BROOKLYN, N.Y., JUNE 23RD, 1944
BROOKLYN, N.Y., JUNE 23RD, 1944
Mr. Aubrey A. Gardiner.
Beloved Brother, — I am quite interested in your letter of inquiry. It is one of many that have come lately in reference to the subject of the collections made amongst the saints. I am therefore sending you herewith a copy of a reply to a letter from ——— of Manchester. This embodies what has been more recently in my mind as to the matter.
The exercise has become widespread and if we all are to gain from it it is certain that we must carefully consider scriptures that bear on it. If we do this we may be assured that [p. 350] we shall acquire more than we are searching for; and included in this will be correction. Another matter that enters into it is the obligation to maintain universal unity. This in its place is as urgent as the collection. And during the past few weeks I have heard of many gatherings each of which has started a system or procedure of its own relative to its financial matters. In several instances those who led in the work were well aware that their altered procedure varied materially from that of large meetings not far away. During the past forty years or more there have been adjustments in which there has been divine guidance affecting many features of the service of God, including the collections made among the saints. These adjustments have been followed and participated by brethren generally; but during the last year or so many gatherings, as I have said, have made changes, more or less varied, in the procedure governing their collections without making the facts known or seeking general fellowship in them. This concerns me very much, although I quite believe the Lord is near the brethren in this time of great general pressure and will not allow the enemy to reap any important gain from irregularities.
We are enjoined to keep the unity of the Spirit in the uniting bond of peace (Ephesians 4: 3), and to maintain catholicity in our assembly customs (1 Corinthians 11: 16).
I wish to thank you, dear brother, for your kind remembrances. I think of the dear brethren in Wallington and in all the nearby meetings with much affection, sharing in the Spirit in all the sorrows and joys which the Lord has ordered in His faithful and wise love. He has given relief and will give more.
My wife joins in love in Christ to Mrs. Gardiner and your family and to the brethren.
Affectionately in Him,
James Taylor.