BROOKLYN, N.Y., OCTOBER 16TH, 1928
BROOKLYN, N.Y., OCTOBER 16TH, 1928
Mr. A. Angus.
Beloved Brother, — I am glad to have your letter of recent date. The matter you mention often comes up. What is to be observed is that preaching is dependent on gift or qualification for it in Scripture. “How shall they preach unless they have been sent?” (Romans 10: 15). Thus the first preaching (Acts 2) is by Peter, who “stood up with the eleven;” it does not say, ‘with the 120’. This is in keeping with Mark 3, where the Lord is said to have appointed twelve that they might be with Him, and that He might send them to preach. Another thing of great importance in this connection is that the assembly as [p. 236] such does not preach or teach, in spite of Rome’s claims falsely based on Matthew 18: 17. It is taught.
In view of what is said above, the preaching of the gospel in a locality is not the direct responsibility of the meeting (although, of course, normally all would be exercised about it, sympathetic with it), but of those who are in any way fitted for it. Some brother or brothers qualified wish to serve in this way (woe to them if they do not, 1 Corinthians 9: 16) and he or they ask for the use of the meeting-room for this purpose. They carry on the service with the fellowship of the saints. If they do not preach on a given evening they see that someone fitted by the Lord does.
It is obvious from above that the brother ‘in charge’ of the gospel is not an official but rather one engaged in the Lord’s service in the proclamation of the gospel; nor is his function to provide preachers merely, but to carry on the service himself as far as he may have ability.
Of course, as in all else, love and consideration for others must enter into the practical working out of the matter, or rivalry and jealousy will ensue. The wisdom from above is without partiality and hypocrisy. Thus the brother responsible would secure brothers elsewhere specially qualified in preaching the gospel — thinking only of the Lord’s interests.
Sometimes one hears of brothers in a meeting preaching in turn, whether there be gift or not — this, I am sure, is a mistake. As I said, preaching should be by those qualified or “sent”. Of course, one must have opportunity to show whether he has ability, but this can be given — if ability exists it will soon be apparent.
It is indeed a joy to hear of encouragement from the Lord among you at Donaghadee. May He continue to bless you all!
With love in Christ to you and your family and to all the saints.
Affectionately in Him,
James Taylor.