BROOKLYN, N.Y., JANUARY 30TH, 1941

BROOKLYN, N.Y., JANUARY 30TH, 1941

Mr. Roy Hibbert.

Beloved Brother. — Thanks for your letter of the 10th inst. You will know that my son has accepted your invitation and I believe the Lord will help him among you all as gathered together. I shall pray for this.

As regards Hernleigh, I would think “two or three”, Matthew 18, contemplates those of the assembly, that is brothers and sisters; literally, of course, this would mean two brothers and one sister or two sisters and one brother. In either case they could function. The second epistle of John shows how a sister may act for God in a locality, even exercising discipline. This took place in Estonia some time back — two or three sisters withdrew from a brother. Thus a brother and two or more sisters may carry on for God. Of course, other conditions may affect this, but I am dealing with the facts you furnish.

The Canadian military law which you quote cannot — verbally — be regarded as excluding those who go on with the service of God as those with whom we are walking do. The Scriptures furnish ‘the tenets and articles of faith’ which guide us and they plainly show that followers of Christ should not take the sword, although they recognise that earthly governments ordained of God must have swords.

The governments of Great Britain, Australia, New Zealand, etc., provide for the consciences of brethren in this respect, and ^[p. 215] if a local tribunal in Canada refuses to do so I believe an appeal can be made even to the King or Governor General. God will make a way for the brethren as they are dependent on Him. It is generally in such cases that when the actual crisis is reached this way appears.

With love in Christ to you all,

Affectionately in Him,
James Taylor.