EXETER, MARCH 20TH, 1852
EXETER, MARCH 20TH, 1852
[[p. 273] M. Rossier] [From the French.] BELOVED BROTHER, — I have examined a little the passage in 2 Thessalonians 2. I do not think one could translate ejk μέσου γένηται ‘rises out of the midst.’ Γίνομαι means to be or to become; thus ejk τίνος, a man who exists from another order than himself; but a man who comes out of the midst is, as to the sense, taken away from the midst. The only fault in this translation is that it expresses the thought that there is someone who takes away, which is not said. There is a passage quoted in our dictionaries — perhaps it is in Pape — of Plutarch’s, which has these words. The lexicographer quotes it as proof of the ordinary sense attributed to these words. He is no longer present. The English translation gives “he who letteth will let.” There is no need however of the addition. “Only there is now he that withholdeth until he be taken out of the way:” this is, I doubt not, the true translation, μόνον oJ κατέχων a[rti ew”, etc.
God be praised that the brethren are walking in peace. I am at a good meeting of prayer and humiliation, which I believe will produce much good. God certainly helps us at this moment He makes us go back over the effects of former negligence, but He brings us out of it. Conversions also are not wanting, and souls are added at least in London, and in other places. I believe the sense of His goodness spreads in hearts and encourages the brethren ... The Lord reveals Himself more and more — this is what is clear, and places His children on a simple ground — only they must break with the world to walk there. But souls are exercised.
Exeter, March 20th, 1852.