BROOKLYN, N.Y., SEPTEMBER 1ST, 1927
BROOKLYN, N.Y., SEPTEMBER 1ST, 1927
My Dear Brother, — I regret the delay in replying to your letter of July 18th. It is very hard to keep up with correspondence when travelling about.
Besides, I had nothing very definite to say in regard to the sea, lavers, etc. I am much interested, however, and I think your remarks quite in keeping with what the Scriptures in 1 Kings and 2 Chronicles present.
In the former we have a much fuller description. This is in keeping with that book which treats of the things of Solomon’s regime as enhancing his glory rather than from the standpoint of their usefulness. Thus Ephesians sets forth the things treated in relation to the divine glory and so their fulness is seen. This helps, I think, as to the enlarged description given in 1 Kings, especially the ornamental features of the bases of brass. The ornamentation is given with striking detail hence the mind is occupied with it rather than the usefulness of the bases. All this contemplates spiritual refinement, which, as I said, is in keeping with Ephesians. The engraving points particularly to finished ornamentation, which we should expect where things are intended to reflect the glory of Christ. It says “Glory [to God] in the assembly in Christ Jesus”, etc.
As regards the details, the meaning can be safely arrived at as we bear in mind the meaning of each type as presented elsewhere
[p. 228] in Scripture, that is, numbers, living creatures, flowers, metal, etc. It becomes a question therefore of meditation. 1 Kings greatly helps to an understanding of the grandeur of Christ’s coming kingdom, its bearing being towards eternity.
I note your remarks as to Mr. McK——— : it is most difficult to judge as to persons under discipline unless one is on the spot and directly responsible. It is wise to keep with the local brethren unless there is unquestionable evidence that they are not with God in the matter. I have felt the wisdom of this in regard of Glasgow and Belfast.
Affectionately yours in Christ,
James Taylor.