BROOKLYN, N.Y., DECEMBER 17TH, 1940

BROOKLYN, N.Y., DECEMBER 17TH, 1940

Beloved Brother, — As to the Lord coming to us, I am surprised at the view you mention which some express — that having come, He leaves us as still in assembly and is then to be ‘addressed as in glory’. This seems to me, confusion. As to all this, what is to be considered is the service of God and the duration of it at any time. Christ is the Minister of the Sanctuary, and if He leaves, the service is finished. The saints begin, for we come together to break bread, but the Lord comes as we make way for Him in the state of our minds through the memorial. There is opportunity for Him to ^[p. 210] convey His love towards the assembly and we toward Him, Song of Songs affording light as to this. But He takes His place on our side, and operating through the minds and affections of the saints by the Spirit, carries on the service Godward. Of course we may go on to the Ephesian or heavenly ground, as we proceed in assembly service but this is in association with Christ — not He above and we on earth. As power wanes we are sensible that the Lord is no longer present as in assembly, and the service ends. Hymns may still be sung, etc., but the spiritual — at least — know that the great occasion is over.

Affectionately yours in Christ,
James Taylor.