The Consistory of Abbotsford

Esteemed Brothers,

I received your letter dated October 18th regarding my letter dated September 12th.

I note that only some of my concerns voiced at the meeting with my elder were brought to the consistory.

In your letter you say that I have not proven that the other churches in question have admitted people to the Lord's Supper that do not meet the requirement found in Lord's day 30 of the H.C. This charge misses the point and is an oversimplification of my concerns. For example, the committee report to Classis Ontario South 1987 has already supplied the proof that the Lord's Supper admission practices in the OPC conflict with God's Word.

I have laid out my arguments clearly in my letter to the consistory dated Nov 3, 2003. The consistory has failed to interact with my concerns and failed to show where from Scripture, Confessions and Church Order that I am wrong.

The Hoffords have followed the necessary appeal process in accordance with Article 31 of the Church Order. The Lynden consistory, with the support of classis, wrongly closed the door to further discussion of the issues. Also they placed them under discipline for maintaining the confessional position in regards to Ecclesiastical Fellowship. The consistory of Lynden bound the Hoffords conscience to submit to the consistory and partake in the Lord's Supper with those whom they had rightfully and lawfully separated from. (cf Classis Ontario South 1987 and attachment "Why we didn't Appeal")

In conclusion the consistory has not interacted with the specific points that I have brought forth. The consistory has failed to give Scriptural and confessional reasons for repudiating the secession in Lynden. For example, consistory ignores the scriptural basis of Articles 61 and 62 of the Church Order.

To directly answer the consistory's questions: I continue to support the secession which occurred in Lynden and regard it as lawful and in full obedience to Christ. Secondly I cannot yield to the consistory's call to modify the website; rather, I affirm my duty to inform others of the issues and call them to reformation.

Humbly submitted,

Richard Van Laar