J.G. Machen lived in turbulent times.  America was founded by the Puritans.  Until the 1740's Christianity was the assumed religion of almost all Americans.  Even in the 19th century, most Americans were still confession to believe.  But in the early 20th century, the Christian religion - especially the Bible, the book of Genesis, and the beleif in miracles - was under attack. In the middle of this war, J.G. Machen defended historical Christianity.  On his right were the dispensationalists or "fundamentalists".  Machen understood that they were his alleys in the war.  Reformed leaders had and still have serious problems with their theology.  But in the cultural struggle, Machen was united with them against Moderism.  We see this in struggle against Moderism in all his books.  His writings are clear and fair.  They get right to the point - showing how little evidence the Moderist's have.  And, as always, when we go back and read, Machen's critique of Moderism is persuasive; and the Moderist's critique of Machen is empty rhetoric.

God's ways are perfect.  But it is hard for us to know why this great warrier was taken away in the prime of his life.