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Justification Controversy

RIGHTEOUSNESS BY FAITH: The Nature and Means of Justification
Charles McIlvaine

The doctrine of justification by grace alone through faith alone completely apart from works lies at the very heart of the division between historic Protestantism and historic Roman Catholicism. Martin Luther described it as the "article of a standing or falling church"; the Council of Trent conversely singled out believers in this particular doctrine as the recipients of its most vehement curses. Unfortunately, a subtle denial of this important tenet of the orthodox faith is currently being propagated within some Reformed circles through what has become known as the Federal Vision movement. According to this theology, justification begins at baptism and is continued throughout the life of the Christian by his covenantal obedience, to be finally completed at his death. Addressing this very same error in his own day, as it manifested itself within Nineteenth Century Anglicanism through the Oxford Movement (Tractarian Controversy), the author of this book demonstrates that the acceptance of the doctrine of inherent or infused, rather than imputed, righteousness is the first step on the road to Rome, resulting in the final and open acceptance of sacerdotalism, synergism, priestcraft, veneration of saints, and other Romish heresies.

Dr. C.P. McIlvaine (1799-1873) served as Bishop of the Protestant Episcopal Church in the Diocese of Ohio in the middle of the 19th century. He served as chaplain to the Senate and to West Point Military Academy (where he was instrumental in a revival among the cadets). He died in Florence, Italy on March 14, 1873. While being transported back to the United States, his body lay in state in Westminster Abbey for four days. A ceremony was held in the central aisle to honor his memory. The only other American citizen who has been honored in this way is Sir Winston Churchill. Banner of Truth recently reprinted his excellent book on preaching entitled "Preaching Christ: The Heart of the Gospel Ministry."

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click for details THE DOCTRINE OF JUSTIFICATION
An Outline of Its History in the Church and of Its Exposition from Scripture
James Buchanan

"James Buchanan's 'Doctrine of Justification' is THE classic work on this cardinal doctrine by which a church stands or falls. After lucidly covering the historical development of the doctrine through the Old Testament, the apostolic age, the scholastic divines, the Reformation and Counter Reformation, and in the Church of England, Buchanan expounds the doctrine itself by covering the scriptural meaning of the term, its relation to the law and justice of God, its relation to the mediatorial work of Christ, its relation to grace and works, and more. The chapter on justification in relation to the work of the Holy Spirit is alone worth the price of the book. Throughout, Buchanan systematizes the doctrine of justification in an orthodox Reformed manner that is fully reliable, is consistent with all the doctrines of grace, and is still relevant to the burning issues of our day, such as the New Perspective. A new introduction by Dr. Gerald Bilkes on the New Perspective is also a great help. If you can only afford to read one book on justification, read this definitive work." - -Joel R. Beeke

'The doctrine of justification by faith is like Atlas: it bears a world on its shoulders, the entire evangelical knowledge of saving grace ... This is still the best text book on the subject, from the standpoint of the classic covenant theology.' J. I. Packer

"Justification is, perhaps surprisingly, perhaps not, a point of contention within the evangelical, Protestant world in our own day, but so many evangelical ministers and students lack a knowledge of the historical and theological content and categories necessary to engage the discussion helpfully. Buchanan to the rescue. This magisterial nineteenth century treatment remains a standard. Indeed, you'll be surprised at the present applicability of Buchanan's assessments. Yes, in the century since Buchanan wrote, we've learned a lot of helpful, biblical things about the shape and stuff of justification. But Buchanan cannot be bypassed. Read and learn at the feet of a master." - Dr. Ligon Duncan

"You are re-publishing a gem! Buchanan's exposition of justification is, in my opinion, still the best one that has been done." - William Shishko

"The Reformation has been declared over by some. Justification by faith alone is under attack. Confusion abounds on this doctrine upon which the Christian faith hinges. Therefore, it is indeed most timely that this classic treatment receive fresh attention. There is no mere theologizing from the Scotsman, but honest exegetical work with incisive exposition. Pastors, students, and may I add, seminary professors will benefit greatly by returning to this marvelous treatment of this gospel doctrine." - Dr. Nick Willborn

"At the present stage of the justification debate, Buchanan would be a very wholesome remedy against unfair representations. He is absolutely masterful on the subject." - Dr. Roger Nicole

JAMES BUCHANAN (1804-1870) was born in Scotland in 1804 and ordained in 1827 in the Church of Scotland. In 1828 he commenced a very successful ministry at North Leith where he gained a great reputation as an earnest, eloquent, evangelical preacher. In 1845 he was appointed to the Chair of Apologetics at New College, Edinburgh, and in 1847 he succeeded Thomas Chalmers as Professor of Systematic Theology. He retired in 1868 and died two years later. Buchanan was a prolific and popular writer: his first book, Comfort in Affliction (1837), sold nearly 30,000 copies. His two most valuable works were The Office and Work of the Holy Spirit (1842), an exposition which still merits study, and The Doctrine of Justification, the Cunningham Lectures for 1866, reprinted here.

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click for details THE MARROW OF TRUE JUSTIFICATION
or Justification Without Works
Benjamin Keach

"The Marrow of True Justification" or Justification Without Works contains the substance of two sermons preached on Romans 4:5, wherein the nature of justification is opened as it has been formerly asserted by all sound Protestants; and the present errors against the said doctrine detected.

"Justification by faith alone, that central doctrinal feature of the Reformation, has proven to be a controversial issue down through the years. This is not surprising, since it undermines the perennial human desire to have human merit as the basis for salvation. But this doctrine is eminently biblical. Moreover, it glorifies God and puts human beings in their place in a God-centred universe.

Controversy erupted over this doctrine towards the end of the Puritan era, and it has to be admitted that Richard Baxter, such a good guide to Puritan views on ethical issues, was behind the theological errors to which Benjamin Keach ably responds in this vital work. But why reprint this work from a bygone day and old controversy? For the simple fact that theological error on this issue is not relegated to the past. As significant sectors of Evangelicalism careen towards theological disaster in our day, this issue of how a person is made right with God has again become a matter of debate and acrimonious dispute. And here Keach can help us.

So read this work! Defend with your last breath the biblical doctrine herein recommended! And glorify the God who justifies the wicked!" - Dr. Michael Haykin

"The publication of Benjamin Keach's 'The Marrow of True Justification' is a timely and welcome addition to the growing body of literature from 17th Century Particular Baptist authors. This is especially true for two reasons. On the one hand, it provides us with a helpful insight into their wonderful grasp of the gospel and its nature. They were clear in their understanding of law and grace, forgiveness, the nature of the work of Christ and everything else related to a clear proclamation of the gospel. But on the other hand, it helps us to see that modern errors and deviations from the purity of the gospel are not new. They are simply old heresies dressed in modern terms. Keach's work calls us back to the well-established path of Scripture and Reformed Theology. I pray that this work will be read far and wide and strengthen our resolve to preach Christ and his gospel in purity and simplicity. Thank you, SGCB for this reprint." - Dr. James Renihan

"There has been, and always will be, only one way of salvation for sinners who believe and that is by Christ's righteousness imputed. It is amazing that attacks on imputed righteousness continue even in our 21st century. Here in Keach we have a sterling example of how to defend this vital truth by thorough exposition. What an excellent example for us all today!" - Erroll Hulse

"Just as self-righteousness is not really righteousness, auto-justification is not a work of God's free grace. It is mankind, who "...[B]eing ignorant of Gods Righteousness, went about to establish their own Righteousness..." to justify themselves that they might boast. As for me, I'll take Keach's doctrine, and I'll take the righteousness of another as my only hope of glory." - Dr. Mike Renihan

Benjamin Keach (1640-1704): important Particular Baptist preacher, author, and ardent defender of Baptist principles, even against Richard Baxter. Often in prison and frequently in danger for preaching the Gospel, he was the first to introduce singing hymns in the worship of English congregations.

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FAITH, OBEDIENCE & JUSTIFICATION
Current Evangelical Departures from 'Sola Fide'
Sam Waldron

"The undermining of classical Protestant formulations of 'sola fide' is a significant, and disheartening, feature in contemporary evangelical discussions of soteriology - Waldron understands this and provides trenchant historical and theological critique in crystal clear prose." - Ligon Duncan

"For those still studying the issues of 'the obedience of faith' and its meaning in Reformation theology vs. modern 'covenant nomism', this is a must read." - Fred Malone

"Sam Waldron has done us a tremendous service. He has culled the writings of Luther, Calvin and Reformed symbolics of sola fide. His method is clear. His distinctions are crucial. His conclusions are cogent." - Richard Barcellos

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THE DOCTRINE OF JUSTIFICATION BY FAITH
Through the Imputation of the Righteousness of Christ, Explained, Confirmed & Vindicated
John Owen

John Owen presents one of the most rigorous defenses of the Reformjed doctrine of justification ever written. This reprint of 'The Doctrine of Justification by Faith', taken from the 19th century edition produced by the Presbyterian Board of Publications, will serve as a welcome improvement for many readers. Latin and Greek quotations have been moved to footnotes, and English translations are given for those large blocks of material that Owen left untranslated. It also contains a new introductory essay by Carl R. Trueman, which analyzes Owen's treatmednt of justification in light of the highly charged debates of his day. While Owen's work is technical and challenging, this edition is an effort to make his profound exposition more manageable.

"John Owen's treatment of justification is a classic example of Reformed Orthodoxy at itsx best." - Carl R. Trueman

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click for details COUNTED RIGHTEOUS IN CHRIST:
Should We Abandon the Imputation of Christ's Righteousness?
John Piper

Are Christians merely forgiven, or do they possess the righteousness of Christ? Recently the time-honored understanding of the doctrine of justification has come under attack. Many question how - or if - we receive the full righteousness of Christ.

Martin Luther said that if we understand justification "we are in the clearest light; if we do not know it, we dwell in the densest darkness." And now, in this new and important book, John Piper accepts Luther's challenge. He points out that we need to see ourselves as having been recipients of the imputation of Christ's righteousness and therefore enjoy full acceptance with God and the everlasting inheritance of life and joy.

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THE GOSPEL OF FREE ACCEPTANCE IN CHRIST
An Assessment of the Reformation and 'New Perspective' on Paul
Cornelis Venema

The church is being challenged with 'new perspectives' on Paul's doctrine of justification. This book examines both the 'older perspectives' and the claims being made by those who propose a newer reading of the apostle's letters. This will enable a careful study of a very timely issue; the defense of the gospel itself.

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click for details The God Who Justifies
James White

The First Comprehensive Treatment of Justification in 150 Years!

The history of the Christian church pivots on the doctrine of justification by faith. Once the core of the Reformation, the church today often ignores or misunderstands this foundational doctrine. Theologian James White calls believers to a fresh appreciation of understanding of, and dedication to the great doctrine of justification and then provides an exegesis of the key Scriptural text on this theme.

In today's culture where tolerance is the new absolute, James White proclaims with passion the truth and centrality of the doctrine of justification by faith.

Finally -a contemporary, exegetical, doctrinal, and able defense of the historic Protestant doctrine of justification by God's free grace by faith in Jesus Christ alone. This is the best book on justification since James Buchanan's mid-nineteenth-century classic. We need to teach this material to our congregations. - Dr. Joel R. Beeke

I lost sleep over this book! I simply couldn't put it down. James White writes the way an exegetically and theologically oriented pastor appreciates. This is no book for casual reading; there is solid meat throughout. An outstanding contribution in every sense of the words! - Jay E. Adams

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click for details THE CURRENT JUSTIFICATION CONTROVERSY
Dr. O. Palmer Robertson

Dr. O. Palmer Robertson is Director and Principal of African Bible College, Uganda, and Professor of Theology at African Bible College, Malawi. Formerly, he had been on the faculties of Knox, Covenant, Westminster, and Reformed Seminaries. He is the author of several books, including The Christ of the Covenants, The Final Word, Understanding the Land of the Bible, and The Israel of God.

This volume seeks to set forth the crucial doctrinal issues involved in the case against Norman Shepherd which resulted in his removal. This is not simply an issue that relates to the OPC or Westminster Seminary, but to the present controversy burning in the church regarding the foundational doctrine of Justification by Faith Alone.

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A COMPANION TO THE CURRENT JUSTIFICATION CONTROVERSY
John Robbins

Contents:

The Roots and Fruits of the Shepherd Controversy. John W. Robbins

The Sanders / Dunn "Fork in the Road" in the Current Controversy over the Pauline Doctrine of Justification by Faith. Robert L. Reymond

Some Reasons for Dissenting from the Majority Report on the Subject of Justification by the Board of Westminster Theological Seminary, April 1978, Philip E. Hughes

Letter of Concern, May 1981. 45 Theologians

Reason and Specifications Supporting the Action of the Board of Trustees in Removing Professor Shepherd, February 1982. Approved by the Executive Committee of the Board

A Resolution to the Eleventh General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church in America, May 1983. O. Palmer Robertson

Index

Scripture Index

The Crisis of Our Time

Intellectual Ammunition

Trade paperback, 180 pages

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Justification Vindicated
Robert Traill

Robert Traill (1642-1716), the son of a Scottish covenanting minister and exile on the Bass Rock during the "Killing Times," wrote this masterful defense of the doctrine of justification by faith alone in 1692. He defended the biblical doctrine of justification by faith against antinomians who said, "If justification is by grace alone, 'let us sin that grace may abound.'" He also wrote against the teaching which viewed faith as the ground of justification rather than Christ+s righteousness.

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The Everlasting Righteousness:
How Shall Man be Just With God?
Horatius Bonar

In treating the doctrine of justification by grace through faith, Bonar deals with vital topics which include "God's Answer to Man's Question," "God's Recognition of Substitution," "The Completeness of the Substitution, "Not Faith But Christ," and "The Holy Life of the Justified."

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Faith and Its Evidences
John Owen

Volume 5: Faith and Its Evidences

Owen's masterly account of justification by faith, first printed in 1677, is distinguished from the other two classical 17th-century English treatises on this subject (those of Downame and Davenant) by its non-speculative, non-scholastic character and its dominating pastoral concern. The resurgent Roman challenge, and current Protestant confusion, obliged Owen to write controversially at certain points, but the core of his discourse is straight forward biblical exposition, massive, fresh, compelling and practical.

Also includes Evidences of the Faith of God's Elect.

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