BROOKLYN, N.Y., OCTOBER 31ST, 1929

BROOKLYN, N.Y., OCTOBER 31ST, 1929

Mr. Francis Willey.

Beloved Brother, — I am very glad to have your long, interesting letter of the 26th ult.

I had heard of the Fairfield matter with deep concern and I earnestly hope the Lord’s good hand may continue over it, so that, at least, it may not spread; and that He may grant an adjustment, saving all concerned.

^[p. 274] I recall the position of Parramatta as related to Sydney, and unless it is regularly included in the latter city by the authorities I do not see how it can be regarded by the saints as of it. It has a separate history, being at one time capital of the State, and as politically distinct should be so accepted by the brethren. If we follow the facts presented in Scripture relative to cities I cannot see how we can evade the recognition of the boundaries set for them by the ruling powers. The earlier allusions stress building, as in Genesis 4: 10, 11; and the later, boundaries or limitations, as in Jerusalem, Nineveh, etc. Then, as to nearby towns, Bethany, although but two miles or so off, was regarded as outside Jerusalem. The Lord recognised the boundary in going without the city — Mark 11:19. Cenchrea was the port of Corinth and yet it is treated as separate by the apostle, having an assembly. It is wise to leave the determination of boundaries in each place for the assembly administration with the local brethren, but I am sure we can not disregard with impunity what “the powers that be” determine or order. The London situation is the most complex, but there cannot be a righteous doubt that the brethren have acted wisely in accepting the London County Council area. That three meetings in the area should elect to refuse this is most humiliating, and very displeasing to the Lord, I am assured.

As regards names or titles of divine Persons, if I understood aright, you are correct in saying that they belong to the declaration or revelation of God — Scripture does not warrant us in applying them as if borne by the Persons of the Godhead before the incarnation of our Lord. That the Persons ever existed as distinct, and that there were affections, etc., proper to Them, is plainly stated and fundamental truth that cannot, must not, be beclouded. In revelation God has graciously come out to us in names and relationships that we can understand, all bearing on the incarnation of Christ. But when we think or speak of the relations of Divine Persons as in the Godhead I am sure we should hesitate, bowing our hearts in the presence of what we cannot comprehend. But the Infinite has come within the range of the finite in the Word becoming flesh. A lonely Man among men is known and loved and worshipped; and God in Him, so that he who has seen Him has seen the Father. Of course revelation is revelation — it is of God as to His nature and attributes, but so as to be intelligible to His creatures, that is, in the Son as Man; but God as to His Being “is a Spirit” dwelling in unapproachable light, whom no man has seen nor can see. The believer knows God as in Jesus and this will be so eternally. Still the Father is distinct in His operations and communications, speaking to and of the Son while He (the Son) was on earth, as well as speaking in or through Him. It is all too wonderful for words, and that we should be admitted into such light and blessedness should surely humble us and make us worshippers of the Father. “Fulness” and “the invisible God” (Colossians 1) refer to God, or the Godhead in an absolute sense, as I understand.

I follow with much interest all you say as to the Melbourne notes. I earnestly trust the Lord will graciously hide them from eyes that would use them against the truth and hinder souls who may be seeking their way. I wrote Mr. M——— as to the danger in this respect but in his reply he made no reference to my remarks.

We find much cheer in this district. A good few have been ‘added’ during the past few months.

I am thinking of all the dear brethren in Australia much and my prayers go up steadily, always rendering thanks too for the work of God there.

My wife joins in love in Christ to Mrs. Willy, yourself and your family, also the brethren.

Affectionately in Him,

James Taylor.