NOVEMBER 18TH, 1944

NOVEMBER 18TH, 1944

Beloved Brother, — While I intended to write you, my feeling has been that I could hardly undertake to add much to what I had written, because considering all that was to be done, time being so strained, it seemed balance forbad that any more should be employed in pursuing the matter entered on in our correspondence.

The so-called special collection is especially what you question, but I must rest on what I have written as to it. It is, of course, one of the collections, particular stress being laid upon it with a view to stimulation, as I explained. This I hold to be fully supported in Scripture, as I also said.

As to ‘immediate need’, this is included here in the special ^[p. 358] collection; but only what is known as the need is considered at the care meeting at which the special collection is considered. The needs vary, as can be understood. There is not a fixed list as to amount, nor does 1 Timothy 5 direct this. Indeed, except in a few large cities, the needs of the poor should not require much bookkeeping, and the more simple we are the better. Then, as to such charges as rent, I cannot say just what exercises enter into them, and I do not think Scripture helps us, save as practical righteousness is involved, and of course this is most important. But the personal side touches the saints’ hearts and hence the thought of stimulation, as I have mentioned.

My impression is that attention out of proportion to the whole vast range of Scripture has been extended to the subject of the collection, and the effect of this tends to unbalance. I venture to enclose some copies of letters which will further serve to indicate my exercise.

Affectionately yours in Christ.
James Taylor.