Neanderthal Nonsense 

Today, 13 December 2024, I saw a headline that made my heart sink. Another diabolical lie grips the blinded minds of those who are "without Christ." The same or similar headlines apparently appear on some scientific journals, and as well as the BBC on MSN whatever that means, the Wall Street Journal and the Washington Post. So a broad spectrum of the (generally) sin-benighted media.

Apart from the headlines I have not read a word, the headlines are sufficient in themselves to make me recoil in horror at the blatant blasphemy. Inserting a "race" of Neanderthals, dreamt up by the vile imaginations of the deceitful heart and mind of man, in a blatant attempt to obliterate the wonder of man's creation and genealogy.   

Dear Bible-believing brethren and sisters, do we all grasp the blasphemous nature of the demonic Theory of Evolution? I dare not venture to clarify my statement, because it would mean I would have put into print the abomination that is contained within this "false (scientific?) teaching. The little I have said causes me to tremble in reverential awe in the presence of a Holy God.

The Word is so beautifully simple and infinitely sublime; "The First Man Adam became a living soul;" Adam was the FIRST MAN, the first federal head, based upon or arising from the doctrine of a covenant between God and Man.            

"The LAST ADAM a quickening (life-giving, lit. "making alive") spirit." 

"The FIRST MAN out of the earth, made of dust: the SECOND MAN, out of heaven."

There cannot be a man BEFORE the First Man! There cannot be a man BETWEEN the First man and the Second Man; that is there could not be another "order of man." And there cannot be another "Adam" AFTER the Last Adam. That is in the sense of another federal head.

(Capitals are mine.)

1 Corinthians 15:45-47; Genesis 2:7; Psalm 103:14. J.N.D.

"BLOGGER" does not allow for comments, which is really a shame. But if you wish to comment I append my Email Address.

tw007q5184@blueyonder.co.uk

Tom Wyatt.

   

His Silent Coming for His Own 

In mulling over the "Lord's descent from heaven" to "snatch" away His waiting people, those "fallen asleep in Jesus," together with those who "are alive and remain," the silent character of His descent to "the air" brought to mind some precious thoughts as to this apparent enigma. While the Holy Spirit has beautifully unfolded the various "mysteries" in Scripture to the saints of this dispensation, the world at large remains spiritually and morally deaf and blind. RefusIng to hearken to the Word of God, both written and Personal, "God having spoken to us" (literally) "in Son;" whilst their "minds (continue to be) "blinded by the god of this world." 

1 Thessalonians 4:16,17; Hebrews 1:2.

With those profound truths divinely exercising our hearts, we understand how that the "assembling shout" of "the Lord Himself;"the accompanying "voice of archangel," and the rallying "trump of God," cannot be heard or discerned by a world overshadowed by the Cross of Christ, and plunged into a morass of spiritual defilement, and the impenetrable darkness fo the Lord's absence from this scene.  

Engaged in thought as to these things, I realised another apparent conundrum. The graves the "dead in Christ" vacate, will remain undisturbed! The resurrected saints will "pass through" (if you will allow the phrase), the physical matter that has entombed their bodies; exactly as the Lord Jesus vacated His sepulchre, Himself "the Firstborn of all creation," become "the First begotten out from among the dead," "the Firstfruits of them that slept." "This is the first resurrection."

Colossians 1:15,18; 1 Corinthians 15:20,23; Revelation 20:5.

U.K. Whither Bound? 

In 1965 Britain suspended Capital Punishment for murder, for five years. In 1969 it was suspended permanently, and it was finally abolished for all crimes in 1998. This course of action was taken in flagrant rejection of the Divine Principle of retribution for capital crimes. With that ultimate deterrent being removed murder has become commonplace in this Country. I doubt that a day passes without at least one murder! Indeed, in 2022/23 in England and Wales alone, there were 602 homicides recorded; and 697 the previous year! Thus my estimation falls far short of the actual figures,

Just this week there has been an outcry for corporal punishment to be abolished in England and N. Ireland. It is based on cases of domestic abuse, (which can never be tolerated), and upon reports by so-called "experts" telling us of the dire consequences arising from discipline used in the home. Experts who appear to be able to read minds, assess situations of which they do not have the full details, and dwell on cases of child cruelty to the entire disregard of any other form of evidence.

I totally abhor cruelty to children, adults, and even animals. I endured cruelty for many years as a child and so I feel entitled to question this alarming view that will further diminish any kind of obedience, politeness, and respect in the home, at school, on the streets, and in the workplace. 

But this is yet another example of the flagrant rejection of the clear teaching of the Holy Scriptures and of that is which is an immutable command from God.

Anyone who has no hidden agenda, and has an open mind, cannot gainsay the indisputable evidence of the dreadful lack of discipline in all walks of life in this Land, and indeed throughout the world.

Thus saith the Lord: "Whoso sheddethy man's blood, by man shall his blood be shed: for in the image of God made He man." Genesis 9:6. This verse carries us back to the Creation, and obviously pre-dates the Law. It remains a divine command, it has never been abrogated.

"Eye for Eye, Tooth for Tooth"

 I wonder how often believers notice how the unregenerate in this scene misquote and misinterpret the Word of God. It can only be so for the Wicked One has blinded the minds of those who believe not.

My sadness is that there is no opportunity to reprove such pernicious and deceitful misrepresentation of the Biblical truth.

A prime example of this "activity" is the partial misquotation of the above phrase found four times over in the Word.

"Eye for eye, tooth for tooth;" used by the world in general to convey brutal acts of unjustified vengeance; while it is a divine principle, the means of preventing excessive retribution, a word, a measure of mercy thus demanded by the "Father of all mercies." The simple concept is "thus far and no further."                                                                                                                        See Exodus 21:24; Leviticus 24:20; Deuteronomy 19:21; Matthew 5:38.                                                                                                                       

Believers in this dispensation understand how immensely different is the exhortation for them today; in essence "love your enemies; seek to emulate your Saviour, "Who when He was reviled, reviled not again, when He suffered He threatened not, but gave Himself over into the hands of Him who judges righteously." Matthew 5:44; 1 Peter 2:23.

Thoughts as to the Believer and Politics. 

I will begin by announcing my stand on this isuue so that you will be able to conclude your reading as early as you would wish.

I have nothing to do with politics in any shape or form. I have never voted in any election whatsoever, and I never intend so to do.

Without looking for help from anyone, not even those godly servants of Christ in an earlier century, those who have "fallen asleep in Jesus;" but wholly trusting that the Holy Spirit of God Himself will act as my Divine Instructor, I pen this for your prayerful consideration.

The U.K. has just engaged in a General Election; and in man's wisdom, but permitted by our God, they have elected an avowed atheist to the highest position in the Land. Before I outline my position before the Lord, I would ask believers who have cast their vote, are you not responsible in any way, guilty of what has taken place? An atheist in power in our nation that once purported to have based its laws and judicial dealings upon the Word of God! 

Now dear brethren and sisters in Christ, did you seek His face that He might guide you? Did you receive any guidance? I believe the answer can only be "I did not!" Why do I dare make such a bold declaration? Because we have a man who denies the very existence of God, and therefore is "without Christ" now occupying that first position. And furthermore why did not EVERY believer vote in uniformity? I heard a snippet of a little discussion among Brethren which grieved me, for they were taken up with the "tomorrow" and in total disagreement about which "Party" to vote for in the Election. How is that possible?

Now to my thoughts as to the Biblical stance I have taken, thankfully along with countless others of the Lord's people, I verily believe.

Now Brethren what is our "standing" in relationship with the world? We are "Saints by calling," or literally "called saints;" we are never called to aspire to sainthood, we are not exhorted to become saints, we are saints, each of us, and all of us! And what does this imply if it is not personal SEPARATION? it is consecration; and its derivatives imnclude, "chaste, clean, pure, innocent, blameless, holy." It is reminiscent of the Nazarite-character of Numbers 6.       Romans 1:1; 1 Corinthians 1:2; See 2 Corinthians 1:1, 13:13; Ephesians 1:12; Colossians 1:4. 

We are "Strangers and Pilgrims," in this world. We are not "at home," and we are only "passing through." A "stranger" in Scripture is simply a guest,  but as to the force of the word, "an alien resident," or a "by-dweller;" A "Pilgrim" has even more emphasis on our "strangerhood" here in this scene; we are said to be "an alien alongside." Hebrews 11:13; 1 Peter 2:11. 

Indeed, our "conversation is in heaven;" A.V. That word "conversation" is  translated differently in other Versions of the Word of God. "Citizenship," "manner of life," are but two examples. The word in the original is "POLITEUMA," i am using the transliteration for those of us who know little or nothing of the N.T. Greek language. But you only need to look at the word to see that it has reference to our English word "politics." As far as I am aware, you are not permitted to vote in another Nation's elections. Philippians 3:20.

Furthermore we are "Ambassadors for Christ," as was the Apostle Paul, although he was an "ambassador in bonds." Thus, we are in the world as Ambassadors, by implication to "act as a representative;" figuratively "a member of a celestial council;" and figuratively a "preacher."                            2 Corinthians 5:20; Ephesians 6:20.

We need to remind our hearts that we are IN the world but we are not OF it! Listen to the words of the Master, the only begotten Son speaking to the Father: "I have given them Thy word," the Word of God in testimony, "and the world has hated them, because they are not of the world, as I am not of the world." "I do not demand that Thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that Thou shouldest keep them out of the evil. They are not of the world, as I am not of the world." John 17:14-16.

I conclude that we have no warrant in the Word of God to engage in politics, just the aboslute opposite. Indeed our only responsibility "politically if you will, is to pray for "all that are in authority" over us;" those granted derived authority. 1 Timothy 2:1,2.

Finally Brethren, "The powers that be are ordained (appointed) by God;" In awe-ful reverence I exhort you to "leave it with Him." 

The responsibility for all that I have written in this "Post" lies only with me. I do not pretend to speak on behalf of "Brethren, commonly so called," nor on behalf of the Assembly with which I am peresently identified, nor any other Assembly.

Tom Wyatt Gathered unto the name of our Lord Jesus Christ with the saints at Corsham Wiltshire U.K.

Email: tw007q5184@blueyonder.co.uk

   

Adam Wyatt (Health Update) 

Dear brethren and sisters in Christ

Back on Tuesday 18th June I was privileged to conduct a Funeral Service for a beloved brother in Christ who had been "called home" after a short but very serious illness. 

After the Funeral Service many of the saints came to enquire about my only son, Adam. These wonderfully faithful believers had continued to pray for Adam long after my last update posted on "Blogger." It was truly amazing to realise the constantcy of the love of the Lord's people for my wife Bernice, for myself, and particularly for  our severely disabled son Adam.

Adam suffered a rare Spinal Stroke back in April 2015 when only 27 yeras old. It resulted in total paralysis from his neck down. He remained quadraplegic for some months, until by God's grace, and in answer to fervent prayer, Adam slowly regained his right hand side. At the end of almost two years he was discharged from hospital still paraplegic. His paralysis prevents him from standing, dressing and washing himself, feeding himself until his food has been cut up. He cannot get in or out of bed, and can only sit in a wheelchair. He has no bladder or bowel control, the nerves have been damaged throughout his body. To move from bed to owheelchait, from wheelchair to car, is taxing for him as he needs to use a "sliding board" with help from someone else. He cannot discern temperature, has weakened immunity, and very feeble cough and sneeze reflexes. I mention all these things  because generally speaking very few people are eaware of the numerous attendant difficulties associated with paralysis.

Please forgive the lengthy nature of the above information; I must turn to the present and tell you of recent events.

Adam has kidney stones, and has undergone five operations prior to the latest one. On each occasion he has developd sepsis after the procedure, and miraculously (i9n the infinite mercy of God), survived each time. The last time he suffered anaphylactic shock and was rushed to the Resusitation Unit in haste.They asked him for permission to do whatever was necessary to save his life. he readily concurred, but the rapidity with which they treated him alleviated any furthe action. We are so in awe of the tenderness and compassion of our Saviour in His undertaking and overruling for us all. 

On Friday June 21st Adam had his latest operation to remove kidney stone fragments, along with the intention of removing the stent he has either side of the kidney area. The operation was a partial success, and he was told that a final operation would be needed in six weeks time. He was dischatged the same day, Friday, at around 7.00pm.

Early the next morning he was in excrutiating pain and manifesting symptons of sepsis yet again. An ambulance was called and arrived within six minutes! Paramedics adminstered morphine, and treated his raging temperature, low blood pressure and racing heart rate.

Bernice and I visited him every day for six to eight hours. He was treated with three different antibiotics by I.V. One antibiotic was said to be the most powwerful ever developed! With paracetamol and morphine both hadministerd by I.V. Adam responded well. He was finally dischrged on Lord's Day 30th June. He has remained well up to this moment in time. Nevertheless he has to undergo a further operation in five weeks time, if the Lord will. It will be exactly the same procedure, but should be the final operation in the mercy of our blessed and good "God whom we adore."

How we have appreciated the on-going prayers of the saints, the answers to which have sustained us in the unfailing grace, and uninterrupted love of our precious Lord and Saviour.

Please, please accept our reciprocal love to you all in Him. Please contimue to pray for us, we know that you will!

Yours because we all are HIS! 

Tom Wyatt 

Gathered unto the name of the Lord Jesus with teh saints at Corsham Wiltshire U.K.

Climate Change? A Believer's Personal Verdict

Printed below is the title and a short introduction provided by the author, along wit the support of the publisher. After those two paragraphs are some of my personal thoughts.

I must immediately acknowledge that I have not read the book, but sufficient information has been granted in the accompanying statements for me to form an intelligent opinion based on my understanding of the Holy Scriptures, the Scriptures of truth.  

Global Warming - The Christian and Climate Change
According to the Bible, bigger changes to planet Earth are certain in the future, but that is not the reason for Christians to ignore the present implications of climate change and adopt a careless and extravagant lifestyle. We can show others that we care, including willing acceptance of government regulations to protect the environment.

In this helpful guide, Bert Cargill carefully outlines evidences of global warming and climate change, explaining some of the science behind it, and indicates ways in which we can help during our time on earth before our Lord Jesus comes again. 

First of all we are required to accept a theory as factual. This hypothesis has many adherents as those who hold with the Theory of Evolution; I refer to the "Scientists" and their brand of science, as the "experts" in this field. (I know with absolute certainty that the godly Author would view evolution as abhorrent as I do.) But many of these Scientist are advocates of this heinous and blasphemous theory.

Even true scientific facts are thoroughly eclipsed by faith, faith in the Word of God; faith which takes us into things infinite and eternal, and grants to us the divine ministry of the Holy Spirit, "the Spirit of truth," and brings us into intimate fellowship with the Father and the Son.

I know of no teaching in the Word of God regarding "global warming," or "climate change" in this dispensation. And I would not use those terms in connection with the Millenial earth or the ushering in of the eternal state.

It is clear to me that only two things are resposible for awful catastrophies on this earth, whether violent storms of every description, landslides, mudslides, volcanoes and earthquakes etc. namely man's sin and God's providential judgements! Please particularly think on the precious implications of the judgements being providential; what mercy!

  I would draw your attention to this sentence: "We can show others that we care, including willing acceptance of government regulations to protect the environment." And my reply to it is simple. Where in the Word of God are we instructed to make this world a better place? Puny, unbelieving man with all his so-called wisdom and power is totally helpless in the face of the elements; and belivers are left here to serve the Lord, "making disciples of all nations;" edifying, comforting and exhorting believers; and above even service for the Master, engaging in the sweetest worship of the Son of God's love. Using our time, abilities, energies and commitments to aught else is a distraction and a deflection from expressing in this scene, our love for the Lord Jesus.

Furthermore, we need to discern whether the "government regulations" are contrary t othe mind of God. These same politicians passed  legislation  (proven unlawful) during the Covid pandemic.The State dictated to the Assemblies what action they should take; since when has the derived authority of man been permitted to overrule the inherent power of God? The Assemblies were crippled by their unsriptural actions, and have never recovered; many of the saints have never returned to Assembly fellowship, and many an Assembly testimony was brought to nought.

Many of the proponents of "climate change" and other organisations hold illegal demonstrations, vandalise property and interrupt events which people have paid to see and enjoy. I should not like to be identified with these in the least!

Finally, why has our wonderful Creator-God provided us with coal, oil, gas and countless other beneficial "rich seams" only for us in awful thanklessness to brand these blessings as "pollutent" and call for the cessation of their use?

"Giving thanks at all times for all things to Him who is God in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ." Ephesians 5:20.                                                                                                 "In everything give, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus towards you."  1 Thessalonians 5:18. 

Just a little aside: In the U.K. we have recycling crews who collect our recycled waste, crefully sorted, once a week. The waste does not remain separated in many cases, which comletely defeats the objective! But worse of all, and I have experienced this times without number, as they traverse their route they stop the lorry anywhere they feel like it. Blocking roads for as long as a quarter of an hour. It produces a tail-back of vehicles pumping out their emissions, and rendering all efforts to "save the planet" utterly futile! Only yesterday as we approached the hospital, there they were blocking the road in both directions while we with many others were trying to reach teh hospital and two emergency vehicles, ambulances with flashing lights lights and screaming sirens were forced to wait as the "Recyclers" continued their collection at no increased pace. There was ample space further on where they could have left the pathway clear; but they would have had to walk a few yards more! This is just one indication of the futility of man to make the most insignificant difference to the environment.

Tom Wyatt

Gathered to the name of our Lord Jesus with the saints at Corsham Wiltshire U.K.

Email: tw007q5184@blueyonder.co.uk

Everything expressed here is my own personal understanding only.

"The Association Between Our Dates of Birth and Death"

Frequently one or more ridiculous hypotheses are bandied about. Almost as often an hypothesis becomes an undeniable fact as its nonesensical nature is unfolded. A veritable hoch-potch of pseudo-scientific claptrap is its crumbling foundation. 

The latest example to come to light is the one quoted at the top of this "post." "The Association Between our Dates ofBirth and Death." Surveys undertaken by individuals and collectives from America, Germany, Ireland, Japan and Switzerland. In order to have a semblance of a chance to understand its implications, it is necessary to have a spectacular knowledge of "scientific" terms, and a formidable grasp of the English language. I lay no claim whatsoever to either!

As with every false hypothesis it has needed to be investigated, altered, and added to constantly. This particular study appeared in the ambitiously entitled "Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health" (1987).

Its two principle idealogies are labelled, "death postponement" meaning exactly what it implies; and "birthday blues," said to be "a stressful event provoking a rise in mortality."  

Further studies were carried out in 2001, 2012, and 2018. As far as I can gather they all disagreed in a number of key elements, in their fatally flawed efforts to no doubt undermine the truth as revealed in the Scriptures.

They all refer to numerous persons of fame, fortune and academic prowess. They used an interminable amount of time, and expended massive fortunes, to no satisfactory conclusion, nor solution in their understanding of death. 

What a terrible waste of time and resources when these supposedly erudite men and women could be engaged in something that would be of universal benefit.

The Word of God states unequivocally that, "The soul that sinneth it shall die;" "The wages of sin is death;" "It is appointed unto men once to die and after this Judgement." That "appointment" cannot be postponed or cancelled! It is inevitable for the Word of God cannot be broken.  

Ezekiel 18:4,20; Romans 6:23; Hebrews 9:27; John 10:35.

An Example of "Man's Wisdom" in Ireland, Norway and Spain 

May 28th will be an "historic" date in the calendar of the terrorist organisatio, P.L.O. it has declared publicly. On that date three more countries will blindly follow those blind leaders of the blind who already recognise a Palestinian State. I have no political views; nor am I associated in any way with politics; nor have I ever voted in any political elections; nor do I intend to vote at any time. because Democracy is as unscriptural as Autocracy, Communism, Republicanism and Monarchy.  Furthermore, I follow the news stories in a very, very limited way. The only real exceptions are those that impinge on my fundamental Christian beliefs, or upon the nation of Israel in its connection with these beliefs.

It is apparent that all three nations are predominately Roman, (Catholic is a misnomer, and is only used to veil the truth of its deep-seasted Romanism), that is why its adherents are happy to be generally referred to as simply "Catholics!" This I maintain even though Norway claims (nominally) to be "Evangelical Lutheran," whatever that may mean! 

But nevertheless, what horrifies me is the stand about to be taken by Ireland. It has surely been amongst the most favoured nations under the sun, in enjoying such manifold blessings from our "great God and Saviour," and withal becoming the "birthplace" of the divinely inspired "Brethren Movement," commonly so-called. 

May the Lord have mercy on that nation that borders my own; and may it please Him to keep the U.K. from venturing into such a pathway, which will only increase the rapid filling-up of our cup of iniquity.

 

 International Tract Distribution Day (8) Feedback

Before the "Distribution Day" becomes a distant memory, I hope nevertheless, a precious memory, I feel a little update as to "fedback" would not go amiss.

I received some wonderful encouragement even before that day dawned in the gracious, loving-kindness of our faithful God. It was so good to know how this huimble ministry is laid upon the hearts of His dear people, who take the time to so uplift me (and others too, of course), in this exercise.

I received four little "reports," each of them so heart-warming, and it thrilled me to read them. The feedback was received from Northern Ireland, from Seattle, U.S.A. from Canada and from Zambia! They are archived in heaven! 

May it please the Lord to richly bless all who participated on that day, befor its dawning, and since it drew to a close. Dear brethren abd sisdters in Christ, please water the "good seed" sown with your earnest and fervent prayers for the lost, and the backslidden, that each and all of them may be led to repentance in "the goodness of God." Romans 2:4.

The Nostalgia that Choruses Bring

For many years since my childhood and throughout my life as a believer, I have had the joy of engaging in singing Choruses invariably designed for youngsters. But they continue to resonate in my heart up to this present time!

Some Choruses evoke distant but unforgettable memories. From January 1977 through to mid-March 1985 my wife Bernice and I held Sunday School Classes, each Lord's Day afternoon and on one or two week nights.

Sunday School was held in the home as an antagonistic brother in the local Assembly objected to Sunday School quite forcefully; he brought this "teaching" with him when he "left" the Taylor Brethren many years earlier. We felt that to continue in the Hall would only cause upset and offence.

We were mightily blessed during those years, as hundreds attended for varying lengths of time; some only came once; while some remained faithful for the entire duration. We closed the S.S. because my job involved moving to South Wales. I have regretted that move ever since, never sure that I had the Master's guidance.

One of the most enjoyable aspects of that S.S. experience was the singing of numerous choruses. So many of the choruses are replete with the truth of the Gospel and remain in the hearts of the singers indefinitely. Sadly we sing very few and not very often. We do sing the occasional chorus or refrain at the Breaking of Bread, and it is surprising how it can enhance our praise.

I look back over so many years and I can still remember quite a good number of our pupils, and with sincere affection. 

A number of them were certainly saved, and a few others may also have trusted the Lord for salvation. Nothing compares with this as the gracious recompense of God to us for His service; absolutely unmerited!

We could never quite grasp how it was that a Mormon girl and a Roman Catholic girl were allowed to attend our S.S. But nothing is too hard for the Lord! Unfortunately, the sweet-natured and gentle young girl indoctrinated with Mormonism, but who always listened attentively to the Glad Tidings was shipped off to America some few years later and compelled to marry a Mormon lad. The Lord knows.

The Roman Catholic girl was also very attentive, pleasant, and polite. One day she asked me in the session for singing choruses, if she could teach us another chorus. I was somewhat nonplussed and hesitant but trusted the Lord to overrule. She sang the chorus brightly and well. And all was well! The chorus began with the line, "Jesus' hands were kind hands doing good to all." That is the only line I remember, but on referring to the "C.S.S.M. Chorus Book," now entitled "Scripture Union Choruses," I realise it is number 698 in the book and the young lady would probably have pointed this out to me which would be of significant help to me and to the children in learning it. 

What nostalgia grips my heart as those dear ones flood the memory and conjure up in the mind's eye, a sea of beaming faces singing exultingly in our front room!     

       

Brief Report on International Tract Distribution Day (8) 

Yesterday Aril 18th 2024 was the eighth year in succession that the date was designated International Tracy Distribution Day, a further reminder of our God's unchanging and gracious faithfulness toward His own beloved people; another good opportunity to seize the time to reach out to the souls perishing on every hand.

I returned to deliver Via gospel magazines to a couple of high-rise flats and the road approaching them. When I first "tracted" there, a considerable number of years ago, the occupants were elderly folk in the main. During those years the character of the buildings has changed and couples with young children predominate. It is sad to realise that many of those of that former generation had been ushered into eternity; some, if the Lord will, to enjoy bliss and blessedness. But along with the awful responsibility, it is a privilege to be able to take the Word of God to them and trust that He will bless His Word in that written form in salvation blessings for His glory and the glory of His only-begotten Son, our lovely Saviour.

I encountered but one moment of fear when passing by the fence of a garden a ferocious dog leaped at me snarling! By God's grace,  the dog could not clear the fence and I was prevented from entering the premises to deliver the magazine; I was about to do just that, oblivious to the presence of that guard dog.

My prayer is that every "morsel" of the Word of God that has been received into the hands of needy ones whenever and wherever that may be, but especially yesterday, will accomplish the purposes of God for His own name sake.

If you have any news regarding the experiences of "tracting," and have the time to spare, please let me know; we may well be encouraging one another and so much more as we see the day approaching.

Tom Wyatt

Gathering to the Name of the Lord Jesus alone, with the saints at Corsham Gospel Hall U.K.

Email: tw007q5184@blueyonder.co.uk

To Sing or Not to Sing

Due to incorrect "science," or "science falsely so-called," the vast majority of believers within the "Assemblies" have desisted from singing for close to twelve months. The original advice (not legislation,) from the UK Government was to stop singing as it increased the risk of transmitting/contracting Covid-19. This misguided practice continues as the amount of credence and public airing of this misinformation has never been replaced with the later scientific conclusion admitting that singing was no more "dangerous" than speaking. Unfortunately, if brethren and sisters are given this updated and correct information it has little or no effect on many of them as they appear to be perfectly happy with the new "norm." I have referred to some of these new practices on an earlier occasion, especially in relation to the Lords' Supper. With others, though numerically few, I fear that "virtual" meetings have gripped many of the Lord's people, and perhaps "physically" attended meetings will prove to be few and far between, or indeed, non-existent!

I digress from my little thought, "to sing or not to sing." My individual view is obvious from what I have already written. But I really wanted to add something even more personal. I truly miss singing the beautiful hymns that form an integral part of our praise, I believe such singing is a component part of our worship, but I know that some would not agree.

Some considerable years ago in the Assembly with which I was then identified, a few of the gathered saints literally overnight foisted upon the entire unsuspecting Assembly an additional hymnbook of dubious character. The Assembly was already waning spiritually in a number of serious ways and was subsequently exposed as having tolerated it in its denial of gross misconduct within. (It has never owned its dreadful failure in refusing to believe a significant weight of evidence clearly presented to them.) Mercifully long before the exposure I and my family had withdrawn.

In confining myself to the simple subject before me I will just indicate how the above disclosure has a bearing on it. When I graciously protested at the unannounced determination to introduce the hymnbook, (which by the way would of necessity need musical accompaniment for some of the hymns,) the retort was "why make such a protest over a hymnbook?" I felt first of all that it showed a lack of spiritual discernment, but also surprise that they had not realised how much of their time in Assembly gatherings and Gospel Meetings was spent in singing! Surely singing MUST be of significance in the light of its obvious prevalence at these times! The only other conclusion must be that singing is vain and futile.

Well, in feeling so aggrieved at being deprived of opportunities to sing with the spirit and the understanding, making a joyful noise unto the Lord, and only able to "meet" with my wife, (who is a very fine singer,) I decided to find a number of CDs containing hymns from the "Little Flock Hymnbook" to listen to them being sung by fellow believers and to sing along with them in the solitude of my study. I have located three CDs and hope to find a little time most days to spend in this way. Thus I will continue to remember the words we joy in singing and perhaps rehearse the appropriate tunes to them.  

I have updated this post as I believe that the consequences of blindly following the Government's "advice," as stated in my first paragraph, have proved to be unequivocally correct. I find no pleasure or satisfaction in this pronouncement, only sadness of soul. 

A Second Astounding Hymn 

Following on from my last "Post" and in the same vein I would like to speak of another hymn that touched my heart in recent months. The hymn commences with the sweet exhortation to the soul of the believer with the words: "Behold my soul thy Saviour;" It is found in "A Collection of Hymns For the Use of the Protestant Church of the United Brethren." Moravian Brethren.

To my knowledge, I have never seen the particular hymn I refer to, in the many hymnals with which I am familiar, nor in any that I have collected until I purchased a copy of the  Hymn Book mentioned above. But one Lord's Day morning when gathered to His Name alone with the saints at Corsham to "Break Bread," we sang this hymn (4 verses) from the (local) "Supplement." I was arrested by an unusual phrase of quite striking beauty." The phrase that captivated me on that occasion, directing my thoughts to the conflict in Gethsemane, reads:

"Till, through His pores in anguish,

The blood-sweat forced its way. 

As you will see, (no doubt with some difficulty,) from the poor photograph of the hymn, it actually has eight verses!

Very keen to find out about the author as our Supplement does not include names of authors, names of tunes, or any dates, I recently began my research. It proved surprising and fascinating.

Below is part of a brief biography of the Moravian brother's testimony:  

Full Name:	Gregor, Christian, 1723-1801
Birth Year:	1723
Death Year:	1801

Gregor, Christian, son of Georg Gregor, a peasant living in the Silesian village of Dirsdorf, near Peilau, was born at Dirsdorf on 1st January 1723. In 1742 he went to Herrnhut, where he was at first employed in tuition. He became leader of the music in the Moravian Brethren's congregation at Herrnhaag, in 1748, and in 1749 at Zeist; but in 1753 he returned to Herrnhut as cashier of the Moravian Brethren's Board of Direction. On 6th November 1801, he attended a meeting, held at Herrnhut, of the Board of Direction of which he had been a member from 1764. Just as he entered his house at Berthelsdorf, near Herrnhut, he was struck down with paralysis and died that same day. 

He was a man greatly beloved and respected, simple of heart, loving, earnest and hardworking; and was entrusted with many important missions and visitations. His hymns are characterised by childlike fervour of devotion to his crucified Lord. A number appeared in Des kleinen Brüder-Gesangbuchs dritter Theil, Barby, 1767; but they were mostly contributed to the Gesang-buch zum Gebrauch der evangelischen Brüder Gemeinen, Barby, 1778, of which he was the principal editor. He was also an excellent organist, and edited, in 1784, a collection of accompanying tunes for the hymnbook of 1778, contributing thereto various melodies by himself. A little volume entitled Historische Nachrteht vom Brüder-Gesangbuche des Jahres 1778, und von dessen Lieder-Verfassern, Gnadau, 1835 (2nd ed., 1851), occasionally referred to in these pages, is based on materials collected by Gregor.

   

International Tract Distribution Day (8) 

If the Lord will, as for the past seven years, we hope that on the 18th April 2024 the day will be viewed as the "International Tract Distribution Day." The object being that every believer throughout the world who is able to find the time, and may feel an exercise, will distribute at least ONE Gospel tract or similar missive on this designated day. Of course there is NO LIMIT as to how many each one may be able to deliver, but let us flood this sin-benighted world with the precious Word of God, particularly the Glad Tidings concerning His lovely Son.

I think in latter years some of the enthusiasm for this humble ministry has somewhat waned. But please recall to mind and heart the countless blessings that have resulted  from lost sinners just reading a Gospel Tract; so many have been gloriously saved as the Holy Spirit has wonderfully applied the living Word to their consciences and hearts, leading them to repentance in His goodness, and to the exercise of faith in the Son of His love. Our God has not changed! The same Word declares that there is nothing too hard for Him; no matter too wonderful for Him. 

Please, if you are able to participate, in the will of the Lord, please do so. If you are not able, but feel a like-mindedness to those who will be involved, please pray earnestly for the Lord's rich blessing and for Him to thus be glorified in the salvation of precious souls.  

Thank you for reading this brief request and simple exhortation. Please let everyone you know who would be interested in this ministry, learn of this endeavour to serve the Lord, so that they may seize the favourable opportunity to have fellowship in it.

In Him, the altogether-lovely One, our Beloved and the Lover of our soul.

Tom Wyatt

Bristol U.K.

Gathering to the name of the Lord Jesus with the saints at Corsham Gospel Hall

Corsham Wiltshire U.K.

His Unchanging Love to Usward 

Text

Ephesians 5:1. J.N.D.

Christ loved us, and delivered [gave] Himself for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God, for a sweet-smelling-savour.

 Revelation 5:1. J.N.D.

To Him who loves us, and has washed us from our sins in His blood.

Address

It must be observed that Christs’ sacrifice of “Himself” was first and foremost “to God;” and that His offering of Himself embraced and fulfilled the purposes of every offering and sacrifice ever made to God. And His sacrifice of Himself infinitely transcended all and every one of them as the perfect sacrifice of a sweet-smelling- savour. Nothing had ever, nor will ever prove to be a sweeter fragrance to Him.

But the purport of my feeble thoughts are concentrated upon Christ’s inexhaustible, unconditional and eternal love for His own. His love is stronger than death and even divine judgement, if I might so speak of it in reverential awe. 

“Many waters cannot quench [His] love, neither do the floods drown it,” we joy to cry with the Bride of old. S.of S. 8:7. 

I feel that the would direct our thoughts away from the various offerings and sacrifices of the old economy, even though they speak so eloquently of Christ; and indeed have been fulfilled, and are being fulfilled perfectly in Him. Therein lies their spiritual value and blessings for believers now.

I think that the Holy Spirit thus focuses our attention on the Saviour “Himself.” He would occupy our hearts with “Himself.”He would channel our thoughts and reflections toward “Himself.” He would thoroughly occupy our hearts with “Himself.” For here He is presented to us as both Offerer and Offering, Sacrifice and Victim.

To us it is the profoundest display of the unspeakably immeasurable magnitude of His love for us! He could not have loved us more! 

But for a moment in rapt contemplation of Him there nailed to Golgothas’ accursed tree we may perhaps hesitate; for the Word reads, “Christ hath loved us,” that is He has loved us once, the tense in the Greek being aorist, that is at a point in the expanse of time, whether past, present or future, especially in the past. So then He once so loved us, with a love beyond compare, comprehension, and expression! 

But of course that is not the import of the Word of the Spirit of God. It is rather His purpose to convey the wonder of His all-atoning finished work, wrought in unimaginable sacrificial, and suffering love! Ineffable love to usward, once. For that can never be repeated, and thus it is so perfectly and preciously disclosed here in the Word of God.

But He did verily “deliver Himself up, give Himself,” give His all, once for all, for ever!

But what of that love? Has it diminished since Calvary? Far be the thought! “To Him that loves us,” J.N.D. “loveth us,” R.V. Thus, He has never ceased to love us! He has loved us from all eternity! He 2loves us now, and He will never cease to love us. And He will love us throughout time and eternal ages! And best of all, He loves us in the same measure, and magnitude, and with the same ardency, and the same intensity as He did at Calvary. Indeed, He loves us there upon the Throne of God as He did on the Tree of Golgotha!

“And He has washed us from our sins in His blood,” once for all forever! And He has provided “the water” of His Word for our “feet-washing,” so as to cleanse us from all defilement that attaches to us during our earthly sojourn through this wilderness scene. Ephesians 5:26.

The substance of a "thought" that came upon my heart when "Breaking Bread" with the Lord "in the midst" of a little gathering of His own.

An Astounding Hymn 

Over the last couple of weeks, I have indulged in a little nostalgia. Finding it sometimes difficult to adjust to tunes in singing hymns in the Assembly gatherings, simply because of the different "precentors" and possibly the location. It is not that the tunes used are unfamiliar to me, but that when a hymn is "given out" I often have a tune in mind almost immediately. When a different tune is used it often takes me a little by surprise and I am sometimes a little disappointed. I have no idea if other saints experience this minor disappointment, but I imagine it might be more prevalent now with so many Assemblies having closed permanently due especially to the pandemic, forcing many to find their Assembly fellowship elsewhere.   

I rediscovered a lovely hymn while tidying up my numerous copies of  "Words in Season" that span decades! The hymn I am referring to begins, "Thou life of my life blessed Saviour."The hymn was written in the German language during the 17th Century by Ernst C. Homburg (1605-1681), and it was translated into English by a dear sister in the 19th Century, Mrs. Frances Bevan nee Shuttleworth (1827-1909). Apparently, in 1932 A.P. Gibbs (1890-1967) a beloved brother composed a beautiful melody for it, a tune much used today.

The "chorus" attached to the end of each verse is of particularly sweetness: 

"A thousand, a thousand thanksgivings,

I bring my Lord Jesus to Thee."

As has been mooted the sentiment in English suggests one or perhaps two thousand thanksgivings. But in the old German version, the suggestion is that of a million, i.e. a thousand times a thousand! I am sure we all agree that even a million such thanksgivings fall infinitely short of the praise of which He is worthy.

The hymn may be found in full in "Hymns of Light and Love" no.73;  In the supplement of "Hymns for Christian Worship and Service" no.616; neither of which ascribes an author or translator. It also appears in "Waiting Praise" no.163 where it is wrongly attributed to a P. Billhorn?

Finally, just an aside, W.J. Pell writes "So perhaps long before the world was saying glibly, "Thanks a million," God's people were gratefully rendering to Him their "Thanks a million."

 His Obedience--His Death--His Cross

Philippians 2:8.

I have struggled to formulate expressions of utmost clarity and reverence in connection with a stanza within this ineffably sublime verse in the Word of God.

But this morning my thoughts were captivated by its wonder and I was compelled to ponder it afresh.

Of late there has been an oft-repeated interpretation of a part of this verse: "He ... became obedient until or up to death."

It is used in an attempt to negate the awful concept of Christ being obedient to the "thing" called death.

But this suggestion as to translation falls far short of the immeasurable extremity of His obedience.

The translation in the A.V. is not "obedient to death," as though death had the mastery of Him; but "unto death."

He did not "obey" death, nor succumb to it, but beckoned it to come, He commanded death, and death obeyed Him!

He plumbed the untold depths of death in His exclusively rare obedience: "This commandment have I received of My Father;" "I do always the things that are pleasing to Him."

John 10:18; John 8:29.

The immensity of His sufferings and the death He died are divinely expressed when we further read in that verse, "Himself ... becoming obedient unto death, and that (or, "even") the death of the cross." Philippians 2:8.

I fear that if such a suggestion of translation gains a hold it will seriously undermine the measure and the magnitude of His obedience, along with the reality of His death;

That death which is the grandest, most glorious truth of the Faith, and of our faith in Him.

 

These thoughts are mine alone, that is I do not know of any other brother addressing this matter; I personally accept all responsibility for this feeble effort to honour Christ Jesus.

I trust that my brethren will understand that I long that they may believe that I have written this in humility, and graciously too, would it please the Lord.

T.W.