International Tract Distribution Day
If the Lord will, the International Tract Distribution Day 2026 (I.T.D.D.) will take place on Saturday 18th April. This would be the tenth consecutive year, an amazing answer to prayer; "He is faithful."
OB stands for "Open Brethren," an epigraph used by some to distinguish believers of this "persuasion" from the so-called "Exclusive Brethren." I am using this "blog" to inform others with any interest in this "movement," and hoping others would be gracious enough to enlighten me with similar information; and to comment on any of my "posts."
International Tract Distribution Day
If the Lord will, the International Tract Distribution Day 2026 (I.T.D.D.) will take place on Saturday 18th April. This would be the tenth consecutive year, an amazing answer to prayer; "He is faithful."
A Frightening Statistic
As you would expect from the heading to this Post there should be some statistical information here, but when I attempted to retrieve it I was inundated with similar stats and wallowed helplessly in the ever-swelling ocean of the increases in the Romanist System. Here in the U.K. Romanists out-number Anglicans! In the U.S.A. I believe there has been an increase of 0.9%, which may seem of little consequence, except when the Americas have far and away the most Romanists in the entire world. Increases appear to be everywhere, without exception. A terrifying prospect.
Although the statistical information was to be confined to the U.K. I have now every reason to suggest it is mirrored all over the earth. We are in the "last hour," ( i.e. a period characterised by one thing,) and "antichrists" abound, just as the Apostle John was divinely caused to record in his First Epistle.
One of the most powerful organisations on earth is Romanism, erroneously titled "Roman Catholicism," the term itself is a contradiction etymologically, in that "catholic" means "universal." Tragically it does have a worldwide adherence, recently estimated to be about 1.406 to 1.410 billion "baptised" followers. This figure represents about 17.7% of the global population.
The Roman religion is the most blasphemous of all religions as it claims to be Christianity, where others refuse any tenets of the true Christian Faith. Romanism is not only blasphemous but idolatrous, superstitious, ritualistic, and enforced by a spiritually corrupt priest-craft, the individual priests terrorising their dupes with fear and superstition; while the Pope lays claim to personal infallibility, and the superiority of the Roman "churches' " teachings over the very Word of God. The Pope is himself an, (not "the"}, antichrist.
But perhaps what perplexes me most is that some, perhaps many, of my fellow believers assure me there are true believers within its abominable system. I am absolutely certain this is a dreadful error.
If I may just draw attention to an Old Testament incident that destroys any possibility of a true child of God being found in the ranks of Romanism. You will recall the wonderful conversion of Naaman. I am sure I do not have to remind you of all the details, but if need be turn to the Scripture itself: 2 Kings 5:1-27. I owe my discernment as to this grave matter to another whose explanation I read many years ago. But I would like to quote him verbatim as his ability to express this truth far excels my own.
The verses in question: "In this thing Jehovah pardon thy servant: when my master goes into the house of Rimmon to bow down there, and he leans on my hand, and I bow down myself in the house of Rimmon- when I bow down myself in the house of Rimmon, Jehovah pardon thy servant, I pray thee, in this thing. And he (Elisha) said to him, Go in peace."
Our well instructed brother answers the query, did the Prophet give his sanction to Naaman to continue in idolatry: my words. But the words of wisdom begin thus. "We consider it wholly untenable. He did not tell him to go, for this would be to sanction idolatry. He did not tell him not to go, for this would be placing him under a yoke of legality. He simply said, "Go in peace," which was casting him back upon the grace which he had already experienced, and the exercise of an ENLIGHTENED CONSCIENCE. There were three things Naaman received in connection with his cleansing, namely, an ENLARGED HEART, an ENLIGHTENED UNDERSTANDING and an EXERCISED CONSCIENCE." Our dear late brother continues to elaborate on these things, but surely this is sufficient for all of us when we received the Holy Spirits' indwelling "upon believing?" Even a newly "born from above" believer if he did return to a Romish mass, would immediately withdraw from such a scene in holy horror and never return.
As much as the grace of God would help me I love every Roman Catholic, and long for their salvation. But I abhor with all my being the dreadful Romish System.
The capital letters in the text are my own, as feeling they are so significant. T.W.
The biblical teacher of such wise instruction is C.H.M.
Sir David Attenborough: A Personal Critique
"Goodbye, Beloved Brethren"
You may well remember around the activities of the Exclusive Brethren meetings convened in Aberdeen in the summer of 1970, presided over by James Taylor Junior, referred to as "Big Jim."
The blasphemous nature of the meetings held that year on the 24th/25th July as recorded on the tapes that were to become known as the" Aberdeen tapes;" the principal evidence regarding those awful scenes, that beggar belief. There were further incidents that one would not care to speak of for fear of defiling others.
When the above book was published, it appears that a universal operation, quickly devised by the Exclusives, was put into practice to obtain every copy of the book and to destroy it forthwith. The colossal effort smoothly and swiftly proved to be highly successful.
I managed to obtain an ex-library copy of the book in very poor condition, and after reading it I subsequently sold it on-line. Since then I felt it was a necessary addition to my Brethren history collection, and I sought to purchase a replacement. Times without number I searched the "web" without any success. there did not appear to be any copies for sale in the world. Either all copies had been destroyed, or those who were in possession of one were not happy to sell it how ever inflated the price offered.
A few days ago I learned that someone had two copies and wanted to give one away! He/she gave it to one of the first contacts who wanted to add it to a particular exhibition. The owner of the two copies was overwhelmed by the number of requests! I can only think he/she was quite unaware of its rarity.
Today I received a copy that I had tentatively tried to buy. It is in really good condition, and appears to be the a copy that belonged to F.F. Bruce! My long and painstaking search has found its fruition, but it is bitter-sweet, just glancing through some pages deeply disgusts me, and offends my soul's sensitivities. But it is only a "document" in the diverse and complex history of the Brethren Movement.
The book "Goodbye, Beloved Brethren" was written by a journalist, Norman Adams, who spent over ten years investigating and writing about the activities of the Brethren in North-East Scotland. It was published in 1972.
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.