EXTRACT

We should also bear in mind that we are all at ‘the table’ on the same ground—the Lord’s death. It is the sole ground for each and all, therefore individual feelings should not be brought in. Often people are occupied with their own feelings as to the Lord’s death instead of with the death itself. The assembly is the sphere where Christ is all and in all. It is the sense of each one being at the Lord’s table on this one ground, and where consequently individuality must be dropped, that shows the wickedness of divisions. It is to be feared that we have been too ready for division in the spirit of our minds. Separation is a last resource when evil is irremediable. In regard to fellowship we maintain that the Lord is with us; if evil arises, the question arises, is it such that we are assured the Lord has left, for until this is the case we have no ground for leaving. Evil coming in does not drive the Lord out; it is when it is sanctioned that His presence is withdrawn. This is seen in the case of Achan—His presence discovered the evil, and if they did not judge it He would not be with them any more.

F.E.Raven (‘Notes of Lectures’ Vol. XX, p.205) (It does not appear to be included in the New Series).

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