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HE HIMSELF IN THEIR MIDST

Though the assembly was at this time not yet formed, at all events the disciples had the Lord with them, and as one of themselves. He was not a being of another order of existence such as a spirit without flesh or bones, but a real man like themselves, though in resurrection. In verse 44 He shows them that all the fulfilment of Scripture centred in Himself, and all the counsels and purposes of God were connected with ^[p. 257] who He was. Not in the details or events of prophecy, but in connection with Himself. And yet a further point. Their understandings were opened that they might learn the special favour conferred on the assembly now, i.e., to know the mind of God as light from Himself, unfolded by His spirit. For the moment they had to wait until clothed by power from on high, to enter fully into privileges of this day, but this favour was theirs as the Lord gave understanding in what He had accomplished. The assembly is the home of the testimony, that from which it goes out to the world, and was once set up as the witness of the truth, and God has yet a special testimony for every day as it comes. The gospel testimony which goes out from it is repentance and forgiveness of sins, the favour of God rests upon it, and there in fact is found ‘the secret of the Lord’ revealed to His own. Whatever may be the failure and confusion to look back upon, and as all around us now, surely in remembering what was at the beginning, and what will yet take place when gathered with Christ in glory, may well cause thankfulness, and give us encouragement! In leading the disciples out, before departing from them, the Lord left them where as a company of His own we stand today, i.e., under the shelter and blessing of His outstretched hand! May we abide in the consciousness of what this speaks to our hearts.
1897.

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