Diwali 

Yesterday I had a not-so-pleasant task of accompanying my wife Bernice to the hospital. She was to undergo a nasty procedure lasting approximately 30 minutes; in the event, it lasted for an hour and three-quarters! Consequently, we were there for over four and a half hours, in different parts of the hospital.

I had gone prepared for a long wait and had it in mind that apart from reading some precious ministry I would distribute some tracts/magazines in the "Sanctuary" area of the hospital.

I completed my reading and made my way down the huge main thoroughfare which led to every Ward and had shops, ATMs, waiting areas, and numerous places to sit down. There is also a grand piano there for aspiring pianists; I believe anyone is permitted to use it.

What greeted me when I arrived at that juncture absolutely astounded me. There were scores of people all lingering around some sort of decoration on the floor. Most of the people were Asian and many of them were garbed in what I imagine must be clothing associated with their religion. Many of the ladies wore dresses etc created from very brightly coloured materials. There was a very long table covered with different dishes from which they were handing out food to any and all who asked, at no cost, I must add. I never tried to approach, especially as there was a large milling crowd which never seemed to diminish.

In the foreground, an area had been cordoned off surrounding a display of flower blossoms, various powders, lit tea lights, and decorated earthen oil lamps, apparently called "diyas." In its centre the words "happy Diwali" were spelled out in flower petals and powders. Diwali is I am informed a "festival of light," celebrated over five days by Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, and some Muslims. There is confusion as to whether Muslims hold Diwali, some vehemently denying it, others owning that they do.

I found it difficult to readily accept that such a display and its accompanying celebrations would be permitted in a major U.K. hospital, whose policy is multi-faith, (although with a pronounced objection to evangelical Christianity.) In confirmation of this insight, I was about to discover even more prejudice directed at the true Christian faith.

There is a very large area in the hospital set aside as a place of solace, comfort, and meditation, the area I mentioned as the Sanctuary. It is in the shape of a crescent which borders a sort of "inner sanctum." In the outer crescent shape, there is a table where various items of literature are displayed for any who wish to read or take them away. It was covered with a diverse selection of false religious works, two Bibles in an unfamiliar and ultra-modern translation. I carefully placed a number of copies of Via and about ten tracts, on the table.

Next, I moved to the entrance of the inner sanctum, to discover it completely carpeted with "prayer mats," all occupied by kneeling barefooted men. I realised I could not enter for the time being, but determined to go back to leave literature there in the places provided. So sometime later, after a good interval, I returned. All my literature had been removed, and presumably disposed of by irate celebrants of Diwali. I felt a number of emotions, including I confess, anger.

I refused to be cowed by this action and replaced more literature where it had been removed. I was still unable to "tract" the sanctum as there was one "worshipper" still knelt on his prayer mat.

Another interval passed and I returned. I could not believe it! All the literature had been removed again! I replaced it once again, even tucking a tract into various idolatrous books. The sanctum now empty, I completed my task. Almost every celebrant had left the hospital by then, so I trusted that all would remain in place should it please the Lord.

  

Climate Change 

The following is the substance of an email that I sent to a brother who enquired if I "believed in climate change," he was asking on behalf of a younger brother in connection with the ministry I gave the previous evening. I felt it was appropriate material for this Blog.

"I have hesitated in my reply to you as cast upon the Lord for His help. I am fearful of giving offence to you and the younger brother but I must speak as I understand things in the light of Scripture.

So, I would begin by saying that I do not accept "climate change" as a fact. I am aware that the bulk of the scientists, as far as is reported, support this "theory." but that carries no weight of authority for me. The vast majority of scientists also tenaciously hold to the "Theory of Evolution," a hideous and blasphemous deceit of the Devil.

I suspect many Christians who devour the "news" are also convinced of "climate change." But that does not worry me other than to be saddened that it has become a great issue in their lives as if we are here to make the world a better place or be responsible for the welfare of the physical world. None of which we are called to do as ambassadors, strangers, and pilgrims. Not least as awaiting God's Son from heaven. And furthermore knowing that this earth has at least another 1007 years remaining.

But "To the law and to the testimony! Isaiah 8:20.

"Henceforth, all the days of the earth, seed time and harvest, and cold and heat, and summer and winter, and day and night, shall not cease." Genesis 8:22.

I am sure you will agree that "seed time and harvest" refer to the seasons of spring and autumn. Summer and winter are stated in the text. But instructively God still includes "cold and heat," in addition. Extremes of cold and heat seem to be the foremost "evidence" put forth by advocates of "climate change." There is no change! (I must confess my minimal interest in this subject, I only really "one-liners" on my computer screen and seldom delve further, I feel no need to.)

One other Scripture, if you will kindly permit me, please. I am convinced that the numerous catastrophes falling upon this present scene are the providential judgment of God. The Lord reproves all who strive with Himself and find fault with His ways, with woe upon woe. In the Book of Isaiah, the Lord cries, "I am Jehovah, and there is none else; forming the light and creating darkness, making peace and creating evil: (in the sense of calamity or disaster) I, Jehovah, do all these things." Isaiah 45:7

Just to emphasise, "I  create evil," says the Lord," in the sense of disasters or calamities. So here the word contrasted with "evil" is not "good," but "peace.".God speaks thus with the object of persuading men, "from the rising of the sun, to its setting," that He alone is Lord. "There is no other." And that salvation is found in Him alone also. Of course, now it is in the Person of the Son and His Name alone. Acts 4:12.

I leave you with this in humility and in simple faith. I have no knowledge of the thoughts of other believers regarding this question, but I have endeavoured to state as clearly and carefully as I am enabled, I trust also without giving offence.

The Two Babylons 

Only days after replacing my copy of "Two Babylons" which I sold decades ago, I received a book list from a Christian who is a bookseller I have dealt with over the years. He is not identified with Brethren and the vast majority of the books he has for sale are not by Brethren authors. He is very honest, and his descriptions of the condition of the books he sells are always of a superior condition, a very pleasant contrast to the many who over-rate their books, and often fail to mention various defects.

Now to return to my reason for this "Post," thanking you for your patience. This seller whom I recommend for his honesty, and the comprehensive information he attaches to many of his book descriptions, often proving very enlightening, once again left some details which piqued my interest. I think it best to quote the Bookseller verbatim.

"Ralph Woodrow, author of "Babylon, Mystery Religion", based on this book, ("The Two Babylons" my insertion in brackets.) later came to the conclusion that Hislop was totally unreliable, as have others with no particular love for Roman Catholicism. Should be regarded as a curiosity rather than a source, at least only a source of questions rather than answers. Those who have come across any British Israel material (not that I'm suggesting a connection) will be familiar with the kind of leaps of logic used."

So, intrigued I searched for Ralph Woodrow to see if he manifested any spiritual insight or authority. I did not want to find I was mistaken in replacing my copy of Hislop's work.

It was not difficult to "locate" Woodrow. He has a website where he airs his foolish views and sells his books to gullible readers. Only a few minutes of reading his "blurb" on a number of his books, assured me he is very poorly instructed in the Word of God, and has a suspect view of the veracity of the Scriptures. I fear his so-called "ministry" is a means of acquiring wealth like many of the so-called Evangelists that flourish particularly in the U.S.A.

My advice would be to steer well clear of this man and his published works.   

The Pandemic: What Cost To The Testimony

An Account of Brethren in Hereford

A considerable number of years ago, I took it upon myself to seek out as many Halls and Rooms that were used by Brethren as suitable for their gatherings. My aspiration was to photograph them all for my personal record. I placed them in a sort of scrapbook, which sadly I have mislaid at present. I believe I began my endeavour by quite an extensive search in Devon, which had been a stronghold of the "Brethren Movement" for many years. It proved to be a rich harvest and encouraged me to continue my research.

I have never lost my desire to seek out places connected with that "movement." And quite some time ago when I was in gainful employment, my employment took me to Hereford. On a number of occasions, my wife and I searched for the meeting places utilised by Brethren there, but without success. (I don't know whether I possessed any of the Assembly listings back then). 

Just a few weeks ago I was delighted to locate and purchase a copy of "An Account of Brethren in Hereford" written by Dr. Langford with a foreword by W.R. Lewis. This little booklet appears to be somewhat rare. I believe it was printed in early 1959.

In such a brief sketch it was amazing to find it replete with wonderful instances of N.T. principles practiced in such humility. 

Significant mention is made of Captain Percy Francis Hall giving more details than can be found in "Chief Men Among the Brethren" compiled by Hy Pickering. 

Captain Hall resigned his commission in the Royal Navy at a considerable cost to himself on account of his Christian principles. Furthermore, he sold all his earthly possessions in order to share them with poorer believers.

In a tract, he described war as "authorised murder." In the same tract, he stated his scriptural view that "magistracy was an unfit office for a believer." 

There are references made to quite a number of well-known Brethren viz. J.N.Darby, William Kelly, Sir Edward Denny, Captain William Rhind R.N., and William Yapp among others.

The booklet also abounds with lovely anecdotes. The Lord's manifest help in obtaining a burial place for His own who "fell on sleep;" Sunday School work, meetings convened for young people, manifold instances of great and sacrificial generosity in giving and consistent and delightful hospitality; The tragic sorrow of a particular doctor in the local Assembly, who experienced the bereavement of a wife and their two young children, and three other children in his second marriage. The apparent "peculiar habit" of Dr. John Griffiths an esteemed surgeon, "having long devoted himself to the distribution of religious tracts." A man after my own mind, but not with whom I dare to compare I hastily add!

But I feel moved most of all by the sacrificial and determined efforts of some of the saints to attend the gatherings. "many came long distances (to Hereford,) from places as far away as Grosmont and Leominster. Two ladies coming from the country, able to obtain only one horse, rode it in turn to the meetings. One sister had to walk 10 miles to the meetings. Once when a continuous heavy rain had flooded the country and covered the road, she took off her shoes and stockings and waded through the water." A Christian gentleman arranged for her to be taken home in his horse-drawn carriage.

The close-up of this account seemed to drift almost palpably, into abject dismay. As if it were a portent of our sad demise today. The elation I felt at the commencement of my reading of this booklet, subsided into an inexplicable sadness and disheartenment. Unrelieved in discovering another account written in 2011 I believe, in which the author is bold to boast (as I see it), at the accounts' conclusion, in the obvious obliteration of everything those earlier saints in Hereford, held so dear!

Sadly it seems to "mirror" my own ongoing experience of demise among the Brethren My heart is broken! 

Trom: The Edge of a Cliff

A little while ago I became intrigued by the word "trom," I guessed it was Scandinavian in origin. Indeed, my best guess was that it was Danish. As I love words I sought their meaning and discovered it was in fact Faroese. I never knew that such a language existed, and I felt quite exhilarated. The translation is found in the heading of this "post," i.e. "the edge of a cliff." I next needed to learn as much as I possibly could about this language, and perhaps a little of the geography of the Faroe Islands too. My primary objective was to discover if there were any translations of the Scriptures in the Faroese tongue. I confess my knowledge of the Faroes was limited to listening to the Shipping Forecast broadcast on the "wireless" by the BBC back in the 1950s. And I had assumed, mistakenly, that the Islands "belonged" to Great Britain, when in fact they still remain a possession of Denmark.

My search however was not in vain, on the contrary, it was to prove wonderful to me. Much of the material I found is readily available to all who are interested, Wikipedia is especially helpful. Chapter 9 of Volume 8 in the series "That The World May Know," authored by F.A. Tatford although brief is rich in content.

I will desist from giving details about the geography, climate, and other aspects of the Islands, to concentrate on the Faroese translations of the Bible. 

Until recent years the Faroese people did not have a written language. The first dictionary was published in 1928, and so a Faroese translation of the Bible was not published until 1949 after he had re-edited the entire manuscript into a more contemporary Faroese language, The first manuscript for his translation was in fact ready in 1939 but the invasion of Norway by Hitler, where the Bible was to be printed, was on hold until the war was over.

This first translation was the faithful and diligent work of Victor Danielsen, (see photo), who was born in the settlement of Soldarfjarour on the Faroese Island of Eysturoy in 1894. In 1916 Victor quit the established Faroese People's Church and became identified with the Broorasamkoman, the Faroese (Plymouth) Brethren. He married in 1920, and he and his wife moved to Fuglafjorour where he worked full-time in the Siloa Assembly.

In 1930 the Assembly in Torshavn requested Danielsen to translate the Epistle to the Galatians into the Faroese language. His translation was enthusiastically received, and he was prevailed upon to translate the entire New Testament. This labour of love was completed in March 1937 just a few weeks before Jakob Dahl's translation which had been authorised by the Faroese People's Church.

Victor Danielsen had no knowledge of either Hebrew or Greek, but he was fluent in Faroese, Danish, Norwegian, Swedish, Icelandic, German, and English. So he based his translation on every version available to him, using the Danish, Norwegian, Swedish, two German, two English, and Icelandic Bibles in creating his version.

A second translation of the Bible into Faroese was sponsored by the state church and was published in the 1960's. For this version, the translators worked from the original Hebrew and Greek manuscripts.

A statue honouring Victor Danielsen was erected on a small plaza on the main street entering Fuglafjorour around about 2008. Victor was "called home" there in 1961.

Another instance of the extraordinary debt the universal Assembly owes to this remarkable movement of the Holy Spirit. I feel humbled and elated at being privileged to be identified with "Brethren," 

SINGAPORE-Astonishing interest in my Blog

 Over a period of just a few weeks, I have had an astonishing number of "hits" on my Blog. I am both delighted and bemused at the same time, as I know of no explanation for such interest. The numbers are not high in comparison with "posts" on other platforms as Blogger doesn't have a huge following. But for my little Blog, the figures from Singapore are phenomenal!

I am truly grateful to any and all who find some interest in my poor effort in passing on anything associated with the Brethren Movement. The greatest deficiency attached to Blogger is the fact that no one is able to comment or enter into a discussion with me. 

So if anyone would like to contact me, whatever your view of anything I have written I would be happy to respond to you. To this end, I will append my email address below.

Thank you one and all for taking the time to read my "posts," I am sincerely grateful.

To all who love the Saviour in sincerity, I lovingly commend you to God and the word of His grace. In Him, Tom

Tom Wyatt   Bristol U.K. 

Gathered to the Name of the Lord Jesus with the saints at Corsham Gospel Hall Corsham Wiltshire U.K.

email address: tw007q5184@blueyonder.co.uk

The  Secret of the Universe

In connection with my nightly devotional time in the Word and in prayers, I have incorporated for my help to more fully apprehend grasping the teaching, an expository book on the particular passage of Scripture being meditated upon. Of course, I am always cast upon the Lord alone for the divine instruction of His gracious Holy Spirit, Who has always remained faithful in granting me His precious ministry.

While reading the wonderful Prophecy of Isaiah I had for my assistance F.C. Jennings' fine commentary. I found much blessing, except for the final "deduction" at the close of the book; it seemed to me to be as strange as some of the more fanciful interpretations of various parts of Revelation! But notwithstanding, I highly value F.C.J.'s ministry.

As to the title at the head of this "post:" in his exposition, Mr Jennings referred to "a remarkable book." The book has the title, as above, "The Secret of the Universe," authored by Dr. Nathan Wood. It was first published in January 1932, I believe. Simply on the recommendation of F.C.J., I bought a copy, reprinted in 2008.

I received my copy today, and have not read one word other than the publishers' view expressed on the title page. It is so enlightening I am copying it in its entirety:

2008 Wilder Publications

"This book is a product of its time and does not reflect the same values as it would if it were written today. Parents might wish to discuss with their children how views on race, gender, sexuality, ethnicity, and interpersonal relations have changed since this book was written before allowing them to read this classic work."

It is frightful to realise that the abominable corruption and practice so rife today was already operating in this evil world 15 years ago! It has now reached its full-blown state where the dreadful propagation and promotion of these abominations is subtly veiled in the above paragraph.

"Truth is ever on the scaffold, evil on the throne," in this Christ-rejecting world of falsehood, corruption, and violence.

 

                                               International Tract Distribution Day [7]

The Lord graciously undertook for me today as I set out on my route to deliver copies of the Via magazine. The weather was perfect, warm with a cool breeze, making it quite pleasant for the purpose in hand. 

He overruled too; I remained free from nasty dogs and "unreasonable men who have not faith." Although I did begin to wonder just how many of the 200 copies I had with me I would be able to deliver. I am not getting any younger, and seven years on from the first exercise to "create" an I.T.D.D. I am obviously even older! The Lord enabled me to use 164 copies, and I am so grateful to Him for sustaining me.

As in other years, I found new places to post the magazines. Houses, flats, and apartments seem to appear almost mysteriously as if they had been built literally overnight. This does afford me extra opportunities, but at the same time reminds me that I will never be able to "tract" the entire area on my own.

On a different note, I often am taken by surprise by the various "notices" on the doors of quite a number of houses. There is the usual "no junk mail," but I do act wisely when thus confronted. If there is no more information than that I do post the magazine; but where there is the more specific note, "No Religious Groups," I obey that request albeit with a sense of sadness. 

Notices on two of the front doors did give me food for thought. the first said "No Mail," I truly pondered this with a feeling of confusion. How could a person/family manage without any mail deliveries? I honestly haven't a clue!

the second note made me laugh, I think, out loud." It was a gem. "The dog and his housekeepers live here." maybe my sense of humour is not like others, but I still think it is so funny.

To return to the solemnity of the service for the Lord, may I covet your prayers for the Lord's salvation blessings upon His Word as it crosses the thresholds of numerous dwellings. I deliberately use "blessings" plural, for I have in mind the salvation of precious souls, yes, but also the restoration of believers who are "out of the way;" and of preservation for us all, who together make up "a people for His own possession.

Finally, dear brethren and sisters in Christ if you experience or hear of any such blessings perhaps you would be so kind as to let me and countless others know, please.

May the Lord Jesus richly bless you each and all, and all whom you love. 

In the lovely Man of Calvary, the risen man in the Glory, in Him, Tom.

Tom Wyatt

Gathered to the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ, with the saints at Corsham Gospel Hall, Corsham, Wiltshire. U.K. 

Email Address: tw007q5184@blueyonder.co.uk

International Tract Distribution Day [7]

18 April 2023

Dear brethren and sisters in Christ,

As we did last year we are nominating 18th April 2023 as the "International Tract Distribution Day", if the Lord will. This would be the seventh consecutive year despite the various "lockdowns" that were in place during the years 2020 and 2221. Many contributed to this brief ministry, with care and consideration, acting responsibly at those times. ITDD falls on a Tuesday this year and we hope this will be convenient for many of the Lord's people to engage in this humble service for Him. It is a simple exercise, but we believe it to be significant under the good hand of God.

Personally, I use "Via Magazine" for distribution, and I would thoroughly recommend it. It is replete with the Gospel message and practical in that it is both undated and more sturdy than a tract, making it easier to "post" through those stiff letterboxes that trap your fingers and scrape your knuckles! 

We just lovingly ask for every believer who is physically able, to distribute in any way, by hand, through the letterbox, even by mailing, just ONE Gospel Tract, booklet, magazine, etc. Of course, if you are able to make more available on that day, wonderful; there is of course no limit!

The purpose is to "flood" the whole world, on that particular day with the "Words of life" in printed form. The response last year and the previous years during the pandemic remain unknown here in this scene, only eternity will reveal what was accomplished for our lovely Saviour. I must add that we long that He will be glorified, indeed that ALL the glory might be His alone as we make known His claims upon the souls of men.

Please may we ask one more thing of you dear saints? Please announce this date in your Assembly giving time for the brethren and sisters to perhaps prepare for it, especially in their prayers; and please announce it nearer the time too, if it is the Lord's will.

Please give us "feedback" if you find the time and are able; it has proved such an encouragement to every one of the Lord's servants in the past. You are more than welcome to email me if you feel so exercised.

Thank you to everyone who participated last year, and thank you in advance if you are already burdened to engage in this little venture for Him again this year.

With the warmest affection and love in Him,  Tom.

Tom Wyatt   Bristol U.K

Gathered to the Name of the Lord Jesus alone, with the saints at Corsham Gospel Hall Wiltshire u.k.

tw007q5184@blueyonder.co.uk