BROOKLYN, N.Y., NOVEMBER 16TH, 1938
BROOKLYN, N.Y., NOVEMBER 16TH, 1938
Mr. W. S. Spence.
Beloved Brother, — Thanks for sending me your thoughts as to the half-tribe of Manasseh. They are new to me, but I am glad to have them. There is always instruction in following up a scriptural subject in detail; you have done this as to Manasseh.
It is right to note that Manasseh is not mentioned in Numbers 32 as occasioning Moses’ displeasure, but this may be because the others led; at any rate, they, the half tribe, cannot be absolved from the blame for they had part in the course condemned. Morally the reproof included them. This is unquestionable as their position is viewed antitypically. All three groups were falling short of the full purpose of God.
The half tribe of Manasseh is almost constantly identified with Reuben and Gad as remaining on the wilderness side of Jordan, all representing Christians who do not value the heavenly position, not entering into it, and share the consequences together (see 1 Chronicles 5: 18 - 26).
The exercises of the daughters of Zelophehad entered into the position of the half tribe in Canaan, where these women evidently had their inheritance. Joshua 17: 1 - 6 indicates this. This passage treats of the inheritance given by Joshua; that given by Moses is referred to subordinately. Joshua 13: 31 speaks of “one half of the children of Machir” possessing on the wilderness side of Jordan. Zelophehad’s daughters evidently belonged to the other half.
Being of Joseph, the half tribe in Bashan would have a certain advantage over Reuben and Gad, and their acquirement of wealth while in Canaan may be accounted for in this way. Joshua, himself of Joseph, noted their wealth, but urged them to divide it with their brethren, as if they were apt to be selfish. And it is said, he “blessed them also”, as coming after in importance the two tribes. The latter had the leading place,
[p. 140] and in blessing them Joshua recognises this, placing the responsibility attaching to the whole nation upon them. Joshua 22: 25, mentioning only Reuben and Gad, confirms this — that they represented the general position.
It seems to me that a special reproach attached to the half tribe of Manasseh which remained on the eastern side of Jordan, seeing there had been much exercise in the tribe as to the inheritance and the other half went into Canaan. Those who talk much of our heavenly portion and fail to join with those who enter it are peculiarly wanting.
As to the Readings at Toronto, I have heard but little in detail save as to what was said about persons withdrawn from. Those in Ontario whose judgment is of a special value say it tended to weaken what is of God, as reached through recent exercise and conflict. Those who had taken a lower or negative line expressed themselves as confirmed.
My wife unites in love in Christ to you all,
Affectionately in Him,
James Taylor.