THE HERALD
of Christ's Kingdom
VOL. X. December 1, 1927 No. 23
Table of Contents
'ORGANIZED
CHURCH HINDRANCE TO CHRISTIANITY"
FULL
ASSURANCE OF FAITH
CHRIST
OR MAMMON, WHICH?
''FULL
CONSECRATION''
PRAYER
ENCOURAGING
LETTERS
SCRIPTURE
MOTTOES
VOL. X. December 15, 1927 No. 24
Table of Contents
FAITHFULNESS
THE
CONVENTION AT TORONTO
THE
PRINCE OF PEACE
ENCOURAGING
LETTERS
VOL. X. December 1, 1927 No. 23
"So Snugly Housed, Sun of Christ's
Power Can't Shine
Through Stained Windows Says Dr. Richelsen."
ORGANIZED
Christianity as it at present exists with its vast resources of wealth, institutions of
learning, colleges, seminaries, homes and church edifices, its trained and highly educated
leadership and ministry, its multitudes of followers and supporters -- all this array of
power and influence may to many constitute proof that it has the Divine endorsement and
approval. Yet not all who accept posts of prominence and trust in Christendom are
permitting themselves to be blinded to the facts concerning her real character, for as the
life and example of the great Teacher are carefully considered and His messages studied,
which clearly and forcefully outline the work, mission, and accomplishments of His Church,
an enormous contrast is to be observed between the Apostolic or primitive Church and the
Church of today. Sober and thoughtful minds are led to seriously question the generally
accepted claim that the great church organizations of today have been created and led by
the spirit that was promised to guide the followers of Christ into all truth. Jesus said
to His followers, "Ye are not of the world, even as I am not of the world."
"My Kingdom is not of this world." "Fear not, little flock, it is your
Father's good pleasure to give you the Kingdom." "In the world ye shall have
tribulation, but in Me ye shall have peace." The recent bold statement of a prominent
minister in Buffalo, bears upon the inconsistencies of the popular church as well as the
unsavory fruitage of the organized church of today:
"Doubting
whether Jesus Christ would have sanctioned the organized Church as it now is and declaring
that 'Christ seems to be damaged by the existence of the [popular] Church,' the Rev. Dr.
John Richelsen, preaching Sunday morning in Kenmore Presbyterian Church before the
microphone of WKEN, attacked those Christians who center their Christianity somewhere else
in the church than on Christ. The subject of his sermon was 'A Portrait of Christ.'
"'Jesus
came to heal the world,' he said. 'Our concern is whether or not we ourselves are
receiving the healing at the hands of Christ. Are we permitting Him to heal our bodies and
souls, or is even the Church, itself, distracting our attention and sending us on errands
which keep us out of the sunshine of His presence?'
"Perplexed About Church"
"'Is
the organized Church so functioning to make this healing power effective? What would
happen if the visible Church were destroyed? I do not know. I am not at all sure about it.
Frankly I am perplexed about the church. I am not speaking of this particular church, but
of all churches.
"'Ofttimes
ít seems to me that "the Church of Jesus Christ" has been the damnation of
Christianity. Whether Jesus Christ ever thought of or ever would have sanctioned or
authorized the organized church as we know it, and have it here for instance, I am very
doubtful and uncertain. We have housed Christianity to such a degree that the sun of its
healing power cannot shine through its stained glass windows.
"Worship Church Instead of Christ"
"'At
least half the Christians of my acquaintance center their Christianity somewhere in the
church, but not on Christ. I care intensely about the effectiveness of Jesus Christ. With
all my heart and mind I believe that Jesus Christ is the solution of all world problems. I
believe that in Him there is healing for body and soul. But I find prejudice and
misconception everywhere against Christ. Christ is being misinterpreted and misunderstood.
This prejudice against Jesus Christ is not so much through creeds as because of the
shadows cast by the necessities of organization.
"'I
have no cure-all; no panacea; but I am not afraid to think and take the consequences. I
testify that I do know, let the consequences be what they may, that Christ seems to be
damaged by the existence of the Church. The Church at best is a means to an end and not
the end in itself. The only purpose of the church is to get men into better, more
convenient and inviting contact with the healing Christ. Is the church doing that for
you?"'
This
minister truly acknowledges that what he terms the organized church, meaning the great
church systems of Christendom, falls far short of the principles and teachings of the
Savior, and that the purpose of Christ and the purpose of His mission have been largely
lost sight of.
In His final
message the Savior addressing the last of the seven Churches, that of Laodicea, says,
"I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would that thou wert cold or
hot. So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of
My mouth." Such is the Lord's severe arraignment of the Church of the last times.
Only those who heed the voice of Him that speaketh from heaven, of Him "who hath His
eyes like unto a flame of fire," may understand the present confused state of
Christendom and may perceive why Christianity appears to have failed of accomplishing its
mission. Such see that Christianity has not really failed, but to the contrary has fully
succeeded in achieving all that was predetermined in the counsels of God -- that of
choosing out of this world a select saintly class well developed in Christ-likeness, who
should compose the Bride of His Son, and in association with her Divine Lord and Master
carry forward grandly the Divine purposes of redemption as they concern all humanity in
the coming redemption as they concern all humanity in the coming Age.
__________
"THE NEXT WAR"
Children of
God, all of whom are declared to be peacemakers, above all others abhor everything in the
nature of war, and in their ministry at the present time are heralds of the glorious era
of peace to be ushered in through Messiah's Kingdom. Nevertheless, as students of the more
sure word of prophecy, they recognize that before the dawning of that blessed day, the
Scriptures forewarn of a final great struggle, "a time of trouble such as never was
since there was a nation." It will be the last great conflict between the powers of
darkness and the powers of light, preparing humanity for the reign of righteousness. More
than twenty-five centuries ago the Prophets of the Bible gave vivid descriptions of the
last great war. It is necessarily of interest to the Lord's people in these days, noting
the signs of the times, to recognize that the various elements, forces and agencies that
will be active in the coming struggle are becoming more and more in evidence and are seen
to be of a most deadly character, indicating that a short work will the Lord make upon the
earth; additionally, confirming the conclusion that the day of the Lord draweth near, and
that consequently the Kingdom of God is nigh, even at the door. The following description
of the next war will be read with interest.
"What It Will Be Like"
"Professor
P. J. Noel Baker, an eminent authority on international affairs, writes in the London
'Daily News':
"Aviation
may be more of a blessing for this Empire than for any other country in the world, but I
feel that all the good it will do in civil life cannot balance the harm that may be done
in war by it, and if I had the casting vote I would say abolish the air! I feel that it is
an indisputably more harmful weapon of war than any other. These are the words, not of a
pacifist fanatic, but of Sir Hugh Trenchard, the service head of the Air Forces of Great
Britain at the present day.
"'In
the first phase of the next war there is little doubt that the belligerents will resort to
gas bomb attack on a vast scale. This form ofattack upon great cities, such as London or
Paris, might entail the loss of millions of lives in the course of a few hours . . . .All
gas experts are agreed that it would be impossible to devise means to protect the civil
population from this form of attack.' These are the words, not of the enthusiasts of the
League of Nations Union, but of General P. R. C. Groves who was Director of Air Operations
on all the British fronts in the year 1918, when air warfare was at its height.
"There
have been many such warnings by statesmen and soldiers in recent years. They have told us
that another war will be nothing short of 'a war on civilization itself.' Why have they
not been listened to? Why does the man in the street gaily talk of the 'next war' as if it
would be just like any other war which we have known?
"Incendiary and Gas Bombs"
"It is
indeed one of the mysteries of modern politics why these warnings should have gone
unheeded. Perhaps it is because as a rule they have been wrapped up in the technical
phrases of the General Staff. We have been told that the next war will be 'a war not of
lines but of zones,' that 'the decisive strategical weapon will be air bombardment: Such
phrases carry a terrible meaning to those who think in military terms; but they carry
little meaning to the average man.
"In the
last war the German air raids against London caused great inconvenience and considerable
loss. They created an exodus of its normal population. They interfered with and to some
extent reduced, the output of munitions in the London factories. They disturbed the
machinery of government and caused economic loss of many kinds. Worst of all, they
immobilized more than 30,000 men in the air defense of London, and they diverted guns by
hundreds from the defense of merchantmen at sea.. Yet the largest German air raid in the
last war was made by no more than 36 machines, while at the present time there is one
Continental Power -- perhaps more than one -- which could mobilize in 24 hours time at
least a thousand.
"Secondly,
every single aeroplane that will be used in the next war will be far better in every
technical respect than any that was used in the last; it will carry a far greater load of
bombs, it will travel far faster through the air, its radius of action will be far greater
than the radius of the aircraft of 1918.
"Thirdly,
each bomb used by the raiding aircraft will be infinitely more effective than the
corresponding bomb that was used in the last war. The incendiary bomb, for example, will
create a greater fire, and a fire which cannot be put out, because the inflammatory
chemicals which are used cannot be extinguished by water. The high explosive bomb will be
far greater in effect than any used before. The 'Berlin bombs' prepared for the campaign
of 1919 were said to be so powerful that they would kill by concussion any one who was in
the open within six or eight hundred yards of where they fell; but the high explosive
bombs which can now be used by army bombers are far more destructive still.
"As for
the gas bombs which will be used, the opinion of General Groves has already been given
above. Gas was never used in the last war against open cities, but every air force has now
been trained in large-scale gas attack, and unless an effective Disarmament Convention is
prepared and carried through, nothing can be more certain than that in the next war every
great city will be subjected to intensive gas bombardment.
"And of
course the killing power of the gases used will be infinitely greater than that of the
gases used in the last war. A quantity equivalent to three drops of 'Leursite' is fatal if
it comes in contact with any portion of the skin.
"Frightful Destruction"
"It is
difficult to imagine what the use of weapons such as these against a city like London or
Paris would in practice really mean. Most Londoners have seen the confusion and congestion
which results when a 'Tube' railway is interrupted at the rush hour. That may serve to
help them to imagine what it would be like in London when every means of communication was
broken down, when the whole city was plunged in the middle of the night into absolute
darkness, when every street was full of thousands upon thousands of men, women and
children driven mad by panic fear, and when in these conditions the most hellish
bombardment which it is possible to conceive would be going mercilessly on and on.
"It is
hardly possible to doubt that in a few hours' time the combination of great fires, of high
explosive and of poison gas would leave a murdered and deserted city where the greatest
capital in the world had stood.
"There
are many people who, when they read a description such as this, will deride it as
fantastic nonsense. But the most responsible Service Officers do not think so. Recently a
man in a high position, in a fighting service, recommended to me a little book by a well
known journalist, Mr. Britten Austin, called 'The War-God Walks Again.' He told me that in
all essentials this book was an accurate prediction of what the operations of the next war
would mean to the nations that took part, and he said that in his belief no expert could
conscientiously challenge its accuracy.
"The Importance of Disarmament"
"Those
who doubt that until armament competition has been stopped by international treaty, the
societies of the West will be living on a volcano, would do well to read that little book.
In Chapter IV they will find a description of an aerial attack against a Western Capital.
Let them remember as they read that terrible account, that against such an aerial attack
carried out at night there is in present conditions no possible defense. Let them also
remember that Sir Samuel Hoare, the Secretary of State for Air, has reminded us, not once,
but often, that London is 'of all the great capitals of the world the most vulnerable to
air attack.'
"The
real motive for disarmament should not be fear, but hope. It should be not a vision of
possible disaster, but a vision of the New Jerusalem which the peoples of the West could
build if they could but save the wealth, the inventive genius, the organizing skill, the
governmental ability which they throw away in unproductive expenditure for war. But while
this is true, it is also true that it is madness, not to speak the truth about the
cataclysm that would ensue if war were once more permitted to break out.
"Had
the peoples known in 1914 what the last war would be like, who believes that it would have
been allowed to happen? It is vitally important that they should not drift in ignorance
again to another great international crisis which will bring them face to face with a
catastrophe which in all human probability will wipe out the society in which they
live."
"And having an High Priest over
the house of God, let us draw near with a true heart, in full assurance of faith, having
our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water."
-- Heb. 10:21, 22.
FULL
assurance of faith is not a state or attitude to which the Lord's people must look forward
to some future Age for realization. It is definitely referred to as a part of the present
blessed heritage of the saints. When all the facts are carefully weighed, it is seen that
full assurance of faith is but the reasonable condition and a necessary attainment and
possession for all of those who would successfully run the Christian race course. Briefly,
full assurance from the Christian's standpoint signifies to be fully assured, to be fully
confident that God is faithful, and that his relationship with God as a son and heir of
the Divine promises, is secure and well established.
In view of
the fact that the Christian profession, the profession of being a follower and disciple of
Jesus Christ, carries with it a most weighty responsibility and signifies the assuming of
various solemn duties, full assurance of faith is seen to be absolutely essential; and
without such qualification, none can really hope to attain the reward of joint-heirship
with Christ in His Kingdom. Full assurance of faith, then, implies that the individual has
firmly grasped a sufficient knowledge of God, by which to exercise confidence to a degree
that he is enabled to carry out the terms of his consecration and to be faithful unto
death in doing the will of God.
Our Order Is the Greater Priesthood
Addressing
those who are privileged to come to God in prayer, the Apostle says, "Let us draw
near in full assurance of faith." He is speaking to the house of God class. Natural
Israel were of the house of God, too, but they were servants. We have the suggestion well
established by words of inspiration that the Church of Christ are a house of sons and
that. Christ is Head over this house. It is this house of sons that may draw near to God.
Let it be seen that the assurance with which these may rightly approach the Lord is
dependent upon certain conditions indicated. One of the important considerations is that
of recognizing the work and office of Christ -- His priestly service in behalf of His
Church, that He has made arrangements for the complete covering of all sin, and stands as
the Advocate in behalf of His followers. The Apostle Paul is in this connection drawing to
the attention of the Church, and especially to those familiar with the Jewish arrangements
of ancient time, the fact that the Aaronic priesthood was only a typical one, designed for
a time to illustrate greater things; that God's real Plan was not to be carried out by the
Aaronic priesthood from the House of Levi, and that their sacrifices of bulls and goats
could not take away sins; but that from year to year this arrangement merely shielded
God's typical people typically covered them-through their Covenant. The Apostle points out
that there is to be a greater Priesthood, after the order of Melchizedek; that our Lord is
the Head of this Priesthood, and that the Gospel Church are His members, the
under-priesthood. He then asks, Why should a better priesthood be needed than the one that
God provided in Aaron and his sons? The answer is that they were sinners, and could never
really cancel sin; and the blood of those animals possessed no real merit. Those priests
themselves never really got back into favor with God. They merely had access into atypical
Holy and Most Holy.
But now we
have Christ as the Head of this new order of Priesthood; let us realize our position as
under-priests of this order. Our High Priest has entered into the true Most Holy. The
evidence of this came in the Pentecostal blessing showing that the Father was well pleased
with the sacrifice made by our Lord.
The
under-priests were permitted to enter into the Holy, and after the Day of Atonement into
the Most Holy. All, in this Gospel Age, who take the proper steps and enter into
fellowship with Christ are in the first Holy. Aaron and his sons were a type of the true
Priesthood; but we are not of the order of Aaron; we are not members of the Aaronic
priesthood but of the Melchizedek Priesthood under its great High Priest. "Ye are a
Royal Priesthood, a holy nation, a peculiar people, that ye should show forth the praises
of Him who hath called you out of darkness into His marvelous light." -- 1 Pet. 2:9.
Let Us Come with True Hearts
Seeing,
then, that we have confidence that God has made this arrangement, confidence to take the
proper steps, and have presented our bodies living sacrifices, have gone through the
antitypical consecration, and received the begetting of the Holy Spirit, let us begin at once the work of the new
order of Priesthood. There are great things to be accomplished : let us fully enter in
with Him -- let us become full participators in this work -- in everything that God has
for us to do. Let us come, realizing how wonderful are our blessings, how precious is the
provision of the covering of our Savior's merit. Let us be true and loyal to this Covenant
into which we have entered with God. The Lord's call under this Covenant is, "Gather
My saints together unto Me, those who have made a covenant with Me by sacrifice."
But a
further important condition of our attaining full assurance of faith, is that we must have
a "true heart," and must not be double-minded. Entire heart loyalty must be
ours; we must fully demonstrate that we meant what we said when we gave our lives to God.
Then we may come to the Lord with holy boldness, in full assurance of faith. All the steps
of God's true people are steps of faith, of realization of His care. But there is a full
assurance of faith in contrast with a lesser faith. A faith that is only partial will
bring us somewhat near to God. . A faith that is strong will bring us nearer. But a full
assurance of faith is that faith which, if retained, will bring us off "more than
conquerors," and make us at last members in full, of the Royal Priesthood -- in
glory.
Value of a Proper Vision of Christ
This full
assurance of faith cannot be attained in a day; it requires considerable information. And
God has provided this information by instructing us in His Word as to what Christ did for
us, and what He is willing to do ; why He died for us, etc. Truly, how important is a
proper conception and vision of Christ, His example, mission and ministry. Indeed, the
degree of our faith will depend upon the fullness and intensity of the vision that we have
received of the Savior and His blessed life. If indeed we have seen sufficiently of the
unsearchable riches of Christ to enable us to commit all of life and all we have to His
keeping, thus surrendering all to His will, then without doubt we are in the right way of
securing this blessed present heritage of full assurance of faith. And we shall grow in
the possession of this heritage as we continue to contemplate the life of the Savior and
those blessed qualities that so gloriously adorn His character. We shall delight more and
more in coming into His presence, in communing with Him, and in walking in nearness to
Him, in our daily experiences.. Yet the majority of those who really profess to be His
disciples display much lack and insufficiency along these lines. Another has appropriately
observed that:
"There
are few things in which we exhibit more failure than in maintaining vigorous communion
with the perfect manhood of the Lord Jesus Christ. Hence it is that we suffer so much from
vacancy, barrenness, , restlessness, and wandering. Did we but enter, with a more artless
faith, into the truth that there is . . . at the right hand of the Majesty in the heavens
One whose sympathy is perfect, whose love is fathomless, whose power is omnipotent, whose
wisdom, is infinite, whose resources are exhaustless, whose riches. are unsearchable,
whose ear is open to our every breathing, whose hand is open to our every need, whose
heart is full of unspeakable love and tenderness towards us -- how much more happy and
elevated we should be, and how much more independent of creature streams, through what
channel soever they may flow!
Our All-Sufciency in Christ
"There
is nothing the heart can crave which we have not in Jesus. Does it long for genuine
sympathy? Where can it find it, save in Him who could mingle His tears with those of the
bereaved sisters of Bethany? Does it desire the enjoyment of sincere affection? It can
find it only in that heart which told forth its love in drops of blood. Does it seek the
protection of real power? It has but to look to Him who made the world. Does it feel the
need of unerring wisdom to guide? Let it betake itself to Him who is wisdom personified,
and 'who of God is made unto us wisdom.' In one word, we have all in Christ. The Divine
mind and the Divine affections have found a perfect object in 'the man Christ Jesus'; and,
surely, if there is that in the Person of Christ which can perfectly satisfy God, there is
that which ought to satisfy us, and which will satisfy us, in proportion as, by the grace
of the Holy Spirit, we walk in communion with God.
"The
Lord Jesus Christ was the only perfect man that ever trod this earth. He was all perfect
-- perfect in thought, perfect in word, perfect in action. In Him every moral quality met
in Divine and, therefore, perfect proportion. No one feature pre-ponderated. In Him were
exquisitely blended a majesty which overawed and a gentleness which
gave perfect ease in His presence. The Scribes and Pharisees met His withering rebuke;
while the poor Samaritan, and 'the woman that was a sinner,' found themselves
unaccountably, yet irresistibly, attracted to Him. No one feature displaced another, for
all was in fair and comely proportion. This may be traced in every scene of His perfect
life. He could say, in reference to five thousand hungry people, 'Give ye them to eat';
and, when they were filled, He could say, 'Gather up the fragments that remain, that
nothing be lost.' The benevolence and the economy are both perfect; and neither interferes
with the other. Each shines in its own proper sphere. He could not send unsatisfied hunger
away; neither could He suffer a single fragment of God's creatures to be wasted. He would
meet, with a full and liberal hand, the need of the human family, and when that was done,
He would carefully treasure up every atom. The self-same hand that was widely open to
every form of human need was firmly closed against all prodigality. There was nothing
niggardly, nor yet extravagant in the character of the perfect, the heavenly Man.
The Fairest Among Ten Thousand
"What a
lesson for us! How often, with us, does benevolence resolve itself into an unwarrantable
profusion! And, on the other hand, how often is our economy marred by the exhibition of a
miserly spirit! At times, too, our niggard hearts refuse to open themselves to the full
extent of the need which presents itself before us; while, at other times, we squander,
through a wanton extravagance, that which might satisfy many a needy fellow-creature. Oh!
my reader, let us carefully study the Divine picture set before us in the life of the 'Man
Christ Jesus.' How refreshing and strengthening to 'the inward man' to be occupied with
Him who was perfect in all His ways, and who 'in all things must have the pre-eminence!'
"See
Him in the garden of Gethsemane. There, He kneels in the profound depths of a humility
which none but Himself could exhibit; but yet, before the traitor's band, He exhibits a
self-possession and majesty which cause them to go backward and fall to the ground. His
deportment before God is prostration; before His judges and accusers, unbending dignity.
All is perfect. The self-emptiness and the self-possession, the prostration and the
dignity, are all Divine.
"No
matter what pressure came from without, there was always an even surface. He was never
ruffled by any circumstance or set of circumstances. He never had to retrace a step, or
recall a word. Come what might, He always met it in that perfect evenness which is so
strikingly typified by the 'fine flour.'
"In all
these things, it is needless to say, He stands in marked contrast with His most honored
and devoted servants. For example, Moses though 'the meekest man in all the earth,' yet
'spoke unadvisedly with his lips.' In Peter, we find a zeal and an energy which, at times,
proved too much for the occasion; and, again, a cowardice which shrank from the place of
testimony and reproach. There was the assertion of a devotedness which, when the time for
action arrived, was not forthcoming. John, who breathed so much of the atmosphere of the
immediate presence of Christ, exhibited, at times, a sectarian and an intolerant spirit.
In Paul, the most devoted of servants, we observe considerable unevenness. He uttered
words to the high priest which he had to recall. He sent a letter to the Corinthians, of
which at first he repented, and afterwards repented not. In al1, we find some flaw, save
in Him who is 'the fairest among ten thousand, and altogether lovely."'
If Our Hearts Condemn Us Not
It is this
clear conception of Christ as the perfect expression of the Father's character that the
Christian should daily strive to grasp and contemplate. By so engaging the heart and soul
he will be feeding upon Christ. He will have also the further privilege and assistance,
that of considering the exceeding great and precious promises which serve to strengthen
faith, especially as the daily providences of the Lord are noted in the life. As the
goodness of the Lord is observed in the various directions in which it is manifested, the
desire becomes stronger in the heart to draw nearer and nearer to God; and such increasing
desire is a manifestation of hunger and thirst after righteousness which the Lord expects
to see, in order for Him to make good His promise that those who hunger shall be filled.
As it is
manifest that none can draw close to the Lord except through this full assurance, neither
can they have that assurance unless their hearts are kept "sprinkled from an evil
conscience," or a consciousness of evil, for as the Apostle also declares, "If
our heart condemn us, God is greater than our heart, and knoweth all things." We may
be sure that if our course as New Creatures in Christ is condemned by our own conscience
it would also be condemned by God.
Therefore,
if the child of God would draw very near and would have the blessed realization of the
Father's smile of approval continually, he must seek to have a conscience void of offense
toward God and toward men -- a conscience which can truthfully say, I am striving to do
that which would be pleasing to the Lord, that which is in harmony with my covenant of
sacrifice and I am striving also to do that which would justly have the approval of
righteous men. Nothing short of this is at all permissible in those who have consecrated
themselves to be members of the Royal Priesthood, to sacrifice their lives in the Lord's
service that they mad reign with Him.
Cause and Remedy for Lack of Faith
He who has
begun a good work in us is both able and willing to complete it. (Phil. 1:6.) But how few
children of God, comparatively, have this "full assurance of faith" which is our
glorious privilege! How few can say, "Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all
the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord for ever"! Surely, by
God's grace I shall ultimately gain the Heavenly Kingdom and the glorious things which He
has promised to those who love Him. The few who can thus enter fully into sympathy with
the Apostle Paul and the Prophet David in their expressions of confidence have therein a
great joy, a great blessing, a great rest of heart which none others possess.
Let us
therefore inquire why it is that the number who thus enter into the rest of faith is so
small. What are the hindrances to others, and how can these hindrances be removed? How can
each one of the children of God enjoy fully this, His blessed patrimony? Many say, or
think if they do not say, Oh, that I could feel sure that God's goodness and mercy would
continue with me to the end! Oh, that I could remove my doubts of gaining the Kingdom, of
being ultimately "more than conqueror!"
What is the
difficulty with these? Why do they not have the "full assurance of faith" of
their acceptance? The answer is that their difficulty is a lack of trust in God; and such
a lack is not pleasing to Him, for "without faith, it is impossible to please Him;
for he that cometh to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of them that
diligently seek Him." (Heb. 11:6.) Moreover, this lack of faith is a constant
hindrance to their overcoming; as it is written: "This is the victory that overcometh
the world, even our faith." (1 John 5:4.) The Christian who has not the shield of
faith, and a large one, is continually at a disadvantage before the Adversary and all the
hosts of evil.
Let Us Claim the Promises
To those who
thus realize their lack and weakness of faith, their insufficiency of assurance, we know
of no better advice to suggest than that they earnestly pray as did the Apostles of old,
"Lord, increase our faith." And then acting in harmony with this prayer, let
these earnestly endeavor to cultivate such faith in their own hearts. The exceeding great
and precious promises should be frequently reviewed, so that they become very familiar and
real.' More and more let all such endeavor to remember that having made a covenant with
the Lord, these promises are theirs. They should so strive to walk before the Lord that
they can truly claim these promises, not only with the lips, but also in the heart.
When trials
or sorrows come, the true disciple of Christ should call to mind these precious promises,
remembering that they belong to him because God has given these promises to such as love
Him and prove their love by keeping their covenant and walking in His ways. He should
resolve that henceforth he will trust the word of His Heavenly Father implicitly. If some
seeming accident befall him, let him call to mind the promise, "All things work
together for good to them that love God, who are the called according to His
purpose." Let him thus assure himself that the seeming. events and accidents of life
could not occur had God not seen a way in which to make them the channel of a needed
lesson or blessing to him.
Until Faith Is Exchanged for Sight
Another
important consideration to remember is that our Father who is infinitely loving and
thoughtful of the interests of His children and who is abundantly able to carry out all
His good purposes toward them, is unchangeable; and with Him there is no shadow of
turning. It remains then for all of those who at the present time would possess full
assurance of faith, and in the future inherit the glorious promises of God, to press on in
the exercise of implicit confidence and trust, holding steadfastly to the great truth
concerning the atonement made for sin, and to definitely preserve the attitude of full
consecration and full surrender to God. If this state and attitude be fixed, faithfully
persevered in, full trust and full assurance of faith will be the present heritage. And
such as enjoy this happy relationship with the Lord will be enabled to rest in the Lord
and wait patiently for Him and His due time. Such shall possess the peace of God that
passeth human understanding, because they shall ever have the consciousness that God is
for them and that none greater can come against them, until they shall share in the great
deliverance which will be wrought for all the faithful by the power of the First
Resurrection. Passing into the scenes of the heavenly rest in the presence of God, the
faithful shall have no further need for exhortations to full assurance of faith, for then,
faith will be swallowed up of sight.
Let us then,
dearly beloved in the Lord, come with full assurance of faith in the sense that we shall
have no doubt whatever that God's promises are true and for us; even though the world sees
no cause for sacrificing in the present life, and count true disciples of Christ, fools
all the day long. Nevertheless in full assurance of faith, let us go on. Let us loyally
press forward unto the end of the way, until we shall ,be joined to our great High Priest,
and enter into His rest!
"Think it not strange, beloved,
When fiercely burns the fiery flame!
Think it not strange, but, praise His name;
Who counts thee worthy to partake
Of painful sufferings for His sake.
Nor think it strange
When loved ones scornful from thee turn,
The truth reject, the Message spurn;
Consider Him who thus endured,
And Immortality secured
"Labor not for the meat which
perisheth, but for that meat
which endureth unto everlasting life,
which the Son of Man shall give unto
you." -- John 6:27.
MOST
appropriately did our Master designate the way to joint-heirship with Himself, the way to
the Divine nature and immortality, a Narrow Way. He stated that it was not only a way
having a gate difficult of entrance, but that the way itself would be found by those who
would pursue its course, a way confined and narrow. The word narrow expresses exactly the
proper thought. It signifies a road or way that has limitations. Those who enter this way
agree to place themselves under restraint, to give up many liberties, to permit themselves
to be confined to a certain manner of conduct, of living. We get the thought more vividly
if we have before the mind a picture of a narrow lane in which are many stones, pitfalls,
and obstructions, making the way difficult to travel. In this lane there is not much room
for liberty or for wandering about. The individual is admonished to look only ahead and
press on, denying himself the gratification of the desires and cravings that he would
enjoy outside of that Narrow Way. A severe contrast. is to be noted as we picture before
the mind, a general, broad, easy highway. It is so broad that one hardly realizes there is
any confinement. Various attractions and objects of interest are there, and the individual
runs about with full liberty to engage his interest and attention at any point and in a
general way to do as he pleases. Such is the life of self-indulgence -- the life of the
natural man, and it is designated by the Lord as the broad road that leadeth to
destruction; that is, it is the road, the tendency of which is toward destruction, death,
and as long as the individual remains in that road or way he is traveling in the opposite
direction to that of the way of life.
The Test upon God's People
The Narrow
Way, to the contrary, the end of which is life, is the way of self-denial, which signifies
the cutting off of liberties and privileges of the natural man. It is a life of cross
bearing. Such are the tests that have been placed upon all those who shall share the
honors of the Divine nature and of the heavenly Kingdom. As the world has not understood
the lives of the saints; not being able to accept the Divine viewpoint of faith, it has
not been "a friend to grace to help them on to God." The world has generally,
therefore, had only scorn and contempt for the true followers of Christ. "Marvel
not," said Jesus, "if the world' hate you. Ye know that it hated Me before it
hated you." This situation continues down to our day; and by way of stating the
question that has been in the minds of the unbelieving world, the poet has written:
"What poor, despised company
Of travelers are those,
Who walk in yonder narrow way,
Beset by many foes?"
The answer
based upon the sacred words of inspiration is immediately forthcoming:
"Ah, they are of a royal line,
All children of a King,
Heirs of eternal life Divine,
And lo! for joy they sing!"
The test
that has been upon the people of God all along the line has indeed been a severe one, and
over and aver again they have had to settle the question of their determination to follow
and persevere through evil and through good report, midst a crooked and perverse
generation, among whom they have shone as lights in the world.
Though we
live in a time greatly in advance of the past, when enlightening influences and
civilization have brought in many changes, yet the spirit of the world has not changed,
the spiritual darkness in the world has not been lifted; and the conditions of
acceptableness to God are the same as they were when announced by Jesus and the Apostles.
It is the same Narrow Way of bearing the cross and of bearing about in the body the
"marks of the dying of the Lord Jesus."
Perils of the Last Days
While in
some respects the Christian's course. may appear to be easier than heretofore, yet when
the circumstances are considered, the difficulties are seen to be not less; rather, to the
contrary, we observe that there are certain dangers and perils to which the faithful are
exposed today that did not confront the saints of earlier time. The great increase in
knowledge along all lines, the remarkable .developments, the achievements of man, the
inventions of our day all furnish far more to entertain the human mind, to give pleasure
and power to enjoy than was ever possible to previous generations. And as the world's
knowledge of and faith in God are no greater than before, it means that the spirit of
worldliness, of money making, of pleasure seeking, abound to a degree also unthinkable.
Constantly we are observing the mad rush here and there to gain possession of these new
pleasures, in every direction. Humanity is laboring for the "meat that
perisheth." All of these circumstances have come about in connection with the closing
days of this Age, when evidently the Church is completing her course; at a time, too, when
the Lord has seen wise to permit general confusion and many strange and conflicting
doctrines, teachings and opinions to be propagated amongst His professing people. Truly
these are perilous times predicted for the last days.
They That Will to Be Rich
Jesus said,
"Ye cannot serve God and Mammon." Probably no other period of the world's
history ever had as great need, as our own, for this word of counsel. The spirit of our
times seems to lead directly to the service of Mammon -- wealth, earthly advantages and
comforts. The attainment of Mammon's reward would appear to be the main object of life, to
which every other interest is made subservient, so far as Christendom is concerned. As we
look into the Far East this is less so,; the millions of India and of China know far more
contentment in their ignorance, than do the millions of Christendom with their large
degree of knowledge. Knowledge evidently is not conducive to peace, happiness,
contentment: "Godliness with contentment is great gain."
What is
known as the progress of civilization is in many respects good, excellent; but it has a
wrong motive power. The motive power of modern progress is selfishness -- mammonism -- and
increasingly so. Nor can we imagine that the civilized world, intellectually awakened but
not in heart regenerated, not possessed of the spirit of Christ, the Holy Spirit, the
spirit of love, could be in its present condition moved by any other spirit than that
which possesses it -- the spirit of selfishness, the spirit of Mammon. We are not,
therefore, surprised to see what we do see on every hand -- a mad rush and struggle for
wealth, and for position and fame which are wealth of another kind and bring financial
wealth. The spirit of selfishness in the millionaire stirs him to activity and to the use
of his opportunities, not because he needs more, but, because he is possessed of the
spirit of avarice, the spirit of Mammon: the same spirit exactly takes hold of the artisan
who, with a moderate income, has secured for himself and family a modest little home and a
frugal competence. Many of these are now reaching out after wealth, and finding by
experience the truth of the Apostle's words, "They that will to be rich [whether they
succeed in carrying out their will or not, if they have the will, the Mammon spirit] fall
into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts [desires and habits]
which drown men in destruction and perdition. For the love of money [the Mammon spirit] is
a root of all evil: which, while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith
[crowding out the spirit of love and wisdom from above, and losing the spirit of the
truth, also the letter of the truth and the faith], and pierced themselves through with
many sorrows." -- 1 Tim. 6:9, 10.
Wherein Lies the Difference?
It is
impossible for us to read each other's hearts and to know positively the mainsprings of
activities in each other's lives; and hence the Lord's people are likely to be
misunderstood by the world. The child of God is commanded to be "not slothful in
business, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord"; he is also commanded to provide
things needful for those dependent upon him: thus required to labor for his daily bread,
he is brought in contact with others not begotten of the heavenly spirit like himself, but
who have as the mainspring of activities the love of money -- Mammon. It may be difficult
from the world's standpoint to note the difference in the spirit of. the two classes, for
both are active, energetic, patient and persevering; and both are paid at the end of the
week in the same coin, and both are counted by the world as sere-ants of Mammon. Wherein
then lies the difference? Which are the servants of God? and how can we know them?
"By
their fruits ye shall know them," said our Master. What will be done with the
proceeds of the labor, is the only outward evidence we could have respecting what was the
motive of the laborer. If the proceeds of the labor are merely accumulated in property or
in banks or in old stockings, or if the proceeds of the labor over and above the
necessities of life are merely used in gratification of the flesh, in trinkets,
bric-a-brac, or other forms of self-gratification, or for evil purposes, the only
reasonable deduction would be that the laborer was inspired to his energy by the spirit of
selfishness, and that he is a servant of Mammon. But if on the other hand the proceeds of
energetic labor, after appropriating for the necessities of life, are used benevolently in
the Lord's service, in the service of the Lord's people, in "distributing to the
necessities of the saints," either temporally or spiritually, or to the necessities
of the "groaning creation"; if this be the use to which surplus moneys are put,
the reasonable inference is that the laborer was energized not by a spirit of Mammon, a
spirit of selfishness, but by the spirit of the Lord, the spirit of love; because the use
of the same in the Lord's service would be a proof of the motive and object of the
laborer.
Subtlety of the Spirit of Mammon
This simple
rule (by which we may all test ourselves, even if we may not measure others by it too
carefully) would seem to show us that the great mass of mankind are servants of
selfishness, servants of Mammon, and not servants of God, whose main object in life after
providing things decent, and honest, for themselves and their dependents, would surely be
to use earthly possessions to glorify God and to bless their fellow creatures. Let each
one who has named the name of the Lord judge himself very carefully along this line:
scrutinizing his own objects and methods, and determining according to this lesson whose
servant he is -- a servant of selfishness and of Satan, or the servant of love and of God.
Nothing in
the foregoing is intended to imply that it would be wrong for any of the Lord's people to
own his own home or enjoy some of the comforts of life; nor to make a reasonable provision
for tomorrow, with a view to the necessities of his family, and for such uses as he may
consider to be the Lord's will respecting him and the means entrusted to his stewardship.
(2 Cor. 8:21.) But it would be a great mistake for the child of God to make, should he
conclude that he must spend no money in the service of the Lord and of humanity until he
has attained a certain competency in life. Whoever adopts this theory and plan will almost
assuredly find by the time he obtains a competency, that he has gained so much of the
spirit of Mammon as to be less satisfied, less contented than ever; and that he has lost
so much of the spirit of the Lord, the spirit of love and, generosity, that, he has little
disposition to spend his strength for anything that will not selfishly minister to his
personal comfort or the gratification of selfish aims. And if he who earns $1,000 a year
should have the spirit of devotion and is sure to be blessed in its exercise, the same is
true of the man who earns but $100 per year; even if he have difficulty in obtaining the
necessities of life, he will be blessed in heart, in mind, in spirit, if he will deny
himself, sacrificing, something of earthly gratification, in order to render some
thank-offering to the Lord.
Take No Anxious Thought
The great
argument which the Adversary uses to enlist servants for Mammon, and to get the servants
of God to attempt to serve both God and Mammon, is fear: fear of want, fear of distresses.
In the lesson, therefore, that Jesus gave (Matt. 6:25-34), He takes up this feature first,
urging his followers, not as verse 34 would appear to represent the matter, to be
thoughtless, indifferent and careless in respect to our food and clothing, but, to be
without worry-not anxious and fearful and troubled about tomorrow and its affairs. The
plowman, when he breaks up the land, and the sower, when he scatters the grain, are taking
thought for the morrow, in a proper, legitimate manner that has the Divine approval: if
they are God's children they are to. plow in hope, and sow in hope, and wait for the crop
in hope; and to trust that, if the Lord should permit some blight or drouth to render
their labors unfruitful, He nevertheless will. not leave them destitute, but will care for
them and provide for them in some way. And they are to exercise their confidence in- His
goodness and to expect that all the lessons of life are profitable ones in preparation for
the eternal life; if they will be rightly exercised by them.
The Master's
words in which He encourages confidence and trust in the Heavenly Father, are not
addressed to mankind in general -- not addressed to the "children of wrath," but
to those who have become "children of God" upon the terms of His Covenant. This
point cannot be too strongly urged: it is very necessary that those who have never made a
covenant with the Lord should know that the promises and blessings of the Divine Word are
not theirs and will never become theirs until such time as they come unto God. in His
appointed way, and take upon them His prepared covenant. All His promises are yea and amen
only to those who are in Christ Jesus.
This class,
while just as busy, just as active, just as fervent in spirit as any of the worldly, have
not the fret, have not the worry of the others; because the Lord Almighty has covenanted
with them that He will do for them according. to heavenly wisdom what would be for their
highest welfare. So then, these can rejoice
"In every condition, in sickness,
in health,
In poverty's vale, or abounding in wealth."
Seek First the Kingdom of God
The Lord's
people, while active in the affairs of life, are not working for the things of this life,
but are seeking the kingdom of God: it is the first thing, the principal thing, the
principal object of life and energy. God has promised His people a share in an everlasting
Kingdom which shall bless the whole world, and this exceeding great and precious promise
fills the heart, fills the mind and constitutes with love and hope the mainspring of every
question in life. And in seeking the Kingdom, they are also seeking God's righteousness;
because no one who loves unrighteousness will love God's Kingdom which will be the foe of
all unrighteousness and sin. And only those who love righteousness and who labor for
righteousness are in any proper sense seeking God's Kingdom and its reign. An earnest
Christian traveling salesman was once asked the question: "What is your
business?" He replied, "I am preaching the Lord Jesus Christ, and selling
hardware for ______ & Co., to meet my expenses." This is the relationship between
God's people and their earthly occupations that should be recognized and fully lived up to
by all who win the prize.
Our Lord
assures us that if the main thought of our hearts is His service and the promotion of
righteousness and an attainment of the Kingdom which God has promised to them that love
Him, then we need carry no anxious cares respecting the future. As His disciples we will
have trials and tribulations enough, day by day, and will need daily to lean upon the
Bridegroom's arm as we seek to walk in the Narrow Way. Sufficient for each day will be the
evil of itself: and thanks be to God also, we have the promise that daily His grace shall
be sufficient for us.
"O sacred union with the Perfect
Mind!
Transcendent bliss, which thou alone canst give,
How blest are they this Pearl of price who find,
And, dead to earth, have learned in Thee to live.
"And thus, while dead to human
hopes I lie,
Lost, and forever lost, to all but Thee,
My happy soul, since it has learned to die,
Has found new life in Thine infinity.
"With joy we learn this lesson of
the cross,
And tread tile toilsome way which Jesus trod;
And counting present life and all things loss,
We find in death to self the life of God:"
[Contributed from
outside the Editorial Committee]
"Ask, and it shall be given you;
seek, and ye shall find;
knock, and it shall be opened unto you." -- Matt. 7:7.
(Continued from last issue)
AS THE air
and sunlight are vitally important to the natural man, so is prayer and the sunshine of
God's love to the Christian. Well knowing this fact our Divine Master gave the admonition
above.
Such is the
instruction of the great Teacher to His pupils; the regulations of the Master to those who
serve Him. The important question is, Do we exercise implicit faith in the Lord and
believe that He is both able and willing to make good His promise to respond to those who
ask, seek, and knock?
Note the
positiveness of His promise: He does not say, Ask, and you may receive; seek and probably
you may find; knock, and it may possibly be opened unto you; but, ye shall receive; ye shall find;
it shall be opened unto you. There is no
doubt at all implied on the part of the one who taught us these things, and He Himself
well knew and had experienced the power of prayer and had authority to instruct and advise
those who should be chosen to be His disciples and footstep followers.
The Lesson of Importunity
There is
here a threefold admonition, and it might be supposed that it was so expressed for the
purpose of giving emphasis, but we believe this is not the thought. The emphasis is found
in the succeeding verse, where we have again the threefold expression. In the verse under
consideration there is an encouragement to an increase of zeal and faith; not emphasis but
graduated development is implied. Ask, then seek, and still further knock -- be
persistent. The lesson of importunity and perseverance in prayer is elsewhere illustrated
by the Master.
We have here
a lesson and a rule; the lesson is, be persistent; and the rule is you will be rewarded
according to the amount of your faith and zeal. The deeper, the more earnest the petition,
the more sure the answer. In other words, according to your faith be it unto you. If we
ask for little, we shall receive little; if we ask for much, we shall receive much. Let us
then have an increase of earnestness and of faith in the Lord. Let us take Jesus Christ,
our Master, at His word and all will be well. We do not say that there will be no distress
or suffering; for there surely will be in connection with fulfilling the obligations of
the Christian life. But there will be the compensating blessings, grace to bear and relief
from suffering at times. From the parable in Luke 18, it is manifest that He will in time
avenge His elect who cry day and night continually. If the waiting seems to be long, still
let us not faint. Men ought always to pray and not to faint, is the lesson from our great
Teacher.
Prayer from the Heart Versus from the Lips
An important
consideration in this connection is that we receive what we ask for. It is not only
according to our zeal, but according to what we request He will answer. (Matt. 7:7-11.) If
we ask Him for bread, He will not give us a stone. If we ask for a stone, He will not give
us bread. But whoever asks for a stone? No one in his right mind literally makes such a
request. But then we have this lesson to learn; our prayers are not always the words that
come from our lips. The words expressed may not really represent the thoughts of our
hearts. Do we, at any time, when we say, "Give us this day our daily bread,"
believe our words by our actions, showing that we desire all the time something to help us
in our selfish ambitions, something to increase our earthly advantages, attainments,
wealth, etc., excusing ourselves perhaps by saying that we could be of greater service in
the Master's cause if we had more with which to do.
If a
heavenly messenger were sent from God to offer us our choice of à million dollars, or the
Holy Spirit, what would be our reply? As Christians our answer would of course be, the
Holy Spirit. But would we be giving sincere utterance to our heart's desire? We fear it is
often the case that Christians request certain things with their lips, spiritual blessings
and gifts from a sense of duty, while the real prayer and desire in the heart is for
earthly things and selfish considerations. And some have appeared to regret their choice
of spiritual things as later on they found themselves in hard and difficult circumstances.
But such regret only betrays a lack of faith and surrender to God in connection with their
prayers.
Your Heavenly Father Knoweth
Before we
ask for earthly things, let us be sure that our motive is holy and spiritual and that we
will use the earthly things aright if they are granted. But above all, we should be
exercised by a spirit of resignation to the will of God, and rest in His Hands the matter
of the time and way of bestowing His gifts, trusting Him to give them to us when and how
He wills. "Seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness and all these things
shall be added unto you." Do we believe from the heart these words? If so, then
according to our faith and our degree, of understanding, so shall we realize answers to
our petitions and shall have peace, joy, and trust in the Savior. Matthew 7:11 mentions
that our Father will give good things to them that ask Him, whilst Luke 11:13 says the
Father will give the Holy Spirit. The lesser is included in the greater, and if we can
only see and realize that in asking for the greater, all the rest will be added unto us,
according as the Father sees fit, then there will be no need for us to have any anxieties
about the cares of this life at all. When the cares and perplexities of life are upon us,
we shall indeed feel the tendency to question the situation, but if faith and hope are
firm and strong we shall rely upon the Master's assurance that, "Your Heavenly Father
knoweth ye have need of these things." He did not say, Take no thought at all, or do
not ask. It is proper to take thought and it is proper to ask.
"If Ye Abide in Me"
One might
remark on how often he had asked and been refused; sought and not found; knocked and the
door was not opened unto him, and yet feel he was a child of God. The statements in our
text need to be viewed in the light of the Spirit's revelation elsewhere. We read,
"If ye abide in me [if ye are Christians], and My words abide in you [if ye are
obedient Christians] ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you."
"Ask the Father in My name [by My authority -- as My representative]." Again in
John 14:13, 14, the instruction is, "in My name." In John 16:23-26, we have a
similar modification. As we have seen, in the Lord's prayer the expression "in My
name" does not occur, for Christ was with His loved ones then, but as He is about to
leave the world and go to the Father (John 16:28), He admonishes them as His
representatives to petition in His name. James 4:3, shows us we can ask amiss, but the
reason is given too. The true disciple must be instructed so that he may know what he may
definitely pray for. He must not indulge in selfish prayers. He must not wish in his heart
for things that he dare not ask for with his lips. Christ's instruction must be followed,
His words must be ours, and we must be obedient in order to understand what the will of
God is concerning us (Rom. 12:1, 2), and when we have learned what it is, we must ask
within the limits of that will, and what we ask for, we shall receive; what we seek for,
we shall find; and when we knock, it shall be opened unto us.
If Any of You Lack Wisdom
What then
should we pray for? Younger Christians sometimes ask their elders the question and are
told what they should not pray for. It is well of course to know what we should not pray
for, but the Christian life is a positive one and not merely negative. For example, Do
unto others just that which you would like them to do unto you; not, Do not unto others
that which you would not like them to do unto you. We observe this very sentiment (ver.
12) is expressed in conjunction with our text and forms á rather peculiar ending to the
section: (Ver. 7-12.) This verse seems to have some thing to do with our petitions. Why
did our Lord make such an abrupt change in His discourse in verse 7? The previous six
verses do not appear to be connected with it at all. Dr. Plumptre has reasonably suggested
that the whole section (Matt. 7:1-12) is beautifully connected, and forms a clue as to the
nature of the petitions referred to in verse 7. The first six verses contain advice
bearing upon our attitude toward each other, and toward all men. There is the admonition
to judge not. It is a serious matter how we judge others, and how we judge ourselves. The
question would then naturally arise: Where shall we receive the wisdom whereby to exercise
proper discretion. Then comes verse 7 -- Ask and ye shall receive. If any of you lack
wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally and upbraideth not; and it
shall be given him. (James 1:5.) The suggestion in the context is that we can hope to
judge aright only by asking God for the necessary wisdom, and putting into practice the
golden rule: hence the need of verse 12, which reads "Therefore [connecting. it with
the previous group] all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even
so to them: for this is the Law and the Prophets." According to our actions toward
others, we shall be able to judge of the actions of others toward us, and thus increase in
spiritual wisdom. We have learned then that one of the things we may pray for, is wisdom
in our attitude. towards each other and toward all men.
Praying in Behalf of Others
The
Scriptures assure us also that we may pray for the spiritual enlightenment, peace and joy
of others: "Making mention of you in my prayers; that the God of our Lord Jesus
Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the
knowledge of Him: the eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know, what
is the hope of His calling, and what the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the
saints, and what is the exceeding greatness of His power to us-ward who believe."
(Eph. 1:16-19.) "And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in
knowledge and all discernment; so that ye may approve the things that are excellent; that
ye may be sincere and void of offense unto the day of Christ; being filled with the fruits
of righteousness, which are through Jesus Christ, unto the glory and praise of God."
(Phil. 1:9-11, R. V.) "We . . . do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye
might be filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding,
that ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work
and increasing in the knowledge of God," etc. -- Col. 1:9, 10.
We should
read these Scriptures and their contexts repeatedly, so that we can fix them in our minds,
and remember them when we pray. "Epaphras, who is one of you, a servant of Christ,
saluteth you, always laboring fervently for you in prayers, that ye may stand perfect and
complete in all the will of God." (Col. 4:12.) This is a case of a member of a
congregation, who remembers it in prayer when he is absent from it. This is good advice
for us all. "I thank my God always, making mention of thee in my prayers, hearing of
thy love, and of the faith which thou hast toward the Lord Jesus, and toward all the
saints; that the fellowship of thy faith may become effectual, in the knowledge of every
good thing which is in you, unto Christ." (Philemon 4-6, R. V.) Here we find we can
pray, not only for communities, but also for individuals.
"Strive Together With Me in Prayer"
Can we pray
for anything else? Yes, we can pray for the work of the Lord. According to Matthew 9. and
Luke 16, there is a principle that we can adopt: "Pray that He will send forth
laborers into His harvest"; and in addition pray for their success. Although the work
is one, there are various phases of it according to the times. It needs very careful
watching and prayerful consideration to recognize what special work is demanded of us, not
only as individuals, but as a Church. "Praying . . . .that utterance may be given
unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the Gospel."
(Eph. 6:19.) "Praying also for us that God would open unto us a door of utterance, to
speak the mystery of Christ, for which I also am in bonds.". (Col. 4:3.) The Apostle
was not troubled so much about the bonds, but the hindrance to the work he loved.
"Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the Word of the Lord may have free course and
be glorified, even as it is with you: and that we may be delivered from unreasonable and
wicked men." (2 Thess. 3:1, 2.) Pray for the work of the Lord. Pray that the work of
Christ may be done, and done well. It may not be the Lord's good pleasure to answer every
detail of our prayers, as they are expressed to Him, but He knoweth the hearts of His
people, and will never fail them. It will often be found that we will not pray for a thing
very long, before we can find some way or means by which we can co-operate in bringing
about the desired end.
Other
petitions entirely becoming and appropriate to the devout follower of the Lord, are such
as relate to privileges of fellowship with the saints. Sometimes there is the fervent
longing to meet and converse with a well known fellow traveler in the Narrow Way from whom
we may have been separated for many months or years. There are hindrances in the way; we
may long for deliverance from these, that we may meet with and behold the face of a loved
one. Such heart desires are really prayers for blessings and privileges, for others as
well as ourselves. For example, Romans 1:9-13, "Making request . . . to come and see
you"; and Romans 15:30-32: "Strive together with me in your prayers . . . that I
may come unto you." But in each of these two quotations we find the expression
"by the will of God," and it was well that St. Paul did say this, for although
the prayer was answered, it was in a most unexpected way.
"Thus God grants prayer, but in
His love
Makes times and ways His own."
The Spirit Guides in Prayer
If we feel
sincerely that our bondage is preventing us from doing the will of God, we may pray for
relief, but should rest the answer with Him. This form of petition is most likely to be
heard, if it is offered with a genuine desire to do good to another person. "Night
and day praying exceedingly that we might see your face, and might perfect that which is
lacking in your faith." (1 Thess. 3:10.) "Without ceasing I have remembrance of
thee in my prayers night and day: greatly desiring to see thee." -- 2 Tim. 1:3, 4.
Is it
possible that our prayers for each other for deliverance will be answered? "For I
know that this shall turn to my salvation through your prayer." (Phil. 1:19.)
"But withal prepare me also a lodging: for I trust that through your prayers I shall
be given unto you." (Philemon 22.) This confidence depends largely upon a close and
personal contact with the Lord, and its resultant interpretation of the Lord's will. The
Spirit guides us what to pray for. "Be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that
ye may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God." (Rom. 12:2.)
"Be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is." (Eph. 5:17.)
This correct understanding comes through practice only, either of reading the Word of God,
praying continually, or of character development along the lines of Christian holiness.
St. Paul was certain that the prayers on his behalf would result in his release, and in
order that the saints should demonstrate that they really meant what they were praying
for, as well as that they might be encouraged in their efforts, he advised them to prepare
him a lodging.
We should
not be shocked if God answers our prayers. It may seem strange to make such a remark, but
consider the record in Acts 12. Peter was imprisoned (ver. 4); the saints prayed for him
(ver. 5); the Lord released him (ver. 10); the saints were still praying (ver. 12); Peter
knocks at the door (ver. 13); the saints are shocked and do not believe the answer has
been given to- their petitions. (Ver. 15, 16.) We should not only pray, but look for
replies, and be shocked only if we receive no answers to our petitions; for this would
indicate something wrong somewhere.
Let Us not Ask Amiss
We can bring
our trials and difficulties to the Lord. We can ask our Father for help and guidance in
any thing of a perplexing character. "Casting all your care upon Him, for He careth
for you." (1 Pet. 5 :7.) "Be careful for nothing; but in everything by prayer
and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace
of God which passeth all understanding shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ
Jesus." (Phil. 4:6, 7.) Even our giving thanks in connection with our daily food is a
prayer. -- See 1 Tim. 4:4-6.
We have
presented here but a few of the New Testament quotations which indicate how a Christian
should pray. Herein are mentioned some of the things we may pray for with certainty. Only
in such prayers in which we know that we are not asking amiss, may we persevere. All
requests should be made in the attitude of recognizing God's will as supreme, whether it
be in great success or in great disappointment; the Christian must be prepared to submit
to the Divine will, for His will is best.
Let us then
practice prayer, frequently, persistently, logically; and note the- answers received; for
in so doing we increase our knowledge of His will, and develop that faith mentioned by the
Master: "Therefore I say unto you, what things soever ye desire, when ye pray,
believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them." -- Miark 11:24.
Dear
Brethren:
Loving
greetings in His precious name!
I enclose
money, order for the renewal of the "Herald," as the time is due. What joy it
has been to me to receive it this last twelve months. The spirit of it is just what we
should show one toward another, with a desire to grow in the fruit thereof, to enrich us
with the grace and favor of God, that we may be faithful to our covenant relationship with
Him, and that we may receive at the close of our earthly pilgrimage that "Well done,
thou good and faithful servant, enter thou into the joy of thy Lord." But we each
realize, do we not, the trials, difficulties, and temptations we all have to pass through
before we gain our crown; for without the cross there will certainly be no crown
(immortality). The past experience has taught me great lessons -- that we should put bur
whole confidence in the Lord and not in man, nor in a set of men who have a desire to lord
it over God's heritage, by making certain "rites and ceremonies," instead of
following the pure teachings of our Lord and the Apostles. The true sheep will hear the
Shepherd's voice and follow Him, and once more be freed from sectarian bondage and brought
into the liberty of Christ.
Several of
the brethren here could see how the spirit of bondage was once more creeping in. At the
last we could not draw up a passage of God's Word for discussion, unless it was parallel
with what the Tower said -- accepting the theory of men, instead of God's written Word,
which condition as Brother Russell once said shows something must be wrong. One can not
long have fellowship then. This was true with us here. But thank God, our eyes have once
more been opened to see where we stand. May His Holy Spirit guide and direct each one of
us in the Narrow Way, and assist us to build and instruct one another in the most holy
faith; so much the more as we see the day approaching. -- Heb. 10:23-25.
May the Lord
richly bless you and your labor of love in His service, instruct you in righteousness, and
by the aid of His Holy Spirit enable you to keep yourselves in the love of God.
Yours in the One Hope,
F. T. B. -- Eng.
Dear
Brethren in Christ:
Sometime ago
I wrote you about a division that had taken place amongst the members of our class over
the Second Presence of our Lord. Although in that letter I dwelt more on an article
appearing in the April issue of "The Herald."
I am now
writing to tell you of the strange way in which I have been exercised in thought and
action also, since last time of writing.
I was
meditating on the great principles underlying the character of our Father and His dear
Son, and thinking of His wisdom and justice in permitting the many and varied experiences
that come to the new creature and how such develop the character-likeness of the Lord, and
I drifted on to my own experiences in the Church; I began to scrutinize my own heart and
mind and just wondered, had I been beholding the characteristics of our Father
sufficiently to imitate them? When I meditated on that wondrous Divine Plan, so complete
in wisdom, justice, love, and power, and how it was possible the Father wished to develop
the same in the "more than overcomer," and gave them tests for that purpose, I
gradually began to see things from His viewpoint and it seemed to me, brethren, that I had
run away from a "test." I had not been a "Daniel."
These
thoughts took some time -- and by the time your (for which I thank you), I was feeling
very humble and contrite. My new creature was asserting its authority and telling me I had
followed my own will and not the will of Christ, therefore I was walking in the flesh more
strongly than in the spirit and I had exhibited a pride of heart. Yes, brethren, I stood
condemned, and when I read and re-read and studied your letter and thought out your
thoughts -- well, I saw that I had no right to dictate to my late brethren how and when
they should look for our Lord's Second Presence. If they showed an intolerant spirit, so
did I; very much so. And having made this decision I communed with our Lord and made my
confession and asked God to guide me as to what I should do and direct me accordingly.
Although some of the late brethren have often passed me without recognition, I now felt
that treatment was merited and I was so humbled I could go back and seek forgiveness and
make explanation, but it seemed as though the Lord was expecting me to tell the present
brethren of my changed attitude and reasons thereof. Now this was going to be hard.
However, I was determined not to pain the dear Lord again, and quietly and prayerfully
awaited the opportunity. It came -- no need to go into details, but the Spirit of God
dwelt strongly within my heart, and I quietly but firmly and in love, told those dear
people what a mistake I had made, how I had followed the dictation of a fleshly mind and
heart and I had lacked in patience, tolerance and godly love, and what was just a great
Truth due to be understood I had used the same as a basis for a division, and I stood
condemned before the Most High.
Last Sunday
I felt lonely, few saw me. Nevertheless, I feel I have done the right thing, and I
"despise the shame" for the joy set before me. May God help us to imitate the
grand characteristics of Jehovah and His dear Son, our Lord Jesus Christ.
Pardon this
long letter. With warm Christian love, I remain
Your sister in Christ,
We have made
selection òf some inexpensive Scripture wall mottoes that it is thought will be well
received and appreciated by the friends. In calling attention to these mottoes we are
using the publisher's description, as, follows:
No. 353. Size 9 x 12 inches
A series of
country houses with beautiful flower gardens. With borders in gold and colors. Choice
selection of Scripture verses,Mounted on strong cardboard and corded to hang.
TEXTS
1. For as
many as are led by the spirit of God, they are the sons of God. -- Romans 8:14.
2. The gift
of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. -- Romans 6:23.
3. God
resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble. -- James 4:6..
Ten assorted of above three designs,
$2.00.
_______
No. 326. Size, 8 1/2 x 11 inches
A beautiful
series in floral design. Sweet peas, roses, forget-me-nots twining about lattice. Colored
borders with illuminated initial.
TEXTS
1. For as
many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the Sons of God. -- Romans 8:14.
2. The gift
of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. -- Romans 6:23.
3. God
resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble. -- James 4:6.
4. We know
that all things work together for good to them that love God. -- Romans 8:28.
5. Teach me
Thy way, O Lord, and lead me in a plain path. -- Psalm 27:11.
Two each of above five designs, $1.25.
_______
No. 341. Size, 5 1/2 x 8 1/2 inches
Landscapes,
encircled by flower clusters with gray borders, gold lined. The initials are in colors and
gold.
TEXTS
1. The Lord
will hold thy right hand saying unto thee: Fear not, knoweth them that trust in Him. --
Nahum 1:7.
2. For by
grace are ye saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is of God. -- Ephesians.
2:8.
3. Except a
man be born again he cannot see the Kingdom of God. -- John 3:3.
4. This is a
faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation that Christ Jesus came into the world to
save sinners. -- 1 Timothy 1:15.
5. The blood
of Jesus Christ His Son cleanseth us from all sin. -- 1 John 1:7.
Ten assorted of above five .texts, 75
cents.
_______
No. 343. Size 5 1/2 x 8 1/2 inches
Roses, sweet
peas, and pansies in neat designs are daintily reproduced in this series. Gold borders.
Initials in colors and gold.
TEXTS
1. The Lord
will hold-thy right hand saying unto thee: Fear not; I will help thee. -- Isaiah 41:13.
2. In all
thy ways acknowledge Him and He shall direct thy paths. -- Proverbs 3:6.
3. The Lord
is my rock, and my fortress and my deliverer. -- Psalm 18:2.
4. Be strong
and of good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with
thee. -- Joshua 1:9
5. The Lord
shall preserve thy going out and coming in from this time forth, even forevermore. --
Psalm 121:8.
Ten assorted of above five texts, 75
cents.
_______
No. 345. Size 5 1/2 x 8 1/2 inches,
Exquisite
designs of landscapes and waterside scenes in flower ovals reproduced on gray tinted
stock. Illuminated initial letters.
TEXTS
1. Come unto
Me all ye that labor and are heavy laden and I will give you rest. -- Matt. 11:28.
2. Thou wilt
keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on Thee. -- Isaiah 26:3.
3. He is
able to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by Him. --Hebrews 7:25.
4. The Lord
is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and plenteous in mercy. -- Psalm 103:8.
Ten assorted of above four texts, 75
cents.
_______
No. 347. Size 5 1/2 x 8 1/2 inches.
Old-fashioned
gardens in exquisite colorings and settings.
TEXTS
1. Behold
the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world. -- John 1:29.
2. Whosoever
believeth that Jesus is the Christ is born of God. -- 1 John 5:1.
3. Except a
man be born again, be cannot see the kingdom of God. -- John 3:3.
4. The blood
of Jesus Christ His son cleanseth us from all sin. -- 1 John 1:5.
Ten assorted of above four texts, 75
cents.
_____
No. 348. Size 6 1/2 x 8 1/2 inches
Rural
landscapes and houses, with sprays of roses, daffodils, goldenrod and fall daisies.
TEXTS
1. I am the
Good Shepherd; the Good Shepherd giveth His life for the sheep. -- John 10:11.
2. The gift
of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ. -- Romans 6:23.
3. But God
commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. --
Romans 5 :8.
4. Come unto
Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. -- Matt. 11:28.
Ten assorted of above four texts, 75
cents.
_______
No. 340. Size 6 x 10 inches
Oblong in
shape with, well chosen texts. Floral decorations reproduced in full colors. Corded to
hang.
TEXTS
1. As for me
and my house we will serve the Lord.
2. God shall
supply all your needs.
3. Lead me
in Thy truth, and teach me.
4. God is
love. Keep yourselves in the love of God.
Ten assorted of above four texts; 50
cents.
_____
SCRIPTURE MEMORY HANGERS-,
No. 630. Size 4 5/8 x 7 7/8 inches
Landscapes,
flower garlands and Scripture verses, ingeniously designed and lithographed. in full
colors on finest quality heavy art board. Fancy lettered texts with gold outlined colored
initials. All Memory Hangers are furnished with gold edges and colored borders
A. The 103d Psalm (Verses 1-11). B
. The 121st Psalm.
C. The 31st Psalm.
D. The Beatitudes.
E. Love never faileth (I Cor. 13:1-7. )
F. The 23d Psalm.
G. The 24th Psalm.
H. Ho, every one that thirsteth.
I. The 91st Psalm.
10 cents each, with envelopes for
mailing.
_______
In ordering
please specify which group you desire by referring to the number at the head of the group.
_______
SUITABLE CHRISTMAS GIFTS
Approaching
that season of the year when it is the general custom to remember friends and relatives
with Christmas tokens, we remind our readers that a set of "The Revelation of Jesus
Christ," or a copy of "The Divine Plan of the Ages," is very suitable for
this purpose. Thus you may be an instrument to bring the light and comfort of the Truth to
some one.
_______
THE EMPHATIC
DIAGLOTT
This work,
widely and favorably known, is a Greek New Testament with a literal, word-for-word,
English translation, under the Greek text. It also gives an arranged English translation
in a side column. Furthermore, it indicates the grammatical emphasis of the Greek text, so
important yet so little appreciated, and not shown at all in the common version.
It is
printed on thin Bible paper, in imitation leather binding, price $2.50.
_______
CHOICE SCRIPTURE POST CARDS
We have procured a new lot of choice post cards of
various styles -- beautiful and attractive. One design is specially appropriate for use
during the Christmas season; another for sending New Year greetings; another with
Christmas and New Year greetings combined. Still others are for general use, appropriate
all through the year. In ordering please indicate just which designs you desire and how
many of each; 20 cents per dozen, post paid.
VOL. X. December 15, 1927 No. 24
"Be thou faithful unto death, and
1 will give thee a crown of life.
-- Rev. 2:10.
(Contributed from
outside the Editorial Committee)
FAITHFULNESS
is a quality of character that has always been esteemed amongst men as essential to a
permanent social life. To the thoughtful observer of today one of the evidences of the
approaching end of the present social order is the rapid disappearance of this estimable
quality, which may be defined, in one aspect, as faith in one's duties or
responsibilities. This definition will help us to distinguish faith and faithfulness. The
former is concerned chiefly with persons, the latter with service. Today work is not
performed by the majority in order to produce something worth while, but in order to get
the wherewithal for a livelihood; with the introduction of machinery, indeed, many never
carry the production of an article through to completion, but merely turn out
"parts" all their lives. Manufacturers, again, generally speaking, care nothing
for the finish and beauty of their manufactures except so far as these qualities will
increase their selling value and swell the dividends. Hence there is little interest in
the work being done nowadays except the financial "interest," and as a necessary
consequence there is little faithfulness in work. But without faithfulness. there can be
no mutual confidence; and without such confidence, society can be held together only by
rules :and regulations, with an ever-increasing number needed to enforce them. Not until
the promised Shiloh comes, and the peoples gather to Him in humility to be taught of Him,
will society be reconstructed on a better and more permanent basis.
The Faithfulness of Jehovah
As this
quality of faithfulness is esteemed amongst men, so also it has been recognized by all
devout people, from the beginning of human history, to be one of the outstanding
characteristics of God. Whilst faithfulness in man is generally associated with faith in
God as its real basis, we experience the faithfulness of God without perhaps always
appreciating its corollary, namely that despite repeated failures and stumblings, God has faith in humanity, and so abides
faithful. Indeed, Moses describes Him as "The faithful God" (Deut. 7:9), and the
great leader of Israel was upheld in all the long wilderness journey, with its burden of
responsibility upon him, by continual reminders of the faithfulness of Him whose house he
served. -- Heb. 3:2.
The Faithfulness of Jesus
And all His
precious promises coming down to us through the Ages are yea and amen in Christ Jesus,
the, first general proof of His faithfulness being the sending of His Son to be the
Redeemer o£ the world. As the years have slipped by, we have been led to wonder whether
we who are "in Present Truth" as we say, do not forget at times in our search
for "still new beauties and still increasing light," what, after all, is the
basis of all our blessings, both enjoyed and prospective, namely "that faithful
saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Jesus Christ came into the world to save
sinners." And it will do us good, too, if, looking back upon the past, and knowing
ourselves as only God and we do know -- knowing ourselves so mach more thoroughly than we
know anybody else -- we can say, "to save sinners -- of whom I am chief," and to
once again bow in humble reverence before Him whose name is Holy, for that great Gift of
His love! If in our midst there has been any lack in "adding to our faith virtue, and
to virtue knowledge; and to knowledge self-control, and to self-control patience, and to
patience godliness, and to godliness brotherly kindness, and to brotherly kindness
love" -- if these things be not in us and abounding; it is because we have become
blind, and have forgotten that we have been purged from our old sins; and we need very
humbly to go back in the spirit of our minds to the starting point again to "the
cross, where flows the blood that bought my dying soul for God" -- and renew there
our vow of consecration, praying for grace and strength to fulfil it.
"Sweet the moments, rich in
blessing,
Which before the cross I spend;
Life and health, and peace possessing,
From the sinner's dying Friend."
And
that blood is the evidence of our Master's faithfulness -- faithful unto death, faithful
as a Son in His Father's house, in all that was appointed Him, so that He has now entered
into His reward of glory. We are reminded afresh of the Apostle's statement of the
faithfulness of Jesus, and of his exhortation to us to be like-minded in Phil. 2:5-11.
Be Thou Faithful unto Death
In these
beautiful messages of encouragement to the "overcomers" we are exhorted to be
faithful unto death if we would receive a crown
of life. And yet how tenderly the Master deals with us! Faithful until death indeed, but how few of us in these
days are called upon to seal our testimony with our blood as the martyrs of old! Our death
is indeed a daily one -- death to self --but as we are reminded in the Epistle to the
Hebrews, "we have not yet resisted unto blood, striving against sin," and we are
exhorted in the closing chapter to "go to Him outside the camp, bearing the reproach
with Him"-in other words, we must be tested regarding our faithfulness, before we can
enter into His glory. In Rev. 17:14, we have the picture of the Lamb overcoming the kings
of the earth, and those associated with the Lamb are "called and chosen and faithful." We are of those we believe whom
the Lord our God has called in one hope of our
calling; we have responded to the call and having received the evidence of our acceptance
will: be chosen as members of His Bride if we
prove faithful.
Our
faithfulness is being tested in respect to our duties and responsibilities as new
creatures, to whom the old things have passed away, and to whom all things have become
new. No better definition of such responsibilities can be found perhaps than the following
quotation: "To us the Scriptures clearly teach . . . that the present mission of the
Church is the perfecting of the saints for the future work of service, to develop in
herself every grace; to be God's witness to the world; and to prepare to, be kings and
priests in the next Age." At first sight, some of these statements appear to mean
practically the same thing, but on closer analysis, and viewed as applying to the mission
of the Church individually, we notice a
difference. As regards the first two, we apply the one to the privilege of building up
fellow-members of the Body, and the second to the duty of assisting in the work of our own
development. We propose to take this latter duty first, as our own growth in grace must
precede any real helpfulness on our part towards others.
To Develop in Ourselves Every Grace
This duty,
to perfect in ourselves every grace, is a fourfold one.
1. It is a duty we owe to God, whose workmanship we are.
As the Shorter Catechism says, "Man's chief end is to glorify his Maker." God is
not glorified by our failures, but by our victories; not by our blemishes, but by our
virtues; only as we attain more and more to the standard set before us, as copies of God's
dear Son, can we be to the praise of His glory in the Ages to come, and show forth His
praises here and now. The Apostle, referring to the Jews, God's people of old, says that
the name of Jehovah was blasphemed amongst the Gentiles through them. What a
responsibility to take upon ourselves His name! Let us be faithful, brethren. -- Rev.
3:12.
2. It is a duty we owe to ourselves. In the Divine
wisdom, all growth proceeds as a result of assimilation of suitable nourishment, usually,
in nature, by instinct. The higher the form of life, as a rule, the more helpless is the
organism in its infancy, and the more care and attention therefore it requires. The new
creature has the instinctive desire for the food which alone can satisfy, but so high in
the scale of life is it, that it needs constant. care and attention. New creatures, then,
owe it to themselves to give diligence to bring
the new character to full development and fixity, in readiness for the new birth in the
First Resurrection.
3. It is a duty we owe to the Church of God. "God
hath set every member in the Body as it hath pleased Him." He has set you and me in
our places there, with responsibilities of love and service for the fellow-members around.
Our faithful service is necessary to their well-being, and, in the interests of the Body
as a whole, an unfaithful member must be cut off. No matter how insignificant a member may
seem to be, such a one is necessary to the
welfare òf others, and if one member becomes sickly and unwell, the whole Body suffers
correspondingly. A most insignificant member, never specially noticed perhaps in good
health, may cause grave inconvenience or severe pain in ill-health. Let us then seek to be
so healthy as to be unnoticed -- so useful to the end as to be never missed.
4. It is a duty we owe to the world. "The whole
creation groans and travails in pain together until now, waiting for the manifestation of
the sons of God" -- waiting in all their misery and pain for you and me to make our
calling and election sure. Humanly speaking, our failure prolongs their misery. Surely
this is what the Apostle Peter meant (2 Pet. 3:11, 12) when looking forward to that glad
day coming, .he asks, "What manner of persons ought we to. be in all holiness and
godliness, looking for and hasting unto the
coming of the Day of the Lord." We say "humanly speaking" advisedly, since
from the Divine standpoint, the times and seasons of the Plan of the Ages are fixed and
unalterable, having been framed by Divine wisdom. Let us then cultivate that sympathetic
love for the world, which will be so desirous of blessing them as to form an additional
inducement to our perfecting in ourselves every grace, thus fitting ourselves for eternal
usefulness. (Rev. 2:26.) In order to be faithful in this work, we need to avail ourselves,
to the extent of our opportunities, of all the means of grace; that is prayer and
communion, study of the Word, fellowship with those of like precious faith, work
"that keeps faith sweet and strong," etc. We need to deny ourselves, mortifying
the flesh and keeping the body under, as the Apostle exhorts.
To Perfect the Saints for the Future Work of Service
As worded,
this work is practically the same as the fourth clause, which reads, "To prepare to
be kings and priests in the next Age"; we therefore confine our attention at this
stage to the consideration of our privilege of assisting the fellow-members of the Body to
grow in grace and knowledge. We remember the dictum of the Apostle, to the effect that
"no man liveth unto himself," and faithfulness in developing ourselves is
followed, as a necessary corollary, by faithfulness in helping to develop others. The
added grace and knowledge is ours for the Master's use; and it is His will that it should
be for the Body's use.' And as each individual, day by day, and year by year, grows thus,
the Body grows, and all are correspondingly enriched. And faithfulness in such service on
behalf of the Body brings its own reward, and he that waters is himself watered.
"There is that which scattereth, and yet increaseth ; and there is that which
withholdeth, but it tendeth only to poverty." May the Lord keep us from such poverty
and grant us the true riches.
Faithfulness
to this work will take us among the brethren as frequently as other duties and
circumstances will permit. It will bring us to the meetings, not merely with the somewhat
selfish desire to go away with a blessing and
encouragement for the ensuing week, but with the strong desire to impart a blessing to
some one else before we leave -- then we shall
find ourselves departing with a double blessing; for it is one of the laws of Christ that
"it is more blessed to give than to receive." It will develop in us an interest
in the brethren, since our ability to bless them will be in proportion to our knowledge of
their needs and circumstances -- an interest, not in the strong only, from whom we
ourselves might receive the greater benefit, but from the weaker ones, to whom we can be
of correspondingly greater service; and thus to carry out the Apostle's injunction to
"encourage the timid, help the weak," whilst seeking to provoke all to love and
good works. Let us not forget, in this regard, the ministry of prayer on behalf of others
who may be in the vanguard of the fight, on the one hand, and those in pain and weakness,
laid aside from active service, temporarily or even permanently, on the other. Character
shines out, in the sight of our Heavenly Father, in the faithful performance of the
otherwise unseen duties and responsibilities, which elicit no commendation from those
around. It is this quality of faithfulness in the little unseen duties that is so rare in
the world today; let us see to it that we are found faithful in that which is little, and
then we have assurance that we shall have opportunity of faithfulness in greater things in
the not far distant future.
It is in the
faithful performance of this feature of our responsibility, namely of building up the Body
of Christ, that we ofttimes experience the privilege of suffering with Christ, since
misunderstandings amongst the brethren cause more pain to the humble follower of Christ
than the more open opposition of the world; even as love of the brethren sometimes seems
more difficult of attainment than love for the world. We find it easier perhaps to have a
sympathetic love for the latter, because we can so readily discern that they are in
darkness, but, more or less unconsciously, we expect more, far more, from the brethren,
and sometimes we are disappointed. Just as the most bitter persecutions of the Church of
God in the past have come from erstwhile "brethren," so in the providence of God
every generation has its own peculiar sifting of the brethren, accompanied with those
peculiar sufferings, trials, and disappointments that outwardly mark the pilgrim way of
the Church. Happy they whose inner life flows serene and unchecked by such experiences,
which often divert those not firmly rooted, from the prize of the High Calling; those who
endure progress from strength to strength and each such storm weans them the more
thoroughly from earthly props and demonstrates that their faith and hope is centered in
God Himself. Thus does the Lord our God prove us, to see whether we love the Lord our God
with all our heart and mind and soul and strength, or whether we have been leaning upon
some arm of flesh, some outstanding personality; some prop which the Lord saw necessary to
knock away, so that we should either stand alone strengthened by the very necessity, or
fall, unworthy of continued favor and increasing blessings.
This
privilege of building up the Body of Christ affords opportunity, not only for suffering
for the name of Christ, but also, for self-denial. "We ought to lay down our lives
for the brethren," and faithfulness to this in the daily life is as severe a test of
character as the more intermittent, if more noticeable special tests. Indeed, faithfulness
in the continuously endured little trials and opportunities, ensures victory when the more
spectacular tests come upon us; and if an apparently sudden defeat has come to us in some
special test, let us humbly look for the reason further back, in some laxity in the daily
responsibilities of a Christian. To lay down our lives for the brethren means to
subordinate other interests to the supreme one of developing the New Creation. It will
make demands upon our time, our money, our plans; but faithfulness here will bring its own
reward, and a rich blessing from the Head, who notes the faithful service of each member
on behalf of the Body, and esteems such service as done unto Himself.
To Be God's Witness to the World
This, which
in our consideration of our subject comes third in order, is usually put first with many
of our Christian friends; indeed too frequently, it represents the sole conception of
Christian duty. If only a young man or young woman is seen to be busy in "Church
work," all is well, and it seems to matter little whether character is developed as
the years go by or not, so long as they keep busy. And, conversely, for any one not to be
outwardly busy in some "good work" (so called) is to such people a very serious
dereliction of duty. The religion of today is almost entirely a system of "salvation
by works." We have often pondered over the spectacle, in a country like India for
instance, of great organizations and many busy workers trying, and in the case of the
younger, more enthusiastic and less-disillusioned ones, hoping to "convert India." Do such ever
stop to think seriously of the effect of their so doing? Would India be happier, wiser,
more Christlike, more loving, if "converted" to the condition of
"Christian" Europe today?
But to be
God's witness in the world is quite another matter. His ways are so much higher than ours.
His thoughts so incomparably deeper, that when by faith in His Word, illuminated by His
spirit, we begin to catch a glimpse of the glorious Plan of the Ages, and grasp the fact
that all human history is spread out before us as a country viewed from some lofty peak,
and that this knowledge is the key to all the struggles of nations in the past, and to
their destiny in the future, as well as unlocking the significance of the, to us, still
more important present, with all it portends .of good and ill, we see at once that
"His Word shall not return unto Him void, but it shall prosper in the thing whereto
it was sent." And of course a key from the hand of our Heavenly Father is a key of
hope, not of fear; of encouragement and confidence, not of despair; of hope, however,
centered in Him; not the hope of the present generation which is largely hope in
themselves and their ability to ride out the threatening storm.
From this
standpoint, apart from any other, we see ourselves to be "a peculiar people" --
we cannot share in the world's hopes and ambitions, even as we have no share in that fear
which even now is causing men's hearts to fail them, because of the distress of nations.
And that fear must grip them more and more, and spread. to all classes, until their pride
and self-confidence have been entirely displaced; not until then will they welcome the
King of God's appointment and hail Him "Lord of All" -- "The desire of all
nations." Meantime we must expect to be misunderstood now, as we seek to enter into
the plans of the Most High and be approved of Him rather than to have the praises of men.
And herein lies the test of our faithfulness; the opportunity of taking up the cross and
enduring the misunderstanding and may be in the world's extremity, ignorant opposition and
persecution, in the right spirit -- the spirit of rejoicing towards God and of sympathy
and forgiveness towards those who, like their forerunners, will be doing they know not
what. The test will not lie merely in our endurance of suffering, except it is a cheerful
endurance and for the right motive, namely for the name of Christ.
To Prepare to Be Kings and Priests in Next Age
This follows
naturally on the previous duty of witnessing to the world now. If we have borne faithful
witness to God's Plan in this "present evil world," we shall have the great
privilege of sharing in the blessed work of uplifting the world in the next Age, now
dawning. And we are prepared for this great work of the future in the same way as, was the
Captain of our salvation, namely by suffering; "For it became Him," etc. (Heb.
2:10.) For the sufferings endured by the faithful followers of Christ are not, in
themselves, peculiar sufferings, but such as the world itself experiences, only for a
different reason. Hence in our sufferings, we learn sympathy for the world's sufferings,
and as we ourselves experience comfort and consolation, we should be, in turn, better
fitted to administer comfort to others. And as we have not an High Priest, who cannot be
touched with a feeling of our infirmities, so, likewise the world will have the same
assurance of sympathy and helpfulness on the part of the Anointed Body, raised up by
Jehovah to be the great Seed, of blessing for the world. In this respect we stand amazed
at the wonderful wisdom of Jehovah, in calling out the Bride of Christ, not from Jews
only, bat from every nation under heaven -- Jew and Gentile; Greek and barbarian; bond and
free; civilized and uncivilized; brown and white; black and yellow; rich and poor;
educated and ignorant, though the latter are wise toward God. Thus, when all races of
mankind are being dealt with, and the willing and obedient are being uplifted out of sin
and death, they will have the glad assurance that their peculiar needs and circumstances
are fully understood by some members of that great priestly King -- the Anointed Company.
Meantime these same sufferings are proving us worthy of being exalted with Christ as
faithful footstep followers, developing our characters and giving us such experiences as
will fit us for the position of priests and kings in the next Age.
Viewed from
this standpoint, we see the significance of the Apostle's statements, that the Hebrews
will have a High Priest, touched with a feeling of their infirmities, tempted in all
points as they will be, and yet without sin; because the members of that High Priest will
have ceased from sin, being dead in the flesh, and yet having such an experience of its
power and effects, as could not be true, in the same way, of the Head Himself, always
holy, and never made so after experiencing the other condition. And it will be to the
Hebrews that this great Priest, intrinsically sinless, as regards the Head, and sanctified
as to the Body, will stand forth to speak peace and comfort, after the long period of
blindness and chastening that the ancient people have endured. Not until they have been brought into covenant relationship
with the God of their fathers, will restitution blessings flow out, through them, to still
other nations, until finally all nations shall be blessed, and Abraham, the father of the
faithful, will have indeed become the father of many nations blessed through his seed. For
it is to the Jew first, and afterwards to the Gentile, that God's blessing comes, whether
heavenly or earthly; and the gifts and calling of God are not to be repented of. How
encouraging then in this connection to read in the daily press of the awakening of the
Jewish people, their increasing interest in Zionism, and their strong desire to be back in
their own land, stimulated by the opportunity of having some voice in the government of
the newly formed State, in that country promised long years ago to their ancestor Abraham.
Truly we are living in most wonderful days, when history, read today of all men in their
morning newspaper, records the fulfillment of the prophecies of old.
The Faithfulness of the Apostle
Whilst our
Lord is pre-eminently our great Example, whom we are striving earnestly to copy day by
day, the Apostle Paul is also a noble incentive to faithful living. In one respect,
indeed, he seems to be a better example, that is, in that he was of like passions as
ourselves, so that we feel he is one of us, in a sense different from our Lord-as what the
Apostle was we can and ought to be, each in our own sphere; whereas we may be tempted to
make excuses for our not living up to .the standard set before us by the Lord, and hence,
unconsciously, strive less earnestly than we should do.
1. His faithfulness to his mission even under trial. There
are various aspects in which St. Paul's faithfulness is clearly revealed as we read the
Epistles to the Corinthians. These Epistles of St. Paul are written, as it were, in the
furnace, and throw interesting sidelights on his fervency of spirit and grandeur of
character. With no thought of boasting, on the one hand, or of seeking for pity on the
other, he nevertheless gives us valuable information regarding his sufferings for the
cause of Christ, at which the calm and measured words of the historian Luke only hint in
the Acts. And while he, the Apostle, is thus enduring a great fight of afflictions, these
recent converts in Corinth, the city of licentiousness, are seeking and apparently
enjoying an easy time of honor and luxury, bordering at times even on looseness of morals,
justifying their course on the grounds that they were called to reign as kings, and that
to them, above law, all things were lawful. Even as the Jews before them sought for
kingdom honor, without the previous necessary training in affliction to prepare them to
exercise that honor wisely. The Apostle is stirred at the contrast between their
conception of the Christian walk, and his own experience of it, and his words are penned
red-hot from the fiery depths of his earnest soul. And we benefit by the tumult aroused in
him by the news of Corinth. We catch a glimpse of his circumstances, as he writes to these
easy-going converts of his! Let us read 1 Cor. 4:8-13 and 2 Cor. 11:22-28. What a
catalogue of sufferings endured; a brief analysis of them will surely be profitable to us,
if only to see wherein we have come short of the evidences of faithfulness on the part of
this great soldier of the cross.
(a) There
was mental suffering, and this of two kinds.
First, no
man likes to be esteemed a fool and to be despised as weak; much less when he is naturally
of a refined disposition, and endowed with gifts of no mean order, which, if cultivated
along worldly lines, would have speedily lifted him far above the level of the generality
of his detractors. There is abundant testimony to the fact that St. Paul was as sensitive
as he was gifted, and to such a nature the scorn of the crowd was hard to bear. It tested
his faithfulness through many a weary year, and proved that he was loyal to the innermost
fiber of his being.
Second, He
suffered from the uncertainty of what next day would bring forth. He endured, as he tells
us, perils of all kinds and from different classes; his plans had at times to be altered
because of pilots against his life, and, in very truth, in the midst of life he was in
death. Had he not strong faith in the Lord whom he served, he might well have faced each
new day with dread, and each darkening night with horror; to break down at length under
the strain.
(b) There
was physical suffering, also of two kinds.
First, he
often experienced privation during his constant travels in inhospitable countries, to
reach the scattered communities of those days -- hunger; thirst; cold; insufficient
clothing; sometimes awake all night watching lest wild beasts, or even more merciless
enemies might destroy him unawares; in long journeys trying his feeble frame, with resting
places far distant from one another; exposure in the sea, even to the extent of a day and
a night in the deep -- surely enough here to satiate the most adventurous of men! And St.
Paul was not a seeker after adventure; he was a student, and doubtless would of himself
have chosen a quiet, placid life, had the will of His Master permitted it. He endured all
these trials because he was faithful to his commission; what glory will be his in the ages
to come!
Second, he
endured the pain of scourgings and beatings. Five times he was beaten with a Jewish
scourge, even as his Master was on one occasion before him; three times he experienced the
more brutal punishment of the heathen Romans, being beaten with rods; once, he was stoned
and left for dead at Lystra. But every fresh experience served to knit him still closer to
the cause he had espoused, and to demonstrate still more clearly his faithfulness under
all conditions, when a weaker character would at the least have been turned aside from
openly propagating such an unpopular message any longer.
Dreadful,
however, though such experiences would be, they would be far less trying to such an one as
St. Paul than the keener mental anguish before noted. These open sufferings, painful and
shameful though they were, brought with them the needed strength for endurance in the
conscious realization that such sufferings were for Christ and visible evidences of
acceptance, with the accompanying assurance of future glory. Truly St. Paul rejoiced in
tribulations, and that this was no mere rhetoric or empty boast to the Romans, the
memorable scene at midnight in the stocks of the innermost prison at Philippi abundantly
testifies,
(c)
Temptations to self-seeking.
That this
was more than a possibility can be readily understood, when we read of so many others who
claimed, like St. Paul, to be the Lord's ambassadors, and yet were more busy in seeking to
gain followers for themselves than glorifying the name of the Master. At the same time,
the attitude of the generality of brethren themselves encouraged such heady self-seekers,
since in their humility of heart and desire to be teachable and loving, they were,
perhaps, inclined to pay too much reverence and honor to those they esteemed as ministers
of Christ, and to accept their teachings and suggestions too unquestioningly; thus
stimulating the desire of the teachers for pre-eminence and intolerance of critical
examination of their statements, such as characterize the clergy of today. And, dear
brethren, we are fain to admit that the Christian society of today reveals a similar
condition of things. On the one hand, a few putting forth the same impertinent claims that
have always characterized those seeking pre-eminence in the Church, and casting forth
those who opposed their presumptuous claims, like Diotrephes of old (3 John 9), and on the
other hand a large number of earnest and well meaning brethren, who in their anxiety to be
meek and humble, fall in with the schemes of these "lords over God's heritage,"
and by their tacit acceptance of their claims, and their continued support, become
partakers of their wrong doing. Teachableness is exhorted in the Scriptures, but surely
not credulity and unquestioning obedience to fellow-members of the "Body"
claiming to "be some great ones"; meekness is good, but not peace at any price;
"holding the Head" is essential to continued growth in grace and ultimate
acceptance in glory, but the recognition of some earthly head, held to represent the
unseen Head of the Church, and whose dicta are binding upon the Ecclesia of God, has ever
been Satan's surest method of corrupting the "simplicity which is in Christ,"
and robbing God's people of their dearly bought liberty. Truly "eternal vigilance is
the price of liberty," and you and I today have the great privilege of grasping the
torch of liberty, as our fathers grasped it before us, and, in, to outward seeming, less
heroic and more prosaic times, to again "fight the good fight of faith and lay hold
on eternal life." Strange that those who have tasted the good Word of God and
experienced something of the freedom wherewith Christ makes free, should be entangled
again in a yoke of bondage so 'near akin to that of the great Antichrist.
2. His faithfulness to his converts. While St. Paul
is brought to our attention as the great Apostle to the Gentiles, carrying the Gospel,
with its message of peace and joy, far and wide, he was also a faithful pastor to those,
who, under the power of the Holy Spirit, had been "translated out of the power of
darkness into the Kingdom of God's dear Son" by his untiring efforts. How he yearned
over these converts of his! rejoicing as he watched their progress, earnestly rebuking
them for their too frequent departures from the faith and practice. he ever sought
diligently to inculcate; striving with false Judaizing teachers who sought to turn the
wheels of Christian liberty into the deep rut of an effete ritualism -- all that remained
of the faith of their fathers given to them at the hands of Moses at Sinai. Now he was
commending a faithful co-worker to the loving care of another community to be visited;
again we find him rebuking one whose conduct constituted a blot upon the Ecclesia and
tended to bring the name of Christ into open shame. Teaching, exhorting, correcting,
advising, encouraging, checking, praying; how seriously he regarded his responsibilities
as a Christian pastor! "The care of all the churches!" What an example of
Christian ministry.
3. His faithfulness to his co-workers. Such a man as we have seen St. Paul
to be, could not be otherwise than faithful to those who had the privilege of working
with, or alongside, the Apostle. He was so selfless himself that he never stinted to
express his appreciation and approbation of any service rendered to the cause he loved.
"In honor preferring one another" was indeed no trite maxim with him, but the
expression of his own character, and throughout his Epistles we constantly come across
tender references to those who at one time or another shared the triumphs --and the trials
-- of his journeyings. That he was fond of companionship is evident when we see how many
at times accompanied him on his tours, and how lonely he was when alone at Athens. And
again, when at the close of his ministry, nearly all, for one cause or another, had left
him -- St. Paul the prisoner -- and "only Luke was with" him, he pleads
pathetically for Timothy to come to him speedily. And how he loved Timothy! more deeply
even than a son in the flesh. And of course such love was returned with ardent devotion by
his convert and companion. The devotion of his companions encouraged him, and the
faithlessness of any caused him deep pain and added to his weight of care.
4. He was faithful to principle. Because he was so
faithful himself, and valued so highly the faithfulness of others, he could not tolerate
any faithlessness in his co-workers. His uncompromising objection to again taking John
Mark as a helper when the latter had apparently failed Barnabas and himself on a previous
occasion, may, perhaps, have been unnecessarily hard. We do not know the reason why Mark
left them, as it were, in the lurch, nor the exact need of such a helper to the Apostle,
and the effect his thus leaving them had upon the results achieved during the remainder of
that tour. We do know, however, that St. Paul's
motive was good and that he would not be influenced even by his friend Barnabas, who
was possibly inclined to put his relationship in the flesh to John Mark before the real
interests of the Lord's work. Or perhaps Barnabas had a better insight into Mark's
character, and stood firm, feeling that his being put aside by both of them might work
irreparable injury, and turn him aside from "this way" altogether. We are glad
to know, on the other hand, that St. Paul would not give way on what he evidently
considered a matter of principle, even though it cost him the fellowship of Barnabas, his
companion for many a long year, and his patron -- when first he diffidently joined himself
to those whom just previously he had been bitterly persecuting; and on the other hand,
that John Mark's later service for the Master elicited in after years the commendation of
St. Paul.
His
disagreement with St. Peter on a matter involving a still more important principle, is too
well known to need elaboration here, and we merely refer to it in passing as still another
evidence of the Apostle's faithfulness. In fact, the great lesson of St. Paul's life' is
that of faithfulness in the varied aspects of Christian living. God is looking for the
same character in every member of the Body, and only those who are called and chosen and faithful will find a place there, when the body of our humiliation
will have become the Body of glory. We are, as stewards, striving to be found faithful; if
these few words of ours are helpful to this end, they will have been written to the glory
of God, in the building up of the Body of Christ. That this may be so, is our prayer; and
to Him be all the glory! Amen.
The
following report is received from one of the brethren who was in attendance at the
convention recently held in Toronto, Ontario.
The assembly
of the brethren in Toronto, November 6 and 7, was one indeed that was fruitful in those
experiences and results most desired and appreciated by such as have come to know the
meaning of the new life in Christ. The purpose of the gathering was for the encouraging
and stimulating of Christian fellowship and spiritual upbuilding in holy things. The dates
chosen by the local brethren, as previously announced, synchronized with the annual
Canadian national Thanksgiving season, and in the arrangements and preparations for this
two day conference, it was desired that the thought of thanksgiving should be emphasized
and be the predominating spirit of the occasion.
The sweet
fellowship enjoyed by those who were privileged to attend; the sincere testimonies heard,
relating evidences of the faithfulness of the Lord to His people; the joy experienced and
manifested by some who have been deprived of much of their liberty and peace of mind in
recent years, by reason of unscriptural tests, .all contributed to make it a season long
to be remembered with thanksgiving.
The speakers
chosen to minister the Word came from widely separated sections of the country, but
evidently all had been dwelling much together in the Master's presence in the preparation
of their messages, since these were all so similar in spirit and rich in that spiritual
food, so sweet and refreshing to those who hunger for the Bread of Life. It was not
expected that the number present would be particularly large, nevertheless, the attendance
was about all that could be desired, and quite representative of a very considerable
number of brethren throughout the country. By this wide representation it is hoped that
the spirit and helpfulness of the gathering may extend to many others not privileged to be
personally present.
In the
discourses of the brethren the effort was made to engage the thought and attention of the
friends on the things of supreme importance to new creatures in Christ Jesus -- lessons
drawn from the love and power of God displayed in His dealings with the subjects of His
grace; the privileges of the life of faith; the special reasons for thankfulness on the
part of God's people; the love of Jesus for His Church, expressed in His messages of
commendation, reproof, or warning contained in the closing message of Revelation; seeing
Jesus as our Peace, and kindred themes furnished all present with food for future
assimilation and profitable meditation.
The One
whose presence at this gathering was most fervently hoped and prayed for was felt to be
very near and precious, and though hidden from human eyes, His voice was heard and His
healing, invigorating touch brought renewed energy ands fresh inspiration to receptive
hearts, made ready by prayer and that hunger of soul He so delights to satisfy.
The
perplexities, fears, and discouragements of some to whom this was a first convention with
us, gave place to expressions of confidence and courage, as they voiced their happiness in
finding that "the precious truth we halve loved so much is still to be heard"
and that "the sweet spirit of fellowship of former days may still be found amongst
the brethren."
In
separating, the friends were urged to prolong the benefits and blessings of this gathering
together by each seeking to appropriate and use the blessings and benefits derived from
their coming together and listening to the words of life, putting to practical use the
truths that warmed their hearts as they feasted together in His presence. Additionally, it
was urged that the spirit of mutual love and helpfulness that characterized the two days
of personal contact be maintained by remembering daily at the throne of grace, for the
remainder of the week at least, those with whom we fellowshipped, particularly such as
expressed a desire to be included in our petitions at the throne of grace. Then in the
solemnity of His presence all hearts were lifted up in that fervent prayer-hymn,
"Abide Sweet Spirit, Heavenly Dove," so expressive of our deepest desire.
"And she shall bring forth a son,
and thou shalt call His name Jesus: for He shall save His people from their sins." --
Matt. 1:21.
HOW sweet
the name of Jesus sounds in a believer's ear," wrote the poet, and to this all
experienced followers of Christ agree. No marvel indeed if all such realize a burning
interest in everything pertaining to the life and conduct of this holy One, and
particularly in the occasion of His birth and the commencement of His existence amongst
men.
When it is
remembered that this One whom the Scriptures repeatedly refer to as the Son of God, has
received a Divine appointment to be the Redeemer. of mankind and to, abolish sin and
death, it is recognized that the pages of history contain no other name that for an
instant can be placed along side that of Jesus of Nazareth under any one single aspect of
His marvelous character and career. His advent marked the commencement of the fulfilling
of all previous prophecies: As the Seed of the woman He is to crush the serpent's head; as
the Seed of Abraham He is to bring blessing to all the families of the earth; as the Seed
of David He is to found a Kingdom that shall never be overthrown; as the Messiah of
Israel, He is to "finish transgression and make an end of sin," and make
reconciliation for iniquity and bring "in everlasting righteousness." In
fulfilling a mission of such momentous a character He is proving Himself to be the Prophet
of whom Moses spoke as the great Deliverer for all people. In presenting a most
interesting discussion of the truths of the atonement, the Apostle introduces the subject
by eloquently referring to this glorious One: "God, who at sundry times and in divers
manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the Prophets, hath in these last days
spoken unto us by His Son, whom He hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also He made
the worlds."
Final Outburst of Prophetic Light
It has been
well said that "with the First Advent of Jesus Christ our Lord, came the final
outburst of prophetic light as yet granted to our world. Through Him personally, and
through His Holy Spirit in the Apostles, were revealed things to come-the closing section
of the Divine program of the world's history as far as it is at present unfolded. What
additions may be yet made to it in the ages to come, who shall say? The infinitude and
eternity of God forbid the thought that the section we have now to consider is the last in
any absolute sense, but it is the last at present published to mankind.
"Previously
to the first century of our era, the voice of prophecy had for four hundred years been
perfectly silent, and it has been similarly hushed ever since. The century of the First
Advent stands thus as the only one in the course of twenty-three hundred years during
which the Omniscient condescended to reveal. the future, and exhibit His Divine prescience
for human consideration in future ages. Prophecy has no more been granted lavishly and at
all times than miracle. Both have been restricted to special eras when they were needed to
attest Divine intervention in the affairs of the human race, and when they could best
subserve their all-important ends."
The
prophecies concerning the First Advent of our Lord run like a golden thread through every
book of the Old Testament, describing in minute detail every feature relating to His
person -- His birth, His childhood, His character, His ministry, His miracles, His
rejection by His own nation; and many details connected with His sufferings, death,
resurrection, ascension to heaven, and with the outpouring by Him of the Holy Spirit of
God. From the predictions in Eden to those of Malachi, each succeeding Prophet added more
and more to the weighty facts of His coming, until the plains of Judea trembled with the
swelling music of angelic testimony -- "Unto you is born this day in the City of
David a Savior which is Christ the Lord." As another has expressed: "The trend
of thought upon this overwhelming subject accumulated in power and volume until the voice
of the wilderness crier heralded the presence of the long expected Messiah."
Many seem
not to realize that every prophecy from the first one in Genesis to the last one in
Revelation relates either directly or indirectly to the great Redeemer. In so far as the
Old Testament is concerned, this fact was not only stated, but strongly emphasized by our
Lord when He gave utterance to the words, "Search the Scriptures; for in them ye
think ye have eternal life; and they are they which testify of Me." His words after
His resurrection to the two disciples whom He met on the way to Emmaus further establish
this thought: "O thoughtless and slow in your hearts to repose faith in all things
which the Prophets spake! And beginning at Moses and through all the Prophets He
thoroughly explained to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning Himself."
In Expectation of the Messiah
It was evidently because the Old Testament
Scriptures contained so many predictions of the Prophets respecting the coming Messiah,
that about the time of our Savior's birth "all the people were in expectation of
Him." And in this connection Mr. Guinness observes that "wherever they dwelt,
and however much they were Grecianized, the scattered Jews in east, west, north and south,
were all one in their expectation of a coming Messiah. This especially united them amid
many diversities of languages, custom, and thought. 'The links which bound them together
were a common creed, a common life, a common center, and a common hope. They all believed
in the God of Abraham, in the law of Moses,, in the observance of the Sabbath, and feasts
and fasts of Leviticus; and they all maintained synagogue worship. Jerusalem was the
center of the world to the Jew, whether he lived on the Euphrates, the Nile, or the Tiber;
and thither, whenever possible, the pilgrim proceeded, at least once in his life. The
advent of Messiah to deliver and restore them all to Palestine was the common hope of Jews
both in the East and in the West, and never was that hope stronger or so full of
expectancy as at the time of the First Advent. The unrest and expectancy were heightened
by the fact that the chronological prophecy of the seventy weeks from Artaxerxes pointed
to the near future as the time of Messiah's manifestation. The hour at which the great
Deliverer was due would soon strike. Daniel's prophecy was, it was true, mysterious, and
did not say much about the glorious Kingdom which they anticipated from other sacred
promises and predictions. But still it fixed the time for Messiah's advent; and when He
was come, He would restore all things. This prophecy of the seventy weeks would not seem
to have been generally understood, but it was influential with the pious few who looked
for redemption like the godly Anna; and waited like Simeon for the consolation of Israel.
"Such
then was the condition of the chosen people at the time when the last section of the
prophetic program was published. There was a vast dispersion in all lands: the Hebrew or
Eastern one, speaking Aramean, intensely conservative, ritualistic, and learned in
Rabbinic and Talmudic lore; the Western one, progressive, liberal, Hellenized, and
philosophic; and between the two the nation, in its own home, Palestine, gathered around
its restored temple, yet oppressed by aliens and under tribute, hating its Gentile rulers,
though unable to oppose them, and waiting impatiently for Messiah to deliver them and
destroy their foes . . . .
All Hope Centered in Him
"More
than four hundred and fifty passages of the Old Testament are by ancient Rabbinic writings
applied to the coming Messiah; 75 from the Pentateuch, 243 from the Prophets, and 138 from
the Hagiographa. To the Jewish mind every hope and expectation centered in the Messianic,
age. The present night might be dark, but the coming day would be glorious, and meantime
the midnight sky was illuminated by the brilliant stars and constellations of Messianic
prophecy. Their expectation was of a Messiah King, however, rather than of a Messiah
Savior, and their hope was of One who should be the glory of His people Israel, rather
than a light to lighten the Gentiles. Their own national exaltation was the great result
to be attained, for there reigned among them an overweening idea of their exclusive Divine
privileges. In the glory of the prospect of their own universal domination they to some
extent forgot the great Deliverer who was to raise them from their low estate to the
pinnacle of earthly glory. Yet there are passages in the writings of the Rabbis which
intimate that some of them realized that Messiah would be more than human and even
super-angelic, and also that through Him reconciliation for Israel's sins would somehow be
effected. With passages like Isaiah 53 and Daniel 9, it would indeed have been impossible
that such thoughts should not have been forced on some minds. But Jewish understanding of
these evangelical predictions was hazy, confused, and even contradictory, and the national
mind rested only on the contrasted and more numerous predictions of the glorious earthly
Kingdom which Messiah was to found."
The Gospel Key
The Gospel
or Good Tidings announced by the heavenly messenger to the noble shepherds on Judea's
plains, stated the philosophy of the Divine Plan, "Unto you is born this day a
Savior, which is Christ [Messiah] the Lord." There we have the key to the entire
Gospel statement of how God could be just and yet be the justifier of sinners who accept
Jesus. The word "Savior" here signifies life-giver and how beautiful is the
thought that as death is the wage of sin, the curse upon the race, this Messiah who was
born is to be the one who will rescue the race from the sentence by giving them life
again. The explanation of how He would give life was not given, nor was it necessary at
that time; but now, in the light of developments, and with the explanations furnished
through the Spirit in the New Testament, we see how our Lord's voluntary sacrifice of His
life, dying the just for the unjust, settled the claims of Divine justice against Adam and
thus incidentally against all who shared his sentence.
Truly the
more we see of the Divine Plan for our salvation, which began to take shape in the birth
of Jesus, the more we feel like shouting with the angelic choir praises to the God of
heaven, thankfulness for His mercy to the children of men. It mattered not that the babe
born in Bethlehem was the Savior only in prospect, that He could not even be anointed to
do His work until He reached manhood's estate thirty years later; it mattered not that
even then it would be necessary for Him to lay down His life gradually through three and a
half years of His earthly ministry, to be finished at Calvary; it mattered not either that
the resurrection was still three days after that, and His ascension forty days later, and
that the blessing in general would be deferred for nearly nineteen centuries thereafter.
As the angels could sing and rejoice at the first budding of the Divine Plan of salvation,
so also can all who have faith in the ultimate outcome rejoice with joy unspeakable and
give praise to God in the highest and to His Son our Lord.
"Saved by Hope"
Although
nearly nineteen centuries have passed since that angelic message was delivered, it has not
yet been fulfilled except in a limited measure, by faith to those who have the eye of
faith and the ear of faith, in all a "little flock." But the tiding of great
misery for nearly all people has been spread abroad in the name of Christ, much to the
discredit of the Divine Plan and to the dishonor of the Divine character. Instead of
carrying joy, the message has very generally carried grief and sorrow, especially to the
kind-hearted and more generously disposed. Indeed we may say that no message of the Lord
Jesus, either true or false, has ever reached all people. Even today, after long centuries
of heralding and preaching, only a comparatively small portion of the human family have
ever heard of the only name given under heaven and amongst men whereby we must be saved --
"nor is there salvation in any other." -- Acts 4:12.
What, then,
shall we say of the salvation which is come to those who have truly accepted Christ as
their Savior, and who are today rejoicing in Him as such, and who by faith are seeing the
salvation of God begun in their own hearts and yet to be fully accomplished under the
whole heavens? This the Apostle calls the salvation by hope. His words are, "We are
saved by hope." (Rom. 8:24.) We are not saved actually; we are still surrounded by
sin, pain, sighing, crying, and dying; the curse is not yet rolled away. All that the best
of the Lord's people have received is salvation by hope, by faith. Yet this anticipation
of the future salvation, of the resurrection from the dead, of a participation in the
glory, honor, and immortality of the Divine nature promised to the faithful, is so strong,
so clear, that those who possess it are enabled to. rejoice with joy unspeakable and full
of glory, even in the midst of sorrows and sufferings and weaknesses and unfavorable
conditions incident to the curse which still rests upon the race.
A Prophecy of Good Things
Yes, the
angelic message was a prophecy of good things to be accomplished for the Church and the
world during the Millennial Age. The Church is to have the first blessing. The First
Resurrection is to be composed only of the blessed and holy who shall live and reign with
Christ during the Millennium, the thousand years in which Satan shall be bound, and when
the good influences of truth and righteousness shall enlighten the whole earth. The
declaration of the Scriptures is that the deliverance of the Church will come early in the
morning of that Millennial Day, as the Prophet declares, "God will help her early in
the morning." -- Psa. 46:5.
But much as
we rejoice in the glorious hopes of the Gospel set before us who see, who now believe, who
now rejoice with joy unspeakable, we are glad that the Divine mercy and love are of such
lengths and breadth and heights and depths as to encompass the entire human family, and to
provide a blessing for every member of Adam's race through Him who loved us and bought us
with His precious blood.
It will be
during the Millennial Age that this prophecy of the angel will have its fulfillment, and
the great Savior who has already redeemed us by His sacrifice will stand forth as the
King, the glorified Messiah, and establish His dominion of righteousness in the world for
the blessing and uplifting of every member of the race. In harmony with the words of the
Apostle, those will be times of refreshing, "times of restitution o£ all things
spoken by the mouth of all the holy Prophets since the world began." (Acts 3:19-21.)
If the Lord had based the hope of the world upon some works of merit or righteousness of
the world's doing, then indeed we might have feared-indeed, the more we know of the world
the less hope we would have. But, on the contrary, the Lord has based the entire
proposition for the future blessing, not upon our worthiness, but upon the worthiness and
sacrifice of His Son -- To you is born a Life-giver, which is Messiah the Lord.
How it adds
to our enjoyment of the coming Age blessings to know that the trials and reverses of this
present Gospel Age are subject to the Divine supervision in the interest of the Little
Flock that is now being gathered in advance from amongst men-the "Elect," the
Church. We see how the present trials and tests of faith are the chiselings and polishings
necessary to our development in the fruits and graces of the Holy Spirit in the
character-likeness of God's dear Son, our Lord, our Hope, our Bridegroom. How joyful the
thought that soon the elect number called from he world to be the Bride, the Lamb's wife,
will be completed and enter into her glory. How precious the thought that then they shall
be privileged with their Lord and Master to extend the Divine favor of blessing and uplift
to the world. What higher honor or privilege or blessing could possibly come to any?
The Angels' Song
It was after
the giving of the message of good tidings and great joy by the heavenly one that a host of
angels appeared to the shepherds, saying, "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth
peace, good will to men." This, too, is a prophecy. It is not yet true, but will be
fulfilled in every particular in God's due time, which we believe is now nigh, even at the
door. Not yet does God receive glory in the highest, not yet is there peace amongst men.
Quite to the contrary!
Noting that
peace on earth and good will to men have not followed the Savior's birth thus far, and
discerning that this is a prophecy of what is to be accomplished during the Millennium,
many have been inclined to change the translation of this verse so as to have it read,
"On earth peace amongst men, in whom He is well pleased." However, by thus
changing it the statement would not be true, for even the Lord's people have no peace on
earth. Whatever peace they have is in their hearts, and based upon their faith in the Lord
and in the glorious things which He has promised. Our Lord Himself and the Apostles
testified to this, assuring us that whosoever in this present time would live godly should
suffer persecution, that a man's foes would be they of his own household, etc. (2 Tim.
3:12; Matt. 10:26.) Let us not confuse ourselves nor abridge the testimony of the Word,
but with the eye of faith look forward to the day of Christ in which all these glorious
things shall have their fulfillment, 'in which truth shall indeed fill the whole earth
with the knowledge of the glory of the Lord, bringing Divine favor and rolling away the
curse from the entire groaning creation, as pointed out by the Apostle. -- Rom. 8:22.
Not even
with the inauguration of the Millennium will this prophecy be fulfilled; not until its
close, when the human family shall have been lifted by the Kingdom regulations out of sin,
sickness, pain, sorrow, and death, up, up to all that was lost in Adam-not until then will
there indeed be glory to God in the highest, not until then will there be peace amongst
men. Nor are we to understand that the entire race will be appreciative of the Divine love
and favor even after they have fully seen the righteousness of God in Christ manifested.
On the contrary, the Scriptures seem to clearly teach that there will be a class who will
then prove unfit for life eternal, unappreciative of the Divine favor, and who will be
utterly destroyed from amongst the people in the Second Death. Thus eventually by the
close of the Millennium, Satan and all willful wrongdoers having been destroyed, the time
will come as declared in the Scriptures when all voices in heaven and in earth and under
the earth shall be heard praising God, Him that sitteth upon the throne, and the Lamb
forever and ever. Hosanna! Glory to God in the highest! Peace and good will to men! will
be the final shout of a redeemed race when the great Plan of Salvation shall have been
fully outworked according to the Divine Plan set forth in the Scriptures.
Dear
Brethren:
Once again I
have the pleasure of sending you, from our Class in _____, a contribution towards the work
in which you are engaged. It gives me very great satisfaction to be able to do this, for
we feel sure that the Lord is directing you in your work and blessing it.
We
appreciate the fact that you are endeavoring to keep the higher, the spiritual things, and
the means of their attainment very prominently -- indeed chiefly -- before the minds of
the Lord's people to help them to overcome the influence of present, earthly things and,
thus assist them in making their calling and election sure. And I do not see how you could
do it better than in the articles which are constantly appearing in the
"Herald." It seems to me that this is most necessary at the present time. The
world is in evidence on every hand, and everything connected with it seems peculiarly
calculated in these days to draw the mind off the contemplation of the higher things, so
that there is a very great danger of these being lost sight of largely, if not altogether,
unless we are constantly on the alert to keep in close touch with the Lord through His
Word, and through the various helps He is providing, of which I am sure the
"Herald" is one, and one of great value. We have appreciated very much indeed
the articles that have been appearing lately on "The Heritage of Them that
Believe." They are very stimulating and helpful in deepening our appreciation of the
heavenly hopes set before us. But after all, this series is only one of numerous articles
which have been very helpful indeed.
You and your
good work are never absent from our prayers, and we feel sure that the Lord will continue
to bless and guide you, and enable you to continue His work in the same humble spirit. The
bank draft I am enclosing is for $______; this includes $______ for the renewal of the
"Herald" subscriptions for the following: . . . The balance of the draft is
intended to be used for your work in whatever way you think best.
The members
of this Class wish me to assure you of their Christian love, and their prayers for your
guidance and blessing in connection with your work. Please accept also the assurance of my
own personal love and prayers on your behalf, in which Sister M. heartily joins.
Your brother in Christ, C. F. M. --
Aus.
Dear
Brethren:
Another year
has passed and once more I wish to express my appreciation of your journal, "The
Herald of Christ's Kingdom." The articles are ever helpful, encouraging, and much to
be desired, especially in this day when so much is said on all other subjects and so
little on the real things that help in Christian living. Even in most (if not all) of the
religious journals, the tendency is to urge toward thrift drives, big things, etc.,
instead of the development of a meek ,and quiet spirit, as we use our opportunities with
appreciation.
Though your
report for the year does not show any great work being accomplished in such as
distribution of literature, etc., or numbers being attracted by the message to forsake the
world and follow God, yet I rejoice to see a steady, gradual growth, promising lasting
results. I believe the feature of the work that gives me the most joy is that many of our
dear brethren, who are still, we believe in a measure of bondage, have gained help through
the "Herald" and thus been enabled to once more stand in the liberty wherewith
Christ makes free. May the good work continue. God always takes time for all things. We
human beings are so prone to always be in a hurry, and hence take things into our own
hands rather than wait the Lord's time and way.
Personally I
do not feel I have made the progress during the past year that I desire. I realize the
standard is very high and I have been mostly alone as regards fellowship, but that should
make no difference, and only make me seek the fellowship of the Father and His dear Son
the more. I do, however, feel most grateful to my Heavenly Father for all His benefits
toward me and all His many blessings. I am thankful for the faith and love and the desire
I still maintain in keeping with His precious promises.
I am
enclosing my subscription for another year, also another for a friend, a dear child of
God, though her views are not identical with mine. I wish all the dear brethren identified
with the work at the Institute and elsewhere, much joy and peace in the Lord during the
coming year and always.
Your sister by His Grace,
Mrs. S. M. A. -- Colo.
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