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The Preached Word Heard and Seen H. David Schuringa How Shall They Hear Him? The uniqueness of the universe of images that surround us is the sheer number of them: Ministers of the Word have their hands full in an image-centered culture. Says Jacques Ellul, “this proliferation has become the spiritual question of our day.” Which begs the question: if homiletic optics are out of sync with our communications environment, do not preachers risk that too little if any of their intended message will get through? ​ The Preached Word first digs deeply into the eternal principle that faith comes by hearing—sine qua non for the pulpit. It then scopes out in theological, historical and communications fields how the use or absence of illustrations and examples, electronic media or other portrayals may enhance or diminish the hearing event. For, according to Calvin, “God does not wish to be heard but by the voice of His ministers.” ​ 400 pp. - Hard-Cover Means of Grace Series ​ Available through our global and regional distributors ​ Buy Now - US Buy Now - CA Buy Now - UK Home About Us Catalog Bibles Videos MS Inquiries Contact More

My Only Comfort! Really? The Last Sermon of a Minister of the Word The End of the Matter From the Apostle Paul to the 21st century, God has called preachers to proclaim His unchanging Word within the context of the changing world in which the listeners always find themselves. In fact, by the power of the Holy Spirit, it is precisely at this intersection where the Word of God makes transformational impact. In this his final message, Dr. Schuringa invites the congregation to enter into a deep discussion regarding what it means today that Jesus is our only comfort in life and in death. He digs into Lord’s Day I and Matthew 15:21-28 for answers to a tough question. Not everyone will be prepared to take on this challenging subject on living in this world, dying and death. That said, believers who have experienced life’s brutal hardships, sufferings and relentless series of losses will latch on whole-heartedly to its truth: “Surely, I have calmed and quieted my soul; like a weaned child in its mother’s arms (Ps. 131:2). 5 1/2 x 8 1/2 - 33 pp. Soft-Cover Available world-wide through our global and regional distributors Buy Now - US Buy Now - CA Buy Now - UK Save - Bulk Orders Home About Us Catalog Bibles Videos MS Inquiries Contact More Nsmpress Copyright (c) 2019-2021 North Star Ministry Press LLC All Rights Resereved

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History of the English Dort Bible The six volumes of The Dordrecht Bible Commentary are published upon the occasion of the 400th Anniversary of the Great Synod of Dordrecht 1618-1619. While the value of the early church councils such as Chalcedon may not be undervalued, when it comes to a system of doctrine in full-gear, Dort and the subsequent Westminster Assembly were arguably the most significant official meetings of the church since the days of Apostles to the present. Both were involved with the material contained in these special volumes that trace their origin to the historic Dutch city. The international character of the Synod of Dort was evident by the presence of delegates from The Netherlands, Germany, Switzerland and Britain. In the remodeling of the Kloveniersdoelen building[1] for the occasion empty pews were included in honor of the French delegates who were unable to secure their government’s approval to attend. In that the general editor is also the compilation author of this work, the reader may appreciate even more the availability of The Dordrecht Bible Commentary knowing something as to its origin, development and a description of its distinctives, including enhancements for optimum appreciation and comprehension. The Dort Bible Ordered 1618 Following an inaugural worship service at the Grote Kerk in Dordrecht, on November 13, 1618, the august Synod convened to answer the grave threat to the faith by the Remonstrants regarding the heart and soul of salvation in Jesus Christ. Following careful deliberations, the delegates crafted the Canons of Dort, which came to be known as the Five Points of Calvinism, or TULIP, as treasured in the hearts of English-speaking believers for more than a century. These five points were not intended to explain every point of Calvinism, but carefully and clearly to articulate its central doctrine of the absolute sovereignty of God in the redemption of his people. That said, like a mighty oak flourishing for centuries that sprouts from a single acorn, from Dort shoots the trunk and branches of sound theology and true religion for the Calvinist world-and-life view. Lesser known are many other important decisions by the Synod for the life and worship of the church. In fact, most significant and highly appropriate to the occasion, the first order of business consisted of more than a week of deliberations (Nov. 19-26, Sessions 6-13) regarding Bible translation. The Dort Fathers agreed to produce a translation in the Dutch language, inspired in part by the English Authorized Version (King James Version) of 1611. Up to this point, with the Reformation still in recent history, the Dutch churches had not yet had a “pure” translation of their own—the longing for which was documented already at a previous Synod of Dordrecht in 1578—that was complete, and based entirely and strictly upon the original languages of Scripture. They not only wanted a reliable Bible for a believer’s daily study, they also desired the Scriptures—the Whole Counsel of God—to be preached and not in any way bound to some specified sections of Holy Writ dictated by availability or a liturgical calendar. Included for ministers and parishioners alike would be a scholarly, understandable and yet compact commentary to elucidate the inspired text. ​ The historic and primary basis for the translation would be the Masoretic Text (with a close eye on the Septuagint) for the Old Testament and for the New Testament, the Textus Receptus and Majority Text. Recent scholarship has shown these sources to serve with considerable, abiding value for the church. However, in the larger picture, even significant variants in textual traditions pale in importance compared to the presuppositions and commitment of the translators and commentators themselves. These men, according to the Synod, were not only to be noted scholars in their particular field, but also devout believers in God’s truth. Like the English Authorized Version, the Dort Bible was approved and financed by the civil magistrates. The labor would immediately shower manifold blessings upon believers, beginning in the churches of the province of Groningen, throughout Holland, and soon into the English-speaking world for centuries that followed. The Dort Bible Created 1637 Synod had adopted precise criteria for the production of a translation that would be true to the Hebrew, Aramaic and Greek languages of the autographa. In the thirteenth session of the Synod, the delegates appointed esteemed theologians to the project who had the requisite “intellect and heart,” beginning with Johannes Bogerman, Willem Baudartius and Gerson Bucerus for the Old Testament and Hermannus Faukelius, Jacobus Rolandus, and Petrus Cornelisz for the New Testament. The scholars would first labor in their studies and then gather together for their work at the famed University of Leiden. Faukelius and Cornelisz passed away before the translation work got underway and so were replaced with the noteworthy New Testament scholars, Antonius Walaeus and Festus Hommius. The Synod had appointed sixteen other theologians as advisors to the project, including Franciscus Gomarus and Johannes Polyander. Numerous scholars in addition were consulted as well to ensure a Bible that would deliver God’s truth with utmost reliability and contain constructive explanation. Brief but intriguing biographies on each of the contributors entitled, “The Dort Scholars,” are interspersed in the Editor’s Forward in subsequent volumes of this work. Not only did the Dort Scholars have impeccable academic credentials for creating the new translation, they also served many years among God’s people as faithful ministers of the church. These were men of a period of church history that has come to be known as the Further Reformation [Dutch: Nadere Reformatie] which emphasized not only certain knowledge recovered at the Reformation, but also the personal experience of that truth [Dutch: belijden and beleven]. In fact, the dawning of this stage was evident in the Dort Scholars themselves including the youngest delegate to the Synod who was none other than Gisbertius Voetius. In distinction from the King James Version, Synod determined that the new translation would include exegetical notations [verklarende kanttekeningen][2] throughout, to provide elucidation of the text by the Reformed theologians who would be charged with the translating. However, while comments on the text were to be conducive for increased understanding, they were also to be concise enough so as to advance and not impede the message of the inspired text itself. Exposition includes matters such as analysis, clarification and alternative translations of Hebrew and Greek words, descriptions of literary, historical or geographical contexts, insights into approaching particularly difficult passages, as well references to the early church fathers and observations of other scholars, but all without lecturing the readers. They also inserted voluminous cross references that not only shed further light on passages but also clearly indicate these scholars’ commitment to the doctrines of the sufficiency and perspicuity of God’s Word, allowing the Scriptures to interpret the Scriptures. Their detailed handling of, and high respect for, the text is unmatched. In 1637, then, the Statenvertaling met kanttekenaren[3] was first published. The more than 58,000 comments that the contributors produced for the 66 books of the Bible have proven not only to be practical enough for blessing saints in the pew but also academic enough for benefiting ministers in the pulpit and scholars in the ivory tower. That means theologians, pastors and parishioners are able to profit from this historic resource with continued relevance, something rather unique in the history of Bible translations and commentaries. The Westminster Translation 1657 The publication was widely recognized as profoundly reliable, true to the Scriptures, and as an immense benefit for the universal church. As the English Authorized Version played an important role in Dordrecht, so too the Dort Bible, in turn, impressed the Westminster Divines. In fact, the explanations of the text in Dort’s Bible were considered by them, “a rich treasure of knowledge and spiritual understanding; the work of so many eminent theologians.” And there was a “sincere and devout longing” among the British and Scottish people for their direct access to this excellent and thoroughly Reformed work. As “the most influential pastors of the Dutch churches and leading Puritan divines” are reported to have been very close (Grell, 77), this desire for its broader availability was affirmed by divines of such stature as John Dury, William Greenhill, Samuel Rutherford, Thomas Goodwin and many others. And they knew just the man who would be perfect for the job: Theodore Haak (1605-1690). “In 1645, Haak was requested by the Westminster Assembly” to translate the Statenvertaling 1637, including its exposition, into English (van de Kamp, 51f.). Parliament itself had encouraged the Assembly to make the Dort Bible available, and so in 1646 Haak was certified for approval by the House of Lords and House of Commons, praising him as in “every way fitted for such a task” (Barnett, 72). Twenty divines were appointed to oversee the translation work. ​ The landmark undertaking was massively entitled, in the original Henry Hills publication of London 1657, The Dutch Annotations upon the Whole Bible, or, All the holy canonical scriptures of the Old and New Testament: together with, and according to their own translation of all the text, as both the one and the other were ordered and appointed by the Synod of Dort, 1618 and published by authority, 1637, now faithfully communicated to the use of Great Britain, in English. ​ In its dedication to the Lord Protector, Oliver Cromwell, Haak recommended the work, with no small measure of understatement, “as a means to spread God’s truth.” Subsequently, the Bible would become known for short by some as the Dutch Annotations or the Haak Bible. ​ Born in 1605, Theodore Haak was raised as a Calvinist, the son of a father who was a Professor of Theology at the University of Heidelberg where he would have certainly matriculated had it not been for the war which devastated the city. He did, however, study at Oxford, Cambridge, and the University of Leiden. A German scholar, he lived in England for over twenty years. ​ Haak had the distinction of being ordained by the renowned Bishop of Exeter, Joseph Hall (one of the British delegates to the Great Synod). However, he was not restricted to his parish but free to carry out his multi-faceted calling in Britain and on the Continent as a linguist, theologian, philosopher, scientist, political correspondent and philanthropist. ​ Well-documented is Haak’s extensive correspondence and relationships with noted personages all across Europe, including the preservation of close ties to the Dutch refugee congregation in London. Having been engaged in translation work already in his twenties, that of his voluminous works for which he is most remembered, with the exception of the present volumes, is his making of John Milton’s Paradise Lost available on the Continent. ​ All said, Haak contributed significantly to the extensive cross-fertilization between Calvinists in Britain, Scotland and the Netherlands that served as an incalculable blessing for the church world-wide. ​ In 1656, at almost fifty-one years of age, nearing completion of the Dort Bible, he married Elizabeth (Pell) Genue, a widow who had an Utrecht-born daughter, Kateryne. Haak maintained good health throughout his adventurous life, in his last years requiring only an ear trumpet to mitigate growing deafness. This highly-gifted man of God died in 1690 having made bequests in his will to “the poor of his parish and the French and Dutch London Reformed Churches.” ​ Distinctives of the 2019 Edition The Dordrecht Bible Commentary delivers the historic 1657 English translation of the 1637 Dort Bible - in its earliest known text = ordered by the Synod of Dort 1618 and commissioned by the Westminster Assembly 1645, to Bible students, pastors and scholars of the church in the 21st Century. The following distinctives will familiarize the reader with the newly released publication: 1. This 400th Anniversary Edition provides an entirely unique translation of Scripture containing the complete Dort text and its expositions. Since the Dort Bible and the KJV were based on similar textual traditions, one might wonder why Haak did not simply add the Dort commentary to the already translated Authorized Version. That is not only because there were attempts in progress to produce their own “English Annotations” for the KJV, but also they were fully aware that the Dort Bible was a different translation and that attaching the notes to their KJV Bible could not be accomplished without considerable misconstruction. Besides, the English readers were interested in exactly what the Dort Bible had to say. Although in other works Haak exercised some translator prerogatives, his translation of the Dort Bible stuck closely to his source, virtually word-for-word, reflecting also the high degree of accuracy by the authors. And the learned scholars of Dort at important points did venture into a different direction than that of the sister translation. Thus, lacking a one-for-one correspondence between the Dort Bible and KJV, correlating the explanatory comments of the one with the other, while of some value, would be unviable. In fact, the Dort Scholars’ precision work demonstrates such careful analysis of the Hebrew and Greek, that this presentation is certainly the next best thing to knowing the original languages for oneself. ​ 2. Specifically ordered by the Synod of Dort was that their exposition be embedded within the text itself [indicated by brackets] and that these comments be printed in a different font so that they may be differentiated from the words of the Bible text.[4] Curious is that the beloved Statenvertalen failed to follow through on this mandate of Synod and relegated the commentary to the margins and in massive footnotes. In fact, Haak had begun his translation replicating the deviation, but he was instructed by the divines to start over despite that he had already gotten to the books of Kings. ​ 3. Remaining historically faithful (though considerable adjustments have been made to the manuscript to enhance accessibility), the essential, received text has itself not been tampered with by the compilation author. Thus, readers do well to bear in mind that they are dealing with a raw, 17th century document. This will be readily noted also by many “irregulates” in the spelling, grammar, punctuation and abbreviations of the times. Also observed will be that the text does not bear a relative consistency compared to modern standards. For example, it was not uncommon to have multiple spellings for the same word. The English language itself was, from today’s perspective, still underdeveloped, in the throes of the substantial shift from Middle to Early-Modern to Modern English. Other anomalies in the text are generally attributed to what is referenced historiographically as the “Wild-West” days of printing. Books were not produced with the precision they are today and, for example, in addition to occasional typos, letters were even purposely omitted to fit a craftsman’s margins. Subsequent print and electronic transmissions also seem to have played a role in some variations in this particular, extant text. The Early-Modern irregularities were also true of Dutch literature at the time, including the 1637 Statenvertaling. 4. The only updating of the text itself in the 2019 edition by the general editor regards Haak’s translation of the Dutch word, kanttekeningen as “Annotations,” the singular, “Annotate” and its abbreviation, “Annot.”—adequate for the 17th century—for which here are employed instead the labels “Commentary” or “Comment.” These terms more accurately reflect today the substantial character of the over 58,000 expository notations in the Dort Bible’s 3,100 pages that, in stark contrast to lesser works, were and are considered “revered running commentary” (Muller, 28), a style in between “notes” as in the usual study Bible on the one hand, and protracted hermeneutical discourse on the other. Such is readily evident in what an six-volume work such as this contains and entails. In a lively sense, then, the reader is treated to a play-by-play commentary on the grand redemptive unfolding from Genesis to Revelation. 5. As a literal rendering of text is involved rather than resorting to dynamic equivalence, let alone paraphrasing, Haak’s precise translation may serve better for the Bible scholar’s study than for liturgical usage. The student should also be aware that the Dort Bible occasionally contains a different chapter and verse numbering in the Old Testament (such as including the psalm heading as the first verse of a chapter) as well as a few alternative versifications in the New Testament, and so, differs slightly here and there from most extant English translations. Chapter and verse divisions were not part of the original manuscripts and so their subsequent inclusion in history took on a measure of variability in various translations. 6. Fresh and original outlines have been created by the general editor to illumine the overall content, purpose and structure of each of the 66 books of the Bible. They are intentionally lucid and compact as it is not unknown how some Bible-book outlines tend to miss the forest for the trees. While more complex outlines certainly have their place, they can hinder rather than assist in comprehending the book as a unit, how it flows, and its main ideas. So these have been constructed intentionally for portraying how each section contributes to the book as a whole. The goal is for the student of the to get a clear view of the main regions of the forest in a manner to be especially blessed and informed by the Dort Scholars’ meticulous and painstaking examination of the trees (and bushes). To be sure, the outlines have been inserted to enrich, not intrude upon, the 17th century text. 7. In addition to the outlines, the editor has included in the forward to each volume his own introductions to the Bible books contained therein. Each succinctly describes the historical-redemptive place, texture and content overview of the Scripture contained in that volume. While the sixty-six books of the Bible are divided among six volumes, the introductions clearly demonstrate how the written Word of God is perfectly ordered into one book, from Genesis to Revelation. ​ 8. The set also presents three galleries of art exhibits tastefully inserted by the general editor. First, distributed throughout the volumes are fifty sacred paintings attributed to the renowned painter, Rembrandt Harmenszoon van Rijn (1606-1669), a contemporary of Theodore Haak. These sacred works of Rembrandt are not original to Dordrecht’s or Haak’s volumes. They have been added as a bonus, not merely for the Bible student’s appreciation, but especially for reinforcement of Scripture’s message itself in coordination with the richness of the entire work. Including figures within the text was and is not an uncommon practice. ​ The last distinctive warrants further elucidation. Widely regarded as the most significant artist in history, Rembrandt’s illustrations were produced during the same historical period as the formation and distribution of both the Dutch and English editions of the Dordrecht Scriptures. While the artist was by no means a student of reformed theology, it would be an understatement to say that so much of what he produced by divine providence is of inestimable value. ​ That said, in deference to the convictions of the Dordrecht and Westminster divines, as well as those of the compilation author and general editor, Rembrandt’s depictions of Christ have generally not been included in this robust collection. ​ While the Dort Commentary is replete with Rembrandt’s unforgettable work, included also is a second gallery entitled, “In Word and Worship, ” reflecting the 16th and 17th centuries of the Reformed churches. Among the Minor Prophets is a third gallery entitled, “Minor Prophets in the Reformed Tradition.” Strategic maps have been added to the volumes as well. The entire commentary is searchable by the indices of books, particular chapters, outline headings, as well as the numerous figures. ​ The astute reader will quickly appropriate and master these distinctive features of this scholarly resource. Solemn effort expended will be immensely rewarded. The careful and prayerful student of the Word will feel as if the great theologians of church history were at his side, in his study, gently and meticulously guiding him, verse-by-verse, through Holy Scripture. ​ All being said, of the publishing of study Bibles and commentaries, there appears no end. Undoubtedly, capable theologians have followed Dort and Westminster who have added ideas to the theological science of exegesis on matters such as the historical-redemptive unity of Scripture within the contours of the two-age construction, the structure of ancient treaty documents, the literary devices of diverse genres, the distinctiveness of “overlapping” historical literature in the Old and New Testaments, as well as theoretical insights from ongoing archeological excavations. ​ And certainly, as with any discovery, when the wheat is separated from the chaff, there may be gain. ​ Still, the church has been seriously compromised if along the way she has lost touch with the insights into Holy Writ as provided right here in plentitude by our spiritual forefathers in this extraordinary work approved by both Dort and Westminster. Here in full bloom is the Reformation’s return to the Scriptures with rock-solid explanations that significantly shaped the minds and hearts of Reformed believers for centuries. The thousands upon thousands of gems in the Dordrecht Bible Commentary are as timeless as they are priceless. Truth is, one might think of these volumes as our spiritual forefathers unfolding the Old Paths in stately language for all those with ears to hear. ​ Looking back, the 17th Century was a Golden Age, even a Further Reformation, for the universal church. Joined at the hip with the 16th Century Reformation, this entire epoch marked a mountain-top in the history of the church and the world. And at the pinnacle of this mountain one discovers the Great Synod of Dort, as well as The Westminster Assembly, united not only by their confessional standards but also by this tried and true Bible translation and its revered running commentary engraved by the finger of divine providence. ​ Dort Scholars - Resources Acta ofte handelinghen des Nationalen Synodi Gehouden door autoriteit der Hoogh: Mogh: Heeren Staten Generael des Vereenichden Nedeandts tot Dordrecht Anno 1618-1619. Dordrecht: Donner en Van Den Hoorn, 1621. Barnett, Pamela. Theodore Haak, F.R.S. (1605-1690): The First German Translator of “Paradise Lost.” The Hague, 1962. Biesterveld, P. and Hoekstra,T. Het Gereformeerde Kerkbook. Zutphen: J. B. Van den Brink, 1931. De Jong, O. J. et al. Het Eigene van de Nederlandse Nadere Reformatie. Den Hertog B.V., 1992. The Dutch Annotations upon the Whole Bible, or, All the holy canonical scriptures of the Old and New Testament… . Trans. Th. Haak. London: Henry Hills, John Rothwell, Joshua Kirton, Richard Tomlins, 1657. Grell, Ole Peter. Calvinist Exiles in Tudor and Stuart England. Hampshire: Scholar Press, 1996. Kuiper, H. H. De Post-acta of Handelingen van de Nationale Synode van Dordrecht in 1618 en 1619 gehouden. Amsterdam: Höveker & Worasf, 1899. Grosheide, F. W., et al. Christelijke Encyclopedie voor Het Nederlandsche Volk. Kampen: J. H. Kok, n.d. Grosheide, F. W., Van Itterzon, G. P. et al. Christelijke Encyclopedie. Vols. I-VI. Kampen: J. H. Kok, 1956. McKenzie, D. F. And Bell, Maureen. A Chronology and Caelndar of Documents Relating to the London Book Trade 1641-1300. I-III. Oxford, 2005. Muller, Richard A. and Ward, Rowland S. Scripture and Worship: Biblical Interpretation & The Directory for Worship. Phillipsburg: P & R Publishing, 2007. Nauta, D. Ed. Biographisch lexicon voor de geschiedenis van het Nederlands protestantism. Vols. I-VI. Kampen: J. H. Kok, 1978. Ruys, Th., Jr. Petrus Dathenus. Houten: Den Hertog B.V., 1988. ​ Schuringa, Gregory D. Embracing Leer and Leven: The Theology of Simon Oomius in the Context of Nadere Reformatie Orthodoxy. Grand Rapids: Calvin Theological Seminary Ph.D. Dissertation, 2003. Selderhuis, Herman J., Sinnema, Donald, and Moser, Christian. Acta et Documenta Synodi Nationalis Dordrechtanae (1618-1619). I. Göttingen: Vandenhoeck & Ruprecht, 2014. Statenvertaling met kanttekeningen. Leiden: Druckers vande Hoogh-Mog: Heeren Staten Generael, 1637 (1657). ​ Van de Kamp, Jan. “Networks and Translation within the Republic of Letters: The Case of Theodore Haak (1605–1690).” Enenkel, Karl, Fransen, Sietske and Hodson, Nial (Eds.). Translation and the Circulation of Knowledge in Early Modern Science. Leiden: Koninklijke Brill NV, 2017. Van’t Spijker, et al. De Synode van Dordrecht in 1618 en 1619. Houten: Den Hertog B.V., 1987. ​ ​ Notes [1] A klover was a type of musket and the Kloveniersdoelen building served as the headquarters for the local militia [kloveniers, or musketeers]. [2] Or Dutch, commentaar. [3] Statenvertaling, lit., States Translation, indicating its authorization also by the government. [4] As to these strict and clear requirements of embedding the explanatory comments within the text itself, Synod specifically declared: en deze in den tekst met een andere letter, en tusschen haakjes besluiten, opdat ze van de woorden van den tekst mogen onderscheiden worden (see Acta Nationale Synode van Dordrecht 1618-1619, Session 8, Criterium II). [Trans. “And that these (comments) be included in the text in another font, and enclosed by brackets, that they may be distinguished from the words of the text.”] ​ __________________________________ Source: Johannes Bogerman, Willem Baudartius, Gerson Bucerus. The Dordrecht Bible Commentary: Volume I: The Pentateuch. Tr. Th. Haak (Otsego: Nsmpress, 2020), 1-11. ​ English Dort Bible Project Acknowledgments Since this release is connected to both the Synod of Dordrecht and the Westminster Assembly, consulted were noted scholars today of both traditions and who represent a somewhat diverse spectrum in the confessional Reformed camp. The work is indebted to these historians who each provided unique and valued input on penultimate drafts, particularly regarding materials in the initial volume that lay the foundation for the presentation as a whole: Dr. James A. De Jong, Professor of Church History and President Emeritus, Calvin Theological Seminary; Dr. Herman J. Selderhuis, Professor of Church History and Director of Refo500, Theologische Universiteit Apeldoorn; Dr. Martyn C. Cowan, Church Historian at Union Theological College, Belfast; Prof. Russell J. Dykstra, Professor of Church History and New Testament Studies, Protestant Reformed Seminary; and Dr. Alan D. Strange, Professor of Church History, Mid-America Reformed Seminary. In addition, the Editor’s Foreword to each volume has been enriched and sharpened by contributions of the Rev. Dr. Gregory D. Schuringa, who studied under Historical Theologian Dr. Richard A. Muller and serves as Senior Minister at Faith Christian Reformed Church, Elmhurst, Ill. Historian William F. Oosterman, Oxford, PA, must also be mentioned whose knowledge of Th. Haak, and considerably more, ignited the undertaking. Noted is the Dutch Reformed Translation Society and, in particular, Dr. Joel R. Beeke, President of Puritan Reformed Theological Seminary, for their role in advancing Post-Reformation studies in the Dordrecht-Westminster ways that are enjoying a renaissance which has paved the way for the release of the present volumes. And finally, but most affectionately, hereby acknowledged is one whose resume is chronicled in Proverbs 31:10-31. Naturally, the compilation author and general editor assumes full responsibility for the contents. ​ The Dordrecht Bible Commentary , I:v. Home About Us Catalog Bibles Videos MS Inquiries Contact More... Nsmpress Copyright (c) 2019-2010 North Star Ministry Press LLC All Rights Resereved

Seventy Resolutions by the Young Jonathan Edwards Explained and Applied Robert D. Norman RESOLUTE! How could a mere teenager produce such extraordinary resolutions? His story starts with a promising and intelligent college student who stands by the bed of his dying grandfather and hears the words: “I trust in the Lord Jesus Christ and I desire to do so more and more.” Robert Norman discovered these resolutions for himself, and decided to write meditations for each, that bring them into the 21st Century. ​ Edwards studied and led at Yale, served as a faithful pastor-scholar, became a catalyst for the first Great Awakening and was appointed as the Third President of Princeton University. He is widely regarded as one of America's most important and original philosophical theologians. ​ In 1722 and 1723, Edwards wrote seventy purpose statements for his life, known as his “Resolutions.” This young minister worked hard to keep these seventy vows. Here is a key to his spiritual growth, as well as yours, studying Norman’s meditations day-by-day. ​ ​ Robert D. Norman, theologically educated in the UK, is a missionary in Romania. There, he and his wife, Ema, seek to be faithful servants of Jesus Christ, resolutely sounding out the gospel trumpet for sinners to repent and to follow Jesus. ​ 6x9 - pp., 225 - Hard-Cover - Soft-Cover - E-Book ​ Available through out global and regional distributors Buy Now - UK Hardcover - UK Buy Now - US Hardcover - US Home About Us Catalog Bibles Videos MS Inquiries Contact More

Nsmpress Author FAQs Do you have a manuscript that should be published for world-wide impact? ​ What is North Star Ministry Press LLC ( Nsmpress )? Nsmpress publishes soft-cover and e-books (hard-cover for select offerings). We focus on publications that fit comfortably within the historic Christian faith . Of special interest are works in theology, Biblical interpretation, Christian living, cultural analysis, empowerment for the underprivileged, church history and personal piety. We publish non-fiction and fiction. This is not a self-publishing, indie, hybrid or vanity publisher. ​ Must approved authors subscribe to a particular statement of faith? No. However, our Worldview Statement describes our convictions. The bottom line is that through publishing, we desire with your partnership, to proclaim the truth of God's Word for the love of God's people. ​ Will the publishing of my book cost me anything? Your contribution, which is significant, consists of the time, toil and tears it takes to write your book! If your book is selected for publication, there will be no financial costs or fees expected from you, the author. As a not-for-profit organization, our priority is to publish books for the quality of their contents, not their potential for profits. Still, we do know that promoting good books should sell as well. ​ Is there the usual lengthy, arduous and complicated submissions process? No. Simply email a one-page summary of your book, along with your CV, to support@ nsmpress.com. We will respond by letting you know of our plans for your manuscript. ​ Could you describe in general terms how the process goes when you inform me that you would like to consider my manuscript for publication? 1. Only submit a manuscript when invited in response to the inquiry as described above. 2. That manuscript must be in an unformatted Word doc (paragraph markings only--no indents). Your manuscript must be finished, fully edited and proofed prior to submissio n. Do not send a draft. In general, we adhere to Chicago Style. 3. If accepted for publication, Nsmpress will send you a contract to sign. 4. Nsmpress sends you the formatted pdf proofs of the content and cover of the book for your review. 5. Nsmpress sends you a hard-copy proof of the book to review. While the publisher retains the right for all decisions regarding the book, we value your input. Ultimately the author is responsible for the proofs in so far that they are error-free for the final printing. 6. Nsmpress launches the book on its regional and global marketing platform and outlets. ​ Will I need to purchase an ISBN? No. Nsmpress absorbs the cost of your ISBN registration along with the other publishing expenses. ​ May I submit a PDF of an already typeset manuscript? No. All manuscripts should be submitted in “clean,” unformatted Microsoft Word files (with only paragraph markings, with no indents). Your manuscript will be professionally typeset and formatted by members of our team. ​ Which Bible translations should I use in my book? Nsmpress currently sanctions the KJV, ESV, the English Dort Version (EDV), ASV and NASV. If you desire to use other translations, you must secure permission in writing from the publishers where appropriate. And who will be designing the cover? Nsmpress graphic designers will create a cover for your book and Nsmpress will make the final decisions. However, we do invite and value input from the authors themselves. ​ Should I find endorsers for my book? We encourage having someone of some influence to write a Foreword and finding others to write endorsements. ​ Should I find reviewers for my book? When the book is released, it will be a good idea for you to contact publications to review your book. Nsmpress will do this in a limited way to select publications, as deemed appropriate. We will provide review-copies of your work (pdf or hard copy) to those willing to review your book. ​ Will my book be available as an eBook? Yes, in most all cases, as per your book contract.We generally roll out books in order from hard-cover (if yours is selected for a case-bound edition), to paperback, to e-books. ​ How much will my books sell for on the market? Selling and listing depend on book size, as well as our estimation of its current market value. Pricing may vary due to ongoing sales negotiations. Occasional, or seasonal, book sales may be run to promote your print or e-book. Bulk sales to distributors are priced wholesale. We will strive to get the best price possible for your book. ​ Do I, as the author, receive a discount on my book? Yes. Your contract will stipulate a generous author's discount for any number of your books, now at lease 50% off the list price. You may distribute or sell these copies as you wish. ​ Will I receive royalties for my books sold? Yes. Your book contract will provide details. ​ Where will my book be sold? Nsmpress will make your book available throughout our global and regional marketing network on platforms not only like Amazon and Barnes & Nobles, but also Walmart, Target and bookstores, as well as our own website, online book stores, and newsletters . Should I be involved in promoting my book? Yes. Definitely. Your promotional activities will be key for your book to gain traction in the market. We encourage a vigorous social-media presence (blogs, Amazon Author page, your personal website, email lists, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, podcasts, et al.), as well as activities such a speaking-events, book-signings, conferences, book reviews, publishing articles on related topics, book giveaways, radio-tv-internet interviews, etc. You are free to sell as many of your books as you like, at the price of your choosing, based on your author's discount. Note: If you wish to finance the placement of an ad in a magazine, journal or online, we will design and deliver a professional ad at no additional cost to you. Will my book be available in my local bookstores? Make an appointment with the bookstore manager or book buyer to discuss the possibility of carrying your books. Either you can provide copies or we can, if they establish an account with Nsmpress. Less than 1% of published books are carried in bricks-and-mortar establishments but there is often a willingness, even desire, to carry books of local authors. Nsmpress stands ready, at no cost to you, with professional support and advice for all your promotional efforts. ​ How long does it take to get my book published with Nsmpress? Ordinarily, six months or less from the time your book contract is signed to the day the finished product is in your hands and hits the market. ​ Will my book become a best-seller? Does your book come from your heart? Do you desire to share your heart with others? Then we can help. If your book submission is accepted by Nsmpress , that means we believe in your book to the extent of making a sizable investment to get it published and on the market, at no cost to you. Sometimes it takes a subsequent book for an author to get noticed. All that stated, perhaps your book was written for such a time as this to touch the hearts of many, near and far. More Author Info Home About Us Catalog Bibles Videos MS Inquiries Contact More

The L ORD Makes Me Right Happy A Phrase-By-Phrase Analysis of the Psalms of David from the Dort Bible Into the Psalms Phrase-By-Phrase ​ Wouldn’t you love to study the psalms under the wings of the greatest pastor-teachers in history? Yet, with their instruction in Elizabethan English—and printing still underdeveloped by today’s standards—well, from a distance, it may look like a tough row to hoe . . . at first. However, once you dig into these five volumes, amazing flowers and fruit burst forth from its rich soil. Beyond your imagination. For, rather than quickly reading through psalms, here each has a phrase-by-phrase analysis by the Masters (supported by numerous references) embedded within the text itself. Toggling back and forth between Scripture and the reflections of godly scholars you will be studying God’s Word at a new level. You will learn to stop and smell the tulips to take in the fragrance. As you sing these psalms in your heart and mind, you will experience melodies of . . . praise and adoration hallelujahs and lament conviction and assurance thanksgiving and petitions soul-search and communal-care. Above all, the teachers will help you see Jesus, everywhere. While people today may debate whether it is best to be right or to be happy, these psalms, by grace, can make you, as in the DBC: “right happy.” Scripture Phrase-By-Phrase Series ​ 9x6 - 370 pp, - Soft-Cover ​ Available through our global and regional distributors Buy Now - USA Buy Now - CA Buy Now - UK Home About Us Catalog Bibles Videos MS Inquiries Contact More

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Jacob A Crooked Stick Stricken and Cherished by God Hope for Us, Too! ​ Despite the fact that Jacob was a trickster who always sought what was best for himself, God was able to use him for the advance of His plan. There would come a fateful day when God would come to Jacob and change his life. God chose to put Jacob on a specific path where he would learn about the wonders of the God of his father and grand-father . . . It took an entire lifetime of growth and learning, but it had certainly worked by the end of Jacob’s life. At the end of his life, Jacob had become wise in the knowledge of his God. -From the Introduction ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ "All have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God." We are all crooked sticks. But Robert D. Norman , as a missionary in Romania, is calling people to faith in Christ, in whom God is guiding his own on the pilgrim's path—through the ups and downs of life, bringing them to glory. ​ 9x6 Pp. 233 Soft-Cover & E-Book Buy Now - USA Buy Now - UK Buy Now - CA Home About Us Catalog Bibles Videos MS Inquiries Contact More Nsmpress Copyright (c) 2019-2020 North Star Ministry Press LLC All Rights Resereved

The Dort Bible Handbook A Wide-Margin Workbook for Rightly Dividing the Word of Truth Thy Word My Life ​ With this stand-alone handbook , get your head and heart into Scripture as you delve into Approaching (Part I), Apprehending (Part II), Appropriating (Part III) and Applying (Part IV) God’s Holy Word. These four proven essentials, for rightly dividing the Word of Truth, will open Scripture for you as never before. In the tradition of treasures like Halley’s Bible Handbook and W. Hendriksen’s Survey of the Bible comes now the Dort Bible Handbook. While the former will continue to bless God’s people, the latter presents an in-depth and unique offering for instructing and inspiring God’s people today, while soaking in the Reformed and Presbyterian heritage, the teachings and lives of Dort and Westminster pastor-scholars. Before you dig into a specific text, get into what Scripture says as a whole, and in each of its inspired parts. “I think the author of this Handbook has done a good job of writing a work which, in a variety of ways, will be of use to the readers. David helps us with an overview of Covenantal history, from Creation to Consummation. He also writes about his own personal life, which gives the Handbook a special, intimate touch. And his analysis of our modern age is enlightening and challenging.” - From the Foreword by Drs. J. M. (Kim) Batteau ​ 8x10 Pp. 255 ​ ​ Available world-wide from global and regional distributors ​ Buy Now UK Buy Now USA Buy Now Canada Buy Now Au Home About Us Catalog Bibles Videos MS Inquiries Contact More

The Dordrecht Bible Commentary Volume III: The Wisdom Literature For 400 years, the Dort Bible [Statenvertaling] has blessed the universal church with not only a tried and true translation but also a revered running commentary from the best and most godly pastor-theologians of the 17th Century Golden Age. This gift for God’s people, covering all of Scripture, was approved by both the Synod of Dordrecht 1618-1619 and the Westminster Assembly 1645. This the third volume in the six-volume set, preserving the Early-Modern 17th Century text, consists of the Wisdom Literature (Job - Song of Solomon). In these documents, at the center and heart of the entire Bible, those who are thirsty are invited to drink deeply from the waters of salvation. To receive the embrace of the Christ—who is, who was and who is to come—who satisfies the believer’s deepest longings and sets the tone for faithful covenant living within the grand history of redemption. Taking a break from the Rembrandt Gallery, this volume contains a second gallery entitled, “In Word and Worship,” depicting exhibits of Scripture and worship resources from the Reformation and the Further Reformation period. The rediscovery of the truths of God’s Word and the reforming of worship were always on the hearts and minds of churches of the Reformation. ​ The Dort Scholars were aware that one may well apprehend the facts of the covenant, its promises, stipulations and sanctions. It is possible to understand that all of Scripture is about Christ, but yet sense distance, if not detachment, from divine favor. Yes, the Wisdom Literature speaks to the heart of the glorious Bride of Christ for the gracious appropriation of new life in Covenant with God. 8 x 10 - Pp. 472 Soft-Cover & E-book Buy Six-Volume Set Home About Us Catalog Bibles Videos MS Inquiries Contact More... Nsmpress Copyright (c) 2019-2020 North Star Ministry Press LLC All Rights Resereved

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The Dordrecht Bible Commentary Volume V: The Gospels & Acts ​ For 400 years, the Dort Bible [Statenvertaling] has blessed the universal church not only with a tried and true translation but also a revered running commentary from the best and most godly pastor-theologians of the 17th Century Golden Age. This special gift for God’s people, covering all of Scripture, was approved by both the Synod of Dordrecht 1618-1619 and the Westminster Assembly 1645. The work on earth of our Savior does not begin with the Gospels. That said, the gospel record in this volume is of Jesus’ work down here in human flesh which he assumed at his conception. Each gospel tells the same story but in its own inspired way. ​ Matthew writes to Jewish Christians, showing how in every step along the way, Jesus is the promised Messiah. Mark is more like a gospel tract, the briefest account, that on the one hand reads like a press release and, on the other hand, provides a compact manual for Christian discipleship. Luke makes clear that his biography of Jesus intends to show how the Savior came as the remedy for the entire world, i.e. Gentiles as well as Jews. And the fourth account provides a more philosophical basis for the Christian faith. Fact is, that Acts should be called the fifth gospel because Luke himself tells us that in his first book he reports what Jesus began to do and to teach. ​ The Dort Commentary compels us to see why everything in Scripture, also before and after these books, is about Jesus. The Dort scholars depict him in all his glory and humility as the Son of God, truly God and truly man, who shed his own blood for his own. ​ 8 x 10 - Pp. 320 Soft-Cover & E-Book Buy Six-Volume Set Home About Us Catalog Bibles Videos MS Inquiries Contact More... Nsmpress Copyright (c) 2019-2020 North Star Ministry Press LLC All Rights Resereved

Commentary on the Palatinate Lord's Supper Liturgy The Critical Edition B. Wielenga ​ Here Christ Gives Himself as Food and Drink ​ This first-ever critical edition commentary on the Lord's Supper is offered in order to heighten academic understanding of the liturgy and to deepen believer participation in the sacrament. ​ B. Wielenga (1873-1949) writes that, “the Lord’s Supper is where heaven and earth approach each other most nearly. The past, present and future of redemptive history meet and join hands. Christ in all his glory and complete sufficiency is brought near to the humble of heart. “While not itself the fountain, nevertheless for countless thousands the liturgy has served as a cup of the living water for the abundant refreshment of thirsty souls. The liturgy ushers the hearts, under the blessing of the Spirit, precisely into that experiential frame of mind and luminous vision of faith that is so necessary for the proper celebration of Communion. ​ "For here, Christ gives himself as food and drink by identifying himself with his people and pouring out his Mediator’s life. The service breathes the language of him whose hand reaches out especially to the weak, those whom he is eager to gather in his arms. Here the pilgrims rest awhile in the cool shade of the Palms of Elim and drink deeply of the fresh waters from the fountain of salvation. ​ This sounds like an overture that is preparing the hearts of the listeners for pure enjoyment.” The Palatinate Lord’s Supper Liturgy “Stands head and shoulders above any other liturgical documents.” Hard-Cover - 521 pp. Means of Grace Series ​ Available through our global and regional distributors Buy Now - US Buy Now - CA Buy Now - UK Home About Us Catalog Bibles Videos MS Inquiries Contact More

Hidden Stories of War and Peace Under His Wings ​ Unprecedented violence is erupting not only in far-away places like the Middle East, but also nearby in the parking lots of big-box stores and the pews of worshipping believers. The hurt and hatred overwhelming society is nearing a tipping point of enormous collapse. ​ Parallels, from the unspeakable chaos of Europe enflamed in WW II to our own perplexing times, are striking as we see every-day Calvinists, in solidarity with the least of these, burning in the furnace, discovering a fourth man in the fire, and emerging without a hint of smoke on their long white robes. ​ Dedicated to Charles Spurgeon and Martyn Lloyd-Jones—this book will touch your heart and point your family to a hiding place from the harrowing days pounding on our own front doors. ​ 9 X 6 - Pp.303 Soft-Cover & E-Book These stories are gripping. In part due to the dramatic period of history in which they are set but especially due to the engaging way Christine Farenhorst tells them. - R. Andrew Compton Asst. Prof. of Old Testament Mid-America Reformed Seminary The hero of this WW II story isn't a resistance fighter or soldier, and the bravery involved isn't big or bold. But quiet heroics are heroics still, and what Christine has crafted here is a story to inspire all of us called to everyday, on-going faithfulness. - Jon Dykstra, Editor Reformed Perspective The book you are holding in your hand is, in my opinion, the high-water mark of Christine’s accomplishments . . .. The actual beauty of this book is that she has captured a very real component . . .. That component is the way in which the Sovereignty of God often comes into play into the lives of people in the most unexpected ways bringing about unanticipated results under very trying circumstances. - Heinz G. Dschankilic Former Publisher for Joshua Press ​ In addition to publishing numerous outstanding books, Christine Farenhorst is also a columnist for Reformed Perspective and a contributing writer for Christian Renewal. She and her husband, Anco, have five children, twenty-seven grandchildren, a dog, and twelve chickens. Buy Now Amazon.com Buy Now Amazon.ca Home About Us Catalog Bibles Videos MS Inquiries Contact More... Nsmpress Copyright (c) 2019-2020 North Star Ministry Press LLC All Rights Resereved

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