August–September 2020 Ordained Servant

From the Editor. Systematic theology forms the basis for our confessional standards. It provides a road map to the essential terrain of Scripture. Thus, it is essential for the faithful minister of the Word to be reading systematic and creedal theology regularly. Andy Wilson enumerates the benefits of this steady diet in his article, “The Truth Is on Your Side: Systematic Theology and Pastoral Ministry.”

In keeping with our lead article on the importance of systematic theology in pastoral ministry John Muether reviews a significant new systematic theology by a former minister in the Orthodox Presbyterian Church, Robert Letham. As Muether says, “This is an Orthodox Presbyterian systematic theology—though not in a sectarian sense.” It is unique because, while  covering the usual territory of a systematic theology, it is organized under eight loci, instead of six. The order of arrangement is also distinct, beginning with the doctrine of God instead of the doctrine of Scripture. Scripture comes next as a distinct locus, instead of the usual arrangement of it under introductory prolegomena. This is only the beginning Letham’s useful new approach to wonderful old truth.

I am very pleased to announce “Machen’s Christianity and Liberalism Published in Polish.” Here is a modern classic relevant to the situation in the newly liberated Poland. Greater than the liberation from communism thirty years ago is the need of liberation from Roman Catholicism, which dominates the culture. Kudos to the Tolle Lege Institute in Warsaw, Poland for seeking to shake up the intellectual and spiritual lives of the Polish people.

Alan Strange continues with his “Commentary on the Form of Government of the Orthodox Presbyterian Church, Chapters 3–4.”

David VanDrunen reviews a new book by Aimee Byrd, Recovering from Biblical Manhood and Womanhood. This book challenges some assumptions about the differences between male and female, while upholding the biblical principle that only  males may hold church office.

Darryl Hart explores the impact of twentieth century evangelical scholar Carl Henry in his review of Architect of Evangelicalism: Essential Essays of Carl F. H. Henry.

Finally, the metaphysical Christian poet Henry Vaughan, helps us meditate on the reality that transcends the troubles of this present evil age in his poem “Peace.”

Blessings in the Lamb,
Gregory Edward Reynolds

Ordained Servant exists to help encourage, inform, and equip church officers for faithful, effective, and God-glorifying ministry in the visible church of the Lord Jesus Christ. Its primary audience is ministers, elders, and deacons of the Orthodox Presbyterian Church, as well as interested officers from other Presbyterian and Reformed churches. Through high-quality editorials, articles, and book reviews, we will endeavor to stimulate clear thinking and the consistent practice of historic, confessional Presbyterianism.