Dave you've got a lot of material in the back of the Spirit of the Reformation Study Bible already with the Heidelberg Catechism and the Westminster Standards. By also carrying the Summary of Christian Doctrine you should be ready to defend the Reformed faith whether you go.
You betcha! My standard "packet" that I carry to church is the Spirit of Reformation Study bible, Summary of Christian Doctrine, The 5 Points of Calvinism, What is a true Calvinist and my NASB reference bible. <img src="/forum/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />
Dave.
Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified. - Galatians 2:16
It is also my opinion that this is a very sad thing and that I grieve for my fellow brethren who are working out their salvation through works.
I can understand your concern but I don't see this as nearly the problem that you seem to. Instead, it is my understanding that the elect are those who (1) will have faith, (2) that this faith will produce fruit/works in their life, and (3) that they will persevere in both. It's not a condition of their salvation but a product of it. IMHO, whether or not someone is fully aware of the distinction has no bearing on the genuineness of their faith. God is the author of it regardless. However, I agree with you that it brings one great peace to finally realize that it isn't up to one's own efforts. That is why I will continue to share what I have learned with others. But I do not press the issue with my more stubborn Armenian brothers. <img src="/forum/images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" />
<img src="/forum/images/graemlins/nope.gif" alt="" /> Nothing has come back yet. It would probably be best to wait until the end of the week and then I'll make a phone call and ask to speak to someone who is in charge of granting permissions. <img src="/forum/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />
Johnnie_Burgess said: What about using one that is no longer copyrighted?
That wouldn't be a problem if: 1) The book isn't Berkhof's, Summary of Christian Doctrine, which seems to be the one most would like to use, 2) The author's works are public domain, and/or 3) One can be found that is short, easy for the average person to understand, and has acceptable doctrine.
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