BROOKLYN, N.Y., MARCH 29TH, 1943
BROOKLYN, N.Y., MARCH 29TH, 1943
Mr. Francis Willy.
Beloved Brother, — I was thankful for your letter of December 8th, and for your cable which it confirmed. I need not say that the cable caused distress to my wife and myself as telling of the death of our beloved brother Mr. Draffin. We cabled our sympathies to Mrs. Draffin and we are assured that the Lord is helping our sister and that she will in her measure continue to His people the service of her husband. We have also more recently heard of other bereavements. Besides Mrs. Compton’s, we heard of Mrs. Gadsden’s great loss, and also more recently of Mr. Clarke’s departure to be with the Lord and Mr. Phillips of Melbourne. I had known [p. 310] Mr. Clarke of Brisbane and was thankful that you could mention in your letter that he had been used in moving about amongst the Lord’s people. I am thankful also to hear the same of Mr. Wasson, Dr. Martin and Mr. Kelsey.
I note your remarks on how persons withdrawn from should be treated and this raises the question as to the principle governing this matter. Leviticus 13 and 14 shows that it concerns particularly those who are priestly. Those in a locality, particularly of a priestly character, ought to have those withdrawn from on account of sin specially under their care. In general they should not be restricted as to any service they would extend to such persons. Leviticus would show that disciplined ones should be kept under observation. The priest’s eyes are to be active and any movement of God in them should be immediately noticed and encouraged. “Ye who are spiritual restore such a one in the spirit of meekness”, is a word entering into this matter. 2 Corinthians 2 helps especially as showing that saints may be slow in observing and acting upon the work of God in one under discipline.
I am thankful to see that you are free to get about among the dear brethren. I am sure the need amongst them is great and it is comforting to know that there are a goodly few in Australia able to help the dear brethren. I am thankful to hear of Mr. Gus Dartnell and I am sure he will be more than ever needed in view of Mr. Draffin’s removal.
In this country the interest in special meetings is increasing and the meetings themselves are increasing. Many are scheduled to take place, God willing, during the coming months, and we shall be thinking of you all in Australia in view of Easter. I hope to be in London, Ontario, at that time and shortly after at Knoxville, then Rochester, Minneapolis, Vancouver and Toronto. Your prayers will be valued. Quite a number comparatively of our younger men have been drafted into the Forces and their testimonies have been quite cheering. Three of our grandchildren are in the Forces and two of them have rendered good testimonies.
My wife unites in love in Christ to you and Mrs. Willy and also to all the brethren as you see them.
Affectionately yours in Him,
James Taylor.