BROOKLYN, N.Y., JANUARY 26TH, 1944
BROOKLYN, N.Y., JANUARY 26TH, 1944
Dr. C. S. Powell.
Beloved Brother, — Pardon the delay in replying to your enquiry as to testimony from the ‘outside’. Time has been, as usual, very scarce.
Scripture, as evidently you have observed, takes great care so that in judicial matters among the people of God there [p. 337] should be no miscarriage through imperfect evidence. Every word must be established by two or three witnesses.
Serious cases such as involved death were especially guarded. The Lord adduces the principle governing witness in the law in the Father’s testimony and His own. The idea of quality in witness is stressed as in the Father, the Son and the Spirit; also in the twelve apostles, the six brothers which Peter took to Cornelius and his company, etc.
Where pressure of a moral character exists, the truth cannot be assured save in divine Persons and in those who have the Holy Spirit; and if a case is attended by personal feeling, reliability cannot be assured even among Christians except as the Lord is specially sought in the matter. Of course, we can count on a true judgment in the assembly, but this requires, as I said, dependence and prayer, for through natural influences our hearts as in judgment are almost certain to fail us. Thus the idea of adjuration is recognised in Scripture, and Paul calls on God to witness as to certain statements.
The testimony of the Cretan prophet had a local value, but it was confirmed by the apostle’s authority. Paul quoted it as true. Certain statements written or spoken by men as such can be safely accepted as true in a general way; nature, cattle, etc., etc., bear testimony to the truth, otherwise as to general history and practical knowledge we should be at a great disadvantage; but when the moral element is involved conscience and the work of God in man by His Spirit are needed for testimony.
The Lord is ever ready to help His people, especially in difficult cases requiring judgment in assembly; and usually, as in the interpretation of Scripture, the key is, as we are simple and transparent, nearby, and becomes visible. But if we are looking for evil, seeking to prove it, divine help fails us and we may become dark and otherwise damage ourselves.
As I had correspondence with Mr. Hardwick, also a word with your brother as to Oakland matters, I shall be thankful if you will show them this letter.
I am glad to hear of the good seasons with Mr. Walker and Mr. Samuels.
My wife unites in love in Christ to Mrs. Powell and to all the brethren.
Affectionately in Him,
James Taylor.