministry, 2 perjury, 2, 11 Puritan Reformed
mission, 9 perpetual obligation, 5 Church of Edmonton, 16
Modalism, 11 persecution, 12, 13 reason, 12
modern, 17 perseverance, 11 Reasons for
moral person, 6, 12 perseverance of the Presbyterians
mother, 1 saints, 11 Dissenting, 3
MP3, 9 perspicuity, 10 reform, 3, 4, 5, 8, 15,
Mr. Bacon, 16 Plain Reasons for 16, 17
music, 8 Presbyterians Reformation attainment,
mystical, 4 Dissenting, 3 10
mysticism, 11 pleasure, 2 Reformation
National and Solemn polity, 11, 12 attainments, 10
League, 3, 5, 14 polygamy, 2 Reformation Bookshelf,
National Covenant, 12 poor, 2 15, 16
nations, 2, 5, 9, 11, 12 pope, 11 Reformation landmark,
necromancy, 2 popery, 11 17
negative civil sanctions, power, 4 Reformation Principles
17 praise, 11, 12 Re-Exhibited, 13
negative ecclesiastical pray, 8 Reformation resource,
sanctions, 17 prayer, 8 17
neo-orthodoxy, 11 preach, 4, 9 Reformations, 6, 9, 16
Neopresbyterian, 16 preaching, 4, 9 Reformed, 1, 2, 3, 5, 6,
Nestorian, 11 predestination, 11 7, 8, 10, 12, 13, 14, 16
Nestorianism, 11 Prelacy, 3, 12 Reformed Church, 16
neutrality, 11 Presbyterian, 3, 5, 6, 7, Reformed churches, 16
New Age, 11 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, Reformed Presbyterian,
New Testament, 1, 10, 16 6, 7, 10, 12, 13, 14
12 Presbyterian church, 12 Reformed Presbyterian
no neutrality, 11 Presbyterian Dissenter, Church, 7, 10, 12, 13,
North America, 5, 6, 7, 3 14
8, 14 Presbyterian worship, Reformed Presbyterian
oath, 11 12 Church of North
office, 2 Presbyterianism, 5, 15 America, 14
Old Testament, 9 presbytery, 1, 4, 16 Reformed Presbyterian
oppression, 4 pretended, 11 Church of Scotland, 14
ordained, 9 pretended liberty, 11 Reformed Presbyterian
ordinance, 5, 12, 13 pretended liberty of Churches of Scotland
ordinance of conscience, 11 and America, 13
covenanting, 12 principles, 3, 10, 12, 16 Reformed Presbytery, 1,
ordinance of God, 12 professor, 4 2, 3, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, 12,
organ, 2, 4 prophecy, 1 16

Still Waters Revival Books
All Rights Reserved

www.PuritanDownloads.com

OCR-BASED INDEX
Listings May Include Partial Matches
Page Numbers Refer to PDF Page Numbers

Reformed Presbytery in sermon, 8, 9, 10 true worship, 4
North America, 5, 6 shame, 7 trust, 11
Reformer, 16, 17 sinful, 2 truth, 2, 3, 4, 5, 9, 11,
Reg Barrow, 16, 17 single, 3 12, 13
regulative principle, 11 sins, 1, 4 tyranny, 3, 4
regulativist, 11 social covenanting, 12 ungodly, 3
religion, 2, 4, 6 soldier, 13 uniformity, 12
repent, 7 solemn, 2 uninspired historical
resurrection, 11 Solemn League, 3, 5, testimony, 12
revealed will, 5 12, 14 Unitarian, 11
revealed will of God, 5 Solemn League and Unitarianism, 11
review, 4 Covenant, 3, 12 United States, 7, 8
revivals, 9 soul, 2 unity, 4, 5, 9, 12, 13
revolution, 3, 4 speak, 5 video, 8
Revolution Church, 3 spirit, 1, 2, 4, 13, 15 visible profession, 5
Richard Bacon, 16 spiritual, 1, 4, 13, 15 visible unity, 4
Richard Bacon's, 16 spring, 1 vow, 2, 11
rites, 12, 17 Steelite, 16 waters cover the sea, 9
ritual, 1, 4, 13, 15 Strictures on Occasional Westminster Assembly,
Rome, 11 Hearing, 4 3, 11
Royalist, 3, 4 studies, 12 Westminster
RPC, 13, 14 study, 11, 12 Confession, 11, 14, 16
RPCNA, 13, 14 subordinate standard, Westminster Confession
RPNA, 5, 6, 8, 16 11 of Faith, 11, 14, 16
rule of faith, 10 subordinate standards, Westminster Standards,
Rutherford, 5, 16 11 5, 11
Sabbath, 11 success, 7 Whole Of The
Sabellianism, 11 succession, 7 Covenanted
sacrifice, 2, 5, 13 suffering, 1, 13 Reformation, 2
Samuel, 16 supremacy, 4 will worship, 11
Samuel Miller, 16 SWRB, 2 William of Orange, 3, 4
Samuel Rutherford, 16 teachers, 2 willworship, 11
sanctification, 11 teaching, 11, 14 witness, 1, 6, 12, 13,
sanction, 17 temple, 11 14, 16
scandal, 14 term of communion, 10, witnesses, 1, 6, 13, 14,
scandalous, 14 11, 12, 13 16
schism, 8 terms of communion, 8, Word of God, 6, 10
schismatic, 8 11, 14 work, 1, 3, 4, 5, 11
Scot, 3, 7, 8, 11, 12, Terms of Ministerial and world, 1, 6
13, 14, 16 Christian Communion, worship, 3, 4, 6, 11, 12
Scotland, 3, 7, 8, 11, 5, 10
12, 13, 14, 16 testimonies, 1
Scriptural, 1, 4, 6, 9, testimony, 1, 3, 4, 5,
10, 16, 17 11, 12, 13, 14, 17
scripture, 12 Textus Receptus, 11
Second Reformation, 1, theological, 13
11 theology, 11
sectarian, 3, 11 through Christ alone, 11
sectarianism, 3, 11 toleration, 3, 4, 11, 12
separation, 4, 5, 12 transubstantiation, 11

Still Waters Revival Books
All Rights Reserved

www.PuritanDownloads.com