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. 





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!

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.



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.")  

Partial Rapture: Erroneous

A SIMPLE WORD REGARDING A "PARTIAL-RAPTURE!"

In telephone conversation with a brother last night I was reminded of a 19th/20th Century brother of independent thought. I have a copy of his auto-biography, and I have read it twice. He held a "partial rapture" view, as indicated in his writings on eschatology, as well as in his auto-biographical work.

In very real simplicity I would challenge this highly gifted and much-used servant of the Lord as to this error.

If the Rapture is to be but "partial," there are obvious consequences as a result, such as cannot be reconciled as in accord with the Word and will of God.

Simply reminding ourselves of the various figures used in the N.T. to symbolise the Church (Assembly) will reveal the resultant outcome;-

A DISFIGURED "BRIDE,"

A DEFORMED "BODY,"

A DILAPIDATED "BUILDING."

How would it be possible then for the Lord Jesus, the Heavenly Bridegroom, to present to Himself "a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish?"

Ephesians 5:27.

A Personal Disclaimer

A PERSONAL DISCLAIMER

I am exercised to publically disassociate myself from the website connected with my "home" Assembly. Publically because it is in the public domain and accessible for any and all to peruse.

Besides being very unprofessional, with grammatical mistakes and incorrect spellings, (which I am able to "live with,") there are fundamental difficulties.

The website is in the hands of a woman who is an UNBELIEVER! Thus it is evident there MUST be CONFUSION!

The only listed "corresponding brethren" are two SISTERS!

The description of the way in which we gather to the Lords' Name is fraught with error.

Bethany Gospel Hall in Filton, Bristol is the building in which an Assembly (Brethren) has met for many decades. It is the premises used historically, practically and in principle for the gatherings of a local (Brethren) Assembly. Until now it has never been suggested to be otherwise.

The website dilutes this distinction, and may well give the impression that the company meeting there are an "Evangelical Church," whatever that misnomer may convey. (A church is NOT a church if it is not evangelical!)

We continue to refer to "it" as an Assembly in all our conversations, but it is apparent that the majority would rather no one knew that we met as "Brethren commonly-so-called."

Every believer repudiates these titles, but it is deceitful to pretend, even if the reason is the refusal to be viewed as just another  "denomination" in Christendom. This too we refuse ABSOLUTELY, acknowledfing it to be sectarianism.

But I further refuse to relinquish my association with a movement of the Spirit which has furnished us with such a legacy, such a heritage.

I wish to state unequivocally that this "post" is my own PERSONAL" statement and

wholly mine alone. Please understand it to be the exercise of heart of one feeble servant of Christ who wishes to maintain a pristine testimony for our soon-coming Saviour, the lovely Lord Jesus Christ.

Never forget He is the Head, and the Lord, and every Assembly answers to Him alone!