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The Dort Bible Handbook A Wide-Margin Workbook for Rightly Dividing the Word of Truth Thy Word My Life ​ 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. 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. Buttressed by key insights from the Dordrecht Bible Commentary, may you pray with the Psalmist, “Lord, grant me life through Your Word.” “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 Soft-Cover & E-Book ​ Available world-wide from global and regional distributors ​ Buy Now USA Buy Now Canada Home About Us Catalog Bibles Videos MS Inquiries Contact More Nsmpress Copyright (c) 2019-2021 North Star Ministry Press LLC All Rights Resereved

A Pun My Word Sixty Crosswords with a Distinctive Worldview Farenhorst at Her Best! ​ A pillar of Calvinism is that all of life is religion. For the believer, there are no parts that are neutral, let alone secular. But crossword puzzles? You’ve got to be kidding, right? Truth is, in these interesting, challenging and delightful puzzles by a celebrated author and Christian Renewal contributor, you will certainly discover a distinctive worldview for the renewal of the mind, and even a bit of levity for the heart. ​ Why do I like crossword puzzles from Christine Farenhorst? It is the variety of the clues. There are historical and contemporaneous references, there are clues from different languages (including from what I hear, the language of heaven – Dutch), biblical references, and my favorites, puns. Who knew a wet panda was a “drizzly bear?” And that Humpty Dumpty had a great fall just to make up for a “lousy” summer? So, enjoy the puzzles! And if you love someone – I mean really, really love them – you know what to do. - Rev. Mitchell Persaud If you, like us, have enjoyed solving Christine Farenhorst’s crosswords with each new CR arrival over the years, you will savor this selection of sixty. Here you will find droll humor, pithy sayings, wry jokes, occasional political commentary and more . . . vintage Christine Farenhorst at her best! -Cliff and Hen My wife and I greatly look forward to doing the crossword with every Christian Renewal. The satirical clues always make us groan and laugh at the same time. So, we would encourage anyone to do these crosswords! -Ben and Karina Christine’s crosswords are the cause that I sometimes get to bed late and leave for work late! -Ernst Vander Meer ​ Buy Now Amazon.com 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.ca Home About Us Catalog Bibles Videos MS Inquiries Contact More... Nsmpress Copyright (c) 2019-2021 North Star Ministry Press LLC All Rights Resereved

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

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

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

That Thou Mightest Know A Phrase-By-Phrase Analysis of Dr. Luke's Reports from the Dort Bible Dr. Luke Phrase-By-Phrase ​ Did you know that the personal physician of the Apostle Paul, Dr. Luke, wrote more of the New Testament than any other author? Pastor-scholars stand ready to break down his thick files for you, phrase-by-phrase. Teaching in the dignified Elizabethan English of their day, studious attention is deserved as they offer rich and rewarding insights into the truth. With their exposition embedded within the text itself, instead of rushing through Luke, you will take your time to toggle back-and-forth between what the doctor sketches and the reflections of the Expert Interpreters. Dr. Luke diligently gathers evidence, at every opportunity interviewing eye-witnesses, writing at length with the precision of a medical report. Not surprisingly, he notes in his two volumes with special attention those who are hurting, e.g., women, the sick, poor, crippled, imprisoned, and tormented. He reveals his doctor’s heart as he records the history of Jesus and his Body. As the only non-Jewish author of Scripture, he presents throughout his reports a global interest in the spread of the gospel, indeed, the publishing of the angels’ Glad Tidings of Great Joy to all people. And if you happen to know something of suffering, the experience of pain and hardship, perhaps ignored or discarded, Dr. Luke is especially for you. The “Beloved Physician” who traveled with Paul, conducts thorough examinations, and makes his referrals to the Great Physician. Scripture Phrase-By-Phrase Series ​ pp. 294 - Soft-Cover ​ Available through our global and regional distributors ​ Coming Soon

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Hope Built on Nothing Less A Compendium of the Christian Relgion Sure Faith - Solid Hope Technically, a “compendium” is a summary or overview. But this compendium never coasts on the surface. Here discover deep truths for your life, for eternity. Never confined to a kind of Calvinistic echo chamber, the author has observed first-hand that believers of every stripe, deep-down, resonate to some degree with Reformed doctrine, and that countless multitudes affirm the historic Christian religion whole-heartedly. The times in which we live are always tumultuous. But the truth of God’s Word for the love of God’s people is the always certain, the trusted anchor for our souls and unflinching strength for tomorrow—come what may. ​ 9 x6 Pp. 201 Soft-Cover & E-Book ​ Buy Now - Amazon.com Buy Now - Amazon.ca

The Lord's Prayer and the Prayers of Believers For Thine Is the Kingdom Kingdom - Power - Glory ​ Wisz writes not as a pastor or theologian, but as an informed layman, a Christian journalist and writer. For him, the Lord’s Prayer teaches us something about the all-encompassing nature of this kingdom. ​ As believers, we learn, as we align ourselves with the prayer’s petitions, that God’s kingdom is an altogether sweeping dominion, leaving no “big idea” or the smallest nook or cranny untouched or unaffected in the world. In prayer, we bow down before Him to Whom all-of-life belongs, including every square inch of our hearts and lives. ​ Publisher's Choice Edition I have been privileged over the years to read a fair number of commentaries on the Lord’s Prayer…. But, rarely have I read anything like this that has prompted me to implore with the disciples, “Lord, teach us to pray.” - Dr. George Grant Parish Presbyterian Church Take the journey with Gerry to a more complete understanding of God’s outline of special communication to enhance our communion with our Father – the King of kings and Lord of lords. - Editor John Van Dyk Christian Renewal Magazine Gerry Wisz, B.A., M.A., has spent his career not only in journalism and communications, but also public relations and marketing in the New York City area. An avid student of Scripture and a popular college professor, he has been married to his wife, Betty, for over 40 years. They gratefully enjoy their seven living children and seven grandchildren. pp. 122 - Soft-Cover Available through our global and regional distributors ​ Buy Now - US Buy Now - Canada Home About Us Catalog Bibles Videos MS Inquiries Contact More

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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 EDV 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 17th century document in Early-Modern Elizabethan English, printing not yet up to modern standards. 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

Glorious Love ​ Jesus' Great Mediatory Prayer for His Own The Bride in His Heart ​ The glory of God is so clearly presented to us in our Lord’s Upper Room prayer. The Son shows His unity with the Father in such a striking and heart-warming way, one that leaves us with a grand impression of our God. Not only was Jesus willing to die for us, but He prays for us. We have a great High Priest in Jesus. Here, in John 17, we see a part of that High Priestly ministry which will last until the last days are upon us. That is for you, it is for me, that is, for all who are moved to seek Him. While He talks of glory in this prayer, we also look to that glory. As we draw out what Jesus shows us through this prayer it is my hope that we will be lost in the amazement of His glory as we explore what He is telling us through the chapters of this book. - From the Introduction ​ 9 x 6 - 164pp Soft-Cover & E-book ​ As a young man, Robert D. Norman was converted in the United Kingdom where he lived, and then called by God to serve as a missionary in Romania. There he is spreading the Good News of God’s Love, preparing disciples for the great Wedding Banquet of the Lamb, the Bridegroom of the Church. ​ Amazon - USA Amazon - UK Home About Us Catalog Bibles Videos MS Inquiries Contact More... Nsmpress Copyright (c) 2019-2020 North Star Ministry Press LLC All Rights Resereved

The Corner of His Garment Christine Farenhorst Christine Farenhorst once again impresses with her historical research, beautiful stories, and interesting characters. The tales quickly engage, taking you into the European and British world at the time of the 1500 and 1600s. The reader will not quickly forget the intriguing people and the issues of life that are presented. Christians are compelled to think about what living for Jesus in this world is all about. The stories also force the reader to deal with the tough questions of why a good God allows some terrible things to happen in this world and yet come to see that He is a great and compassionate God. I highly recommend this volume. - Rev. Al Bezuyen Covenant Reformed Church Toronto, Ontario, Canada Christine Farenhorst brings her characteristically honest, well-researched craft to the five novellas of this book. Set in the often-harsh realities of plague, famine, and persecution of the 16th and 17th centuries, these stories share one central theme: the “strange and wonderful” providence of God. The wonder of God’s grace and all-encompassing providence shines out the more brightly against the dark backdrop of man’s brokenness and despair. Read and be challenged, moved, and strengthened. - Cliff and Henrietta Van Dyken History, sound theology and crackerjack storytelling come wonderfully together in Christine Farenhorst’s newest book, The Corner of His Garment. Five different stories unfold dramatically and yet beautifully communicate the same message of the love of God for His people. Perfect to curl up with on a rainy afternoon when you might desire to get lost in gripping tales from the past while also getting encouraged in the historic Christian faith! - Pastor Greg and Charity Bylsma, Living Water URC, Brantford, Ontario The Bible comes to us as a story and is filled with stories of God’s dealings with His people. In a variety of ways, (historical narrative, poetry, allegory, etc.), God communicates to us in an evocative way. Christians are a people who love stories because our God has revealed Himself to us in that way. Christine Farenhorst has demonstrated herself to be a master storyteller in her past books. Here she has done it again. Readers will once more be regaled with a feast of ‘soul full’ stories in her unique style. Take, read, and rejoice in the Lamb! - Rev. Paul Murphy, Pastor Messiah Reformed Fellowship Church, Manhattan, New York ​ Read the Reviews ​ 9 x 6 - 252pp Soft-Cover & E-book ​ Buy Now - USA 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

Testimony Nsmpress Authors Only Back to the Future T he philosophy of North Star Ministry Press LLC is that of a new publisher with an old fashioned idea. Good books should be published because they are good books. Period. Sure, good books should sell well. But books should be published first of all for the quality of their content. And they deserve world-wide exposure. Just Write! N smpress focuses on publications that are well-grounded in an expansive Spirit and Word Worldview in the areas of theology, life, history, cultural critique and piety. Since we are not a self-publishing, indie, hybrid or vanity model, there is no need for an author to concentrate on anything but the writing. Opportunity For your next book, North Star features: ​ No fees required for considering and publishing your edited and proofed (Chicago-Style) manuscript Creative design and supervised production Proofs for your review before publishing of your books Premium royalties for your print and e-books Global exposure through our global marketing network. Low-priced author copies for personal distribution and sales Free in-house exclusive author's bulletin, Press On , with the latest in ministry developments and ways to get traction for your books in the market. Publishing FAQs Get in the Loop! S ee the Frequently Asked Questions for more details. Contact us if you have any other questions. ​ Interested? Sign up to keep up with the news of this new ministry for professional publishing of books that deserve to be read. > Thanks for submitting! Home About Us Catalog Bibles Videos MS Inquiries Contact More Theologiical Consultant H.David Schuringa ​ Nsmpress Copyright (c) 2019-2020 North Star Ministry Press LLC All Rights Resereved