Angels

Back in November 1997 a brother in one of the South Wales Assembly felt  exercised to ask various "speakers" from among the Assemblies to participate in a series of Biblical subjects.

The subjects were very demanding of effort in studying the Word of God, but I believe were of a good measure of help and edification for the gathered believers.

I was "allocated" the subject of Angels, an unusual but  interesting task. I had never heard any ministry of length on this subject, but nevertheless a goodly number of references to angels had been my experience.

A few weeks ago I discovered a modern reprint of a nineteenth century compilation edited by one who chose to use his initials, with no other means of identification. As such practice among "Brethren" was prevalent during that century I searched for some enlightenment as to the writers' identity. His initials appear in the invaluable book "Brethren Writers: Handbook for the Serious Collector," by Arnold D. Ehlert. I have found his listings to be very accurate, with but a few errors, which is hardly surprising considering the nature of such a work.

Feeling fairly confident that the author of "A Book of Angels" was probably an Assembly-based believer I took a little risk and purchased it; it was "not that expensive" was how I justified that risk! But it took a long time for it to finally arrive.

It proved to be a huge disappointment with not the faintest suggestion of "Brethren" influence. It is filled with quotations from various "Bishops," and even has a number of secular poems of no spiritual value at all, of course. It is further replete with superstitious, and the most fanciful illustrations of so-called angels, such that are not worthy of simple censure; they are indeed an  abomination.  

L.P also edited a compilation in 1906, entitled: "The Inheritance of the Saints." I will studiously avoid that tome!

I have learnt a valuable lesson due to the lack of due diligence in searching out the necessary information to fully confirm the origin of this particular book. I was deceived by my eagerness o have found another "treasure," and I feel suitably humbled, if not humiliated.

It is apparent that in the nineteenth century it was common practice for authors to adopt this method of, (I feel like saying,) "partial identification" with their writings. And so I suppose this is a gentle warning that may prove helpful to others and make me fel a little less stupid! 

A Deadly Enemy threatens Christianity in the  UK

I have no interest, knowledge or participation in politics of any hue. I have never voted in my life, and never intend to do so, even were it to become compulsory; an aim of some more vociferous advocates of so-called democracy, in itself a flagrant violation and denial, of that very principle. Unfortunately it is practically impossible to remain free from imbibing some of the poison of the present political scene; if one just turns on their mobile phone, or logs in to their computer, one or more "news-worthy" items meet the eye, appearing unbidden on the screen.

Generally it is easy to disregard these intrusions, but occasionally the attention is caught even if somewhat subconsciously. This was the case in my experience just a few days ago.

A believer in South Wales had come under the scrutiny of a "body" claiming to be the National Secular Society," founded in 1866, to advocate for  "secularism and the separation of religion from state affairs." If it really meant what it said I would welcome the second part of this statement, but that part doesn't mean what it implies. 

(Below is a portrait of Charles Bradlaugh the first President of the N.S.S.)

                                                                      

The first principle of the Society is blatantly atheistic and decidedly opposed to the Christian Faith. 

The Society's vehement accusation levelled at this School Teacher was in connection with his propagation of  "Creationism" as found in the Word of God. It's case against him subsequently failed, he legislation in Wales surprisingly differing from that in England. But my interest in the report of the case, was actually aroused by two significant statements. Just to stress, I have never even heard of this Society before.

These two statements of some note follow: "this is the only life we have, and that we should work for its improvement." Undeniably atheistic!                                                                In England "teaching Creationism as a "scientific theory,  is banned!" How many believers are aware of this biased legislation?  

If the same legislation operated in Wales the school teacher would have suffered some form of disciplinary action.

I have no interest in challenging this biased and flawed law, which permits, and promotes the "evolution theory," even using it as the basis for the development of school pupils' progress in so-called understanding. But i feel I must warn my fellow believers of this insidious Society whose dealings will continue to corrupt and cause many  citizens in this divinely much-favoured, to "do that which is good in their own eyes." Judges 17:6; 21:25. 

  

Moved to Prayer

On some very notable occasions , by the grace of God, I have been moved to prayer. This is nothing of myself, it is all of Christ, He is "the Father of compassions." (New Translation J.N.D.) These seasons are notable because they remain upon my heart after long years. I thoroughly believe that every child of God can recall similar situations in their "walk, their manner of life."

This recalling of past experiences that thrust their way into my naturally cold, hard heart, was stimulated just yesterday by a situation determined the Lord I have no doubt.

If you are aware to any degree of the sufferings of my only son, Adam, you will be able to appreciate more intelligently. Adam is paraplegic having suffered a spinal stroke in April 2015. He was for some months quadriplegic, but mercifully the Lord answered prayer and Adam slowly regained movement in his left side. But he remains completely paralysed down his left hand side. He cannot stand, wash or dress himself; indeed he cannot get out of bed without the assistance of a Carer using a sliding board to help with the "transfer." There are numerous other effects which are not necessary for me to catalogue at present; but he has further complications with the onset of kidney stones in the last two years. He has had 13 operations in connection with this condition, and is scheduled to have another on January 6th, if the Lord will. 

I have included these details to convey the nature of my perplexity in regard to his Care Package costs. (I hasten to add these costs are met by the local Council.) But now with the upheaval in the U.K.'s Benefit Policy I have to fill in complex forms annually. The form for his care funding was rendered so difficult I needed help. And so I sought the Throne of Grace. 

I feel that my movement was directed divinely, and my wife and I took Adam to the Civic Centre to seek professional help. In  the Centre there are six "positions" which are able to be manned by trained staff. Four positions were in operation, which soon became five. We did not have to wait for many minutes before we were called over to explain our difficulty. I will not speak at great length regarding this interview, but I must tell you how the Lord undertook. 

Adam and I met with the most lovely, sympathetic, and compassionate lady that one could ever wish to meet. She talked with us in the tenderest of tones, asking politely about Adam's condition, and dreadful experience. And to our amazement told us of her father's present health condition, undergoing palliative care. He had suffered a stroke which had compressed his spinal chord rendering him paralysed. He is also in stage four of a cancer, and she herself is trying to bypass the bureaucracy hindering her receiving help for the cost of "end-of-life care" for him, in a home. 

She completed all that was necessary for our claim, and I was able to destroy my partially completed form as redundant. She told us warmly how much she had enjoyed meeting us, and wished us "Happy New Year." In wishing us well she "crossed her fingers" in a gesture of uncertain hope, and I felt it was unlikely that she was the Lord's. Immediately I looked up to heaven to ask that our loving God would "in His goodness lead her to repentance," and save her soul for all eternity. 

That was for me the remarkable impression that this lovely lady had made upon my soul. And it is not possible to convey to you my great relief and wonderment at such an answer to prayer regarding the lifting of that burden of administration that had weighed on my mind for weeks.

I am not sure that this encounter exactly fits the heading of this paper, but it was the catalyst leading to my musing upon past experiences of "heart-movement" generated by the Holy Spirit in such a heart as mine. (Only proving it must surely be the experience of all who love the Lord Jesus. It would be precious to hear of these moments in the lives of His won.) 

Very briefly then: a good number of years ago , Bernice and I were on holiday in Italy, and enjoyed an excursion to Milan. I am not sure if this was the first or second occasion. But we entered the cathedral, with its external architecture  a work of expert craftsmanship, and its interior replete with idols and icons, reminiscent of ancient Athens in Paul's day. It felt cold and alien to my soul. But I was drawn to watch a young man, in his late twenties, early thirties I would imagine. He was in a state of frantic earnestness, and moved slowly form one idol to the next, silently imploring in obvious deep distress of soul. I was certain at hat moment his sins were weighing heavily on him and he could find no relief. He completed his bowing before each and every idol and left the Cathedral as haunted as when he first came in. I was overwhelmed and longed to chase after him, but it was not possible, and if it had been I did not know more than a couple of Italian words. I have never forgotten him, or the hopelessness and horror of Romanism. I continue to hold him in my heart and seek his salvation.

I met an eastern European lady selling the "Big Issue" in a car park. She was heavily pregnant, and I gave her a little cash; her gratefulness far exceeded my meagre gift to her. She ever remains upon my heart. and in my prayers.

Around about ten years ago I saw a young man in a super-market,; he had no feet and fingers missing from both hands, but he was walking and shopping! It was amazing and heart-breaking at the same time. He too lodges in my affections and prayers.

Finally, one Lord's Day we set out to Break Bread and as we drove up our own road we espied a tramp. There was no doubt that he was "genuine;" apart from his dishevelled appearance, he had a face much weather-beaten. I wanted to stop and invite him to our house for dinner, but our Lord's invitation must prevail. I prayed for him as we continued on our way, and hoped I might see him again, bu talas it was never to be. I love him in the Lord, and trust that the Saviour might go after him and arrest him with His love.

May the Lord give me and all His loved ones, hearts of compassion and sympathy in some measure like unto His own.   

The "Quiet Revival" U.K. a Terrible Misnomer

"Becoming obedient even unto death" 

If I may direct you to my earlier "Post" in connection with this verse, "Posted" on September 30th, it might help.

"For let this mind be in you [individually] [or, "among you," [collectively] that was also in Christ Jesus. who subsisting in the form of God thought it not a thing to be grasped at to be on equality with God, but emptied Himself. taking a bondman's form, taking His place in the likeness of men, and having been found in figure as a man, humbled Himself, becoming obedient even unto death, and that the death of the cross." Philippians 2:5-8.

There is a controversy regarding the clause at the head of this address. I have found it to be of deep concern as touching the atoning death of God's lovely Son. of late I have heard it expressed in worship and I have been distressed.

I understand the thought expressed and the reason given for it; but the explanation does not satisfy me at all.

The difficulty concerns the end of the stated clause, "even unto death." There are those who (almost) demand that it should read, "up to" or "till death." The problem they "see" is it might suggest that the Lord Jesus obeyed death. Far be the thought! But this had never crossed my mind for a moment, not until it insinuated its way into my mind when hearing a brother intimate it in his prayer.

I have always quoted it during my life as a believer as it appears at the head of this paper. My difficulty is twofold, and I trust that I may be able to convey it with reverential awe.

Firstly: "Up to," or "till" surely that the Lord stopped short in His obedience!

Secondly that His death was not an act of obedience? Where does that leave us?  With an act of disobedience?    Perish such a blasphemous suggestion! But this translation leaves room for such an interpretation.

I unequivocally declare on the basis of Scripture that His death was an act of the most wonderful obedience. An act of obedience to the Father's will, nay even to His command.  John 10:17&18.

I as emphatically state that Christ was not subject to death; nor could death subjugate Him, it had no claim upon Him, no hold over Him, and no power against Him; He is, He was, the Lord of glory, very God Himself. 

But nevertheless I contend for the truth that He willingly submitted Himself to death, in perfect obedience to the will of His Father; but not until He had summoned death to come! Thus death was obedient to Him!  

"becoming obedient even unto death, and that the death of the cross." Philippians 2:5-8. 

AV; J.N.D; W.K; R.V; all render this phrase as "unto death."

I think it is possible that G.C. Willis has "popularised" the phraseology "until death," in his book "Sacrifices of Joy," perhaps influenced by Dr. C.J. Vaughan's translation.

I must remark that there is much in Mr. Willis's book of devotion to Christ, and some helpful instruction. I bear this godly man no ill will.   

An Elusive Hymn Writer

I suspect that the title to this Post is a little misleading, but readers will easily grasp what is meant by it.

Only last Lord's Day in Breaking Bread we sang the beautiful hymn that begins with "A mind at perfect peace with God." My habit is to always look to see who wrote the words of or hymns; I am especially pleased if the writer had connections with the Assemblies. I do not denigrate other writers at all, but I am interested in the history of these things. Remember we spend much time in singing, it forms a significant part in our worship. it is lovely to feel an intimacy with the composer.

In many hymn books this hymn is attributed to Catesby Paget who was born in 1868 and "called home" in 1938. It is recorded of him that he "belonged to those known as Plymouth Brethren and engaged in published controversy in response to (mainly Anglican) contemporaries; including both Lord Shaftesbury and Bp. Ryle.

Another stating that this hymn was quoted by Spurgeon in 1869, attribute this lovely hymn to his father, Berkely Thomas Paget, who was married to Sophia Askell Bucknall. Paget was born on November 29th 1809 in London and died on July 16th 1878, in Apsley Guise, Woburn, Bedfordshire.

The Hymnary.org informs us that it is published in 35 Hymnals, but add to the confusion as to Paget, recording his lifetime as 1814-1899.

Stem Publishers merely state it to be a 19th Century hymn.

Finally to exasperate me even more, Hymnal.net lists the hymn as the composition of Horatius Bonar 1808-1889. This is fairly certain to be erroneous.

I cannot close this Post without quoting two of its most beauteous verse; inexplicably omitted by Harold S. Paisley in his book "The Believers Hymn Book Companion." 

                                  So nigh, so very nigh to God,                                                               I cannot nearer be;                                                                             For in the person of His Son,                            I am as near as He.    

                                  So dear, so very dear to God,                                                               More dear I cannot be;                                                                      The love wherewith He loves the Son,                    Such is His love to me. 

An Unusual Word and an Unusual Phrase in the Scriptures

A Word

Sometimes when reading The Word, a word or phrase of Scripture seems to strike a chord within one's heart and mind. It causes me some real delight, and a longing to express it, as cast upon the Spirit of Truth Himself, for He is the Divine Instructor.

Just recently I became aware of a word that had intrigued me before, but sadly I had not "chased after it," if such an expression is suited to this exercise.

Now I make no pretension to any profundity in these thoughts, rather an element of simple joy in my spirit. The Word of God never ceases to amaze; what other book could one read every day of a lifetime? Perish the thought that I would ever cease from its study, or be deprived of its possession by some tyrant; how would I "go on?"

"For this reason I bow my knees to the Father [of our Lord Jesus Christ.]" Ephesians 314.                                                                                                          The emphasis is my own to direct us to that particular word. We own unequivocally that in a soon-coming day, at the name of Jesus, every knee, whether of beings celestial, terrestrial or infernal, all WILL bow the knee to own the Lordship of Jesus Christ to the glory of God. Philippians 2:9-11.          We are familiar with the phrase "to bow the knee," but here it is divinely recorded, "my knees," plural.

I am not suggesting that this is the only occurrence in the Word, but I see yet another wonderful thought unfolded by the Holy Spirit. Paul was not exhibiting subjection here I suggest, (though he was always in subjection to his Lord); nor specifically engaged in worship; but rather he had adopted an attitude beautifully suited to prayer. 

Daniel practised this lovely exercise habitually, "he kneeled on his knees three times a day, and prayed and gave thanks before his God, as he did aforetime." Daniel 6:10.  

In Gethsemane's garden in the depths of His soul's anguish, the Lord Jesus Himself, "fell upon His face," "fell upon the earth," "and kneeling down He prayed." None else could give such confirmation to this thought.         Matthew 26:39; Mark 14:35; Luke 22:41.  

A Phrase

" Making mention of you at my prayers."                                               Ephesians 1:16. [New Translation J.N.D.]

It must be obvious that this is a phrase that is in perfect harmony with the "word" above. It is emphatically suggestive of specific times set aside for prayer. Paul knew the essential need of  consecutive periods of prayer, supplemented by the prayers that constantly emanated from his soul; special times devoted to prayer. He was thus an imitator of his Lord in this necessary practice as a dependent man.