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Saturday 6 December 2014

Assembly Meetings Curtailed

Assembly Meetings curtailed.
It has become common practice for Assemblies to "curtail" some of their meetings, especially the Gospel Service. There is cause for concern, even alarm!
Firstly, what is the principle or purpose behind this practice? One explanation is that we are not prepared to give more time to these things than as absolutely necessary. A second suggestion is that the "attention span" of those gathered, either believers or a "mixed" company as may be the case for the Gospel Service, is comparatively short compared to earlier generations. I once heard a brother declare that the seats in the hall were "twenty minute chairs," i.e. it was too uncomfortable to sit for any longer. But he and many others were able to sit for far longer when "chatting" once the meeting had concluded!
One concern is that we have less appetite for the things "unseen." Another, is the fact that a brother having something laid upon his heart by the Lord, feels restricted  and unable to give full expression to his exercise. 
The alarm is that the Holy Spirit may thus be "restricted" too. If it is His purpose that the message is to be a particular length then who are we to place restrictions on His servant or His Person?
It is to be conceded that certain brethren do speak for longer than is the divine necessity, if I may so express it; but it would be more profitable if we suffered this to happen, rather than curtailing the length of our gatherings.
If we MUST shorten the amount of time set aside for preaching, teaching etc. why not sing fewer hymns? Why not give out the notices before the meeting is due to commence? These suggestions would prevent the time being lost for the public reading of the Word of God, and the ministry of that Word to saint or sinner.
Ezra read out of the book of the law of Moses before a considerable multitude "from the morning [lit."light"] until midday." Ezra 8:3.
The Lord Jesus frequently taught the crowds that followed Him, and at great length; so much so that after they had continued with Him for "three days," He was compassionately concerned that on being dismissed to return to their homes, they might "faint in the way" due to their hunger; Matthew 15:32.
On one occasion Paul "continued his speech until midnight." Acts 20:7.
And it may well be the case that some of the "addresses" in the Scriptures were of much greater length than it pleased the Holy Spirit to "record" for us; Stephens' defence in Acts 7 may well be an example.
May I courteously and lovingly exhort you brethren to consider the implications of curtailing the length of time that we spend in worship and service for and to Him.
We speak as willing to occupy our hearts with Him in an unbroken eternity of bliss, why not then in the brief interval between? May we seize every favourable opportunity to "gather t o His name, as LONG as Her would desire of us!    


Something for Him

Something for Him
Many of the Lords' servants are presently engaged in the distribution of the written Word of God, whether in the form of Bibles, scripture portions, tracts, magazines or at this season of the year, calendars. It is simple just to insert an invitation to a Carol Service or similar meeting at this time of the year, when many more are likely to "attend." A "sticker" with an invitation stuck on the front of the calendar is an easy way to contact local people with a view to reaching them through the Gospel message preached at the various services.
There is perhaps no easier way to do something for Him! If you have the time and have not as yet used this method, why not try it this time, prayerfully, and trust Him for others to come and hear words of life whereby they may be saved.
It may appear to be an insignificant task as "men" view it, but it requires no "gift" ability, training or learning, just the desire to reach the innumerable number of perishing souls in this dark scene of sin.
Together we must pray that the Lord will bless every missive replete with the Word of God wherever it is "delivered," that the Holy Spirit may use it to salvation blessing for the rejoicing of the heart of Gods' lovely Son, as He sees something of the fruit of the travail of His soul.

Thursday 13 November 2014

Sin Unto Death

THERE IS SIN UNTO DEATH



"If any man see his brother sin a sin which is not unto death, he shall ask, and He shall give him life for them that sin not unto death. There is a sin unto death: I do not say that he shall pray for it." 1 John 5:16.
I have omitted the indefinite article "a" in the "heading"as translated by W. Kelly, and found in italics in Newberrys' text of the A.V.
This scripture has been on my heart for a little season. I believe the reason I have been exercised by it is in view of the fact that "among us" there are "many weak and sickly and many are fallen asleep." 1 Corinthians 11:30. I hasten to add that I am absolutely unable to read hearts, or to judge situations, those prerogatives belong unto the Lord alone. Nor am I suggesting that many of Gods' servants have been "taken away" as a disciplinary measure on His part. No doubt in His sovereignty He determined that He "wanted" them more than we do or deserve! But there is nevertheless a considerable lack of discipline exercised in many Assemblies where it is quite apparent such action must be taken! Where we fail in this, the Lord acts in chastening those who need to be dealt with AND those who fail in their responsibility to uphold the honour of His name; "For the time is come that judgment must begin from the House of God." 1 Peter 4:17.
But it is precious to know that it is only those "whom the Lord loveth He chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom He receiveth." Hebrews 12:6. 
For my part, I confess that I have known the Lords' hand in severe chastening tempered with long-suffering mercy. Thus I believe any saint will realise such divine dealings. My "sin" was not "unto death," but I believe if it had been otherwise I would have known that too; I have heard of a case, if not more than one where this obtained, and the smitten saint asked that others would NOT "pray for it." We must leave the matter with God.
Without the indefinite article the force seems to refer to a state or condition, rather than some specific "sin." Of course, believers only are being addressed and "death" can only be physical, bodily death! 
[We obviously distinguish this verse in Johns' First Epistle from the "unpardonable sin" recorded in Matthew 12:31,32. The "sin," the offender, the penalty, and the dispensation are each and ALL different! Here we have an unregenerate soul whose punishment is the "second death."]
Beloved brethren and sisters in Christ as His followers, "as a Christian" let us "not be ashamed, but glorify God in this name." 1 Peter 4:16.


Monday 20 October 2014

For Ye Have The Poor Always With Ye

"FOR YE HAVE THE POOR ALWAYS WITH YE."
I am aware of the context of this verse found in Matthew 26 and almost word for word in Mark 14. But I felt it to be a suitable "heading" for this brief "Post."
Just a few weeks ago whist we were travelling to the Breaking of Bread meeting on the Lords' Day morning, I saw a "Tramp" just up the top of our road. He was a genuine "gentleman of the road." Dirty, unshaven, dishevelled and clothed virtually in rags. It was near the close up of September and was already a very hot morning, although only around nine o'clock. We were passed him in our car in a moment, but his image was ingrained upon my mind, and too late, my heart went out to him. I have not forgotten him, and castigate myself for not stopping to offer him some assistance or invite him to dinner with us. I remember him daily in my "devotional time," and pray that he might be gloriously saved.
Another "Tramp" used to regularly "use" the A road from Bristol to Chippenham, but I have not seen him in recent years and have often wondered if he succumbed to the severe Winter weather.
The only redeeming feature I cling to in the light of my failure is that the Lord Jesus caused me to be "moved with compassion" toward these poor ones.
I wondered if there was any specific "ministry" directed toward these unfortunate and generally ostracised individuals. If any of the Lords' people know of such a ministry would they please let me know. (I will append my e-mail address to the end of this Post.)
Many thanks in advance to any who are able to so help me.

Luke 4:18; James 2:1-9.

tomwyatt1@blueyonder.co.uk
or
tw007q5184@blueyonder.co.uk

Tuesday 16 September 2014

Atoning Sufferings of Christ

CHRIST: DID HE SUFFER ATONINGLY IN HIS LIFE?
The answer to this vital question is an emphatic, unequivocal NO!!
Recently while "gathered to His Name," to "call Him to mind," as He so poignantly requested His own, on giving thanks for the bread the brother referred to the loaf as symbolic of the Lords' life! I do not wish to make my brother in Christ an offender for a word, but this is gross error! That Christ suffered for sin BEFORE His death on Golgothas' cursed tree has been "taught" in past centuries and is now being disseminated among the Lords' people. 
Men from diverse persuasions within Christendom held this false doctrine: including John Stott, the late Anglican cleric; Matthew Henry, 1662-1714, a Welsh non-conformist  Presbyterian "minister;" F.W. Krummacher, an 18/19th century Reformed Church "minister, an advocate of Lutheranism; C.H. Spurgeon, a Particular Baptist preacher.
The Lord Jesus remained undefiled throughout His entire sojourn in this scene, until He was "made sin," by His God there upon the cross, and ONLY during those three hours of impenetrable darkness! It was then and only then that "Jehovah caused to meet upon Him the iniquity of us all!" Before the darkness enveloped "all the earth," and He was abandoned of His God; and as soon as He emerged Victor, He addressed His God as "Father!" During His hours of being forsaken, He cried out to the One He owned as "My God!"
"Himself bare our sins in His own body ON the tree; Note well the preposition "ON," not TO, "the tree."
It behoves us to be careful of basing "truth" upon the hymns we sing! Very many are most precious and of real value in connection with praise, but some are erroneous in varying degree! 
It is instructive to recall that in the "Meal Offering" which is most perfectly "typical" of our Lords' life, His impeccable and morally beauteous walk, there is no suggestion of sin-bearing or of His shed blood, no thought of atonement!
We could considerably multiply Scripture evidence for our setting this forth as the truth as to the atoning work of the Saviour at Calvary and nowhere else, not even in Gethsemanes' garden. But we trust this is sufficient for those who bow to the Word of God.
"Without shedding of blood there is NO remission;" Hebrews 9:22.
"For it is the (His) blood that maketh an atonement for the soul." Leviticus 17:11.

Thursday 11 September 2014

Innovative way of Distributing Tracts

INNOVATIVE WAY OF DISTRIBUTING TRACTS
I am a great believer in the distribution of the written Word of God and all printed material based upon it; especially Tracts that outline the truth of the Gospel.
Back in 2012 (I believe), some American brethren visited the U.K. to distribute "relevant" Gospel Tracts at the London Olympic Games; a worthy exercise. A number paid a visit to our Assembly and made a startling suggestion; an additional and different "way" of Tract distribution. Now whether you are fully persuaded as to the "ethical side" of things must be an individual judgement. They proposed that believers returned all pre-paid envelopes from unsolicited "junk mail" having inserted a Tract! My wife and I have been engaging in this "ministry" almost ever since. I stress unsolicited mail only!
If any of our fellow believers are able to do this with clearness of conscience, perhaps they might join those of us who are so minded.
If any believer wishes to express their unhappiness as to this innovative idea, please do not hesitate to add a comment to that end. We are desirous to know if there is any reason why would should not practice this form of "out-reach." 

Tuesday 9 September 2014

The Offence of the Gospel

THE OFFENCE OF THE GOSPEL
It is becoming more and more apparent that many Assemblies of the Lords' people are compromising the message of the Gospel in a partial surrendering to "outside! influence. In my own experience and in reports from others, Assemblies have "bowed" to the complaints of unbelievers that they have been offended by the preacher, when in fact the offence has been the Spirit empowered Gospel preaching. On receiving such a plaint the brother invited to be responsible for the preaching of the Gospel, is either informed, or more often, not informed,  that he will not be "invited" back again! None of the instances I know of has resulted in the local Assembly fully declaring either their reason for this action, or the nature of the complaint, or the identity of the complainant.  
I discovered one instance involving myself by directly asking the "corresponding" brother; his explanation was neither full nor open. A second personal experience of this particular action was disclosed to me by a brother hearing it from the "elder" who made the decision; he (the elder,) has never enlightened me as to why this action was taken; but it was because of an "offended" unbeliever. I know this to be the experience the of a number of other of the Lords' servants!
Today some Assemblies want a diluted Gospel message, preached in the shortest possible time, and preferably with little or no reference to sin, and NO reference whatsoever to hell! 
The N.T. uses the word "skandalon," offence in reference to both the Person of the Lord Jesus and His cross; surely He is the centre and sum of the Gospel message, and Him "crucified!" Romans 9:33;Galatians 5:11. 
We cannot but help offending unbelievers because we must tell them how they are viewed by a Holy God, and on the basis of His written Word. Sinners, lawless, unregenerate, evil, wicked, ungodly and countless other titles.
Furthermore "We are unto God a sweet savour of Christ, in them that are saved, and in them that perish: to the one we are the savour of death unto death." Could anything be more offensive? But it is the Word of God. 2 Corinthians 2:15,16.
I fear I may have offended some of my brethren and may yet pay a price at their hands! But I leave all with Him Who alone "judgeth righteously." 1 Peter 2:23.



Friday 22 August 2014

The Real Presence and the Royal Priesthood


THE REAL PRESENCE and THE ROYAL PRIESTHOOD
I have almost finished reading this book in basically "one sitting!" I have been in possession of it for years, but only "discovered" it a few days ago. It is amazing, instructive and radiates the power of the Holy Spirit in its grasp of these indivisible truths!
If it is possible I would love to purchase a better copy, mine is falling apart! That aside, I would thoroughly recommend it to every believer presently in Assembly fellowship, and any who may be contemplating returning to the "fold."I fear copies well may be rare.
The author is unknown to me, but I am at pains to discover who did write this dynamic (I mean it in the language of Scripture) treatise on these precious privileges that we possess as saints. His pseudonym is "hiereus." If any of my brethren and sisters in Christ could advise me as to the author I would be indebted to them considerably.
"Maranatha," the Lord cometh, may this be our watchword!

The Lord Has Led Us In!

THE LORD HAS LED US IN!
In answer to perseverance in prayer as to the guidance of the Lord in our present difficult circumstances, He has yet again proved faithful! How gracious He is to all, but "specially those who believe," His believing people.
We were really concerned that we would be unable to "break bread" in fellowship with a called out company of saints, even on the coming Lords' Day D.V. But He has "led us in," as clearly as He led us out!
For any and all who lovingly upheld us before the Throne of Grace, we wish to express our deepest gratitude for their love to us in Him. We are assured that He will recompense you each and all.
I may be enabled to furnish you with more details as time moved on in His will, and I certainly will if I know that He would have me so to do.
Our prayers continue for the whole household of faith as well as many individual believers and Assemblies of the Lords' people laid upon our hearts; indeed we pray for everyone who loves our Lord Jesus in sincerity; may God grant that you are numbered among such, for His glory! 

Tuesday 19 August 2014

Withdrawal from Local Assembly

WITHDRAWAL FROM ASSEMBLY
I regret to say my wife and I have felt compelled to "withdraw" form our "local" Assembly. For some years we have been distressed and burdened by the evolving character of the "meeting." There has been a moving away from N.T. Church Principles, (as we understand them), to an ever growing attitude of "accommodating" almost anything, (presumably) with a view to "peace at any price."
We have made our dilemma a matter of constant prayer that we might know the will of the Lord and His clear directing. I have asked Him, humbly, over many months to "lead me out and lead me in," if it is His purpose, for His glory.
I exhort my fellow brethren and sisters in Christ, to exercise real discernment. It is apparent today that "love," so called, must make allowances for almost anything. But be warned, Accommodation will lead to Degeneration! "For narrow (how narrow) the gate and straitened the way." Matthew 7:14.
In my experience over a half century "in fellowship" with those commonly called Brethren," it has become ever more clear that many Assemblies I dominated by one or more men (and women), who possess a forceful character and attitude. Often the rest of the saints will "back down," and leave them a free hand, consoling themselves that not confronting the issue is "gracious." Grace and truth subsist together in Christ, you cannot have the one at the expense of the other.
I have little knowledge of the "state" of Assembly testimony much further afield than this S. Western part of England and S. Wales. But many of the Assemblies I know of in this area are "dying on their feet," both numerically and spiritually as the "gate" is opened ever wider!
I was informed only yesterday, that a particular Assembly had "received" a brother into Assembly fellowship. I am not sure how quickly he acted, but certainly he acted decisively, in "compelling" the company to desist from reading the Version of the Scriptures read publically there, and revert to the modern version of his preference! They all "accommodated" him except for one brother who withdrew! This is not an isolated case of "new" believers "infiltrating" unsuspecting, loose or wide Assemblies and causing confusion and division.
We are in desperate need of brethren who will stand up and be counted, to keep His Word and not deny His Name. We need to pray that we will not allow the fear of men, even our brethren, to cause us to move away from the truth that is "in Christ."
There are worse cases of "accommodation leading to Degeneration" of which I am aware; one Assembly even permitting a couple living in an adulterous relationship, to not only be "received," but to allow the brother to take a prominent part in the Assembly gatherings!
I will not continue in this vein, surely this is enough to put us on our guard, and to humble us under the mighty hand of God!
  

Monday 4 August 2014

Answered Prayer

ANSWERED PRAYER.
My daughter Esther who was very ill and giving us concern is much better. She is responding well to her treatment. Her swelling has lessened considerably and she is now able to see, speak and eat normally. No more hospital visits are envisaged, (unless there is deterioration in her condition), but someone has to remain with her at home all the time.
I never cease to be amazed at the compassion and faithfulness of our lovely Saviour! Once again the prayers of His believing people have been answered in a most wonderful way. We are so very thankful toward Him, and so grateful for the prayers of many saints on behalf of Esther. May this encourage each of us to persevere in prayer! Yours because of Calvary.

Active Service Johns' Gospel

ACTIVE SERVICE JOHNS' GOSPEL
The Scripture Gift Mission have produced a facsimile copy of the original edition of the Gospel of John booklet, given to servicemen during the First World War. It has been produced to commemorate the out break of WW. I only heard about this "outreach" resource last night at a Gospel Service. I wish I had known about it sooner, as it is a very topical subject at this time, and may well be accepted by many who otherwise would refuse it. The cost is a little prohibitive for many believers, (£6 per 10 copies), but may well be affordable for Assembly distribution. The first print-run has been exhausted, but a reprint is due imminently. I thoroughly recommend this innovative effort designed to reach the souls of many hell-bound sinners with the Word of God, for our Saviours' satisfaction of soul, and for His glory.


Friday 25 July 2014

Urgent Prayer Request

URGENT PRAYER REQUEST
My youngest daughter, Esther, is at this moment waiting to go to a local A&E Centre. For more than a week she has been suffering with acute swelling of her face and neck. She has seen at least four G.P's and none have been able to diagnose her problem or give her anything to ease the pain or reduce the swellings. Her face is completely disfigured, even grotesque, (such a hard thing to say about my lovely daughter,) and so far she has just got progressively worse. We so covet your prayers for her, and if you are parents please think of her in that light and beseech our great Saviour-God to move out in healing and blessing. Even to know the cause might give us some relief from our terrible concern.
Please pray, entreat earnestly for her. I implore you in His name.
Yours because of Calvary.

Thursday 17 July 2014

Sunday School Reminiscences

SUNDAY SCHOOL REMINISCENCES
Much of my life has been "touched" by Sunday School experiences. When a very young lad from the most ungodly of homes, I was sent to an Assembly Sunday School. My mother, who was almost completely ignorant of what she was doing, did so to enjoy a Sunday afternoon without my presence at home. I was enraptured on the very first occasion I attended. I realised many years later that they made the "Book" live!
I attended Sunday School in another Gospel Hall whilst in an orphanage. It proved to be an oasis in the desert; occasions when I could escape from that awful period of my life.
Years passed, and later as a young married man, my wife and I began our long involvement in Sunday School teaching. We taught classes in a number of Assemblies over a period of many years. For over eight years we "held" Sunday School every Lords' Day in our Council house. Literally hundreds of children and young people attended over the years. A few were definitely saved! Others may well have been saved as well, only when we reach the "Fathers' House" we will know!
During these countless "meetings" we built up a fine and considerable repertoire of hymns and choruses. Whilst we lived in Cardiff in South Wales, we added many more hymns, and particularly choruses to that repertoire.
Musing upon one very simple and sweet chorus, my mind and heart caused me to reminisce on the days long since past. My wife and I often used to sing it, (along with many other choruses,) while we travelled to various places and meetings. I found myself singing it in the silence of my own heart. You will understand when I say I couldn't get it out of my mind. Today, I was expected D.V. to minister the Word of God some 30 miles or so from our home. I got up early to finalise my thoughts with Gods' help, and felt before I sought His presence for His precious undertaking, that I had some lines to write in the same vein as that chorus. I experienced the precious ministry of the Holy Spirit as later I ministered the Word of Go to a few of His beloved saints; He is so faithful; and I began and subsequently finished two verse to append to that chorus.
I readily own that I do not know the author of this lovely chorus, nor can I find it in any the books I possess. I am not even sure if I will be "word perfect! And finally before I "post" the chorus and my feeble addition to it, I believe that the tune comes from a composition by Puccini, although my knowledge of classical music wouldn't cover a postage stamp! Please bear with me!
MY GOD LOVES ME
AND OH! THE WONDER I SEE
A RAINBOW SHINES THROUGH MY WINDOW
FOR GOD LOVES ME.
HE DIED FOR ME
ON THE CROSS OF CALVARY
THAT I MIGHT BE FORGIVEN
ETERNALLY.
HE ROSE FOR ME
THAT I MIGHT JUSTIFIED BE
THE MAN WHO DIED IN MY STEAD
 TO SET ME FREE.
HE COMES FOR ME
AND OH! HIS FACE I SHALL SEE
HIS HANDS AND SIDE STILL BEJEWELLED
BY CALVARY.
Last 2 Verses T.W.2014.
As I stated, very simple, but equally sweet! (I refer of course to the first 2 verses!
But I had to pen the others.
Every blessing.



Monday 14 July 2014

Assembly Quest: Walking

Assembly Quest: Walking

I am more than a little disturbed by an early line in this particular "post." Viz. "Christianity differs from Judaism in only a few points." Even allowing for the next statement, no doubt intending some clarification of that sentence, it is a grave error.

Acts 15:1 and 15:10 warned against Judaizing teachers, and their specious teaching, at Antioch. Similar cautions were given to the Assemblies in Corinth and Galatia. Almost the entire Epistle to the Galatians is written to expose the folly and wickedness of those seek to put the saints of God under the law.

e.g. 2 Corinthians 11:13-15; Galatians 1:6-9; 3:1. And how numerous are the great contrasts between Judaism and Christianity found in the Epistle to the Hebrews; too many to attempt a list!

I felt constrained to write a "comment" as this evil work has not diminished over the centuries, and is enjoying a devilish "revival" at this present time. It still retains its plausibility and attraction for the fleshly, and the  ill-instructed believer. Often it is coated with the veneer for especial love for Israel.

At least one of these highly regarded "teachers," has wrought not a little havoc in an Assembly dear to my heart, resulting in a huge "split."

"Beware of dogs, beware of evil workers, beware of the concision," Philippians 3:2; if you would be free from the infection of a Judaized Christianity or perhaps a Christianised Judaism!

Saturday 31 May 2014

Soul Sleep

"SOUL SLEEP"
Recently a few "recognised" Brethren teachers have been erroneously suggesting that those who have "fallen asleep from time to time, through Jesus" are in an unconscious state in the unseen realm, beyond death.
The Lord Jesus made clear that there is no "soul sleep" between death and resurrection
Luke 16 proves the conscious existence of both the saint and the sinner irrefutably, in that intermediate state. 
"To depart and be with Christ is very far better;" To be with Christ, then, is what departing from the body means; not "sleeping," which would be far worse than the portion we now , while alive, enjoy in His love.
It is to be absent from the body, no doubt,; not "sleeping" still less non-existent, but "at home with the Lord."
Immediately after death the righteous are "with Christ," while the wicked who have died in their sins will be "in Hades" "in torments."
"Soul-Sleep and the denial of the immortality of the soul are the damnable lies of the Devil!
No matter the esteem in which recognised teachers are held, where error is being taught or allowed we must stand against it and denounce it!
The believer who is numbered among the "dead in Christ," is not asleep, waiting to be awakened by the "shout, the voice of archangel" or "the trump of God, but is in the immediate presence of the lovely Saviour.
Even to one, not in the "church," He could promise, "Today shalt thou be with Me in Paradise." 
May the Lord Jesus Himself garrison our hearts around with the truth of such comfort and consolation.
Luke 16:22 & 23;Philippians 1:23; 2 Corinthians 5:8; 1 Thessalonians 4: 13,14, & 16; Luke 23:43.


Monday 12 May 2014

Answer to Prayer
 
Today, (Monday,) we were contacted by the "rescue centre," informing us that our stolen car had been recovered. We were told that there was damage to two doors, the rear, and various scratches. Fearing the worst, (how faithless,) we went to collect it. The keys were still in the ignition, there was no damage at all and only the most trivial items had been taken from the car.
It cost us £150 to recover it, and a further £20 to replace the steering lock, plus the cost, (unknown as yet,) of new registration plates. But we have been able to cancel our insurance claim and kept Bernices' "no claims bonus" intact. 
"How good is the God we adore, our faithful, unchangeable Friend!" Such an answer to prayer, beyond anything our feeble faith expected!
Our heart-felt thanks to any and all who supplicated the "Throne of Grace" on our behalf.  

Thursday 8 May 2014

Plea for Prayer

PLEA TO THE SAINTS FOR YOUR PRAYERS
Last night we, i.e. my wife and I, had our car stolen! It is quite traumatic for us as it is not a "luxury," but a real necessity; not least  in connection with my itinerant ministry. I was due to minister the Word of God to His people this morning, some 35 miles or so from where we live. We never discovered our loss until earlier this morning, and had no other means of transport that would unable us to discharge my responsibility.
Please, we would humbly ask, will every believer who reads this "post," be compassionate enough to pray for us, that if it should please the Lord we may have our car returned to us.
Our thanks in Lord Jesus to each and all of you.

Thursday 3 April 2014

Proverbs 14:34

"Righteousness exalteth a nation; But sin is a reproach to any people."
Proverbs 14:34.
( "a reproach," literally:- a disgrace; literally:- "to peoples.") 
Another abomination has been committed by this nation, the U.K, relative to perverted sexual practices thoroughly denounced in the Word of God. "The powers that be," although "ordained (set up) by God," in accordance with His sovereign will, see fit to flout His commands with apparent impunity. I tremble in spirit at such flagrant defiance! But "Be not deceived:God is no mocked;" for as certainly as the guilty individual reaps the recompense of his wickedness, so nations will be held to Divine account!
Recently we have seen unprecedented extremes of weather here in the U.K. The wettest winter on record, with the most severe flooding. At this moment in time we have acute air pollution. Other "acts of God," as the world euphemistically refers to them, have "hit" our nation. While a minority ask "why," generally the attitude is to ignore it as well as possible. 
As believers we must surely view all this in the light of the Scriptures of truth; Furthermore we can expect far worse Divine governmental dealings unless there is national repentance. The likelihood of such an action is bleak, and in all probability a hopeless desire on the part of  Gods' believing people in this country.
Thus far our great and compassionate God has exercised His grace in longsuffering toward us. I firmly believe that His mercy has much to do with a remnant testimony borne for Him in generations past. I earnestly entreat every true believer in our God and Saviour Jesus Christ, to join with me in beseeching our God to stay His hand of judgement, and to continue in His merciful longsuffering. Begging Him to see His believing people, a little remnant company, as in His lovely Son, and viewing us thus, to be gracious unto us for His names' sake alone. 



Thursday 27 February 2014

Acts 8:37 Spurious Translation in J.N.D.s' Version

ACTS 8 VERSE 37
And Philip said, "If thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest. And he answered and said, "I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God." Acts 8:37.
The above quotation is the A.V. Translation of this disputed verse. J.N.D. omits the entire verse in his Translation and adds this footnote: "Ver. 37 in the Authorised Version is recognised as not genuine." A dogmatic statement made by a man of incredible linguistic skill, immense knowledge of the Word of God, and a teacher of the foremost spiritual ability. One, of a number of godly, erudite teachers to whom I owe an incalculable debt, indeed along with one other, viz. William Kelly, I perhaps owe him the most!
But with all this in mind, and owning my inferior abilities, I am persuaded that J.N.D. and other "mighty men" of faith are wrong in their omission of this verse!
The weight of "external" evidence does indeed lie with them. The verse is not found in many of the oldest manuscripts! But it is found in some! If it was omitted in every manuscript there would be nothing to debate. but while conceding that the external evidence favours J.N.D.s' omission, I am persuaded that the "internal" evidence is significantly in favour of its inclusion in the text of Holy Scripture.
Throughout this precious narrative we have a record of much of the conversation between Candaces' servant and the servant of the Lord. Omitting verse 37 causes an abrupt break in the intercourse between them. Furthermore the Ethiopian eunuch had previously asked Philip two pertinent questions and both answers are in the scripture record, verses 31 & 34.
William Kelly argues that the internal evidence supports the omission of this verse stating, "For "the Son of God" would have been a wonderful step in advance..."* But if we examine this statement we will see that it is unfounded. On hearing the eunuch believed; on believing he received the indwelling Holy Spirit; Philip had preached to him "Jesus" verse 35. He would have had to speak of His incarnation and thus must speak of His Deity, two infinite and inseparable truths as to His person. Thus, the incarnate son of God! Furthermore, on baptising the eunuch, Philip would have baptised him into the Name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit, meaning nothing to one who apparently knew no distinctions between Persons of the Godhead! 
The internal evidence weighs heavily towards the inclusion of the omitted verse!
* "An Exposition of the Acts of the Apostles;" page 121 footnote 2."


The Twelve Mysteries of Scripture

THE TWELVE MYSTERIES OF SCRIPTURE
Recently I purchased  a "rare" copy of a book authored by W.E. Vine which was published in 1921 approximately. The full title is "The Twelve Mysteries Of Scripture Kept In Silence Through Eternal Times, Now Manifested To His Saints." I do not know if these "pages" have been included in new editions of Vines' "Collected Works," but I was unable to find any available copies on the internet. Neither Amazon, eBay or Abe Book, for instance, listed any copies for sale. The "John Rylands University Library" in Manchester U.K. had only one copy in their "Christian Brethren Archive." I wondered if any of the saints have a copy, or if this title is indeed very rare! I would appreciate any response, please!

Friday 17 January 2014

A Whisper of Truth

A Mere Whisper of Truth as to His Birth.
What perfection and perfections we find in the Gospel accounts. The narrative in each is determined by the writers presentation of the Person of Christ. For He has the pre-eminence in each and all of them, as he must!
In reference to His birth into this scene it is instructive to see this principle regarding the peculiar way in which He is set forth by the individual writer.
The promise of His birth as recorded in Matthew, who presents the Lord Jesus as the Christ, the Messiah, is revealed to Joseph, thus establishing His lineage.
While the visit of Gentile Magi is recorded in this same Gospel, though primarily addressed to Jews. The magi worship Him as King!
In Lukes' Gospel account, addressed in the first instance to Gentiles, He is worshipped as the lowly Babe in manhood, for Luke presents Him as Son of Man. The revelation of His birth is here vouchsafed to Mary, as His humanity is traced through her.


Thursday 9 January 2014

Pilgrim Songs

"PILGRIM SONGS"
This is the title of a little volume written by a greatly appreciated Bible teacher of the 19th century, Edward Dennett. It has been a long time out of print and thoroughly deserves to be made available to the Lords' people once again.
The sub-title makes clear the nature of the study; meditations on the Psalms of Ascent. 
The first few addresses proved a little disappointing to me, the exposition seemed to be stating the obvious. But having waited so long for a copy I persevered, and was richly rewarded! The more I read, the more delightsome and sweet the meditations proved.
Edward Dennetts' works are superlative and this is a lovely little addition to my "library."
"Scripture Truth Library" is serving the saints with a precious ministry. Some of their reprints are based upon the electronic text provided by STEM Publishing, another profitable ministry for believers today.
The only minimal criticism is the lack of a careful proof-reader. There are a few mistakes, but so insignificant they cannot detract from the edification with which this little volume of "Meditations" thrills the soul. I commend it unreservedly to the Lords' people.
(I bought my copy from a book distributor "post-free.")