(Col. 1:17)

Another interesting item of information was recently given by Dr. Charles G. Abbot in the-annual report of the Smithsonian Institute. As reported in The New York Times, he has been studying "the one-eighth inch of ozone gas which is all that stands between the human race and destruction by death rays' from the sun. This ozone 'wall' lies forty miles from the earth in the upper, reaches of the stratosphere. It is spread through considerable space, but if concentrated would be less than one-eighth of an inch thick." We are told that this ozone layer absorbs short wave ultra-violet rays that would blind and blister and eventually destroy life if they could penetrate.

Dr. Abbot says, as quoted:"It is astonishing and even terrifying to contemplate the narrow margin of safety on which our lives depend. Were this trifling quantity of atmospheric ozone removed we should all perish."

Does not this serve to illustrate how easily when God's time comes, as Peter declares, "the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth and the works that are therein shall be burned up"? Seemingly He but needs to waft away that ozone "wall" of present protection, and the "death rays" of the mighty sun will do their work.

But to illustrate again:From that same mighty orb come those rays which are beneficial to life, without which it could not exist, and these pass through the ozone layer, the death-dealing rays being absorbed in that layer for the present; so from Him who is the Sun of Righteousness there comes now the life-giving ministry of grace and mercy, while judgment is restrained. Yet from Him shall also come the withering blast of burning wrath which shall consume all who obey not the gospel, and destroy all those who destroy the earth. , "Kiss the Son, lest He be angry, and ye perish in the way, for soon His anger burneth. Blessed are all who have their trust in Him" (Ps.2:12, New Trans.).

San Diego, Calif.-I have been having meetings during the past two months in Palo Alto, Cal. God blessed His Word.

The conference here is just over and we had a very happy time together. I am staying on this week, preaching every night except Saturday. -T. W. Carroll.

Islamorado, Fla.-In prison work lately the Lord has given much to encourage, especially at Raiford, Fla.,where the whole prison with its fifteen hundred inmates was opened to me with permission to go where I chose and stay as long as I saw fit. I found scores that were hungry for the Word of Life. It was a great pleasure to lead them to the Light.

At Savannah, Ga., the Lord allowed us to see fruit, and at most of the assemblies that we have called on this fall the saints are encouraged by seeing their number grow.

At Islamorado, Fla., where we have been for a couple of weeks, there is a young assembly, not one year old, and only three of its number located locally, but about twenty have confessed Him as Saviour within the last two months.

Would be glad to have the saints save me their gospel magazines for prison work. -Thos. H. Lacey.

Muskegon, Mich.-During the past two years or more, besides sharing in the privileges and responsibilities of the local assembly, I have been working in some neighboring rural communities, having gospel meetings regularly in two places. Much time has been given to personal work in connection with the public meetings. God has graciously blessed these efforts to many souls, some of whom were brought to a knowledge of salvation and were baptized, and some were instructed more perfectly in the way and Word of Truth.

In one of these places, about 25 miles distant from here, the work has resulted in some being exercised about "the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread and in prayers" (Acts 2:42). About three months ago an assembly was formed, with some twenty or more gathering on Lord's Day morning for the remembering of Him who died, "that He might gather together in one the children of God that were scattered abroad" (John 11:52).

With this we are continuing, endeavoring to serve and establish the people of God as our Sovereign Lord gives grace and opportunity. Yours in Him, –OMER J. HOMMES.

Key West, Fla.-We came to Key West the middle of November from Michigan, where we made our home for three and one-half years. For several reasons we have felt led to make our home in the South.

We have had meetings regularly in the Gospel Hall, and have much enjoyed the fellowship of the warmhearted saints here. The assembly is going on nicely, and a happy spirit of fellowship and Christian liberty prevails.

The interest in the Word is very encouraging. There are fifty or more outsiders present whenever the Word is preached. Believers from five or six different denominations attend right along, and seem to be helped. I am speaking at present on the Kingdom of Heaven, illustrated by a chart, and as it is a new line of truth here, many have spoken of help received. Brethren, pray for us, that souls may be saved, and believers led on and out, to meet around Himself. -August Van Ryn.

Pembroke, N. C.-At last the new Model of the Tabernacle, which has been in course of construction for the past three years, is complete. It. has been my privilege to give addresses on it during the past two months, in Washington, D. C., Harrisburg, Philadelphia (Frankford) and Baltimore. In spite of weather conditions am happy to report splendid interest. As to the Model itself it has been very carefully made, and represents much skilled workmanship on the part of various brethren and sisters who have graciously given freely of their time and resources. Some parts have been brought from Palestine. If any assemblies desire to have a series of lectures on this subject, I would be glad to hear from such at my home address, Box 1046, Pembroke, N. C.

–L. T. CHAMBERS.

Houston, Texas.-E. J. Tharp was with us for five days, leaving this morning for San Antonio on his way west, expecting to sail Feb. 8th for Manchuria, his field of labor for the past thirty years. He had meetings here nightly, including Saturday, and also spoke to the Sunday School on Lord's Day morning, and again to the young people at 6:45, before the evening meeting. His visit has brought Asia and its needs closer to our hearts.

–V. PENNINGTON.

Seattle, Wash., 607 North 46th St.-Since leaving Plainfield in November I have been kept well occupied in the happy service of our Lord in the gospel and among some of His loved ones.

Calling at Pittsburgh and at Chicago for a week in each district, we journeyed on to these parts, and immediately found plenty of work. A Conference at Yakima, where there were some drops of gospel blessing, "but for the showers we pray." Another at New Westminster at the New Year, where our brother Geo. McCandless was present. Happy fellowship and helpful ministry were enjoyed. There is great need in this great West, and great opportunities. Pray for us. We have now "a jumping-off place" at this address.

The dear wife of our brother Alfred Major of Hoquiam, the hostess of many, has passed in to the presence of our Lord recently. "With Christ, which is far better."

-INGLIS FLEMING.

Vancouver, B. C. – Coming westward through the Canadian prairies, and crossing the lower reaches of the Rocky Mountains, I have spent many weeks visiting the little gatherings by the way. It has been a great joy to see the hand of God at work, strengthening faith and drawing hearts closer to Christ. In some places there is a marked increase in the study of the Word of God. May this increase everywhere!

It was a pleasure to meet brother Inglis Fleming once more, at an all-day meeting at New Westminster on New Year's Day. His ministry was helpful and encouraging as also that of Elliot McAllister. The day was one of real blessing from the Lord. Brother McAllister and brother Bowen, who was also present, spend much of their time among the widely scattered population of the country districts, preaching where doors open, working from house to house, and comforting the meetings by visiting and ministry among them. They are much loved and their service has been owned of God.

–G. H. MCCANDLESS.

Deseronto, Ont.-We have received interesting and encouraging letters from a few French converted people. They would like us to hold meetings in their home, which we hope to do later. Being the only French-speaking worker visiting them, and, as there are so many to reach, it is difficult to cover the ground. We do hope and pray that the Lord will raise up laborers and send them forth to this needy field. Pray for us and the field.

–LOUIS J. GERMAIN.

Trenton, Ont.-During the past few weeks we have been seeking to give help in several assemblies in this section of Eastern Ontario. At Gardenville two young people professed faith in the Lord Jesus last week, and another took her place at the Table of the Lord. At present we are in Trenton, and next weekend expect to visit Belleville, where our brother Alex Irvine has been recently. -C. Ernest Tatham.

Black Cape, Que.-Two-days' meetings were held at Grand Cascapedia over Christmas week-end. Although the weather was cold and stormy the Lord gave a profitable season, which was much enjoyed by all the Lord's own.

At Black Cape we had two-days' meetings at New Year, with good attendance, and the Lord gave blessing.. His people were refreshed, and several confessed the Lord as Saviour. Brother H. L. Campbell, Wm. Beld, and the writer ministered the Word.

I expect to commence a week's meetings in Cullen's Brook. There is always a good interest here. The young people are many, and we hope to help them particularly. –SAMUEL STEWART.

April 1st, Deut. 24; April 15th, Joshua 4; April 30th, Joshua 19; May 15th, Judges 10.

COMMENTS

As already noted, Deut. 20-26 give instruction concerning various relationships and responsibilities, God-ward and manward. First, the mode of government by which such duties are regulated, including in an anticipative way the establishment of a king. Then, duties toward those who are the ministers of the Lord – priest, Levite and prophet. This is followed by responsibilities as to life and conduct in many varied connections. In chap. 26 we get the worship of God's people hi possession of the land; confessing it as all God's gift.

Chaps. 27-30 give the curse and the blessing connected with the covenant. The closing portion (chaps. 31-34) is largely prophetic, and also gives an introduction to the new leader – Joshua. Here are set out before us the ways of God, in grace, mercy, power, and holiness, for the manifestation of Himself and the blessing of His people – the full realization of which waits upon the completion of the present work of forming the Body of Christ, whereupon God will take up His unfinished plans as to Israel, the nations, and the earth, completing them in the coming and kingdom of the Son of Man.

Commencing Joshua, we pass out of the wilderness into the land, where war must be carried on to practically secure and enjoy the inheritance given them according to Jehovah's promise.

The first eleven chapters bring us through various conflicts to rest from war. This does not mean, however, that there is not continued need for vigilance, that the watch-tower can be abandoned, and ease and laxity rule. No;'it is a question of keeping in subjection defeated enemies, of being persevering, diligent, watchful, obedient to and dependent upon God, else the enemy will soon rise up again. This is just what happened because Israel failed in these things, as to which Moses had so earnestly exhorted them before his departure. This sad failure of Israel brought in the conditions which the book of Judges so graphically describes. These things are written for warning and instruction to us.

First, the crossing of Jordan is typical of 'the cross on the one hand, and on the other of the Christian's identification through it with Christ, as accepted in Him according to the truth of resurrection-place and power. The knowledge of this, ministered by the Spirit, is the entering of our spiritual Canaan; our possession of which is opposed by powers of spiritual wickedness.

Canaan, then, is not a type of bur future entrance into heaven as a result of resurrection at the Lord's coming; but it is a type of our spiritual portion in Christ, of which we are now to take possession. It speaks of entering through faith the spiritual conflict according to Ephesians 6. It is really what engages us until the redemption of the purchased possession, to the praise of His glory. Then with the enemy cast out we shall hear of war no more. Till then we (like Israel), under the Holy Spirit's leadership (Joshua), and as obedient to the Word (the book of the law), are to be warriors and conquerors.

Note that Gilgal is the base of operations. There, the reproach of Egypt was rolled away-the world in its Egyptian aspect and the flesh ever in alliance with it, judged and set aside. Then Jericho falls, another type of the world, but in a different aspect from Egypt. It is a picture of the world in its power, pride, and seeming pleasantness, which our great spiritual foes, "the universal lords of this darkness," would use to bind us hand and foot, spiritually speaking – would destroy separation to God in holiness and obedience through "artifices of the devil," causing our spiritual portion to lie unpossessed. Ecclesiastes exposes Jericho, and this aspect of the world is largely what John's first epistle has in view. Egypt is different, though found after all to be a close companion to Jericho; it is rather the world in its moral debasement slavery to sin, under the sinister influence and control of Satan. Egypt is more the "filthiness" of flesh, while Jericho is that of the spirit (2 Cor. 7:1); Yet, though giving different aspects, they are linked together and under one control.

Joshua has been referred to as typical of the Spirit of Christ in us, in connection with the new place He has entered in glory; thus Eleazar, associated with Joshua in the leadership of the people, suggests the priesthood of Christ as exercised in resurrection-power and place.

The remaining chapters of Joshua treat first of the land's allotment to the tribes (12-21); then instructions and warnings occupy chaps. 22-24.

The division of the "land among the tribes is full of spiritual instruction. Its great detail calls for patient, careful study.

A thought or two may serve as suggestions. We have already mentioned what the land typifies. The tribes may be considered as pointing to the character and relation pertaining to God's people, individually and collectively. Thus Judah ("praise") suggests the worshiped, the one who rejoices in the Lord. Simeon ("hearing") speaks of the consecrated ear, opened to God's word, to which obedience is rendered, for true hearing involves doing. Naphtali ("wrestling") points to the warrior character; we are to be good soldiers of Jesus Christ. Then the different directions-north, east, etc.-suggest aspects of the world and its influences. The cities in their various groupings and the meaning of their names give lessons of experience which link with the former two lines of thought.

There is a foreshadow of failure in Joshua's closing messages to the people, and the beginning of Judges shows this to have quickly developed after his death, and that of the elders who outlived him.

The unity of the Spirit"-it is important to notice that we are not told to make this unity, but to use diligence to keep it. The unity already is; but in a practical way-not in strife, but in the uniting bond of peace, we are to walk accordingly, in love to all the saints. There are various influences at work to mar this, but the uniting bond of peace is the practical answer to them all. The authority of the Lord, and the gracious direction and ministry of our exalted Head, will be abundantly realized by those who thus endeavor, apart from sects and schools, to keep the unity of the Spirit.

"The unity of the Spirit"-much has been said as to this which leaves the impression on the mind that it is something to be made or something to be attained to, instead of something to be kept, as we have said, in a practical way-in "the Uniting bond of peace." We must cease from denominating beloved saints of God by party and divisive names which are a shame to us. The practice is not only a careless one, but a sinful one; for we are all members of Christ's Body, and we must acknowledge no other membership, even if others do. Let us then, for the sake of the One who loves all His own perfectly, speak and think of one another becomingly, and be ashamed of these party names which have no right to exist, for Christ cannot be divided. This will greatly help towards practical unity in the bond of peace. The endeavoring we are exhorted to is on this line. We are to be "using diligence," but special effort having some favored party in view is not here contemplated. Our efforts must be governed by the truth in regard to the whole position, or they will militate against the unity of the Spirit.

It has been said:"The unity of the Spirit is that which is already formed and embraces all the members of Christ," and again:It is "the common place which pertains to all the children of God" (W. K.).

Another wrote:"It is not only abstractly, but actually one, forming one Body, putting each member in its place in the Body;" also, on my side:"If love to all the saints is not present in my spirit, I break [the unity].. .while keeping it up in form;" for; it is "not similarity of sentiment, but the oneness of the members of the Body of Christ established by the Holy Ghost" (J. N. D.). Where healthful diligence is in activity as to this established unity, and also advance is being made in regard to the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of our blessed Lord and Saviour as the Son of God, rich results will necessarily follow for God's glory. Henry J. Vine (from "Scripture Truth")

(Luke 16:1-13)

It was the saying of an old preacher,

"We all have notice to quit. Every grey hair, every aching tooth, every painful limb, 'Notice to quit.' We all have to go."

The remark was made with regard to the Parable of the Unjust Steward, given us in Luke 16. Ministry upon the subject of this parable is rare. For some reason it seems to be shirked. Whether this is intentional or unintentional we know not. But many bear witness that it is the case.

And yet the picture-in-words comes from the same lips as that of the Prodigal Son-from the lips of the Lord Himself. Surely then its message is of prime importance. We do well to consider it carefully in view of the fact that a reckoning day is at the door and we all have to hand in our accounts and pass from our stewardship here. It may be more pleasant to be occupied with the grace of God and with all it brings, but it is salutary for our thoughts to be engaged with our responsibility at times.

Examining it then, let us notice first that it was spoken to disciples, to those who took the place of learning from our Lord. It was a solemn word for them surely, and it is such for us who have received the message of a full and free salvation in the .riches of God's grace.

The steward of a rich man is accused of wasting his master's goods, and is called upon to "give an account of his stewardship." Now we are stewards-all of us. We do well to ask ourselves therefore whether we too have been found wasting our Master's goods? We belong to Him, and our time, our talents, our abilities, our possessions, are only "ours" in trust. We are not our own, we have, been "bought with a price," and therefore are called upon to glorify God in our "bodies, which are His" (1 Cor. 6:19,20).

Now what are we to learn from the action of the unjust steward? What is the instruction in it for us ? Notice that He is designated unjust by our Lord Jesus, and the injustice is not to be imitated. What then will it be wise of us to copy?

This:He employed the present in view of the future. He was still steward. He had his master's goods under his hand. He could control matters for the moment. So he used his opportunity in the present of gaining friends for future need. He looked ahead. He saw that he was to be without resources soon. To earn his bread by digging was impossible. To beg his bread was unpalatable. So he planned to secure the friendship and succor of some of his master's creditors, when he should have had his stewardship taken from him. Thus he settled the account of one by a reduction of fifty per cent, and of another of twenty per cent. He acted unjustly as a steward, but was wise in his injustice; and his master learning what he had done said that he had been clever in his roguery and shrewd in his dealings.

As we have seen, our Lord Jesus brands him as an unrighteous steward. But He bids us to use what is in our hands as stewards in view of the future. He urges us to employ the mammon of unrighteousness which is in our possession, not for our present enjoyment but with "everlasting habitations" in prospect. If we do this, then when we fail (that is, when we pass from our stewardship here) we will be welcomed to the eternal dwelling-places.

As far as "this generation," this period of time, is concerned (when the Lord is away and not yet reigning in His kingdom), the children of this world are wiser than the children of light. They can teach us lessons of wisdom in providing for the immediate future, though as to that which lies beyond this life, they exhibit the utmost folly.

Certain it is that even if our Lord tarry "we have to go." Our place here is lost through sin. We cannot stay on earth. But our Master's goods-termed by our Lord "the mammon of unrighteousness"-are still under our hands. We can employ them. The mammon of unrighteousness is connected with man's fall. It has been pointed out that there was no money in Eden before man's fall, and no money will be in circulation in heaven. It is in this present period that it 'is in use. We Christians should employ such of it as lies under our control for the glory of God in the help of others, and not for the gratification of our own present desires.

But we may extend the application of the thought of the unrighteous mammon to every thing over which we have power. Our time, our abilities, our homes, our motor-cars, and all else. And we may ask ourselves, Are we using these for our present enjoyment, or do we employ them in seeking the blessing of others?

An old hymn asks the question as to the time of our entering heaven:,

"Will any one there at the beautiful gate,
Be waiting and watching for me?"

Will there be those there whom we have benefitted by our service while on earth, and who will receive us with gladness into the everlasting habitations? This life is like a Bureau de change. We may change our money here into heavenly coinage. If we do not it will perish. We cannot take it with us.

Seeing we have "Notice to Quit," and that the hour when we must .leave draws on apace, let us see to it that we are just in our stewardship, and use present circumstances for the blessing of others in every way .possible.

The "true riches," and "that which is our own," as believers, are the eternal blessings to be known when our stewardship of things here is completed.

Solemn are the Lord's words, "Ye cannot serve (that is, be bond-slaves of) both God and gold." It is not, "Ye do not," it is not, "Ye should not," it is, "Ye cannot." It is a moral impossibility to do both.

So we have to decide whether the things which we possess in stewardship shall be used by us for ourselves or for others in the service of God.

Let us not forget that it is required of a steward that, a man be found faithful, and that soon we must hand in our account.

May it be ours to live as under the holy eye of our God in our earthly stewardship and earn His praise "in that day" soon to dawn. Inglis Fleming

UNITED STATES

MIAMI, FLORIDA.-Our beloved brother August Van Ryn has been with us, and all are enjoying his very helpful and practical ministry amongst us.

Several strangers also coming. His family are with him here.-a. m. Scott.

OTSEGO, MICH.-During the past six weeks meetings have been held in the vicinities of Mosgrove, Pa.; Lang Ave., Wilkinsburg; Mansfield, Ohio and Holland, Mich. In these places the Lord has given encouragement and blessing. The rural districts have received the Gospel in print for many miles, and the Gospel has been preached in homes and a school house, as well as the regular Assembly meetings.-Godfrey W. Coombs.

MINNEAPOLIS, MINN.-In May and June had an encouraging trip to St. Louis and Oak Park, 111., visiting the brethren known so long. Also spent a short season in Davenport, Washington, and Muscatine, la., also at Chicago, Evanston, Elgin and Rockford, 111.

It is a joy to find so many cleaving to Him in dark days and seeing too, many seeking to scatter further the tidings of His grace among old and young.

Just returned, July 9th, from the conference at Waterloo, la., where the Lord gave a season of much refreshment to those gathered. Meetings were characterized by dependence upon Him, and we think, humbleness of mind, these traits manifesting themselves in the ministry. This was by brethren O'Brien, Harper, Peter Pell, Lawrence, Leonard, White and self.-J. H. Fleming.

MAPLETON, OREGON, June 27.-Have been doing what I could to make Christ known in some of the more neglected parts of this great State, and am at present in the mountain section, about 20 miles inland from the coast. Many of the valleys are narrow, with not many folks living in them, but enough to warrant giving the gospel where we find an open door. About 20 are coming in and paying good attention to the Word. More could come but are not interested-a group sadly on the increase, for the spirit of lawlessness is rampant, and the end draws near. How wonderful that we who were no better should be delivered from the wrath to come, and brought to glory instead. God still uses His Word to bless His own, and now and then someone gets saved, so we seek grace to preach the Word and so pass on.

The ministry of Brethren McCandless and R. J. Reid was very helpful and much appreciated by the saints.

-R. F. ELLIOT.

SAN DIEGO, CALIF.-Brother G. H. McCandless is with us for a week's ministry. We have invited our brethren locally and from near by points for an all day meeting Lord's Day, July ISth. God says "Gather my saints together unto Me," Ps. 50:5. We desire a sense of His presence which is blessing indeed. Brother and sister J. P. Anderson from Valentine, Arizona, are with us for a few days. The sea breeze will be a welcome change to them after the heat of an Arizona desert.

My work will be in these parts until the Indian Missionary Conference at Flagstaff, Arizona in August. The days are evil, and time short, may we redeem it. –E. A. BUCHENAU.

SAN JOSE, CAL.-The past month I have been home holding three meetings a week in our house and some meetings in the City Mission and Baptist Church at Los Gatos, some eight miles distant.

There seems to be a growing interest in the study of the word here in our home and we are looking to the Lord to lead on and if it be His will a meeting may be started here along the lines so clearly set forth in Scripture as to Christian fellowship.-X. W. Carroll.

PALO ALTO, CAL.-In our Thursday evening meetings Romans 6, 7 and 8 are being taken up and through grace some are finding spiritual help. Interesting lessons from Numbers are being had in the weekly Women's Bible Class.

In our last Sunday night address we took up the "Wars of the Lord" Num. 21; "The business of the Lord" 1 Chr. 26:"The Song of the Lord" 2 Chr. 29:"The Book of the Lord," Isa. 34 and "the Joy of the Lord," Neh. 8:10.

All attending have again enjoyed brother Carroll's ministry the Sundays he has been with us lately.

Our brother R. J. Reid gave jour very helpful addresses here last week which were much appreciated. -W. J. Hume.

Japanese Gospel Work on the Pacific Coast:During past year, in and about Oakland and San Francisco, and south to the Mexican border, have visited some sixty places. Beside some public preaching in Japanese in various places, have had many contacts with individuals -farmers, florists, barbers, merchants and others, giving the gospel by spoken word and printed page, and quotations from the Japanese Bible. Apart from blessing to Japanese Christians, I cannot speak of definite evidence of conversions, though many have listened and taken the Word, which I pray may bear fruit in due season. -E. B. Craig.

SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS.-During the month of June we taught the Summer Vacation Bible School for two weeks in our local Hall and then for another two weeks among the Mexicans living at the Stone Quarry 20 miles from here. The average attendance was forty-five young people and children. The Lord has given us precious fruit from this branch of our work, and even the parents of several families have been saved. After the day-classes we held gospel services each night. Children come to the School who are not allowed to attend other evangelical meetings.

We are invited to have Bible School and meetings in other rural districts where the Lord has given us fruit in years past. There are many open doors.

Mexican brethren at San Francisco, Calif., have sent us notice of their newly formed assembly, located at 86 Balmy St.
Since our visit with the Mexican people at Lancaster, Pa., last fall, some have been saved and the brethren at Lancaster and brother Paul H. Wilson are helping in having a Sunday School and other meetings for them. It cheers our hearts to learn of God's blessing among the mis-judged and unknown Mexicans.

We covet your prayers for the Lord's blessing and support in these trying times.-Ervin D. Dresch.

CANADA

LONDON, 214 Edward St.-After visiting Sister Abigail at Buffalo and seeing the home she conducts there in full dependence on the Lord for her daily needs it gave us encouragement to trust Him more, so we have rented a house and made a start for a home at the above address. We realize that three children are too many to keep on the road in a house car. "He is faithful that promised."

I expect to be in the mountains of Kentucky next week when they anticipate breaking bread for the first time. This will be good news to many of the saints who have been praying for the work there. I would ask continued prayers for the dear souls there -"who have trusted the Lord as Satan is very busy there, as elsewhere when the Gospel is being proclaimed.

We had the pleasure of attending the conference at Guelph, Ont, where the ministry of brothers Bloore and Nottage was greatly appreciated.-Thos. H. Lacey.

BLACK CAPE, QUE.-The three day conference held here proved to be a season of refreshing and blessing to the people of God in these parts. The gospel also went forth with power. Ministering brethren present included Geo. MacKenzie, Jas. Elliot, Lacey, Bentley and others.

Some of these brethren are remaining for a few weeks, and meetings are continuing along the Gaspe Coast. -S. STEWART.

LAKEFIELD, ONT.-Home once again after two-and-a-half month's itinerary through both the Canadian and American West. It was indeed a great joy to be with the "beloved of God" in the various assemblies, renewing old acquaintances and making a number of new ones.

Yesterday was spent at the Guelph, Ont., Conference Grounds where the second of an expected series of conferences was held. Approximately 500 were present, chiefly from the Ontario gatherings, though three of the Canadian Western cities were represented, namely, Winnipeg, Calgary, and even Vancouver. Jehovah-Sham-mah-"The Lord is there"-expressed, I think, what we all felt. The warmth of fellowship was indeed refreshing. The Word of God was ministered by brethren John Bloore and B. M. Nottage. There comes in mind a word of Paul's, though used in another connection, "He was seen of (about) 500 brethren at once."

I hope to give help in our little assembly here during July.–C. ERNEST TATHAM.

"Let your gentleness be known of all men" (Phil. 4:5, N. Trans.)

In his early history Isaac affords a lovely type of our Lord Jesus Christ in His death, resurrection and glory. In his later days too his life speaks of Him who alone was perfectly unselfish, who really loved His neighbor as Himself, and who looked not on His own things but also on the things of others. But Isaac did not reach that stage of moral progress in a day. In Genesis 26 we see a little of how he manifested the true spirit of Christ and also some of his previous training in God's school.

There was another famine in the land beside the first, during which Abraham had sinned against God by leaving the place where God had put him. Isaac however did not fail where his father had:he remained in the land. This success in temptation was followed by further trial, for such are the ways of God, and this time Isaac fell into the same sin as his father. Abraham in Egypt, arid in Philistia, had resorted to deception in respect to his wife, letting it be known that she was his sister. Now Isaac, doubting God's ability to protect his own, does likewise, giving it out that Rebekah was his sister, and he had not even the partial truth which Abraham might claim, whose wife was at least his half-sister. "The fear of man bringeth a snare:but whoso putteth his trust in the Lord shall be safe" (Prov. 29:25).

The sin was followed by confession, however, and God richly blessed Isaac in the things of this world. This led to the jealousy of the Philistines, and King Abime-lech suggested that Isaac should travel on before trouble ensued. The envious Philistines had filled in the wells which had been dug by Abraham, but Isaac, instead of protesting, quietly set out to dig them again. The Philistines, however, are not content, and when Isaac's servants, after no small labor, discover water, the rival herdsmen claim it as their own. Surely Isaac will now stand up like a man and defend his property. He will protest to Abimelech and demand his rights, or even take matters into his own hands and secure satisfaction. But on the contrary he sets his servants to work again, and yet again, until finally they are left unmolested in possession of the well. "A bondman of the Lord ought not to contend, but be gentle toward all" (2 Tim. 2:24, New Trans.).

From earliest schooldays we are constantly 'being bombarded with the doctrines of human philosophy. This principle of sacrificing one's own rights is utterly foreign to the worldling. Yet the Word of God is full of it, and the only antidote to counteract what we learn contrary to that Word, at school, from the newspaper, or in conversation with others, is a systematic, prayerful, obedient study of what is there written (2 Tim. 3:16,17).

Those who rightly appraise the infinite grace of God which has been bestowed upon them, feel that they can afford to give up what is legitimately theirs when occasion demands. And the world does not fail to observe what is so alien to itself. Abimelech realizes that this self-sacrificing spirit must be superhuman, and he comes to Isaac seeking a covenant, with these words, "We saw certainly that the Lord was with thee." Long before Abimelech had acknowledged "the God of Abraham," but this seems to be saving faith, for "Whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved." Thus the reward in heaven for leading a precious soul to the Lord is Isaac's recompense for whatever he lost in this world's goods. May we follow his example, and Christ's! "In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths"(Prov. 3:6).-Edward Harlow.

EDITORS’ NOTE :Our young brother has been happily commended to the Lord's work by the Westmoreland Avenue Assembly, Toronto, Canada, having especially in view the Mission Field in Africa. It is his desire, along with Miss Burritt (our brother and sister expect to be married shortly), who is also commended by the above-mentioned assembly, to join our brethren at Nyangkundi and Lolwa as soon as the way is open. To this end the prayers and fellowship of the Lord's people are earnestly desired. There is real need for additional workers in that part of the harvest-field.

THE CURRENT, BAHAMAS, Oct. 22. "At home with the Lord." Those who have visited these Islands will remember our dear sister, Olivia Hall. She passed away on Oct. 16, aged 90 years. Brought to know the Lord about 60 years ago, and gathered to the Lord's name for 32 years, she bore a good testimony. We miss her very much. But we do not mourn as others who have no hope, for we are sure that we will soon meet her again. A word of comfort was given to the sorrowing ones, and a word of warning to the unsaved by brother E. C. Weech. At the grave the writer gave a word especially to the unsaved. Then we laid her away to await the resurrection morning when all the dead in Christ shall rise, and all we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them to meet the Lord in the air.

–E. A. ELDEN.

(Concluded from p. 314, Dec. 1933)

Beholding Jesus the last week before the cross, its shame and woe, thinking not of Himself, but devoting all of that solemn season to ministry to and intercession for the little band of those He called by the endearing name "His own," we join with those who loved Him to extol the matchless attraction which the record of John 12 presents.

"The house of Simon the leper" at Bethany (Matt. 26:6) He deigned to enter, who as "inhabiting eternity" was ever "the high and lofty One." Grace shines afresh as the Spirit of God puts on record the lowly earthly abode the Lord of glory loved. We are now to see the further condescension of the One above all others accepting the feast they made for Him (ver. 2). "Jesus came" in that day, and still comes at the call of those who desire His company.

If chap. 11 declares what they were to Him, chap. 12 as plainly states what He was to them; not only what the Lord has done (chap. 11), but is (chap. 12), constrains loving hearts to gratify His desire for response. If in chap. 11 He wept with them, we see in chap. 12 that He rejoiced with them. Blessed Partner in sorrow and in joy alike! Not alone "every room" that He may "abide with us," but the homage of our hearts we would render, taught by the scene of John, 12 that (like Lazarus) as "new creatures in Christ Jesus," "passed from death unto life," we may enjoy what new birth introduces us to, His company; may exercise the holy privilege of "sitting at the table with Him" – communion; may emulate in worship, Mary, pouring our hearts' unreserved store upon His loved Person and, like Martha, may serve where every activity derives its value from its Object – "Inasmuch as. . . .ye have done it unto Me." Dear to our Lord that "they made Him a supper." Communion and worship and service does so yet. Lazarus "at the table with Him," in resurrection life, shows what awaits believers, "ever with the Lord" in glory. Meanwhile, Lazarus witnessed the power of new life:not what he said, but was, demonstrated the work of grace that led "many," because of Lazarus, to believe on Jesus.

Mary, by lovely example, enters into His mind, anticipating the intentions of His love (His approaching death). Suited worship pours its richest treasures on the sacred head of the rejected King (Matt. 26:7), and upon the feet (John 12:3) that brought the Son of God as a lowly Man to Bethany's. humble home. Her estimate of His Person, "three hundred pence," contrasts in bright relief with the "thirty pieces of silver" that Judas and the chief priests allotted as the price of His betrayal. Such worship as Mary's the worldly-minded still regard as "waste"; but it was not left for Mary to vindicate her devotion – her Lord and Saviour answered for her. Every loyal heart may rest content that such worship gratifies Him, as the imperishable record of His appreciation of Mary's ointment proves. The rarity of worship "in spirit and in truth" may be gauged by this solemn fact-that we read of only one alabaster box of ointment broken for bestowal upon Him! May the Lord awaken grateful hearts to bring Him many!

Mary's worship was no sudden impulse. Of that which expressed her devotion we are told, "She hath kept this" -too costly to use it herself or bestow it on others, but not too costly for His anointing. Wicked hands would soon do Him violence:her loving hands would bring to Him her treasure store. Such the inestimable value of the Person of Christ in her esteem! Then His esteem the record publishes. The kind of "box," the weight of "precious ointment," its value and its fragrance, all receive divine mention. Her reverence for the Son of God, attested by the use of her glory (hair) to wipe His feet, and the memorial of her act as far-flung as the gospel, all combine to characterize worship as that which our God "is seeking." May the Holy Spirit mightily move our hearts to pour out, as Mary did, our love for Him in worship!

Contrasts serve to endear Bethany to our Lord and those who love Him:

A world of foes, including temple worshipers; A handful of friends delighting in His company at Bethany.

Mary gave to gratify her Saviour;
Judas sold his Lord to acquire thirty pieces of silver.

Mary drew the attention of all to her Lord-
Judas would turn all thoughts to "the poor,"

"Why this waste?" is yet the universal human verdict;
Divinely weighed, we learn love's sacrifice is never "wasted."

A chorus of accusers may still be heard below;
An Advocate to plead His people's cause lives on high.

With Martha here there is no cumbrance or complaining, calling for reproof, but unselfish love waiting upon the desires of His heart. The one thing needful learned, her ministering to Him shines now as acceptable service in the glittering galaxy of communion, worship, service. the essentials for that Bethany supper prepared for Him. Not "many things," but one object sought after, her example tells us that Christ Himself (surely our one Object in a coming eternity) should here and now win from our lives such grateful service as the love that bore the sufferings of the cross demands, viz.:that we should be at His disposal and saved for His pleasure, having hearts that covet the joy of constantly gratifying His every wish, by such service honoring Him in a scene where bold scorning or cold indifference sadly contrast with this communion, the mutual joy of loving hearts; the being in His company for the simple joy of it; with worship, the homage of the heart to which He has become "the preciousness" (1 Pet. 2:7, New Trans.); with service, testimony flowing out of communion, devoted regard for His interests, serving His heart, studying His pleasure. We are warned against objectors, such as Judas; all who are mere followers of profession-betrayers as with a "kiss"-terming only that as service which regards human advantage, the "poor," etc., and as "waste" the heart's lofty purpose to gratify Him only; and such bear no such marks of true service as Paul's "humility," "tears," etc. (Acts 20:17-35). On the other hand we are encouraged to treasure in the secret of our souls the heavenly incentive His words, "Me ye have not always," should exercise over our lives.

In the heaven we soon shall enter, there will be no reproach, no cross to bear, or shame to suffer for His sake, no world to refuse or self to deny. It is only here we have Him to honor by identifying ourselves with His rejection, by standing for Him amidst the hatred and antagonism of enemies of the cross of Christ; seizing the brief opportunity to have "fellowship with His sufferings" before it passes forever, to be succeeded by the fellowship of His glory.

Bethany, dear Bethany! The Christ of God was there to share their happiness, and still it is His joy to manifest His loving presence where He is welcomed by hearts desiring His company because attracted to His Person. A feast for Him His loved ones spread (John 12). A feast for them He provides (John 21:9,12). His love is not chilled by undeserving on their part. The gracious appeal of His feast for them is well calculated to lift dull spirits to His presence. They were cold; He knew it. Hungry; He knew it. Fearful; He knew it. Ashamed; He knew it. But, the same as before, their Lord was thinking of them, spreading for them a table of refreshment. Companionship-with our risen and glorious Head, desired by Him, so blessed for us, even amid Laodicean abhorrent conditions-may to His joy and ours be experienced yet. That He should be outside (Rev. 3:20) shows what recreant hearts are ours; that He should "knock" shows the measureless love that will not be denied His desire of companying with those He loves so dearly; presenting Himself and the purpose of His love to "sup with us," sharing, feeling, bearing the pressure of our earthly pilgrimage. Then to "sup with Him" in the heavenly scenes where fellow-participation in joys unending will forever satisfy the Eternal Lover and His loved ones. E. J. Checkley

FOLLOWING THE DEVINE PLAN

We have been much impressed from time to time when reading letters from missionaries, to notice how the characteristics of the early Church have been duplicated over and over again in heathen lands where the gospel has been preached in simplicity and in dependence upon God, and where Scriptural order has been followed.

God has a plan for His people of this dispensation, just as He had in the past. When giving Moses instructions concerning the tabernacle He said, "See that thou make it according to the pattern showed to thee in the mount;" and today if God's approval and blessing are to be obtained our service should be in accordance with the pattern so clearly revealed in the New Testament Scriptures. The following remarks and extracts from missionaries' letters will show the blessing which is given when the Divine pattern is followed.

About nine years ago a few Christians, after much exercise and waiting upon the Lord for guidance, set out to preach the gospel in a far-off heathen land. They went forth for His Name's sake taking nothing from the Gentiles, after having first obtained the commendation and fellowship of their brethren.

On arrival at the place laid upon their hearts, houses had to be built, language and customs of the natives studied. Bricks were made for the foundations of the houses, and much prayer for the foundation of the work. In a letter we read:

"We are laying the foundations, and bricks are being made," etc.

"We are praying that the Lord will open up a work here."

"We long with you for the salvation of these people, and earnestly desire help in prayer."

Two years pass by, and then we read:

"We are putting in long hours, and have the satisfaction of seeing the work grow."

A few more months, and then we are told of the great joy felt when the first convert publicly confesses the Lord. Others follow, and we read:

"We have been much rejoiced to have five ask for baptism. The truth as to this was put to them in classes for Christians during the past few months, and we believe that these have asked to be baptized as a result of exercise. We trust that this is the earnest of what the Lord may be doing among these people."

Four months later we again read:

"Last Lord's Day it was our pleasure to baptize eight natives in the Name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. This was a very happy occasion for them all, and we are thankful to the Lord for those who shall be His throughout eternal day."

The good news continues almost month by month, and we frequently observe such statements as:

"There have been a number lately who have confessed Christ. Blessed be the Lord who alone doeth wondrous things."

"There has been increasing interest and attendance at our recent meetings, and several more have confessed the Lord."

The increasing number of con verts, makes the missionaries deeply conscious of their responsibility to guide and instruct. As in the early Church, this of necessity has to be almost entirely by oral ministry, for up to this time even the New Testament had not been completely translated into the native tongue. We read:

"We are seeking to bring believers into the full knowledge of the Lord's mind regarding gathering and ministry, also the relationship of Christ and His Church. May the Lord lead them on and reveal His mind to them and to us."

"Pray that the Christian women may come to see their place in the assembly and learn to rejoice in the Truth."

That prayer was answered is very evident, for it was net long before we read:

"We have been remembering the Lord with the native brethren, and it has been a happy occasion. A number gather, including three sisters."

Two more years pass by, during which time it might be said of the native Christians, "They continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread and in prayers."

Soon it could also be said of them as of the Thessalonians, "For from you sounded out the Word of the Lord." Letters came to hand telling us that:

"Four young men have lately gone out into the Lord's work, preaching the gospel and teaching. We thank God for laying the work on their hearts and for giving them grace to go and do it."

"Interest grows fast and we only pray that His hand, His power, and His glory may be completely manifested; that, and that only."

"The Lord has heard prayer in turning several young men and women to Himself."

"The Lord's grace has been manifested lately in a further number being saved. Last Lord's Day twenty-three were baptized."

"We are setting before our native brethren the need of evangelization work at every opportunity."

"The work of the Holy Spirit is in evidence in thp hearts of the people on the station. Not a few are confessing Christ as their Saviour; some twenty persons confessed Him at a recent gospel service."

The need of and requests for prayer have been noticed in almost every letter, and now comes a special request for "gifts."

"We seek your prayers that the Lord will greatly edify and establish His saints here, and to this end may He raise up among them gifts whereby to strengthen them in the Lord."

"We expect to leave here and to be away for some time. Our native brethren are taking over the responsibility of the local assembly, school," etc.

How this reminds us of that passage in Philemon, "In time past… .unprofitable, but now profitable."

After a year's absence the missionaries return and find in answer to prayer, the saints going on happily, gifts developed, the gospel preached, and many led to the Lord.

Yet, too, as in the early Church, Satan has been busy; some have turned back to their old ways, and others have been enticed by the false doctrines of Rome. Prayer again is made and requested, and we read:

"The Lord is working here, as also is Satan."

"Will you please pray, as we do, that the dear people of the Lord here may be delivered from all their former superstitions and fears of witchcraft."

"Pray especially for His sheep; the Enemy seeks their spiritual downfall by every means."

"'Some who have fallen have confessed and been restored."

How true is the Scripture, "But now the Lord saith… for them that honor Me I -will honor" (1 Sam. 2:30).

CHINA

Our brethren Kautto and Foggin, after spending a month visiting cut-stations, have returned to Taitowying. Owing to the unsettled state of the country they found it difficult to get people out to gospel meetings-Brother Kautto reports the birth of a son, Paul Daniel. Mrs. Kautto and baby are doing well. We. rejoice with the happy parents in this token of -the Lord's goodness to them.

AFRICA

Brother Robert Deans writes as follows:-

How very grateful we all are for your continued thoughtfulness in the Lord's work in these parts. May He enrich your souls daily with the knowledge of Himself (Phil. 3:10).

The Roman Catholic opposition is showing up here. They, the "white fathers," have planted a teacher about half-a-mile from one of our out-schools, thus making it far harder for the Christian out-school teacher, as many of his boys are easily led away by the medals the Roman Catholics give to hang around their necks. Let us hope the medals will prove to be, what they rightly are, millstones.

With all the vexation of spirit caused from both "within" and "without," the Lord gave a very precious text the other day, in fact one that was greatly needed:"When He giveth quietness, who then can make trouble?" (Job 34:29).

May we all learn to cast our burdens upon Him for He has invited us to do so.

Mr. and Mrs. Searle and children were well the last time we saw them-all busily engaged in the work of the Lord.

Bill has either undergone, or is to undergo, an operation on his tonsils. He has already gone to Dr. Decker, who is now much nearer than where he was before, namely Aba-he is now at a place called Beni, the same distance from Irumu as Mambasa, in the forest, but S. W. of Irumu, while Mambasa is direct West.

The last time we heard from those at Mambasa, they were all well, and finding much to do in spreading the gospel story.

We do praise His gracious and blessed name for the evidences of His grace shown daily here. The natives are still coming to Christ, one by one.

BY ROGER B. EAMES

We are living in critical days. The sinister forces of evil are working covertly. The "rulers of the darkness of this world" are tremendously active, working through both Gentile and Jewish agencies. Scripture assures us that government is of God:"The powers that be are ordained of God." Satan's efforts are being directed toward the overthrow of what God has instituted. What he cannot overthrow he would corrupt and' pervert to the furtherance of his own designs.

With the Civil Authority more completely under his power, he next directs his machinations to the overthrow of faith, and seeks the control of individual conscience. The tremendous battle between the forces of good and evil in the world is approaching the crisis of the ages.

The revolution in Russia a few years ago, which has produced such dire results in the attempted extermination of Christianity in that country, has now overtaken Germany in a different form, but with a similar end in view, and there are many indications that this country also is hastening toward some very radical changes.

"CHRIST OR MYTHOLOGY FOR GERMAN RELIGION?" is the title of a recent article in The Literary Digest. To quote:"Not since Luther threw his inkwell at the devil in the historic Wartburg has the religious situation in Germany been so agitated or the Christian world been so aghast at the lengths to which the program of coordination have gone….For a time the Evangelical churches valiantly resisted nationalization, and brought matters to a head by electing.. .an orthodox pastor to the office of Reichs-bishop. He was deposed by Hitler in favor of the Chancellor's Protestant adviser, Dr. Ludwig Mueller, and the churches were forced to fuse into a single Reich's Church. Dr. Mueller was ably seconded by the Bishop of Brandenburg, who taught that if conscience conflicted-with the will of the nation conscience must acknowledge itself Wrong. Since then conscience has been pretty well split up, with some results startling to a "world already troubled by war on religion in Russia, Spain and Mexico."

"The non-Christian German Faith Movement would select its religion from the ancient sagas and return to Iceland as the isle of revelation."

"The ultra-church Nazis met recently in Berlin to arrange for the new revelation. The meeting was under the aegis of the German Research Society. The delegates agreed., .that Christianity was not meant for Germans."

These extracts will suffice to show some of the results of the Chancellor's coercive measures, which are forcing the followers of Luther and Calvin to return to the pagan faith of their fathers and take the swastika in the place of the cross as their emblem.

The higher criticism which began its destructive work in the German universities many years ago has paved the way for the well-nigh complete apostasy from the Christian faith which is apparent today, and the end is not yet. There are many real Christians in Germany who are outside of these movements, and whose individual faith will shine brightly in the deepening darkness. Paganism and atheism may prevail over central Europe, while in .western Europe we may expect the Roman Catholic church to increase her prestige and wield her authority over the nations of the coming revived Empire.

GERMANY’S POLITICAL ASPIRATIONS. "Germany's territorial ambitions.. .turn in the direction where they can do the least harm and the most good-towards the east of Europe… .It is to the thinly populated areas of western Russia that the Nationalist Socialist Government looks for an outlet. It would help to restore the Russian people to a civilized existence."

"The Ukraine is the richest portion of the Soviet Union, with its rich deposits of iron ore and manganese, its coal mines, its oil wells, its agricultural lands capable of serving as the granary of Europe."

"Upon the contingency of a Soviet-Japanese conflict on the Amur rests ultimately the chance of Hitler's ability to carry out his policy, and his position would be strengthened thereby more than by any other circumstance."-(Extracts from "Madness in Middle Europe " -Scribner's).

This means that if Japan engages Russia in warfare in the Far East, Germany will take advantage of the situation by invading Russia in Europe to acquire territory in the Ukraine, defeat the Russian armies and rid the world of Communism. An ambitious program, which in any event would relieve the tension along the Rhine and the Danube.

THE OLDEST BIBLE in the world, called the "Codex Sinaiticus," was discovered in a convent at the foot of Mount Sinai by Dr. Tischendorf, a native of Saxony. He first visited the place in 1844 and secured 43 sheets of a copy of the Old Testament in Greek. There were more leaves of the book, but the monks refused to give them up. Later, hi 1859, armed with the authority of the Czar of Russia, the doctor returned to the Monastery and found in a monk's cell the Codex, which consists of 346 leaves of fine parchment or vellum, containing 22 out of the 39 books of the Old Testament and the whole 27 books of the New Testament. These leaves, 15 x 131/2 inches, are made of the skins of a large animal, probably antelope. The book dates from the fourth century, or earlier, and is the oldest manuscript in existence. It was lodged among the royal treasures in St. Petersburg for many years until the Soviet Government came into power. Recently it was sold by them to the British Museum Authorities for half-a-million dollars, and it has already been seen by many thousand visitors in the Main Hall of the Museum.-(From "The Witness.")

AN EARTHQUAKE described as "being among the greatest of all time" visited the northern part of India in January. This quake in the Himalayas was of exceptional violence, destroying many fine buildings of heavy concrete construction. "The greatest damage to life and property occurred in Nepal and Bihar, there being 6,000 killed in the latter province alone. Great fissures were torn in the earth's surface and the channel of the Ganges river greatly altered. In 900 miles of railway there is hardly a mile of track undisturbed and no bridge undamaged. A part of the country 45 miles square (about 2,000 square miles) has been so affected as to be unfit for cultivation without extensive reclamation."-(Extracts from "London Illustrated News.")

The reported upheaval and churning of the earth's surface over a wider area may be similar to that which will overtake Palestine toward the end of the tribulation period, when much of the topography of the country will be altered to suit the millennial conditions (Zech. 14:3, 5,10).
DAMASCUS, first mentioned in Genesis 14:15, is the most ancient city of Syria. It appears at various times in the history of Israel, and in the New Testament in connection with Paul's conversion and later life. Bagdad, near the ruins of Babylon, in Mesopotamia, lies 470 miles due east of Damascus, across the Syrian desert. These two cities, having each a population of 250,000, have recently been linked together by the installation of a motor-bus line which runs across the desert, making the trip in 24 hours, while formerly it required 22 days ma camel-back. The terrain of the desert is favorable to the dual pneumatic tires, so that no particular road is required, the cars choosing their own route. These two large cities, being in the arena of prophetic events, may be heard from again.

O Lord, Thy loving-kindness,
The warmth of Thine embrace,
My ransomed soul's enjoying,
Delighting in Thy grace.

But far more satisfaction,
And infinite delight,
My ransomed soul affords Thee,
Made glorious in Thy sight.

Thy joy exceeds all measure,
O'er sinful souls made nigh;
Fulfilling Thy desire
To have them, Lord, on high.

Thy Church-O blest conception!
Thy Body and Thy bride!-
To make her Thy possession,
Blest Saviour, Thou hast died.

Thou, Lord, to everlasting :
How satisfied wilt be,
To harvest for Thy pleasure
The fruit of Calvary!

E. J. Checkley

We may be assured that, if we walk as saints, we shall not be liable to a sudden overthrow. The last step in a fall is the last of a series of steps, and there are many of these before a child of God reaches the verge of the precipice. But we may travel far from God while others see nothing of the journey. Some of our worst falls are not those which the world sees. It is the first step that should alarm us, and if only we mourned over what is secret, we should not need to be chastened because of what becomes evident. Selected.

"THE CARE OF ALL THE CHURCHES"

The Apostle Paul writing to the Corinthian saints in 2nd Corinthians told of sufferings, perils and hardships endured in the Lord's service, and then added "Beside these things that are without that which cometh upon me daily, the care of all the churches" (11:28).

In a measure the same is true of many missionaries today, First there is the hardship of pioneer work in heathen lands, difficulties and dangers of travel, hostility and treachery of the natives, discomfort and weariness.

After years of toil the seed sown begins to bear fruit and some are converted. Further time is spent in slowly and laboriously teaching the new born saints. Eventually an assembly is formed, the work spreads and other assemblies spring up. The missionary of necessity now becomes teacher and pastor and like the Apostle Paul becomes burdened with "the care of the churches." At this stage little is said of personal difficulties or hardships but that which concerns the native church is prominent in letters and conversation.

From Nyangkundi pur brethren Searle and Will Deans write of the work laid upon them in the care of several assemblies and 21 out-stations. Let us remember our brethren and this phase of this work constantly in prayer. A map of the locality is inserted with the desire that it may help to this end.

The following letters and extracts give tidings of the Lord's work in this and other lands.

AFRICA

Nyangkundi, April 7.

All the native brethren who have gone out from the assembly at Nyangkundi to labor in the bush schools were present at a little conference we had for them over the last week end. That is, all were present except one who was 99:The Lord gave rich spiritual blessing in the study of His word. Reports were given by the various brethren, all of which tended to drive us to our knees in praise and thanksgiving, and a spirit of prayer for the future. Several told of recent conversions.

(PAGES 306-307 ARE A MAP)

April 23.

It seems as though even a suspicion of lukewarmness is the forerunner of a fall. One brother has been put away recently for adultery. He was much used at one time in the Gospel (and we trust he shall be again), but lukewarmness crept in, and now he is sorrowing outside. We trust that the Lord, the Restorer of souls, will restore him shortly. Several other brethren have succumbed to the temptation of drink. Pray that they may ever have the hope of seeing the Lord before them. "And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself even as He is pure."
May 21.

Truly, the ways of the Lord are past finding out. His workings are marvelous, incomprehensible. Praise God! We get glimpses of His power in preservation and direction that make us speechless with awe. Such an experience has been mine the past two weeks. In great danger, the Lord delivered; in grips with the adversary the Lord prevailed.-Wm. Deans.

Lolwa.

The people are still coming to school, there being 140 on the roll now. I am sure you would all be happy to both see and hear them. If the Lord tarry we expect in a few years to see able teachers going out amongst their own people.-Robert Deans.

CHINA

Kaotai Kansu, May 4.

You will notice that I have a new address. When I wrote you last I mentioned going to Kaotai as a possibility, so here I am. I arrived about two weeks ago bringing a Chinese brother with me. We were over a week getting a place to rent, but at last succeeded and it is very suitable. I have the top floor of a double story building for living quarters which is newly built and therefore clean, and also a shop at the front on the main street which I am having fixed up for a preaching place. I have had a man busy papering and tomorrow he will likely finish up with whitewashing the plastered walls. My new posters have just arrived so I will be able to put them up and. preach to the people as they come in. This is the centre of a large farming area and I judge there are thousands who have never once heard the Gospel preached. Was out in the country yesterday preaching and looking over the land. Was privileged to present the Gospel to some for the first time. You ask the question, "What would be the problems confronting a new worker?" The first is the language which is difficult and so different from other languages. The next is Chinese thinking and Chinese conditions. Everything is adverse to the foreign mind and for this reason the newcomer is constantly exasperated and getting into trouble. It has been said that it is a great blessing that the language is so hard to learn because if the new missionary could speak the language right away he would do more harm the first few years than he could undo the rest of his life. However this may be exaggerated but you see the point. When he first comes he thinks that the older missionaries are all wrong in their methods but the simple reason is that the older missionary has adapted himself to Chinese thinking.

Well here I am settled at Kaotai, feeling satisfied that it is the right place, for the present at least. I have been preaching in the shop these few days and at times have had good crowds and feel sure that the seed sown is not in vain. Today there were not so many as usual but it was the most encouraging of all days as I had several interested ones, one professing to be converted. He claims he has confessed his sins and accepted Christ as his Saviour. Another who was interested said he was hindered because of his family. I happened to have Bunyan's Pilgrim's Progress with me so I read the first chapter and part of the second to him and the part where Christian left his family, determined to find the way of life, was very fitting to this man's case. The Chinese seem to understand analogies very readily, and possibly they have more force with them than with us.
–GEORGE FOGGIN.
Lingyuenhsein, Manchoukuo, June 23.

We are rejoicing this morning, for Robert has run the first tract off our little press. Being cut off from the mission presses in China proper, we are hoping this will be made a great blessing to many precious souls, as well as being a convenience to workers all through the district. Please ask the friends to pray for the press and also for the Christian lad, Chen-Pao, who is to run it, and who hopes to soon make it self-supporting. I would also ask for prayer for tracts we are distributing among the Japanese, some are by our brother Craig, now in Oakland, Calif., and another is "God's Way of Salvation" by the late Alex. Marshall.

Conditions in China are getting worse every day. Just within the last few days an old missionary with forty odd years' faithful service was ruthlessly shot down by robbers while defending his aged wife and grand-daughters. Our brethren and sisters in "The Celestial Empire" need much prayer made on their behalf. –EDWIN J. THARP.

WEST INDIES

St. Vincent, B. W. I., May 24.

I returned yesterday from a two-weeks' visit to Union Island, where meetings were held nightly but consisted chiefly of ministry for Christians as the rain had commenced and the people were very busy working the ground from which they only get one crop a year. The larger islands are favored with more rain and produce much more per acre. The Gospel was told out to a goodly number on the Sunday nights.

We baptized four women while there, two of middle age and the others, rather elderly. One of the latter was the mother of a young woman who professed about the middle of last year and was baptized on my last visit.

We were grieved to find that the recent loss of a small sailing vessel, when about eighteen or twenty were drowned, had added two more widows to the assembly, one with eight and the other with five children, all young. It was a pathetic sight to see the youngest of the two widows having to leave her children to go and work a small piece of land about two miles from her home to try and find food for her family. The poverty of most of the people there is intense. We were further saddened to hear of the mis-behavior of two of those in fellowship which called for excommunication. One of these had gone on consistently for about seven years and been a help among the children.-W. B. Huxster.

SOUTH AFRICA

Santiago, Chile, June 6.

We had much to discourage us on our return to Chile, some had ceased to "run well" and the love of others had "waxed cold" but now lost ground has been regained and the Lord has given us encouragement. We now have many opportunities for proclaiming the Gospel. An open-air meeting on Sunday mornings is giving good results. This is held near to the market-place and we always get a crowd.
We have also begun at a village outside the city where a brother has gone to live. We go there twice a week and the interest is good, but the priest is much annoyed.

I also go once a week to Bancagua, where there already is an assembly. The Russellites tried to get in there during our absence, but the brethren detected the error in their teachings. They still need a lot of instruction.–A STENHOUSE.

HARBOR WORK-New York

"Blessed are ye that sow beside all waters." Having brother Wm. Huss of Boston as our companion in the course of ship visitation here, we found an old Mohammedan Bos'n who was able to converse in English. He was a devout believer in the Koran and defended his religious views warmly. Said sins were washed away in the waters of Mecca. Brother Huss thereupon asked him how he, an American, unable to get to Mecca, could get his sins washed away. What a dilemma our poor friend found himself in! It seemed to open his eyes and after some very important Bible truths about sin and its true remedy had been put before him we felt certain that we left a very much exercised man.

Approaching two Newfoundland seamen in the forecastle of a small British passenger vessel, I found them both just coming out of a drunken sleep. Neither had any knowledge of God, though both knew something of the Bible. One especially, almost boiled over at the thought of resurrection and a life after this one. But on finding out that he had a great love for his departed Christian mother I told him how he could positively meet her again if he would but comply with God's terms. At this all of his bitterness vanished and he became quite soft. The other man too appeared much moved.

A few days after these events I had a golden opportunity with a well educated young wireless operator who was practically on infidel ground. His attitude was rather strong at first. He quoted Carl Marx, the Koran and other anti-Christian books. Like myriads of others in the present day, the thought of eternal punishment was too much for him. How could a God of mercy and love plan such a future for "His children"? The discussion lasted for almost an hour but when it ended he melted and begged me to return. In fact I believe God was dealing with him for he spoke at the end like one under conviction.

Much different from any of these was the young English steward we met late one afternoon in the Red Hook section of the Brooklyn waterfront. He was quite open. I left him some excellent Gospel literature. Said he had recently lost his father. Then he asked where the mission was and although he finished his work late went to the James Slip Gospel Mission where he confessed the Lord at the end of the meeting. We praise God for this fruit.-R. A. West.

A Request for Prayer-

Recent news from Africa would indicate that the time has come for Mr. and Mrs. Deans and their two children, Ella and Bob, to return home on furlough. Prayer is therefore requested that they may have the Lord's guidance in this matter and if it be His will funds may be forthcoming.

COMMENTS

Nov. 1st, 2 Chron. 24; Nov. 15th, Ezra 2; Nov. 30th, Nehemiah 8; Dec. 15th, Esther 9.

Under the guidance of Jehoiada the priest, Joash begins his reign. Under this training the king's heart is directed to the Lord's house, –' which had been broken up by the sons of wicked Athaliah. The house was repaired and worship re-established. This continued while Jehoiada lived, but sad departure comes in after his death. Joash evidently was not established in the ways of the Lord, and is quickly turned aside, going so far as to slay Jehoiada's son, who was sent by God to witness against the evil. Doing good while godly influence surrounded him, when it is removed Joash is seen to lack purpose of heart and personal steadfastness. He does not appear to have been in the secret of the Lord for himself, and so utterly breaks down when the test comes. Let this lesson search our own hearts to see how far our course is shaped by what surrounds us only, instead of there being a deep, real conviction of heart and mind through personal dealing with God, so that we shall be able to stand when those who may have been so helpful and kind are removed.

If there is turning aside from God, judgment will follow (vers. 23, 24), we reap what we sow (ver. 25), and lose the honor we should have received in the end.

Amaziah (ch. 25), in the main, follows the Lord, but when he does not, finds (as ever) sorrowful consequences. In hiring the army of Israel, he shows lack of dependence upon God, and doubtless a desire for self-aggrandizement by its use. When any such self-seeking comes in, we turn to carnal weapons, to confidence in the flesh, and this leads into unholy alliance. If those who are God's people do this, He must let them fall before the enemy (ver. 8). However, Amaziah obeys the man of God, but not without loss of treasure which might have been spared (vers. 9,13). Edom is overcome, but the victory turns to a terrible defeat, for he bows down to Edom's gods. Let us beware. The things in which we prosper may turn our hearts from the very God through whose mercy we are helped. "Children, keep yourselves from idols." Out of touch with God, pride and presumption are shown and followed, spite of warning from God's prophet and even from an evil man. "Take heed . . . lest any of you be hardened through the deceitful-ness of sin."

Uzziah sought the Lord, and prospered (26:4, S) while he remained within his God-given sphere, but no prosperity can keep a man from evil if he goes beyond the place God would have him in. Intruding upon the priestly place Uzziah becomes a leper-the corruption of sin is manifested if we deliberately pursue our own proud wills. Jotham, his son, does better. He avoids the sin of his father, and a beautiful thing is said of him:"Jotham became mighty because he prepared his ways before the Lord his God."

The history of Ahaz is one of dreadful evil from the commencement of his reign. God brings in terrible judgment, using Syria to chastise him and Judah, for the nation followed him in wickedness, as Isaiah bears witness. Israel also, whose ways Ahaz followed, was allowed to punish Judah severely. The evil things men take up and follow greedily, become the lash which punishes them. Yet God remembers mercy in the midst of judgment, seeking thus to reach the heart and conscience of the wayward (ch. 28:9-15). But Ahaz turns to Assyria for help, and "in the time of his distress did he trespass yet more against the Lord." Solemn and awful testimony, so sadly true of men in their unbelief and rebellion !

Ahaz was the wicked son of a godly father (Jotham); Hezekiah, the godly son of a wicked father (Ahaz); his history (chs. 29-32) is full of precious instruction. It is like a miracle that such a man should come out of the house of Ahaz. How it reminds us that God is at work behind the darkest scenes! In his first year Hezekiah begins to attend to the Lord's interests, cleansing God's house, arranging its order, and then seeking to draw the whole nation, though divided, back to the true centre of worship and testimony. Notice, he works from the centre outward, beginning with the name and claim of God, His glory for His people. This must ever be first. This leads to the celebration of the passover in an unprecedented fashion (ch. 30), to the purging of the land from evil, and the ordering of service and worship (ch. 31). When such conditions exist through the mercy of God, it is not surprising to see the enemy appear. But dependence upon God brings deliverance, as it always will. Spite of this wonderful record, we see failure at the end. Hezekiah falls sick, his life is prolonged, God answering his cry in a remarkable manner. Hezekiah's heart is lifted up, and God must try him so that he may know his heart. The visit of Babylon's ambassadors brings the test, and Hezekiah failed. But he humbled himself and is spared from the wrath in his day. Truly, there is only One in whom there is no variableness or shadow of turning-the Christ of God whose every way is perfect, whose every footfall is in the path of obedience to the divine will.

Manasseh and Amon follow, then the bright days of Josiah, ending, however, also with failure. The end comes for Judah during the brief reigns of the next three kings. The closing verses of 2 Chronicles carry us to the decree of Cyrus, and so to the beginning of Ezra and Nehemiah.

These two books record the return and establishment of a remnant in the land according to the promise given by Jeremiah. But it is a return under the Gentile yoke, and this will continue until the Messiah comes in glory as the Deliverer out of Zion. Then "the times of the Gentiles" will end. This restoration, therefore, is not a return to former conditions, as in the days of David and Solomon, which cannot be until Christ comes as the Lion of Judah and the Prince of Peace, of which those days are typical. It is a return under the continued evidence of God's judgment, and as acknowledging it, but faith resting upon the Word of God and its promises with all Israel in view, even though dispersion continues and only a comparative few seek the place of the altar and house. This history affords instruction for our days, which are similar in character, though connected with the Church as set upon earth to be God's present witness, as was Israel in her day.

Speaking generally, Ezra gives us the setting up of the altar and the building of the second temple as the divine centre for the remnant, and along with this, of necessity, a revival of the authority of the Word of God. The truth of this Word is confirmed by God's action in raising up Cyrus. When He works for revival it means a separation from surrounding evils, and the vessels are brought out of Babylon. The altar again set up, the offerings, the feast of tabernacles are kept as it is written -the person and work of Christ, and the hope of glory in Him, as we may say. Refusal to compromise with what is not of God brings conflict, the enemy opposes and hinders. But God raises up prophetic ministry (Haggai and Zechariah) by which the hearts and energies of the people are revived, and they are freshly delivered from selfish interests to serve the Lord. And so the house is finished.

Weakness and failure are evident as the years pass, and Ezra is raised up (ch. 7:6,10). His attitude of dependence, refusal of confidence in what man might supply, and his faithfulness to the holy requirements of God's Word, is an example to us (8:21-23; chs. 9,10).

With Nehemiah another aspect of work, connected with a remnant testimony, is suggested in building the wall and setting up the gates. Amid many hostile influences, we need to guard against the intrusion of what would corrupt the place of the altar and the house. Nehemiah did not build the wall to keep out those who were of Israel, but as a protection against wicked men who sought to associate themselves with the work of the Lord.

Let us remember Nehemiah's word:"Ought ye not to walk in the fear of our God because of the reproach of the heathen our enemies?" (5:9).

The entrance is guarded, gifts made for the Lord's work, and the Word of God given its place, with the result that reverence, worship, self-judgment, as well as joy and obedience, mark the people's attitude (chs. 7, 8). This is ever the result of the Word dwelling in our hearts by faith.

"I ought to study Christ as a living Saviour more; as a Shepherd, carrying the sheep He finds; as a King, reigning in and over the souls He has redeemed; as a Captain, fighting with those who fight with me; as One who has engaged to bring me through all temptations and trials, however impossible to flesh and blood." McCheyne.

(Isa. 50:4-9)

Those who believe on our Lord Jesus Christ, confessing Him to be both their Saviour and Lord, are called to follow in His steps (1 Pet. 2:21). They are to be characterized by His mind and spirit (Phil. 2:5). This being so, whatever helps us to learn of Him must have its importance for us. Let m therefore notice some incidents in His life which serve to show His mind as the obedient Man. What we see in Him is the very opposite of the spirit of the world- lawlessness.

Turning first to the Gospel of Luke (2:51) we read that our Lord returned with His parents to Nazareth and was subject to them. Wondrous grace! He the Creator (Col. 1:16) acting as subject to His creatures.

Today when so many are throwing, off all rule, even at an early age, considering it unmanly to be-subject to their elders, He sets forth what is pleasing to God. And this was true of all those thirty years upon which the Father put His seal of approval at the time of His public appearance. .

Let us follow Him into the scene of His wilderness-temptation, and think particularly of that occasion when we are told the devil "brought Him to Jerusalem, and set Him upon a pinnacle of the temple." The wicked one desired that He should make a public display of Himself by casting Himself down from that height. The suggestion is that He take this way to show Himself to be the Son of God, for since evidently His confidence is in the Word of God, as shown in the previous temptations, is it not written that Divine protection and preservation will be given the One who dwells in the secret place of the Most High and so abides under the shadow of the Almighty? (Ps. 91:1,11,12). Why not put God to the test according to what is written, and so in the presence of the multitude thronging the temple courts show that He is the Son of God, Israel's Messiah? Then they would surely acclaim Him, and He could take the kingdom already proclaimed as at hand without further delay, and bring to the oppressed people its blessings and glories. Was it not His by right? Was He not born to be their King? Again the Lord answers from the Word:"Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God." This at once exposes the evil of the suggestion. To do as bidden would be tempting, not obeying, God; it would not be acting at His command, but at the word of another (and such an one!), to follow whom would be self-will on His part. The Lord's answer also indicates what His "ways" are, reference to which in the psalm the devil had omitted from his evil use of its holy words. The opposite of tempting God is to discern and be subject to His revealed will. In such ways the Divine protection and preservation are assured. The character of His life, its words and deeds, is given in such statements as:

"The Son can do nothing of Himself, but what He seeth the Father do."

"I can of Mine own self do nothing; as I hear I judge; and My judgment is just, because I seek not Mine own will but the will of the Father which hath sent Me."

"I proceeded forth and came from God; neither came I of Myself, but He sent Me."

"My meat is to do the will of Him that sent Me, and to finish His work."
"The works that the Father hath given Me to finish, the same works that I do, bear witness of Me, that the Father hath sent Me."

"I do always those things which please Him."

"I speak that which I have seen with My Father." He was ever with the Father in all His pathway through this world, He ever dwelt in His secret place.

O blessed, obedient Man! God's perfect Servant, God's holy One, the faithful and true Witness, the Righteous, ever loving righteousness and hating iniquity, our Example, whose mind and spirit is to be formed in us and whose steps we are to follow. "He that saith he abideth in Him ought himself also so to walk, even as He walked."

So He would not seek a place for Himself, He would not make a public display, no matter how specious the argument for it, or seemingly great the immediate results to be attained. No propitious combination of circumstances, as men would judge, will lure Him from the only right way for man-that of following the will of God, and in no independent sense his own or that of another creature. Man's true and full blessing lies in recognizing and obeying that will alone, his will being to do that will. In such dependence and subjection man attains his true dignity as God's creature in fellowship with Him.

The pride of life which is of the wicked one, and characterizes the world which lies in him, and is a principle governing fallen man, had no place in our blessed Lord, and in the power of His life which is now ours by faith we are to judge it and exclude it from our practice. The life of Jesus is to be manifest in us.

But on other occasions also, it seems to me, the Lord meets this form of temptation. May not this be true of Mary's action at the marriage feast of Cana? Her words seem to convey the thought that she desired Him to make a public display of His power. This He could detect, for He knew what was in man, and feeling in the suggestion the prompting of the same evil one He had met in the wilderness, though unwittingly proposed by Mary, He refuses it. "Mine hour has not yet come." He waits for the hour of the Father's will.

Another effort along this line is seen when His brethren after the flesh try to persuade Him to popularize Himself by going up to Jerusalem to the feast (John 7). "If Thou do these things, show Thyself to the world." Here is an appeal of the same nature, virtually an attack in the light of what we have been considering, and here in particular connected with unbelief (ver. 5). Does it not seem that the great adversary sought even through our Lord's immediate family to constrain Him to do something for His own aggrandizement, and so to act from Himself, instead of in entire subjection to the Father and only at His direction? And while this was impossible in His case, yet by reason of His perfect moral character as Man He only felt more keenly the evil involved in such suggestions.

In connection with this incident we read that the Lord said:"I go not yet up to this feast, for My time is not yet full come." But later we find Him in the temple speaking as never man spake, as the officers bear witness who were sent to take Him. He abode still in Galilee after thus answering His brethren, waiting until His time had fully come. Does it not suggest His perfect obedience? Of Him it could be truly said, "He never was before His time, and never was behind."

Ah, the lust for popularity which so powerfully influences those who love the things of this world had no place in His heart! We are to purge ours of its snare.

He has left us an example that we should follow in His steps, and we do well to be on our guard against the wiles of the devil in this matter of worldly favor, for such suggestions make a strong appeal to the flesh which is still in us. Such motives may even subtly find a place in our spiritual activities, in our service for the Lord, marring what we do in His name and professedly for His sake alone. "If any man serve Me, let him follow Me."

Another incident of similar import to those we have mentioned, is seen in Peter's remonstrance when the Lord speaks of His suffering and death. On that occasion the Lord brands it as an effort of Satan to turn Him from the path of obedience to the will of the Father. Compare John 10:18.

Upon these occasions, we may say, we see our Blessed Lord's obedience in the face of pressure directly or indirectly exercised by Satan. Let us now observe His spirit of obedience in somewhat different circumstances.

A striking example is found in John 11. The home at Bethany where Jesus loved to dwell was passing through a time of trial. The message sent to the Lord is:"He whom Thou lovest is sick"; and further emphasizing the close attachment between Him and this family it is recorded, "Now Jesus loved Martha, and her sister, and Lazarus." Our first thoughts would have been to rush to the sick-bed, and do everything possible to stem the tide of grief by our sympathy and help. But not so with that obedient Son. His one thought was for the glory of God (ver. 4). Satan would have been glad to see Him go under the pressure of tears and pleadings, but no-"He abode two days still in the same place where He was." When the Jews saw our Lord weeping they said:"Behold how He loved him! And some of them said, Could not this Man, which opened the eyes of the blind, have caused that even this man should not have died?" Yes, He could, but His eye was on the calendar of heaven, and He was here for the glory of God. So His perfect obedience to the Father's will caused His ways to seem strange to the natural man. "The world… .knew Him not," and in the same sense it cannot know or understand us if, as abiding in Him, we walk "even as He walked" (1 John 3:1 with 2:6).

But now consider Him as that hour draws near which had been before Him on many previous occasions. Certain Greeks who desired to see Jesus approach Andrew and Philip, as they tell Jesus (John 12:20). He answered them, "The hour is come that the Son of Man should be glorified." The cross comes before Him, for the corn of wheat must die if it is to bear much fruit. The coming of the Greeks suggested this to Him. That hour, however, cannot be contemplated without trouble of soul (ver. 27). Never was the soul of this obedient One troubled because of even one of His own thoughts, or words, or deeds, as we are so often, for He knew no sin, did no sin, and in Him was no sin. His trouble arose out of the anticipation of the awful darkness and separation which the cross would bring when He was made sin for us. Is it any wonder that He cries out, "What shall I say? Father, save Me from this hour?" No, He cannot, for the cause connected with that hour is the glory of the Father's name, and however dreadful the prospect, He is not moved from the one great purpose of His path, and so says, "Father, glorify Thy name." The answering Voice from heaven declares, "I have both glorified it, and will glorify it again." Our gracious Lord was bringing glory to the Father's name by His obedient walk among men, and the Father would further glorify His name in the Son through the work of that terrible "hour" now so near and the glorious fruitage which would spring from it in resurrection.

The hour having arrived, "Jesus, knowing all things that should come upon Him, went forth and said, 'Whom seek ye?' " (John 18:4). He delivered Himself up into their hands, as He had said, "No man taketh My life from Me." He gave it up freely for our redemption, but as in perfect obedience to the Father and for His glory.

Truly, He could say, "I seek not mine own glory." We who are His, who are of that fruit brought forth through His death, should not now seek our own glory, or yield in any way to the temptation to display ourselves, but walk even as He walked, in all lowliness, meekness, and grace. "Take My yoke upon you, and learn of (from) Me:for I am meek and lowly in heart:and ye shall find rest unto your souls." Robert Deans

To cross the threshold of John's Gospel is to find ourselves in the inner sanctuary of Divine revelation. Once within we begin to view on every hand that which manifests God to us who, though never seen by man, is now declared by "the Only Begotten Son, who is in the bosom of the Father, He hath declared Him" (John 1:18, New Trans.). And so the blessed character of this revelation is God revealed as the Father by the One ever in His bosom. He became flesh, that of His fulness we might receive, grace upon grace. Those who receive the Son, who believe on His name, are given to know the name, the word, and the love of the Father.

As we enter this holy of holies where "everything speaketh glory" (Ps. 29:9)-God's glory-we are introduced, first of all, to the blessed Person in whom its effulgence is found, and who is indeed the exact expression of His substance (Heb. 1:2). This introduction is given in the first two chapters of the Gospel. Lights of varied hue, but perfectly blended, break upon us as we pass through the portal of this sanctuary.

These lights shine, as from two golden lampstands, in the fourteen names or titles given to our blessed Lord in these two opening chapters. They carry us in thought from the glorious truth of His eternal being through all time to those final scenes when the course of time has ceased to run, and "the day of eternity" has come (2 Pet. 3:18, New Trans.). He is before us as the One whose "goings forth have been of old, from everlasting" (Micah 5:2), and that from everlasting He is God. In the order of occurrence, He is spoken of as:
1. The Word (1:1).
2. The God (1:1).
3. The true Light (1:9).
4. The Only Begotten (1:14,18).
5. Jesus Christ (1:17).
6. The Lamb of God (1:29,36).
7. A Man (1:30).
8. The Son of God (1:34,49).
9. Rabbi- Teacher (1:38).
10. The Messias – the Christ (1:41).
11. Jesus, the Son of Joseph (1:45).
12. The King of Israel (1:49).
13. The Son of Man (1:51).
14. This Temple (2:19,21).

His eternal being, coequal with God, and coexisting, Himself God, the Creator of all, and Source of life which alone could be the light of men, are the thoughts connected with the first two.

Therefore, this One as come into the world is in His own Person the true Light, in the shining of which God and man are alone fully known.
The rays of this Light have broken forth in the manifestation of that ineffably sweet and ever-existing relationship of Son; for His glory, as contemplated when dwelling among men full of grace and truth, was that of an only begotten with a father, perfect in the moral glory of-love and filial affection as befitted such an One. He was "the Son of the Father, in truth and love," for He came out from the Father and came into the world (2 John 3; John 16:28). In those ways did that true Light shine.

Next, the double title-Jesus Christ-marks Him as being in personality the perfect embodiment of grace and truth. It is not in this case, Jesus the Christ, as in many instances; the form here rather suggests what is characteristic of His Person. Grace beyond our highest thought is in Jesus-"God with us" as Saviour-while as Christ, "Anointed," having the Holy Spirit in His sevenfold perfection, all truth is in and associated with Him (compare Isa. 11:1-5; Acts 3:17-26). He is "Jesus Christ, the faithful Witness."

In beautiful sequence He is now announced as "the Lamb of God." This brings in His work, His sacrifice, by which the blessed name of Jesus is to find its perfect fulfilment for all the redeemed, and in due course for creation itself when all sin shall be taken away. But He who does this is "a Man," for only as being such could the full truth come out, the Word must become flesh. He is the Man who is God's Fellow, as the prophet speaks, but "a man," truly, fully such in perfection and ever pleasing to God, in all lowliness, meekness, tenderness, and loving service for the glory of God, the realization of peace, and His good pleasure in men. "The Word," "a Man!" What a revelation. This, eternity will not exhaust.

He is next spoken of as "the Son of God."- This seems to give a little change of thought from what may appear very close to it, that is, "the Only Begotten Son." He is that as being eternally of the same essence, ever subsisting in the fellowship of the Divine Persons in Son-ship relation. The former is rather the truth that though "a Man," He is acknowledged to be "the Son of God." He is, therefore, what He ever was though now found in manhood. This side of the truth appears emphasized from the connection in which this title is found here. John the Baptist gives utterance to it, linking it with that great moment when the Lord stood in the waters of Jordan and was anointed with,, the Holy Spirit. This marked Him out as the Son of God who thus openly takes His place as the One who would accomplish through death all that Divine righteousness required, whether for the remission of sins, the judgment of all evil, or the ultimate reconciliation of all things to the fulness of the Godhead (Col. 1:20).

Perhaps it might be thought that the next name used here-"Rabbi"-is not to be considered as a Spirit-given title of our Lord. But the record of it cannot be without meaning, and this seems made certain since the Spirit is careful to state what it signifies, that is, "Teacher." This He is in a preeminent way. To Him all must come who would learn of the Father. His words are "spirit and are life" (John 6:63). "Never man spake like this Man." He taught us having superior wisdom and authority, with words of grace and truth. He taught the Word of God (John 7:46; Matt. 13:54; Mark 1:22; Luke 4:22; John 8:40; Luke 5:1).

As a result of abiding with Him, Andrew bears witness:"We have found the Messias." That Messias would be the perfect and final Teacher appears to have been understood generally, as the words of the Samaritan woman would intimate. "I know that Messias is coming, who is called Christ; when He comes He will tell us all things." While this presents Him to us as the One who according to the Divine counsels will rule with a rod of iron and have universal dominion, it also becomes, as the truth unfolds, that name with which many other features of blessing are associated as presented in the epistles. In this development of the truth, this name brings Him before us as the One raised up and given glory in heaven, so that believers now as companions of Christ are partakers of the heavenly calling (Heb. 3:1,14).

The title which follows marks Him as of the house and lineage of David. He is "the Son of Joseph." This clearly intimates the fulfilment in Him of the covenant made with David. He who is Lord, and so called by David, is yet also David's Son (Rom. 1:3; 2 Tim. 2:8; Rev. 22:16). Through Him the sure mercies of David will be fully realized. That our Lord was called Joseph's Son may serve also to indicate that Joseph was known, recognized to be of David's line, for the accompanying description, "We have found Him of whom Moses in the law, and the prophets, did write," shows what was understood as implied in Jesus being the Son of Joseph. He is the fulfilment of such prophecies as Gen. 3:15; 49:10; Num. 24:17-19; Deut. 18:17-19; Isa. 7:14; 9:6,7; 11:1-10; Jer.23:5,6; Mic. 5:1-5; Zech. 13:7.

Now through Nathanael the Spirit of God breaks out in joyous testimony:"Thou art the King of Israel," though careful first to proclaim Him '"the Son of God," for it is the Son who is the Anointed, as in Ps. 2. In response the Lord Himself brings into connection with this, the title, "the Son of Man." Never must it be lost sight of that though He in very truth is all that His other titles tell us, yet He is Man, and as the Son of Man Heir to man's dominion, though first He must redeem it because man has forfeited all through sin. So He is Jesus, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world.

What follows in chap. 2 shows how He will make good what His being the Son of Man really involves. He will both purify and bring in the true wine of joy and blessing, finally indeed God's eternal rest, for the Son of Man is Lord of the sabbath. Through making purification of sins by Himself, He will enter in due course upon His inheritance of all things, and that with those who are redeemed through His precious blood.

And now we come to the last title. It brings in the great truth of resurrection, and shows that, in the exercise of that power of which it is the proof, He will purge out all evil from the house of God-that house in the broader and more inclusive sense of the "all things" which are to be reconciled to the fulness of the Godhead by Him in whom that fulness" dwells, inasmuch as He is peace-maker by the blood of His cross. Thus through judgment He will bring in everlasting righteousness and peace, bringing this groaning creation into the liberty of the sons of God (1 Cor. 15:20-28; Rom. 8:21-23). God has "appointed a day in which He will judge the world in righteousness by that Man whom He hath ordained; whereof He hath given assurance unto all men, in that He hath raised Him from the dead" (Acts 17:31). And so as He stands the judge of evil in His Father's house, the sign of His right to be there and do as He does (and yet will do), is expressed in His declaration, "Destroy this Temple, and in three days I will raise it up." The surpassing greatness of God's power and the glory of the Father were engaged in this great event (Eph. 1:19, 20; Rom. 6:4), but He too had part in it as He here declares, for He and the Father are one. From Him the Son had received commandment to both lay down His life and take it again. It is of interest to note that the word here used for "Temple" specifically refers to the house-the abiding place of the presence and glory of God. This as to the truth of His Person He was and is, actually and fully. "For in Him dwells all the fulness of the Godhead bodily." In the antitype of this scene He will indeed stand forth as the Victor over death in the full power of resurrection, and the triumphant Seed of the woman who puts down all rule and authority, reigning until the last enemy is put under His feet. Then shall the fragrance of the ointment fill all the house to the eternal praise of God by Jesus Christ our Lord. John Bloore

UNITED STATES

Our brother, Geo. M. Landis, of Greenwood Hills, Fayetteville, Pa., gave ten addresses with lantern slides on "Pilgrim's Progress," in the Fairview Gospel Chapel, Altoona, Pa., Jan. 10-21. While primarily for boys and girls, large numbers of adults attended. After the third night the hall was jammed, about a fourth being Romanists. One hundred and sixteen compositions on "Which Picture I liked best, and Why," were turned in by the children. Some inquired the way of salvation and a number showed interest in the matter of their path as Christians. God has evidently set an open door of opportunity in Altoona.

In Pottstown, Pa., at the Bible Truth Hall, brother Landis gave the same series of lantern lectures (Jan. 23-30). The interest was good on the part of both children and adults. Much truth calculated to establish young believers was given, as well as a constant word to the unsaved.

During the following week in the Gospel Hall in Boyertown, Pa., he gave ministry on the first eight chapters of Romans. A number of the addresses were illustrated by chalk diagrams. Interest grew from night to night.

This fall and winter Mr. Landis has also taught Bible classes in Greenwood Hills, Gettysburg, Hanover, Funkstown, Chambersburg, and in the country near Shippensburg. In addition a meeting for boys and girls is held every Friday night in the Greenwood Hills Inn, with an attendance well over 100.

Santa Barbara, Calif., March 6th.-I am on a trip south in the gospel, in English and in Japanese. Spent two weeks at Salinas, Calif., and am now at Santa Barbara. There was much interest in the ministry of the Word with the little assembly at Salinas. I also went about amongst the Japanese with tracts and individual gospel appeals, and was asked to speak at two cottage meetings and the Sunday School of the Japanese Church.

Brother E. K. Bailey, who was used of the Lord with a gospel tent at Salinas last year, has since then been laboring in the gospel in Washington and Oregon with blessing, and is now re-visiting the places in California where he labored. -Eugene B. Craig.

Boston Meeting Room, 739 Boylston St., March 13.

We had a very profitable time at our annual Feb. 22nd meeting, R. A. West and S. Holmgren, of the James Slip Mission in New York, were with us, and their ministry and fellowship was much enjoyed. About ISO from the various nearby meetings were present. We had a very interesting Bible study in the morning on Eph. 4 with addresses in the afternoon and evening. A brother from Africa on furlough gave a short talk on his work in Angola.

These brothers remained over the week-end, and on Saturday evening we had about 35 young folks out to our house, and they enjoyed a profitable evening. The brothers were present, giving a suited word to the occasion and praying with them. How good to see these dear young people so engaged! We are very happy to notice the evident desire of most of them to serve the Lord, and their diligent efforts to better qualify themselves for such work.

The severe whiter has greatly hindered the regular meetings, and both here and at Islington there has been, and still is, quite a little illness. At Worcester they are about as usual, except Mrs. Waterhouse, who was very ill for a time, but is improved. In New Hampshire there are quite a few isolated ones whom I wish to visit soon. They have been quite "buried" hi the snow all winter. The work in Littleton, N. H., goes on with blessing through the godly young women there who give themselves to prayer and the study of the Word.

-Wm. Huss.

San Antonio, Texas., Feb. 19.-I arrived in San Antonio, January 18th, after a very encouraging trip to Florida, visiting some saints on the way, and with some blessing. I called on the Poehners, near Gainesville, Fla., who are anxious to return to their former field of service, Colombia, S. A. They are waiting for the Lord's guidance, and would like a share in the prayers of His people.

A large quantity of tracts were prayerfully distributed on this trip. Pray for this good seed that much fruit may be forthcoming.

Since arriving in San Antonio I have been very busy building a trailer, which brother Ervin Dresch and I hope to have ready for the road in the near future.

Then we plan on making trips along the border, and in out-of-the-way places here in Texas, and would appreciate any gospel tracts and left-over Sunday School papers for this work.

Pray for this great field among the Mexicans.

-G. O. BAXTER.

Pittsburgh, Pa., Mar. 15.-Here hi Pa., I have ministered in various assemblies, homes, jails, and other institutions, since last December. I am now in Pittsburgh helping with the work in two assemblies, Tripoli St. and Long Ave. They are located in new districts, and we are carrying on a door-to-door evangelism, in an effort to awaken interest. A couple have taken their place through this work, and children have been added to the Sunday School in both halls. About 300 homes have been visited, and numbers of people have received the gospel in printed and oral form. Some Roman Catholics come to the Sunday School. One little girl has encouraged us much. She started when I visited her home two years ago. One day her mother said, "Rosemary likes your Sunday School, but when she is older she will have more sense, and go to her own." Some time ago they moved, and she stayed away for awhile, but recently she came back, having found the Hall herself in a new district. We believe that the Lord is opening her eyes and giving her "more sense" and wisdom to keep coming. The brethren here are certainly active and faithful. – Godfrey W. Coombs.

San Jose, Calif., March 12.-I have been holding Bible readings here in our home twice a week. We have been having nice interest on the part of some who are just getting the truth and we are hoping a little assembly will be started in due time. I have also been giving some time to Palo Alto, seeking to build up the little meeting there. -T. W. Carroll.

Cambridge, Minn., March 21.-Have found considerable opening for ministry here and there among those whose names I have had for some while. Have just left a small town south of here and return there this evening for meeting in the country. Lack of means hinders some (apparently) from attending meetings and sometimes closes places, where formerly they were held. Others, however, seem to have more appetite for meetings than formerly. In all the varied circumstances God is working out His purpose. -J. H. Fleming.

Oakland, Calif., March 16. – Dr. Gaebelein had seven meetings" in the Auditorium, giving good and helpful ministry which all enjoyed. The attendance was large, as is usual at his meetings.

The Open Door Mission in the down-town district, in charge of a brother who is "sound in the faith," affords an opening for the gospel once or twice a week which the brethren take in rotation. About a hundred men attend and there have been many conversions.

A group of students at the University of California in Berkeley come together once a week for a meeting which brother Jewell and I carry on. Our brother, Emerson Hancock, a student there, has been helpful in bringing them together. It is good to find even a few out of the eleven thousand students who have an ear for the Word of God.

Brother Craig has been south for a month, working among the Japanese and others, in Salinas, Santa Barbara, Alhambra, etc. This is a good work and worthy of the fellowship and prayers of the Lord's people. His son Paul, recently operated on for appendicitis, is doing well.

Brother McNair is seeking new openings for the gospel in suburban towns. -Roger B. Eames.

Lakefield, Ontario, March 15.-Returned home today after an almost full four-weeks' special effort in Kingston, Ont. The nightly talks on the Dispensational Chart aroused a keen interest, and a number of the Lord's own, especially some hungry denominational Christians, testified to receiving definite help. We were disappointed, however, in point of results from a gospel standpoint. One young woman gave evidence of trusting Christ, but apart from this there seemed to be no conversions. A Toronto young man had charge of the book-table, and thus we saw some sound literature disseminated.

It was my privilege also to address a Young People's rally at Belleville on March 9th.

Tomorrow the first of a series of Young People's "get-togethers" is scheduled for Toronto, and we have been invited to take part. -C. Ernest Tatham.

Black Cape, Que., March 15.-I had almost four weeks' meetings at New Richmond. The first two weeks were on "The Tabernacle in the Wilderness." The following eleven days we had the "Egypt to Canaan" Chart up. The interest and attendance was very good. May the Lord use His blessed Word to sanctify and build up His people, and convert sinners to Himself.

S Stewart.

What a value our Lord Jesus Christ must put upon His Church that He should describe it as "The Pearl of Great Price!"

We look at it often, seeing its many defects and failures, and wonder at the grace which sought and saved us and brought us into living relationship with Himself. He looks at it as it will be throughout all eternity, reflecting His beauty and glory, and so says, "Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a merchantman, seeking goodly pearls:who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had, and bought it" (Matt. 13:45,46).

The pearl of great price is not the sinner seeking Christ and giving up all for Him, for the sinner never seeks Christ, nor does he give anything to purchase either Christ or salvation. We have nothing we can give for Him; on the contrary, every thing we have of God is His free gift to us through Jesus Christ our Lord (Rom. 6:23).

What a great mine of truth is contained in a very small portion of the Word of God! There is no limit to the truth which one verse of Scripture may enfold; it expands and opens out as we meditate upon it. It is inexhaustible, for the Bible is a living Word. Volumes have been written on such a verse as John 3:16. And here in Matthew 13:45, 46 in a few brief words our Lord gives a parable picturing most beautifully His love for the Church and how He purchased it.

In the thirteenth chapter of Matthew seven parables give us God's view of the kingdom of heaven during the absence of its rightful King, who was rejected when He came to His own; they received Him not (John 1:11). The first four parables, spoken "out of the house, by the seaside," give the outward appearance of the Kingdom, which all may see. The last three, spoken in the house, where His disciples came unto;.Him (ver. 36), speak of Israel, the treasure hid in the field, the world; of the church, the pearl of great price; and of the net, the Gentiles, of whom there will be a great ingathering at the end of the age. These are the secret things which belong to the people of God, revealed to us by the Holy Spirit, whom God has sent to be their Teacher and Guide into all the truth (John 14:26; 16:13).

A MERCHANTMAN SEEKING

From before the foundation of the world, God had purposed to have a people. He chose us in Christ then (Eph. 1:4), and wrote our names in the Lamb's Book of Life (Rev. 13:8). But no man seeks God (Rom. 3:11; Ps. 50:1-3); He mast seek us if He would have us in His home. We were dead in trespasses and in sins (Eph. 2:1) and could make no move toward God. And so the heavenly Merchantman, God the Son, came into the world to seek and to, save lost sinners (Luke 19:10; 1 Tim. 1:15).

As "the pearl is found in the reefy bottom of the ocean, near to mud and weeds," so our Lord Jesus Christ must go to the depths of sin and judgment to get us. "Ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, that ye through His poverty might be rich" (2 Cor. 8:9). "Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God, but made Himself of no reputation, and took upon Him the form of a servant; and was made in the likeness of men:and being found in fashion as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross" (Phil. 2:6-8).

He who was God over all from eternity, by whom all things were created, God the Son (John 1:1-3; Rom. 9:5; Col. 1:16,17), became a Man to die for our sins (Heb. 2:9; 10:5-10). All God's waves and billows of judgment due to sinners for their sins passed over Him when He bore our sins in His own body on the tree (Ps. 42:7; 1 Pet. 2:24; Jonah 2:3). "While we were yet sinners, Christ died for us." And that is the only way by which sinners can be righteously and fittingly in the presence of a holy God.

The pearl was not seeking the merchant. Left to itself, the merchant would not have had it. Nor does the sinner seek Christ. Left to ourselves not one of us would be saved. The sinner, dead in trespasses and in sins (Eph. 2:1), is as helpless to seek God as the pearl to seek the merchant, so God the Son, the true Merchantman, seeking beautiful pearls, came into the world as Man, that He might come where we were, find us and bring us into the Father's house. He went after that which was lost until He found it (Luke 15:4).

ONE PEARL OF GREAT PRICE

"Its value is estimated by One who knows fully what it is He values." While in our natural state there is no beauty which would commend us to God, nor any fitness for His presence, those who are saved now by His grace, purchased by the blood of His own (Acts 20:28; Rev. 1:5), are seen by Him in Christ, and form the one Body, the Church, of which Christ is the Head. This is the one pearl of great price which for all eternity will reflect the beauties and glories of the Son of God. The Church is clothed with a comeliness put upon it as the object of Divine Grace. As the pearl is for personal adornment, so the Church will be in the highest place in eternity, to show most conspicuously the grace and glory of God through Christ Jesus. To an ordinary observer, a cheap imitation may look very much like a real pearl. I am told that sometimes men take a bead necklace and dip it in a solution called "pearl wash" which has in it the iridescent colors of the real pearl. When taken out of its bath, many people would think the necklace was composed of real pearls. But not so with "the man who knows." I went recently to the pearl buyer of a fine jewelry establishment, and said to him, "Let me see the finest pearl you have in stock at present." He went to his desk, took out a tin box, and from an envelope in it extracted a pearl about the size of a small shoe-button. "What is the price?" I asked. "Thirteen thousand dollars." To my unpracticed eye it looked something like those
I had seen in a, thirty-five cent "pearl" necklace. But not so to "the man who knows." He had bought it and he knew its value. He was willing to pay the price for it, and when I held it in my hand where the light could shine upon-it, the pearl reflected all the colors of the rainbow. It took the light to bring out its beauties.

So will it be in eternity. The Church will there be seen faultless in God's glory, reflecting the light, clothed in its beauty. That is why our Lord Jesus Christ was willing to pay the price for it. He "loved the Church and gave Himself for it."

As. He saw the value of the pearl, the merchant felt no price was too great to pay for it. Our Lord would have us in the glory like Himself, so He gave all for us. We were not redeemed with corruptible things as silver and gold, but with the precious blood of Christ (1 Pet. 1:18,19).
WHAT IS A PEARL?

"It is the only precious jewel which is a living growth;" the only jewel which is the product of a living being. This is what makes Christianity different from every religion in the world. All others are systems of ethical teachings or commandments given through a teacher now dead. Christianity centers in a Person, and that Person is the once crucified but now risen and living Son of God.

A pearl is the result of an injury done to the living organism which produces it. Pearls are formed in oysters by a particle of sand or other foreign substance introduced into the shell. The finest pearls are formed by this foreign substance piercing the oyster itself. Then the oyster overlays the particle which wounded it with layer after layer of nacre, or "mother-of-pearl," as we know it. Finally the particle is not seen. Covered over and hidden by the mother-of-pearl, we see only the beautiful iridescent colors which overlay it. What a picture of the Church of our Lord Jesus Christ! Through the sufferings of Christ as wounded for our transgressions, the Church (like the pearl) is now formed in Him. He covers us from all our sin and defilement. The offending object in the shell-fish becomes, through the work of the injured, a precious and beauteous gem for personal adornment. So the Church, composed of sinners saved by grace, who both wounded and caused the wounding of our Lord Jesus Christ as the One who suffered for them the righteous judgment of God, becomes through His atoning sufferings a precious possession for Him through all eternity. As the iridescent colors of the pearl are produced by the light reflected from its rounded surface, so the beauty of the Church is produced by our' reflecting the Lord Jesus Christ, the true Light.

In the view of the Church as the Holy City, recorded in Revelation 21, there are twelve gates, three on each side, each "one a perfect single pearl. In eternity the Church will reflect the work of the Lord Jesus Christ in every direction. "Christ loved the Church, and gave Himself for it; that He might sanctify and cleanse it by the washing of water by the Word; that He might present it to Himself a glorious Church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing, but that it should be holy and without blemish" (Eph. 5::25-27).

WHAT IS A PERFECT PEARL?

"One that is perfectly spherical, pure white, slightly transparent, free from specks, spots or blemishes, and lustrous." The Church as God sees it in Christ is perfect, pure, transparent, or free from guile, with no spot or stain of sin, and lustrous in its reflection of the Lord Jesus Christ. This, beloved, is our place and portion because each of us can say:"The Son of God who loved me and gave Himself for me" (Gal. 2:20).

WHAT ARE THE PRACTICAL LESSONS FROM THE PEARL OF GREAT PRICE?

Christ loves us. He gave Himself for us. He cleanses us and polishes us to fit us for Himself. He will have us with Him for all eternity, reflecting His glories to the whole universe. No price was too great for Him to pay to possess us, for He gave Himself.

May His love and grace and the purpose which He has for His Church fill our hearts and lives, leading us to greater faithfulness and devotion to Himself and more likeness in our daily life and ways to Him whose treasured possession we have become through suffering. –F. L. FRENCH.

I am not aware that this expression, "the judgment-seat of God" or "the judgment-seat of Christ," is found anywhere else than in Romans 14 and 2 Corinthians 5:in the first of these two passages with a view to prevent individual judgments; in the second with a view to provoke to do good. The best editions read in Rom. 14:10, "the judgment-seat of God." The subject in itself is one of the most solemn and at the same time most blessed, and this so much the more as we understand it rightly. I believe that -each of our lives will be manifested then before the tribunal, according as the grace of God and His ways with us in connection with our own acts will be known then. We read that "every one of us shall give account of himself to God" (Rom. 14:12); and the word, in this passage, mentions the tribunal in connection with the exhortation to brethren not to judge one another in respect to days, meats, or any other such thing.

I am disposed to think that the acts alone will be subject to manifestation; but all the private acts of our life depend so intimately upon our inward feelings, that it is, in a certain sense, difficult to distinguish the acts from the simple thoughts. The acts manifest the power of the thought or of the feeling. I believe that the whole of our acts will be detailed there, before the judgment-seat, not for us, however, as if we were in the flesh, and thus to our condemnation, but to make evident to our own eyes the grace that occupied itself with us-regenerate or unregenerate. In the counsels of God I am elect before the foundation of the world; hence I think that my own history will be detailed before the judgment-seat, and, parallel with it, the history of the grace and of the mercy of God toward me. The why and the how we did this or that will be manifested then. For us the scene will be declarative, not judicial. We are not in the flesh before God; in His eyes by His grace we are dead. But then, if we have walked according to the flesh, we must see how we lost in blessing thereby, and what loss we have incurred; and on the other hand, the ways of God toward us, all ways of wisdom, of mercy, and of grace, will be perfectly known and understood by us for the first time. The history of each one will come out in perfect transparency; it will be seen how you yielded and how He preserved you, how your foot slipped and He raised you up again, how you were drawing near danger and shame and how He by His own arm interposed.

I believe this is the Bride making herself ready, and I consider that moment as a wondrous one. There will be no flesh then to be condemned:but the new nature will enter into full knowledge of the care and of the love, which, in true holiness and in righteousness and even in grace, have followed us step by step all through the running of the race. Some parts of our life, till then entirely unexplained, will be fully disclosed and become altogether plain; some tendencies of our nature, that perhaps we do not judge to be so pernicious and deadly as they are, and for the mortification of which we are perhaps now subjected to a discipline^ that we may not have interpreted aright, will be then perfectly explained; and, what is more, the very falls which now plunge us into such bitter anguish will be seen then to be that which God used to preserve us from something more terrible. I do not think that until then we shall ever have had a full knowledge of the badness of our flesh.

How "blessed for us to know that then it will be not only all over with the flesh in the counsel of God, but that the flesh will no longer be attached to us! On the other side, I doubt not, the manifestation of God's grace toward us individually will be so magnificent that even the sense of the perversity of the flesh that we had, if it could possibly enter there, would be excluded by the greatness of the sense of divine goodness. Why do we not deny and mortify the flesh when we think of that hour? The Lord grant that we may do so more and more to the glory of His grace. This great, subject of the judgment-seat brings the soul to a very full knowledge of our individual standing. J. N. Darby

FOR US, IN US AND WITH US

That we should be the subjects of the work of God should fill the hearts of those who believe upon our Lord Jesus with praise and thanksgiving.

"We are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus, unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them" (Eph. 2:10).

"Of His own will begat He us, with the word of truth, that we should be a kind of first fruits of His creatures" (Jas. 1:18).

The same almighty power put forth "in the beginning" when God created the heavens and the earth, creating "all things by Christ Jesus," has been put forth in the "new creation" of which every believer is part. The same God who said of old, "Let there be light, and there was light," "hath shined in our hearts," to-day (2 Cor. 4:6).

Thoughts such as these may rightly cause us to consider our ways that we may act in suitability to our gracious God. They will solemnize us and lead to the condemnation of everything which is unbefitting those who are called with such a calling.

But let us occupy ourselves for a little with the Work of God from three different points of view. 1. His work for us. 2. His work in us. 3. His work through us.

1. He has wrought for us, and is working for us still. Rom. 8:31-33 brings this into view clearly. The gospel of the grace of God may be summed up in the three words, "GOD FOR US." When we were against Him, sinners, without strength, ungodly and enemies, He was for us.

His own love, peculiar in its kind and nature, was shown then. "God commendeth His love towards us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us" (Rom. 5:8). He "spared not His own Son, but delivered Him for us," "delivered Him," at the cross of Calvary, "for our offences."

Herein we perceive the love of God, "the work of God" on our behalf in laying the righteous foundation on which He could justly justify a sinner. Then He has wrought for us who believe in clearing us completely from every charge. "It is God that justifieth" exclaims the apostle in triumph, and then challenges all who would oppose, "Who is he that condemneth?" The case of the sinner who believes the gospel has been carried into the highest court in the universe. The whole matter has been gone into and settled for ever to God's glory and to the honor of His throne. The believer IS justified now (Rom. 5:9).

He is justified by God Himself, as we have seen (Rom. 8:33).

He is "justified by grace," in the free and undeserved favor of God (Rom. 3:24).

He is "justified by" the "blood" of Christ. This is the ground. Christ has died for him (Rom. 5:9).
He is "justified by faith." This is the hand put out to receive the free gift of God (Rom. 5:1).

He is justified from all things. Nothing can ever be rightly brought up against him (Acts 13:39).

Now argues the apostle, "He that spared not His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things?" Having given already the greatest of all gifts He will not withhold any lesser one which will be for our spiritual well-being and true advantage. He will make "all things work together for good to them who love Him and are the called according to His purpose" (Rom. 8:28). In ways inscrutable to us He causes everything to bring about our real blessing.

"We understand Him not,
Yet earth and heaven tell,
God sits as sovereign on His throne,
And ruleth all things well."

Thus we see that the work of God, as declared in this passage, is for us in a threefold way.

He is for us in giving His Son.

He is for us in justifying us.

He is for us in caring for us in all the details of our lives.

2. His work in us may now engage our attention. Here again we shall find that He has wrought in us, and is working in us, and will work in us, all the while that we are left here awaiting the return of our Lord Jesus.

He has wrought in us in the matter of our new birth. We who believe have been "born of God." An entirely new beginning has been brought about. All that we were in our natural condition, as born of our human parentage, has been set aside in the death of Christ. "Our old man has been crucified with Him" (Rom. 6:5). Sinful flesh has been judged at the cross. The life we have now is "of God." He has wrought in us in giving the Holy Spirit to indwell our hearts. He is the power in which we can walk so as to please God, in which we can worship and witness and work for the good of others. He is working in us now the willing and the working of His good pleasure, fashioning us and moulding us "after Christ." It humbles us as we find how little like Christ we are, and leads us to judge ourselves increasingly. But all is in view of Christ being formed in us so that more and more we may be Christ-like in our pathway.

And He will work in us until the glad day of Christ's coming again. "He that has begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ". (Phil. 1:6).

Well may we echo the prayer of Hebrews 13:20,21:May "the God of peace, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, that Great Shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, make you perfect in every good work to do His will, working in you that which is well-pleasing in His sight, through Jesus Christ."
We find then that God is working in us in our new birth, in giving to us the Holy Spirit to indwell us, in forming and fashioning us after Christ.

3. His work through us calls for a few remarks. It is based upon the work for us, and is dependent upon the work in us, progressing day by day.

If we turn to Acts 14:27 we read that Paul and others "rehearsed all that God had done with them." Again, in 15:4,12:"They declared all things that God had done with them," and "what God had wrought among the Gentiles by them." Yet again the apostle Paul in writing to the Romans says, "I will not dare to speak of any of the things which Christ hath not wrought by me" (chap. IS:18). "With them" and "by them) God had wrought His works in the conversion of the Gentiles.

He has chosen thus to use redeemed sinners as His messengers to men. They have learned what His grace is in their own salvation and are employed to carry the tidings to others. No angel has this privilege. No angel is allowed to be put in trust of the gospel. When Cornelius was to be told the sweet story of grace, and to hear words whereby he and all his house were to be saved, he was directed by an angel to send for Peter. The angel did not tell the story himself.

Surely we should count it among the highest favors which have been conferred upon us that we should be in a position where God may work through us in the carrying out of His purposes for the glory of His Son in the world. Earnestly we should seek to be "meet for the Master's use, and prepared unto every good work" (2 Tim. 2:21).

The carpenter uses his various tools of differing size and character to carry out his various thoughts and purposes. In themselves they are powerless. But in his hands they may effect much that shall be to his credit as a workman. He works by their means. In ourselves we are powerless. But in the hand of our God we may accomplish much for the blessing of those with whom we come into contact day by day, if He is but pleased to work by our means. High honor is this"! We may be but very small "tools" compared with the servants of God of whose labors we have read. But we may comfort ourselves as we think that the carpenter needs small chisels and other tools as well as large ones. And what matters it if we may be for the pleasure of God in any way, anywhere, at any time. The carpenter's tool cannot fit itself for service. So we need to be fitted by Him whose we are and whom we serve to be ready for Him to employ. Every one of us is called to be of some service. For this cause we are left in the world. The Lord needs us here to work through us for His glory.

Thus we have seen that the God of all grace who has wrought for us, is working in us, and is seeking to work through us, for the blessing of others. May we answer to His desire and be more and more for His glory. Inglis Fleming

BY ROGER B. EAMES

The world-wide depression has persisted for some years, and it is assumed that as other depressions have come and gone, the time is ripe for better conditions and we must be on the highway to recovery. In this country the vast sums appropriated by the Federal Government for relief have encouraged confidence that a return to prosperity is at hand. It has not entered the mind of the multitude that it is possible for God to interfere in the affairs of the world and to interrupt its ungodly course:"God is not in all their thoughts." The weakness and inefficiency of every form of Gentile government is apparent, and politicians are resorting to new and untried experiments in the endeavor to discover some remedy for the world's ills. It is evident to the thoughtful observer that the present system is breaking down, and we are on the threshold of a new order.

The Jew is returning to his land. The Gentile nations are arming for a war of annihilation. The professing Church is .becoming more completely apostate.

We are not given to know how long these preliminary conditions may continue. The present day of grace and of the Spirit's restraint will close with the Rapture of the Church. Judgments, long since decreed, will follow this momentous occurrence. The last prophetic week of Daniel, a period of seven years, has yet to run its course. The trials of the past few years are only a shadow of the distress which will then overtake the world.

THE EUROPEAN SITUATION has become more complex. One reviewer says, "It has become too complicated to warrant forecast or to permit comprehension. Almost anything may happen in the coming year, but nothing is likely to happen before the Saar plebiscite." In January this vote of the 800,000 people of the Saar region will determine their choice of allegiance; whether they return to Germany, or take a permanent place under the flag of France. The population is nearly all German, and for this reason one might decide at once that it will return to Germany, but the fact that a large proportion are Catholics and Jews makes the result very uncertain. Hitler's quarrel with the Vatican together with his treatment of the Jews are too well known. If the result of the plebiscite is favorable to France it is believed Hitler's downfall will result, hence his strenuous efforts to influence the vote in favor of Germany.

Since the assassination of the Austrian Chancellor, Mussolini's sentiments toward Nazi Germany have radically changed. Italy's friendship is now with France. The French Foreign Minister, Louis Barthou, was to have visited Premier Mussolini at the end of October, when matters vital to the peace of Europe were to have been discussed. The ruthless assassin has cut him down, together with King Alexander of Yugoslavia. The death of these two leaders in this critical time may have very grave results.

The influence of France in the Balkan States has declined in the past two years, which explains her recent alliance with Russia, while the admission of Russia into the League of Nations' Council has strengthened her position in relation to Japan and Germany. Poland and Germany have drawn closer together. It has been proposed to form an "Eastern Locarno Pact," which is significant, suggesting, as it does, the grouping together in mutual understanding and purpose the nations of Eastern Europe. Russia belongs to this Eastern group although for the present she has become associated with the Western alliance, but this cannot be permanent. The League of Nations is said to have lost its power for leadership, becoming "The headquarters of an old-fashioned alliance, and not the center of a new world association." We look for its dissolution in favor of a new confederacy of the nations of Western Europe.

THE EUCHARISTIC CONGRESS. The attention of the Catholic world has been directed to the great city of Buenos Aires, where Rome has recently celebrated its thirty-second Eucharistic Congress, the first to be held in South America. "Hundreds of thousands of the faithful, representing thirty nations, thronged the great Palerno Park on the Rio De la Plata for the opening ceremony. The greeting of the crowd converging on the hundred-foot-high cross was tremendous. The vast assemblage was rapt as the Vatican's Secretary of State stressed the meaning of 'true peace' in his discourse. Four other cardinals, hundreds of bishops and priests and diplomats, joined in the opening ceremony." Full military honors were given to the Papal Legate on his arrival from Rome. A twenty-one gun salute, four welcoming cruisers, and three squadrons of airplanes accompanied the palatial vessel from Montevideo.

It is one of the signs of the times that this great religious system is enlarging its borders, reaching out to every country. A strange contrast indeed to the "Man of Sorrows" who said, "My kingdom is not of this world." This great system courts the world's favor, seeks a place of influence and power in its politics, and in its idolatrous mass denies the value and efficacy of the one true Sacrifice for sin. She is the great counterfeit of the true Bride of Christ, and says of herself, "I sit a queen, and am no widow, and shall see no sorrow," but oi her, the Lord says, "Come out of her, My people, that ye be not partaker of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues" (Rev. 18).

GERMAN JEWS. The Jews from Germany have done much to enrich Palestine with doctors, dentists, scientists and great engineers, together with instruments and methods that are new to Palestine. There is scarcely a trade or profession into which they have not entered, so that the land now enjoys the latest in scientific achievement of which the world can boast. Other countries have also profited by the expulsion from Germany of these professional men. Large manufacturers in Britain have added some world-renowned chemists to their staffs. The folly of banishing such men from any country must be apparent to any unbiased mind, and Germany is suffering from its ill-advised policy. Its economic condition has grown steadily worse, owing to the persistent boycott of German goods by Jewish merchants abroad.

MOSUL OIL. Oil from the rich Mesopotamian deposits at Mosul was recently pumped through the new 600-mile pipe-line to Tripoli in Syria for the first time, and a French tanker was loaded with 14,500 tons of the crude product. The arrival of this cargo at Havre was hailed in military and naval circles as a first step toward freeing France from its present dependence on foreign oil. It is expected that Haifa, the terminus of the British branch of the pipe-line, will receive its first oil within a short time.

THE "DEAD" SEA NO LONGER. For many years travelers described the region of the Dead Sea as an unhealthy locality. Recently a health resort has been inaugurated on its shores, which is known as Callia. Owing to its depression of 1300 feet below the Mediterranean, the air is heavily charged with oxygen. This, it is claimed, is of value to sufferers from rheumatism, weak hearts, and other complaints. There is a complete absence of either fog or dust. Bathing has a rejuvenating effect by reason of the radio-active properties of the salts, and so buoyant is the water that anybody can bathe with safety irrespective of whether he can swim or not. Not a single case of illness has occurred among the thousands of workmen employed there the past four years.

The Potash Company have their evaporating pans located at both the north and south ends of the sea, where there are level spaces. The sea-water is pumped into these pans from a depth of 160 feet, the water nearer the surface being too dilute for their purpose. The heat of the sun evaporates the water, leaving the various salts solidified. They are marketing magnesium chloride, magnesium oxide, bromide, and potash for fertilizers. Of this latter there is said to be enough to last the world for 2,000 years. A shipment of 10,000 sacks was recently sent to England.

TIBERIAS. The cloud-burst last May which wrecked so much of this town on the Sea of Galilee has led the officials to plan their rebuilding on modern lines, laying out three new streets leading down to the sea, which will take care of a large volume of water if need be. The native residents are much disturbed that old stone structures should be torn down simply because they happen to stand in the middle of the survey for a new street. The Jews are reported to be leaving by the hundreds, and making their way to Tel-Aviv and other places where, owing to the shortage of labor, they are finding positions at good wages.

(1 Thess. 4:13).

It does not say that we are not to weep or sorrow when the Lord takes a beloved one away from us. A man would not be a man that could not weep. Jesus wept at the grave of Lazarus. But we are not to sorrow "as those who have no hope." We have a source of comfort that the world knows nothing of. It is a libel on what God has done for us if we sorrow as the world. We ought to pity the world in its times of bereavement and sorrow. God's children ought not to sorrow as the world. There are many sorrows beside the loss of friends. Life is full of it. If God did not permit sorrow to be felt while here we would make the world our rest. J. R. Caldwell

There is one, and there is not a second." So I said Solomon the preacher of old as he looked I upon the world of men. Had he a view of Christ in some indistinct way? We cannot say, but this we know that our Lord Jesus stands alone. There is not a second. None can compare with Him.

Well may we rejoice that "THERE IS ONE," "One Mediator between God and men, the Man Christ Jesus; who gave Himself a ransom for all" (1 Tim. 2:5). He is the only Saviour-there is not a second.

In the deep love of His heart He who is eternally God stooped to become Man, stooped to the cross of shame for our salvation and blessing. He "humbleth Himself to behold the things that are in heaven and in the earth" (Ps. 113:6), and yet "He humbled Himself unto death, even the death of the cross."

All through His way He was shown to be peerlessly perfect, "a Lamb without blemish and without spot" (1 Pet. 1:19). And thus it was that the repentant robber, having his eyes opened in divine grace, said of Him, "This Man hath done nothing amiss."

He saw in

"THIS MAN"-THE RIGHTEOUS ONE

and bore his testimony to His immaculate glory. Nothing was out of place with Him. Everything in His holy pathway declared His moral perfections. There had been no turning back or turning aside with Him. His feet were "straight feet." He had come in flesh to do the will of God, and that will He carried out in its entirety. No detail of it was lacking fulfilment. No swerving from it was found in His goings. In the midst of the arid waste of man's sinfulness and selfishness He had marked out a way of unfailing obedience to God and of goodness towards men.

There was NOTHING AMISS toward God.

"Faithful amidst unfaithfulness,
'Mid darkness only light,
Thou didst Thy Father's name confess,
And in His will delight."

There was NOTHING AMISS toward man.

"Thy love by man so sorely tried,
Proved stronger than the grave;
The very spear that pierced Thy side
Drew forth the blood to save."

But His perfect life "led only to the cross." For this He had come. "The Son of Man must be lifted up." So we look to Calvary and see
"THIS MAN"-THE REDEEMING ONE

"This Man, after He had offered one sacrifice for sins, for ever sat down on the right hand of God" (Heb. 10:12). He has "once suffered for sins, the Just for the unjust, that He might bring us to God." The Sinless One was the Suffering One when made a Sin-offering for us. There at the cross He bore the judgment and drank the cup of woe on our behalf. For us, the sinful ones, the Sinless One suffered.

But that work of suffering is over. With a loud voice He cried, "It is finished." All that was needed was done. There is nothing for us to add to it. We could not do anything to complete His creation work, for all was done by His Almighty power. And we cannot do anything to complete His atoning work, for all was done by Him in wonderful love.

He who put the sun to shine in the heavens is He who "put away sin by the sacrifice of Himself." Now the once suffering Saviour on the tree of shame is the forever seated Saviour on the throne of God.

The sinner who comes to Christ believing upon Him and resting upon His finished work has his conscience cleared from every charge, purged from every sin. A seated Saviour and a satisfied conscience go together.

Christ is no longer on the cross doing the work, He is in the glory of God, because the work is done.

"My sin-oh, the bliss of this glorious thought!-
My sin, not in part, but the whole,
Is nailed to His cross and I bear it no more,
Praise the Lord! Praise the Lord, O my soul!"

Faith takes God at His word and relies upon it, finding true happiness in knowing Jesus as the Saviour and that Saviour is in glory.

Now from that glory comes the gospel message, "But He whom God raised again saw no corruption. Be it known unto you therefore, men and brethren, that through this Man is preached unto you the forgiveness of sins:and by Him all that believe are justified from all things" (Acts 13:38,39).

"THIS MAN"-THE RISEN ONE

Yes, through Him, through Him alone. None can share that honor with Him. It is His precious blood which is the purchase price. "We have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins" (Eph. 1:7). Through Him forgiveness. By Him justification.

"It is not thy tears of repentance or prayers,
But the blood that atones for the soul;
On Him then believe, and a pardon receive,
Not in part but indeed for the whole."

Good works have their place. But that place is after forgiveness and justification are known. Indeed, all the works of the unconverted are "dead works," and cannot please the living God. , From them, as being mixed with sin, we need to be purged, as well as from that which is gross and corrupt.

And with pardon comes power. He who forgave the palsied man gave him force. He rose and carried his bed at the word of Christ.

And the Holy Spirit is given to the believer so that "good works" may be produced as fruit for God, and in blessing to men.

It is "Through this Man," the Sinless Man, the Suffering Man, the blessing is proclaimed. Not through tears or travail, prayers or penances, gifts or graces. Through nothing of ourselves or from any other sinner or saint, through Christ alone the proclamation is made. "All that believe ARE justified from all things." It is a present and an assured blessing to be now known and enjoyed. "All that believe" are cleared from every charge of guilt and God Himself has cleared them. "It is God that justifieth." The case has been carried into the highest court of the universe, and the believer stands 'free and can sing,

"Because the sinless Saviour died
My sinful soul is counted free;
And God the Just is satisfied
To look on Christ and pardon me."

"THIS MAN"-THE COMING ONE

For all those forgiven and justified by faith in Jesus who died for their sins and rose, He is coming again. "I will come again and receive you unto Myself, that where I am ye may be also." Then will He be seen as the First born among many brethren. There is One, and there is not a second, who fills this place of first, whether in the realm of creation, or in that of resurrection, for in all things He must have the preeminence. And so believers look for Him, and not another, to come from heaven, Jesus our Deliverer from the coming wrath (1 Thess. 1:10, New Trans.).

He is the COMING ONE for the Church.
He is the COMING ONE for Israel.
He is the COMING ONE for the nations.
He is the COMING ONE for God, who has put all things into His hand that He may bring all in harmonious relation to the Godhead in due course.

"Soon wilt Thou take Thy throne,
Thy foes Thy footstool made,
And take us with Thee for Thine own,
In glory love displayed.

"Jesus, we wait for Thee,
With Thee to have our part;
What can full joy and blessing be
But being where Thou art?"

Inglis Fleming

Our hearts in ecstasy would sing
Of Christ, our Bridegroom, Lord and King!
O Paraclete, our praise indite
To tell His majesty and might,
Thou brightest, sweetest, fairest One
That earth hath seen or heaven known,
Upon Thy lips hath grace been poured,
O glorious, matchless, peerless Lord!

O God, forever is Thy throne,
A righteous scepter is Thine own;
Above Thy fellows Thou art blest,
Because Thou lovest righteousness.
Anointed with the oil of joy,
Thou stirrest hearts in glad employ;
Thy garments smell of rich perfumes
From ivory palace treasure-rooms.

The marriage of the Lamb is near,
His Bride all ready doth appear,
Arrayed in linen, clean and white,
Of needlework, with jewels bright,
Her garments are her righteous ways,
Prepared in her betrothal days.
Rejoice, be glad, Him honor give;
For her He died, but now doth live.

The Queen in Ophir gold doth stand,
The Virgins are her bridal band,
The Bridegroom's friends rejoice to share
The marriage supper with Him there.
His praise with raptured hearts they sing,
Brought in the palace of the King;
All follow Him with joyous voice,
Exulting in the Bridegroom's choice.

Our Bridegroom nears! Come soon, blest Lord,
To rule millennial earth restored;
Instead of fathers they shall take
Thy children fair and princes make.
Then all the ages Thy blest name
Shall generations e'er proclaim,
And peoples all shall give to Thee
Ecstatic praise eternally.
Lewis S. Forney
'HIS NAME SHALL BE CALLED WONDERFUL"

"LIFT UP YOUR EYES AND LOOK ON THE FIELDS" (John 4:35)

"Behold, a sower went forth to sow" (Matt. 13:3).

PARAGUAY

A brother laboring in this little-known country writes as follows:

We have experienced the goodness of the Lord during the past year protecting us and the believers here in the worst period of the international trouble, giving us the joy of preaching the gospel to many souls and opening doors for the distribution of the written page.

During the year we have placed in the hands of the people over 10,500 tracts and through the kindness of the American Bible Society we have distributed nearly 10,000 Gospels. Most of the Gospels were given to the soldiers going to the firing-line where the Word of God was read, and we believe that the Lord has used His Word even in the trenches, the place of death, to bring life eternal to some young men. A young man came to the city after four months in the firing-line and -said that he remembered the time when he attended our Sunday School and had never forgotten the Word which he had heard, but it was in the trenches that he appreciated what the Word of God is for the sinner; and he professed to be saved. This is one of the examples of what the Word of God is doing among the soldiers, and we trust that many may have found the Lord in their last hour.

We now covet your prayers that the Lord may give the increase, and that His saving power through the gospel may be manifested this year even more than in 1933.

JAPAN

Brother Fujimoto writes (translation by E. B. Craig) :Brother Ishihame of Kobe has not yet been released from the prison (where he is confined awaiting trial on a charge of lese-majeste, because of remarks he made concerning the "shrine question" in his public preaching in the park, as reported previously). It being cold weather, and he not being strong, we fear he may be in distress, and are praying concerning this. We ask your prayers also.

The meetings here (in Tokyo) are going on as usual under the care of the Lord. Specially, this winter season not even once have our roadside meetings had to stop, for which we are thankful. As always, I am still visiting four hospitals, and doing personal work, etc. For all we ask your prayers.

INDIA

From Bangalore, South India, we have the following:

We realize daily that we wrestle not with flesh and blood, but against principalities and powers, against real spiritual forces that resist those who bring the light. This very morning we were twice interrupted in our preaching. One woman said that Christ was a devil and told the people not to listen to us. Her son later came out of the house and tried to upset us with his Hindu philosophy. He talked about God being one and everywhere, that is, pervading all things, and therefore, since He is in us we are God, and the ultimate responsibility for all we do rests upon God, He will not be unjust and punish for what we do as we can do nothing against His will, and so on. He left after a while and on our way home on our bicycles we met him coming toward the city. I found then that he talked English well and had been educated in a Mission High School and worked in the Government offices in the city. That man was well equipped to do the devil's work because he had received an education paid for by Christian people in the homelands, and had not been taught the truth. There is such a school in this city with 900 students, and none of the teachers are professing Christians, but Hindus. That is called missionary work. We have to wrestle against that. A so-called Indian Pastor, a reverend gentleman, rebuked us last week for preaching that men were sinners and must flee from the wrath to come. He said we had no right to call men sinners. That, too, is the devil's work, and makes the task of the gospeler all the harder.

Sometimes we marvel at the opposition we do not get. Last night was an instance. An Indian brother and I cycled out to a village after dark. We found a group gathered on a large kind of platform under some trees in front of a temple. The temple door was open and the hideous idol in full view, with lights burning in front of it. It was of gold and silver and had on a beautiful green and gold silk robe. This was a goddess, and much bejewelled. We talked to the people a bit, and then sang some lyrics, and then we both preached. I stood in the light of the lamps burning before the idol and preached Christ till I .was hoarse. The people listened gladly. I did not directly refer to the idol. My Indian brother talked to them in a way I did not dare to. He spoke of the impotence of the idol and the might and power of God, and they never resented it at all. We were there till 9:30 before we started back to the city, and they listened all the time and offered no objections. At times we have the joy of knowing that the Lord is with us, and at times we seem baffled by the power of the enemy. At all times we feel the need of the prayers of those who will help us thus.

CHINA Brother Foggin writes:

I left Taitowying about three weeks ago, staying in Peiping some days, then went on Hsianfu. From there I came on to Binchow on the Famine Relief bus. Changing next day to a public bus I arrived here (Ping Liang) last night.

Today I found a band of Chinese Christians on the street having an open air meeting, so I joined them. One of their group has just come to visit me at the bus station where I am staying, and he is very earnest in the Lord's things. Although he was under the influence of missionaries for many years and was also a professing Christian, it was only last year that he really accepted the Lord. Thank God for the work of grace that is going on. I leave first thing in the morning for Lanchow, D.V., and will be there in three days. May stay there for a few days until the Chinese New Year is over, as carters do not travel at that time, and it is difficult to buy anything. Then I will go on to Kanchow, D.V.

WORK AMONG INDIANS in U. S. A.

Brother E. A. Buchenau writes from Polacco, Arizona:
Am having a month in this needy State among the Indians and missionaries. Had five days with Miss Olson at Kingman, twelve meetings in all. The Andersons came over from Valentine for part of the time. A funeral among the Walapis brought large crowds to wail for the dead (a young man evidently a victim of bad whiskey). The Andersons know and have the respect of most of these people, so we went over to the wailing-place and though it was not a Christian funeral they gave us time to sing a hymn and preach the gospel. About a hundred were present. We left Kingman three days after the death, and even when we left at eleven o'clock at night could still hear them wailing. These poor people are raw heathen, worshiping demons, living in superstition and dying in terror. Death is an awful thing to them. How we should thank God for His Word and seek to get the gospel to them!

Here, at Polacca, we are among the Hopis for ten days. Missionaries work hard-prayer-meeting at seven in the morning, and a full program till ten at night, and often till midnight.

Go from here to Ft. Defiance for five days. Then to Shiprock, N. M., for a few days with the Girdners and Miss Holcomb, working among the Navajo tribe."

"As the Father has sent Me, even so send I you."

The conviction of Divine vocation is pre-essential to all missionary labor. The settled certainty that we are where we are because God has put us there, and are doing what we are doing because it is the task God appointed for us, is indispensable to all steady endurance in Gospel toil. Realization of the need of mankind, philanthropic aims, humanitarian motives, desire to bring in a new social order-not all these together can suffice as a warrant for setting forth to devote life and labor for the salvation of men. "How shall they preach except they be sent?"… This sense of vocation was ever with the Lord Jesus in the highest degree. His words again and again reveal it. "I came forth from the Father and am come into the world" (John 16:28). The work which He tells the Father He has finished is, "The work which Thou gavest Me to do" (John 17:.4). No missionary without a sending." None deserves the name unless he serves under the compulsion of an inescapable call.

-(Selected).

June 1st, 1 Sam. 2; June 15th,1Sam. 16; June 30th,1Sara. 31; July 15th, 2 Sam.15.

COMMENTS

During this month we read through 1 Samuel. From the history recorded in this book we learn of a great change in relation to Israel and God's ways in respect to His earthly people. We see the utter break-down of the priesthood. By it hitherto relationship with God had been maintained on behalf of the people, but now, owing to the gross evil of the priests, despite the piety of Eli, God's judgment falls. In the execution of this judgment, God permits the ark to be taken by the enemy, and thus the people are left without the one thing by which through priesthood they were in relation with Jehovah. In this signal fashion God marks the end of His connection with the people on the basis laid down in Deuteronomy, according to which they had entered the land. With the ark of the covenant gone, that which was the place of propitiation through the sprinkled blood, and of communication from God to the priest for the people, the original relationship with Jehovah was outwardly broken and the condition of the people judged. Through unfaithfulness they had forfeited the place of privilege afforded them through the medium of the priest.

This involved a change in the ways of God, and gave opportunity for Him to act in His sovereignty, bringing out other purposes and dealings as to His people. These are to be seen in the raising up of the prophet as His means of communication, and bringing in an anointed one to exercise government, he being the responsible head from whom faithfulness would be required, and upon his conduct the destiny of|the people would depend. Consequent upon this change! in the order of God's relation to Israel, the priesthood no longer fills the first place as formerly, but the priest is to walk before God's anointed, before the king (ch. 2:35). This change, and the important place of the prophet as God's direct means of communication, obtained throughout the after history of Israel. It doubtless sets forth in shadow the millennial order, when in Christ this threefold order-prophet, king, priest-will be perfectly and gloriously in exercise.

In view of all that is to transpire in judgment upon the evil of both the priests and people, how full of comfort and grace are the first two chapters, in which we see how God comes in where utter helplessness and need are so evident, and gives, when no hope of anything from man can be entertained, the one whom He will raise up and use for the revival and blessing of the people.

This which so loudly speaks of His grace is alongside the execution of His judgment. By it He must vindicate the holiness of His name when His people, corrupt and rebellious, would link Him with themselves as such by carrying the ark into battle with the enemy whose afflictions He has brought in upon them because of their unfaithfulness. The former basis of relationship is gone, and grace acts to meet the case in other ways, but throughout God acts to maintain His holiness and majesty, whether in relation to the sin of His people, or among the enemy, as when the ark is brought into the idol's temple, and later in the circumstances surrounding the return of the ark.

Through Samuel's ministry revival and return to Jehovah is accomplished, the enemy is defeated, and deliverance realized under his judgeship. His sons fail, and this only serves to show how little the people really trusted in God. They do not turn to Him, but now demand a king that they may be like the nations. In this they reject the immediate government of God. This gives opportunity to once again show the utter incapacity of man to guide or rule-a needful lesson. To this end God brings in Saul, a m&n suitable to the mind of the people, that in the development of his course we may see what man in the flesh really is, spite of the opportunity afforded him. This only the more clearly comes out in Saul's treatment of Jonathan, in whom the energy of faith is seen at work, and whom God honors while Saul stands discredited, fails under every test, and is finally deprived of the kingdom.

David is then introduced-God's chosen one. The youngest, the one least thought of, and indeed forgotten, is Jehovah's anointed; thus once again teaching the lesson that which is natural must be set aside for the spiritual, for man's thoughts are not as the thoughts of God. From this onward we find that the Spirit is with David, and Saul is forsaken, and as the history unfolds, both the prophet and the priest are found with, the rejected but anointed one, all the resources of God for the people are with David. So it is with David's Lord. He is the true Deliverer of the people, while Saul is shown to be an utter failure. Yet it is to be noted that David does not set himself up against Saul while as yet God had not openly judged him. It is a time of trial and suffering for him, while God allows the other to go on to the climax of evil when the stroke will fall. All of this history presents an interlacing of what is typical in certain respects, and in others of what is of moral and spiritual instruction as to the path of faith in the midst of various forms of evil reaching to apostasy. In this connection we may learn much from it for our own circumstances, but doubtless it has special application to the last days and the remnant in the trials of that time. Throughout, there are many lessons of individual application which the believer may draw from the history, while not forgetting its typical and dispensational features.

The experiences of David during this period serve in many respects as a remarkable type of the Lord Jesus in His path of humiliation and sorrow. The occasions on which the weakness and failure of David are seen but enhance the perfection of Him with whom there was no shadow of turning from the line of conduct which ever pleased God. Yet with David in the main we do see the spiritual apprehension of what becomes the man of faith who knows to whom power rightly belongs, though for the time it is permitted to be in the hands of another. This is a difficult position, with many trying circumstances attending it, as to which there is only true discernment in the measure that there is a humble spirit and simple-hearted dependence upon God, the only One in whom all resources are found. When this is not so, sad consequences result, as we are allowed to see from some of David's actions. These things "were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the Scriptures might have hope" (Rom. IS:4). In this connection one evident lesson to be gathered from this history is the way God makes all turn toward the accomplishment of His own purpose. No power of Satan or of man can thwart His purpose. There is no form of evil but must be made to serve in some way the furtherance of His plan. He has written His Scriptures to show this, so that he who believes may learn patience and have comfort through them.

July 1st, 2 Sam. 1; July 15th, 2 Sam. 15; July 31st, 1 Kings 7; Aug 15th, 1 Kings 22.

COMMENTS

2 Samuel gives us the history of David's reign, and 1 Kings begins with Solomon placed on the throne. David's grief and lamentation over Saul occupies 2 Sam, 1, followed by the account of his reign over Judah until the death of Saul's son, Ishbosheth (chs. 2-4). Chs. 5-21 record David's reign over all Israel, and the closing chapters give his song, his last words, his mighty men, and his sin in numbering the people.

The checkered history of this man whose piety cannot be doubted, yet whose failures are many, and some of glaring evil, serves a double purpose:we see him to be a type of Christ in rejection in 1 Samuel, he is also a type of Christ taking His kingly place and power to subjugate all enemies in 2 Samuel. David's weakness and failure teaches by way of contrast the perfect strength and moral glory of his Lord in whom there is no variableness, unevenness, or unsteadiness in a single step-all is absolute perfection in the One who is both the Root and Offspring of David, the Bright Morning Star, yet also the Sun of Righteousness. While the shadow gives us certain features of the mind and spirit, as well as the official glory, of Him who is the substance, by the contrasts also exhibited the shadow preaches the absolute necessity for the manifestation of Him who is the substance-the One in whom every promise of God is yea and amen. Only Christ is everything and all that God desires and the creature needs. This on the one hand. And on the other the great contrasts found in David's history serve to bring out the ways of God in grace and government. The ways of man are found too, as in Joab, Abner, Absalom and others who come into connection with David, with the weakness, distress and sorrow such ways bring. The diligent soul will find lessons of great moral value in all this, while it also loudly tells us that the kingdom in power and glory, when all will be brought into its rightful place and kept there, must be in the hands of the Son of Man-no mere man is sufficient for the task.

In these brief comments we can only touch certain highlights of this history. First, the house of Saul is set aside. To make Ishbosheth king was an act of rebellion against God. Thus, we may say, Antichrist and all that is of his spirit will be dealt with in judgment, and as David then dwells in Jerusalem and is acknowledged by the united nation, so it will be when Christ sits upon the throne of His glory. It would appear that, as with David, the Millennial kingdom will be established through a progressive conquest, in which enemies will be destroyed by means of Israel. Compare Zech. 9 and 10; Micah 5. Another prominent feature is the bringing up of the ark. In connection with this there is failure at first, serving to teach how God is careful to maintain His own glory. His order must be observed, and not man's devices used; so it will be in the kingdom and glory, summary judgment falling when that is manifested which does not becomes the Divine Majesty. But later the ark is brought to Mt. Zion where David's throne is established. This is God being honored before all, while it also shows the identification of His power and glory with the king who now reigns as His elected and anointed ruler. This will surely be manifested in perfection when the angels of God ascend and descend upon the Son of Man, who is the Son of God and King of Israel.

But the ark is in a tent. God's house is not yet built -a work reserved for Solomon, type of Christ as the Prince of Peace, and not the warrior-king; of Him in that character David is the type. This appears to suggest that there is a transitional period at the commencement of the Millennial age during -which there is a work of judgment upon enemies who sire given space to manifest themselves and rush on to their doom by opposition to Israel and her glorious King. When this interim is over, then the Solomonic character will come in for Israel and the nations. The "rod of iron" must do its work first before such a scene as that of Isaiah 2 can be realized. It would seem that the great attack of Gog and Magog as described in Ezekiel 38 and 39 takes place in this interim. Significantly, this is followed by the vision of the Millennial temple.

The beautiful manifestation of the kindness and grace of David, seen in his treatment of Mephibosheth, fittingly typifies the way the King in the day of His glory will treat all who submit themselves to Him. But in chapter ten we see what it will mean to those who despise grace.

Dark shadows now fall upon David and his house, involving too the welfare of the nation. There is not only strife in his own house, but strife and rebellion among the people. How dreadful are the results of forgetting God, of abandonment to ease and indolence, of leaving the path of simple dependence upon God with its un-escapable accompaniment of self-judgment, to pursue one's own will, and this though surrounded with the blessings of God's grace and power. "He that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption." "He that soweth iniquity shall reap vanity," or mischief. Amnon's crime, Absalom's vengeance, then rebellion, with all the details of intrigue, treachery, shame and grief-what a reaping! Through it all we can trace God's ways in government, for He must maintain the honor of His own name when he who stood for Him in the place of rule so fails as a witness to His government in holiness and truth. Yet the beautiful strand of His grace is woven in and out among the many dark sin-stained figures which appear in this weaving of David's life. So it has been with Israel, Jehovah's elect nation and chosen servant, yet as with David so with the nation, God will prove Himself faithful, and will bring to pass all His purpose and promise even though the way seems so tortuous and painful. Indeed, it is not different even with us. We give our ever-loving, gracious God difficulty in saving us along the way (1 Pet. 4:18, New Trans.). He has called us to His eternal glory, there can be no failure in this being realized, and along the way He will keep by His power through faith. When faith is not in exercise, as we see in many instances in David's course, there is room for sin to creep in, for man's way and wisdom to be followed in forgetfulness of God. Then there comes the reaping, and the chastening, for the very love as well as holiness of God requires it. What a history will unfold for each of us at the judgment-seat of Christ! And in that day shall not our song be like the song of. David when done forever with our enemies, and the flesh taken from us, we shall be found in the likeness of Him in whom is no sin? What a day it will be when the last shadow has gone, not another slip of the foot possible, no wandering of the mind, no straying of the affections, no unholy desire, no nature but the divine, no will but that of God-He our everlasting joy! And all of this we shall own then, as now, to be the fruit of that darkness, impenetrable to us, into which the Son of God entered to bear the judgment of our sins and to destroy the works of the devil-holy triumph of infinite love for those in themselves utterly worthless and hopelessly lost! Blessed Saviour and glorious Redeemer, how we (and David too) will praise Thee in that day!

"The LORD shall count when He writeth up the people" (Ps. 87:6)

Jehovah loves the gates of Zion,
The city of the King of kings;
The triumph-ground of Judah's Lion,
Of whom are spoken glorious things.

There shall we see the Lord of Glory
Among His blood-bought sons of men;
O depth of love told in the story!-
For them He died and rose again!

The lands of Egypt, Tyre, and Babel,
These have their names of famous dead,
In tombs sealed with the royal label
They lie in regal splendor spread.

Of Zion we may oft be saying,
"This man, or that one, there was born;"
The roll of honor names displaying,
Whose deeds of faith their lives adorn.

But when the LORD by count recorded,
We watched the writing of His hand;
One only name had He accorded
The honor in His book to stand.

The name of JESUS there appeareth
Unique, supreme, the only name;
His brow alone this glory weareth
To heaven's united, loud acclaim.

And in that precious Name before Him
Embraced are all the Saviour's own,
Redeemed from sin they will adore Him
In sweetest songs before His throne.

The singers' voices sweetly blending,
The players touch the well-tuned strings;
All sing, in adoration bending,
"In Thee, O Lord, are all our springs."

E. H. Hageman
The GRACE of our LORD JESUS CHRIST