DUBLIN, 1880

DUBLIN, 1880

^[p. 102] DEAR — , — First, I do not think you have put in adequate prominence, at starting, Hebrews 10, distinguishing the Spirit’s work which gives us the sense of our sins at conversion (and can only of past ones) and Christ’s work when all were future and the efficacy of which was not only up to the day of our conversion. Next, I believe 1 John 1: 5-10 to be abstract the message received from Christ come. Chapter 2: 1, as you say, is clearly believers; but confession of sins is at the beginning and all along. Walking in light, fellowship, and cleansing, are the three elements of the christian state. Chapter 2: 1, as you say, begins with the saints: it was for them he wrote what went before, but what he wrote was abstract truth, the message But I think chapter 1: 9 is present application: uprightness in confession brings forgiveness in relationship — not merely justification.

Dear H M Hooke, — 1 John 1: 7 I believe to be an abstract statement, as I might say, Quinine cures intermittent fever: it is its quality and effect. Abstract, absolute statements characterise John: “he cannot sin;” “the wicked one toucheth him not.” As to verse 9, it is the same, only it is subjective — the state and act of the person. If a person confesses his sins he is forgiven: his soul must be in that state to be forgiven. Only when it is at the outset, it is justification once for all, afterwards governmental: in the first case, non-imputation; in the second, the dealings of God with His people or children. And the difference is important, connected with the revelation made in Christianity.

I thank God for the blessing He has bestowed upon your work. May He keep us near Himself, and that Christ may be all, so that our life may be the production of Christ, and nothing else. His coming will indeed be joy. Our full happiness is laid up in treasure there. We wait for it till He comes. Till then it is the word of His patience and serving Him.

Affectionately yours in the Lord.

Dublin, 1880.