The James Begg Society: Larger Works Online |
About the James Begg SocietyWho was Rev. James Begg, D.D.?J AMES Begg was born a "son of the manse" at New Monklands, Lanarkshire, Scotland, on 3rd October 1808. While his father joined the Established Church and was minister in New Monklands for over 40 years, all his father's family were Covenanters and would not enter the "parish" Church. At an early age, James came to regard these relatives in the highest esteem for their steadfastness in religion. He thus felt honoured to have Cameronian blood in his veins. "Their conduct and determination gave me even then a strong impression of the importance of fixed principles." 1 This early impression developed throughout his life into a resolute adherence to the principles and standards for which the Free Church of Scotland stood. Men like Hugh Watt, Dr. Brown of St. John's, Dr. Stevenson MacGill, Dr. Andrew Thompson and Dr. Thomas Chalmers contributed to Begg's early education.
In July 1851 the first edition of The Bulwark appeared. Begg was its leading force, and was its editor for 21 years. It was his boast that although he wrote uncompromising articles, and although the Romanists were constantly on the watch, yet they never found opportunity to libel him, such was his honesty. He also wrote frequently to The Witness, Hugh Miller's newspaper, and formed a monthly magazine called The Watchword committed to exposing the propriety of unbiblical ecumenism. So far as unscriptural novelties in worship were concerned, he was consistent to the end. He summed up his own position by saying that he "was neither in favour of surplices, nor liturgies, nor organs nor any other innovations whatever (that deviated) from the simple and Scriptural customs of our forefathers." Begg's steadfast position was unpopular with some then and may be so today, but he stood foursquare on the reformed understanding of the Bible. Much of his unpopularity was due to his sincere adherence to his ordination vows, but he saw clearly his cause, his Gospel, his calling; as he said in the Assembly of 1870, "Come what will, I trust to die an honest and consistent man." Begg died in September 1883. 1 Memoirs of James Begg, by T. Smith, p.4. Why the James Begg Society?The James Begg Society is not a fan club. We do not exalt men. However, like James Begg, we see much declension in the church today in doctrine, worship and practice, and we believe that the time has come to stand firm once more for our reformed and presbyterian principles. We invite you to join with us in this stand. MembershipMembership of The James Begg Society is open to all who subscribe to the Basis and Aim of the Society (printed below), and costs £12.00 per annum (UK); £14.00 per annum (overseas, surface mail) or £16.00 per annum (overseas, air mail). Membership includes subscription to The Presbyterian Standard, the magazine of The James Begg Society. Membership renewals take place on January 1st every year. NOTE: An introductory membership is available at £6.00 (U.K.); £7.00 (overseas, surface mail) or £8.00 (overseas, airmail). This will give membership until the end of the calendar year, whereafter the full annual membership subscription will apply. If you do not feel able to become a member, then the magazine is still available on subscription here. The James Begg Society is recognised in Scotland as a charity. Charity No. SC 025349. A full copy of the Constitution can be found here. If you wish to join us in this important work, please contact us. BasisThe basis of the Society shall be the Protestant, Reformed, Christian religion as contained in the Westminster Confession of Faith and the Form of Presbyterial Church Government. AimThe aim of the Society shall be to advance the Christian religion through publishing, and such other lawful means as the Society may from time to time decide, and in furtherance thereof: (1) To promote the Reformed understanding of the Scriptures, regarding doctrine, worship and practice. (2) To encourage unity in doctrine, worship and practice amongst Reformed Christians. Committee • President : Rev. James Gracie,
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His
solid attachment to the principles of the Free Church led him to
separate in 1843, and Begg took a leading role in the early years of
the Free Church. He wrote and spoke on innovations in worship, social
issues, missions, education, ministerial training, Sabbath observance
and much more.