A Banner of Truth

While in seminary, I worked in the periodicals department of the library, and there came to appreciate in particular two periodicals, The Banner of Truth, published in Scotland, but with a worldwide ministry of publishing Puritan and orthodox Reformed literature. The second was the Westminster Theological Journal, which I still faithfully read.

This week is one of my favorite weeks of the year. The Banner of Truth Trust provides Gospel ministers (i.e., evangelical, of orthodox Reformed persuasion) a refreshing conference each year, where one can hear some of the best speakers, preachers, and theologians in the Reformed world. This year it begins tomorrow at Messiah College, in Grantham, PA, and I am eager to hit the road. We will be a merry company of four ministers, three from the RCA and one Scottish OPC pastor. I've been attending these conferences since the mid-1990's, and just being able to fellowship with men of shared convictions is a tonic to the soul. It is a haven away from the culture and theological wars going on in the RCA, and I thank God for it. It is also a radical and countercultural event, in that only Gospel ministers and elders may attend. Hence it is a men's conference.

Another highlight of the conference is its proximity to Carlisle, PA, and the Gettysburg Battlefield site. In Carlisle there is a plethora of temptations: namely, the Cumberland Valley Bible Book Service, one of the best Christian bookstores can be found there, along with the Banner offices, which offer all manner of discounts and delights. Last year, for example, the Banner folk sold John Owen's Works, for $135. It retails at no less than $300, usually more. I can't wait to see what is offered this year. So I am taking this week off as an education leave, and will report back, D.V., later in the week.

Thou hast given a banner to them that fear thee, that it may be displayed because of the truth (Psalm 60:4).